Mayor Alvin Brown announced the launch of Mayor Brown’s Leaders in Training program and introduced the inaugural class of 15 juniors and seniors from local colleges and universities. The city has joined with CSX, the JAX Chamber, Worksource, Edward Waters College, Florida State College at Jacksonville, Jacksonville University, Nova Southeastern University, the University of North Florida, Keiser University and the University of Phoenix to create this new public-private partnership for workforce development.

Mayor Brown’s Leaders in Training will support local college students in reaching their full career potential through skill-building workshops, internship work experience and mentoring from local business executives. The goal of the program is to grow and retain the regional talent pool of qualified professionals in every business sector over time with emphasis on targeted growth sectors. By keeping local talent, Mayor Brown’s initiative helps Jacksonville build its workforce to reach its potential.

Mayor Brown’s Leaders in Training will continue next year with more students receiving experience, training and mentoring in the workforce — another way the mayor is focusing on bold initiatives to improve Jacksonville.

First Coast Community Bank announced the promotions of Tony Brauda and Damon Olinto, Jr. Brauda, a 1991 graduate of Florida Community College in Jacksonville, has been with First Coast Community Bank for 20 years and is moving from Senior Vice President of Retail Banking to Executive Vice President. Brauda will continue to manage all of the retail efforts of the bank and will still serve as a senior leader on First Coast Community Bank’s executive team.

Olinto was promoted from a manager of the SBA credit to Assistant Vice President. Olinto joined First Coast Community Bank in 2010 and joined the Synovus team four years ago from the management associate program through Synovus. Olinto earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Florida, where he also earned his Bachelor of Arts in Finance with a real estate concentration.

For more information, contact First Coast Community Bank at 904-277-4400, toll-free at 888-SBA-BANK (722-2265) or online at www.fccbank.com.

The Alliance for Workplace Excellence has named Foundation Financial Group one of the 2012 EcoLeadership award winners. The EcoLeadership Award was launched in 2009 and honors companies that recognize the importance of environmental sustainability and that demonstrate a commitment to being eco-friendly.

Foundation Financial Group was selected because the company is dedicated to the environment in waste minimization, energy demand and supply, building operations and pollution prevention.

The Alliance for Workplace Excellence will host its annual awards luncheon from on June 11, 2012 at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. At this event, 73 businesses will be honored and more than 500 area business executives are expected to attend; 28 companies will be receiving the EcoLeadership Award.

For more information, call 866-334-1001.

Davidson Realty, Inc. welcomes Sandy Frey to its team of real estate agents. Frey has years of diverse experience in customer service, banking, and operations. Says Davidson Realty President Sherry Davidson, “Sandy brings with her a wealth of well-rounded, customer-focused insight and we’re excited to welcome her to our real estate team.”

Originating from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, Frey has called St. Augustine home for more than 26 years. Prior to embarking on her recent journey to become a licensed real estate agent, Frey had several successful endeavors. She spent eight years working with local banks and 10 years as owner of a nail salon, in addition to earning certifications as a cosmetologist and “Learn to Read” Instructor.

For more information about Davidson Realty, call 904-940-5000 or visit www.DavidsonRealtyinc.com, Fan them on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/DavidsonRealty, follow them on Twitter at http://twitter.com/DavidsonRealty or visit their videos on YouTube at www.youtube.com/user/DavidsonRealtyInc.

WebbMason (www.webbmason.com), an integrated marketing solutions and services company headquartered in suburban Baltimore, has expanded its social media marketing capabilities through formalizing its partnership with Make Me Social, a social marketing agency based in St. Augustine.

The agreement expands WebbMason’s social media services with capabilities that include social media strategy and policy development, content creation, and social media interaction management through blogs, major social networking sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, and YouTube. The new services WebbMason Social Media Services complement the existing social application, website and microsite development capabilities offered by WebbMason Interactive.

For more information, visit www.webbmason.com. Social Media: @WebbMason, @makemesocial, #socialmedia

Foundation Financial Group recently eclipsed the $4 billion mark in loans funded and continues to experience strong growth across all of its business sectors. With the number of loans funded by Foundation Financial Group, the company continues to help Americans afford their homes and improve their financial situations.

Foundation Financial Group experienced record-breaking months in the fourth quarter of 2011 and the first quarter of 2012. The company’s mortgage division ended November 2011 at 11% higher than November 2010, which was the record for Foundation Financial Group’s mortgage division.

The mortgage division finished January 2012 at three percent higher than November 2011, which was also a previous record month for the company’s mortgages. The month of March 2012 was another record-breaking month for its mortgage business. Overall, the company finished the first quarter of 2012 at 10.4 percent higher than its previous best quarter. The company’s insurance division and tax divisions also experienced a record-breaking month in March.

For more information, call 866-334-1001 or visit www.ffg.com.

Mayor Alvin Brown will host the second Business Builder summit on Thursday, May 17, from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and Friday, May 18, from 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, 1000 Water Street, 32202.

Mayor Brown’s Business Builder is designed to help small businesses gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed and to help them learn about gaining access to capital and credit. Topics will range from financing to franchising to marketing strategies.

The event will feature instructional sessions including:

· Franchising and Economic Development

· Investing and Creative Funding for Small Businesses

· International Trade

Guest speakers include Mayor Anthony Foxx, Charlotte North Carolina; John Amos, CEO Tasti D-Lite; Don Fox, CEO Firehouse Subs; Kay Ainsley, Managing Director, MSA Worldwide; Eugene Profit, CEO Profit Investment Management; Robert Blackwell, EKI Consulting; Jason Teichman, WEB.com, Government Services Administration, Small Business Administration, US Department of Labor.

Enrollment is free, however registration is required. Space is limited. For more information, visit www.coj.net.

President Bill Clinton delivered remarks at an economic summit hosted by Mayor Alvin Brown where business leaders made landmark commitments to public-private partnerships to accomplish the mayor’s goal of taking Jacksonville to the next level.

The economic summit on Friday, May 11, featured commitments from six companies in Jacksonville that will contribute resources to aid Mayor Brown’s priorities. The corporate commitments align with top policy initiatives of Mayor Brown to run the city government effectively and efficiently, partner successfully with the private sector, and make bold policy decisions for the best return on investment for taxpayers. The announcements took place at the Terry Theater of the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts.

The commitments and business leaders joining Mayor Brown were:

Jacksonville Jaguars – Peter Racine, President, Jacksonville Jaguar Foundation. Owner Shahid Khan and the Jacksonville Jaguars have made a $1 million financial commitment along with leadership support to aid our military veterans in assimilating back into the community when they return from service.

Florida Blue – Pat Geraghty, President & CEO. Florida Blue has committed to invest $2 million in 2012 to improve the quality of life in Jacksonville through non-profit programs, and commit to invest at least $1 million annually for the next three years.

Wells Fargo – Scott Coble, Regional President for North Florida. Wells Fargo is committing to $1 million of support for neighborhood stabilization efforts, to include incentives to motivate homebuyers to purchase homes in Jacksonville neighborhoods.

CSX – Fred Eliasson, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer. Michael Ward, chairman, president and chief executive officer, and CSX are committed to actively supporting programs tied to downtown development, job creation, education and veterans/military affairs today, and is committed to working with the mayor.

Terrell Hogan – Wayne Hogan, President. Wayne Hogan, president of the Terrell Hogan law firm, has committed to support the mayor’s priority on education and on parks and recreation with a $200,000 financial commitment to advance specific programs directed toward our community youth and young adults.

Farrah & Farrah – Attorneys Eddie Farah and Charlie Farah . Farah & Farah of Jacksonville have committed to support the mayor’s priorities with a $200,000 financial commitment to Downtown.

More than 20 companies and educational institutions participated in the Military Veterans’ Job Fair at TPC Sawgrass including Deutsche Bank Jacksonville. Open to active duty, reserve and retired military and veterans, the job fair featured actively hiring companies with military-friendly hiring policies and practices. Approximately 375 people attended the event.

“Military veterans receive significant training and experience during their service and have the proven potential to become disciplined, dedicated employees,” said Deutsche Bank Jacksonville Managing Director and Brigadier General (Ret.) Michael Fleming, Head of Deutsche Bank’s Global Business Center in Jacksonville, who served more than 30 years in the armed forces. “We are proud to support community initiatives that honor and assist the military.”

Deutsche Bank is committed to helping local active duty, guard and reserve, retired military and veterans find applicable job opportunities. Its Veterans on Wall Street (VOWS) initiative nationally and locally provides support to facilitate career and business opportunities for former military personnel in the financial services industry. Deutsche Bank Jacksonville also helped to establish the Jacksonville Military Veterans Coalition and its Job for Vets program that provides job-hunting assistance for veterans on the City of Jacksonville’s website.

For more information, visit www.db.com

BYO Recreation, a leading supplier of playground and recreation equipment headquartered in St. Augustine, announces its acquisition of Teachers’ School Supply Inc. (TSS).

Teachers’ School Supply started out small in 1987, with their selection consisting of only crayons, markers and pens. Since then, they have expanded to include a wider range of school furniture, as well as school equipment and supplies, turning into a one-stop shop for churches, daycares and schools.

Marking the company’s 26th year in business, Teachers’ School Supply is now part of the BYO Recreation family. BYO is one of the most comprehensive and fastest growing recreational equipment suppliers in the world having supplied schools, daycares and churches nationwide with playground equipment for more than 12 years. This latest addition of TSS to BYO Recreation’s family is helping to make the company a complete resource for schools.

Being one of the largest school furniture, equipment, and supplies distributors in the country, TSS carries only high-quality, affordable products. The company’s unrivaled customer service aligns with BYO Recreation’s mission to provide total customer satisfaction. This will help create a seamless customer experience between both companies.

Looking toward the future, Teachers’ School Supply will maintain their commitment to excellence and work closely with BYO Recreation to achieve the mutual goal of total customer satisfaction.

For additional information about BYO Recreation, visit www.byoplayground.com. For more information about Teachers’ School Supply, visit www.teacherssupply.com.

Davidson Property Management, Inc. welcomes licensed agent Shelby Heinemann as Property Manager. Heinemann brings more than five years of experience as a property manager and Realtor to her new position.

Heinemann moved to the Jacksonville area in 2004 from Wisconsin, where she was born and raised. She also lived in Maryland for two years, where she met her husband Jeff. In addition to being a mother of three, Heinemann is active in the St. Johns County School District and serves as co-chair of the Student Advisory Council at Wards Creek Elementary School.

Heinemann completed coursework at the Property Management Academy and she belongs to the National Association of Residential Property Managers.

For more information, call 904-940-5000 or visit www.DavidsonRealtyinc.com.

On Wednesday, May 23,the Ponte Vedra Chamber After Hours event will take place from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Aqua Grill located at 950 Sawgrass Village Drive, Ponte Vedra Beach, 32082.

The event, sponsored by Aqua Grill and represented by April Hart, will cost $15 for pre-paid members with reservations and $20 for guests and for members at the door.

Call 904-285-2004 for information or visit the online registration and pre-payment site http://pontevedrachamber.org/chamber-events/.

The JAX Chamber welcomes Tony Allegretti as the Director of Downtown Engagement, a newly-created position focused specifically on enhancing the urban core and engaging members in Downtown activities.

A local entrepreneur and Downtown advocate, Allegretti will lead the Chamber’s Downtown initiatives and streamline efforts to enhance the urban core. Reporting to JAX Chamber Vice President of Operations, Anna Valent, he will collaborate with other Downtown-focused entities, such as Downtown Vision and the City of Jacksonville, to promote and implement activities that attract more residents and visitors to the urban core.

Allegretti has 15 years’ experience in business, marketing and public relations. He was most recently a senior consultant at Keymer, a corporate affairs consulting firm. Allegretti is a partner of Gallery Restaurant Group LLC, which includes Burrito Gallery Downtown, Burrito Gallery at EverBank Field, Burrito Gallery Express at Jacksonville Beach and Uptown Market in Springfield. He is the founding director of the Riverside Arts Market and First Wednesday Art Walk. Art Walk’s economic impact since 2003 is estimated at $10 million.

Beaver Street Enterprise Center is hosting “Strategic Marketing for Small Business” on May 30 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Beaver Street Enterprise Center located at 1225 W. Beaver Street, Jacksonville, 32204.

In this three hour hands on workshop, you will learn a simple five-part formula to growing your business that, when applied, can easily, grow any business by 20%, 30% 50% or more. This event is designed to help small businesses create an effective marketing plan and will also educate and empower you to answer such questions such as, “What makes your business unique?” “Why do customers buy from you?” And, “Who is your target market?”

Register online at http://strategicmarket53012.eventbrite.com. For more information, call 904-265-4700 or email angelia.redding@bsecenter.net.

Root Theory Advisors announces the official launch of the Relevancy Revolution Tour, taking place on May 9 at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront beginning at 8 a.m. and continues until 4:30 p.m.

As nationally-known, professional development company that champions the cause of executive leadership and growth, Root Theory’s Relevancy Revolution Tour will bring together the rock stars of the business world for an action-packed, high-energy experience filled with information and insight that will motivate, challenge and inspire thousands.

Tickets for the first Relevancy Revolution Tour stop in Jacksonville are on sale and still available now, while additional city stops will be added in the coming weeks. With hundreds of executives from all industries expected to attend each city’s event, The Relevancy Revolution Tour’s network of internationally known executives, coaches and leaders will change the way attendees think about business by uncovering the challenges and opportunities currently facing professionals today. With close to 20 speakers on-board to participate nationally, the tour is proud to announce the impressive list of speakers on-tap for Jacksonville’s launch event, including Bob Burg, Ridgely Goldsborough, Jon Gordon, Marissa Levin, Willie Jolley, and Ron Zook.

For more information, to register, visit www.relevancyrevolution.com or call +1 866-611-0638. For news about Root Theory join the Relevancy Revolution Facebook fan page or follow @relevancytour on Twitter.

Foundation Financial Group, with local offices at 225 Water Street, Suite 2100, has promoted George A. Stone from division general manager to executive vice president for the company’s southern region. He will report to the company’s CEO Mark W. Boyer.

A Tampa native, Stone has 13 years of mortgage-related experience and, in his new role, oversees all mortgage sales in the southern United States for Foundation Financial Group, which is licensed in 38 states.

In his past position as division general manager, Stone closed about one-third of all loans for the company. He also recognized and promoted exceptionally talented employees such as Gregory G. Ludwig, in Savannah, Ga., and Gregory A. Trew, in Jacksonville Fla., to division general managers at their respective locations. Stone also promoted and transferred 12 managers to other divisions within the company.

For more information, call 866-334-1001 or visit ffg.com.

Jen Jones Art Consulting (JJac) announces the acquisition of the Gallery L space at the Wells Fargo building on Independent Drive. On June 6, 2012, JJac will celebrate the grand opening of the gallery during Art Walk.

Jones, a graduate of UNF, was awarded the 2009-10 Outstanding Alumna Award for the creation of a permanent Art History of North Florida collection, which will be completed in December 2012. To date, $233,000 in art donations have been raised to benefit UNF’s Thomas G. Carpenter Library.

Gallery L is a key Art Walk space, and has been instrumental in showcasing work from around the region for many years. Jen Jones Art Consulting will continue this tradition in the future, helping Jacksonville move forward through the arts.

Financial Design Associates has hired Cheryl Canzanella as its new Brokerage Director. Prior to joining MassMutual, Canzanella began her sales career in 1999 as an Internal Annuity Wholesaler with Merrill Lynch. Since then, her past experience includes several areas including financial advisor, principal compliance supervisor and recruiting for several well-known companies and independent brokerage firms.

A graduate of Palm Beach Atlantic University, she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management. She founded the Northeast Florida Chapter of Women in Insurance and Financial Services and currently serves as the chapter President and a member of National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors and serves as the Young Advisor Team Chair for Jacksonville.

On Wednesday, May 16, the Ponte Vedra Chamber At Noon Luncheon will take place at Sawgrass Country Club, 10034 Golf Club Drive, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event, sponsored by Black Tie Valet and represented by Tona Osborn, will feature guest speaker State Representative Dr. Ronald Renuart. Cost is $25 for members with reservations, or $30 for guests and members at the door.

Call 904-285-2004 for reservations.

The First Coast Manufacturers Association (FCMA) conducted its 22nd annual golf tournament to fund engineering scholarships to the University of North Florida (UNF).

Approximately 144 golfers participated in the event held at the Deercreek Golf and Country Club. Over 60 area companies were represented.

“Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward paying for engineering scholarships each year, in addition to building our college endowment program,” said Lake Ray, FCMA president.

“Education, particularly, the science, math, chemistry and engineering fields, is critical to our community’s workforce,” Ray explained. “We must have an educated talent pool available for manufacturers or any high tech companies doing business in Jacksonville. By offering scholarships and tying them to the outstanding engineering program at UNF, we hope to be able to help supply qualified employees to area businesses.”

Additional information available at www.fcmaweb.com.

The JAX Chamber, Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) and Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) joined a statewide effort to highlight the importance of international trade as a powerful driver of economic growth in the Northeast Florida region and state of Florida. May is Florida World Trade Month. Numerous organizations including Enterprise Florida, the Florida Chamber of Commerce and ports throughout the state are working together to raise awareness of Florida’s critical role in the global economy.

Florida currently ranks fourth in the nation for international trade and commerce. As a result of major developments occurring at airports and seaports throughout the state, Florida is fast becoming the Southeast U.S. hub for international imports and export cargo.

JAXPORT generates more than $19 billion in annual economic impact and currently generates 65,000 jobs in the North Florida region. JAXPORT’s Talleyrand, Blount Island and Dames Points Marine Terminals handled more than 8 million tons of cargo in 2011. In the same year, Jacksonville became the largest container port in Florida and maintained its spot as the nation’s number one vehicle export port. JAXPORT is located within an eight-hour drive of more than 65 percent of the U.S. consumer market.

In order to reach its full potential, JAXPORT’s infrastructure needs include repairing the Mile Point navigational hazard, deepening the channel and developing additional on-dock rail and continuing to improve existing terminal docks and equipment in order to handle an expected doubling of cargo during the next 20 years.

Florida World Trade Month 2012 runs through May 31. The honorary chair is Florida Secretary of Commerce Gray Swoope. To learn more, visit www.floridaworldtrademonth.com.

Panache, a St. Augustine and Julington Creek company with Aveda Lifestyle Store, Salon and Spas, held a cut-a-thon fundraiser for St. Johns Riverkeeper at the Julington Creek salon, 2758 Racetrack Road, #403 in Jacksonville. The event featured 20 Panache hair stylists who donated their time and expertise with 140 haircuts including style and care consultations, stress relieving treatments, head massages, shampoos, and haircuts and blow-dries.

The cut-a-thon raised $3,600 which will be donated to St. Johns Riverkeeper with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the local non-profit. St. Johns Riverkeeper works on behalf of the community for clean and healthy waters in the St. Johns River.

For close to 25 years, Panache owner Kristy Weeks and her team of award winning salon and spa staff members have participated in a wide variety of community service activities to give back to the local area and to worldwide environmental initiatives.

Weeks added that she is honored to be able to donate to those in need and to the planet with two highly successful salon and spa locations, and a dedicated team of professionals and supportive customers.

For more information, contact Kristy Weeks at 904.461.9552 or 904.209.1320. Email: kristy@getpanache.com. Visit the website at www.getpanache.com.

Dozens of Northeast Florida’s local marketers, professionals and local business owners recently attended the Making of VyStar’s Money Makeover Program event hosted by the Jacksonville chapter of the American Marketing Association (JAMA). JAMA’s monthly event featured Judy Walz, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Planning with VyStar Credit Union.

Since creating VyStar’s Money Makeover Competition, about four years ago, the company has seen a huge increase in the community’s savings and a great reduction in the community’s debt. Walz provided how the successful program started, how it was implemented and which best marketing techniques helped lead to its success.

Event sponsors included Fairfield Inn & Suites, Palm Valley Imaging and Advantage Biz Mag.

For more information, visit JaxAMA.org

The JAX Chamber welcomes Dr. Carlton Robinson as the senior director for its Entrepreneurial Growth Division, expanding capabilities for the organization to serve its members, entrepreneurs and the community.

Reporting to Sandy Bartow, vice president for the Entrepreneurial Growth Division and President of the JAX Chamber Foundation, Robinson will implement services and programs for small businesses and second stage company clients in the seven-county region and focus on job creation.

Robinson will also recruit, retain and manage volunteers. Participating on the Division’s three advisory boards, he will ensure a high level of customer service for clients, volunteers and investors. He is responsible for the division meeting grant requirements and sponsor agreements and will measure and track impact data.

While Robinson assumes responsibilities of the new position, Bartow will dedicate more time to leading the JAX Chamber Foundation and focus on funding for workforce development and leadership and entrepreneurial education programs.

For more information, visit JAX Chamber.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has partnered with the Florida 8(a) Alliance and has planned a conference for June 5-6 at the University of North Florida to provide training for firms participating in the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program as well as firms in Florida that are interested in government contracting.

The conference will be attended by Cassius Butts, SBA Regional Administrator, Wilfredo J. Gonzalez, SBA North Florida District Director, and SBA’s Kenneth Hamilton, Business Development Division Supervisor.

More information on the First Annual Florida 8(a) Alliance Conference is available at http://www.florida8a.org. All active 8(a) firms in Florida will be provided with one free ticket to a principal of the company to attend. All other businesses should visit the website regarding any fees to attend the conference.

The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program is designed to support and prepare small disadvantaged firms with various forms of management and technical assistance to enable them to successfully compete for procurement and other business opportunities. For more information on the program, please visit www.sba.gov.

Additional support and resources for business owners that are interested in government contracting may be obtained through the Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTAC). More information on the PTAC program is available at http://www.fptac.org/.

The physician practices of Jacksonville Heart Center and Southern Heart Group announce they have become a division of Baptist Health called Baptist Heart Specialists, forming a full-spectrum specialty practice for cardiology services that includes 27 specialists with eight offices serving patients along Florida’s first coast.

Office locations and phone numbers of the practices will remain the same, and so will the familiar staff. This new division of Baptist Health will encompass a complete network of cardiac and vascular services, providing an integrated system of cardiovascular care that is unprecedented in our region.

The physicians of Baptist Heart Specialists will continue to provide key leadership for the heart programs at Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, Baptist Medical Center Beaches, Baptist Medical Center South, and Baptist Medical Center Nassau, all of which are Accredited Chest Pain Centers noted for meeting or exceeding national standards for evidence-based diagnosis and treatment of heart attacks.

For more information, visit www.e-baptisthealth.com.

Scott Mueller has joined Burdette Ketchum as Executive Vice President, Strategy & Integration, bringing more than 20 years of strategic expertise in successful marketing and branding programs to the marketing consulting and communications firm.

A senior marketing executive, Mueller has a proven track record of success on both the client and agency sides of the business across a wide range of national and international industries and brands including Campbell Soup Company, Pepperidge Farm, Colgate-Palmolive and Pfizer Consumer Health. In his new role, he will serve as the agency’s senior lead for account management and strategy, integrating all of Burdette Ketchum’s marketing disciplines and services to better serve the firm’s clients.

For more information about Burdette Ketchum, visit www.burdetteketchum.com.

Five members of Foundation Financial Group’s executive team are prepared to go “Over the Edge” of one of the tallest buildings in Jacksonville to support the North Florida Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

Foundation Financial Group’s CEO Mark W. Boyer, President Kris S. Williams, CFO Tanya L. Mauro, CIO Rolf Wilck and COO of Subsidiaries David Gueterman have spent several weeks raising money to rappel down the AT&T Tower, located at 301 E. Bay Street, on May 17 and 18.

In order to rappel from the AT&T Tower, participants were required to raise $1,000 each, though Foundation Financial Group is making an additional monetary donation to the cause. The event saw 58 people go over the edge in 2011.

For more information, call 866-334-1001 or visit ffg.com.

NTE Energy announces it has been awarded a patent by the United States Patent & Trademark Office for its proprietary biomass hybrid renewable energy technology. This technology revolutionizes the production of renewable energy by allowing the simultaneous operation of a biomass energy cycle in concert with a traditional power plant. Patent number US 8,161,724 was issued on April 24, 2012.

“This patent represents a game-changing moment for the renewable energy industry,” said Seth Shortlidge, President and CEO of NTE Energy. “Our technology will help generators provide reliable, low cost, efficient electricity, while creating new economic opportunities and jobs. NTE Energy’s hybrid technology creates significant benefits by decreasing use of fossil fuels in power generation, increasing domestic renewable energy production, and providing the forestry and agriculture sectors with solutions for their biomass residuals.”

NTE Energy will utilize this technology in the development, construction and operation of new hybrid renewable power generation facilities located throughout the United States, including projects under development in Florida, North Carolina and Virginia. As an alternative, NTE Energy will license the technology to other parties, including independently owned hybrid renewable energy facilities.

For more information, visit www.nteenergy.com.

NAIOP of Northeast Florida, the region’s commercial real estate authority and trade association, announces its quarterly luncheon on May 9 featuring guest speaker Renee Finley, head of the Office of Public-Private Partnerships with the City of Jacksonville. The lunch will begin at 11:30 a.m. on May 9 at the Florida Blue Conference Center on Deerwood Campus Parkway. The luncheon is open to everyone with tickets priced $25 for NAIOP members and $40 for non-members.

Finley will speak on the topic, “Public-Private Partnerships: An Effective Model for Real Estate Development and Asset Optimization.” In her role with the City of Jacksonville, Finley is responsible for advocating and facilitating private sector and non-profit community involvement in the delivery of public services and the ownership and operation of public facilities.

She is also responsible for encouraging the use of public-private partnerships to support the mayor’s priorities, as well as facilitating state, national and international initiatives and research regarding the use of public-private partnerships for the provision of public services and public facilities. In addition to her role with the city, Finley is also the vice president of Corporate and Market Strategy at Florida Blue.

Space is limited and registration can be completed online at www.naiopnefl.com or by calling Carmel Buchanan at 904-730-8075.

On Wednesday, May 9, the Ponte Vedra Chamber Before Hours Breakfast will take place at The Player’s Café located at 262 Solana Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082.

The event, sponsored by Awad Wealth Management and represented by Jon Awad, will begin at 7:30 a.m. and end at 8:30 a.m. Cost is $7.50 for members; $10 for guests. Call 904-285-2004 for more information.

The JAX Chamber will host a delegation to Cincinnati, Ohio’s third-largest metropolitan statistical area (MSA), for its 32nd Annual Leadership Trip Oct. 23 to 25, 2012. Participants will learn how Cincinnati’s leaders addressed key initiatives related to the city’s economic development, public private partnerships, downtown revitalization, education reform and sports and entertainment marketing.

“We selected Cincinnati as our destination this year because we can learn from their success with initiatives that are top priorities in our region,” said Chamber Chair-Elect Greg Smith, the Northeast Florida Market President for Bank of America. “In recent years, the greater Cincinnati area has made tremendous strides in numerous areas including the revitalization of its urban core through the Cincinnati Center City Development Corp (3CDC). We are excited to learn how the 3CDC and other vital initiatives are supporting the community’s strategic goals.”

To learn more, visit www.myjaxchamber.com.

The Blood Alliance (TBA) announces the upcoming 2012 Jacksonville Sharks Blood Drive held at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. All who register to donate blood will be automatically entered into a random drawing to win a 2012 Honda Civic LX* compliments of HondasForLess.net.

The Sharks blood drives will take place at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena (300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32202) on the following days:

Friday, May 4th 5pm – 8pm

Saturday, May 19th 4pm – 7pm

Saturday, June 2nd 4pm – 7pm

Saturday, June 16th 4pm – 7pm

Saturday, June 23rd 4pm – 7pm

Friday, July 6th 5pm – 8pm

Saturday, July 14th 4pm – 7pm

To make an appointment to donate, visit www.igiveblood.com, use the iPhone and Droid app at “iDon8” or call The Blood Alliance at: 888-99-TBA HERO (888.998.2243).

The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville will celebrate cultural leaders, performers, and artists at its 2012 “City Lights” Arts Awards on Tuesday, May 8, from 6-9 p.m. on the 28th floor of AT&T Tower, in the studio of artist Christina Foard.

The Individual Arts Award will be presented to Susan Greene for her efforts in community-wide arts advocacy and her volunteer leadership with the Cathedral Arts Project.

UNF percussion professor Charlotte Mabrey will receive the Arts Educator Award for decades of dedication to her students, performing excellence as a past lead percussionist of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, and her innovative performance art.

Burdette Ketchum will receive the Small Business Award for its in-kind contributions of public relations and creative design service to the Jacksonville Symphony and Downtown Vision, Inc.’s First Wednesday ArtWalk.

The first-ever Innovator Award will be presented to landscape architect Christopher D. Flagg for his leadership in design perspectives benefitting the city through service on the Downtown Development Review Board, the SPARK Redevelopment Plan, JaxPride, and Downtown Vision, Inc.

Additionally, the family of Ann M. Baker, a founder of the Cultural Council, will be presented with the Individual Hall of Fame Award in her memory.

The evening will begin with the awards presentation, followed by a party with a birds-eye view of downtown Jacksonville. Artists, performers and special guests will be featured throughout the evening.

Tickets are $75 per person, $275 for a group of four. Tickets may be purchased online, www.culturalcouncil.org or by calling 904-358-3600, ext. 10.

An official launch party to introduce It’sTimeWeDonate.com will be held at the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium inside The Museum of Science and History, 1025 Museum Circle, on May 15 from 2:30-4 p.m.

It’sTimeWeDonate.com, courtesy of Synovus Bank and Client Focused Media, is a website where non-profit groups can register their needs for volunteers. This new tool provides companies and service organizations a way to give their employees and members opportunities for community involvement—one-time projects or continuing needs. Companies or organizations with volunteers to supply can visit the site, see which projects meet their volunteer goals, and sign up. The site is also open to individuals who have time to give and are looking for ways to help the community.

Volunteer hours for each company are tracked on It’sTimeWeDonate.com, and Synovus Bank will present a Volunteer of the Month award to the company whose employees have logged the most volunteer hours. The winners will receive recognition in trade publications.

Representatives of all area non-profit groups, interested companies, and media are invited to the launch party. Refreshments and hors d’oeuvres will be served. To RSVP for the launch party, contact Madalyn Tavares at Client Focused Media by calling 904-232-3001 or emailing mtavares@cfmedianet.

Advanced Disposal Services Inc. announced the promotion of Tim Turbeville to route supervisor. In his new role, Turbeville will be responsible for eight recycling routes in Clay County, Keystone Heights and newly added Orange Park, with service beginning June 1.

Turbeville joined Advanced Disposal in 2009 and most recently worked as a team leader recycle driver covering the same routes he will now be supervising. In addition to overseeing the drivers, trucks and ensuring all safety and maintenance protocol is adhered to, Turbeville will assist with a smooth transition in Orange Park, after the town voted to privatize its solid waste services in March.

For more information regarding Advanced Disposal, please visit www.AdvancedDisposal.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AdvancedDisposal.

Prudential Network Realty has a new home in San Marco Square. The Northeast Florida real estate firm has expanded its San Marco office and moved to a larger, more prominent storefront located at 1983 San Marco Blvd.

Prudential Network Realty is the only real estate company with an office in San Marco Square and its storefront windows showcase the company’s listings in the area. The newest branch office location is called the “metro-office” because it represents metropolitan style and features a welcoming environment designed for customer service and convenience.

All of the company’s branch offices are wireless, but the new San Marco office is equipped with the latest in technology and provides a “plug and play” environment for its agents to drop in and do business before moving on to their next destination.

For more information, call 904-388-5005 or visit www.PrudentialNetworkRealty.com.

Clemons/Rutherford and Associates, a Tallahassee architecture firm, hired Brazil Business Solutions for strategy, counsel and services related to developing joint venture business opportunities in Brazil.

For more information, go to www.mybusinessinbrazil.com or contact Alan Vinson at 904-233-2856.

A team of employees from Foundation Financial Group’s Jacksonville regional center, located at 225 Water St., Suite 2100, participated in a Walk to Defeat ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) event benefiting the ALS Association, Florida Chapter. Foundation Financial Group employees volunteered their time at the event and made a monetary donation to the organization.

For more information, call 866-334-1001 or visit ffg.com.

The Health Planning Council of Northeast Florida proudly announces the election of Board Member, Susan Ponder-Stansel, to the position of Board Chair, effective immediately. Ms. Ponder-Stansel is the president & CEO of Community Hospice of Northeast Florida and has served on the Health Planning Council’s Board of Directors more than four years.

Ponder-Stansel is a board-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Florida, holds certification as an Advanced Certified Hospice Executive (ACHE) and participates on several healthcare-related advisory boards and healthcare non-profit Boards of Directors in Florida. Susan is a graduate of the Leadership Jacksonville Class of 1991, and has served as a Trustee of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and as a member of the Jacksonville Women’s Network.

Other officers serving on the Health Planning Council board this year include: Vice Chair Steve Blumberg, Vice President Planning & Business Development at Shands Healthcare at the University of Florida; Treasurer Patrick Johnson, administrator at Flagler County Public Health Department; Secretary Linda Merrell, Health and Human Services Consultants, Inc.; and Executive Committee Member at Large Stephen Lovett, partner at Ervin Lovett Miller.

More information can be found at www.hpcnef.org.

The St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce has a new tool to promote Chamber businesses and help individual Chamber members shop local and support other Chamber member businesses wherever they go. “My Chamber App” is a free smart phone application currently available for download on iPhone, Android and Blackberry platforms.

Using GPS technology, the My Chamber App includes a listing of all St. Johns County Chamber members searchable by name or category. The categories cover a host of local businesses including government offices, retail operations, restaurants and places of worships. The application is very easy to navigate. Users can search by category or company name to discover new businesses or find out information about known favorites, including upcoming events or promotions. Results are listed by proximity and sent directly to users, making it possible to view business information, directions and place a call directly to the business.

The St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Old Town Trolley of St. Augustine to promote the application and reach out to visitors and tourists. The company is marketing My Chamber App with signage at the Trolley’s ticket sale locations and in other promotional materials.

The application is currently used by more than 200 participating chambers of commerce across the country. With its GPS-enabled technology, My Chamber App connects to the closest participating chamber, making it possible for members of the St. Johns County Chamber to shop local and support other chamber businesses wherever they are via their mobile devices.

Any company or individual that joins the St. Johns County Chamber is automatically enrolled in My Chamber app free of charge. All St. Johns County Chamber events also are listed on My Chamber App. Chamber members that wish to upgrade their services may do so for an additional fee.

To download the app, visit www.mychamberapp.com or search for the mychamberapp in the Apple Store, Android Market or Blackberry App World. More information about St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce membership is available at www.sjcchamber.com.

Registration for the May session of Mayor Brown’s Business Builder is now open. The two-day event held at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, 1000 Water Street, 32204, is full of expert panels, speakers, and a business opportunity expo designed to help every level of entrepreneur.

Day one, Thursday, May 17, provides topics on franchising and economic development, investing and creative funding for small business, and international trade and exports—followed by a business opportunities expo from noon to 5:30 p.m.

Day two, Friday, May 18, is focused on planning for business growth with topics covering overcoming challenges for aspiring entrepreneurs and creating brand identity, business expansion, government contracting, 21st century marketing, and employment and labor laws

Click here to register.

After being recognized as one of Northeast Florida’s top locally owned real estate companies and one of Jacksonville’s best places to work, Lifestyles Realty Web is proud to announce they have moved to a new showcase office in the Marsh Landing shopping center.

Lifestyles Realty’s new office is open Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and is located at 586 Marsh Landing Parkway.

For more information, contact Lifestyles Realty Web at 904-853-6386, visit LifestylesRealtyWeb.com or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/pages/Lifestyles-Realty-Web.

JAX Chamber Board of Directors passed two resolutions supporting the City of Jacksonville’s economic development legislation to create a Downtown Investment Authority (bill 2012-0212) and Public Investment Policy (bill 2012-0213).

The Downtown Investment Authority resolution stated that developing Downtown Jacksonville is an ongoing priority for the Chamber, and it has extensively researched best practices on how to revitalize the urban core of Jacksonville by analyzing the success of benchmark cities.

The Chamber’s Board is supportive of a lead Downtown agency that will provide consistent leadership to implement a long-term plan and facilitate the development of a strong core where local and national businesses can thrive. The resolution also stated that the JAX Chamber will advocate the City of Jacksonville determine a permanent funding structure for the Authority.

The resolution in support of the Public Investment Policy stated that the proposed legislation will help attract and grow businesses in Jacksonville, creating new investment and jobs in the community. The Board was supportive of shortening the economic development project review and approval process.

Recommendations designed to grow Northeast Florida’s economy are outlined in the Innovate Northeast Florida Target Industry Implementation Plan, a five-year community economic development strategic plan, released by the Northeast Florida Regional Council and JAXUSA Partnership, a division of JAX Chamber.

Presented during the JAXUSA Regional Economic Development Forum, sponsored by Stellar and AT&T, to more than 150 regional business leaders, the plan makes recommendations to grow the region’s target industries – advanced manufacturing, aviation, financial services, health and life sciences, information technology and logistics. Business development, marketing, talent and entrepreneurship initiatives for the next five years will focus on the business clusters detailed in the plan.

The plan recommends prioritizing four niche industry sub-clusters to kick off implementation plans – aircraft and aviation components, financial services support, health care information technology and supply chain management. The plan states that these industries offer a high probability of success in the short-term that will fuel long-term efforts. Numerous other sub-clusters outlined in the plan best match the region’s competitive strengths, assets and objectives.

Recommendations to grow the sub-clusters are centered around goals related to talent development, entrepreneurship and innovation, business climate, physical infrastructure and marketing.

The plan is the culmination of many sources of input and research, including a 50+ member project Steering Committee, input from economic development practitioners in each county in the Northeast Florida region, stakeholder interviews and focus groups, results from a 2,540 participant survey and extensive analysis of recent studies and federal, state and county data.

A team of national consultants are helping facilitate the Innovate Northeast Florida project, including Avalanche Consulting, McCallum Sweeney Consulting, the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning and Infinity Global Solutions. The project is funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and WorkSource. A copy of the executive summary is available at www.innovatenortheastflorida.com.

The public has spoken, votes have been tallied, and the Jax Kids Book Club has been awarded one of ‘JAX Boldest.’ JAX Boldest is a contest that was hosted by the JAX Chamber and JAXUSA Partnership, which sought to uncover and celebrate new companies, non-profits and projects making bold achievements in our region.

Voted on by the community, the top entries were unveiled during an awards ceremony immediately following the Northeast Florida Regional Economic Development Forum. The winners for each category include:

Company – Bookitout.com, Guidewell Health and Wellness Company and the Law Offices of John Phillips

Non-profit – Pit Sisters Rescue, Rethreaded and Wounded Warrior Project

Project – Adventure Landing’s Winterfest 2011, Jacksonville Superfest and Jax Kids Book Club

The ceremony took place at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Mayor Alvin Brown and Wally Lee, president at the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce met with guests and presented awards, along with other honored guests. Information about each of the winners can be viewed on the JAX Boldest website at www.jaxboldest.com.

The contest is part of the #ilovejax campaign that celebrates all of the great things about the JAX region and encourages citizens to talk about the city and region to family, friends, colleagues and visitors outside of the region.

To learn more about the Jax Kids Book Club or its sponsorship opportunities, contact Cheryl Townsend at cherylt@coj.net or 904-630-6405.

On Thursday, April 26, from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott — 4888 Lenoir Avenue, 32216 — the Jacksonville American Marketing Association (JAMA) and Judy Walz, senior vice president of marketing and planning with VyStar Credit Union, will present the making of VyStar’s Money Makeover Program, a financial program that has helped the competition’s finalists as well as our community increase savings and reduce debt.

Walz will cover how the program started, how it works and which marketing techniques helped lead to its success. She will also touch on the benefits of VyStar’s coordination with Action News, the elements included in the promotion of the competition and how the campaign has evolved over the past four years.

For more information and to register, click here.

Downtown Vision Inc. (DVI), the Downtown Improvement District, in partnership with the Jacksonville Office of Economic Development, released the 2011 State of Downtown Jacksonville Progress Report.

Last year, Downtown began to regain momentum, with a strong commitment from Mayor Brown, the completion of improvements to several parks and public spaces and renewed business interest in relocating Downtown.

Several indicators show that Downtown Jacksonville is improving. Though Downtown continues to face challenges, there is a lot of good news for Downtown:

Development – More than $186 million (12 projects) in development was completed in 2011 and several new projects were announced, including the new Parador parking garage, JAX Chamber’s building renovation and a sustainability resource center.

Office Market and Employment – There was more activity in the office market, with nine new leases signed last year. Interest in leasing near the new courthouse continues to increase and additional leasing activity is expected to occur through 2013.

Residential – Sales and occupancy of Downtown residential units improved in 2011 and three new Downtown residential projects totaling more than 660 units have been announced, including 220 Riverside, Riverside Park and The Ambassador Lofts.

Retail – Downtown’s retail vacancy declined in 2011 and several new businesses opened, including six restaurants, four nightlife venues and several clothiers and gift shops.

Quality of Life – Downtown continues to be one of the safest neighborhoods in Jacksonville, with a crime rate that is 59% lower than the average Duval County crime rate.

A copy of the report is available online at http://downtownjacksonville.org/Media/InTheNews/12-04-19/2011_State_of_Downtown_Report.aspx.

Foundation Financial Group has announced the promotion of Gregory A. Trew to division general manager for the company’s Jacksonville center, located at 225 Water St., Suite 2100.

Trew, a Middleburg, Fla. native, holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from the University of Florida. He was previously a section manager within the company and has eight years of industry experience.

Trew has received seven sales excellence awards as well as two individual Cornerstone awards, which is the most prestigious award Foundation Financial Group gives to salespeople.

Prior to joining Foundation Financial Group, Trew competitively raced ATVs, from 1995 until 2005, in the Florida circuit as well as the national circuit for the eastern portion of the United States. He was ranked as high as number six in the professional class.

For more information, call 866-334-1001 or visit ffg.com.

Legacy Trust Family Wealth Offices announced it is adding personnel—Tracey A. Devine, director of investment research and consulting, and Ruthanne Lynch, relationship management coordinator.

As director of investment research and consulting, Devine supports strategic investment decisions based on economic and market research. Together, with the investment strategy team, Devine’s research directs the company’s investment advice. Devine facilitates strategic and tactical asset allocation, manager due diligence, portfolio management and client investment consulting.

As relationship management coordinator, Ruthanne Lynch is responsible for day-to-day interaction with Legacy Trust’s clients, vendors and business partners. She manages all administrative functions for the relationship team, coordinates client events and provides marketing support to the executive staff.

For information, please call 904.280.9100 or visit www.legacytrustcompany.com.