Chamber Trends Magazine - May 2015

Trends Chamber

MAY 13 GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCH AT PALMETTO PINE COUNTRY CLUB GUEST SPEAKER STATE REPRESENTATIVE DANE EAGLE

JOIN US EVERY TUESDAY AT THE SHOPS AT SURFSIDE FOR THE SURFSIDE SUNSET MARKET, 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM

JOIN US FOR THE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS MAY 21 AT RED SALON AND SPA IN THE SHOPS AT SURFSIDE

CAPE CORAL FARMERS’ MARKET EVERY SATURDAY AT CLUB SQUARE 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

To Promote and Serve Business and Community

MAY 2015 Publisher & Editor Donna Schuman-Germain Interim Vice President donna@capecoralchamber.com Contributing Editors Stephanie Roberson Technology Director stephanie@capecoralchamber.com Claudia St. Onge Business Manager cso@capecoralchamber.com Matt Lamb Membership Director matt@capecoralchamber.com Annette Siner Membership Sales annette@capecoralchamber.com Melanie Lempke Administrative Generalist melanie@capecoralchamber.com Lyz Crouthamel Special Events Director Lyz@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

MAY 13 GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCH THE STATE OF THE STATE PALMETTO PINE COUNTRY CLUB 1940 SW 9TH COURT CAPE CORAL, FL 33991 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM MAY 21 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS RED SALON & SPA 2378 SURFSIDE BLVD CAPE CORAL, FL 33914 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM MAY 25TH WELCOME CENTER CLOSED FOR MEMORIAL DAY TUESDAYS YEAR ROUND SURFSIDE SUNSET MARKET THE SHOPS AT SURFSIDE VETERANS PARKWAY AND SURFSIDE BLVD. CAPE CORAL, FL 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM (NEW HOURS) JUNE 2, 2015 BUUSINESS CARD EXCHANGE PARKER HOUSE PROPERTIES 808 MIRAMAR ST CAPE CORAL, FL 33904 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

TO REGISTER FOR ANY OF THE ABOVE EVENTS ONLINE VISIT WWW.CAPECORALCHAMBER.COM

Leadership 2015 LEADERSHIP CAPE CORAL ANNUAL SPONSORSHIPS $2,500 Annual Investment – Cornerstone • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Company Logo on Jr. Leadership Shirt Company Logo on Leadership Cape Coral Shirt Company Logo on all Leadership Program Materials 4 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Kick-off 4 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Graduation 4 Tickets to Jr. Leadership Graduation Opportunity to speak at Leadership Cape Coral Graduation Opportunity to speak at Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Graduation Opportunity to hang banner at Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Graduation Opportunity to audit one Leadership Cape Coral Day Opportunity to audit one Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Day Opportunity to audit one Advanced Leadership Day or Chamber University Day Company Logo on Sustaining Partner Leadership Web Page One Full page advertisement in Chamber Monthly E-Trends Newsletter Annually

$1,200 Annual Investment – Partner • • • • • • • • • •

Company name of all Leadership Programs Materials 2 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Kick-off 2 Tickets to Leadership Graduation 2 Tickets to Jr. Leadership Graduation Opportunity to speak at Leadership Cape Coral Kick-off Opportunity to hang banner at Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Graduation Opportunity to audit one Leadership Cape Coral Day Opportunity to audit one Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Day Opportunity to audit one Advance Leadership Cape Coral Day or Chamber University Day Company Name on Sustaining Partners Leadership Web Page

$500 Annual Investment – Supporter • • • •

Company name on all Leadership Programs Materials 2 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Kick-off 2 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Graduation 2 Tickets to Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Graduation

BJM CONSULTING BB&T-OSWALD, TRIPPE & CO THE AUBUCHON TEAM OF COMPANIES

ARE YOU INTERESTED?

It is simple to participate, just fill out the registration form below and fax, or mail it to the Chamber.

BUSINESS NAME BILLING ADDRESS CARD NUMBER C A R D T Y P E E X P I R A T I O N D A T E T H R E E D I G I T C O D E P H O N E E - M A I L

CHAMBER TRENDS New Chamber Investment Donna S. Germain Interim Vice President

A

fter a month long comprehensive study comparing the membership benefits and dues with other chambers in the area, the Chamber Board of Directors voted to unanimously at its April meeting to modify the Entrepreneur Tier dues to $375.00 per year effective July 1, 2015.

This adjustment to your membership investment equates to less than one dollar more per week or 14 cents per day. In 2013, the chamber adjusted its dues structure to $325.00 annually after a 5-year period with no increase at all.

receives more than 2 million business directory referrals per year • FREE Links to you social media profiles included in your business directory listing • Welcome Center lobby space for business cards and brochures at both the South (Cape Coral Parkway) and North (FOS Furniture) Welcome Centers • Regular informational communications and opportunities • Discounts on Chamber products and services • 3 FREE Networking events per month • Access to CapeCoralVoice.com, a government affairs website • Member Pricing on the Monthly General Membership Lunches • Ability to use the Chamber logo on your marketing materials • Leadership programs • Community events • Membership Plaque

Let us recap what this annual investment provide…

While we could go on, we hope that you will continue to find value in your annual membership investment.

• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with photo published in If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free The News-Press, CapeCoral.com and The Cape Coral to contact me at donna@capecoralchamber.com, 549Breeze • Listing in the Annual Chamber Magazine with a 6900 ext. 107 or Chamber Chairman Ed Ramos at Ed@ capecoralbuilder.com. distribution of 15,000

2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairman Ed Ramos, Ramos Builders, Inc. Chair-Elect Brett Bisbe, B2 Technology Solutions, Inc Treasurer Trish Lassiter, Lee County Electric Cooperative Past Chair Annette Carrasquillo,LAI Design Associates Barb Adams, LeeSar Beverly Black, Black Business Solutions, LLC Ed Bolter, Lamar Advertising Dana Brunett, City of Cape Coral Matthew Connar, Boost Creative Tony Constantino, Kevin M. Burns & Assoc. P.A. Diane Everhart, Northwestern Mutual Financial Joseph Francioni, The Smart Companies Cynthia Gallagher, The Breeze Newspapers Sandra Griener, Sun Splash Family Waterpark Tom Hansen, Boat House of Cape Coral Tim Hauck, Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Services Scott Kashman, Cape Coral Hospital Laura Koehn, CapeCoral.com Cheryl Komnick, Caloosa Tent & Rental Michelle Lewis, B2 Technology Solutions Katharyn Owen, Jones, Haber and Rollings, PL Christopher Spiro, Spiro & Associates Michelle Whitlock, Siesta Pebble Pool Interiors Zachary Zeis, Storm Smart

CHAIRMAN EMERITUS

Wayne Kirkwood, Kirkwood Electric, Inc. Thomas Giles, Avalon Engineering Joseph Mazurkiewicz, BJM Consulting, Inc. Donna Meola, Priority Payments of South Florida Thomas Shipp Jr, Attorney Elmer Tabor, Wonderland Realty/Cape Coral Town Center

• Listing on www.CapeCoralChamber.com which

TRUSTEES

Kevin Ahmadi, Gulf Coast Village Keith Banasiak, Waste Pro of Florida Rhonda Chapman, First Citizens Bank Nancy Dunning, Cape Coral Association of Realtors Sallie Dywer, SunTrust Merchant Services Mike Hollow, RE//MAX Realty Team Jay Johnson, Bubba’s Roadhouse and Saloon David Owen, BB & T - Oswald, Trippe & Co. Larry Weir, Premier Insurance Corporation

CHAMBER STAFF

BE NUMBER ONE...

BE SECOND TO NONE!

Donna S. Germain, Interim Vice President Claudia St. Onge, Business Manager & Farmers’ Market Director Stephanie Roberson, Technology Director Matt Lamb, Membership Director Annette Siner, Membership Sales Melanie Lempke, Administrative Generalist Lyz Crouthamel, Special Events Director Amanda Brunson, Special Events Coordinator Lisa Barrella, Membership Sales Contractor

Chamber Trends Monthly Advertising

Basic Advertising Prices Full Page $337.00 1/2 Page $227.00 1/4 Page $147.00 Business Card $117.00 (All ads include a hyperlink to your company’s website or a 30-second commercial promoting your business.

Non-profit organizations receive 2 free 1/2 page ads per year upon request with their membership.)

Prime Advertising Pricing Full Page $367.00 1/2 Page $287.00 1/4 Page $207.00 Business Card $167.00 (All ads include a hyperlink to your company’s website or a 30-second commercial promoting your business and a banner ad in the Chamber Trends Weekly E-Newsletter) Specials Feature Your Business On The Cover Cover photo showcasing your company with a full page article, up to 3 pictures and company logo spotlighting your business.

Only one per month. First come first serve basis. Your spotlight can also be linked to your company website and/or a commercial promoting your business.

Chamber Trends Weekly Advertising

Press Release $25.00 (Runs 1x, includes 60 words, company logo, link to your company website.)

(Non-profit organizations run 2x for $25.00) Banner Advertisement $50.00 per month (runs 4x, includes link to your website) Company Spotlight $157.00 (Runs 4x, includes short story, link to website, link to additional company information, 2 pictures and Company logo.)

E-mail Blasts

Company Spotlight E-mail Blast $199.00 The investment for the Business Spotlight is $199 and will run twice throughout the month of your choice.

Dimensions - 6 inches wide x 8 inches tall, 300 dpi resolution.

Please call Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext. 107 for more information.

All Chamber Publications Are Distributed to More Than 16,000 contacts

MARCH NEW MEMBERS & RENEWALS NEW MEMBERS 1 Step Above Kathryn Nawskon 3 Pepper Burrito Tim Gossf

Sicily Trattoria Vincent Tumminello

Chicago Pizza Member Since: 06/24/2008

North Nicholas High School Member Since: 02/02/2011

Total Title & Escrow, Inc. Marianne Jackowski

Coastal Building Materials, LLC Member Since: 03/21/2012 Coral Cove Condominium Member Since: 03/16/2007

Papa Joe’s Italian Restaurant Member Since: 04/13/2012

Triton Irrigation, LLC Rich Rourke

Acentria, Inc Janie Vanhoose

RENEWALS

BAM German Bakery And More Sonja Stumpf

A Touch Of Class Pet Grooming Member Since: 11/06/2012

Barclay’s Real Estate Group Bert Parsley

American Cancer Society Member Since: 12/01/2001

Cape Community Partners Thrift Store Danielle Beauvois

Animal ER of Southwest Florida, Inc. Member Since: 04/05/2013

Cape Coral Concierge Service Cary Thorne

BB&T Bank - Del Prado Blvd Branch Member Since: 12/18/2002

Cape Coral Italian American Club of Lee County Cathy Sangiovanni

Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill Member Since: 04/25/2008

Captain Bruce’s Bruce Harrington Concierge Enterprises Todd Brownson Key Luxury Builders Jamie Bangeman Main Street Children Dentistry and Orthodontics Shawn Wherry Mast Cat Engineering, LLC Mark A. Hendry

Blue Chip Financial - Diane Everhart Member Since: 04/13/1999 Boost Creative Member Since: 03/05/2008 Cape Coral Charter School Member Since: 03/18/2011 Cape Coral Irish American Club, Inc Member Since: 04/13/2005 Cape Realty, Inc. Member Since: 03/01/1996 Cape Smoke Shop Member Since: 04/01/1995

Andrea Saint-Pere- Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Andrea Saint-Pere

CC Stone w/Coastal Realty SWFL Member Since: 03/03/2009

Poseidon Homes Donovan Dungan

Cheetah Printing & Signs Member Since: 06/27/2012

Coral Palms Professional Center Member Since: 12/18/2013 Coral Ridge Funeral Home and Cemetery Member Since: 04/28/2008 CRS Technology Consultants Member Since: 04/01/1996 Designers Showcase Member Since: 04/01/1990 Home Services By Rafael Member Since: 08/22/2007 Individual - Brittney Grimm Member Since: 02/12/2014 Kevin M. Burns & Assoc. P.A. Member Since: 04/01/1998 Kindness Animal Hospital Member Since: 04/01/1990 Kobayashi Dojo / Main Campus Member Since: 03/01/1997 Lee County Supervisor of Elections Office Member Since: 04/11/2014 Men’s Rights Law Firm Member Since: 10/06/2008 Midwest Plumbing Contractor’s, LLC Member Since: 02/21/2012 Miromar Outlets Member Since: 03/19/1999

Premier Wellness Group, LLC Member Since: 03/20/2013 Raso Realty, Inc. Member Since: 04/01/1989 Ronald McDonald House Charities of SWFL, Inc. Member Since: 03/20/2014 Roofing By HOMEPLUS, Inc Member Since: 03/03/2011 Rumrunners Member Since: 04/25/2011 Sea Breeze International Management Corp Member Since: 04/26/2005 Shell Point Retirement Community Member Since: 12/01/2011 Stabley Marketing, LLC Member Since: 04/11/2012 Sunshine Jewelers & Gold Exchange Member Since: 06/27/2012 The Breeze Newspapers Member Since: 04/01/1989 Tim Collier-State Farm Member Since: 12/01/1990 Timothy W. Barrier CPA, P.A. Member Since: 04/27/2012 WFTX-TV Member Since: 03/01/1989 Williamson Eye Center Member Since: 03/01/1996

HEALTHY TRENDS

“YOU CANNOT CHANGE WHAT YOU DO NOT MEASURE”

Salvatore Lacagnina, D.O. Vice President of Health & Wellness, Lee Memorial Health System Research continues to help us find the right balance when it comes to healthy living. When we look at the recommendations for nutrition and exercise, it is important to measure progress over time. Patients have asked me to help them determine if they are aging gracefully and there are many ways to do this including getting an assessment of their nutritional status, measuring their fitness level by way of a body age assessment, and even using very high tech methods to evaluate the ends of the DNA (called telomeres) which shorten as we age.

If you have been reading my articles or attending any of my presentations, you already know that I am a major proponent of plant based nutrition and daily, moderately intense exercise.

Research consistently reveals a negative association between the standard America diet, chronic illness and cancer; and a positive/beneficial relationship between plant based eating and health.

This is the result of 50 years of altering the food sources in such a way that we have added many toxins to the food and therefore we must look for healthier food sources if our goal is to live long without chronic illness and cancer.

But how do you know if you are taking in enough healthy nutrition? What can we determine by measuring certain parameters in the blood? Can we do something similar when it comes to physical activity?

When it comes to eating certain foods, we can measure levels of macro and micro nutrients to see how well we are doing. The macronutrients include proteins, carbohydrates and fats. The micronutrients include vitamins, minerals and anti oxidants; and there are blood tests for all these components. We can measure the albumin level in the blood that gives us an indication of the body’s protein level. The blood glucose and a test called A1C gives information about the blood level of sugar and a person’s predisposition for diabetes. A lipid profile gives the levels of total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol) and the triglyceride level (fats that come from what we eat). We can even do a blood test that measures the size of the LDL and HDL particles. This is helpful since we know that small, dense LDL particles contribute more to the development of hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis).

We can also measure the blood levels of all the vitamins (A, D, E K, C and all the B complex vitamins) as well as minerals such as calcium, potassium, zinc, sodium and many more. We know that anti oxidants (AO) protect us from diseases such as heart disease and strokes; and also protect us from cancers, and we can also measure the AO level. I have no vested interest in this company but I use the Spectra Cell test to measure all these components. Once I have the results I sit with the individual to review all the details and this allows us to tweak the nutrition program in order to make it as optimal as possible for good health.

If an individual is eating more vegetables as compared to the standard America diet of meat and dairy, there are several components that need to be measured including calcium, Carnosine,

fiber, iodine, iron, Omega 3 fatty acids, essential amino acids, protein, zinc, vitamin D and B12.

Calcium is required for strong bones but also for many other chemical reactions in the body.

Carnosine is a natural compound that acts as an anti-glycating agent. Glycation is a chemical reaction whereby glucose molecules attach to proteins in the body making them dysfunctional.

Carnosine has the potential to stop this reaction and therefore allows the proteins to function normally.

Fiber is an essential part of a healthy nutrition program but can affect the absorption of zinc and iron. When zinc is deficient, there can be decreased wound healing; and when iron is deficient, the individual can develop anemia and suffer from chronic fatigue. This is why it is important to measure these components and supplement the diet when necessary.

Women of childbearing years might need to supplement with iodine so as not to become hypothyroid. Omega 3 fatty acid levels should also be monitored since this is essential for proper brain development and function. Essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine should be measured and replaced if low.

Some folks eating plant based foods often limit or avoid dairy products, many of which are fortified with vitamin D and therefore can become deficient in vitamin D leading to an increased risk for bone loss. These individuals simply need to take a Vitamin D3 supplement if the blood test reveals a deficiency. Also, since vitamin B12 is abundant in animal products, the levels might decline in people avoiding meats and thus should be supplemented.

Any talk of plant based nutrition always brings up the discussion about protein deficiency although this is an uncommon problem. In actuality, the protein sources found in a plant based meal are actually healthier when we consider the toxins found in conventionally grown/ prepared meats and dairy. Certainly, pesticides are a concern when eating plant based foods but comparing this to the pesticide contamination of the grain most animals eat plus the growth hormone, antibiotics and fecal contamination known to be significantly problematic in all meats and dairy makes the choice of which to foods to eat easier. Also, you can buy organic produce and therefore limit the exposure to pesticides on the vegetables and fruits you eat.

The basic formula for protein requirements is generally about 0.5 grams per lb of body weight (85 grams of healthy protein for a typical 170 lb male). Females require less and intense athletes require more. In addition to getting healthy protein from the vegetables you eat, adding beans, legumes and soy products helps to provide all the protein you need to stay healthy. In the book “Rethink Food” by Castle & Goodman they highlight several professional and Olympic athletes who eat a plant based diet. If these individuals who exercise and perform at such a high level can maintain enough muscle mass with this type of a nutrition program, I would (and do) recommend the same to most patients, friends and family.

As mentioned above, in addition to measuring the effects of nutrition on our health we can and should also measure our fitness levels. A “Body Age Assessment” is a measure of overall fitness – endurance, strength, oxygen capacity and flexibility. Combine this with a “health risk assessment” tool and the results from measuring the levels of nutrients in the body and you have a very comprehensive evaluation of a person’s overall health. This information can be translated into prognostic and longevity information. Knowing that you eat a healthy diet and that the levels of nutrients in the body are adequate or optimal; plus knowing that you are physically fit, you can then use this data to tweak your health action plan for the present and future. Remember, it is all about growing old with vitality and not getting old with disease.

In summary, measure, monitor, evaluate, tweak and repeat. This is a great way to know that you are living well and making health your number one priority.

Stay well my friends and please feel free to send comments and questions to Dr.Sal@ Leememorial.org

Get In Touch with New Residents, Prospects and Visitors with our Relocation Leads Program!

Contact Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext 107 or donna@capecoralchamber.com

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Cape Community Partners Thrift Store Daniel Beauvois 1056 N.E. Pine Island Rd, Unit A Cape Coral, 33909 www.capecoralchurch.com

Barclay’s Real Estate Group Bert Parsley 2225 First Street, Suite 201 Ft. Myers, FL 33901 www.barclaysrealestategroup.com

Whether You Just Joined or Just Renewed Your Membership...

Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting Today!

Call Matt Lamb, Membership Director (239) 549-6900 ext 103

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digital subscription trial Offer Expires 12/31/15

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LCEC – your cooperative

empowers you!

When you are an LCEC customer, you belong to one of the largest not-for-profit electric cooperatives in the nation. Governed by customers, we are committed to delivering reliable and cost competitive electricity.

Financial Strength

Reliability

• No rate increase for six years. Rate decrease in 2014*

• Maintaining 8,000 miles of power lines year-round

• Proudly serving customers since 1940

• Returned $220 million • On-call 24 hours a in equity over the day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year years

• One of only six Centers of Excellence in the utility industry

Quality Service

Community

• Top ten United Way employee contributor and community partner • Employees volunteer more than 5,000 hours annually

* 7% Public Service Tax – Imposed by Cape Coral City Council * 3% Cape Coral Franchise fee * 4.5% Unincorporated Lee County Franchise Fee – Approved by Lee County Commissioners

www.lcec.net

REAL ESTATE TRENDS

NO, IT’S NOT JUST YOU… Berge Aslanian (CDPE) Realtor, RE/MAX Island Harbor

One can only wonder if what they experience is being experienced by others too. In talking with realtors, mortgage lenders, appraisers, buyers and sellers we are finding too many similar experiences to be Real Estate Trends No, It’s Notcoincidental…

Just You…

4-30-15

One can only wonder if what they experience is being experienced by others too. In talking with realtors, mortgage lenders, appraisers, buyers andtake sellers we arelook finding too But first, let’s a quick at the many similar experiences to be coincidental…

numbers. For the three month period

But first, let’s take a quick look at the numbers.

For the three month period ending ending 4/30/15: 4/30/15:

Feb ‘15 Homes Median $ For Sale Sold

For Sale Sold

1821 280

Mar ’15 Apr ‘15 Home Median $ Homes s $282,500 1719 $289,500 1590 $175,000 404 $189,000 429

Feb ’14 Mar ’15 Apr ‘15 Condos Median $ Condos Median $ Condos 266 $154,500 263 $151,500 252 44 $123,000 67 $136,500 68

Median $ $298,000 $184,500 Median $ $153,000 $132,500

Inventory of single family homes For Sale continues to shrink as sales increase. Median Inventory of homes singlearefamily homes Sale ofcontinues to are shrink as sales prices of listed up again and For numbers sold homes up again too.

Inventory is not being replenished as quickly as before.

And, it looks like the less increase.

Median prices of listed homes are up again and numbers of sold expensive homes are being sold driving the median sold prices lower.

homes are up again too. Inventory is not being replenished as quickly as Condos For Sale decreased slightly again followed by median prices showing a slight before.

And, it looksof condos like theSold lessareexpensive homes areprices beingof sold drivingwent the decrease.

Numbers steady while median Sold condos down just a bit. median sold prices lower.

AllCondos in all, these numbers indicateslightly a steadyagain marketfollowed continuingby upward. end of season For Sale decreased medianThe prices showing frenzy to buy or sell has caused the less expensive homes to outsell the rest. But, units asold slight Numbers of condos Sold are steady while median prices of aredecrease. up noticeably.

Sold condos went down just a bit.

More and more, conversations with people in the real estate market tell us in different ways market is changing.

Buyers and sellers havecontinuing more information available All inthatall,ourthese numbers indicate a steady market upward.

The but they don’t always understand it completely or use it correctly. Those of us providing end of season frenzy to buyoften or sell caused the less expensive homes to services to buyers and sellers seehas buyers and sellers outsmarting themselves in their zeal carve But, out the world’s deal. outsell thetorest. units soldbest arereal upestate noticeably.

We’ve low offerswith because theyin were look upmarket past prices of Moreseen andbuyers more,making conversations people theable realtoestate tell us similar properties or even the same one they are trying to buy. But, knowing what was inpaid different thatdoesn’t our market changing. and sellers haveor more for that ways property tell you is what liens and Buyers taxes needed to be paid what repairs had toavailable be made before the don’t currentalways listing appeared.

When told, they often do notit information but they understand it completely or use seem to care! Telling yourself a story so often that you begin to believe it is the gospel truth can be very ostrich-like if you know whatto I mean. correctly.

Those of us providing services buyers and sellers often see buyers and sellers outsmarting themselves in their to tocarve thecouple world’s During this recently ended season, I had the good zeal fortune meetout a nice frombest WI interested in buying a beautiful golf course home in a gated community.

They liked the real estate deal. home so much, they were willing to offer 20% BELOW the asking price. When told that We’ve seen buyers making low offers because they were able to look up past prices of similar properties or even the same one they are trying to buy.

But, knowing what was paid for that property doesn’t tell you what liens and taxes needed to be paid or what repairs had to be made before the current listing appeared. When told, they often do not seem to care! Telling yourself a story so often that you begin to believe it is the gospel truth can be very ostrich-like if you know what I mean.

During this recently ended season, I had the good fortune to meet a

nice couple from WI interested in buying a beautiful golf course home in a gated community. They liked the home so much, they were willing to offer 20% BELOW the asking price. When told that the sellers had turned down much higher prices than their offer, they simply said they would wait until the sellers came down because “they always do”. I had the great pleasure of calling them a week later with a property update; I was proud to inform them that the sellers had just accepted an offer 1.8% ($7,000) below list price.

Their response was they would just wait for the next one because they were sure prices just had to come down. (Maybe that super cold, mid-west winter altered their ability to think clearly?)

Sellers often believe their particular home is more valuable because they painted two rooms in the past year and planted some new shrubs (honest, that was explained to me recently as justification for pricing $20,000 more than other similar homes). FYI, no I did not take that listing.

Please don’t lose faith in the market, the vast majority of properties are priced correctly but the glut of information on the internet makes it hard to see sometimes. Experienced buyers and sellers are able to sift through all that stuff and recognize the value when they see it. Can you?

If you can, Great! If you have any difficulty in sorting it out, please find an experienced realtor who is willing to help. We all get those calls from folks who have been here for two or more weeks then wait until their last day or two demanding to see properties before they leave.

We are here to help and we really do enjoy doing it. But, we do book appointments because we are tightly scheduled; waiting until the last minute does not do your search the justice it deserves. Buying and Selling is a process that takes time and it is a team sport. As always, we urge you to take advantage of our climbing market but please use a reputable realtor to help.

Happy Property Hunting or Selling!

Berge Aslanian (CDPE) is a Realtor in Cape Coral with RE/MAX Island Harbor and an active member of the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral. For questions about residential real estate, please call his cell, (239) 989-3463 or email realtorberge@att.net or visit www.RECapeCoral.com.

BE NUMBER ONE...

BE SECOND TO NONE!

Tuscany

With the Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce Tuscany

, rson if e p r 9 pe rson

9 pe !* $2,8799 pery Nov. 30 $2, osited b dep

One Hote Holid l ay!

Departing October 20, 2015 For more information, please contact Amanda Brunson at (239) 549-6900

GOVERNMENT TRENDS GAC UPDATE

Joseph Francioni, Chairman The Smart Companies

T

his past week, during spring break, my family and I had the pleasure of visiting our Nation’s Capital. Washington, D.C. is a fantastic place, with so much rich history, culture and knowledge at every turn. It also gave me a chance to re-discover the many facets to large government, compared to our local government here in the Cape. We are always discussing laws, politics and their ultimate effects on us, but in actuality, it’s the local government that affects us on an everyday basis and begins the chain of events to change - not the other way around.

Although it was nice to experience and see our country’s legislative history, I personally believe local government is where we’ll see our future.

CHAMBER BOARD TRENDS LOOKING FOR LEADERS! APPLY FOR A CHAMBER BOARD OR TRUSTEE POSITION

Every eligible member in good standing who apply will be placed on the ballot.

However, the Nomination committee will make recommendations to the board prior to the vote. Recommendations made by the nomination committee are based on industry, gender, involvement and participation in the Chamber leadership programs.

Donna S. Germain Interim Vice President If you have any questions, please contact Donna Germain, Interim Vice President at (239) 549-6900 ext. 107 or donna@capecoralchamber.com. Deadline for The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral is actively seeking trustee and director application submission is July 1, 2015. applications for the 2016 Board of Directors.

Please see Chamber Board Application on Next Page!

These volunteer leaders are required to attend monthly board meetings, networking events and serve on committees. For most, a minimum of 5 to 10 hours per month is normal. However, a few give much more. We truly appreciate their commitment, as the Chamber would only be able to accomplish one-half of what it does without volunteers.

The Nomination Committee has been formed with Brett Bisbe as the Chairman and members Trish Lassiter, Stacy Lomonaco, Scott Kashman, Tony Solgard and Tom Hansen. They are taking applications so that they can create a ballot of qualified members for the Board to vote on in September 2015.

Board Application for Board Member and Trustee Name: _____________________________ Business Name: ____________________________ Title: ________________________ Business Address: ________________________________ Email Address: _________________________________________________________________ City: _______________ Zip: _________ Phone: _________________ Fax: ________________ Why are you requesting a Board or Trustee seat? ______________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Do you understand the requirements of the Board?

Yes

No

Please, describe your business or occupation. _________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Please list your history of community involvement. ____________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ How do you plan to contribute to the Chamber? _______________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Please return to Donna Germain, Interim Vice President Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral, P.O. Box 100747, Cape Coral, Fl. 33910 Phone: (239) 549-6900 ext 107 Fax: (239) 549-9609 donna@capecoralchamber.com Deadline 7/1/2015

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 B2 Technology Solutions 1406 SE 46th Lane Cape Coral, FL 33904

$ 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 Dean Street Insurance 615 Cape Coral Pkwy W 104, Cape Coral

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 Suntrust Bank 530 Cape Coral Pkwy E, Cape Coral, FL 33904 4532 Del Prado Blvd S, Cape Coral, FL 33904 1533 Cape Coral Pkwy, Cape Coral, FL 33914 2139 Del Prado Blvd S, Cape Coral, FL 33904

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

Memorial Day Remembrance Hosted by:

Coral Ridge Funeral Home & Cemetery 1630 SW Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral, FL

Monday May 25, 2015 @ 10:00am Join us to pay tribute to the heroism of our fallen Veterans, give thanks for the valor of others, remember the splendor of America and those of her children who rest in this cemetery and others.

For more information call us today!

www.CoralRidgeFuneralHome.com (239) 283-0540

Refreshments will be served immediately following the service at the main entrance. *

MASTER OF CEREMONIES Krista Fogelsong The Southwest Florida Chambers and Leadership Royale are honored to team with Krista for an evening of fun and philanthropy! When Krista isn’t delivering the news as an NBC2 anchor, she’s active in the community, volunteering for the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen, the United Way, and many other charitable

LEADERSHIP ROYALE

— CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ALUMNI LEADING THE WAY — SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

CAPE CORAL

GREATER FORT MYERS

Show your Class pride! A traveling trophy will be awarded to the Leadership Class with the highest percentage of attendees at Leadership Royale. Be sure to connect with your classmates for an unforgettable evening.

LEADERS LEADING THE WAY FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

CAPE CORAL

GREATER FORT MYERS

JOE MAZURKIEWICZ

then & now

LEADERSHIP ROYALE

AN EVENT TO BENEFIT LARC

There will also be a special presentation (and walk down memory lane with some gentle roasting) to spotlight several notable Leadership class members. Nominations are being accepted. Contact your Chamber Leadership today.

JIM NATHAN

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Date: Saturday, June 13 Time: 6-11 PM Cost: $75 per person Dress: Black Tie Optional Tables Available $1,000 for Seating of Eight (8) Location: Harborside Event Center 1375 Monroe Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901 Downtown Fort Myers Includes: Cocktails, Dinner, Casino, Live Music

organizations and events.

then & now

LEADERSHIP ROYALE

— CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ALUMNI LEADING THE WAY —

All proceeds benefit LARC non-profit charity www.leadershiproyale.com facebook.com/LeadershipRoyale Leadership Royale Chamber of SW Florida

239.433.4111

Printed by Panther Printing

pixelpagedesigngroup.com

about

LEADERSHIP ROYALE Each year the graduating class of Leadership Lee County gathers to decide how to give back to the community.

For the Leadership Class of 2013-14, the idea took on an entirely new dimension. Involve alumni of three illustrious Leadership programs: The Chamber of Southwest Florida, the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, and the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral. Bring together the leadership skills of all three chambers to start a new tradition and make a bigger impact on the community.

Leadership Royale is born.

Leadership Royale 2015 offers an elegant evening, complete with the excitement and fun of a casino, savory flavors of cuisine and refreshing beverages. Add to that a live band. Mix and mingle with Southwest Florida leadership and program alumni while also helping a local charity, LARC.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES LEADERSHI P ROYALE 2015 Saturday, June 13, 2015 PLATINUM SPONSOR $7500 Exclusivity—Naming Event � Ten (10) Reserved Tickets � Logo on ALL Gala Advertising � Website link to your business � On-Stage recognition � Sponsor Information Table � Limo Service � Exclusive � GOLD SPONSOR $5000 (2) � Table of Eight (8) � Website Link to your business � Sponsor Information Table � Logo on ALL Gala Advertising � Valet Parking BAR SPONSOR $3000 � Table of Six (6) � Website Link to your business � Logo on ALL Gala Advertising � Sponsor Information Table � Valet Parking SILVER SPONSOR $2000 (5) � Table of Four (4) � Sponsor Information Table � Website Link to your business � Logo on Gala Program

Leadership Royale Chamber of SW Florida

239.433.4111

about

LARC

LARC’S MISSION SINCE 1954 IS TO PROMOTE AND PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES TO LIVE AND WORK IN OUR COMMUNITIES.

Since 1954, LARC, Inc. has dedicated itself to meeting with quality and foresight the needs of people with developmental disabilities living in Lee County and their families. Our mission now, as it was fifty years ago, is to promote and provide opportunities in the community for these Lee County residents to achieve an independent, dignified and responsible lifestyle as their individual capabilities allow. LARC accomplishes this mission through the provision of a continuum of award winning community based services, using timely, individualized, goal-oriented methods. LARC, Inc. offers vocational training, community residential services, and a vast diversity of other state-ofthe-art community inclusion services on a full time, year round basis for local people with developmental disabilities.

LARC currently provides programs and services for approximately 300 local men and women annually.

Learn more at www.larcleecounty.org.

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCH

At the April General Membership Lunch, the members heard from a panel of experts on ADA Compliance As business owners, it is crucial for our members to be informed of the regulations regarding the American’s with Disabilities Act. Guest Speakers included Kevin Barry, Chairman ADA Council of SWFL, JoAnn Nesta Burnett,Attorney at Law Becker & Poliakoff and Paul B. Dickson, Building Official City of Cape Coral. (Pictured Mid Left) Welcome to new member Ryan Niederberger with SUPciety and our guest from Penguin Air. (mid right) Thank you to our lunch sponsors, The News-Press, CenturyLink and LCEC - Joe Padgett pictured bottom left. Don’t miss the May GMM at Palmetto Pine Country Club with State Representative Dane Eagle.

BE NUMBER ONE...

BE SECOND TO NONE!

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

The Chamber had a great turn out for the April Business After Hours hosted by the Gulf Coast Humane Society.

It was really hard not to come home with some new family members from this after hours as there were many dogs and cats in need of a good home.

We would like to thank Jennifer Galloway (mid left) and her staff at the Humane Society for their hospitality.

Thank you to everyone who came out to this event to support this truly worthwhile organization.

We look forward to the future plans of a shelter in Cape Coral.

BE NUMBER ONE...

BE SECOND TO NONE!

BE NUMBER ONE...

BE SECOND TO NONE!

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CALL EMAIL VISIT

239.335.0520 advertising@news-press.com marketingstrategies.news-press.com

We Know Marketing.

Network Administration Maintenance Agreements Off-site Data Storage Dell, Acer, Apple (239) 573-1000 www.entechcomputers.com

Advertise in the Chamber Trends Weekly E-Newsletter.

A Banner Ad is just $50 per month!!

Contact Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext 107 or donna@capecoralchamber.com

2051 Cape Coral Parkway E Cape Coral, FL 33904 (239) 549-6900 (800) 226-9609 www.capecoralchamber.com