- April 16, 2024
-
-
Loading
Loading
Thomas Oltorik took home $10,000 as the winner of the Cairns Foundation Innovation Challenge on April 19 at the Advanced Technology College in Daytona Beach. The event was hosted by the Volusia County Business Incubator, powered by the UCF Business Incubation Program.
The Stetson University student pitched the Quick Clip, which protects and secures valuables while driving. Made from elasticized fabric network and placed around the passenger seat, the product allows the driver to prevent purses, tablets and notebooks from moving while the vehicle is in motion.
Second place and a check for $5,000 from the Paul B. Hunter and Constance D. Hunter Charitable Foundation went to fellow Hatter Jilissa Zoltko. Her Smart Sleeve serves as a fishing rod guide (eyelet) replacement, allowing anglers a simple on-the-water repair. In addition to the money, Oltorik received one year’s enrollment in the Volusia County Business Incubator at Daytona Beach International Airport. Zoltko was awarded a year enrollment in the business pre-incubation program.
“This is an example of how a successful inventor/entrepreneur can contribute to the development of our local innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Connie Bernal, associate director and site manager of the Volusia County Business Incubator.
In its fifth year, the challenge spotlights technologies created by students at six area colleges and universities. Finalists pitched ideas to a group of businesspeople and entrepreneurs. The prize money and incubator programs allow the winning student teams to advance and protect their technologies while preparing to launch new companies. The Innovation Challenge also offers students a chance to partner with local investors.
Visit www.cairnsfoundation.com.
Residents looking for a new spot to grab a drink in an intimate setting can find it with Wine Not? at The Trails Shopping Center. With restaurants nearby, patrons are welcome to make a night of it by stopping in for wine by the glass or bottle served with light fair including cheese plates. Call 317-2108.
Breakfast and lunch is now served at Flapjack Johnny’s Ormond Beach. Along with restaurants in Groveland and Port Orange, the newest location opened during Bike Week, featuring a diverse menu of signature and seasonal dishes like its trademark specialty pancakes. For more information, visit www.flapjackjohnnys.com.
Adventist Health System, which includes the Florida Hospitals in Volusia and Flagler counties, was recognized by Becker's Hospital Review as one of the top places to work in health care. The 2018 150 Top Places to Work in Healthcare list highlights hospitals, health systems and health care companies that promote diversity within the workforce, employee engagement and professional growth.
Dr. William F. Kendall Jr. was named the primary transplant surgeon for the Halifax Health Center for Transplant Services, an affiliate of UF Health. Call 425-4650 or visit halifaxhealth.org/transplant.
Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center selected OB-GYN Dr. Meetesh Desai as its Physician of the Quarter. He was recognized by colleagues for his calm bedside manner, wealth of knowledge and ability to make swift medical decisions to save lives.
Send business stories to [email protected].
