While many entrepreneurs hope to hit it big in cyberspace, Joe Miller, a software and hardware consultant in Jacksonville, switched to a decidedly low-tech arena: clothes hangers.
If you thought nothing new could be done with the mundane item, think again. Miller purchased a patent for a wooden suit hanger that has a soft Velcro edge over which the pants are folded. A spring on the hanger holds the pants down without creasing them. He started A Better Hanger (www.abetterhanger.com) with Roy Farrell, a former Barnett exec who financed the startup, and the duo bought another patent for a hanger that folds scissors-like to slip into turtlenecks or small collars without stretching the fabric.
They were offered $1 million on the spot for the folding hanger design during a housewares show. They declined.
QVC recently began spotlighting the product, and Miles Kimble included it in its catalog sent to 5 million homes. Saks Fifth Avenue, Tommy Hilfiger and Marriott all have shown an interest. A decision is still hanging. -- Jane Tanner
Eating Out: Boca Babies
The Boca Raton Resort and Club has found a culinary niche in preparing pureed concoctions for babies. Since last fall, executive chef James Reaux has been whipping up a palette of baby-oriented menu items -- including Sweetie Potato Pie and Cottage Cheese and Pineapple Daiquiri -- that lets parents dine out with their infants without having to bring along bags of formula and bottled baby food. Tiny tots can even gnaw on a homemade Banana Teething Biscuit while waiting for the main course. Reaux got the idea after he began preparing custom baby food for his own infants. The mashed meals are so good that some parents order a side for themselves. -- Deborah Borfitz
The Florida Quiz
In what Florida neighborhood -- yes, it's a well-known place to live -- will you not find a palm tree? Answer: The well-known Florida neighborhood where you won't find a palm tree is Celebration.