Cape Coral, FL November 2018

Cape Coral NOVEMBER 2018

CapeCoralLifestylePubs.com

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CAPE CORAL CARES

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NOT HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE

MOM’S FOOD IS ALWAYS THE BEST

Our family tree was planted here over 40 years ago.

Since 1973, we’ve grown into one of the oldest and most experienced independent real estate companies in Cape Coral. So we are uniquely qualified to achieve the best results for our clients. Our team is ready to help you with your next Cape Coral home sale or purchase right here in Southwest Florida’s fastest growing city.

Results. Attitude. Service. Options. That’s Raso Realty.

4812 Cape Coral St., Cape Coral, FL 33904

Pat Eberle 612.384.6018 PatEberle.com pat@rasorealty.com

Buyers Representation | Sellers Representation | Property Management | Foreclosures | Waterfront Golf Course | Gated Communities | Vacation Rentals | New Construction | Commercial

APPLYING FOR A MORTGAGE

DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

Many of us experience stress by increased activity during the holiday season but imagine how overwhelmed one would be if purchasing a home during that time as well. Home buyers have a lot to prepare before they can close on a home.

They must: interview several real estate agents to find one who will keep their best interest in mind, search for the right house, research interest rates, monitor their finances – the list goes on and on.

So, is there any real advantage to buying a house during the holidays?

Unbelievable there are some primary benefits to purchasing a home for the holidays. Sellers are motivated and will put their home on the market priced to sell. A seller wants to get their house off the market by closing a sale quickly. Keep their attention by making sure the home is in “show” condition at all times. During the holidays, most people are too busy trying to complete a slew of tasks but looking for a new home is generally not one of them.

As a lifelong Florida resident, I have spent almost thirty years helping all types of people become homeowners. The gratitude that my clients have shown me is my greatest reward. My background in mortgage processing, underwriting, servicing and construction allows me to focus on the important details to get your loan closed quickly without surprises.

FOR A FREE AND PRIVATE CONSULTATION, PLEASE CALL US AT 239-471-3696. mortgage1capecoral.com NMLS: #371904 | Company NMLS: #129386

Because home sellers are actively looking to sell their homes during the holidays, confident home buyers end up getting better deal on homes.

The holidays usually in cline people to be nicer, kinder, and more helpful to others. The holiday spirit affects most of us – and that is true of those who work at the receiving end of the mortgage loan approval process.

Therefore, closing on a home usually goes faster. What a better way to finish off the year and start a new year in a new home.

TRACY VANLANDSCHOOT

THE TEAM IS HERE TO SERVE YOU. WE LOVE WHAT WE DO!

LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2018 PUBLISHER

Pat Eberle | pat.eberle@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Sarah Keech | sarah.keech@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sarah Keech CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Thankful

Greg Wagner, Peter Irberseder

AS NOVEMBER ROLLS AROUND, WE’RE ANXIOUSLY AWAITING THE APPROACH OF THANKSGIVING, THE HOLIDAY SEASON AND TIME SPENT WITH OUR LOVED ONES. The winding down of the year always brings about a time of reflection for us— remembering everything we’ve done or accomplished in months past; looking back on turkey disaster stories, mornings watching the Thanksgiving Day parade or afternoons spent curled up on the couch after one too many pieces of pie; thinking of the people, experiences and things we’ve been blessed with in the last year.

As we press pause on the hustle and bustle of life putting together a monthly magazine, we’re able to look back on the past year and, most meaningfully, the stories from all of you that have made what we do possible. We also take this chance to think of those less fortunate and encourage you to take the opportunity this giving season to donate to local organizations or charities giving back locally.

We hope that as you read this issue, you—like us—find inspiration in the lives and experiences of your neighbors and the connections that have been made.

Happy Thanksgiving, Cape Coral!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu

Pat Eberle , Publisher

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

CapeCoralLifestylePubs.com

514 W 26th St., Kansas City, MO Proverbs 3:5-6

ON THE COVER Volunteers at the Cape Coral Caring Center 4

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

Cape Coral Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cape Coral areas’ most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cape Coral Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2018

FEATURES 18 Cape Coral Cares Cape Coral Caring Center Is There for Our Neighbors in Need

20 Not Home for the Holidays While You Gather with Loved Ones, Remember There Are Many Who Spend the Holidays Working

28 It’s Never Too Late She Might Be 92, but

28 20

Frances Keogh Is Still Dancing... and Maybe Skydiving?

12

18

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Culinary Creations

16

Trend Setter

18

Financial Buzz

26 Giving Back 28 Inspired By 33 Realty Report 34 Lifestyle Calendar

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GOOD TIMES

PACE Center's 10th 'Love That Dress!' Fundraiser More than 450 fashionistas and community supporters came together for the 10th annual Love That Dress! fundraising event in August. The event raised $157,000 for PACE Center for Girls, Lee County. PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY WAGNER

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

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The Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce welcomed several new businesses in August with official ribbon cutting ceremonies.Â

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Bi-Annual Wellness Exams

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Dental Procedure

Fecal Test

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++10% off boarding services for the year with purchase of package++ (exclusions apply) Does not include the canine influenza vaccine, heartworm prevention, post surgical laser therapy or Rabies Tag/License. Wellness plan includes two wellness exams, but any other exams throughout the year would be additional. Dental procedure includes deep cleaning, fluro foam treatment and removal of calculus. Extractions will be additional cost.

November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

9

AROUND TOWN Adi Castillo, a junior at Cape Coral High School, was among the students who volunteered this summer at Gulf Coast Village.

“I loved the friendly atmosphere,” Adi says. “The residents and staff are so sweet and can cheer you up in no time. They feel like family.”

For more information about volunteer opportunities at Gulf Coast Village, please contact Diana Nicol at dianan@gulfcoastvillage.org or 239.573.3334.

PHASE ONE OF CAPE CORAL ANIMAL SHELTER OFFICIALLY BEGINS Koogler Homes is about to break ground

TEEN VOLUNTEERS DONATE TIME, MAKE FRIENDSHIPS AT GULF COAST VILLAGE

Animal Shelter. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no-kill animal shelter will be located at 325 SW Second

Forty Southwest Florida teenagers spent a por-

Ave., a 4.6-acre site next to Sun Splash Family

tion of their summer break volunteering at Gulf

Waterpark. This facility, in partnership with the

Coast Village in Cape Coral, offering valuable help-

City of Cape Coral, is the first of its kind for the

ing hands to staff while forming intergenerational

area and is dedicated to the prevention of ani-

friendships with the residents.

mal cruelty and abandonment.

Collectively, the students tallied more than

Phase One of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter will

1,000 volunteer hours in Gulf Coast Village’s Life

be a 6,512-square-foot building for 12 dog kennels

Enrichment activities program, helping lead inter-

and three cat kennels, among other amenities.

active, enjoyable activities like arts and crafts,

Expected to be complete within one year, Phase

bingo and sing-alongs.

One includes:

“It’s refreshing to see today ’s youth take an

+ Adoption center

interest in making a difference in the lives of

+ Intake area

seniors,” says Diana Nicol, volunteer coordina-

+ Reception

tor. “Many of our student volunteers showed

+ Small medical area

exemplary

+ Offices

leadership

abilities

very dependable.”

10

on Phase One of the three-phase Cape Coral

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

and

were

+ Play yard

CONTINUED >

BALL 2018

November 17th

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3422 Del Prado Blvd S, Cape Coral, FL 33904 239.984.5449 | FinsDiveBar.com | 2 November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

11

CULINARY CREATIONS

MOM'S FOOD

IS ALWAYS THE BEST ARTICLE SARAH KEECH

SKIP THE DRIVE! THE POPULAR FORT MYERS BEACH RESTAURANT’S SECOND LOCATION IS NOW OPEN IN CAPE CORAL

PHOTOGRAPHY GREGORY WAGNER HEATHER REAGAN HAS LOVED BAKING AND COOKING SINCE SHE WAS OLD ENOUGH TO HOLD A SPOON, SO IT’S NO WONDER SHE’S NOW KNOWN FAR AND WIDE FOR HER DELICIOUS BUTTERMILK BISCUITS AND MOUTH-WATERING CINNAMON ROLLS. A resident of Fort Myers Beach for more than 20 years, Heather’s restaurant there, Mom’s Restaurant, gained a loyal following, including many people from the Cape who would make the journey just for her sweet and savory dishes.

“We are probably best known for our biscuits and biscuit sandwiches, but we make all sorts of things: cinnamon rolls, apple pecan rolls, berry rolls—those are my favorite,” Heather says. “We make everything from scratch and buy local produce and ingredients when they are in season.”

With her biscuits in such high demand, Heather knew it was time to open up shop in Cape Coral.

“We have one seasonal customer from north Cape Coral who would come all the way down to pick up biscuits and cinnamon rolls to take to her grandson when

APPLE PECAN ROLL + Regular biscuit dough

she’d fly home,” she says.

Just by chance, Heather’s ideal location happened to become available.

“I love this location! It happened to open up just when

+ Sliced apples

we were ready to make the move. I have always wanted

+ Cinnamon

to be in this plaza,” she says.

+ Sugar + Allspice + Pecans

Originally from Atlanta, Heather fell in love with Lee County as soon as she moved here.

“I love the people. I love the community. I love the beach. This area has so much to offer,” she says.

Mix apples, cinnamon, sugar, allspice and pecans together.

Place the mixture on the bottom of a large baking pan. Put the biscuit dough on top. Bake

More than anything, Heather loves to make her customers happy.

“I always say, ‘We’re making the world a better place one tummy at a time,’” she says.

Mom’s Restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch.

at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes (convection oven) or 45 minutes (standard oven). Flip

1239 Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral, Florida,

over when finished baking.

239.209.0707, Moms-Restaurant-FortMyersBeach.com

12

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

Offering Custom Interior Art Displays Designed and Installed with Precision and Purpose

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AROUND TOWN

(CON TI N UED)

+ Small animal grooming area + Feeding area + Laundry area + Retail area for post-adoption products

Destination Boat Clubs

Just get a boat and go, Simple!

“Koogler Homes is taking on this massive project because it’s going to be such a profound part of the history that is shaping our headquartered city,” Don Koogler says. “This dream to find the best homes for these precious animals is finally coming to life.

The shelter’s mission is to bring residents and animals in need together, a mission we are proud to support.”

All three phases will be funded via

labor

and

material

dona-

tions from the community. Visit CapeCoralAnimalShelter.com

for

more details.

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We are always accepting submissions

for

announcements

you’d

like to see included in our Around Town section. Submissions are acCAP E CO R AL I N A P L E S I K E Y W E S T I (2 3 9 ) 9 4 5 - 6 4 9 3 I DE S T I N AT I O N B OAT CL U B S . CO M

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

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TREND SETTER

G R A& C L E A C E THE INSPIRING STORY BEHIND HOW RICK AND MELISSA HINNANT TURNED TRAGEDY INTO VICTORY AND CONTINUE TO GIVE BACK THROUGH FASHION + STYLE 16

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

THEIR “ACCIDENTAL COMPANY.” It’s what Melissa and Rick Hinnant call Grace & Lace— their successful fashion company that bloomed from great tragedy and a pair of boot socks.

Rick owned a landscaping company, and Melissa was in real estate. They decided it was time to slow down and start a family, but surprisingly to them, this took more time than they expected. After years of trying, Melissa finally had a healthy pregnancy, and the two were on their way to fulfilling a lifelong dream.

“IT WASN’T SOMETHING EITHER OF US SET OUT TO DO, BUT LOOKING BACK, IT’S LIKE EVERYTHING FELL INTO PLACE DESPITE THINGS FEELING LIKE THEY WERE—AT TIMES—FALLING APART.”

“One day, I was inspired to make a pair of boot socks for myself that had lace on the top of them peeking out of my boots,” Melissa says. “They took me eight hours to make and were a pain in the butt—I swore I’d never make another pair again. However, every time I wore them, women—total strangers—would stop me to ask where I bought these socks.”

Rick encouraged Melissa to sell them online, where people fell in love with both the socks and the story behind them. That’s how the “accidental business” started.

“It wasn’t something either of us set out to do, but looking back, it’s + Honeycomb Knit Sweater + Lightweight Two Fit Knit + Chiffon Hi/Low Extender

like everything fell into place despite things feeling like they were—at times—falling apart,” Melissa says.

In 2013, Rick and Melissa appeared on ABC’s hit show “Shark Tank” and developed an incredible partnership with self-made real estate millionaire and “Shark Tank” investor Barbara Corcoran. People were continuing to fall in love with the brand and its story. Grace & Lace went

Halfway through the pregnancy, though, at a routine doctor’s visit, Melissa was given devastating news: she would give birth to their daugh-

from six employees to 36 employees virtually overnight, and their growth continues to be anything but normal despite bumps in the road.

ter within 24 hours and, if she did, her daughter wouldn’t survive. Melissa

“In six years we have gone from making boot socks out of my living

was rushed into emergency surgery to try to save her daughter. It was

room to creating and designing complete outfits for the everyday

successful, but Melissa was very high-risk and would need to remain in

woman who wants to walk into her closet with confidence knowing

the hospital on strict bed rest for the remainder of her pregnancy.

that what she puts on that day is not only fashionable but celebrates

“As I laid in bed every day, I was going stir-crazy,” Melissa says. “I didn’t

her style,” Melissa says. “Hundreds of thousands of moms, teachers,

want to just lay there and watch talk shows; I had to find something to do.”

students, professionals and ‘mom-prenuers’ trust Grace & Lace to

That’s when she started making baby blankets for their little

help them look and feel their best every day.”

unborn baby and for other mamas in the ICU. Right there in that

The best part? Every time an order is placed from Grace & Lace,

hospital bed is where her love for knitting grew. Time began passing

the purchaser becomes an instrumental part of building orphan-

quickly with her new-found hobby.

ages for children, rescuing young girls from the sex trade and

Suddenly, one dreadful day weeks later in that hospital bed,

investing in women in need here in America and around the world.

Melissa’s water broke. Doctors could no longer stop the labor, and

A portion of every dollar that comes through the company goes

Rick and Melissa’s little girl, Halle, was born.

straight toward causes that support Rick and Melissa’s passion for

“We held her close as she transitioned into heaven with lungs too under-developed to survive,” Melissa says.

After Rick and Melissa lost Halle, Melissa continued to sew and create and even opened a little online Etsy shop.

taking care of children and women.

“It’s an honor to have people that support our small business and believe in our mission,” Melissa says.

Find styles for every wardrobe at GraceandLace.com.

November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

17

FINANCIAL BUZZ ARTICLE SARAH KEECH | PHOTOGRAPHY PETER IRBERSEDER

Wendy Wootton, program operations manager; Julie Ferguson, executive director

CAPE CORAL CARES FOR 28 YEARS, THE CAPE CORAL CARING CENTER HAS BEEN THERE FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES IN TIMES OF NEED IN A NONDESCRIPT BUILDING NEAR THE INTERSECTION OF DEL PRADO BOULEVARD AND CAPE CORAL PARKWAY, YOU WILL FIND A PLACE FULL OF LOVE AND GENEROSITY. The Cape Coral Caring Center was established in February 1990, and since then, it has been feeding and giving to those in our community who are in need.

18

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

“Our main service is food,” says Executive Director Julie Ferguson. “But we also offer much more.”

do, and they love what we do. They really care about this community.”

Cape Coral Caring Center is open Monday through Friday from

From free bus passes to help people seeking

One of the most important times of the year for

jobs and emergency funds to assist in paying

the Cape Coral Caring Center is around the holi-

utility bills to vouchers for clothing and items at

days. Julie and Wendy estimate they provide the

For more information, visit

the nearby Kiwanis Club Thrift Store, the Cape

ingredients and fixings for at least 500 Thanksgiving

CapeCoralCaringCenter.org

Coral Caring Center offers a comprehensive,

dinners and 500 Christmas meals each year to fami-

or call 239.945.1927.

one-stop shop to get people back on their feet.

lies without the funds to buy everything themselves.

9 a.m. to noon.

“People walk through our doors expecting

“Whatever you’d expect at your holiday dinner

For more information about the SOS:

food, but they don’t often expect how much food

table is what we include in our holiday dinner

Sustainable Outreach

they will get or know of all the other services we

baskets,” Wendy says. “They’ll get the meat,

Society - Goodness To-Go! event, visit

provide,” Julie says. “We give everyone almost

stuffing, corn, potatoes, green beans. We make

SOSGoodnessToGo.com.

a shopping cart full of food. Our philosophy is

sure everyone gets to have a good holiday meal.”

if we give people and families food for about a

They also work with families to provide

week, it reduces their stress and they can wake

Christmas gifts for children who might other-

up in the morning and not have to worry where

wise not get a visit from Santa.

their next meal is coming from.”

“The perception is that people live their life

CA P E C O R AL

“They will get meat and bread and fresh pro-

this way,” Julie says. “The reality is that anyone

duce,” says Wendy Wootton, program opera-

can fall on hard times. People get sick or lose

tions manager. “We offer more than just canned

their job, or any sort of unexpected things could

M O S T- N E E DED IT EM S

food and non-perishable items.”

happen. We are here to help anyone and every-

+ Peanut butter

Cape Coral Caring Center also has a dedicated and loyal volunteer staff. They have so

CA R I N G CE NTE R’S

one who needs assistance.”

+ Jelly

In September, the organization partnered

+ Canned foods (including fruits,

with several local businesses and individuals

vegetables and beans)

“We currently have about 75 volunteers,

for a new event, the SOS: Sustainable Outreach

+ Pasta

and we get calls every day from people who

Society—Goodness To-Go! They were able to

+ Rice

are interested in helping out,” Julie says. “Our

collect more than 2,000 pounds of food and

+ Potatoes

volunteers love being here. They see what we

$33,000 in donations.

many that there is actually a waiting list.

+ Soups + Cereal

BY THE NUMBERS:

$60-$120 $20 500 200 to 300 500

+ Fresh produce + Toiletries (including bar soap, toilet paper, hair products and toothpaste)

TO FEED A FAMILY FO R A W EEK (D E P E N D I N G O N FA M I LY S I ZE )

VOUCH ER S FO R K IWANIS C LU B TH R I F T S TO R E (D E P E N D I N G O N FA M I LY S I ZE )

THAN K SG IVING D INNER BASK ETS

HOLIDAY G IFT S FO R C H ILD REN: 2 0 0 TO 3 0 0 FA M I L I E S

CHRIS T MAS MEAL BASK ET S November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

19

(NOT)HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS WHILE YOU GATHER AND REVEL WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS, REMEMBER THERE ARE MANY WHO SPEND THE HOLIDAYS WORKING

THERE ARE MANY PROFESSIONS THAT REQUIRE SACRIFICING TIME AWAY FROM FAMILY, FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES DURING THE HOLIDAYS. We didn’t want to forget these dedicated individuals, so we met with several people in our community who go out of their way to serve others—even when it means missing out on the big celebrations themselves.

ARTICLE SARAH KEECH | PHOTOGRAPHY GREG WAGNER

20

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT

LEFT: Master Sergeant Allan Kolak, Cape Coral Police Department RIGHT: Master Corporal Phil Mullen, Cape Coral Police Department

“It’s just part of the job,” Phil says. “When I was working patrol, I had some holidays off and some I worked. When you

Master Sergeant Allan Kolak has spent 21 years on the force

are working, you sort of have to make your own holiday. Maybe

with the Cape Coral Police Department. That means he’s spent

we’d celebrate on Christmas Eve or have Thanksgiving dinner on

many holidays away from his two children.

Saturday. You just make it work.”

“It does take a toll to a point. We are a 365-day, 24-hour oper-

“We are also definitely our own family here,” Allan says. “A lot

ation, but we know that coming into this career,” he says. “It really

of times different departments will offer their own festivities or

just comes with the job. We staff the department with the same

even [CCPD] families will invite other officers over for food when

number of people on a holiday as any other day.”

they have a break. We take care of each other.”

Master Sergeant Kolak also gives credit to those on the force who look out for others who might want some extra time off during the holidays.

Even private citizens are willing to offer a hot meal and some holiday cheer to members of the force.

“We often have community members reach out and offer

“You will see some of the single officers or the officers with

invites to officers who are working and might not have holiday

grown children do shift trades so that those with little ones can

plans,” Phil says. “They’ll even send their addresses via social

be home with their family over the holidays,” he says.

media to invite officers over, or they will actually bring food here.

During his 10 years with the Cape Coral Police Department,

We really live in a wonderful community.”

Master Corporal Phil Mullen, the father of five children, has also missed holidays, birthdays and other special times with his family.

CapeCops.com CONTINUED >

November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

21

(NOT) HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

(CON TI N UED)

Elizabeth Dowd, RN, director of Emergency Services, Stephanie Smoker, LPN; Kristen Denton, RN

Stephanie Smoker, a licensed practical nurse at Cape Coral Hospital, has not spent one Christmas Day with her 4-year-old daughter.

“It comes with the job. I knew there would be sacrifices when I decided to pursue a medical career,” Stephanie says. “We’ve typically done our Christmas celebration on Christmas Eve. This is truly a job where you can be at work any time of day and any day of the week—holiday or not.”

That doesn’t mean the Cape Coral Hospital staff doesn’t have their own special version of holiday merriment and fun.

“We do a potluck and have lots of decorations, and we always dress in holiday scrubs,” says Kristen Denton, a registered nurse in the emergency department. “We want to make it festive. Not just for us, but also for the patients who have to be in the hospital over the holidays.

Our patients are really the ones who don’t want to be in the hospital over the holidays.”

Even with the hardship of being away from home during a holiday, these medical professionals also see the bright side of caregiving.

“The worst part was when my kids were younger and I was not able to see them actually see what Santa brought on Christmas morning,” Kristen says.

Her two children are now 14 and 19.

“The best part of working around the holidays is being with the patients.”

“If we can’t be with our family at home, at least we are with our second family here at the hospital,” adds Beth Dowd, the director of the Emergency Department and mom to a 9-yearold and 11-year-old. “My husband is also in a medical field, so sometimes we end up having Christmas on Dec. 27! When the kids were a little younger, we sort of had to trick them when Santa was actually coming.”

Most of all, the staff camaraderie and friendships are very apparent.

“We are all in it together,” Stephanie says.

LeeHealth.org 22

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

CAPE CORAL HOSPITAL

PETCORAL VETERINARY HOSPITAL AND RESORT Ryan O'Hara, front desk administrator, PetCoral Veterinary Hospital and Resort

Don’t forget our furry friends’ caregivers. Many people travel during the holidays, and sometimes their pets need a loving place to stay. PetCoral offers full-service pet boarding, veterinarian care, grooming and more.

Front desk administrator Ryan O’Hara will likely be the first person you meet when you arrive. He also works behind the scenes to ensure all the pets are enjoying their “vacation” from their pet parents.

“Sure, it’s hard to be away from my family during holidays,” Ryan says. “I’ve had dogs all my life, so I love being here, and I love this job.”

Ryan moved to Cape Coral from upstate New York about a year ago, and he’s absolutely dedicated to his job at PetCoral.

“My goal is to be animal control officer,” Ryan says. “I’ve done a lot of volunteer work at the local shelter back home in New York and in animal control working with at-risk and troubled dogs. It’s just my passion. I love it when a dog gets a forever home.”

PetCoral offers boarding for dogs, cats and even more exotic pets. They do request you call in advance to for availability and healthcare requirements.

PetCoral Veterinary Hospital and Resort 924 Del Prado Blvd. S, Cape Coral, Florida, 239.673.8453, PetCoral.com November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

23

JANUARY 18 - 20, 2019 Cape Coral, Florida

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

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November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

25

GIVING BACK

Five Ways to Help theCape Thrive

WE MET WITH MICHAEL CHATMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE CAPE CORAL COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, TO DISCOVER SPECIFIC WAYS AREA RESIDENTS CAN GIVE BACK AND IMPROVE CAPE CORAL.

01

LEGACY GIFT OR ESTATE GIFT “This type of gift is usually given through a will. We realize many people are on a fixed incomes, so

many people choose to give back to the community this way,” Michael says.

THE CAPE CORAL COMMUNITY FOUNDATION KEEPS THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED ARTICLE SARAH KEECH PHOTOGRAPHY GREG WAGNER

02

VOLUNTEERING “Giving your time is a valuable resource,” Michael says. “We have a partnership with United Way. A lot of

year-round and seasonal residents come to us with particular skills or interests, and we can connect them with fantastic volunteer opportunities.

It’s also a great opportunity for new residents to get to know the area.”

03

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS “We encourage local business owners to work with our local nonprofit organizations,” Michael says.

“A business partnership can help smaller nonprofits build their organization and leadership as well as assist with fundraising.”

04

GET INVOLVED IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS “We have a training program for people interested in becoming board mem-

bers for local organizations,” Michael says. “It’s absolutely open to anyone interested in getting involved. We also work with people to find the right organization to work with. It’s an amazing opportunity to learn, get involved and give back.”

05

WORK WITH THE CAPE CORAL COMMUNITY FOUNDATION “What we do is often misunderstood,” Michael says. “We are sim-

ilar to a university endowment, but we cover a much wider spectrum. We cover the entire community. We are like a bank for charitable assets. We manage the assets and provide grants. As I like to say, ‘give, grow, grant.’”

For more information about the Cape Coral Community Foundation, visit CapeCoralCF.org or call 239.542.5594.

26

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

Making Cape Coral Beautiful for 23 Years

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Stephen jogged regularly and noticed it was becoming harder to catch his breath. Traditional non-invasive tests showed no significant coronary artery disease.

However, Stephen had a feeling something was not right. After learning about the HeartFlow Analysis, Stephen sought out the test hoping it would provide answers. He was right. Following the addition of HeartFlow Analysis to his CT Coronary Angiogram scan, his doctor received the answers needed to determine the next step in his treatment plan.

For more information: www.radiologyregional.com

239-931-6355 November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

27

INSPIRED BY

Frances

It’s Never Too Late EVEN AT 92, FRANCES KEOGH IS STILL HITTING THE DANCE FLOOR AND CROSSING ITEMS OFF HER BUCKET LIST ARTICLE SARAH KEECH | PHOTOGRAPHY PETER IRBERSEDER 28

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018

BORN ON JAN. 28, 1926—THE SAME YEAR AS MARILYN MONROE AND HUGH HEFNER—FRANCES KEOGH HAS HAD A ZEST FOR LIVING LIFE TO ITS FULLEST SINCE SHE WAS VERY YOUNG.

Originally

from

North

Beyond her outstanding accomplishments in the business world,

Carolina and the daughter of

Frances is also a noted poet, author and dedicated political activist.

a tenant farmer, Frances takes

Frances and John eventually settled in Southwest Florida in

pride in her serious studies as

1995. Unfortunately, John passed away in 2008. Her only child,

a teenager and her drive to be

James, also passed away in 2008, but she loves being close to her

active in her community. Those

three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

early leadership achievements

Frances is now a resident of Gulf Coast Village, and she enjoys

landed her in college—at a

being involved in the community, spending time with her family

time when few women took

and friends, reading poetry and staying active—and she definitely

up higher education—and that

loves dancing at the community’s Friday happy hour events.

opened up the whole wide world for her to explore.

“My husband and I loved to dance. We danced all the time, but he couldn’t dance after his heart failure issues,” Frances says. “I

“We didn’t have anything when I was growing up. We were very,

wouldn’t and couldn’t dance without him, so I didn’t dance for

very poor,” Frances says. “I started getting involved in our little

about 15 years. Now I’m back at it, and I dance every chance I get.

town of 500 people—a couple beauty contests and I was a 4-H

I love getting everybody up and dancing!”

Health Queen. People started building me up, and that helped me see the value of my future.”

Frances eventually graduated from Elon College, where she studied business and religion.

After she married her husband, John, the twosome embarked on a grand life adventure together. The couple crisscrossed the globe and spent decades visiting, living and working in far-off places.

“My husband and I traveled and lived all over the world while we

All her life, Frances wanted to take a ride on the back of a motorcycle—something she was never allowed to do as a young lady. Thanks to a special surprise coordinated by her close friends, in August she finally crossed the experience off her bucket list.

“I just about blacked out to tell you the truth. I was so excited!”

Frances says.

Despite the surprise, Frances quickly donned a helmet, leather vest and riding gloves and was ready to hit the road.

were working for AT&T. We even lived in the Marshall Islands for

Frances’ bucket list ride was made possible by Joyce and

two years,” Frances says. “I started in management with AT&T in

another close friend, Sheila Sweeney, who connected with local

1962, and my husband was an engineer with the company. It wasn’t

motorcycle enthusiast Dr. Michael Dreikorn. Upon hearing of their

easy being a woman in a management position at that time.”

plans, Michael readily agreed to take Frances out for a spin on his

“Frances broke the glass ceiling before the term was even

Indian motorcycle.

invented,” says her close friend Joyce Easton. “From a rural farm-

“It was something I’d wanted to do for years, and I’ve never had

er’s daughter to business management in the 1960s is quite a feat

the opportunity,” Frances says. “It was such a wonderful surprise

in itself...and Frances has done much, much more!”

and a wonderful day.”

Frances even formed her own chapter of the American Business

“The stories she tells are endless, and her dancing, her love of

Women’s Association in North Carolina and was nominated

‘Mustang Sally’ and her signature [dance] move is amazing,” Sheila

“Woman of the Year” by the national organization in 1974.

says. “She has such a zest for life and a love of God. It’s just inspiring.”

“I have always been an advocate for women in business and women in any career they want to pursue,” Frances says.

“She is just an inspiration at 92 years old to be as energetic and so positive,” Joyce says.

CONTINUED >

November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

29

INSPIRED BY (CON TI N U ED) Among Frances

many

other

received

both

achievements, the

“Golden

Poet Award” and “Silver Poet Award” by World of Poetry in 1985 and 1986 for her book, God’s Spotlight and recently was awarded the “Women of Distinction Lifetime of Leadership Award” by the Republican Women of Cape Coral Federated.

A few years ago, Frances also checked zip-lining off her bucket list, but her aspirations don’t stop there. Next on the list for this adventurous 92-year-old? Frances is hoping to try skydiving or hot air ballooning.

“I’ve always wanted to drop out of a plane,” Frances says. “I’m a happy camper!

I’m ready to do just about anything.”

Joyce Easton and Frances go through some of her many photos and keepsake memories.

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FOR SALE

10 5 7 S W 5 7 T H S T R E E T Gulf Access Pool Home $635,000 | 2128 Sq. Ft. 3 bedroom | 2 1/2 bathrooms

PA T E B E R L E , PA RESULTS | AT TITUDE | SERVICE | OPTIONS

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REALTY REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD

REALTY REPORT CAPE CORAL

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

SW Cape Coral

$460,000

$450,000

97.83%

5

3

2.5

SW Cape Coral

$505,000

$458,000

90.69%

15

4

4

SW Cape Coral

$599,999

$599,999

100.00%

24

3

2

SW Cape Coral

$680,000

$665,000

97.79%

12

4

3

SW Cape Coral

$775,000

$760,000

98.06%

25

3+DEN

2

Yacht Club Area

$279,900

$265,000

94.68%

12

2

2

Yacht Club Area

$449,000

$440,000

98.00%

10

3

2

Yacht Club Area

$725,000

$580,000

80.00%

60

3

2

Savona Neighborhood

$319,900

$300,000

93.78%

49

3

2

Savona Neighborhood

$335,000

$325,000

97.01%

23

3

2

Palaco Neighborhood

$349,900

$349,000

99.74%

53

3

2

Palaco Neighborhood

$489,000

$471,000

96.32%

21

3

2

Sandoval

$300,000

$307,000

102.33%

29

4

3.5

Sandoval

$335,469

$325,825

97.13%

17

3+Den

3

Sandoval

$345,000

$345,000

100.00%

1

4

2

Sandoval

$518,000

$495,000

95.56%

15

5

4.5

Royal Tee

$424,500

$415,000

97.76%

80

3

3

Royal Tee

$499,000

$485,000

97.19%

67

4+Den

3

NW Cape Coral

$300,000

$298,000

99.33%

7

4

3

NW Cape Coral

$549,999

$520,000

94.55%

49

4

3.5

NW Cape Coral

$645,000

$617,800

95.78%

34

3

2.5

MLS Data from September 2018 *DOM=Days on Market

K N OW YOUR

home value

Are You Thinking About Selling?

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November 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

33

N OV E M B E R

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

SATURDAYS

Southwest Florida sunsets while listening to live music on the beach.

There will also be food trucks, vendors

20

selling unique arts and crafts, jewelry,

NANOWRIMO WRITING SESSION

Club Square

gift items and much more. Festivities

Cape Coral Library

The Cape Coral Farmers Market is

begin at 3 p.m. CapeParks.com

November is National Novel Writ-

CAPE CORAL FARMERS MARKET always overflowing with fresh, local and healthy produce, fruits and foods,

along

with

melt-in-your-

mouth baked goods, made-on-site

ing Month—NaNoWriMo! Come for

8-11

a writing session and the opportunity to share ideas with fellow writers. Bring your laptop or borrow

guacamole, salsas, homemade jams

2018 COCONUT FESTIVAL

and jellies, pickles and olive mixes,

Sun Splash Festival Grounds

the session. Pen and paper writers

cheeses, take-home foods and more.

This annual festival is a fun cele-

are also welcome. Space for this

The market hours are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

bration of Cape Coral's uniqueness

program is limited, so please ar-

CapeCoralFarmersMarket.com

to the Southwest Florida area. The

rive early. Session is from 5-7 p.m.

four-day event includes national and

LeeGov.com/Library/Events

5 LIVE ACTION CODING

local entertainment, games, carnival food, a craft beer garden, contests, fireworks, carnival rides and more!

CocoFest.com

Cape Coral Library

Come put yourself inside the game and team up with friends to use coding principles to guide yourself

one of the library’s for use during

9

21 PARADISE FLEA MARKET Cape Coral Yacht Club

The Paradise Flea Market is held on the third Wednesday of every month from

through a game grid, gathering coins

YAPPY HOUR

and avoiding enemies. Make sure your

PetCoral Resort

in the Yacht Club Ballroom. Vendors

code is correct, or you just might find

Come out and enjoy a night by the

sell new and used items. To become

yourself in a fix! Registration request-

pool with your fur baby! This is a

a vendor, please call 239.574.0806 for

ed as space is limited. For grades K-5.

free, pet-friendly event and includes

information and an application.

LeeGov.com/Library/Events

snacks and beverages. Pets need to be up to date with rabies and dis-

5 BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO KAYAKING Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve

temper vaccinations. PetCoral events also require the Bordetella vaccine every six months. For more details, call 239.673.8453. The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. PetCoral.com

October to May from 10 a.m-2 p.m.

26 STAR WARS SPECTACULAR: THAT'S NO MOON! Cape Coral Library

Learn basic paddle strokes from an

Break out your blasters and lightsa-

experienced guide. Taught by GAEA

bers, fire up the Millennium Fal-

Guides. Advance registration is required. $40 per person; all equip-

11

con and enjoy an afternoon of Star Wars-themed

crafts,

games and

ment included. Must be able to lift

VETERANS DAY PARADE

50 pounds and be in good physical

Cape Coral Parkway

Registration is requested as space

condition. For more information or to

Join us as the community honors our

is limited. For all ages, 3:30-5 p.m.

RSVP, please contact Rotary Park at

American heroes and pays tribute

LeeGov.com/Library/Events

239.549.4606. CapeCoral.net

to those who lost their lives, those

experiments with the whole family.

who served honorably and those who

7

The Veterans Day Celebration is a

We are always accepting submissions

cooperative effort of the City of Cape

for events you'd like to see included

Coral Parks and Recreation and other

in our Calendar section. Submissions

Cape Coral Yacht Club

local supporters. The parade begins

are accepted via the Contact Us tab

Celebrate the beauty of our beautiful

at 2 p.m. CapeCoral.net

at CapeCoralLifestylePubs.com.

SUNSET CELEBRATION

34

are still proudly serving our country.

Cape Coral Lifestyle | November 2018