Member News

Fish license-free in Florida two weekends in June 

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites residents and visitors to go fishing in Florida during two license-free weekends: June 4-5 for saltwater and June 11-12 for freshwater.

License-free fishing days provide a fun opportunity for new anglers to try fishing for the first time or experienced anglers to introduce a friend or family member to a new hobby. The fishing license requirements are waived for all recreational anglers during these dates but all other rules including seasons, bag and size limits still apply. 

The saltwater waiver applies to any recreational activity requiring a saltwater fishing license (e.g., crabbing, lobstering, scalloping, etc.), whether fishing from shore or a boat.  A snook or spiny lobster permit also are not required on these days, however, always make sure to check recreational regulations. Plan your trip with information about places to fish.

Looking for a freshwater fishing spot? Some of Florida’s freshwater lakes have special largemouth bass swimming in them, worth big prizes! Join our TrophyCatch program’s 10^th season and learn more about the 10-Tag Celebration on TrophyCatch.com.

For more information on fishing in Florida, visit MyFWC.com/Fishing. Fish all year by getting your Florida fishing license at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

Donation Received to Restore Lily Pond at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 1, 2022) — The Edison and Ford Winter Estates received a $10,000 donation from a member to restore the historic lily pond. The Edisons added the pond in 1929 as a means to collect excess water from the swimming pool. It sits between the pool and the Caloosahatchee River. Historic documents indicate that Mina Edison had planted iris, water lilies and papyrus around the pond.

The restoration plan includes draining the pond, cleaning the cement bottom of plant debris, creating a littoral zone and planting Florida native wetland species, and repairing the rock edge. The coral rock waterfall behind the papyrus, which hasn’t worked in many years will also be repaired.

“I mentioned to one of our members that we needed about $10,000 to restore the lily pond,” said Debbie Hughes, Horticulture Director at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. “After walking around the site, the member came back and pledged to donate the money to restore the pond.”

The pond is in an area of high visibility, as it’s near the river pavilion, which is available to rent for private events, and visitors pass the pond when walking to Pinchers restaurant. Work is slated to begin this summer and will not impact daily tours. For additional information about the site, or to purchase tickets online, visit EdisonFord.org.

We’re thrilled to keep you entertained this summer and always! Amp up your schedule and make a plan to join us for improv comedy, movie night, an art class and more.

Improv Comedy Night

Friday, June 10 • Oops We’re A Troupe is fast paced musical improv comedy in the style of Whose Line Is It Anyway. Expect big laughs and lots of Audience participation. With special guest star – renowned Tampa comedy performer Darryl Knapp, Julian Sundby, Lucy Sundby, Caitlynn Wilde and Adam Santa Fe.

The Greatest Showman Sing-A-Long Movie & Event

Sunday, June 12 • Ladies and gents, this is the moment you’ve waited for: the Alliance for the Arts is thrilled to announce its very first sing-a-long event! Join us Sunday, June 12 at 2 p.m. or 5 p.m. for a special sing-a-long screening of the 2017 smash-hit musical The Greatest Showman! Enjoy a variety of snacks, popcorn, food trucks, community, camaraderie, circus surprises and more! Costumes encouraged – come as a ringmaster, clown, animal, mime or acrobat!

Artist’s Question, Answered in Fiber

Opening Reception: Friday, June 3 from 5 – 7 p.m. • See it first. See it free. This event is open to the public. Come meet your neighbors at this free event!

Exhibits June 3- 26 • When starting a new piece, artists might ask themselves: What idea is important to communicate? What concept do I want to explore? What emotions do I want to evoke? This exhibition presents the artwork of 29 individual artists who explored these themes, answering in their artwork.

Beginner Painting Workshop (Ages 16+)

Monday, June 13 • 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!

The Burnt Part Boys presented by Alliance Youth Theatre

Performances June 3 – 5 • Back by popular demand! The Burnt Part Boys is a richly authentic theatrical experience, a piece of musical theatre treasure with a book and score that reverberate as resonantly in audiences’ souls as the acoustic instruments that provide the accompaniment.

Summer Concert Series

Thursdays, July 7 – August 4 • Enjoy an indoor concert with your friends as you tap your toes to some fabulous music – in partnership with Naples Big Band. The Naples Big Band entertains the public with dynamic Big Band performances in styles spanning the swing era to the modern day.

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!

Introduction to Dreaming as an Art (Ages 16+)

Saturday, June 25 • This fascinating class will introduce the four stages of dreaming as an art, including the art of dream incubation, the art of navigating oneself through lucid dreams, the art of dream recall, and using dreams as a means of producing works of fine art. It will include meditative drawing of a sacred circle mandala, as a means of plumbing the depths of the psyche and understanding how dream symbolism can inform one’s waking life and creative self-expression. Perfect for the artist looking to explore new paths, or the artist-to-be!

Dreaming as an Art Ages (16+)

Saturdays, July 9 – 30 • The class will help guide participants as they awaken to the depths and wonders of their dream-selves, using their dreams as a means of furthering their own artistic expression, and provide themselves with self-understanding and healing that is often more sophisticated and effective than any therapy available in an office, out of a book, or off the pharmacy shelf.

Drawing Fun, Fabulous Flowers

Wednesdays, July 13 – August 17 • If you love flowers and want to learn or improve your drawing skills this class is for you! We will begin with basic drawing skills, then move into composing and creating dynamic drawings. The class will use photos from the instructor and students. Best of all, we will use real flowers while exploring different mediums, from graphite and colored pencils, to pen and ink and markers.

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

Membership • Donate • Classes • Exhibits • Theatre

Alliance for the Arts | 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919

May 2022

Legal Updates
Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., is dedicated to keep our clients and community updated on legal issues impacting their businesses and families. Below please find the blogs, articles, and firm news published in May 2022.

The Florida legislature’s special session held this week resulted in new laws aimed to promote condominium building safety. Senate Bill 4D passed the House of Representatives and Senate each, and was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis on May 26, 2022. Click here to read more from Florida association lawyer Colby Keefe.

Owning real property has always been a staple investment vehicle for people throughout history. One attractive feature of investing in real property is that it may also double as a Homestead. In other cases, real estate investments may be rental, commercial or recreational (i.e. your log cabin or private island).
Whatever the case may be, it is important to understand that real estate can be owned in several ways, each of which has important legal consequences when it comes to leaving it to your loved ones upon death. Failing to understand how you legally own your property and how it will be passed on to your loved ones can lead to unintended, and often unforeseen consequences. Click here to read more from Naples wills, trusts and estate planning attorney Anthony Cetrangelo.

When you and your spouse have decided to get a divorce, it is important to choose the right divorce attorney for you and your unique situation. Choosing the right divorce attorney can often be the difference between a reasonably priced, fairly quick divorce and a long, expensive, emotional legal battle. Florida divorce, marital and family law attorney Christy O’Brien shares tips on how to find the one that is the right fit for you. Click here to read the full article.

In the News

Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., is pleased to announce that maritime lawyer Amanda Sharkey Ross spoke at the Rotary Club of Fort Myers on May 17 at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater. During her interactive discussion, she provided information on boating under the influence, best practices with regard to title, registration and insurance, and addressed audience questions. Click here to read more.

Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., is pleased to announce that Florida divorce, marital and family law attorney Iman Zekri was featured in the article: “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I First Became An Attorney,” published by Authority Magazine. Authority Magazine shares empowering interviews and insights of celebrities and professionals in diverse industries. The publication is an advocate for the work that Arianna Huffington and Thrive Global are doing to help individuals, companies and communities improve their well-being and performance and unlock their greatest potential. Click here to read more.

Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., is pleased to announce that The Florida Bar Tax Section celebrated Guy E. Whitesman as the 2021-2022 Gerald T. Hart Outstanding Tax Attorney of the Year at a reception held Saturday evening, May 21, 2022. During the reception, City of Fort Myers Mayor Kevin B. Anderson honored Whitesman with a key to the city. The tradition of granting a key to the city dates back to medieval times, and it symbolizes the freedom of the recipient to enter and leave the city at will as a trusted friend of city residents. Whitesman was honored with a key to the City of Fort Myers for his outstanding contributions and dedication of service to the community. Click here to read the full article.
Photos of the awards celebration, courtesy of Mike Shapiro Photography, may be viewed on Henderson Franklin’s Facebook page, click here.

Henderson Franklin’s attorneys are honored to present seminars that address important legal issues. Our attorneys are also available to present in-house seminars at your place of business.
If your organization would like to host a similar presentation to your members, please reach out to Gail Lamarche, Henderson Franklin’s Director of Marketing and Business Development at [email protected] for scheduling.
A few upcoming engagements include:
• June 2, 2022 – Land use department chair Jeff Wright and real estate attorney Kaylee Tuck will give a Legislative Update at the 2022 FPZA State Conference at South Seas Resort.
• June 7, 2022 – Real estate department chair Amanda Barritt will be among the speakers at the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Leadership NEXT event, “Judges and Lawyers: Exploring Careers in Justice,” taking place on Tuesday, June 7 at the Lee County Justice Center. The event will delve into the careers of judges and attorneys, with guest speakers discussing the duties and responsibilities they perform in and out of the courtroom. To register, click here.
• June 15, 2022 – Litigation attorney Robert Shearman will participate on the Attorney Roundtable portion at the next 2022 Public Risk Management of Florida Educational Conference taking place at the Naples Grande Beach Resort.
• September 15, 2022 – Intellectual property department chair Mark Nieds will present, “Speaking for Fort Myers Chamber: Cryptocurrency 101 – What is it? What’s behind it? Where’s it going?” at the Greater Fort Myers General Membership Luncheon.

henlaw.com

Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.
1715 Monroe Street
Fort Myers, FL 33901
www.henlaw.com

TAMPA, FL – Since the beginning of the pandemic, Florida has seen people flock to the state, drawn to the unbeatable weather and friendly hospitality, the family fun in the many theme parks throughout the state, and the miles and miles of beautiful coastline. Verizon is responding to Florida’s exponential and unexpected population increase by allocating an additional $149 million to its local capital spending to meet skyrocketing demands on the network.

From January 2020 to April of this year, more than a quarter of a million Verizon wireless customers have moved to Florida, and data traffic has spiked. Since January 2020, busy-hour traffic in Miami has increased 364%, in Tampa it has increased 135%, in Orlando 408%, in West Palm Beach 165%, in Fort Myers 173% and in Collier busy-hour traffic has increased an astounding 257%, and Glades 271%.

“We are used to seeing seasonal increases in population in Florida and have always accommodated those temporary fluctuations with temporary network assets to add capacity at various times of the year,” said Kyle Malady, EVP and President, Global Networks and Technology. “With the evolution of the distributed workforce resulting from the pandemic, we’re seeing more people permanently change locations to Florida, and other places. Experiencing the impact of this influx, we revised our forecasting models and are pouring additional capital into the state to grow our coverage and capacity to meet the increased demands.”

Recent and ongoing network expansion

Massive investments the last two years have added much needed capacity to the network, particularly in the Miami and Tampa markets where Super Bowl preparation efforts have accelerated network expansions. In 2020 and 2021, Verizon invested over $1 billion in the state of Florida. That investment was used to expand 4G LTE capacity, introduce and grow Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband service, prepare for Super Bowls in Tampa and Miami, prepare for Formula One racing in Miami, and support first responders and the community in natural disaster recovery efforts.

Consistent capital investments based on consumer usage growth models are critical in order to stay ahead of demand. The increase of more than a quarter million devices has shifted those investment models, so in addition to the annual capital expenditure budgets allocated for Florida, Verizon will invest $149 million above and beyond its annual CapEx to meet the growing needs.

Investments over the next two years will include building more than 3,500 new network solutions including new macro towers, small cell sites and repeaters to increase 4G LTE capacity and coverage, expanding 5G Ultra Wideband service in areas where 5G currently is and to new markets throughout Florida, expanding the underlying fiber footprint that carries data throughout the network and supporting Floridians and first responders in the upcoming hurricane season. Verizon will also enhance coverage at major population centers and gathering places including Disney World, Orange County Convention Center, and Amalie Arena. Many of these projects could take 12-24 months to bring online, so in the meantime, Florida engineers have deployed long-term temporary assets to address the skyrocketing demands in the sunshine state.

Verizon remains keenly focused on Florida and providing a highly reliable network to meet the growing needs in the state. This investment builds on the company’s network-as-a-service foundation and supports its core areas of growth and innovation across its mobile network.

Summer Pops Concerts
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall

Single tickets for the Gulf Coast Symphony Summer Pops concerts are now on sale! These two concerts are specifically presented for our year-round patrons. This summer we’ll pay tribute to your favorite Tony Award-winning musicals with A Night at the Tony’s on July 23. Guest stars Mark Sanders and Heather Ivy, both Broadway veterans and now SW Florida residents will take to the red carpet to present only award winning music! Then on August 20 Symphonic Rocks is a brand new show designed by Maestro Kurtz featuring pop hits from the 80s and 90s, plus standards from rock musicals, such as Abba, Queen, the Jersey Boys and more. This concert feature Chloe Lowry, last heard in Bond & More! in 2019, and Dan Domenich, who was Che in our cast of Evita in 2021. Don’t miss out on the summer fun and get your tickets now! As a reminder, our season subscribers receive special discounts for these concerts, so consider subscribing today and save on these concerts!

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

Classes start next week
Register today to make sure you have a seat in a class.
Class registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Summer 2022 Classes

Registration Links

Morning Classes
CareerSource (GED – Limited Availability): Registration Link

Cape Coral Technical College – AM (FULL): Registration Link

Lee County Public Education Center East Entrance – AM (FULL): Registration Link

Night Classes
Dunbar Community School – PM (GED and ESOL Have Limited Availability): Registration Link

Lee County Public Education Center East Entrance – PM (GED Limited Availability, ESOL is FULL): Registration Link

Online Classes
Online: Registration Link

Lifelong Learning classes will resume in Fall 2022.

Questions? Please call 239-939-6310

Woman, Minority & Veteran Certification – May 31 10am
It’s no myth…women, minority and veteran certification could present opportunities for your business. But there is a process to becoming certified. In this class, you will learn how to complete the State of Florida certification application and discover how you can use it to seek business with the private sector and government.
Registration (gotowebinar.com)

The Power of the Inbox: Tips & Tricks for Successful Email Marketing – May 31 6pm
What is the first impression you give when they see you in their email inbox?
And when they see you there, what do they do?
This powerful seminar takes you step-by-step through the keys to effective email marketing:
• What it really is (and isn’t)
• What it can do for your business
• And the five easy steps you must take to harness the power of the inbox!
o Grow a healthy list
o Create great content
o Customize a beautiful, mobile-friendly template that matches your brand
o How to get your emails opened
o Tracking your results
From revealing why regular email doesn’t work, to insider tips and techniques like automated list building tools and the design elements that work (and those that don’t!), this seminar will give you the keys to the most effective marketing you can do: email marketing. Join us!
The Power of the Inbox: Tips & Tricks for Successful Email Marketing | SCORE

Sales Training – Learn to Sell – June 1 11am
This class applies to business owners and their salespeople.
Learn to:
• Grow your revenue, one customer at a time
• Increase your average sale
• “Close the sale”
• Help an irate customer
• Create a better experience for your customer
Learn about the sales process. Help customers choose your products and services. How much is a customer worth? Why do you lose customers? How do we get more sales per transaction? You will learn these things and more. This class is taught by a business professional with many years of coaching and sales experience. Most of the sales knowledge passed on in this class applies regardless of your products or services.
Webinar – Sales Training – Learn to Sell Tickets, Wed, Jun 1, 2022 at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite

Marketing Series – 20 Tips to Increase Website Traffic, Leads, and Sales in 2022
– June 1 12pm
In this webinar, award-winning Digital Marketing Strategist Amberly Bucci shares the top 20 tips to get more leads, website traffic, and sales in 2022. With over 14 years’ experience in digital marketing, she’ll share case studies and proven cutting strategies to connect with your ideal audience and grow your business. Get ready to be inspired with tips that you can act on right away!
Marketing Series – Part 4 of 4 – 20 Tips to Increase Website Traffic, Leads, and | SCORE

Tips and Strategies to Improve Cash Flow – June 1 1pm
Managing the timing of when money enters and exits a company is crucial to business’ survival and future growth. After this webinar, business owners will be better able to control the availability of cash in their business.
• Keep good record keeping system for automation, clarity, and accuracy.
• Anticipate and plan for future cash needs to act in advance.
• Learn your cash flow cycle.
• Manage accounts receivable and accounts payable.
• Increase the pricing of products and services.
Register (sbanavigator.org)

How to Increase Sales During a Pandemic – June 1 6pm
Learn how to get existing customers to buy. Replace customers that disappeared. Start up a pipeline of prospects. Learn about: The B2B Process Sale. How to approach business prospects and develop trust. How a pipeline supports consistent new accounts. Growing your business by tapping your market’s potential. Why you must “Ask for the order”.
How To Increase Sales During A Pandemic | SCORE

The Top 10 Challenges of Leaders Today – June 2 12pm
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. LEARN: Learn the Top 10 Challenges of Leaders Today. 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. 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

Fundamentals of Microsoft Excel – June 2 1pm
Join us for a free, 60-minute, hands-on workshop for a hands-on, interactive experience with Excel. During this workshop you will learn how to:
• Use Excel to create tables and organize your data
• Use Excel to perform mathematical calculations for both home and work applications
• Creatively employ key new features of this latest version of Excel
Fundamentals of Microsoft Excel Tickets, Thu, Jun 2, 2022 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite

Pasos Sencillos – Principios básicos para el lanzamiento del negocio – June 4 9:30am
¿ESTÁ LISTO PARA SER SU PROPIO JEFE?
El taller, ‘Pasos Sencillos’, organizado por Hispanic Unity y SCORE Broward, le ayudará a preparar un plan de negocios para convertir su sueño en realidad.
¡Comenzar su propio negocio es una decisión difícil! Usted no tiene que hacerlo solo.
Esta es una serie de talleres dividido en 5 partes que le guiará a través de los fundamentos de la creación de empresas. Si usted está dispuesto a trabajar seriamente con los instructores, comprenderá de mejor manera los retos y oportunidades con que se enfrentará. Usted obtendrá un plan y estimación financiera y un plan de marketing, ambos necesarios para este emprendimiento.
A medida que avanza a través de los talleres un tutor le será asignado, quien le ayudará con el proceso paso a paso. Incluye:
Taller # 1: Principios básicos para el lanzamiento del negocio
• ¿Listo para comenzar?
• Mitos y realidades del espíritu empresarial
• ¿Tiene lo que se necesita?
• Conozca sus opciones.
• Aprenda los aspectos prácticos y legales de emprender un nuevo negocio
• Conceptos básicos del plan de negocios
Webinar Registration – Zoom

How to Win with Small Business Planning – June 6 6pm
Small businesses with a strong planning foundation will find themselves ready for continued success and new opportunities. Our job is to help you gain clarity and equip you with the right tools in 2022. In this free webinar, we’ll guide you through a simple step-by-step process of developing a business plan with essential Marketing know-how and key Financial must-haves.
How to Win with Small Business Planning | SCORE

Learn the Basics of Google Analytics – June 7 10am
In this session, you will learn how to: • Set goals for your website • Set up Google Analytics and connect it to your website • Understand what types of reports are available in Google Analytics Led by Pamela Starr, a professional trainer for Grow with Google, this is a session perfect for people new to Google Analytics.
Learn the Basics of Google Analytics Tickets, Tue, Jun 7, 2022 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite

QuickBooks Desktop – June 7 6pm
Keep track of what is going on…this is not just an accounting tool, it can help you run your business
All you need to know about managing customers, selling goods & services, recording expenses, and creating reports.
This workshop gives you an overview of QuickBooks to avoid common mistakes and potentially wasted effort and time. If you already have QuickBooks, learn the basics: invoice customers, track receivables and receive payments, enter and pay vendor bills, receive and monitor inventory, reconcile accounts, and prepare financial statements.
QuickBooks Desktop | SCORE

QuickBooks Online – June 8 6pm
This workshop is suitable for entry-level and beginner users of QuickBooks Online version only. It is not designed for intermediate users. The objective is to learn the basics and include the following topics: Introduction to QuickBooks Online Which online version is right for you? Creating a new Company File Understanding the Dashboard, Gear & Plus Icons Chart of Accounts – “Customize it for your business” Creating an invoice and receiving payments Entering and paying Bills. Linking your bank account to download transactions Categorizing expenses to the correct expense account Overview of Inventory Understanding the Basic Reports: Profit & Loss, Balance sheet, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable Overview of QuickBooks Mobile app Sharing file with accountant and other users.
QuickBooks Online | SCORE

Building a Brand on a Budget – June 9 6pm
This workshop is for business owners and future entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on building a strong brand on a limited budget! If you are trying to stand out from your competitors and you want to build a name in your industry, a clear branding strategy is what you need in order to succeed for the long run. Branding is an exciting thing and helps build trust with your clients. It is the backbone to your company service and product. People no longer buy goods or services, they buy values, stories and drive decisions through emotion. During the presentation, you will be presented with different tools and techniques that will help you to build your brand and strategy for transforming your brand with limited resources. This workshop will guide you to answer the following questions: What do I need to know in order to get started with branding? What is my target audience that I am branding to? What are the core elements of a strong brand? How much does it cost to build an online brand? How do I build a brand that stands out against my competitors?
Small Business Administration (sba.gov)

Pasos Sencillos – ¡La gran idea! – June 11 9:30am
¿ESTÁ LISTO PARA SER SU PROPIO JEFE? El taller, ‘Pasos Sencillos’, organizado por Hispanic Unity y SCORE Broward, le ayudará a preparar un plan de negocios para convertir su sueño en realidad. ¡Comenzar su propio negocio es una decisión difícil! Usted no tiene que hacerlo solo. Esta es una serie de talleres dividido en 5 partes que le guiará a través de los fundamentos de la creación de empresas. Si usted está dispuesto a trabajar seriamente con los instructores, comprenderá de mejor manera los retos y oportunidades con que se enfrentará. Usted obtendrá un plan y estimación financiera y un plan de marketing, ambos necesarios para este emprendimiento. A medida que avanza a través de los talleres un tutor le será asignado, quien le ayudará con el proceso paso a paso. Incluye: Taller # 2: ¡La gran idea! Obtenga la clave de su negocio Como realizar estudios de mercado Como realizar investigaciones competitivas Fijación de precios de su producto o servicio.
Pasos Sencillos – ¡La gran idea! | SCORE

Miami-Dade Business Navigator Resource Fair June 11 – 10am
The Miami-Dade Business Navigator (MDBN) program is an exciting new local initiative funded, in part, through a grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The program brings together local groups working to expand their reach and support small and micro-businesses like yours. This local Resource Fair will bring together MDBN groups and additional small business organizations from around the County to connect directly with Miami businesses. Meet one-on-one with these community groups who can help you access resources and information to start and grow your business. Sign up today!
Miami-Dade Business Navigator Resource Fair (sbanavigator.org)

FWC encourages reef fish anglers to Return ‘Em Right and conserve our fisheries for the future!

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is celebrating the launch of Return ‘Em Right, a multi-entity effort in the Gulf of Mexico led by Florida Sea Grant, University of Florida, Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission, NOAA Fisheries, and a coalition of anglers, industry groups, universities, government and non-government organizations committed to maintaining healthy fish stocks and fishing access.

Return ‘Em Right promotes best fishing practices to increase the survival of released reef fish. This includes proper fish handling and use of venting tools or descending devices to mitigate barotrauma, a condition seen in many fish caused by the expansion of gases in the swim bladder when brought up from deeper depths. Barotrauma can be fatal for fish and signs include the stomach coming out of the mouth, bulging eyes, bloated belly and distended intestines.

Weighted tools such as descending devices can help fish suffering from barotrauma overcome buoyancy issues and return them back to depth. These weighted devices come in a variety of forms including inverted hooks, lip clamp devices, and crates or boxes. When used properly, research shows that descending devices can significantly increase the long-term survival of released fish.

Anglers are encouraged to visit ReturnEmRight.org and review best release practices and do your part to conserve our fisheries for the future. Anglers fishing in the Gulf of Mexico that are 18 years and older who target reef fish in the Gulf of Mexico are eligible to receive a free package of release gear from Return ‘Em Right. The release gear packages are currently limited to Gulf of Mexico reef fish anglers only.

Remember to obtain your State Reef Fish Angler designation before heading out! If you plan to fish for or harvest certain reef fish species in Gulf or Atlantic waters from a private recreational vessel (includes anglers over 65 years of age), you must sign up for this no-cost designation and renew it annually. Learn more at MyFWC.com/SRFS and sign up today at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or anywhere you can purchase a Florida fishing license.

For more information on the Return ‘Em Right program, best release practices, and how to use descending devices, visit ReturnEmRight.org and MyFWC.com/FishHandling. 

Women in Business to spotlight Visitor & Convention Bureau at June 1 networking event

FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 31, 2022) – The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Committee will spotlight the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau during its networking event on Wednesday, June 1 at Sanibel Captiva Community Bank in Fort Myers.

The June program will feature a presentation from Nancy McPhee, product development manager with the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau, who will provide an update on the organization’s marketing initiatives including its Good Day campaign and new Discovery Challenge passport that encourages exploration of Fort Myers and its islands, beaches and neighborhoods. Following the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in Visitor & Convention Bureau Bingo. The bingo-style event will feature networking, prize drawings and the chance to learn more about what summer activities are taking place in the community.

The Women in Business program will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 1, at Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, located at 9311 College Parkway in Fort Myers. Women In Business’ Annual Sponsor is HBKS Wealth Advisors and HBK CPAs & Consultants.

The Women in Business program is $10 for Chamber members and $20 for future members. Attendees can register in advance at FortMyers.org or call 239-332-2930.

About the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce:
Serving Lee County and surrounding areas since 1989, the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is a business organization of professionals who support and promote a progressive, sustainable community. The Chamber represents over 725 businesses, professionals, and individuals throughout Lee County, providing opportunities for members to participate in a variety of meaningful networking, educational and community- and business-focused programs and events. The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce is located at 2310 Edwards Drive in downtown Fort Myers. For additional information regarding membership opportunities or events please call 239-332-2930 or visit www.fortmyers.org. For the latest news and updates, follow the Chamber on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gfmcc.

About Women in Business:

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