SEPTEMBER 13, 2018 – FORT MYERS, FLA. – Nursing, forensic science and leadership are just some of the topics Florida SouthWestern State College’s (FSW) Critical Thinking Lecture Series will highlight during its October lineup.
Free and open to the public, the Critical Thinking Lecture Series features college and community leaders who discuss how they use critical thinking skills in their profession or focus on critical topics from their area of career or academic interest. Presentations take place weekly, and the fall series runs September through November. The full schedule can be viewed at www.fsw.edu/ctls.
Presentations can be viewed live on the Thomas Edison Campus or digitally at all other FSW locations.
“Think Like a Nurse” with Angie Vitale, FSW Nursing professor
Tuesday, Oct. 2, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
FSW Campus Locations – Thomas Edison Campus: U-102; Collier Campus: M-201; Charlotte Campus: O-118; Hendry/Glades Curtis Center: A-106
 
“Critical Thinking: Tackling Challenges in Forensic Science” with Pricilla Doyle, FSW Intro to Crime Scene Technology and Intro to Forensic Science adjunct professor, and Forensic Death Investigator, District 21 Medical Examiner’s Office
Wednesday, Oct. 10, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
FSW Campus Locations – Thomas Edison Campus: AA-177; Collier Campus: M-201; Charlotte: O-117; Hendry/Glades Curtis Center: A-114
 
“Making Chemistry -198.5 Degrees of Cool” with Kim Hilton, FSW Chemistry professor
Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2 – 3 p.m.
FSW Campus Locations – Thomas Edison Campus: AA-177; Collier Campus: M-201; Charlotte Campus: O-117; Hendry/Glades Curtis Center: A-114
 
“Cutting Edge Science = Magic?” with Dr. Joseph van Gaalen, FSW Geology adjunct professor and director of Assessment and Effectiveness
Thursday, Oct. 18, 6 – 7 p.m.
FSW Campus Locations – Thomas Edison Campus: AA-177; Collier Campus: A—103; Charlotte Campus: E-105; Hendry/Glades Curtis Center: A-106
 
“Servant Leadership: Lesson from the Front-Lines” with Dr. George Harvey, FSW adjunct professor and student success advisor
Monday, Oct. 22, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
FSW Campus Locations: Thomas Edison Campus: U-102; Collier Campus: M-201; Charlotte Campus: O-117; Hendry/Glades Curtis Center: A-114
 
“Top 10 Reasons Why People Fail” with Dr. Martin Tawil, FSW Cornerstone professor
Tuesday, Oct. 30, 11 a.m. – noon
FSW Campus Locations – Thomas Edison Campus: AA-177; Collier Campus: M-201; Charlotte Campus: O-118; Hendry/Glades Curtis Center: A-114
 
For more information on the FSW Critical Thinking Lecture Series, contact Whitney Rhyne, director, Strategic Initiatives, at (239) 433-6943 or [email protected].
 
#####
 
Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and one of the most affordable institutions of higher education. Annually serving nearly 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees, and professional certifications. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. FSW debuted its intercolle

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Sept. 13, 2018) – Local entrepreneurs will not just stand for the success of other women in business, they will insist on it. Nickole Hendra, Executive Director of Dress for Success SW Florida, is pleased to offer the Entrepreneurial Spirit Program (E$P) to provide future women business owners with the tools and support they need to succeed in their career.
 
The event, which was originally scheduled to take place in August, has been rescheduled to be held on Saturday, Oct. 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company, P.A. at 8961 Conference Drive in Fort Myers. The E$P Dream Team includes four prominent women in the community, who will each cover specific topics that will help inspire and prepare future business owners:
 

• Angela Cooley, partner at Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company, P.A., will discuss business accounting.
• Christina Harris Schwinn, partner at Pavese Law Firm, will discuss legal documentation and incorporation.
• Barbara Melvin, vice president and community lender at First Florida Integrity Bank, will discuss small business lending and SBA loans.
• Connie Ramos-Williams, president and chief marketing officer of CONRIC PR & Marketing, will discuss new business branding and marketing.

 
All attendees will receive a certification of completion. A suggested donation of $25 to Dress for Success includes continental breakfast and lunch. Limited seating is available, and reservations are required. For more information or to RSVP, call 239-689-4992.
 
The program is proudly sponsored by CONRIC PR & Marketing, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright and Company, P.A., First Florida Integrity Bank and Pavese Law Firm.
 
About Dress for Success SW Florida
Dress for Success SW Florida is part of a global movement for change, empowering women to obtain safer and better futures. Since starting operations in 1997, Dress for Success has expanded to more than 150 cities in 23 countries and has helped more than 1 million women work towards self-sufficiency, while providing career wardrobes, employment counseling and mentoring. The Fort Myers location of Dress for Success SW Florida is 12995 S. Cleveland Ave. Suite 153, Fort Myers in the Pinebrook Plaza. The Naples location is 2950 Tamiami Trail N #200, Naples. For information on Dress for Success SW Florida, email [email protected], call (239) 689-4992 or visit swflorida.dressforsuccess.org.
 
 

Fort Myers, FL (September 7, 2018) Who would think indoor air can be hazardous to your health? Indoor air—a pollutant? Unfortunately, that is often the case, said Jim Cloonan, General Manager of United Mechanical, Inc. in Fort Myers, Florida.
“With recent outbreaks of red tide and toxic blue green algae permeating the canals and waterways of Fort Myers and Cape Coral, airborne particles are causing respiratory illnesses in residents and tourists, especially those close to the water,” said Cloonan. “Staying indoors with proper ventilation and implementing indoor air quality (IAQ) products, is a wise choice.”
Exposure to air pollutants can be up to 100 times higher indoors than outdoors and the American Lung Association estimates that most people spend 90 percent of their time indoors, making IAQ extremely important. Many common household items contribute to poor indoor air quality. Compounds found in carpeting, furniture, upholstery, and drapery fabric constantly emit fumes. Other sources of pollutants can include cleaning agents, paints, and personal care products.
The tight construction of today’s homes also contributes significantly to poor IAQ. Things like weather-stripping and storm doors are designed to save on energy costs. However, they also prevent proper ventilation by keeping indoor air in and outdoor air out. The result can be a build-up of contaminants within the home.
Poor IAQ can be the cause of numerous health problems. Medical groups report that as many as half of all illnesses are caused or aggravated by indoor air pollution. Pollutants within the home can cause homeowners to suffer from flu-like symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and respiratory irritation. Two health problems that can be aggravated by poor indoor air are allergies and asthma. Even people who have never suffered from allergies can benefit from improved IAQ. Fortunately, several steps can be taken to ensure that your indoor environment is the safest.
“Thankfully, there are things a homeowner can do to help alleviate potential IAQ concerns. The first step toward improving indoor air is to identify the sources of air pollutants,” said Cloonan. “Eliminating and reducing these sources are the most effective ways to clean the air. Although it is not possible to remove every contaminant source (especially red tide), reducing the sources and/or the amount of pollutants they emit, will contribute to a healthier living environment.”
A great way to minimize the concentration of pollutants is by thoroughly cleaning the home. Frequent dusting and vacuuming can help to reduce the amount of dust particles in the air.
When you can’t sweep away all the irritants, you should consider a PureAir Air Purification System from Lennox Healthy Climate Solutions. PureAir is your best defense against all three classes of indoor contaminants – particles such as dust, microorganisms like bacteria and volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde.
Ventilation also plays an important role in improving indoor air quality. Proper ventilation can reduce the concentration of pollutants inside the home. An Energy Recover Ventilator (ERV) or Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) can replace stale indoor air with fresher, cleaner outdoor air without sacrificing comfort or wasting energy you’ve spent heating, cooling or dehumidifying it.
Some of the most effective solutions for poor indoor air quality may involve heating and cooling systems. High-efficiency air filters can assist in absorbing particles that otherwise would escape due to their size. These filters help clean the air and provide respiratory relief by removing dust, dirt, and pollen. Other Healthy Climate Solutions products that are available include dehumidifiers, humidifiers, carbon monoxide detectors, and UV lights
To find out more about the most effective methods to improve indoor air quality, call United Mechanical at (239) 939-2032 or visit http://www.umihomeservices.com/services/indoor-air-quality-solutions/.

October Sales of Pink Wipers to benefit the National Breast Cancer Foundation
Newton, Mass., Sept. 1, 2018 – Henley Enterprises, Inc., the largest franchisee of Valvoline Instant Oil ChangeSM  is once again raising funds and increasing awareness for National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.® (NBCF). Throughout the month of October a portion of the sales of pink wipers will be donated to NBCF. The wipers are available at over 175 participating Valvoline Instant Oil Change locations in 10 states.
Now in its seventh year, the campaign has raised more than $86,000 for NBCF and is hoping to reach a
$100,000 milestone this year.
“The blades allow individuals who have been affected or know someone affected by breast cancer to show their support” states Don Smith, founder and CEO of Henley Enterprises, Inc.
The blades come in both traditional black with a small pink ribbon and full pink for those who wish to make a bolder statement. They fit 98% of cars, trucks, and SUVs manufactured after 2003.
Customers who have purchased their pink wipers can enter a photo of their car with the new wipers for a chance to win a year of free oil changes. Visit the Pink My Ride photo contest and Speedy the Dog’s Facebook page for more information.
The blades are only sold at participating service centers. Visit VIOCPink.com for a list of stores and
#WipeOutBreastCancer to follow the campaign.

About Valvoline Instant Oil Change

Valvoline Inc. (NYSE: VVV) is a leading worldwide marketer and supplier of premium branded lubricants and automotive services. Its service brand, Valvoline Instant Oil Change (VIOC), is the No. 2 quick-lube chain by number of stores in the United States. The company operates and franchises more than 1,100 Valvoline Instant Oil Change centers in the U.S. Service centers invite customers to stay in their cars and watch VIOC’s certified technicians perform the service. In addition to full-service oil changes done in about 15 minutes, centers offer a wide range of preventive maintenance services for most vehicle makes and models, including luxury, diesel, and hybrid. Visit www.vioc.com to learn more.

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Sept. 13, 2018) – Local entrepreneurs will not just stand for the success of other women in business, they will insist on it. Nickole Hendra, Executive Director of Dress for Success SW Florida, is pleased to offer the Entrepreneurial Spirit Program (E$P) to provide future women business owners with the tools and support they need to succeed in their career.
The event, which was originally scheduled to take place in August, has been rescheduled to be held on Saturday, Oct. 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company, P.A. at 8961 Conference Drive in Fort Myers. The E$P Dream Team includes four prominent women in the community, who will each cover specific topics that will help inspire and prepare future business owners:

• Angela Cooley, partner at Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company, P.A., will discuss business accounting.
• Christina Harris Schwinn, partner at Pavese Law Firm, will discuss legal documentation and incorporation.
• Barbara Melvin, vice president and community lender at First Florida Integrity Bank, will discuss small business lending and SBA loans.
• Connie Ramos-Williams, president and chief marketing officer of CONRIC PR & Marketing, will discuss new business branding and marketing.

All attendees will receive a certification of completion. A suggested donation of $25 to Dress for Success includes continental breakfast and lunch. Limited seating is available, and reservations are required. For more information or to RSVP, call 239-689-4992.
The program is proudly sponsored by CONRIC PR & Marketing, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright and Company, P.A., First Florida Integrity Bank and Pavese Law Firm.
About Dress for Success SW Florida
Dress for Success SW Florida is part of a global movement for change, empowering women to obtain safer and better futures. Since starting operations in 1997, Dress for Success has expanded to more than 150 cities in 23 countries and has helped more than 1 million women work towards self-sufficiency, while providing career wardrobes, employment counseling and mentoring. The Fort Myers location of Dress for Success SW Florida is 12995 S. Cleveland Ave. Suite 153, Fort Myers in the Pinebrook Plaza. The Naples location is 2950 Tamiami Trail N #200, Naples. For information on Dress for Success SW Florida, email [email protected], call (239) 689-4992 or visit swflorida.dressforsuccess.org.

FORT MYERS, FLA., September 12, 2018 – Local mental  health and substance use service provider SalusCare, Inc. has earned a three-year accreditation from CARF International, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, for the services it provides to the community.
This newest accreditation runs through June, 2021, and is an indication of the organization’s dedication and commitment to improving the quality of the lives of those served.
“I am so very proud of SalusCare, the leadership team and all employees who provide these crucial behavioral healthcare services to our community,” said Marshall T. Bower, SalusCare Board Chair.
In the 29-page report from CARF, the surveyors noted that “SalusCare has committed itself to being the forerunner of behavioral healthcare services in the community it serves.”
The written-report also states that “One strength of the organization is its staff.  Throughout the survey the staff demonstrated its commitment to the mission of the organization to provide exceptional and compassionate behavioral healthcare.  This extends beyond the patients and it was truly evident that the organization also demonstrates a commitment with its staff and stakeholders.  Staff members truly care about the well-being of all people they serve.”
“We have always known that our greatest strength is the staff who are providing these much-needed mental health and substance use services on a daily basis,” said Stacey Cook, SalusCare President & CEO.  “But when you see it acknowledged by your accrediting body, that really means the world.  I am elated to lead this group of caring professionals and proud of our work in the community every day.”
 
ABOUT SALUSCARE:  SalusCare, Inc. is a Fort Myers, Florida based not-for-profit mental health and substance abuse service provider incorporated in 2013 after the merger of Lee Mental Health Center and Southwest Florida Addiction Services (SWFAS).  SalusCare has seven locations throughout Southwest Florida and serves 16,000 people each year.  Our fees are affordable and may be adjusted to the means of our patients based on household income.  SalusCare accepts Medicaid, Medicare, Visa, MasterCard and some major health insurance providers.  SalusCare provides services for all regardless of disability or handicap. All substance abuse programs and most mental health services are accredited by CARF International, an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services.

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Sept. 10, 2018) – Where there is hope, there is a path to success. Fort Myers attorney Sawyer C. Smith will help deliver that message as the keynote speaker at the upcoming Hope Clubhouse Annual Mental Health Luncheon. The event will take place on Monday, Oct. 29 from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater on 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.
 
With the theme of “Faces of Hope at Work,” the luncheon will shine a light on the newly launched Hope Works LLC, a work placement initiative that connects employers to Hope Clubhouse members who provide dedicated, reliable and immediate work. Smith, an accomplished businessman and attorney dedicated to improving Lee County’s quality of life, will share his personal journey and insight on mental health.
 
“I am certain that Sawyer will help bring awareness to the issues of mental health in Southwest Florida,” said James Wineinger, Hope Clubhouse’s executive director. “I feel extremely privileged to work with individuals like him who are helping take this initiative to its highest potential.”
 
Smith has earned the respect and praise of many in the legal community for his level of integrity and commitment to the protection of the Constitutional rights, and he drew raves for his stirring address at the 2017 luncheon. Fellow attorney Kelly L. Fayer of the Law Offices of Kelly L. Fayer, P.A., who’s serving as event chair, and state Rep. Heather Fitzenhagen, the honorary chair, look forward to having Smith advance the conversation on mental health.
 
“I commend Sawyer for having the courage to share his story,” Fayer said. “We need more people like him to erase the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.”
 
Event proceeds benefit the programs and services at Hope Clubhouse. Tickets are $75 and available at hopeclubhouse.org. For more information, and to learn about sponsorship opportunities, call 239-900-4200.
 
About Hope Clubhouse
Hope Clubhouse is a community of support for adults living with a mental illness that provides opportunities for paid employment and access to education, housing and wellness. Hope Clubhouse is a 501(c)(3) organization located at 3602 Broadway, Fort Myers, Florida 33901. Call 239-267-1777 or visit hopeclubhouse.org to donate or for more information.
 
 
 

FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 4, 2018) – The Collier Building Industry Association and Lee Building Industry Association will host the 8th annual home building industry event, Market Trends, on Tuesday, October 30 at Miromar Design Center in Estero, Florida. This event is the region’s largest program of its kind and brings together prominent building industry professionals and businesses to support the Building Industry Associations of Lee and Collier counties.
 
Randy Thibaut, President and CEO of Land Solutions, Inc., will be presenting facts and insight that directly impact the industry. His knowledge of the market and accurate, up-to-date research will provide attendees with the tools needed to make informative decisions that positively impact the Southwest Florida region.
 
Early registration is encouraged as seats are limited. Tickets are $35 for members and $55 for non-members and can be purchased by visiting www.MarketTrends2018.com.
 
About the Speaker
Randy Thibaut is the CEO and founder of Land Solutions, Inc., a full-service real estate company specializing in the feasibility, development, acquisition and disposition of land and improved properties throughout Southwest Florida. Thibaut has been actively involved in the creation, development, sales and marketing of residential and resort developments throughout the area since 1982. He has more than 30 years of experience in the Southwest Florida real estate industry with residential and commercial sales, development, project management and new home construction. Thibaut has personally brokered over one billion dollars in real estate transactions locally. He is a co-founder and board member for Builders Care, a nonprofit organization formed by the Lee Building Industry Association to provide construction services at no cost to needy and deserving elderly and disabled homeowners who cannot obtain home repairs through traditional means. He also serves on the board of the Lee Building Industry Association.
 
About the Collier Building Industry Association
Founded in 1985, The Collier Building Industry Association (CBIA) is a not for profit, professional association of dedicated professionals who are inspired to make a difference in our community through advocacy, education, networking and philanthropy on behalf of the construction industry. CBIA is one of 800 state and local associations and operates under the auspices of the Florida Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders.
 
About the Lee Building Industry Association
Founded in 1954, the Lee Building Industry Association (Lee BIA), a not for profit organization representing Lee, Hendry and Glades counties, is a powerful voice for the building industry in the regulatory arena. The Lee BIA is chartered by the National Association of Home Builders and is an affiliate of the Florida Home Builders Association, giving members three memberships in one. It is comprised of approximately 380 companies involved in every aspect of building and creating a thriving community for a growing Southwest Florida. The mission of the Lee BIA is to promote, protect and preserve homeownership, private property rights and affordable housing by advocating for balanced laws, regulation and fees through member education and outreach.
 
Visit www.CBIA.net or www.BIA.net to learn more about their programs and memberships.
 
Media Contact:
Richard Yager, Senior Marketing Manager
Land Solutions, Inc.
239-489-4066 or [email protected]

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Sept. 10, 2018) – The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce has announced all workshop titles and presenters for the 5th annual Business Building Symposium, presented by HBKS Wealth Advisors and HBK CPAs & Consultants. The event theme is “Unleashing the Spirit of Your Organization” and will take place September 19th from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa located at 17260 Harbour Pointe Dr, Fort Myers.
Attendees will select from nine workshops including Employee Retention with Lori Burke of Sunshine Ace Hardware: “Using Effective Tools, Tips, and Tactics to Retain Your Best!; Ryan D. Carter of Scotlynn USA Division, Inc.: “Hire Better. Hire Faster. Hire to Retain”; Dr. Darlene Andert, CMC, CFM of Accounting for Profitability, LLC: “Develop Employees into Leaders”
 
When it comes to Hot Topics in HR Management, guests will hear from Karen Anderson of Shell Point Retirement, Christy Carpenter of Gallagher Insurance, Dr. Angela Pruitt, Ph.D. of School District of Lee County , Logan Wallick of Suffolk Construction, and Gerald Schulz of Iron Mountain
 
Experts in Business Processes will include Teri Hansen, APR and Allie Lopez of Priority Marketing, as well as Mark Nieds of Henderson Franklin as they address “Social Media for Small Business & Frequently Asked Legal Questions”. While Mike Kelly of the Florida Everblades focuses on “Driving Sales Year Round in Southwest Florida”.
 
Work/Life Balance sessions will feature Kerri Goldsmith of HBKS Wealth Advisors and Amy Dalen of HBK CPAs & Consultants: “Want Balance? How to Make That Resolution Stick” and Christin Collins of Lee Health: “Living Your “Why”: How Knowing Your Purpose Paves The Way To Health & Happiness”
 
A Special Panel Discussion will address the timely issue of “Disaster Resilience, Readiness and Recovery” and will be moderated by Jim Farrell, Chief Meteorologist at WINK News. Panelists will include Jacob Ackerman of SkyLink Data Centers, Amanda Beights of Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce, Jim Larkin of Crowne Plaza Fort Myers at the Bell Tower, and Suzanne Specht of the FSBDC at Florida Gulf Coast University
 
 
In addition to the workshops, all attendees will experience keynote speaker, Matt Keller, lead pastor for Next Level Church. Keller is an accomplished author, speaker and leadership coach who offers valuable insight for businesses, nonprofit organizations and churches. Keller’s talks have covered organizational leadership and growth, communications, marketing and personal leadership. Next Level Church, which now has locations in Fort Myers, Gateway and Bonita Springs, has been recognized as one of the nation’s fastest-growing churches.
 
Special opening kick-off speaker is corporate culture expert, keynote speaker, and author, Yvonne Conte. Conte has has attracted clients such as Xerox Corporation, Time Warner, AT&T, and over 700 other leading organizations. Her publishing credits include over 358 articles and essays and six books.
 
Tuition for this professional development day is $149 which includes lunch.  Registration and more information are at www.fortmyers.org.
 
About the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is a business organization of professionals who support and promote a progressive, sustainable community. Visit www.FortMyers.org for the latest information on events and resources to promote your business. As “The Education Chamber”, we donate 10% of all membership investments back into the community to support local education by way of educational grants and scholarships.
 
###
 
 
Stephanie Davis
Director of Events & Marketing
 
[email protected]
http://www.fortmyers.org
239-332-2930, ext. 213