Trends Chamber
The Official Publication of The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral
March 2014
Join Us For The General Membership Lunch, March 12th at LaVenezia Sponsored by LCEC, Centurylink and The News-Press
Business After Hours March 20th at Southern Pavers 5:30 p.m. Join Us Every Tuesday at the Shops at Surfside for the Surfside Sunset Market, 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
To Promote and Serve Business and Community
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Please call Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext 107 for more information. donna@capecoralchamber.com
MARCH 2014 Publisher & Editor Donna Schuman-Germain Communications Director donna@capecoralchamber.com Contributing Editors Mike Quaintance Chamber President q2u2@capecoralchamber.com Stephanie Roberson Technology Director stephanie@capecoralchamber.com Claudia St. Onge Business Manager cso@capecoralchamber.com Bill Johnson, Jr. Membership Sales Director bill@capecoralchamber.com Melanie Lempke Administrative Generalist melanie@capecoralchamber.com Amanda Brunson Special Events Coordinator amanda@capecoralchamber.com Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral P.O. Box 100747, Cape Coral, FL 33910 2051 Cape Coral Parkway Cape Coral, FL 33904 Phone (239) 549-6900 Fax (239) 549-9609
MARCH 4TH Business Card Exchange Mid Cape Corporate Center 125 SW 3rd Place, Cape Coral, FL 33991 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. MARCH 12TH General Membership Lunch La Venezia 4646 SE 10th Place, Club Square Cape Coral, FL 33904 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. MARCH 15TH Cape Coral Antique & Craft Market at the Cape Coral Farmers’ Market SE 47th Terrace - Downtown Cape Coral 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. MARCH 20TH Business After Hours Southern Pavers, Inc 1332 Cape Coral Pkwy. E., Cape Coral, FL 33904 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. SATURDAYS THROUGH MAY 10TH Cape Coral Farmers’ Market Every Saturday - Club Square SE 47th Terrace - Downtown Cape Coral 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
*PLEASE NOTE THE DATE FOR SPEED POLITICS IS BEING RESCHEDULED To register for any of the above events online, or for more up-to-date information, please visit www.capecoralchamber.com
Q’s WORLD The Battle For Free Enterprise Mike “Q” Quaintance, President
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s I was catching up on some of the Chamber reading that I have neglected for the past couple of weeks and dug into the Florida Chamber’s 2014 Business agenda. I began reading an article called “The Battle for Free Enterprise.” The principles for a positive business growth environment espoused by the Florida Chamber are as follows; • We believe in a robust free enterprise system with limited intrusion by the government in the marketplace • We believe in a best-in-class education and workforce development system that will enable all Floridians to compete in the 21st Century global economy • We believe in fair and predictable laws and regulations that promote economic development and do not impose unreasonable costs on businesses or their customers
2014 Board of Directors • We believe in a simple, fair and globally competitive tax structure • We believe in fiscal responsibility, public accountability and transparency in government • We believe in a reliable and sustainable infrastructure to support the health and prosperity of all Floridians • We believe in constructive and positive labor environment in Florida that generates jobs. • We believe in a unified and responsible business community that act in the long-term interest of our state.” I would suggest that these principles are partially founded in the necessity of economic recovery. I believe that most of this message from the Florida Chamber would resonate well with our local business community. The Cape Coral City Manager and staff have been using the words fair, predictable and streamlined as it pertains to how our local government looks as we move into the future. I believe that our community has already discussed and is taking steps toward a sustainable infrastructure as we see new sewer and water construction activity and the widening of Pine Island Road between Chiquita and Burnt Store. I would suggest each of us communicate with our local elected officials offering ideas and solutions that will improve our business environment and our community. Our elected officials and staff seem to be very engaged as they work towards the success of the business community which impacts everyone’s quality of life.
Chairman - Annette Carrasquillo, LAI Design Associates, LLC Chairman Elect - Ed Ramos, Ramos Builders, Inc. Treasurer - Brett Bisbe, B2 Solutions, Inc Past Chairman - Joseph Mazurkiewicz, BJM Consulting, Inc. Beverly Black - Black Business Solutions, LLC Ed Bolter - Lamar Advertising Dana Brunett - City of Cape Coral Matthew Connar - Boost Creative Tony Constantino - Financial Advisor Kevin M. Burns & Assoc. P.A. Diane Everhart - Northwestern Mutual Financial Joseph Francioni - The Smart Companies Cynthia Gallagher - The Breeze Newspapers Tom Hansen - Boat House of Cape Coral Tim Hauck - Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Services Cheryl Komnick - Caloosa Tent & Rental Trish Lassiter - LCEC Michelle Lewis - Past Chairman - B2 Solutions Donna Meola - Past Chairman Thomas Shipp Jr. - Past Chairman - Tom Shipp at the Martin Law Firm Stanley Spicer - Platinum Service A/C Chris Spiro - Past Chairman - Spiro & Associates Zachary Zeis - Elysium Construction Inc.
2014 Trustees Rhonda Chapman - First Citizens Bank Sallie Dwyer - SunTrust Merchant Services Sandra Greiner - SunSplash Family Waterpark Mike Hollow - RE//MAX Realty Team Scott Kashman - Cape Coral Hospital Laura Koehn - CapeCoral.com David Owen - BB & T - Oswald, Trippe & Co. Wendy Piascik - Lee Memorial Health System Michelle Whitlock - Siesta Pebble Pool Interiors
2014 Chairman Emeritus Tom Giles - Avalon Engineering Wayne Kirkwood - Kirkwood Electric Elmer Tabor - Wonderland Realty
Chamber Staff Mike Quaintance, President Donna S. Germain, Communications Director Claudia St. Onge, Business Manager & Farmers’ Market Director Bill Johnson, Jr., Membership Sales Director Stephanie Roberson, Technology Director Melanie Lempke, Administrative Generalist Amanda Brunson, Special Events Coordinator Linda Kirby, Membership Sales Annette Siner, Membership Sales
JANUARY NEW MEMBERS & RENEWALS New
A-1 Septic Systems Carl Balin BBQ Donut Boat Rentals Antonella Canzian Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Florida Realty Deborah Murray Cape Shore Property Management, Inc Kevin Page
Sustainable Home Service Adam Cutler Total Technical Solutions Gustavo Coutin TSI Strategies, LLC. Jim Roach
Renewals ABC Supply Member Since: 1989
German American Social Club of Cape Coral Member Since: 1995
Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, LLC Member Since: 2011
Great Clips for Hair Member Since: 2009
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Member Since: 1999
Gulf Coast Humane Society Member Since: 2013 High Fidelity Studios Member Since: 2008 Home Services By Rafael Member Since: 2007
Achieva Credit Union - Cape Coral Pkwy. W. Member Since: 2013
Keiser University Member Since: 2009
Complete We Do Martin Dunn
ACRA Electric Inc. Member Since: 1994
Ken’s Auto Repair of Cape Coral, Inc Member Since: 05/02/2005
GSF Mortgage Corporation Ray R. Stevens
Best Pets Member Since: 2012
Individual - Curtis Clawson Curtis Clawson
Blind Gallery Member Since: 2011
J. Roberts & Co. Dan Jennings
Cape Coral Art League Member Since: 1999
Natural Family Physicians Robert Murdoch
Community Bank of Cape Coral Member Since: 2007
Northwestern Mutual - Naples/ Estero Group John R Delaney
Complete Music Video Photo Martin Dunn
R. Fry Builders, Inc. Connie Fry Seascape Development Jeff Bucher Springline Architectural Studios, LLC Paul L. Snyder
Ken Schuman Insurance Member Since: 05/02/2005 Kinetic Thoughts LLC Member Since: 2010 Lee County Inspection Services Member Since: 2008
PartyLite - Candle Ladies Renee’ & Rhonda Member Since: 2012 Phil Deems Real Estate Member Since: 1990 Premier Cape Construction, Inc. Member Since: 1995 Premier Designs Jewelry, Jim & Linda Kirby, Independent Distributors Member Since: 2011 Rebecca A. Ross with Robert W. Baird Member Since: 2012 Simonson & Sons, Inc. Member Since: 2011 Southwest Florida Brochure Dist. Member Since: 1995
Corona Property Holdings, LLC Member Since: 2012
Main Street Children Dentistry and Orthodontics Member Since: 2012
Stabley Marketing, LLC Member Since: 2012
Dawson of Florida, LLC Member Since: 2006
Men’s Rights Law Firm Member Since: 2008
Vogue Hair Studio Member Since: 2013
DQ Grill & Chill Member Since: 2013
Merits Health Products, Inc Member Since: 2011
Wal-Mart #819 Member Since: 2008
For The Kids Foundation Member Since: 2012
Miceli’s Restaurant Member Since: 2012 Morris Law Firm, P.A. Member Since: 2009
CHAMBER TRENDS We’re Having Fun In March
Annette Carrasquillo, LAI Design Associates 2014 Chairman
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ecently, I was asked how I got to be the Chairman of the Chamber Board and what I did to grow within the leadership of the Chamber. I thought about this and I can honestly say the Chamber’s Leadership programs started me on this path. The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral has promoted Leadership for many years through various platforms such as Leadership Cape Coral, Advanced Leadership, the Community Trustee program and Jr. Leadership. Through these programs, we have seen many of our members evolve into community leaders and hopefully we have touched the lives of students that will one day in the future give back to our community through their leadership. As a graduate of many of the programs listed above, I can sincerely state that they were the catalyst in developing my desire to become involved and give back. I made the decision, created and executed the plan with the help and support of my peers. I took advantage of opportunities that were presented; I raised my hand, said I want to be involved and took action! So what does my experience have to do with what you may want? That’s simple. Our Chamber provides many resources for you to become involved, grow personally and in business. As a Chamber, we provide these resources
and promote you and your business in all avenues available. Your talent, time and treasure are invaluable to our Chamber and we hope that when your opportunity presents itself, you grab it, raise your hand, get involved and help grow the leadership of not only our Chamber but the community! At the March General Membership Luncheon we will celebrate the next class of Jr. Leadership, as well as graduate the Advanced Leadership Class. We hope that you are able to join us as we congratulate the future leaders of our community! As always, with all that is happening in our community, I hope to see you Having Fun in March!
...
with a purpose. & Have Fun!
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCH
Top Left: The Chamber welcomed its new members at the February General membership Lunch. Top Right: Guest Speaker Janette M L’Heureux with Baldwin, Krystyn, Sherman Partners discusses the Affordable Healthcare Act with the Chamber members. Left - Congratulations to our mentors of the month for November, December and January. Kim Geiger C1 Bank - January, John Evans, Edward Jones - November and Michelle Whitlock, Siesta Pebble - December. Thank you to our lunch sponsors CenturyLink, The News-Press and LCEC as well as out table sponsors Cape Coral Hospital, Edward Jones Investments - Terry Frith, Floridian College Planning Resources, Key West Express and Relay For Life of Cape Coral.
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MARKETING TRENDS Yes! Chalk One Up For The Brand Man
Christopher T. Spiro, Spiro & Associates
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n February I had the pleasure of attending the BIA Parade of Homes awards at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa. Many of our clients were in attendance and received awards for their homes. During the cocktail reception, I received the biggest award of all. I had the genuine pleasure of listening to three clients discuss the fact that potential customers were coming into their model centers driven there by brand recognition. One of my clients commented, “One prospect walked in and said I have got to visit your home, every other homebuilder we visited has mentioned you.” Ya’ see, for years I have been preaching about the power of good brand positioning and brand loyalty. In the new economy, people are seeking out brands that have weathered the test of time, have the financial wherewithal and positive reputation. Often times I am told by potential new clients that they are not interested in running any brand advertising, that they merely want to run immediate ROI type ads. Regardless of this request, I also argue for the baseline brand campaign. As a new or existing business you need to understand that your brand is the single most important marketing asset you have. It will evolve, grow and change. And, if it is not maintained it may evolve, grow and change for
the worse. Here is a simple measuring device you can use to see where your brand stands: Select five current customers, five vendors/subcontractors and five community friends (other business associates). Email them with the following questions: 1. When you hear (insert company name here), what are the first three things that come to mind? 2. When you hear (insert company name here), what does that company (do, sell, service)? 3. When you hear (insert company name here), who do you perceive to be their competition? 4. When you hear (insert company name here), what are the names of the people you most associate? This simple questionnaire will begin to form a framework for what your brand looks like and what people who are in your business, associated with your business and bought from your business think. We believe so much in brand building that we trademarked our own process called AmperBranding. You can read more about it at www. SpiroAndAssociates.com/AmperBranding. Christopher “The BrandMan” Spiro is, well, a brand fanatic and a champion of all things branding- related. When he’s not hanging out at fancy hotels sipping wine and rubbing elbows with some really nice people who say some really nice things about their marketing success, you may find him at Team Spiro’s World Headquarters in Fort Myers. Hit him up: 239.481.5511, CSpiro@ SpiroAndAssociates.com, and www.facebook.com/christopher.spiro.
Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting Today! Contact Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext 107 or donna@capecoralchamber.com
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REAL ESTATE TRENDS From Our Chairman Don’t Stop The Carnival
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Berge Aslanian (CDPE) Realtor, RE/MAX Island Harbor
2012
Donna veryMeola, yearKirkwood most Electric realtors 2012 Chamber Chairman eagerly anticipate the influx of
I
snowbirds with its moreDecember optimism can’t believe than the before. After my so many andyear I am writing last Real Estate Trends article as Chairman of the slack years, we keep thinking “this year Don’t Stop the Carnival Board. 2012 has just flown by will be better”. This year the craziness and there have been so many Every year most realtors eagerly anticipate the influx of snowbirds more optimism continues but is it with better? Perhaps we accomplishments I would than the year before. After so many slack years, we keep thinking “this year will like be to better”. This year the craziness continues butshould isshare. it better? start with forgive a look atme the numbers (Please if I have forforgotten theforthree month periodending ending Perhaps we should start with a look at the numbers the any!!) three month period 2/28/14: How 2/28/14: fortunate we are to live in ’13Paradise! Our Dec ’13 Jan Feb ‘14 economy is Median $ Median $and Median $ 2013 Homes Homesgrowing Homes the outlook for For Sale 1740 $235,000 1993 $240,000 2086 $242,000 continued Sold 291 $160,000 147 is for $160,000 229growth. $170,000 2012 was a great year!! Much was accomplished for you, including making Cape Coral a better place Jan to ’13 do business. Feb Here Dec ’13 ‘14 are a few of Median $ Condos Median $ Condos Median $ Condos theFor highlights: Sale 290 $138,000 343 $140,000 341 $141,000 The Economic Office45delivered on their Sold Cape Coral 41 $108,000 Development 25 $124,500 $118,500 promise to increase business, investment and employment in the For single family homes one can’t help noticing the steady increase in inventory and a For The single family homes one can’t noticing theincreased steady increase in area. team closed 137 economic development projects, which slight increase in median list price. The numberhelp of homes sold also along with an increase in median price of those homes sold in February. Those folks on the represents 85 new businesses in the Cape and 52 expansions. inventory andproperties a slight toincrease median ofincrease. homes sold sidelines with sell haveinjumped into list the price. game asThe theynumber see prices More have pulledathe trigger too and they are willing partnership to pay a little more for that The buyers EDO created public/private strategic with Lamar also increased along with an increase in median price of those homes sold in home that caught their eye. Advertising and HDPR Group and a new marketing campaign that February. Those folks on the sidelines with properties to sell have jumped Condos are Coral holding is their own. for Listings are consistent with the prior month but the into says “Cape Open Business. ” number sold increased dramatically while the median price of those sold went down. theThat game as means theywelcomed see prices increase. buyers have pulled the trigger too Cape Coral the opening of 1,156 businesses in usually buyers are snapping upMore the cheaper units and that is exactly what2012 has been happening. including place based businesses, 809home home-based and they are301 willing to pay a little more for that that caughtbusinesses their eye. and 46 unspecified businesses. means Even shorter distances The biggest increase in properties sold is inCommerce the lower brackets. though those Condos arebeen holding their own. Listings areprice consistent with the prior month havefor creeping up, astute buyers are realizingCommerce that the numbersalso of properties toprices travel your goods and services. means a at our bargain prices are decreasing. So they are getting them while they can even if the butprices the are number sold increased dramatically while the median price of those diversified tax base jobs!they slightly higherand because are still below replacement cost and below national averages. sold went down. of ThatCommerce usually means buyersCoral are snapping up to thegrow cheaper The Chamber of Cape continues as well; in December 2011 our membership was at an all time low of Yes folks, the bargains are still there. They are not as hard to find as you may think as units and that is exactly what has been happening. we keep trending upward. A very good friend who is also a local realtor and my 583 members, today we stand at 744. This resulted in a 78 percent respected investment partner recently said thatistoday’s marketbrackets. is just like Even The biggest increase in properties sold in the current lower price throwing darts atgrowth a dartboard and hitting it; the farther youof get81 from it the moreThis it looks membership with a retention rate percent. could like youthose the bull’s eye. though prices have been creeping buyers realizing that not havehitbeen accomplished without up, theastute referrals fromare our members, numbersWith of our properties at our are decreasing. Soprices they are Translation: rising market prices, in time, prices today’s purchase at prevailing athe dynamic sales team and an bargain awesome membership development will look like a bargain six months or more down the road. How many times have you committee. getting them while they can even if the prices are slightly higher because heard someone say, “I should’ve bought property back then if I knew prices would go up they they have.”Leadership programs continue to develop community Chamber arelike still below replacement cost and below national averages. leaders. 20 men and women graduated Leadership Well, nowIn youNovember, do know! Yes folks, bargains aremembers still there.ofThey are notChamber as hard toboard find ashave you Cape Coral.the Twenty-four the 2012 may think asfrom we keep upward. A veryincluding good friend who is also a local graduated the trending Leadership Program the Chairman and 2-28-14
market is just like throwing darts at a dartboard and hitting it; the farther you get from it the more it looks like you hit the bull’s eye. Translation:We With our rising market prices,school in time, today’sin purchase at Chair-Elect. currently have 27 high juniors our Junior prevailing prices will look like a bargain six months or more down the road. Leadership Program. The Chamber successfully (2) “I Disney Institute How many times have you heardpresented someone say, should’ve boughtprograms property in 2012. The Chamber Special Events team (yes, I say teams because back then if I knew prices would go up like they have.” it takes a village!!) brought an astounding 250,000+ citizens and Well, nowtogether you do know! members for Red White and Boom , Golf Tournament, The localMarket, news has most recently telling us thatDay, real estate is going Farmers Business Expo ,been Family Bowling a Casino Trip to The Price is Right, as well as our Holiday Festival of Lights on up. Wow, what a surprise. We’ve been giving evidence of that every month December 1st. for the past two years. Just so you know, it will keep going up and this is why. Our on-line business directory resulted in 1,300,829 web referrals ourthat national debttokeeps andover our the treasury keeps printing in As 2012 equates 3,544increasing on average year per member!! moneysays to paymembership for it, the value of our pay?) money goes down. We are noticing that (Who doesn’t A new Chamber app was 2012. and cars and it takes more money mobile to buy things like introduced groceries andinfurniture It was also a very busy election year for Public Affairs most other things we use. Building materials and laborour are also on that list. Committee! This is a group of passionate people who make sure that Oh yes, and don’t forget permits and fees because government costs money the “voice” of business is heard, not only at the local level but also too. Alland thatfederal. “stuff” isThe evidence that it takes morewere money to well have attended what you had state candidates’ forums very by members and citizens of Cape Coral. before so why not use what you have to your advantage now. Our education hosted the Excellence Education We have all noticedcommittee the huge increase in out-of-state licenseinplates on our Awards in April and awarded $4,500 in scholarships to deserving roads. Most realtors will tell you that those visitors have not been out in large high school seniors! numbers properties. numbersluncheons tell us that that sales are havebeing been It was looking also theatfirst year ofBut, ourthe “rotating” very well received by oursmarter membership. increasing. We are seeing buyers of higher quality (well, mostly) Serving as your Chairman of rather than a high quantity of buyers. the Board has been an excellent experience and I feel blessed for having had the opportunity of The carnival still goes on. The tiki bars are full and restaurants are busy. meeting so many of you at meetings and events. Daytime road canme be with frustrating if you and are in a hurry to getIt Thankcars youon forthe honoring your trust commitment! has been myespecially privilegethose to work my fellow directors somewhere, goingwith 20 mph under the limit inand the amazing left lane. staff as well as the membership. And we still get the occasional call for a $50,000 house although not nearly look forward to seeing all of you at future events and I wish you as Imany as before. good health and prosperity! Buyers are more realistic and better prepared now. As long as sellers are not too aggressive by pricing themselves out of the market, their properties will sell to those more knowledgeable buyers. As realtors trying to bring buyers and sellers together we like how it’s going we just want more of them. With prices continuing upward, the best way to take advantage of this market is to connect with an experienced realtor. Whether you are a buyer or seller or both, someone experienced in your particular market can make a huge difference in the outcome of your transaction(s). We want you to succeed because when you do, we do too! Happy House Hunting or Selling!
realtor and my respected investment partner recently said that today’s current
We deliver, every day. Call Lynnie to advertise
910.4575
RIBBON CUTTINGS
PLANET FITNESS Duncan Morrell 1410 Del Prado Blvd. South Suite 1502 B Cape Coral, FL 33990 (239) 800-3155 www.planetfitness.com
CORAL PALMS OFFICE BUILDING Martin Helgerson 4645 SE 11th Place Cape Coral, FL 33904 (239) 313-9827
WICKED DOLPHIN RUM JoAnn Elardo 131 SW 3rd Place Cape Coral, FL 33991 (239) 242-5244 www.wickeddolphin.com
CENTURY 21 SELLING PARADISE Bobby and Connie Mahan 3409 Del Prado Blvd., S. Ste 103 Cape Coral, FL 33904 (239) 542-5777 www.c21sellingparadise.com
RIBBON CUTTINGS
LA FITNESS Bryan Giordano 2301 Del Prado Blvd. Cape Coral, FL 33990 (239) 745-0523 www.lafitness.com
SELECT TECHNOLOGY SERVICES Sandro Grima 4637 Vincennes Blvd., Unit 5 Cape Coral, FL 33904 (239) 214-8222 www.stsforyou.com
North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts Presents North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts Presents
April 9, 10, 11, 2014
7:00 pm
April 9, 10, Seating 11, 2014 $7 Reserved Only 7:00 pm River City VIP Room $7 Reserved Seating Only
Ten invitation tickets will be given out and R ifor v eeach r C show ity V I Pwill R admit o o myour party to our River City VIP Room! Ten invitation tickets will be given for each show and Come to NFMAA to out purchase will admit yourtickets party and to our VIPone Room! Come to see River if you City will find NFMAA to purchase tickets and see ifsome youRiver will find one of of these chances to enjoy City, Iowa hospitality!!! these chances to enjoy some River City, Iowa hospitality!!! Check out our facebook page for information regarding our extensive summer Arts Camp nfa.leeschools.net
1856 Arts Way North Fort Myers FL 33917 (239) 997-2131
1856 we Arts Way,credit North Fort Myers, 33917 (239) 997-2131 For your convenience accept cards, checks andFL cash.
For your convenience we accept credits cards, checks and cash. Music Theatre International, 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 Script, music and all other material © 2010 iTheatrics Broadway Junior and MTI’s Broadway Junior Collection are trademarks of Music Theatre International. All rights reserved.
Publicity created by NFMAA student Erica Sauer
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Music Theatre International, 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 Script, music and all other material © 2010 iTheatrics Broadway Junior and MTI’s Broadway Junior Collection are trademarks of Music Theatre International. All rights reserved.
HEALTHY TRENDS
WOULD YOU MANAGE YOUR BUSINESS THE WAY SOME PEOPLE MANAGE THEIR HEALTH? Salvatore Lacagnina, D.O. Vice President of Health & Wellness, Lee Memorial Health System
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t a recent meeting of the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral, I was talking with Moe Beneke, the executive director and CEO of the Cape Coral Construction Industry Association, about the health of the general population. She posed an interesting question: “Would you manage your business the way some people manage their health?” Why is it that some people take more care in managing their business and their savings accounts as compared to their health? Why do we so often take this for granted? Why do we not see health as more of a priority than financial wealth? We all know that every aspect of life falls apart when our health fails. So what things can we do to make a difference starting today? The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral has another successful fitness challenge getting underway to encourage people to take responsibility for improving their own health. The Challenge includes pre and post body age assessments, blood tests and biometric testing (blood pressure, weight, BMI); and 12 weeks of work to improve their physical activity, nutrition and other lifestyle behaviors. The goal is to repeat the body age test at the end of 12 weeks and measure improvement. Many companies in town are getting actively involved in such fitness challenges for their employees. I was recently celebrating with the staff at Goodwill Industries of SW Florida and Family Health Centers who have also completed fitness challenges. Goodwill Industries has its third challenge underway! These company-sponsored fitness challenges help the employees become and stay healthier. I applaud the leadership of these companies for taking an active role in the health of their employees. Tom Feurig from Goodwill Industries and Drs. Frank Mazzeo and Jorge Quinonez from Family Health Centers have told me that they feel this is the right thing to do for their employees and the right thing to do for their organizations. They know that healthier employees translate into a healthier company overall. This is a win-
win situation all around. The celebrations at the culmination of the fitness challenge at Family Health Centers included personal stories that were amazing. One woman who could not walk briskly at the beginning of the challenge has now been running 5k races! Another lost 35 lbs and was in tears to know that she was most improved in overall fitness. She was awarded a week off with pay! Edison National Bank completed a fitness challenge and they continue to have ongoing health programs at their banks to benefit the health of the individuals and the company. Their president, Robbie Roepstorff, has championed the effort and the staff, under Karen Brazelton’s leadership, has kept the ball rolling. There has been an economic benefit as well. Since implementing and managing a wellness program through Lee Memorial’s Wellness Center, they have been able to sustain their health plan premiums with no increases. All these efforts have culminated in a healthier workforce, reduced absenteeism and lower risk for chronic illness, cancer and other chronic diseases. This is amazing progress. The wellness team at Lee Memorial Hospital has also worked with The News-Press staff to develop wellness programs related to physical activity and improving nutrition. Similar challenges have been done with the Lee County Clerk of Courts’ and the Horizon Council. There is a movement in Lee County to become a healthier community. On March 12 at Edison State College, the Horizon Council Health Care Task Force is sponsoring an educational event entitled “Workplace Wellness Summit” from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. At this event, attendees will learn how to develop workplace wellness programs for small, medium and large organizations. There will be presentations on how to improve the health of their employees while improving the organization’s bottom line. Corporate level executives, human resource professionals and health plan directors are encouraged to attend. At the end of the day, they will walk away with concrete action plans; and they will be able to go back to their organization and start designing workplace wellness programs that fit the needs of their company. The reservation cost is $25 per person and seating is limited. If you are interested in attending, please contact B. Pat O’Rourke at bporourke@leegov.com. I encourage you to join our movement. Together we are creating a culture of wellness among individuals, businesses and communities that makes our community a role model. The rest of the U.S will look at southwest Florida and ask how they can be like us. We are leading the way and should be proud of the success we have made so far, but we still have a way to go. So let’s get moving! Stay well my friends and as always, please send your comments and questions to Dr.Sal@Leememorial.org
Advertise Here Contact Donna Germain at (239) 549-6900 ext 107
Cape Coral Health & Fitness Challenge 12-Week Program Organized by Lee Memorial Health System & the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral
Starts March 15, 2014 Ends June 15, 2014
WHAT IS OFFERED TO 2014 PARTICIPANTS
Pre and Post Body Age Fitness Assessment
Labs from Lee Memorial Health System
Customized Exercise Prescription
Assigned Fitness Coach Throughout the Challenge
Medical Director Oversight and Review
Lecture Series on Nutrition, Fitness, and Goal Setting
Weekly Fitness Events Scheduled in the Community
Summary of Post Challenge Results Reviewed Individually
Group Statistics & Results at a Post Challenge Celebration
Cost To Participate In The Challenge...
$150 per participant $250 if participant desires a three-month dual location
membership at one of Lee Memorial Health System’s Wellness Centers
Diamond Member Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral Lee Memorial Health System P.O. Box 2218 Fort Myers, FL 33902
CenturyLink Store 2710 Del Prado Blvd. South Cape Coral, FL 33904 LCEC 4980 Bayline Dr North Fort Myers, FL 33917
$ LCEC works hard to manage costs, maintain the electric system, improve processes and create efficiencies so that electric rates can remain competitive for customers. We do not plan to raise rates in 2013 and will continue to do everything possible to keep rates stable.
Executive Member Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral All Power Electric 2534 NE 9th Ave, Cape Coral, FL
Wades Heating and Cooling CCI Competent Solutions 1209 SE 9th Terrace, Cape Coral, FL Gulf Coast Village Retirement Community 1333 Santa Barbara Blvd. Cape Coral Premier Oncology Radiation Specialists In Urology 24 Del Prado Blvd N, Cape Coral The News-Press - Fort Myers Office 2442 Dr. MLK Blvd. Ft. Myers 413 NE Van Loon Lane, Cape Coral
LCEC hasn’t raised electric rates in nearly 5 years! The increase on your upcoming electric bill is due to a tax imposed by the City of Cape Coral. LCEC customers in Cape Coral will notice a change in their electric bill beginning October 1, 2013. Cape Coral City officials recently levied a public service tax of 7 percent that will be added to monthly electric bills. The new tax will be displayed on your LCEC bill as a separate line item so it can be easily identified. LCEC is required by law to collect the tax from business and residential customers who purchase electricity in Cape Coral. LCEC will deliver funds to the City similar to how Cape Coral franchise fees are delivered, which are also collected through electric bills.This new tax will be used to fund the City’s general operations. To calculate the amount the monthly public service tax will add to your electric bill, visit www.capecoral.net and utilize the PST Calculator. Please refer any questions regarding the Cape Coral public service tax to the Cape Coral Citizens’ Action Center, 239-574-0425. www.lcec.net • 239-656-2300
LOOK WHAT YOU MISSED AT THE CAPE CORAL FARMERS’ MARKET
Personal and Business
Solutions
to meet your banking needs. We make banking easy and convenient for your business and personal banking needs, so that you have more time for the things in life that matter most.
Call or visit one of our Cape Coral branches today!
www.iberiabank.com |
1715 Cape Coral Parkway West | (239) 541-5200 812 Del Prado Boulevard South | (239) 985-8120 2546 Heydon Lane | (239) 433-6000
Fort Myers: 9101 College Pointe Court | 2247 First Street | 6651 Orion Drive | 4670 Summerlin Road | 8341 Dani Drive | 8870 Daniels Parkway | 7580 Winkler Road | Estero: 23250 Via Villagio
TECHNOLOGY TRENDS A New Chamber Website is Coming!
Stephanie Roberson, Technology Director
W
Here are just a few opportunities you will find on our site; some are currently offered and some new: • Community calendar of events where members can log in and add their upcoming events • Directory listing enhancements with logos, photos, social media links • Community and Member News • Member Coupon and Discount posting • Online access to your membership account where you can update your information, add coupons, pay bills, download the chamber logos and more • Responsive Web Design • Chamber Blog
e are excited to announce that coming in April, we will be launching a new website that is an accurate portrayal of our modern and growing organization. We will continue to offer the great benefits our site has now as well as adding a couple new functions. As our January statistics show, the site had 6,640 visits with over 170,000 The site will present a one-stop shop for individuals who are engaged with Member Referrals. With these statistics and in correspondence to our survey response that you submitted, we will focus on enhancing our membership our organization as well as those looking to visit or relocate. presence and create more opportunities for your business listing.
Cape Coral Mayors Scholarship Fund, Inc. invites you to
Cultural Park Theatre 528 Cultural Park Boulevard Cape Coral, FL 33990
March 27, 2014 for
Reception 5:30 p.m. Dinner 5:45 p.m. ‐ 6:30 p.m. Showtime 7:00 p.m. $30.00 donation benefits 2014 Scholarship Fund For tickets contact: Steve Riggs @ 239‐770‐2200
We deliver Cape Coral news 24/7
The News-Press Media Group connects Cape Coral residents and visitors with news and information in Cape Life every Thursday, and in the Cape section on Sunday. Get the latest updates online and on your mobile device at news-press.com
Subscribe:1.800.468.0233 Cape Coral Editor: Casey Logan | clogan@news-press.com | 344.4721 Advertise: Lynnie Guzman | lguzman@news-press.com | 910.4575
NetworkAdministration Administration Network Maintenance Agreements Agreements Maintenance Off-siteData Data Storage Storage Off-site Dell,Acer, Acer, Apple Apple Dell, (239)573-1000 573-1000 (239) www.entechcomputers.com www.entechcomputers.com
Get InInTouch withBusy New Get & Get Residents, Prospects Advertise In and Visitors with our The Chamber Relocation Program! Trends Leads Magazine Contact Donna Donna Germain Contact Germain at at 549-6900 549-6900 ext ext 107 107 or donna@capecoralchamber.com donna@capecoralchamber.com
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
A healthy and productive workforce is essential to the success of any business. The Wellness Center of Cape Coral is designed with you in mind: and certified staff, • Fitlinxx, an integrated • Degreed with medical oversight by exercise tracking software a physician
most Les Mills group • The exercise programs in the area
screening and • Medical fitness assessment fitness plan for • Customized each member
Free Personal Training Session for all chamber members with a new one-year membership.
that provides feedback on exercise plans
age assessment, • Body including strength,
flexibility, cardio respiratory capacity and body composition
Wellness Center of Cape Coral 609 SE 13th Court Cape Coral, FL 33990
239-573-4800
C
entury 21 - Selling Paradise hosted an amazing Business After Hours in February. More than 150 people were in attendance to network, make new business connections and check out the brand new training facility available at Century-21 Selling Paradise. Thank you to Bobby and Connie Mahan and their entire staff for their hospitality. Top Left - The attendees offer their congratulations on the new training facility. Mid Right - Mayor Marnie Sawicki helps the Mahan’s cut the ribbon on the new facility. Bottom Right - The Mahan’s draw the winning tickets on some great prizes. Join us next month at
FIRST HOUR FREE
BUSINESS MENTORS
Here To Help! The First Hour Free Program is designed to provide Chamber Members with professional business resources to help them start or grow a business, and the First Hour Is Free!!! Need Professional Business Advice? Need to Explore the Merits of a Business Idea? Need to Identify New Opportunities? Looking to Trial a New Business Relationship? GET YOUR INFORMATION HERE! RESOURCES INCLUDE;
HUMAN RESOURCES BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENT INSURANCE GRAPHIC DESIGN ENGINEERING BUSINESS COACHINGATTORNEY FINANCE ADVERTISING PRINTING ACCOUNTING GOVERNMENT CONSULTANT FIND these professionals by going to www.capecoralchamber.com under “Membership” then Programs.
(239) 549-6900
...
with a purpose. & Have Fun! 2051 Cape Coral Parkway E Cape Coral, FL 33904 (239) 549-6900 (800) 226-9609 www.capecoralchamber.com