October, 2003

Small businesses get a big boost in Pinellas.  The county Purchasing Department has assigned a small business liaison to help small businesses share in the millions of dollars Pinellas County spends annually for products and services.  Ruby McKenzie, now the small business contact for Pinellas County purchasing issues, is dedicated to helping small businesses understand the competitive bid process and to qualify for their fair share.  Pinellas County has more than 33,000 mostly small businesses.  For answers and assistance with purchasing issues, call Ms. McKenzie at 727- 464-3795, e-mail rmmckenz@co.pinellas.fl.us, or visit online, www.pinellascounty.org/purchase

Medical manufacturers will breakfast with legislators.  The Florida Medical Manufacturers Consortium (FMMC) is hosting “Breakfast with our Legislators” 8:00 to 10:00 am on Wednesday, November 5, at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center on Roosevelt Blvd., adjacent to Carillon, St. Petersburg.  This is an opportunity to interact with local legislators on issues relevant to the medical technology industry. Come share information about the impact of your industry in the Tampa Bay Region and how government can help you survive and prosper in today’s global economy. There is no cost for the event. It is sponsored by Tucker Hall Public Affairs & Public Relations.  RSVP to Rhonda Caruso, 727-464-8123, or rcaruso@co.pinellas.fl.us.

Attention Macintosh and Netscape users.  Acknowledging that you currently may not have access to the dynamic, award-winning GIS system on www.siliconbay.org, your problem will soon be absolved. The Pinellas Economic Development technical staff is redesigning its GIS system to utilize rich media internet application.  This redesign will allow access from any kind of computer or web browser, thus opening a whole new world to the whole world.  For more information contact Richard Wilson, 727-464-8110, or e-mail gis@siliconbay.org.

Congratulations to one of our own.  Bill Farragut, Business Development Manager for Pinellas Economic Development, was recognized October 16 in Tallahassee, by the Supreme Court of Florida and the Office of the Governor, for volunteer service and outstanding child advocacy for abused and neglected children of Florida, within the Florida Guardian ad Litem Program.  For information contact Bill at 727-464-7353.

Attendance is growing fast.  As of today (October 21) more than 265 have registered to attend the Pinellas Redevelopment Strategies and Policies Summit, Friday, October 24, at the St. Petersburg Hilton. You can still add your name to those who are concerned for the future of Pinellas County. Register online at www.siliconbay.org or call 727-464-7332.

Remember Good Business Pinellas TV and Radio.  TV weeknights at 7 pm and weekends at 10 am on SPC Channel 19 and often on Pinellas 18 and St. Petersburg & Clearwater channel 15.  Radio, 1250 AM WHNZ, every Wednesday at 1 pm and Sunday at 5 pm.