SpaceCoast BUSINESS - Women in Business Edition by Space Coast Magazines

MARCH 2019

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

SELLING

SOLO? BARBARA SCHLURAFF’S

TEAM APPROACH FOR REAL ESTATE

YEARS

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FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

06 Shaping the Future

05 Editor’s Note

Of Business in Brevard

08 Junior Achievement 2019 Laureates

Bryan and Donna Scott and Lynda Weatherman

18 Changing with the Times

Barbara Schluraff is Reimagining Real Estate

32 Florida Tech Athletic Spotlight 36 Trep Talk 46 UpClose with Jessica Kane

22 Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce

Spreading Goodwill: ASAP Pest Solutions

24 Melbourne Regional Chamber

Uncommon Bottom Line: Berman Hopkins

26 Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber

More Than Skin Deep: Island Girl Natural Beauty

28 Titusville Chamber of Commerce

Beauty in Bloom: Floral Creations by Dawn

30 Economic Development Commission

Seaworthy: SeaDek

33 World-Class USSSA Space Coast Complex

Barbara Schluraff and Chenay Strum

Making Its Presence Felt in Brevard

44 Exploiting the Law

Misusing ADA’s Best Intentions

SPECIAL SECTION

USSSA Space Coast Complex

10 Women In Business Profiles

BEST PRACTICES | GUEST EXPERT COLUMNS

38 Is My Personal Injury Lawyer Right For Me?

Alpizar Law, LLC | Scott Alpizar

40 Investors Need to Understand Their Risk

Connors Wealth | Justin Connors

42 Live Authentically, Act Empathetically

weVENTURE | Erica Lemp

MARCH 2019 2 : SPACE C OAST B U S I N E SS

Jessica Kane

Happiness is a Healthy Smile Beverly Rose, DMD Always Gentle, Always Friendly

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jeff Piersall, CEO Joseph Duda, Chairman of the Board Eric Wright, President of Publishing

EDITORIAL Mallorie Ann Ingram, Managing Editor

What Moves YOU?

ver one half of all Americans have moved in the last 10 years and a little over 10 percent have moved twice. In 2016, of those who had moved, 39.53 percent were interstate moves and 60.47 percent were local. Not surprising, based on the school year and weather in much of the United States, over 48 percent of all moves happen between May and August. There are a wide ILY range of reasons people move, from a M better job opportunity, to affordability or a more attractive quality of life.

making these destinations permanent homes. According to the 2017 Mayflower Mover Insights Study, which focused on millennial moving trends, two in five (41 percent) millennials are “vacation movers” — that is, they have moved to a new city without intending to settle down there permanently. Furthermore, more than half (53 percent) of 20. 2% millennials say they are likely to make a J temporary, or “vacation,” move in the next five years.

27.4 %

Changing with the Times MOVING TRENDS

10.2% OTHER

"Millennials are a generation of what I call 'adventure movers.' Their motivations for moving are influenced by a sense of adventure, making these moves relatively short-term," said Dr. Jeffrey Arnett, Research Professor in the Department of Psychology at Clark University. However, according to Mayflower’s study, the majority of millennials say they feel more positively HOUSING than negatively when it comes to settling down in their current city. It seems is the Bythat Eric30Wright magic number; about 51 percent of millennials who claimed they hope to settle down say they plan to settle down around What About Millennials? age 30 or 35, and four out of five millennials, or 81 percent, For millennials, who are defined as 18 to 35-year-olds, they tend plan to become homebuyers when they finally find a city in to flock to urban destinations like San Francisco, Los Angeles and Seattle. A new study by Mayflower indicates they are not which to settle down.

Quality of life is one of the reasons the four major metro areas of Florida — Orlando, Jacksonville, Tampa and Miami — have so much attraction. The old adage, “Why not live where others come to vacation?” makes a lot of sense.

Barbara Schluraﬀ

Florida ranks second in moves, below California and above Texas. In looking 42 at interstate migration, more move from .2% California to Texas, with moves from New York to Florida coming in second. Florida also leads the nation in number of residents moving in versus leaving.

is Reimagining Real Estate

It was the premise of the Academy Award winning film Jerry McGuire:

Barbara Schluraff and Chenay Strum

Is there a better way to do our business?

It is also what taxi companies and Sears Roebuck, who invented the catalogue industry, never asked. Therefore, they stood flabbergasted as Uber and Amazon hit like an asteroid extinction event on their market share. ⊲

States Most Americans Are Moving To States Most Americans Are Moving From

MARCH 2 019

S PAC E C OAST B U S I N E S S

| YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NAME: Yari Fumero TITLE: Junior Loan Officer COMPANY: Shelter Mortgage YEARS IN AREA: 12 MARCH 2019

YEARS AT COMPANY: 10

NAME: Yari Fumero TITLE: Junior Loan Officer COMPANY: Shelter Mortgage YEARS IN AREA: 12 YEARS AT COMPANY: 10

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Brevard County resident since 2004, Yari Fumero is a native Floridian, born and raised. Working in the mortgage industry since she was very young, she started her career at Shelter Mortgage nearly a decade ago as a Loan Officer Assistant. After taking a break to start a family, she worked in the title industry where she expanded her knowledge to include the title and closing aspect of the home buying experience. Returning to Shelter Mortgage in early 2016, she arrived as a well-rounded and knowledgeable Junior Loan Officer.

Yari truly enjoys what she does and it fuels her passion to help individuals and families get into their new homes. She also understands the importance of the huge financial decision that her clients are making, because as she says, “They aren’t just buying houses; they’re buying homes for themselves and their families to enjoy for a lifetime.”

SELLING

SOLO?

SELLING

SOLO?

Over the years, Yari has worked closely with realtors and homebuilders all over the east coast of Florida and has built many long lasting relationships and partnerships that have served her well. Bilingual, she has used this to her advantage while working with both her English and Spanish speaking clients. Having grown up in a primarily Spanish speaking home and seeing her parents struggle to communicate helped her understand the need for bilingual loan officers. These skills combined with her extensive knowledge of many different mortgage loan programs has allowed her to help hundreds of families finance their dream homes with little to no money out of their pockets. Se Habla Español. ◆

BARBARA SCHLURAFF’S

TEAM APPROACH FOR REAL ESTATE

Yari Fumero

Vinod Philip, Chief Technology Officer

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

| YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

MARCH 2019

Yaresmi Fumero -- NMLS#552492 Shelter Mortgage Company LLC-- NMLS#431223 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

50]OCTOBER2016 SCBMarketing.com

Yaresmi Fumero -- NMLS#552492 Shelter Mortgage Company LLC-- NMLS#431223 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

50]OCTOBER2016 SCBMarketing.com

What Moves YOU?

For Justin Connors of Connors Wealth Management, helping clients be reasonable and optimistic about their future is what he has dedicated his life to.

SPACECOAST B USIN ESS

“What people are seeking is peace of mind. We recognize that comes from being informed and setting realistic and achievable goals for their future,” he explained. “Our clients are usually fairly conservative and don’t expect to make inflated returns on their portfolio,

Changing with the Times FA

27.4 %

10.2% OTHER

We all want to be optimistic about our future. For some, however, that optimism is based on wishful thinking or simply a positive disposition. But a positive disposition alone will not carry you to your destination; rather, it is an alignment of your plans and actions that will get you to the target you are optimistically hoping to hit. This is where optimism must intersect with reasonableness.

“IT IS THE FORCE THAT MAKES THE WORLD GO.”

based on the school year and weather in much of the without intending to settle down there permanently. nor are they willing to accept big market Finding the20Right Fitmore than half (53 percent) of United States, over 48 percent of all moves happen Furthermore, .2 % between May and August. There are a wide millennials say they are likely to make a losses. Basically, they want to ensure they ILY the ‘Millionaire range of reasons people move, from a“Our or “vacation,” move in the M client base falls Jinto temporary, better job opportunity, to affordability next five years. can maintain their lifestyle and not run Next Door’ profile,” said Connors, or a more attractive quality of life. "Millennials are a generation of Quality of life is one of the reasons out of money.” what published I call 'adventure movers.' referring to a bestselling book the four major metro areas of Their motivations for moving Florida — Orlando, Jacksonville, MOVING influenced by a sense of in 2010 by two PhDs that areshowed the When it comes to our retirement years, Tampa and Miami — have so adventure, making these moves much attraction. The old adage, short-term," TRENDS majority of millionaires in relatively America aresaid Dr. everyone wants to enjoy the opportunity “Why not live where others come Jeffrey Arnett, Research Professor to vacation?” makes a lot of sense. in the Department of Psychology at not in Beverly Hills or on Park Avenue. to pursue long-postponed personal Florida ranks second in moves, below Clark University. However, according and above Texas. In looking Rather, theyBarbara live simply, in average to Mayfl ower’s study, the majority of Schluraﬀ interests, such as travelatCalifornia or time with 42 interstate migration, more move from millennials say they feel more positively .2% Gand have California tomore, Texas, with moves from New York neighborhoods, accumulated Real Estate HOUis than negatively when it comes to settling SINReimagining friends and family. What is on to Florida coming in second. Florida also leads the down in their current city. It seems that 30 is the By Eric Wright nation in far numberlonger of residents moving intheir versus leaving. wealth through hard work thrift . claimed magic number; about 51 percent and of millennials who average, people are living they hope to settle down say they plan to settle down around What About Millennials? age 30 or 35, and four out of five millennials, or 81 percent, For millennials, who are defined as 18 to 35-year-olds, they tend than ever, and that longevity continues “WELosHELP THEM plan to become UNDERSTAND homebuyers when they finally find a city in to flock to urban destinations like San Francisco, Angeles to grow. Great, right? and Seattle. A new study by Mayflower indicates they are not which to settle down.

REASONABLE OPTIMISM,”

Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the famous chocolate company, once said.

Nevin Flinchbaugh, Art Director Tanya Mutton, Designer

PHOTOGRAPHY Jason Hook, Photo Director

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jason Hook

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Yari Fumero

Vinod Philip, Chief Technology Officer

“ONE MUST HAVE A

DESIGN

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WE’RE IN ONE OF THE LONGEST

With the addition of more of those vibrant, MARKET CYCLES SINCE WORLD healthy years to relish, many people’s WAR II, HAVING PASSED THE financial resources are not positioned to MARKET CYCLE OF THE 90’s,” underwrite the life and lifestyle they have It was the premise of theand Academy said Connors. “Typically, the longer anticipated for as long as it may be. Also, Award winning film Jerry McGuire: higher these cycles the harder they tendway Is go, there a better the cost of healthcare, which is helping to fall. Our goalto is todo position clients our our business? make that longevity possible, continues is also what companies and Sears Roebuck, who not to ride the Ithighs sotaxithey don’t incur to rise at a rate that may far outpace invented the catalogue industry, never asked. Therefore, they market stood flabbergasted as Uber and Amazon States Most Americans Are Moving Tobig losses during corrections. ” ⊲hit like an inflation and income. One other factor: asteroid extinction event on their market share. ⊲ States Most Americans Are Moving From more and more individuals are dependent MARC H 2019 on positioning their own funds to pay for their retirements as company pensions go the way of the dinosaur, so protecting their irreplaceable retirement capital has become much more essential.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Scott Alpizar, Mike Candelaria, Justin Connors, Erica Lemp, Jeff Piersall, Carrie Stevenson, Eric Wright

Barbara Schluraff and Chenay Strum

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EDITOR’S NOTE

O [Eric Wright]

ver the holidays my family went to see Mary Poppins Returns. I’m afraid I was such a fan of the original, with Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, that the remake/sequel had a bar I’m not sure any film could live up to. But since the Cohen brothers did such a great job with the all-time un-re-makeable True Grit, I gave it a try; but will leave the reviews to our readers. What struck me though, as I thought about both the original, that debuted in 1964, and the sequel, was that both centered on a woman, who with all of her very feminine Victorian charm, also had all the real power. Kind, but never to be trifled with, totally comfortable in her avocation as a nanny, she was the one whom everyone looked to in a pinch. This month we celebrate Women’s History Month and the women on the Space Coast who are making history every day. They lead some of the area’s most innovative businesses and organizations, while bringing perspectives and solutions that are, well, magical.

Eric Favorite Quotes Looking Back: From this Issue: Up Close with Dr. E. Ann McGee

Girl Power On the Space Coast

Seven Rules For Women Who Want It All

The League of Extraordinary Women

MARCH 2016

A Bridge to Greater Opportunity Rossway Swan of Vero Beach & McClelland Jones of Melbourne

Junior Achievement’s Hall of Fame Laureates Bill Brown & Bill Potter

Laura Chiesman, CFP President of FirstWave Financial

JANET PETRO

PreParing for the next gener ation LeaP

$4.95

▸ 10 Years

▸ 6 Years

$4.95

▸ 3 Years MA RCH 2 019 : 5

SHAPING THE

FUTURE

Of Business

In Brevard

Our county is unique in the number of women leaders who are helping to build a diverse and sustainable business and lifestyle environment, that attracts, retains and spurs business growth.

Marcia Gaedcke Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce

Lynda Weatherman Economic Development Commission of Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Space Coast

Jennifer Sugarman Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce

Nancy Peltonen The Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce

MA RCH 2019 : 7

Junior Achievement 2019 Laureate Bryan and Donna Scott Founders of Barn Light Electric

They have become legendary on the Space Coast. A husband and wife team, Bryan and Donna Scott, grew a hobby into an entrepreneurial venture that is sought after around the world. Though this area is known for cutting edge technology, the Scotts tapped into the nostalgic desire for antique lights and moved from refurbishing to being a leading manufacturer. Since 2008, when they left their former careers, they revived the art of metal spinning, and introduced their own porcelain enamel operation in 2012. Key players in the Titusville economic and cultural renaissance, they also launched Playalinda Brewing Company, for which they renovated two unique locations: The Brix Project, out of a historic lumberyard in south Titusville and the historic Hardware Store downtown. 8 : SPACE C OAST B U S I N E SS

Junior Achievement 2019 Laureate Lynda Weatherman

President & CEO Space Coast EDC For 25 years, Lynda L. Weatherman has served as the president & CEO of the Economic Development Commission of Florida's Space Coast. A Florida native, who, as much as anyone in the county, has been responsible for the growth, the diversification and the world-class business sectors that now define the Space Coast in the 21st century. Honored with the NASA Distinguished Public Service Medal, as well as being a member, and twice Chair, of the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank, Atlanta's Jacksonville Branch, she is an advisor to governors, national Cabinet Secretaries and countless CEOs, along with being one of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most respected, thoughtful and visionary leaders. MA R CH 2 019 : 9

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

BARBARA NOONEY, CPA/PFS TITLE: Partner EDUCATION: Master of Science in Accounting/

Western New England University

YEARS IN AREA: 11 YEARS AT COMPANY: 11 WEBSITE: www.flavincpa.com

arbara Nooney is a certified public accountant, personal financial specialist and a partner of Flavin Nooney & Person, CPAs and Advisors. She earned both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in accounting at Western New England University in Springfield, Massachusetts. Nooney began her career in Massachusetts where she developed expertise in tax, audit and financial planning. She moved with her family to the Space Coast in 2007, joining the firm of Flavin & Associates. She was instrumental in expanding the firm’s audit and small business practice, and in 2012 the firm changed its name to Flavin Nooney & Person. Nooney is passionate about giving back to the community and has volunteered her time and expertise with a number of non-profit organizations. She currently serves as treasurer for Nana’s Children’s Home, serving abandoned and at-risk children, located in West Melbourne. Throughout her career, Nooney has specialized in helping small business owners and not-for-profit organizations meet their accounting, tax and financial planning needs. In recent years she has directed her focus to financial planning, wealth management and tax solutions for individuals as well. “I have always gravitated toward helping others, both personally and professionally,” Nooney said. “It is very gratifying to watch a not-for-profit flourish in a community where people need the services provided by that not-for-profit. The end goal is to help an individual or family enrich their lives. Personal financial planning allows me to further enrich the lives of individuals and family at a more personal level. It is a perfect fit!” Nooney has been with her husband, Mark, for 30 years and they have two children. She devotes her spare time to both her 3-year-old granddaughter and her 92-year-old father. ◆ 10 : SPACE C OAST B U SI N E S S

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

MEILI VIERA TITLE: Broker Associate, Realtor EDUCATION: Masters in Business

Administration & Management

YEARS IN AREA: 7 YEARS IN INDUSTRY: 13 WEBSITE: www.watermanrealestate.com

eili Viera is a multi-faceted, bilingual professional with 13 years of experience in all sectors of the real estate industry including residential and commercial sales, investment properties, commercial retail shopping center leasing and management, and luxury residential property management. Born in Cuba and raised in Miami, Viera began in the real estate industry at the age of 17 in Punta Gorda, and relocated to Brevard County in 2011. She earned a master’s degree in business administration and management from Nova Southeastern University, and in 2012 added managing commercial investment properties to her portfolio. Viera continues to handle a diverse group of clients, and has closed multi-million dollar real estate transactions encompassing residential and commercial sales, as well as national leasing transactions. Viera actively manages four Publix retail shopping centers encompassing over 500,000 square feet. Viera joined Waterman Real Estate two years ago and, along with Waterman, has plans to open a new brokerage toward the end of 2019. “I am focused on delivering an outstanding service experience for my customers,” Viera said. “Attention to detail, excelling in communicating and placing my customers’ interests above my own, play a pivotal part in the buying/selling/ managing process.” In matching people with the perfect property/investment fit based on their specific requests, Viera said, “I enjoy the puzzle, and putting all the intricate pieces together. It is extremely fulfilling guiding my investors in finding the ideal property to bring them their highest profit margins. It is extremely rewarding to be able to find a first-time homebuyer their first investment, as well as seeing seasoned homeowners find their forever home.” ◆ MA RCH 2019 : 11

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

ANDREA SHYE BEYEL TITLE: General Manager, CEO EDUCATION: Brevard Community College YEARS IN AREA: 52 YEARS AT COMPANY: 4 WEBSITE: www.rockledgecc.com

ndrea Beyel is the general manager and CEO of Rockledge Country Club. Beyel is an entrepreneur, mother of six and grandmother of four. Born and raised in Brevard County, she is the owner of Andrea’s Salon and coowner of The Precision Companies, all located in the county. Beyel believes the greatest attribute to her success is being able to work under pressure. “Opening Andrea’s Salon in 1995 was one of my favorite projects,” she recalls. “But, in 2004, Hurricane Frances completely knocked me out of business. With both family and community support we came together to keep the salon going. … (within) 48 hours I had a pop-up salon up and running.” Beyel has the never-give-up attitude that has helped her become a successful woman in business. “I have learned that sometimes what seems to push you down actually shows you a way to greater things,” she said. “Twentyfour years strong, Andrea’s Salon is thriving.” In late 2014, Beyel arrived at Rockledge Country Club. Since then she has established a strong team and is keeping the traditions of RCC, a 101-year-old icon, alive and thriving. Located in the heart of Brevard, Rockledge Country Club is the county’s original private country club. The 18-hole, par 71 course boasts a 20,000 square foot clubhouse. Rockledge Country Club has become a premier golf and events destination. The country club offers an extensive selection of memberships to fit everyone’s needs, and creates an exceptional experience from tee off to the dining in their clubhouse restaurant, Vue 18. When asked what advice she would give women wanting to follow in her footsteps as a woman entrepreneur, she said, “I would tell them the biggest obstacles are usually the ones we create for ourselves. Intention is everything. Think BIG. Dream BIG. Surround yourself with people who also support your vision and work ethic.” Beyel also says you must have unwavering tenacity to get past the difficult moments that are sure to come. ◆ 12 : SPAC E C OAST B U SI N E S S

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

SUSAN MORSE

Susan Morse, Senior Vice PresidentWealth Management for UBS Financial Services Inc., with over 35 years of financial services experience in Brevard County, works each day to guide her clients through the complications of market cycles and corrections. Her client dedication has grown her business by providing families with both financial guidance and advice beyond just investing.

rapidly changing situations, responding to their unique needs and proactively helping them navigate the road ahead.

TITLE: Sr. Vice President – Wealth Management

Morse focuses on helping Space Coast families meet their personal and financial goals through a variety of investments within a customized financial plan. Her emphasis is on assisting aging clients deal with the many complications of their often

She recently welcomed Dan Levy to her team, which also includes service associates Jane Baxter and Maria Reza, giving the team more than 80 years of combined experience. Morse's team provides clients a boutique experience while drawing on all the resources of UBS Financial Services Inc., one of the world's largest wealth managers. ◆ UBS Financial Services Inc. | 6905 N. Wickham Rd. | Melbourne, FL 32940 1 Scorpio Partnership’s “Global Private Banking Benchmark 2016” rank of global wealth managers by assets under management as of 12.31.2016. In providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services which are separate and distinct and differ in material ways. For information, including the different laws and contracts that govern, visit ubs.com/workingwithus. © UBS 2019. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member of FINRA and SIPC.

TIFFANY GRAY

TITLE: Junior Executive

Tiffany Gray, a second-generation owner of Blinds of All Kinds, has joined the company’s team. Although she started just under a year ago, in May of 2018, she has lived the Blinds of All Kinds’ life since she was born. Her parents, Don and Dana Gray, started the business out of their garage in 1982. It has since grown to become a well-recognized and successful window treatment company serving Brevard County. Born and raised on Merritt Island,

Tiffany Gray holds a bachelor’s degree from Rollins College and a master’s degree from Miami University. She has a deep-seated passion for the environment and plans to instill a strong sustainability ethic in her family’s business over the years. She is eager to incorporate her modern outlook while utilizing the combined over 100-year knowledge of experienced employees to carry Blinds of All Kinds through another 30-plus years of success. ◆ MA RCH 2 019 : 13

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

PAT SHANKLE

TITLE: Agency Owner

Pat Shankle is the owner/agency manager of Brevard Health Advantage, a boutique health insurance agency. The company specializes in health insurance and Medicare solutions for individuals, families and retirees. Shankle and her team provide personalized service and client-based outcomes that fit the resources and the health needs of the consumer. This year they are celebrating 10 years in business. They have been operating from their location in Satellite Beach since 2012. Brevard Health Advantage is one of only a handful of Brevard-based health insurance broker companies that

provide a continuum of coverage from ages 0 to100-plus in an office setting. Shankle grew up in Brevard County. She earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and an MBA from the University of Nevada, and returned here in year 2000 as a banker with SunTrust. Since returning, she has been involved with community organizations as a board member, speaker and/or supporter of the Melbourne Area Chamber of Commerce, Founders Forum, WeVenture, EFSC-Small Business Development Center, Neighbor Up Brevard and South Brevard Women’s Center. ◆

JENNIFER PARKERSON

TITLE: Vice President of Operations

As vice president of operations at Welsh Construction, Jennifer Parkerson wears a lot of hats throughout her day. Her many years of working in the IT industry and the construction industry as a property manager has trained her well for her position. Welsh Construction is a busy commercial construction firm on the Space Coast serving a variety of clients. Parkerson is able to utilize her 10-plus years of experience in this industry to assist CEO Ken Welsh in the day to 14 : SPAC E C OAST B U S I N E SS

day operations of the business. She utilizes her technical knowledge to keep the company running at optimal efficiency. Technology allows Welsh Construction to stay on task and communicate with key project personnel and clients, which is why it is important to have someone with Parkerson’s background on the team. A Florida native, Parkerson was born and raised on the Space Coast. She is heavily involved with her church, the local homeschool community and enjoys “adventuring” with her family. ◆

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

JEN ROGERS TITLE: Project Development Director EDUCATION: A.A. Brevard Community College, EFSC B.S. Business Administration, Marketing, UCF YEARS IN AREA: 38 YEARS AT COMPANY: 1 WEBSITE: www.wjconstruction.com

rowing up on the Space Coast, Jen Rogers was fascinated by the aerospace industry – its missions as well as its impact on her hometown -- and knew she wanted to make it a career. She attended St. Mary ’s Catholic School and Rockledge High School before earning an associate degree from Eastern Florida State College and bachelor’s degree in business administration/marketing from UCF. “I decided to go the business development and marketing path in the design and construction industry, and began my career at a civil engineering firm in Orlando,” she said. “I immediately enjoyed the process of seeing a client’s vision being put to paper and then brought to life.” In 2012, after rising through the ranks in other design and engineering firms in Orlando, and noting the changes in Brevard brought by the aerospace industry’s massive growth, Rogers and her husband moved to Merritt Island with their two children. Rogers continued her path within the design and construction industry, but after logging too many airline miles developing aerospace business for globally ranked firms, she wanted to “come back home.” She joined 54-year-old W+J Construction in the spring of 2018. “One of my favorite things about W+J is its impact on the Space Coast community,” Rogers said. “W+J has truly enhanced the area with its many local projects and its philanthropic efforts. Schools, restaurants, medical office buildings, public and private businesses, including aerospace – everything that contributes to the quality of life this area is known for. I love being a part of that in my hometown.” On the weekends, Rogers can usually be found biking on the beach and spending time with her friends and her family. ◆ MA RCH 2019 : 15

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

JENNIFER JOHNSON

TITLE: CEO and Founder

It is rare for someone to scale a start-up from an idea to global usage, in just four years. But that is what Jennifer Johnson and her husband and partner, Joel, did, when they launched their subscription based Cinchshare app. As a stayat-home mother of four, Johnson wanted to earn extra money in a direct sales business. Finding she was spending around two hours a night just positioning content on

social media sites, her husband suggested he write an app to simplify her job. The app worked so well for her, others began asking to use it, and soon her business was selling Cinchshare and training others to maximize its value. The app has an amazing 7,000 5-star ratings on FaceBook, and Johnson, a selftaught social media maven, has an astonishing 42,000 Facebook followers and 12,500 on Instagram. ◆

PAMELA REED

TITLE: Chief Executive Officer

Pamela R. Reed is chief executive o f f i c e r at K i n d r e d Ho s p i t a l Melbourne. She has been with the hospital since 2009, and has served successfully in various roles including chief clinical officer, director of quality management/ risk management, infection control preventionist and as a critical care nurse. Over the span of 30 years, Reed successfully served in various hospital administration leadership roles. She was nominated for and successfully completed the 16 : SPAC E C OAST B U S I N E SS

Kindred Healthcare Executive Nurse Leadership Program in 2013, and in the same year was recognized as the CCO of the Year for Kindred Healthcare Inc. — Hospital Division. Reed holds a Master of Science, Bachelor of Science and associate degree in nursing. She is a licensed healthcare risk manager for the State of Florida. Reed enjoys spending quality time with her husband and family, as well as outdoor activities such as running, walking, bike riding and traveling. ◆

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Changing with the Times Barbara Schluraff

is Reimagining Real Estate By Eric Wright

Barbara Schluraff and Chenay Strum

It was the premise of the Academy Award winning film Jerry McGuire:

Is there a better way to do our business?

PERHAPS, IT IS BECAUSE BARBARA SCHLURAFF HASN’T SPENT HER ENTIRE CAREER IN REAL ESTATE THAT CAUSED HER TO LOOK AT THE INDUSTRY DIFFERENTLY. As Schluraff reinvented her professional self, she also embarked on a quest to change the paradigm of how agents and brokers, along with the buying and selling public, relate to each other and work together at her Century 21 Ocean agency. SPACE COAST B US INE S S

“Our industry has one of the highest rates of people leaving the business, as well as high agent turnover,” Schluraff said. She went on to explain it is a combination of increased pressure to lower commission rates, combined with the fact that, as Schluraff put it, “Agents prize their ‘independent’ status, but at what cost?” “In today’s market,” she said, “it is like the agent is the head coach, the defensive coordinator, the offensive coordinator, the o-line and d-line coach, as well as being the quarterback and wide receiver. They don’t have a team, where everyone focuses on their specialty and everyone is able to enjoy the results of exponentially greater capacity.”

Happy Agents, Happy Clients

For Schluraff it came down to the ageold premise, if your people are happy, then they will work to make their clients happy. “I love the real estate business,” she shared, “but I observed that to be effective and successful you had to be on all the time, there was no work-life balance, which simply isn’t sustainable.” Like in most industries, the internet has been a positive disruptor in real estate. However, it has also made the responsibilities of individual agents more complicated. They not only have to service their buyers and sellers, often they

also must launch and maintain numerous social media sites, as well as specialize in market comparisons and understand all the nuances of the transactions. Schluraff thought specialization and a team approach was a more logical and effective way to run a brokerage.

living approach she enjoyed and knew others were searching for. It also was a great place to raise her two, now grown, children. She transitioned from a homeschooling mom to lending to real estate and found her fit.

Therefore, just like people check Yelp to evaluate restaurants or a bed and breakfast, more and more customers are checking not just a company’s listings, but other real estate client’s reviews, before deciding on a broker or agent.

From the beginning of this journey, Chenay Strum, Century 21 Ocean’s operations director, has been Schluraff ’s strongest ally and strategic partner. She observed, “Barbara is passionate about her people succeeding and that doesn’t just translate into closing more business, it is being successful in their lives.” Strum is the agency’s point person on inbound and outbound internet marketing and social media. She is also a real estate outsider, with a background in human resources in the resort and retail industry.

The Client Experience

“Ultimately, it is the client experience that will differentiate us,” she said. “If we have a team that all share their strengths, the clients will see the distinction.”

“I took a call from a client who was selling an oceanfront condominium,” Schluraff shared. “He was in his mid30s and when I asked if he wanted to meet with me and discuss our services, he said, ‘No, I’ve researched you online and you’re who I want to work with.’ It sort of shocked me, but then I realized that is what Chenay and other members of our team are there to do.”

“Barbara is so much more than just a ‘boss,’” Strum said, “She's someone I trust. She's resilient. She's got grit. But personally, she empowers me and lets me run with my crazy ideas that push us to live outside the typical real estate box.”

Research has demonstrated that though people shop the market on the web, they still look for a real estate professional to guide them through the transaction.

UNLIKE THE CAR BUSINESS, WHERE PEOPLE WANT TO AVOID SALES PEOPLE, IN REAL ESTATE THEY LOOK FOR A PERSON THEY CAN TRUST.

With the variety of choices customers now have, there has been a flip/flop in the supply/demand model, putting the power in consumers’ hands. Therefore, discovering what they want and assisting them in a way they can’t find anywhere else, is the recipe Schluraff is serving and training her team to deliver. ◆

A Road Less Traveled

Schluraff started studying innovative brokerages around the country and even went to California to learn from a leading agency that is pushing the creative envelope. Within her agency, she used tools like DISC to align people with their strengths, instead of everyone being a jack-of-all-trades, but a master of none. In turn, this freed all of them, particularly agents, to do what they do best. An out-of-the-box approach seems to come naturally to this Florida native. After graduating from FSU, Schluraff headed to Colorado “to be a ski bum,” but also got involved in organic produce. Which, when she started longing for a warmer climate, took her to Hawaii. “I really didn’t know what I was going to do when I got out there, but I had learned to live simply,” she said. Coming back to Florida, the Space Coast offered the lifestyle and opportunities she was looking for. An avid surfer, lover of wildlife and water activities, the area provided the healthy, coastal

Schluraff uses tools like DISC to align people with their strengths, instead of everyone being a jack-of-all-trades, but a master of none. This frees all of them, to do what they do best. MARCH 2019

SPREADING GOODWILL

WHILE ASAP PEST SOLUTIONS AIMS TO WORK QUICKLY, IT ALSO SPENDS PLENTY OF TIME BUILDING COMMUNITY. By Mike Candelaria

ASK SHELLEY KUHN IF SHE HAS SEEN CHANGES IN HER INDUSTRY AND SHE WON’T HESITATE TO RESPOND. Kuhn began in the pest control industry in April 1989, spraying baseboards with harsh chemicals. Now such treatments are friendly — for the environment, children and pets. The term is “environmentally conscious pest control services.” SPACE COAST B US INE S S

Also, Kuhn will say that the region has grown by leaps and bounds, with noticeable expansion everywhere from Kennedy Space Center to all the way along Interstate 95.

“Really, the fabric hasn’t changed much, although there has been so much growth,” Kuhn noted. “Palm Bay is a very warm community, close-knit.”

One thing, however, hasn’t changed much over the years, according to Kuhn: the nature of Palm Bay and surrounding areas. She describes it as being both comforting and hospitable. And for the certified operator of ASAP Pest Solutions Inc., locally-owned and -operated since 2013, that is just fine.

It’s the type of setting that bodes well for business, and ASAP Pest Solutions has enjoyed success. “Everyone has to have pest control. If they don’t, then they’re living with bugs,” she says, adding that “pest control is essential and not a luxury.” Her approach is, “How can I help?”

⊳ Shelley Kuhn serves on the board of the Palm Bay Area Chamber of Commerce

Our mission is to serve, advocate and promote as the trusted voice for our business community.

Senior staffer ⊲ Debbie LloydLee co-chairs the chamber’s ambassador efforts and attends “about 95 percent” of the chamber’s events.

How Can I Help

Notably, as an example of service, along with free estimates and customized solutions, the company can provide prepurchase and pre-refinance pest inspections accompanied by official paperwork such as the FDACS-13645 Florida State and NPMA-33 HUD forms. A copy of the inspection report is promised to the closing company and lending institution the same day as the inspection. As for the pests, they encompass everything from ants and roaches to rats and bats. For good measure, there’s a free lawn and ornamental evaluation, too. Yet, mostly, the company’s commitment to the community tells a story beyond business. Kuhn serves on the board of the Palm Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, while senior staffer Debbie Lloyd-Lee co-chairs the chamber’s ambassador efforts and attends “about 95 percent” of the chamber’s events, according to Kuhn. “Anytime they [chamber leaders] ask, we’re there to help,” Kuhn noted. Kuhn believes the commitment is good business, for sure, but also the neighborly thing to do.

“I DIDN’T JOIN THE CHAMBER TO GROW MY BOTTOM LINE. I JOINED THE CHAMBER FOR BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS, AND THEN, DOWN THE ROAD, WHEN YOU BUILD RELATIONSHIPS, THINGS DO COME BACK TO YOU,” she concluded.

JOIN NOW

MEMBERSHIP HAS ITS BENEFITS • Business promotion and referrals • Legislative advocacy • Alignment with a trusted brand and valuable community resource • Personal and professional development • Networking opportunities at over 90 events • Job listings to fill employment needs • Listing in Chamber online membership directory • Promotion on our social media sites

and much more! A PERFECT PLACE TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS 4100 Dixie Highway NE, Palm Bay, 32905 info@greaterpalmbaychamber.com 321-951-9998 www.GreaterPalmBayChamber.com

“But the whole point of joining the chamber is to be part of the community and make the community the best.” ◆

MARCH 2019

UNCOMMON BOTTOM LINE By Mike Candelaria

FOR THE PAST 60 YEARS,

Berman Hopkins Wright & LaHam CPAs and Associates has established a reputation of as one of the largest independently owned CPA firms in Central Florida. With offices in Melbourne, Titusville and Orlando, there is a diverse client base that ranges from manufacturing/construction, high tech/software and the agricultural industry to corporate pension plans, government entities and private individuals. Across all, Berman Hopkins works closely with them, focusing on both potential and prosperity. Yet, the firm’s biggest contributions to the region might come from efforts that have nothing to do with their clients’ bottom lines. Instead, it’s all about community contributions stemming from the firm’s overarching approach. Phillip Hayes, Berman Hopkins’ managing partner, calls it “culture.” “It’s the culture of the firm,” said Hayes, who is in his 19th year at the firm and is homegrown from Eau Gallie. “If your culture is compelling for people to support one another and support the community, it provides a place where people are proud to work and feel connected to each other. That’s always been a big part of our philosophy. … I think it’s a really important part of how we do business.”

Keeping the Culture

At Berman Hopkins, topics such as multistate taxation and strategic tax planning are comingled with “jeans day.” Phillip Hayes

FOR BERMAN HOPKINS,

CHARITY AND COMMUNITY IS

JUST AS BIG SPACE COAST B US INE S S

On Fridays, in exchange for the privilege of dressing more casually (with jeans), staff members donate dollars, with the weekly average equaling roughly $500, or $25,000 annually. The giving — 100 percent employee-funded, voluntary and anonymous donations — has occurred for more than a decade, with the money going to an alternating list of charitable organizations. In addition, the firm donates on the corporate level.

ALL TOTALED, BERMAN HOPKINS AVERAGES

$100,000 ANNUALLY IN ALTRUISTIC DONATIONS WITHIN THE COMMUNITIES IT SERVES.

Similarly, there’s the informal Berman Hopkins Run Club, established by staffers and involving several charitable runs throughout the year. With each mile walked or run, staffers raise funds and awareness for local charities. Meanwhile, most of the firm’s senior staff members sit on various boards for community organizations such as Junior Achievement, Boy Scouts of America, the King Center for the Performing Arts, Brevard Symphony, Family Promise of Brevard, The Parker Foundation, YMCA, United Way of Brevard and Space Coast Early Intervention, among others. Hayes is the immediate past board chairman for the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast. In addition, the corporate culture is enhanced through the firm’s philosophy of promotion from within, where talented staffers are given the opportunity to become partners in the firm. Not coincidentally, Berman Hopkins Wright & LaHam CPAs and Associates was named the Melbourne Chamber’s 2018 Business of the Year — by virtue of innovative business strategies as well as community engagement.

“WE HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO GIVE BACK AND TO BE THINKING ABOUT YOUR ENTIRE COMMUNITY, NOT JUST ONE PART OF THE COMMUNITY THAT MIGHT BE MORE SELF-SERVING,” Hayes concluded, also pointing to Titusville and Orlando. “We believe our firm has a social responsibility to the communities we live and work in, and makes significant efforts to support them.” ◆

2019 BOARD INSTALLATION & IMPACT AWARDS CONGRATULATIONS Award Recipients Bill Ellis Legacy Award - Jack Ryals Business of the Year Award - Shelter Mortgage Company Corporate Impact Award - Northrop Grumman Community Excellence Award - Classic Wood Flooring ENGAGE Young Professional of the Year Award - Kit Fisher Ambassador of the Year Award - Lee Guthrie

www.MelbourneRegionalChamber.com MARCH 2019

MORE THAN SKIN DEEP Tawny Brown

How Soul-Searching and Holistic Health Inspired Island Girl Natural Beauty By Carrie Stevenson

WHEN ISLAND GIRL NATURAL BEAUTY FOUNDER TAWNY BROWN WAS LAID OFF FROM THE CORPORATION WHERE SHE HAD WORKED FOR NEARLY 25 YEARS, IT STUNG. “It was unfortunate news, to say the least, and I had to do a little bit of soul-searching,” the California native says. “But one day I brought some skin care and beauty products to a local health event, and they were a pretty big hit. I’d been making natural products for myself and friends and family for years, but never sold them. After that experience, though, I started to really look at it as a business.” And she hasn’t looked back. SPACE COAST B US INE S S

After starting the business nearly three years ago, Brown partnered with a local massage therapist, Shacara Wynn, to open a location in May 2018 in the Cocoa Village El Charro Plaza selling a limited array of products and scheduling massages by appointment only. But Island Girl Natural Beauty quickly expanded and needed a larger, second home. So, at the end of October 2018, the flagship Island Girl Natural Beauty store opened in Merritt Square Mall. “We sell natural and organic bath, spa and skin care products, including a huge array of handmade soaps, whipped body butter, salt scrubs, and essential oils,” Brown says. The store often hosts pop up spa parties, “Wine and Wash” hair care parties, trunk shows, and the store also carries jewelry made by local artisans, accessories, gift baskets, Turkish towels and blankets, and clothing.

COCOA BEACH REGIONAL Chamber of Commerce

Think of the CBRCC when you’re ready to market your business to the local community! Partnership of more than 1,500 local businesses Expanded offices in Viera, Cocoa Beach and kiosk desk in Port Canaveral’s Exploration tower Consists of 80% small business Assists in bridging the gap between big business and small business

A Personal Touch

For Brown, the products are personal. “I’ve been making these natural products since I was very young, because I have a history of eczema and very sensitive, dry skin,” she explains. “So I figured out how to create natural and nourishing products for myself, and then, when my grandson struggled with eczema as well, I worked on purifying formulas even further. All of our products include unscented options, and what’s great about making our own line is that we can customize products to suit customers’ individual needs and preferences. I did this for my family first, and always enjoyed giving products and even candles as gifts. So it’s really a passion for me, as well as my business.” As a first-time retail entrepreneur, Brown has also found a lot of support in the Cocoa Beach Chamber of Commerce. “It’s like you become a family,” she says. “It’s nice to connect with other small business owners, meet new people, and get out of your comfort zone. It’s so important to be actively involved in our local business community.” Brown took the initiative to host a “Coastal Christmas” event at the Merritt Square Mall store showcasing their product lines, supporting other small businesses, local non-profit agencies, and honoring the state champion Merritt Island High School volleyball team.

“THE MANAGEMENT AT MERRITT SQUARE MALL HAS BEEN PROACTIVE ABOUT REVIVING THE ATMOSPHERE AND GETTING MORE ENERGY FLOWING THROUGH THE SPACE THERE,” SHE SAYS. “I’M IN SUPPORT OF THAT. SO ISLAND GIRL NATURAL BEAUTY WILL HAVE SOME WONDERFUL UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE MALL.” ◆

Fosters a pro-business environment while providing valuable tools and resources to ensure business success

Stop into any of our locations for area information, coupons and more!

Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce (Main Office) (321) 459-2200

The Avenue Viera (321) 454-2021 Convention & Visitors Bureau Tourism Information Office (321) 784-6444 Tourist Information Kiosk, Exploration Tower 670 Dave Nisbet Dr. Port Canveral

CocoaBeachChamber.com MARCH 2019

Beauty in Bloom Floral Creations by Dawn Offers Fresh Flowers and a Fresh Start for Decor and Organization By Carrie Stevenson

SPACE COAST B US INE S S

FOR DAWN ACKLIN, THE OWNER OF FLORAL C R E AT I O N S BY DAW N IN TITUSVILLE, IT WAS A CHILDHOOD DREAM TO OWN A FLOWER SHOP. “Before I opened the store, I did a lot of silk work, decorating model homes and attending home shows,” she says. “But when I was a little girl, a family friend was a florist and we would help her during the holidays. It was always something I wanted to do — to add warmth to homes and help people decorate.” And for two decades now, she has spread that love of beauty throughout Brevard county. Floral Creations by Dawn is celebrating its 20-year anniversary in 2019. The shop’s beautiful fresh flowers are a cornerstone of the business, but Floral Creations by Dawn has also provided holiday decorating services for the past 17 years to individual households as well as major local businesses and organizations,

including Parrish Medical Center. And outside of the holiday season, Floral Creations by Dawn helps homeowners and businesses dive into organizing their homes or offices as well. “Many decorators can make a space beautiful, and I do,” Acklin explains. “But I aim to make a space supremely functional as well. It’s great to have gorgeous surroundings to look at, but you need to be able to live and work there as well.” As a small business owner, work is a passion for Acklin, who credits the Titusville Chamber of Commerce for helping facilitate the growth of Floral Creations by Dawn. “Being a member of the chamber is so helpful for connecting with other businesses and community members, getting the word out about your work and earning recommendations,” she says. “And so much of our world is now driven by an online presence, so being a part of their site, in addition to having our own webpage, is a great way to drive traffic and boost our exposure.”

Dawn Acklin

It d o e s n’t s t op on l i n e , e it h e r.

“THE TITUSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HAS DONE A GREAT JOB AT ORGANIZING COMMUNITY EVENTS AND BRINGING PEOPLE FROM ALL DIFFERENT STAGES OF LIFE TOGETHER TO ENJOY OUR TOWN,” she says. “It’s a wonderful way to showcase local businesses and what they have to offer their neighbors.” ◆

# L A U N C H F R O M H E R E

AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Rich in history, nature, recreation and technology, Titusville is the place to begin your visit, your business, your career, your family, your life. Today Titusville and the surrounding area includes many of our highest-visibility corporate neighbors, and we're on the move. The economy is ramping up (along with our rocket launches), and three major cycle trails converge right here. Keep watching.

.ORG

And if you need a place to begin to make connections that can make a difference, start here.

Marcia Gaedcke Gaedcke@Titusville.org

CIT Y OF

F L O R I DA

Edyie McCall Edyie.McCall@Titusville.com

Troy Post, CEcD, CBE Troy.Post@BrevardFL.gov

LAUNCH FROM HERE is a community-forward initiative to help tell the story of Titusville and provide a vital and united way to bring greater attention to its unique accomplishments, places, people and opportunities.

MARCH 2019

SEADEK IS RIDING A WAVE OF SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIC MOVES TO NEW HEIGHTS. By Mike Candelaria Jason Gardner, a vice president for SeaDek Marine Products, sounds more like an executive in economic development as he explains his company’s focus on tomorrow’s workforce. For the past five years, SeaDek has worked with students in the Melbourne High School Business Academy, introducing them to various careers in manufacturing — from machine operation and quality control to sales, customer support and accounting. SeaDek is a midsize, midtech company in Rockledge that makes a nonabsorbent foam material specifically formulated for marine applications. Durable and shock absorbent, the products provide not only exceptional traction on surfaces, but also protect decks from scratching, chipping and dents. Additionally, its 3M pressuresensitive adhesive backing makes the application process a matter of measure, cut, peel and stick. SPACE COAST B US INE S S

The company’s belief is the more students learn about manufacturing, the better for all.

“MANUFACTURING REALLY WAS N ’ T O N T H E R A DA R FOR A LOT OF THESE KIDS,” GARDNER EXPLAINS. “WE SHOWED THEM THAT MANUFACTURING, AS WE DO IT, ISN’T IN SOME DARK, STINKY, SMOKE-FILLED WAREHOUSE.”

The program now is in its fifth year, and previously the company worked to help shape curriculums at Eastern Florida State College. The move has paid off. Further, workforce development hasn’t been the only strategic move to gain traction. When a recession hit just as the company was entering the marketplace about a decade ago, management pivoted away from new buyers and toward the aftermarket of existing marine owners, all the while continuing to innovate.

SeaDek Owners

MAKING A DIFFERENCE F O R B R E VA R D.

* AS A RESULT, WHEN THE ECONOMY REBOUNDED, SEADEK FOUND FERTILE BUSINESS BOTH IN THE “NEW” AND “EXISTING” MARKETS — A TWOPRONGED APPROACH THAT HAS BROUGHT DOUBLE-DIGIT REVENUE GROWTH SINCE 2010, ACCORDING TO GARDNER. Similarly, thanks to the development of its international certified fabricator and installer networks, SeaDek has successfully developed markets in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America — contributing to a 170 percent increase in overall sales over a three-year period, with exports advancing from less than 3 percent to nearly 10 percent during that same time. SeaDek’s products are exported to a total of 29 countries. Not surprisingly, last April the company received the SBA 2018 Small Business National Exporter of the Year award from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Also of note, in 2014 SeaDek became an employee-owned company with the implementation of an ESOP profit sharing plan. Explains Gardner, simply: “We try to make them feel like they’re part of the team and part of the family.” Another form of giving back is evident throughout the community, in time and money, at places like the Brevard Achievement Center, Brevard Zoo, Henegar Center for Performing Arts, One Blood, the Daily Bread, the United Way and Brevard County’s Founders Forum, to name a few. In characteristic style, Gardner deflects any praise or congratulations. In accepting the company’s award from the SBA last spring, he called the achievement a “collaborative effort.” Today, he continues to use phases such as “unified vision” and “our entire staff.” Just like what students are hearing from the company about manufacturing, those words from Gardner represent a lesson worth learning. ◆

T H E E D C O F F LO R I D A’ S S PA C E C O A S T A N D I T S 1 6 2 CO R P O R AT E I N V E S TO R S

enhance the quality of life in Brevard County, securing economic prosperity for today, and for future generations.

SpaceCoastEDC.org • 321. 638. 2000 6525 3rd Street, Suite 304, Rockledge, FL * Since 2010. Projections reported by company over three-year timeframe from commencement of operations.

MARCH 2019

ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT

Derek LaRon Murphy

Sport: Men’s Basketball Hometown: Detroit, Michigan Major: Business AdministrationAccounting SPACE COAST B US INE S S

erek Murphy is a redshirt junior from the eastside of Detroit. He grew up playing both basketball and football, but in the long run decided to pursue basketball. In high school, Murphy earned all-state honors in both his junior and senior year. From 11 fullride basketball scholarship offers, he decided on Florida Tech. Upon arrival, Murphy’s main goal was to continue to get better every day. After not playing many minutes his freshman year, averaging only 1.7 points and 1.0 rebound a game, he returned as a starter in his sophomore year and averaged 8.4 points and 4 rebounds per game. As a junior, expectations were high for him coming in. Unfortunately, in the pre-season, Murphy suffered from two stress fractures in his foot causing him to sit out the entire season. Returning for his redshirt junior year, he was hungrier than ever, especially after the Panthers

were chosen to finish last in the league. So far, he hasn’t disappointed, leading the Sunshine State Conference in points per game (21.8) and third in the league in rebounds (8.8). He has shown his versatility and effectiveness on both ends of the floor as he has won both the SSC Defensive Player of the Week and the allout SSC Player of the Week. He attributes most of his success to his upbringing. Originating from a city with one of the highest crime rates in the world, there are not many opportunities available for young men from the Motor City. Three of Murphy’s close childhood friends were all murdered in the last two years. He sets out to complete the goals they had set out to achieve. Murphy continues to work on every aspect of his game as he prides himself on outworking the opposition. He claims that the best of him is yet to come. ◆

WORLD-CLASS

USSSA SPACE COAST COMPLEX Making Its Presence Felt in Brevard

WHEN PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL’S WASHINGTON NATIONALS AND BREVARD COUNTY MANATEES BOTH MADE 2016 THEIR LAST YEAR AT SPACE COAST STADIUM AND ITS ADJOINING PRACTICE FIELDS IN VIERA, THE VOID THEY LEFT BEHIND CERTAINLY DIDN’T LAST LONG.

Today, the dramatically revamped facility is hopping year-round with all manner of amateur baseball and softball action, thanks to the very timely arrival of USSSA, the United States Specialty Sports Association. USSSA is the world’s largest multisport athletic organization, with more than 4.5 million participants of all ages and skill levels competing all over America in 13 sports, including baseball, fastpitch and

slow-pitch softball, basketball, soccer, flag football, and tae kwan do. “Our program touches all generations,” says Don DeDonatis III, the group’s CEO. “Whether you want to compete at the highest level or just for fun, we have a platform for creating powerful, lasting memories for each individual. Our mission is to make our events more of an experience and not just another sports tournament.” MA R CH 2019 : 33

WHEN USSSA HEARD THE NATIONALS AND MANATEES WERE MOVING OUT OF SPACE COAST STADIUM, IT KNEW IT WANTED TO MOVE IN. The organization had outgrown the field capacity available in Orlando at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports facility and wanted a home it could call its own.

USSSA negotiated with Brevard County to take over the Viera location, then undertook a massive overhaul of the place, using more than $22 million of its own money, plus a $10 million investment from the county. The result was a worldclass, state-of-the-art baseball/softball destination now known as the USSSA Space Coast Complex. Think of it as the Kennedy Space Center of diamond sports. “Visitors are blown away by the facility,” DeDonatis admits. USSSA hosted about 45 multiday sports events at the complex in 2018 and will stage approximately 50 there this year. The tournaments last year drew roughly 100,000 visitors, mostly from outside Florida, and amounted to a total attendance at all games of about a half million.

Economic Impact

The wave after wave of teams and fans arriving from across the U.S. clearly has been a bonus for Space Coast tourism. “We have definitely seen a 34 : SPAC E C OAST B U SI N E S S

positive impact on our resort due to the USSSA youth and adult tournaments and events,” notes Ruby Daniels, the general manager of Cape Crossing Resort & Marina, on Merritt Island. For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2019, USSSA estimates the tally so far of room nights reserved along the Space Coast for its events is running at more than 63,000, and counting. From January through September 2018 alone, more than 40 team events accounted for at least 52,000 room nights, according to the Space Coast Tourism Development Office. T h e T D O e s t i m at e s t h e t o t a l economic impact from those JanuaryS eptemb er e vents amounted to

“A VERY CONSERVATIVE” $12.4 MILLION AND CHANGE.

Beyond lodging, a lot of that spending by players, coaches and their families and other fans ends up with area restaurants, retailers, gas stations, attractions and entertainment venues. The additional traffic USSSA events is generating is unmistakable. Twice last year, the Outback Steakhouse near the sports complex reportedly ran out of food because of the crush of hungry teams showing up. “It’s had a definite impact on our business,” says Robin Orlando, of Brooklyn Pizza & Pasta in Rockledge. “We see families and teams visiting from out of town all the time."

“AND THESE TEAMS ARE LOYAL, REPEAT CUSTOMERS WHO WILL BE COMING BACK YEAR AFTER YEAR,”

adds DeDonatis. “They’re traveling here for our sports events and then discovering the many other things on the Space Coast to enjoy, as well.”

Going Global

The USSSA Space Coast Complex last year hosted the WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup – a major coup – and telecast the contests to more than 120 countries, giving the Space Coast global visibility. Meanwhile, the website USSSA.com has streamed thousands more games plus other Space Coast images from the complex, also extending awareness. In addition, USSSA has been quick to support other local athletics. It has provided its complex for free use by the boys baseball and girls fastpitch teams from Viera High School, as well as Team Florida’s Special Olympics unified softball team. Among USSSA’s next objectives are more events overall, especially during some of the slower periods for area tourism. “We want this to be a win-win for everyone, as we create more events, spur more local business and attract more people here,” states DeDonatis. “We plan to be a great partner for a long time.” ◆

VIERA HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & FASTPITCH

“There is nothing like playing on the artificial surface at the USSSA Space Coast Complex. USSSA has done an outstanding job building one of the best baseball-softball complexes in the country. Our players love playing in the stadium – it makes going to the ballpark a dream come true for us. What a wonderful addition to Brevard County, with all the visitors coming from all over the country to participate in softball and baseball and other sporting events.”

You do what you do best. We'll deal with the fine print!

– Robert Doty, Baseball Coach, Viera High School

SPECIAL OLYMPICS UNIFIED SOFTBALL TEAM

“As a Special Olympics coach and Unified Partner for a number of years, I’ve learned that it’s always a challenge to find quality fields for our athletes to compete on. When our Unified softball team earned the opportunity to represent Team Florida at the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle, USSSA was a great partner and certainly contributed to our success. They made their facility available for our training sessions and made sure we had what we needed to successfully defend our gold medal from 2014. Special Olympics Brevard loves having USSSA as part of our team.” – Bob Rall, Special Olympics Team Florida Coach Blake Stewart, Attorney

VIERA PIZZA

“USSSA has been an awesome addition to our growing community! Its facilities are not only visually appealing, but very desirable for our economy. It’s great to have the influx of new visitors who get to see what our county has to offer. The staff is top notch, as well. They’re great community partners.” – Mike Acosta, Viera Pizza & Power of Pizza Charities, Melbourne

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EXALTING FREEDOM

THROUGH ETHICAL CAPITALISM

KEEPING IT COMPETITIVE By Jeff Piersall & Eric Wright

4 Benefits of Competition and One Major Threat

Jeff Piersall

veryone likes to win. However, one thing all winners understand is that by competing against those who are better than you, your game improves. It is universally acknowledged, from the classroom, to the playing field, to the marketplace, healthy competition tends to make things better for everyone.

How Does Competition Make Us Better?

Eric Wright

Competition spurs innovation. Though we long for blue ocean markets, it is the crowded market that forces businesses to differentiate themselves by not doing what everyone else does or by simply doing it better. Competition jolts us out of complacency. Where companies are striving to be innovative, employees are encouraged, if not forced, to come up with new ideas and better solutions. The cliché, “If you snooze, you lose,” is the innovator’s mantra.

Competition drives learning. Competitors are students of themselves and the opposition. As the philosopher general Sun Tzu said, “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.” Competition inspires customer service. Most companies are competing against other companies offering a similar product. Therefore, we are forced to compete for customers by making their experience, not the cost of our product, the main thing.

Protecting the Competitive Balance

Since Adam Smith, we have understood in a competitive economy the pursuit of private interests leads to the best outcomes for all.* The asterisk* is for the important factor of “in a competitive economy.”

Spirited competition forces businesses to strive to lower their prices and improve the quality of their products and services. Competition forces companies to reduce their own costs and run their businesses as efficiently as possible to maintain their edge. But what happens when competition is restricted? What is the outcome when one company or a group of companies acquires most of its competitors or reaches agreements on prices with other competitors? Prices are likely to increase and quality is also likely to suffer. This is why anti-trust laws were passed over a century ago. Today, some thought leaders are raising similar questions about Big Tech, the handful of companies that control the internet and social media. According to Jonathan Haskel and Stian Weslake in Capitalism without Capital, this economy is dominated by intangible assets like research and development, marketing and software — commodities that defy traditional regulatory controls.

New World, New Rules

Google now controls 86 percent of the search engine market in the United States. If you combine it with the next runner up, it climbs to 93 percent and the top four 99 percent. Expressing the concern many have felt, but few understood, University of Chicago professor Luigi Zingales wrote in Imprimis, “Not only does this data concentration represent an insurmountable barrier for new entrants into the market, it also represents a threat to individual privacy and can even be a threat — as recent data mining and censorship scandals suggest — to the functioning of democracy.” In fact, Zingales describes de-ranking as “a subtle form of censorship.” He goes on to say, “Google and Facebook know more about us than our spouses or closest friends — and sometimes even more than we know about ourselves. They predict what we’re going to do, how we’re going to vote and what products we’re going to buy.” Then he identified the real specter: “Do we want to risk having these private monopolies grant information about us to the government in exchange for protection of their monopoly power?”

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| BEST PRACTICES

LEGAL COUNSEL

ScottALPIZAR Scott Alpizar is a trial attorney with the law firm of Alpizar Law, LLC and practices in the area of auto accidents, personal injury, trucking accidents and wrongful death.

IS MY PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER RIGHT FOR ME? When life throws you an unexpected turn, hiring the right lawyer to protect you could make a huge difference. Do your own research on both the lawyer and the law firm to ensure the lawyer you pick is the best lawyer for your needs. While there is no formula to ensure you hire the right lawyer, below are a few things to consider when making this important decision.

Understanding your prospective lawyer’s specialty is important because you want to hire a lawyer that is an expert in the issues that matter to your claim.

Experience

Many lawyers and law firms claim to be trial lawyers. Many of them have not seen the inside of a courtroom or tried a case to a jury. In the industry, most lawyers know who the skilled trial lawyers are and who are not. Many lawyers do not have real experience or are not adequately prepared to handle a civil jury trial. Experience matters and can be the difference in the success of your case.

History and Results

The internet has changed what information is readily accessible to all, including information available about lawyers and law firms. Most firms have a website and/or a social media presence that outlines the firm’s tradition, history and results. Analyze these carefully, and look for a firm that has a long history of consistently obtaining good results for their clients. Keep

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in mind that assessing “good” results is not as simple as looking at the dollar amount. Compare the facts of similar settlements across multiple law firms to see if the prospective firm consistently handles the types of cases that you need. A good lawyer can maximize the value of your case based on your case’s unique facts.

Financial Stability and Attention

Ask questions about the financial stability of the prospective firm to ensure that the law firm is financially capable of funding your claim (if the law firm is responsible for funding it). Litigating a case can be extremely expensive. It is not uncommon that a single case may require in excess of $100,000 to properly prepare it for trial. You only have one opportunity to have a jury hear your claim, and you do not want a jury to only hear part of it because your lawyer cannot afford to fund it properly. Many people think that the size of the law firm equates to the firm’s financial stability. While size is one thing to consider, frequently with large size comes the loss of personal attention to your case that it deserves and requires to be successful. Conversely, a solo practitioner or a small firm may be able to give you all of the attention your claim needs, but may not have

the experience or financial stability to properly prepare it. Neither does your claim justice. Pick a law firm that you feel comfortably can do both for you — provide attention and financial stability.

Take Advantage of Free Consultations

Most personal injury lawyers offer free consultations to discuss your potential claim. Take advantage of this, and insist on meeting with the lawyer that will be handling your claim. Too often clients meet a runner who is not a lawyer, or meet their lawyer on the eve of a deposition, mediation, or even trial. Ask the lawyer about his training, education, experience, and trial experience if your matter may require litigation. Don’t just take the lawyer’s word for it, but compare what you hear during the consultation with

all of the other available resources. This will help you assess the honesty and credibility of your prospective lawyer.

Read Online Reviews

There are multiple online sites that past clients can rate the attorney and/or firm, such as Google, Facebook, Lawyers. com and Avvo.com. Read these reviews carefully, but understand that some bad reviews are not a result of poor representation. Don’t be afraid to ask the potential lawyer about negative reviews.

Use the Florida Bar’s Website

All attorneys in Florida are members of the Florida Bar, and its website has an abundance of information about every lawyer in the state. Make sure to search your prospective lawyer’s name through

their database to ensure that lawyer is in good standing and has no disciplinary actions taken against him or her. You can also see which lawyers are board-certified, what his or her practice specialty is, and even what languages he or she speaks. Understanding your prospective lawyer’s specialty is important because you want to hire a lawyer that is an expert in the issues that matter to your claim. While there are no guarantees in law, picking the wrong lawyer can result in you receiving only partial justice. Do your homework before choosing one because this person is your advocate. It is important to find a lawyer that has the knowledge, experience and financial capabilities to ensure your only day in court is your best day. ◆

MA RCH 2019 : 39

| BEST PRACTICES

INVESTING INVESTORS NEED TO UNDERSTAND THEIR RISK JustinCONNORS As a trusted wealth advisor for over 20 years, Justin takes the time to offer clients alternative ideas and solutions that are in their best interest. Justin views all Connors Wealth clients as extended family members. Justin is committed to delivering exceptional service and objective financial advice.

Understanding your risk tolerance is complex, and the standard questionnaire provided by financial planners may not capture an accurate picture. One reason is they sometimes combine different aspects of the risk profile that should be assessed separately. Words such as “tolerance” and “capacity” are often used interchangeably. In fact, they are quite different. Risk capacity is a measure of your financial ability to sustain risk. In a practical financial

Words such as “tolerance” and “capacity” are often used interchangeably. In fact, they are quite different.

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planning context, risk capacity is measured in terms of an individual’s asset base, withdrawal, liquidity needs and time horizon. For example, if you need to fund retirement withdrawals of $20,000 a year from an asset base of $1 million starting 10 years from now, you would have a very high capacity for risk. You will still have ample means to sustain your retirement goals even if you experience several years of portfolio underperformance.

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However, if you need to fund retirement withdrawals immediately at $40,000 a year from an asset base of $500,000, you have a much smaller capacity for risk. Your plan will fail with anything less than strong portfolio returns from the very start. Therefore, you would have very little capacity to take risks.

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Risk capacity is all about the financial aspects of your ability to sustain a market decline without suffering an unacceptable loss of lifestyle or quality of life now or in the future. While risk capacity is about your financial ability to sustain underperformance in pursuit of higher returns, risk tolerance measures your willingness to enter such a tradeoff in the first place.

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| BEST PRACTICES

COMMUNICATION LIVE AUTHENTICALLY, ACT EMPATHETICALLY EricaLEMP Erica Lemp is the Executive Director of weVENTURE at Florida Institute of Technology’s Bisk College of Business. weVENTURE focuses on small business support and women’s empowerment. To learn more visit weVENTURE.fit.edu.

Authenticity — I love this word. I was speaking to someone recently who said they believed it is getting dangerously close to being overused. While I agree that it has become popular of late to laud authenticity, there is no part of me that can reconcile that as a bad thing. We live in a world where people can typically control what aspects of their lives you see and how you see them. Social media — for better AND worse — has changed how we interact, how we see ourselves, and how we see others. We have this tendency to believe that everyone else is living these perfect lives: perfect photos, perfect activities, perfect kids and perfect food. Frankly, it makes sense. How many people are really going to (intentionally and non-ironically) post a photo of themselves with a giant toothpaste stain on their shirt? This makes it even more important to be sure we are showing our authentic selves in our “real” lives. Humans, generally speaking, do not relate to perfection. We relate to people who have shared experiences. We connect with

When people relate, they feel less alone and, as a result, they feel happier.

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people who we perceive to have something in common with us. We relate to the person with the toothpaste stain because we have all been there. The power of authenticity is real. When people relate, they feel less alone and, as a result, they feel happier. From a business perspective, people do business with people they like and feel connected to. This is proven time and time again in research studies around management, sales and marketing.

Authentic Leadership and Emotional Intelligence

So what does it mean to be truly authentic? Authenticity is about honoring ourselves and our feelings so that we can give our best to others. It is about owning who we are and what we believe in. There is something comforting in knowing what you’re getting with someone (even if it’s not a positive thing); Not everyone is going to like you … wouldn’t you rather know it up front? It’s about being honest about who we are and where we’ve been. Most professionals have had a moment in their journey (many of

us are having that moment right now) where we question our abilities and whether or not we are “enough.” Even the most put together, brilliant people have these moments. Every single one of us has experienced failure. When we are honest about that, people trust us more, and our willingness to share can help someone else deal with their own struggles. Authentic leadership depends heavily on emotional intelligence or EQ. Emotional intelligence, for those unfamiliar, is the capability of individuals to recognize their own emotions and those of others,

discern between different feelings and label them appropriately, and use emotional information to guide thinking and behavior, and manage or adjust emotions to adapt to environments or achieve one’s goals. Basically, it’s about reading a room and reacting with appropriate empathy. To give of ourselves, we must be able to connect with others.

Authenticity Invites Authenticity

Authenticity and empathy are the currency of real human connection. To be truly authentic, we must take the time to know ourselves so that we

can better express our true selves to others. To be truly empathetic, we must take the time to know others — their triggers and their motivations — so that we can better understand how they might feel in certain situations. The marriage of authenticity and empathy can transform teams, open up lines to improved communication, and empower those around us. When we are open and authentic, we invite others to do the same. This practice helps us build trust in our relationships, both personal and professional. Authenticity allows us to act more creatively and inspires incredible things. ◆

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MA RCH 2 019 : 43

EXPLOITING THE LAW MISUSING ADA’S BEST INTENTIONS

By Eric Wright

THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT WAS A GROUNDBREAKING PIECE OF LEGISLATION DESIGNED TO ENSURE, LITERALLY, A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IN EVERY ARENA OF LIFE. The legislation was spearheaded by former Senator Robert (Bob) Dole, who was severely injured as a combat pilot in World War II. Dole understood that a building without an elevator or a wheel hair ramp was as big an obstacle to those with disabilities as forcing people without disabilities to scale a six-foot fence just to visit a restaurant, retail store or doctor’s office. 44 : SPACE C OAST B U S I N E SS

Americans embraced the equalizing impact of the legislation, whose influence can be seen everywhere today. However, even back in 1990 when President George H.W. Bush signed it into law, some were saying the legislation could open a floodgate of lawsuits. Unfortunately, some 30 years later, by exploiting loopholes in the law, a small band of lawyers are trying to — what some have described

as — “extort” small businesses while wrapping themselves in the flag of ADA disability discrimination. Imagine your coffee shop, bed and breakfast or realty business was suddenly facing a $250,000 class action lawsuit because your website didn’t have audio features for the blind, or your company’s YouTube videos or website’s homepage didn’t have closed captioning for the deaf? Did we mention that the law firm bringing the ADA lawsuits would give you time to correct the problem if you immediately paid them $7,500-$25,000? Interestingly, this amount is just under what it would cost in legal fees to defend yourself in court.

Everyone is a Target

This isn’t some isolated case. Eric Hostetler, a lawyer with Widerman Malek in Melbourne, a firm that has successfully defended a number of clients faced with these lawsuits, explained the scope of the problem. “IN THE (FEDERAL COURT) MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA ALONE, WHICH

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PLAINTIFF, PATRICIA KENNEDY, HAS FILED

ADA COMPLIANCE LAWSUITS TO DATE.”

Apparently, this “ADA tester” targets a region and focuses on what Hostetler referred to as “places of public accommodation”— restaurants, gas stations, motels, etc.

“We were able to get the case against our client dismissed with prejudice,” Hostetler said, meaning the case is over completely, a decision that was upheld by 11th Circuit Court of Appeals , “but what happens to small businesses that don’t have legal representation or understand their rights under the law?” It seems to be a clear case of a law’s good intentions paving the way to the hell of litigation or even bankruptcy for small businesses. Patricia Kennedy is from South Florida and that seems to be the epicenter of most of the ADA compliance activity in Florida. According to the Orlando Sentinel, attorney Thomas B. Bacon and 16 others were cited in a discipline case by U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel Irick for proliferating ADA lawsuits. Irick cited a “disturbing” pattern of “counsel’s repeated filing of vague, boiler-plate complaints — often improperly joining multiple defendants, that fail to comply with Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.” Bacon was quoted as saying, “The only people who enforce the ADA are these few plaintiffs and their attorneys.” But the Sun-Sentinel quoted a Delray Beach code enforcement officer who described

the lawsuits as purely a money-maker and the attorneys are not concerned about compliance.

Worst-Case Scenario

The lack of clear regulations has led to what some have described as the absolute worst-case scenario. Scott Widerman, also of the Widerman Malek firm, observed, “If the legislation contained some sort of pre-suit demand, which informed the party of the violation and gave them an opportunity to correct the problem, that would be different. However, no such legislative remedy has been added.” Perhaps you heard about the suit filed against H&R Block for lack of internet accessibility to their websites for the blind? Title III of the ADA forbids: “discrimination on the basis of disability by public accommodations in the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, and accommodations.” The problem is, there was no internet when the legislation was passed in 1990. JAS O N C A M AC H O, A B L I N D RESIDENT OF BROOKLYN, NEW YORK, IS THE PLAINTIFF IN A SUIT AGAINST 50 COLLEGES OVER THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THEIR WEBSITES.

Many of the institutions named in the suit are not in New York, but since they can recruit in New York via the internet, that is where the suits have been filed. Camacho is being represented by Gottlieb and Associates, who describes themselves as a “boutique litigation firm dedicated to representing disabled persons whose [sic] rights have been violated under the Americans with Disabilities Act.” Camacho has also filed lawsuits against companies such as Peet’s Coffee (which has 200 locations in the Northeast, Midwest and Northwest) and Aldi supermarkets. Writing for insidehighered.com, Lindsey McKenzie perhaps said it best: “Filing large numbers of similarly worded ADA lawsuits against one type of business is sometimes referred to as ‘drive-by’ litigation. This activity is widely seen as a means to get a quick settlement, rather than improve accessibility.” Widerman and Hostetler both agree. “We see the benefits of ADA, but want to protect businesses against these ‘litigation-first’ lawsuits,” Hostetler said. ◆

Eric Hostetler and Scott Widerman

“If the legislation contained some sort of pre-suit demand, which informed the party of the violation and gave them an opportunity to correct the problem, that would be different. However, no such legislative remedy has been added.” – Scott Widerman MA RC H 2019 : 45

with Jessica Kane [ By Eric Wright ]

The path to success is rarely a straight line and we are in a business market that is changing so quickly, industries some are working in today did not exist when their professional journey began. Therefore, flexibility and adaptability is essential. Jessica Kane, COO and President of Space Coast Magazines, LLC and CEO of SANZ skin care, is one of those rare individuals who combines foresight and fortitude, to blaze trails and ride waves many do not even see, much less catch. She launched a digital publication that, in a year, grew to over 1 million readers before most knew what a digital magazine was, and helped launch a fashion revolution that now is the new normal. EW: Where did you grow up and what were your early influences?

JK: I was born in Oakland California and grew up in rural Oregon. It was a single parent home, and when my mother was able to gain sobriety, she worked as a truck driver. I went to work at 14 in a small grocery store and actually loved it, while maintaining a 4.0 GPA in school.

EW: School came pretty easy for you?

JK: It really did. I was one of those — read it once, take the test and ace it. At that time my aspiration was to go to West Point and become an astronaut. Though I was actually a pretty successful athlete, I couldn’t pass their physical because I couldn’t do the chin-ups.

EW: You missed West Point on account of chin-ups? JK: I know, right? During that time my real motivation in school was I didn’t want to go home; we were semi-homeless. Our home wasn’t “dysfunctional,” it was “non-functional.” So I participated in and joined everything that was available after school and I worked. In high school I started working at McDonalds. At that time, you had to be 18 to become a manager. They had this program called “Hamburger University,” where they taught you everything you needed to know to run a McDonalds restaurant — budgeting, inventory, employee management, food prep, everything. I became the only 17-year-old manager in the franchise and managed the largest producing McDonalds in the county, plus the one at the Super Walmart. It was an incredible experience; that is where I got my undergrad degree, seriously.

EW: What about actual college? JK: I was offered a full ride to the University of Oregon. But the then love of my life had a terrible automobile accident, so I didn’t go because I needed to take care of him. Because of that, I looked for work near where we lived, which turned out to be one of the largest truck stops in the country. The local Indian tribe took some of their casino proceeds and bought it and turned it into a $30 million travel center. Amazingly, the GM saw something in me. I had taught myself computer software programs, web design and coding and just kept asking, “Can I do this,” and he kept saying “yes.” I built the systems and the processes that computerized the organization. Within 4 years I was the Director of Operations and responsible for hundreds of employees and millions of dollars of revenue. That was my MBA.

EW: What was next?

JK: My first marriage was falling apart, and so I moved to Portland and went to work for another huge truck center. It was an incredible complex with restaurants, a hotel, a cinema and a lounge. I went to the management and told them they needed to market the place as a destination, and so began my journey into digital marketing and social media, all because I had to.

EW: How did you get into fashion media and marketing?

JK: My life really changed one day when I walked into a plus size fashion store, it was like landing on another planet. Something awakened in me. ⊲ MA RCH 2019 : 47

“It was … it was like awakening a sleeping giant. The world of digital networking created this incredible community of people who wanted to support and encourage each other, and I was able to provide a platform.” – Jessica Kane

I didn’t know how good clothes could make you feel. I was all about hard work, outperforming, but fashion and creativity was fun.

JK: By now I was married and had a baby. I have

I decided I wanted to give this to other people, especially to women, like myself, who never got to experience it. So, I used the skills I had learned and developed to launch a website and then an online magazine. I recruited a team of writers and photographers, volunteers who wanted to be a part of a movement.

fashion. She was an advertiser in our magazine and

The digital universe gave me a social platform that liberated me from the constraints I had in dealing with people in person. I was really nerdy and shy, up till that time. Our mission was: “To empower plus-size women through fashion.”

EW: The response was global, correct?

JK: It was … it was like awakening a sleeping giant. The world of digital networking created this incredible community of people who wanted to support and encourage each other, and I was able to provide a platform. Now there is visibility, but back then there was nothing, and visibility was everything. The publication was called Skorch. Soon I couldn’t do it in my spare time, so I quit my job. I knew the power of leveraging digital media and network marketing effects would yield something incredible. Within a year, with no money and 72 volunteer contributors around the world, we had over a million readers and were being featured on major news networks.

EW: I know you became involved in event production, in the fashion industry, but what brought you to Florida?

48 : SPAC E C OAST B U SI N E S S

always loved startups and a lady here in Florida was starting a global ecommerce platform for plus size had a very legitimate business model. She was looking for a co-founder and Skorch was my investment in that enterprise, Society Plus. Since our funding was from Vero and she was in Satellite Beach, we came to Florida.

EW: That company became a GrowFL Top 50 Companies to Watch in Florida, correct? JK: Yes, it did. We experienced 400 percent year over year growth and were honored in 2018. That is when I met Jeff Piersall. We had talked about the potential for the SANZ natural skin care product line and with my background in vertically integrated direct to consumer e-commerce brands, I knew this could be a hit. Like every other entrepreneur before me, I couldn’t sit still long and after I exited Society Plus I decided to accept the CEO position at SANZ.

EW: Which led to you running SANZ and eventually taking over as President & COO of Space Coast Magazines. JK: It was an amazing fit for me and happened so naturally. I enjoy that every day I get to come to work to help so many businesses be their best, to train the next generation of innovators through our intern program and to create opportunities for our team members to build their dreams. ◆

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