CREDIT REPORT FYI

Credit reports are a detailed account of your credit history.
They are a measure of your financial reliability and often determine your ability to secure loans and financing, are often used for employment inquiries, rental applications and much more.
Ensuring their accuracy in a world of identity theft is YOUR responsibility. You have rights and may wish to consider a proactive approach to ensure the integrity of your report.  Here’s how:
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) notes that each credit bureau creates a slightly different credit report, but most are split into four or five main sections:
Personal information includes any name you’ve ever used in connection with an account, your birth date, social security number and former addresses.
Credit account information includes current and past credit accounts (such as credit cards, loans and mortgages), account balances, payment history and how long each account has been open.
Debt collections may appear if a lender has ever transferred overdue account payments to an external collection agency.
Public records list applicable history of bankruptcies, foreclosures, liens or civil suits.
Recent inquiries list any entities that have recently inquired about your credit, like credit card companies or lenders.
HAS MY IDENTITY BEEN STOLEN?
Have you been notified that your personal and financial information was  stolen from a company by way of a data breach?
Does your bank statement appear to be incorrect?
Are you receiving unfamiliar bills?  Calls from debt collectors?  Are you unable to file your taxes?  Has your credit card been unexpectedly declined?
HOW DO I VERIFY THE ACCURACY OF MY REPORT?
You can request a free copy of your credit report from each of the three       reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion).
Request Your Free Credit Report:
Online: Visit AnnualCreditReport.com
By Phone: Call 1-877-322-8228. For TTY service, call 711 and ask the relay operator for 1-800-821-7232.
By Mail: Complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form (https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/pdf-0093-annual-report-request-form.pdf) and mail it to:
Annual Credit Report Request Service
PO Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281

Apprenticeships, on-the-job training and certifications

 
FORT MYERS, Fla. (Feb. 2, 2021) – Many manufacturers are facing a growing demand for products and supplies. To stay ahead of the curve, manufacturers realize the need to sharpen the skills of their workforce. To address this growing need, Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association (SRMA) will host the “Accelerating Workforce Skills & Certifications” Roundtable on Zoom on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at 8 a.m. There is no cost to attend.
“To answer this growing need of local manufacturers in Southwest Florida, SRMA is proud to host a panel of experts who can provide free or low cost opportunities for employers who wish to certify, train or accelerate the skills and certification of their workforce,” says SRMA Board Chair Jeff Poirier.
The Roundtable webinar is open for all to attend. Participants will learn about on-the-job training programs, apprenticeship programs and rapid certification courses available to improve skills, confidence and productivity of their workforce. Featured speakers include the Director of Immokalee Technical College Dorin Oxender, Assistant Director Aaron Paquette, and Instructor Ross Porter. SRMA Board Chair Jeff Poirier will moderate the discussion and guests will have an opportunity to ask the panel questions that relate to their business.
To register for this free event, visit https://srma.net/category/events/ and a Zoom link will be sent to you. For more information about the Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association visit SRMA.net, call 239-258-1385 or email [email protected].

About the Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association

The purpose and objective of the Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association is to bring together manufacturers to encourage the economic development of Southwest Florida through manufacturing, and to act as a forum for the expression and exchange of ideas and information among its members. The SRMA provides an advocacy platform for the general welfare of its members in the face of economic, civic and educational challenges. It encourages cooperation, information sharing and mutual aid, fostering social relationships and community involvement. Visit srma.net for more information or to become a member or sponsor.
 

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Feb. 2, 2021) – The Southwest Florida Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) is pleased to announce that member Kali Kaye, APR, recently earned professional public relations accreditation, and received the designation of Accredited in Public Relations (APR).
Kaye joins the more than 4,300 active public relations professionals worldwide who represent an elite group of skilled professionals committed to practicing with high ethical standards, including 39 currently in southwest Florida.
Kaye is the internal communications supervisor at Lee Health, Lee County’s major destination
for health care and the largest employer in Lee County. Kaye manages the strategic communication efforts for Lee Health’s more than 15,000 employees, the Lee Health medical staff and the volunteers and auxilians. Kaye earned her bachelor’s degree in communications from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2005. She is a native of Fort Myers and has worked for
Lee Health for 10 years.
To earn public relations accreditation, candidates must pass an oral presentation and rigorous written examination administered by the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB), which is an alliance of eight national and statewide professional associations dedicated to furthering the field of public relations and the development of public relations professionals. FPRA is a member of the UAB.
About the Florida Public Relations Association
Established in 1938, FPRA is the oldest public relations organization in the country. FPRA is dedicated to developing public relations practitioners, who, through ethical and standardized practices, enhance the public relations profession in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. For additional information, please visit the Southwest Florida Chapter of FPRA website at http://www.fpraswfl.org.

Effective Feb. 2, 2021, federal law requires wearing a mask at all times in and at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW). Failure to comply may result in removal and denial of re-entry. Refusing to wear a mask in or at RSW is a violation of federal law and individuals may be subject to penalties under federal law.
Under Security Directive SD 1542-21-01, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has directed that all U.S. airports require masks to be worn to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 during air travel. TSA has developed these requirements in consultation with the Federal Aviation Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC has also issued an Order under Section 361 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 264) as follows:

• Requires the wearing of masks while on airport property;
• Boarding only those persons who wear masks;
• Notifying all persons that failure to comply with the mask requirement constitutes a violation of federal law; and
• Disembarking and removing any person who refuses to comply with the Order and TSA Directive.

Security Directive SD 1542-21-01 exempts the following categories of persons from wearing masks:

• Children under the age of 2.
• People with disabilities who cannot wear a mask, or cannot safely wear a mask, because of the disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.).
• People for whom wearing a mask would create a risk to workplace health, safety, or job duty as determined by the relevant workplace safety guidelines or federal regulations.

This federal law and mask requirement will also apply to customers and guests using the terminal building at Base Operations at Page Field.
For more airport information, please visit www.flylcpa.com or www.facebook.com/flyRSW.
FEB. 1, 2021
Please note:  Florida has a very broad public records law. Most written communications to or from Port Authority employees and officials regarding Port Authority business are public records available to the public and media upon request. Your email communication may be subject to public disclosure.
 

Seafood inspired bar and restaurant now open for guests

 
FORT MYERS, FL (February 1, 2021) – Edison Mall welcomes Twisted Crab as the newest addition to the town center’s diverse selection of options for guests. Twisted Crab, a family-owned restaurant is now open seven days a week for lunch and dinner at the Edison Mall, located at 4125 Cleveland Avenue Foot Court entrance.
“Our guests are always changing and evolving, and at Edison Mall, we want to be able to offer them today’s top trends and shopping destinations,” said Brad Lunn, General Manager, Edison Mall. “We are looking forward to welcoming guests to Twisted Crab, while keeping the health of shoppers our top priority and providing the safest experience possible.”
Twisted Crab is open Monday through Thursday from noon to 10:30 pm, Friday and Saturday, noon to 11 Pm and Sunday noon to 10 pm. Daily lunch specials and choices of steam buckets.
Edison Mall remains focused on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. In the continued need to address COVID-19, the town center has proactively implemented additions to the Code of Conduct, effective until further notice.
These additions include the following guidelines:

• Practice social distancing and stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people.
• Covering your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover in accordance with state and local guidelines.
• Do not gather in groups.
• Adhere to each individual tenant’s COVID-19 policies.
• Adhere to all federal, state and local regulations, recommendations and mandates regarding COVID-19.

The Code of Conduct is posted at the Center and available online.
Edison Mall’s already rigorous disinfectant and cleaning practices will also continue many times per day, including periodically disinfecting areas most susceptible to the spread of germs. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer dispensers are located in highly-trafficked areas and walkways for public use.
Edison Mall’s newest restaurant, Twisted Crab, will enhance the town center’s variety of notable retail locations to offer guests the most dynamic shopping experience. This is just one example of Edison Mall’s ongoing commitment to creating a true town center where community members can safely shop, dine, and connect.
For additional information on Edison Mall please visit shopedisonmall.com.
About Edison Mall
The only enclosed, climate-controlled shopping mall in Southwest Florida, Edison Mall is a great escape on warmer or rainy days. Serving the greater Fort Myers and Naples area, and conveniently located at the intersection of US41 and Colonial Boulevard, Edison Mall is the perfect spot for shopping, dining, entertainment and more!
Home to over 160 retail and specialty shops, like Macy’s, Dillard’s, JCPenney, Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works and Books-A-Million, Edison Mall has a store for everyone. During your visit enjoy a meal at one of the many dining options.
Along with shopping, Edison Mall is focused on providing a place for the community to visit and enjoy! Stop by and relax in a comfortable seat around the flowing fountains, enjoy one of the mall-hosted events, or take part in health & wellness programs like the Mall Walker Program.
Edison Mall has just what you need, For Every Occasion
 
In appreciation,
ANGELI K. CHIN
Marketing Director
Edison Mall
4125 Cleveland Avenue, Ste 1627
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239.939.1933 x 2725 (office) 239.286.5500 (cell)  239.939.0325 (fax)
[email protected]
washingtonprime.com
“Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.”– William Shakespeare

Fort Myers, FL (February 1, 2021) – Alliant Association Management is pleased to announce the addition of two new clients: Coquina Condominium Association and Heritage Heights HOA. Coquina Condo is located on Fort Myers Beach with 26 units; it is a winter home or vacation property for most of its owners. Heritage Heights is the latest community under development through Habitat for Humanity (Lee & Hendry Counties). When completed, 150 local families will call Heritage Heights their home.
“Taking on two very different communities at the same time exemplifies Alliant’s ability to manage a diverse portfolio. Coquina Condo takes us back to our roots as Alliant began on Fort Myers Beach back in 2005 with a handful of condominium associations. And in recent years we have developed and strengthened our relationship with Habitat for Humanity. We continue to provide assistance and management services for their communities, which now includes the highly anticipated Heritage Heights,” said Jonathan Busa, Vice President of Business Development & Administration.
About Alliant Association Management
Alliant Association Management specializes in the management of HOAs, condos and cooperatives. The company was founded in 2005 and is one of the largest locally owned and operating association management companies in SWFL with offices in Fort Myers and Naples.  Serving over 175 communities, Alliant prides itself in taking the team approach when it comes to association management.  To learn more, visit www.alliantproperty.com.
Contact
Kim Glick, Client Relations Manager
13831 Vector Avenue, Fort Myers
(239) 454-1101 (Main)
(239) 210-6359 (Direct)
[email protected]

Local experts will share winning strategies in two February webinars

 
FORT MYERS, Fla. (Feb. 1, 2021) — The Above Board Chamber of Florida continues its webinar series on Thursday, Feb. 11 and Thursday, Feb. 25 with two topics that are top-of-mind for many businesses: social media strategy and virtual presentations and branding. The chamber’s popular webinar series is designed to guide, inspire, and offer opportunities for local professionals to learn from local experts.
February’s webinars are entitled “How to budget for all your social media and which ones are the most important for your business” and “Best Practices for virtual presentations & branding.”
At the Feb. 11 webinar, a panel of local marketing and business development experts will educate attendees about social media, including budgeting and determining which of the many available platforms will best help companies reach their 2021 goals.
While social media has many benefits, promoting your business on social media has pitfalls as well. To market successfully using social media takes time, effort, and knowledge. A successful social media campaign must be strategic, well thought out, consistent, and deliver the right message at the right time.
Panelists include:
Robert Wetzel, Director of Marketing and Communications at TLC Marketing and Creative Services;
Connie Ramos Williams, Chief Marketing Officer, Founder, President at CONRIC pr + marketing; and
Theresa Ayers, Certified Business Consultant at Florida Small Business Development at FGCU.
The Feb. 11 webinar is sponsored by Trish Leonard, Owner/President of TLC Marketing and Creative Services.
The Feb. 25 webinar will include a panel of branding experts that will give the attendees an understanding of the dynamics of presenting a virtual presentation that will showcase their brand.
Branding is important for a business because it increases the company’s value and makes acquiring new clients easier. A strong brand is reflected in everything from your customer service style, staff uniforms and business cards to your marketing materials and advertising.
Panelists include:
 
Patrick Blake Renda, Founder/Chief Strategy Officer/Managing Partner at Dragon Horse Agency;
Cotrenia Hood, Executive Business Coach at STEEL BLUE;
Nicki McTeague, Account Manager at Priority Marketing; and
Javier Fuller, Vice President of Web Development at CONRIC PR and Marketing
The Feb. 25 Zoom webinar is sponsored by Jennifer Pauly, Chief Executive Officer of Celadon Recovery.
Both February Zoom webinars will be emceed by Jeanne Sweeney, CEO and Founder of Above Board Chamber of Florida. Admission to each webinar is $10. Guests will be able to join the programs live or save them for viewing at a later date.
The first webinar will be Thursday, February 11, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. To register, visit AboveBoardChamber.com or use this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_MC8zn7Z3QquUzov-sPbM6A
The second webinar will be Thursday, February 25, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. To register, visit AboveBoardChamber.com or use this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yprur6OzRuiCZt7ooSRdqw
Above Board Chamber of Florida is an organization where friends gather to share and learn. These webinars provide entrepreneurs, business owners, professionals, students, church leaders, and residents with additional tools to maximize their potential.
The Above Board Chamber wishes to thank its annual sponsors Tri-Town Construction, LLC, Conditioned Air, CONRIC PR & Marketing, WGCU Public Media, Gulf Coast International Properties Naples Floral Design, Spada Salon & Day Spa, Your Walking Billboard, LLC, Charlie McDonald Photography, Lady In Pink Photography, LLC, Signarama North Ft. Myers, Sue Ryan Solutions and E. Sue Huff & Associates, Inc.
The Above Board Chamber of Florida is dedicated to bringing people of all faiths together within the community, in the workplace, and amongst one another. Their mission is to supply members with tools that allow them to take every aspect of their lives Above Board.
For more information on the event or how to become a member of the chamber, call CEO Jeanne Sweeney at 239-910-7426 or visit AboveBoardChamber.com.
 

January 28, 2021: Today, Governor Ron DeSantis released his Florida Leads budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2021-2022, which includes $50 million for VISIT FLORIDA to continue showcasing that Florida is open and safe for tourists from throughout the U.S. and the world.
This marks a huge win for our industry and our state as we remain wholly focused on leading Florida’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. This past year was the most challenging that Florida tourism has ever faced, but with our Governor’s support and our state’s continued investment in VISIT FLORIDA, we can keep working on behalf of every Florida family, business, and community that’s been impacted by the pandemic.
In addition, we’re also excited to share with you that with the support of the Governor’s Office, we are running legislation this Session that would remove our Sunset date and clarify our ability to carry forward our funds when necessary due to unforeseen circumstances (i.e. pausing our media due to storms or public health emergencies).
Serving as our Senate sponsor again this year is Senator Ed Hooper (R – Palm Harbor), who helped us achieve unanimous passage of last year’s bill in the Senate. This year’s bill number is SB 778. Our House bill will soon be filed by Representative Rene Plasencia (R – Titusville) , better known as ‘Coach P’ to his constituents.
We will keep you updated as things progress. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Dana Young
President and CEO, VISIT FLORIDA

January 25, 2021, Fort Myers, FL:  Danny Sinoff, noted jazz pianist and singer, with his Danny Sinoff Trio, have begun a residency each Thursday night at the Players Circle Theatre, located at the Shell Factory and Nature Park. Each week, Sinoff will feature a specific theme from music of the past:

• January 28 will feature The Music of Cole Porter
• February 4 performs The Music of George and Ira Gershwin
• February 11 showcases The Music of Rodgers and Hart, featuring “My Funny Valentine (perfect for Valentine’s Day)
• February 18 is time for “The Music of Jimmy Van Heusen

Thursday performances are at 7:00 p.m.  Tickets are $15 general admission, and $25 VIP.  Contact 239-800-3292 or PlayersCircleTheater.com.
The Players Circle Theatre is located at the Shell Factory and Nature Park, 16554 North Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers.  The 200 seat Players Circle theatre has been converted into a nightclub/cabaret style facility, which will have 74 limited, spaced seating, temperature checks, thorough sanitizing, and masks are worn by all audience members until seated.  In compliance with all CDC guidelines.
A special food & Drink menu is available for nightclub patrons, serving delicious, shareable plates and drinks in the theatre 45 minutes before performances and during shows.  Full dinner and bar also available at the adjacent Southern Grill. Call 239-995-3999 for reservations.
The Players Circle Theatre was developed by veterans of the Southwest Florida theatre movement, Carrie Lund Cacioppo and Robert Cacioppo.  They are prominent faces of theatre in Lee County for over 35 years, having started Lee County’s first professional theatre on Sanibel Island and the Florida Repertory Theatre, which has been named “One of America’s best regional theatres” by The Wall Street Journal.  Players Circle Theatre is a professional black box theatre providing Broadway-level entertainment.  Follow it online at PlayersCircle.org.

Vaccine through Lee County:
The COVID-19 vaccine reservation system will reopen Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. The number to call is 1-866-200-3468. At this time, these vaccines are still only for people age 65 and over and frontline healthcare workers.
A total of 5,800 appointments are available for Thursday, January 21^st and Friday, January 22^nd.
This is a single-location vaccination site. It is located east of Interstate 75 off of Daniels Parkway. It’s the site of the old airport terminal parking lot. Message boards will direct traffic to Paul J. Doherty Parkway. A parking area is available.
Vaccine through Publix:
Coronavirus vaccine at Publix Pharmacy.
All available COVID-19 vaccine appointments at Publix Pharmacy have been claimed. Starting Friday, January 22 after 6:00 a.m. EST, eligible customers can access appointment availability beginning Saturday, January 23.
Vaccination appointments are scheduled online only https://www.publix.com/covid-vaccine/florida  . Appointments cannot be made by calling Publix or the Publix Pharmacy.
Eligibility – The following persons are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine in Florida, by appointment only:

• healthcare personnel with direct patient contact
• residents and staff of longterm healthcare facilities, and
• adults aged 65 years and older