Member News

SBA South Florida District Office

Upcoming Webinars & Workshops

Show Me the Money – Financing Options for your Business – July 27 11am
This class discusses the multiple sources of capital for starting and growing a small business. The pros and cons of the funding sources are reviewed. Topics to be discussed include familiar options such as self-financing, funding from friends & family, and partnerships. Other sources are reviewed such as:• Small Business Loans• SBA Loan Guaranty Program• MicroloansSome less conventional financing sources along with their pros and cons are also discussed, including selling equity (shares), venture capital, angel investors, and crowd funding.
Show me the money – Financing options for your small business Tickets | Eventbrite

Grow Your Business with a SWOT Analysis – July 27 12pm
A SWOT (strengths. weaknesses. opportunities. threats.) analysis is fundamental in identifying the critical factors you need to be aware of when growing your business.
Grow Your Business with a SWOT Analysis | SCORE

Three Simple Strategies To Stand Out In A Crowd- July 27 6pm
In a world where competition is fierce, it’s difficult to stand out. Big brands like Amazon, Apple and Walmart command a large share of the market, making effective differentiation one of the main challenges small businesses face. It’s difficult, but not impossible–and it’s important to your success.
Learn to analyze, implement and market three key strategies to make your company stand out in a crowd:
• Your unique selling proposition
• The power of networking
• The importance of a memorable brand
Registration (gotowebinar.com)

Cybersecurity for Federal Contractors – July 28 12pm
This will be the fourth in our series of Expert Speaker Series events focused on the topic of cybersecurity for federal contractors. This session will focus on providing some framework and tools for OSCs (that’s “Organizations Seeking Certification” in case you are wondering) to understand their compliance requirement and what to expect from MSPs (Managed Service Providers) as they offer to provide support. This will be a panel discussion format, moderated by Kara Vernon, Florida PTAC at UCF Counselor.
CMMC 2.0: Understanding OSC and MSP Compliance (floridasbdc.org)

Estrategias de crecimiento de su negocio – August 2 6pm
¿Está listo para expandir su negocio, pero no está seguro de que sea sostenible? Conozca estrategias para crecer paso a paso de manera efectiva y duradera.
Estrategias de crecimiento de su negocio (sbanavigator.org)

Overview of SBA Programs and Services – August 3 12pm
This class covers the programs and services that the Small Business Administration (SBA) offers 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, and Disaster Assistance.
Overview of SBA Programs and Services | SCORE

Building Government Connections: How to Market for Municipal Contracts – August 3 1pm
Understand the Government Procurement processes and learn how to leverage marketing tools to prepare proposals for government contracts at the local level.
Building Government Connections: How to Market for Municipal Contracts (sbanavigator.org)

Business Continuity Webinar – August 4 6pm
Business continuity management is well underway at most organizations. As Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) rapidly impacts our lives and organizations, business continuity management is now more important than ever. In today’s seminar, we will discuss what you can do for your business to prepare for the next disaster.
Business Continuity Webinar (sbanavigator.org)

Mining Your Business – August 6 10am
Learn how to grow your business, access government contracts, funding, and other resources to take YOUR BUSINESS from ordinary to extraordinary.
Mining Your Business Tickets, Sat, Aug 6, 2022 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite

Intro to Google Analytics – August 10 12pm
Learn how to set up and start to use Google Analytics to understand how people engage with your website. This session is perfect for people new to Google Analytics.
Learn how to:
• Set up Google Analytics account
• Understand what types of reports are available in the newest version of Google Analytics (GA4)
• Make better decisions about how you run your business by reviewing your Google Analytics Data
Grow with Google Bootcamp Series Part 1-Intro to Google Analytics | SCORE

SBA South Florida District
51 SW 1st Avenue, Suite 201
Miami, Florida
Phone: 305-536-5521

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

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.

July 2022

FGCU Academy Celebrates
National Hot Dog Day – July 20, 2022

Greetings, When we think of summer, hot dogs come to mind almost immediately. It’s just part of the overall experience. A summer day at the amusement park or at a baseball stadium pairs nicely with a hot dog (or tofu dog, for those of you who prefer a meatless version). Hot dogs don’t have to be made with meat, and anyone can enjoy the age old American favorite food any time of year.

HISTORY OF NATIONAL HOT DOG DAY
You should know some solid trivia about hot dogs, including knowing that the term itself was derived in the 19th century, at a time when German immigrants brought their own culinary traditions with them to the new world. It’s believed they brought to New York America’s first hot dogs, originally referred to as a dachshund sausage — for their long shape that resembled the beloved dachshund pups. Around 1870, Charles Feltman, a German immigrant, began to sell hot dogs out of a stand on Coney Island. He sold over 3,600 frankfurters in a bun that year alone.

While we cannot be completely sure how or even when National Hot Dog Day was created, we do know that the day was created as a nod to National Hot Dog Month in July by the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council to highlight this fan favorite. Hot dogs became a household name in the late 19th century when casual food lover and baseball team owner of the St. Louis Browns — better known to some as the Baltimore Orioles — Chris Von de Ahe brought the two together at his own amusement park.

Celebrating this day is fairly straightforward — just make your hot dog your way, and enjoy it however you’d like! Honestly, in the Dog Days of Summer, who doesn’t like a hot dog with all their favorite fixings?

NATIONAL HOT DOG DAY TIMELINE
1200s
German Delicacy
Frankfurter Wuerstchen are distributed in Germany on the eve of imperial coronations.

1870
Coney Island Dogs
Charles Feltman begins selling sausages in rolls on Coney Island in New York.

1893
Ball Park Franks
Hot dogs and baseball are officially paired together in St. Louis by the owner of the St. Louis Browns, now known as the Baltimore Orioles.

1971
A Celebration
Hot Dog Day is first celebrated by students in Alfred, New York — the hot dog’s affordability is something that many students favor.

NATIONAL HOT DOG DAY BY THE NUMBERS
7 billion – the estimated number of hot dogs consumed by Americans from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
150 million – the number of hot dogs consumed during the Fourth of July holiday.
20.4 million – the number of hot dogs eaten by baseball fans at major-league ballparks during the season.
350 million pounds – the amount of hot dogs purchased from retail stores by Americans.
20 billion – the number of hot dogs consumed by Americans in a year.
70 – the average number of hot dogs consumed per person each year in America.
95% – the percentage of homes in the United States that consume hot dogs.
15% – the percentage of hot dogs purchased from street vendors
9% – the percentage of hot dogs purchased at ballparks.
1900 – the year when the term ‘hot dog’ first appeared in print in “The Oxford English Dictionary.”

5 FACTS ABOUT HOT DOG DAY THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND
7-Eleven Sells millions a year
In 2014 alone, 7-Eleven sold well over 60 million hot dogs in their store and in 2017, the store chain sold over 100 million hot dogs.

Condiments make a hot dog thrive
Of all the toppings you can add to a hot dog, mustard comes in first as the most popular hot dog condiment, followed by ketchup and chili, respectively.

Sports and hot dogs go together
Over 26 million hot dogs are sold annually at baseball stadiums in the United States, one of America’s favorite past times.

A street vendor favorite
From New York City, to Chicago, to Philadelphia, you can find a hot dog on most street corners.

Independence Day
On this summer holiday, over 155 million hot dogs are reportedly consumed.

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL HOT DOG DAY
They are a testament to American innovation
While the deep origins of the hot dog can be traced back to either Frankfurt or Vienna (we’ll let them slog it out for the title of true originator), the American hot dog dates back to the 1860’s, when German immigrants started selling them from stands in New York City. Splash of ketchup here, little bit of mustard there, and you’ve got the birth of the American hot dog.

They offer endless variety
In the mood for an all-beef Chicago dog loaded with toppings on a poppy seed roll? Or are you more of a Texas Chili Dog kind of person? Perhaps the basic, original New York dog is all you’re looking for. Regardless, wherever you are in the country, you can try a unique variation on this once-German/Austrian (whoever you want to believe) tradition.
______________________________________________________________________
Please call office to register for classes at 239.434.4737
or
Register Online

View 2022 FGCU Academy Summer Program Guide

View July Daily Calendar

View August Daily Calendar

TECHNOLOGY CLASSES
Instructor: John Guerra

iPhone/iPad Apps: Apple Mail and Safari
@ Moorings Park – July 20 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

iPhone/iPad Photos App: Photo Management, Editing, Sharing and More
@ Moorings Park Grande Lake – July 21 | 2 – 3 p.m.
@The Arlington – July 22 | 2:30 – 4 p.m.
@Naples Center or Online via Zoom – July 26 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

SINGLE LECTURE CLASSES

Operation Paperclip – Recruiting Nazi Scientists
@ Cypress Cove – July 21 | 1:30 – 3 p.m.

On the Front Line: What is at Stake in Afghanistan
@ Moorings Park – July 25 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Exodus: Russian Persecution and the Jewish Flight to the U.S., 1881-1924
@ Commons Club at The Brooks – July 26 | 1:30 – 3 p.m.

The Creation of Italy
@ Siena Lakes – July 26 at 1:30 – 3 p.m.

Operation Downfall
@Naples Center or Online via Zoom – July 28 | 1:30 – 3p.m.

You can now view PRE-RECORDED Classes from the comfort of your own home any time of day or night.
View Schedule of Courses offered
Log in information will be on your receipt.

Travelogue Lectures
Instructor: Jim Sernovitz

Cuba: A Nation Frozen in Time
@ Commons Club at The Brooks – July 21 | 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.

Ethiopia – From the Queen Of Sheba To The Lost Ark Of The Covenant
@ The Arlington – July 26 | 2:30 – 3:45 p.m.

INTERNATIONAL SUNDAY MOVIES
Moderator – John Guerra

Pain and Glory – @ Naples Center – August 21 | 2 – 4:30 p.m.
As it is in Heaven – @ Naples Center – September 11 | 2 – 4:30 p.m.

2023 Travel

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

to
View our Pre-Recorded Travel Open House Presentation Now

Machu Picchu to the Galapagos – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 13 – 28, 2022 | 16 days

2023 International Travel Schedule
Plan Ahead and Book Now
(brochures / additional info available soon)

Insider’s Japan – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
May 20 – June 1, 2023 | 13 days

UNTAMED ALASKA
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
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
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
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
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
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
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]

Fort Myers, FL (July 19, 2022)- The Alliance for the Arts invites the public to its opening reception of Colonial Contours on August 5 from 5-7 p.m. The free event features the works of Martha De la Cruz representing the Dominican Republic and Dimithry Victor representing Haiti, as well as light refreshments. The exhibit will be on display from August 5-28, 2022 at 10091 McGregor Blvd. Ft. Myers, FL.

Colonial Contours is a collection of works by two artists under 30, Dimithry Victor and Martha De la Cruz. The exhibit aims to showcase the complicated relationship surrounding two neighbor countries, Dominican Republic and Haiti, sharing one island in the Caribbean. The exhibition will explore the long lingering symptoms of colonialism and coloniality/neocolonialism still present in both countries to this day. The exhibition will consist of paintings by Victor and installations and video pieces by De la Cruz.

Receptions and gallery tours are open to the public and do not require tickets or reservations. While the gallery admission is free, a $5 suggested donation keeps the Alliance programming affordable and accessible. While visiting the exhibit, please be sure to also partake in the Arts & Economic Prosperity survey.All answers are anonymous and help to measure the economic and social impact of arts and culture in our community! More information can be found at americansforthearts.org.

Theatre Gallery Artist: Jersey Dunn

Our Members Gallery will be featuring artwork from our final session of our Summer Arts Camp. Artwork will be on display for the first week of the exhibit.

For more information about this exhibit, visit artinlee.org/colonialcontours or call 239-939-2787.

About the Artists

Martha De la Cruz is a Dominican-American artist who, through video, installations and sculpture, investigates issues of decolonization, identity, race, and power. Her practice is guided by her experiences as a US transplant, her memories of the past, and her inherited colonialist wounds. She received her BFA in Sculpture from the University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, and is currently an MFA candidate at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK. Her work has been part of many exhibitions in spaces across the US, including the Carolyn M. Wilson Gallery, Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, BigArts Sanibel, and more. In 2021, she was awarded the City of Fort Myers Arts & Culture Grant in Fort Myers, FL in recognition of her work in the progression of the arts and culture of the city.

Dimithry Victor is a Haitian born and Miami based visual artist. His work juxtaposes elements of portraiture, cartoons, and abstract to visually narrate non-physical emotional states. In collaging these elements with careful attention to detail, texture, and color, he intends to create a sense of visual empathy between viewers and painted figures. Victor has exhibited his work globally, including London, New York City, Los Angeles and more.

Annie Campbell Named Director of Development, The Heights Foundation

(Fort Myers, FL – July 18, 2022)  – Annie Campbell has been named director of development at The Heights Foundation.  The organization works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood of Fort Myers.   Campbell will lead ongoing annual fundraising, major gifts, and planned-giving to support the programs of The Heights Center, including programs for adults, the Heights community, and programs for kids such as AfterSchool, Summer Camp and Heights Early Learning.

“Annie has a proven background in development strategy and donor stewardship,” said Kathryn Kelly, founder, and CEO of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center.  “We are excited to have her join our executive team and help us grow our programs and services in the Harlem Heights community.”

“The Heights Foundation has an excellent reputation of providing services to the residents of Harlem Heights, changing the trajectories of many lives,” said Campbell.  “The Foundation keeps families sheltered and fed, provides educational opportunities for adults and kids, and ensures kids are safe and learning.  I look forward to helping further the mission.”

Campbell has more than 20 years of experience in the non-profit industry.  Before her position at The Heights Foundation, Campbell served as development director for BIG ARTS on Sanibel, development director at PACE Center for Girls in Immokalee, and community director for the March of Dimes.

Campbell serves on the board of directors for the Harlem Heights Community Charter School and Eva’s Closet and Foundation in Fort Myers.  In addition, she participated in the 2022 Leadership Sanibel-Captiva program through the Charitable Foundation of the Islands and was inducted as the 2022-2023 president of the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary.

Campbell earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Michigan State University, a Master in Education from Aquinas College, a Certificate in Fundraising Management from Indiana University, and a Certificate in Strategic Leadership from Harvard University.  She grew up in Traverse City, MI, and moved to Fort Myers in 2015.

For more information about The Heights Foundation/The Heights Foundation, visit www.heightsfoundation.org.  Email Annie Campbell at [email protected] or call (239) 482-7706.

About The Heights Foundation and The Heights Center

The Heights Foundation works to build self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood.  Our mission is to support education and wellness, promote family and community development, and provide the benefits of enrichment and the arts.  The Heights Center, supported by The Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment.   Heights Early Learning serves more than 80 babies through 4 years old.  The Heights Center serves 134 children in AfterSchool and SummerCamp.  The Harlem Heights Community Charter School serves 150 children from kindergarten through fifth grade.

Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community.   Approximately 780 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments.  Demographically, the population is approximately 70% Hispanic, 20% African-American, and 8% Caucasian.  The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average.  Families cannot easily access family support services in downtown Fort Myers and benefit greatly from programs within the neighborhood.

Commissioners approve final rule establishing a Vessel Turn-In Program as part of derelict vessel prevention efforts 

At its July meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved the final rule establishing a statewide Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP) as part of the Derelict Vessel Prevention Program. The new rule will create a voluntary program to remove at-risk vessels before they become derelict, which helps Florida’s environment and public safety.  

The Division of Law Enforcement’s Boating and Waterways Section is spearheading a multi-year effort to dramatically reduce the backlog of derelict vessels currently on Florida’s waters. These vessels cause the destruction of valuable seagrass resources and endanger marine life. They also threaten human life, safety and property as they drift on or beneath the surface of the water or block navigable waterways, posing a navigational hazard to the boating public.  

Recent legislation enables the FWC to create a Derelict Vessel Prevention Program, and the VTIP is one component of the FWC’s approach to derelict vessel prevention.

“Commissioners receive numerous contacts from the public about derelict vessels and I know the establishment of this new program will really make a difference,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “Thanks to the efforts of Senator Ben Albritton, Representative Josie Tomkow, Representative Jay Trumbull and Senator Kelli Stargel, we’ve received the resources and the legislative support to make this program a reality.” 

Derelict vessels are more costly and complicated to remove than at-risk vessels. A VTIP will prevent vessels from becoming derelict by removing them from the state’s waters when they are at risk of becoming derelict, which will result in cost savings for taxpayers and ultimately fewer DVs appearing on Florida waters. The VTIP is designed to allow owners of vessels at risk of becoming derelict the ability to voluntarily turn the at-risk vessel over to the state for removal and destruction. 

“Derelict vessels are a priority for the FWC. Establishing the Vessel Turn-In Program provides a voluntary pathway for owners to remove at-risk vessels from the water before becoming derelict, thereby reducing future costs of removal. Removing at-risk vessels from Florida’s waterways before they become derelict is not only a win for the environment but also for public safety, taxpayers and the vessel owners,” said Col. Roger Young, director of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement. 

View the Commission meeting agenda and documents at MyFWC.com/Commission by clicking on “Commission Meetings” and the agenda under “July 13-14, 2022.”

Former Commissioner Albion campaigns to return to District 5 seat

Albion successfully served 14 years prior to Commissioner Frank Mann

FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 14, 2022) – John Albion, a Republican who successfully represented District 5 on the Lee County Board of County Commissioners from 1992 to 2006, is vying to regain that seat after the June passing of Commissioner Frank Mann. Albion will put his experienced leadership to work to advocate for low taxes, water quality, infrastructure improvements and balanced growth.

“The unfortunate passing of my friend Commissioner Mann has left a void both personally and within the community,” said Albion. “I would honor the opportunity to fill his seat and advocate for our District 5 communities and all of Lee County. The attraction to Southwest Florida is not just the lifestyle, it is the breadth of opportunities. I believe in a balance of environmental conservation and systems along with economic growth to preserve our paradise. We must do so with low taxes. You deserve to be heard and I have the passion and experience necessary to help ensure the quality of life in Lee County for generations to come.”

With the primary quickly approaching on August 23, Albion believes his leadership and experience makes him the best person to fill the District 5 vacancy for the remaining two years of the current term.

As a former Commissioner, Albion fulfilled all of his 1992, 1996, 2000, and 2004 campaign promises, including a $20 million Federal Grant for Cape Coral, Midpoint, and Sanibel Bridges creating a toll discount program and introducing transponders to Lee County; $15 million to widen Lee Blvd.; the building of the current airport terminal at RSW; voting to purchase more than $19 million in environmentally sensitive lands; building a regional library system; improving the park system; implementing Community Redevelopment Agency projects in Lehigh Acres, Fort Myers Beach, Bonita Springs and North Fort Myers; fighting to keep lower tax rates through accountability; and more.

As Lee County’s newly elected commissioner, Albion would advocate for:

Keeping taxes low by holding all county departments and constitutional officers accountable to meet the needs of the community for the least amount of taxpayer money.

Protecting water quality through reservoirs and assisting the state delegation to gain funding to help waterfront property owners to convert septic systems and reduce pollutants. Albion will do so in collaboration with Governor DeSantis, the USACE, the South Florida Water Management District, and through continued service on the Regional Water Supply Authority.

Proactively planning for infrastructure as population and traffic continually increase, Albion will add to his success by again fighting for available government funding to save locals time and money while increasing capacity and safety on roadways.

Environmental Conservation by balancing growth with natural surroundings. Albion voted for Conservation 2020 and has helped secure over $10 million in additional grants to preserve the environment while respecting private property rights.

Economic Growth by attracting desirable companies and improving low wage issues in the area.

“Improving our quality of life is best achieved by building tremendous partnerships with our communities and local businesses,” said Albion. “Strong collaboration with local governments on every level was instrumental in building effective partnerships during my time as commissioner.”

Albion has an impressive record of advocating for responsible growth and development while maintaining the quality of life for all in Lee County. He played a role in the development of the Horizon Council and Community Redevelopment Agencies (CRAs), worked through the Southwest Florida Regional Planning Council (which he also chaired), and the Metropolitan Planning Organization which provided state funding for roads. Albion has also served as Chairman of the County Commission three times; Member of the Lee County Port Authority for 14 years; Chairman and Treasurer of the Regional Planning Council; Smart Growth Task Force Member; Commissioner Liaison for Economic Development; Chairman of the Tourist Development Council; Chairman of the CRA; and many more. These organizations have been instrumental in bringing positive change to the entire region.

After 14 years as District 5 Commissioner, Albion went on to serve as Executive Director for the Fort Myers Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. He then joined Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida as a Director in 2013 where he continues to serve clients today.

“I am the only candidate with a proven history as a County Commissioner and a track record that the community can have great confidence in. They will have my ear and we’re going to accomplish so much together,” said Albion.

A Special Election to fill the District 5 seat will coincide with the regular election cycle, with a party Primary on August 23, and General Election held on Nov. 8.

For more information, or to make a contribution, please visit ElectJohnAlbion.com, and Albion’s Facebook.

About John Albion

John was born on August 26, 1962, in Lynn, Mass, and he grew up in Framingham, Mass. He attended is a 1984 Graduate of The Centre College in Kentucky with a B.A. in Government and a minor in English. John came to this area immediately after college. He received his Real Estate License in 1984. John became the Real estate broker for Safe-T Realty in 1985. John and Lauri were married in September of 1989.  They have three beautiful children:  Jake, David, and Hannah. He was employed in his family’s business, Safe-T-Storage, as Director of Operations from 1984 until 1992. In November of 1992, John was elected to the Lee County Commission serving District 5. He worked passionately for his constituents for 14 years until 2006. While in office, John was tasked with many leadership assignments (see below). After leaving public office, John went on to serve as the Executive Director for the Fort Myers Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. He joined Cushman & Wakefield | Commercial Property Southwest Florida as a Director in 2013 where he continues to service clients today.

Two Burmese pythons, clutch of eggs and hatchlings found and removed from Big Cypress National Preserve 

Shortly before midnight on July 11, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officer Matthew Rubenstein was on patrol in Big Cypress National Preserve. That evening, he encountered a South Florida Water Management District python removal contractor, Alex McDuffie. Little did Officer Rubenstein know he would assist McDuffie with the removal of a large number of invasive Burmese pythons from this sensitive habitat later in the evening. 

McDuffie was in the process of catching and bagging a Burmese python hatchling from the area. The python appeared to be freshly hatched, so they began searching the immediate area for more hatchlings. They found a female Burmese python on a nest containing 23 unhatched eggs and 18 additional python hatchlings. Nearby, they found a separate nest site but no snakes were present. All the snakes and unhatched eggs will be turned over to Big Cypress National Preserve.   

McDuffie reported to Officer Rubenstein that upon returning to the same site the following evening, he removed a second breeding female, which measured 17 feet, 6 inches long. 

Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, the FWC is partnering with the South Florida Water Management District and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida for the 2022 Florida Python Challenge®. On June 16, Governor DeSantis announced opening of registration for the 2022 Florida Python Challenge®. The annual 10-day event will be held August 5-14. Members of the public are now able to take the required online training and register to compete to win thousands of dollars in prizes while removing invasive Burmese pythons from the wild. The competition is open to both professional and novice participants. Active duty military personnel and veterans who register for the competition will be eligible for additional prizes. 

Visit FLPythonChallenge.org to register for the competition, take the online training, register for optional in-person trainings, learn more about Burmese pythons and the unique Everglades ecosystem, and find resources for planning your trip to south Florida to participate in the Florida Python Challenge®.  

Participants in the 2021 Florida Python Challenge® removed 223 invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades, more than double the number that were removed in 2020. Over 600 people from 25 states registered to take part in the 10-day competition in 2021.  

In addition to python removal efforts on public lands, pythons may be humanely killed on private lands at any time with landowner permission — no permit or hunting license required — and the FWC encourages people to remove and kill pythons from private lands whenever possible. 

About Invasive Burmese Pythons  

Burmese pythons are not native to Florida and negatively impact native species. They are found primarily in and around the Everglades ecosystem in south Florida where they prey on birds, mammals and other reptiles. A female Burmese python can lay 50 to 100 eggs at a time. More than 16,000 Burmese pythons have been removed since 2000. For more information on Burmese pythons, visit MyFWC.com/Python.

Shop for unique gifts for unique people! Browse handcrafted items in the Alliance gallery and buy directly from the makers at our Summer Art Market & Sale – it doesn’t get much more local than that! Bring the whole family and all your friends, explore vibrant works from over 120 local artists with our gallery exhibition, enjoy food trucks and so much more!

Summer Art Market & Sale

Thursday, July 14 • Sip and shop at the Alliance! Beat the summer heat and enjoy our air-conditioned gallery where you will enjoy exploring a wide variety of mediums for sale such as paintings, photography, jewelry, potted succulents, and more, all hand-created through the artists’ talents and passion for their work!

Keep in mind, we are past the six-month mark to the Holiday Season and this event will provide you the perfect head start in purchasing unique gifts for the special people in your life. Perfect presents start here!

Additionally, shop the Alliance for the Arts gift shop, featuring work from over 75 local and regional artists. Alliance members will receive a 10% discount on every purchase from the gift shop.

And when you get hungry, there will be food trucks conveniently located outside to appease your shopping-induced appetite. We welcome you to bring as many friends as you wish to enjoy mingling with your neighbors and local artists!

Find Out More →

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Experience Live Theatre with Our 2022/23 Season

It’s here: Theatre Conspiracy at the Alliance for the Arts’ 29th consecutive season! Once again we are bringing you another exciting season of affordable, quality entertainment that covers the classic to the cutting edge. New playwrights like Selina Fillinger, what will be our 5th production out of the 10 plays that make up August Wilson’s American Century Cycle, the world premiere of local favorite Derek Lively’s The Last Show, our off the wall production of Clown Bar by Adam Szymkowicz and more. There is something for everyone!

Experience it all with a season subscription and receive up to $36 in savings! If you plan on attending multiple shows, we have a variety of flexible subscription packages that will fit any budget and offer you more freedom in your schedule.

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Submit a Class or Workshop Proposal

Let’s work together! Are you interested in teaching a class or workshop at the Alliance for the Arts? We’re looking for a variety of offerings that entertain, inspire and connect us – from fine art classes, to crafting, cooking, spoken word, abstract painting and everything in between.

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Submit Your Art and Exhibit at the Alliance

Playing with Pastels Family Playdate (Ages 5+)

Saturday, July 16 • Bring your family! Artists of all ages will flourish in an atmosphere of play, experimentation and individual artistic expression. We’ll start by seeing the world through each others’ eyes, and then create individual interpretations in dry pastels. Using shapes, colors and marks unique to this uniquely vibrant medium, you’ll get encouraging guidance and personalized attention which will guide artistic development.

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Bob Ross Classic “Waterside Way” (Ages 13+)

Saturday Workshop, July 23 • Join Mathew Halstead, CRI of Lazy Painter Brushworks, for a classic Bob Ross painting workshop with friends at the Alliance. Find freedom on a canvas as Mathew leads you from start to finish though creating a version of Bob’s “Waterside Way” painting. Students will take home a finished 12×16 painting. ALL SUPPLIES and boxes for transport will be provided. Come enjoy the Bob Ross philosophy of, “there are no mistakes, just happy accidents.”

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Beginner Painting Workshop (Ages 16+)

Wednesday Workshop, July 25 • Are you interested in working with acrylic paints, but not sure how to get started? In this workshop, we’ll introduce you to the fundamentals of acrylics and acrylic painting! By the end of this course you will be equipped with the know-how to pick up a brush and start experimenting with acrylics- in a fun, friendly environment!

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Beginner / Intermediate Knitting Workshop (Ages 10+)

Saturday Workshop, July 30 • This workshop is for those who have never picked up knitting needles and for those who have some experience and want to learn a new stitch or two! This workshop is for those who have never picked up knitting needles and for those who have some experience and want to learn a new stitch or two! By the end of this workshop you’ll be ready to make more tiny hedgehogs, or whatever knitted project your heart desires.

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Clown Bar by Adam Szymkowicz and directed by Bill Taylor

August 18 – 28 • Join us for this immersive experience as we transform the Alliance theatre into the Clown Bar, plunging you into the dark and secret world of these hilarious, yet frightening, gangster clowns!

Clown Bar by Adam Szymkowic with music and additional lyrics by Adam Overett is a zany Clown noir-dramedy. When Happy Mahoney’s younger brother Timmy is gunned down, he returns to the world of organized clown crime he left behind. Will Happy be able to face his past, discover the killer and get out alive without getting sucked into the underbelly of vice and violence that’s nearly impossible to escape at the Clown Bar? Find out in this crazy production!

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Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6)

Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) is Americans for the Arts’ sixth economic impact study of the nonprofit arts and culture industry in the U.S. The study is conducted approximately every five years to gauge the economic impact (on employment, government revenue, and household income) of spending by nonprofit arts and culture organizations and the event-related spending by their audiences.

The AEP6 study is happening in 387 U.S. communities, so surveys may be coming to an arts event near you! If you meet your local arts workers out and about with surveys, please consider taking a few minutes to anonymously share information about your reasons for attending the arts and any spending related to the event. Survey responses will contribute to a better understanding of the powerful economic impact of the arts in your community and nationwide!

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Alliance for the Arts • ArtInLee.org
239-939-2787 • 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers 33919

Membership • Donate • Classes • Exhibits • Theatre

Janet & Bruce Bunch · The Claiborne & Ned Foulds Foundation
Leigh Frizzell Hayes · Mary Lou & Richard Helms
Meisenberg Family Trust · Jon & Megan Romine · Arthur Zupko

And incredible people like you!

Periwinkle Garden Club donates artist’s rain barrel and butterfly sign to Edison and Ford Winter Estates

FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 11, 2022) — Edison and Ford Winter Estates recently received a donated rain barrel and a butterfly sign from the Periwinkle Garden Club. The rain barrel was painted by artist Marie Dyer, who teaches painting classes at the Estates, and the butterfly sign was designed by Nick Bodvin, a long-time, local butterfly gardener.

When Thomas Edison arrived to Fort Myers in 1885, he purchased 13 acres along the Caloosahatchee River from Samuel Summerlin, a prominent cattle rancher. The property included a “cracker” (the nickname for Florida cowboys) house, which became Edison’s caretaker’s home. Today, it is one of the oldest standing structures in Lee County. The barrel is installed outside that same house; collected rain will be used to water plants in the nearby garden beds.

The Edisons would have similarly collected rain to water their crops and gardens. The artist’s painting on the barrel depicts “crackers” herding cattle in Southwest Florida. The scene is one that Edison himself may have witnessed — back when Fort Myers’ population was only about 350 and the largest industry was cattle ranching.

The butterfly sign was installed in the new butterfly garden between the side of the museum and Larchmont Avenue, near the Garden Shoppe. It represents the many butterflies that visitors are likely to see at the Estates. The butterfly garden includes a shaded path for visitors to stroll, or they may sit on a bench and observe butterflies.

For locals wanting to create a butterfly garden of their own, many of the plants featured in the garden are sold in the Garden Shoppe. A butterfly gardening talk will be offered at the Estates on September 10 and will provide guests with information on how to attract butterflies to a home garden. Tickets for the talk are $10 for Edison Ford members, or $15 for non-members.

Mina Edison enjoyed gardening at her Fort Myers estate and became involved in many community projects, including efforts to beautify the city. In 1928, the Periwinkle Garden Club was founded and Mina Edison was one of the initial members. Today, Edison and Ford Winter Estates hosts many gardening events and classes in Mina’s honor. Tours are offered daily and specialty garden tours are available by appointment through the horticulture department. To purchase tickets or check the calendar for upcoming events, visit EdisonFord.org.

Upcoming Webinars & Workshops

Building Credit for your Business – July 12 1pm
The Building Credit webinar summarizes the importance of small business owners having a good personal and business credit history.
About this event
After completing this training, participants will understand the following:
1. How the personal and business credit reporting landscape relates to their business
2. What goes into the personal and business credit reports and scores used to assess credit profiles
3. How to establish and build strong personal and business credit histories to support the growth and sustainability of their business
4. How lenders and other businesses may use personal and business credit reports and scores to assess lending risk or evaluate other business-to-business opportunities;
5. How the use of credit reporting services can help small business owners make sound decisions
6. How to leverage strong personal and business credit histories to obtain satisfactory financing terms
7. How to recognize when business and personal credit history may become a bigger factor in seeking larger financing options
Building Credit for your Business Tickets, Tue, Jul 12, 2022 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite

Starting a Business in Florida – July 13 12pm
If you’ve been considering starting your own small business, but are unsure of how and where to begin, don’t miss out on this presentation. You will be provided with step-by-step information about how to start a business in Florida.
Starting a Business in FL | SCORE

Business Structure – Which Should I Choose? – July 14 11am
Learn the difference between Sole Proprietorship, LLC, S-Corp as well as the importance of copyrights, trademarks and patents. Thinking about starting a business but you don’t know where to start? Join this informational webinar to learn about the different types of business structures such as Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLC, S-Corp as well as the importance of copyrights, trademarks and patents.
Business Structure – Which Should I Choose? Tickets, Thu, Jul 14, 2022 at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite

Crédito Personal y Crédito Comercial – July 19 11am
Descubra cómo sus puntajes crediticios personales y comerciales pueden afectar las oportunidades de financiamiento.
La Administración Para Pequeños Negocios de los Estados Unidos con sus oficinas en el Sur de Florida (SBA – South Florida District office) y el Centro de Negocios para las Mujeres de la Bahia de Tampa (TBWBC) ofrecerán una presentación de asesoramiento crediticio para ayudar a los propietarios de pequeñas empresas a entender la importancia de porqué se debe tener un buen crédito y cómo el mismo puede afectar directamente el éxito de su negocio.
Crédito Personal y Crédito Comercial Tickets, Tue, Jul 19, 2022 at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite

How to Perform Insightful Market Research – July 20 12pm
Are you looking to identify who your prospective customers are and create targeted B2B and B2C prospective customer lists? Discover the power of Mergent Intellect, which contains detailed company profiles, industry overviews, and forecasts powered by Dun & Bradstreet; custom market research; residential contact information and consumer data powered by Claritas/Nielsen. Learn how to filter and export lists at will based on company criteria like location, size, revenue, industry NACIS/SIC codes, to target your B2B potential clients, or based on demographics to target your B2C prospective customers. Once you have the lists, you can use traditional or digital marketing channels to nurture and sell to them.
How to Perform Insightful Market Research and Generate Free Client Lists | SCORE

Deep Dive into Microsoft Excel – July 21 1pm
Take a dive into the intermediate features of Excel formatting, functions, and accessibility.
Microsoft Office presents this webinar guiding you through the intermediate features of Excel formatting, functions, and accessibility. Attendees taking this course should have a strong understanding of Excel’s basic features, navigation, functions, and custom formulas.
Objectives:
• Expand knowledge of notable functions in Excel
• Understand a wide variety of cell formatting to manipulate and interpret data
• Learn to create Pivot tables for data analyzation
• Understand options to restrict and protect data in Excel
• Utilize accessibility options in Excel using the Check Accessibility tool and how to add alternative text
Deep Dive into Microsoft Excel Tickets, Thu, Jul 21, 2022 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite

Grow Your Business with a SWOT Analysis – July 27 12pm
A SWOT (strengths. weaknesses. opportunities. threats.) analysis is fundamental in identifying the critical factors you need to be aware of when growing your business.
Grow Your Business with a SWOT Analysis | SCORE

Cybersecurity for Federal Contractors – July 28 12pm
This will be the fourth in our series of Expert Speaker Series events focused on the topic of cybersecurity for federal contractors. This session will focus on providing some framework and tools for OSCs (that’s “Organizations Seeking Certification” in case you are wondering) to understand their compliance requirement and what to expect from MSPs (Managed Service Providers) as they offer to provide support. This will be a panel discussion format, moderated by Kara Vernon, Florida PTAC at UCF Counselor.
CMMC 2.0: Understanding OSC and MSP Compliance (floridasbdc.org)

Overview of SBA Programs and Services – August 3 12pm
This class covers the programs and services that the Small Business Administration (SBA) offers 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, and Disaster Assistance.
Overview of SBA Programs and Services | SCORE

Mining Your Business – August 6 10am
Learn how to grow your business, access government contracts, funding, and other resources to take YOUR BUSINESS from ordinary to extraordinary.
Mining Your Business Tickets, Sat, Aug 6, 2022 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite