NASA Technology helps local small business improve boat design
From STAFF REPORTS
The NASA-funded Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program (SATOP) has helped local small business Majestic Power Boats with the development of an innovative, more efficient boat hull design for the company's shallow water fishing boats.
To allow the' boats to run in shallow water, Majestic Boats had raised the outboard motor. When operating at higher speeds, however, the motor would run hot because it was not receiving enough cooling water. Roy McDaniel, Majestic Boats president/CEO, and his team had tried to solve the problem on their own, but with little success. McDaniel then heard about SATOP from Brenda Collins, a volunteer with the Titusville Chamber of Commerce.
SATOP provides free engineering assistance to small businesses with technical challenges through the donations of time and expertise from 25 Space Alliance Partners. To assist Majestic Boats, SATOP enlisted AJT & Associates, Inc., an Alliance Partner headquartered in Cape Canaveral, FL.
Richard Wood, P.E., senior vice president with AJT & Associates, worked on Majestic Boat's request for assistance. Within a short time, Wood and AJT & Associates presented McDaniel with the design for a simple wing to attach to the trailing edge of the boat's hull immediately in front of the motor. The wing helps pull water up toward the motor's cooling intake and the motor now performs as intended.
Majestic Boats has begun fabricating the wing into the hull design of the boats and has found that the boats now ride higher in the water than before, allowing them to maneuver into even shallower water. "This design change should put Majestic Boats at the forefront of the shallow water boat industry," said Wood.
"With SATOP's help, our problem was solved in less than a month and our sales have accelerated," said McDaniel. "The solution and quick turnaround were exactly what I needed to stay competitive in the marketplace."
The NASA-funded Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program (SATOP) provides small-businesses with free technical assistance through the use of the U.S. Space Program, as well as aerospace contractors, NASA field centers, universities and colleges. These organizations join SATOP as Space Alliance Partners, which donate time and expertise to help SATOP speed the transfer of space technology to the private sector. Space Alliance Partners include Lockheed Martin, The Boeing Company and Precision Fabricating & Cleaning.
For more information about SATOP, or to request technical assistance, please visit www.SpaceTechSolutions.com or call 321-269-6330,
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First baby born at new Parrish Medical Center; Patient transfer complete
From STAFF REPORTS
The first hours of the new and fully operational Parrish Medical Center saw the arrival of the first baby born in the new hospital.
Amanda Taylor gave birth to 6 lb, 13 1/4 1 ounce, Allie Faye, at 4:27. p.m., Sunday afternoon, about three-and-a-half hours after the last patient was transferred from the old hospital to the new PMC. Mother and baby we doing well.
The birth of the first baby in the new Parrish Medical Center was some thing the entire staff was talking about and Anxiously Awaiting," said George Mikitarian, PMC president and chief executive officer. "You-could see smiles on everyone's faces when the lullaby was played throughout the hospital to announce the new arrival."
Taylor received a "spa essientials" gift basket as a gift from, the hospital. The basket was filled. with items that further illustrate the hospital's healing philosophy: aromatherapy candles, herbal teas, bath oils, body lotions, bathrobe and more. Baby Allie also received a gift basket filled with baby essentials as a gift from the hospital. The Alpha Delta Kappa, a retired teachers sorority in North Brevard, donated items in the baby's gift basket.
"We have received a tremendous amount of interest in the hospital's Women's Center and birthing center," Mikitarian said. "It's a real step forward for Ms. Taylor -and women throughout our community.
The transfer of 95 patients into the new $80 million Parrish Medical. Center took place from.8 am. to 12:50 p.m. Sunday, finishing 70 minutes ahead of schedule.
"The new Parrish Medical Center is one of America's finest healing environments," said Mikitarian. "This is the future of health care in our community, and it's off to a great start."
Millie Curley, PMC vice president of nursing, supervised the patient transfer. She went from floor to floor of the old hospital, working with staff to prepare patients.
"The entire nursing and transport teams made certain our patients were transferred caringly, thoughtfully and efficiently," Curley said. "Critical care patients had a registered nurse and respiratory therapist accompany them in the ambulance.
"Mothers and newborn babies transferred together, pediatric patients were, accompanied by their parents," Curley added. "Mothers rode on the gurneys, holding their children on their laps. Patients were talkative, excited and looking forward to being in the new hospital.
"The patient move marks the final stage of the transition into the 371,000 square-foot hospital, which has been under construction for three years.
Planning for the patient move began months ago, said Chris Male, PMC senior vice president for medical center development.
"Building the new hospital was a tremendously complex undertaking, but the most sensitive part of the entire process is the transfer of patients. A tremendous amount of work went into ensuring their comfort and safety."
The 210-bed medical center features a four-story atrium, larger patient, birthing and operating rooms. Patient and birthing rooms have views either of the Atrium or the Indian River. A Women's Center, dedicated to women's health, occupies much of the hospital's third floor.
Parrish Medical Center's Cardiac and Cancer Centers of Excellence are functioning through the new hospital, said Chris McAlpine, PMC vice president of professional services:
"The healing environment we built into the new hospital includes everything from highly advanced and sophisticaied technology to the sights and sounds patients experience while they are here," McAlpine said.
Parrish Medical Center has more, than 1,300 physicians, nurses, staff members and volunteers.
Hospice of St. Francis Celebrates 25th Anniversary
When the Hospice movement arrived in the United States in 1974, those facing a terminal illness had very few choices. Most died either in a hospital or nursing home. Today, through the efforts of hospice programs throughout the country, people have a choice. Many terminally ill people have grown to see the value of living life to it's fullest and enjoying what time they do have with their loved ones.
Hospice has turned an eternal secret into a living principle that what is truly important is life lived richly, deeply and meaningfully for as long as it lasts. Patients can die at home, surrounded by their families and friends, and with the knowledge that everything will be done to keep them pain free as they approach death. By promoting dignity, family, comfort, and caring, hospice helps terminally ill patients and their loved ones cope with and find meaning in the end of life.
November is National Hospice Month -- time to celebrate this hospice magic. Hospice of St. Francis in Titusville has a real reason to "Celebrate Hospice". November 28th will mark their 25th anniversary of service to Brevard County. Hospice of St. Francis was the first (an still is the only independent) hospice in Brevard, and was the second hospice incorporated in all of Florida. For more information, contact Hospice of St. Francis at (407) 269-4240.
By BOB SOCKS
Blue Light going out
Expect an announcement from K-Mart Headquarters soon announcing that 12 additional K-Mart's will be closing shortly after Xmas including the K-Mart on Highway 50 in Titusville. This is the only Brevard County location to be closed.
Recent Home. Transactions
- A home at 3650 Belle Arbor Circle sold for $310,000 (LaCita).
- A home at 7703 Windover Way sold for $237,428 (Windover Woods).
- A condo at 525 Indian River Ave., Unit #404, Bayview Condos sold for $230,000 (Downtown Titusville).
- A home at 1217 Sand Pine Circle sold for $205,000 (Evergreen).
- A home at 3941 Tanglewood Circle sold for $191,428 (La Cita).
- A home at 2175 Vista Terrace sold for $188,000 (Titus Village).
- A home at 2960 Kelley St. sold for $175,000 (Hickory Trails).
- A home at 6470 Corsica Blvd. sold for $175,000 (Port St. John).
- A home at 590 Bella Vista Drive sold for $167,000 (La Cita).
- A home at 3849 Arlington Ave. sold for $155,000 (Indian River Plantation Estates, Mims).
- A home at 6980 Bryant Road sold for $154,000 (Port St. John)
Port Canaveral news
Last Saturday, November 9th, the Holland-American line Vaandam sailed into Port Canaveral to begin a series of one week cruises to the Caribbean. - The Vaandam will be home ported for six months when it will re-configure to Alaska for the summer cruise business.
Mariner of the Seas, a brand new cruiser of the Royal Caribbean line will be home-ported at Port Canaveral beginning in November 2003. This is a brand new ship presently under construction in Finland. This ship is 1,020 feet long, 142,000 tons, with accommodations for 3,835 passengers and a crew of 1,185.
In July of 2003, Carnival Cruise Line will bring in their newest vessel, The Glory, which will cruise the Caribbean in seven day increments. The Glory is 952 feet long, 110,000 tons with a passenger capacity of 3,700, and a crew component of 1,160.
Another new ship will be arriving at the Port on Monday morning at 7 a.m. She is called the Olympia Explorer, a cruise ship of the Royal Olympic Line. She will be berthed at Cruise Terminal #3, on the south docks, to the east of the Sterling Cruise Line Terminal.
Economic Tid-Bits
Median Household Income - Brevard County
- 1990 - $30,534
- 2000 - $40,099
- 2002 - $41,528 estimate
Unemployment rate as of August '02
- Florida - 5.3%
- United States - 5.7%
- Brevard - 5.2.%
- Indian River 10.9% (lots of seasonal workers due to Citrus)
Number of license plates issued, 2000-2001
- Orange County - 240,236
- Brevard - 118,499
- Volusia -- 111,941
- Seminole -- 96,462
- Osceola - 47,143
Educational Attainment (2000 census)
Brevard County
- Less than 9th grade 11,314
- 9-12th grade-no diploma .... 35,102
- High school grad inc. equivalency ... 98,108
- Some college, no degree 84,799
- Associate degree 30,395
- Bachelor's Degree 51,616
- Graduate or professional degree .... 28,404
- Total population 25 years and older .... 339,738
Strictly my opinion
With the elections over, Titusville got lucky and retained all of the council seats with incumbents. These five young men seem to have a sense of continuity and a focus toward organized growth. What a great opportunity for the community as they discuss the luxury condos on the Poe property, the old school board property, and the developments proposed on Riveredge Drive, south of the Holiday Inn.
Real Estate prices are up in this area around 17%. That's the highest percentage for Titusville in the 34 years I've lived here. Usually it's the other way around. So all you home and land owners should be making some sizable appreciation money. And it seems people want to move to Titusville. Maybe it's because -the sidewalks roll up around dusk, crime is down and under control, there is very little traffic, except around our special rush hour which actually only lasts about 15 minutes, the schools have improved significantly and we are graduating 88% of our seniors, highest in the state of Florida .... so now is the time for some meaningful growth.
And maybe, some day in the distant future, the Olive Garden of our dreams will announce they are moving to Titusville.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"I can remember way back when a liberal was one who, was generous with his own money."
Will Rogers
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Look in the dine out and entertainment section of the print edition of The News Observer for places to go for Thanksgiving Day or for other entertainment.
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For anyone that enjoys playing the piano, Storehouse Ministries in Sand Point Village has an 1862 and 1868 antique pianos for sale.
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Stop in Singleton Golf Center to hit some golf balls and while you’re there check out their Calina golf bags ranging from $55 up to $149.00.
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Indian River Fence Company has relocated to 485 N. Washington Ave. and they have a very unique Christmas gift. They sell PVC picnic table and PVC park benches that converts into picnic tables.
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Take in The Baby Garden’s ad and receive $2.00 off the purchase of $10.00 or more.
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The Mail Center says to ship early for Christmas because there are only 18 shipping days left. They can help you with packing and shipping for mail, UPS, Fed Ex, and Airborne.
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Cruising Outfitters at 350 N. Washington Ave. has different kinds of boating supplies. See their ad for more details.
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Be sure and use Eric’s Baseball Cards & Comics coupon from their ad and receive 50¢ off any pack of YU-GI-OH that’s in stock.
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Agent Sandi Scott of Allstate Insurance says to be sure and have your auto insurance in order for the holidays.
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Kay’s Antiques in the Dusty Rose Mall has a sale of 15% off furniture and 10% off glass and china. Also Doris Littlefield has added beads and spacers to her jewelry showcase. She has a large collection of unique glass beads.
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Go into Home Furniture in Mims and vote for your favorite table setting and become eligible for a $300 drawing and more. See ad for all the details.
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Check out Barbara Nardone’s Hair Designs ad for ideas and purchase a gift certificate for a special person for a Christmas gift.
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Indian River Dry Goods, 308 S. Washington Ave., is a new retail store set to open Fri., December 6 in historic downtown Titusville. The shop, owned by Jim and Katy Ball, will offer unique casual clothing, custom embroidery, and gifts. They will be open the night of the street party.
Back in the 1920’s this same building was W.H. Swan & Co. that sold dry goods with shoes, ready to wear hats and mens clothing and furnishings.
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Go in for pre-season training at Curves for Women. Join now for 2003 and get the rest of the year 2002 FREE. See ad for info.
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Scooter’s Bar is giving a customer appreciation party on Sat., Nov. 23 with 50¢ on all drafts, karaoke w/ Little "E" and more.
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D.J. Wolfman is at Daddio’s Lounge in Ramada Inn on Wed., Thurs., and Fri. playing your favorite music. See the ad for specials.
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The Fly Fisherman has 30% off Columbia fishing apparel, 40% off select Patagonia fleece tops and bottoms and kayaks on sale. Stop in and visit their beautiful store.
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Sand Point Senior Living says to come in and ask about their holiday special for your loved one.
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River Road Mercantile has fall savings with a lot of special priced items.
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Santa Claus is coming to Miracle City Mall Fri., Nov. 29 from 10 a.m. till noon. Bring the children down for a FREE hayride with Santa and get their picture made with Santa. Check out the ad for more details.
- Cindy’s Christmas Shop has opened and they have 25% off assorted items throughout the store.
- Little Art Studio has changed their name to Studio Plus. Visit their big store and take advantage of all the specials in their ad.
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Highlights of the 2002 Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival
Tom Hince (left) of the winning birding team from Canada thanking Laurilee Thompson, committee chairman and the Committee for an excellent, if soggy festival. This team has won four of the six annual contests.
The winning youth team holding the Scrub Jay sculpture that will be at the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center. It will list all the winning teams since 1997.
Laurilee Thompson of Dixie Crossroads, chairperson of the Space Coast Birding & Wildlife Festival.
The Titusville Art League booth at the Exhibitors Hall. The TAL coordinated the Art Contest for the Festival.
Huge turnout for the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary Management and Education Center Ribbon-Cutting
The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary Management and Education Center's Ribbon-Cutting Celebration was a huge success with an estimated 500 - 600 people in attendance. Everyone enjoyed touring the new building "which sets the standard for public facilities in Brevard county." Several local 'politicians who attended recognized the need to preserve such natural places.
The hands-on exhibit area would easily fit into any big city science museum and is very helpful in understanding the local ecosystem, plants, birds, animals and insects.
The center hosts a variety of exciting things to do for everyone which include nature trails you can walk for 15 minutes to two hours, as well as handicap accessible trails, there are picnic facilities and indoor restrooms, interactive displays that are as fun as they are educational and the Friends of the Enchanted Forest Shoppe where you can find that perfect souvenir or gift.
The center is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from I to 5 p.m.
Flag raising and Pledge of Allegiance.
Truman Scarborough, Nancy Higgs and Sue Carlson (right to left), Brevard County Commissioners addressing the crowd.
Cutting the "ribbon" which was actually a grape vine rope.
Ann Birch, Director of the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program.
The 4-H Club from Sculptor Charter Elementary School prepares to entertain.
The handicapped accessible Ancient Oak Amphitheater.
The Junior Players from the Titusville Playhouse "TPI Kids" program entertained with "The Perfect Pumpkin."
Photos Courtesy of Dave Rich
Enchanted Forest Sanctuary Management and Education Center Volunteer Opportunities
Come enjoy the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary Management and Education Center as a volunteer. Volunteer opportunities include: being a host, exhibit docent, education aide, trained trail guide, or trail host. We also need volunteers for trail maintenance, grounds care, and exotic plant removal.
You may also decide to become a member of the Friends of the Enchanted Forest and volunteer In their gift shop or library.
Volunteer orientation is scheduled for Sat., Nov. 23, at 9 a.m., Wed., Dec. 4, at 6 p.m., and Sat., Dec. 14, at 9 a.m.
The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary Management and Education Center is located at 444 Columbia Boulevard, Titusville. Columbia Blvd. is also known as State Road 405. The Center is one quarter mile west of U. S. Highway 1 on State Road 405.
For more Information call (321) 264-5185.
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