Vol. 30 No. 8 Febuary 20, 2012 A Weekly Space Coast Business Magazine Please see Junior Achievement, page 19 Please see Diagnostic Codes, page 16 PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS, INC. By Ken Datzman A. Duda & Sons Inc., which operates a diversified portfolio of companies revolving around its core agricultural business, is one of the longest–running family enter- prises in America, with generation after generation of leaders stepping up to guide the closely held entity. Florida has long been a melting pot of nationalities, heritages, and traditions. Immigrants and children of immigrants came here and started businesses long ago, establishing themselves as grassroots entrepreneurs. One of those enterprises that was founded in the early 1900s, A. Duda & Sons Inc., represents the “American Dream” of businessownership. “My grandfather came to the U.S. (from Slovakia) in 1912. We are looking forward to the 100–year anniversary cerebration of that event this year,” said Joseph Duda, who led the Ovieda–based company as president and chief executive officer for years before his retirement in mid–2010. Fourth–generation family member David Duda succeeded him. Founder Andrew Duda purchased the first 40 acres for a farm in the early 1900s. Now, there are roughly 100 owners of A. Duda & Sons. And today, the company offers its work force a benefits package that includes comprehensive health insurance. The package features short– and long–term disability benefits, as well as flexible medical and dependent–care spending accounts. The business, which has evolved from its beginning as a fresh vegetable grower and shipper, had its first successful celery crop in 1926, the year A. Duda & Sons was established as a corporation. “It’s still a family business today and we’re proud of that. We have the fifth and sixth generations coming up,” said Joseph Duda, a third–generation family member who started in the business as a cattle- man. The operation includes The Viera Co., which manages the development of A. Duda & Sons’ non–agricultural land. The Joseph Duda, who retired in mid–2010 as CEO of A. Duda & Sons Inc., and John Hopkins of CPA firm Berman Hopkins Wright & LaHam, who retired Dec. 31, are the 2012 Business Hall of Fame inductees, a program put on by Junior Achievement of the Space Coast. Kristin Schreiner is executive director for JA of the Space Coast and Larry McIntyre chairs the board. They are at the estate of Bjornar and Bjorg Hermansen on Merritt Island. From left: McIntyre, Hopkins, Duda, and Schreiner. BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth Longtime businessmen Duda and Hopkins set for Hall of Fame roster By Lee Bowman Scripps Howard Service Chances are, unless you’ve been forced to pay attention by an insurance snafu or malpractice claim, you probably have not studied the five to seven–digit numbers that permeate each and every record of a medical encounter. But by this time next year, the nation’s health–care industry will be hustling to complete a $1.6 billion upgrade of diagnostic codes known as “ICD–10,” which will bump the number of codes used to classify illness and injury from 18,000 to more than 141,000. Such a boost to the hypochondriacal bucket list is likely to prove somewhat disruptive to medical care, although a large cadre of consultants, trainers, and code– talkers has cropped up to ease the transition. Diagnostic and billing codes drive the operations of every hospital and medical practice, from the reception desk through clinics and labs and into the back offices. Virtually every form, software package, and administrative procedure inside doctors’ offices and hospitals will have to be revised, a task some call the medical equivalent of another Y2K. Much of the expansion is aimed at greater specificity. For instance, the current system, ICD–9, has just one code for a broken arm. The new setup spells out whether it’s the right or left arm, what part of the arm broke, whether it was an open or closed fracture — all intended to reduce confusion and make care safer, plus expedite billing and insurance claims. The codes, based on an international system developed through the World Health Organization, are also used by Number of medical diagnostic codes soon to multiply in a big way BBN Brevard Business News
Transcript
Vol. 30 No. 8 Febuary 20, 2012 A Weekly Space Coast Business Magazine
Please see Junior Achievement, page 19
Please see Diagnostic Codes, page 16
PRESORTEDSTANDARD
US POSTAGEPAID
BREVARD BUSINESSNEWS, INC.
By Ken Datzman
A. Duda & Sons Inc., which operates a
diversified portfolio of companies revolving
around its core agricultural business, is
one of the longest–running family enter-
prises in America, with generation after
generation of leaders stepping up to guide
the closely held entity.
Florida has long been a melting pot of
nationalities, heritages, and traditions.
Immigrants and children of immigrants
came here and started businesses long ago,
establishing themselves as grassroots
entrepreneurs.
One of those enterprises that was
founded in the early 1900s, A. Duda &
Sons Inc., represents the “American
Dream” of businessownership.
“My grandfather came to the U.S. (from
Slovakia) in 1912. We are looking forward
to the 100–year anniversary cerebration of
that event this year,” said Joseph Duda,
who led the Ovieda–based company as
president and chief executive officer for
years before his retirement in mid–2010.
Fourth–generation family member
David Duda succeeded him.
Founder Andrew Duda purchased the
first 40 acres for a farm in the early 1900s.
Now, there are roughly 100 owners of A.
Duda & Sons.
And today, the company offers its work
force a benefits package that includes
comprehensive health insurance. The
package features short– and long–term
disability benefits, as well as flexible
medical and dependent–care spending
accounts.
The business, which has evolved from
its beginning as a fresh vegetable grower
and shipper, had its first successful celery
crop in 1926, the year A. Duda & Sons was
established as a corporation.
“It’s still a family business today and
we’re proud of that. We have the fifth and
sixth generations coming up,” said Joseph
Duda, a third–generation family member
who started in the business as a cattle-
man.
The operation includes The Viera Co.,
which manages the development of A.
Duda & Sons’ non–agricultural land. The
Joseph Duda, who retired in mid–2010 as CEO of A. Duda & Sons Inc., and John Hopkins of CPAfirm Berman Hopkins Wright & LaHam, who retired Dec. 31, are the 2012 Business Hall of Fameinductees, a program put on by Junior Achievement of the Space Coast. Kristin Schreiner is executivedirector for JA of the Space Coast and Larry McIntyre chairs the board. They are at the estate of Bjornarand Bjorg Hermansen on Merritt Island. From left: McIntyre, Hopkins, Duda, and Schreiner.
BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth
Longtime businessmenDuda and Hopkins setfor Hall of Fame roster
By Lee BowmanScripps Howard Service
Chances are, unless you’ve been forced
to pay attention by an insurance snafu or
malpractice claim, you probably have not
studied the five to seven–digit numbers
that permeate each and every record of a
medical encounter.
But by this time next year, the nation’s
health–care industry will be hustling to
complete a $1.6 billion upgrade of
diagnostic codes known as “ICD–10,”
which will bump the number of codes used
to classify illness and injury from 18,000 to
more than 141,000.
Such a boost to the hypochondriacal
bucket list is likely to prove somewhat
disruptive to medical care, although a large
cadre of consultants, trainers, and code–
talkers has cropped up to ease the
transition.
Diagnostic and billing codes drive the
operations of every hospital and medical
practice, from the reception desk through
clinics and labs and into the back offices.
Virtually every form, software package,
and administrative procedure inside
doctors’ offices and hospitals will have to
be revised, a task some call the medical
equivalent of another Y2K.
Much of the expansion is aimed at
greater specificity. For instance, the current
system, ICD–9, has just one code for a
broken arm. The new setup spells out
whether it’s the right or left arm, what part
of the arm broke, whether it was an open or
closed fracture — all intended to reduce
confusion and make care safer, plus
expedite billing and insurance claims.
The codes, based on an international
system developed through the World
Health Organization, are also used by
Number of medical diagnostic codes soon to multiply in a big way
BBN Brevard Business
News
FEBRUARY 20, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising InformationBREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 2
National Realty announces top producersGale Bray, broker of National Realty of Brevard Inc.,
has announced her company’s top–producing associates for
December. For the Melbourne office: Top Listers, Marie
Kaps and Beth Glover; Top Seller, Kaps; and Top Pro-
ducer, Lisa Ellison. Indialantic: Top Lister, Carolyn
Martin; Top Seller, Judith Kaiser; and Top Producer, Hope
Turner. Suntree–Viera: Top Lister, Binki Kaiser; Top
Seller, Jim Biggin; Top Producer, Kaiser. And Palm Bay:
Top Lister, Sandy Rickabaugh; Top Seller, Steve Scheller;
and Top Producer, Steve Scheller.
Dr. Levine to speak at Moffitt conferenceDr. Richard Levine, a board–certified medical oncologist
at Space Coast Cancer Center, was selected for the third
consecutive year to provide a case presentation on
lymphoma at the eighth annual Malignant Hematology
Conference hosted by Moffitt Cancer Center. Space Coast
Cancer Center has offices in Titusville, Merritt Island and
Viera. Space Coast Cancer Center says it is the “first
practice in Florida and the only practice in Brevard” to be
nationally certified for quality by the American Society of
Clinical Oncology. For further information, visit
www.SpaceCoastCancer.com.
University Center Imaging
new ad emailed
FULL COLOR
Coastal Media Grouppick up BBN
2/06/12page 19
FULL COLOR
FEBRUARY 20, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising Information
BBN EDITORIAL
BBNBrevard
Business
News
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 4
4300 Fortune Place, Suite DWest Melbourne, FL 32904
(321) 951–7777fax (321) 951–4444
BrevardBusinessNews.com
PUBLISHERAdrienne B. Roth
EDITORKen Datzman
OFFICE MANAGERFrank Schiffmann
Brevard Business News is published every Monday byBrevard Business News Inc. Bulk Rate postage is paid atMelbourne, FL and Cocoa, FL. This publication servesbusiness executives in Brevard County. It reports onnews, trends and ideas of interest to industry, trade,agribusiness, finance, health care, high technology,education and commerce.
Letters to the Editor must include the writer’s signatureand printed or typed name, full address and telephonenumber. Brevard Business News reserves the right to editall letters. Send your letters to: Editor, Brevard BusinessNews, 4300 Fortune Place, Suite D, West Melbourne, FL,32904, or email [email protected].
Subscription Rates for home or office mail delivery are$26.00 for one year (52 issues). Send all addresschanges to: Circulation Department, Brevard BusinessNews, 4300 Fortune Place, Suite D, West Melbourne, FL,32904, or email [email protected].
Health First prepares for future with new organizational modelHealth First has announced the formation of a new
organizational model designed to move the nonprofit
integrated health–care system from a more traditional
focus on disease mitigation to one of prevention and
wellness.
Health First is now organized in these four operating
divisions:
l Hospitals Division, including a tertiary section
(Holmes Regional Medical Center) and a Community
Hospitals Section (Cape Canaveral Hospital, Palm Bay
Hospital and Viera Hospital).
l Ambulatory Division, encompassing outpatient
wellness, diagnostic, and community–based services.
l Health First Physicians Division, comprised of three
sections: primary care, specialists and hospital–based.
l Health First Health Plans Division.
“This new organizational structure is designed to help
Health First transition over time from a restorative service
model — taking care of people with sickness, injury and
disease — to prevention — helping people keep healthy
and active,” said Steve Johnson, Health First’s president
and chief executive officer.
“Health First Health Plans will help bring together and
integrate physicians, nurses, and other health–care
providers around aligned incentives to treat the whole
person, focusing on wellness rather than waiting until
health deteriorates.”
In order to create this new model, consolidation of some
positions and realignment of others was necessary. Of the
system’s 6,900 employees, roughly 30 positions were
eliminated. In support of the Health First priorities of
patient safety and quality, the restructuring is intended
“not to affect care at the bedside.”
As part of the new model, Judy Killebrew will continue
to serve as interim president at Holmes Regional Medical
Center in Melbourne. Dr. Scott Gettings will hold the
position of vice president and chief medical officer at that
hospital, as well as serving as the Health First chief
medical officer for the entire system.
Peggy Waible will be the vice president, site adminis-
trator, a position that oversees many of the operational
areas at the 514–bed Holmes Regional Medical Center.
This is an expansion of Waible’s responsibilities as
administrative director of surgical services at Holmes.
Roy Wright, formerly president at Cape Canaveral
Hospital, has shifted into the new position of Community
Hospitals president, to provide strategic leadership for the
three hospitals (Palm Bay Hospital, Viera Hospital and
Cape Canaveral Hospital).
Providing operational oversight for each of the three
community hospitals will be three individuals who have
previously held lead positions in their respective facilities:
Judy Gizinski, vice president, site administrator at Palm
Bay Hospital; Wes Ott, vice president, site administrator
at Cape Canaveral Hospital; and Deborah Leiper, vice
president, site administrator at Viera Hospital.
In addition, a new chief nursing officer position
(Suzanne Woods, previously vice president of nursing at
Cape Canaveral Hospital), and a new vice president of
medical affairs position (Dr. Jeffrey Stalnaker, formerly
the VP of medical affairs at Viera Hospital) are now in
place within the Community Hospitals Section to provide
oversight for nursing and physician activities at the three
community hospitals.
“This new model will enable our organization to unify
its components across the system, eliminating extra
organizational layers and redundancy, maximizing the
wide range of services we offer for our community mem-
bers,” said Johnson.
“Going forward, Health First Health Plans will be the
integrator to pull together all of these services, allowing
Health First to focus on preventive care versus episodic
disease care.”
The timing of this new operational model is in part a
reflection of the new realities of the health–care market
that Health First and other care organizations are facing.
“Health–care systems are getting hit with dramatic cuts by
Medicare and Medicaid for the patient care we provide,”
said Johnson. “This year alone Health First will receive
$17 million less in reimbursement by the government for
caring for the same patients we did last year.”
Johnson also points to the state legislative session
under way that has already signaled additional deep cuts
in Medicaid payments to hospitals.
“Facing these challenges and the realities of the
lingering recession in Brevard County, we simply cannot
keep operating the way we have in the past,” he said.
“We’ve got to streamline our management structure to be
more efficient and effective.
Johnson added, “Health First is fortunate to have
virtually all the health–care services and support infra-
structure already in place to take on financial risk for the
health of expanded and new populations. Moving our
system toward a restorative, wellness model makes sense
for the health and well–being of our resident. I have
confidence that Health First can and will continue
advancing its mission and vision. In recognition of the
realities in the external environment, we have an obliga-
tion to ensure that quality and compassionate health–care
services continue to be available to all the residents of
Brevard County and beyond.”
Judge Antoon keynote speaker at Legal Aid’s Awards GalaBrevard County Legal Aid will host its annual Pro Bono Awards and Recognition Gala at 6 p.m. on Friday,
Feb. 17, at Suntree Country Club in Melbourne.
John Antoon II, U.S. District Court judge, will be the guest speaker. Judge Antoon will also help recognize
outstanding attorneys who have given free legal counsel to Legal Aid clients.
“It is an honor for us at BCLA, as well as for all who will be attending, to have Judge Antoon serve as our guest
speaker and awards presenter,” said Robert Johnson, BCLA executive director.
Awards will be presented to attorneys in Brevard who have gone “above and beyond” in their pro–bono contribu-
tions. BCLA is a nonprofit organization that provides free legal counsel to the poor in Brevard County.
John Daly will be recognized as Brevard’s “Attorney of the Year.” Since the mid–1980s, Daly has “donated
countless hours of pro–bono service” and, in recent years, has provided “hundreds of pro–se litigants” with vital
assistance in family law matters.
The Appellate Law Award will be presented to The Carlyle Appellate Law Firm, which has “selflessly provided
representation on behalf of dependent children aging out of the foster–care system.”
The Community Service Award will recognize the efforts of attorneys and judges participating in the Space
Coast Community Law School, a program providing legal information to the public through free legal seminars on
a wide variety of topics.
Banquet tickets are $40. To purchase tickets or to inquire about event sponsorship opportunities, call
Rob Johnson at 639–2933.
Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationFEBRUARY 20, 2012
BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESS
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 5
New UCF business dean encouragesstudents to expand their horizons
Paul Jarley, dean of the University of Nevada–Las
Vegas’ Lee Business School, will become dean of the
University of Central Florida’s College of Business
Administration on July 1. Dr. Jarley, who has been at
UNLV since 2007, leads a college with about 100 faculty
members and 4,000 students.
He will direct a college with about 140 faculty members
and 8,680 students at UCF. His previous administrative
positions include senior associate dean and associate dean
of Faculty and Special Programs at the University of
Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics.
“The institutions that will thrive in the coming decades,
those that will be able to attract the best students, faculty
and resources, will be those that have made a conscious
effort to differentiate themselves in the marketplace,”
Jarley said in a letter to the UCF search committee led by
Dean Sandra Robinson of the College of Education.
“Helping a relatively young school define and imple-
ment a strategy that provides a distinctive value proposi-
tion is a key factor driving my interest in the dean’s
position at UCF.”
Jarley received a bachelor’s degree in economics, a
master’s in public policy from the University of Michigan,
and a Ph.D. in industrial relations from the University of
Wisconsin–Madison. He also has received academic
appointments around the world, including being named
Visiting Fulbright Research Scholar at the University of
Melbourne in Australia.
“Dr. Jarley will provide exemplary leadership for the
College of Business Administration,” said UCF Provost
and Executive Vice President Tony Waldrop. “His back-
ground and leadership philosophy have shown that he can
harness the talents of others to work efficiently and
effectively.”
In a recent entry on his blog, Dr. Jarley provided five
tips for students looking to improve their college experi-
ence: Ask for help, engage others, study an hour more each
week, create a portfolio to show accomplishment and get
out of your comfort zone.
“College is about expanding your horizons and finding
out where your passions and talents intersect. Self–
discovery requires that you try new things. And you need
to do them with people who are not like you,” he wrote.
“Doing things that get you out of your comfort zone also
shows employers you are adaptable and it may just end up
taking your career in an unexpected direction.”
Foard Jones, associate dean for administration and
human resources, will continue to serve as interim dean of
the College of Business Administration until Dr. Jarley
arrives. He became the interim dean in June after former
Dean Thomas Keon accepted a position as chancellor of
Purdue University–Calumet.
Banke back at radio station WMMB
Jim Banke, after recovering from an illness, has
returned to local radio station WMMB and resumed his
“Space Talk” show. “I am now well enough and thrilled to
be returning to WMMB,” he said. Banke has covered the
space program as a reporter for many years with a number
of organizations, including “Florida Today.”
“Florida Tech/Harris” Ethics & LeadershipConference set for March 22 at Hilton Rialto
The Florida Institute of Technology Nathan M.
Bisk College of Business Center for Ethics and
Leadership reflects that, “Given the recent corpo-
rate scandals in the USA and Europe, there can be
little doubt that there exists today a need for strong
ethical practices in business and that the conse-
quences for unethical practices can be extreme.”
To that end the 12th
Annual “Florida Tech/Har-
ris” Ethics & Leadership Conference is scheduled
for March 22, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., breakfast and lunch
included, at the Hilton Melbourne Rialto Place.
The Florida Institute of Technology and the
Harris Corporation are again teaming to bring you
“the most powerful business seminar on the Space
Coast, featuring a presentation by the winning high
school debate team on ethics, promising to be inspi-
rational, educational, influential,” at $69 for one or a
corporate table for 10 at $500.
Many ethical publishers in the “relatively small
and unsophisticated media market” of Brevard
County are hoping that “the ethics of advertising
print–runs of 15,000 copies while printing 7,500
copies” will be addressed.
Brevard Business News hopes so, too.
FEBRUARY 20, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising InformationBREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 6
Work out.
Stress out.
If you’re worried choosing a health plan might be stressful, take a look at Health First Health Plans. Our friendly sales associates and customer service representatives make it easy to fi nd a plan that meets your needs.
We offer a variety of plans with several choices for premiums and coverage to fi t your budget. And, we can also help you improve your health with innovative programs and benefi ts like fi tness center memberships (another great stress reliever)!
Contact us or your broker today to fi nd the plan that’s right for you! Health First Health Plans can help you make healthy decisions. Call 321-434-5665
or 1-800-716-7737or TTY/TDD relay 1-800-955-87717 days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
www.HealthFirstHealthPlans.org6450 US Highway 1, Rockledge, FL 32955Inspiring healthy moments.
A Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Exclusions & limitations apply. The benefi t information provided herein is a brief summary, not a comprehensive description of benefi ts. For more information, contact the plan. 1National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Health Insurance Plan Rankings—Medicare & Private (2010–11). All rankings are displayed at www.ncqa.org. NCQA is a private, non-profi t organization dedicated to improving healthcare quality. 22011 Medicare Five-Star Ratings, www.Medicare.gov.H1099_EL2435_04811 File & Use 02222011
Plans include:• Commercial group plans (HMO,
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• 4.5 out of 5 stars from Medicare2
Important health decisions happen every moment.
Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationFEBRUARY 20, 2012
FEBRUARY 20, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising Information
BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESS
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 10
By Ken Datzman
COCOA — Pet ownership in America is at its
highest level in two decades. And the owners are
willing to pay to keep their pet healthy and pam-
pered, to the tune of a projected $12 billion on
veterinary care in 2012, up from $8 billion five years
ago.
While the economy is in a lull and consumers are
watching how they spend their dollars, the pet
industry is seeing unprecedented growth across
many areas of the market, including the sale of pet
insurance.
Pets appear to be the solid winners in these
economic times. More than $70 million was spent on
dog gifts in 2010.
“Pets are considered family members today, and
it makes a huge difference in the way owners care
for their animals,” said Dr. Laura Earle, a veterinar-
ian who oversees Brevard Community College’s
veterinary–technology degree program at the Cocoa
campus.
According to the American Pet Products
Association’s 2011–2012 National Pet Owners
Survey, the number of U.S. households that own a
pet increased by 2.1 percent last year over the
previous year, to an all–time high of 72.9 million.
The APPA in Washington, D.C., is a not–for–
profit trade group that compiles consumer research
providing insight on demographics, buying habits,
and other traits of U.S. pet owners.
Dr. Earle, a graduate of the University of Florida
College of Veterinary Medicine, who was in private
practice for many years, says pets can play a role in
health and wellness. Increasingly, they are being
used in hospice and other health settings for healing
purposes and companionship.
“Studies have shown that just petting an animal
can help lower your blood pressure. There is a lot of
evidence that having an animal is very healthful and
it also increases longevity,” said Dr. Earle, who is
studying for her master’s degree in public health at
the University of Florida.
Animal lovers have long embraced BCC’s vet–
tech program that trains veterinary technicians.
“The students not only need to love animals but
also people, because it is actually a public–service
profession. A lot of people don’t realize that veteri-
nary medicine falls under public health. Two of the
five pledges of the veterinary oath are human–
medicine related.”
The BCC program is accredited by the American
Veterinary Medical Association and has held this
designation for more than 10 years. It is one of four
accredited programs in the state, said Dr. Earle.
“Our program is extremely rigorous. The
students learn a lot of material in a short time. And
they have to take a national board examination,
which gives them both credentialing and respectabil-
ity in the field.”
She added, “They gain broad knowledge working
in the labs and studying in the classroom. They
understand why an animal goes into shock and why
an animal is having a certain issue. The two–year
program covers everything from avians to canines to
horses.”
Graduation from an AVMA–accredited veteri-
nary–technology program allows students to take
the credentialing examination in any state in the
country.
Fifty–percent of the faculty who teach in the BCC
program hold the DVM degree, doctor of veterinary
medicine. The other half are certified veterinary
technicians. The DVM team includes a specialist in
large animals.
“The program is face–to–face educational
instruction,” said Dr. Earle, who has a cat and a dog,
as well as birds in her household.
“Our exit interviews tell us that the students
prefer this type of structure. It provides them with a
‘feeling of community,’ because the entire group goes
through the program as a ‘cohort class’ and it
provides good network support.”
The students learn such things as how to spay or
neuter an animal, and the basics of animal den-
tistry. BCC alumni, faculty and students typically
provide the animals for the simple procedures. “The
most we do is draw blood in the laboratories, except
for the spay and neutering, and dentistry proce-
dures. We are not open to the public for these
services,” she said.
The BCC vet–tech program is an example of the
school’s wide offerings targeting fields of study
projecting strong employment growth.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the
job forecast is bright for qualified veterinary
technicians from two–year programs. Employment
of veterinary technicians and technologists is
expected to grow 36 percent through 2018, which is
much faster than the average for all occupations.
Dr. Earle says the veterinary market in the state
of Florida is woefully underserved by certified
veterinary technicians and registered veterinary
technologists. The reason is because practices often
provide on–the–job training for these positions.
“You can train somebody to do the techniques,
but you can’t really give them the book knowledge
that they need. That’s what our program does,” she
said.
There are primarily two levels of education and
training for entry to this occupation: a two–year
Pet ownership surges in America, creates demand for veterinarytechnicians in field; BCC’s accredited vet–tech program embracedby animal lovers — pets play role in hospice, health–care settings
degree for veterinary technicians and a four–year course of study for
veterinary technologists.
Veterinary technologists and technicians typically conduct clinical
work in a private practice under the supervision of a licensed veterinar-
ian. They perform many of the same duties for a veterinarian that a
nurse would for a physician.
The government report says excellent job opportunities are expected
because of the relatively low number of vet–tech graduates each year.
Fewer than 3,800 graduates are anticipated annually, a number that is
not expected to meet demand. “We have 40 students in the pipeline for
the program,” Dr. Earle said. “We can accommodate up to 24 students a
year.”
Graduates of BCC’s program work in a host of settings, including
specialty practices. “Some have gone on to earn four–year degrees in
the veterinary technologist field, too.”
One BCC graduate now works for Angell Animal Medical Center in
Boston, one of the largest facilities of its kind in the nation. Staffed by
68 DVMs, the center cares for more than 50,000 animals a year.
Dr. Laura Earle, a graduate of the University of Florida College of VeterinaryMedicine, is the program manager for BCC’s veterinary–technology program onthe Cocoa campus. The field is expected to experience strong job growth over thenext six years. The majority of veterinary technicians work at private clinical practices.
BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth
Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationFEBRUARY 20, 2012
BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESS
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 11
By Ken Datzman
At last year’s Cattle Baron’s Ball, a fun–filled
community event put on by the American Cancer
Society, an invited potbellied pig wobbled into the
party, wandered through the crowd, winked at
businessman T.R. Page, and eventually made her
way to the stage.
The black Burmese pig, introduced last year as a
fund–raising vehicle for the ACS, was all dressed up,
wearing a western hat and a pink vest.
“We took a collection at the ball that evening and
the goal was to raise $1,000, which we did. So
someone was going to have to kiss the pig, and it
was T.R.,” said James Atkinson, the area executive
director for the ACS.
Page, the general manager and owner of Lexus of
Melbourne, the ball’s presenting sponsor, was a good
sport in support of an organization whose mission
has a far–reaching impact on individuals and
families in the community.
“T.R. got on his knees. She (the pig) turned and
faced her backside toward him, and he ‘kissed the
bacon.’ It was phenomenal. People loved it,” said
Atkinson, who is working to bring the pig back for an
encore.
The 10th anniversary edition of the “Diamond
and Sapphire” Cattle Baron’s Ball is scheduled from
6 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, March 10, at the Hilton
Melbourne Rialto.
Dr. Firas Muwalla, a board–certified medical
oncologist and hematologist with Space Coast
Cancer Center in Titusville, chairs the 2012 Battle
Baron’s Ball committee.
First of all, “I would have no problem with kissing
the pig,” said Dr. Muwalla, who joined the practice
in 2006 after completing his training at Shands, a
teaching hospital at the University of Florida in
Gainesville.
He is one of eight medical oncologists practicing
at Space Coast Cancer Center facilities in the
county.
Dr. Muwalla said at times he has grown inpa-
tient with the health–care system. Rising health–
care costs leave a growing number of patients
without the financial means to cover their cancer
treatments. “That is the most frustrating thing I
have to deal with as a practicing physician.”
Dr. Muwalla said he became involved with the
local ACS for a number of reasons. “When James
and I got together to discuss the Cattle Baron’s Ball,
I thought it was a golden opportunity for me, in
addition to what I do in my practice, to try to do
something that is not necessarily medical but helps
area cancer patients.”
American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball set — helps supportuplifting summer camp for local kids with cancer; Dr. Muwalla ofSpace Coast Cancer Center chairs 10th annual fund–raising event
He added, “The ACS is a great organization. It’s
does a lot of community outreach. They help a lot of
my patients. The ACS has all these wonderful
resources available. Education is an important
component. There is only so much time a physician
can spend with a patient and go over things. We
concentrate on the medical part of the treatment.
The help we get from the ACS on the education front
for our patients is very important.”
Tickets to attend the Cattle Baron’s Ball are $125
each. To purchase tickets, contact Marty Eyster at
throughout the county. Typically, the Cattle Baron’s
Ball attendees include doctors, lawyers, CEOs and
CFOs of companies in the region,” he said.
The presenting ball sponsor again this year is
Lexus of Melbourne. “T.R. truly understands the
great work of the ACS and the local services we are
able to provide in the community,” Atkinson said.
The Cattle Baron’s Ball and the other ACS
events, including “Relay for Life” and “Making
Strides Against Breast Cancer,” give “us the
opportunity to communicate to the population the
services we have available locally to help patients
and their families, and the importance of early
detection,” added Atkinson.
These services include a popular program called
“Road to Recovery,” where ACS volunteers drive
patients who are without transportation to their
cancer treatments. Atkinson said the ACS is
recruiting volunteer drivers for the program.
The black–tie western–themed party raised
$100,000 in 2011 for the ACS, said Atkinson, and
roughly $750,000 since its beginning in 2002.
A portion of the proceeds is dedicated specifically for
the Reaching Out to Cancer Kids camp, which has
the distinction of being the first such program of its
kind in America. It was founded by a Florida
pediatric oncologist in 1976.
Located in Eustis, north of Orlando, Boggy Creek
Camp serves more than 200 kids each summer.
Campers, ages 7 to 17, enjoy one full week of
activities. They are referred by pediatric oncology
treatment centers, their physicians, and parents.
There is no charge for attending the camp. It is
funded through local fund–raisers such as the Cattle
Baron’s Ball.
“I was fortunate enough to visit Boggy Creek
Camp this past summer, when we had our ROCK
program participants there,” said Atkinson. “The
kids are resilient. You would never think they were going through
treatment for cancer.”
The camp is a state–of–the–art facility with air–conditioned cabins,
a dining hall, and a special pool which can accommodate wheelchairs.
Medical care is provided on the premises around the clock.
The youngsters take part in a range of activities, including swim-
ming, fishing, horseback riding, and canoeing, as well as tell stories
around the campfire.
For more than 25 years, the Florida division of the ACS has
provided a place where kids with cancer can go and just be kids, said
Atkinson. “A portion of the funds we raise from the Cattle Baron’s Ball
supports the ROCK program. But no matter how much money we
receive from the ball, we never turn an applicant away.”
Cattle Baron’s Ball includes silent and live auctions to raise money
for the camp. This year, the items up for auction include a seven–day
stay at a luxury home in Palm Springs, Calif. Pieces of art, sculptures,
and theme–park tickets have been donated, too, for the auction.
The ACS also suports a college scholarship program. The Florida
division of ACS founded its program in 1992 to offer cancer survivors
hope for their future and a chance to reach their full potential.
Dr. Firas Muwalla of Space Coast Cancer Center chairs the 2012 Cattle Baron’sBall committee. James Atkinson, right, is area executive for the American CancerSociety in Brevard. The event is March 10 at the Hilton Melbourne Rialto. Theyare at Space Coast Cancer Center’s new facility in Viera.
BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth
FEBRUARY 20, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising Information
BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESS
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 12
Huddleston new vice president ofsales at Sorensen Office Solutions
Sorensen Corp. has announced the hiring of Heather
Huddleston. She recently joined the Sorensen Office
Solutions team as vice president of sales.
Huddleston brings years of experience and expertise not
only as a business–development professional but also as an
accomplished designer and consultant, said Paul
Kasprzak, president and chief executive officer of Sorensen
Office Solutions. “I worked very hard to get Heather on our
team,” he said.
“She is the complete package. Her depth of knowledge
in space planning, LEED certification, and project
management are perfectly balanced with her passion and
intelligence in crafting interior–design solutions.”
Before taking the VP reins at Sorensen Office Solutions,
Huddleston was the owner of Lotus Creations, where she
managed everything from design to construction manage-
ment to sustainability consulting.
Before that, she was a LEED administrator and
sustainability consultant at Ecopreserve.
From 2000 to 2010, Huddleston worked for leading
brands such as Herman Miller, Geiger, Bretford and First
Office as an account executive, and was a designer at
Workplace Resource of Central Florida.
“Many of the East Central Florida markets that
Sorensen Office Solutions now serves are largely untapped
and underserved,” said Huddleston. “Many business
owners and facility managers are not yet aware of the top–
quality office furnishings and ‘earth–friendly’ interior
design that can help drive success and harmony in their
workplace. I hope to change that very soon.”
Sorensen Office Solutions is East Central Florida’s only
locally owned Herman Miller office–furniture dealer.
Sorensen Office Solutions’ showroom is in Melbourne and
serves commercial, higher education, government and
state and local clients of all sizes and industries in
Brevard, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie
counties.
Central Florida Winds concert setThe Central Florida Winds will perform at 3 p.m. on
Sunday, March 4, at Suntree United Methodist Church,
7500 N. Wickham Road in Melbourne. The program will
include music for winds and transcriptions of important
orchestra works. The concert is offered to the community
free of charge, but to receive tickets to ensure admission,
call 223–6688 or go to www.cfwinds.org.
Conroy named manager at TD BankTD Bank has named Lisa Conroy the manager of the
Indialantic store at 417 5th Ave. As assistant vice presi-
dent, she is responsible for new business development,
consumer and business lending, managing personnel and
overseeing the day–to–day operations at the store serving
customers throughout the region. Conroy has 25 years
experience in retail banking. Before joining TD Bank, she
served as a store manager for Wells Fargo Bank in
Melbourne. Conroy is a member of the Melbourne
Regional Chamber of Commerce. A Melbourne resident,
Conroy volunteers with Habitat for Humanity of Brevard
County, 107.1 A1A’s Toys for Kids, and the Palm Bay High
School’s PiraTech Robotics program.
Andrettipick up BBN
1/30/12page 15
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Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationFEBRUARY 20, 2012 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 13
BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESSBrenner Real Estate Groupannounces lease transactions
Brenner Real Estate Group, a full–service commercial
real–estate firm based in Fort Lauderdale with offices at
Imperial Plaza in Melbourne, has announced a number of
lease renewals from Melbourne to Jacksonville.
Bert Freehof, vice president, was responsible for the
following lease:
l Save–A–Lot, a discount grocery store, has leased
12,211 square feet at the Family Dollar Center retail
building, 10690 Lem Turner Road, in Jacksonville.
According to Freehof, the tenant chose the property for its
“appropriate demographics, property access, size and lease
rate.” Freehof represented the seller, SHRI LLC. The co–
broker representing the tenant was Catherine Childers of
Childers Commercial Properties Inc.
Suzanne Lopez and Helen Weissman, commercial
associates, were responsible for these industrial lease
deals:
l John Deere Landscapes Inc. has leased 6,600 square
feet of warehouse space at 3163 SE Lionel Terrace, in
Stuart. Lopez and Weissman represented the tenant. The
landlord, Margaret Malle, was represented by David
Christenson of Christenson Commercial Real Estate.
Carla Casey, regional manager in Brevard, and Colette
Wood, commercial leasing and sales associate, were
responsible for the following transactions:
l Journey Church has renewed its lease of 3,600 square
feet of retail space within The Centre at Suntree, 6300 N.
Wickham Road, in Melbourne. Casey and Wood repre-
sented the landlord, Golden Triangle Realty LLC.
l Stifel, Nicolaus & Co., financial advisers, has renewed
its lease of 2,947 square feet of office space within Imperial
Plaza, 6765 N. Wickham Road. Casey and Wood repre-
sented the landlord, Sterwick Development Corp. The
tenant was represented by Scott Shelbourne of Cushman
& Wakefield.
l Francis Stewart CPA, a firm in operation for 11 years,
has renewed its lease of 1,983 square feet of retail space
within Suntree Plaza, 6939 N. Wickham Road, in
Melbourne. Casey and Wood represented the landlord,
St. Andrews–North LLC.
Wood also handled this transaction:
l Vesta Property Services LLC, an association manage-
ment firm, has leased 387 square feet of office space within
The 1900 Building, 1900 S. Harbor City Blvd., in
Melbourne. Wood represented the landlord, Kirit Smart.
Brenner Real Estate Group provides asset solutions,
Bank or its affi liates, not guaranteed by Regions Bank or its affi liates, not insured by any federal government agency, and may go down in value. **Insurance products or annuities sold through Regions Insurance, Inc., an affi liate of Regions Bank, are not FDIC-insured, not a deposit, not guaranteed by Regions Bank or its affi liates, not insured by any federal government agency, and may go down in value.
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CALL THE MOVERS.WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiidddddddddddddddddddddd tttttttttttttttttthhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuppppppppppppppppppppppppgggggggggggggggggggggggggrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrraaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaadddddddddddddddddddddddddeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeessssssssssssssssssssssss ssssssssssssssssssssssssoooooooooooooooooooooo yyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyooooooooooooooooooooouuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr bbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuusssssssssssssssssssssiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiinnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnneeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeesssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss cccccccccccccccccccaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmoooooooooooooooooooooovvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigggggggggggggggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhtttttttttttttttttttt iiiiiiiiiiiiiinnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn........ WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWeeeeeeeeeee dddddddddddddddiiiiiiiiiiidddddddd ttttttttttthhhhhhhhhhhhhee uuuuuupgradddddddddddddddeeeeeeesss sssssoo yyyyyouurrr bbbbbbbbbbbuuussiiiiiiinnnesssss cccccaaan mmmmmoveee rrrrriiiiiiiggghhhhhhhhhhtttttttt iiiiinnnWe did the upgrades so your business can move right in.
333332323232323232222255555 5 5 5555 FiFiFiFiFiFiFiiftftftftftftftftftftfttthhhhhhh h h hhhhh AAAAAvAvAvAvAvAvAvAvAvvveeeeee.e.e.e.e.eeeee , , , IIInInInInInInInnnnnnnddidididididididdidididiallalalalalalalalaalalannananananananananananttititititititititititic,c,ccc,c,c,ccccc FFFFF F FFFFLLLLL L LL 333323232323232323232229090909090909090909090909090333333333333325 Fifth Ave., Indialantic, FL 32903
FEBRUARY 20, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising Information
BBN
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 16
SPACE COAST BUSINESS
public–health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to
track incidence of diseases and conditions and causes of injury or death.
However, some details in the coding have drawn doctors’ scorn. The American Medical
Association’s House of Delegates went on record against implementing the changes last
November, with members citing the costs and loss of efficiency to their practices, and
casting doubt on the value of much of the information being collected.
Among the “too much information” examples cited by critics:
l W22.02XA “walked into lamppost, initial encounter” and W22.02XD for a follow–up
visit from the same injury;
l More than 300 codes for injuries related to animals, including 14 for horses and 13
codes each for wounds resulting from a duck, a macaw, a parrot, a turkey, goose or
chicken;
l Nine codes to describe infant injuries occurring in baby strollers, such as a fall or
collision;
l A futuristic seven primary codes to track initial injuries sustained by occupants of
spacecraft; plus a few more for medical problems resulting from “prolonged stay in a
weightless environment”;
It’s easy to imagine consumer watchdogs waiting anxiously for a V91.07XA — a “burn
due to jet ski on fire.”
Despite such exotic classifications, the reality is that better information is meant to
produce more accountability (right now there’s just one code for a failed implanted
medical device), less opportunity for health providers to game the system using vague
codes and greater understanding of what works and doesn’t work in patient care.
And if things don’t work out quite right, there’s ample opportunity for a do–over.
World Health Organization officials say ICD–11 will roll out soon, with the first nations
adopting that upgrade starting in 2015.
Diagnostic CodesContinued from page 1
Parrish Medical Center Foundation supportsbreast–cancer survivors with retreat program
TITUSVILLE — More women recovering from breast cancer will be able to benefit
from a free therapeutic weekend retreat, thanks to a $3,000 grant from the Jess Parrish
Medical Foundation and the Florida branch of the national Casting for Recovery charity.
A Casting for Recovery retreat combines counseling, education, medical information
and fly–fishing to help focus on wellness rather than illness and empowerment over
helplessness. Participants learn therapeutic skills in a supportive setting. Each 2–1/2 day
retreat hosts 14 women because small–group dynamics have been proven to give
maximum educational and psychosocial benefits.
A check was presented to Rosa Estela Flint, the coordinator for Casting for Recovery–
Florida, on Jan. 27. It is a nonprofit organization that offers free therapeutic retreats to
women who have had breast cancer.
The organization has been widely recognized in medical circles for giving breast–
cancer survivors “powerful healing tools,” away from the pressures of their homes and
illness, to overcome the challenges of breast cancer and focus on the road to recovery.
Jerry Allender, a partner with the law firm Allender & Allender and the chairman of
the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Grants Committee, said, “Again this year it is a
distinct honor and privilege to help this great program which supports a growing number
of women who are cancer survivors, from throughout the state.”
The grant from The Jess Parrish Medical Foundation will be used to help pay for the
next Casting for Recovery retreat, which is scheduled April 28–30. Women of any age and
any stage of the disease can apply to attend, with permission from their doctor.
The deadline is Feb. 26 for the retreat in April. Women who qualify are being asked to
apply online by going to www.castingforrecovery.org. Participants will be selected at
random from a pool of applicants from within the state. The retreat is free to the partici-
pants.
‘Acoustic Alliance’ to perform at libraryThe Cocoa Beach Library, 550 N. Brevard Ave., will present “Music on a Sunday
Afternoon” at 2 p.m. on Feb. 26. The program will feature “Acoustic Alliance.” This group
embraces traditional bluegrass, swing and gypsy jazz, and features three– and four–part
vocal harmonies as well as intricate and well–developed instrumental pieces.
Coffee & Chocolates
pick up BBN2/13/12page 16
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FEBRUARY 20, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising Information
BBN ADVERTISERS
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 18
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We Know Hearts.Heart Smart SpecialKnowing your heart numbers is one of the best ways to fight heart disease. As part of National Heart Month, anyone who completes a Lipid Profile for $10 will receive a free glucose screening. No appointments are needed – but you will have to fast for at least 10 hours prior to coming in (water and medications are OK). * This Heart Smart special is valid through February 29 at any of the Outpatient Collection Centers listed below. For more information, please call 1-800-522-6363.
PORT ST. JOHN 7227 North U.S. Highway 1Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. MERRITT ISLAND2400 N. Courtenay PkwyHours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Junior Achievement is an organization dedicated to
giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to
better understand economics and free enterprise, plan for
their future, and make smart academic choices. JA
programs are delivered in the classrooms by corporate and
community volunteers.
A. Duda & Sons was a growth business through the
decades. But when the 2008 recession hit, the company
had to reduce its 1,000–person work force in a big way.
“We had to cut our work force for the first time in 80
years,” said Joseph Duda, who headed the company then.
“We reduced our staff by 40 percent. We cut some
marginal businesses. That was the toughest decision I
think I ever faced in business. It was pure agony. But we
shared with them why we had to do it, and the people
accepted it unbelievably well. We tried to take care of
them.”
The real–estate bubble was especially painful for the
company. “Everybody was overenthusiastic, including us,
but that’s typical in a free society. That’s part of free
enterprise. And we are paying the consequences of the
showcase for the practice.
The firm has a staff of 60 people. The company sold its
Winter Park office in 2010, which was acquired through a
merger. But it still has a presence in Central Florida.
“We opened an office in downtown Orlando. We have
five people staffing it. We’re growing. It’s working out very
well,” Hopkins said. The office is in the Citrus Center, an
18–story landmark building.
The practice has been recognized with a number of
honors through the years, including being named to the
“Top 100 Companies for Working Families” by the
“Orlando Sentinel.”
The two businesses, A. Duda & Sons and Berman
Hopkins, have been consistent supporters of their
communities, both financially and through volunteer
work.
“We are in a number of communities,” said Joseph
Duda. “Our philosophy is that you get ahead in life by
giving, by giving of yourself and your resources to help
other people succeed. It comes back tenfold. And that’s
where happiness comes from, in my mind.”
John Hopkins said his wife Susan, who is one of the
founders of Serene Harbor Inc., a local shelter for victims
of domestic violence, “paved the way in their family for
community–service work. She is very involved.”
He added, “My own philosophy is that businesspeople
have an obligation to give back to their community. Our
firm, over many years, has supported a lot of organiza-
tions. I am very proud of that, and I hope it continues.”
The list of contribution and volunteer work includes
many health–related entities in the county.
Joseph Duda said his biggest reward running a
business “was seeing the people around me succeed.”
On lessons learned in business, he commented: “My
dad (Ferdinand) always told me that making small
mistakes was okay, but watch out for the big ones, they
tend to hurt you dearly.”
Both Joseph Duda and John Hopkins praised the
mission and the work of Junior Achievement of the Space
Coast and organization’s slant on getting young people
interested in entrepreneurship and the free enterprise
system.
“The organization plays an important role in Brevard
County, working closely with schools, in promoting
entrepreneurship and lighting the spark for students,”
said John Hopkins.
In a national survey recently released by Junior
Achievement USA and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce,
high–school juniors revealed their knowledge and
perceptions of entrepreneurship, free enterprise and
capitalism and how these factors influence their future
career choices.
The “Free Enterprise National Survey,” found that 64
percent of high–school juniors were interested in starting
or owning their own business. The survey also revealed
that many are concerned about the economy, and this
may result in fewer students choosing an entrepreneurial
career path. However, high–school juniors “strongly”
believe it is important that high–school students are
taught about entrepreneurship, free enterprise and
capitalism in school.
excesses,” said Joseph Duda.
He added, “Fortunately, our company’s diversification
has really helped. Agriculture has been strong through
the downturn in real estate. Celery has been our core
commodity ever since we started in business. It’s really
carried us through the last three years.”
Joseph Duda said he thinks the real–estate market is
poised for a recovery.
“It’s beginning to show signs of improvement. I know it
is in Viera. We’ve got some activity going on there. In
general, I think 2013 will be a recovery year in housing, at
least we’re hoping for it. Values have to improve. The
lending climate has to improve.”
Hopkins said he is beginning to see some improve-
ment, too, in the business market. As a CPA, he has
worked closely with many small–business owners. “I
moved here in 1973. I had just graduated from the
University of Kentucky, in Lexington,” he said.
His wife’s mother worked at Patrick Air Force Base.
“Susan (John’s wife) thought we should move to Brevard
so she could be close to her mother. I said okay, we’ll go
there for couple of years and then I would like to move
back to Lexington or another area.”
He added, “Well, I just fell in love with Brevard County
and never left. I have seen it grow tremendously. There
are a lot of business opportunities in the county. I was
here when Melbourne Square Mall was built and U.S. 192
was basically orange groves.”
In the early 1970s, when Hopkins arrived in the
county, there was only one CPA firm in South Brevard, he
said. He saw opportunity as an entrepreneur and in 1977
opened his own practice with a business partner.
Later, he hooked up with Lew Berman, who as a CPA
did a lot of work for the county. That relationship built the
foundation for Berman Hopkins Wright & LaHam.
“Back then,” said Hopkins, “there were six different
firms sharing the county work. It was viewed as a very big
job for this area. Roger Dobson and his CPA group had a
piece of it. Lew did some of the work and so did I.
I got to know Lew and his partner, Larry Shapiro, very
well. We decided to merge the practices in 1982. Larry
passed away in 1992; Lew retired in 1995. I’ve had a lot of
partners over the years.”
Hopkins said he sold his financial interest in Berman
Hopkins Wright & LaHam as part of a planned transition.
“It was time for me to step out of the business and make
way for the younger partners.”
In the early years of the new millennium, small
businesses and family run companies faced unprec-
edented transitional challenges as leadership shifted from
one generation to another. Many of these transitions
failed.
Both A. Duda & Sons and Berman Hopkins Wright &
LaHam are shining examples of successful succession
planning. “It was something we planned and worked on
for years as a firm,” said Hopkins, who was a tax and
audit partner.
He maintains an office at the firm in Viera on Spyglass
Hill Road. Several years ago, Berman Hopkins Wright &
LaHam, CPAs and Associates LLP, built a new corporate
office at Spyglass Plaza. The customized facility is a
The physicians of Parrish Healthcare Center at Port St. John welcome you!
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Patrick Sonser, MD321-433-2247
Neurosurgery
Aaron Smith, DO321-433-2247
Sports Medicine
Anthony Allotta, DO321-433-2247
Family Medicine
Julie Flick, MD321-504-0556
Family Medicine
Wendy Worsley, MD321-504-0556
Pediatrics
Shivani Mitra, MD, FAAP 321-690-0164
Pediatrics
Tarun Jain, MD, FAAP321-690-0164
To find physicians affiliated with Parrish Medical Center, go to wwwparrishmed.com and click on “Find a Physician” or call 321-636-9393.
MAMMOGRAPHY
MRI | CT | PET | SLEEP DISORDERS CENTER
PHYSICAL & OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
SELF-REFERRAL LAB TESTS | PHYSICIANS
5005 Port St. John ParkwayPort St. John, FL 32927
Obstetrics/Gynecology
Elvis Alfonso, MD321-504-1181
Endocrinology
Eugene H. Go, MD, FACE321-504-7375
Foot Surgeon
Jonathan J. Lubitz, DPM321-433-2247
®
Physicians within Parrish Healthcare Center at Port St. John are here to serve your needs. Physician offices are located on the second floor and accept new patients and most insurance plans. Please call the indi vidual physician for more infor mation.
