March 2018 Southwest Florida Business Today

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WHAT’S THE FUTURE OF ENERGY?

Companies to Watch

Businesses and organizations paving the way to the future in Collier and Lee counties.

Commercial Real Estate

A specially focused monthly section exploring the SWFL commercial real estate marketplace.

IN THE NEWS Rick Fioretti named Florida Realtors vice president

Richard “Rick” Fioretti, broker associate with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty in Naples, has been installed as District 5 vice president of Florida Realtors, the state’s largest professional association. He will serve his fellow professionals in District 5, which encompasses Collier, Lee and Hendry counties. Fioretti is a past president and active member of the Naples Area Board of Realtors.

“Inventory is in short supply throughout our district,” said Fioretti, who is active in residential FIORETTI See page 9

Achieva Credit Union acquires Preferred Community Bank

Achieva Credit Union announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Preferred Community Bank, a Lee Countybased, state-chartered bank with $118 million in assets. This purchase will bring Achieva’s total number of branches to 26 and total assets to $1.6 billion.

Established in 2007, Preferred Community Bank has three branches in Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres, and Cape Coral. All three branches will continue to operate as branches of Achieva after the sale is finalized ACHIEVA See page 12

There are three ways to work solar energy usage in to commercial projects: purchase the energy outright, enter in to a site-associated solar energy agreement or enter in to an energy services agreement.

Solar power charges onward Special to SWFBT Karen Moore, Publisher

So here’s how our energy sources have evolved over time. According to Dr. John Woolschlager, director of the Emergent Technologies Institute at FGCU, we have used wood then coal then oil and natural gas, then water then nuclear power (which we began utilizing in the 1970s.) Today, coal use is down because of the cheap availability of natural gas and renewable energy is becoming more affordable, with wind and solar coming onboard. Not much nuclear energy is used anymore.

SOLAR See page 12

Wall Street veterans talk Bitcoin at luncheon

Wall Street veterans Noreen Harrington and Christian Martin spoke about the growth of Bitcoin at the Jan. 26 Speakers Assembly of Southwest Florida luncheon on Jan. 26 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa. The two finance experts took questions from the audience, and also participated in a smaller question-and-answer session with students from South Fort Myers High School.

The Speakers Assembly of Southwest Florida is a 501(c)6 non-profit, non-partisan organization. It strives to foster an informed membership by presenting the world’s best thinkers, leaders with distinguished accomplishments, and speakers with proven ability to enlighten, educate and entertain listeners.

The Speakers Assembly of Southwest Florida offers eight events between November and April in Southwest Florida, and also offers scholarships to area students.

For more information, call (239) 948-7909 or visit Noreen Harrington, Teri Lamaine, Dale Timple and Christian Martin at the Speakers Assembly of Southwest Florida event. www.SpeakersAssembly.com

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MARCH 2018

COMPANIES TO WATCH

Signature Speaking helps clients connect to consumers

BY LINDA BLACKMAN Guest Columnist

Signature Speaking is a company to watch.

Why. Because Signature Speaking is all about making sure you succeed! And, success breeds success. Since you want to be successful, here’s what you need to know about how Signature Speaking helps you and how the founder of this company gears everything she does to help you get more business in multiple ways.

Signature Speaking is located in the heart of Southwest Florida in Naples. The founder of Signature Speaking is Linda Blackman, who shows you how to connect with your clients and customers thereby enhancing your bottom line as well as communicating with maximum impact by utilizing the right stories, scenarios and

testimonials to better relate with those who want to buy your product or service. In addition, Signature Speaking provides clients who must address the media and deal with crisis situations the wherewithal to succinctly and compassionately speak to the public—an ever-increasing necessity in the age of unexpected events and terrorism.

Blackman’s background distinctly qualifies her to allow you to rise to new levels of powerful communication. The former television news anchor, reporter and talk show host is also an author and newspaper columnist. Her books include: The Sales Coach and 15 Ways Small Talk Can Benefit Your Business. Through Blackman’s consulting, training and speaking engage-

ments, Signature Speaking constantly gives you the necessary tools and techniques to increase your business and your ability to communicate.

Blackman is one of only 761 people worldwide to have received the Certified Speaking Professional designation, the highest earned designation in the speaking industry.

Signature Speaking helps clients and people just like you with: public speaking, new business development, media crisis training, sales presentations and spokesperson training.

For information, visit www.SignatureSpeaking.com email MoreInfo@LindaBlackman.com or call (239) 777-1776.

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There are many different types of bandwidth. Usually price plays an important role in the decision of what services to purchase when companies decide to purchase Internet bandwidth. But before you make those decisions you should, at the very least, educate yourself on the technology and how it may apply to you.

We have all heard of Cable Modems as well as DSL—you know, the products where you can lock in your price for several years. The same product that is on every other TV commercial or in your mailbox every day. Those products are great if reliability and dedicated services are not important to you. These products are oftentimes what the industry calls “low cost alternatives” to the real solution of bandwidth.

We also have available Wireless connectivity and I am not talking about Cellular connectivity. I am speaking of Point-to-Point or Pointto-Multipoint Wireless Links. These are a great solution, also on the lower end of the pricing spectrum. These links are prone to lightning and very rare interference. This would be a great alternative if you want to just “cut the cord.”

Then there are different flavors of Fiber Optic connections that are floating around our area. I would suggest that you ask for the SLA (Service Level Agreements) that the provider is offering and ask if they are local.

Then ask if it is Dedicated Internet Access all the way through the network and not shared with residential or business customers. Many times, the lower the price and the better the deal indicates it’s not a dedicated ser-

vice.

Think of all the items that go through the internet today, from what you need in the fridge to streaming movies and streaming Super Bowls. All that stuff can congest parts of the network

BY LOREN then you ask ROSENTHAL yourself, “Why Guest Columnist is everything so slow?” Or certain times of the day the system slows down to a crawl or you miss emails. That, my friends, could be congestion on a non-dedicated internet service.

Lastly, I’d like to leave you with this thought: Local Company, Local Service and Local Support does indeed cost more, but isn’t your business worth the extra few dollars each day? Your productivity goes up, morale goes up and hopefully revenue goes up. I mean, with all the right “tools in your tool belt” you can see how investing that few extra dollars a day can help you to be even more successful.

Loren Rosenthal is the vice president of Engineering and Operations for T3 Communications, a facilities-based communications carrier dedicated to business customers in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties. He is also broker/owner of Casa Bella Elite Realty. Contact him at (239) 322-5646 or loren@casabellaelite.com.

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Cape Coral keeps climbing to new economic heights Special to SWFBT Karen Moore, Publisher

Back on a myriad of lists as a “fastest growing city,” Cape Coral is once again booming. “Moving forward, the City is doing good things,” City Economic Development Manager Dana Brunett quipped to an audience comprised of local commercial development professionals and investors. “We just need to stay out of our own way and help business to locally thrive!”

With 1,600 single-family home permits in 2017, Cape Coral is now cranking up on multi-family units, Brunett shared, to provide for the ever-

COMPANIES TO WATCH

Stroke foundation set to take off

Building a national Foundation from nothing is at once daunting, complicated and exhilarating. But with determination it is doable in today’s digital world. And now during 2018, our Foundation is positioned to do just that- TAKE OFF. A bit of background, the disease called stroke is complicated, comes in many stripes for any number of reasons. It is the number one long-term disabling disease and the number five most lethal.

In spite of all of this the disBY BOB MANDELL ease is seriously underserved, Guest Columnist particularly in terms of awareness, marketing and there are no strokeologists. That’s my word.

Health professionals, including physicians, treat several diseases, not just stroke. And there is considerable dogma in the field that is just plain wrong—just ask the survivors. Writing my book, Stroke Victor, How to Go from Stroke Victim to Stroke Victor,I learned of these anatomies and more.

And so the Stroke Recovery Foundation was borne to educate the public about stroke – both prevention and recovery. But just how to accomplish this task and what will we actually do to make a difference. We traveled to other countries to see how stroke recovery was organized with the idea of replicating those things that made sense, given the different reimbursement schemes of the various countries.

As 2018 gets going, we are creating a video podcast program covering all elements of stroke prevention and recovery.

An innovative and popular aspect is our focus on new lifestyle opportunities for stroke survivors. For example, did you ever consider horseback riding as a survivor activity? Well it turns out that there is data supporting the value of that activity for MS and stroke survivors.

We realized we needed a big team to pull this education initiative off so we are building our Advisory Council with the help of many area physicians. So, take off we are—giddy-yap horsey!

Bob Mandell is founder and managing director of the Naples-based Stroke Recovery Foundation. He can be reached at Bobm@StrokeRF.org

increasing local needs for both affordable housing and, more specifically, the growing Millennial population.

When asked if Hurricane Irma’s September visit slowed things down, he replied, “No one backed down nationally for planning expansions in Cape Coral due to Irma.

“While we all know Irma could’ve been so much worse, and we were lucky that it wasn’t, I believe we recovered so quickly because we’re literally built to withstand hurricanes,” he added. “Florida construction and building codes have come a long way since Hurricane Andrew hit Miami back in the ‘90s, so that really helped

us this time around.”

He indicated that while commercial permits in Southwest Florida were down 10 percent in 2017, the value of those permits increased 340 percent over prior year. Of course, the Westin conference center development creates the ideal environment for additional Cape Coral commercial activity.

But there’s also activity to the north and west, including the Seven Islands project under development, which includes a mix of condos, shops and a 240-slip boat marina, according to Brunett. “We’ve learned over the years that we, the city, should not be telling developers what we want,” he noted.

“We, and the developers, should be listening to the market to find out what the market needs.”

Community walkability projects are now underway in the Cape as well.

Brunett says he’s also always looking to add to the economic mix in Cape Coral, indicating a need for more research and development, manufacturing and technology businesses that the Cape can accommodate. The City also recently added a business retention program. He pointed out, “Before we make an investment, however, we make sure we’re doing it for the right reasons and we always look at the return on investment numbers first.”

COMPANIES TO WATCH

Summit Broadband delivers superior tech, company service

By Kelley Richardson Guest Columnist

Summit Broadband is a leading fiber-optics telecommunications provider in Central and Southwest Florida.

Providing a superior customer service experience since 1994, the company delivers voice, video, data and highspeed internet services to commercial and residential customers, as well as ethernet and dark fiber transport to enterprise and carrier customers.

Summit Broadband owns and operates their own fiberoptic networks, with a reach of more than 1,000 fiber route miles, serving multiple industries and communities throughout the Central and Southwest Florida regions. An all-fiber network means safer, faster, more reliable con-

Start

nections—and staying one step ahead in a world of rapid technological change.

Serving more than 65,000 hotel rooms and 40,000 residential customers, the company also provides wholesale telecommunications services to some of the nation’s largest telco providers.

Summit Broadband’s unique ability to deliver reliable and affordable solutions for residential properties and businesses of all sizes, along with local, friendly customer service, has been a key factor in the company’s continued growth.

Kelley Richardson is marketing and communications manager for Summit Broadband. Contact her at (407) 996-6227 or Kelley.richardson@summit-broadband.com.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MARCH 2018

COMPANIES TO WATCH

Urgent Care Center of Southwest Florida sets itself apart With all the choices for healthcare in Southwest Florida, it’s hard to know where to send your employees for worker’s compensation, work physicals or other healthcare needs.

Employers also want to be able to recommend an Urgent Care facility that can see their employees for everything from the flu to a broken bone. Finding a quality urgent care can help reduce time off work.

Urgent Care Centers of SW Florida, which has locations in Estero and Cape Coral, offers a great deal to employers and their employees. Their varied services, experience and community involvement make them a company to watch this year.

With all the urgent care clinics popping up in Southwest Florida, Urgent

Dr. Larry Hobbs speaks at the 10th Anniversary Celebration of Urgent Care Center.

Care Centers of SW Florida sets itself apart. It’s owned by four dedicated, board-certified emergency medicine physicians and has been serving the community for more than decade.

“We have been able to grow with

this community and provide a comfortable, convenient location for their medical needs,” said Dr. Larry Hobbs, one of the owners and president and chairman of Emergency Medicine for SW Florida Emergency Physicians.

The services at Urgent Care Center of SW Florida goes beyond quality treatment for sprains, broken bones and common illnesses. Urgent Care Centers can also provide flu shots, physicals, limited medical tests and other services.

They offer many services for small and large businesses. They handle business and government needs such as workman’s comp and DOT physicals.

The centers also offer Check-In Express to reduce the wait time. Patients can check-in using text messaging and receive a text when it’s their turn. It helps employers and employees save time.

Call (239) 333-2273 in Estero or (239) 333-3333 in Cape Coral or visit urgentcareswfl.com

COMPANIES TO WATCH

Studio+ promotes health, education in community through great design As the CEO of Studio+, Damon Romanello also opened new studios in the takes a committed and engaged approach to lead Tampa, Florida and Irvine, Calithe strategic growth of the company. Studio+ is an fornia markets, allowing Studio+ architectural, interior design, branding and surfacto work with health, wellness and es company with a focus in healthcare, senior liveducation leaders around the Uniting and education located in Fort Myers. ed States.

Damon founded Studio+ in 2011 with the vision One way they are able to grow of transforming lives through the company’s work. strategically is by creating a Studio+ strives to create spaces that promote healstreamlined approach for their cliRomanello ing and education. By concentrating on the educaents as they work through design, tion and healthcare fields, Studio+ can focus on the procurement and installation of best practices, the newest technology and the most flooring and ceiling surfaces by contracting all of efficient use of a company’s space. the services through one company. By having these Over the last few years, Damon and his team services under one roof, Studio+ can respond and have grown the business strategically and expand- act quickly, saving clients time and money. ed their headquarters in Fort Myers. They have As a part of their core values, Studio+ makes it

a priority to give back locally by encouraging their team to have an active part in the community.

In July 2017, the Fort Myers office hosted a Nonprofit Trade Show, inviting six local nonprofits to the office to share their available opportunities.

Studio+ employees are given paid time-off so they can partake in the opportunities. Also, the Tampa office recently took part in the Hillsborough Education Foundation’s Take Stock Event, donating hockey tickets to the mentors participating in the program.

2018 looks to be a prosperous year for Studio+.

The company is working closely with NCH, Lee Health, FSW, FGCU and Gartner. To learn more about Studio+, visit the company’s website at WeAreStudioPlus.com or call (239) 476-8888.

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COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

Gulfshore Playhouse announces new theater, education center Kristen Coury, founder and CEO of Gulfshore Playhouse, is spearheading a transformation in Naples’ cultural scene with the creation of a new stateof-the-art theater and education center that will serve Southwest Florida with Broadway-quality professional equity theatre and education. Gulfshore Playhouse, a Naples professional regional theater, is embarking on a $45-million capital campaign for its new campus that will be located on a three-acre parcel in Naples Square at the corner of 1st Avenue South and GoodletteFrank Road.

Slated to be a cultural landmark for downtown Naples, Gulfshore Playhouse has announced the selection of its architectural firm for its new theater Gulfshore Playhouse plans a state-of-the-art theater and education center and education center. H3, a design stuproviding Southwest Florida with professional equity theater and education. dio within Arquitectonica specializing in theaters and arts and culture build- nardo Fort-Brescia and Ariel Fausto. principal, Laurinda Spear. A graduate ings, designed some of the most prom- Fort-Brescia is one of the founding of Brown and Columbia universities inent theaters in the country, including partners of Arquitectonica, a fellow and a recipient of the American Acadthe Claire Tow Theatre and Vivian of the American Institute of Archi- emy’s Rome Prize, Spear has played Beaumont Theatre at Lincoln Cen- tects and a recipient of numerous de- an instrumental role in many of the ter, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, sign awards, including ULI’s Lifetime firm’s signature projects and led the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Cen- Achievement Award. Principal of the expansion of its design fields beyond ter, the Dijon Performing Arts Center H3 theater design division, Fausto architecture and planning. in France, the Theatre for a New Audi- has completed more than 15 theater “Over the last few years, we’ve ence in New York, the renovation of projects in his 20-year career. The seen a revitalization of downtown Radio City Music Hall and the Denver landscape architecture team for the Naples projects–from culinary dinnew Gulfshore Playhouse will be led ing destinations to bustling real estate Performing Arts Center.

The design team will be led by Ber- by another Arquitectonica founding activity of new mixed-use residential

and commercial projects that are creating a friendlier, more walkable downtown area. New businesses are coming to downtown Naples ignited by the possibilities for growth and economic development,” said Coury. “Our new theater and education campus will enhance this transformation by creating an architectural gem and cultural landmark to complement the business and residential growth happening right in our backyards as well as serve as the gateway to downtown Naples. With H3 and Arquitectonica’s reputation and experience in creating performing art spaces and iconic venues that influence a region, respond to their surroundings, honor cultural heritage, and serve as catalysts for vibrant communities, I can’t think of a more fitting partnership for our new home.”

“The reality is that there are very few art institutions taking on a new initiative of this size, and even less professional theaters with female producing artistic directors leading the way,” said Gulfshore Playhouse Board Chairman Bob Harden. “The new Gulfshore Playhouse is truly a testament of this community’s philanthropic spirit and commitment to the arts.”

In the last 10 years, Gulfshore GULFSHORE See page 8

Heatherwood Construction completes renovation

Heatherwood Construction has completed the $2-million-plus renovation of the Monterey Clubhouse located in Naples.

The project included an addition to the clubhouse for a new Fitness Center.

The Clubhouse renovations included a separate billiards room, library, pool restrooms as well as state-of-theart upgrades to the social and dining rooms. Also included is a new maintenance facility, pool pavilion, playground and basketball court.

Denise Rosemeyer led the project team as senior project manager.

Bob Sutherin, senior superintendent, supervised the daily operations. The project was designed by Jonathan L. Titus Architect and Heather Grey of Heatherwood Construction recently completed the $2-million-plus renovation of the Monterey Clubhouse in Naples.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MARCH 2018

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

Wright Construction completes Alico Arena, Hammond renovations Wright Construction Group completed improvements to two major sporting venues in Southwest Florida, including the new 11,000-squarefoot expansion and 13,000-squarefoot renovation of the Florida Gulf Coast University Alico Arena and renovations of Hammond Stadium on Ben. C. Pratt/Six Mile Cypress Parkway.

At Alico Arena, the upgrades will bring the 15-year-old facility to the level of other Division One programs. The focus of the new construction included a new academic center and expanded sports medicine area on the first floor of the existing arena.

The academic center provides individual tutoring rooms, offices for academic staff, banks of seats for computer stations and an open central study area. The study area boasts an elevated ceiling and curved window wall, encouraging FGCU’s nearly 250 student-athletes to spend time on academics. The sports medicine area is now five times bigger, with two in-ground hydrotherapy tubs, exam and treatment rooms, offices, and meeting spaces.

Expansive coaches’ offices are also available on opposite corners of the new third-floor basketball wing,

Wright Construction Group recently completed improvements to the new 11,000-square-foot expansion and 13,000-square-foot renovation of the Florida Gulf Coast University Alico Arena. both overlooking Swanson Stadium.

Additionally, assistant coaches now have individual offices, and the centerpiece of the new wing is a 24seat, state-of-the-art, theater-style film room.

“We are always excited to help the FGCU Athletics Program be a success, and this project makes huge leaps in providing FGCU athletes and coaches with a premiere athletic facility,” said Fred Edman, president of Wright Construction Group.

Hammond Stadium, which has brought a huge economic benefit to Lee County since opening in 1991, was in need of improvements to the front entryway, which was beginning to show signs of wear. Wright Construction made some refreshing repairs to the fountain, including installing a new liner to eliminate leaks, replacing waterline tile and converting over to a salt chlorine system to extend the life of the fountain. The company also revamped

the concourse and surrounding stairways, repairing concrete corrosion and applying a protective epoxy coating, which will help protect the concrete from collecting damages in the future.

Wright Construction completed the project in 64 days, an accomplishment that was especially important to the venue since the Minnesota Twins begin spring training at Hammond Stadium in February.

The timeliness was accomplished even with the addition of two major scopes during the project’s construction. The first involved filling the cells of the fountain’s block wall in order to prevent structural damage from occurring to the wall. The second called for the refabrication of all the metal sculptures in the entryway. Despite the unexpected additions to the project, the scheduled completion date was kept without having to add a single day.

“We are pleased to be involved with such a popular venue,” said Edman. “Many families come to the ballpark to enjoy quality time together. Having the opportunity to be a part of the renovations and keep the park in pristine order has been an honor and a privilege we will not forget.”

18th Annual Southwest Florida CCIM District

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE OUTLOOK CONFERENCE Thank you for supporting the 18th Annual CCIM Commercial Real Estate Outlook Conference that was held on January 22nd at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point.

This year’s premier event hosted fast-paced, informative presentations that included an update of the $800M Sunseeker Resort project in Charlotte County by John Redmond, the Future of Real Estate by real estate icon Lee Arnold, and a truly entertaining nationally acclaimed economist, Elliot F. Eisenberg, Ph.D.

Bev Larson, CCIM

Elliot F. Eisenberg, Ph.D.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! International Real Estate Panel

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MARCH 2018

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Page 7

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

COMPANIES TO WATCH

Apartment community projects on rise in Southwest Florida EHC, Inc., a construction company that provides pre-construction, earthwork and infrastructure services, proudly started 13 projects and completed 9 others throughout Southwest Florida in 2017. Plus, the site construction company provided a variety of services for hurricane repair and relief efforts in the area. EHC also expanded its team nearly 15 percent to accommodate company and market growth.

While projects spanned the region and industries, the site construction company is witnessing a trend of increased apartment communities. Driving along Interstate-75 or in cities such as Port Charlotte, Fort Myers and Naples, one can witness new apartment communities in a range of stages of development or construction. According to EHC, job growth, economic stability, expansion of college campuses and a higher population of young professionals in Southwest Florida are contributing factors to the demand for leasing apartments. With an apartment, the lessee can be more mobile with job opportunities and flexible with lifestyle changes.

Building permits for apartment dwelling units are on the rise and have been for some time now. Following apartments for building permits are multifamily units such as condominiums and assisted living facilities as well as single-family units. Overall the trend is currently high-density residential in the region. While jobs and universities can support the continuing trend, contractors are developing the land, building the apartment buildings and releasing units for lease at a rapid speed to meet and even exceed the demand. Because of the vast number of apartments coming to the area, developers are offering modern details and luxurious amenities including resort-style pools, fitness centers, recreational

games and study lounges in some cases.

EHC has three active apartment projects in development, two of which are in close proximity to the campus of Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU).

Springs at Port Charlotte in Port Charlotte: Kaufman Lynn Construction contracted EHC to develop The Springs at Port Charlotte in Port CharBY TONY lotte on behalf of Continental HAMILTON Properties. Located near the Guest Columnist I-75 Kings Highway exit, the 11-building, high-end and pet-friendly apartment complex will feature 256 apartments in addition to a community clubhouse, resort-style swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, lake and other amenities on 21 acres. EHC is providing lake excavation, erosion control, clearing, parking lots, subgrade base, asphalt, striping, traffic signs, concrete curbs and sidewalks, underground storm drainage, sanitary sewer, water and fire and final grade for the Charlotte County project.

The Reef II in Fort Myers: The Reef is a 164unit student housing property which rests on 23 acres just half a mile from the campus of Florida Gulf Coast University. The apartment community is presently progressing to now include The Reef II, which features 8-buildings of 60 units and is an over 5-acre project in Fort Myers. EHC is providing clearing, earthwork, subgrade base, asphalt paving, curbing, traffic striping, sidewalks and final grad-

Major transactions cap off 2017 Cushman & Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida assisted with negotiating three separate transactions in the fourth quarter of 2017, totaling more than $32.8 million dollars.

Transactions include: • CalAtlantic Group purchased 705.87-acres of vacant land approved for residential lakefront development and located on Corkscrew Road, east of Florida Gulf Coast University and the Village of Estero. The sale totaled $27.5 million.

• L&R Properties of

Southwest Florida purchased a 27,283-square foot building to expand Garden Street Recycling, located on Metro Parkway in Fort Myers. The sale totaled $1.9 million.

• Continental 406 Fund purchased two vacant lots for development of a residential rental community, located on Beatrix Boulevard in Port Charlotte. The purchase totaled $3.42 million.

“These transactions further confirm the growth and stability of Southwest Florida’s vibrant economy,” said Gary Tasman, chief executive officer and principal broker.

ing for the project. Amenities for The Reef are two resort-style pools, 24-hour study lounge, outdoor billiards, fire pit, ping pong and bocce ball, shuttle service to FGCU and Gulf Coast Town Center mall, volleyball, basketball and much more.

Springs at Gulf Coast in Estero: Located in Estero, Springs at Gulf Coast is a luxury, townhomestyle apartment community. Upon completion, the gated community plans to have eight buildings, 203 apartments, lakes, a pool, community clubhouse, fitness center, dog park and other amenities. EHC is working with Elkins Construction for Continental Properties. The site developer is providing 34,000 cubic yards of lake excavation, 16,000 square yards of parking lots, sidewalks, finish grading, concrete paving, traffic signage and striping as well as underground storm, sewer and water for the project.

Springs at Gulf Coast is the third apartment complex in Southwest Florida for Continental Properties, a national development and property management company.

For over 25 years, EHC has completed hundreds of construction projects in excess of hundreds of millions of dollars for a vast number of municipalities, developers, builders, owners and general contractors.

The site construction prides itself on a reputation of fostering long-lasting relationships and providing valuable services with a professional, reliable and qualified team.

Tony Hamilton is an owner and vice president of Construction Administration at EHC, Inc. Contact EHC, Inc. at info@ehcconstruction.com or call (239) 592-0828.

Bay Colony completes renovation

Bay Colony Golf Club recently completed a multi-million-dollar renovation, re-opening the clubhouse Dec. 1 to members and their guests.

Elements of the newly redesigned 32,000-square-foot clubhouse include an expanded Grille Room, a new boardroom and a new wine room for private dining and meetings.

Additionally, the club added two bocce ball courts with an outdoor pavilion, as well as a new outdoor kitchen and bar for casual patio din-

ing with views overlooking the lake and 18th green.

Improvements also included a renovated ladies lounge.

The project started in April 2017, and was overseen by BCBE Construction. Peacock + Lewis Architecture & Interior Design created the contemporary coastal design that is featured throughout the clubhouse.

Bay Colony Golf Club is an exclusive, private golf club located in the gated community of the Estates at Bay Colony Golf Club.

Page 8

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MARCH 2018

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

GMA finishes Lee Health Medical Center GMA Architects & Planners completed the new Lee Health Medical Center on Metro Parkway in Fort Myers. Developed by the Summit Management Group, the new 41,432-square-foot building is fully occupied by practices affiliated with Lee Health.

The facility houses a ground-floor convenient care walk-in clinic for urgent medical services seven days per week, while upper floors accommodate medical offices for cardiology, infectious disease and pulmonology care practices.

Constructed by Stevens Construction in under one year, the four-story tilt-up concrete building was designed to complement, but not mimic, the adjacent Fifth Third Bank and, at the same time, display its own modern architectural expressions.

GMA met individually with the office management team of each of the user

GULFSHORE PAGE 5 Playhouse has grown by 850 percent, resulting in a demand for larger-scale productions and expanded education offerings.

Plans for the complex include a mainstage proscenium theatre with sloped stadium seating, which will be used for large-cast musicals, classics, and world premiere comedies and dramas. A separate studio theater will provide gathering spaces for meetings, children’s theater, cabarets, and edgier fare. The building will also feature a grand airy lobby, bar, gardens and an exclusive patron lounge.

“Theater and the arts symbolize the soul of any community and this

groups, in addition to Lee Health facilities administration.

“Care was taken to provide adequate exam, patient waiting and administrative space, while maintaining the highest levels of security and privacy,” said Ramon Acevedo, senior project architect. “Working as a team, we were able to address the office needs and relocation schedules of each practice, comply with the Lee Health system-wide facility standards, and maintain the developer’s budget parameters.”

The center is strategically located at the intersection of two major transportation arteries, resulting in convenient access for patients throughout Lee County and fulfilling a much-needed demand for class-A medical care space.

The interior was also designed to create a warm, welcoming and calming effect for all who enter.

project will do the same for the city of Naples,” said Fort-Brescia. “We are so pleased to be part of giving life to this dream through its architecture.”

Coury envisions the new space as an incubator for out-of-town tryouts of Broadway shows, much like McCarter, La Jolla and Steppenwolf theaters.

Anticipated plans also include an education wing with rehearsal rooms, classrooms and space for children’s theater events. The complex will support the expansion of Gulfshore Playhouse’s education programs focused on pre-professional training in acting, voice and movement as well as expand its in-school and after-school education programs.

“I envision the day when our parking lot will be filled with school buses

Above: GMA Architects & Planners recently completed the new Lee Health Medical Center on Metro Parkway in Fort Myers.

Left: The main lobby for Lee Health Medical Center.

as students file through our doors, excited to see our next production. We will produce theater for children and by children who otherwise would not be able to experience participating in live storytelling,” said Coury.

Gulfshore Playhouse expects to triple its capacity in the new theatre and education campus, resulting in more than $10 million annually to the local economy by visitors and residents with the potential to shop, dine and stay at local businesses and hoteliers.

“We’re extremely pleased that Gulfshore Playhouse will build its new professional theater in the City of Naples. The theater will be a bold extension of the core of downtown to the east of 5th Avenue and complement the businesses, retailers and new

housing projects already there as well as future projects,” said Naples Mayor Bill Barnett. “It will truly transform downtown Naples and add significant and lasting value to the cultural life of Naples for generations to come.”

Quiet phase fundraising is underway. Project assistance is being provided to Gulfshore Playhouse by Pizzuti Solutions.

Gulfshore Playhouse is committed to enriching and strengthening the cultural fabric of our region by producing professional theater productions of a national standard that celebrates the diversity of our audiences, draws people together to discover a new understanding of oneself, and gives back in a spirit of outreach and service.

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MARCH 2018

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

FIORETTI PAGE 1 brokerage. “Since Hurricane Irma had very little long-term impact on our region, we expect to see a strong sales year as U.S. and international buyers appreciate the appealing homes in our market.”

A leader in regional and state real estate organizations, Fioretti served as 2016 president of NABOR, and has held numerous other positions there. He has been a director of the state association, and served on its legislative, regulatory, Fioretti insurance and business committees and subcommittees.

Fioretti said there have been many magical moments in his real estate career. “One of my first clients was a veteran in his 50s who was trying to purchase his first home and was turned down by the Veterans Administration (VA) lender,” he said, “I suggested that he put on his uniform, and then drove him in person to the VA office, where he was approved for a loan on the spot, making his dream come true.”

As district vice president for the state association, Fioretti will focus on enhancing Florida Realtors’ advocacy, education and support programs for real estate professionals. “As Realtors, we do so much more for families than just open a door,” he said. “Our association is a powerful advocate for homeowners, and every day our members strive to change the lives of Floridians for the better.”

Page 9

Sexual harassment cases gain strength The only reason there is so much focus on this issue is because as each day goes by, more and more women are coming forward about their own experiences with sexual harassment and making allegations against powerful and prominent men.

These women are getting plenty of press time because the men are prominent. While these men would probably prefer that their accusers shut up, it’s not likely to happen. For the first time in history, companies are taking prompt action and terminating the offender’s employment.

Covered Employers Generally speaking, a covered employer under both federal and state law is an employer that employs 15 or more employees.

What Constitutes Sexual Harassment?

Stated simply, sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature that affects, explicitly or implicitly, the terms and conditions of one’s employment.

Quid Pro Quo harassment means this for that. For example, have sex with me or you’re fired. Employers are strictly liable for sexual harassment of the quid pro quo type.

Hostile Environment Harassment involves conduct of a sexual nature short of quid pro quo that is pervasive and it affects an employee’s terms and conditions of employment. An example of this type of harassment includes a male employee or board member constantly making sexually charged remarks to a female employee, commenting on body parts or making physical gestures of a sexual nature.

While most complaints are filed by women, men are sexually harassed as well, but rarely complain.

Does Personal Liability Attach? It can.

Sexual harassment offenders can be held personally liable for their conduct depending upon the nature and severity of the harassment even when there is no employment arrangement between the harasser and the victim. Whether liability attaches will depend upon the facts. Community association boards of directors are responsible for the administration and management of their communities and need to take an active role when their directors, members or officers cross the line in their relationships with those who provide services to the association

under property management contracts and other vendor contracts as well.

Power Sexual harassment is about power; it is not about sex. Many times the reason that the individual who is being harassed will not come forward about the sexual harassment is out of fear of retaliation.

Work Environment Employees have the right to work in an environment that is free of sexual harassment and every employer should

BY CHRISTINA HARRIS SCHWINN strive to provide a work environment that is free of sexual harassment. In Guest Columnist order for an environment to be free of sexual harassment, there needs to be a conversation about it and training. Employees need to know the policies prohibiting sexual harassment and management needs to enforce the policies uniformly and quit attacking the victim. Sexual harassment is wrong and it should never be condoned or tolerated.

Despite the fact that employers covered by Title VII and the Civil Rights Act of 1991 are required to have a sexual harassment policy, many don’t, but they definitely should as the law requires it. Does your company have a sexual harassment policy?

Next Steps If your company has not conducted sexual harassment training in the last year, it would behoove your company to do so in 2018 and have the company’s sexual harassment policy reviewed and updated if necessary. If your company does not have a sexual harassment policy, it would behoove your company to retain counsel to draft one.

In 2018, resolve to be prepared and take steps to eliminate or prevent sexual harassment in your workplace.

Christina Harris Schwinn is a partner and an experienced employment and real estate attorney with the Pavese Law Firm.

She can be reached at christinaschwinn@paveselaw.com or by calling (239) 336-6228.

COMPANIES TO WATCH

Priority Marketing grows video team A full-service marketing and public relations firm boasting more than 30 professionals, Priority Marketing is continually expanding our team to innovatively meet our clients’ needs. In recent years we’ve focused on rounding out our in-house capabilities in all departments and our latest expansion is with the addition of a video department.

Our existing team was already highly experienced in video development and has been nationally recognized for many of the videos we’ve created on behalf of clients, but we see video as a growing opportunity for clients in the digital space as well as for media outreach. An in-house videographer and editor provides us with more creative freedom and the ability to execute quickly on video opportunities, providing clients with a distinct advantage as they compete for the attention of online audiences.

The in-house video team also enables us to provide high-quality video solutions consistently and even at a moment’s notice. Just recently, we had a client approach us on a Sunday night with a need for a videographer on Monday morning, and we were able to quickly respond to his request. Before 9 a.m. on Monday, our videographer jumped into a helicopter with client Mark Loren, to launch a Valentine’s Day promotion that married video and photos to tell the story beautifully. Before end of day, it was in the hands of media and pushed out on multiple social media platforms.

Having all the right professionals under one roof

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increases efficiency naturally, but it has to be done right to be really effective. In addition to having the right mix of experts, our team is practiced at collaborating, using a carefully developed set of processes and everyday ingenuity to serve clients in marketing, advertising and public relations.

It’s this full-service approach and client-centered mindset that sets the agency apart and

BY TERI HANSEN allows us to serve as a true Guest Columnist strategic partner and extension of each client’s business.

It’s what enables Priority Marketing to develop creative solutions daily.

Mastering the full-service approach is what sets Priority Marketing apart from other agencies and helps us serve our clients with precision. Priority Marketing is committed to providing the full range of services, so we can achieve great things for our clients and the Southwest Florida community.

Teri Hansen is president and creative director of Priority Marketing, based in Fort Myers, offering marketing, advertising and public relations services. To learn more, visit www.PriorityMarketing.com or call 239-267-2638.

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Page 10

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MARCH 2018

COMPANIES TO WATCH

Network of commercial pros provides one-stop shop How often have you found yourself spending countless hours making appointments with a contractor or vendor only to have them not show or to find out they are not licensed and insured? This is both a hardship and very costly as you then set up another appointment—and wait. Then, when you finally find a contractor, he either quotes you and then you never see him again, or he gives you a quote and then comes back on the day he’s supposed to begin the job with a higher price? Wouldn’t it be nice to make one call and find a licensed, bonded, educated individual that has been vetted and who is experienced in giving you and your company what you both desire and deserve?

Because these types of situations unfortunately occur just as often as not in Southwest Florida, I recognized the need to have a group of business owners on whom I could rely to 1) help my commercial real estate clients (as well as other business owners) who need a specific service and have not a clue about whom they should contact, 2) provide services that help business owners from the permitting stages through the final stages of opening a business, and 3) provide services that help an existing company to and through its next level of growth.

I set out to create a network of exclusive local business owners/professionals who each have a business-to-business (B2B) segment of their enterprises

and who understand the value of exceptional customer service, follow-up and reliability. In 2015, I created a team that could help my clients, (or any business owner,) to fulfill their B2B needs in a “one-stop shop.” With the creation of Preferred Commercial Alliance (PCA), this collaboration of local business talent and support for the local business community, with a focus on developBY JENNIFER ing relationships and achieving CASTRIOTTA quality customer service, was Guest Columnist born.

Thirty-two highly qualified business owners come together every other week to discuss new projects, exchange innovative ideas and leads, and learn about our local business community so that we are well-versed to assist our clients from the time of the purchase to the close of the sale. The group offers expertise in several areas ranging from commercial real estate and business brokerage to banking and title services, from telecommunications to IT and marketing services, and more. If we do not have the service you require represented within the group, our vetted members are

networked to other local professionals who are able to assist you.

The group’s Mission Statement is: “The Preferred Commercial Alliance is committed to the growth and success of your business. Our purpose is to work together through both a structured and creative environment, with complete dedication to exceeding expectations.”

Our goals are to: 1) connect you with the people, information and resources you need, 2) assist you with building, improving and strengthening your business, 3) work together with you as a team, making it both easier and more efficient for you to complete your project, 4) give back to the community, and 5) learn and grow from one another.

Imagine... No more lost productivity. No more misquotes. No more lost deadlines. No more buyer’s remorse. With the help of PCA, now you can conduct business and increase your productivity focusing on what you do best. Leave the rest to us—your one-stop shop.

Jennifer Castriotta, founder and president of Preferred Commercial Alliance, is a commercial Realtor with Lee & Associates in Fort Myers. For information, email jcastriotta@lee-associates.com, call (239) 821-2255 or go to www.preferredcommercialalliance.com.

COMPANIES TO WATCH

Freedom Waters helps vets, special needs individuals

Based in Naples but serving all of South Florida, our non-profit organization established in 2006 improves the lives of individuals with special needs and veterans by providing therapeutic marine-related experiences. Boat owners and folks working in the marine industry lend their resources so children, adults and their families can find freedom on

the water. Whether boating, sailing or fishing, participants are free from the stress of their life threatening illnesses, special needs or other challenges.

Eleven-year-old Annabelle Osborne, who has autism, high anxiety and a vascular disease, went fishing for the first time with her mother and father thanks one of our long-time boat owners, John

Luzi. Calling it “the trip of a lifetime,” she now wants to be a marine biologist.

Attorney Josh Selmyer was paralyzed during a diving accident in 1997. He was apprehensive of being in or around water but came to observe our adaptive sailing program. Realizing the powerful impact it had, he went on two outings with us and is now a volunteer.

Freedom Waters serves more than 3,000 people like Annabelle and Josh annually. We can reach more people with your help. Offer to take our participants on your boat once a year, or even once a month. Donate marine-related items.

Make a financial contribution to support our operations, since our services a free.

Visit freedomwatersfoundation.org.

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MARCH 2018

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Page 11

COMPANIES TO WATCH

New Friends of Rookery Bay director gets his feet wet When your job includes helping scientists cast and haul trawl nets to study marine critters living in local waters and accompanying biologists on nighttime shark tagging expeditions, you have thrilling stories to share with business associates.

It’s certainly not your typical 9-to-5 job. And that’s what attracted Athan Barkoukis to take the position of the first full-time executive director of the Friends of Rookery Bay. Since joining last August, Barkoukis has established new membership levels—including a Lifetime Membership category at $10,000 already supported by Lavern Gaynor—and built a committee to re-imagine the nonprofit’s signature event, the Batfish Bash for the Bay on March 16, with the help

of board member and event planner Milda Vaivada along with board member and event chair Karyn Capozzo.

In this job, Barkoukis combines his years working in nonprofit management with his bachelor of arts in biology from College University and a master of science in environmental studies from College of Charleston.

The Friends of Rookery Bay was established 31 years ago to support the Rookery Bay Research Reserve, one of 29 reserves in a national system that studies and protects coastal environments. The reserve is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and NOAA. The Friends group provides additional funding support by pre-

SBA loans vs. conventional financing

To a novice borrower, the SBA lending world can often times be quite confusing and even sometimes a daunting task to manage. But, with the right SBA lender, this task can be manageable and in most cases, very similar to that of a conventional loan. In this article, I will be discussing commercial real estate purchases; however, many of these concepts can be applied to any SBA eligible use of funds. The question is, why use SBA? During my 17 years as an SBA lender, I have concluded that the SBA really provides three benefits to a small business. Allow me to elaborate on each of these benefits.

The first and, in my opinion, most important reason to use an SBA loan is the ability to preserve cash—in most cases, a 10-percent down payment on the total project. Conventional financing typically requires 15-25 percent down on the purchase price, not including other project costs such as renovations, moving costs and closing costs. If you are buying a building for $1 million and there are renovation and closing costs of, let’s say $150,000, for a total project of $1.15 million, an SBA loan may allow you to put only $115,000 down, or 10 percent of the total project. A conventional loan would likely require $150,000 towards the purchase, plus possibly funding your own renovations and closing costs for a maximum out of pocket of $300,000. The SBA loan would allow you to preserve potentially $150,000 cash, providing additional capital to grow your business.

The second reason to use an SBA loan is the ability to maximize cash flow. This is simple. SBA loans offer 20- to 25-year payment terms compared

to 15-20 years on conventional loans. The longer loan term equals a lower loan payment, calculating to increased cash flow.

The third and final reason to use an SBA loan is your ability to keep control of your business.

Unlike convenloans,

BY TOM MAIALE tional SBA loans do Guest Columnist not require the lender to place any loan covenants on your loan, while also not allowing for balloon payments or call features. In a nut shell, your SBA lender can never tell you how much you can pay yourself, how your balance sheet needs to look, or exit you, based on a ballooning note or change of appetite for a certain industry. Once you sign for a 25-year SBA loan, you have an SBA loan for 25 years no questions asked. Well, as long as you make your monthly payment.

So if you want to purchase an owneroccupied commercial real estate property, put 10 percent down, maximize your cash flow and keep the banks from exuding any control over your business, check in to an SBA loan with your local banker and discuss your individual business needs.

Tom Maiale, CBC National Bank SBA Lending vice president and business development officer, is a 13-year SBA Lending veteran. Contact: (239) 288-9966 or tmaiale@cbcnationalbank.com.

SWFBT SellS!

senting fundraisers, writing grants, selling memberships and advocating on behalf of the 45 reserve scientists and educators who work throughout the 110,000-acre reserve.

One way the Friends showcases the reserve’s activities is by helping bring the general public, schoolchildren on field trips and other supporters through the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. Interactive exhibits, aquariums, walking trails, an art gallery and boat and kayak tours are the best way to understand the importance of the reserve.

With Barkoukis at the helm, the Friends of Rookery Bay is already making a significant impact in “protecting our backyard” for generations to come.

It’s Your Future. Own It. Tom Maiale

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“Our first ad in the first issue of Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY landed us a sale that more than paid for the price of the ad campaign, and is delivered directly to our target market.

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DOING IT RIGHT, FROM THE START

Page 12

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

SOLAR PAGE 1 In the future, however, solar energy is the answer.

The U.S. is currently behind China, Germany and Japan with production of the most common form of solar energy (photovoltaic). Thermal solar is what is used for large-scale utility functionality. From a production of photovoltaic solar panels standpoint, China owns 66 percent of all panels; the U.S. only owns 2 percent.

In the U.S., Florida currently does not even rank in the top 10 states for photovoltaic usage; it does rank in the top 10 states for thermal usage. Both forms of solar energy are quickly becoming more affordable and efficient, according Woolschlager. Thermal solar energy is currently priced competitively with gas, coal and nuclear energy, which could not be said just two years ago.

“Renewable energy is inherently more efficient, so we will continue to get more energy more efficiently in the future,” Woolschlager said.

According to Woolschlager, there are currently

three ways to work solar energy usage in to commercial projects: 1) purchase the energy outright, 2) enter in to a site-associated solar energy agreement or 3) enter in to an energy services agreement (which is currently discouraged by Florida law.)

Woolschlager then shared three examples. Babcock Ranch is a demonstration of Option 2. Babcock Ranch gave Florida Power & Light (FPL) 440 acres of land and FPL made the $200 million investment to create a 75 megawatts (MW) field that covers 19,000 homes (50,000 people.) In this example, Woolschlager points out, the solar energy component was an essential marketing component for the development.

Florida Gulf Coast University is an example of Option 3. The university entered in to an energy services agreement for a 15-acre solar field with a 2-MW capacity and more than 10,000 solar modules. The field provides 18 percent of FGCU’s power (it covers the energy needs of two academic halls.) Unfortunately, the company that installed the system is no longer in business, and since being owned and operated by FGCU, the field is not doing very well, Woolschlager

MARCH 2018

says.

The third example Woolschlager used was Hertz Corporation, which purchased the system outright for use in its corporate headquarters in Southwest Florida.

The company put 2,300 solar panels on its parking garage, which supplies approximately 15 percent of the building’s total energy consumption. Cisterns also channel rainwater for reuse in the building. Hertz was given a 30-percent federal tax credit and the return on investment is projected in seven years.

In conclusion, Woolschlager indicated that because there are a limited number of companies who can actually do the work/enter in to these agreements (and in Southwest Florida this is FPL), the current environment encourages outright purchase, which again, is only done by the utility companies.

Image provided by Babcock Ranch. Graphic created

by Dr. John Woolschlager and Dr. Nate Hagens, The Powers of Fossil Fuels, based on Global Consumption 1800-2015, Source BP Statistical Review 2016 (1965-2015); pre-1965 and biomass from SMIL.

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ACHIEVA PAGE 1 later this year.

Under the terms of the merger agreement this will be a whole bank acquisition. This transaction is expected to close later this year and is subject to customary closing conditions and Preferred Community Bank shareholder and regulatory approvals. Achieva and Preferred’s management teams say they expect the sale to move forward smoothly.

“This consolidation of complimentary services and products along with our entry into new markets makes this combination a strong strategic move for Achieva. Along with all of those positives, our corporate cultures are greatly aligned which is a key ingredient in any successful consolidation,” said Achieva, CEO Gary Regoli.