Member News

FORT MYERS, FL (August 19, 2019) – Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC) has been awarded a $120,000 grant from the Golisano Foundation to support the expansion of LAB:  Learn, Achieve, Become.   LAB will offer an experiential learning environment for hundreds of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) that transforms traditional program areas into spaces for innovation, vocation, demonstration and learning.  Five Labs will focus on skills for work and independent living and include Lab for Living, Wellness Lab, Smart Living Lab, Vocational Exploration Lab and Collaboration Lab.
“The goal of LAB is to prepare individuals with IDD for success and meaningful inclusion in our community,” said Kevin Lewis, LARC Executive Director. “That requires important skills that build upon each other.  Not only vocational training, but self-care, managing their day to day environment, navigating technology, and interacting with others.  LAB works because we recognize each of these layers as crucial components to increased independence and empowerment.”
The Golisano Foundation is one of the largest private foundations in the nation devoted to supporting programs and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It was founded by philanthropist and entrepreneur Tom Golisano, who has supported several non-profit organizations in Southwest Florida including Golisano Children’s Hospital.
The Foundation’s grant will support phase two of LAB, which prepares space for the Wellness and Smart Living Labs on LARC’s Fort Myers campus.  The grant also supports a LAB staff person who will oversee and implement the LAB curriculum.   The Wellness Lab provides a place to learn about healthy living, fitness, nutrition, oral health, advocacy, skills for self-care; all paramount to success in every day work and life.  The Smart Living Lab teaches people how to live and thrive in a touch screen world, from ordering meals, navigating transportation, applying for jobs, operating everyday appliances, using the internet and computer software.
“We are honored to receive this grant from the Golisano Foundation, which is the largest private foundation grant in LARC’s 65-year history,” said Angela Katz, LARC Development Director. “There are more than 3,700 children in Lee County Schools with cognitive disabilities and the Foundation’s generous support will allow us to better prepare the individuals we currently serve and future generations to live more independent and fulfilling lives.”
“We appreciate the important role and services LARC has provided to those with IDD in Lee County over the organization’s long, proud history.  We’re happy to assist the agency as it evolves to address current and future needs by creating opportunities for independent living in a more inclusive community in SW Florida,” said Ann Costello, Director of the Golisano Foundation.  “LAB’s innovative, person-centered approach will empower more individuals with IDD to make their way productively and creatively in their communities.”
The Wellness and Smart Living LABs will complement the LAB for Living, which opened in July.  LABS for Living is a mock apartment-style setting that provides participants with hands-on training in daily living skills. Phase three, which is planned for the future, will include the Vocational Exploration Lab, with a commercial culinary training kitchen designed to meet the needs of hospitality employers, and the Collaboration Lab, which will introduce LARC participants to change makers in our community.  Initially, all of the Labs will be accessible to LARC participants as well as families.  Over time, LARC’s goal to offer schools and other likeminded organizations access.
To learn more about LARC and LAB, contact Angela Katz, Development Director at 239-334-6285 x229 or email [email protected] or visit www.larcleecounty.org.
About LARC
Established in 1954, LARC Inc.’s mission is to empower and support individuals with disabilities and their families to reach their full potential. LARC is a 501(c) 3 that provides programs and services for approximately 300 local men and women annually. The nonprofit offers vocational training, community residential services, and a vast array of other state-of-the-art community inclusion services on a full-time, year-round basis.  LARC’s main campus is located at 2570 Hanson Street, Fort Myers, and has a satellite campus in Bonita Springs.  LARC also operates two Residential Group Homes located in Cape Coral and North Fort Myers.   For more information, contact Angela at 239-334-6285 x229 or visit www.larcleecounty.org.
About the Golisano Foundation
The Golisano Foundation is one of the largest private foundations in the nation devoted to opening doors to opportunity, changing negative perceptions and stereotypes, and forging unprecedented partnerships to ensure individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have pathways to personal dignity, independence and the best possible expression of their abilities and talents throughout their lifetimes. The foundation was founded in 1985 by Tom Golisano, entrepreneur, civic leader, and philanthropist and the founder and Chairman of Paychex. Mr. Golisano’s philanthropy now exceeds $300 million. In addition to Mr. Golisano’s personal philanthropy, the Golisano Foundation awards about $2 million annually to non-profit organizations serving people with intellectual disabilities in Western NY and New York’s Finger Lakes Region and Southwest Florida.  The Foundation expanded to Southwest Florida in 2017. GolisanoFoundation.org

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Aug. 19, 2019) – Kelly L. Fayer was named 2019 APEX Awards recipient at the annual event of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Committee. The APEX Awards recognize local women with outstanding reputations for professionalism, philanthropy and leadership.

The 14^th annual APEX Awards were held Aug. 16 in Cape Coral. Presented by Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, the evening gala honored five finalists and recognized all nominees before naming Fayer the APEX Awards recipient.

“The APEX Awards recognize women in the community who excel at making our community a great place to live and work,” said Kelly Talamo, co-chair of the 2019 awards. “It’s great to be able to support women in business with networking opportunities, educational programs and recognition.”

Fayer established The Law Offices of Kelly L. Fayer, P.A. in 2006. She is the founder of #KindLee, past president of the Lee County Bar Association, board member of the Lee County Bar Association Foundation, founding member and vice president of the Miguel C. Fernandez III Hispanic Bar Association, treasurer of CAMEO of Lee County, board member of Hope Clubhouse of Southwest Florida, honorary board member of the Guardian ad Litem Foundation, and master of Calusa Inn of Court. For over 10 years, Fayer has also represented victims of domestic violence as a grant attorney for Abuse Counseling & Treatment.

The finalists were Kathleen O. Berkey, shareholder attorney and certified land planner, Becker & Poliakoff, P.A.; Kerri A. Goldsmith, financial advisor, HBKS Wealth Advisors; Julie Koester, founder, managing partner, president, Dragon Horse Ad Agency; and Karen L. Mosteller, business consulting and technology partner, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Co., P.A.

Berkey is a shareholder attorney and a certified land planner at Becker & Poliakoff, P.A., a multi-practice commercial law firm. Berkey serves on the board of directors for Keep Lee County Beautiful, as co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Initiative of the Urban Land Institute of Southwest Florida, and serves on the Breastfeeding Accommodations Committee of MothersEsquire Inc. Berkey also exhibits a deep commitment to mentoring emerging professionals, making herself readily available to advise on resume and interview preparation, as well as career advancement and relationship building.

Goldsmith is a financial advisor at HBKS Wealth Advisors and has been with the firm since 2009. A native of Fort Myers, Goldsmith has served in leadership roles for industry associations and nonprofit organizations over the last several decades, and currently is the president-elect of Rotary Club of Fort Myers South.

Koester is the founder, managing partner and president of Dragon Horse Ad Agency, and founded several other companies including Mr. Toad’s Toy Company, Life with Moxie, Moxie Creed and an organic skincare company. She has volunteered with the Conservancy, chaired the MS Walk, led the Columbia University Alumni Association, been a Guardian ad Litem and is the founding board chair of the Children’s Museum of Naples.

Mosteller has worked in public accounting since 1986 and was named a partner with Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Co., P.A. in 2000. She is recognized for providing strategic business solutions to a wide variety of organizations. Mosteller is an experienced presenter and has been a speaker at several national conferences as well as local business groups, in addition to serving on several boards, committees and professional organizations. She also generously shares her knowledge and insight with aspiring entrepreneurs as an active volunteer and board member with the Small Business Development Center at FGCU.

About Women in Business

Part of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, the Women in Business committee is dedicated to helping women achieve their fullest professional and personal potential. A variety of networking and educational programs are offered throughout the year, typically the first Wednesday of every month from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

About the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce:
Serving Lee County and surrounding areas since 1989, the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is a business organization of professionals who support and promote a progressive, sustainable community. The Chamber represents nearly 800 businesses, professionals and individuals throughout Lee County, providing opportunities for members to participate in a variety of meaningful networking, educational and community- and business-focused programs and events. The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce is located at 2310 Edwards Drive in downtown Fort Myers. For additional information regarding membership opportunities or events please call 239-332-3624 or visit www.fortmyers.org. For the latest news and updates, follow the Chamber on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gfmcc or Twitter at @FtMyersChamber.

August 20, 2019, Fort Myers, FL: Through collaboration with local treatment and recovery providers in Lee County, the ARCHway Institute is committed to providing resources and financial assistance to individuals with substance use disorders and co-existing mental health disorders. Your participation will help support these efforts now.
Enjoy an evening that includes a reception, dinner and an exciting silent auction. An inspirational program will be presented by Ken Brown, Specialist for Florida Dept. of Children and Families, and Dan Stuckey, founder and Board Chairman of the ARCHway Institute.
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
(Business Casual)
Pelican Preserve Golf Club
9802 Pelican Preserve Blvd
Fort Myers, FL 33913
Sponsorship opportunities are now available at all levels.
Tickets are $50 per person or $500 per table of 10.
Treatment and Recovery providers will be on hand to offer valuable recovery information.

The Cyber War on Florida: What Your Business Needs to Know
August 28, 2019
Holiday Inn Ft Myers Airport at Town Center
9931 Interstate Commerce Drive
Fort Myers, FL 33913
Join the Chamber of Southwest Florida for lunch with a panel of Cybersecurity experts. This event will provide attendees with an understanding of cybersecurity, cyber threats to their business and provide practices to prevent and mitigate those attacks. Panelists include risk management experts, an attorney and a representative of law enforcement.
Register online here.

Horizon Council, Horizon Foundation, Lee County Economic Development to honor businesses
Fort Myers, FL, Aug. 16, 2019 – Sixteen companies are finalists for the 2019 Industry Appreciation Awards, which celebrate Lee County’s business community and recognize outstanding local businesses that have positively influenced Southwest Florida.
The finalists will be recognized and the winners will be announced on Friday, Oct. 25, at the annual Industry Appreciation Award luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort in Bonita Springs. The event is presented by the Horizon Council, Horizon Foundation and Lee County Economic Development.
Businesses will be honored in five categories:
Business of the Year — Awarded to a Lee County company that has been in business six or more years under the same corporate name and ownership. The company must offer high-quality products and services, provide superior customer service, demonstrate strong ethical standards, be community-minded, actively support employee development, exhibit exemplary leadership within its industry and with its clients, and contribute to the economic growth and free enterprise of Lee County. The finalists in the small business (1-50 employees) category are:
 

• Chris-Tel Construction
• Edison National Bank
• ITVantage

The finalists in the large business (51 or more employees) category are:

• MY Shower Door
• Sanibel Captiva Community Bank
• Scotlynn USA Division

 Innovator of the Year — Recognizes a local business that develops innovative advanced technologies in its own business or industry and has had a positive economic impact in Lee County. The finalists are:

• AXI International
• Honc Destruction
• Lamar Advertising of Fort Myers

Manufacturer of the Year — Awarded to a Lee County manufacturing business that exhibits excellence in leadership, performance, profitability and workforce relations. The finalists are:

• Golden Manufacturing
• HF scientific
• MY Shower Door

 Start Up of the Year — Awarded to a company founded in Lee County in the last three to five years that has overcome challenges and demonstrated continued growth in revenue and staffing to emerge as a business leader. The finalists are:

• Architectural Metal Flashings
• Creative Architectural Resin Products

Community Steward of the Year — Awarded to a company that partners with nonprofits, community organizations and programs to improve the quality of business and civic life in Lee County through financial or volunteer support. The finalists are:

• Cushman & Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida
• Markham Norton Mosteller Wright and Company
• Sullivan State Farm Agencies

See how previous winners blazed a trail to success at leecountybusiness.com/iaw.
The Lee County Economic Development Office provides business assistance to retain existing businesses, attract new businesses and encourage entrepreneurship to ensure Lee County has a strong economy, thriving communities and broadly shared prosperity.
The Horizon Council is a public-private advisory board established in 1991 to advise the Lee Board of County Commissioners on economic development issues. The council’s mission is to improve Lee County’s business environment, retain and encourage expansion of existing businesses, and attract new and diversified employers. It is the only public-private partnership of Lee County Government and business leaders.
The Horizon Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization established as a fundraising vehicle enabling people and businesses to actively support the program of work of the Horizon Council and the Lee County Economic Development Office. For more information, visit www.leecountybusiness.com or call 239-533-6800.

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Aug. 16, 2019) – Lauren Baugh is passionate about connecting people with the resources they need. As the new executive director of the Lee County Bar Association, she’ll seek innovative ways to improve access to justice, encourage communication and promote a better understanding of the law.
“At the end of the day, the bar is about people — bar members and community members alike,” Baugh said. “The legal profession plays such an important role in our society, and the bar should reflect that. Let’s bring people together and exchange ideas.”
Baugh wants to capitalize on social media and technology as a means to enhance existing connections and build new ones. She plans on continuing to enhance and promote the bar’s Lawyer Referral Service, which recently received a tech-savvy upgrade, and she’s envisioning ways to adapt traditional bar communication to emerging platforms.
“The future of the bar association and the future of technology are one and the same,” she said.
A Lee County resident since the age of 3, Baugh has deep roots in the community. She graduated from Edison Community College and Bishop Verot High School, and she has worked in management, administration, bookkeeping and philanthropy. She has an 8-year-old daughter and is an active volunteer in her school.
As well-connected as she is, Baugh’s community focus extends well beyond her own circle. She founded a nonprofit organization called Shoes, Socks, Shirts & Smiles that collects clothing for the “houseless,” a term she prefers instead of homeless.
“Home is where the heart is. Many people in need will always have a home in a certain regard. What they lack is a house,” Baugh said. “If we’re specific in the way we identify the problem, we’re more likely to uncover the right solution.”
Bar leaders were drawn to Baugh’s ability to zero in on an issue and take swift action. She impressed with her proactive approach to finding answers.
“Lauren has shown a lot of enthusiasm for this position and has expressed a lot of new, innovative ideas for implementation in her role as executive director,” said John Webb, president of the Lee County Bar Association. “We are excited to welcome Lauren and look forward to seeing the progress she will make in furtherance of the bar’s mission.”
Speak with Baugh at 239-334-0047 or [email protected].
About the Lee County Bar Association
The Lee County Bar Association, a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit organization, has served the citizens and legal community of Lee County since 1949 and has a current membership of almost 800. Its purpose is to further the education of its member attorneys and create meaningful interaction among them, and to inform the community on important legal matters. The bar strives to serve as a leader in advancing ethical conduct, excellence and the professionalism of its members. For more information, visit leebar.org or contact Executive Director Lauren Baugh at 239-334-0047 or [email protected].

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Aug. 16, 2019) – Guardian ad Litem Foundation, 20^th Judicial Circuit, is seeking sponsors for its inaugural Voices of Hope Gala, a new signature fundraising event to build awareness and support for programs helping Southwest Florida youth in the child welfare system.

The Voices of Hope Gala includes dinner, entertainment and a live auction, and starts at 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, at The Club at Grandezza, 11481 Grande Oak Blvd. in Estero. Event tickets are $250 per person.

Guardian ad Litem Foundation has announced five sponsorship levels – Champion of Hope ($10,000), Defender of Justice ($7,500), Guardian Ally ($6,000), Advocate Angel ($5,000) and Child Protector ($2,500). Sponsorship benefits include Gala tickets and reserved tables; opportunities to provide promotional items in gift bags and speak on stage at the event; media interviews; and recognition at the event, on social media and in event marketing materials.

“Because the gala is a new event, all sponsorship levels are available, including the coveted Champion of Hope sponsor that will receive premium recognition and benefits,” said Roxanne Dyer, executive director for the Guardian ad Litem Foundation. “The business community in Southwest Florida is known for its generosity, especially when it comes to children’s causes, and we’re hopeful that proceeds from the Voices for Hope Gala will help us continue serving local children in need.”

Guardian ad Litem provides trained, court-certified volunteer advocates who serve as the “voice” for abused, neglected and abandoned youth in Southwest Florida as they navigate the judicial, education and child welfare systems. The Foundation raises money to recruit, train and support volunteer child advocates, as well as provide financial assistance to help meet a child’s basic and developmental needs.

Co-chairing the Voices of Hope Gala are Jennifer Siegal-Miller, an associate in the Naples law office of Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., and Peter Knize, senior vice president of estate administration for The Naples Trust Company/The Sanibel-Captiva Trust Company.

For more information about sponsorship or ticket opportunities, please visit VoicesForKids.org/events/2020-Gala or call 239-533-1435.

About Guardian ad Litem Foundation

Guardian ad Litem Foundation, 20th Judicial Circuit, was established in 1984 and is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports Guardian ad Litem programs in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. The Foundation, a United Way Partner Agency, has a mission of ensuring that every abused, neglected or abandoned youth in Southwest Florida has a voice as they navigate the judicial, education and child welfare system. The Foundation raises funds that help meet a child’s health, educational and social needs, as well as provide support for highly trained volunteer advocates who represent the best interests of a child until a safe, permanent placement is established. For additional information, visit VoicesForKids.org or call 239-533-1435.

IMMOKALEE, Fla. (Aug. 16, 2019) – Jay Goldberg Events and Entertainment presents an evening with John Tesh live in concert at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020 at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. Advance tickets are on sale now for $69 and are available at the casino, on www.jaytv.com/florida or by calling 800-514-etix. Attendees must be 21 years of age.
Whether at the piano solo, with a 12-piece ‘big band’ or an 80-piece orchestra, Tesh’s ability to create a unique journey for concert fans with music and storytelling has taken him from the Red Rocks Amphitheater and the Coliseum in Rome to Carnegie Hall and The Kennedy Center. His live television concerts, including the seminal ‘Live at Red Rocks,’ have raised more than $20 million for Public Television. Tesh has won six music Emmys, received two Grammy nominations and three gold records, hosted seven Public Television specials and sold more than eight million records.
Twenty five years and 50 plus recordings into his multi-faceted, ever-evolving musical and broadcast career, Tesh’s highly successful and varied career path also includes a string of #1 radio hits, a Keyboard Magazine Performance award, 12 years as an investigative journalist for the CBS TV Network, a 10-year run as anchor on Entertainment Tonight, broadcast host and music composer for the Barcelona and Atlanta Olympic Games, and the unique distinction of composing what critics have hailed as “The greatest sports theme song in television history,” the NBC SPORTS’ NBA Basketball Theme.
 About Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee
Open 24/7; 365 days a year, Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee is Southwest Florida’s premier gaming and entertainment destination. The 51,000-square-foot plus casino offers 1,400 slots and 38 live table games including Blackjack, Mini-Baccarat, Pai Gow, Let It Ride, Three Card Poker, Mississippi Stud, Blackjack Switch and Spanish 21. Dining options include the award-winning 1^st Street Deli, Asian fusion restaurant Lucky Mi Noodle House, and the recently renovated and 24-hour EE-TO-LEET-KE (“The Camp”) Grill. Seminole Casino Hotel’s nightlife is highlighted by the Zig Zag lounge, home of the Zig Zag Girlz, “where the party never ends” featuring nightly live entertainment and no last call, as well as the new Corner Bar. Additional entertainment and events are held at the Seminole Center, an indoor/outdoor special event center featuring state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. The new Seminole Casino Hotel is the first upscale hotel to open in or near Immokalee and offers suites and deluxe guestrooms with modern décor and features, plus amenities including a swimming pool with private cabanas, 24-hour fitness studio and free Wi-Fi.
Located at 506 South 1^st Street in Immokalee, Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee is easily accessible to all of Southwest Florida via I-75 and Southwest Florida International Airport is only a 45-minute drive from the casino. Located between Miami and Naples, north of Alligator Alley on Highway 846, it is five blocks south of Highway 29. Approximately 30 minutes from Naples and Fort Myers, the casino is a 90-minute drive from Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Seminole Casino Hotel participates in the Seminole Players Club Wild Card Rewards Program whereby players earn and redeem comp dollars at all Seminole Casinos in Florida. For more information, call toll-free (800) 218-0007 or visit moreinparadise.com or facebook.com/SeminoleCasinoHotel/.

Get your tickets now for the happiest of hours! Nibble, nosh, sip and savor in our colorful gallery. Delight your senses with unlimited tastes of award-winning, rare and brand new artisan brews, hand-selected wines and delicious culinary creations. Play twisted pub games, bid high and often in our silent auction, enjoy live music as you mingle with local artists, artisans and craft beer makers.
Arts On Tap is a lively fundraising event for the Alliance for the Arts that puts a little play into your Saturday and plugs you into the pulse of everything local.

FORT MYERS, Fla. – August 14, 2019 – Cooper Hotels, owner and operator of Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Myers Airport/FGCU, today announced that Evi M. Davis has been named general manager of the 133-suite hotel located at 16450 Corporate Commerce Way.
As general manager, Davis will be responsible for directing all aspects of hotel operations, including guest services, hotel administration, and overseeing marketing efforts.
“Cooper Hotels strives to promote our top performers from within,” said Brian Carney, vice president of operations, Cooper Hotels. “Evi brings extensive experience, a commitment to excellent guest service and strong management and leadership skills to her new position.”
Previously, Davis was rooms division manager at nearby Hilton Naples, another Cooper Hotels property, where she had been a team member since 2003. She began her career at Hilton Naples as a guest service agent, was promoted to guest service supervisor, then to front desk manager, guest service manager and finally rooms division manager in 2014.
Davis is a graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers and holds a B.S. degree in general management. She also has an associate in arts from Florida Southwestern State College in Naples/Fort Myers.
Cooper Hotels also owns and manages three other hotels in Fort Myers – the Crowne Plaza Fort Myers and Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops and the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Myers Airport/ FGCU.
Located one mile south of Southwest Florida International Airport, across from Gulf Coast Town Center Mall and two miles from FGCU, Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Myers Airport/FGCU provides fully equipped kitchens and separate living and sleeping areas. Guests are also provided all the essentials needed for a comfortable and convenient stay, including complimentary full-hot breakfast daily, evening social Monday-Thursday and Wi-Fi. For more information on Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Myers Airport/FGCU visit www.fortmyersairportfgcu.homewoodsuites.com.
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Terry Hendrix
[email protected]
Cooper Hotels
1661 Aaron Brenner Drive
Suite 200
Memphis, Tennessee 38120
www.cooperhotels.com