Lennar Opens Sales of Single-Family Homes at Harmony, Model Grand Opening Sept 28-29

HARMONY, Fla. --- Lennar has started selling new single-family homes priced from the $180s at Harmony, the eco-friendly golf preserve community located on Schoolhouse Road off US 192 near St. Cloud in Osceola County. Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said a grand opening with the presentation of a decorated model and tours is set for Sept. 28 and 29. Lennar’s single-family homes in Harmony will offer from three to six bedrooms and range in size from 1,500 square feet of living area to 2,600 square feet. All Lennar homes at Harmony will feature the homebuilder’s “Everything’s Included” pledge: a wide range of GE energy smart appliances, special features and upgrades at the one Lennar “everything’s included” price, Metheny said. Among the vast array of amenities at Harmony are the Johnny Miller Signature Design golf course that earned certification as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary achieved only by courses that maintain the highest degree of environmental quality; 12.5 miles of hiking trails; pristine Lakeshore and community parks; playgrounds; Town Square; Graze Restaurant and banquet facilities. Visit www.harmonyfl.com

Winston James Development starts work on another “hot” Windsor Plus model home

PORT ORANGE, Fla. — Winston James Development, based in South Daytona, has started construction on another “hot” Windsor Plus model home at its community of the Villages of Royal Palm, the upscale community on Coconut Palm Circle in Port Orange. Jamie Allen Adley, president of Villages of Royal Palm, said the home building firm started the Windsor Plus model home three earlier times and it was sold before construction was just getting underway. Adley said the model home will offer four bedrooms, three baths in 2,400 square feet and is priced from $325,000. “Every time we start the model… someone snaps it up before the home is completed,” Adley said. The new Windsor Plus will be completed before the end of the year, Adley said. Adley added there are 30 home sites remaining at the Villages of Royal Palm with homes selling from the $180s to $300,000.

M/I Homes opening last phase at Wekiva Run

LAKE MARY, Fla. – M/I Homes has opened the final phase at Wekiva Run located off Ponkan Road and S.R. 441 in Northwest Orlando. David Byrnes, area president for M/I Homes in the Orlando region, said new three to six bedroom homes in the last phase will range from 2,425 square feet of living area to 5,200 square feet with prices starting from $259,990 to $379,990.

Cuhaci & Peterson Architects completes design of new East Coast Wings & Grill on Alafaya Trail

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Cuhaci & Peterson Architects, Engineers, Planners based in Orlando’s Baldwin Park recently completed design work on a new East Coast Wings & Grill on Alafaya Trail near the intersection of Curry Ford Road in east Orlando. Lonnie Peterson, chairman at Cuhaci & Peterson Architects, said the restaurant will offer 4,000 square feet of space and seat approximately 150 including the patio. This is the first East Coast Wings & Grill franchise in Florida, Peterson said.

Cuhaci & Peterson Architects awarded contract to design new Fresh Market in Winter Springs

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Cuhaci & Peterson Architects, Engineers, Planners based in Orlando’s Baldwin Park, was recently awarded the contract to design a new Fresh Market store in Winter Springs at Red Willow Plaza. Lonnie Peterson, chairman at Cuhaci & Peterson Architects, said the store will offer 21,000 square feet of supermarket space when completed and opens in early 2014 Cuhaci & Petersen Architects is one of the nation’s leading designers of retail space with projects that total more than two million square feet annually.

Del Webb Stone Creek Celebration Welcomes 1000th Homeowner

Ocala, Fla. --- Del Webb Stone Creek in Ocala recently hosted a celebration to welcome its 1,000th homeowner – a couple from across the world – at the community’s Reunion Center Ballroom. Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Del Webb in North Florida, said Dixie and Rene Tigcheler from The Netherlands purchased the Copper Ridge Loft home design by Del Webb. “This is a meaningful benchmark for Del Webb Stone Creek just seven years after opening,” Strickler said. “We both got a good feeling about Stone Creek when we visited three years ago in the spring. It’s full of friendly, caring, sociable, people from the office staff to the residents. We visited several Del Webb communities in various states but we knew Stone Creek was where we wanted to spend our retirement years,” said René and Dixie Tigcheler. “We look forward to our arrival in October and making new friends.” Bob Foisy, general sales manager at Del Webb Stone Creek, said he has been waiting for the 1,000th home buyer. “From the moment we gave the keys to the first homeowner at Del Webb Stone Creek seven years ago we knew this community would appeal to its own kind of active, vigorous and engaged residents and we were right,” Foisy said. “Del Webb Stone Creek is more than just a beautiful place to live, it is a thriving community of neighbors who have become best friends, and that energy powers everything we do from our sales and construction teams, lifestyle and property staff members, resident ambassadors, and all the people who work together to help make Del Webb Stone Creek a one-of-a-kind community,” Foisy explained. Del Webb Stone Creek offers active adults new, single-family homes priced from $133,990 to $271,990 in 17 distinct designs that range in size from 1,157 square feet of living space to more than 2,659 square feet. Visitors to Del Webb Stone Creek can take advantage of Explore Del Webb Stays, available for just $207 plus tax, for the month of September, including three night accommodations in a furnished villa with a fully stocked kitchen, golf and dinner vouchers, complimentary golf cart, and VIP access to Reflection Bay amenities. For October, November and December Explore Del Webb Stay pricing, visit the website at delwebb.com/stonecreek. One of the largest Del Webb communities in the U.S., Del Webb Stone Creek features Reflection Bay, an amenity center encompassing almost 50,000 square feet with fitness and event gathering areas, the Stone Creek Grille, Stone Creek Golf Club with an 18-hole championship golf course and recreational, social and educational activities to match every lifestyle. Model homes at Del Webb Stone Creek are open daily for viewing.

BBC Aerospace to Compete in Space Frontier Foundation’s 2013 Newspace Business Plan Competition

Orlando, Fla. --- BBC Aerospace, which is developing a spacecraft to deliver and retrieve satellites, has been chosen to participate in the Space Frontier Foundation’s 2013 NewSpace Business Plan Competition Oct. 22-23 at NASA’s Ames Research Center in Mountain View, Calif. Michael Gandia, Chief Technology Officer at BBC Aerospace, said the invitation award includes air fare and hotel accommodations, along with a two-day “boot camp” to help ready competitors to present their business plans before a panel of judges at Stanford University for a chance to win $100,000 prize plus investments, before audience that includes technology investment professionals from Silicon Valley. “This is a marvelous opportunity for us to secure research funds and we are honored to participate,” Gandia said. Currently, BBC Aerospace is focused on commercializing an innovative rapid metal manufacturing technology to generate revenue and for use in the near future to manufacture an innovative, proprietary space plane design that will enable dramatically cheaper, faster launch services to address the growing needs of government, industry and academic customers. BBC Aerospace is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.

BOLD! Technologies names Louis Simeonidis chief marketing officer

Orlando, Fla. -- BOLD! Technologies has appointed Louis Simeonidis chief marketing officer. Lydia Chicles, chief innovation officer at BOLD! Technologies, said Simeonidis has more than 17 years of experience in mobile marketing and business development. Simeonidis formerly served as chief marketing officer at Applico, and previously across several of the world’s leading agencies and innovation firms, where he helped develop mobile strategies and solutions for clients ranging from Google, NBC, and ABC to the FBI, GM, AT&T, Verizon, the U.S. Army, Smirnoff, Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, and Pfizer. “Louis Simeonidis is one of the world’s leading experts in mobile marketing strategies and development and we are very pleased he has joined the BOLD! Technologies team,” Chicles said. BOLD! Technologies developed an online advertising platform and suite of mobile apps designed to enable businesses to sponsor ads that present their brand, events and promotional offers in the context of support to local organizations, schools and other cause-related initiatives. “One of our core values is the belief that marketing can be as effective for social change as for growing market share,” Chicles said. BOLD! Technologies is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.

AceApplications LLC Earns Key Certifications to Qualify For Contracts at Orlando International Airport

Orlando, Fla. --- AceApplications LLC, which provides Information Technology consulting services, software application and web development, and technical training for small and large businesses, government agencies and schools, recently earned three key certifications that qualify the firm to compete for contracts for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. Courtney Powell, president of AceApplications, said the firm earned certifications as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) for federal contracts, and two certifications for non-federal contracts: Minority/Woman Business Enterprise (M/WBE) and Local Developing Business (LDB). Established in 2001, AceApplications LLC is a state and county certified minority owned business. AceApplications is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.

NAI Realvest Closes Sale of Orlando Industrial Portfolio in Orange, Seminole Counties for $24 Million

ORLANDO, Fla. --- NAI Realvest recently closed the sale of an industrial portfolio in Orange and Seminole counties that totals more than 525,000 square feet of space. The transaction was handled by the NAI Realvest investment team of George Livingston, Chairman, Principal Christie Alexander, Broker Associate Drew Saphos, CCIM, and Paul Vera, along with Principal Michael Heidrich, who will continue to lease the portfolio for the new owners. Blue Vista Capital Partners in Chicago and Rio Hondo Capital Partners of Baltimore, in a joint venture, paid $24 million for the portfolio. The seller of the properties was Cornerstone Core Properties REIT. The portfolio includes Monroe CommerCenter North, located at 4150-4200 Church St. in Sanford; Monroe CommerCenter South, at Church Street and Monroe Road in Sanford; Hanging Moss CommerCenter at 6100-6148 Hanging Moss Rd. in Orlando; and Goldenrod CommerCenter, 1460-1476 Goldenrod Rd. in east Orlando. All four CommerCenter properties were developed within the past 12 years by Realvest Development and Small Bay Partners LLC, a group that included Livingston, banker Geof Longstaff and longtime area developer Howard Schieferdecker. NAI Realvest Property Management will continue to serve the new owners as management agent for the portfolio.

NAI Realvest negotiates $750,000 Sale of professional office condominium to medical group for ambulatory care at Savannah Park

SANFORD, Fla. -- NAI Realvest recently negotiated the $750,000 sale of the entire first floor at 3739 Byron Anthony Place a professional office building in Savannah Park located off International Parkway and SR 46 in Sanford. Paul P. Partyka, principal and managing partner at NAI Realvest, who represented the seller Pinnacle Bank of Orange City, said the condominium totals 9,883 square feet and was purchased by Long Island International LLC of Longwood, a doctor investment group who will open an ambulatory care facility. Sanjay Kumar of Florida Residential Commercial & Investment represented the buyers in the transaction.

NAI Realvest Negotiates sale of three-acre development site for small office buildings in Winter Springs

WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. --- NAI Realvest recently negotiated the sale of 3.10 acres of vacant land on the southeast corner of SR 434 and Winding Hollow Blvd. in Winter Springs. Paul P. Partyka, managing partner at NAI Realvest, negotiated the transaction representing the seller, Wintersprings Land LTD based in Maitland. The buyer, Altamonte Springs-based Florida Trust Administration LLC, paid $210,000 for the land and plans to build Phase 2 of several small stand-alone office buildings for users and investors. Gary Medley of Florida Trust Services represented the buyer in the transaction.

NAI Realvest Appoints Veteran Realtor Jeff Clark Associate, Industrial Specialist

ORLANDO, Fla. -- NAI Realvest one of central Florida’s largest commercial real estate services companies and active developers of industrial facilities, has named veteran Orlando Realtor Jeff Clark as an associate and industrial properties specialist. Robin L. Webb, CCIM, managing director at NAI Realvest, said Clark has ranked as the top performing real estate associate in the Baldwin Park area of Orlando since 2003. He was also formerly a broker with Prudential Mortgage Services. In his new role Clark will focus on representing industrial clients for leasing and sales. “Jeff Clark is one of the most knowledgeable real estate brokers in the Central Florida region and we expect him to play a big role as we grow,” Webb said. Clark earned his B.A. Degree in Business Administration from Auburn University and is a member of the National Association of Realtors.

UCF Business Incubation Client Wins Award at Orlando Expo Mujer-Woman Conference

ORLANDO, Fla. – Pamela Rogan, president of Rogan Marketing and Communications, is one of eight females honored recently by the Orlando Expo Mujer-Woman Conference at the Wyndham Orlando Resort. Rogan and seven others were recognized by Orlando Expo Mujer-Woman for their “outstanding leadership, vision, professional development, and unwavering commitment” to their communities, according to the company website. Rogan, who has spent the past 29 years in marketing and communications, is president of the Orlando Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), and a governing board member of Athena PowerLink. She brought Rogan Marketing and Communications to the UCF Business Incubation Program in 2012, according to Site Manager Melissa Wasserman. “Pamela has a wealth of experience that benefits her company, as well as the community,” Wasserman said. “She is a natural leader with great skills in helping develop people, as well as businesses.” With her volunteer heart, Rogan encourages the growth of women and young adults who have an entrepreneurial spirit. She seeks out educational opportunities for herself so that she may best help others. Since the beginning of this year Rogan has been successfully mentoring a candidate from Workforce Central Florida. Rogan Marketing and Communications is a client of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation program located at the site on Colonial Drive. Visit www.RoganMarketing.com.

Ninjaneer Studios in Winter Springs to Open Arts and Algorithms Festival in Titusville with Special 3D Projection Mapping Show

Winter Springs, Fla. --- Animation producer Ninjaneer Studios in Winter Springs will open the Arts and Algorithms Festival in Titusville Oct. 4 – 13 with a premier showing of an original animated larger-than-life 3D Projection Mapping show on the outside wall of the Playhouse Theater in downtown Titusville. Joe Rosa, director of Ninjaneer Studios, said the digital art show depicts the rebirth of Florida’s Space Coast. Projection mapping, a/k/a video mapping, is a projection technology used to turn objects of any shape into a display surface for video projection. Complex industrial landscapes, buildings and other two or three dimensional objects are spatially mapped on the virtual program that mimics the environment where the objects belong. The premier presentation will show on a giant screen that measures 88 feet by 35 feet, Rosa said. “We have created a very special presentation that reflects the creative energy that is producing the Arts and Algorithms Festival and the unique history and exciting future of Florida’s Space Coast,” Rosa said. Ninjaneer Studios is a client company of the University of Central Florida’s Business Incubation Program in Winter Springs, Fla.

Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty named exclusive broker to sell Mountain Lake, Fla. estate home of author Susan Butler

ORLANDO, Fla., --- Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty has been named exclusive sales and marketing representatives for the estate home of author Susan Butler in the historic resort community of Mountain Lake, Fla. near Lake Wales. Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said International Luxury Homes Specialist Michelle Hochfelder at the firm’s Heathrow Marketing Center is representing the property. Butler is a noted biographer whose “East to the Dawn, The Life of Amelia Earhart,” was made into a feature-length motion picture. The Butler property, on a landscaped, lakefront 4.35 acre site with large live oaks and citrus, offers unforgettable lake views. The estate home offers six bedrooms, six full baths and one half-bath and a two-story “Grand Room” with vaulted beam ceiling in 4,238 square feet of living space with oak plank hardwood floors, iron chandeliers, and a massive gas fireplace. Mountain Lake was developed in the early 1900s as a winter retreat. The community is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Butler estate at 47 Mountain Lake ranks as a 1920s architectural masterpiece. Mountain Lake is a private gated community with a private country club, golf course, tennis, and croquet overlooking the historic Bok Tower in Lake Wales. The Butler property is priced for immediate sale at $995,000.

After Sailing the World for Work and Pleasure, John and Nicole Saban are Loving the Ground they Walk on at Del Webb Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. – For vagabonds John and Nicole Saban, sailing from country to country aboard their 37-foot yacht Gannet has been a normal way of life for many of their 47 years of marriage. After living in cities like Geneva, Switzerland; Borneo and Jakarta, Indonesia; Singapore; Melbourne, Australia; and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for work, the two spent the past three years living in Opua, New Zealand, after John retired as an engine and mining project manager for Caterpillar Inc. Now, the adventurous Captain and First Mate sweethearts – who met and discovered their shared thirst for travel while studying at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois – are undertaking yet another big adventure…adjusting to life at Del Webb Orlando, while living in the United States for the first time since 1988. “Although it is an adjustment to relocate permanently in the U.S., we’ve found friends and activities that we enjoy and our new home is very comfortable,” said John, who grew up in Crystal Lake, IL. “Each month there is something entertaining to enjoy here, be it music, dancing, eating, or a combination.” After retiring, the Sabans had their choice of anywhere in the world to live but, because family came first, they decided to settle in Orlando [some 8,900 miles from New Zealand] to be near their two children and two grandchildren. Nicole, a Pittsburgh native, said they liked all of the Florida Del Webb communities, but chose Orlando because of its size, selection of homes and proximity to transportation and attractions. “We liked the idea of moving into a growing community where everyone is looking for new friends and activities, and Del Webb Orlando also appealed to us because it has a diverse community,” she said. Diverse indeed. The Sabans’ neighbors hail from Europe, Asia, India and Canada, as well as from throughout the U.S. Nicole recalled a comment their Swedish neighbor made about Del Webb Orlando’s multiplicity: “I have a lobster fisherman on one side, a wine merchant on the other and the weather is wonderful. Who would not love it here?" She and John, both 68, couldn’t agree more. With adventure in their blood, the couple already has been on the Central Florida roads exploring new places in their motor home, trading exotic locales like Gibraltar, Grenada and the Galapagos Islands for Gainesville, Green Cove Springs and St. Augustine. The move also has allowed the two to revisit some bygone hobbies and passions. John has been busy designing and building wooden kitchen stools and shelving systems, while Nicole recently unearthed her sewing machine and piano. With the myriad activities available at Del Webb Orlando, the Sabans wondered if they might have a difficult time choosing before getting involved in a recipe club and, you guessed it…the Wandering Webbs Travel Club. Nicole said they also plan to play golf and pickleball, and the former Sweet Adeline joined the DWO Chorus and loves singing again in a group. “The Broadway songs sung alone on night watch are a thing of the past,” she said, recalling time spent on the open seas. With so many travels to faraway places under their belts, one might think the Sabans’ lifestyle is unconventional. Not so, according to John. “We are not unique. A great many people enjoy a vagabond lifestyle either through work or hobbies. But, this just feels like the right situation for us at this stage of our lives.”

Celebration Golf Management hires top management at Eagle Creek Golf Course

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Celebration Golf Management, which owns and/or operates seven golf courses in the Central Florida region, recently named a new general manager at Eagle Creek Golf Course and a new superintendent. Kenny Nairn, chief operating officer for Celebration Golf Management said Edward Whalley was recently named general manager at Eagle Creek. Whalley who has more than 25 years of experience in the golf and hospitality industries, was formerly a director of operations for Kitson & Partners Clubs where he oversaw the day-to-day operations and sales management of multiple golf course properties in the Orlando, Jacksonville, and New Jersey markets. At the same time, Nairn said Jeff Clark was named Eagle Creek’s golf course superintendent. Clark earned his turf grass degree at Valencia State College and has 30 years of experience in the golfing industry. He formerly was the golf course superintendent at Frenchman’s Creek Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens.

Ashton Woods Homes starts Construction of Large Luxury model home at Preserve at FishHawk Ranch

TAMPA, Fla. --- Ashton Woods Homes has started construction of a new model home in the Preserve at FishHawk Ranch a new phase of homesites the homebuilder recently opened in the master-planned community located in Lithia in the Tampa Bay area. Michael Roche, vice president of sales and marketing at Ashton Woods Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said 13 oversized home sites are available in the Preserve at FishHawk Ranch for three, four and five bedroom homes ranging from 2,833 square feet of living area to 3,711 square feet, priced from the high $400s. Roche said the new model underway is the Durango, a spacious, luxurious two-story floor plan with four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, in 3,532 square feet of living area priced starting from $529,990. Visit http://www.ashtonwoods.com.

Ashton Woods Homes Opens New Community of Whitaker Park in Sarasota County

Sarasota County, Fla. --- Sales are underway at Ashton Woods Homes’ newest community of Whitaker Park, located off Richardson Road in Sarasota County. Michael Roche, vice president of sales and marketing for Ashton Woods Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said Ashton Woods currently has 79 home sites available at Whitaker Park for its new homes in one and two-story designs. Roche said Ashton Woods is offering nine separate floor plans at Whitaker Park with three and four bedrooms ranging from 1,710 square feet of living area to 3,111 square feet, priced from $267,990 to $326,990.

Dave Brewer Inc. appoints Darla Sutrich design coordinator

SANFORD, Fla. --- Dave Brewer Inc. has appointed Darla Sutrich design coordinator. Matt Trask, vice president at Dave Brewer, Inc., said Sutrich earned an AS Degree in Interior Design and has more than 10 years of experience in the custom homebuilding industry. “Darla will be responsible for liaison among vendors, construction managers, decorators and clients,” Trask said. Dave Brewer Inc. ranks as one of the region’s most active builders of luxury homes valued at more than $1 million.

Mortgage Interest Rates climbed a whole point over the past 60 days, says top Florida Mortgage provider

LAKE MARY, Fla. --- Mortgage loan rates have risen a full point over the past 60 days, leading to a big change in the business for Integrity Home Loan of Central Florida, the state’s largest privately-owned mortgage company. Matt Malloy, president of Integrity Home Loan, said his firm has shifted to a greater focus on home sales. “In the past we have seen significant growth in mortgage refinancing,” Malloy said. “Now it appears that side of the business has slowed as interest rates have risen.” Six months ago, about half the mortgage loans Integrity Home Loan provided refinanced existing mortgages. Today, about three-fourths of Integrity’s mortgage business is for the purchase of new or existing homes, Malloy said. Malloy said rising mortgage rates and fewer applications for mortgage refinancing are both signs of a healthier economy. “The U.S. economy is coming back and we can all feel good about that,” Malloy said. Integrity Home Loan is Florida’s largest fully integrated privately owned mortgage company with 11 branches including the headquarters in Lake Mary and locations in Coral Springs, West Palm Beach, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa and in the Detroit suburb of Southfield, Mich.

Celebration Golf Club promotes Kaley Anderson to Catering Sales & Events Coordinator

CELEBRATION, Fla. -- Celebration Golf Club has promoted Kaley Anderson to catering sales and events coordinator. John Bixler, assistant general manager at Celebration Golf Club, said Anderson will be responsible for contracting new catering business as well as overseeing the execution of all catering events. Anderson, who has more than seven years of experience in the food and beverage industry, joined Celebration Golf Club in March of this year from Shannon’s Irish Pub in downtown Celebration. “Kaley has managed daily operations and contracted events and has extensive experience in F&B” Bixler said. “Her attention to detail and commitment to customer service will help us to grow our catering business,” he added.

Legends Golf and Country Club to host Seventh Annual Clermont Kiwanis Oakley Seaver Memorial Golf Tournament October 11

CLERMONT, Fla. --- Legends Golf and Country Club, located on Legendary Blvd. off U.S. 27 five miles south of S.R. 50 in Clermont, will host the Seventh Annual Clermont Kiwanis Oakley Seaver Memorial Golf Tournament on Friday, October 11. Kenny Nairn, Scottish PGA professional and chief operating officer of Celebration Golf Management, said he expects more than 100 golfers to be on hand for the 1 p.m. shotgun start at Legends Golf and Country Club. “The Clermont Kiwanis Oakley Seaver Memorial Golf Tournament raises money to provide scholarships to deserving high school students who contribute to their schools and their communities,” Nairn said. Last year’s Clermont Kiwanis Oakley Seaver Memorial Golf Tournament at Legends Golf and Country Club drew more than 120 participants, according Jay Scruggs, general manager at The Legends. “Oakley Seaver was much beloved in Clermont and the Clermont Kiwanis Oakley Seaver Memorial Golf Tournament has become a local institution,” Nairn said. For more information or to register for the tournament, telephone Hal Cummings 352-394-6098 or halcummings58@aol.com.

NAI Realvest Negotiates New Lease for 1,500 Square Feet of Professional Office Space in Lake Mary

ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new lease agreement for 1,500 square feet of professional office space at 225 Waymont Ct. off Lake Mary Blvd. in Lake Mary. Senior Broker-Associate Mary Frances West, CCIM negotiated the transaction representing the local landlord, Deborah A. Williams. The tenant is Brett Beckman, DVM, PA d/b/a Orlando Veterinary Dentistry. Dr. Beckman has offices in Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte and Fort Myers. He is currently expanding his practice into Lake Mary with this new space.

NAI Realvest negotiates new office lease of 3,164 square feet for claims management firm on Morse Blvd. in Winter Park

MAITLAND, Fla. - NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new lease agreement for 3,164 square feet in the Keewin Center Office Building at 1079 Morse Blvd. in Winter Park. NAI Realvest Broker Associate Drew Saphos, CCIM, Principal Christie Alexander, Associate Paul Vera and George Livingston, chairman of the firm, represented the tenant, Canopy Claims Management, LLC, a full service property claims firm serving commercial and residential policyholders. The landlord for the 6,420 square foot building near the intersection of U.S. 17-92 was represented by Michael O’Shaughnessy Real Estate.

NAI Realvest negotiates new lease agreement with Jackson Law Firm, Gateway Plaza Building is 96 Percent Leased

ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new lease agreement for 1,853 square feet of Class A office space in the Gateway Plaza building at 1201 S. Orlando Ave. (U.S. 17-92) at the intersection of Orange Ave. in Winter Park. The NAI Realvest office leasing team of Tom R. Kelley II, CCIM, Mary Frances West, CCIM and Chris Adams negotiated the lease representing the local landlord, Gateway Plaza LLC. The Jackson Law Firm is the new tenant at the 60,835 square foot Gateway Plaza which is now 96 percent leased. NAI Realvest and the Kelley/West/Adams team were named exclusive leasing agents for the Gateway Plaza building earlier this year.

Sundog Software LLC named one of 91 Top Simulation & Training Companies in 2013 by Military Training Technology Magazine

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Sundog Software LLC was named one of 91 Top Simulation and Training Companies in the U.S. by Military Training Technology, a leading simulation technology industry trade magazine. Frank Kane, founder and chief executive officer of Sundog Software LLC, said 2013 marks the company’s fifth consecutive year on Military Training Technology’s “A” list. Sundog Software specializes in the real-time rendering of natural environments such as sky, ocean, clouds and weather effects for professional game developers, military contractors, aviation companies, flight training simulators, architectural visualization and broadcast video developers. The company’s clients include NASA, the U.S. Navy and the FAA. Sundog Software is a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program at the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.

ICI Homes starts construction of four-bedroom Brazilia model Estate home at Avilla in Kissimmee

KISSIMMEE, Fla. --- ICI Homes, which ranks as one of Florida’s most active luxury community developers, has started construction of the four-bedroom Brazilia model estate home at Avilla, the gated luxury community located in the Disney area off Dwyer Blvd., south of W. Osceola Parkway in Kissimmee Priced from $385,900, the Brazilia model home is part of ICI Homes’ new Courtyard Collection of luxury homes, said Rosemary Messina, vice president of sales and marketing for ICI Homes. “The Brazilia model home was designed to feature wide open spaces for family living and social engagements,” Messina explained. A fully-equipped gourmet kitchen serves a gathering room, café and dining room that total almost 700 square feet and open dramatically onto a huge private courtyard and covered lanai that can accommodate an optional swimming pool, fireplace and summer kitchen. The dining room can easily be converted into a study, Messina added. ICI Homes is building 81 luxury homes on estate home sites at Avilla with five distinctive designs that range in size from 2,500 square feet of living space to more than 3,500 square feet.

Pulte Homes to open a new community in Windermere area, Royal Estates in Spring 2014

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Pulte Homes plans to start construction of LifeTested® homes in the spring of 2014 at Royal Estates, located on Reams Road near C.R. 535 in the Windermere area. Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Pulte Homes in the North Florida region, said Pulte Homes recently acquired the new community site with 169 single-family home sites to premier its new LifeTested® design series of homes with three-car garages. “Life Tested® home designs are inspired by homeowners,” Strickler said. “We continuously reach out to homeowners for feedback to improve our design process to best meet the needs of home buyers,” Strickler explained. “Life Tested® homes are designed and built for a new generation of home buyers with smarter use of living spaces and rooms they’ll use all the time, not just once a year,” he said.

NAI Realvest Negotiates Office Building Sale in Winter Park

ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated the sale of a 2,058 square foot office building located at 660 Shoreview Ave. in Winter Park for $300,000. Tom R. Kelley, II, CCIM, principal at NAI Realvest and associate Chris Adams negotiated the sale representing the seller Norma M. Raffo. The buyer, OETAM LLC was represented in the transaction by Emily Zinaich of Morrison Commercial Real Estate.

NAI Realvest Negotiates New Lease of 12,000 Square Foot Industrial Building at Heritage Center in Lakeland

ORLANDO, Fla. -- NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new industrial lease agreement for the 12,000 square foot industrial building at 2250 Commerce Park Drive in Lakeland. NAI Realvest associates Drew Saphos, CCIM and Paul Vera along with principals Christie Alexander and George Livingston, chairman at the firm, negotiated the agreement representing the Ft. Lauderdale-based landlord, Heartwood 43, LLC. The tenant, Finish Master Inc., based in Indianapolis, is an independent national distributor of automotive paints, coatings and accessories. David Tower of Sperry Van Ness represented the tenant in the transaction. The new location includes 800 square feet of office space and is part of the Heritage Center that fronts on U.S. Highway 98.

PulteGroup South Florida Honors Top Salesperson for August

Bonita Springs, Fla. -- The South Florida division of PulteGroup has named Marc Semach, who is working out of the community of VillageWalk of Bonita Springs, as its Top Sales Consultant for August, Scott Mairn, vice president of sales and marketing for the South Florida Division of PulteGroup, said Semach sold the highest number of new homes among all PulteGroup communities and brands in the South Florida division, which includes Pulte Homes, Centex, Del Webb and DiVosta Homes. Semach has been with DiVosta Homes for eight-and-a-half years. The Plymouth, Mich. native majored in communications and literature at Eastern Michigan University and enjoys fishing, golfing, hiking and spending time with family. Semach sells new two and three-bedroom single-family homes by DiVosta priced from the $190s in ten distinctive designs at VillageWalk of Bonita Springs, located on Umiak Court off Bonita Beach Road S.E. east of I-75 in Bonita Springs. PulteGroup ranks as one of the nation’s largest home builders and community developers.

Men’s Club at Del Webb’s Ponte Vedra Community Isn’t Just a Bunch of Retired Guys

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Some folks who retire actually stop working. But others, like Ken Gillespie and fellow members of the Riverwood Men’s Club at Del Webb Ponte Vedra, just shift their focus… from making money to helping others. The men’s club, which launched with a handful of Ponte Vedra residents in 2008, has a mission of fellowship, service and support, according to Gillespie, the current president. The five-year-old group, which initially took its name from the community’s previous moniker, now boasts a membership of 160 representing nearly a quarter of the living units at Ponte Vedra. And, while it hosts its share of fun events like Super Bowl parties and Bingo nights, it also fosters goodwill and fellowship among its residents and the surrounding communities by raising thousands of dollars annually for those in need. “We’re a bunch of guys who have had pretty good jobs all of our lives, so now we’re giving something back,” said Gillespie, a Belvidere, N.J. native. Gillespie and his wife, Mary Ann – a member of the community’s women’s club – have lived at Ponte Vedra, southeast of Jacksonville, since December of 2007. The club, which meets on the fourth Thursday of each month, varies its agenda to include everything from beer and pizza round-table discussions to listening to guest speakers like a U.S. Secret Service Agent or an executive from the Jacksonville Jaguars football team. Its next event will be a pasta dinner on Oct. 11, where members will dress in their best Italian chef attire, complete with fake mustaches. Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Del Webb in North Florida, said residents at Ponte Vedra are very giving and almost turn fundraising into a competition. “People like Ken have a huge sense of community that shines through in the commitment they’ve made to make a difference in someone’s life,” he said. “And, the men’s club is one of the largest and most active clubs here to organize events and activities.” Gillespie, a retired human resources professional from M&M Mars, said there is much to attract new residents to the gated, 55 and up community of Ponte Vedra. Located on Del Webb Parkway, the crown jewel is the $14 million, 38,000-square-foot Anastasia clubhouse, complete with everything from a grand ballroom, social cafe and state-of-the-art fitness center to an indoor spa, a steam and sauna room and indoor and outdoor pools. “We’re 15 minutes from the ocean and 15 minutes from shopping and dining,” said 71-year-old Gillespie, who keeps busy playing golf and Bridge and is involved in the performing arts group and the investment club when he isn’t working part-time at the front desk at the clubhouse. In addition to its more than (how many?) clubs, Ponte Vedra also has an area known as Central Park, where residents can grow their own fruits, vegetables or flowers, or take in a concert on the open lawn. . Gillespie said another attraction is the developer’s obvious preservation of open, natural spaces. “They respected nature when building this community,” he said. Gillespie said the men’s club recently partnered with DelWebb and the community’s HOA to erect a 35-foot high flag pole that will be installed and surrounded by landscaped walkways that will serve as a central meeting place for holiday events and other gatherings. “We believe in this community,” Gillespie said. “If we didn’t, we wouldn’t have bought our second home here.”

Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty Negotiates $395,000 Sale of 24 Home Sites at the Reserve at Hidden Lake in Sanford

Lake Mary, Fla. --- Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty recently negotiated the sale of 24 town home sites at the Reserve at Hidden Lake in Sanford for $395,000. Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said commercial specialist John Kurtz negotiated the sale representing buyer D.R. Horton, Inc. Atlantic Development Corporation was the seller. “There are very few ready-to-go builder lots left in Seminole County and we think D.R. Horton will do very well in this location,” Kurtz said. Kurtz is currently marketing a variety of builder/developer projects across Central Florida priced from $300,000 to $15,000,000.

ICI Homes’ Luxury Models at Greenleaf Preserve at Nocatee Win Parade of Homes’ Top Awards

St. Augustine, Fla. --- Two of ICI Homes’ luxury models at Greenleaf Preserve at Nocatee took top honors at the 2013 St. Johns County Parade of Homes banquet held recently at the Marsh Creek Country Club. Don Wilford, North Florida division president for ICI Homes, said Parade judges ranked the Biltmore and the Allegheny models as the best in the class of homes priced above $500,000. The 2013 St. Johns County Parade of Homes running through Sept. 15 showcases 19 luxury models across 12 communities. The Biltmore, with three bedrooms and three baths in a one-story open floor plan with 3,195 square feet of living space, features a large central gathering room and oversized covered back porch and offers an optional three-car garage. ICI Homes offers the Biltmore starting from $440,900. The price of the Greenleaf Preserve at Nocatee parade model is $736,990. The one-story Allegheny floor plan consists of four bedrooms and four baths with a grand parlor, dining salon, kitchen and café that open to an expansive lanai at the rear of the home. It has 3,698 square feet of living space plus a two and a one-car garage. ICI Homes offers the Allegheny starting from $477,900. The price of the Greenleaf Preserve at Nocatee parade model is $719,950. Wilford said ICI Homes is building on 41 single-family homesites at Greenleaf Preserve at Nocatee, and new homes are priced from the low $400s.

Entrepreneur Magazine singles out University of Central Florida’s Business Incubator Program as one of nation’s best

ORLANDO, Fla. --- The University of Central Florida’s Business Incubator Program got a big surprise in the current issue of Entrepreneur Magazine---a starring role as one of America’s “Best Under the Radar Business Incubators.” The magazine feature picked four U.S. incubator programs out of more than 1,250 “for their ability to stand out in states that aren't always regarded as small business friendly,” according to the article. “While Disney's Epcot Theme Park may be an experimental prototype for future technology, University of Central Florida's network of nine incubators spread around Orlando is the real deal,” the article touts. Gordon Hogan, director of the UCF Business Incubation Program, said the article came as a complete surprise. “For people who focus on business and technology startups, Entrepreneur is a combination Fortune, Forbes and Wall Street Journal,” Hogan said. “All of us are thrilled to see the feature story and hope more Americans will understand why we approach what we are trying to accomplish here with such zeal and commitment,” he said. The UCF Business Incubation Program has helped create 1,500 new jobs and generate revenues in excess of $60 million between 2009 and 2011, according to Entrepreneur. To read the article online, visit www.Entrepreneur.com

NAI Realvest negotiates $3.05 Million acquisition of 14-Acre Maguire Rd. site in Ocoee – Development of 242-unit apartment community underway, with retail outparcel

MAITLAND, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently closed the $3,049,391 sale of a 14-acre bank-owned property at 1650 Maguire Rd near the Florida Turnpike in Ocoee. NAI Realvest principals, Matt Cichocki and Kevin O’Connor, along with senior associate Jack W. Lynch, negotiated the transaction representing the buyer, Skorman Development Corp. The seller was Miami-based PNP Parabis VPG Lake Butler, LLC. Buyer has received approval for the development of a 242-unit garden-style apartment community with a two-acre commercial outparcel on the property. Permitting of the apartments is already underway and delivery is expected in approximately 18 months.

NAI Realvest negotiates new lease for 4,160 square feet of industrial space in Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a lease agreement for 4,160 square feet of industrial space at 8350 Parkline Blvd. off Orange Avenue and McCoy Road in South Orlando. Michael Heidrich, a principal at NAI Realvest, negotiated the transaction on behalf of the landlord Parkline Properties, LLC of Columbus, Ohio. The new local tenant Unilumin LED Technology FL, LLC was represented in the lease agreement by Nick Sands of Pizzuti Management.

NAI Realvest Negotiates Sale of 1.48 Acre Retail Lot in Oviedo for $650,000

ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated the $650,000 sale of 1.48 acres, the former site of Oviedo Auto Sales, at 139 N. Central Ave. in Oviedo. George Viele, associate at NAI Realvest, brokered the transaction representing the sellers, John Grago, Jr. and Lalon Grago of Winter Springs. The buyer is Townhouse Restaurant of Oviedo.

Hendricks-Berkadia and Dowd Properties, Inc. Negotiate $3 Million Price in Sale of 80.96-Acre Callawalk Reunion Development Site on Polk-Osceola Border

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Hendricks-Berkadia Real Estate Advisors, one of the nation’s largest multi-family property investment advisors, recently negotiated the $3,000,000 sale of an 80.96-acre development site located on State Road 532 across from Reunion, straddling the border between Osceola and Polk counties. Cole Whitaker, Orlando based partner, who heads Hendricks-Berkadia in the Southeast, and Jim Dowd of Jim Dowd Properties, Inc. based in Celebration, negotiated the sale representing the seller, Capstone Resdev, LLC. Gene Lanton at Coastal Bay Realty LLC represented the buyers, Clarkwood Callawalk LLC, GCIW-Callawalk LLC and First American Exchange Company LLC.

Centex Homes opens new phase with 45 single-family home sites at Magnolia Park in Riverview

Tampa, Fla. --- Centex Homes has opened a new phase with 45 single-family home sites at Magnolia Park, the popular, gated family community off Progress Blvd. and Falkenburg Rd. west of U.S. 301 in Riverview. Sean Strickler, vice president of sales and marketing for PulteGroup in the North Florida region, said the new phase includes a variety of options including waterfront home sites, oversized home sites and many with nature preserve views. Strickler said Centex is building one and two-story single-family homes in the new phase in 11 distinctive floor plans priced from $164,990. New three, four, five, six and seven-bedroom single-family homes at Magnolia Park range in size from 1,405 square feet of living space to 3,476 square feet with two-car garages and low maintenance lawn care. Two of the single-family home designs are decorated models and available for daily tours. Magnolia Park is a CDD debt-free community and features three tropical pools with cabanas, playgrounds, a basketball court and walking trails. The community is convenient to downtown Tampa, Brandon shopping centers and MacDill Air Force Base.

Lennar opening new phase at Independence in Winter Garden

WINTER GARDEN, Fla. --- Lennar is opening a new phase of homes at its community, Independence, located on Independence Parkway off Ficquette Road and SR 535 in Winter Garden. Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said homes in the new phase at Independence will range in size from 1,700 square feet of living area to 4,200 square feet with prices starting from the mid-$200s. One model home has been completed and ready for viewing, Metheny added. All Lennar homes at Independence feature the homebuilder’s “Everything’s Included” pledge: a wide range of GE energy smart appliances, special features and upgrades at the one Lennar “everything’s included” price, Metheny said. Independence is convenient to major highways and the shopping and entertainment at Winter Garden Village at Fowler Groves. Visit www.lennar.com.

Park Square Homes has 10 Ready-To-Move-in Homes in five Central Florida Communities

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Park Square Homes has 10 move-in ready luxury homes priced from the $200s to more than $500,000 in five Central Florida communities in Mount Dora, Davenport, Harmony in Osceola County, Ocoee in West Orange County and in Southeast Orlando’s Lake Nona area. Anthony Rouhana, sales and marketing coordinator for Park Square Homes, said several of the homes have already opened and some are under construction, scheduled to open by October. The move-in ready homes include five at Solterra Resort in Davenport priced from the high $300s; one in Harmony, the unique master-planned community near St. Cloud in Osceola County, two luxury townhomes at Prairie Lake Reserve in Ocoee, two single-family homes at Summerbrooke in Mount Dora and two at Waters Edge by Lake Nona. For more information, visit www.parksquarehomes.com

Lennar Opens Unique Neighborhood Amenity Center at Twin Eagles Golf Community in Naples

Naples, Fla. --- With only 600 golf members, the Twin Eagles community offers new home buyers something most golf communities can’t match: 36 resplendent holes of golf, and none of it crowded. Now Twin Eagles has a unique new 47,000-square foot neighborhood amenity center to match. Matt Devereaux, director of sales and marketing for Lennar Homes in the Southwest Florida Division, said the new "Exclusively Inclusive" neighborhood amenity center includes a full outdoor chickee bar and restaurant, a state-of-the-art fitness facility and pro shop. “The Twin Eagles community is surrounded by a nature preserve so it is not uncommon to see deer on the golf course and beautiful eagles in the trees,” Devereaux said. Lennar builds two, three and four bedroom Executive Homes at Twin Eagles that range from 1,649 square feet of living space to 2,246 square feet, priced from $349,990 Twin Eagles ranks as one of the area’s premier golf communities and Twin Eagles home owners enjoy gorgeous preserve and golf course views along with miles of hiking, jogging, and walking paths. Lennar’s limited membership in the Twin Eagles Golf Club appeals to new and seasonal residents from the north. “At most golf courses up north, and at many golf courses all over Florida , during the season you have to reserve tee times a week in advance,” Devereaux said. “Twin Eagles was designed to take advantage of its environment and the developers planned a superlative golf course with 36 holes,” Devereaux said.

Unified Software Technologies hosting free Monthly Forum on Parallel or Distributed Applications and Systems Starting Sept. 24

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Unified Software Technologies LLC (UST) will host its next free monthly forum for software developers, IT managers and other IT professionals interested in multi-core, multi CPU, parallel or distributed computing systems on Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. in Room 211 of the University Tower Building, 12201 Research Parkway in the Central Florida Research Park adjacent to UCF. Ken Pierce, vice president of business development at Unified Software Technologies, said the forum will explore new methods and technologies that "unlock" the processing potential of modern computer hardware. “New technologies utilizing multi-core, multi CPU, parallel or distributed computing systems can significantly maximize performance, efficiency and stability of large-scale IT systems in the finance, healthcare, defense, gaming and simulation industries,” Pierce explained. On Sept. 24 Layton Perrin, chief technology officer of Unified Software Technologies, will present a demonstration of UST’s new Lock Free Library and Web Server Software “Speed.” Pierce said the monthly forum, which launched in June, has 16 members. For more information, visit http://www.meetup.com/Orlando-Lock-Free-and-Parallel-Computing/ or telephone Pierce at 407-796-2990. United Software Technologies is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.

Lennar Homes to introduce Multi-Generational NextGen Homes at Bridgewater at Lakewood Ranch in Bradenton

BRADENTON, Fla. -- Lennar Homes plans to introduce its popular new NextGen® homes for multi-generational families at Bridgewater at Lakewood Ranch, located off Lakewood Ranch Blvd. in Bradenton. Matt Devereaux, director of sales and marketing at Lennar Homes in Southwest Florida, said Lennar plans to build 291 new homes at Bridgewater at Lakewood Ranch from Lennar’s Manor Homes and Estate Homes collection. Lennar’s NextGen homes feature a “home within a home” design that has proved very popular among home owners with elderly live-in parents or adult children. “NextGen homes provide security and privacy for both families under one roof, with a full living suite for the second family that features its own private entrance and garage space,” Devereaux explained. Priced from $399,990, Lennar’s two-story Oxford NextGen floor plan offers 3,828 square feet of living space with five bedrooms, three full baths and a half bath in the main family living area with a two-car garage. The one-bedroom, one-bath NextGen living area features its own kitchen and dining facilities, a private living room and a private one-car garage. Lennar plans to build Estate Homes at Bridgewater at Lakewood Ranch in six distinctive designs that range from the Cambridge floor plan, priced from $369,990 with three bedrooms, a den, two full baths and one half-bath in 2,394 square feet and a three-car garage, to the Chapel Hill floor plan that offers five bedrooms and four full baths in 3,800 square feet. The two-story Chapel Hill floor plan has a 600 square foot bonus room and comes with a three-car garage. Lennar’s Manor Homes at Bridgewater at Lakewood Ranch, priced from $299,990, range in size from the 2,245 square foot single-story Princeton floor plan with four bedrooms, two baths a three-car garage.

RenuEn Corp. Reports $7.5 million sale of natural gas recovered from St. Cloud landfill to Dubai company for use in U.S. trucks

St. Cloud, Fla. -- RenuEn Corporation (otc pink:RENU), a renewable energy development company in St. Cloud has agreed to sell its entire five-year production of compressed natural gas (CNG) recovered from the St. Cloud Landfill in Osceola County to Dubai-based Al-Gahry Trading for use in U.S. delivery trucks. Don Wood, chief executive officer of RenuEn, said the sale of 3,750,000 Gas Gallon Equivalents (GGE) is worth $7.5 million over the five-year contract period. RenuEn Corp. is currently building the first phase of a CNG recovery system at the St. Cloud Landfill designed to produce approximately 62,500 GGE per month, or 750,000 GGE per year. “This purchase agreement will account for 100 percent of the production from the first phase of the project,” Wood said. A second phase, which is now in development, will increase yearly production to more than 3,000,000 GGE by combining CNG recovered from the landfill with natural gas from a nearby pipeline. J. Charles Nemes, executive vice president of RenuEN Corp., negotiated the sale agreement in collaboration Elliot Kahana, Senior Consultant with Florida-based KFV-LLC and Wolfgang R. Geyer of Mocker & Co. Consult Gmbh, in Stuttgart, Germany. The sale agreement could open the door for expansion by RenuEn Corp., Wood said. “Al-Gahry Trading plans to use the CNG to fuel its U.S. trucking operations and we have been working to bring MBM brand CNG trucks and engines to the U.S.,” Wood explained. MBM trucks use German-designed technology that meets U.S. standards for cleanliness and fuel economy. “As more and more trucking companies convert to CNG technology, RenuEn will be positioned to offer expanded CNG services to all of our clients,” he said. “This sales agreement and the relationship we have now forged is the most significant component of our business plan,” Wood said. RenuEn Corp. is a client company of the UCF Business Incubation Program in St. Cloud.

NAI Realvest Negotiates Lease for a New Crossfit Gym across from Rollins College in Winter Park

Orlando, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a lease agreement for a new 3,960 square foot Crossfit Gym in the former Loco Motion space at 125 W. Fairbanks Ave. in Winter Park. NAI Realvest Associate Mitch Heidrich, negotiated the lease representing the tenant Winter Park Training Consultants, LLC d/b/a Crossfit Winter Park, which will open this October. Crossfit Winter Park, a direct affiliate of Crossfit.com, provides accredited training seminars worldwide and at this location the company will also sell health foods, supplements and massage services, Heidrich said. More information regarding Crossfit Winter Park can be found on their website, crossfitwinterpark.com. The landlord, RCJ of Winter Park No. 3, LLLP was represented in the transaction by Brenda Carey of Great American Land Management, Inc.

Winston James Development Leases 937 Square feet to Aviation Parts Firm at Aloma Commerce Center

WINTER PARK, Fla. -- Winston James Development recently completed a new lease agreement for 937 square feet at its Aloma Commerce Center off Aloma Avenue in Oviedo. Winston Schwartz, a president of Winston-James Development, based in South Daytona, said the new tenant is Rush Aviation Systems, a firm that sells new and reconditioned aviation parts. Bob Winters of Dunhill Properties is the leasing agent for Aloma Commerce Center at 2781-2789 Wrights Rd.

Nine ready-to-move-in homes now under construction at Villages of Royal Palm in Port Orange

PORT ORANGE, Fla. — Winston James Development, the developer of the Villages of Royal Palm, the upscale community on Coconut Palm Circle in Port Orange, has nine homes under construction, slated to be completed and move-in ready by the end of the year or in early 2014. Jamie Allen Adley, president of Villages of Royal Palm, said the move-in ready homes range in size from 1,500 square feet of living area to 2,400 square feet. Prices of the homes, according to Adley, range from $174,000 to $300,000.

Lennar Homes will have more than 260 homes ready for immediate move in by October in Tampa Bay region

TAMPA, Fla. --- Lennar Homes will have 262 new move-in ready homes completed by October throughout the Tampa Bay region. Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said the homes are located throughout its active communities in Hillsborough, Pasco and Polk counties and are priced from the $130s to $300,000. The move-in ready homes include both single family and townhomes that range from 1,300 square feet of living area to 4,000 square feet and 123 homes were completed and move-in ready starting in September at Lennar’s Tampa Bay area communities. Lennar’s Central Florida Division currently builds new single family, villa and town homes priced from the $100s to $400s at its 15 active communities in the Tampa Bay market. Visit www.LennarTampa.com.

Organizational Development Consulting Firm Wightman & Associates Founder Invited to Participate in U.N. Forum on Disaster Preparedness

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Gina Wightman, founder and president of Wightman & Associates LLC in Orlando, will participate in a U.N. forum on Sustainable Training Initiatives for Resilience (STIR) September 11-13 in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Wightman, a noted expert on disaster resilience training for communities, states and national governments, said the forum will focus on capacity building to help emerging nations benefit from new international commitments to sustainable development. The forum is sponsored by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) and the Global Education and Training Institute at Incheon, South Africa. “The STIR Forum is an important initiative that will stimulate dialogue and catalyze action to reinvigorate and sustain training initiatives for resilience,” Wightman explained. “Many stakeholders have called for more focus on the development and implementation of national training strategies that support higher education, facilitate knowledge-brokerage and promote innovative approaches,” she said. Wightman & Associates LLC, a Women Owned Small Business (WOSB), is a full service organizational development and training firm dedicated to helping clients achieve excellence through a qualified and synchronized workforce. Wightman & Associates is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.

Technology Empowers Northern Virginia Residents to Aid Their Community After a Disaster

Orlando, Fla. --- Residents in Northern Virginia can now help their community’s emergency response agencies by submitting information about damage to their home or business after a storm. The Northern Virginia Damage Reporting Tool (NOVA DRT) software system was unveiled on Sept. 1, at the start of National Preparedness Month. The system includes smart phone apps, available for free to residents, which can be downloaded from the iTunes App Store or the Google play store. For residents who do not own a smart phone, NOVA DRT can be accessed on the Internet at www.novadrt.org. Ken Rudnicki, Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Fairfax and Immediate Past President of the Virginia Emergency Management Association (VEMA), said NOVA DRT elevates disaster preparedness efforts by making it easier to learn when and where a disaster is occurring. The system allows emergency managers to view a map of the damage reports, with validation from the resident photos, and download reports of damage totals. “This application will allow local jurisdictions to identify the resources needed to assist residents quicker and more accurately,” Rudnicki said. “In addition, it will provide the higher levels of government a more accurate picture of what it’s like when disaster strikes,” he said. Geocove, Inc. (www.geocove.com), the Orlando, Florida firm that develops GIS-based technology solutions that help government agencies and non-profit groups coordinate responses to disasters and emergencies, was awarded the contract to develop the proprietary NOVA DRT software system. “With NOVA DRT, residents can provide a rapid, eye-on-the-ground look at problems that authorities can then use in their decision making activities,” Karyn Tareen, Geocove’s President said. Using the NOVA DRT app, a resident can create a damage report by tapping on pictures that most closely identify damage and flood levels, record their precise location and even include a photo of the damaged building. Behind the scenes, the NOVA DRT system leverages the participating communities’ address and property databases to build accurate reports for emergency managers. These reports are crucial for requesting aid in an emergency. Esri’s GIS software was selected as the technology platform for the NOVA DRT system as most communities in the region are already using it for their mapping platform. “Without creating complicated new databases to maintain, we are able to reference the existing community databases to provide added intelligence to the system,” Tareen said. “Quick access to damage reports and information allows emergency managers to request and deploy the right resources, enabling the communities to recover more efficiently,” she explained. For stability and scalability, especially for a large scale event, the NOVA DRT system is hosted in the cloud by ROK technologies. NOVA DRT was funded by a grant from FEMA's Grant Programs Directorate, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. For more information about the NOVA DRT system, including participating communities, please visit www.novadrt.org Geocove is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.

Patriots Day Golf Tournament at Golden Bear Club in Windermere Raised more than $500 for Folds of Honor Foundation

WINDERMERE, Fla. --- More than 60 members and guests participating in a Patriots Day Golf Tournament recently raised $540 for the Folds of Honor Foundation, which supports the families of service men and women killed or wounded in the line of duty through scholarships and other assistance. Matthew Allen, general manager and director of golf at The Golden Bear Club at Keene's Pointe, said Golden Bear Club member Dave Corbett aced the fifth hole during the tournament for his second lifetime hole-in-one.

NAI Realvest Negotiates Two Lease Renewals totaling 10,200 Square Feet at Hanging Moss CommerCenter in Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. – Michael Heidrich, principal at NAI Realvest recently negotiated two lease renewals at Hanging Moss CommerCenter in Orlando that total 10,200 square feet of industrial space. Heidrich, who brokered the transactions on behalf of landlord COP-Hanging Moss, LLC of Maitland, said the two local tenants are: Apex Imaging, who was formerly called Florida Injury and Rehabilitation, renewed the lease of 6,200 square feet in Suite 100, 6148 Hanging Moss Rd; The Cast Stone Factory LLC renewed its 4,000 square feet of space in Suite 470 at 6112 Hanging Moss Rd.

NAI Realvest Negotiates Expansion and Renewal Leases totaling 12,000 Square Feet at Monroe CommerCenter South in Sanford

SANFORD, Fla. --- NAI Realvest recently negotiated two renewal leases and an expansion lease for a total of 12,000 square feet of industrial space at Monroe CommerCenter South in Sanford. Michael Heidrich, a principal in the firm, brokered the transactions on behalf of the landlord, COP-Monroe, LLC of Maitland. Advanced Van & Truck Equipment, Inc., a truck and auto parts and equipment supplier, renewed its lease of 5,000 square feet at 4154 Incubator Court and at the same time expanded into an additional 5,000 square feet at 4141 Incubator Court at Monroe CommerCenter South. Transit Designs LLC, a screen printing and embroidery firm renewed its 2,000 square feet at 711 Progress Way in Monroe CommerCenter South.

Golf’n Gals at Celebration Golf Club to host “Tee It Up Fore Cancer” Golf Tournament Oct. 26

KISSIMMEE, Fl. --- Golf’n Gals, the ladies 9 hole league at Celebration Golf Club at 701 Golfpark Dr, in Kissimmee, will host the “Tee It Up Fore Cancer” golf tournament on Saturday, Oct. 26, at the Celebration Golf Club. The tournament is open to everyone of every golf level. Carol Daniels, tournament and group sales agent at Celebration Golf Club, said she expects more than 100 golfers to participate in the tournament to raise money for breast cancer research. Registration for the tournament is $55 per player and includes golf, range balls, a drink ticket, buffet lunch and prizes. Daniels said the tournament will include a 50/50 raffle, mulligan packs, memory wall and prizes galore. The “Tee It Up Fore Cancer” golf tournament is the last event of the season for the Golf’n Gals League, our goal is a complete sellout,” Daniels said. The schedule of events is 7 a.m. registration and driving range open; 8 a.m. shotgun start; and lunch and awards at 1 p.m., To register or learn more information, telephone 407-566-4653 ext. 4605 or visit www.celebrationgolf.com

Ryland Homes offering Great Close-Out deals at Three Communities in Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes, Citrus Park

TAMPA, Fla. --- Ryland Homes is pulling out all the stops on the handful of homes that remain for sale in three close-out communities in Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes and Citrus Park. Mike Finley, vice president of sales and marketing for Ryland Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said only two homes remain for sale at Rocky Creek, located off Veteran’s Expressway in Citrus Park. A ready to move-in home at 6910 Rocky Canyon Way offers four bedrooms, three and a half baths in 3,204 square feet of living space priced at $343,677--- reduced from $352,250. A second home with five bedrooms and four baths that will be completed in October is priced at $358,367--- reduced from $365,468. Only one home remains for sale at Alsace, located in Land O’ Lakes just west of Collier Parkway. The four-bedroom Ponte Verda A model with four bedrooms and bonus room is priced at just $325,925 for 3,026 square feet of living space with a three-car garage. The Inverness A previously was priced at $333,869. Only one single-family home remains for sale at Ashton Oaks, located off S.R. 54 in Wesley Chapel near River Glen Blvd. The Destin B model, with three bedrooms and two baths, in 1481 square feet of living space is priced at just $189,990--- reduced from $194,123. “Typically, the best time to get a great deal on a new home is at the very beginning of a community and the very end,” Finley said. “This being the sellout of these communities, there are spectacular savings for the buyer in an established neighborhood with all the amenities,” he said.

Lennar Homes is selling Executive Homes at Orange Blossom Ranch in Naples

NAPLES, Fla. -- Lennar Homes is selling Executive Homes at Orange Blossom Ranch, the gated tennis community located on Fairmont Lane east of Immokalee Rd. in Naples. Matt Devereaux, director of sales for Lennar’s Southwest Florida Division, said Executive Homes at Orange Blossom Ranch range from 1,677 square feet of living area to 3,357 square feet, priced from $211,990 to $321,990. “These homes emphasize family living space with an open kitchen, breakfast nook and screened lanai,” Devereaux said. Three, four and five-bedroom homes at Orange Blossom Ranch are featured in seven distinctive floor plans including the Independence, one of Lennar’s NextGen plans designed for a new generation of multi-generational families. “The Independence design and the NextGen series accommodates the trend with private living quarters–a home within a home–featuring separate private entrance, eat-in kitchenette, bedroom, bathroom, laundry room and living room,” Devereaux said. All new Lennar homes at Orange Blossom Ranch come with the homebuilder’s “Everything’s Include” pledge: upgraded features, appointments, appliances and finishes all included in the one Lennar price. Orange Blossom Ranch, Devereaux emphasized features a community center with tennis courts, swimming pool, children's playground and barbecue pavilion. Visit www.lennar.com.

Henin Homes has new move-in ready home underway at Riviera Bella in DeBary

DeBary, Fla. – Henin Homes is completing a new ready-to-move-in home at Riviera Bella luxury community overlooking the St. Johns River in DeBary. Jerome Henin, president of the Henin Group, developer of Riviera Bella, said the new two-story home is the Maranello plan by Henin Homes with four bedrooms, three baths in 2,354 square feet of living area plus a two-car garage. The new Maranello home will be move-in ready and open for viewing in November, priced from the $320s. Homes at Riviera Bella range from the low $200s to the low $500s.

Avalon Dance Launches Art in Motion to Help Autistic Children Relate Through Dance

Orlando, Fla. --- Avalon Dance, the innovative dance studio in Downtown Avalon Park in east Orlando, has launched a new program to help autistic children cope with their surroundings through dance. Tkea LeGrande, founder and president of Avalon Dance, said Art in Motion unlocks each child’s capacity to express by teaching them to appreciate the artistry of dance. “Art in Motion focuses on the whole student and teaches dance through mirroring movements and effective positioning. We pay special attention to the student’s reaction to the sound and the beat of the music and incorporate colors as a visual reminder to formalize patterns of dance,” LeGrande explained. LeGrande said Art in Motion offers children and young adults the unique opportunity to engage in dance as an art form. “Art in Motion empowers each student to fuel their abilities,” LeGrande said. “We approach each student as a unique individual and help them unlock their abilities. They learn to dance limitlessly, and at the end of each year our students will leave not only their fingerprint but their foot print on the dance floor,” she said. Art in Motion classes taught by Avalon Dance are held Wednesdays from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. for beginners and 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. for advanced students at Providence Foundation, located at 1561 S. Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828. For more information or to register a student for classes, visit www.avalondance.net or telephone Avalon Dance at 407-380-3444.

With Strongest Sales in Years, 14 new homes under construction at Villages of Royal Palm in Port Orange

PORT ORANGE, Fla. -- Sales of new luxury homes at the Villages of Royal Palm in Port Orange are the strongest in years, prompting 14 recent construction starts. Jamie Adley, president of the Villages of Royal Palm and a principal at Winston-James Development, said the award-winning active adult community 18 new single-family homes from January 1 through July 31 and that was more than the gated community sold in all of last year. Adley said new home sales since the start of the year averaged $300,000 each. The Villages of Royal Palm has started construction of 14 new homes, including nine that will be available for immediate move-in when completed between September and the end of the year. Five ready-to-move-in homes will open by the end of this year, Adley said. Only 25 home sites remain for sale at the Villages of Royal Palm, according to Adley.

ICI HOMES HIRES FOUR AS NEW HOME SALES ESCALATE

Jacksonville, Fla. -- ICI Homes, the Volusia County-based community developer and luxury homebuilder with a major presence in the Jacksonville, Orlando and Tampa markets, has recently beefed up its staff with four new hires, according to division president, Don Wilford. Lance Leininger, a licensed Florida residential contractor who holds an AA degree from Tallahassee Community College, was hired as a Builder for ICI Homes North Hampton and Amelia National Golf and Country Club communities in Fernandina Beach. Leininger has nearly 20 years of experience from owning and operating his own construction company in Tallahassee and more recently serving as project manager for a local Jacksonville homebuilder. Davette Jones has been hired as Estimator, having just completed an internship with a national homebuilder. Originally from the Bahamas, Jones recently graduated from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management. Wilford said recruits from UNF’s construction program have excellent career opportunities in the recovering homebuilding market. “We’ve had many UNF grads on our team over the years and we are extremely pleased that Davette has joined us,” said Wilford. Two new sales ambassadors were recently hired to serve ICI Homes’ North Florida Division, according to Lisa Sarraf, sales manager. Vicki Maxwell was appointed to serve the Amelia National Golf & Country Club community. After earning a BS degree from West Georgia University Maxwell taught school for 33 years and, even though an avid golfer, she wasn’t ready for retirement and said a golf community ambassador seemed a natural position for her. Elsa Killeen was hired to serve as a sales ambassador at both the communities of Plantation Grove in Julington Creek and St. Johns Forest in St. Johns County. Killeen earned her degree in Business Practicum from Queensland Business School in Australia. She has a diverse background in tourism, advertising, marketing and hospitality which spanned a 27-year career from Indonesia, Australia, New Guinea and Hawaii. “We are pleased to have both of these fine professionals join our sales department and they will be great representatives of our communities,” said Sarraf.

Lennar appoints Jamie Burdine IT Administrator

TAMPA, Fla. --- Lennar’s central Florida Division recently appointed Jamie Burdine IT site administrator in the Tampa Bay area. Burdine is a graduate of St. Petersburg College who has more than 18 years of experience in web site management, including positions at Unisys and Dell. “As more and more home buyers learn to gather information on the web, the Internet has grown into one of the most important tools available to home builders,” said Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division. Lennar’s Central Florida Division builds new homes in more than 22 communities in the Tampa Bay area and more than 25 communities in the Orlando region.

Lennar’s Central Florida Division Opens Alexander Ridge in Winter Garden with 198 Home Sites

WINTER GARDEN, Fla. --- Lennar has started selling in its newest community of Alexander Ridge with 198 homesites located off Avalon Road in Winter Garden. Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida division, said two models will get underway at Alexander Ridge in the fall, and homes are selling from the $260s to $420,000. Metheny said Lennar’s homes at Alexander Ridge will range in size from 1,900 square feet of living area to 4,200 square feet on 55, 65 and 85-foot homesites. All Lennar homes at Alexander Ridge will feature the homebuilder’s “Everything’s Included” pledge: a wide range of GE energy smart appliances, special features and upgrades at the one Lennar “everything’s included” price, Metheny added.

Arsenal Venture Partners Managing Director is Keynote Speaker at Forum hosted by Rollins College CFAE, GrowFL, CEO Nexus Sept. 10

Winter Park, Fla. -- Jason Rottenberg, managing director of Arsenal Venture Partners and a 15-year veteran founder of early-stage technology companies, will be the keynote speaker at a forum of area CEOs and corporate principals hosted by the Rollins College Center for Advanced Entrepreneurship, GrowFL and CEO Nexus on Sept. 10. Rottenberg has spent the last fifteen years founding, building and funding early-stage technology companies. He is a frequent speaker on the topic of technology commercialization and the intersection of the defense and commercial markets. Steve Quello, president of CEO Nexus, said Rottenberg previously served as a manager in Arthur Andersen’s Silicon Valley office after earning a B.S. Degree from Georgetown University and an MBA with highest distinction from Harvard University, where he was named a Baker Scholar. The CEO Forum begins at 6 p.m. at Rollins College at Winter Park Plaza on Fairbanks Ave. Quello said area CEOs and corporate principals invited to attend the Rollins Forum should be registered at info@CEONexus.com. “Jason Rottenberg has been a leader in the founding and exits of numerous technology companies and his successful career experience perfectly mirrors our goals and objectives as an organization,” said Dr. Tom O’Neal, executive director of GrowFL and associate vice president for Research and Commercialization at UCF. To learn more about CEO Nexus, visit www.ceonexus.com.

NAI Realvest Negotiates New Industrial Lease Agreement with Auto Repair Business in Oviedo

ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new industrial lease agreement for 2,400 square feet at 1701 Pratt Place in Oviedo. George Viele, associate at the firm, brokered the transaction representing the local landlord, Chess, Inc. Cam’s Auto Repair is the new tenant that leased the warehouse space, which includes two acres of outside storage. Bill Stephens of Realty Capital represented the tenant.

NAI Realvest relocates headquarters from Maitland to Orlando 1800 Pembrook Drive Orlando, FL 32810

ORLANDO, Fla. --- NAI Realvest, which ranks as one of the area’s largest commercial property managers and brokers, relocated its headquarters. Robin Webb, managing director of NAI Realvest, said there were many great memories at the firm’s signature offices on Lucien Way just outside Maitland Center but it was time for the firm to elevate its presence in the Orlando market. The firm, which opened its doors in 1982, had been headquartered there for more than 20 years. Webb said NAI Realvest moved into 11,000 square feet of new office space at the Pembrook Commons Building located at 1800 Pembrook Drive, Suite 350, Orlando, FL 32810. “We not only have more space---about 1,000 square feet---but more importantly we have more updated space that is much more organized and efficient. This provides the opportunity to selectively add new members to this already highly productive team,” Webb said.

Avalon Park to Host Ground Breaking Ceremony to Start Construction of Encore Assisted Living Community

Orlando, Fla. --- Avalon Park in east Orlando will host a ground breaking ceremony to mark the start of construction of the Encore at Avalon Park, an assisted living and memory care community located at 13798 Cygnus Drive in downtown Avalon Park. Stephanie Hodson, vice president of marketing for Avalon Park Group, said the event is scheduled for 5:30 p.m., on Tuesday Sept. 10. The 80,000 square foot, three-story building will offer 90 residential units along with a state-of-the-art Alzheimer’s Care Center with 128 licensed beds. Each residential unit is part of a neighborhood where residents are able to continue the way of living they’re used to with small living room and dining areas. “Encore will be located in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park, which will afford residents the convenience of walkability, connections to amenities and family. This location not only creates an environment that inspires and soothes but, more important, a continuity with the community eliminating the isolation that’s frequently experienced in more commonly found assisted living facilities,” said Ross Halle vice president of Town Planning and Architecture for Avalon Park Group. “East Orlando needs a quality environment that provides nurturing care for people who require assistance,” Hodson explained. “We are very proud to introduce what we expect will set a new standard for assisted living care in Central Florida,” she said. Avalon Park’s Encore Assisted Living Facility will be managed by MJM Associates.

Emerson International negotiates nine lease agreements that total close to 50,000 square feet of space

Altamonte Springs, Fla. --- Emerson International recently negotiated nine commercial lease agreements that total close to 50,000 square feet of office space in Orlando, Longwood, Maitland and Altamonte Springs. Kenneth Koch, director of leasing at Emerson International, negotiated three lease agreements that total more than 37,500 square feet. Glickstein, Laval and Carris, P.A. a CPA firm leased 6,702 square feet at Emerson’s CenterPointe II office building at 220 E. Central Pkwy. in Altamonte Springs. Braishfield and Associates, insurance agents and brokers expanded their offices at 5750 Major Blvd. in Major Center Plaza II near International Drive in southwest Orlando by 1,012 square feet to a total of 9,177 square feet. Alorica, Inc. renewed its lease of 29,786 square feet in the Sanlando Center II office building at 2180 S.R. 434 in Longwood. Emerson International commercial leasing associate Zac Starkey negotiated six lease agreements that total close to 10,000 square feet of office space. Fortune Portfolio Processor Service Group leased 1,150 square feet and Sagamore Home Mortgage leased 1,196 square feet in the CenterPointe Office Park, 370 CenterPointe Cr. in Altamonte Springs. At Louisiana Office Park on Louisiana Ave. in Winter Park, Starkey leased 1,642 square feet to The Maitland Group an insurance company, and 220 square feet to Anchor Counseling which provides family counseling, therapy and psychological testing. Starkey negotiated a lease agreement for 3,445 square feet at 2600 Maitland Center Parkway on behalf of tenant Home Care Connect which provides non-medical home care to seniors. At Sanlando Center on SR 434 in Longwood, Starkey leased 1,771 square feet to GeoTel Communications a global provider of customer-interaction software solutions for mission-critical call center applications.

Power Promise Organization Hosts Graduation Ceremonies for Offering Successful Outcomes Program

Sanford, Fla. -- The Power Promise Organization, which organizes business and community interests to provide assistance, motivation and resources to help underprivileged young people succeed, recently hosted graduation ceremonies for its three-year Offering Successful Outcomes Program. Ursula James, vice president and program director of the Power Promise Organization, said approximately 100 students participate in the Offering Children Successful Outcomes Program and many of those students attended the graduation ceremony. James said the Offering Successful Outcomes Program is a joint venture with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. “The Power Promise Organization has partnered with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for three consecutive years to implement the Offering Successful Outcomes Program at Meadowbrook and Robinswood middle schools and Wekiva and Evans high schools providing mentor services for over 300 youth, James said. James said 75 percent of the young people who enter the Offering Successful Outcomes Program graduate. This year’s graduation included more than 100 young men. “Students enrolled in the Offering Successful Outcomes Program participate in character education workshops with school student resource officers, Sheriff’s deputies and mentors,” James explained.

Hoverfly Technologies CEO to Play Starring Role in Florida Space Institute’s Space Tech 1.0 Conference Sept. 5 at UCF

Winter Springs, Fla. --- Al Ducharme, founder and CEO of Hoverfly Technologies, Inc. in Winter Springs, will be a featured speaker at the Florida Space Institute’s Space Tech 1.0 conference at the University of Central Florida on Sept. 5. Ducharme, an associate professor in the College of Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Central Florida (UCF), launched Hoverfly Technologies three years ago. Dr. Ducharme’s presentation topic at Space Tech 1.0 will be on Robotics and Entrepreneurship. Today, Hoverfly Technologies ranks as one of the world’s leading providers of autonomous aerial robotics---highly stable, remote controlled unmanned aerial systems (UAS) that support video and photographic equipment used in a wide variety of applications, from major film and television productions to aerial mapping, surveying and surveillance. The Space Tech 1.0 conference at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality is designed to bridge the gap between technology, visionary science, and progressive space programs to create new approaches to global issues. The conference provides a forum for collaboration among scientists, researchers, businesses and students to look at new ways the space industry can solve problems on earth. Other speakers include Dr. Dave Williams, a Canadian physician and retired Canadian Space Agency astronaut who was recently appointed to the Order of Canada for Science and Ray Wheeler, an expert on the benefit of plants for long-duration spaceflight. Online pre-registration for the conference costs $150 through September 4 and includes a light breakfast, lunch, and reception. On-site registration will be $200. There is no cost for students and university faculty; however there will be a charge for meals. For more information, visit www.fsispacetech.com or contact Dr. Esther Beltran at esther.beltran@ucf.edu or 321-276-5565. Hoverfly Technologies, Inc. is a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program located at the Seminole County/Winter Springs Incubator on E. State Road 434 in Winter Springs.

Ryland Homes to host Grand Opening at South Fork in Riverview

TAMPA, Fla. --- Ryland Homes will host an official grand opening Saturday Oct. 5 to showcase its new model home at South Fork, located off Ambleside Blvd. between Big Bend and Balm Roads in Riverview. Food, beverages, games and giveaways will be provided for the event. Ryland’s new model will be complete and the sales office will be open for presales on Sunday, Sept. 8. The new Siesta model home boasts five bedrooms, a large game room, and a bonus room, with three and a half baths in 3,154 square feet of living area with a three-car garage. The Siesta floor plan offers an open family living and entertainment area that includes an island kitchen, family room and lanai, said Mike Finley, vice president of sales and marketing for Ryland Homes in the Tampa Bay region. New three and four-bedroom homes at South Fork in one- and two-story floor plans range in size from 2,257 square feet of living space to 3,500 square feet with two and three-car garages.

18th annual Hispanic Festival Set for Sept. 15 in Deltona Local Law Firm Helps Sponsor the free family event

DELTONA – The Volusia County Hispanic Association Inc. will present the 18th annual Latin Arts and Music Festival Saturday, Sept. 15 at the Dewey O. Boster Sports Complex, 1200 Saxon Blvd., Deltona. The free event – which is being sponsored in part by the Port Orange-based law firm of Rue, Ziffra & Caldwell – is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Featured will be disc jockey “Franchy,” and live entertainment by Jerry Galante, Pedro Jesus, Lefty Perez, Alex El Bizcochito and Grupo Swing. A variety of games, events and other children’s activities also will be offered, along with an assortment of ethnic foods, according to association volunteer David Santiago. “This is our biggest event of the year and we’re very thankful to sponsors like Rue, Ziffra & Caldwell for their support,” Santiago said. “We’re anticipating attendance of more 15,000.” Founded in 1995, Santiago said the non-profit Volusia County Hispanic Association strives to increase cultural awareness and provide learning opportunities for people of diverse backgrounds through a number of public events, community outreach programs and scholarships. For more information, contact Santiago at 386-216-9969 or Dsantiago457@gmail.com. About Rue, Ziffra & Caldwell: Founded by John D. Rue and Allan L. Ziffra, the personal-injury law firm of Rue, Ziffra & Caldwell has served the Central Florida community for more than 25 years. The firm’s commitment to its profession and its clients has earned it a reputation as one of the top personal-injury law firms in Central Florida. Known for handling everything from automobile and motorcycle accidents to medical malpractice, wrongful death, and social security and disability cases, Rue, Ziffra & Caldwell has recovered millions of dollars for injured clients and their families. With a staff of nine attorneys, the firm maintains offices in Port Orange, DeLand and Palm Coast. For more information, visit www.rueziffra.com.

Rhodes+Brito Architects Names Loi Flink Architect

ORLANDO, Fla. – Rhodes+Brito Architects based in Orlando has named Loi Flink as an intern architect for the firm. Ruffin Rhodes, AIA, co-founder and principal at Rhodes+Brito Architect said Flink is a recent graduate of the University of Florida. Rhodes+Brito Architects, which opened in Orlando in 1996, currently employs a staff of 17, including seven registered architects.

Ryland Homes Starts Selling at Trinity Crest in Kannapolis, Construction underway of New All-Brick Single-Family Model Home

Charlotte, N.C. --- Ryland Homes has started selling in its newest community of Trinity Crest located in Kannapolis off Trinity Church Rd. and Kannapolis Parkway. Alan Beulah, vice president of sales and marketing at Ryland Homes in the Charlotte region, said Ryland’s Energy Star® certified homes at Trinity Crest are priced from $337,990 to $370,990. Beulah said construction is underway of the Oakwood, a new all-brick single-family model home that will be completed, decorated and open for viewing the end of October at Trinity Crest. The Oakwood offers five bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths in 3,863 square feet of living space with a two-car, side entry garage. “Trinity Crest’s great location – 2.5 miles from shopping and dining at Afton Ridge, an easy commute to Salisbury, the University area and Uptown Charlotte – will generate significant interest from home buyers,” Beulah said. At build-out Trinity Crest will have 58 homes. Nine distinctive floor plans are available at Trinity Crest including the Jennings which debuts the first of Ryland’s new Terrace Plans. The Jennings, with three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths in 2,747 square feet of living area features an optional study, media room and guest suite. “The Jennings provides the advantages of one-level living with as much added space as a two-story home,” Beulah explained. A community swimming pool, cabana and playground are proposed for Trinity Crest.

Pulte Homes Opens New Phase at Trillium in Brooksville with 67 Home Sites, New Homes Priced from the $130s

Brooksville, Fla. --- Pulte Homes has opened a new phase with 67 home sites at Trillium, located in Brooksville off County Line Rd. just east of the Suncoast Parkway. Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Pulte Homes in the North Florida region, said new three, four and five-bedroom single-family homes on 50-foot home sites in the new phase at Trillium are priced from $136,990 and range in size from 1,447 square feet of living space to 3,242 square feet. Altogether, Pulte plans to build 893 new homes at Trillium in one and two-story designs. Currently the homebuilder offers seven distinctive floor plans in the community with amenities that include a resort-style swimming pool, cabanas and multi-purpose playing field. New Pulte homes at Trillium include Whirlpool® smooth-top electric range, Whirlpool® dishwasher with variable cycles/options, Mohawk® carpet with EverStrand® technology, and dual-pane insulated Low-E windows and sliding glass doors, optional covered lanais and extended garages. The sales center and Compton model at Trillium are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and from noon to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays and Sundays.

M/I Homes completes new model home at Versailles in Lake Forest area

ORLANDO, Fla. --- M/I Homes has completed a new model home — the Grandview — at its community of Versailles, located on S.R. 46 and N. Orange Avenue in the Lake Forest area of Seminole County. David Byrnes, area president for M/I Homes in the Central Florida region, said the Grandview offers five bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths in 4,900 square feet of living area and a three car garage. The Grandview is priced from $429,990, Byrnes said. M/I Homes has 59 home sites at Versailles with homes priced from $320,000 to $700,000 in the gated community. The Grandview is now ready for viewing, Byrnes said.

Hendricks-Berkadia Negotiates Sale of 45 Town Home Sites at Tuscany Place Town Homes in Winter Springs

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Hendricks-Berkadia Real Estate Advisors, which ranks as one of the leading multi-family investment banking and research companies in the nation, recently negotiated the $450,000 sale of 45 town home sites, grouped in five pads, located within the 13.5 acre gated Tuscany Place Town Homes community at 600 Northern Way in Winter Springs. Partner Cole Whitaker, who heads Hendricks-Berkadia in the southeast region, and associate partner Hal Warren negotiated the sale representing the seller, PNC Bank. The buyer, Rodrigo Torres, plans to develop the property with town homes. Tuscany Place Town Homes, which comprises 111 units, was built in two phases – in 1981-1986 and 1997-2007 – and includes a community swimming pool, cabana and private park.