Res Gestae - June 2024

https://www.floridamediators.org/brad-kimbro https://www.floridamediators.org/joseph-varner

Best

Summer has always been my favorite season. Long sunny days in the pool, cookouts and Red Sox baseball are all on my mind! Hopefully, summer slows our pace just a bit so we can focus on the health and happiness of our families!

As we’ve all heard, “We are what we eat,” so it is vitally important to our health that we make smart choices including plenty of “Florida fresh” fruits and vegetables to properly feed our minds and bodies.

My husband is a plant breeder, and I pick up a lot of trivia in our conversations! Did you know that at least nine different families of fruits and vegetables exist, each with potentially hundreds of different plant compounds that are beneficial to our health? Nutritional experts recommend “eating the rainbow” which means eating a variety of types and colors of produce to give your body the mix of nutrients it needs.

In addition to being delicious, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer and have a positive effect upon blood sugar. Studies also show that eating apples, pears and green leafy vegetables may even promote weight loss and lower our cholesterol at the same time! This is multi-tasking at its finest.

The Sunshine State is known as the “Winter Vegetable Capital of the World,” and our Florida’s farmers play a significant role in providing all of us with fresh produce year-round. Our fantastic farmers consistently keep Florida first in the nation for production of oranges, tomatoes, watermelon, grapefruit, beans and cucumbers. So, please join me in recognizing these unsung heroes for their role in keeping all of us healthy. And, no excuses! Get your five servings of fruits and vegetable each day for maximum health benefits.

Our chosen profession is incredibly demanding. It is often difficult to balance our responsibilities to our clients with the need to be present for our families and friends. So please take the time to fuel your body properly, because only when we are at our best, can we do our best!

ADMINISTRATION

LEE COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION

Executive Director

Lauren Baugh

EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

President Hon. Kathy Smith

Vice President

John Miller III, Esq.

YLD President

Joseph Coleman, Esq.

BOARD MEMBERS

Erin Casey, Esq.

Jerry Olivo, Esq.

Megan Strayhorn, Esq.

Doug Szabo, Esq.

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Bench-Bar Gala

Diana “Dawn” Maselli, Esq.

Diversity and Inclusion

TBA

Health and Wellness

Hon. Kimberly Davis Bocelli

Ashley Kogan-Weed, Esq.

John Miller III, Esq.

History

Hon. Jenna Persons-Mulicka

E. Bruce Strayhorn, Esq.

Megan Strayhorn, Esq

Law-Related Education

T. Terry Rankin, Esq.

Law Week

Hon. John Carlin

PRACTICE SECTION CHAIRS

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Anne Dalton, Esq.

Alexandra Kleinfeldt, Esq.

Appellate Law

TBA

Corporate Law

TBA

Criminal Law

Asma Anwar, Esq.

Agnieszka Osowicka, Esq.

Elder Law

Lisa Gelman, Esq.

Blake Hampton, Esq.

Amy McGarry, Esq.

Family Law

Kayla Richmond, Esq.

Danielle Seitz, Esq.

General Civil and Business Litigation

Joel Hyatt, Esq.

Kara Jursinski Murphy, Esq.

Administrative Assistant Mairelis Tamayo

President Emeritus

Spencer Cordell, Esq.

Secretary

Dawn Maselli, Esq.

Treasurer

John Dommerich Jr., Esq.

JUDICIAL LIAISONS

Hon. Robert Branning

Hon. Devin George

LCBA Foundation Charity

Golf Tournament

Meredith Jones, Esq.

Vanessa Fernandez, Esq.

Mock Trial

Maria Alaimo, Esq.

Shaina Zuppke, Esq.

Paralegal

TBA

Pro Bono

Andrew Banyai, Esq.

Peter Dennis, Esq.

Mental Health Initiative Committee

Holly Cosby, Esq

Dawn Maselli, Esq.

Immigration law

Pablo Hurtado, Esq.

Nirupa Netram, Esq.

Intellectual Property Law

Mark Nieds, Esq.

Land Use and Governmental Law

Zachary Liebetreu, Esq.

Sarah Spector, Esq.

Real Property, Probate and Trust Law

Kenneth Kemp, Esq.

Peter Knize, J.D., L.L.M.

Robin Merriman II, Esq.

Solo & Small Firm

Conor Foley, Esq.

Tort Litigation

Diana Castrillon, Esq.

Diana “Dawn” Maselli, Esq.

Happy June!

June is one of my favorite months. We tend to slow down here at LCBA headquarters, which gives me a chance to organize my office after the chaos (and fun) of Law Week. I thoroughly love to organize. It is my form of therapy!

Speaking of Law Week, this one was amazing.

We honored some truly phenomenal people, including some of whom I know personally, which made it a little more special than the average year!

Of course, it ended on a scary note. I ended up leaving the Law Week Luncheon right after it was over to rush my boyfriend to the emergency room. It ended up being a real medical emergency which, looking back, taught me to pay more attention to your body. If you think something is wrong, go get it checked out. It could literally save your life! Also, Steve is okay and well on the mend.

I also had a chance to go see Chris Stapleton for the fourth time in my life, and each show gets better and better. If you are into country, folk, blues and the like, check him out. He is truly amazing!

Part of my 2024 mission is to go to see as many live concerts as possible. This month, I will get to live my best teenage life again, with my daughter, because I am going to see Alanis Morrisette. I cannot lie – I am way more excited than she is! I also get to take my daughter to Key West for her first time –my second time – and I am very much looking forward to a week off to recharge my brain and body!

Another super exciting thing about June is what has become one of our most fun events: YLD Burritos with the Bench! Taking place in late June, this event is an agenda-less event where we can casually hang out, chat with and get to know our bench.

The icing on the cake? We get to eat burritos, tacos and nachos! This event is free for all LCBA members, not just the YLD. LCBA members, do not miss it! See page 28 for the date, time and details.

Finally, if you are seeking referrals and not sure how to dive in, please consider joining our LRS program! Details for this program can be found on page 11.

The official award-winning publication of the Lee County Bar Association, which serves citizens and the legal community since 1949.

STAFF

Publisher Teri Hansen, APR

Advertising Account Executive

Elise Rose

Editor

Sarah Nadal

Associate Editor

Kathy Becker

Alan Zagier

Editors In Law

Hon. Kathleen Smith

Lauren Baugh

Creative/Art Director

Christi Finger

Graphic Designer

Lynsey Gill

Contributing Writers

Lauren Baugh

Joey Coleman, Esq.

Josh Milton

Henry Lee Paul, Esq.

Hon. Kathy Smith

Chelle Koster Walton

Iman Zekri, Esq.

Contributing Photographers

Jim Jett Photography "Ding"

Darling Wildlife Society

Scott Becque

Frank Brinker

Fred Ryckman

Peg d’Entremont

Conrad Peloquin

Res Gestae is an award-winning magazine published monthly by Priority Marketing in partnership with the Lee County Bar Association. All editorial, advertising and photos may be submitted for consideration through email to rgeditor@prioritymarketing.com. To advertise, contact Elise Rose at (239) 267-2638 or rgsales@prioritymarketing.com. For billing inquiries, call (239) 334-0047.

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but we cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. Opinions expressed by writers and advertisers are not necessarily opinions shared by LCBA, Res Gestae or Priority Marketing.

Copyright©2024 Lee County Bar Association, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No portion of the publication may be reproduced in part or in whole without prior written permission from the Lee County Bar Association. To inquire about such permission, please contact Lee County Bar Association at info@leebar org.

SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR

As you plan ahead for 2024, here are special LCBA events to note for your calendar. All dates are subject to change and any updates will be posted on LeeBar.org.

JUNE

2024

14 LCBA RPPTL Virtual Brown Bag Time: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Microsoft Teams

Topic: Middle Rich

Speaker: Robert Kirkland, Esq.

20 LCBA ADR Virtual CLE Time: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Zoom

Topic: Mind Over Mediator: Stress, Anxiety and Burnout, and How to Deal with It

Speaker: Dr. Laura Streyffeler

27 LCBA YLD Burritos with the Bench Time: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Lee County Justice Center, Courtroom 4A

Cost: FREE for ALL LCBA Members of ALL AGES!

JULY 2024

AUGUST 2024

1 Baseball with the Bar – see page 34

2 Junk Food with the Judges – see page 26 16 LCBA Monthly Luncheon at The Edison with Sia Baker-Barnes

SEPTEMBER 2024

2 Labor Day – LCBA and courts closed

OCTOBER 2024

3 Rosh Hashanah – LCBA and courts closed 18 Pro Bono Awards Luncheon at The Edison

NOVEMBER 2024 11 Veterans Day – LCBA and courts closed 28-29 Thanksgiving – LCBA and courts closed

DECEMBER 2024

6 YLD Holiday Fiesta at Millennial Brewing 12 LCBA Annual Holiday Party at The Edison 24-26 Christmas Eve & Christmas – LCBA and courts closed

Henry Lee Paul,

for Practice Restrictions D.C. Disciplines Managing Attorneys

The District of Columbia Board on Professional Responsibility has recommended that two managing partners of a law firm be suspended for 60 days each for imposing improper practice restrictions on employed attorneys. The D.C. rule involved is the counterpart of Florida Rule 4-5.6 (Restrictions on Right to Practice). This action by the D.C. Bar should put Florida law firms on notice that their lawyers may be disciplined for violation of the prohibition against practice restrictions.

Lawyers Tully and Rinckey in D.C. Docket No. 22-BD-025 engaged in numerous prohibited practices, including imposing a liquidated damages provision up to $50,000 on a lawyer leaving firm employment. Other restrictions included a limitation on communication with firm clients about departure, requiring a percentage of fees to be paid to the firm from future income of departing clients and prohibition on the hiring or working with former firm employees. See also the ABA Journal article published February 22, 2024, by Debra Weiss.

The reason that I report on this case as being relevant to Florida lawyers is that the Rule in D.C. is similar to the Florida rule. However, unlike the D.C. Bar, The Florida Bar has refrained from enforcing violations of Rule 4-5.6(a) in the context of law firm employment and separation agreements.

The Florida rule states, “A lawyer shall not participate in offering or making: (a) a partnership, shareholders, operating, employment,

or other similar type of agreement that restricts the rights of a lawyer to practice after termination of the relationship…” The policy behind this rule is well stated in the comment: “An agreement restricting the right of lawyers to practice after leaving a firm not only limits their professional autonomy, but also limits the freedom of clients to choose a lawyer… Severance agreements… that contain punitive clauses, the effect of which are to restrict competition or encroach upon a client’s inherent right to select counsel, are prohibited.”

The Florida Bar in E.O. 93-4 gave further definition of this policy and stated that a law firm agreement that imposes a “substantial financial disincentive” on an employed attorney that discourages their departure from the firm is an improper practice restriction in violation of Rule 4-5.6(a).

I have observed that there are many firms in Florida, especially larger plaintiffs personal injury firms, that impose practice restrictions through employment or separation agreements. Such restrictions commonly include liquidated damages for each departing client who chooses to move with a departing lawyer, a large percentage of fees to be paid to the former firm, and restrictions on communications with firm clients. All such restrictions may provide a financial or other improper disincentive to a departing lawyer or a client deciding whether to follow a departing lawyer.

The Florida Supreme Court has long had a policy of encouraging freedom of a client to select a lawyer of their choosing. In contingent cases, the use of quantum meruit has long been identified as a method to determine compensation to a former firm.

The Florida Bar has been remiss in enforcing the prohibition against practice restrictions in employment and separation agreements. The firms that continue to ignore these restrictions may face greater scrutiny in the future if The Florida Bar follows the example of the D.C. Bar.

Henry Lee Paul, Esq. is a former Bar Counsel who now represents lawyers in all matters before the Florida Bar and offers risk management services on all legal practice matters. He also represents applicants in all matters before The Florida Board of Bar Examiners.

Drunk

Serious

Custody

Hurricane

Paralysis Cases

Apartment Shootings

Gun

Courtroom Trials

Workers Compensation

Wrongful Death Cases

Pedestrian Accidents

Bicycle Accidents

Dog Bite Cases

Slip & Fall Accidents

Negligent Security Cases Settlements

NATIONWIDE REALTOR SETTLEMENT Results in Big Win for Florida Homeowners

Joseph Coleman is a Florida Bar Board-Certified business litigation attorney. He currently practices commercial litigation and intellectual property litigation at his firm, Coleman Litigation. Joey specializes in business torts and disputes, commercial litigation, and copyright and trademark registrations and litigation.

The National Association of Realtors, which represents over a million realtors nationwide, has agreed to settle a class action anti-trust lawsuit. The suit alleged the association of engaging in anti-competitive activities based upon how its agents were being compensated.

In the 1990s, the cooperative compensation model was introduced, which meant the seller would usually have to pay a commission for their agent to sell the house. But, the seller would also have to pay the buyer’s agent when the buyer bought the house. This meant sellers were usually paying five to six percent of the home’s sale price in commission fees to both brokers, including the broker who just negotiated against them to get the best deal for their client, the buyer.

If approved, this rule would be eliminated as the default rule – meaning the seller would not have to pay the buyer’s agent, and the

seller would be able to better negotiate the commission owed to their agent.

Additionally, another new rule would require homebuyers to sign a written deal with a broker before working with one. It’s something experts say could lead many homebuyers to forgo using a broker entirely.

This is a big win for Florida homeowners. First, the homeowner who wants to sell their home has increased negotiating power to better negotiate the commission paid to their own seller’s agent. Second, the homeowner may keep more of the sale price, because they will not be forced to pay the buyer’s agent. Third, more buyers will likely represent themselves, rather than paying an agent. It means the seller and their agent can focus on selling the home rather than negotiating against an experienced professional who is haggling with them to lower the price.

LAW WEEK 2024

CELEBRATING THE VOICES OF DEMOCRACY

An annual tradition for more than 30 years, Law Week is a weeklong series of events that celebrates freedom, the laws that protect it and the role of democracy in our nation. Hosted by the Lee County Bar Association (LCBA) in tandem with many local partners, Law Week 2024 provided a variety of opportunities for members to provide pro bono services to the community, celebrate and honor those who support and protect the law in Lee County, and even donate blood.

The week started strong with Law in the Mall, held at the United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades office in South Fort Myers on April 27. During this free legal clinic, Lee County citizens of all ages have the opportunity to speak with experienced lawyers about their legal questions. These included approximately 20 representatives from Lee County Legal Aid Society, Florida Rural Legal Services, the Lee County Tax Collector, Lee County Elections and the Clerk of the Court, organized by Katherine Camadeco.

Another opportunity to give back to the community included the LCBA Blood Drive on May 2, held at Miller Griffin Kiwanis Park. Four members – including LCBA President Kathy Smith – donated blood, helping to keep our community’s banks well stocked.

The first of two awards receptions during Law Week, the Lee County Association of Women Lawyers Judicial Appreciation Reception took place at The Wine Room on May 2. Held in celebration of the Honorable Kimberly Davis Bocelli, the event included hors d’oeuvres and networking, followed by the awards program. During the program, Judge Bocelli received the Lee County Association of Women Lawyers Judicial Award.

Law Week culminated with LCBA’s annual awards luncheon. Each year, LCBA and its executive board partner with the School District to select one teacher who excels at law-related education in the classroom. Additionally, each local law enforcement agency identifies an individual representative who has gone above and beyond to serve the public and uphold the law. Across each department, 2024 winners were highlighted for their lifesaving work in the field – such as playing a key role in ending a tense bank standoff and dealing a significant blow to the fentanyl trade.

As the Honorable Kathy Smith, LCBA president, emphasized during the ceremony, “Law Week gives the LCBA the privilege of paying tribute to several extraordinary individuals, who have selflessly dedicated themselves to the service of others.”

1.

2.

3. Lee County Supervisor of Elections Office

4. Julia Moore, Kristianna Soto, Michael Colombo

5. Lee County Clerk and Comptroller Office

6. Lee County Property Appraisers Office

7. Katherin Camadeco and Kimberly Rushton

Attorneys, and Volunteers for the 2024 Law In The Mall Event

Kevin Sarlo, Michael Raheb, Peter Dennis, Amir Cyrus, Kristianna Soto, Hon. Kathy Smith and Blair DeMinico

2024 LCBA Law Week Award Recipients

Kyle McBride of East County High School

Dr. James A. Adams Lee County Teacher of the Year for Law-Related Education

Sponsored by the Foundation for Lee County Schools

Lieutenant Paul Nabor

Lee County Sheriff’s Office Officer of the Year

Sponsored by Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.

Sergeant Scott Newbury

Fort Myers Police Department Officer of the Year

Sponsored by the Law Offices of Michael Raheb

Officer Jarrett Bridges

Cape Coral Police Department Officer of the Year

Sponsored by EBS Arms

Officer Kyle Eckert

Sanibel Police Department Officer of the Year

Sponsored by Boy Agnew Potanovic Miller, PLLC.

Councilman Johnny Streets, Jr.

Liberty Bell Award

Sponsored by Strayhorn, Persons-Mulicka & Fisher

1. Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson, Judge Erik Leontiev, Judge Tara Paluck, Judge Devin George

2. Hon. Kathy Smith, Hon. Amira Fox, Sheriff Carmine Marceno, Lt. Paul Nader, Wife and Lauren Baugh

3. CCPD Attendees including Chief Anthony Sizemore and State Attorney Amira Fox and Cape Coral Councilman Richard Carr

4. Kelli King and Lauren Baugh

5. Hon. Kathy Smith

6. SDLC Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Savage, ELCHS Principal Tony Allen, SDLC Board Members Sam Fisher and Melisa Giovannelli, Teacher of the Year Kyle McBride, sponsor Marshall Bower of the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, and SDLC board members Armor Persons and Debbie Jordan

7. LCSO Attendees including LCSO Officer of the Year, Lt. Paul Nader and his wife

8. 6th DCA Hon. Roger Gannam

9. FMPD Officers, Hon. Amira Fox and Chief Jason Fields, not pictured FMPD Officer of the Year Sergeant Scott Newbury

10. Liberty Bell Award Sponsor, Megan Strayhorn of Strayhorn, Persons-Mulicka and Fisher and Liberty Bell Award Winner Councilman Johnny Streets Jr

11. Hon. Amira Fox and Mayor Kevin Anderson

12. Councilmember John Henshaw, Councilmember Holly Smith, SPD Attendees, Hon. Amira Fox, SPD Officer of the year Kyle Eckert, SPD Chief William Dalton, Mayor Richard Johnson and John Agnew with Boy Agnew Potanovic Miller, sponsor of the SPD Officer of the year award

13. FMPD, City Manager Marty Lawing, Councilman Fred Burson, Liberty Bell Award Winner, Councilman Johnny Streets Jr, City of Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson, Councilmembers Teresa Watkins Brown, Dr. Liston Bocette III, and FMPD Chief Jason Fields

2024 Mastering Wellness

In keeping with the Honorable Kathy Smith’s presidential vision for 2024, LCBA recently hosted its Mastering Wellness, a spring symposium event presented in partnership with the Family Resource Center of Southwest Florida, Inc.

The event welcomed a number of licensed legal, medical and mental health professionals for lectures and motivational coaching that highlighted ways to achieve wellness in challenging times. Trending topics included how to empower no-court outcomes, the value of self-care, communication strategies for preventing confrontation, putting children first, and wellness in prevention and treatment. Attendees even enjoyed some light yoga and meditation, herbal skincare and a meditative sound bath!

Mastering Wellness would not have been possible without the generous sponsorship of Acadia Healthcare; Aloia Roland; Cogent Bank; Edison Lunch Box; Florida Blue; Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, PA.; Hennessy Catering Company; The Law Office of Kristianna Soto, P.A. and Park Royal Behavioral Health Services.

1. Bridget Washburn and Judge Josephine Gagliardi

2. Creating a sound bath

3. Mastering Wellness attendees enjoying a sound bath 4. Achie McEachern 5. Kate Hampton

Attendees stretching

Lexi Tavares

Attendees practicing office yoga 9. Tim Voit and Danielle Seitz 10. Attendees listening to speaker

"Ding" Darling:

Model for Conservation & Ecotourism

By Chelle Koster Walton

Scott Becque

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island really started something way back in the 1940s. By preserving vast acreage of Sanibel Island from development, it effectively created, in years to come, a haven for wildlife, a model city ruled by nature, and the very definition of ecotourism. Some say the refuge helped save the island from utter destruction and total economic ruin two years ago after Hurricane Ian brutally bashed Sanibel with wind and flood surge.

Not only did the environment buffer storm rage with its mangroves and all-natural skyline, it played a crucial role in economic restoration: survival and revival. “Ding” Darling saw wildlife and its habitat bounce back, an example of resiliency for the islands’ human survivors and a reason for visitors to return once the refuge reopened just six months after the storm hit.

“We could not have mitigated the severe damage we suffered this quickly without the incredible support of our wonderful friends' group, the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society, and all the help we received with cleanup from civic groups, condo associations, students, and just so many other volunteers,” said Refuge Manager Kevin Godsea at the time. “Thanks to everyone who brought us to this point. Cleanup will be ongoing for quite a while, so it’s tremendously gratifying to see and feel the love from friends and supporters all over the U.S. and beyond.”

And although recovery efforts continue this summer as workers put back together trail boardwalks and broken parts of the Visitor & Education Center, the refuge and its friends group move forward with innovations and programs that keep “Ding” Darling the gem it is in the scheme of more than 600 National Wildlife Refuge System designated lands.

Most of the refuge is back up and functional since it reopened in April 2023. That includes its three primary centers of recreation and research on Sanibel. The main campus holds the free, interactive Visitor & Education Center with its hands-on exhibits, auditorium spaces for author lectures and nature-art exhibits, Refuge Nature Store, and award-winning America’s Best Restrooms 2018.

“Ding” Darling Wildlife Society operates the Nature Store in support of refuge education, research, land acquisition, and other conservation programs that keep Sanibel on its original mission to exist in harmony with the land. Adjacent to the visitor center, DDWS and the refuge debuted The Roost last fall, despite Ian’s interference. Here, in response to COVID’s case for gathering outdoors, “Ding” Darling hosts cultural, wellness, and educational programs year-round – from yoga classes to expert birding speakers and family science programs. Check dingdarlingsociety.org for schedules.

Wildlife Drive circles the heart of the refuge, looping motorists, cyclists, and hikers around wetlands alive with river otters, alligators, manatees, and myriad birds, from the secretive mangrove cuckoo to the flamboyant roseate spoonbill. Explore on your own or learn insider info with a naturalist-guided tram tour around the 4-mile drive.

Trails spur off the drive. Most popular, Indigo Trail leads to Wildlife Education

Fred Ryckman Peg d’Entremont

Conrad Peloquin

Boardwalk, an observation deck for nesting birds, fledging chicks, alligators, and the Scat Trail, a real hit with the kids. Here, they learn about wildlife from replicas of its droppings.

(That’s right: poop!)

During summer and winter seasons, free guided interpretive tours take guests to the boardwalk and beyond to learn about birding, nature journaling, and the wonders of nature. The programs can turn a visit to the refuge into a lifelong love for the outdoors, creating wardens of the wilds for the future.

A short distance from the Visitor & Education Center, Tarpon Bay Recreation Area is headquarters for visitors ready to get out and explore refuge waters. It offers kayak and paddleboard rentals and tours several times a week. Because it lost most of its paddlecraft inventory to the storm, hours and tour times have been cut back temporarily. It also lost its fleet of rental bikes, but owners hope to restore that service this summer and nature boat tours before next winter season. In the meantime, don’t miss a paddle through the

mangrove canopy of Commodore Creek Trail, where mullet jump and birds balance on flimsy limbs.

A few miles down Tarpon Bay Road, Bailey Tract introduces different habitat and biodiversity. Its freshwater wetlands attract alligators, bobcats, gopher tortoises, and nesting black-necked stilts.

It also attracts a certain type of human species eager to avoid the traffic at the main campus and spend time communing with nature on a whole other level. The 0.35-mile Mindfulness Trail, a meditative nature experience, features five stations with QR codes that connect hikers to guided podcasts about nature and wellbeing.

No matter what part of “Ding” Darling you’re exploring, don’t forget your camera. Photographers from around the world visit, lured by the refuge’s reputation for easily accessible wildlife and experiences that change day to day. But linger a lifetime in the heart and memory banks.

Odelsa Dickman, Esq

By Iman Zekri

Join YLD For JUNK FOOD WITH THE JUDGES

Do you consider yourself a crunch expert? Are you addicted to Cheez-Its? Which are better: Potato chips or Doritos? If Doritos, then cool ranch or nacho cheese? If you have a sweet tooth, which chocolate or candy is your ride or die? You can never go wrong with Snickers, KitKat, Twix or Reese’s. And, don’t forget about M&Ms, Twizzlers, Skittles and Sour Patch Kids. Donuts and Little Debbie treats count, too.

All this to announce that the Young Lawyers Division of the Lee County Bar Association will be hosting the second annual Junk Food with the Judges event!

Iman Zekri is a family law and appellate attorney at Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.

Iman is a native of Southwest Florida and received her B.A., summa cum laude, from Florida Gulf Coast University and her J.D., cum laude, from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. Iman currently serves as the Grants and Awards Chair of the Lee County Bar Association Young Lawyers Division Board of Directors.

Mark your calendar, pick up your favorite guilty pleasure, grab some canned goods to donate to the less fortunate, and get ready to enjoy a fun and informative lunch with your fellow young lawyers and our local judiciary. Whether you’re a dessert connoisseur or simply craving a break from the office, join us as we munch and mingle with Lee County’s esteemed judges and newest legal minds.

Who will be there?

Young lawyers and the bench. This is the only YLD exclusive event of the year. Registration is restricted to young lawyers, as defined by Rule 1-9.1 of the Rules Regulating the Florida Bar, which includes Florida Bar members under the age of 36 and all members who have not been admitted to the practice of law in any jurisdiction for more than five years.

This means that Junk Food With the Judges is a special opportunity for the YLD community to engage in conversations with the judiciary

without the seasoned attorneys present. Judges from the Twentieth Judicial Circuit will be in attendance, including judges from the county and circuit bench, as well as magistrates.

Not a current YLD member? No problem. Joining is easy. Contact Lauren Baugh at LBaugh@leebar.org to join the LCBA YLD today.

What is Junk Food With the Judges?

The event is an informal luncheon where members of the YLD and members of the bench will spend an hour getting to know each other as professionals and people. Lunch will be provided, and attendees should bring their favorite junk food to share.

When will the event be held?

This year’s “Junk Food With the Judges” lunch is scheduled for Friday, August 2, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Where will the event take place?

We will meet in Courtroom 2B at the Lee County Justice Center at 1700 Monroe Street, Fort Myers, Florida 33901.

How can I get my ticket?

Good news—this event is free! You can register online at leebar.org. In lieu of paying for lunch, we ask that you bring a few canned goods with you, which will be donated to the Harry Chapin Food Bank. Let’s do good while we enjoy some of our favorite snacks and treats. I look forward to seeing all of our local young lawyers for this unique event on the first Friday of August.

Please join Lee County Bar Association in welcoming these newest additions to our membership rolls.

MICHAEL COLOMBO JR, ESQ. Rios, Suarez and Weinberg

LINDSAY GAIDE, ESQ. State Attorney’s Office .

ZACHARY HAEFELI, ESQ. State Attorney’s Office

ADRIAN ROE, ESQ. Adrian N. Roe P.C.

Hope Against Hunger

By tackling hunger at the source, we’re growing hope from the ground up.

Empty bellies and empty hearts lead to pain and suffering for individuals, families and communities across the world. ECHO Global Farm and Research Center sits on a 57-acre campus in North Fort Myers. For more than 40 years, this Christian nonprofit organization has been equipping and empowering local NGOs, small-scale farmers, their families and a diverse partner network to defeat hunger and improve lives in the developing world.

By freely sharing agricultural knowledge, innovations and the life-giving grace of God, ECHO has made an impact on millions of lives by teaching and sharing small-scale, sustainable farming methods.

Eight distinct, manmade ecosystems on ECHO’s campus replicate food-producing regions around the world, including the tropical lowlands, highlands, monsoon regions, rainforest, semi-arid regions, urban area, peri-urban areas and

community gardens. Here, ECHO researches best practices and tests appropriate technology to help its partners restore soil, reduce erosion and implement sustainable farming techniques. In rural areas, where most hunger needs arise, this helps families provide for themselves and their communities.

In a world where millions still suffer from hunger and poverty, these sustainable food and agroecosystem strategies empower communities to achieve a food-secure future. ECHO’s teams are also learning from and serving underserved populations around the world through Regional Impact Centers in Thailand, Burkina Faso and Tanzania.

Through this education, collaboration and partnership, ECHO demonstrates the power of agriculture to transform lives and landscapes, one seed at a time.

Tour ECHO Global Farm

Taste and see for yourself during a tour that lets you experience farming at its most creative! Enjoy unique demonstrations, plants and techniques that are helping farmers and urban gardeners in developing countries. Learn more at echonet.org.

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Fr om Field to Fork A Farm Fresh Feast at

This month, The Dish takes us to North Fort Myers. In many areas of North Fort Myers, you are definitely in the country. I love a farm, so this new place intrigued me. Called Blossom & Brie, it’s a working farm where children and adults can interact with the animals in a unique farmside experience.

The owners of Blossom & Brie, Stacey and Rodney Poole, are “transplants” to Lee County who grew up with farming in their families and fell in love with this property in North Fort Myers. While they were not new to owning

a business, owning a farm was a new venture for the duo. They quickly learned to have the right people in place to make sure this is a sustainable, successful place for people –and kids! – to come visit and enjoy farm fresh cuisine and special events.

As we pulled off the main road and onto the long winding driveway, they were greeted by families of Sand Hill Cranes, sheep and lambs. In the next fenced-in area were a very large crowd of black Australorp chickens, which was the first time I’d ever seen this breed before.

Lauren Baugh is the Executive Director at Lee County Bar Association and can be reached at LBaugh@leebar.org.

The grass was a beautiful shade of green, the garden was bursting with fresh ingredients for food, and animals were roaming in large pastures.

Further in, a variety of structures became visible, such as a home, bridal suite, hydroponic pod, pole barn, restaurant and more. We walked toward the restaurant to see two pole barns, of which the newest is nearly completed and will serve as a beautiful venue space for larger weddings and corporate events. Did I mention it will be totally solar powered?

Now you have heard of fresh food and the farm-to-table concept, but this place takes it to another level! There are well over 300 animals on this property, including many adorable babies. All are being raised in a very clean, cared-for environment, which made it clear that they take quality seriously! You can meet and greet just about every farm animal there, and we did just that on our adventure out to Blossom and Brie.

In fact, we met a few donkeys and learned why many farms have them. Did you know that donkeys act as security for other, more preyed-upon farm animals? To the right of the donkeys and about 100 feet back is a very old tree. At the top of it, you will see a gorgeous bald eagle with a nest!

Also, a unique group of swine lives here, called the red wattle hog. Blossom & Brie specializes in this breed, and I can tell you, you can taste the difference in the quality of pork!

I had the opportunity to meet Chef Wesley and it was clear that this was his passion. He wanted to be sure that each guest enjoyed the most flavorful food. Every single staff member smiled, laughed and clearly loved working there and meeting their guests.

Our seats were arguably at the best table in the house with a view of the entire back side of the farm. It was breathtaking and the weather was gorgeous. You could hear the animals

playing in the pasture as the wind blew. Their lovely entertainer, Taylor Tones, is a phenomenal singer.

On this night, they were serving buffet style, which let us pick and choose what we wanted to eat and pick our portion sizes. The menu featured comfort food, which is my favorite. I started with some fresh baked sourdough and scratch-made honey butter, along with a scoop of pesto pasta salad, super cheesy mac and cheese, and their homemade baked beans.

Pulled pork is my favorite meat. When I saw that, knowing it was fresh from the farm, I was very excited and frankly, had very high expectations. Expectations for their pulled chicken were

also high. I then noticed a coleslaw that looked different and took some. I sauced up my meat with their scratch-made sauce, choosing the sweet sauce because, well, it is simply my favorite.

They have a really great selection of wine and beer, along with mocktails. On this night, we opted to go with a mojito mocktail, which was a great choice!

I picked up my fork and hoped this food, from this lovely property, owned by these lovely people, was good… I took a bite of the beans and was transported to my grandmother’s kitchen. It was a nostalgic taste, but had heat to it, and it was the best feeling. The heat was subtle, and the most welcomed as I love a little spice. I am also one who loves traditional baked beans, and I thought it was great!

I am not a fan of dry mac and cheese, but their dish had a cheese pull, it had depth, and the noodles were perfectly al dente. So two for two at this point, I had to try the pesto pasta salad which, for the record, could never top my mother’s recipe, but I was hoping this was a close second. It was! The fresh dill in this salad added a sense of depth I was not expecting.

All things great so far, here was where it got even better. The meat was tender, juicy and, flavorful. Although I do buy organic meat from Publix, their grass-fed, sustainably farmed meat was truly otherworldly. You can absolutely tell the difference. The juiciness of these meats – the Red Wattle pigs and pasture-raised chicken – was beyond my expectations. The sauce took it to another level.

As my teenage daughter says, “It slaps, no cap!” The last thing I had to try was the coleslaw. I was skeptical because when you try to make coleslaw unique, it just does not hit right. I went in with no expectations. I am a sweet slaw fan, but many add too much vinegar. This slaw also had pineapples, so I was concerned. But I scooped up a forkful and just sat there, eating it and thinking, wow, they have really done it. The sweet slaw with pineapple is truly delicious, complimenting the pork and chicken so well!

My advice? Take the drive, see the animals, take a mental health break in the fresh air, meet the lovely owners who are some of the sweetest people I’ve met, but most of all, eat! Truly, it is all good.

You can taste the freshness and the care that goes into this food. I cannot wait to go back again! Bring your entire family, or that special someone in your life. Blossom & Brie is the perfect place for weddings, corporate events and celebrations. Sign up for the latest updates.

10/10 recommend this place!

OF OPERATION Lunch: Tuesday to Friday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinners: Thursday to Saturday: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday Brunch (Beginning June 8) 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Proud Supporter of the Lee County Bar Association

The law firm of Roetzel & Andress has been proudly serving the legal needs of individuals and businesses in Southwest Florida for nearly 35 years in the areas of:

• Business and Commercial Litigation

• Community Association Law

• Construction and Construction Litigation

• Estate Planning

• Financial Services • Probate Litigation

• Real Estate and Land Use

IS YOUR FIRM PART OF THE 100 CLUB?

Any firm with two or more attorneys and 100% membership in LCBA qualifies. If you feel your firm is eligible, email a listing of your attorneys to admin@leebar.org and we will let you know.

Absolute Law, P.A.

All Injuries Law

Aloia, Roland, Lubell & Morgan, PLLC.

Arend & Sisk, P.A.

Associates & Bruce L. Scheiner, P.A.

Boy Agnew Potanovic Miller, PLLC.

Boyle & Leonard & Anderson, P.A.

Burandt, Adamski, Feichthaler & Sanchez, PLLC.

Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law

City of Fort Myers Attorney’s Office

Freidin & Inglis, P.A.

Garvin Law Firm

Goldberg, Noone, Abraham

Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. GrayRobinson, P.A.

Green, Schoenfeld & Kyle, LLP

Hahn, Loeser & Parks, LLP

Kagan Law Firm

Knott Ebelini Hart

Law Offices of Dennis L. Webb, P.A.

Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, Criminal Lawyer

Law Offices of Scott T. Moorey

Lee County Attorney’s Office

Lee County Legal Aid Society, Inc.

Light Path Law, P.A.

Linde Law Group

Men’s Rights Law Firm

Osterhout & McKinney, P.A.

Patrone, Kemp & Bentley, P.A.

Pavese Law Firm

Roetzel & Andress, L.P.A.

Rubinstein & Holz

Scarmozzino / King Trial Lawyers

School District of Lee County

Sheldon E. Finman, P.A.

Sheppard Law Firm

Simmons & Cook, PLLC

Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.

Strayhorn, Persons-Mulicka & Fisher, P.L.

Viles & Beckman, LLC

Wilbur Smith, LLC

Yeslow, Koeppel & Anderson

ZinnLaw, PLLC.

Scott T. Moorey

THINGS

YOU DON'T KNOW ABOUT ME u Blair DeMinico

1. I grew up in Tampa, attended college at the University of Miami and began practicing law in Orlando. Although these larger cities have a lot to offer, I’ve been happy to call Southwest Florida home since 2009. I enjoy our weather, wildlife and sunsets.

2. Sometimes as a litigator, you’ll have terrible or embarrassing days in court when nothing seems to go well, and you’re consumed by feelings of self doubt. My advice? Don’t be so hard on yourself. We are human beings, not machines. Learn from the experience, find the humor in the situation (if you can) and move on to the next.

3. The most memorable dish that I can recall ordering was a spicy, dark-chocolate chili spaghetti entrée, served at the Flaming Buoy in Key West.

4. I worked as an intern at a casting agency in Miami while in college and had the opportunity to work as an extra in several movies shot in the area. I’ve met quite a few celebrities, but Bill Murray stands out as the kindest. During the Wild Things shoot, Murray personally introduced himself to all the extras and joined us for lunch in the extras’ tent.

5. I have little jeweled metal box on my desk in the shape of a flying pig. It stands on two legs and is always being knocked over. I don't remember where it came from, but it has been on my desk at every job I’ve ever had since becoming a lawyer.

SOGOOD, IT'S CRIMINAL

On April 25, LCBA members joined the Criminal Law section for tasty adult beverages and hors d’oeuvres at City Tavern in Downtown Fort Myers. The happy hour event was sponsored by the Robert Harris Law Firm.

1. Robert Harris and Matthew Heider

2. Agnieszka Thomas, Ryan Downey, Michael Columbo

3. Dylan Rettig, Robert Bowen, Hon. Kathy Smith, Stephen Smith

4. Michael Mummert, Spencer Cordell, Dan Hanuka

Asma Anwar and Robert White

FAMILY DRAMA

Roetzel & Andress, LPA offers solutions for your most puzzling trust and estate matters. As a leading law firm located in Naples and Fort Myers, our attorneys regularly represent beneficiaries, fiduciaries and corporations in all aspects of estate and trust administrations. Then, if family drama ensues, Roetzel’s team of trust and estate litigators and appellate attorneys will be ready to protect your interests.

IN THE NEWS

SATURDAY STRETCHES FOR ARC

LCBA members welcomed spring during a recent Family Friendly Farm Yoga Experience hosted by Ashley Kogan-Weed, Esq. in partnership with the Animal Refuge Center (ARC). Participants grabbed their mats and headed to The Barn at Smith Acres in Fort Myers to enjoy the guided outdoor activity and beautiful weather during the weekend. The event was free with a donation of nonperishable goods such as cat and dog food, leashes, dish and laundry soap, trash bags and more.

CLE CREDIT FOR PRO BONO SERVICES?

According to The Florida Bar, Florida lawyers could earn CLEs for performing pro bono service for the first time under a proposed amendment to Rule 6-10.3, which has been forwarded for consideration by the Florida Supreme Court. It would add a new subdivision (h) that would allow a member to receive 1 hour of general continuing legal education credit for every 4 hours of pro bono service — not to exceed 5 hours of CLE in a three-year reporting cycle. Stay tuned!

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR

In early May, Legal Aid Service of Collier County named Dal Lago Law as their Law Firm of the Year 2024. The award honors those who have made significant contributions to the success of their Legal Aid organization and its mission to provide life-changing free legal services. Dal Lago Law is a boutique business and bankruptcy law firm based in Southwest Florida with offices in Naples and Fort Myers, serving individuals and businesses alike.

ON THE MOVE

The full-service law firm of Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., recently announced the addition of Craig Goddy to its Business Litigation team. A seasoned litigator with more than two decades of experience, he will be based out of the Naples office. The firm also welcomed University of Miami Law Graduate John “Jack” Flagg as an associate in the Tort & Insurance Litigation Department after successfully completing a summer internship. He will handle insurance defense claims involving premises liability, automobile, and personal injury matters. Additionally, stockholder Richard Akin has been elected to the Executive Committee of Henderson Franklin. Stockholder Scott Beatty was recently appointed as the new chair of the Business Litigation Department.

MAKING A CASE FOR WELLNESS

Spotted in the crowd! Here are a few Assistant Public Defenders and Lee County’s Twentieth Judicial Circuit Public Defender attending the recent Mastering Wellness Spring Symposium on April 18. Turn to page 20 to view more event photos!

hear from you! Please send press

OUR LCBA SPONSORS

BRONZE

It’s Your Money. Let’s Find a Way!

At First Horizon Bank, we understand the importance of meeting the financial needs of the communities we serve across our footprint. Since first opening for business in Memphis back in 1864, we have collaborated with civic and nonprofit development partners to meet community needs, encourage growth and support sustainability.

First Horizon offers solutions and services with personalized support to help clients reach their milestones and beyond – stemming from a deep commitment to the clients and communities we serve.

This commitment includes mortgage and small business lending, community development lending and investments, philanthropy and spending with minority-owned suppliers and marketing firms. It also includes innovative methods to increase the convenience and physical access to financial services in low- to moderate-income communities.

(239) 322-1849

Banking Hours

Personal

From personalized checking accounts to simplified mortgage loans, we provide financial solutions for all walks of life.

Small Business

Whether you’re looking to maximize cash flow or pursue growth opportunities, we’re excited to take on your business challenges together.

Commercial

Bring on a true financial partner. Our seasoned industry insiders have the tools and know-how to lift your organization to new heights.

Monday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Branch Manager

Julie Myers

CAMP LEJEUNE TOXIC WATER CASES DEADLINE APPROACHING.

The deadline to file claims is August 10th.

Aloia Roland can help. We have experience filing claims and working with the lead class action firm on the Camp Lejeune case.

Clients who qualify for the Elective Option could receive compensation in just a few months. Payouts for this option are worth between $100,000 and $550,000. Lawsuit settlement amounts range between $10,000 - $1,000,000.

(239) 334-0047

Fax (239) 334-0523

LEEBAR.ORG

Like Thomas Edison, we believe there is always “a better way.” To us, that means being attentive, invested and involved in the efforts of our community’s business owners and residents as we provide them with lending services that empower them to reach their goals.

As a bank with a 5-Star Superior Rating from Bauer Financial, we are standing strong with money to lend. With a history of long-term stability and resilience, we are absolutely committed to remaining well-positioned to honor our promises and protect our banking customers.