Res Gestae - November/December

THE OFFICIAL AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE LEE COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION

HOLIDAY FUN!

Play the Holiday Picture Game Pages 14-15

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Alex Polidan, Esq.

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LETTER FROM PRESIDENT

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

A Year of Engagement John Miller, III, Esq.

Making Spirits Bright

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LETTER FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Reflecting on 2025 Lauren Baugh

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100 CLUB

38 YLD

ON THE COVER

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SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR

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ETHICALLY SPEAKING

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Free Speech Has its Limits Henry Lee Paul, Esq.

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A Reflection on a Timeless Gift Zachary Liebetreu, Esq.

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YLD SPECIAL FEATURE

Holiday Traditions

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FOUNDATION SPONSORS

LEGAL LENS

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What We've "Bean" Learning

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THE CARLOS CHRONICLES

Meet the Honorable Rachael Spring Loukonen Carlos A. Kelly, Esq.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

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DONOR LISTING

Mental Health & Wellness

HOLIDAY FUN!

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Play the Holiday Picture Game

IN THE NEWS

PRACTICE SECTION

Holiday Marketing: Make a Lasting Impression Conor Foley, Esq.

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LEGAL LENS

Young Lawyers Tee Up Together

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Criminal Bench Law Banter

Edison National Bank

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Honoring Our Veterans

LCBA Foundation Wine Tasting

Bronze Sponsors

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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

INTERIOR FEATURE

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

LEGAL LENS

LEGAL LENS

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

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PRESIDENT'S LETTER

A Year of Engagement As 2025 winds down, I want to highlight the amazing things happening within our legal community. It’s been a busy and rewarding time for the Lee County Bar Association (LCBA), and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together.

Our Young Lawyers Division (LCBA YLD) continues to impress with their energy and creativity. They partnered with the Collier County Bar Association for a Mini Golf Tournament that was not only fun, but a great way to connect with colleagues across county lines and build relationships beyond the courtroom.

The LCBA YLD also organized Wills for Veterans, providing free estate planning services to veterans. I want to sincerely thank all the attorneys who volunteered their time. Your generosity and professionalism made a real difference; it’s efforts like these that show the heart of our legal community.

We saw strong support for the LCBA Foundation’s Wine Tasting at FineMark National Bank & Trust. Thanks to the attendees, we raised funds to directly benefit local organizations in need.

We’re grateful to everyone who helped make it a success.

The Family Law and RPPTL sections hosted a joint CLE featuring Robbie Merriman and Kayla Richmond. It was one of the best-attended CLEs of the year – and for good reason.

The content was top-notch, and it was great to see so many members engaging and learning together.

Last month, we hosted our Bench Bar "Tropical Night" Gala to honor our local judiciary and celebrate the work we do throughout the year. Thank you to our sponsors, especially Blue Diamond Jewelers, our Jewelry Sponsor. They’ve donated jewelry to support our Mental Health and Wellness Mission, and we’re grateful for their partnership. Congrats to those who won the amazing pieces of jewelry!

Our last major event of 2025, and my last event as LCBA president, is our Annual Holiday Party on December 4. It’s a great way to kick off the holiday season, catch up with colleagues and celebrate another year of hard work and community. I cannot wait to see who wins our photo contest!

As always, thank you for being a part of the LCBA. Whether you’re attending events, volunteering or just staying connected, your involvement keeps our association strong. I wish you all a happy, healthy and restful holiday season, and I look forward to seeing you soon!

John Miller, III, Esq., LCBA President JohnM@bapfirm.com | 239.208.6542 6 LEEBAR.ORG

LEE COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION ADMINISTRATION Executive Director Lauren Baugh

Administrative Assistant Mairelis Tamayo

EXECUTIVE COUNCIL President John Miller, III, Esq.

President Emeritus Hon. Kathy Smith

Vice President John Dommerich, Jr., Esq.

Secretary Kristianna Soto, Esq.

YLD President Kevin Huguelet, Esq.

Treasurer Dawn Maselli, Esq.

BOARD MEMBERS

JUDICIAL LIAISONS

Erin Casey, Esq. Jerry Olivo, Esq. Blake Rizzolo, Esq. Megan Strayhorn, Esq.

Hon. Robert Branning Hon. Devin George

COMMITTEE CHAIRS Bench-Bar Gala Diana “Dawn” Maselli, Esq. 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. Rankin Terry, Jr., JD, LLM Law Week Hon. John Carlin

LCBA Foundation Charity Golf Tournament Ryan Downey, Esq. Andrew Koehler, Esq. Mock Trial Maria Alaimo, Esq. Paralegal Kaci Barber Teresa Lombardelli Pro Bono Andrew Banyai, Esq. Peter Dennis, Esq. Mental Health Initiative Committee Holly Cosby, Esq. Dawn Maselli, Esq.

PRACTICE SECTION CHAIRS Alternative Dispute Resolution Anne Dalton, Esq. Alexandra Kleinfeldt, Esq. Criminal Law Asma Anwar, Esq. Elder Law Lisa Gelman, Esq. Blake Hampton, Esq. Family Law Kayla Richmond, Esq. Magistrate Christopher Whitney General Civil and Business Litigation Joel Hyatt, Esq. Kara Jursinski Murphy, Esq.

Immigration Law Pablo Hurtado, Esq. Intellectual Property Law Mark Nieds, Esq. Land Use and Governmental Law Zachary Liebetreu, Esq. Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Peter Knize, JD, LLM Kenneth Kemp, Esq. Robbie Merriman II, Esq. Solo & Small Firm Conor Foley, Esq. Tort Litigation Diana “Dawn” Maselli, Esq.

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NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 7

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S LETTER

Reflecting on 2025 Every year, while writing my last Executive Director’s Letter for that year, I reflect carefully on past and previous years.

It is always humbling.

The Lee County Bar Association (LCBA) has come a long way from the “days of old,” as the saying goes, and I am proud to have been a part of that! Changes include how we run the LCBA, Res Gestae magazine and our events – I think, all for the better! Growth is always a little scary and intimidating, but once you are in it and see the ideas come to life, change becomes exciting.

Looking back on this year, we have had a lot of fun. We have been very intentional to nourish our Bar as well as our members.

I think we have done a great job and hope you do, too!

Each year, a new LCBA president takes the helm. Although that individual will have already served on the board for a while, as president, they lead. Being the LCBA president is a full-time job, alongside their career. They stay in constant communication with me to ensure that you, the member, are getting the best voluntary bar experience!

In 2026, John Dommerich, Jr. will take the steering wheel.

Each leader brings a unique outlook on how to showcase the bar that year. John Miller, III decided he wanted his year as bar president to be built around engagement with the members, sponsors and sections. Part of my job was to bring that vision to light. Together, we collaborated with other bars, sections and our sponsors to bring great programming to members, as well as interactive experiences with the legal community and sponsors. This is something we plan to continue to foster going forward, as it made the LCBA feel more like a family than an association.

Please join us at the last major event of John Miller’s year, the LCBA Holiday Party! This is when we announce the winner of our Holiday Party Picture Game. See page ## for details.

Thank you all for a great year!

Lauren Baugh, Executive Director LBaugh@LeeBar.org | 239.334.0047 Ext. 102 8 LEEBAR.ORG

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

STAFF Publisher Teri Hansen, APR Advertising Account Executive Ed Kitsos Co-Editors Jada Bigord Olivia Orth Editors In Law Hon. Kathy Smith Lauren Baugh Creative/Art Director Christi Finger Graphic Designer Lynsey Gill Contributing Writers Sarah Nadal Lauren Baugh Conor Foley, Esq. Carlos A. Kelly, Esq. Zachary Liebetreu, Esq. John Miller, III, Esq. Henry Lee Paul, Esq. Contributing Photographers Jim Jett Photography

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 Ed Kitsos 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©2025 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.

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Schedule Online NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 9

SAVE THE DATE As you plan ahead for the remainder of the year, 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.

NOVEMBER 2025 6 LCBA Family Law and AFLP Collaborative CLE Location: Pinchers Crab Shack Time: Noon to 1 p.m.

Speaker: Chris Beck, SOBERLINK See flyer on page 28 for full details!

11 V eterans Day - LCBA and courts closed 13 L CBA Membership Luncheon

Location: LCJC-CR 5H Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Speaker: FL State Senator Jonathan Martin and FL House Representative Jenna Persons-Mulicka Topic: What to Expect, When You're Expecting...

Changes in Laws!

See flyer on page 11 for full details!

14 R PPTL/ADR Collab Virtual CLE

Location: Microsoft Teams Time: Noon to 1 p.m.

Speaker: Chase Hardy, Esq. Topic: AI in Litigation

14 Y LD Community Cooperative Outreach Event

Location: North Fort Myers Regional Park Time: 9:30 a.m. to Noon Lunch to follow.

See flyer on page 41 for full details!

27-28 T hanksgiving - LCBA and courts closed

DECEMBER 2025 4 LCBA and YLD Holiday Party

Location: The Edison Tavern (inside) Time: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Tickets: $25 for LCBA members, $35 for non-LCBA members See flyer on page 13 for full details!

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12 R PPTL Virtual Brown Bag

Location: Microsoft Teams Time: Noon to 1 p.m.

Speaker: Kenny Kemp, Esq. Topic: Settlement Agreements and Tax Issues

18 A DR Virtual Lunch & Learn

Location: Zoom Time: Noon to 1 p.m.

Speaker: Julia Corbin, LMFT Topic: Family Law Mediation: Parenting Plans that Work

24-26 Christmas Holiday - LCBA and courts closed

JANUARY 2026 1-2 N ew Year's - LCBA and courts closed 9 R PPTL Virtual Brown Bag 16 S wearing In Luncheon 16 H onorable Rachael Loukonen Investiture 19 M LK Jr. Day - LCBA and courts closed FEBRUARY 2026 5-6 L ee County Mock Trial 13 R PPTL Virtual Brown Bag 13 H onorable Robert Ostrov Investiture 20 F amily Law CLE 25 I mmigration Law CLE MARCH 2026 12 F amily Law & Criminal Law Collab CLE 13 R PPTL Virtual Brown Bag 27 H onorable Javier Pacheco Investiture 28 B ench Bar-B-Q and Shrimp Boil

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 11

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

By Henry Lee Paul, Esq.

free speech has its limits

Why Lawyers Are Not Always Protected by the First Amendment The Florida Supreme Court disciplined two lawyers for disparaging a judge who entered a post-trial directed verdict and reversed a $2.75 million jury verdict. The lawyers defended their statements, in part, on the basis of free speech.

The Court once again affirmed that free speech does not protect statements by a lawyer that: • Disparage the judiciary, • Violate the civility provisions of the oath of admission, or • Interfere with the administration of justice.

In two related cases, The Florida Bar v. Girley, Case Nos. SC22-859 and SC22-860, a father and daughter legal team each received a 30-day suspension for their repeated criticism of the trial judge after the entry of the directed verdict. Comments included several variations of the following post on social media: “Today in Orlando, Florida a white Judge stole justice from a black doctor. After being awarded by a jury $2.75 million for discrimination a judge reversed their verdict.” Interviews were given in which the above sentiment was restated, and the integrity of the court system was further challenged. The Court stated that Respondents essentially led a campaign against the Judge “in retaliation for his judicial decision in a case handled by their firm.”

After these statements were made, the trial judge “was harassed and received death threats.” He further “had to secure additional security for his protection at the courthouse and at home.”

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.

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The Court dismissed the assertion by Respondents that their statements were protected by the free speech provisions of the first amendment to the Constitution. The Court reminded us that restrictions on speech by lawyers “is not new” and stated that a lawyer must: “…maintain at all times the respect due to courts of justice and judicial officers. This obligation is not discharged by merely observing the rules of courteous demeanor in open court, but it

includes abstaining out of court from all insulting language and offensive conduct toward the judges personally for their judicial acts.”

The Court has placed a high priority on the importance of maintaining respect for the judiciary and the judicial process. The administration of justice depends on public confidence in our judicial system. Statements of the type at issue in the Girley case not only undermine confidence in the judiciary; they increase the risk of violence against our judges.

The Court recently created a Workgroup on Judicial Security to address concerns over violence towards the judiciary. The Court observed in Administrative Order SC25-17 that “…in recent years, threats and acts of violence against the nation’s judiciary have increased significantly.”

The Court has also given the judiciary a powerful tool to have lawyers sanctioned for lack of civility as well as other improper conduct. Rule 3-7.18 (Judicial Referrals) was adopted in 2021 and created direct Supreme Court oversight over any judicial referral to The Florida Bar. No judicial referral can be dismissed by The Florida Bar without approval of the Supreme Court. The Court continues to restate it will not tolerate uncivil conduct by lawyers to judges or other participants in our legal system.

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 13

Holiday Party picture game

IT'S TIME FOR A HOLIDAY BAR EXAM – LCBA STYLE. Match each person's name with their photo. The individual with the most matches will win a prize, generously provided by John Miller, III. To participate, email your answers to LBaugh@leebar.org by November 30.

The winner will be announced during the LCBA Holiday Party on Thursday, Dec. 4. At The Edison Tavern. You must be present to win the prize, so register for the party now at LeeBar.org!

___ Brian Riley

___ Iman Zekri

___ Hon. Kathy Smith

___ Ryan Downey

___ Kenny Kemp

___ Blaze Rizzolo

___ John Dommerich, Jr.

___ David Seitz

___ Maria Alaimo

___ Lance Dunford

___ Raychel Thomas

___ Asma Anwar

___ Chris Whitney

___ Kevin Huguelet

___ Peter Dennis

___ Hon. Kimberly Davis Bocelli

___ Dawn Maselli

___ Kayla Richmond

___ John Miller, III

___ Holly Cosby

___ Megan Strayhorn

___ Kristianna Soto

___ Chad Brazzeal 14 LEEBAR.ORG

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NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 17

LEGAL LENS

"BEAN" WHAT WE'VE

LEARNING

The recent Coffee with the Clerk’s Office provided LCBA members with an opportunity to earn CLE credits.

Participants heard from a panel featuring Alicia Gonzalez, Chief of Courts; Katie Fox, Deputy Chief of Courts; Vanessa Luna, Court Intake Manager; Christine Schifferl, Unified Family Courts Manager; and Andrea Eggen, Court Records Manager. Thank you to everyone who participated in this valuable member event!

Alicia Gonzalez, Katie Fox, Andrea Eggen, Christine Schifferl and Vanessa Luna

Clerk and Comptroller Kevin Karnes

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Lauren’s breakfast spread

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 19

THE CARLOS CHRONICLES

By Carlos A. Kelly, Esq.

Meet the Honorable RACHAEL SPRING LOUKONEN Appointed to the circuit bench in 2025 by Governor Ron DeSantis, the Honorable Rachael Spring Loukonen serves in Lee County’s General Civil, Guardianship, and Probate Divisions. Before taking the bench, Judge Loukonen was active in a variety of professional organizations, serving as chair of The Florida Bar’s Business Litigation Certification Committee and vice-chair of The Florida Bar’s Standing Committee for Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, along with other leadership positions in other bar-related organizations. Judge Loukonen provided pro bono services when she was in private practice, and continues to remain active in the community, serving on the board of St. Matthew’s House, a nonprofit that provides care, shelter, resources and guidance to those experiencing food insecurity, homelessness and addiction in Southwest Florida.

Judge Loukonen is a native of North Florida (near Bonifay), and is a Double Gator, graduating with honors, both as an undergraduate and as a law student. More recently, she has become an FSU supporter (at least financially), as her oldest child is a ‘Nole.

Judge Loukonen gave generously of her time to meet with me and answer a variety of questions about the practice of law and related topics. My thanks to Judge Loukonen for spending a Thursday morning before beginning her 8:30 a.m. docket, and for a very engaging conversation!

Q A

With

JUDGE LOUKONEN

&

Q: What was your practice before you

Q: A ny advice for lawyers appearing before you

A: Business litigation – corporate disputes, real

A: Keep it simple. Tell me what you are asking

property, construction, employment (mostly employer side), and trust and estates litigation.

the Court to do, then give me the law and explain why the law entitles you to that relief. This same principle applies to your written submissions. The best oral arguments and written submissions begin with a clear and concise introduction that tells the Court what you want and why you are entitled to that relief. During oral arguments, you can expect that I will use the time we have to focus on the more difficult or complex issues.

reached the bench?

Q: What is the biggest difference between the practice of law and serving on the bench?

A: As a judge, my focus is upholding the rule of law as an impartial arbiter, making decisions based solely on the law and facts of each case. As a lawyer, I was an advocate in the adversarial system, presenting the best case for my client to achieve the best results possible. When I shifted from advocate to arbiter, there was this feeling of intellectual freedom in arriving at the right result by doing the will of the people through the established laws and precedents.

Q: W hat is one thing you never want to see from lawyers in your courtroom?

A: Unprofessionalism. When lawyers hold their

Carlos A. Kelly, Esq. is a business and real estate trial lawyer at Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., where he clerked as a rising 3L in 1996 and has practiced since graduating from Emory Law School in 1997. He’s held a variety of leadership positions at Henderson Franklin, and he enjoys mentoring new lawyers.

profession in high esteem, they gain the attention of the judiciary. I look forward to hearings with lawyers that value candor to the tribunal, professionalism and ethics. I know they will be prepared and will make good legal arguments.

These lawyers have already conferred with their opposing counsel to reach agreement where possible. They conserve judicial resources, allowing the Court to concentrate on and determine the critical issues in their case. Serving on the bench has confirmed for me that professionalism is your greatest asset.

for the first time?

Q: Any advice for new lawyers—lawyers with less than five years of experience?

A: Find good mentors. If there is a lawyer that you admire and respect, ask them to coffee or lunch.

They will be honest with you, give you constructive feedback and delight at each opportunity to celebrate your achievements.

Q: Do you have any thoughts about community service for lawyers?

A: Do it! Use your talents and professional accomplishments to serve your community. Lawyers have brilliant minds, and when we free ourselves from the overarching billable hour goal, we realize there is so much more that we have to offer our community.

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 21

PRACTICE SECTION

By Conor Foley, Esq.

Holiday Marketing: Make a Lasting Impression

This time of year in Southwest Florida always feels a little more personal. The air cools, familiar faces fill community events, and local businesses remind us what “hometown” really means.

For solo practitioners and small firms, it’s also the perfect time to reflect on the relationships that sustain our practices, including our clients, colleagues, referral partners, and friends who trust us to guide them.

Holiday marketing often gets a bad reputation for being impersonal or overly promotional.

But when done thoughtfully, it can be one of the most genuine ways to connect with your community. It doesn’t require big budgets or fancy campaigns. What matters is showing gratitude in a way that feels authentic to you and your firm.

Gratitude Over Gimmicks Conor Foley, Esq. is the chair and co-founder of the solo and small firm practice section, and a partner at GunterFirm, a boutique law firm practicing labor and employment law.

Conor and his partner Jason Gunter, Esq. founded the LCBA solo and small firm practice section in 2015. The mission of the solo and small firm section is to provide information, education and collaboration that will help solo and small firm practice attorneys become successful.

The practice section primarily focuses on entrepreneurship, marketing and technology.

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At a time when inboxes and social feeds are full of digital noise, personal touches go a long way. A handwritten card, a short email of thanks or a simple phone call to a longtime client or referral source can leave a stronger impression than any printed brochure. Clients remember how you make them feel, and a note of appreciation can reinforce that your firm values the relationship beyond the last invoice. If you’re active on social media, this can also be a great moment to highlight others rather than yourself. Share a story about a local nonprofit doing good work, a fellow attorney who deserves recognition or a community event that reflects the spirit of the season. Gratitude is contagious, and genuine appreciation tends to be noticed and remembered.

Give Back, Gain Trust Many small firms already give back to the community in quiet ways like sponsoring youth programs, donating to local causes or volunteering time through pro bono work.

Holidays are a natural time to make those efforts visible, not as advertising, but as an example of what it means to be a hometown professional.

When clients see you showing up for the same community they live in, it strengthens trust in ways traditional marketing can’t.

The Lee County Bar Association (LCBA) and its sections also offer opportunities to combine professional networking with service. Partnering on a food drive, toy collection or charity CLE can build camaraderie among members while benefiting the community we all share.

Digital Warmth Done Right Technology has made it easier to reach people, but tone still matters. A quick post with genuine warmth (perhaps a photo from your office party or a reflection on lessons learned this year) can humanize your practice. The key is authenticity.

People don’t connect with logos; they connect with stories.

Looking Ahead As we close another year, the best “marketing plan” might simply be to stay connected. Set aside time in January to review what worked, what felt meaningful, and how to keep that momentum going. Our Solo and Small Firm Practice Section was founded to help each other share ideas like these. We’re looking forward to a busy 2026, with more meetings, programs and opportunities for members to collaborate, learn and strengthen their practices. I hope to see many of you there.

LEGAL LENS

YOUNG LAWYERS Tee Up Together

The Lee County Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division and the Collier County Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section battled it out for the 2nd Annual Young Lawyer Mini Golf Tourney Royale. Sadly for the LCBA YLD, the CCBA YLS took home the trophy! Congrats to them!

Pictured above: The winning team, Collier County Bar Association's Young Lawyers Section Pictured here: The LCBA YLD and CCBA YLS mingle during 2nd Annual Young Lawyer Mini Golf Tourney Royal

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 23

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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS

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

SEMS AL-BAZZ, JD Lee County Legal Aid Society

MADALYN MOOREY, ESQ. The Office of the Public Defender

KENDALL COUGHLIN, ESQ. Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.

ALEX POLIDAN, ESQ. Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.

ALEXANDRU DONCEA, ESQ. Office of the Public Defender

WILLIAM ROTHENBERG, ESQ. Boy Agnew Potanovic Miller

DONNA FLAMMANG, ESQ. Brennan Manna & Diamond

LAURA ROUSE, ESQ. The Rouse Law Firm

VAMSIKRISHNA KARANAM, ESQ. Knott Ebelini Hart

TURNER ROUSE, ESQ. The Rouse Law Firm

JOHN LIPTAK III, ESQ. Pavese Law Firm

MEILSSA WALDINGER, ESQ. Law Offices of Melissa Waldinger, P.A.

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 25

HONORING OUR VETERANS LCBA RECOGNIZES VETERANS WITHIN OUR LEGAL COMMUNITY AND BEYOND

Observed each year on November 11, Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have answered the call to serve in the United States Armed Forces. It is a day of reflection and gratitude – a moment to pause and recognize the courage, sacrifice and sense of duty that safeguards our nation’s freedom.

That spirit of service extends far beyond the battlefield. Within the Lee County Bar Association (LCBA), many members of our legal community have worn the uniform and now continue to serve as civilians. The LCBA is proud to count veterans among its members. These individuals once stood watch on ships, bases and battlefields around the world, united by a shared commitment to honor our country.

Today, their purpose remains the same. Now in law offices and courtrooms throughout Lee County, these veterans bring to the practice of law the same integrity, discipline and perseverance that defined their military experience.

Their leadership strengthens our local community, and their commitment to upholding the rule of law is a source of inspiration to many.

As we reflect on their service with gratitude, we also recognize the families who supported them through years of service including deployments – as well as the community that welcomed them home.

To our veterans, thank you for your service, courage and continued dedication to justice.

THANK YOU TO THESE VETERANS FOR SHARING THEIR PHOTOS!

Corso 26 LEEBAR.ORG

Finman

Kolenc

Steinbeck

LCBA MEMBERS WHO SERVED

Serving Those Who Served The LCBA Young Lawyers Division (YLD) hosted its Wills for Vets Pro Bono Clinic at the Veterans Affairs headquarters in Cape Coral on Saturday, September 20. The LCBA and YLD want to thank the following individuals who helped over 20 veterans prepare various estate documents and made this event a success!

Leaders & Sponsors Lauren Baugh, LCBA Executive Director Dan Detrick, CopyLady Shasta Dorisca, Dept. of Veterans Affairs

Presenting a selection of members who have served our nation.

Debbie Hillard, Legal Assistant

JOHN AGNEW

Kevin Huguelet, YLD President

ROY FOXALL

U.S. Army, 1994-1998 Army National Guard, 1998-2008

U.S. Navy, Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps

ROBERT ANDERSON

ERNEST HATCH

U.S. Marine Corps Marine Corps Reserves

JOHN CECHMAN

U.S. Army Bronze Star Recipient

Army National Guard

PETER KAMM

U.S. Marine Corps, 2005-2009

Julie Moore, Notary Norberto Reyes Olsson, Dept. of Veterans Affairs Carol Ringwald, Notary Cliff Shorrock, CopyLady

Volunteers

TONY KOLENC

Katherine Camadeco, Esq.

U.S. Air Force, 1991–2012

Joe Cuffel, Esq.

U.S. Army Army Reserves

WILLIAM KRATOCHVIL

JC Elgin, Esq.

MICHAEL J. CORSO

PAUL LILES U.S. Navy

Monica Johnson, Esq.

HAROLD ESKIN

MICHAEL MCCABE

Susan Larned, Esq.

MICHAEL CHIONOPOULOS

U.S. Air Force, 1971–1978 U.S. Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals (NMCCA) U.S. Navy Reserves

SHELLY FINMAN

U.S. Army, 1966-1968 Army Reserves, 1968–1971

U.S. Marine Corps, 1990–1994

U.S. Navy, 1988–1995

L. DAVID SIMS

U.S. Army, 1972–1980

Jennifer Hammond, Esq. Michael Huguelet, Esq. Carlena Hull, Esq.

Courtney Lovejoy, Esq. Minerva Poblet, Esq. Aggie Van den Bergh, Esq. Iman Zekri, Esq.

HON. MARGARET STEINBECK

U.S. Army, 1978–1990 Army Reserves, 1990–2008

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 27

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LEGAL LENS

CRIMINAL LAW BENCH BANTER

On October 9, the Lee County Bar Association Criminal Law Section held its 2nd Bench Banter Event in a series co-hosted

by Asma Anwar and the Honorable Devin George. This luncheon event was sponsored by the Law Firm of Scott T. Moorey and featured a panel of distinguished Judges.

Moderated by Judge Jaview Pacheco, the following panelists shared their tips, tricks, pet peeves and advice: Chief Judge Frank Porter, Judge Devin George, Judge Tara Paluck and Judge Andrew Marcus. The LCBA Criminal Law Section plans to continue hosting Bench Banter Luncheons in 2026!

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 29

LEGAL LENS

Wine Tasting

Wining & Dining

WITH LCBA FOUNDATION The Lee County Bar Association Foundation held its annual Wine Tasting on Oct. 9 at FineMark National Bank & Trust.

Guests were treated to cuisine by chef Jillian Lane, along with a selection of fabulous wines and wonderful company!

1

4 1. Gary Rhodes and Andrew Koehler 2. Kellie and John Webb 3. Brendan Shearman, John Webb and Shannon Puopolo 4. Hon. Kathy Smith, Asma Anwar and Nicole Calderone 5. Anna Shearman, Asma Anwar and Shannon Puopolo 6. Spencer Cordell and Robert White

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2

5

3

6

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Which sports team do you root for and why?

Florida Gators. I’ve loved college football since I was young, and my first game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium as a UF student was unforgettable, and I’ve been a fan ever since.

What is your favorite hobby, and why do you like it?

Playing golf. It is a simple but challenging game.

What attracted you to live and work in SWFL? My wife and I grew up in Cape Coral. Since moving back, being close to family has been the best perk.

If you could share a meal with any famous historic figure, who would it be and why?

Tiger Woods. Hopefully he'll teach me a thing or two about hitting my irons.

Tell us about an item of interest that sits on your desk, and what it represents to you.

A pen containing sand from the island of Iwo Jima. After serving as a teaching assistant at the Veteran's Advocacy Clinic in law school, my professor gifted it to me. It symbolizes my commitment to using my career to help others, especially veterans. Marines deeply revere their history, making the gift even more meaningful.

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 31

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT Giving season is officially here! To kick off the holidays, Res Gestae’s sponsors and advertisers share how they are giving back to the Southwest Florida community this winter.

Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith Law Firm Collecting Toys for Tots Donations For the 19th consecutive year, Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith is partnering with the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation to bring holiday cheer to children in need. Toys will be collected through Dec. 15, when they will be picked up and distributed by Toys for Tots to approved local social welfare agencies, church groups and other organizations.

The public is invited to bring new, unwrapped toys for children from newborn to age 12 to any of the five Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith offices. In addition, members of the firm also donate toys for the drive.

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Toy drop-off locations include: Fort Myers: 1515 Broadway, 239.334.1146 Cape Coral: 461 Del Prado Blvd., 239.574.5575 Naples: 2590 Northbrooke Plaza Drive, Suite 105, 239.514.0924 Lehigh Acres: 4802 Lee Blvd., 239.368.6101 Port Charlotte: 2602 Tamiami Trail, 941.624.2393 In addition to toy donations, monetary donations are also accepted online at ToysForTots.org.

Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith, will also be the 2025 reception sponsor of the 50-Year Anniversary Event for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County, which enables all children in Southwest Florida to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.

Give Back with Dal Lago Law Four Naples-based businesses – Dal Lago Law, Naples Aesthetic Institute, Concierge Executive Offices and Pop Toy – have joined forces once again to spread holiday cheer through their 5th Annual Toy Drive benefiting Youth Haven.

This local collaboration has become a cherished holiday tradition, uniting professionals and clients across the community to make the season brighter for children and young adults ages 8–20 who call Youth Haven home. Youth Haven provides a safe haven, hope, and healing for abused and neglected children throughout Southwest Florida. Community members can take part by purchasing a toy from Pop Toy with a 15% discount using code YouthHaven15 at checkout and selecting “pick it up myself” for group delivery.

Representatives from Dal Lago Law and Naples Aesthetic Institute will personally deliver all donated toys to Youth Haven on December 18th. Starting December 1, visit PopToyCo.com, select Youth Haven Toy Drive, and follow the instructions to purchase a toy.

Photo credit: Dal Lago Law | Pictured here: 2024 Annual Toy Drive benefiting Youth Haven

Copy Lady Copy Lady will be participating in food packing at the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida. The organization will also be giving away turkey dinners at a church in Dunbar with the Rotary Club and will also participate in a Toy Drive at the United Methodist Church, as well as Bell Ringing for the Salvation Army.

Milestone Reporting Company Milestone Reporting Company will be donating gifts this holiday season. The company also plans to support Toys for Tots in its mission to donate gifts to less fortunate children through community events.

Casey Gartland, Garvin Law Firm Garvin Law Firm will have a project “Angel Tree” in the lobby, where team members or anyone who walks in the firm’s door can take a tag to purchase clothes, supplies or even stuffed animals for the Children’s Advocacy Center.

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank Sanibel Captiva Community Bank’s team plans to volunteer at A.N.A.’s Friends’ Gifts of Hope event, an annual shopping spree for children in Southwest Florida. With the help of volunteers, children can shop for holiday gifts for their loved ones.

Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. is proud to support three amazing organizations this holiday season: The Heights Foundation’s Christmas Outreach, The Cape Coral Police “Cops and Kids” Holiday Shopping trip and the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife’s “Wild About CROW” gala. The firm is happy to be sponsors and to donate toys again for the great holiday event, in which The Heights Foundation provides toys to children in the Harlem Heights community. Secondly, Spivey Law Firm is proud to again provide support for the Cape Coral police with their annual “Cops and Kids” shopping trip, in which police officers personally take local children shopping for holiday clothing, toys and gifts. Thirdly, Spivey Law Firm is proud to continue to sponsor CROW’s annual gala and fundraising event, “Wild About CROW” to be held on Jan. 10, 2026, at The Forest Country Club in Fort Myers. Spivey Law Firm is proud to support CROW in its fundraising efforts so it may continue to treat and rescue the precious wildlife of Southwest Florida.

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 33

100 CLUB

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. Bergermann Law Firm 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 Injury Law Goldberg, Noone, Abraham Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith GrayRobinson, P.A. Green, Schoenfeld & Kyle, LLP

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Hahn, Loeser & Parks, LLP Hampton Law Holz Family Law John Webb Legal Group, P.L. Kagan Law Firm Kemp & Mace, P.A. 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 Legal Aid Society, Inc. Light Path Law, P.A. Linde Law Group Men’s Rights Law Firm Office of the City Attorney (Cape Coral) Osterhout & McKinney, P.A. Patrone Bentley Law Group

Pavese Law Firm Pope Mazzara & Menendez PLLC Robert Harris Law Firm Roetzel & Andress, L.P.A. Scarmozzino/King Trial Lawyers Schmucker & Lavy Legal, PLLC Sheldon E. Finman, P.A. Sheppard Law Firm Simmons & Cook, PLLC Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. Strayhorn & Persons-Mulicka School District of Lee County The Rouse Law Firm Viles & Beckman, LLC Wilbur Smith, LLC Yeslow, Koeppel & Anderson ZinnLaw, PLLC

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 35

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A former FBI Agent and federal prosecutor, with over 25 years of experience in white collar criminal defense, pre-charge advocacy, complex federal and state litigation, and goverment investigations.

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 37

YOUNG LAWYERS DIVISION

By Zachary Liebetreu, Esq.

A Reflection on a Timeless Gift

HONORING OUR VETERANS As the holiday season blankets Lee County in festive lights and holiday cheer, the Young Lawyers Division of the Lee County Bar Association invites our community to pause and reflect on a timeless gift: the courage and sacrifice of our veterans. This December, as we gather with loved ones, let us pause and appreciate those who have shaped our nation’s history through their service.

An associate at Roetzel & Andress, Zachary Liebetreu, Esq. serves as the Partnerships Chair of the LCBA’s Young Lawyers Division and as the Land Use and Governmental Law practice section chair. His practice areas include land use law and construction litigation.

Zach is a 2022 graduate of the Stetson University College of Law, and he earned his undergraduate degrees from the University of Central Florida, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Political Science and his Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies. He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2022.

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Veterans are the living threads of our historical tapestry, each story a testament to resilience and duty. From the Revolutionary War soldiers who braved icy winters to secure our independence to the modern-day heroes serving in global conflicts, their sacrifices resonate through time.

In Lee County, our veterans’ legacies are etched not only in history books but in the fabric of our community. At a recent Spirit of ‘45 event in Cape Coral, centenarian and World War II Navy veteran Ruth shared her service across three wars: World War II, The Korean War and The Vietnam War. Similarly, Vietnam veteran Sand Becker was welcomed home on a recent Southwest Florida Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C. Becker was joined by a 100-year-old World War II veteran and others from the Korean and Gulf Wars.

These stories remind us of the personal costs of valor. Let us commit to preserving these stories that bridge generations, connecting the past to our present and future.

As young lawyers, we are inspired by veterans’ commitment to justice and freedom. Through the Lee County Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Service, we connect veterans to experienced attorneys for civil matters, including VA benefits claims and family law issues. For those qualifying for pro bono or low-cost aid, we partner closely with Lee County Legal Aid Society (239-334-6118; LeeCountyLegalAid.org) and Florida Rural Legal Services (1-888-582-3410; FRLS.org), which both offer free clinics on topics like disability appeals, housing disputes and the like. The Young Lawyers Division also looks forwards to benefiting the community at large as we help Community Cooperative at the food bank prior to Thanksgiving.

From the Young Lawyers Division, we wish you a happy holiday season with gratitude for those who have served and a renewed commitment to honoring their legacy. We look forward to seeing Lee County Bar Association members at our Holiday Party on Dec. 4, 2025. Please email LBaugh@leebar.org for more information.

YLD SPECIAL FEATURE

holiday TRADITIONS

When the weather gets cooler and the drinks get warmer, you know what that means.... It’s time to break out your favorite holiday traditions. Take a peek into what your 2025 YLD Board enjoys the most during the holiday season.

Q: What is your favorite holiday tradition?

A: Watching National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

Q: What do you love about the holidays?

A: I love that the holidays give

me a chance to unplug from work and focus on meaningful time with my family.

Kevin Huguelet

Zachary Liebetreu

President

Partnerships Chair

Q: What is your favorite

Q: What is your favorite

holiday tradition?

holiday tradition?

A: Church on Christmas Eve:

A: My favorite holiday tradition is

the Church is packed and beautifully decorated.

cooking homemade dishes with my mom. My personal specialties are green bean casserole and pumpkin muffins.

Q: What do you love about the holidays?

A: Christmas time is a great

Q: What do you love about

excuse to watch the greatest movie ever created: National Lampoons Christmas Vacation.

the holidays?

A: I love that the holidays give me a chance to unplug from work and focus on meaningful time with my family.

Iman Zekri Grants and Awards Chair NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 39

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Thank You

To Our 2025 Foundation Contributors!

Jane Abaravich, Esq. Benjamin Abdulnour, Esq. Andrew Abel, Esq. Sheba Abraham, Esq. Robert Adamski, Esq. John Agnew, Esq. Maria Alaimo, Esq. Albert Alguadich, Esq. Frank Aloia Jr., Esq. Jeremiah Ambabo, Esq. Amanda Anderson, Esq. Robert Anderson, Esq. Francesa Anon, Esq. Gabriel Arbois, Esq. Ronald Arend, Esq. Scott Atwood, Esq. Mark Bannon, Esq. Alexis Barkis, Esq. Andrew Barnett, Esq. Melissa Barris, Esq. Albert Batista, Esq. Michael Beckman, Esq. John Belcastro, Esq. Elizabeth Bentley, Esq. Vera Bergermann, Esq. Victor Bermudez, Esq. Madaline Bischel, Esq. Ljubica Bjazeric, Esq. Brooke Blackman, Esq. William Boltrek, Esq. Braxton Bowen, Esq. Suzanne Boy, Esq. Donald Boyd, Esq. Mark Boyle, Esq. Alexander Brockmeyer, Esq. Molly Brockmeyer, Esq. Heidi Brown, Esq. Benjamin Brown, Esq. Robert Burandt, Esq. Philip Burnett, Esq. Garey Butler, Esq. Katheryn Calvo, Esq. Jose Calvo, Esq. Katherine Camadeco, Esq. Karla Campos-Andersen, Esq. Edward Canterbury, Esq. Gary Carmen, Esq. Mark Casassa, Esq. Joe Cerino, Esq. Michael Cheffer, Esq. Michael Chionopoulos, Esq. Michael Colombo, Esq. Kati Cook, Esq. Jay Cooper, Esq. Spencer Cordell, Esq. Michael Corso, Esq. Terry Cramer III, Esq. Timothy Culhane, Esq. Taylor Curley, Esq. Louis D’Agostino, Esq. Dan Dalesandro, Esq. Mike Dal Lago, Esq. Donald Day, Esq.

Indera DeMine, Esq. Olimpia DePena, Esq. Ody Dickman, Esq. Stephen Dommerich, Esq. Hayley Donaldson, Esq. Lauren Drasites, Esq. Jarred Duke, Esq. Gordon Duncan, Esq. Lance Dunford, Esq. Mark Ebelini, Esq. Thomas Eckerty, Esq. Samantha Encalada, Esq. Harold Eskin, Esq. Jennifer Fairbanks, Esq. Kelly Fayer, Esq. Eric Feichthaler, Esq. Charles Ferber, Esq. William Ferris, Esq. Julia Finman, Esq. Shelly Finman, Esq. Jennifer Fisher, Esq. Eric Fluharty, Esq. Sarah Fougere, Esq. Howard Freidin, Esq. Herbert Fried, Esq. Linda Fried, Esq. Chris Frohlich, Esq. Wayne Frohlich, Esq. Kimberly Fuentes, Esq. Casey Gartland, Esq. Leland Garvin, Esq. Daniel Garza, Esq. Steven Gendreau, Esq. Lisa Curia George, Esq. George Gift, Esq. Paul Giordano, Esq. Malcam Godwin, Esq. James Goetz, Esq. Logan Goldberg, Esq. Scot Goldberg, Esq. Douglas Gould, Esq. Brian Greenberg, Esq. George Griffin, Esq. Jesse Gubernat, Esq. Thomas Gunderson, Esq. Samuel Hagan, Esq. Jennifer Hammond, Esq. Blake Hampton, Esq. Ginine Hanco, Esq. Daniel Hanuka, Esq. Robert Harris, Esq. Simon Harrison, Esq. Thomas Hart, Esq. Ernest Hatch Jr, Esq. Stacey Haverfield, Esq. Hon. Hugh D. Hayes Michael Haymans, Esq. Joan DeMichael Henry, Esq. Craig Hersch, Esq. Scott Hertz, Esq. Michael Hill, Esq. Emily Hogentogeler, Esq. David Holley, Esq.

Frank Holley II, Esq. James Holloway, Esq. Christina Holly, Esq. Rana Holz, Esq. Dominika Honisch, Esq. Michael Hornung, Esq. William Horowitz, Esq. Philip Howard, Esq. Jonathan Huffman, Esq. Pablo Hurtado, Esq. Joel Hyatt, Esq. Richard Inglis, Esq. Derrick Isaac, Esq. Wes Jacobs, Esq. Richard Johnston Jr., Esq. Ken Jones, Esq. Kara Jursinksi, Esq. Christopher Kagan, Esq. Elizabeth Kagan, Esq. Stephen Kagan, Esq. Peter Kamm, Esq. Luke Kane, Esq. Colby Keefe, Esq. Anna Kegelmeyer, Esq. Carlos Kelly, Esq. Kenny Kemp, Esq. James Kerr, Esq. Jason King, Esq. D. Hugh Kinsey Jr., Esq. Tim Kizzire, Esq. Asher Knipe, Esq. Peter Knize, Esq. George Knott, Esq. Steven Koeppel, Esq. Kevin Kyle, Esq. Ronnie Lamm, Esq. Vee Leonard, Esq. Michael Leonard, Esq. Steven Leskovich, Esq. Matthew Linde, Esq. Drew Lipscher, Esq. Courtney Lovejoy, Esq. Evan Lubell, Esq. Donna Lugar, Esq. Benjamin Lusk, Esq. T. Brandon Mace, Esq. Joseph Madden, Esq. Richard Mancini, Esq. Ian Mann, Esq. L. Gail Markham Jonathan Martin, Esq. Dawn Maselli, Esq. Jason Maughan, Esq. Justin Mazzara, Esq. TJ McCann, Esq. Stephen McCann, Esq. Eve McClurg, Esq. Matthew McConnell, Esq. Garrett McIntyre, Esq. Lance McKinney, Esq. Patrick McLain, Esq. Margaret McMorrow, Esq. Michael McQuagge, Esq.

Lisa Mead, Esq. Anthony Melchiorre, Esq. Alexander Menendez, Esq. Jason Mikes, Esq. John Miller III, Esq. Mark Miller, Esq. Elaine Minnis, Esq. George Mitar III, Esq. Denise Molina-Vel, Esq. Lori Moore, Esq. Scott Moorey, Esq. Jack Morgan III, Esq. John Morgan, Esq. William “Scott” Morris, Esq. Timothy Murty, Esq. John Musca, Esq. R. Frank Myers, Esq. Terry Nelson, Esq. John Noland, Esq. Michael Noone, Esq. Joseph North, Esq. Joseph North Jr., Esq. Monique Nunez, Esq. Aaron O’Brien, Esq. Christina O'Brien, Esq. Kenneth Oliver, Esq. Jerry Olivo III, Esq. Andre Patrone, Esq. Henry Lee Paul, Esq. Raymond Pelstring, Esq. Shelly Perry, Esq. Jenna Persons-Mulicka, Esq. Evan Pfeifer, Esq. Michael Anthony Pica, Esq. Rochelle Pitts, Esq. Barbara Pizzolato, Esq. Minerva Poblet, Esq. Genet Polly, Esq. Christopher Pope, Esq. John Potanovic, Esq. Beth Prather, Esq. Jill Prenger, Esq. Caleb Pringle, Esq. Richard Pringle, Esq. Robert Pritt, Esq. Shannon Puopolo, Esq. Michael Raheb, Esq. Michael Randolph, Esq. Lee Rendeiro, Esq. Gary Rhodes, Esq. Michael Rich, Esq. Kayla Richmond, Esq. Luis Rivera II, Esq. Collette Rodgers, Esq. Adrian Roe, Esq. Matthew Roepstorff, Esq. Kara Rogers, Esq. Ty Roland, Esq. Derek Rooney, Esq. David Roos, Esq. Ben Russell, Esq. Cameron Sadighi, Esq. Alvaro Sanchez, Esq.

Chris Santospirito, Esq. Read Sawczyn, Esq. James Scarmozzino, Esq. PJ Scheiner, Esq. Bruce Scheiner, Esq. Lowell Schoenfeld, Esq. Kristie Scott, Esq. Alessandro Secino, Esq. Danielle Seitz, Esq. Carol Sellers, Esq. Samuel Sendrow, Esq. Amanda Sharkey-Ross, Esq. Spencer Shaw, Esq. Brendan Shearman, Esq. Robert Shearman, Esq. Thomas Shepard, Esq. Melissa Sherman, Esq. Gus Simmons, Esq. L. David Sims, Esq. Deans Sisk, Esq. Alexis Sitka, Esq. Joeie Skelly, Esq. Ellen Smith, Esq. Sawyer Smith, Esq. J. Tom Smoot III, Esq. John Spear, Esq. Tricia Spivey, Esq. Randall Spivey, Esq. Vicki Sproat, Esq. Dan Stengle, Esq. William Stockman, Esq. Bruce Strayhorn, Esq. Megan Strayhorn, Esq. Janet Strickland, Esq. Brian Sutter, Esq. Corbin Sutter, Esq. Britton Swank, Esq. Carolann Swanson, Esq. Richard Swift, Esq. Doug Szabo, Esq. Dr. Frank Talty, Esq. Dr. Patty Talty, Esq. Madison Tanner, Esq. T. Rankin Terry, Esq. Michael Tew, Esq. Colten Thomas, Esq. Justin Thomas, Esq. Aisha Cruz Tirado, Esq. Vincent Tolisano, Esq. Matthew Toll, Esq. Greg Toomey, Esq. Michael Traficante, Esq. Thedore Tripp, Esq. Curtight Truitt, Esq. Kaylee Tuck, Esq. S. Thomas Ullman, Esq. Michael Versnik, Esq. Barbara Walsh, Esq. Robert White, Esq. Michael Whitt, Esq. Charles Whittington, Esq. Mark Yeslow, Esq. Benjamin Yormack, Esq.

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 45

FOR YO U R C ON T I N U E D SU P P O R T !

As 2025 comes to a close, the LCBA would like to thank its annual sponsors. With your generosity, our organization has been able to provide our members with a year of exciting, engaging events of all kinds.

46 LEEBAR.ORG

THANK YOU TO OUR LCBA SPONSORS Want to see your firm or business on this list?

Contact Lauren Baugh at LBaugh@LeeBar.org or (239) 334-0047.

PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

IN KIND Jim Jett Photography NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 47

48 LEEBAR.ORG

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 49

50 LEEBAR.ORG

DONOR LISTING MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS MISSION Thank You, Mental Health and Wellness Mission Sponsors

DIAMOND SPONSOR - $10,000

SILVER SPONSORS GOLD - $2,000 Holly Cosby, Esq. | Honorable Kathy Smith

GOLD - $1,000 BRONZE SPONSORS Robert Bowen, Esq. | Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A. Holly Cosby, Esq. | Joseph North, Esq.

GOLD

PEARL SPONSORS - $350 Honorable Kathy Smith | Karla Campos-Andersen, Esq. Judge Joseph Foster | Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.

INDIVIDUAL MHWM CONTRIBUTORS GOLD Michael Corso, Esq. | Derrick Isaac, Esq. | T. Rankin Terry, Esq. Steven Spence, Esq. | Shelly Finman, Esq. | William Stockman, Esq. NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2025 51

IN THE NEWS CONSTITUTION DAY Hon. Kathy Smith, Public Defender, 20th Judicial Circuit, joins her APDs, Attorneys Robert Harris and Michael Raheb for Constitution Day on Wednesday, Sept. 17. The Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (FACDL) hosted a reading of the Bill of Rights on the old courthouse steps in honor of the annual federal observance, which recognizes the adoption of the U.S. Constitution.

MERRIMAN AND RICHMOND TEACH CLE The Lee County Bar Association’s Real Property, Probate & Trust Law (RPPTL) and Family Law sections collaborated for a very well-attended CLE. Kayla Richmond, Esq. and Robbie Merriman, Esq. spoke on Understanding the Interplay in Estate Planning, Divorce and Death. Special thanks to Florida Trust Wealth Management for sponsoring this event.

ROOS FEATURED AS PANELIST David Hamilton Roos, Esq of Henderson, Frank, Starnes & Holt, P.A. served as a panelist at the 79th Annual Workers’ Compensation Institute (WCI) Educational Conference in August. Roos participated in the session titled “Fraud Prevention and Detection and How to Deal with It.”

THE SANIBEL CAPTIVA TRUST COMPANY REBRANDS AS FLORIDA TRUST WEALTH MANAGEMENT One of Florida’s premier wealth management firms, formerly known as The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company and its divisions of The Naples Trust Company and Tampa Bay Trust Company has rebranded all seven of its offices under one name – Florida Trust Wealth Management. The company makes the announcement as it celebrates 25 years in business.

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SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

28 Years of Finding a Better Way Founded in 1997, Edison National Bank, and its Bank of the Islands offices, is the oldest locally owned and managed community bank in Lee County. Dedicated to providing genuine, personal services and on-site decision making, the bank has an undeniable interest in the future growth and well-being of the community it serves.

Like Thomas Edison, Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands’ team believes there is always a better way.

This approach is modeled by creating an extraordinary experience of meeting customer needs and exceeding expectations at every encounter. Banking isn’t just about numbers. It’s about people.

This is why Edison National Bank takes the foundations of good banking – personalized services, meaningful relationships and a smile with each handshake – and builds upon them to create innovative banking solutions for modern users. Customers can bank anytime, anywhere via the Edison National Bank OnLine AnyTime mobile banking app after enrolling at one of the bank’s conveniently located offices.

With 28 years in business, Edison National Bank’s team also proudly provides the community with the additional stability and resources of an FDIC-insured, nationally chartered bank. The bank continues to earn the highest “5-Star Superior” rating by BauerFinancial for 13 consecutive years. Bank of the Islands is the winner of more than 50 “Best of the Islands” awards, including “Best Island Bank” numerous times.

Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands offices are conveniently located in Fort Myers, Sanibel Island and Captiva Island.

Bank of the Islands - Sanibel

Learn more at EdisonNationalBank.com or BankoftheIslands.com.

Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC Bank of the Islands is an office of Edison National Bank.

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SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

Brazzeal Mediation Chad Brazzeal, Esq. is a full-time mediator and arbitrator who is available for both in-person and remote mediations and arbitrations across the state of Florida.

Board-certified in civil trial law, he has represented both plaintiffs and defendants in civil litigation and has tried numerous cases to verdict. His litigation and courtroom experience assists parties in resolving their dispute outside of the courtroom. Learn more at BrazzealMediation.com.

Casey Gartland, Esq. of Garvin Injury Law Casey Gartland, Esq. serves on the litigation team at Garvin Injury Law, offering wealth of experience and successes in compassionately and zealously representing individuals and families who have been injured or killed because of someone’s greed, carelessness, or negligence. Learn more at GarvinLegal.com.

Dal Lago Law Dal Lago is a leading boutique business and bankruptcy law firm based in Southwest Florida with offices in Naples and Fort Myers. We deliver personalized legal businesses solutions and superior results. Learn more at DalLagoLaw.com.

Dickman Law Firm The Dickman Law Firm provides creative representation to clients in a host of different practice areas, and each of the firm’s lawyers brings a diverse background to your case.

This family-owned firm combines the knowledge, skills and experience of an entire legal team to handle cases efficiently. Learn more at DickmanLawFirm.org.

Element Element is a premier technology and consulting firm, proudly serving clients for over 35 years. Element’s team has the depth and breadth to tackle a wide range of technology issues and the ability to provide high-level thought leadership - keeping clients running securely, as they respond quickly to issues and deliver solutions.

Learn more at Ele-ment.com.

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SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

Letspeak Translation Services For more than 25 years, Letspeak has been offering platinum language services to companies and individuals including translation services and live interpreters. Our obsessive attention to detail and intense passion to unlock your communication drive the platinum-level language services we provide. Learn more at LetSpeak.com.

Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A. At the Law Office of Michael M. Raheb, we strive to ensure each of our clients receives the individual attention and representation necessary to obtain an optimal outcome for their case. We have extensive experience representing clients on an array of legal issues. Learn more at MichaelRaheb.com.

Lusk, Drasites & Tolisano, P.A. Lusk, Drasites & Tolisano, P.A. was formed in 1982 with the goal of representing the interests of our local community. The full-service law firm is dedicated to helping those with complex matters in the areas of family law, business law, personal injury and more.

Learn more at WestAndForJustice.com.

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank As a nonconventional bank, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank’s foundation is built on people and relationships, empowering and supporting the community through local decision-making. The bank is devoted to staying locally owned and operated as they provide personal and business banking and lending services at nine locations. Learn more at SanCapBank.com.

Spivey Law Firm The Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., represents people involved in numerous types of personal injury, car accidents, and wrongful death accidents throughout the state of Florida. Learn more at SpiveyLaw.com.

Strayhorn & Persons-Mulicka The lawyers of Strayhorn & Persons-Mulicka specialize in land use, zoning, real estate law, administrative, business, commercial and multifamily real estate transactions, and other matters. With a rich history in Southwest Florida that dates back to the early 1900s, the law firm embraces a central role in representing clients through all facets of the legal and legislative processes. Learn more at StrayhornLaw.com.

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2077 First Street, Suite 207 Fort Myers, FL 33901

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FT. MYERS, FL PERMIT NO. 147

(239) 334-0047 Fax (239) 334-0523 LEEBAR.ORG

Cleveland Avenue Office

River District Office

Sanibel Office

FROM THANKFUL MOMENTS TO JOYFUL CELEBRATIONS…

Captiva Office

We’re Here for You. The holiday season offers the opportunity to treasure moments with loved ones, reflect on the past year and prepare for new beginnings.

At Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands, it is the strong personal relationships we’ve built with our valued customers that fill us with thankfulness and joy. As the oldest locally owned and managed bank in Lee County, we are honored to support the banking needs of those who call Southwest Florida home for the holidays.

Warmest wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving and a holiday season filled with laughter, gratitude and peace.

S. Cleveland Avenue 239.466.1800 River District 239.334.4668

We Make Banking About You!

Bank of the Islands - Sanibel 239.472.7211 Bank of the Islands - Captiva 239.395.0248 EdisonNationalBank.com

Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC | Bank of the Islands is an office of Edison National Bank.