Member News

SBA South Florida District Office

Getting Financially Fit for 2023 Series

September 20th @11am

Businesses must have cash to survive. Have you ever look at the Income Statement and saw that your business is growing and profitable, but then looked at your bank account and saw that it was in negative territory? Sales, revenue, and profits do not pay the bills. Without cash, companies find themselves unable to pay their vendors, rent, utilities, employees, and other expenses, resources, and fixed assets to support their revenue. Entrepreneurs need to understand these issues and the challenges that are involved.

CASH is ALWAYS KING! There are many pockets of cash that are constantly overlooked and hidden. This presentation will identify the Hidden Cash in companies that can enable small business owners to run and grow their business. The hidden cash is on your financial statements and tax returns. Learn how to Identify them and get the CASH NOW!

Your host will be Florida SBDC at FGCU Business Consultant, Neil Shnider, MBA, CPA, CVA.
REGISTER HERE
Resource Partner Spotlight

SBA South Florida District Office
Miami, Tampa, and Ft. Pierce, Florida
305-536-5521
http://www.SBA.gov/SouthFlorida

All SBA programs and services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance

Small Business Administration (SBA) · 409 3rd St, SW · Washington DC 20416 · 1-800-827-5722

Hundreds of courses. Knowledgeable instructors.
Have it your way, online or in-person.

Support FGCU Academy | Make a Memorable Gift Now

The Academy’s program fees only cover a fraction of its operating costs. The Academy relies on the purchase of memberships and donations to carry us the rest of the way. Without your support, this vital community lifelong learning and outreach program would not be possible. Thank you for your generosity.

September 2022

FGCU Academy
International Space Exploration

Greetings, the year 2021 was historic for space exploration.
In just 365 days, we witnessed the genesis of trailblazing achievements such as the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope, SpaceX’s Inspiration 4, which remarkably sent civilians into outer space, and the applause-filled sendoff of NASA’s planetary defense prototype, DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test), to name just a few. But 2022 is shaping up to be even better. For starters, the space race is back.

A look at what has taken place this year:
• SpaceX kicked off 2022 with Starlink launch
• James Webb locked into place
• Perseverance rover’s anniversary of landing on Mars
• Axiom -1 launched first all-private crew to ISS
• SpaceX’s Crew-4 blasts off
• First of six missions to complete Tiangong space station
• Boeing Starliner docks on second flight attempt
• Rocket Lab launched NASA’s Capstone mission
• Russia launches Luna-25
• NASA launches Artemis I
• South Korea’s first moon mission

A look at what is still planned for this year:
• TESS extended mission complete
• NASA’s Dart crashes into asteroid
• Juno mission flyby of Europa
• SpaceX starship orbital launches
• Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket takes off
• India’s Space Program gets back in the game

FGCU Academy offers knowledgeable instructors of our nations space program, as well as all of our programs. Some of whom have direct first hand experiences with the space programs from the beginning and they share that with you in an exciting manner.

You won’t want to miss Ed Grace present his lecture on the Apollo program! (see below)

If you would like to have FGCU Academy provide programs at your community, click below and send us an email with your information: who the contact person is, their email and phone number along with name of your community. We will be happy to reach out and discuss the possibilities with them.

Schedule a Private Education Session
for Your Community!

Please call office to register for classes at 239.434.4737
or
Register Online

Program Guides

View 2022 FGCU Academy Summer Program Guide

View September Daily Calendar

SINGLE LECTURE CLASSES

Apollo Program
@ Aston Gardens – September 6 | 2 – 3:30 p.m.
@ The Arlington – September 13 | 2:30 – 4 p.m.

In this lecture we will review two missions as well as the Apollo highlight missions – Apollo 11 – First Landing on The Moon and Apollo 13 – Houston We Have A Problem Mission. Apollo 17 was launched in December 1972 and Astronaut Gene Cernan became the last man to walk on the moon. Our lecturer worked on the Apollo Program from 1962 – 1972 and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his work saving the astronauts of the Apollo 13 crew. Ed Grace will share with us an inside view of the Apollo program.

Mary Queen of Scots
@ Moorings Park – September 7 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.
@ Cypress Cove – September 15 | 1:30 – 3 p.m.

For love, power, intrigue and scandal you cannot beat the story of Mary Stuart! She was Queen of Scotland at six days old, Queen of France at sixteen, and had events gone as planned, Scotland would today be a part of France. Mary fully expected to become Queen of England as well. Instead in a tragic twist of fate, Mary lost her head. Her life was one of political ambition, intrigue, love, murder, plots and deception. Did Mary create her own fate or was she a victim of much stronger outside forces?

The Great Silk Road: A Caravan of Cultures
@ Moorings Park Grande Lake – September 9 | 1:30 – 3 p.m.

There is probably no more challenging a subject for photographers than wildlife. Whether it is a polar bear or pelican, orchid or orca, the quest for the perfect shot is endless. The quarry is invariably erratic, endangered and elusive. However, the pursuit of this precious image is what makes it such fun and rewarding. Learn the tricks and tips to make photos that you’ll be proud to show! This lecture is specially geared towards capturing the flora and fauna of Southwest Florida. Also, see this section for our Nature Photography Field Trip!

Understanding Your Mirrorless and Digital SLR
@ Naples Center – September 21, 22, 23 | 9 – 12 p.m. New Dates

For those wanting to explore their creative side with digital photography, nothing compares to the choices available with a mirrorless single lens reflex (SLR) camera. But learning the myriad of alternatives can be daunting. This course is designed to make sense of these options: how, when and why to use them. Topics will include understanding exposure, white balance, file formats, better flash photography, focus and shooting options.
New Dates

SERIES CLASSES

NEW Sessions for September

Join us for an interactive hands on class

Writers Collaborative Workshop (4-part series)
@ Naples Center or Online via Zoom – September 6,13, 20, 27 | 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Audience is one of the most important aspects of writing. Share the content of yours with like-minded, aspiring authors in a constructive, acceptance-oriented, creative and vibrant writing group in search of effective writing methodologies. This program welcomes whatever you are writing or want to write – memoir, stories, novel, or poems – for input, guidance and discussion.

Chair Yoga & Mindful Movement
@ Online via Zoom – September 8,15, 22, 29 | 9 – 10 a.m.

Chair yoga is a gentle form of yoga available to everyone, practiced seated using a chair for support. Practice breathing exercises and 8 movements of the spine while seated. Standing poses include balance, gentle stretching and mindful movement encouraging the flow of healthy “chi”. Class ends with relaxation to quiet the mind. Yoga benefits include increased balance, strength & flexibility, healthier breathing habits, reduction of stress, better sleep and overall sense of wellbeing. Suggested props: Folding chair & water. discussion.

Current Events: An Enlightened Discussion Group (2-part sessions)
@ Online via Zoom – September 8, 29 | 10 – 11 a.m.

Join this interactive, thought provoking and engaging discussion group at the forefront of the issues and topics confronting us all. In a globalized world, hot topics rise and fall daily. Ripped from the headlines, join us for a discourse of the issues and stories shaping national sentiment. The best discussions arise from a group of diverse individuals offering their personal viewpoints and perspectives informed by their unique life experiences. Together with your opinions and ideas, bring your listening and critical thinking skills to help enrich us all. If you watch the news and really wish you had someone to talk to about it, this is your group! Each week students receive articles for discussion and, where appropriate, videos are shown to help shape the discussions.

Balance University: Improve Balance, Posture and Flexibility (3-part series)
@ Naples Center / Online via Zoom – September 16, 23, 30 | 9 – 10 a.m.

Balance University is an interactive wellness class, designed to improve balance, posture and flexibility. This program starts with basic balance exercises and progresses to more complex movements over time. Your instructor explains the “whys” and the importance of balance exercises as part of your everyday routine. Join our instructor in a safe and effective low-impact workout every Friday morning.

TECHNOLOGY CLASSES
Instructor: John Guerra

Apple iPhone/iPad Settings: iCloud, Notifications, Focus and More
@ Moorings Park Grande Lake – September 29 | 1 – 2 p.m.

Computer and Internet Security for Desktops, Laptops, Phones and Tablets – How to Stay Safe & Protect
@ Naples Center or Online via Zoom – September 30 | 10 -11:30 a.m.

LOOKING AHEAD – see what’s coming

• Jonathan Pollard – Avarice or Ideology?
• Roosevelt vs. Rockefeller: Are Corporations Too Big and Powerful?
• The Great Private Sector Space Race
• King Ludwig II of Bavaria – The Fairytale King
• Get Ready to Vote in the November Elections

View a Class at Your Time!

You can now view PRE-RECORDED Classes from the comfort of your own home any time of day or night.
View Offered Courses
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2023 Travel

Travel The World With FGCU Academy
Travel is not reward for working, it’s education for living

Brochures now available for most tours – see below

INSIDER’S JAPAN – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
May 20 – June 1, 2023 | 13 days
It’s a land of delicate art and bustling commerce, of rich traditions and dizzying modernity; a jumble of sights, sounds, and tastes that for visitors are truly foreign – and truly fascinating. This well-crafted tour features the highlights of Tokyo and Kyoto, engages us in local life, and takes us off the beaten path to the lovely historic cities of Takayama and Kanazawa.

UNTAMED ALASKA – coming soon
August 20 – 30, 2023 | 11 days
Awe-inspiring natural beauty and outdoor adventure await as we explore Alaska’s varied landscapes and noteworthy cities. From Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, and Kenai Fjords national parks to the energy of Anchorage and scenic Seward, our small group encounters the breadth and beauty of America’s Last Frontier.

LEGENDARY TURKEY – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 1 – 15, 2023 | 15 days
Exotic sights, scents, and sounds reign in this fascinating land where Europe and Asia meet. From Istanbul, magnificent “Empress of the World,” to ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and the dramatic – and legendary – Turquoise Coast, Turkey engages and beguiles, offering us an unparalleled small group experience.

ACROSS SPAIN & PORTUGAL – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 10 – 26, 2023 | 17 days
Fortified cities and tiny fishing villages, rugged Atlantic coastline and commanding Pyrenees peaks, iconic shrines to both religion and fine art, and intimate lodgings in historic paradores and pousadas – it all awaits on this singular small group journey from Lisbon across the north of Spain, ending in vibrant Barcelona.

PEARLS OF DALMATIA – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 14 – 28, 2023 | 15 days
Independent, democratic Croatia welcomes visitors eager to absorb its remarkable history and culture – and its beautiful and unspoiled Dalmatian coastline. As our small group travels from historic Zagreb and beautiful Lake Bled to the Habsburg resort of Opatija, the island of Hvar, and beloved Dubrovnik, we see why this cherished region lays such a claim on the hearts of all who visit.

CLASSIC GERMANY – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 21 – October 3, 2023 | 13 days
Classic Germany: it’s the Romantic Road and the Bavarian Alps, royal castles and half-timbered houses, charming villages and historic Nuremberg, culturally rich Munich and international Berlin. It’s history of note – and of notoriety. And we see it all on this alluring small group tour.

SICILY IN DEPTH – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 28 – October 9, 2023 | 12 days
Crossroads of the Mediterranean … the “toe” in Italy’s boot … “God’s Kitchen” … Sicily is all this, and much more, as we see on our stellar small group journey around this Italian island. It’s lively cities and ancient ruins, temples of man – and of nature, hospitable people and delectable cuisine … a feast for all the senses.

ISRAEL: TIMELESS WONDERS – coming soon
October 14 – 25, 2023 | 12 days
Encounter a land of extraordinary beauty and belief, of spirit and story, history and hospitality. From modern Tel Aviv to scen¬ic Upper Galilee, ancient Tiberias and storied Nazareth to Jerusalem, “City of Gold,” we engage all our senses in a small group encounter with this extraordinary and holy land, with a five-night stay in Jerusalem at the legendary King David hotel.

Support FGCU Academy | Make a Memorable Gift Now

The Academy’s program fees only cover a fraction of its operating costs. The Academy relies on the purchase of memberships and donations to carry us the rest of the way. Without your support, this vital community lifelong learning and outreach program would not be possible. Thank you for your generosity.

FGCU Academy
Collier / Lee / Charlotte

FGCU ACADEMY NAPLES CENTER
704 Goodlette-Frank Rd N
Suite 330
Naples, FL 34102

239-434-4737

[email protected]

FGCU Academy | 704 Goodlette-Frank Road N., Suite 330, Naples, FL 34102

This Labor Day, Have a Drink on Us!

Gulf Coast Symphony Family, join us for our Musical Theatre Series at the Music & Arts Community Center. This season includes the world premiere of Snowbird Follies, plus three hilarious comedies: The Thing About Men, Forever Plaid and Nunsense.

When you purchase a Musical Theatre Series package, you are first in line to receive special offers and access to pre-sales for newly announced programs. Beat the rush and enjoy the very BEST seats!

Select any 3 or 4 shows to save 25%, plus enjoy a free drink on us!*
*Offer valid through September 9, 2022
*One free drink voucher per purchase, redeemable at the MACC through May of 2023.

Snowbird Follies:
A Holiday Revue
December 3 – 18

Nomads from the North have been flocking to the sunshine state for well over 100 years. Come enjoy a whimsical musical yuletide celebration with a winking nod to Fort Myers’ original snowbirds, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

From “Boogie Woogie Santa Claus” to “White Christmas”, this revue a is playful journey through decades of holiday favorites, sprinkled with local history.

The Thing About Men
January 19 – February 4

The Thing About Men is a musical comedy based on the 1985 German farcical film Men by Doris Dörrie. With music by Jimmy Roberts and lyrics and book by Joe DiPietro, it was written as a follow-up to their long-running musical I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change (which the Gulf Coast Symphony produced last season).

The plot revolves around a love triangle and shows what men will do to keep their pride and love affairs intact. The show is a comic exploration of men, modern marriage, and friendship.

Forever Plaid
February 15 – March 11

Forever Plaid is one of Broadway’s most popular and successful musicals. This deliciously fun show is chock-full of classic barbershop quartet harmonies and pitch-perfect melodies! Once upon a time, there were four guys (Sparky, Smudge, Jinx and Frankie) who discovered that they shared a love for music and then got together to become their idols – The Four Freshman, The Hi-Lo’s and The Crew Cuts. On the way to their first big gig, the “Plaids” are broadsided by a school bus and killed instantly. At this moment their heavenly journey and final chance at musical glory begins.

Nunsense
April 13 – 29

Nunsense begins when the Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters, and they are in dire need of funds for the burials. The sisters decide that the best way to raise the money is to put on a variety show. Featuring star turns, tap and ballet dancing, an audience quiz, and comic surprises, this show has become an international phenomenon!!! (Nunsense.com)

Select any 3 or 4 shows to save 25%, plus enjoy a free drink on us!*
*Offer valid through September 9, 2022
*One free drink voucher per purchase, redeemable at the MACC through May of 2023.

Follow us on our social media for more updates:

Gulf Coast Symphony, PO Box 60878, Fort Myers, FL 33906, United States

LAST CHANCE TO BUY TICKETS!
www.swflcraftbeerweek.com

We have a limited number of tickets for the SWFL Craft Beer Week Kickoff Party and I’m encouraging you to buy yours today! We are going to start Labor Day weekend off right TONIGHT at 6:00pm at Headpinz-Fort Myers. We’ll have beer samples, beer-infused appetizers, and chances to win some great prizes.

Tickets are $45. If you want to super charge your holiday weekend, you could buy a VIP ticket for $100 that gives you admission to the kickoff party and access to special offers at participating local breweries (9/1 – 9/5).

Support your fellow chamber members and our local breweries as they showcase their tap rooms, release special new beer flavors, and provide behind the scenes tours – with a few surprises along the way!

We can’t guarantee that we’ll have tickets left to sell at the door Thursday, so buy your tickets before they sell out!
Click here to buy your kickoff tickets!

*For out-of-town guests or even if you’re looking for a stay-cation, Crowne Plaza Fort Myers offers a special hotel room rate of $115 per night, including breakfast daily, a complimentary drink at the in-hotel restaurant Shoeless Joe’s Sports Café & roundtrip transportation to select breweries on Sept. 3.
Guests must request the SWFL Craft Beer Fest group rate when booking.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

www.swflcraftbeerweek.com

*A special thank you to @thecraftbrewnette for the amazing video seen above!

Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce | 2310 Edwards Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33901

Be a holiday hero for sea turtles and shorebirds this Labor Day
As you make plans for the long holiday weekend, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds the public that sea turtles and shorebirds are still reliant on Florida’s beaches for nesting. You can help nesting sea turtles and their emerging hatchlings, along with shorebirds and flightless chicks, by giving them space, removing beach gear at night, keeping beaches clean and dark, and filling in holes dug in the sand before you leave.

Florida’s sandy beaches provide critical nesting habitat for several species of imperiled sea turtles and shorebirds. Some sea turtle hatchlings are still emerging from nests on many beaches around the state, trying to make their way to the ocean. Any interference, including artificial lights and getting too close, can cause hatchlings to be confused and lose their way, endangering their chances at survival.

Shorebirds and seabirds are also dependent on our beaches for successful nesting, resting and migrating. While shorebird nesting is ending for the season, flightless chicks and juveniles are still present with their parents on many beaches. Florida beaches also host vulnerable shorebirds and seabirds year-round. Birds, such as the piping plover and red knot, are returning to Florida’s beaches to refuel during migration and stay for the winter. Giving shorebirds and seabirds space to rest and forage benefits them all year.
Both sea turtles and shorebirds can benefit when beachgoers take a few simple actions when at the beach. Be a holiday hero this Labor Day weekend and help our vulnerable sea turtles and shorebirds:
• Close curtains after dark to help ensure nesting turtles are not disturbed by interior lights as they come ashore and hatchlings are not disoriented as they emerge from their nests. Make sure any required exterior lighting adjacent to nesting beaches is long, low and shielded. Avoid using any color flashlight, cell phone lights and taking flash photos after dark on the beach.
• Clear the way at the end of the day to help nesting sea turtles, emerging hatchlings and shorebirds. Obstacles on the beach and holes in the sand can trap or prevent sea turtle hatchlings from reaching the water and adult sea turtles from being able to nest, so it is important to remove all beach toys and furniture before leaving. If you or your family dig a hole on the beach, keep it closer to the water line to avoid active sea turtle nests and make sure you fill it back in before leaving to avoid trapping sea turtles and hatchlings as well as flightless shorebird chicks. Trash and food scraps attract predators that can prey on sea turtle hatchlings and flightless shorebirds, so it is important to properly dispose of these items after a day at the beach.
• Give sea turtles, emerging hatchlings and shorebirds space. Getting too close to sea turtle hatchlings or nesting sea turtles can prevent them from getting to where they need to go. If an animal changes its behavior when you approach, that is a sign that you might be too close.
• If you find a sea turtle hatchling or adult sea turtle in distress, immediately call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotlineat 888-404-FWCC (3922).
For more information about nesting sea turtles and how you can help, visit MyFWC.com/SeaTurtle or see the FWC’s “Be a Beach Hero” brochure.
For more information about nesting shorebirds, go to MyFWC.com/Shorebirds and download the “Share the Beach with Beach-Nesting Birds” brochure.

Iron Ridge Insurance Services adds Executive Risk Manager/Client Advisor

Susan L. Dusenbery brings expertise in risk management and transformational leadership to growing firm

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Sept. 1, 2022) – Iron Ridge Insurance Services welcomes Susan L. Dusenbery as Executive Risk Manager/Client Advisor. As Iron Ridge continues to grow – more than doubling in the last two years – Dusenbery brings proven experience as an insurance industry professional specializing in all aspects of risk management, relationship building, and strategic planning.

“I am honored to join the prestigious team at Iron Ridge,” said Dusenbery. “The team culture and the commitment to clients and the community is refreshing. I’m excited to add to the firm’s reputation of excellence and contribute to the team’s growth and success.”

Dusenbery’s experience serving the insurance needs of clients and expertise encompasses all aspects of risk management, insurance, project management, fixed asset and finance, problem resolution, data analysis, team leadership, relationship building, and strategic thinking. She has substantial experience in designing comprehensive risk management processes, procedures, and policies to accomplish organizational objectives.

Dusenbery’s expertise is demonstrated by her accomplished history as a Risk Manager for KONE Inc., representing the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, for the last seven years. Prior, she held the Associate Vice President of Finance, Risk Management and Facilities role at Upper Iowa University, and Director of Risk Management and Asset Control Supervisor for Black Hawk College for ten years.

“Susan has a proven history of excellence in serving clients and the organizations she has worked for. Her career spans over 20 years with an established reputation as a transformational leader driven by challenge, undeterred by obstacles, and committed to furthering standards of excellence and best practices,” said Iron Ridge Insurance Services CEO Norman Lutz. “I am excited to see what she will accomplish at Iron Ridge and I believe her ability to build consensus among teams and stakeholders to promote transparency and influence positive change will benefit the Iron Ridge team as we continue to grow.”

Dusenbery earned a Master of Business Administration from WIU, Illinois, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration, Accounting, from Midway College, Kentucky. She also holds ARM and CSRM certifications.

Iron Ridge Insurance Services prides itself on its commitment to providing knowledgeable, innovative, and ethical insurance coverage to its clients. It primarily serves commercial clients, with particular focus on healthcare, architects and engineers, legal practices, condo and homeowners’ associations, and religious organizations. Its team of insurance professionals have a wealth of commercial and personal insurance experience. For an evaluation of your commercial or personal insurance coverage, contact Iron Ridge Insurance Services at 800-775-8526 or [email protected].

For the best viewing, please click here

From 2021 Island Hopper Songwriter Fest: Singer-songwriter Leighton Fields gives a strolling performance down Andy Rosse Lane on Captiva Island. Photo by Brian Tietz

Songs from the Sand

The Sanibel Captiva Guide Podcast

So far, so good and we’ll see you at Island Hopper
While we know September is typically a challenging month for our local hospitality and tourism partners, we also know how good this year has been.
Our fiscal year-to-date – the total collections for last year – tourist tax collections for June show that we are 31% ahead of last year. We have already exceeded last year, so it’s safe to say we are on our way to a record year.
Island Hopper Songwriter Fest
We have much to look forward to this month, including the 8th Island Hopper Songwriter Fest, Sept. 16-25. This signature event, created by the VCB, was first held in 2014 in an effort to bring visitors to the destination during the slowest time of the year.

Island Hopper has grown in popularity and now brings repeat visitors to hear more than 70 singer-songwriters perform more than 100 shows and share their stories behind the songs. Most shows are free, with the exception of a few ticketed experiences.

The 10-day Island Hopper music festival features performances by some of the country’s greatest BMI singer-songwriters. The first weekend kicks off on Captiva Island, Sept. 16-18, then moves to downtown Fort Myers, Sept. 19-22, and ends with a weekend on Fort Myers Beach, Sept. 23-25.

Gary LeVox, frontman for Rascal Flatts, is the headline songwriter/performer and is scheduled to perform at 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25, poolside at the Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on Fort Myers Beach. Tickets for the event are available on the Island Hopper app – iOS and Android – or islandhopperfest.com.

Be sure to download the app to be entered for a chance to win a two-night stay at Pink Shell during the final weekend of Island Hopper, tickets to the LeVox concert and a $200 gift card.

Governor’s Conference
We look forward to seeing you and our friends from other in-state destinations at the upcoming Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism, Aug. 31-Sept. 2 in Boca Raton. This VISIT FLORIDA event is always a great opportunity to make new connections and catch up with other tourism industry professionals, advertising agencies, travel experts and state leaders to explore the latest trends and opportunities for the industry.

Save the dates
Please join us Thursday, Sept. 8, to celebrate nominees of the 2022 E Awards. The Elaine McLaughlin Outstanding Hospitality Service Awards recognize our local tourism industry colleagues for their extraordinary customer service and professionalism. The E Awards are set for 8-11 a.m. Sept. 8 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa. Visit EAwards.org or call 239-590-4855.

On Tuesday, Sept. 13, we would like you be part of our Key Data Dashboard Webinar at 10 a.m. Key Data provides Lee County vacation rental data and insights sourced directly from area property managers and resorts through real-time, reservation system data feeds. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about this process and gain insight into the latest vacation rental data.

And, please join us again Thursday, Nov. 10, for the Tourism Outlook Annual Meeting at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point. We’ll be sharing results and highlights from 2022 and revealing our new 2022-23 sales and marketing plans.

Multiple-Emmy award winner Peter Greenberg will be our very special guest and keynote speaker. Known in the travel industry as “The Travel Detective,” Greenberg is the travel editor for CBS News and appears frequently on “CBS This Morning.” Registration will open closer to the event date.
Have a great September and we look forward to seeing you at Island Hopper. Thank you for all you do to make the destination great.

Executive Director

Bryelle Benzing,
marketing manager

Tiffany Gobert,
fiscal officer

BENZING’S BIO

GOBERT’S BIO

Vanessa Gomez,
marketing intern

Paulina Seminara,
communications intern

GOMEZ’S BIO

SEMINARA’S BIO

In the news
• RSW July traffic report
• Cape Coral’s Cultural Park Theater celebrates 60th anniversary with massive makeover
• Fort Myers downtown hotel development granted one-year extension
• Lee Commissioners award contract for new shade structures at 10 Parks & Recreation facilities
• Possible boat ramp coming to Riverside Community Center in Fort Myers
• Darden plans 4 new restaurants in Collier, Lee counties
• Planning begins for Bonita Springs Banyan Tree Square

Updates from the Performance Dashboard
The VCB’s new Industry Insights Dashboard provides our partners with the latest Lee County-specific travel data. Partners can use this information to make informed marketing decisions, resource planning, revenue forecasting and more.

This month’s insights:
• Top out-of-state markets for July were Chicago, New York, Atlanta, Cincinnati and Cleveland. We saw a shift in markets as Indianapolis was a top out-of-state origin market in June but was overtaken by Cincinnati in July. Total trips increased from 294,506 in June to 362,217 in July. Source: Arrivalist’s dashboards and insights, comparing trips per month and top origin markets
• Average booking lead times for flights decreased by 2% month over month, sitting at 53 days for July travel, while hotel booking windows were flat with a lead time of 56 days for both June and July. As we move from summer to fall months, hotel lead times seem to decrease compared to early summer months. For August, we can expect hotel booking lead times to increase by seven days based on data from pre-pandemic and last year.
Source: Sojern Average Lead Time in Days, Flights and Hotels data
• For July vacation rentals, we saw an increase in ADR by 9% and a decrease of 15% in occupancy rate when compared to July 2021.
Source: KeyData
• Hotel occupancy was down slightly at the beginning of July and rebounded the last two weeks of the month, aligning with July 2021 hotel occupancy rates. Hotel ADR was up an average of 5% in July.
Source: STR – weekly reports for July

Hurricane preparedness resources

Lee County’s All Hazards Guide is a great resource to help prepare your family and loved ones on how to stay safe during an emergency. It’s packed with useful information about emergency supplies, evacuation plans and ways to stay safe. Click on the image to get your copy.
Click the links below to watch helpful videos with practical advice on family safety during an emergency.

Videos: Determine your risk

Develop an Evacuation Plan

CATALOG OF HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS VIDEOS

Try the Fort Myers Discovery Challenge today

Explore Fort Myers and surrounding areas to discover the arts and cultural attractions that make our islands, beaches and neighborhoods naturally unique. Embark on a guided tour of the Mound House that overlooks Estero Bay or walk the Calusa Heritage Trail on Pine Island. From our nationally recognized shell museum on Sanibel Island to the funky art galleries of Matlacha, there are so many ways to have a good day. Using your phone, check in to each location and you could find exclusive savings and deals.
The challenge ends December 20, 2022!

Sales activities

Rotating photos include:
• (Photo 1) July 11-15: Denver travel agency sales calls, AAA travel advisor in Colorado Springs to whom Holly Morris, Florida Travel Marketing (FTM), promoted our destination.
• (Photo 2) July 20-22: FSAE Annual Conference, From left: Sandra Keneven, Westin Cape Coral Resort; Erin Lester, VCB; Grant Hart, Luminary Hotel & Co., at a meeting planner networking event in Tampa with over 360 attendees. It was announced that the Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods is the host destination for this conference in 2023 and will be held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa.
• (Photo 3) July 25-29: Philadelphia travel agency sales calls, From left: Glenside travel advisor, Diane, with Holly Morris, FTM, discussing the destination on our greater Philadelphia sales calls.
• (Photo 4) July 27-29: Smart Meetings Northeast Regional Show & Boston client event, From left: Betsy Bush, VCB, with Sandra Keneven, Westin Cape Coral Resort, preparing to host a client event for area Boston meeting planners before attending the Smart Meetings Northeast meeting planner show.

Upcoming sales events

PR/Communications

Aug. 4: Margaritaville Resort Fort Myers Beach media tour: Juliana Silva, VCB; David Cesario, Margaritaville Resort FMB general manager; Charm Evans, VCB; Samantha Ballin, NJF; Noreen Kompanik, TravelPulse; Jennifer Thomas, Meetings Today; Ray Sarracino, VCB; Dee Anne Osborne, Margaritaville Resort FMB.

Aug. 5: Coming Attractions FAM: Samantha Ballin, NJF; Noreen Kompanik, TravelPulse; Jennifer Thomas, Meetings Today; Alexandria Edwards, Edison and Ford Winter Estates.

Aug. 8: Fine Folk Pizza wins a “GEMmy” award: Todd Wessell, Midwest Travel Journalists Association (MTJA); Mike and Brie DeNunzio, Fine Folk Pizza owners; Lois Croft, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. Fine Folk Pizza received a “GEMmy” award from MTJA in recognition of the restaurant being an exceptional travel experience.

Aug. 24: German press tour at the Bubble Room: From left: VCB Communications Manager Miriam Dotson, left, with Lina, Sandra and Michael Schmidt. The Schmidt family produce the “One Million Places” travel web site focusing on family travel.

Public relations/communications earned media results

Celebrate outstanding hospitality with us

You are invited to join the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau in celebrating the 2022 Elaine McLaughlin Outstanding Hospitality Service Awards (the E Awards). Show your support for our nominees who will be recognized for their extraordinary customer service and professionalism.
The E Awards will be held on Thursday, Sept. 8, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa. Breakfast begins at 8 a.m. and the awards ceremony will begin at 9 a.m.
Please RSVP at EAwards.org or by calling 239-590-4855. Nominees attend as our guests. Supporters are $25 per person.
E Awards
When: 8-11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 8
Where: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, 5001 Coconut Road, Bonita Springs

2022 TDC meeting schedule

Local

LEE COUNTY WATER QUALITY RESOURCES

RED TIDE FACT SHEET

State

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION DAILY RED TIDE SAMPLE MAP

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION RED TIDE FAQS

RED TIDE RESPIRATORY FORECAST TOOL

BOCA GRANDE

CAPE CORAL

EAST LEE COUNTY

GREATER ESTERO

FORT MYERS BEACH

GREATER FORT MYERS

GREATER PINE ISLAND

NORTH FORT MYERS

SANIBEL & CAPTIVA ISLANDS

SWFL INC.

2201 Second Street, Suite 600
Fort Myers, Florida 33901
Toll Free 800.237.6444 | Local 239.338.3500

Copyright © 2022 Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau
Our address is 2201 Second Street, Suite 600, Fort Myers, FL 33901, USA

View as a webpage here

News Release

Cutting-Edge Technology Improves Canal Operations in the Big Cypress Basin and Protects Naples Bay

New automated remote operations system monitors and controls water levels throughout 24 miles of canals

Water Control Structure GG-4 in Collier County

NAPLES, Fla. – The Big Cypress Basin (BCB) is using a new remote operations system to monitor and control water levels with extreme precision throughout 24 miles of canals in southwestern Collier County. The remote operations system allows water managers to move and hold water quickly and efficiently, which improves flood control, protects Naples Bay, and safeguards groundwater supplies in the region.

The automated system works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to control water levels down to the inch in a continuous system of canals flowing southwest to Naples Bay. Using the new state-of-the-art technology, water managers can remotely open and close a network of flood control gates within minutes, greatly increasing the speed in which they are able to respond to changing weather conditions.

“This is a huge operational enhancement that will improve the quality of life for the residents in the Big Cypress Basin and protect the health of Naples Bay,” said Charlette Roman, Chair, Big Cypress Basin Board and Governing Board Member of the South Florida Water Management District. “This innovative technology ensures the continued protection of our communities and our water resources.”

The remote operations system will provide:
• Improved timing and distribution of flood waters
• Improved water flow to protect groundwater supplies and Naples Bay
• Improved flood protection
• Enhanced operational control

The project includes the construction of two new structures, the retrofitting of five existing structures, and the installation of 14 monitoring wells and new gate sensors. The work is part of the BCB’s Capital Improvement Plan. Capital improvements to the water management infrastructure are designed to enhance water resources and ecosystems while protecting communities from flooding.

The Big Cypress Basin is one of two major watershed basins within the South Florida Water Management District’s 16-county region and includes a network of over 140 miles of canals and 35 water control structures, while providing flood protection in Collier County. The Big Cypress Basin Board sets regional policy and works with stakeholders, as well as local governments, and agencies to set the basin’s priorities.

The South Florida Water Management District is a regional governmental agency that manages the water resources in the southern part of the state. It is the oldest and largest of the state’s five water management districts. Our mission is to safeguard and restore South Florida’s water resources and ecosystems, protect our communities from flooding, and meet the region’s water needs while connecting with the public and stakeholders.

South Florida Water Management District · 3301 Gun Club Road · West Palm Beach, FL · 33406

HEALTHY LEE SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

September is National Suicide Prevention Month

The month of September is dedicated to
raising awareness of the prevalence of
suicide. This month focuses on prevention
and postvention resources as well as a
general understanding of this national
health crisis.
If you are in crisis now dial the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Find Resources Here

4th Annual Normal Is Overrated Event

Register

Community Partner Happenings

Grief Support Through Art
Mental & Behavioral Health
HEART is an adult grief support group that meets biweekly.
Register

Alzheimer’s Association Walk
Health & Wellbeing
Join us on Saturday, October 1st
The event Begins at 8 a.m.
Ceremony + Walk at 9 a.m.

Register

Stewards Of Children
Mental & Behavioral Health
This training will teach adults strategies to prevent, recognize and react responsibly to child sexual abuse.
Register

Fire, Police & First Responders
Health & Wellness
Please accept a FREE SANDWICH from Mission BBQ on 9-11 as a small thanks for all you do to Protect, Serve & Save.
Read More

Diabetes Boot Camp
Health & Wellness
As part of Wellness Wednesdays, this informational class is designed for underinsured or uninsured individuals who may be pre-diabetic or diabetic.
Read More

Healthy Life Center Classes

View and RSVP for Classes

Important Information

Parents need to know that Lee County leads in teen driving fatalities, followed by Collier, Charlotte, and then Hendry County.

Read More

Children who read at grade level by the third grade are four times more likely to graduate from high school. You can make a difference in helping children achieve success.

Read More

Malnutrition Awareness Week is September 19th – 23rd. Malnutrition threatens your health and your ability to fight sickness and injuries.

More Information

Highlights from Healthy Lee

Helping Our Community Achieve its Healthcare Goa¬ls
Access to Healthcare
Jacqueline Hart with the Health Planning Council of Southwest Florida,(HPCSWFL), a healthcare insurance navigator, provided an overview on the importance of having healthcare insurance at a recent health plan workshop at the Empowerment Center. This is part of a community collaboration affectionately called “Health is Wealth”.

Read More

The Healthy Lee movement was created to empower and inspire visitors and the people of SWFL to live a life of optimal health and well-being by making healthy lifestyle choices through education and action. This newsletter gives you access to our valuable resources and news. Please feel free to submit your organization’s events to www.HealthyLee.com under the Events tab. If you require assistance, please email [email protected].

Read More

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Copyright © 2022 Healthy Lee, All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
Healthy Lee
4211 Metro Parkway, Suite 300
Suite 300
Ft. Myers, Florida 33916

Add us to your address book

South Florida District Office – September 2022

S. Florida Newsletter – September 2022

Message from our District Director J. Malcom Richards
We are quickly coming to the end of the 2022 Fiscal Year and it’s been a good year for small business survival and turnarounds. Throughout the last 2 years, SBA has been working diligently to ensure small businesses had the resources to survive the pandemic while simultaneously providing the tools to help them implement solutions to thrive going forward. One of those tools is SBA’s T.H.R.I.V.E program. Our cohorts in Miami-Dade and Broward counties have launched and are experiencing marvelous synergy of ideas, innovations, and efforts. We expect continued collaborative learning with excellent growth outcomes for these 40+ businesses! September 15th marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, the time when we recognize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic American champions who have inspired others to achieve success. To that end, please be sure to check out the article about Endictus Corp, an SBA Success Story and find out what Nicole Ortiz has accomplished with a little help from the SBA. And, if her story inspires you, be sure to connect with us and our Resource Partners.

Nicole Marie Ortiz has always been an entrepreneur at heart. The native Puerto Rican started out helping other federal contractors and business owners with their marketing and sales efforts when she had her “Eureka!” moment. Nicole was so effective at driving growth for others she realized she could do it for herself. She took that can-do energy and in 2017 opened Endictus Corp , an IT consulting firm specializing in 21st century technologies in cybersecurity that ensure the integrity of mission-critical infrastructure in federal program offices at the Judiciary Branch, Department of Defense, and the Intelligence Community. Proof of her business skill and acumen were soon evident after joining SBA’s 8(a) program in 2020. With Nicole’s expertise and certifications from SBA’s 8(a) and WOSB/EDWOSB programs, prime contractors were eager to subcontract work to ENDICTUS. With the strength of the company’s past performance, ENDICTUS won its first 8(a) prime contract in 2021 which allowed her to grow her company creating 3 new high-paying jobs in the process. Nicole also gives back to her community and industry by supporting the Association of Women in Science (AWIS), Girls Who Code, and in 2022 with through the collaboration with a local non-profit, UPRAA, the company launched a scholarship at the University of Puerto Rico to increase the number of Women in STEM. With help from the SBA, ENDICTUS is on track for success experiencing steady and sustained growth throughout the pandemic.

Getting Financially Fit for 2023 Series

Sept 20th @11am

Businesses must have cash to survive. Have you ever look at the Income Statement and saw that your business is growing and profitable, but then looked at your bank account and saw that it was in negative territory? Sales, revenue, and profits do not pay the bills. Without cash, companies find themselves unable to pay their vendors, rent, utilities, employees, and other expenses, resources, and fixed assets to support their revenue. Entrepreneurs need to understand these issues and the challenges that are involved.
CASH is ALWAYS KING! There are many pockets of cash that are constantly overlooked and hidden. This presentation will identify the Hidden Cash in companies that can enable small business owners to run and grow their business. The hidden cash is on your financial statements and tax returns. Learn how to Identify them and get the CASH NOW!
Your host will be Florida SBDC at FGCU Business Consultant, Neil Shnider, MBA, CPA, CVA.
REGISTER HERE

September 21st – PTAC DAY
September 21st is PTAC Day—a collective campaign to celebrate the contracting successes of the 48,000 small businesses who have benefited from training and technical assistance from their local Procurement Technical Assistance Centers. PTACs are located in all 50 states (plus Guam and Puerto Rico) and in Florida, are affiliated with the Small Business Development Center Network. Check out the Florida small business success stories and the significant economic impact that PTAC and their clients have made within their communities.

September 22nd – American Business Women’s Day
September 22nd is American Business Women’s Day which commemorates the founding of the American Business Women’s Association in 1949 and celebrates the important and meaningful legacy, accomplishments, and contributions of American working women and women business owners. Check out SBA’s Ascent Platform to help you start, grow and succeed as a woman-owned business.

Resource Partner Spotlight

Defining Your Business Model – September 1st 6pm
Have an existing business? Use this class to step back and look at your existing business model and determine future opportunities. Have an idea for a new business? Let’s lay it out so we can see how it can potentially work. The business model canvas is a simple business planning tool that shows the key elements of your business on one page – activities, customers, suppliers, sales channels, revenue streams, etc. This event is ideal for entrepreneurs, owners and managers.
Defining Your Business Model | SCORE

Planning a Revenue Generating Sales Strategy – September 6 12 noon
This dynamic four session series is full of strategies for a successful and profitable sales program. In each session Louis shares insightful and easy-to-initiate tools and strategies for increasing your business network and profits. Salespeople compete for potential customers and this series will ensure you can separate yourself from the competition. Having educated thousands of sales and marketing professionals in the US, Canada and Europe, Louis focuses on increasing profits. In four sessions the sales series will be like no other you have ever attended – full of tips, tools and strategies for building your business.
Planning A Revenue Generating Sales Strategy | SCORE

Your Marketing Roadmap – Ask the Questions You Need Answered – September 6 1pm
Join SCORE and small business expert and entrepreneur Ramon Ray for part 4 of the 4-part Marketing series. We’ll take you through the ultimate marketing essentials you will need for your business to be a success.

Workshop 4: Ask the Questions You Need Answered
In the final part of the “Your Marketing Roadmap” webinar series, the floor is open to you! Ramon will be taking your questions live to help you apply these marketing strategies to your specific business. No question is too basic and no question is too hard.
Come ready to ask your toughest questions as we learn together in this final webinar of the SCORE Marketing Road Map series.

September 6: Your Marketing Roadmap – Ask the Questions You Need Answered | SCORE

Financial Management for Small Business – September 7 11am
The Financial Management for a Small Business module will take you on an important first step to building a better financial future for your business.
After completing this training, you will be able to:
• Explain the concept of financial management and why it is important to a small business.
• Identify financial management practices, rules, and tools that are commonly available to a small business.
• Explain the most common financial statements.
• Explain how these financial management practices, rules, and tools work.
• Explain financial management basics for a small business.
• Importance of cash flow management.
• Explain the basics of financing for start-up and growing businesses.
Financial Management for Small Business Tickets, Wed, Sep 7, 2022 at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite

How a Small Business Owner Can Dominate his/her Market Position – September 7 6pm
In this presentation, we will focus on what we consider the five key elements to make you, as a business owner, able to create value to your business offer, and in the process, fully differentiate your business from your competitors and dominate your specific market.
We will analyze why we must focus on the 20% of your business activities that generate 80% of your business results, and train you on identifying and applying the essentials of marketing and business growth fundamentals.
The target in this presentation is to help you build a robust and productive business and quickly increase your business revenue/profit rate.
How a Small Business Owner Can Dominate his/her Market Position | SCORE

What You Need to Know to Start a Business – September 8 10am
You’ve got the idea. Now you need to know how to get on your way. From how to determine feasibility and legal structures to the types of licenses you’ll need, this class offered by the Small Business Development Center covers all the essentials that will help you get started.
Registration (gotowebinar.com)

Overview of SBA Programs and Services – September 8 12 Noon
This class covers the programs and services the Small Business Administration (SBA) has to offer to help you start and grow your business. Although the SBA is usually associated with loans, this overview will run through the SBA Loan Programs as well as our other programs and services including Counseling, Export Assistance, Government Contracting, Surety Bonds, Disaster Assistance, and Advocacy Services.
Overview of SBA Programs and Services | SCORE

The Top 10 Challenges of Leaders Today – September 8 6pm
100 people were surveyed and asked one question….”What is TODAY’s #1 Challenge of Leaders ?”
Coach Michael Krumpak of L4Learning Solutions (L4LearningSolutions.com) reveals the results of his conversations with 100 people. Learn what today’s Top Leader Challenges are AND what you can do to make these challenges become a core strength.
1. LEARN: Learn the Top 10 Challenges of Leaders Today.
2. DO: Collaborate with other leaders to discuss how these challenges play out. Engage in polls and interactive discussions, hearing from others on how they are addressing these core challenges in today’s unique climate.
3. GET: A Summary of the Top Challenges and ways in which you can tackle and overcome today’s top leadership challenges.
The Top 10 Challenges of Leaders Today | SCORE

MS Excel Advanced – September 10 9:30am
This information-packed session will demonstrate with realistic examples some of the advanced functionalities of Excel, hand-picked based on our clients’ requests and based on our 20 years of experience in the IT Training industry.
This workshop will include:
• Best practices when dealing with large amounts of data in Excel.
• Step-by-step on how to perform advanced functionalities such as: protect your worksheet, quick error-finding shortcuts, and worksheets.
• Advanced formulas allowing the calculation of data based on conditions and rules (SUMIF, COUNTA, ABS, Conditional Formatting)
• Complex functions to identify the maximum or minimum values, remove or identify duplicates, conditional formatting.
• An introduction of standard Charts, Pivot Tables, and VLookup formulas.
• Learn about the functionality of Dashboards, Slicers, and Pivot Charts.
Attendees will leave the session with tips and suggestions on how to even further their advancement on Excel, while getting their work done.
MS Excel Advanced | SCORE

Cómo aprovechar el poder del Marketing Digital de forma sencilla y efectiva – September 10 9:30 am
Con el crecimiento de las redes sociales, la innovación digital ya no es un lujo, ni siquiera una opción. La necesidad de mejorar la comercialización de su marca o negocio en el entorno acelerado de hoy es inevitable.
CONSEJOS PARA SU MARCA:
• Cómo diseñar su “brand” o su marca en línea de forma memorable y con personalidad
• El secreto para conectarse con sus clientes a través del “Valor”
• La mejor manera de identificar y encontrar a su cliente ideal en línea
• Elementos esenciales de automatización social para optimizar su tiempo.
HERRAMIENTAS DE MARKETING SOCIAL:
• La clave para entender un Plan de Redes Sociales
• La fórmula para hacer que su negocio sea más inteligente/amigable con la tecnología
• Cómo dominar sus mensajes en línea con esta sencilla técnica
• Pasos sencillos para integrar sus canales de redes sociales.
Cómo aprovechar el poder del Marketing Digital de forma sencilla y efectiva | SCORE

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Check out our Website for more Events!

If you live in South Florida, you can email us at [email protected]
Find your district office HERE

SBA South Florida District Office
Miami, Tampa, and Ft. Pierce, Florida
305-536-5521
http://www.SBA.gov/SouthFlorida
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All SBA programs and services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance

This email was sent to [email protected] by Small Business Administration (SBA) · 409 3rd St, SW · Washington DC 20416 · 1-800-827-5722