Florida Trend | Florida's Business Authority

Central Florida Business Briefs - Jan. 2008

ORLANDO —
» In a clinical trial at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, doctors are treating patients who have cancer near the spine by using a new technique that guides radiation treatment through implanted wireless Beacon transponders the size of a grain of rice.

» Orlando International Airport has added German airline Lufthansa, which now offers six non-stop flights a week to its hub in Frankfurt, increasing the number of OIA’s international flights by almost 17.5%. The airport also has announced plans to open more retail shops in the next three years.

» Orlando Utilities Commission has donated $1 million to the future Dr. P. Phillips Orlando Performing Arts Center, specifically to assist with “green” initiatives toward water and energy conservation. Community contributions have hit $84 million, with a goal of $135 million.

LAKE COUNTY —
» The town of Mascotte has sworn in Feliciano “Felix” Ramirez, the first Hispanic mayor elected in central Florida.

VOLUSIA COUNTY —
» Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University alumnus James Hagedorn, chairman and CEO of Scotts Miracle-Gro lawn and garden products, has pledged $2.5 million to help build an aviation complex on campus.

WINTER PARK —
» JW Marriott will operate a 250-room luxury resort and spa on the site of the former historic Langford Hotel. Work is set to start in May.