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SWFL CRE, CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT

A look at commercial real estate & construction updates in Southwest Florida

CBIA panel discussion: State of construction in Florida

Submitted by Karen P. Moore, Publisher Special to SWFBT

The Collier Building Industry Association hosted a “State of Construction in Collier County” panel discussion, moderated by CBIA President Cali Clardy. Panelists included Lake Coulson, senior vice president of the National Association of Home Builders; Ryan Benson, Florida Home Builders Association president; Rusty Payton, CEO/ Chief Lobbyist for FHBA; state Rep.

Yvette Benarroch, R-House District 81; Tatiana Gust, CBIA president-elect and J.P. Coleman, CBIA Foundation president.

Asked about the status of impact fees, Payton responded, “I think our leaders are realizing that maybe impact fees, some of the hurdles we put in, are not as beneficial as they once were. Senate Bill 180 was created, as related to impact fees, for hurricane response. What we saw, for example, was that Pinellas County actually shut its permit

department down after a hurricane and then got mad at its constituents when they went and pulled drywall, trying to dry it out and keep mold out. That makes no sense. You can’t have it both ways.

“Senate Bill 180 has the look-back provision and lots of other things, but there’s this little provision in there that you can’t increase regulation or put more burdensome rules in-place retroactively, and it passed. If you read the

information to help you navigate Southwest Florida’s CRE, Building and Development marketplace.

Lee Commissioners to award grants to partners for affordable housing

The Lee County Commission voted to award about $4.4 million in State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) grant agreements to local partners for affordable housing. The grants will provide assistance to 45 very low- and 29 low-income households including 41 households that include individuals with special needs.

The SHIP program is solely funded by the state and is locally governed by

Jeff Kottkamp to lead Florida TaxWatch

Submitted by Jacob Ogles, Editor

Special to SWFBT

SWFL CRE, CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT

For nearly a half century, Florida TaxWatch has served as the Sunshine State’s most prominent fiscal watchdog. Come 2026, it will be led by Jeff Kottkamp, a North Fort Myers High School graduate who once represented Southwest Florida in the Legislature.

A look at commercial real estate & construction updates

Florida TaxWatch this summer elected Kottkamp as the next President and CEO for the organization. A fall meeting in Orlando served largely as a send-off for longtime leader Dominic Calabro, but also as a chance for Kottkamp to step up as the new face of the organization. Kottkamp, who served as General Counsel for TaxWatch the last two years, cracked jokes about the organization’s fiscal practices to a crowded room at the Four Seasons Resort.

“I know that you’re used to coming to these meetings and staying in these elegant hotels, but in the rest of the year, I will tell you that I typically check into my room and look for the chalk outline of the body,” Kottkamp said.

“Dominic is tight with your money the rest of the year and you should be grateful for it.”

He also has promised to be mindful of how TaxWatch spends money when he is in charge, just as the organization will continue to lean on the Florida Legislature and all Florida governments about spending the public’s dime.

KOTTKAMP See page 12

the strategies in the Local Housing Assistance Plan adopted by the Board on March 21, 2023. The program places a priority on serving very low, low, and special needs households and requires 65% of the funds be spent on home ownership activities.

The grants were awarded to: • Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties: $1,130,000 for down payment assistance for 16 households, including five with very low income, 11 households with low income and at

in Southwest

Florida TaxWatch elects leadership board for 2026

Florida TaxWatch announced its 2025-‘26 Executive Officers and Executive Committee Members as approved during the October 2025 Annual Meeting held in Orlando. The leadership team designations, comprised of statewide corporate and policy leaders, take effect immediately unless otherwise noted.

Outgoing Florida TaxWatch President and CEO Dominic M. Calabro

IN THE NEWS

The U.S. Small Business Administration is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit organizations (PNPs) in Florida of the Dec. 8 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought occurring Feb. 11, 2025.

The disaster declaration covers the counties of Charlotte, Collier, Lee, Broward, DeSoto, Glades, Hen-

said, “For more than 45 years, Florida TaxWatch has worked to improve the productivity and accountability of Florida government. It has been an honor of a lifetime to have led this independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit government watchdog and taxpayer research institute and know that Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp will continue in its tradition as our incoming President and CEO.” TAXWATCH See page 15

dry, Highlands, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie in Florida.

Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster.

The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

COLLIER See page 15

Jeff Kottkamp, a former Lieutenant Governor and state Representative from Southwest Florida, speaks at a Florida TaxWatch event. He will take over as the organization’s President and CEO in 2026.

Annual event honors Lee County businesses

More than 650 business and community leaders packed the Caloosa Sound Convention Center on Oct. 24 to celebrate Lee County businesses that drive the local economy, employ our workforce and shape their industries.

Guests at the 2025 Industry Appreciation Awards enjoyed networking opportunities, lunch and an awards program that recognized businesses across seven categories. Winners included:

• Elevate Award: NeoGenomics Laboratories.

• Start Up of the Year: Bay Street Yard and McGregor’s Public House (2 honorees).

• Tech Catalyst Award: e2Companies.

• Small Manufacturer of the Year: Recycled Firefighter.

• Large Manufacturer of the Year: Storm Smart.

• Small Business of the Year: Gulf Coast Business Bank.

• Large Business of the Year: Liberty Aluminum Company.

Additionally, Maylene Kiang Wu of Pacific Peak received the Lee County Distinguished Achievement Award.

The Horizon Foundation, Horizon Council and Lee County Economic Development Council present the annual Industry Appreciation Awards.

Paul

Fleming Restaurant Group expands portfolio for growth

Paul M. Fleming, acclaimed restaurateur, and Jody Goodenough-Fleming, his wife and founder of Paul Fleming Restaurant Group, announced expansion of their restaurant brand portfolio with the relocation and addition of West Coast concept Paul Martin’s American Grill.

The brand, born in 2006, operates five locations in California, one in Arizona and their newest location in Texas. Goodenough-Fleming stated, “We are delighted to bring the Paul Martin’s business to our talented Florida management team, expanding our enterprise and preparing this brand for future growth. We love our local community and are proud supporters of the entrepreneurial spirit and pro-business environment embodied by the Sunshine State.”

Paul Martin’s American Grill, named after founder Fleming, delivers elevated American Classics crafted with seasonal produce, high quality seafood and meats and house-made sauces and marinades. The ambiance conveys comfortable and elegant rusticity. Each location has a vibrant bar with an incredible Happy Hour.

“Paul Martin’s warm hospitality, upscale, yet relaxed environment and hand-crafted comfort food is what Guests are looking for in their neighborhoods today,” Fleming said.

The Flemings are passionate about expanding their businesses in Florida and are focused on investment in technology and people resources to support Paul Martin’s and their beloved Naples brands; The Lake Park Diner, PJK Neighborhood Chinese and Paulitas’ Taqueria. Over the past year, the Paul Fleming Restaurant Group has opened a second Lake Park Diner in North Naples and a second PJK Neighborhood Chinese location in Coconut Point in Estero.

“We know this business is all about people, and we have built a talented team focused on delivering exceptional Guest experiences, delicious food, and providing our restaurants and corporate office with investment in new technology and systems to support future growth. We are very proud of the collection of brands we support and the amazing associates operating our restaurants each day,” Goodenough-Fleming said.

The Lee County Economic Development team includes (l-r)

Garrett Hyzer, Amanda Kent, Warren Baucom, John Talmage, Tatum Walker, Dirk Danley. Not pictured: Jennifer Rodriguez and Nancy Collura.

David Fry, Randy Henderson and Chris Westley. Fry and Henderson accepted an award for Bay Street Yard.

FGCU participates in the collegiate ethics competition

Florida Gulf Coast University’s Lutgert College of Business Ethics Case Competition Team competed in the 23rd Annual Collegiate Ethics Case Competition at the University of Arizona in Tucson. The FGCU team participated in the Southern Region division and delivered a strong performance, finishing behind Washington University in St. Louis and Iowa State University.

The team consisted of presenters Wesley Gordon and Marcus Wallace and student researchers Kennedy Owens and Rex Weese. The group was advised and chaperoned by Taylor Daum, faculty advisor and chaperone, with faculty mentors Drs. Jenny Manegold, Eric Dent, Craig Randall, Amy Scott, David Guess and Mark Case.

Teams analyzed the case study “Norfolk Southern: Derailed in Pursuit of Profits?” authored by Dr. Paul Melendez of the University of Arizona. The case explored the ethical, legal and economic implications of the 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.

“I feel so fortunate to work with such talented and motivated students,” said Taylor Daum, faculty advisor and chaperone for the team. “They approached a demanding case with curiosity and professionalism. Watching their growth throughout this process has been one of the most rewarding parts of my role at FGCU.”

Kennedy Owens, a senior preparing to pursue a career in law, shared, “This case really challenged me to think critically about complex issues from different angles. It was a meaningful experience that helped me

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The FGCU Ethics Case Competition Team – L-R Wesley Gordon, Kennedy Owens, Taylor Daum (faculty advisor), Rex Weese, and Marcus Gordon showing their FGCU “Wings Up!” school spirit.

grow more confident in building strong arguments and defending ethical decisions.”

Freshmen Wesley Gordon and Marcus Wallace, along with senior Rex Weese, also contributed to the team’s success and plan to help establish a new Business Ethics student organization at FGCU to expand opportunities for future competitors.

New YEARS fund supports Young Entrepreneurs

A new fund at the Collaboratory supports young entrepreneurs and helps them realize their dreams.

Young Entrepreneurs and Rising Stars is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering tomorrow’s business leaders by helping young people design and market their ideas with real-world resources, interactive field trips, mentorship and markets and expos. Donations to the fund allow every child to get essential training and resources to launch their own business.

By connecting families, local businesses and educators, YEARS gives

kids hands-on experiences and turns “what if” into “watch this.” It helps young innovators learn, launch and lead while proving that big dreams don’t have to wait for adulthood.

“Success is not measured by the number of times you fall, but by the number of times you rise, learn, and persevere,” said founder J.D. Ribal. “Embrace your failures, for they are the stepping stones to your greatest achievements.”

Collaboratory is honored to partner with Young Entrepreneurs and Rising Stars.

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

The team at ARK ECO applies building techniques with sustainability practices to build better rooftops in Southwest Florida.

Building tomorrow, inspired by the Ark

By Teeghan D.W. England Guest Columnist

Just as Noah’s Ark carried the best of creation into a renewed world, ARK ECO Construction & Roofing has been built on a strong foundation to preserve the best of traditional craftsmanship, materials and wisdom into a more sustainable future.

Drawing from time-tested building practices, we combine proven materials and methods — from advanced roofing systems and resilient design to aquaponic gardens, grey-water recycling and electric vehicle charging integration — with today’s innovations in energy efficiency, eco-friendly coatings and storm-resistant construction. The result is an improved standard of building: structures that endure, breathe, and contribute to a sustainable tomorrow.

Looking back, we are proud to have helped hundreds of Southwest Florida residents recover from the hurricanes that have tested our communities in recent years, #SWFLStrong. It has been our greatest honor to serve others in their time of need. Our founder, with more than twenty years of experience in sustainable construction and renewable materials, has led projects ranging from commercial energy-efficient system retrofits at Gannon’s Antiques on U.S. 41 to collaborations with community leaders in conjunction with the Community Redevelopment Agency on urban homesteading developments. Looking ahead, we see the rise of the Urban Homesteader — modern city dwellers who blend old-world resilience with new-world sustainability. Think of it as “farming meets city living” — growing roots, literally and figuratively, wherever you are. They grow, build and live with purpose, taking ownership of their energy, food and resources.

We build the structures that make this possible: energy-efficient roofs that lower utility bills; solar-integrated systems that power modern lives sustainably; and materials designed to protect homes from storms while protecting the planet itself.

ARK ECO is more than a company; it’s a movement to build differently, to build consciously and to carry forward the good that can sustain us all.

Teeghan D.W. England is ARK ECO’s management partner and administrative director. Contact (239) 900-1519 or teeghan@arkecogreen.com.

In the November 2025 edition, we erroneously bylined the Chris-Tel Construction guest column submitted by Chris-Tel Construction President Howard Wheeler.

Shifting real estate drives north Lee County moving trends

By Craig Handel Special to SWFBT

Even though interest rates and home prices have fallen, it’s still extremely difficult for young families to buy a home in most parts of Southwest Florida. And while there may be less expensive options in the region, there are challenges that come with those as well.

Omar Reiner, who has spoken on the topic for Forbes and GoBankingRates, said, “The overarching hurdle that young couples looking for a home in the area face is being able to pay for one. The affordability index for Southwest Florida has been dropping steadily, so much so that a significant percentage of would-be-buyers can’t even get a mortgage. And even if they can, the monthly payments make it very difficult to also pay for other necessities.”

In most places in Bonita Springs, Estero and Fort Myers, it’s going to cost $450,000 to $500,000 for a detached single family and $500,000 for a condo.

“Prices have come down 10% but it’s still unaffordable unless both parents have working incomes,” said veteran real estate agent Jack Mancini.

Susannah Taylor, an account executive at DID/ Golden added, “Getting, maintaining and affording homeowners insurance is one of the biggest challenges facing buyers in South Florida due to a number of

challenges.”

Those include rising rates for that as well as daily living expenses.

“The interest rates have come down more but if you take taxes, association fees, homeowner’s insurance and mortgage payments, it’s still about $5,000 a month,” Mancini said. “So if one of the family members is making $72,000, that salary goes to housing. The other person then has to take care of day care, car insurance, cell phones, groceries. It’s tough.”

The farther north a family goes in Lee County, the more affordable the prices tend to be, according to Mancini.

Cape Coral has seen a reduction in home prices going down by as much as 10%.

North Fort Myers prices for a three-bedroom, twobath home ranges between $230,000 and $300,000.

Lehigh Acres’ homes can be bought for less than that.

However, there are challenges with having homes in that area.

The biggest is the commute to work. It can range from a 30-minute to drive to an hour, depending on if the job is in Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Naples.

The other challenge can be whether the home is located in an area where there is school choice. The parents may not like where their children are sent.

“If they can’t get kids in a school they want, they’ll

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

Future Builders in Action: A Look Back at Build My Future 2025

The Lee Building Industry Association held its latest Build My Future Lee County, with the 5th annual event inspiring the next generation to explore high-demand careers in construction and skilled trades.

Held at JetBlue Park, the event welcomed hundreds of students from across Lee and Hendry counties — including traditional, charter and technical schools, as well as educators, industry professionals and community partners. Throughout the day, students participated in hands-on demonstrations and interactive experiences designed to showcase real-world career opportunities within the construction industry.

Students had the opportunity to weld, operate equipment, work with electrical systems, experience HVAC simulation, participate in carpentry and concrete finishing demonstrations. With direct mentorship from industry experts, students gained firsthand in-

sight into in-demand trades and future career pathways available locally.

“Build My Future continues to serve as an instrumental workforce development initiative for our region,” said Phillip Ford, executive vice president of the Lee BIA. “By pairing students with real hands-on experiences and direct industry connections, we’re helping them discover meaningful careers while strengthening the future of our skilled workforce.”

rent,” Mancini said. Rob Edwards, managing director and senior PIM portfolio manager at Edwards Asset Management, said sometimes couples have to be creative to afford a home.

“One option that is overlooked is using retirement savings to help with a first home,” he said. “If you’re a first-time buyer, the IRS lets you take up to $10,000 out of a traditional IRA without the early withdrawal penalty. With a Roth IRA, you can withdraw contributions anytime, and after five years, you can pull up to $10,000 of earnings to help with purchasing a home.”

The other idea, Edwards said, is asking mom and dad for help.

“I’ve also seen parents step in with down payments, structuring it either as a one-time gift or a family loan,” he said. “That can help young couples get a head start, whether that’s qualifying for a better mortgage, avoiding mortgage insurance or just having confidence to move forward in a high-cost market.

“For the parents who elect to do this, they often enjoy seeing the immediate impact of helping the next generation.”

As prices continue to dip, Mancini said more families will be “taking a look” in 2026.

The incentive is simple – to avoid paying $2,000 to $3,000 a month in rent. That’s money they’ll never see again.

Company brokers connections to data center options

Coast Energy is a registered Florida small business headquartered in Lee County that operates as a brokerage service company for distributed energy resource platforms (on-site power generation) for new data centers and industrial facilities.

Coast Energy acts as a broker to assist land owners with leasing opportunities for data center companies wishing to relocate and Industrial facilities wishing to reduce their operational energy costs through demand reduction solutions, including on-site power generation.

Brokerage services include bringing all parties together for the project discussions including land owners, data center companies, distributed generation manufacturers, developers, utility companies, government agencies for permitting and contractors.

Types of data centers include Enterprise, Colocation, Cloud, Edge, Hyperscale and Managed data centers, each differing in ownership, scale, location and management model. Also, data centers using Artificial Intelligence pro-

BY MARK STUART Guest Columnist

cessing capabilities and networks. The founder of Coast Energy has over 15 years in the Renewable Energy / Distributed Energy industry. He sold commercial and utility-scale solutions primarily in California but also throughout the West. He sold solar as well as several wind turbine technologies, three different types of fuel cells and battery storage systems using different battery technologies.

Mark Stuart, an electrical engineering grad of California State University, spent more than 16 years selling distributed energy microgrids using renewable energy technologies. He is a former professional snow skier in Colorado. Contact mark@coastenergy.net or (916) 696-1426.

Students attend Build My Future Lee County, an annual event hosted by the Lee County Building Industry Association.

Students see use of power equipment used in the construction trades at the Build My Future Lee County event.

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

Bucking retail trends to invest in brick and mortar projects

Retail trends continue to show continued expansion of e-commerce shopping into 2026 and beyond. That’s certainly no surprise. Online shopping has a lot to offer: vast product selection, 24/7 access and fast shipping.

But there’s one thing faceless, onlineonly organizations still can’t offer – trusted advice from a neighbor who cares.

At Sunshine Ace Hardware, we believe great service isn’t something that ships in a box. It’s built through relationships, expert knowledge and a friendly smile that helps customers feel confident tackling any project. That’s why we continue to invest millions in new stores across Southwest Florida, where our team members bring expertise and care to every interaction.

We recently opened locations at Naples’ Founders Square in 2023 and Ave Maria in 2024, with three more in 2025 at Babcock Ranch, Naples’ Winchester Center and The Marketplace at Pelican Bay.

Our Naples-based company now operates 16 hardware stores, two commercial paint stores and two gift shops, making us one of Florida’s largest family-owned home improvement retailers and among Ace Hardware’s top franchisees in America.

What makes Sunshine Ace different is that we offer every convenience of modern shopping without losing the personal touch. Customers can easily browse or order online at AceHardware. com or through the Ace mobile app –

BY MICHAEL WYNN Guest Columnist

perfect for those moments when time is short. Prefer curbside pickup? We’ll bring it right to your car. Need it delivered? We’ll drop it at your doorstep. And for projects you just can’t fit into your schedule, our Ace Handyman Services can come to your home and get it done professionally.

Shopping at Sunshine Ace means never having to choose between convenience and connection. True convenience is about more than speed. It’s about getting everything right the first time. Our knowledgeable associates take the time to walk you through a project checklist, ensuring you leave with everything you need for that painting project, kitchen upgrade or new flower garden –no second trip is required.

Whether you’re clicking online or visiting our stores in person, you’ll experience the kind of personalized service, helpful advice and community commitment that anonymous online retailers simply can’t match.

At Sunshine Ace, we’re not just selling products. We’re helping neighbors build, fix and create with confidence.

Michael Wynn, a Naples native, is president of Sunshine Ace Hardware.

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

Cape Coral’s economic momentum builds toward strong growth in 2026

As 2025 comes to a close, Cape Coral continues to see strong economic momentum built on a clear strategy: support existing businesses, attract quality investment and position our city for long-term, sustainable growth.

This year, the city’s Business Attraction and Expansion Program delivered measurable wins. A key milestone was the successful recruitment of Floor & Décor, which is constructing a 65,000-square-foot store on newly annexed commercial land. This investment expands our commercial footprint, brings new jobs, and strengthens the city’s retail landscape.

Our incentive programs continue to catalyze major redevelopment projects. The Slipaway Food Truck Park & Marina broke ground on a $19.4-million waterfront destination, while Bimini Square—a $100-million mixed-use project— nears completion with new apartments, retail and a marina that will redefine the South Cape waterfront.

Our business retention efforts engaged more than 130 local businesses through targeted roundtable discussions throughout the year. Combined with one-on-one outreach, the Economic and Business Development Office directly connected with more than 500 businesses across key industry sectors. These conversations have deepened part-

BY SHARON WOODBERRY

Guest Columnist

nerships, identified growth opportunities and helped inform city policy and permitting practices. Growth in Business Tax Receipts continues to reflect a steady expansion of our business base and strong entrepreneurial confidence.

Looking ahead to 2026, we will continue to prioritize the recruitment of companies in healthcare as well as other target industries that support quality job opportunities and economic diversification. Infrastructure investments and utility expansion will align with emerging growth corridors, while enhanced branding and site selector engagement will further elevate Cape Coral’s profile on the national stage.

Every groundbreaking tells a story of shared investment in our city’s future. We look forward to building on this momentum in the year ahead.

Sharon Woodberry has been the Economic and Business Development Manager for Cape Coral since 2022. Contact her at swoodberry@ capecoral.gov.

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

For the times, they are a-changin’

“Come gather people wherever you roam, and admit that the waters around you have grown, and accept it that soon you’ll be drenched to the bone, if your time to you is worth saving, and you better start swimmin’ or you’ll sink like a stone, for the times they are a changin’.” — Bob Dylan, 1964

Time is a constant drumbeat that never really changes. Yet, as human beings, we feel time slows down, time speeds up and time almost stops.

Often, investors wish we could just pick one of those false feeling attributes of time and use it to our advantage. The next best thing would be studying time. This is really what we do when we get historical data to see how pricing and investments have changed from time to time. Specifically, I would like to look back at 2025 and forward to 2026 concerning real estate performance in Charlotte Country.

Some markets perform better than other markets. Time is the only way we can know which market did what. It is true that 2025 was a slow year for appreciation of property values in Charlotte County. Still, because this is a burgeoning new market, there is plenty of room to make great profit. Charlotte County has come into its own in the last few years. The major franchises have found this fast-growing, lower populated gem. So, a slow year for appreciation does not mean “no appreciation”.

Unlike Lee County, the rural flavor still exists in Charlotte County with small areas where growth has exploded. We can point to south Punta Gorda, Babcock Ranch and the Charlotte County Airport area, as well as Port Charlotte, Englewood and Southern North Port.

Time is going to speed up for 2026. All indications from my 50 years of real estate investing and brokerage tell me that we had better put our running shoes on next year. The slow telephone for 2025 has begun to work

BY RANDY KRISE Guest Columnist

overtime as people are calling and asking about properties for sale and lease. The slight reduction in the prime rate has spurned enthusiasm as sideline money begins to get into the game.

In 2008, the telephone stopped ringing, and it was five years before it rang again. But once it started ringing, it was hard to keep up. The properties that had been devalued by the recession were now on the market. Some properties sold thee and four times in the next five years as each buyer made good money. This is what is happening and will accelerate in Charlotte County. Property values are well below Lee County comparable properties as well as Collier County properties.

Guess what? Charlotte is just getting started while the other two counties are looking for remainder properties instead of prime U.S. 41 and Interstate-75 frontage. U.S. 41, Jones Loop Boulevard, Taylor Road, South McCall Boulevard, Duncan Road, Piper Boulevard, Harbor View Road and many others have so much room. One key to making money is getting in early. Fifteen years ago, you could buy land with good visibility on Alico Road in South Fort Myers for $25,000 an acre. Now find one under $750,000 an acre. I don’t think you can do it.

Charlotte is here, and now in 2026, this may be your last chance to get affordable commercial land as the boom has begun.

Randy Krise, CCIM is the Broker/Owner of Krise Commercial Group in Fort Myers and can be reached at (239) 633-8672 or Randy@krisecg.com.

Stevens begins Captiva Island Inn

Stevens Construction has started construction of Captiva Island Inn on Andy Rosse Lane, announced Dan Adams, executive vice president and partner at Stevens Construction. Construction kicked off with a groundbreaking ceremony on Oct. 15.

Captiva Island Inn is the first ground-up Captiva accommodation to begin construction after Ian. Following substantial damage from Hurricane Ian in 2022, the former Captiva Island Inn was demolished.

Stevens Construction is simultaneously building two elevated structures to total 8,454 square feet. Slated for completion in fall 2026, each building will feature five units with a private entry, great room, master bedroom, kitchenette, bathroom and front porch. Guest parking will be provided beneath the buildings.

Designed to endure Florida’s coastal climate, the new Captiva Island Inn will be secured with 208 concrete pilings, offering long-term strength and protection.

Stevens Construction provided 21 months of pre-construction working with the client and architect, identifying $2 million in costsavings suggestions while the project was being designed.

The Stevens Construction team includes Director of Preconstruction Nick Burkel, Project Manager Dawson DeGroot, Superintendent Zach Brown and Project Administrator Morgan Thie. MHK Architecture is the architect of record and Quattrone & Associates is the civil engineer.

Corporate Investment Business Brokers expands portfolio with acquisition of CRE Consultants

Corporate Investment Business Brokers, a Southwest Florida firm specializing in the sale and acquisition of businesses, announced the acquisition of CRE Consultants, a premier provider of commercial real estate and property management services.

The strategic move brings together two established market leaders under one corporate umbrella, expanding the range of integrated solutions available to business owners, investors and entrepreneurs throughout the region.

Under the agreement, both CIBB and CRE Consultants will retain their respective names, teams and brand identities, but will operate within the CIBB corporate family.

This structure preserves each company’s individual strengths while creating opportunities for collaboration that directly benefit their clients.

For CIBB, the acquisition adds a full suite of commercial real estate services, including sales, leasing and property management. This expansion allows CIBB to offer a complete “business and property” solution, ensuring clients have a single, trusted partner for both business transactions and the real estate components that often accompany them.

For CRE Consultants, joining forces with CIBB opens access to a vast network of business-owner clients and investors, many of whom require commercial space as part of their business acquisitions. This relationship creates a steady pipeline of potential real estate opportunities while strengthening CRE Consultants’ market reach and resources.

“By combining our complementary expertise, we’re creating a streamlined experience for clients who often need both business and property solutions, it’s a win-win for both organizations and, most importantly, for the people we serve”, said Dan Smith, President of CIBB.

Protecting what matters most in a digital real estate world

Windward Construction relocates, creates inspiration hub for custom homes

Medical Practices, Medical Research, Diagnostic and Imaging Centers, Outpatient & Wellness Centers

• Two Class A Buildings totaling 126,000 square feet

• Build-to-Suit opportunities

• Electric, Water & A/C included in CAM

• Fiber Optic available

• Electric Charging Stations

• NE Corner of Diplomat Parkway and NE 24th Avenue

• Near the Army Reserve Center and Hope Hospice

• PHASE 1 includes medical office space, a 125-room Wyndham Trademark hotel, 304 apartment units, 112 townhomes and retail space.

Victory Park is a visionary ±260-acre, master-planned community in northeast Cape Coral, Florida, adjacent to the VA Healthcare Center. At the heart of Victory Park is its focus on creating opportunities and resources for Veterans and the broader community.

The campus will feature advanced medical services, high-quality employment opportunities, a variety of housing options, demand-driven educational facilities, essential retail spaces, and specialized Veteran services.

October was Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which serves as a timely reminder that in today’s real estate industry, protecting your assets goes far beyond bricks and mortar. From smart building systems and online transactions to tenant data and ﬁnancial communications, technology is now at the heart of how commercial properties operate and how deals get done.

For property owners, investors and tenants, cybersecurity is now a key part of asset management. Each connected device, digital payment and shared document presents both convenience and risk. A single phishing attempt or system breach can cause signiﬁcant ﬁnancial loss and reputational damage. That is why proactive planning, secure communication protocols and regular training are essential parts of operating a modern portfolio.

At Cushman & Wakeﬁeld Commercial Property Southwest Florida, our commitment to security is not just policy, it is practice. We integrate cybersecurity awareness and protective measures into every level of our oper-

BY GARY TASMAN Guest Columnist

ations, leveraging the global expertise of Cushman & Wakeﬁeld’s cybersecurity initiatives to safeguard client data and strengthen portfolio resilience. This proactive approach is one of the ways we set ourselves apart, giving our clients conﬁdence their investments — and their information — are protected with the highest standards of care. Technology will continue to reshape how we do business, and staying informed and secure is one of the smartest investments you can make.

Gary Tasman is the founder of Cushman & Wakeﬁeld Commercial Property Southwest Florida and serves as its CEO and Principal Broker. Contact gtasman@cpswﬂ.com or (239) 4893600.

California Closets opens new showroom in Punta Gorda

California Closets of Southwest Florida is expanding its presence with a new showroom now open in Punta Gorda. The showroom, on East Marion Avenue, serves as the company’s fourth location in the region, joining its established locations in Fort Myers and Naples.

The Punta Gorda showroom showcases the company’s wide range of high-quality organizational systems, ﬁnishes and accessories, providing customers a hands-on opportunity to explore custom design solutions for every room in the home. The new location also makes it more convenient for Charlotte County residents to schedule design consultations and connect with local experts.

“Charlotte County has been an important part of our business for years, and opening a dedicated showroom in Punta Gorda is the next step in ensur-

ing our customers have direct access to the inspiration and expertise they deserve,” said Heather Woods, partner and vice president of sales and marketing for California Closets of Southwest Florida.

“This showroom will allow us to bring our full line of innovative storage solutions even closer to home, making it easier for families to envision and create spaces that truly work for their lifestyle.”

California Closets is nationally recognized for setting the standard in premium, tailor-made organizational systems. Locally, the Southwest Florida team has been honored with multiple industry awards, most recently including recognition from the Collier Building Industry Association’s 2025 Sand Dollar Awards for excellence in showroom design and custom organizational systems.

Windward Construction, an award-winning Southwest Florida-based luxury homebuilding company, has relocated its company headquarters to a new location designed to inspire collaboration and bring a homebuyer’s vision to life.

Located at Cape Coral Parkway East in Cape Coral, the new corporate office serves as a creative space to welcome current clients, prospective homebuyers and project partners for a more seamless approach to Windward’s award-winning custombuild experience. Windward Construction’s team previously operated out of separate locations before relocating and creating an environment that better suits Windward’s collaborative approach to custom homebuilding. The new office space consolidates all operations under the same roof for the first time, making it possible for all Windward team members to work in a synergetic and collaborative environment.

“Building someone’s dream home is not just a process, it’s a very personal, tailored experience that brings everyone together, our imaginative designand-build team, our trusted project partners and our valued clients to create a home that is unique to the desires and lifestyle of the homeowner,” said Brian Haag, founder and CEO of Windward Construction. “Our new space is an inspiration hub where vision takes shape as we come together to share ideas, review designs, meet with cabinet designers, ﬂooring specialists and other skilled professionals. To quote our tagline, I’d like to think of our new location as a place where ‘the intersection of building and imagination’ happens.”

The new ofﬁce is in the original Big John’s Plaza in the heart of Cape Coral, where the Big John statue is expected to return in December 2025. Min-

utes away from the Cape Coral Bridge, the ofﬁce’s new location provides quick, direct access to clients and projects in neighboring Fort Myers, Sanibel and Captiva.

Windward executed the buildout, enhancements and features of the new location, which formerly was home to Liberty Bank and the Cape Coral Rotary Club. The space is just over 4,000 square feet, which includes 2,690 square feet of expanded space, and features smooth drywall, custom blinds, zebra shades, a custom conference room table and a 90inch television for client meetings. Through its design and amenities, the ofﬁce space showcases aspects that Windward implements into the design of its homes.

Windward Construction designs and builds custom homes in the $1.5 million to multimillion dollar range. From concept to completion, Windward’s

team of home design professionals provides homeowners with an exceptional experience resulting in a home that prioritizes comfort and an enhanced lifestyle. The company’s award-winning ﬂoor plans result from decades of combined building and design experience, carefully crafted to enhance and enrich Florida living.

Haag’s building career began in 1996, and over the past 30 years he has cultivated a deep understanding of Southwest Florida’s coastal landscape, architectural styles and construction demands. In 2012, he launched Windward Construction with a clear vision: to create a luxury custom homebuilding experience rooted in passion, creativity and a customer-centric mindset. Today, Windward stands as a testament to his commitment to thoughtful design, transparent collaboration and building homes that reﬂect each client’s unique lifestyle.

In commercial construction, unpredictable costs can turn even the most well-planned project into a headache. Changes in labor rates, material pricing, and design scope often make early estimates unreliable. For instance, what started as a carefully allocated 13% of a budget for finishes can shrink to 7% by the time the design is nearly complete, forcing compromises and delays.

Chris-Tel Construction, a Floridabased construction management and design-build firm, has been tackling this challenge since 1989. With decades of experience delivering successful projects across the state, Chris-Tel Construction has built a reputation for craftsmanship, reliability, and financial accountability.

One of the firm’s innovative solutions to budget unpredictability is CostLock™, a preconstruction guarantee program designed to give project owners confidence and control over costs.

By shifting the focus from guesswork to informed decision-making, CostLock™ benefits developers and project managers, enabling them to plan with clarity, reduce risks, and streamline approvals, while maintaining the design quality they envisioned. Embedding transparency, communication, and collaboration in every phase, this approach minimizes surprises, redesigns, and cost overruns, ensuring a smooth transition from preconstruction to construction. With a long-standing history of some of the most iconic projects in Florida, Chris-Tel Construction demonstrates that managing construction risk does not need to be complicated or stressful. CostLock™ offers a clear, reliable path for project owners to protect budgets, uphold design intent, and move forward with confidence.

This solution positions Chris-Tel Construction as a vested financial partner in each project. With no upfront out-of-pocket costs, CostLock™ helps maximize return on investment and provides assurance to lenders and underwriters, giving project owners peace of mind that their project will stay on track financially.

Chris-Tel Construction guarantees construction estimates with CostLock™. Reach out to us today at 239-226-0500 or info@christelconstruction.com to lock in your estimate.

Windward Construction’s new ofﬁce is in the original Big John’s Plaza in the heart of Cape Coral.

SWFL CRE, CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT

Avra topping-off marks a milestone for Metropolitan Naples

Metropolitan Naples held its topping off ceremony for Avra, marking a major milestone in the construction of the luxury high-rise community located in downtown Naples.

The topping-off ceremony signifies the completion of the tower’s structural framework, bringing Avra one step closer to welcoming residents in Fall 2026. Team members, partners and community leaders gathered to commemorate the achievement and recognize the collaboration that has driven the project’s success.

“Avra represents the best of urban living in Naples,” said Ed Gonzalez, director of sales at Metropolitan Naples. “Reaching this stage is a testament to the dedication of our entire team and the excitement surrounding this development.”

Upon completion, Avra will feature 56 luxury residences spread across the tower’s 15 floors. Homes range from 1,890 to more than 6,300 square feet, with prices starting at $2 million and

When complete, Avra will stand as a deﬁning centerpiece of Metropolitan Naples, a mixed-use community that combines luxury residences, boutique retail and ﬁne dining in a vibrant, walkable setting.

select penthouses exceeding $7 million. Each residence has been thoughtfully designed to showcase expansive open floor plans, floor-to-ceiling glass and private terraces with built-in barbeque grills.

Homeowners also have two secured

parking spaces located high and dry on floors two, three and four, well above FEMA flood guidelines.

Avra will also feature an extensive collection of resort-style amenities designed to elevate everyday living. Resi-

Old Vines announces opening of new Supper Club

Old Vines is expanding its celebrated dining experience with the opening of a new location for The Supper Club at the Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt. The new space will be significantly larger than its original Davis Boulevard restaurant, but it will continue to offer a polished yet playful “dinner lounge” atmosphere — reminiscent of classic supper clubs from the 1930s and 1940s.

“We are delighted to announce that we have found the perfect location to relocate and expand The Supper Club from its home on Davis Boulevard to the Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt,” said Zach Bingham, wine director for Old Vines. “An expanded kitchen and dining space — including outdoor seating — offers us the chance to build upon the last three incredible years and create new memories with old friends, as well as engage new acquaintances with familial hospitality.”

The new 2,200-square-foot location features a modern take on vintage elegance with crushed red velvet walls and drapes, high ceilings and bronze accents balanced by casual lounge seating and a black Dekton stone bar. The new space will allow the restaurant to expand its beverage program with a full liquor license, introducing craft cocktails alongside its renowned wine and beer selections from around the world.

Under the direction of Chef de Cuisine Sophia

Kiasi and Chef-Partner Brooke Kravetz, The Supper Club will continue to present contemporary fine dining through multi-course tasting menus and themed events.

The space reflects the restaurant’s ethos of warmth and connection. While the new location will serve as the primary dining destination, the original Davis Boulevard Supper Club will remain open for private events and exclusive gatherings.

A Grand Opening celebration occurred in midNovember.

While membership is not required to dine at The Supper Club, Wine Locker Members at Old Vines’ sister location in Mercato will receive priority reservations.

dents will enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center and rooftop pool deck on the tower’s 16th floor, providing panoramic views of the Gulf and Downtown Naples. Additional amenities on the fifth floor will include an elegantly appointed residents lounge, social and entertaining spaces, a putting green, fire pit and hot tub. Residents also have access to a business center and luxury guest suite for visiting friends and family.

“Every detail at Avra has been thoughtfully planned to reflect the lifestyle our residents expect at Metropolitan Naples,” Gonzalez said. “From the sophisticated architecture and luxury finishes to the engaging amenities and walkable location, Avra brings together the best elements of luxury living in one exceptional address.”

When complete, Avra will stand as a defining centerpiece of Metropolitan Naples, a mixed-use community that combines luxury residences, boutique retail and fine dining in a vibrant, walkable setting.

Hoffmann under contract to acquire retail property on Fifth Avenue South

Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate, the real estate arm of Hoffmann Family of Companies, has expanded its footprint on Naples’ iconic Fifth Avenue South—one of Florida’s most dynamic and sought-after retail destinations—with a contract to acquire a new property.

Spanning from 465 Fifth Avenue to 494 Fifth Street, the newly acquired property includes five fully leased retail units. HCRE purchased the asset from longtime Naples hotelier Phil McCabe. This marks the final property McCabe owned on Fifth Avenue, following the recent sale of his townhome—located in the same building as the retail units—just four weeks ago. McCabe originally developed the building more than seven years ago.

“This is a meaningful milestone in my thirtyyear journey on Fifth Avenue,” said McCabe. “After building, owning, and operating the Inn on Fifth for decades, and calling Fifth Ave. home for so long, I’m proud to pass this property on to HCRE. They’ve proven to be exceptional stewards of every property they’ve acquired, and I’m confident they’ll continue to elevate the future of Fifth Ave. through their thoughtful art contributions and firstclass management.”

Old Vines is expanding The Supper Club at the Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt.

BUSINESS GIANTS OF A DIFFERENT KIND, PAST AND PRESENT — A TRIBUTE

Avow remembers founder Glenna Hayhoe, visionary in Hospice Care

Avow announced with deep sadness the passing of Glenna Hayhoe, founder of Hospice of Naples, known today as Avow Hospice, at the age of 94. Hayhoe passed peacefully under the care of the Avow Hospice team, surrounded by the love of her family and the organization she helped build from the ground up.

In 1983, Hayhoe and her late husband, Bruce, established Hospice of Naples, introducing hospice care to Collier County at a time when the concept was new and not widely understood. Starting with a dream and no funding, she gathered volunteers, raised community support and ensured that every person at the end of life would be treated with dignity, compassion and respect.

“Glenna not only started Collier County’s only nonprofi t hospice 42 years ago with a dream and

Hayhoe

no funding, but she also continued to volunteer regularly,” said Jaysen Roa, president and CEO of Avow. “She epitomized the heart of hospice and inspired our staff and volunteers every day. Her vision created a culture of compassion that still defi nes Avow today.”

Glenna’s lifelong commitment to caregiving extended well beyond her founding years. Over the decades, she was recognized with numerous honors, including Collier County Woman of the Year in 1984, Woman of Initiative by the Women’s Foundation of Collier County in 2022, and designation as one of Naples’ Five Pioneers for

New Avalon CEO to continue legacy built by its founder

Avalon Engineering is proud to announce an exciting new chapter in our history as we celebrate our 45th anniversary. Brendan Sloan has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Tom Giles, who founded the company in 1980.

Giles’ vision helped shape more than 4,500 projects across Southwest Florida, including notable Cape Coral landmarks such as Cape Coral Hospital, Tarpon Point and Cape Harbour. His legacy extends beyond engineering, as he’s been a dedicated community leader and champion for Southwest Florida.

“Tom built an incredible foundation here, and we’re excited to start the next chapter with the same spirit of growth, energy and ambition that has defined Lee County for decades,” Sloan said. “This region has a bright future ahead, and I’m proud to lead a team that will play a powerful role in building it.”

Sloan brings deep local roots, technical expertise and a clear vision for the future of Avalon Engineering. As a longtime member of the Avalon team, he oversees major initiatives, such as the Cape Coral Grove Town Center, Bimini Basin and Seven Islands projects. Brendan’s commitment to innovation, collaboration and community will guide the company into its next phase of growth.

As the company moves forward, its mission remains unchanged, approach each engineering and planning project with excellence, honesty and commitment. Avalon leaders are excited for what’s ahead while growing and serving Southwest Florida.

Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida announces leadership transition

After serving as the CEO and President of Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida for 10 years, Angela Fisher is concluding her tenure with the purpose-driven organization.

Her leadership has led to immense growth and paved the way for the continued advancement of impactful programming that will offer students in Southwest Florida more opportunities to succeed.

“Angela has been an extraordinary leader for Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida,” said Jason Brewer, chair of the Board.

“Her focus and dedication to the students in our community have left a lasting mark on this organization. We are thankful for her decade of service and the strong foundation she has created for our next chapter.”

Fisher’s commitment to delivering high-impact programs in financial literacy, career readiness and entrepreneurship has empowered countless students across Southwest Florida.

During her tenure, Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida has reached more than 20,000

students annually and launched innovative programming that continues to serve students well beyond their primary school years.

“Together—with our extraordinary Board, dedicated staff, inspiring Laureates, and generous community partners—we’ve grown JA’s impact in ways I could only have imagined when I first joined 10 years ago,” Fisher said. “From launching JA Inspire for every 8th grader in Collier, Lee and Charlotte counties, to launching the JA Pre-Apprenticeship program, to achieving record-breaking growth in student engagement and contact hours, these milestones remind me of what can be accomplished when a community comes together to invest in its young people.”

The Board of Directors has initiated a process to search for Fisher’s successor.

her contributions to the betterment of the Southwest Florida community.

Even into her 90s, Glenna remained a volunteer—continuing to serve Avow up until six months before her passing.

She is survived by her children Bruce Hayhoe Jr., Elizabeth Mc Nichols, Jane Hodgin and Julie Johnson.

A date has not been determined for a memorial or funeral service at this time. Details will follow when the family has made those determinations.

At the request of the family, you are invited to celebrate Glenna’s life and lasting impact by making a gift to Avow — the organization to which she dedicated herself.

Your contribution helps carry forward the care and compassion she inspired.

B&I Contractors announces the retirement of Gary Grifﬁn, chairman of the board

B&I Contractors proudly announced the retirement of Chairman of the Board, Gary Griffin, effective as of Oct. 31. After more than three decades of dedicated service and transformative leadership, Griffin leaves behind an enduring legacy that has shaped the company and the industry.

Griffin’s influence has been felt in every corner of the organization. From his earliest days with B&I to his tenure as chairman, he guided the company through significant growth and change while never losing sight of its core values.

His leadership cultivated a culture of quality, integrity, teamwork and safety that continues to define the company today.

As Griffin prepares for this next chapter, the company honors not only the milestones of his career but also the values and culture he leaves behind. His vision and dedication will continue to shape B&I Contractors.

“Beyond the titles, Gary has been a mentor to many, a steady voice in uncertain times, and a tireless advocate for our employees, partners, and community. He leaves behind not just a legacy of business accomplishments, but a workplace culture shaped by values that will continue to define us for years to come.” said Jason Grabowski, CEO.

Established in 1960, B&I offices are located in Fort Myers, Tamarac, Sarasota and Tampa. The employee-owned company specializes in providing mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems for clients in commercial, institutional and industrial industries throughout Florida and beyond.

The company is a leader in providing reliable, energy efficient and sustainable solutions for building owners and contractors and has won many awards including Excellence in Construction, Top Specialty Contractor and Best Contractor to Work For.

Giles

Fisher

Grifﬁn

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

Lee County’s evolving landscape of growth and innovation

Lee County continues to stand out as one of Florida’s most dynamic markets for construction, real estate and economic development. As the population edges closer to one million residents, growth across residential, commercial and industrial sectors remains a defining force in shaping the region’s future. Strategic planning by the Lee Board of County Commissioners and collaboration among public and private partners have strengthened infrastructure, expanded workforce opportunities and supported a more resilient economy.

Ongoing investments in transportation and infrastructure are helping to support Lee County’s growth. Lee County Department of Transportation is expanding Three Oaks Parkway to connect Alico Road and Daniels Parkway, opening a new north-south corridor to relieve congestion on Daniels Parkway. This project will work with roadway improvements on Daniels Parkway to include additional lanes and a new diverging diamond at Interstate-75.

Residential construction continues to be a key driver of economic activity, supported by steady population growth. Master-planned communities, multifamily projects and mixed-use developments are being built to accommodate growing demand while

GRANTS PAGE 1

least four households that include people with special needs.

• Rebuilding Together Greater Florida: $130,000 for new construction for two low-income households. $1,043,000 for owner-occupied housing rehabilitation for 17 households, including seven households with seven very low income, 10 households with low income and at least five households that include individuals with special needs.

• Lee County Housing Development Corporation: $1,000,000 for down payment assistance for 12 households, including six households with very low income, six households with low income and at least five households that include people with special needs.

• SalusCare: $434,302 for rental housing rehabilitation at 3660 Evans Ave. for 10 households with very low income with people with special needs. $70,000 for rental housing rehabilitation at on Evans Avenue for 10 households with very low income with people with special needs.

• St. Mark Coptic Church: $595,000 for rental new construction for seven very low-income individuals with developmental disabilities.

Lee County has received funds since 1999 from the SHIP program for the provision of affordable housing. The SHIP program is funded by revenues collected by the state from a surcharge on documentary stamps and distributed to counties and local governments as grants. Distributions are made on a population-based formula through the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, a state agency created to assist in providing a range of affordable housing opportunities.

BY JOHN TALMAGE Guest Columnist

incorporating sustainable design. Beyond the housing market, Lee County is also successfully diversifying its commercial real estate. Companies such as Dona Jo, ADDMAN Engineering and Pravada Private Label are setting the pace along the Alico Road corridor. This area accounts for over 70% of all commercial investment occurring in Lee County over the past two years. These developments have the potential to increase density and create a new centralized job node, promoting a more efficient use of land and transportation infrastructure. The State Road 82 corridor is also attracting new retail development to service both southeast Lee County and Lehigh Acres with companies such as Amazon, Gateway Marketplace and Blackstone Corporate Park.

Significant growth in the medical and technology sectors is taking place in Lee County, with new healthcare facilities, biotech investments and innovation hubs to support advanced research and high-tech

job creation. Due to this increase in specialized demand, Lee County is expanding its college education infrastructure with new programs and facilities to accommodate new job growth in these fields. Florida SouthWestern State College opened its new School of Business & Technology earlier this year, featuring the Rist Cyber Institute and Frank G. Daveler Entrepreneurship Institute, and Florida Gulf Coast University has plans to expand to Babcock Ranch with a 125,000-square-foot academic building focused on sustainability and resilient community planning. Lee County’s construction and development continue to demonstrate sustainable growth through industrial innovation and redevelopment. With continued population growth, a resilient workforce and a strong foundation of public-private collaboration, the county is positioned for sustained economic growth for years to come.

John Talmage, Lee County Economic Development Office Director, has more than 20 years’ experience in City government and Economic Development. Nationally recognized as a leader in innovative practices, he has served on many national boards and committees. Contact him at (239) 533-6800 or jtalmage@leegov.com.

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

Building a beauty brand as a content creator

Have you ever noticed that the people who seem to achieve overnight success are usually those who’ve been quietly perfecting their craft for years?

Recently, a college friend asked me what inspired me to become a content creator. That question made me reflect and I realized I’ve been creating long before I ever called it a business.

I started my blog seven years ago, sharing my thoughts, creativity and personal growth along the way. But this year marked a major turning point: the official launch of my influencer collective, The SWFL Beauties. While it feels like a new beginning, it’s really the culmination of everything I’ve learned over the years.

My journey began long before entrepreneurship was even on my radar. In high school, I was part of the International Baccalaureate Program, where I curated an 18-piece photography exhibition, a project that first sparked my love for visual storytelling. In college, I served as Historian of the Caribbean Student Association and Vice President of F.E.M.A.L.E.S., gaining leadership and organi-

KOTTKAMP PAGE 1

In an interview with Southwest Florida Business Today, Kottkamp noted his long history of fighting excessive spending. When he was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in Cape Coral in 2000, he eschewed appointments to appropriations committees and joined the hawkish Taxpayer Protection Caucus. There, he started working closely on issues with TaxWatch.

“I love this organization, and it was like love at first sight,” he said.

While other lawmakers winced at TaxWatch throwing local projects on its annual Budget Turkey list, Kottkamp marveled at the group’s independence and an agenda focused on efficiency instead of earmarks.

“It truly is the only government watchdog purely looking out for the taxpayers and nothing else,” he said. “There’s no self-interest, and I love that.”

TaxWatch has been led by Calabro for the past 45 years, but he made clear intentions to retire and for the organization to put a transition plan in place for a new

BY CLAUDIE PIERRE Guest Columnist

zational experience I didn’t realize would one day guide me as a business owner.

Now, as I step into my first official year as an entrepreneur, I see how every past experience has prepared me for what’s next. I’m planning events for next year, designing merchandise and exploring new ways to secure funding for The SWFL Beauties. There are moments when I question whether I’m doing it “right,” but then I remember, every creative journey is built on years of persistence, growth and faith.

Looking back reminds me that I’ve been preparing for this all along. Looking forward, I know the best is yet to come.

Claudie Pierre is the founder of The SWFL Beauties. Contact definingmyessence@gmail.com.

executive. The board for the organization elected Kottkamp to that role this summer.

Unlike his predecessor, he will come on board at a time when most in Tallahassee know TaxWatch’s reputation. But he’d like the fiscal watchdog’s reputation to resonate just as loudly in city halls across the state.

“We’ve been approached by people in Tampa, Orlando and Miami that all want us to look at their local government budgets,” Kottkamp said. He’d like to see TaxWatch bring more local chapters online with a focus on streamlining government at all levels.

And despite his political background, Kottkamp said the organization will remain, as it has always been, one without a partisan bent.

“We actually have a policy that prohibits us from donating to campaigns. Obviously, it’s really important for credibility that you remain nonpartisan,” he said. “Now, when we talk about looking out for the taxpayers in a sufficient government that tends to be centerright by nature, right? But we will remain nonpartisan. I think that’s for credibility. You’ve got to be. If somebody in government is doing something wrong, regardless of party, we’re going to say something about it.”

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

Conservation’s legacy and future at Ding Darling

By Angeli Chin Guest Columnist

As America approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment, one that invites reflection on our environmental heritage and recommitment to the conservation ideals that shaped our nation. Few places embody this duality of legacy and vision more vividly than the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island, and its steadfast partner, the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society.

A Birthday Worth Remembering

Oct. 21, 2026, marked the 150th birthday of Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling (1876–1962), the Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist turned conservation crusader. His visionary leadership helped establish the National Wildlife Federation, design the first Federal Duck Stamp and expand the National Wildlife Refuge System. Darling’s humor and artistry galvanized public support for wildlife protection during the Dust Bowl era, when conservation was not yet a household word. In 1945, the Refuge on Sanibel Island became the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, protecting one of the nation’s largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystems. Today, it spans 8,000 acres and serves as a preserve for migratory birds, manatees, river otters and endangered sea turtles. It also plays a crucial role in educating and inspiring millions of visitors, motivating them to take an active role in preserving our natural world.

Looking Back: A Legacy of Action

The Refuge’s story is inextricably linked to the grassroots movement that gave rise to DDWS in 1982. What began as a volunteer response to an overwhelming influx of curious visitors has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit supporting conservation, education and outreach. From building the award-winning Visitor & Education Center to launching the Wildlife on Wheels (WoW) mobile classroom, DDWS has extended the Refuge’s reach far beyond its borders.

This legacy is not just about protecting land; it’s about connecting people to nature. It’s about empowering youth through Ranger Toni’s Nature Nook, inspiring stewardship and celebrating resilience through pollinator gardens and community events.

Looking Ahead: Conservation in the Next 250 Years

As the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service prepares to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, it calls on all of us to reflect on our shared environmental journey, from Indigenous stewardship to modern restoration efforts. The Refuge and DDWS are answering that call with bold, inclusive programming that blends science, storytelling and humor. Upcoming initiatives include legacy-driven campaigns spotlighting the revitalization of natural resources through pollinator gardens, expanded educational outreach on ecosystem interconnections, and immersive experiences through lecture series and events. These efforts honor Darling’s belief that conservation must be both practical and poetic, a sentiment that resonates deeply in today’s challenged world.

The Past Shapes the Future

Darling once said, “The job which I have is to save what we have, to make a plan to put it back.” His words remind us that conservation is a response to crisis, but also a celebration of hope. As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, the Refuge and DDWS remain committed to preserving wild spaces, nurturing future conservation stewards and ensuring that Darling’s legacy continues to inspire.

In Southwest Florida, where nature and community are inextricably linked, we invite you to be part of this unfolding story. Whether through advocacy, education or simply taking a walk along the Indigo Trail, your presence makes a difference. Together, we honor the past and shape the future.

Angeli Chin is Events, Marketing & Grants Manager for the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society. Contact angeli@dingdarlingsociety.org or (239) 286-5500.

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

By Lynn Rasys Guest Columnist

The Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation is a nonprofit organization that serves our local community by providing help and support with essential living expenses to patients while they undergo treatment for cancer. These patients receive financial assistance to help cover non-medical expenses, such as rent, mortgage payments, utility bills and car payments. This is valuable help in one of the most challenging experiences a person and their family will face.

FCSF was established in January 2011 and has awarded millions of dollars in financial support. In 2026, we will celebrate our 15th Anniversary. For us, this milestone means both a reflection of our successes and renewed focus on our mission. There are more than 150,000 new patients diagnosed with cancer each year in Florida, and we are committed to helping as many of these patients as possible.

That is why for our 15th Anniversary, we are setting the goal of raising $15 million. Achieving this goal will more than double the number of cancer patients we can serve for even more impact here in our local community.

This means more patients like Jessica Menendez, who shares, “My life stopped when I was diagnosed with cancer. I had just started a new job, so my insurance had not started yet, and I went for six weeks receiving no help with my bills. The Foundation stepped in and paid my rent. As a single mother, I don’t know what I would have done without their assistance.”

And like Chris Bass, who says, “The help the Foundation has given in this horrible time for me has been wonderful. Helped me with bills I had no idea how I would be able to pay. I thank you very much.”

Every patient served by FCSF has a similar story – terrifying cancer diagnosis and unexpected expenses. At the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation, we are proud to offer help to them now and hope for a lifetime.

Lynn Rasys is the executive director of Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation. Contact (941) 677-7184, ext. 25167, or LRasys@FLCancer.com.

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

HM Restaurant Group’s next chapter at Fisherman’s Wharf on Fort Myers Beach

By Emily Ford Guest Columnist

For HM Restaurant Group, 2025 has been a year of honoring history, celebrating milestones and looking ahead with a renewed sense of purpose. From our beginnings on Sanibel to our growing presence on Fort Myers Beach, each restaurant reflects our commitment to great food, genuine hospitality and the character of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

This year also marked the 10-year anniversary of Dixie Fish Company, a Fort Myers Beach favorite known for its fresh Gulf seafood, open-air dining and live music. Its enduring success is a testament to our dedicated team and the loyal community that has supported us through every season.

Adding to the momentum, we opened Bonita Fish Company — a reimagining of the iconic former Bonita Bill’s — at Fisherman’s Wharf. Nearly a century old, the property has been transformed while honoring its legacy, blending rustic charm with coastal sophistication. Bonita Fish Company joins Doc Ford’s and Dixie Fish Company along the same stretch of waterfront, creating a destination where locals and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, live music and relaxed coastal dining.

Next door, Bayside Private Events also opened, offering a

standalone waterfront venue for celebrations, corporate and community gatherings and special occasions. Together, these spaces expand the Fisherman’s Wharf experience and showcase the best of coastal hospitality.

As we look to 2026, a new floating dock marina will open at Fisherman’s Wharf, extending our welcome to boaters and visitors from near and far.

Community support remains one of our guiding values. Through beach cleanups, local fundraisers and our “Ding” Darling Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament — which has raised over $1.5 million for conservation — we’re proud to give back to the places where we live and work.

From Sanibel to Fort Myers Beach, our mission remains the same: to connect people with great food, exceptional hospitality and authentic coastal experiences. We’re grateful to everyone who has joined us on this journey, and we look forward to many more shared meals and memories ahead.

For more information, menus, locations and hours, visit docfords. com, dixiefishfmb.com and bonitafishco.com.

Emily Ford is a public relations and marketing specialist for HM Restaurant Group. Contact (239) 275-5758 or Emily@GSMA.pro.

NCH becomes first U.S. hospital

to

use AI that detects hidden heart attack risk

Naples Comprehensive Health and Caristo Diagnostics announced that NCH Rooney Heart Institute has become the first hospital in the nation to use both CaRi-Plaque and CaRi-Heart, two AI-powered imaging-based technologies that identify signs of heart disease and predict a patient’s risk of heart attack up to 10 years before symptoms appear.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the use of artificial intelligence to prevent cardiovascular disease, shifting the focus from reacting to heart attacks to stopping them before they happen.

Caristo’s FDA-cleared CaRi-Plaque technology analyzes coronary CT angiography scans, the first-line test for patients with chest pain, to identify high-risk plaque that may lead to future heart attacks. CaRi-Heart is the only technology in the world able to detect and quantify coronary inflammation, an early driver of heart disease, without waiting for patients to develop visible plaque.

Current clinical pathways often fail to identify high risk patients by missing inflammatory disease activity and relying on plaque assessment alone. In fact, twice as many fatal and non-fatal cardiac events occur in patients without obstructive plaque on CCTA. A major breakthrough, CaRi-Heart technology, provides a risk score to help doctors and patients understand the likelihood of a cardiac event up to 10 years in advance, even in the absence of visible plaque.

The CaRi-Heart technology is widely used in Europe and currently under

FDA review.

“This NCH-Caristo collaboration represents a new paradigm in cardiovascular medicine,” said Dr. Dee Dee Wang, section head of Cardiac Imaging at NCH Rooney Heart Institute. “Doctors are used to responding to cardiac events after they happen. Caristo has the first clinically validated AI solutions that let us prevent heart attacks a decade before they occur.”

NCH is recognized by Healthgrades as one of America’s Top 50 Hospitals and among the top three in Florida for cardiac care. Under the new collaboration, every NCH Rooney Heart Institute patient who qualifies for plaque analysis will have their CCTA scan analyzed by CaRi-Plaque.

NCH will also deploy CaRi-Heart as part of a research program, giving physicians the ability to incorporate the inflammation-based risk score into treatment and outcomes research.

In addition, NCH is launching a new preventive heart health service for people who elect to proactively manage their health before any cardiac symptoms. This self-pay program allows anyone concerned about their heart health to be enrolled into the NCH-Caristo program.

“Patients will have the best opportunity to avert a heart attack here at NCH,” said Dr. Carl E. Orringer, director of Preventive Cardiology at the NCH Rooney Heart Institute. “This technology is built on world-class science and rigorous clinical research. It allows us to identify and address heart disease before it causes harm.”

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

Parmesan Pete’s marks 15 years serving Italian cuisine in Naples

Parmesan Pete’s Italian Kitchen is celebrating its 15th anniversary in Naples. Since opening in 2010, the restaurant has become a staple in the community, serving Italian dishes rooted in family tradition.

Founded by fourth-generation chef and restaurateur Peter Della Rocca, Parmesan Pete’s has grown from a small takeout kitchen into a dining destination known for traditional Italian cuisine. Della Rocca, who has worked in the restaurant industry for nearly 55 years, credits his wife, daughter and staff for the restaurant’s success.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support and loyalty we have received over the past 15 years,” Della Rocca said. “Our goal has always been to honor the legacy my great-grandmother began in Brooklyn in 1894, serving the finest Italian cuisine while making every guest feel special.”

Parmesan Pete’s also sells its signature marinara sauce and Sunday gravy by the jar.

Made from family recipes, the sauces are available for purchase at the restaurant, with plans to expand distribution to local stores.

Maria and Peter Della Rocca (founder of Parmesan Pete’s Italian Kitchen) along with their daughter Jackie, pictured in their Naples restaurant, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.

DROUGHT PAGE 1 TAXWATCH PAGE

EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administra-

COLLIER PAGE 1

tor of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement.

The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

language in there, for each geographical area, it really depends on how those impact fees are structured. For example, in Manatee County, those impact fees are in their land regulation codes, which directly is affected by what just passed. So now there are lawsuits against Manatee County because of Senate Bill 180. This is the first time I have seen three lawsuits filed with the coordination of our local agencies against counties with impact fees.”

An audience member asked, “We have a lot of projects here going to market advertising affordable housing but by the time they are completed, they are ultra luxury. So housing affordability is still a big challenge for those of us trying to hire young people into our industry down here when they can’t afford to live here. What are we doing specifically in Collier County to address this issue?”

Benson said one of his roles is Vice Chairman of Affordable Housing for the State of Florida, which also handles workforce housing.

“Two years ago I participated in a ribbon-cutting for an affordable complex in Collier County off Santa Barbara. We lent the money to make this project happen. It was the first affordable housing project in

Kottkamp said, “Thank you to Dominic Calabro for his vision, his leadership and his tenacity in ensuring Florida TaxWatch not only had a seat at the table, but led the discussion over the past four decades in defining and influencing policy impacting the state’s nearly 24 million residents. ”

Florida TaxWatch 2025-2026 Executive Officers and Executive Committee Members: President and CEO Calabro (through Jan. 1); President and CEO Kottkamp (beginning Jan. 1); Chair-

Collier County in 20 years,” Benson said.

“Since then, we’ve done more projects. Under the current legislature and administration, we have taken a budget that was continuously swept into the general operating fund so we were never funding housing, even though there was a mechanism in place to pay for it. Now we’re fully funded every year.

“In 2026, I think the budget will be $800 million: the net impact is $3.4 billion. So we’re now running a multi-billion-dollar bank; making affordable housing happen. To ensure this housing stays affordable, we have compliance mechanisms in place, so we pay auditors to audit our portfolio. I think we have 5,000 units coming online in Collier in the next four years and we have compliance officers that make sure qualifications are met. We’ve actually done more in the past few years in the affordable housing arena here than in my entire working lifetime in Collier County.”

Payton then addressed Benarroch. “Last year, as you and I know, was a very contentious session, we had extra sessions, and so forth. How do you feel the mood between the House, the Senate, the Governor, is going to be in the next session?”

Benarroch responded, “I think it’s going to be a little worse this year, unfortunately. It’s very complicated. The least favorite part of my job is the political

man David Casey, senior vice president of Government Relations and Business Development of Maximus; ChairmanElect Samira K. Beckwith, president and CEO of Hope Healthcare Services; Secretary David Nicholson, general counsel of TECO Energy; Treasurer Scott Moss, CEO of Moss; and Immediate Past Chairman Piyush Patel, Chairman, CEO and founder of Kyra Solutions. Florida TaxWatch Chairman David Casey said, “I am thrilled to lead Florida TaxWatch as Chair for the upcoming year and look forward to continuing its respected tradition as the trusted eyes and ears of Florida taxpayers.”

part of it. I enjoy this type of event, being in the community. But there’s a political side to it that sometimes is, it’s not nice.

“Our current Governor really ran the House and the Executive Branch and the Senate. So he ran everything. He would tell people what to do, and they would do it. That’s not how it’s supposed to work. We have separation of powers for a reason. So, the House and Senate do the legislation, and the Governor makes sure that gets done through the agencies. That didn’t happen for six years. He was doing both. So this past year, my first year in office, the House and the Senate decided that we’re an independent branch and we’re going to do what we want to do and go from there.

“I’m going to say at the end of the day, though, this is how our country was founded— with disagreements, with negotiations, with hard conversations. This is not a communist or a socialist country where somebody tells you what to do and you do it. I came here with nothing and now I’m sitting in the Florida House. You can make it here. So take advantage of the disagreements. At the end of the day, that’s how it’s supposed to be, because we’re not a dictatorship at the end of the day. We have to work together.”

Benarroch finished with, “Be proud that you’re here. This is the greatest country in the world.”

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