Chamber Trends Magazine - October 2014

Trends Chamber

The Official Publication of The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral

October 2014

Join Us Every Tuesday at the Shops at Surfside for the Surfside Sunset Market, 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

It’s back!!! The Cape Coral Farmers’ Market Opens October 18 at Club Square

RSVP For The General Membership Lunch, October 8th at Palmetto Pine Country Club.

Sponsored by The News-Press, LCEC and Centurylink

Join us For The Business After Hours October 16th at The Boat House of Cape Coral

To Promote and Serve Business and Community

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

October 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 Matt Lamb Membership Sales matt@capecoralchamber.com Annette Siner Membership Sales annette@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

OCTOBER 8, 2014 GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCH Palmetto Pine Country Club 1940 SW 9th Court, Cape Coral, FL 33991 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM OCTOBER 16, 2014 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS The Boat House of Cape Coral 1516 SE 46th Street, Cape Coral, FL 33904 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM OCTOBER 18, 2014 CAPE CORAL FARMERS’ MARKET OPENING DAY Club Square - Downtown Cape Coral SE 10th Place and SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral EVERY SATURDAY THROUGH MAY 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM OCTOBER 22, 2014 2014 CANDIDATES FORUM “ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A POLITICIAN?” Gulf Coast Village Retirement Community 1333 Santa Barbara Boulevard, Cape Coral, FL 33991 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM OCTOBER 24, 2014 CASINO NETWORKING TRIP TO SEMINOLE CASINO IMMOKALEE Meeting at Club Square - Downtown Cape Coral SE 10th Place and SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral 5:30 PM - 11:30 PM TUESDAYS YEAR ROUND Surfside Sunset Market - The Shops at Surfside Veterans Parkway and Surfside Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM To register for any of the above events online visit www.capecoralchamber.com

Q’s WORLD ASKING FOR HELP

Mike “Q” Quaintance, President, MBA, IOM

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everal years ago, members at a focus group shared a need for professional assistance in running their businesses. The services that they discussed ranged from advertising, accounting, human relations to legal assistance. After learning of that need, we created a program called “First Hour Free.” This program provides chamber members the opportunity to meet one on one with a variety of business professionals for one hour at no charge.

These professionals have committed one-hour of their time to answer questions, provide their ideas and solutions, as well as industry direction to help members be more successful. Members who use this service have no obligation to continue the relationship or compensate these chamber volunteers in any way

2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

unless an arrangement is mutually agreed upon by both parties to move forward.

Business categories include; attorney, business coaching, computers and web-based communication integration, electrical contracting and business coaching, direct mail, engineering, finance, graphic design, insurance, investing, printing and advertising.

Many of these professionals have experience that they can share as it pertains to running a small business, which can be a valuable resource.

One lesson that I have learned at the Chamber of Commerce is the value of the collective wisdom of the board. Sometimes different disciplines offer unique solutions and ideas that can create a competitive advantage over your competitors. The First Hour Free program offers you an enormous opportunity to solicit ideas from professionals outside your industry as well.

If you are interested in learning more, we encourage you to go to http://www.capecoralchamber.com/firsthour-free.html to view the industry professionals who have agreed to serve in this capacity and obtain their e-mail address so you, the member, can seek their assistance. We know it is not always easy to ask for help, but sometimes taking a proactive approach prior to the stress of certain business situations can be the difference between success and failure. Your chamber is here to help. All you have to do is take the first step.

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, First Merchant Payment Services, 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 - The Smart Companies

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 Stephanie Roberson, Technology Director Matt Lamb, Membership Sales Annette Siner, Membership Sales Melanie Lempke, Administrative Generalist Amanda Brunson, Special Events Coordinator Linda Kirby, Membership Sales Contractor Lisa Barella, Membership Sales Contractor

AUGUST NEW MEMBERS & RENEWALS New Members

Renewals

Bath Fitter Ange Schroeder

A-1 Shelters Inc Member Since: 09/01/1991

Batteries Plus Heather McLeod

ABC Supply Member Since: 08/01/1989

Belk, Inc. Daphne Folsom

Allin’s Blinds, Verticals & Hurricane Shutters Member Since: 09/24/2012

Bella Vista at Kismet Lakes Homeowner’s Association, Inc. Paul Hecht

Andrew Barnette & Assoc. CPA,PA Member Since: 08/01/1992

BKE Agency Blaine Elmer

B2 Technology Solutions Member Since: 08/08/2008

Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant Michael Ware

Battery Giant Member Since: 07/28/2011

Caloosa River, Inc. David Close

Cambio Dermatology Member Since: 09/19/2007

Culver’s Of Cape Coral Matt Beder

Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife, Inc. Member Since: 09/12/2005

Edward Jones Investments Laurie Howe

Cape Coral Pet Crematory Member Since: 02/03/2012

MCH Networking Michael Coughlin

CapeCoral.com Member Since: 05/11/2009

Tradewind Estate Homes, Inc Debi DePaola

Cataract & Refractive Institute Member Since: 09/01/1991

Vocational Assessment and Career Counseling, LLC. Kathy Stumpfig MA,CRC,PVE

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

Zounds Hearing Janice Walker

Chapple Insurance Group Member Since: 09/27/2013 Chicago Pizza Member Since: 06/24/2008

Florida Buyer Broker Member Since: 08/13/2003

Napa Auto Care Center Member Since: 08/21/2009

Ford’s Garage Cape Coral Member Since: 07/29/2013

Olive Garden Member Since: 08/22/2011

The Foundation For Lee County Public Schools Member Since: 09/20/2005

Pavese Law Firm, LLP Member Since: 09/01/1991

Goodwill Industries Member Since: 06/01/2002 Head Case Salon Member Since: 07/09/2012 High Fidelity Studios Member Since: 11/17/2008 Hollywood Bicycle Center Member Since: 02/11/2012 Jackson PR Member Since: 02/14/2012 Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida, Inc Member Since: 08/03/2005 Ken’s Auto Repair of Cape Coral Member Since: 05/02/2005 Ken Schuman Insurance Member Since: 05/02/2005 LAI Design Associates, LLC Member Since: 09/13/2010 Massage Envy Spa - Cape Coral Member Since: 08/08/2012 Miz Catherine’s - A Dessert Cafe’ Member Since: 11/30/2012

Phil Deems Real Estate Member Since: 08/01/1990 Platinum Service A/C Member Since: 05/28/2008 RaceTrac Member Since: 02/20/2013 Tanger Outlet Center Member Since: 08/22/2003 The Rotary Club of Cape Coral Member Since: 08/25/1999 Thompson Gas Member Since: 05/09/2012 Tundra Homes Member Since: 09/08/2006 Urgent Care Center of Southwest Florida Member Since: 09/01/2007 Wicked Dolphin Rum Member Since: 08/23/2013 Wright Construction Group Member Since: 02/25/2012

Thank you for your Membership!

CHAMBER TRENDS CONGRATULATIONS

The individual commitment of these individuals and all sitting Board members as the policy makers and their fiduciary responsibility to the Chamber is of immense value. Please congratulate and thank these members that contribute their time, treasure and talent to the success of your Chamber. t the Chamber Board of Directors As always, I hope to see you having fun in October! meeting on Tuesday, September 30, 2014, the following members were elected to the Chamber Board of Directors as Trustees.

The Trustee term is a one-year nonvoting seat that allows these members to participate in discussions at the Board level.

It is usually considered a starting point as many Trustees have an opportunity to further their involvement on the Chamber Board by applying for a threeyear voting Board member seat.

We congratulate the following Chamber members who have been elected to serve at TRUSTEE in 2015.

Keith Banasiak – Waste Pro, Larry Wier – Premier Insurance Corporation, Kevin Ahmadi – Gulf Coast Village, Jay Johnson – Bubba’s Roadhouse and Saloon, Rhonda Chapman – First Citizen’s Bank, David Owen – BB&T Oswald Trippe, and Co., Mike Hollow – Re/Max Realty Team, Sallie Dwyer – SunTrust Merchant Services, Nancy Dunning – Cape Coral Association of Realtors Last, but not least, the Board of Directors has chosen the following members to lead them in 2015.

Ed Ramos, Ramos Building – Chairman, Brett Bisbe, B2 Solutions – Chairman-elect, Trish Lassiter, LCEC – Treasurer Annette Carrasquillo, LAI Design Associates 2014 Chairman

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& Have Fun!

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCH

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ticking with the “Having Fun” theme for 2014, the Chamber members were in for quite a treat at the September General Membership meeting. The “President of Fun” our very own Mike Q created a fun little challenge between the membership and select board members called “Are You Smarter Than A Board Member.”

Each lunch table was given a controller and asked a series of questions while board members Tim Hauck, Annette Carrasquillo, Katharyn Owen, David Owen, Michelle Lewis and Ed Ramos (mid left) collaborated on their answers. There were a lot of laughs and the game turned out to be great fun for everyone.

As always, the Chamber welcome its new members of the month and some of them not so new. (top left) Bill Johnson, Jr, the new Executive Director of the CCCIA, Laurie Howe with Edward Jones, Dan Fitzgerald with Intech Printing and our old friend Bernie Dougherty with Kobayashi Dojo.

(Top Right) Lunch Sponsor Trish Lassiter, LCEC with Janice Keim, CCCIA. (Bottom Left) Ed Ramos thanks Freedom 5K Title Sponsor Bill Jacob with CenturyLink.

(Bottom Right) Michelle and Brad Whitlock and their son Devin Sirranni.

HEALTHY TRENDS

JOIN ME ON ANOTHER JOURNEY

Salvatore Lacagnina, D.O. Vice President of Health & Wellness, Lee Memorial Health System

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am an avid reader and a lifelong student.

I love to learn. I also love to teach. In my role as the VP of Health & Wellness for Lee Memorial Health System for the past four years, I have been learning so much new information about preventive health care and have enjoyed sharing this information with anyone interested.

(FYI before 2010, I practiced internal medicine for 18 years.) The reason I am so passionate about preventive health care is because I believe this is the number one way to solve the health care crisis of today. Keep people healthy and you make their lives better and in doing so you decrease health care costs and improve every aspect of life, work and community.

Recently I registered to complete a board certification program in anti-aging medicine with the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. I am very excited as I begin this 18 month process because it will allow me to learn more about how to stay healthy and, as such, I would like to invite everyone interested to join me on this journey.

For the next 18 months I will share the educational information I learn from this program (known as A4M) with my Chamber Trends readers. Much of this information has to do with what happens to our body as we age. It explains how the changes in hormones affect the rapidity of the aging process; how nutrition and exercise play a role; how stress and our reaction to stress negatively affect our health and how fast we age; and it explains the multitude of treatment options available.

As you have read in recent articles, there are many traditional as well as non-traditional preventive measures and treatment options for all the chronic illnesses and most of the common cancers. The A4M program emphasizes the non-traditional options, what are commonly called “alternative” therapies. I would rather use the term “complimentary” or additive therapies. In medicine, it does not have to be one or the other. There are many different traditional therapies that become even better when combined with another “complimentary” therapy. We can use the treatment of diabetes as an example. Insulin and Metformin are standard medications for the treatment of high blood sugar. Chromium is a complimentary supplement which decreases sugar cravings and improves insulin sensitivity. Another example is Biotin which is another supplement useful for improving the health of hair and nails but it is also helpful in the treatment of insulin sensitivity.

With my early review of the syllabus for this program, I was struck by the extensiveness of the information emphasized regarding the interplay of all the various hormones in the body.

This interplay is described as a “symphony” and with early readings and looking at the diagrams

of how they all interact; I am convinced again how important it is to measure and understand the hormone changes that occur on an individual level. We are all individuals and we all age differently probably because of our genetics but also, even more importantly, because of the environments we live in. We do not just live in an environment; we react to it and all its external forces. These external forces affect our internal milieu. One example of this is how we react to stress. One person might experience a stress in life that causes his/her blood pressure to rise, blood sugar levels to rise, headache and stomach aches, and overall ruins their day. Another person might experience the same stress but reacts in such a way as to minimize the stress so that it does not have the same delirious effects on the person physically and emotionally.

We know from thousands of research reports that the environment in which we live and react to has much more of an effect on our health than does our genetics. This is probably an 80:20 ratio, meaning that our health is affected 80% by our experiences and 20% by our genetics.

Therefore we have much more control over our health than we think. By manipulating the environment and learning how to react to it, we can positively influence our present and future health. By creating healthy habits and behaviors, we can minimize the expression or actions of detrimental genes in our DNA. Healthy behaviors can actually turn off harmful genes. Research has shown this to be true.

Now in relation to the hormone conditions mentioned above, we can also measure and manipulate them so as to improve our present and future health. Knowing baseline hormone levels allows your physician to recommend lifestyle changes that can slow the aging process, decrease your risk of chronic illness and cancer, and help you achieve a more fitful and healthy life.

One part of this program that I am especially interested in learning about is the difference between synthetic (man-made) and bio identical hormones. The latter represent chemical compounds that are more closely related to the hormones naturally produced in the body. The goal of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is to provide the (male or female) with hormones that are as close to what his/her body would naturally produce. “Compounding” hormones is man’s way of making hormones as close to the natural ones as possible. There is an entire section on “compounding” in this program and as I learn more about this process, I will write about it and pass on this wonderful information via my News-Press articles and also in the presentations I do in the hospital and in the community.

Metabolism and the functions of the thyroid are included in another module and when I have completed these, I will write about these topics also. In this manner the readers can follow along with me and learn many new and exciting things that will enable us to live healthier. That is my goal. To help as many people live healthier lives, avoid the destruction that comes along with chronic illness and cancer; and to help many folks grow old with health, happiness and vitality.

In doing so we all then contribute to making southwest Florida a better place to live and work.

What a blessing!

In summary I invite you all to join me on my next educational adventure. From now until December 2015 we will challenge our minds and our beliefs and come to a better understanding of the aging process and what we can do to slow it down and make it more enjoyable. Thank you for taking this journey with me and as always please send questions and comments 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

GOVERNMENT TRENDS WHAT IS THE GAC COMMITTEE WORKING ON? Joe Mazurkiewicz, BJM Consulting 2014 GAC Chairman

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our Government Affairs Committee continues to work on your behalf following local government and reporting the issues so you are aware of the possible changes that can impact your business.

Specifically we are involved with the following activities: Gaining more influence with City Council, CRA, County Commission, Local State Delegation and Southwest Florida Congressional candidates. We receive monthly updates from committee members on all local government meetings, work to

keep our members informed of candidates running at all levels of government and follow votes during the legislative sessions in Tallahassee.

Collaborate with Council for Progress on Economic Development Issues. We receive monthly updates of CFP activities and share its meeting notices with the chamber membership.

The 2014 “Are You Smarter than a Politician” Candidates Forum, October 22, 5:30 p.m. at Gulf Coast Village. This free event will provide you with an opportunity to test your local government knowledge against those running for office. Community Conversations Editor Tom Hayden from The News-Press will serve as our moderator. Appetizers and a cash bar will be available.

The GAC will also distribute an informational piece highlighting the pros and cons of the November 4 election referendums to all of our members through the GAC website www.CapeCoralVoice.com in mid-October.

Please be on the lookout for additional information from the GAC as it will definitely help you in your efforts to do business in the Cape and Southwest Florida.

SCHEDULE YOUR RIBBON CUTTING TODAY!

It’s not just for new members!

If you have recently renewed your membership or just joined, be sure to take advantage of this member benefit!

Contact Matt Lamb at 549-6900 ext 103 or matt@capecoralchamber.com

LEADERSHIP CAPE CORAL 2014

14 KARATS

Donna Germain, Communications Director

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eadership Cape Coral continues to be a life changing experience for our 28 Karats (as they call themselves). Our Leadership team of chairs and day chairs have really outdone themselves this year making this year one of the best yet. We have made some exciting and heartwarming additions to the program including work on a Builders Care project for a paraplegic gentleman in Cape Coral.

The month started with Healthcare Day chaired by the dynamic duo of Scott Kashman, LMHS and Kevin Ahmadi, Gulf Coast Village, both Class of 2013. The class learned the importance of fitness, healthcare, senior care and end of life care. Thank you to Shannon Mullins from Mullins Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Inc. also class of 2013, for your presentation and assisting with the day.

The following week brought Infrastructure Day chaired by Kevin Hobstetter and George Smith both from LCEC and Keith Banasiak from WastePro. The class started the morning at the North Cape RO Plant and then traveled to LCEC for a tour of their facility, some bucket truck rides and ended their visit by having lunch with CEO Dennie Hamilton. Visits to WastePro, the Lee County Solid Waste Facility and the Lee County Waste Energy plant rounded out the day. Thank you to the day chairs and facilitators for making this another fantastic day for our class.

On September 19th, the class attended the annual Industry Appreciation lunch hosted by The Horizon Council. The lunch brought the class together with more than 1,000 business leaders in our community. Thank you to Bob Knight from Paul Homes for sponsoring our lunch for the day. Your commitment to the Leadership program is greatly appreciated. Following the lunch, the class met with a panel of business leaders including

Commissioner Brian Hamman, State Representative Dane Eagle, Cape Coral Economic Development Director Dana Brunett, Wicked Dolphin owner Joanne Elardo, Kevin Long, Marine Concepts and B. Pat O’Rourke, Lee County Economic Development. Thank you to program chairs Michelle Whitlock and Matt Lamb for putting the day together.

Real Estate and Construction Day came next and quickly became a class favorite. The morning was spent learning the history of real estate and construction in our area from none other than Elmer Tabor, Wonderland Realty and Co-Day Chair Irena Prell from Elysium Construction. Day Chair Anthony Greco, ACRA Electric did an amazing job “constructing” the panel of speakers including City Manager John Szerlag, DCD Director Vince Cautero, CCCIA Executive Director Bill Johnson, Jr and incoming president Joe Francioni as well as representatives from Builders Care. Following the morning presentations, the class started work on the first official Builders Care project for Leadership Cape Coral.

The group painted and made some minor carpentry repairs to the home of a Cape Coral gentleman named Jamie who is a paraplegic. The project truly touched the class and all who were involved. Thank you to Siesta Pebble for sponsoring lunch for the day. Thank you to co chair Tony Solgard with Bookkeepers Plus.

Mosquito Control and Sheriff’s Day was nothing short of exciting. Thank you to Zack Zeis from Storm Smart, Fernando Gomes from Iberia Bank and Captain Carmine Marceno for putting everything together for the day. The Class started the day at Mosquito Control and learned why they are such a crucial part of our area. They then traveled to the Sheriff’s Gun Range for some range time and then traveled to the Forensics Facility and then onto the Lee County Jail in Downtown Fort Myers. Thank you to Storm Smart for sponsoring lunch for the day and IberiaBank and Karen Barnes with UBS Financial for sponsoring breakfast for the class.

LEADERSHIP CAPE CORAL 2014

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

RIBBON CUTTINGS

The Interface Financial Group. a Division of Tate Financial, LLC Stephen R. Tate (239) 770-1369 www.interfacefinancial.com/tate

The Hair Color Experts Gary Benson 3306 Del Prado Blvd. Suite B Cape Coral, FL 33904 (239) 257-2243 www.thehaircolorexperts.com

FAMILY SOURCE CONSULTANTS Staci Swiderski 1222 SE 47th St. Suite 405 Cape Coral, FL 33909 (239) 205-8186 www.familysourcesurrogacy.com

Sam’s Club John McAdoo 814 SW Pine Island Rd., Ste 207 Cape Coral, FL 33909 (239) 772-9603 www.samsclub.com

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Hello Beautiful Salon Alyssa Gee 405 Del Prado Blvd North Suite 102 Cape Coral, FL 33909 (239) 242-7242 www.hellobeautifulhair.com

Sylvan Learning of SW Florida Sue Fowler 2612 Santa Barbara Blvd., Unit 10 Cape Coral, FL 33914 (239) 275-1130 www.sylvanlearning.com

Thank you to all the attendees and sponsors that attended the Second Annual Women’s Leadership Conference.

We appreciate your support and look forward to next year’s event!

REAL ESTATE TRENDS From Our Chairman THE BEGINING OF FALL

Berge Aslanian (CDPE) 2012 Realtor, RE/MAX Island Harbor Donna Meola, Kirkwood Electric 2012 Chamber he third week Chairman of September

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officially changed our season

can’t believe its December from summer to fall. Our and I am writing my last challenge is to as figure out if thereofis the any article Chairman meaning realflown estate by in Board. connected 2012 hastojust 9-30-14 andTrends there have been so many Real Estate Cape Coral.

The Beginning of Fall accomplishments would like to But, first looking atI some numbers share. (Please forgive me if I have The third week of September officially changed our season from summer to fall. Our may help us see is happening… forgotten any!!) challenge is to figure out if there is any meaning connected towhat real estate in Cape Coral.

For the three month period ending How fortunate we are to live But, first looking at some numbers may help us see what is happening… in Paradise!

Our economy is 9/30/14: For the three month period ending 9/30/14: growing and the outlook for 2013 is for continuedSept growth.

July ’14 Aug ’14 ‘14 Homes Median Much $ Homes Median $ Median $ 2012 wasHomes a great year!! was accomplished for you, including For Sale 1557 $249,500 1474 $249,500 1408 $250,000 making Cape Coral a better place to do business.

Here are a few of Sold 320 $159,750 281 $175,000 290 $175,000 the highlights: JulyEconomic ’14 Aug ’14 ‘14 The Cape Coral Development Office Sept delivered on their Condos Median $ Condos Median $ Condos Median $ promise business, 257 investment and employment in the For Saleto increase 273 $149,000 $150,500 252 $151,000 Sold 45 closed $118,000 29 $135,000 36 projects, $136,000 area.

The team 137 economic development which represents 85 new businesses in the Cape and 52 expansions.

The EDOofcreated a family public/private strategic with Lamar Inventory single family homeshomes For SaleFor continues topartnership decreasetowhile median prices Inventory of single Sale continues decrease while hold firm. Numbers of theseGroup homes Sold are about the same as lastcampaign month and median Advertising and HDPR and a new marketing that median prices Numbers of these homes Sold are about the same as prices are alsohold aboutfirm. the same. says “Cape Coral is Open for Business.” lastCape month and median are also about the1,156 same.

Condos are following theprices same pattern.

Numbers of Listings are down slightly and Coral welcomed the opening of businesses in 2012 median listed prices are upthe eversame so slightly.

Condos Sold wentof upListings this month anddown prices Condos are following pattern.

Numbers are including 301 place based businesses, 809 home-based businesses are also up a tiny bit. and 46 and unspecified businesses. meansCondos shorter distances slightly median listed prices areCommerce up ever so slightly.

Sold went up When we see a sudden spike or drop in prices or units listed or sold it can be explained to travel for your goods and services.

Commerce also means a thisasmonth and prices However, are also up a tiny bit.are solidly consistent we know that is the just an aberration. when prices diversified taxtobase trend on which focus.and Forjobs! so long now we have been mentioning inflation as a force WhenChamber we seeprices. a sudden or drop in not prices ordown units listed or sold itcrept can be affecting home Nowspike that prices have gone but instead slowly up, The of Commerce of Cape Coral continues to grow as increases in cost of living, materials, labor and other fees are having a permanent effect explained as just an aberration.

However, when prices are solidly consistent well; in December 2011 our membership was at an all time low of on the cost of homes. So much so that now we are also seeing a number of entry level starting be built in our fair city.at 583 members, today we in awe 78have percent wehomes know that istothe trend onstand which to744. focus.This Forresulted so long now been membership growth with a retention rate of 81 percent.

This could In visiting some of these and in conversations withNow builders, we will have be seeing mentioning inflation as ahomes force affecting home prices. that prices not more new startsaccomplished during the next few months. the But referrals starter homes areour just members, that. For the not have been without from gone downofbut insteadbuilders slowly crept up, toincreases in up costwithof amenities living, materials, purposes economy afford load them and fancy a dynamic andcan’t an home awesome membership stuff. If yousales want ateam new, affordable with built-in financing, it isdevelopment out there. But, if labor and other fees are having a permanent effect on the cost of homes. you want a nice house with high ceilings, rounded corners, granite counter-tops, So 18” committee. tiles,so mature landscaping, sprinkler system and a poolofyou can level still get that forstarting the price much that now we are also seeing a number entry homes Chamber Leadership programs continue to develop community of a new, Spartan starter home. leaders. to be builtIninNovember, our fair city. 20 men and women graduated Leadership So, where’s value? Well value is determined by 2012 the buyer.

If they want a newhave home Cape Coral. the Twenty-four members the Chamber board with minimalsome amenities, therehomes are some values out there. a buyer wants that In visiting of these andgreat inofconversations withIf builders, we will graduated from the Leadership Program including the Chairman and nicer home with a pool, there are some great values out there. It all depends on the

be seeing more new starts during the next few months. But starter homes are just that. For the purposes of economy builders can’t afford to load them Chair-Elect. We currently have 27 high school juniors in our Junior up with amenities and fancy stuff. If you want a new, affordable home with Leadership Program. built-in financing, it is out there.

But, if you a nice houseprograms with high The Chamber successfully presented (2)want Disney Institute in 2012.rounded The Chamber Events team18” (yes, teams because ceilings, corners,Special granite counter-tops, tiles,I say mature landscaping, it takes a village!!) brought an astounding 250,000+ citizens and sprinkler system and a pool you can still get that for the price of a new, Spartan members together for Red White and Boom , Golf Tournament, starter home.

Farmers Market, Business Expo , Family Bowling Day, a Casino Trip value? Well valueasis our determined the buyer.ofIfLights they want to So, Thewhere’s Price the is Right, as well HolidaybyFestival on December a new home1st. with minimal amenities, there are some great values out there. on-line directory in 1,300,829 webvalues referrals If aOur buyer wants business that nicer home with resulted a pool, there are some great out in 2012 that equates to 3,544 on average over the year per member!! there. It all depends on the buyer.

(Who says membership doesn’t pay?)

With that being said, thereapp are was two items of caution to keep in mind for A new Chamber mobile introduced in 2012.

It was also a very busy election year for our Public Affairs buyers and sellers: Committee! a group passionate people who make sure that Item one isThis thatiswith risingofprices one must be careful if financing the the “voice” of business is heard, not only at the local level but also property. With minimal down payments there might be issues if the appraisal state and federal. The candidates’ forums were very well attended by comes in lower the contract If paying cash or having a large down members andthan citizens of Capeprice.

Coral. payment, there will be no issue. The issue ofthe under appraisingin arises because Our education committee hosted Excellence Education Awards in April and awarded $4,500 in scholarships to deserving appraisers use comparative sales to establish current value. If prices are higher high school seniors! today than two or three months ago, the comps will be lower thereby causing It was also the first year of our “rotating” luncheons that are being a problem.

Sellers, please don’t over-price your property; buyers, please don’t very well received by our membership. over pay for your property.

Serving as your Chairman of the Board has been an excellent experience I feel blessed forbetter having had the move opportunity of Item two isand very simple.

There is no precautionary to be made meeting so many of you at meetings and events. than finding an experienced and reputable Realtor to help you. Both buyers Thank you for honoring me with your trust and commitment! It and sellers will privilege always do to better with a good realtor representing them.

Good has been my work with my fellow directors and amazing realtors thethe process easier and smoother while saving you money. Now staff as make well as membership.

I look forward to seeing all ofthe you at future events and Iyou wish you that we’ve got that on the table, only thing left is to wish Happy good health and prosperity!

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.

buyer.

With that being said, there are two items of caution to keep in mind for buyers and sellers:

We deliver, every day.

Call Lynnie to advertise

910.4575

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

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 Commerce of Cape Coral AllofPower 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 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

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:

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

and certified staff, an integrated • Degreed • Fitlinxx, 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

NETWORKING TRENDS GETTING PAST THE ANXIETY OF NETWORKING Annette Siner, Membership Sales

I

do not consider myself a shy person.

I can speak with anyone when there is a small crowd of ten or less!

However, when I enter a room full of people, the anxiety starts to set in, or at least it used to.

With more than 700 chamber members and more than 100 attendees at any given networking event, I knew this was something I was going to have to overcome. At first, I was excited, I could not wait to get in there and start meeting people. These people are the business owners of our community, people who work for and run our community. I could not wait to meet them! Then I stepped into the door and reality set in, the room was full!

The first thought that came to mind was, “Oh my Goodness, I do not know anyone here.” (Which was not entirely true, I knew a couple of people; maybe two or three.) This was the first time I had ever been to an official networking event where I was actually supposed to network. I was a little panicked and my first thought was to find a friend and have them introduce me to people. That is exactly what I did; I found a friend and followed them around the entire evening.

My friend knew everyone! The only problem was I did not have much to add to the conversations and this was not what I was used to. I met a few people that probably would not remember who I was the next time they met me and when I left I felt like a total failure.

One of the many pushbacks I get from business owners when I approach them about becoming members of the chamber is that the networking events are to «cliquey” or they do not get anything out of networking. That is when I can look them in the eye and honestly tell them about my personal experience and how I overcame those same misconceptions.

I did not know how to break into a group of people I had not met yet and start talking to them. To be honest with you, I still do not know how to break into a group of people I have not met yet and start talking to them. What I have learned is that you have to KEEP GOING BACK and before you know it you have met at least one person in every single group!

For our next networking event, I found my friend again and was introduced to some of the same people as the time before. Some remembered me, some did not, and that was fine because as I said before, I did not have much to add to the conversations and when I left this time, I felt like I had not made any progress.

I do however have this thing about failing; I cannot accept it for myself. I did know that going to those networking events is something I would have to do in order to be successful. At the last networking event I went to, I was literally being pulled around the room by people wanting to introduce me to a new prospect, or I was introducing the new members I had just signed up, to other members.

It was not until the very end of the event that I caught up with that friend who had introduced me to all of those people. It was then that I realized I no longer needed to shadow my friends every move. It was the most effective networking event yet, and it just keeps getting better.

So, for those of you looking to grow your business through the chamber, my advice to you is this; people do business with people they know like and trust.

Show your face enough times that people cannot forget you and build quality relationships with people in your community. I watch it work every day and I am excited that I get to be a part of it.

I am not saying it happens overnight and if you are anything like me; it will take several times of going to those networking events to grow relationships with people in your community. My best advice is to latch on to a couple of people at first if you need to, let them introduce you around. It turns out that people talk to people they know and the quality of the relationships that you build is what will pay off in the end.

When people start to recognize your face and you start to recognize them, it becomes easier to talk to them and then before you know it, you are part of the «clique.» Except once you are in, you realize it is not a clique, it is a group of people who all have a common goal, to grow their business and their community by being an active participant.

Advertise In The Chamber Trends Magazine Contact Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext 107 or donna@capecoralchamber.com

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

T

he September Business After Hours, hosted by Bowland Centers - Coral Lanes was a great night of networking and fun.

Hosts Mike Cannigton and Sandra Blackwood (mid right) we fantastic hosts to the more than 100 people in attendance.

(Mid Left) Chamber Alum and brand new CCCIA Executive Director Bill Johnson, Jr. and Chamber Chairman Annette Carrasquillo, LAI Design.

(Bottom Left) Jeff Shaw and Friend from MYCO Business Systems, David Hampton, PSA and Tracy Baon from The News-Press.

(Bottom Right) Mary and Sam Mazotti, Edward Jones and new member Ron Scalzo from Dean Street Insurance.

Don’t miss the October After Hours at the Cape Coral Boat House.

A Family of Senior Living Options

Are You Smarter Than A Politician?

Candidates Forum

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 Gulf Coast Village 1333 Santa Barbara Boulevard Cape Coral, Florida 33991 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

2014 SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES Gold Sponsors $500

Sponsor logo included in all promotions For This Event • • • • • • • • •

Banner Placement at event Display table at event Logo to appear in all media advertising Logo to appear in scrolling power point presentation at the event Logo to appear in event program Sponsor recognition in all printed materials, flyers, etc for the event.

Sponsor recognition in all electronic media advertising Link to your company’s website will also be included in all electronic media Your company will be mentioned as a sponsor in all other press releases and/or media correspondence as an event sponsor.

Silver Sponsors $250

Sponsor name included in all Promotions For This Event

Friend $100.00

Sponsor name included In The Following

LCEC

• • • • • • •

• •

Banner Placement at Event Business name to appear in event program Company name in scrolling power point presentation at the event Display table at event Company name in media advertising Company listed as a sponsor in all printed materials, flyers, etc.

Company name in all electronic media advertising prior

Event Program Print Media Advertising

_____ Gold $500

NAME____________________________________________________________________________________

_____ Silver $250

BUSINESS _______________________________________________________________________________

_____ Friend $100

CREDIT CARD __________________________________________________________________________ BILLING ADDRESS ______________________________________________________________________ CARD TYPE ______________________

EXP. ________________

3 digit Code______________

PHONE_________________________E-MAIL _____________________________________________

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

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