David Reeves | Page 5 | Your Delray Boca

9 January, 2014 0 Comments

2014 Allianz Golf Tournament Coming Soon to Boca

January 9, 2014 By David Reeves Leave a Comment

Defending Champion Rocco Mediate is back to defend his title in Boca

The 2014 Allianz Championship, the first full-field PGA Champions Tour event of the season will tee-off with a celebrated roster of golf legends at The Old Course at Broken Sound Club from February 3-9 for the eighth consecutive year in Boca Raton.

Tournament week is jam-packed with interactive “events within the event” before and during championship play with opportunities for “up close and personal” interaction with pros for golf fans of all ages.

As the first in the early-season Florida swing, tournament play will include 2013 defending champion Rocco Mediate, 2012 champion Corey Pavin, 2011 champion Tom Lehman (2011 and 2012 Charles Schwab Cup season-long point’s race winner), 2010 champion Bernhard Langer, Mark Calcavecchia, Fuzzy Zoeller and more, all vying for the winner’s share of a $1.6 million purse. Produced by the nonprofit Boca Raton Champions Golf Charities (BRCGC) board that oversees tournament operations, financials and distribution of all charitable funds, the Allianz Championship will continue to “chip-in” net proceeds to benefit the Boca Raton Regional Hospital.

In addition to three days of championship play, the Allianz Championship features a Women’s Day event, “Look Good, Feel Good, Play Good” which showcases women’s golf fashion, provides exercises to play better golf and a Clinic & Pro-Am with LGPA legend and eight-time “Player of the Year” Annika Sorenstam; two days of Executive Pro-Am play pairing participants with PGA pros; and the popular and now weekend long Family Fun Zone.

Tournament Director Ryan Dillon reported the 2013 tournament delivered $15 million in economic impact to the community, drew 69,000 spectators, was viewed by 4.9 million people with all three championship rounds televised live by the Golf Channel, raised $300,000 for the Boca Raton Champions Golf Charities which spreads the monies to the Boca Raton Regional Hospital and many other South Florida charities.

The following is what’s in-store during tournament week for event-goers, and all events listed will be held at The Old Course at Broken Sound at 1401 NW 51^st Street in Boca Raton:

NEW FACES AT THE ALLIANZ CHAMPIONSHIP:

Colin Montgomerie

Vijay Singh

Woody Austin

Billy Andrade

Women’s Day “Look Good, Feel Good, Play Good”,

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4^TH

THIRD ANNUAL ALLIANZ CHAMPIONSHIP WOMEN’S DAY

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Ticket Price: $750 per Pro-am player, Corporate Tables of 10 : $1,000, Clinic & Brunch $150 per person

This year’s women’s day starts off with an educating discussion led by Elizabeth Linden, the Executive Director of the Christine E. Lynn Women’s Health and Wellness Institute, about the importance of health and how it can lower your golf scores but also improve your overall life. Following this presentation will be an informative showcase and lecture regarding women’s golf fashion led by Maria Erickson, the Director of Merchandising for Perry Ellis. Following the fashion segment, LPGA legend with 72 victories and eight-time “player of the year” Annika Sorenstam will again hold a private clinic presented by JM Lexus for women of all skill sets to enjoy. There will be an opportunity to play nine holes with a PGA Champions Tour player, and attend the evening Allianz Championship Pro-Am VIP Draw Party presented by Celebrity Cruises.

Allianz Championship Pro-am

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5^TH

Shotgun Starts: 7:15 a.m. and 12:45 p.m.

Participation Price: $3,000 per participant

Allianz Championship Pro-Am

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6^TH

Shotgun Starts: 7:15 a.m. and 12:45 p.m.

Participation Price: $3,500 per participant

Whether looking for a round of golf with buddies, client entertainment or employee recognition, a memorable day of corporate camaraderie and golf ensues as foursomes are paired with a PGA Champions Tour professional. Lunch and an invitation to the VIP Draw Party with Champions Tour legends on Feb. 4^th are included. Each player also receives a premium gift package.

Family Fun Zone

February – Sunday, February 7^th-9^th

New to the 2014 Allianz Championship, we will be providing a weekend long Family Fun Zone for families and children to enjoy. Included in this zone will be bounce houses, obstacle courses and many more exciting activities. Furthermore on Sunday February 9^th mascots from all of the South Florida sports teams will be in attendance.

CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT DAYS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7^TH

ALLIANZ CHAMPIONSHIP – FIRST ROUND TOURNAMENT PLAY

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Ticket Price: General admission: $20; free admission for children 16 and younger;
skybox tickets available for purchase

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8^TH

ALLIANZ CHAMPIONSHIP SECOND ROUND TOURNAMENT PLAY

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Ticket Price: General admission: $20; free admission for children 16 and younger;
skybox tickets available for purchase

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 9^TH
ALLIANZ CHAMPIONSHIP – FINAL ROUND TOURNAMENT PLAY

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Price: General admission: $20; free admission for children 16 and younger;
skybox tickets available for purchase

Skybox and Other Packages:

Spectator Experience Can Be Upgraded With Skybox Seating Or Sponsorships

Premium ticket packages can be purchased for VIP and Skybox seating ranging from $75 to $175. Sponsorship packages include branded opportunities, premium seating, and a variety of invitation-only receptions, Pro-Am play, meet and greets with the legends of golf, etc.

The Allianz Championship tournament is managed by Pro Links Sports, headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. Directing six tournaments on the Champions Tour schedule, all are continuously voted in the top ten tournaments by the players. This reputation attracts the top golfers on the PGA Championship Tour to Boca Raton, along with other legends of golf.

For more tournament information, premium ticket packages or corporate sponsorships, call 561-241-GOLF (4653); fax 561-241-4658, or visit www.allianzchampionship.com. For Pro-Am registration and sponsorship package opportunities, contact Anthony Greco at 561-241-GOLF (4653) or email agreco@allianzchampionship.com.

About Allianz Championship
The 2014 Allianz Championship, in its eighth consecutive year at The Old Couse at Broken Sound, will bring the legends of golf to Boca Raton from February 4^th to 10^thfor the first full-field PGA Champions Tour event of the season. Its 2013 champion Rocco Mediate is set to defend his title as challengers Corey Pavin (2012 Champion),Tom Lehman (2011 champion; 2011 and 2012 Schwab Cup winner); Bernhard Langer (2010 champion), Mark Calcavecchia, Fred Couples, Fuzzy Zoeller, vie for a $1.8 million purse with all three rounds televised live nationwide on The Golf Channel. The Boca Raton Champions Golf Charities (BRCGC) serves as the operational and financial oversight group for the event as well as for the distribution of all charitable funds, as all net tournament proceeds “chip-in” to benefit Boca Raton Regional Hospital. Managed by Pro Links Sports with title sponsor Allianz Life insurance Company, the annual tournament has attracted 31 of the top 34 professionals on the money list. For skybox tickets and other hospitality, call: 561-241-GOLF (4653) or visit www.allianzchampionship.com.

8 January, 2014 0 Comments

Water Cooler Wednesday: Sobering Thoughts

January 8, 2014 By David Reeves Leave a Comment

After months of vibrant home sales nationwide, the National Association of Realtors came out with some sobering news this week. The sales of homes continued to slow in November, marking the third straight month of this trend.

And, while here at www.yourdelrayboca.com we’re not predicting, nor are we hoping for this trend to continue it may be time to consider why this is happening.

Some of the obvious reasons are the continuing increase in interest rates. There is also a tight and very limited supply of homes on the market, and it is still difficult for individuals with marginal credit scores to get a mortgage.

We’ve also heard on the street that banks continue to have “shadow inventory,” which refers to homes that are in various stages of the foreclosure process. Once they hit the market, expect the prices of homes to decrease due to increased inventory.

There have also been reports that foreclosures are decreasing. Some have said this decrease is simply because the courts are dismissing many cases due to “lack of prosecution.” They won’t appear “active” until they are re-filed. Keep in mind that banks may be delaying foreclosure proceedings because they don’t want the burden of taxes, insurance, and assessments.

These are just some of the factors that could jeopardize a true real estate recovery. But, then again, if banks release these homes to the market, the good news is that home buyers may get a break in terms of lower prices.

What are your thoughts on this? Is the decrease in volume of sales just a blip or does it represent a trend leading to concern?

18 November, 2013 2 2 Comments

Real Estate Focus: Millpond A Boca Classic

November 18, 2013 By David Reeves 2 Comments

Towering oaks and meandering paths set Millpond apart

As one of Boca Raton’s premier developers, the now-defunct Arvida Corporation became synonymous with quality real estate development in the area.

With such signature communities as Broken Sound and Boca West, Arvida certainly put its stamp on the area, beginning in the 1970s.

One of its top communities was Millpond, located between Glades and Yamato roads on St. Andrews Blvd. We at www.yourdelrayboca.com, we suggest you take a look at this community. It is ideal for families and the retired who are seeking an active lifestyle.

This tree-lined community with meandering pathways and roads features 306 single-family homes that blend seamlessly with the heavily wooded environment. Unlike most brand new communities, Millpond has huge shade trees with sprawling canopies. With a variety of homes, ranging from 1,800 to more than 3,400 square feet, Millpond has retained its value as an enclave with easy access to schools, parks, and privacy that rivals any other neighborhood in the area.

This peaceful, non-gated community has two lakes, a dock, pavilion areas, a scenic footbridge, picnic areas, playgrounds and tennis courts.

Prices in the neighborhood range from the $400,000s to over $500,000.

Other nearby amenities include beaches, Town Center Mall, Spanish River Library, Patch Reef Park, and much more. For more information visit https://www.mymillpond.net/

If you’re thinking about re-locating to the Delray Beach/Boca Raton area, please contact us at dave@yourdelrayboca.com and we’ll recommend the Realtor who is just right for your home search.

12 November, 2013 0 Comments

FAU Named to ‘Military Times’ 120 Best Colleges for Vets

November 12, 2013 By David Reeves Leave a Comment

FAU has been recognized for its work with Veterans

We took Veterans Day off yesterday, but we’re not ready to stop thinking about our men and women in uniform.

We stumbled upon this bit of good news out of FAU.

Florida Atlantic University has been named to Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges 2014 rankings for the third year in a row. The organization comprising the Army Times, Navy Times, Air Force Times and Marine Corps Times placed a new emphasis on academic rigor this year when conducting and scoring the fourth annual “Best for Vets: Colleges Survey”, a highly respected 150-question analysis of a school’s complete offerings for veterans.

“To be nominated for a third consecutive year is an honor and serves as confirmation that FAU values and supports veterans,” said Charles Brown, Ph.D., senior vice president for student affairs at FAU. “The Office of Military and Veterans Affairs, managed by Dylan Reyes-Cairo, assistant dean of military and veterans affairs, serves military students with an array of holistic programs and initiatives that support their success and well-being as they transition from military service to college. We are ready to provide information and counsel to ensure that no veteran at FAU is left behind.”

Best for Vets provides service men and women a gauge by which to judge whether a school or degree program will truly benefit them. The rankings factored in service member enrollment, percentage of tuition covered by the GI Bill, and availability of specific programs to help service members.

The extensive evaluation process also factored in statistics commonly used to track student success and academic quality, including student loan default rates, retention rates, graduation rates and student-faculty ratio.

The rankings are published in full in the November issue of Military Times EDGE magazine, the premier publication for military transition, and online at MilitaryTimes.com, as well as ArmyTimes.com, NavyTimes.com, AirForceTimes.com and MarineCorpsTimes.com.

The Veterans Day release of Best for Vets: Colleges 2014 coincides with several Military Times initiatives to celebrate service members. The #MyVeteran social media/online campaign allows people to post pictures, videos and stories about a veteran in their lives. Editors’ picks, along with a Made in the USA holiday gift guide, appear in the issues of the Military Times papers on newsstands this week.

8 November, 2013 0 Comments

FAU Marks Global Entrepreneurship Week

November 8, 2013 By David Reeves Leave a Comment

Entrepreneurship is the answer

Florida Atlantic University’s Adams Center for Entrepreneurship within the College of Business will celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week beginning Monday, Nov. 18 through Sunday, Nov. 24, at FAU’s Boca Raton campus, 777 Glades Road.

Global Entrepreneurship Week is an international celebration of the innovators and job creators that launch startups in which ideas come to life, drive economic growth and expand human welfare. “Startup Weekend Boca Raton” anchors the celebratory week with a weekend event where entrepreneurs, developers, marketers and innovative thinkers team up to create startup ventures.

The following events offer FAU students, faculty and the greater FAU community opportunities to explore their potential as entrepreneurs and innovators:

2014 FAU Business Plan Competition – Meet the Winners and Entrepreneurs-in-Residence

Monday, Nov. 18, at 4 p.m.

This informative workshop provides attendees tips on how to register for the 2014 FAU Business Plan Competition, how to access business plan development and startup resources, and offers the opportunity to meet previous competition winners and the Entrepreneurs-in-Residence, highly experienced and successful executives, entrepreneurs, engineers and attorneys who provide guidance to FAU Business Plan Competition participants. Register today at www.fauwinners.eventbrite.com.

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Making Social Media Make Money

Tuesday, Nov. 19, at 5:30 p.m.

Social media has become a critical part of marketing for businesses and individuals. There are now more than 42 million Facebook fan pages offering unprecedented marketing opportunities. YouTube is one of the top websites in the world and individuals are using new marketing vehicles to make millions from their personal expertise. Jay Berkowitz, founder and CEO of Ten Golden Rules, will explore real case studies from 10 businesses and individuals who have used social media to deliver bottom-line profitability for themselves and their businesses. Register today at fausocialmedia.eventbrite.com.

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IBM SME Tookit for Entrepreneurs

Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 9 a.m.

IBM is a global institution embracing innovation. The IBM SME (Small Medium Enterprise) Toolkit is a free program that enables entrepreneurs and small businesses to learn how to implement the sustainable business management practices needed for growth in areas such as finance, accounting, international business, marketing and human resources. IBM Engineers will present this workshop and answer your IBM SME Toolkit questions. Register today at fauibm.eventbrite.com.

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Executive Forum Speaker Series: Scott H. Adams

Thursday, Nov. 21 at 5:30 p.m.

The Executive Forum Speaker Series is designed to provide the wealth of knowledge and experience of inspirational leaders and executives from a wide variety of businesses and industries. The speakers present a brief overview of their businesses, as well as specific professional experiences, followed by a discussion of key issues facing their industries in the current business and economic climate. This session features Scott H. Adams, founder of the FAU Adams Center for Entrepreneurship, a successful and innovative leader in the business community and an enthusiastic advocate of entrepreneurship and innovation. Adams will discuss strengthening the links between education, research, and the development of future business enterprises. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with one of FAU’s most successful graduates. View the Executive Forum Speaker schedule and register at business.fau.edu/executiveforum.

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Entrepreneur Boot Camp: Special ‘Pitch’ Session

Friday, Nov. 22 at 9 a.m.

Entrepreneur Boot Camp is a fast-paced, 30-hour certificate course designed to help aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs develop an effective business plan utilizing business development fundamentals. FAU students, alumni, faculty/staff and the greater FAU community are welcome to attend this session to learn more about Entrepreneur Boot Camp and hear aspiring entrepreneurs make their pitch. Register today at faubootcamp.eventbrite.com.

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Startup Weekend Boca Raton

Friday, Nov. 22-Sunday, Nov. 24

Startup Weekend is an exciting 54-hour weekend event open to students of all disciplines, FAU alumni and members of the FAU community. It begins with an idea, then teams of entrepreneurs, developers, marketers and innovative thinkers assemble to develop startup ventures. If you’re an “idea person,” entrepreneur, startup enthusiast, passionate about social change, or up for a life-changing weekend, Startup Weekend Boca Raton is for you. Register at bocaraton.startupweekend.org.

For more information on Global Entrepreneur Week, contact Maggie Kelly at 561-297-0927 or mkelly42@fau.edu, or visit business.fau.edu/gew.

6 November, 2013 0 Comments

The Water Cooler: Remembering the Shutdown; seeking celeb encounters

November 6, 2013 By David Reeves Leave a Comment

What are you talking about?

From the “what are people talking about at the water cooler?” department:

Seems like we caught a break with the temporary funding of the government. But, wait till early next year and it will be like “Ground Hog Day” again with vicious in-fighting, blame games galore, and tiresome partisan politics.

Well, what’s your favorite “shutdown” story?

One of mine was a quick visit to local Rep. Ted Deutch’s web site during the shutdown. I was greeted on the home page with a sign, “Sorry, we’re closed for business.” Don’t know about you, but I found this somewhat disturbing. After all, Ted was being paid. Why would his office be closed?

The other disturbing thing about the shutdown was that it really showed that our leaders have created a privileged ruling class for themselves:

They get paid during shutdowns
They don’t pay into Social Security
They are exempt from the Affordable Healthcare Act, while deciding it’s good enough for us
Approve their own raises

The list goes on. This appears to be the real issue facing voters. Should those we elect approve legislation that allows them to live by different rules than those who elect them. This concept was supported by a recent 60 Minute segment on Leadership PACs, identified as a legal slush fund for our leaders. Will it be changed? Unlikely since Congress would have to vote on it. Don’t hold your breath on this and the other privileges.

Please note, in our efforts to be non-partisan, we have not mentioned any political party. We’re equal opportunity pundits.

Ever Been Stiffed By A Celebrity? Let us know

Heard on a sports talk show that a Kansas City Chief player left a $1,000 tip on a restaurant bill. Good for him. Also heard that a Amare’ Stoudemire of the Knicks left a $10 tip on a $150 bill in an Arizona diner. Another caller said that A-Rod doesn’t tip at a bagel joint in Miami. Have you ever been stiffed by a celebrity? Or heard of it happening? Let us know.

Our site’s co-founder Jeff Perlman came down to Fort Lauderdale in 1978 to see his beloved New York Yankees in Spring Training. He spent a week working in a car lot at a hotel frequented by the Yankees. When he approached one of his favorites, pitcher Ed Figuroa for an autograph, the player allegedly rolled up the car window and drove away. Jeff may deny it, but we believe the incident left a scar to this day.

Have you been dissed similarly? Let us know. Write to us at dave@yourdelrayboca.com

30 October, 2013 0 Comments

The Interview: Bruce Allen Chair of the FAU Foundation

October 30, 2013 By David Reeves Leave a Comment

Bruce Allen is a long time community leader

We recently caught up with Bruce Allen, Chairman of the Florida Atlantic University Foundation. It was a fascinating conversation on the three big changes he has seen at FAU, speculation on the university’s first national sports title , the pride that comes with diversity and his deep roots in Delray/Boca. His grandfather ran a grocery store on Atlantic Avenue in the early 1900s. Enjoy.

First, please tell us about your relationship with FAU:

I am just one of those alumni who had a great college experience and stayed involved. After graduation, someone asked me to do an event with the Alumni Association. One thing led to another and now, as the Chair of the FAU Foundation, I have the opportunity to help make Florida Atlantic one of America’s most admired universities. My wife, my son, my brother and I all hold degrees from FAU.

There have been many positive changes at FAU in recent years. Name a few that come to mind:

The biggest change is the size of the student body. When I was a student, we had about 5,000 full-time students. Today, our student body is over 30,000 from all 50 states and 180 foreign countries. I am proud that our students are 49% minority making FAU the most diverse university in Florida. In addition, FAU has over 300 clubs and campus organizations. Our incoming freshman class has an average high school GPA of 3.43.

Another big change has been the addition of our medical school. We only take 64 medical students per year and they are all top notch. I have never met one that was not truly outstanding. Not just wicked smart but wonderful young people.

The growth of NCAA sports has been the third big change. Our 29,000 seat on campus stadium is a wonderful addition to campus life. I would like to share that it was built without one cent of taxpayer’s dollars. FAU is a member of Conference USA and competes in 19 NCAA Division One sports. I can’t wait until we win our first national championship. My guess is that it will be in baseball.

What is the role of the FAU Foundation and what types of causes does it support?

The $200 million FAU Foundation, for the most part, supports scholarships. The cost of a college education is growing very fast. It is becoming unaffordable to an average income family. I almost cried when a student told me that the small scholarship (I think it was $500) that she received from the FAU put enough gas in her car to allow her to drive to campus and finish her senior year. It really made a difference in her life. Even though most of our scholarships are larger, that story really hit home with me. In addition to scholarships, we also provide funds to bring in nationally and internationally known speakers and programs to FAU. Some of these are open to the public. Your readers can check www.fau.edu for full details. Our Lifelong Learning Center is one of the most outstanding in the United States.

Can you give us some “insider information” about any new programs, courses, etc., that we might be seeing at FAU in the coming years?

Okay, you twisted my arm. I’ll give you two: First, on March 29, 2014 the FAU Foundation will host “The FAU Gala” in the football stadium’s tower. It will be a modified Black Tie event. We plan to raise $1,500,000 to provide scholarships for our Military Veterans. The GI Bill really doesn’t cover everything returning veterans need. We want to give back to members of our military who have given so much to us. Second, in December, 2014 the “Boca Raton Bowl” will be played in the FAU Stadium. The game will be covered by ESPN. In addition, ESPN has the right to pick the two competing teams from Conference USA, the MAC or the American Athletic Conference. The game will be another strong economic driver from FAU to our community. By the way, it surprises most people to know that Florida Atlantic has an annual economic impact in our community of over $6 Billion.

We understand you’re a huge sports fan. If you could play any position on the football or basketball teams, what would it be?

I think I would be a cheerleader. That sounds a lot better to me than having some 300 pound lineman beat me into the ground. The FAU Cheer and Dance Teams do a great job at the games. Also, they are also wonderful FAU ambassadors at many community events like the Chamber of Commerce. GO OWLS !!

You’ve been a big part of the Boca Raton/Delray Beach community. Tell us a little bit about your position at US Trust, membership at Hammock Street Church, and anything else you’d like to cover.

I was born in Delray Beach. My grandfather settled in Delray in about 1910 and a photo of his grocery store on Atlantic Avenue hangs over the desk in my office which is also on Atlantic Avenue. I enjoy my work at US Trust. The people that I work with are great and my clients are stimulating and appreciate my efforts. While it is true that I am open about my faith, it does not bother me if someone disagrees with me. We all have a right to believe what we want to believe. It has been said, “I am in business to make a living, I am in life to make a difference.” I don’t know who said it, but it just about sums up my philosophy.

23 October, 2013 0 Comments

The Interview: Marc Hickman Photography Puts Your Business In Focus

October 23, 2013 By David Reeves Leave a Comment

Marc Hickman remains passionate about photography

We recently caught up with Marc Hickman of Marc Hickman Photography in Boca. He had this to say about his business as an experienced commercial photographer:

South Florida is a great place to live, play and run a business, especially a photography business. The Boca/Delray area is a great location base for my work. From a photographer’s standpoint, the climate and weather is a benefit because the lighting is outstanding when shooting on location. No long, rainy seasons or bitter cold. What about the heat? Well, the most beautiful light to photograph in, is at the “Magic Hours” usually an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset.

Temperatures at those times are pretty tolerable even in the dead of summer. During the hot times you can find me in my cool studio. This region of the country is also wonderful for client prospects. It’s the gateway to Latin and Caribbean countries to the South and the Wall Street giants to the North. South Florida is the “business route” highway rest stop to do business. And these businesses are always looking for competitively priced commercial photographers. Could I make more money in larger metropolitan areas as a commercial photographer? Sure! But I feel the chemistry of business and “surf, sun, and sand” is a great combination that suits my lifestyle to a tee.

Tell us a little bit about your business and how you became one of the area’s leading commercial photographers:

Marc Hickman Photography has been in business for 15-plus years. We’re a full-service studio located in the heart of Boca Raton. I also have a team of graphic designers, printers, social media gurus, and PR firms that can help my clients with projects. Not only can I make sure my clients have great photography services, I can also lead them down the right path to a successful final product, whatever it is.

I consistently show attention to details followed by the drive to capture that perfect image for all our clients. We understand that maintaining a high level of excellence is “A Must” to stay relevant in today’s photography arena.

There are many types of commercial photographers. Please tell us what your niche in the marketplace is and how you differentiate yourself from other photographers:

I really love studio photography. Being able to have full control of my lighting is awe-inspiring, whether I’m shooting product, food, or people. I’m in control of the feel and the look of the lighting that is being produced.

Having my own studio lets me be close to my numerous lighting resources. Consequently I can not only create the lighting I love ,but also the lighting my clients expect to showcase their projects. However, I do love to get out of the studio from time to time and do architectural work. From industrial, real-estate, urban landscape to marine architecture, these projects always keep my location shooting techniques consistent .

What are some of your typical assignments?:

Typically, projects would be for companies that need images for their packaging designs, print catalogs, website content. I also do quite a bit of architectural and fashion work.

Can you tell us about any unusual assignments that may be of interest to our readers?:

To be honest, I think all my assignments are pretty unusual in some form or fashion. Some more than others I guess. Some of the things clients ask for can be pretty interesting.

But one time I was asked to photograph a home on a small private island. Everything was conducted very hush hush. I wasn’t even told whose property it was, or really even the location other than being down in the Caribbean. I was asked to meet a sea plane, fly out to the island, spend the day photographing the property and fly back that evening. The pilot stayed with me the entire day and I had a very specialized shot list . The place was awesome, totally self sufficient. Like it was its own little country. It was one of those times you say to yourself “That’s a lot of zeros for a place like this”. Other than being a private island with a really nice home/compound, it was nothing unusual. It was just how the transaction took place, very top secret. (I’m probably risking my life just telling you about it)

There’s no doubt that technology has changed the photography profession. Can you elaborate on this?:

Yes, there’s no doubt that technology has changed the photography profession. It is an understatement. This is a conversation I have with many of my colleagues on a daily basis. As technology advances and photography gear becomes more affordable, the market has become even more saturated with so-called commercial photographers. The market was flooded 15 years ago. Now it just seems that photographers are coming out of the woodwork. When I got into photography there was a structured level of photography services — low-end, middle, and high-end photography.

Today, it just seems to be low-end and a struggling high-end, and no value in the pricing of photography, with no integrity of professionalism in the imagery being created. A constant phrase I hear in the market is that “the photography is GOOD ENOUGH for the PRICE of the project”. I believe this is totally unsatisfactory. That’s why I’m on a one-photographer mission to change that perception and mind set, one client at a time. The customer/client deserves the VERY BEST photography at a competitive price range the market can bear.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us that we haven’t covered?:

I still love photography and love the work I create. I know if I keep providing great photography services to my clients and stand behind my product I produce 110% I’ll be around this industry for a long time to come.

For more information on Marc Hickman Photography contact him at info@marchickmanphotography.com or visit www.marchickmanphotography.com

21 October, 2013 0 Comments

Boca #2 Best Dressed Small City

October 21, 2013 By David Reeves Leave a Comment

Lynn U’s annual fashion show may be one reason why Boca is a best dressed city.

Well, in the coming year, as the Avis ads state, Boca Raton will just have to work a little harder.

In a recent survey by the Movato Blog, Boca was ranked No. 2 as the “best dressed small city in the country,” just behind Santa Monica.

With so much going in the world, this is not earth-shattering news, but here at www.yourdelrayboca.com, we just thought this would be of interest, something to bring up while you’re tailgating at an FAU game over a few cold ones. P.S. Delray was nowhere on the list…sigh.

So, what’s the criteria? There are plenty, but you’ll be happy to know that Boca ranked numero uno in tailoring and dry cleaning. According to the blog, Boca has one tailor for every 2,928 residents and one dry cleaner for every 1,273 residents. Guess it takes a lot to look good at the pricey, trendy spots in Boca.

The Movoto Blog https://www.movoto.com/blog/ is published by the Movoto Real Estate firm. The firm surveys cities with populations between 99,999 and 75,000. They used Yelp to determine how many of each type of store or service they have and counted the highest-priced results for clothes, shoes, and jewelry.

Here’s the full rankings of the Top 10

Santa Monica, CA
Boca Raton
Newport Beach, CA
Westminister, CA
San Mateo, CA
Santa Barbara, CA
Albany, NY
Evantson, IL
Mission Viego, CA
Miami Beach, CA

16 October, 2013 1 Comment

The Lakes/Shores At Boca Raton: Setting the Standard for Quality in West Boca

October 16, 2013 By David Reeves 1 Comment

The Lakes At Boca one of West Boca’s best neighborhoods

The Lakes and The Shores At Boca Raton were clearly on the forefront of West Boca’s transformation from farm lands to a residential destination for families seeking a quality lifestyle.
This community began development in the late 1980s and rapidly became one of the trend-setting neighborhoods that spurred the development of shopping centers, the construction of many new schools, and the opening of numerous parks.
Multiple Home Selections
The original developer, Centex, envisioned a community with multiple housing types, including single-family estates, town homes, and zero lot line homes. Today, that combination has stood the test of time as “The Lakes” and its neighbor, “The Shores”, remain one of the most popular re-sale communities along the State Road 7 corridor. It is located west of State Road 7 on Yamato Road.
In addition to the varied home selections, The Lakes features meandering roadways, expansive lakes, and a recreation center with exercise facility, pool, tot lot, billiard room, and tennis/basketball courts. With more than 600 homes, it has pretty much something for everyone. Today, home prices range from the high $200,000s to the high $500,000s.
The Shores: A guard-gated option
Adjacent to The Lakes, is The Shores, a guard-gated community with 330 single family homes with up to 4,000 square feet. Prices range from the high $200,000s to the mid $500,000s.
Families find that one major attraction is the proximity to high-rated rated schools, including Sunrise Park Elementary, Eagles Landing Middle School, West Boca High School, and Olympic Heights High School. In addition, just down the road is South County Regional Park, boasting an amphitheater that host concerts, soccer/softball fields, Osprey Point Golf Course, bike trails, and much more.

For more information, here’s the link to the community newsletter – www.thelakesitenews.com

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