Business Observer 11.25.10

+ Neal’s Kramer elected HBA president
The HBA Manatee Sarasota recently elected Mike Kramer as president of the trade association that represents builders and their associated businesses.

David Hunihan, Neal’s director of sales, was selected to serve as treasurer.

“We are committed to the HBA as an important force in our industry,” said Pat Neal, president of Neal Communities. “Mike will use his professionalism and expertise to do an excellent job advancing the interests of home builders — who are responsible for one in five jobs in our community.”

Kramer, who joined Neal in September 2009, is responsible for estimating and new product development, which includes architecture, permitting and the construction starts process. He is a graduate of the University of Buffalo, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in professional studies in architecture.

“I am looking forward to working with the other home builders and associates,” Kramer said.

The association is affiliated with both the Florida Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders. For more, visit hbamanatee-sarasota.org.

+ Soda named top agent in Ranch
Realtor Jim Soda was the top producer in Lakewood Ranch in the third quarter of 2010 as well as the past 12 months ending September 2010, according to Trendgraphix reports (34202 zip code).

Soda placed first in total sales by dollar volume, total sales in units, listing sales in units and current inventory in units. He generated almost $22 million in transactions from January to September.

For more information, contact the Jim Soda Group 809-7759, 961-5857 or visit www.JimSoda.com.

+ Sanborn coordinator speaks to USF students
Kristen Lindberg, internship and casting coordinator at Sanborn Studios, spoke to a management class at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee Nov. 17.

Lindberg discussed job and internship opportunities at the studio and how to network into a career.
Sanborn Studios, Sarasota’s first film and production studio, plans to bring more than a $164 million impact to the West Coast over a five-year period, including the creation of 117 jobs and a focus on mentoring and growing students.

The event was part of the Career Services program at USF Sarasota-Manatee, which assists with job and internship placement, networking, counseling, resume and interview training, and career advising and planning.

+ Sarasota attorney speaks at Techbyte event
Douglas A. Cherry, associate at Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP’s Sarasota office, spoke at the Suncoast Technology Forum Techbyte Luncheon Nov. 16 at The Polo Grill and Bar. Cherry discussed best practices and recommended corporate policies in these three areas.

Cherry is board-certified in intellectual property law and focuses on intellectual property (patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret and unfair competition) consulting, acquisition, licensing and litigation.