BUSINESS BUZZ: Upgrades, expansion at local USF's Bloomberg Lab

USF Sarasota-Manatee's pioneering Bloomberg Lab, which has given finance students an invaluable edge as they enter the workforce, is getting a makeover this summer, complete with 12 new Bloomberg Terminals, a new scrolling stock ticker and other enhancements.

Meanwhile, the Muma College of Business is preparing to open an identical Bloomberg Lab on the Tampa campus this fall.

The upgrades and expansion will allow faculty members to incorporate the myriad financial and other data available via the Blooming Terminals into courses on finance and investing.

Students will also be able to use the new machines to prepare for investment competitions against classmates and counterparts at other universities that measure their ability to analyze financial conditions and provide investment advice − skills that prepare them for careers on Wall Street and elsewhere in the financial services industry.

Many students have been able to use the lab at USF Sarasota-Manatee to earn a Bloomberg certification that helps them stand out against other job candidates.

The overhaul at Sarasota-Manatee, which is expected to be completed by the fall, is being funded by the original gift from David Kotok and Cumberland Advisors that was used to create the lab.

Sunseeker calls out for entertainersSunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor is seeking musicians, DJs and specialty performers to become part of its summer entertainment lineup and future special events.

Selected performers will entertain guests and locals in seven restaurants and 11 bars and lounges, at two pools and at other locations throughout the resort.

Sunseeker's "Seeking Stars" talent search is looking for professional musicians, including full bands, solo singers and duos, and open format DJs across all genres. Performers such as acrobats, stilt walkers, jugglers, magicians and fire performers are also encouraged to submit entries.

The deadline for submissions is July 15.

Video submissions should be no longer than five minutes and DJ submissions should include EPKs with a 30-minute open-format family-friendly mix.

Selected musicians and DJs will audition in person Aug. 26-29.