Benchmark announcement at ICBA

Benchmark Technology Group, a leading provider of branch automation solutions and technology management services, announced at the ICBA National Convention & Techworld held at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center that Richmond, Va.-based Franklin Federal Savings Bank implemented Compass™, Benchmark Technology Group’s new account automation software.

Canon showing at ICBA show at Gaylord

    Canon USA Inc., an award-winning provider of image capture solutions, is showcasing the precision, speed and ease-of-use of its digital document scanners and check transports at the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) National Convention and Techworld Show at Kissimmee's Gaylord Palms Convention Center. Canon’s exhibit will be located in Booth # 320.
    “Financial institutions are continuously seeking new ways to streamline business practices, improve the payment and transaction process, and enhance record keeping,” said Jim Rosetta, vice president and general manager, Imaging Systems Group, Canon U.S.A. “At ICBA, Canon will demonstrate the time-saving capabilities of our document scanners, check transports and image scanners, offering end-users a practical solution to meet the changing needs of the financial marketplace.”   

"The Second Wave of Electricity"

FCC's National Broadband Plan: In what some say is akin to "the second wave of electricity" in America, the FCC wants to expand and increase high-speed Internet access nationwide while encouraging competition among service providers. Set to be unveiled to Congress and the public today, the national broadband plan seeks to prioritize high-speed Internet as a "foundation for economic growth, job creation, global competitiveness and a better way of life." 

Fitch rates TOHO bonds

  Fitch Ratings, takes the following rating action on Tohopekaliga (TOHO) Water Authority, affirming a AA- rating on approximately $185.5 million water and sewer revenue bonds.
  The Rating Outlook is Stable.
  The rating reflects strong financial operations providing solid debt service coverage and liquidity levels.
  The system has ample water supply and treatment capacity with a large and diverse customer base. The system has a sizable capital improvement program over the next five years pending customer growth.
   KEY RATING DRIVER: The Authority's maintenance of its financial profile while implementing a significant capital improvement program will be key to maintaining the current rating and Stable Outlook.

U.S. Small Business Administration to Host a Small Business Workshop

   SBDC at UCF, Kissimmee has partnered with the U.S. Small Business Administration to provide this half day session for Osceola County Businesses March 26 at the Stetson University campus at Celebration from 8 a.m. to noon. Join us for workshops and panel discussions on SBA programs to include, financing, counseling, training, procurement and an update on the American Recovery Reinvestment Act.
    Opening remarks by Maria Toumazos, Administrator, Osceola County Economic Development Department. or more details call 772-466-3176 or 772-466-1944
    R.S.V.P. via e-mail at: SBA_event_Celebration@yahoo.com

Micro Key Solutions heading to ISC West

Kissimmee-based Micro Key Solutions is preparing for ISC West in Las Vegas, on March 24-26, 2010, where company officials will continue the celebration of Micro Key's 25th Anniversary. Micro Key is at booth 24077.

Greening your business deadline Tuesday

  "Greening Your Small Business: Small changes can have a positive impact on your bottom line" is set for March 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Kissimmee/Osceola Chamber of Commerce, 1425 E. Vine Street.
  The Session is free but the deadline to register is March 16.
  With just a few changes you can often reduce your firm's carbon footprint and save money by conserving energy and reducing waste. Doing right by the planet can also mean doing right by your business. Finding ways to improve energy efficiency and reduce consumption can help you save money and add a whole lot more "green" to your bottom line.
    Complimentary session and lunch as representatives from UF Extension Services, TriStar Energy and Kissimmee Utility Authority share with us tips and resources available to implement immediately to help your business become green and gain a competitive edge.
    WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Osceola County businesses and property owners interested in learning more about the programs and incentives available in going green.
    For more information contact: 407.847.2452.

A.M. Best at Gaylord Palms Event March 17

    A.M. Best Co. will be exhibiting at the Independent Community Bankers of America National Convention and Techworld, March 17-21 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee. Representatives will be available to discuss A.M. Best’s interactive credit ratings for U.S. banks.
    A.M. Best is offering financial strength, issuer credit and debt security ratings to community banks and bank holding companies. Ratings are based on an assessment of a bank’s strategy and competitive position beyond just its reported financial results, and the rating process focuses on a bank’s operation through various stages of the industry cycle. Visitors to Best’s Banking Center, www.ambest.com/banks, can search for banks based on select financial criteria and can view A.M. Best’s Rating Methodology for Banks, Best’s Bank Statement Reports, which contain key balance sheet data, and Best’s Bank Ratio Reports, featuring operating statistics and financial ratios.