forward florida 2014 - ed #3

SITE SELECTIONHOW NORTHROPCAME TO THE SPACE COAST

REBIRTHNEW LIFE

FOR AN EXPRESSWAY

AUTHORITY

BIG PLANS FOR STATE’S PORTS

VENTURE CAPITAL

MAKING WAVES

ENTREPRENEURSHIPTHE YOUNG &THE RELENTLESS

WILL THE INVESTMENTSUN SHINE HERE?

Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Florida Institute of Technology. Florida Institute of Technology does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, Vietnam-era veterans status or any other discrimination prohibited by law in the admission of students, administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, employment policies, and athletic or other university sponsored programs or activities.

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Learn more about the cutting-edge research at Florida Tech.Visit our Research Portal and discover something new!

www.fit.edu/research/portal

The rankings are based on university scores in five categories, one of which is “citations.” Carrying the highest weight of all the indicators at 32.5%, the citations score is based on the number of times a university’s published work is cited by scholars around the world, effectively illustrating how much a university is

CONTRIBUTING TO THE SUM OF HUMAN KNOWLEDGE. In this category, which Times Higher Education uses as its “research influence indicator,” Florida Tech scored a 99 out of a possible 100—taking its place alongside such well-respected universities as MIT, Caltech, Princeton, Harvard and Stanford.

“A Top 200 World University”

SourcesRankings: www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/world-university-rankings/2013-14/world-rankingMethodology: www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/world-university-rankings/2013-14/world-ranking/methodology

RESEARCH INFLUENCEin the world based on citations

#10

In 2013, Florida Tech rose to the top 200 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings powered by Thomson Reuters.

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Our transportation team is focused on sustainable planning, operations, design and construction for all levels of transportation, whether it’s a corridor, a community, an airport, an intermodal hub, or an entire state. For more than 35 years, clients have looked to VHB’s engineers, planners and operational experts to develop seamless solutions to move people and place goods in the hands of consumers – because our economy and your quality of life depend on it.

Improving Mobility Connecting Communities

407. 839.4006 I Orlando I Sarasotawww.vhb.com/fl

Michael J. Carragher, PESoutheast Regional Manager

Mark Bertoncini, PE Director of Transportation Engineering

Laurence Lewis, PE, AICP Director of Transportation Planning

Civil EngineeringPlanningTransportationEnvironmental

4 JUNE | JULY 2014 • FORWARDFLORIDA.COM

contents

DEPARTMENTS

I.C.Y.M.I.IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

ETC . . .NEWS, NOTES AND COMMENTARY

COUNTY REPORTTHE SUPER REGION AT A GLANCE

PERSPECTIVESLEADING POINTS OF VIEW

PARTING SHOTPEOPLE AND PLACES

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SPECIAL FEATURES: TRANSPORTATION ISSUE

MAKING WAVESA stroke of the president’s pen has buoyed spirits and launched ambitious plans at the state’s seaports.

SEEING THE LIGHT A November vote puts Pinellas County at a crossroads in the quest to prepare for its transportation future.

ROAD TO RECOVERY As the Super Region finds intermodal answers to transportation questions, highways are being overhauled too.

FRESH STARTThe new Central Florida Expressway Authority paves the way for greater regional and multimodal collaboration.

DRIVING INNOVATIONT-H-E-A and A-V-T spell Tampa Bay’s newest roadway direction: automated vehicle technology.

UNIVERSAL IMPACT A homegrown Central Florida engineering firm has hit pay dirt, racking up $400 billion in projects during its 50 years.

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COVER STORY: AEROTROPOLISWill Florida’s city airports someday give way to airport cities?

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Entrepreneurs, Investors, Corporations, Researchers, Students and Policy Makers

UCF programs participating in CIE:

Connect at cie.ucf.edu

THE ENTRY POINT TO A SUITE OF AWARD-WINNING INNOVATION SERVICES

Blackstone LaunchPad

Business Incubation Program

Florida SBDC at UCF

GrowFL

Office of Technology Transfer

Venture Accelerator

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FORWARD FLORIDAFORWARD Florida is the

only magazine in Florida solely focused on economic development. The magazine is privately owned by Forward Florida Media Inc.

The magazine’s mission is to educate both internal and external audiences to the tremendous growth opportunities in Florida’s 23-county Super Region. Its targeted distribution list includes C-level executives, Super Region legislators in Washington, D.C., and Tallahassee, economic development professionals, site selectors and targeted industries within the region and across the nation.

In addition to the magazine, published bimonthly, the website forwardflorida.com delivers news and information, while FORWARD Florida is also represented on social media through Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and Google+.

SUPER REGIONFrom Metro Orlando, stretching across the center of Florida to Tampa Bay

on the west coast to the Space Coast on the east, northward to Gainesville, southwest to Sarasota and south to Highlands—these 23 counties, interlocked and connected, comprise the Super Region.

An economic engine revving up, the Super Region:

• is home to more than 90 colleges and universities;• includes a high-tech corridor that generates $1 billion in economic impact;• enjoys the largest cluster of theme parks in the world;• boasts a multimodal transportation system that includes the iconic Kennedy Space Center and Orlando International and Tampa International airports, which move 52 million passengers annually;• offers 72 miles of beaches on the Atlantic Ocean (Florida’s longest stretch) and pristine beaches on the Gulf, such as Clearwater and Siesta Key; and• has five professional sports teams.Add in culture and entertainment options and it is no surprise that the Super

Region is attracting companies and new residents every day. In fact, the U.S. Census anticipates that in 2014 Florida will grow to 20 million residents and overtake New York as the third most populous state in the country.

The Super Region’s three largest universities — the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida and the University of South Florida —anchor the Florida High Tech Corridor Council and have a combined economic impact of $16.8 billion. And with billions of dollars in research, along with successful university business incubators, entrepreneurship is thriving.

Tampa Bay and Orlando, the Super Region’s two largest metro areas, combined account for a $269 billion gross regional product, representing the ninth largest U.S. economy and the 40th largest metropolitan economy in the world.

about us

SECTIONS

INNOVATIONSGROWING IDEAS INTO ENTERPRISES

ON THE DEFENSIVENew funding enables major equipment purchases at UCF.

YOUNG & RELENTLESSAmbitious twenty-something entrepreneurs take flight.

BACK IN THE SADDLEThe decision to bring back Stetson Hatter football has scored big.

SPECIAL REPORTTIMELY AND TOPICAL

PENNIES IN PARADISEThe quest: to make the investment sun shine on Florida startups.

MISSION: ENGAGEMENTHow nonprofits like the YMCA of Central Florida fill in community gaps.

HOW2EXPERT TIPS AND ADVICE

GROW YOUR GREENBoost your business by practicing social responsibility.

LEGAL THRILLERMichael Jackson’s (holographic) return and technology patent infringement.

DARE TO COMPARE How does your nonprofit measure up?

SITE SELECTIONA CLOSER LOOK

LANDFALL IN FLORIDACase study: Brevard County’s Project Magellan.

GLOBAL PULSEINTERNATIONAL NEWS

ALL THAT GLITTERSThe British aren’t just coming; they’re here! So are Belgians, Canadians and many others investing in Florida.

KEEPING SCORETHE BUSINESS OF SPORTS

THE LION’S SHARESoccer fever hits Orlando and rolls across Florida.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATEPOLICY MAKING IN ACTION

PRELUDE TO A STORMNew laws in Tallahassee, a touch of progress in Washington and dreams of Mars.

WELLNESSYOUR PERSONAL BOTTOM LINE

GET CHECKEDHalf of all men will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.

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Are you on the outside looking in? Are you ready to use your expertise and passion to advance

a cause that will change and strengthen our region? Do you want to step inside the circle of

decision-making that is shaping the future? Leadership Orlando recruits, cultivates and

encourages established and emerging leaders to better serve the Central Florida Region.

Through this one-of-a-kind experiential curriculum, you will learn perhaps the most important

aspect of leadership—You can follow a leader or BE ONE.

Class 88 begins September 10, 2014 :: Limited Seats Remain

Contact Danielle Gulasa, Director of Business Development, at 407.835.2444 or visit LeadershipOrlando.org to reserve your space!

TAKE THE LEAD

Carol Craig, Founder and CEO, Craig Technologies

Chair, Leadership Orlando Class 88

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i.c.y.m.i. | in case you missed itI


The new immersive area of

The Wizarding World of Harry

Potter - Diagon translates to

global appeal.

Cottage IndustryIN THE MYTHICAL WORLD OF HARRY POTTER, Diagon Alley is a cobbled alley of shops and restaurants in London found behind a pub. In Orlando’s very real world of attracting tourists, it’s a potential money machine destined to become, given the theme, a cottage industry.

Located at Universal Studios Florida, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley features the shopping and dining you’d expect plus what Universal touts as the “next-generation thrill ride” — Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. The new imaginative, immersive setting opened on July 8.

Guests can enjoy experiences and places found in the Harry Potter books and films: the Knight Bus, the streets of Diagon Alley, iconic shops like Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes and the Leaky Cauldron.

Mostly, they will arrive in droves from near and far. Reportedly, the Harry Potter seven-book series has sold upwards of 450 million

copies and been translated in more than 70 languages. Universal and Orlando tourism officials are counting on similar popularity.

GROWING SEEDS. So indicates the 2013 Regional Economic Impact Study, which points to thousands of new job creations, millions to Florida’s economy and additional millions in state and local tax revenues.

As of June 30, 2013, companies assisted by the Economic Gardening Institute of Florida represented 13,493 direct jobs across the state. Those companies had an estimated sales output of $1.14 billion and contributed $2.33 billion to the Florida economy. Also, during the study period between fiscal years 2012 and 2013, a variety of state, local and private sector funding sources invested $2.61 million in the five-year-old program, with a return on investment of $7.58 for every $1 invested.

Big numbers for a simple mission.“GrowFL’s purpose has always been

to help companies overcome obstacles and become prosperous,” says Tom O’Neal, associate vice president of the Research & Commercialization Office at the University of Central Florida and executive director of both the UCF Business Incubation Program and GrowFL. “Over the past five years,

we have proven again and again that we are doing just that. Now we are being recognized as a major catalyst for helping second-stage companies succeed, and for enhancing Florida’s economy through job creation.”

Under Tom O’Neal’s leadership, GrowFL’s assis-tance to companies includes providing market research and new-media marketing, monitoring industry trends, assisting innovation, developing teams and acquiring consumer feedback.

Coast to CoastWANT TO WALK AND BIKE? It’s about to get easier across the state.

In May, Gov. Rick Scott signed a $77.1 billion budget for 2014-15 — including a $15.5 million jumpstart toward a five-year plan to finish a 250-mile, multiple-use trail that, if completed, would stretch from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. Also, legislation permanently authorizes the Florida Department of Transportation to use state trust funds to build bicycle and pedestrian trails in cooperation with the Florida Greenways and Trails Council.

The Coast to Coast Connector consists of 14 trails (both local and regional). The push now is to fill in the seven gaps between those existing trails. Also, it’s the beginning of a Livable Florida — “where people have more transportation choices for recreation, exercise and traveling to work, school or social engagements.”

The cost to complete the vision: $50 million. In turn, peddling has economic power — generating $53.1 billion in retail sales and services nationwide, according to a six-year-old League of American Bicyclists study. Add in tourist dollars and it’s enough to inspire Florida to steer toward the Connector.

A five-year plan to complete a 250-mile, multiuse trail that cuts a path across the state is in motion.

Florida’s citrus crop is under attack.

Taking Root

Sweet and Sour FLORIDA’S CITRUS INDUSTRY IS RECEIVING ALMOST UNPRECEDENTED ATTENTION THESE DAYS.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has opened a 20,000-square-foot facility north of Gainesville that will introduce new citrus varieties to the state. Eventually, 20 new varieties each year could emerge.

Meanwhile, citrus greening disease has already destroyed 90,000 acres of trees in Florida, with as much as 70 percent of Florida’s citrus crop believed to be infected. Most kinds of citrus, from lemons to oranges to grapefruit, are susceptible.

The Department of Agriculture announced $31.5 million for a program to combat the plant disease, which has driven up the cost of orange juice. The program includes $25 million for research and Cooperative Extension Service projects and $6.5 million for special projects.

University of Florida researchers have found a possible chemical treatment for citrus greening but caution that it could be years before the cure could become commercially available to growers.

What gives? Florida produces more than 60

percent of the orange crop in the U.S. At the same time, the state’s citrus growers have been the hardest-hit in the U.S.

Researchers are working feverishly to develop a remedy. At stake is a $9 billion Florida industry.

i.c.y.m.i. | in case you missed itI

11FORWARDFLORIDA.COMW

etc. … | news, notes and commentaryE


Sarasota, get ready for Elon Musk. TESLA MOTORS, the maker of electric cars that go 265 miles between electric charges and cost up to $100,000, has designs on a showroom inside the MALL AT UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER. It would be the sixth location statewide for the company, which was founded by Musk, the billionaire inventor who also likes to travel in rockets via his California-based company SpaceX. His company’s goal is to make humanity a multiplanet species. Zoom, zoom.

THE 50TH ANNUAL FLORIDA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE held in June in Tampa Bay featured top professionals building and promoting the state’s economy. In addition to awards, there was insight, education and motivation — sometimes all rolled into one. In a stirring speech, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn urged: “Come hell or high water, we will find a way to bring the best and brightest to Florida. We have to change the DNA of Florida.” The conference ended with this general pronouncement: Florida will be known as the “Mouse House” and a spot for tourism, yes, but also soon will be etched on the map for business incubators, technology sectors, booming manufacturing and trade.

EDUCATIONA leisurely weekend at Bernie’s just might be possible. After delaying his announced retirement at the request of Gov. Rick Scott and the University of Florida’s Board of Trustees. UF PRESIDENT BERNIE MACHEN plans to step down Dec. 31 — exactly one year later than his original date. The search for a replacement was suspended but has now restarted, with several candidates already applying. Machen has been at UF since 2004.

Texas’ university system? No. North Carolina’s Research Triangle? No way. The SUPER REGION’S THREE PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES? Bingo. The University of South Florida, UF and University of Central Florida collectively were granted more patents (239) than the 226 granted to the University of Texas system, along with Rice and Texas A&M, and also the 130 garnered by the Research Triangle (Duke, North Carolina State and North Carolina at Chapel Hill). The numbers were compiled by the National Academy of Inventors and Intellectual Property Owners Association. Each of the three Florida schools ranked in the top 40 universities worldwide for patents granted in 2013.

○ PA T E N T E D S U C C E S S E M E R G E S F R O M P U B L I C U N I V E R S I T I E S ○

HEALTH CAREA company that brought in a net of $7.1 billion for 2013 with revenue of $849 million is moving major operations to Tampa. QUEST DIAGNOSTICS is investing more than $9 million and hopes to hire as many as 350 people for a new national operations center near Moffitt Cancer Center’s McKinley campus. The 48,000-square-foot facility will help to standardize and employ advanced technologies to promote fast customer response and quality enhancement for health-care providers. The New Jersey-based company also has a national operations center in Kansas.

Long distance surgery is one step closer to reality at the FLORIDA HOSPITAL NICHOLSON CENTER in Celebration, thanks to a $4.2 million grant from the Department of Defense. The results of research: Modern, well-connected facilities possess the communication bandwidth needed to safely perform telesurgery. While the technology is available, the wait continues for business cases and the required regulatory approvals. The grant also funded creation of the world’s first standardized robotic surgery curriculum, called the Fundamentals of Robotic Surgery.

BUSINESSPort Tampa Bay’s newest attraction is becoming a reality. At press time, a federal bankruptcy judge was expected by mid-July to clear the way for a major overhaul of CHANNELSIDE BAY PLAZA. In early July, the Tampa Port Authority approved a $7.1 million auction bid by Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeff Vinik’s CBP Development to take control of the plaza. Vinik’s group plans to create an open-air entertainment complex, modeled on L.A. Live, an entertainment area in downtown Los Angeles near the Staples Center. Channelside, the outdoor waterfront entertainment venue, will be 235,000 square feet.

○ L E E V I S T A P R O M E N A D E I S S E T F O R T A K E O F F ○

has announced plans for a $60 million expansion and renovation, including the addition of more than 25,000 square feet. The three-tier project is slated for completion in late 2016.

Healthy collaboration: USF has completed a transfer of 1.4 acres of land to ALL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL JOHNS HOPKINS MEDICINE in St. Petersburg, a move that symbolizes the long-term, shared commitment to continuing the training of USF Health Morsani College of Medicine medical students. The land — donated by the state to USF in April — was transferred by USF as a gift to All Children’s Hospital. The property will be used to develop a research, education and training facility to support innovations in pediatric care and expand the future joint efforts of the two organizations. The transferred land is adjacent to the existing Children’s Research Institute and the All Children’s Hospital Outpatient Care Center.

MANUFACTURINGWith manufacturing such an obviously vital component to Florida’s continued economic turnaround, the state took a giant step in helping the industry become more competitive through the ELIMINATION OF SALES TAX on manufacturing machinery and equipment. The new law, which became effective on April 30, is expected to attract more businesses to the state, increase Florida-origin exports, and create jobs and capital investment. The state ranks among the top 10 in the nation for manufacturing, with 18,000 companies employing more than 311,000 Floridians.

RETAILAirports are economic drivers. (See macro cover story, Page 34.) Here’s one emerging micro example: A rejuvenated and revamped LEE VISTA PROMENADE is gaining the attention of national retailers these days after the site had languished in foreclosure for three

years. The 295,000-square-foot center would add greater shopping and dining options near Orlando International Airport. In addition, with construction valued at up to $59 million, the more than 500 temporary construction jobs and eventual permanent jobs would heighten the local economy before the resulting global retail spending takes flight.

SPACEThe transformation has begun. And KENNEDY SPACE CENTER is counting on the Space Launch System. In preparation for the first test flight of the SLS rocket and Orion capsule, planned for 2017, KSC is in the midst of renovating its Vehicle Assembly Building and surrounding facilities. In a recent presentation, KSC Director Bob Cabana optimistically detailed post-shuttle plans of creating a multiuser center that supports both government and commercial missions. He also used ominous words: “If we do not have this capability to fly beyond our planet to explore on a government rocket ... we don’t need KSC anymore.” The first crewed Orion flight is scheduled for 2021, with plans to fly to an asteroid by 2025.

LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP. has committed to acquire Titusville-based ASTROTECH SPACE OPERATIONS, a satellite payload processor. Astrotech’s expertise in launch-day payload preparation complements Lockheed’s expertise in satellite design, production and integration. Lockheed plans to operate Astrotech’s Space Coast unit as a wholly owned subsidiary.

TECHNOLOGYNANOTHERAPEUTICS, a local biotech company in Alachua, has attracted a $30 million loan from Hercules Technology Growth Capital, a publicly traded technology finance company in California. Nanotherapeutics is building a $135 million, 165,000-square-foot manufacturing facility on 30 acres in Alachua near Progress Park, which has strong ties to the UF tech scene.

There’s a healthier outlook in the City of Oviedo in fast-growing east Seminole County. That’s because the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration has approved the OVIEDO MEDICAL CENTER LLC’s application to build an 80-bed hospital on 48 acres. The hospital construction project will include expansion of the adjacent Oviedo ER to provide more emergency beds as well as a full range of medical and surgical services. The hospital will be an HCA affiliate. Also: Brandon Regional Hospital, another HCA facility,

Florida Tech faculty and student researchers can now benefit from BioFlorida resources.

CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

The FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY has joined BioFlorida, the statewide trade association for the bioscience industry. BioFlorida allows Florida Tech faculty and student researchers to tap into the organization’s industry-specific research and development. For example, premedical students majoring in biomedical engineering, chemistry, biology, physics, biochemistry and molecular biology will now have more access to resources in pertinent topics. Also: An FIT proposal to test a special camera on the International Space Station was selected for funding by the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space. The test, to be undertaken next year, involves building an extreme contrast ratio camera into an 8-inch box that will be installed in a cabinet with other research projects.





Was AUVSI’s Unmanned Systems 2014 convention in May a prelude to what’s just ahead? AUVSI, the ASSOCIATION FOR UNMANNED VEHICLE SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, a nonprofit industry organization of more than 7,500 members headquartered in Washington, D.C., certainly thinks so. Ditto for Space Florida. At present, drones cannot be used for commercial reasons (with a few exceptions). The Federal Aviation Authority, though, is working on a plan to safely integrate drones into the airspace. When that happens, expect to see drones applied to agriculture, forestry and emergency response. In the next five years, 7,500 drones could be flying at any given time in U.S. airspace. The conference in Orlando attracted approximately 8,000 attendees.

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FLORIDA INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT ACADEMY (FIEA), UCF’s graduate video game development program, has announced plans to open a 5,000-square-foot digital media workspace to assist startup companies. The new FIEA Ventures program will initially be available to academy alumni and will be housed at UCF’s Center for Emerging Media in downtown Orlando. Nearby, Canvs, a 17,000-square-foot coworking space opens in August.

TOURISMKissimmee has lassoed the NATIONAL RODEO FINALS in what officials hope will be a bullish move on the economy. The Professional Rodeo Cowboy’s Association will bring its championship to the Silver Spurs Arena each March for 10 years. Osceola County will

pay approximately $1 million to host the event, which is expected to draw about 30,000 over five days. Kissimmee steered the rodeo away from Las Vegas.

UTILITIESDUKE ENERGY has completed the evaluation of the Deltona Commerce Park through the company’s Site Readiness Program. The 263-acre Deltona Commerce Park is the second Florida site in the readiness program, which helps advance prime sites for development opportunities. Duke Energy joined with Team Volusia EDC to arrange for McCallum Sweeney Consulting, a nationally recognized site selection consultant, to conduct an initial site assessment. HRP Associates completed another study and conceptual plan.

Because businesses can’t afford to stand still. The world is growing and with it are opportunities.

Our high-caliber editorial content is read by C-level executives across a multitude of industries. We cover economic development, pure and simple, along with important legislative issues.

Who We Are:Privately owned.

Print circulation: 11,000 copies bimonthly.

Audience: C-level executives and key stakeholders in the state and nationally, site selectors nationally, legislators in Washington, D.C. and Tallahassee.

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county report | super region at a glanceC


Research. Incubation. And the next generation of universal smart sensors.

Osceola County is partnering with the University of Central Florida and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council to establish a 100,000-square-foot research and incubation facility focused on the next generation of universal smart sensors.

The Florida Advanced Manufacturing Research Center will be the home of research aimed at advancing technologies that will shape the future of automobiles, surgical devices, home appliances and a host of other devices. Officials seek to recruit or create the world’s first industry-led smart sensor consortium.

The ultimate goal: make Florida a global leader in this rapidly growing industry.

As these innovations become ready

for the marketplace, the center’s partners envision a growth in high-wage jobs for Central Floridians, with existing companies expanding and new companies moving to the region

to collaborate with the center’s researchers.

“We’ve asked ourselves for years what comes next after Medical City, and it’s this infrastructure project,” says Rick Weddle, president and CEO of the Orlando Economic Development Commission, another partner in the center. “This is how the communities of the future are being built, and this is what technology-led economic development is all about.”

The center will be built on 20 acres owned by Osceola County near the intersection of U.S. 192 and Florida’s Turnpike, across U.S. 192 from Osceola Heritage Park.

The county has committed to investing $61 million for design, construction and

equipment costs. UCF will lease the building for $1 a year for 30 years and will operate the center. In addition, UCF is set to provide $10 million (from non-state and non-tuition sources) to help design and build the center and for start-up costs, as well as another $7 million for focused faculty hires.

The Florida High Tech Corridor Council will contribute $1 million initially and expand the scope of its signature Matching Grants Research Program at UCF, the University of South Florida and the University of Florida to include sensor-driven advanced manufacturing. Up to $5 million of matching funds will be available for research activities and the operation of a consortium.

“This is a historic day for Osceola County,” comments Osceola Commission Chairman Fred Hawkins Jr. “Creating these types of 21st-century jobs will make us a world leader in this coveted and competitive high-tech field.”

Sensing the right time and place, Osceola County is partnering to create the Florida Advanced Manufacturing Research Center.

MORMON CHURCH ACREAGE GROWSIn a state marked by a history of

big land owners, who is the biggest today? The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — and it’s getting bigger.

Last year, the Mormon church became the largest private landowner in Florida when it purchased nearly 400,000 acres in the Panhandle from real estate giant, St. Joe Co. They weren’t done.

While that sale brought the church’s total holdings statewide to more than nearly 673,000 acres — almost the size of Hillsborough County — it most recently bought another 143 acres of state-owned land in south Hillsborough County

(for $803,000). Farmland Reserve Inc., a nonprofit corporation affiliated with the Mormon church, made the purchase. The acreage consists of two noncontiguous parcels between U.S. 41 and Interstate 75, south of the Little Manatee River. It sits adjacent to agricultural land already owned by Farmland Reserve. The “intent is to expand our agricultural operations on this additional acreage,” according to a press release.

Notably, the church’s Florida operations are run by Deseret Ranches, which reportedly owns the largest cow-calf ranch in the U.S. located seven miles east of Orlando International Airport and 19 miles west of Cape Canaveral.

MANUFACTURING MORE OPPORTUNITIESLike in Osceola County and across

the Super Region, Hillsborough officials are making a big push to help this key industry.

Thanks to the county’s $1 million pledge, the new two-year Manufacturing Academy and Apprenticeship/Internship Program is intended to help fill the industry’s talent pipeline and engage employers. The program will combine existing resources through Hillsborough County Public Schools and Hillsborough Community College in training for students of all ages. The resulting pool of talent will then serve as a resource for companies seeking to recruit. The program will place special emphasis on students, veterans, women, minorities and

underserved communities.The $1 million starter funding will

be divided among the Manufacturing Academy; an Apprenticeship and Internship Incentive Program; and marketing of the two to potential private sector partners, students and their families. CareerSource Tampa Bay is charged with executing the program’s initiatives, while the Hillsborough County Economic Development Department and the Board of County Commissioners serve as administrators.

Participating companies must be for-profit manufacturing businesses located in Hillsborough County. They will be required to pay the apprentice or intern a minimum wage equivalent to the average entry-level wage for the industry.

Hillsborough officials hope their new two-year Manufacturing Academy and Apprenticeship/Internship Program will help fill the industry’s talent pipeline.

HILLSBOROUGH

COUNTY GLANCECITRUS COUNTY offers proof that

Florida utilities increasingly are moving to cleaner-burning natural gas and away from coal plants. Duke Energy Florida, the state’s second-largest electric utility, plans to build a $1.5 billion natural gas power plant in the county while shutting down two coal-fired generating units there. The 1,640-megawatt natural gas plant would be located on 400 acres adjacent to the company’s Crystal River complex and begin producing electricity in 2018. The two coal-fired units, also at Crystal River, are expected to be closed that same year.

LAKE COUNTY has unveiled a new slogan, “Real Florida. Real Close,” to showcase the area as a tourism destination. The reasoning: “Lake County boasts unparalleled natural resources, state-of-the-art sports facilities and quaint downtowns — all within a short driving distance of Central Florida’s major attractions and beaches on both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts,” says Robert Chandler, director of Lake County’s Economic Development and Tourism Department.

MANATEE COUNTY continues to broaden its economic base. Fast-growing Star2Star Communications LLC has launched a major expansion at its Bradenton area facility to accommodate the projected hiring of 350 employees over the next five years, according to the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp. In addition, the Roskamp Institute, an area life-sciences leader, is continuing its mission to advance and commercialize research into Alzheimer’s and other treatments. Roskamp is leasing space to Rock Creek Pharmaceuticals Inc., a publicly traded company.

ORANGE COUNTY Mayor Teresa Jacobs and Chief Information Officer Rafael Mena attended a meeting at FEMA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., to demonstrate innovations in emergency response. Orange County was one of three organizations selected and the only county in the nation invited to give a presentation.


county report | super region at a glanceC


healthy transportation system is essential for people in all walks of life. Roads and bridges have been at the heart of communities for hundreds of years and, in the 21st century, the role they play continues to benefit everyone.

For workers, they make a difference in getting to and from a job — or job interview. For businesses, they help customers and make the development of interstate, or even international, markets possible. For communities, they improve our quality of life. For our nation, they make the U.S. economy stronger.

Having devoted my career to transportation, I’ve always known this, and I never tire of reminding people about it

whenever a new road or bridge project is completed.

Last December, I had the opportunity to see firsthand how valuable transportation

investments can be when I participated in the opening of the Interstate 4/Lee Roy Selmon Expressway Connector in Tampa. The project provides direct truck access to Port Tampa Bay, which improves driver safety and reduces congestion by giving commercial trucks somewhere other than local streets to drive.

The project cost $421 million, including $222 million in federal funding. It will pay itself off many times over as a vital commercial route for businesses throughout the region

that can more easily move goods to and from Port Tampa Bay. It also improves the local quality of life by giving residents safer and quieter local streets.

Such projects make a difference in people’s lives all over America. But they can’t happen without continued transportation investment.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx has traveled the country making the case that more investment is needed — not just to maintain our highway and transit systems but to improve them. During his visit to the Tampa Interstate Study in May, he highlighted the need to bolster America’s infrastructure and said the backlog of repairs and reconstruction isn’t being tackled fast enough.

He’s right.Working with the Obama Administration, the U.S.

Department of Transportation proposed the GROW AMERICA Act, a bold $302 billion, four-year national vision to address the country’s aging transportation system. It will support millions of American jobs by repairing and modernizing roads, bridges, railways and transit systems, and ensure that American businesses can compete and grow in the global economy.

Over the past decade, government at all levels has experienced challenges in funding transportation infrastructure. Revenue for the Highway Trust Fund, the federal government’s primary source of funding for road and transit infrastructure, hasn’t kept pace with the costs needed to keep our system functioning. The gap is expected to get worse in the years ahead.

The GROW AMERICA Act will increase our nation’s investment in transportation, making possible larger and more ambitious projects such as the I-4 Connector and the Tampa Interstate Study across Florida, from coast to coast.

Floridians, like the rest of the American people, deserve the world’s best roads and bridges to get them safely where they need to go and to keep our economy strong.

EDITOR’S NOTE: PERSPECTIVES OFFERS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL, STATE AND NATIONAL LEADERS TO COMMENT ON ISSUES OF IMPORTANCE TO FLORIDA AND THE SUPER REGION. HAVE SOMETHING TO SHARE IN PERSPECTIVES? CONTACT US AT [email protected].

THE GROW AMERICA ACT WILL INCREASE OUR NATION’S INVESTMENT IN TRANSPORTATION. THE RETURNS BENEFIT EVERYONE.

by GREGORY NADEAUDEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR OF THE FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION

perspectives | leading points of viewP

A

The Central Florida Partnership serves as a passionate advocate for Central Florida business and a champion of free enterprise in our seven-county region. Every day, Central Florida moves closer to achieving its full potential as a globally-recognized, high-performing

economy. The Partnership makes it possible by identifying the opportunities, thinking big and taking action—by moving “Ideas to Results.”

Join us by investing in our region and moving our community forward. Call Amanda Muley at 407.835.2512 or fi nd out more at www.IdeasToResults.org.

CLEAR VISION+

BOLD IDEAS+

EFFECTIVE ACTION

That’s the Power of Partnership.

@CFLPartnership#IdeasToResults

CFPad_FF_07_14.indd 1 6/6/14 8:47 AM


innovations | growing ideas into enterprisesI

The University of Central Florida is fortifying its defense research.

In first quarter 2014, it earned five research grants worth nearly $2 million from the Defense University Research Instrumentation Program — placing UCF among the top three university award recipients in the nation.

UCF will use the funds to purchase major equipment for projects in the College of Optics and Photonics (COP) and the Institute for Simulation and Training (IST), in partnership with the College of Nursing. For example, Professor Martin Richardson will receive $702,000 from the Army Research Office

for equipment to develop an ultrafast, high-energy laser facility that will allow researchers from across the nation to study different areas of laser science in multiple

atmospheric environments.In all, awards totaling $39.9 million

will help 149 university researchers at 84 academic institutions purchase state-of-the-art research equipment, which will benefit science education, medical training and the preparation of troops. The Army Research Office, Office of Naval Research, and Air Force Office of Scientific Research fund the projects. The University of Illinois and Rutgers University were the other universities to receive five awards.

New funding enables major equipment purchases at UCF for laser photonics, simulation and nursing.

Four of UCF’s five awards are for research at the College of Optics and Photonics.

DEFENSE RESEARCH ADDS TO ARSENAL

UCF

HYSENSE SHOWS TRUE COLORSHySense Technology, a UCF

spinout company, received the $100,000 first-place award at the CAT5 Awards at the Innovation Concourse of the Southeast: Manufacturing and Safety event in Orlando. The company took the top prize from a pool of more than 80 technology-based companies.

HySense, founded by UCF Florida Solar Energy Center researcher Nahid Mohajeri, develops and produces an intelligent tape that changes color in the presence of hydrogen and other gases. Mohajeri’s technology detects hydrogen leaks wherever hydrogen is stored or transported as part of a $10 million grant from NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center. Her company later licensed the technology from UCF.

HySense is marketing a specialty beige tape that turns black when hydrogen is detected. It can be wrapped around or attached to surfaces where gas might leak.

The CAT5 competition, hosted by Space Florida and UCF, showcases tech companies in the Southeast that have the potential to attract additional venture funding for Florida’s entrepreneurs.

HySense Technology CEO Nahid Mohajeri and production manager Monica Kowalczik accept the grand prize check of $100,000 for placing first in the CAT5 competition.

STARTER LAB OPENS FOR BUSINESS

UCF’s new Starter Lab, located on campus at the College of Business Administration, serves as an experiment in collaboration. The lab provides a 1,500- square-foot space where students of all disciplines can work together on new venture ideas.

It’s sponsored by Mobile Makers, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council and Research Assessment and Innovation for Social Enterprise.

“The Starter Lab (RAISE) is a great place for students to collaborate with others and ‘noodle’ with preliminary innovation and new venture ideas,” says Dr. Cameron Ford, director of the Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership at UCF.

“The space features meeting space, pervasive whiteboards and post-it notes, as well as materials to experiment with preliminary ideas for innovative solutions. We think it will become an important space that fosters the development of an entrepreneurial culture at UCF.”

The UCF Cyber Defense Team celebrates its win at Raytheon

National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition.

(L-R) Dr. Paul Jarley, dean of the UCF College of Business Administration; Randy Berridge, president of the Florida High Tech Corridor Council; Dr. Cameron Ford, director of the Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Blackstone LaunchPad at UCF; and Dr. Thomas O’Neal, associate vice president for research and commercialization at UCF’s Office of Research & Commercialization.

Professor Neelkanth G. Dhere’s novel process can be scaled to larger panels, which utility companies can use to generate power from sunlight. That power can be fed into the electrical grid to provide energy to homes across the country.

WE’RE NO. 1An eight-member UCF team that started

as a grassroots effort to educate the community about cyber attacks and how to defend against them was named the best cyber defense team in the nation at the Raytheon National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition in San Antonio.

The team placed first, edging out the Rochester Institute of Technology, which placed second; the University of Alaska at Fairbanks took third.

There was no cash prize, but the UCF team had its photo displayed in Times Square in recognition of its excellence. The students also will be flown in to tour Raytheon’s Government Cyber Operations Center near Washington, D.C., this summer. Another reward: potential employment. The team’s skills and outreach activities are drawing the attention of local and national industry players.

Raytheon and other organizations interested in enhancing cyber security — including U.S. Homeland Security, McAfee, Boeing, Walmart and Amazon, among others — sponsored the competition. In its ninth year, the event was organized to help students gain hands-on experience that merges theory and practice to create awareness about cyber defense and to give higher education institutions a way to gauge the effectiveness of their programs.

SCIENCE INNOVATORS HONOREDTwo UCF scientists have earned

national awards as their inventions are expected to make a difference in fueling future commercial spacecraft and in the efficiency of solar panels needed to convert sunlight into electricity.

TechConnect World selected UCF engineering professors Sudipta Seal and Neelkanth G. Dhere as winners of the 2014 TechConnect National Innovation Awards. The organization is the world’s largest multidisciplinary multisector conference and marketplace of vetted innovations, innovators, and technology business developers and funders.

Seal and his team with the NanoScience Technology Center found a way to engineer nanoparticles that grow within solid and liquid substances used for propellants in collaboration. Propellants are used to fuel commercial space-launch vehicles and government satellite launches.

Dhere and his team of graduate students developed a new way to prepare absorber films for photovoltaic solar panels, making them more efficient and less expensive. Dhere’s method includes a new process for using the metal organic compound diethyl selenium. The new approach is also safer than the traditional route used in the industry, Dhere says.





by KATE MULLEN

FUELED BY THE ENERGY AND SPIRIT OF TWENTY-SOMETHINGS, THREE AMBITIOUS COMPANIES HAVE TAKEN FLIGHT FROM THEIR RESPECTIVE UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES.

Oluwafunola Falade is a first-generation American with Nigerian roots and quite a confounding name.

“No one calls me that, not even my mother. Everyone calls me Fun,” he says, flashing his trademark smile.

The name sure fits his personality. Fun is an effervescent University of Central Florida graduate in advertising and public relations at the Nicholson School of Communications. He recognized a deficit in the nonprofit industry, where its fundraising and merchandising needs often weren’t met. With a heart for organizations that seek to “make the world a better place,” he went full speed ahead with Quarterwear, a company that partners with nonprofits, charities and foundations to operate merchandise campaigns and create limited-edition outerwear to raise both funds and awareness.

“The people who don’t care about the statistics and want to change the world deserve an ovation,” he says.

In January 2014, Quarterwear launched its first campaign in conjunction with

Knight-Thon, a UCF dance marathon benefiting Greater Orlando Children’s

Miracle Network Hospitals. Twenty-five percent of sales went to the nonprofit.

Fun credits his success to the UCF Blackstone LaunchPad, a student-oriented organization that promotes entrepreneurship powered by the UCF College of Business Administration. Fun became its first student hire. Blackstone ran a series of seminars called “Launch Your Business in 10 Weeks,” which helped him transform his company from idea to reality. “I was working for a startup, learning about startups and building my own startup. It was a totally immersive experience,” he says.

The road to success hasn’t always been smooth for Fun and Quarterwear. Yet, while the launch tested his business model’s ability to expand, it also brought rewards. Initially listed as an alternate for the Business Model Competition at UCF, he went on to receive $3,000 in seed funding. Also, Quarterwear’s business model won the annual Joust Business Plan Competition conducted by UCF’s Center for Entrepreneurship Leadership, earning $75,000.

Despite his success, Fun hasn’t lost sight of why he started Quarterwear. “I love storytelling and sharing the stories of the companies that change the world,” he says.

Oluwafunola Falade UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA


When you look up “Entrepreneurial Spirit” in the dictionary, you just might see Amir Rubin’s face. He

cofounded his first company, Prioria Robotics, during his undergraduate career at the University of Florida. Since then, he’s become the CEO of Paracosm, a startup company with a laundry list of accomplishments, including being a development partner on Google Project Tango. Paracosm was started in January 2013. “We worked in stealth mode for the first seven months, working in secret to develop our 3D mapping software,” Rubin says.

Not only is he smart, he’s wildly enthusiastic: “Our goal is to eventually allow robots and augmented reality to use these 3D maps to easily navigate and interact with their environment.” Now backed with a team of 18 people, the company has embarked on the process of running beta tests and pilot programs with NASA Langley in Virginia and the Department of Transportation in Washington, D.C.

Noting that “finding investments to keep the lights on is always a fun challenge,” Rubin says he has received capital from SoFla Angels and Tony Hsieh’s Vegas Tech Fund, with donations matched by the Florida Institute for the Commercialization of Public Research. (See Page 24.)

While Paracosm has made huge strides in the past year, the company’s ambition extends beyond. “We have not made it yet,” he concludes. “When every place on earth is 3D-ified. When robots roam the earth and augmented reality apps allow visually impaired people to navigate buildings, then we might say we’ve made it.”

It all started on a drive to the beach. Surfboards in the back, Sean Kinberger and Camille Canters

realized there wasn’t a brand that accurately depicted Florida’s lifestyle — most surf/skate oriented brands are based out of California and New York. The Stetson undergrads wanted a clothing line that embodied their way of life and took the paradigm “do what you love” to another level.

Flomotion was born in 2010 and has since blossomed into a very popular Florida retail brand.

Showcased in Flomotion’s clothing line, minimalistic designs express Florida’s laid back, yet active lifestyle. The budding entrepreneurs combined their degrees in digital arts and finance to start the business and learned about retail on the fly. Call it a labor of love.

“Neither of us knew much about the industry and how the buying

process worked,” concedes Sean Kinberger, creative director and co-owner.

Four years later, the surf and skate apparel company can be found in dozens of shops across Florida as well as online (flomotion.com).

The guys have traded dorm rooms for an office two blocks from Jacksonville Beach.They are now fixtures in the surfing community and familiar faces at the Surf Expo, held twice yearly in Orlando and attracting some 26,000 retailers, exhibitors and media per show. At the same time, Kinberger and Canters report that contacts made at Stetson were invaluable in building their business from the ground up.

Advice for budding entrepreneurs: “A setback is a setup for a comeback,” Kinberger says. “You can’t let the little things stop you from reaching your goals.”

Sean Kinberger & Camille CantersSTETSON UNIVERSITY

Amir Rubin UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA



how2 | expert tips and adviceH

The entrepreneurial quest: to make the investment sun shine on Florida startups.

amie Grooms is pretty darn good at making something out of nothing.In 1998, the former tissue bank director

founded the University of Florida’s most successful biotech spinout, Regeneration Technologies.

He served as CEO during its uncertain infancy, raised its first venture capital (VC) rounds, oversaw its $75 million initial public offering and ultimately led it to a profitable $150 million in revenues by 2001.

Today, RTI’s implants are distributed in nearly 50 countries and used in various sports, orthopedic and trauma surgeries. Headquartered in Alachua, the Florida firm employs 1,100 people worldwide.

But Grooms is hardly a one-hit wonder.

After he “retired” from RTI Surgical, he cofounded AxoGen Corp., a rapidly growing nerve repair company that recently closed an $18 million offering and moved to NASDAQ.

Grooms’ experiences taking Florida startups from zero to wildly profitable spurred him to

take on another steep challenge: CEO of the Florida Institute for the Commercialization of Public Research, a nonprofit organization charged with promoting economic development through technology commercialization with offices in Gainesville and Boca Raton.

Not surprisingly, there’s been more success.The Institute provides $50,000 to $300,000 in

seed funding to qualified companies based on Florida research.

special report | venture capitalS

by NATHALIE MCCRATE


Essentially, the Institute makes it easier for Florida’s next generation of plucky entrepreneurs.

The uphill battle is gaining momentum, slowly but surely.

“My frustration with raising money locally made me want to do this job,” he says. “The first money we raised was not in Florida, sadly, and it was only a $6 million round.”

Florida didn’t have much of an investment community 17 years ago, Grooms describes. There wasn’t an angel network or any easily accessible infrastructure for early-stage deals. “It was tough.”

Despite being the fourth-most populous state (and on the march to No. 3), Florida is still a small fish in a big pond when it comes to venture capital. Last year, California closed more than 1,638 VC deals worth $14.7 billion in investment, according to 2013 Money Tree Report data by PricewaterhouseCoopers and the National Venture Capital Association. New York brought in 408 deals worth $2.7 billion, while Texas finalized 156 deals worth $1.3 billion. The Sunshine State closed 49 VC deals worth $425 million — representing only 1.4 percent of the nation’s $29 billion in VC funding. Pennies compared to California’s lion’s share of 50 percent.

Where’s the money?There isn’t an easy answer. But most

industry people agree that Florida has the potential to be a much bigger fish. Last year, three Florida research universities out-invented North Carolina’s prestigious Research Triangle Park and the Texas university system, according to the National Academy of Inventors and the Intellectual Property Owners Association report. (See Page 12.)

Florida Research Consortium CEO Jack Sullivan believes supporting the state’s public and private universities is essential for economic growth. “We expect the onward march of tech, but we fail to recognize that it comes from somewhere and requires investment,” Sullivan says, whose organization is a strategic partnership of education, business and government formed specifically to advocate for knowledge-based economic development in Florida. “We’ve got to invest in people, ideas and capital in order to be nationally

competitive.”Florida, of course, isn’t the only state

vying for the research commercialization gold mine. In 2005, Texas won headlines when it committed $500 million to its Emerging Technology Fund. Ohio’s Third Frontier program and California’s Stem Cell Research and Cures Act have followed accordingly. In comparison, the

Florida Institute has garnered just $18 million in public investment for its seed capital and tech commercialization fund since it was formed by the Florida Legislature in 2007. That’s a significant sum to be sure but one that pales next to similar commercialization investments by Florida’s peers.

Florida needs to put programs like the Institute on steroids, cites

Sullivan.Grooms agrees. “I consider the Florida

Institute a pilot program that has earned the right to go to the state and ask for more money. We’re doing a good job,” he says.

The demand outstrips the supply of money. The state approved another $4 million fund this year, but 37 companies have already applied.

The Florida Institute has funded 29 companies since inception. Its portfolio companies have leveraged state dollars to attract as much as four to five times the amounts provided by the Institute, and jobs created have average salaries of $74,000, according to Florida Institute COO Jane Teague.

“We need to increase the amount of capital available to startups so that they don’t have to leave the state to find funding, and so they can grow and create jobs here for Floridians,” Teague says.

Grooms stressed the need for patience and nurturing, but he remains optimistic the overall investment dynamic is changing. Budding organizations like the Florida Angel Nexus (FAN) are making it easier for entrepreneurs to tap into local capital, he said.

Founded in 2012 by Blaire Martin, a business development consultant at the University of Central Florida Venture Accelerator, and Michael O’Donnell, executive director of UCF’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, FAN

aspires to connect qualified high-growth startups with angel investors all over the state and help members achieve higher returns with less risk. FAN reduces the amount of “legalese” angel investors have to plod through by streamlining fund administration tasks like due diligence and deal flow and providing a centralized pool of potential investors for entrepreneurs to meet. Group investments typically range from $50,000 to $500,000.

Other investor communities are maturing. The Florida Venture Forum, Florida’s largest statewide support organization for VCs and entrepreneurs, recently celebrated its 30-year anniversary. The group has helped entrepreneurs attract more than $2.8 billion to date, according to Kevin Burgoyne, president for the 300-plus member organization.

Other important organizations such as the Florida High Tech Corridor Council and GrowFL are also helping narrow the capital gap.

Grooms estimates it will take five to seven years to truly measure the value of budding investment infrastructure.

Until then, folks like Grooms refuse to sit idle.

“My objective is to help the state understand that they have these

economic engines all around, and build infrastructure around these universities and research institutions, so the good work that they do translates into something that can help the Florida economy,” he says.

Grooms jokes that he has an ulterior motive to his altruistic economic development efforts. “On a selfish note, if I start up a company again, I want to have

an infrastructure in my backyard that I can tap into. I don’t want to have to get on a plane,” he adds. “So for my mission for the state of Florida and also selfishly: If we can pull off this infrastructure and have this accomplished, I think Florida will not only be attracting the companies out of these universities, it’ll be attracting money from all around the world to come here. Because then we’ll have the right infrastructure to start a company.”

With that kind of steely determination, don’t expect Florida to reside in the 1.4-percent club for very long.

Michael O’Donnell

Jamie Grooms



There’s a reason CenterState Bank is one of the fastest growing and most popular communit y banks headquartered in Florida.

Perhaps there’s several reasons. “It’s the best of both worlds that is working well for us,” said

CenterState Bank President & CEO John Corbett. “It’s the logical yet very desirable combination of having the interpersonal service support of a community bank, coupled with the lending power of a state-wide bank, to provide both business and consumer clients expert financial support.”

The plethora of banking opportunities for both consumers and businesses abound throughout the state, but none have captured the attention of regional and national financial news media like CenterState Bank’s growth has. It provides

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

CENTERSTATE BANK

My business,my business bank.

— Eric MyersUnited Refrigeration,

Ocala, Fla.

CenterState’s new Kissimmee branch opens in summer 2014.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

CenterState with the power to provide the financial services that an individual customer or corporate client may desire, while still delivering the professional banking services with the flavor of a community neighborhood bank, which puts their customers first.

“Each branch has the flexibility and know-how to use their own autonomy to support the community they are in,” explained Corbett. For CenterState, it’s word of mouth about our personal touch in truly caring for our clients, plus our extensive services that have been our calling card for this growth.”

“One of our key differences is that we encourage decision-making by the banker that is closest to the action in his or her respective community, and this authority and responsibility allows each branch to do the right thing for all of our clients, no matter their location,” he continued.

The power behind the bank is most notable with the rising earnings estimate, from the acquisition of the $1.1 billion First Southern Bancorp, Inc., and earlier acquisition of Gulfstream Business Bank. CenterState is presently enjoying a long-term expected earnings growth rate around eight percent. “Our bank’s strong capital position allows our customers to feel very safe and secure. At $263 million, we are well over the benchmark of the $116 million required to be thought of as ‘well-capitalized,’ ” Corbett said. And he is right — at the end of 2013, CenterState had consolidated assets of $2.4 billion, total consolidated loans of $1.5 billion, total consolidated deposits of $2.1 billion, and total consolidated stockholders’ equity of $273.4 million.

Just last month, the news from Zacks Investment Research was that they had upgraded CenterState Banks Inc. (NASDAQ:CSFL), which owns CenterState Bank of Florida, from a “neutral” to a Zacks Rank #1 “Strong Buy” and an “OutPerform” stock. Analysts from Sterne Agee agreed, and set a “buy” rating for the stock.

Today, CenterState Bank is one of the fourth-largest banks headquartered in Florida, and the second largest bank in the Orlando Metropolitan area. Owned by Floridians, and based in Winter Haven, Florida, between Orlando and Tampa, the 59 CenterState branch locations include three commercial loan production offices in Ft Myers , Gainesville and Crystal River, with more opening within the next year.

The latest development is the relocation of their Kissimmee office into a new state-of-the-art facility located in the heart of the business district in downtown Kissimmee, Florida. The network of CenterState banks encompass 20 counties throughout Central, Northeast and Southeastern Florida.

The ability to get to know and anticipate the needs of

their customers makes CenterState Bank a favorite banking choice for both individual customers and corporate businesses. In 2013 the bank lent $1 million dollars per day, to consumers and businesses around Florida, providing all t ypes of corporate cash management solutions for local businesses and professionals. Loans at CenterState can range for a consumer from $5,000, to tens of millions of dollars for corporate customers.

“For the year, CenterState originated a record-setting $360 million of new loans and posted a profit of $14.6 million,” explained Corbett. “These are exciting times for our bankers. It is refreshing to see our customers prosper again, and watch the entrepreneurial spirit come alive. We want to encourage this and continue to be the trusted financial advisor for these consumer and corporate efforts.”

CenterState Bank also has an exemplary reputation for excellence with both consumer and corporate cash management solutions. CenterState provides all types of lending, such as residential real estate mortgages, home equity lines of credit, manufactured home loans, auto, boat and RV loans, as well.

For corporations and businesses of all kinds, CenterState provides commercial lending

for owner occupied and commercial inve s tment re al e s t ate loans , agricultural and municipality lending, homeowners and condo association lending, and lending to professionals such as attorney firms and medical

professionals.In addition to providing full-service banking for both

consumers and corporate entities, CenterState Bank also provides trust and wealth management services to consumers throughout their branches. “At CenterState, it is our desire to continue to be our customer’s trusted financial advisor and help them make their dreams come true,” said Corbett.




by WAYNE ELSEY

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

If you Google the term “social entrepreneurship,” you get more than 18 million results. Even leading

business schools such as Yale, Wharton, Columbia and Stanford all have programs in social entrepreneurship, with more and more programs being created across the country and the world.

The fact of the matter is that entrepreneurs want to make a profit, but they also want to make a social impact. The other important point of note is that consumers want to do business with companies that give them the products and services they want and also are socially responsible.

Late last year, GlobeScan, SustainAbility and BBMG published a

study entitled The 2013 Aspirational Consumer Index, which determined there are “nearly 2.5 billion

consumers globally who are uniting style, social status and

sustainability values to redefine consumption ... more than one-third

of consumers globally (36.4%) identify as Aspirationals, defined by their love of shopping (78%), desire for responsible consumption (92%) and their trust in

brands to act in the best interest of society (58%).”

According to the study, Millennials are the largest portion of Aspirational consumers, followed by Generation X, with 39 being the average age of an Aspirational. They tend to live in urban areas, are likely female and live in emerging markets such as China or

India.Why do we find ourselves at the

nexus between social entrepreneurship and social

consumerism? There are a lot of

reasons why social entrepreneurship has moved beyond being a trend in the early 2000s to being a movement today.

Certainly, one of the reasons lies with the youth embodied by Millennials, who really care about being socially responsible.

As an example, anecdotally if you follow social entrepreneurship and being socially responsible across varying social media platforms, you are likely to find that a good portion of the people involved in the discussions are younger Gen Xers and Millennials. It is not uncommon for longstanding professionals in the nonprofit sector to be exchanging ideas and thoughts very often with people who are just starting out in their careers.

We also happen to live in a unique moment in time. Given our information or digital age, we now live in a world where enormous innovation, technological and scientific discovery has become routine. We no longer have one brilliant inventor or social business catalyst for our time who manages to change the world as Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein or Thomas Edison did. We now live in a world of many great innovators, social thinkers and thought leaders such as the late Steve Jobs, Larry Page, Melinda Gates or Janet Yellin, etc.

Last year, four companies tied for first place on Forbes’ list of most socially responsible companies: Microsoft, Google, The Walt Disney Co. and BMW. These are all leading brands that have incorporated good socially responsible practices as part of their business models. Companies are going greener and are ever more mindful of the environment and the world we are leaving to future generations. They are also looking to treat their employees well or help fight and support efforts to create new solutions to address uncompromising global issues around poverty, health and education.

Therefore, the leading edge of theory and practice is such that in the 21st century smart companies and businesses will be looking to make a profit in a socially responsible manner. The two are no longer mutually exclusive — and consumers will be demanding more and more of this business ethos with their wallets.

EDITOR’S NOTE: WAYNE ELSEY IS THE FOUNDER AND CEO OF WAYNE ELSEY ENTERPRISES, AUTHOR OF THE BOOK, “ALMOST ISN’T GOOD ENOUGH,” AND FOUNDER AND FORMER CEO OF SOLES4SOULS. [WAYNEELSEY.COM]

On May 16, 2014, a District Court in Nevada denied an emergency motion for a Temporary

Restraining Order (TRO) by plaintiffs Hologram USA Inc., Musion Das Hologram Limited and Uwe Maass.

The request for the TRO was based upon an accompanying complaint for infringement of U.S. Patent Nos. 5,865,519

and 7,883,212, both the complaint and request for the TRO being filed on May 15, 2014.

The subject patents relate to the now-famous holographic technology that allowed the plaintiffs to reproduce late rapper Tupac Shakur in 2012 via a detailed hologram for a live performance at the 2012 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

For example, Claim 1 from the ’519 patent recites:

1. An image projection apparatus, comprising: — a projector, a frame, a light source and an at least partially transparent screen; — the frame being arranged to retain the screen under tension, such that the tension of the screen can be varied at a plurality of positions along at least one edge of said screen such that the screen is substantially wrinkle free; — the light source arranged to illuminate at least part of the apparatus; — the screen inclined at an angle with respect to a plane of emission of light from the projector

LAW

Saw or heard about Michael Jackson’s return on television in May? Here’s the backstory — one of potential technology patent infringement.

by JACK ABID

An NBC News photo captures Michael Jackson’s holographic appearance at May’s Billboard Music Awards.

and the screen having a front surface arranged such that light emitted from the projector is reflected therefrom; and — the projector being arranged to project an image such that light forming the image impinges upon the screen such that a virtual image is created from light reflected from the screen … etc.

The plaintiffs sought to enjoin the defendants (producers of the 2014 Billboard Music Awards) from generating another realistic hologram reproduction of late pop superstar Michael Jackson a few days later on May 18. Jackson, of course, appeared.

Although no final decision will be made on the plaintiffs’ complaint for patent infringement for some time, the plaintiffs may seek preliminary injunctive relief, such as the TRO, before the final decision is made. The standard for the granting of preliminary injunction requires a plaintiff to establish: 1. likelihood of success on the merits of the case; 2. that without injunctive relief, there is a likelihood of irreparable harm

to the plaintiffs; 3. the balance of equities favors granting the motion; and 4. the granting of the injunction is in the public’s interest.

The District Court denied the motion based upon plaintiffs’ failure in “establishing that they are likely to succeed on the merits of their patent infringement claims and that they are likely to suffer irreparable harm.” The District Court also found that the plaintiffs failed to establish irreparable harm solely via self-serving statements and an affidavit of an interested party.

This is not the end of the complaint for patent infringement, but only the end of the motion for preliminary relief before the case proceeds to trial. The plaintiffs may yet still succeed once they have their proverbial day in court.

In the interim, Michael Jackson returned, and the nuances of technology patent infringement were brought to light.

EDITOR’S NOTE: JACK ABID IS A SHAREHOLDER AND REGISTERED PATENT ATTORNEY AT ALLEN, DYER, DOPPELT, MILBRATH & GILCHRIST, P.A. IN ORLANDO. [ADDMG.COM]



here does your nonprofit stand? The answer may be found in the Fifth Annual

Central Florida Public Charities Survey released recently by public accounting firm Cross, Fernandez & Riley LLP

(C/F/R) in partnership with the Central Florida Foundation.

Respondents represented organizations from all of the classified charity service categories. Of the organizations polled, 40.4 percent reported annual revenues of less than $1 million, and 28.8 percent reported annual revenues of more than $10 million.

HUMAN RESOURCES AND GOVERNANCEMost nonprofits rely on volunteers,

with few paid staff members on their roster. Despite this, according to the Central Florida Foundation — a public grant-making foundation that serves as the philanthropic home for more than 400 charitable funds — the nonprofit sector is the fourth-largest employer in Florida.

The top issues regarding employee satisfaction continue to be compensation, benefits and communication. Last year, 67.3 percent of full-time employees reported a salary increase, with nearly half seeing an increase between 3 and 4 percent. The majority of charities cite cost as their main determinant when it comes to the level of health care provided, although 78 percent plan to continue their current coverage under health-care reform changes.

A large number of respondents also revealed their organizations are lacking leadership positions, including a chief financial officer (42.6 percent), chief operating officer (66.7 percent), human resource director (72.9 percent) or

DARE TO COMPAREdevelopment/fundraising director (53.1 percent). With these key roles left unfilled, board members are instrumental in the decision-making process for the charities they serve.

While consistency is invaluable for a nonprofit board, many see members come and go. On average, Central Florida nonprofits have nine board members and 80 percent have term limits for members. Board members are typically limited to two terms, with each term lasting three years. With this turnover, finding board members who are committed and meet the necessary qualifications is key. However, only 39 percent of boards in the region have board-selection criteria in writing.

DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGIC PLANNINGLast year’s survey results showed an

increase in donations from Millenials and Generation Xers, largely in part to fundraising through e-philanthropy (online). While social media and Internet donations remain excellent outlets to use,

overall age demographics are also working in the nonprofit community’s favor. The number of Americans age 65-plus is expected to increase by nearly 80 percent between 2010 and 2030, which is good news considering older people and their estates generate a significant portion of the donor base for many charities.

Volunteerism and fundraising are also on the rise. Half of respondents reported a boost in volunteer involvement. The top two areas of growth in fundraising were contributions from individuals and corporations, with 66.7 percent reporting an increase in individual contributions and 35.7 percent reporting an increase in corporate contributions.

Of course, with positive opportunities come obstacles. The top three obstacles for the 2013 respondents were cutbacks in funding/drops in revenue, attracting quality leadership/board members and rising costs. The majority of organizations plan to expand within the next two years; however, the decision on

program offerings was split, with 40 percent reporting

they would introduce new programs to

current offerings and 38 percent reporting they wouldn’t alter their current programs.

A SNAPSHOT OF THE COMMUNITYAccording to a study

by the Giving USA Foundation, 2013 was the

third consecutive year of rising donations since the financial

crisis in 2008 and, if this trend continues, contributions will reach

pre-recession levels by 2018. Cross, Fernandez & Riley’s survey results mirrored this projection, as 60 percent of respondents reported an increase in revenue. Local organizations are still facing challenges, but Central Florida nonprofits are finally recovering losses suffered during the recession.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO CFRCPA.COM.

The results of the Fifth Annual Central Florida

Public Charities Survey are in.

How does your nonprofit measure up?

NONPROFITS



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special report | timely and topicalS

hile the Great Recession put unprecedented stress and forced cuts in the private and government sectors, nonprofit employment grew an estimated 18 percent between 2000 and 2010 and accounted for 10 percent of the country’s workforce and 5.5 percent of the nation’s GDP.

The result: Lines have blurred between the business, public and nonprofit sectors, forcing greater interdependency than ever before in tackling complex community challenges and maintaining economic vibrancy.

In Central Florida, the YMCA has emerged as one of the most dynamic examples of how a nonprofit is taking the lead in filling gaps in critical social needs.

From improving community health and keeping children safe during out-of-school hours to strengthening at-risk families and communities, today’s Y is much more than a “swim and gym.” In fact, it’s a $70 million organization that combines elements of government services, public education, preventative health care, senior programs, after-school care, philanthropy, fitness, early childhood development, youth sports and community aquatic centers.

At the helm for the past 21 years has been President/CEO Jim Ferber. His vision, drive and execution have drawn praise from a U.S. president, a First Lady, the U.S. Secretary of Education, Florida’s two senators, the region’s top business and philanthropic leaders, as well as mayors and school officials from the six-county region served by the Y.

“By focusing and leveraging the incredible private-public sector resources we have before us, we can move the needle on things like combatting chronic disease, boosting graduation rates, supporting working families and more,” says Ferber.

As far back as 1994, when health-care reform was still a new topic, Ferber began nurturing partnerships with Florida Hospital, Orlando Health and other organizations to deliver community-based health and rehabilitation

Nonprofits like the YMCA of Central Florida have filled critical community gaps during and after the Great Recession.

“WE PROVIDE MEANINGFUL OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES AND ABILITIES TO BECOME HEALTHIER, HAPPIER AND STRONGER. AND THAT IS WHAT WILL MAKE CENTRAL FLORIDA AN EVEN BETTER PLACE TO LIVE, WORK AND RAISE A FAMILY.”

— Jim FerberYMCA PRESIDENT/CEO

ENGAGEMENTMISSION:

services at local Ys. Today, those partnerships have grown and evolved into groundbreaking models for how health-care organizations are adapting to changes prompted by the Affordable Healthcare Act.

“Little did we know when we launched the program [with the Y] in 2001 that shifting health-care services from hospital settings to alternative sites with lower cost structures would be as important as it has become,” cites Dr. Jamal Hakim, interim president and CEO at Orlando Health. “This partnership with the YMCA not only reduces costs, but also makes it more convenient for patients.”

CLOSING THE ACHIEVEMENT GAPWith a lifelong passion for helping

children succeed, Ferber has also pushed his team to tackle major education issues, such as declining reading scores and summer learning loss, which take an even higher toll on low-income students. Last summer alone, the Y’s academically based summer camp program provided 22,000 kids with more than 6.5 million minutes of reading time, as well as significant lesson time devoted to values, wellness and strengthening families.

The Y’s biggest academic success, however, came from two summer learning pilots, operated in partnership with BELL (Building Educated Leaders for Life) and JPMorgan Chase, at two Orange County Title 1 schools. In both cases, students gained nearly six months of learning in just six weeks.

In addition to summer programs, the Y is Central Florida’s largest provider of quality, affordable after-school programs. Each day, more than 5,300 youth take part in learning-focused programs offered at nearly 50 local elementary and middle school locations.

For the past 15 years, it has

partnered with Orange County Government and Orange County Public Schools to give more than 160,000 kids a safe, welcoming place to go after school for homework help, mentoring and enrichment.

ON A MISSION TO STRENGTHEN COMMUNITIES

As a mission-driven organization, the YMCA of Central Florida has been serving the region since 1885. With operations in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Brevard and Marion counties, it serves more than 235,000 children, families and seniors annually, making it one of the region’s largest, most comprehensive nonprofits. Through philanthropy and fundraising, it also provides more than $8.5 million in financial assistance, membership and program subsidies to ensure the Y is available and accessible to those in need.

While its list of high-profile partners and donors continues to grow, its biggest benefactor by far has been Dr. Phillips Charities. Over the past 30 years, Dr. Phillips Charities has invested more than $30 million to build, modernize and expand Y programs and facilities, especially in at-risk communities that couldn’t otherwise support a Y.

Today, 11 of the Y’s 27 family centers are “Outreach Ys,” which provide healthy living, youth mentoring and family strengthening programs in Pine Hills, Tangelo Park, South Orlando, Titusville and other striving communities.

“We’ve found a partner who shares our commitment to making the community a better place to live,” comments Ken Robinson, president of Dr. Phillips Charities.

Most recently, Dr. Phillips Charities funded the expansion and transformation of the Dr. P. Phillips Y in southwest Orange County. The 80,000-square-foot facility is

designed to become one of the premier “Healthy Living” Ys in the nation.

In addition to a greater emphasis on diet and nutrition, the facility will offer expanded health and wellness programs, diabetes prevention, health screenings, sports medicine and perhaps even direct medical services, similar to those already being offered at various Y locations through Florida Hospital, Orlando Health, Munroe Regional Medical Center and Health Central Hospital.

For example, a new partnership between the Y and Florida Hospital for Children’s Healthy 100 Kids is creating satellite clinics at three Y locations to help combat childhood obesity.

“Jim Ferber has changed the trajectory of the organization, in part, through sheer determination and vision. But more importantly, he has a huge heart for helping people and communities grow stronger,” says Helena Ryan, former chair of the YMCA Metropolitan Board of Directors.

TIPPING POINT FOR THE FUTURETo ensure the Y’s influence

and impact continue well into the future, the organization recently adopted a long-range strategic plan that calls for engaging 20 percent of the region’s three million residents by 2018.

It’s a tipping point Ferber believes will change Central Florida for the better.

“At a time when so many people feel isolated and alone, the Y is bringing families and neighborhoods back together,” he concludes. “We provide meaningful opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to become healthier, happier and stronger. And that is what will make Central Florida an even better place to live, work and raise a family.”

With operations in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Brevard and Marion counties, the YMCA of Central Florida serves more than 235,000 people annually.

DR. PHILLIPSLAKE NONASOUTH ORLANDO



WHAT IS HAPPENING ON THE GROUND FOR OUR AIRPORTS, AND SHOULD THE CONCEPT OF AN “AEROTROPOLIS” BE ON OUR COLLECTIVE RADAR?

Orlando International Airport is the state’s largest airport in terms of landmass and third largest in the U.S.GREATER ORLANDO AVIATION AUTHORITY

FLORIDA’S AVIATION INDUSTRY PACKED A NEARLY $115 BILLION ECONOMIC PUNCH IN A 2010 STUDY. WITH NEW NUMBERS ON THE

HORIZON (AUGUST), THE ECONOMIC IMPACT NO DOUBT WILL BE HIGHER.

F lorida is the only state with four large hub airports based on passenger volume — Miami International, Orlando International, Fort

Lauderdale-Hollywood International and Tampa International. It boasts 19 commercial airports that flew nearly 145 million passengers last year, second highest in the nation. There also are more than 2,000 aviation-related companies employing almost 82,000. Not bad for a once-sleepy peninsula that is only 22nd among states in geographic size but that is set to pass New York as the country’s third-most populous state.

Florida’s aviation industry is definitely ready to ascend even higher, but is the sky really the limit or can the state’s airports go farther? And what role will the aerotropolis play?

Master plans are certainly “flying.”

CONNECTIVITY CENTRALBefore tackling the aerotropolis concept, it’s

important to understand that the common denominator for all the state’s airports is connectivity. Today’s consumers want instant gratification and that includes convenience at every stage of the trip: in the terminal, in the air and on the ground. A global economic powerhouse must have the infrastructure in place to move people within the state, across the U.S. and around the globe.

Connectivity starts when people walk into the terminal. Both Orlando International Airport and Tampa International Airport have plans for people movers. At OIA there are plans in place for a South Airport Complex that will include a direct connection to the new 2,400-space parking garage, a ground transportation center and a people mover station. In Tampa International’s 20-year, $4.1-billion master plan — the biggest expansion in its history — there also exists a 1.3-mile people mover to connect the current terminal to the new Gateway Center, a $942 million, five-story, 2.3-million-square-foot facility being built just south of the airport.

And that’s just for starters. Rail centers also are important, and Florida is on the fast track.

“Virtually every conversation that we have about our people mover complex and the intermodal facility, there is a discussion about SunRail because folks want to connect to the airport,” says Phillip Brown, executive director of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

All Aboard Florida also is a literal linchpin in this new world of connectivity. A commuter railroad connecting Orlando and Miami with planned stops in Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, this

public-private partnership is designed to provide access to international airports, seaports and existing and future transit systems, such as SunRail in Orange County, and Metrorail and Metromover in Dade County. The route will utilize 195 miles of an existing, active rail corridor along the eastern part of the state (think Henry Flagler) with an additional 40 new route miles parallel to State Route 528 to connect to OIA.

It is estimated that 50 million business and leisure travelers either drive or fly annually between Orlando and Miami. The organization says it has the potential to take as many as three million cars off the road each year, with obvious benefits to travelers and the environment.

“When you’re a strategic intermodal gateway, be it port or airport to Florida, whether it’s Port Canaveral, PortMiami, or Port Everglades or anywhere else and the airports like Orlando International, Miami, Tampa and Fort Lauderdale, etc., and start connecting the dots, that’s where the money is being prioritized to be spent to make Florida more competitive with our neighbors on global connectivity,” says Bill Brooks, P.E., Southeast Division aviation leader and associate vice president for HNTB.

An airport also has to be able to grow with its metropolitan area.

“We can fit JFK, Miami International and LAX, all three in our landmass,” says Brown.

At nearly 14,000 acres, OIA is the nation’s

WE CAN FIT JFK, MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AND LAX, ALL THREE IN OUR LANDMASS.”

— Phillip BrownEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE GREATER ORLANDO AVIATION AUTHORITY



third-largest airport in terms of geographic size and the largest in Florida. Size matters.

Where does all the airport connectivity and development lead? Depending on whom you ask — the best example is an aerotropolis, a paradigm shift from city airport to airport city.

AEROTROPOLIS DEFINEDThe term was first proposed by New York

commercial artist Nicolas DeSantis, whose drawing of a skyscraper rooftop airport in the city was presented in the November 1939 issue of Popular Science.

There is no uniform definition of an “aerotropolis.” Wikipedia, unofficial arbiter of the Millennial generation, defines it as “an urban plan in which the layout, infrastructure and economy is centered on an airport … .” Dr. Jean-Paul Rodrigue of Hofstra University offers a more detailed definition that includes references to concentric rings, distribution centers, logistics complexes, manufacturing plants, all ringed by office parks, hotels, restaurants, civic centers and “aerolanes.” And, then there is Dr. John D. Kasarda, the guru (many might call spokesman) of aerotropolises.

The preeminent voice of the aerotropolis concept, Kasarda is a professor at the Kenan-Flagler Business

School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he directs the Center for Air Commerce. An author and writer on the subject, as well as a consultant, Kasarda started focusing heavily on aerotropolises in 2000 based on his prior research on airport-driven economic development. It has been reported he honed in on the concept in China.

According to Kasarda, airports have evolved as drivers of business location and urban development in the 21st century in the same way as did highways in the 20th century, railroads in the 19th century and seaports in the 18th century.

THE SKY IS FALLINGKasarda asserts some strong beliefs about

the importance of these airport cities on his website. In his opinion, China, India and Middle Eastern countries view airports as the primary infrastructure necessary to compete in the 21st century.

“We view them more as nuisances and environmental threats to be controlled. And

therein lies our challenge and peril. If we continue to view airports that way, then we’ve already capitulated. We’re already out of the game,” he says.

In Kasarda’s book Aerotropolis: The Way We’ll Live Next (published in 2011) it states that while many think globalization started with the creation of the Internet, it really started with the advent of long-distance air travel.

In media interviews, Kasarda has said, “These new airports have 50-year plans. You have to look at the development of an aerotropolis in terms of decades. The idea is that the airport will grow and it will serve as a magnet for development.”

While the term has been around for some time, not to mention the concept, the U.S. held its first aerotropolis conference in Dallas in 2013. The second annual Aerotropolis Americas conference will be held Dec. 8-10 in Denver.

“I attended the conference in Dallas last year; I’m

going to attend the conference in Denver, as well,” says Mark Busalacchi, director of business development at Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers. “It’s certainly something we’re interested in learning more about and becoming more engaged in.

“I think the message I took away from last year’s conference was … you’ve got to get the engagement of the entire community and the stakeholders. It’s got to be a coordinated effort. Everyone’s got to be singing off the same page of the hymnal.”

Brooks believes we essentially have the aerotropolis model already in the state.

FLORIDA IS THE ONLY STATE IN THE U.S. WITH 4 LARGE HUB AIRPORTS: ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL, TAMPA INTERNATIONAL, FORT LAUDERDALE-HOLLYWOOD INTERNATIONAL AND MIAMI INTERNATIONAL.

SPRUCE CREEK FLY-IN

McKinley “Mac” Conway published his book, The Airport City, in 1977. Today’s Spruce Creek residential community south of Daytona Beach, built around an airfield, embodies the concept of an airport city — especially the live and play components.

Daytona Beach has always been a magnet for speed. From automobile racing on the hard-packed sand to pilots using the beach as a runway, it has attracted adventurous souls. Aviation history puts the first flight on the beach by a glider all the way back to 1906.

Given Florida’s climate and geography, the military used Florida for extensive training during World War II. The navy embarked on Florida’s east coast in a major way. Spruce Creek Airport was built in 1943 as a training facility.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the nation in California, Navy Ensign McKinley Conway was working as a project engineer for the Navy’s first jet fighter, the Ryan FR-1. Conway held degrees in aeronautical and electrical engineering.

After the war, “Mac” bought a used single-engine Cessna 170 and started to conduct business travel around the U.S. He recognized the convenience of air travel and the logistics problems it created with ground transportation.

He also became aware of the large number of military installations and airfields that were decommissioned, including Spruce Creek, and returning to the purview of local governments. His idea was to convert these sites to

industrial developments and office parks.Thus his “fly-in” development concept

was now airborne. Conway flew around the southeastern

U.S. and other parts of the country, “evangelizing” his theory. In 1970 he held his first national seminar on “Fly-in Development” in Cape Kennedy. His thriving consulting business gave way to his first development, Spruce Creek.

Conway assembled fellow pilots and investors and purchased the airfield in Daytona in 1969, and the project was officially launched in July 1970.

Conceived as a place for other pilots to be able to fly in and enjoy recreational pursuits in a secluded place of natural beauty and fly out at their convenience, Spruce Creek set the stage for what

has become a premier residential community built around a 4,000-foot lighted runway. Residents can pilot aircraft, from a Stearman to a Gulfstream, directly from their homes.

The gated community has 5,000 residents, 1,300 homes, 700 hangars, a championship golf course, country club and 24-hour patrolling security.

While not an airport city, it certainly qualifies as an airport community.

Its undisputed mastermind: Conway, who recognized the importance of multimodal transportation many years ago.

Conway founded Conway Data and Site Selection magazine. He died in 2011 at age 90.

THE VISION AND VISIONARY

A young globe-trotting pilot, McKinley “Mac” Conway, circa 1960s.

Spruce Creek Fly-In Community south of Daytona Beach.

© COPYRIGHT KARLHAUS AND 7FL6.COM, REPRODUCED WITH PERMISSION

PHOTO COURTESY OF CONWAY DATA



“I think Florida has its version well underway with aerotropolis; I don’t think any of us have heard that term actually used for Orlando International Airport, but it is certainly something that in its own right, with Medical City and the east airfield, is all synergistically tied together and collectively would make a major, major economic impact for the future,” he says.

Brooks also looks at the might of both the Orlando and Tampa metros. “Welcome to Orlampa. The region really is moving in that direction … and what better example of an airport city, or an aerotropolis, as one with airports on both ends,” cites Brooks.

EXPANDING WINGSWhile there are many definitions and opinions on

the subject of airports and their role in the global economy, there is no question that Florida’s airports are expanding and accommodating more travelers.

The Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, located in Panama City, will be served by Bay Line and CSX rail, Interstate 10 and Port Panama City, which serves as a foreign trade zone. It is also in close proximity to Tyndall Air Force Base and Naval Support Panama City. The West Bay Sector Plan is a 75,000-acre, multiuse, master planned development anchored by the airport.

In Lee County, the Southwest Florida International Airport is one of the busiest single-runway airports in the country. Located at the midpoint between Miami and Tampa, the airport has plans for its Skyplex development.

It spans 1,100 acres, 260 of which are zoned for aviation businesses fronting the airport. A foreign trade zone, quick access to Interstate 75, 10 colleges and universities and an infrastructure in place make it an intriguing choice for companies. Hertz announced in May 2013 its relocation from New Jersey and the building of a new world headquarters in nearby Estero.

“There’s talk of another corporate relocation on the heels of the Hertz deal. I think from an economic development standpoint, things in this area, specifically, are really starting to come together. I think more things like that need to happen, for the aerotropolis concept to really start to take shape,” says Busalacchi.

SUNSHINE STATE: GLOBAL RADARGlobal reach is vital for a successful airport city.

Florida continues to court international travelers and international businesses. Even our regional airports have international carriers. Icelandair, ArkeFly (Amsterdam), charter SSTAir (Brazil) fly out of Orlando Sanford International Airport; and

WELCOME TO ORLAMPA.

THE REGION REALLY IS MOVING IN THAT DIRECTION … AND WHAT BETTER EXAMPLE

OF AN AIRPORT CITY, OR AN AEROTROPOLIS,

AS ONE WITH AIRPORTS ON BOTH ENDS.”

— Bill BrooksP.E., HNTB SOUTHEAST DIVISION AVIATION LEADER

AND ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT

Tampa International Airport is committing big dollars to fulfill big plans. ALFONSO ARCHITECTS

from TIA and most recently OIA offers direct service to Oslo twice a week on Norwegian Air.

Miami International Airport, gateway to Latin America, is the second-busiest international airport in the U.S., behind New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Every day brings with it announcements of new carriers or new incentives to attract them.

RISING AEROTROPOLISESWith China’s 1.37 billion population and rapid

urbanization taking place, it is ripe for development of aerotropolises as is India with its population of 1.25 billion.

China is building 100 airports, to be completed by 2020, dozens of which will be aerotropolises.

Dubai’s aerotropolis is the world’s largest, situated perfectly between the East and the West.

It is often referred to as an airport with an emirate attached.

Amenities include three hotels, restaurants, shops, open-air gardens, Internet and video games, and cascading waterfalls —to name just a few. It also has extensive road and rail connections.

Like any important sociological concept gaming the future, there are lots of opinions.

Some of these airport cities are sprouting up organically, some have heavy government financing behind them and some are planned outright. What is clear cut is they are being built with impunity in developing nations — especially in Asia.

MADE IN THE U.S.A.Closer to home, a handful of airports are actively

working to position themselves as aerotropolises.Memphis International Airport has branded itself

“America’s Aerotropolis” due to its largest employer FedEx, making it the world’s second busiest for cargo.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is essentially proclaiming itself an aerotropolis, and one state to our north, the Atlanta Aerotropolis Alliance is looking to leverage Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (a closed Ford plant adjacent to the facility has been purchased and Porsche is moving its North American headquarters near the airport).

Florida has its own big plans. The Florida Legislature is investing $325 million in aviation improvements across the state.

“Before the end of this decade, I would expect you very possibly can see a true intermodal facility at Orlando International that connects air, rail and ground transportation at the airport, which is a concept that you don’t see in any airports in Florida,”

Southwest Florida International Airport counts Airberlin and Air Canada among its international carriers.

Airports across the state are actively seeking more direct international flights.

“International air service by itself is about $2 billion of annual economic impact in Central Florida,” says Brown. A delegation from Orlando visited the Middle East in late April to meet with airline representatives in the United Arab Emirates and Turkey.

“Since I’ve been at Tampa International Airport, we’ve added Edelweiss Air’s nonstop flights to Zurich, our first direct flight to continental Europe in 15 years. … We are working hard to bring more, and we’re confident that we have the support from the community we need to attract more direct international service to the Tampa Bay area,” says Joseph Lopano, CEO of Tampa International Airport.

Both airports are succeeding — this past spring Copa Airlines starting flying directly to Panama City



Dubai International Airport, with its luxurious amenities (including a gold store above), just recently passed Heathrow as the world’s busiest international hub.

said Brown.While both Orlando and Tampa have huge

expansion plans, their leaders share a similar vision that the growth must be measured and in step with passenger volume.

Other voices around the state echo that sentiment.When it comes to aerotropolis planning Dr. Jerry

Parrish of Tallahassee-based Center for Competitive Florida is a strong advocate of a conservative approach.

“As the chief economist of Tax Watch, we would certainly want to look at what others are doing and if it looks like a successful model, we would want to look at it; but to be a first mover like what they’re trying to do in Georgia, certainly we want to let them make the mistake so that we can learn from their mistake rather than make our own first,” says Parrish.

In England, with its rich history, the shiny new aerotropolis concept has many naysayers.

In the April 28, 2011, London Review of Books,

Will Self, author and professor at Brunel University, expressed even harsher skepticism. In critiquing Kasarda’s book, Aerotropolis: The Way We’ll Live Next, he termed the book a “scientific romance masquerading” as urban theory. According to Self: “What he (Kasarda) seems not to have grasped is the oneiric character of progress-without-end itself, and so he and Lindsay [co-author] remain slumbering on the redeye flight to the apocalypse. Dream on.”

Self isn’t the only Brit to attack Kasarda’s vision. Rowan Moore, of the UK’s Observer, in his March 2013 column also took Kasarda’s theories about aerotropolises to task.

However, in June 2014, Dubai dethroned Heathrow as the busiest international hub in the world. Ten years ago it ranked No. 45.

Thought provoking, indeed.

— Joel Brandenberger contributed to this story.

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT


When John Walsh strode to the podium during his 2014 State of the Port address in June, it

didn’t take long to learn that the Port Canaveral CEO was brimming with optimism. He greeted the crowd by saying, “We’re no longer ‘The Little Port Who Could!’ ”

He received cheers.Indeed, it’s been a monumental year

for the port, with the opening of the $23 million, 22,000-square-foot Exploration Tower in November just the beginning.

Walsh also discussed plans to widen and deepen the port’s channel to accommodate larger cargo ships and international activity. The port will dredge down to 55 feet — the only port in the Southeast able to make that claim.

There’s more.Recent negotiations with longtime

tenant Morton Salt resulted in a 10-year lease extension and the addition of two acres. Morton Salt vowed to invest $5 million in expanding its plant. Overall, cargo tonnage at the port will rise to 4 million this year, with a projection to double tonnage and triple revenue over the next three years.

The port has its sights set on the horizon that will take its economic impact from $3.5 billion today to $20 billion in the next decade.

Port Canaveral is not alone. Buoyed by new resources, Florida’s other seaports are also making waves. In June, President Obama signed the Water Resources Development Act (WRRDA), a bill that authorizes $12 billion in new funding for seaport and waterway infrastructure projects. The ports didn’t waste time setting sail. (See Page 63.)

At Port Tampa Bay, President and CEO Paul Anderson said the goal is to “build this port into one of the most dynamic and diversified seaports in the country.”

Home to three towering Post Panamax gantry cranes, two additional cranes are in the works for 2015. Port Tampa Bay’s container terminal, at 40 acres, has a throughput capacity of about a quarter-million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) per year. Increasing that capacity is a central focus of the port’s growth moving forward. Eventually, at full buildout, the container terminal will be 160 acres, with 1 million TEU throughput capacity, Anderson says.

Internationally, Port Tampa Bay connects the region with Russia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and it’s a chief reason the Tampa-Orlando/ Interstate 4 corridor is the 10th-largest economy in the nation, boasting a GDP of more than $302 billion.

Similarly, JAXPORT has designs on greater engagement. Dredging of the St. Johns River will take the existing 40-foot deep harbor to 47 feet at its deepest point. The $684 million project started on June 17.

In addition, there’s planned construction at Mile Point to eliminate the navigational hazards. Scheduled to begin in early 2015, the project is deemed essential to the port’s growth in international trade.

The construction comes at a vital time for the port. In May, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd., implemented a new route to transport containers from South America for transfer to Europe-bound ships. The route enables local growers to ship more

exports from Jacksonville.And in Broward, Port Everglades’

20-year, $1.6 billion plan was approved by county commissioners in June. The port forecasts doubling cargo and increasing cruise passengers by 40 percent in the next 20 years.

Finally, the opening of PortMiami’s $1 billion tunnel, set for July, is expected to re-route some 16,000 vehicles that currently must travel through downtown Miami.

According to the Florida Ports Council, last year the seaports moved 105.1 million total tons of cargo, traded with more than 200 countries globally and served 14.1 million cruise passengers. Yet for the seaports, it’s not enough.

To accommodate growing business and capture new opportunities — and with legislative support — they have programmed $4 billion in improvements over the next five years. And they’re moving full steam ahead to make it happen.

A STROKE OF THE PRESIDENT’S PEN HAS BUOYED SPIRITS AND LAUNCHED AMBITIOUS

NEW GOALS AT THE STATE’S SEAPORTS.

Port Tampa Bay generates nearly 100,000 jobs and $15 billion in economic impact.


W ill Greenlight Pinellas get the green light?

That question won’t be answered until after Nov. 4, when a countywide transportation proposal goes to public vote. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) seeks to change its funding from the current property-tax source to a 1-percent sales tax. County residents will decide. The interim jockeying, though, makes the Kentucky Derby look like a walk in the park.

At stake is only this small prize: the chance for transformational improvements to the county’s transit service — adding choices for residents while also enhancing the county’s image as a worthy place to live, work and play. You know, lifestyle and economic development.

No big deal, right? Actually, in June a very big deal was

struck that ultimately could determine Greenlight Pinellas’ fate. In essence, the $2.2 billion Greenlight plan encompasses a 65 percent expansion of the authority’s bus network, including Bus Rapid Transit lines on most major Pinellas corridors; buses running to and from Tampa and the airport in the evenings and on weekends; longer service hours to accommodate second-shift workers and evening travelers; and the development of future passenger rail from St. Petersburg to Clearwater via the Gateway/Carillon area.

Supporters view the effort as a vital first step towards mass transit across Tampa Bay. The plan would be implemented over a span of 30 years.

All might have been lost, however, were it not for the June 3 agreement between Pinellas County commissioners and the PSTA, giving the county control about how the PSTA could use the sales-tax revenue, estimated to bring in $130 million annually. Also, the agreement largely prevents future transit boards from reintroducing property taxes.

Opponents of Greenlight Pinellas had decried additional taxation and the possible misuse of those revenues.

A NOVEMBER VOTE PUTS PINELLAS COUNTY AT A CROSSROADS IN THE QUEST

TO PREPARE FOR ITS TRANSPORTATION FUTURE.

A sigh of relief could be heard in the office of St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, along with counterparts throughout the region, among others. Following the agreement, Indian Rocks Beach Mayor R.B. Johnson, Clearwater Mayor George Cretekos and Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn joined Kriseman in a show of support.

Call it politics and promise. Greenlight Pinellas, indeed, offers the

latter. Aside from bus-service upgrades,

enhancements would form a foundation of quick, easy and convenient connections to a future passenger rail line from St. Petersburg to the Gateway/Carillon area

and to Clearwater. Tampa Bay leaders hope this rail system will complement SunRail in Metro Orlando.

Also, consider that while the recession has reduced PSTA’s property tax revenue by more than $40 million since 2008, ridership has increased nearly 20 percent during the same period. To help prevent further service cuts, the agency is using reserve funds to accommodate all-time record ridership. If the Greenlight measure doesn’t pass, those reserves would be depleted by 2017, according to PSTA.

There is a need. There is opportunity. There is a vote. And, to be clear, there is much at stake.

by MICHAEL CANDELARIA

A drive west on Interstate 4 and farther on Interstate 275 offers Metro Orlando a glimpse at the

future. The I-4/Selmon Connector, recently

completed, is a one-mile project that cost roughly $425 million during its four years of construction. Today, the elevated toll road provides exclusive truck lanes for direct access to Port Tampa Bay while reducing traffic on local roads.

Farther west is more than $216 million worth of ongoing work to widen 4.2 miles of I-275 from downtown Tampa to east of State Road 60. Ultimately, the project will expedite movement and ease commutes. For now, traffic is slow, and the fruits of labor won’t be quite evident until closer to the fall 2016 scheduled completion date. The same is true on Tampa Bay stretches of Interstate 75.

Metro Orlando, take notes. Your turn is right around the bend.

With the springtime selection of the I-4 Mobility Partners to lead the way in an innovative public-private partnership, the much-discussed and long-anticipated I-4 Ultimate Project became very real. And like with I-275, heightened efficiency is promised but not before some commuter angst.

Take heart.I-4 consists of 73 miles of roadway that

connects Tampa with Orlando and accommodates an average of 1.5 million trips daily in Osceola, Orange, Seminole and Volusia counties alone. The I-4 corridor is also considered a Designated Strategic Intermodal System Highway Corridor link of the state’s intermodal transportation network. This work will be smack dab in the middle.

The project — at an estimated cost of $2.3 billion — includes the reconstruction of 21 miles of I-4 from west of Kirkman Road in Orange County to east of State Road 434 in Seminole County. It adds four tolled express lanes while maintaining the highway’s existing free general-use lanes. The express lanes will be operated with variable tolls, which

AS THE SUPER REGION FINDS INTERMODAL

ANSWERS TO TRANSPORTATION

QUESTIONS, HIGHWAYS ARE BEING

OVERHAULED TOO.

will be adjusted to improve traffic flow throughout the corridor. In addition, the project involves reconstructing 15 major interchanges and constructing more than 145 bridges. Work is scheduled to start early next year with projected completion in 2021.

Optimism from the experts abounds about the future of I-4, opened in 1965.

“The use of a public-private partnership for the I-4 Ultimate Project will help us deliver these improvements 20 years sooner than using conventional methods,” says Florida Department of

Transportation Secretary Ananth Prasad. “This benefits Central Florida residents, commuters and visitors.”

“In partnership with Florida DOT, our world-class team will deliver the best value solution to the Orlando region’s residents and businesses, and to the millions of international visitors to this globally popular destination,” comments Karl Reichelt, executive vice president of Skanska Infrastructure Development, a team leader of the I-4 Mobility Partners. “Safety will be improved, and the corridor will enable efficient travel in a sustainably and economically built corridor that uniquely reflects Central Florida in its design.”

And, indeed, there is more promising news. In January, Gov. Rick Scott earmarked $3.8 billion for construction of highway projects as part of $8.8 billion to FDOT to make strategic transportation improvements throughout the state. Also, GROW AMERICA Act, a $302 billion federal transportation bill, is in the offing. (See Page 18.)

More money for road construction and repair is just down the road. Take heart. And drivers, take a deep breath.



THE NEW CENTRAL FLORIDA EXPRESSWAY AUTHORITY PAVES THE WAY FOR GREATER REGIONAL AND MULTIMODAL COLLABORATION.


by MICHAEL CANDELARIA


Label this a comeback, a rally, a recovery or a rebirth. Take your pick. Even call it a phoenix.

An agency, mired in controversy because of private back-room misbehavior that became public front-page news, is not only given new life but also expanded jurisdiction and a clean slate. It now has the chance to rewrite history plus make a lasting impact far into the future. Perhaps also change a region’s landscape.

That’s the story behind the old Orlando-Orange County Authority and the new Central Florida Expressway Authority. The emerging entity is CFX for short. Certainly appropriate — the drama behind it and the road ahead are worthy of primetime on FX (home of “award-winning original television”).

This isn’t changing lanes or setting out in a different direction. This actually is rising from the ashes.

“I would describe it as a phoenix,” says Sen. David Simmons, R-Maitland, who played a starring role alongside Sen. Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, in getting the bill passed, with efforts dating back several years before any controversy surfaced.

On June 20, Gov. Rick Scott signed Senate Bill 230 to create CFX, which immediately took over the existing OOCEA and was broadened to include Lake, Osceola and Seminole counties. Under the new law, the Osceola County Expressway Authority — the only other existing agency — will manage its current road projects through 2018 or until certain financial milestones are met before joining the regional authority.

A nine-member board governs CFX, with representatives from each of the four counties along with the mayors of Orange County and Orlando and three gubernatorial appointees. An executive director is being sought, as well. The agency is responsible for the planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of a 109-mile limited-access expressway system serving the four

county jurisdictions. For starters. Not written is what happens next.Think regionalism. “The chambers of commerce and

many associations have preached for a long time that we need to have regional solutions to our regional problems,” Simmons says. “Our problems just don’t end at county lines. Those county lines, in many instances, are artificial. When you get to transportation, we know that roads don’t stop at the county line. It’s important that we take a regional approach to solving these regional problems regarding transportation.”

Rep. Bryan Nelson, R-Apopka, who was the House sponsor of the bill, agrees. “Too often, civic leaders in our area talk about the region of Central Florida without having a regional vision or regional planning. One of the changes to the expressway board is to bring about a truly regional transportation authority,” he says.

Also, imagine multiple options beyond pavement. “This provides a true opening of the door to the future regarding other types of transportation because it goes ahead and permits the right-of-way to be used for intermodal, multimodal forms of transportation,” Simmons says.

About three years ago, the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority had started a 2040 master plan. That work was put on hold once controversy arose. CFX now has that task.

“Particularly what we’re talking about [are] people-movers and the same kind of thing that you see in major metropolitan areas — to be able to use our existing rights-of-way to transfer significant

numbers of people from one place to another,” Simmons cites. “We know that you can’t continue just building more roads and laying more asphalt. Moving large numbers of people in a convenient and expeditious way is going to be a part of the solution for transportation in the future.”

That could mean having an alternative mode down the center of State Road 408 near downtown Orlando or a train headed to Miami (All Aboard Florida) that runs along State Road 528 near Orlando International Airport. State Road 429 and the Wekiva Parkway could have companion modes.

Clean slate, empty canvas. “There are many transportation

planners who in looking to the future know that some of the most important parts of this legislation, this bill, really deal with opening up the window, the door to multimodal forms of transportation, particularly looking at

people-movers and things like that,” Simmons adds.

With seemingly endless opportunities and vast potential, Simmons believes CFX can become a model.

“I believe in the idea of other areas in Florida adopting a more regional approach to their transportation needs. This is, I think, the next step in dealing with transportation,” he says. “We know that in Central Florida the idea of parochial concepts about

road-building and transportation in general must give way to a more cooperative approach over larger areas.”

Fresh start.“Controversy was not the reason for

this idea of a regional transportation authority, but it will be a beneficiary,” Simmons concludes. “All of us will be beneficiaries of a new regional approach to transportation. Why? Because it expands the opportunities for all of the counties, and it strengthens the ethical responsibilities and requirements of the new regional authority. It also provides for expanded opportunities for different forms of transportation. I think it’s a new opportunity for Central Florida.”

YOU CAN’T CONTINUE JUST BUILDING MORE ROADS AND LAYING MORE ASPHALT. MOVING LARGE NUMBERS OF PEOPLE IN A CONVENIENT AND

EXPEDITIOUS WAY IS GOING TO BE A PART OF THE SOLUTION FOR TRANSPORTATION IN THE FUTURE.”

— Sen. David Simmons, R-Maitland


The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is on the road toward autonomy.

The user-financed public agency is self-sustaining and led by a board of local citizens. THEA develops and owns toll highways as well as non-tolled roads. In turn, all collected tolls are reinvested into projects in Hillsborough County.

THEA, though, is especially ahead of the curve on this front: As 2014 hit the midyear point, the agency was offering businesses its access-controlled toll road, arterial feeder roads and office facilities to test and

develop technologies focused on autonomous vehicles — automated cars capable of sensing their environment and navigating without human input.

The cars drive themselves. THEA hopes they can accelerate economic growth.

Earlier in the year, the U.S. Department of Transportation approved the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway in Tampa as a connected vehicle test bed, joining a small number of other test-bed locations nationwide. The Selmon Expressway, largely by virtue of its limited access and arterial road networks,

T-H-E-A AND A-V-T SPELL TAMPA BAY’S NEWEST ROADWAY DIRECTION: AUTOMATED VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY.


provides researchers the capability to test within the latest technology standards and architecture of the USDOT vehicle and infrastructure research program. Areas of study include safety, mobility, environmental and efficiency advantages, along with services, standards and components.

Call it taking autonomous vehicle technologies and looking “under the hood.” Also view it as continuing innovation that spans decades. THEA was the first expressway authority to convert to All Electronic Tolling (AET), along with being the first to employ reversible express lanes and the first to use image-based tolling in Florida. Yet, THEA believes this drive toward AVT could be a real transportation game-changer.

The technology behind autonomous vehicles can save lives, create jobs and lighten congestion during workday commutes, according to published reports. Down the road, the expected benefits are fewer navigational errors, traffic collisions and accidents; reduced traffic congestion and increased traffic flow; higher speed limits; and expanded freedom of use by those of any age or disability; among others.

In Tampa, officials assert, the technology has the potential to impact lives at a level equal to the “smartphone.”

“As Hillsborough County aligns itself to be the access point to Central and South America, the ability to develop and test autonomous vehicle technology in Tampa provides a great opportunity for companies to potentially be on the cutting edge of transportation changes impacting two continents,” comments Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner.

Florida became the second state allowing automated vehicles to operate on its roads when State Rep. Jeff Brandes, R-St. Petersburg, chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, championed legislation in the 2012 Legislative Session. A total of four states now have passed such legislation.

THEA wants to be the one. Here’s the pitch to companies exploring locales for research: “Tampa

Bay’s attractive technology, business and lifestyle climate create a perfect environment for those interested in advancing autonomous vehicle technologies. Tampa Bay provides an affordable, competitive and efficient operating environment with the resources companies need to expand and thrive, including critical connectivity to Tampa International Airport, Port Tampa Bay and interstates 4, 75 and 275.”

THEA Board Chairman Stephen Diaco describes the effort as part of the agency’s “legacy of achievement.”

Brandes labels it a “bold step.”

THEA seeks to make it a smart one, too. It has partnered with the University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation Research Automated Vehicle Institute to deliver specialized research support in a local university setting. The Institute is an internationally recognized resource for policymakers and transportation professionals. The 45-person multidisciplinary research faculty includes experts in economics, planning, engineering, public policy and geography. The result is the requisite mix of academic knowledge and real-world experience to develop innovative, implementable solutions for all modes of transportation, contends Diaco.

In addition, THEA is partnering with other transportation providers such as the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART). “It’s terrific that development and testing is being done in the City of Tampa,” says Mike Suarez, HART chairman and City of Tampa councilperson.

In the end, from both transportation and economic perspectives, the hope is that all roads lead to Tampa Bay, almost literally and autonomously.

THE TECHNOLOGY HAS THE POTENTIAL

TO IMPACT LIVES AT A LEVEL EQUAL TO THE “SMARTPHONE.”

REDUCED TRAFFIC

CONGESTION

FEWER ACCIDENTS

MORE FREEDOM FOR DRIVERS OF

ANY AGE OR DISABILITY

HIGHER SPEED LIMITS

The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority is accelerating the concept of automated vehicles in Florida.


Seymour Israel literally built his 50-year-old business from the ground up. No, make that from below the ground up. And Israel insists he’s remained fiscally

and philosophically grounded in his work and his life ever since, even as Universal Engineering Sciences Inc. has blossomed into the largest family-owned company of its type in the U.S.

“I began my business in Merritt Island,” Israel remembers. “I had a drill rig, a couple of trucks, a little room at a sewer plant I liked to call my office and a whole lot of ambition.”

Much of Israel’s early work was testing Florida’s temperamental soil for stability so builders could have confidence in the structures they erected. But, he was also building a sound fiscal base for his young company. Israel’s creed then, and still is, “We will do whatever it takes to make it happen.”

Fast forward 50 years. Today, he is chairman and CEO of Universal. His son Mark Israel, P.E., who officially joined the company in 1988 but says he was “hanging around the

A HOMEGROWN CENTRAL FLORIDA ENGINEERING FIRM HAS HIT PAY DIRT,

RACKING UP $400 BILLION IN PROJECTS DURING THE LAST 50 YEARS, MANY OF THEM RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION.

by TP MAXWELL


company’s equipment since I was a kid,” is president.

Universal provides both private and public clients a range of in-house and consulting services to meet the increasing demands of a state that is growing in size and sophistication. Number crunchers at the company’s sprawling headquarters in Orlando have determined that since Sy Israel set up shop in the Brevard County sewer plant, Universal has worked on more than $400 billion worth of projects in Florida, more than $150 billion in Central Florida alone. The company oversees 600 employees in 17 offices in Florida and Georgia with more than $44 million in annual sales.

In addition to geotechnical services, the firm is increasingly asked to provide advice and counsel on large jobs, including private inspections and plan reviews, once strictly the purview of inspectors for local and state governments.

“We are considered the owner’s rep in many cases,” Sy Israel says. “Our opinions are valued, and I’m proud

of that trust.”Counting the nearly $ 1 billion PortMiami tunnel

project and other large transportation clients, the firm has been involved in game-changer construction throughout the state.

“The future for our business certainly includes transportation,” Mark Israel points out. “Florida is growing up and moving forward. We’re playing an important role in both. More than 30 percent of our business these days is transportation related.” This segment has become so vital, both to Florida’s economic future and the firm’s bottom line, that Universal hired John Barker Jr., formerly with the Florida Department of Transportation, as Universal’s district materials engineer from the firm’s Tampa office.

Universal’s recent transportation assignments include SunRail, Orlando’s new commuter train system; work at Orlando International Airport that will involve the planned intermodal transportation hub; and many miles of the area’s highways that crisscross the peninsula.

To trains, planes and automobiles, Universal can now add ships, both sea worthy and space worthy. The private space commercialization company, SpaceX is a client, as is the Kennedy Space Center.

The PortMiami Access Tunnel, considered the only classic tunnel built in the state, is one of the most ambitious engineering projects in Florida. It burrows beneath the

main ship channel at the port. Universal is charged with providing geotechnical exploration and construction materials testing, making sure the underwater roadway meets all FDOT standards. Peter Read, P.E., from Universal’s Miami office, represents the company on the job.

The tunnel, already ceremoniously opened, is expected to officially open this summer.

“My dad says he started this company with below-ground services,” Mark Israel says.

“Considering the tunnel project, we’re still down there.”Other aboveground jobs with which Universal has been

involved include medical (Orlando Health) and sports and entertainment (Amway Center, Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center in Orlando and the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena).

Sy and Mark Israel have adjoining offices at Universal Engineering, and while they enjoy separate lives beyond work, they maintain a natural and warm father/son relationship in the office that now and then includes some humorous verbal shots across the bow.

The company’s value system, posted for all to see, lists family atmosphere; integrity; whatever it takes; dynamic, quality and professionalism; and fiscal responsibility as the pillars of the company’s success. The Israels insist that it’s not by accident that family is No. 1.

Call it being very grounded, indeed.

Projects the company has worked on include: the $1 billion PortMiami tunnel project and a performing arts center in Orlando.

LEFT: Mark Israel, president, and Seymour Israel, chairman and CEO, of Universal Engineering Sciences Inc.

I BEGAN MY BUSINESS IN MERRITT ISLAND. I HAD A DRILL RIG, A COUPLE OF

TRUCKS, A LITTLE ROOM AT A SEWER PLANT I LIKED TO CALL MY OFFICE AND

A WHOLE LOT OF AMBITION.— Seymour “Sy” Israel

CHAIRMAN & CEO, UNIVERSAL ENGINEERING SCIENCES INC.


Brevard County’s Project Magellan is a case study in bringing the deal home.

In May, with much fanfare, Northrop Grumman Corp. announced the intention to bring a critical segment

of its Defense Department-related business to Florida. As many as 1,800 high-paying jobs and $500 million or more in infrastructure and equipment investment would go into a secret military aviation program housed at Melbourne International Airport.

Aside from the airport, many economic development entities stepped up to secure this opportunity for Florida and Melbourne — from the EDC of Florida’s Space Coast to Enterprise Florida, CareerSource Florida, CareerSource Brevard and others, who

each played a critical role in bringing the opportunity to fruition. Yet one entity was especially low profile in all the hoopla: Space Florida, the state’s spaceport authority and aerospace economic development agency. Space

Florida often plays a behind-the-scenes role in big projects of this nature. This time was no different.

“We knew this was a significant deal for the area, and we were fine with showcasing the team as opposed to promoting our individual involvement,” says Space Florida President Frank DiBello. “We have a great working relationship with Northrop Grumman executives and were pleased to see so much interest in this project, which was years in the making. We wanted to let the news die down a bit before talking further about our role, because to us it’s really a bigger story of our state-given capabilities that make many deals like

Frank DiBello, President & CEO, Space Florida

site selection | a closer lookS


this possible.”There were many reasons Northrop

Grumman selected Florida. There were the typical reasons, such as Florida’s unique combination of existing, abundant aerospace businesses and a capable workforce, combined with a seasoned aerospace supply chain and low tax base. Those elements certainly give the state a competitive advantage when it comes to luring companies that wish to consolidate or grow their operations. But, there was much more needed to win a project like Magellan.

It was a perfect alignment of the economic development planets.

When you look behind the curtain at Project Magellan, you see a lot of teamwork you may not have expected. For example, the State of Florida (Executive Office of the Governor, Enterprise Florida) had key relationships with Northrop Grumman site consultants. “If they don’t know you, you don’t get the call,” notes Keevin Williams, Space Florida vice president of special projects and strategic initiatives. “Florida was not originally the location Northrop was evaluating, but by maintaining relationships with site selectors we were able to communicate the real benefits of establishing the site here in Melbourne.

“These are rare deals … . We haven’t seen an opportunity of this size in terms of job creation and economic impact potential in a long time.”

Northrop already has a presence at Melbourne International Airport, running the J-STARS Program from the airport as well as a Manned Aircraft Design Center (Project Blue) announced in 2013. These two programs alone give the company more than 1,000 employees at the airport. Yet even that wasn’t enough to drive the project to Melbourne.

For mega-deals today, companies require a single agreement with all participating entities. Not an easy task, given there were 11 public entities involved. One can only imagine the complexities of creating the terms for one development agreement. Communities that can’t do this, and there are many, are simply not competitive.

Then there is the issue of confidentiality, being able to demonstrate the ability to maintain discretion among numerous public records requests. Simply having a $20 million-plus “mystery deal” on state record for discussion, promising to make millions in capital investment, is enough to get any reporter fired up. All 11 parties, however, worked together to keep rumors at bay.

In competing for a major Defense Department award, Northrop obviously was sensitive to price points and looking for a low-cost environment to make a significant long-term investment. This is where Space Florida came in.

Not many economic development organizations have the robust charter Space Florida has. The ability to create tax efficiencies (including local and federal), as well as to provide conduit financing and unique leaseback terms that can save a company like Northrop millions of dollars in the coming years, put Florida in the best position to prevail over fierce competition from other states.

Over the past few years, Space Florida

used these advantages to facilitate some of the area’s largest development projects. They include Project Redline, a partnership with Embraer that will result in a state-of-the-art Aircraft Interior Research & Development Design Center of Excellence, and the conduit financing of the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station launch infrastructure leased by United Launch Alliance, the company that launches many of our nation’s most important communications satellites into space. Most recently, the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (a nearly $100 million project) was enabled through Space Florida’s conduit-financing capabilities.

Space Florida will facilitate much of the financing for the development of new infrastructure and equipment leases for the Northrop Grumman project, which will occur in two phases.

In Phase 1, there will be construction of a new facility in Melbourne that the company will lease from Space Florida and place as many as 500 new employees. The company will begin to hire new employees immediately. In Phase 2, multiple additional facilities will be constructed and owned by Space Florida and leased back to Northrop. The company projects long-term employment of approximately 1,800 workers by 2020.

In the end, you have the significant tax savings, state-level certified capital investment tax refunds and an affordable, highly skilled workforce. Florida attracted Northrop in large part because of the compelling economics.

After years of hard work, Florida and Melbourne won, out of more than 20 other possible locations under consideration nationwide. That’s impressive. And Space Florida had a significant role in that win.

FLORIDA WAS NOT ORIGINALLY THE LOCATION

NORTHROP WAS EVALUATING, BUT BY MAINTAINING

RELATIONSHIPS WITH SITE SELECTORS WE WERE ABLE

TO COMMUNICATE THE REAL BENEFITS OF

ESTABLISHING THE SITE HERE IN MELBOURNE.”

— Keevin WilliamsSPACE FLORIDA VICE PRESIDENT OF SPECIAL

PROJECTS AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

site selection | a closer lookS

Liftoff of a United Launch Alliance rocket. Rendering of new Northrop Grumman facility.


We are all Tampa Bay. The metro areas of Tampa/St. Petersburg/Clearwater | Lakeland/WinterHaven | North Port/Sarasota/Bradenton | Homosassa SpringsThe counties of Citrus | Hernando | Hillsborough | Manatee | Pasco | Pinellas | Polk | Sarasota

Call Jennifer Taylor at 813.872.2809or visit us at TampaBay.org today.

reporting for duty: an agile talent pool. Tampa Bay’s qualified talent force is at the ready. Software developers, manufacturing technicians, biotech engineers and more make up a growing, competitive workforce that’s ready to get down to business — your business.

TRAINING THE RIGHT PEOPLE, THE RIGHT WAY.Tampa Bay is home to 80 post-secondary schools, including technical and two-year colleges and the University of South Florida, a global research institution. Every semester, the area’s best and brightest STEM scholars enter our workforce equipped with the skills and training that give our super-region a super-competitive edge.

TIME TO Put your business on our map.Doing business in Tampa Bay means you’ve got the power of an educated workforce behind you — and countless economic opportunities in front of you. Let us show you just how hard we work.

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wo new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) studies were recently released: Rollins College for Greater Orlando and the first metro-level analysis of the greater Tampa Bay region by the Brookings Institution and JP Morgan Chase through the Global Cities Initiative.

The Orlando study was commissioned by the Orlando International Airport and found 303 unique companies in almost 800 locations. Additionally, the study identifies 23 industries, collectively employing more than 60,000 people. Dr. Ilan Alon, professor of international business and director of the CHINA and INDIA centers,

and Rollins student Aniruddh Fatehpuria conducted the study.

The Tampa Bay study found that 55,100 jobs are supported by FDI, particularly within four clusters that include: Applied Medicine & Human Performance; Business, Financial & Data Services; High-Tech Electronics & Instruments; and Marine & Environmental Activities. The top source for foreign-owned establishments (FOE) is ENGLAND, followed by BELGIUM and CANADA. Other major FOE countries include Switzerland, Japan, France, Germany and Italy.

CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

global pulse | international newsG

Downtown Tampa Bay



A unit of a UNITED ARAB EMIRATES company, Gulftainer announced its cargo terminal at Port Canaveral recently, ending the suspense behind the Project Pelican mystery company. The company plans to make a $100 million investment and will create a total of 2,000 direct and spinoff jobs when fully operational, including 500 at the port. It signed a 20-year lease with a 15-year option.

Luck of the Irish for the University of Central Florida? UCF Knights head coach George O’Leary thinks so and will be leading from the sidelines when UCF kicks off its 2014 football season at the Croke Park Classic in DUBLIN facing off against the Nittany Lions of Penn State on Aug. 30. The game will air on ESPN2.

UCF placed 3rd in the nation in a computer programming competition, “Battle of the Brains” held in late June in Ekaterinburg, RUSSIA. UCF was among 122 teams competing and advanced from a pool of 8,000 regional teams worldwide. The nation’s second-largest school placed 21st worldwide.

Enterprise Florida is organizing an export sales mission to SINGAPORE and MALAYSIA, Sept. 19 -26. They will lead a delegation of Florida-based manufacturing and professional service provider companies to network and meet face-to-face with top businesses in that marketplace.

Flagler County welcomed economic development professionals from the CZECH REPUBLIC in May. The trip was a result of Aveo Engineering, one of the largest aerospace firms in the Czech Republic that expanded its operations in Flagler. Aveo President Christian Nielsen recommended the county to Czechinvest, and they came to see Flagler for themselves. The county is hopeful other aviation-related manufacturing companies take flight to Flagler.

On the heels of the U.S. Tennis Association headquarters announcement in Lake Nona comes another match. Visit Orlando has become the exclusive global partner of the U.S. OPEN. The highest-attended annual sporting event in the world is broadcast in 185 countries. In addition to

THE 11TH ANNUAL FLORIDA-JAPAN SUMMIT was held in late May at The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach. The Florida Delegation, Southeast U.S./Japan Association was founded in 1975 to promote ties of trade, investment, tourism, education and friendship between Florida, Japan and six other southeast states. Japan is Florida’s eighth-leading trade partner. Co-sponsors of this year’s event: Enterprise Florida; Weiner, Lynne and Thompson; Team Volusia EDC; and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance.

on-court exposure, Visit Orlando will be able to engage with 700,000 consumers attending the event.

BRAZIL surpassed the UNITED KINGDOM in June to become Orlando’s No.1 overseas visitor market. Brazilian visitors climbed 20.2 percent in 2013 reaching nearly 770,000.

A lot of eyes in South Florida were on the United States’ first trade mission to CUBA in 15 years, which took place in late May. U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Thomas Donohue spoke during a conference at the University of Havana as part of the week-long event. Cuba has experienced sluggish economic growth during the past decade and last year its economy grew by only 2.7 percent, far short of its 7 percent goal. In March, Cuba’s National Assembly approved a “modernization bill” to loosen the island’s foreign investment rules.

In anticipation of future economic opportunities in Cuba and Latin America, Manatee County is taking the bull by the horn, literally, with a trip to the Catalonia area of SPAIN. Scheduled for mid-September the group of business, economic development professionals and county and port officials are in search of direct investment in local manufacturing. Ivan Mutis, CEO of

GM&L, a consulting company, is organizing the trade mission focusing on import and export opportunities for Manatee and Sarasota.

There has been a lot of activity in the international arena. May was proclaimed WORLD TRADE MONTH by Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Chamber of Commerce in Tallahassee held its annual International Days conference in April. Florida is second only to California in the number of companies that export – 60,000. The state would like that number to increase and is pursuing many initiatives to accomplish it.

Apples and oranges! At press time a new report from Tallahassee-based Florida TaxWatch finds that farming and processing of Florida produce contributes more than $7.5 billion to the state economy. Home to more than 475,000 commercial farms covering 9.25 million acres, the production of crops, in addition to AGRICULTURE, benefit other industries, including manufacturing with 8.4 percent of the state’s food and kindred products’ manufacturing output tied to produce.

LAN CARGO, the cargo affiliate of LATAM Airlines Group, will expand its presence at Miami International Airport with a $20 million fleet maintenance facility, creating 300 new jobs.

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keeping score | business of sportsK

Orlando City Soccer’s new stadium shows

the (World) Cup spills over in Florida

and across the region.

The Orlando City Soccer Club in mid-June unveiled the artist’s rendering of the team’s new stadium. The $110 million venue will feature covered seating for most fans and an open courtyard offering passersby a glimpse of the

action.The stadium will seat 19,500 when it opens in 2016, but is expandable to 25,000.

For Lions fans paying top price, there will be 38 luxury suites, a club lounge and a balcony bar. The facility’s playing surface will be below street level, and the stadium will feature a giant, rotating lion sculpture that faces the approaching crowd before the match begins and then rotates to “view” the field.

“We’ve visited dozens of stadiums around the world … and we’ve taken what we believe to be the very best of those and incorporated them into what I believe will be a fantastic downtown stadium,” said team President Phil Rawlins during the unveiling.

The team, which also unveiled a new logo — prominent on the stadium rendering — will play the 2015 season in the Florida Citrus Bowl stadium before moving to its new home. There’s the possibility of hosting the Major League Soccer All-Star game within a few years. Also, Orlando City has signed Brazilian midfielder Kaká as its first designated player. The Lions are expected to loan the 2007 World Player of the Year to his home club São Paulo before they begin MLS play.

Above: The Orlando City Soccer Club’s new stadium will be ready for the

2016 season.

Top right: USTA is coming

to Lake Nona.

keeping score | business of sportsK

GAME, SET AND MATCH. Most observers say American tennis is in a rut with no clear successors to past American tennis legends. The next generation of stars will emerge eventually, and it’s a pretty safe bet they will emerge from the Super Region.

In mid-May, the U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) announced plans to build a $60 million facility on 63 acres at Lake Nona. The center, scheduled to open by 2016, will feature more than 100 courts — intended to create a central home for USTA’s player development and community tennis programs.

State, county and city leaders provided tax incentives and a lucrative 30-year lease from the Tavistock Group, Lake Nona’s developer, that will cost the USTA $1 annually.

“I think we can honestly say we have become the sports mecca in the United States,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer at the ceremony announcing the new center.

Billed as the “new home of American tennis,” the facility also will host league matches and collegiate tennis tournaments, and become home to the UCF men’s and women’s tennis teams.

The center will employ about 150 people, some of whom will be relocating from existing facilities in New York and Boca Raton. In landing the USTA center, Orlando beat out locations in North Carolina and other parts of Florida.

“This USTA deal is meant to ignite the sports and human-performance cluster in the same way the UCF Medical School and Sanford-Burnham ignited Medical City,” Rasesh Thakker, managing director of Tavistock, said during the announcement. (See related USTA article on Page 56.)

UF WINS IT ALL. Gator fans may have suffered through a tough football season and seen the men’s basketball team fall just short at the Final Four, but the school’s athletic program enjoyed a measure of redemption in May when the University of Florida softball team won the Women’s College World Series.

In beating Southeastern Conference rival Alabama, 6-3, in the championship game, the Gators did more than bring home another national title for UF’s crowded trophy case. They demonstrated how the explosion of riches in the big-revenue sports has benefited all student athletes at the school.

For the 2014-15 academic year, UF’s athletic budget will be a record $103.3 million (none which comes from state funds). By comparison, its athletic expenditures were less than $80 million seven years ago. Most of the cash comes from lucrative television contracts for football and men’s basketball but —spurred in part by Title IX — UF and other schools have spread the wealth

among women’s (and men’s) sports that otherwise could not afford to offer as many full scholarships. The result is a wider range of sports options for students and fans, as well

as enhanced athletic facilities. Most recently, UF announced plans for a $45 million renovation to the 34-year-old O’Connell Center (arena), beginning in March 2015.

In the end, though, UF’s softball championship was more about the human spirit than it was money. In one of the more poignant stories of this sports year, the team dedicated its title run to honorary team member Heather Braswell, a 17-year-old who had died 10 weeks earlier from brain cancer.

FLORIDA & THE WORLD CUP. The U.S. Men’s National Team that competed at this year’s FIFA World Cup in Brazil had a decidedly Florida flavor. Four players on the final 23-man roster were from the Sunshine State, and two were from the Super Region.

Super Region players on the team were Julian Green of Tampa and Graham Zusi of Longwood, both midfielders. Green plays for Bayern Munich, a top-tier German soccer league franchise that is the most successful in German history, while Zusi plays for Sporting Kansas City (MLS). The other two Floridians were Jozi Altidore, a forward from Boca Raton, and Alejandro Bedoya, a midfielder from Weston. Altidore plays for Sunderland in the prestigious English Premier League, and Bedoya plays for Nantes in France.

No other state had as many players on the final World Cup roster, and Florida’s influence on the national team bodes well for MLS’ impending return to Florida. As noted, Orlando City SC begins play next year; David Beckham’s Miami team is scheduled to join the league in 2017. Here’s another promising fact: During the Ghana vs. U.S. World Cup match (won by the U.S.), Orlando finished eighth among ESPN’s top TV markets.

“I THINK WE CAN HONESTLY SAY WE HAVE BECOME THE SPORTS MECCA IN THE UNITED STATES.”

— Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer AT THE CEREMONY ANNOUNCING

THE NEW USTA FACILITY



by JACK ROTH

The decision to bring back Stetson Hatter football has scored big for both the university

and the local community.

When Stetson University took to the football field in fall 2013, it marked the

beginning of a new era, ending a 57-year absence from competitive collegiate football. The decision to bring football back to Stetson was a strategic one, and so far it has paid major economic dividends for both the university and the City of DeLand.

The Hatters have been a hit.“We had a big decision to make in

2009, which was a difficult year financially for the entire nation,” explains Robert Huth, Stetson’s CFO and vice president for business. “The school had excess capacity, so we had to decide whether to shrink or grow. And if we did decide to grow, how should we do so?”

Stetson leadership ultimately decided to grow by expanding the athletic


department — adding a football team as well as women’s sand volleyball and lacrosse teams. Officials also decided to make cosmetic improvements to the campus to match the quality of its academic programs and expand student recruitment efforts. The goal: to reach a student enrollment of 3,000 by 2016 while enhancing both the quality of its curriculum and diversity of its student body.

Thanks in large part to the buzz created around football, the university is already closing in on 3,000 students enrolled for fall 2014. In fact, the school has seen a 125 percent increase in applications, an increase in campus visits by 1,800 people (with out-of-state campus visits up by 114 percent), student enrollment up by 30 percent and a 35 percent rise in tuition received.

“What this has translated to is a huge economic boon for the entire community,” says Huth. “Restaurants, retail shops and hotels in and around DeLand have all benefited from the fact that locals, as well as the players, families and fans from the opposing teams, have come to the games and spent money in the community.”

In year one, the football program had an economic impact on the local community of $250,000. That total

represents an impressive start and, like the football program, will continue to improve over time, according to Stetson Athletic Director Jeff Altier. He believes a winner on the field isn’t far away.

The Hatters posted a 2-9 record in their first year in the Pioneer Football League but, more importantly, Altier saw his team compete at a higher level than he expected. “The energy and excitement created by the entire student body, as well as the faculty, staff and local population, have been palpable. And the players have shown an incredible desire to compete at a very high level,” he says “These are the ingredients that help build a successful program.”

Despite a losing record (to be expected in the first year of any new sports program), the projected game attendance of 2,100 more than doubled, with an average 5,500 fans attending each game. Stetson originally set aside 500 season tickets; 900 were sold to students alone. Alumni have joined in, too.

“Stetson and football were two words I never thought would be spoken in the same sentence,” says Victoria Longo, Stetson University alumna. “Now that we’re gearing up for our second season, I couldn’t be more proud to cheer on the Hats. Stetson football has brought a sense of loyalty and tradition, which was

lost for a while, back to the university. The excitement before a game, when everyone is tailgating, is contagious. Go Hatters!”

To further accommodate the larger crowds, in late June city officials announced roughly $4.2 million in improvements to Earl Brown Park, which sits near Spec Martin Memorial Stadium, where Stetson plays. Planning began in 2009 when talk of Stetson football emerged. Officials sought ways to completely enhance the park — essentially making this phase two of upgrades to the area, which started with the renovation of the football stadium in preparation for Stetson football.

Huth credits the entire community for the success of the program.

“The partnership that was approved in 2011 with the City of DeLand for shared use of Spec Martin Football Stadium at Earl Brown Park was critical to this endeavor moving forward,” says Huth. “There were a lot of moving parts required to make this work, but the cooperation put forth by everyone in the community made this happen. As a result, the entire Stetson family, including the City of DeLand, has something to cheer about.”

And economic benefits in the end zone.

While the Hatters finished 2-9 in their first season back on the field since the 1956 season, fan support beat expectations, and the community has rallied around the team.

Stetson has already seen an increase in student applications, campus visits and students enrolled.



legislative update | policy making in actionL

TALLAHASSEEA THIRD WAY? The Tampa Tribune

recently did some digging into Florida voter registration patterns and found something very interesting. Of the nearly 550,000 people who have registered to vote since the last gubernatorial election in 2010, nearly 80 percent have registered as something other than a Democrat or Republican. This translates into a 17-percent gain for “independent” or third-party registrations, while Republicans have added 2 percent to their voter rolls and the Democrats less than half a percent.

Does this mean a third-party candidate will capture the governorship in November or that we will see a bloc of third-party candidates in the Florida Legislature or congressional delegation next year? That’s not likely, but it does mean the base of non-aligned voters is increasing in the state, and that’s something all candidates will have to pay closer attention to this fall.

REDISTRICTING BATTLE. Something else both the Legislature and the congressional delegation may have to pay attention to: congressional redistricting. At press time, a state judge was expected to rule any day on the legality of the state’s current districts. At issue is whether the Legislature followed a voter-approved mandate intended to reduce the effects of partisan politics and incumbent protection in the redistricting process.

A number of plaintiffs contend the Legislature did just the opposite after the 2010 census awarded the state two new U.S. representatives. If the judge decides in their favor, he likely would order the boundaries redrawn. Expect appeals from the state’s legal team, so any additional redistricting may not occur before the 2016 elections.

SIGNING CEREMONIES. Beginning in mid-June, Gov. Rick Scott began touting, via traditional and social media, a number of the bills from the Legislature’s recent session that he was signing into

The governor signs laws in Tallahassee, there’s a rare flash of progress in Washington

and a senator dreams of Mars — all against the backdrop of looming elections and an increasingly restless electorate.

law. Many of those bills affected children: toughening car child restraint requirements, requiring attorneys to represent children with special needs, increasing protections for child abuse victims, toughening penalties for synthetic drug manufacturers and even helping foster-care teens get driver’s licenses.

Scott also signed “Charlotte’s Web,” a bill which narrowly legalized medical marijuana primarily for children with seizures, a move that garnered a great deal of media attention. Florida voters this November will weigh in on Amendment 2, which legalizes marijuana for a broader range of medical conditions.

There were others: a pair of bills supporting Alzheimer’s research, $60 million for cancer research and a bill

providing conditional state support for professional sports facilities. There were a few high-profile bills that he signed without a public ceremony and with lower-key publicity. Most notable was the “Dreamer Act,” which allows some children of undocumented workers to receive in-state college and university tuition.

CITRUS GREENING. Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam has been publicizing the opening of a new state-of-the-art citrus research facility in Lacrosse that will be at the forefront of the state’s investment in the fight against citrus greening disease, which threatens the state’s $9 billion citrus industry. For more on the fight against citrus greening, see Page 11.

WASHINGTONWRRDA. Florida port leaders were

front and center when President Obama signed the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) into law in early June. Virtually every Florida port will benefit from the bill, which among other things will assist them in preparing to handle the next generation of large container vessels.

“America’s competitive position depends on shipping channels that are adequately dredged to support the delivery of goods in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner,” said Port Tampa Bay President/CEO Paul Anderson, who attended the signing ceremony. “We will now see the strengthening and acceleration of navigation projects; this is absolutely momentous for the future of seaports.”

For more on the bill, go to forwardflorida.com.

VA AND FLORIDA. Though Florida

Veterans Affairs facilities have not been directly caught up in the scandal that has rocked other parts of the VA system, many of the state’s political leaders — including Sen. Marco Rubio and Gov. Scott — have been swift to call for reform of the system.

The most visible sign of this movement is the swift passage of H.R. 4810, the Veterans’ Access to Care Act, which, among other things, requires the VA to

contract with private facilities to ensure veterans receive prompt medical care. Authored by Rep. Jeff Miller, R-Chumuckla, the bill literally was introduced one day and passed the House unanimously (426-0) the next. Not Washington’s usual pace of action. Many Super Region legislators also co-sponsored the bill, which now is pending in the Senate.

As is the norm these days, many state leaders took to Twitter to chastise the VA, Rubio and Scott included. The most active was Rep. Daniel Webster, R-Orlando, who devoted more than a half-dozen tweets to the subject during a one-week span in early June.

DESTINATION MARS? Sen. Bill Nelson, the only current member of Congress to have traveled in space, remains a staunch defender of the state’s space industry. Lately, he has been touting an early June National Research Council report that says investment in human spaceflight is best justified by seeking to put humans on other worlds, i.e. Mars.

“One of the nation’s top scientific groups affirms we should go to Mars,” Nelson tweeted right after the report was

released. The problem, of course, remains the political will to fund such an expedition. Nelson’s objective clearly is to rekindle that will, even if he has to do it one tweet at a time.

HERO ACT. Ron DeSantis, R-St.

Augustine, recently introduced legislation to allow states to establish their own alternative accreditation programs for vocational, technical, apprenticeship and other non-traditional post-secondary programs so that those courses or programs would be eligible for federal financial aid.

The bill, H.R. 4612, is called the Higher Education Reform and Opportunity (HERO) Act and is modeled after similar legislation by Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah. It currently has 26 co-sponsors, all of them Republicans, including four from the Super Region: Reps. John Mica, Winter Park; Bill Posey, Rockledge; Tom Rooney, Okeechobee; and Ted Yoho, Gainesville. DeSantis and others backing the bill say it will expand postsecondary opportunities for students and lower the cost of education. Opponents fear it will dilute financial aid resources.

NASA/JPL-CALTECH/CORNELL UNIV./ARIZONA STATE UNIV.A view of the Red Planet, a destination endorsed by Sen. Bill Nelson and the National Research Council.

Congress’ passage of the WRRDA bill is a big step forward for Florida’s ports, though much work remains to get ready for the larger container vessels.


legislative update | policy making in actionL


wellness | your personal bottom lineW

Lung CancerUsually originating in the lining of the bronchi (main

airway of the lungs), lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. Many times, lung cancer doesn’t cause symptoms until the tumor begins to grow, a later stage of the cancer. Almost all of the diagnosed cases develop in the lining of the lungs, but there are many different kinds of lung cancer. Each grows differently and must be treated differently.

The two major types are non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer accounts for 85 to 90 percent of cases. The three types of non-small cell lung cancer are named after the cells they originate in: squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinomas. The less-common small cell type usually grows rapidly and spreads quickly to other tissuse and organs.

Prostate CancerThe prostate is a gland below the man’s bladder that

produces the fluid that carries sperm. While prostate cancer is rare among men younger than 40, it’s much more common in older men. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be intimidating for men, as the prostate is located around tissues that control sexual function and continence. When caught early, however, this cancer is very treatable and beatable — which is why regular physical exams that look for warning signs of prostate cancer are imperative for men over 50. When caught early, prostate cancer has a nearly 100 percent five-year relative survival rate.

The most prevalent types of cancer for men are lung, colorectal and prostate cancer and each has a simple screening that can lead to early detection and diagnosis. However, cancer signs are not always obvious.

The message: Get checked. If you have any family history of cancer or meet any of the risk factors, talk to your physician about getting screened. Now.

KNOW THE RISK FACTORS

DON’T WAIT. GET CHECKED FOR CANCER. TODAY.

Fifty percentof all men will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.

Colorectal CancerColon cancer is cancer of the large

intestine. Cancer that develops in the last 8 to 10 inches of the colon is called rectal cancer; together they are often referred to as colorectal cancer. More than 95 percent of colon cancer cases are adenocarcinomas, or cancer in the glands or secretory cells, which develop when a change occurs in the cells lining the colon or rectum. Colon cancer often begins as an abnormal, exaggerated tissue growth called an intestinal polyp or adenoma; these adenomatous polyps gradually become precancerous and then cancerous, and in later stages of colon cancer they can spread to nearby lymph nodes and other organs.

While colorectal cancer is very common, when diagnosed early it is among the more treatable types of cancer. The five-year survival rate for patients whose colorectal cancers were diagnosed before the cancer spread is more than 90 percent. However, only 37 percent of colorectal cancers are detected in this localized stage.

LUNG CANCER

ü Age 55 or olderü Have smoked

at least 30 packs of cigarettes per year

ü Have quit in the last 15 years

COLORECTAL CANCER

ü Age 50 or olderü Diagnoses of

Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

ü Family history of colon polyps

ü Family history of colon, breast or uterine cancer

PROSTATE CANCER

ü Age 50 or olderü Age 45 or

older and of African-American descent or have a family history of cancer (single first-degree relative — father, brother or son — diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65)

ü Age 40 or older and have a family history of cancer

Celebrate Florida’s Entreprenuerial SpiritOctober 23, 2014 at the Hard Rock Live in Orlando

Tickets now on sale at flctw.growfl.com

Growing Florida CompaniesFlorida Companies to Watch celebrates growing second-stage companies head-quartered in Florida. Companies to Watch was developed by the Edward Lowe Foundation as a unique way to recognize and honor second-stage companies that demonstrate high performance in the marketplace with innovative strategies and processes, making them “worth watching”.

Proudly presented by GrowFL, the Florida Economic Gardening Institue at the University of Central Florida, in association with the Edward Lowe Foundation, Florida Companies to Watch is an awards progream like no other.

FLCTW.GROWFL.COM #FLCTW

CELEBRATE FLORIDA’S ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

In its fourth year of celebrating entrepreneurship, the annual

Florida Companies To Watch, presented by GrowFL, in

association with the Edward Lowe Foundation, is a distinctive

awards program to honor second-stage companies that

demonstrate high performance in the marketplace, exhibit

innovative products, services or processes, or otherwise make

their company “worth watching.”

Florida Companies To Watch seeks out businesses from a cross-

section of industries representing all areas of the state, not just

those in major metropolitan areas. In addition to an evaluation

on past growth and projected success, applicant companies are

judged according to their special strengths.

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Celebrate Florida’s Entreprenuerial SpiritOctober 23, 2014 at the Hard Rock Live in Orlando

Tickets now on sale at flctw.growfl.com

Growing Florida CompaniesFlorida Companies to Watch celebrates growing second-stage companies head-quartered in Florida. Companies to Watch was developed by the Edward Lowe Foundation as a unique way to recognize and honor second-stage companies that demonstrate high performance in the marketplace with innovative strategies and processes, making them “worth watching”.

Proudly presented by GrowFL, the Florida Economic Gardening Institue at the University of Central Florida, in association with the Edward Lowe Foundation, Florida Companies to Watch is an awards progream like no other.

FLCTW.GROWFL.COM #FLCTW

PRESENTED BY GROWFL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE EDWARD LOWE FOUNDATION

The Accelerator

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Proudly presented by GrowFL, the Florida Economic Gardening Institute at the University of Central Florida, in association with Edward Lowe Foundation,

Florida Companies to Watch is an awards program like no other.

Claim Your Rock Star Status as one of the2014 Florida Companies to Watch

Florida Entrepreneurs

Florida Companies to Watch is an awards program celebrating high-performing second stage companies throughout Florida. Known for their performance in the marketplace, innovative products, unique processes or philanthropic actions, these companies represent a wide range of industries. Join the movement and nominate and support second-stage companies that ROCK in your community.

Nominations open April 1st visit FLCTW.GrowFL.com

Join Us For the Rockin Award CeremonyOctober 23, 2014 at the Hard Rock Live in Orlando

Congratulations to our 2013 Winners!

The Accelerator

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The Accelerator

FLCTW.GrowFL.com – The Official Event Website | #FLCTW | 407-823-6384

Proudly presented by GrowFL, the Florida Economic Gardening Institute at the University of Central Florida, in association with Edward Lowe Foundation,

Florida Companies to Watch is an awards program like no other.

Claim Your Rock Star Status as one of the2014 Florida Companies to Watch

Florida Entrepreneurs

Florida Companies to Watch is an awards program celebrating high-performing second stage companies throughout Florida. Known for their performance in the marketplace, innovative products, unique processes or philanthropic actions, these companies represent a wide range of industries. Join the movement and nominate and support second-stage companies that ROCK in your community.

Nominations open April 1st visit FLCTW.GrowFL.com

Join Us For the Rockin Award CeremonyOctober 23, 2014 at the Hard Rock Live in Orlando

Congratulations to our 2013 Winners!

October 23, 2014Hard Rock Live in Orlando

Join the movement and buy your tickets to attend this exciting event!


parting shot | people and placesP

Former UCF star quarterback Blake Bortles, the No. 3 overall pick in May’s National Football League Draft, signed a four-year contract worth $20.65 million (including a $13.34 million signing bonus). Then his new team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, announced plans to convert 9,500 seats into a two-level party deck with pools and cabanas. Coincidence? Perhaps not. The team hopes Bortles will bring success on the field; the new deck is designed to deliver fun to fans. If both work out, the city of Jacksonville could be the big winner. Last year, in a tough season, the Jags scored an estimated $160 million-plus economic impact on the city. Just imagine the effect of more touchdowns on the economic scoreboard.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell shares a big moment for Blake Bortles and the Jacksonville Jaguars franchise.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

ALL YOU NEED FOR YOUR BUSINESS IS IN THE FLORIDA HIGH TECH CORRIDOR.

A talented and diverse workforce. Top-ranked business

climate. Easy access to research faculty at three

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VISIT WWW.FLORIDAHIGHTECH.COM.

I’M ACANCERVIVOR

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See John’s story, or share your own at FloridaHospital.com/Cancervivor, or call (407) 915-0775 to connect with our Care Coordinator.

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