Daily Business Report — Jan. 16, 2012

Apartment Development Company Launched

Construction industry veterans Ronnie Morgan, Louis Kuntz and Rick Shwisberg have launched a new apartment development company — MKS Residential — based in North County. The three formerly were with The Morgan Group Inc. “Our team has a decade of experience working together, having built more than 3,500 apartment units in Southern California since 1997,” said Morgan. “Since moving on from MGI we’ve been looking for the right opportunity to work together.” Morgan was co-chairman of MGI and president of Morgan Construction Co. Kuntz was the executive vice president/national and West Coast development partner for MGI. Shwisberg was senior vice president/West Coast general counsel for MGI. Another MGI alumnus, Barney Addamo, is also part of Team MKS, serving as president of ReyLenn Construction Co., a subsidiary.

Kyoto Journalism Fellowship Applications Sought

Point Loma Nazarene University is accepting applications for its 2012 Kyoto Prize Symposium Journalism Fellowship — a fully-funded educational program designed to enhance a journalist’s knowledge in technology, science and the arts. The fellow will participate in workshops and presentations by the latest Kyoto Prize laureates at San Diego State University, UCSD and the University of San Diego during the 11th annual Kyoto Prize Symposium in San Diego March 20-22. The program includes travel expenses, lodging and a per-diem.Candidates must apply by Feb. 10 at pointloma.edu/kyotoprize.

The Kyoto Prize is presented each year by Japan’s nonprofit Inamori Foundation to individuals and groups worldwide who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to the betterment of society in “Advanced Technology,” “Basic Sciences” and “Arts and Philosophy.” The prize consists of academic honors, a gold medal, and a cash gift of 50 million yen (about U.S. $650,000) per category, making it Japan’s highest private award for global achievement.

Rob Felix Named President and CEO of N.N. Jaeschke

Rob Felix has been appointed president and CEO of N.N. Jaeschke Inc., a San Diego community management firm. Felix has more than 30 years of experience in the community management industry. He previously was senior vice president of a large property management company in Phoenix. Felix is a graduate of Western Washington University.

PowerGenix Establishes Joint Venture With Chinese Company

PowerGenix, a San Diego manufacturer of nickel-zinc batteries, has established a joint venture with China City Construction Co., an investment and development company in China. The joint venture will develop, manufacture and sell advanced batteries for the automotive market and other markets.