P.24
P.90
P.108
PRIDE IN THE ARTS
FANTASTIC FUNGI
CHANGES IN LATITUDE
New executive director elevates Naples Art experience
Growing gourmet mushrooms for local restaurants
Affluent Boca Grande big on charm, short on pretension
SOUTHWEST F LO R I DA’ S BEST VIEW OF BUSINESS
2022
WOM EN IN BUSI NESS STAYING TRUE TO PASSIONS DRIVES SUCCESS
FarmTo-Table Fidelity
__P. 60
The challenge of sourcing locally grown products __P. 48
Why Mangroves Matter Balancing demands to protect coastal vegetation __P. 36
19 YEARS of celebrating SanCap Bank Strong Women
We’re proud to empower and support our female workforce. Women represent 75% of our team and over 65% of our leadership team.
Locally Owned and Operated 239-274-6100 | www.SanCapBank.com NMLS #411904
FEARLESS POWERFUL
BEAUTIFUL COMPASSIONATE
DEDICATED INTELLIGENT CAPABLE INDEPENDENT
TENACIOUS INSPIRING
WOMAN
Contents. F E AT U R E S
P.36
P.48
P.60
WHY MANGROVES
FARM-TO-TABLE
WOMEN IN
MATTER
FIDELITY
BUSINESS
Protecting coastal vegetation means weighing the demands of development against the needs of the environment
The difference is deliciously clear at restaurants that practice the quality local sourcing they preach
Honoring the women who inspire success, remain passionate in their endeavors
The founnnnion for our conssruccion eggg neees. ppveseeee.com 239.334.2195
Christopher Pope, Florida Bar Board Certified in Construction Law, Frank Pavese, Jr., Keith Hagman, Justin Mazzara, Dillon McColgan
OVER 70 YEARS OF SERVICE IN THE COMMUNITY
Fort Myers | Cape Coral | West Palm Beach
Our experience is your advantage.
Agricuuuurrr | BBnking & Finnnce | Business & Corporrre | Civii Liiigggion | Connominium & HOA’s Conssruccion | Emppoomenn | Environmennnn & er | Esssse PPPnning | Probbbe & Trusss LLnn Use & Loccc overnmenn | MMriiii & FFmiii | Reee Esssse
Contents. D E PA R T M E N T S
TakeNote Mood Board P. 10 Spaces P. 12 Makers P. 18 Creatives P. 24 Bookmark P. 30 Trendline P. 32 Economic Commentary P. 34
B2B
P 86
HEALTH CARE The importance of mental wellbeing in the workplace P 90
AGRICULTURE Russell Hollander grows gourmet mushrooms for local restaurants P 94
ENTREPRENEURSHIP Kiran Gill runs SWFL’s only female-owned boutique plastic surgery center P 98
COMMERCIAL PROJECTS Top sales in Charlotte, Collier and Lee counties P 100
NEW & EXPANDING BUSINESSES Top leases in Charlotte, Collier and Lee counties
P.12 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
P.104
AFTER HOURS P 104
HORSEPOWER X4 doesn’t mark the spot for BMW enthusiasts P 106
FITNESS Golf lessons to get out on the greens P 108
WEEKEND GETAWAY Well-heeled Boca Grande big on charm and short on pretension P 112
UNWIND Find your bliss with beach yoga
P.24
P.94
P.90
P.109
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 5
READER SERVICES
EDI T OR IN CHIEF
Heidi Rambo Centrella EDI T ORI A L Managing Editor T im At en Senior Editor Dav id Dor se y Digit al Editor A dam Regan
Office Address 26101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Call or text 239.498.8500 gulfshorebusiness.com info@gulfshorebusiness.com
Copy Editor S t e v e Gill
CON T RIBU T ORS A r t is Hender son , Jus t in P apr ock i , Jame s Raia , A isling S w i f t , Bill Wasinger
ART Cr eative Dir ec tor s Sco t t Glick , Jer r y P omale s
Pho to Editor Dennis Wr igh t
ADVERTISING A ssociate Publisher C hr is Rens t r om
M A RK E T ING
Subscriptions Subscribe online at gulfshorebusiness.com, call or text 239.498.8500 for more information. Change of address Send old and new addresses and a mailing label, if possible, to Gulfshore Life, 26101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134. Visit gulfshorebusiness.com/subscribe to login and update your address, call or text 239.498.8500 or email subscriptions@gulfshorebusiness.com. Back issues A limited number of back issues are available for $4.95 each plus tax and postage. Call or text 239.498.8500 or visit gulfshorebusiness.com/backissues.
Dir ec tor of Marke ting and Event s Rachel G alan t e Digit al Media Marke ting Manager Br i t t ne y K leis
CIRCUL AT ION Dir ec tor of Audience Development K er r i Nolan
PRODUC T ION Pr oduc tion Manager Mar t ha L eav i t t
Reprints Visit gulfshorebusiness.com/reprints for plaques and reprints. Contact Us Please send all correspondence to: Gulfshore Business 26101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Call or text us at 239.498.8500.
A DMINIS T R AT ION Adver tising Ser v ices Manager/ Reprint Sales K a t hleen Hill
WEBSITE gulfshorebusiness.com
Volume 27/Number 5, May, Gulfshore Business (ISSN 1935-8199), is published 12 times a year by Gulfshore Life Media, 26101 Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134. Subscriptions are free to qualified individuals residing in the United States. For customer service inquiries or to change your address by providing both the old and new addresses, contact: Gulfshore Business, 26101 Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134. Telephone (239) 498-8501 or email subscriptions@gulfshorebusiness.com. Periodicals postage paid at Naples, FL, and at additional mailing offices. Copyright 2021 by Gulfshore Life Media. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts without return postage will not be returned. DISCLAIMER: Advertisements in the publication do not constitute an offer for sale in states where prohibited or restricted by law. P O S T M A S T E R : S e n d a d d r e s s c h a n g e s t o G u l f s h o r e B u s i n e s s , 2 6 1 0 1 Ta m i a m i Tr a i l , B o n i t a S p r i n g s , F L 3 4 1 3 4 .
of
Bright Moments Taking Care of Family, Clients & Community
48
PROFESSIONALS
150,000+ PROJECTS BONO SERVICES $3.5M PRO OF SATISFIED S 1,000 CLIENTS Launching her business shortly after the birth of her daughter 30 years ago, Teri Hansen has been a champion for women in business all along. Her mentorship and heartfelt support has impacted countless women – from those in her family to her many employees and clients. Additionally, she has given back to the community in ways that benefit everyone – including more than $3.5 million in pro bono services!
Congratulations, Teri, and all the Women in Business honorees!
239.267.2638 PriorityMarketing.com
from the editor. M AY 2 0 2 2
nominees and recipients of Gulfshore Business’ inaugural awards program
The Pursuit of Passions Some kids grow up believing they know exactly what they want to do in life. They might have an
has been passion. Each woman expressed her dedication and unwavering passion for her work. All having taken different HEIDI RAMBO CENTRELLA EDITOR IN CHIEF
paths to their successes, their accomplishments are outstanding. They’ve
inherent desire to help people in a health care or
overcome obstacles and challenges;
public policy capacity, or a love of nature guiding
they’ve faced adversity head-on. But
them toward environmental sciences and sus-
what truly stands out is how they’ve
tainability. Some are inspired by adults in their
also helped pave the way for future
life who helped shape their way—maybe a parent,
generations of young women to pur-
teacher, police officer, counselor or coach. And of
sue their own passions.
course, there are many of us who might have de-
The women featured within this is-
sired one path but then went another direction
sue are nothing short of extraordinary.
when facing the proverbial fork in the road.
We hope you’ll find their stories in-
My love for animals and the water during im-
spiring, as well as a testament to how
pressionable years had me wanting to be a vet-
dreams really can become reality.
erinarian or a marine biologist. I quickly learned
In the spirit of honoring these
that the sciences—of any genre—were not in my
women in business, we’d also like to
wheelhouse, but stumbled upon a love for writ-
thank all of the mothers out there; the
ing as a freshman in college. No, writing wouldn’t
women who taught us, who fought for
allow me to heal an injured horse or save the
decades to have a place in the work-
whales, but I could research and write about those topics and others that piqued my interests. Having a passion for Mother Earth and all her creatures, you can imagine my delight when my own children opted to study environmental sci-
p.60 WOMEN IN BUSINESS Honoring the women who inspire success
force, who broke the glass ceiling, who helped pave our way toward success. If it weren’t for their hard work and dedication—and maybe a bit of guidance now and then—these and future gen-
ences and biochemistry. Those are their passions,
erations of women’s accomplishments
and they’re all in. I couldn’t be more proud.
would have taken longer to attain.
This month, we celebrate women in busi-
Happy Mother’s Day!
ness. And the undeniable theme among all 8 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
p_10 A Sense of Scents
TakeNote MOOD BOARD | SPACES | MAKERS | CREATIVES | BOOKMARK TRENDLINE | ECONOMIC COMMENTARY
Brian Tietz
Building Pride in the Arts FRANK VERPOORTEN ELEVATES NAPLES ART EXPERIENCE p_24 By Aisling Swift
TakeNote
M AY 2 0 2 2
MOOD BOARD
By James Raia
A Sense of Scents RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EXQUISITE PERFUMES Perfume is polarizing. A little is intoxicating, but too much is offputting. What’s a person to do? Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel thought she knew. The French fashion maven, the founder and namesake of Chanel, once said, “A woman who does not wear perfume has no future.” Much has changed in the fragrance world since Chanel’s death 51 years ago. The lure of personalized smell is also substantially different today than when it was first practiced by Egyptians using essential oils, resin, unguents and scents to celebrate prayers and religious ceremonies. It’s unlikely the ancient concoctions were named Black Opium, Mojave Ghost and
Relique d’Amour Released in 2012, the name translates as “Love Relic.” Reviews conjure wild descriptions, despite the company’s assessment of its product as a
You. They’re among current popular perfumes with their mini-
“subtle floral scent with green accents of leaves
decanters as distinctively and boldly shaped as their names. And
and powdery touches of yellow pollen.”
there are the time-tested standards from Chanel, now more than 100 years old, and Guerlain, founded in 1828. “In my opinion, all kinds of people, even kids, should wear perfume every day,” says Wahi Smaoui, owner of Venus Perfumes
The eau de parfum fragrance notes include fresh herbs, pine, white lily, pepper, oak, incense, myrrh, elemi, musk, moss and waxed wood. All that in a 3.3-ounce bottle? If unsure, how about how a further company
LLC in Naples. “It changes your mood. When you dress up
enticement? “The smell of an old chapel in a
and you put on some perfume and you are ready to leave the
Cistercian abbey. Cold stone walls covered with
house, you feel good about yourself.” Perfume and its five main
damp moss. The waxed wood of the altar and old
varieties—parfum, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, eau de cologne and eau de fraiche—also have detractors. The scents can be serious allergens. Still, the perfume market is booming. A 5.5% growth rate is predicted in the next three years, according to
pews ornate with carvings. Linseed oil in lamps. Incense and myrrh discernible in the air.” $165 orizaparfums.com
industry analysts. Fashion icons Marc Jacobs and Gucci have recently entered the market. “I think it is a necessity now,” says Smaoui. “It gives you some joy and happiness. We need that.”
1 0 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Mood Changer “In my opinion, all kinds of people, even kids, should wear perfume every day. It changes your mood. When you dress up and you put on some perfume and you are ready to leave the house, you feel good about yourself,” says Wahi Smaoui, owner of Venus Perfumes LLC in Naples.
Chanel N°5
Tuscan Leather
Angélique Noire
Now in its second century, the eau de
A Tom Ford Private Blend, the eau de
Though Guerlain was founded by Pierre-
parfum was “the world’s first abstract
parfum is marketed as merging “primal
François-Pascal Guerlain in 1828, its Am-
fragrance.” It’s still an icon, described as
leather with night-blooming jasmine suede,
ber Floral fragrance (for men and women)
“exuding the very essence of femininity.”
creating a distinctive spin.” It’s warm and
is still a newbie, a teenager of 17 years.
spicy with notes of leather, saffron and
Its top notes are angelica, pear and pink
black suede.
pepper, its middle notes are jasmine and
In 1986, Jacques Polge reinterpreted his predecessor Ernest Beaux’s composition to create a fuller, more voluminous version
The designer’s 12-offering collection
of the offering known for use of aldehydes,
debuted in 2007 and is described by its
the component with hints of almonds. It’s
namesake glowingly: “It’s where I have
available at many area retailers, includ-
the ability to create very special, original
creation? “Half-angel, half-demon, the
ing Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and Chanel
fragrances that are unconstrained by the
verdant, crisp and herbal bitterness of
boutiques.
conventions of mainstream scent-making.
angelica is kept at bay by the enveloping
Private blend is designed with the true
sweetness of vanilla. If it were a ballet,
Debuting in 1921, N°5’s eau de parfum is described as a floral bouquet composed around May rose and jasmine, and features
fragrance connoisseur in mind.” Ford says his perfumes are made in his
caraway and its base notes are vanilla and cedar wood. How does its maker describe the
it would be Swan Lake by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.” The perfume’s fanciers wear a scent fur-
bright citrus top notes. The aldehydes
own scent laboratory. They’re promoted as
create a unique presence while the smooth
unisex colognes. Available locally at Sepho-
ther described as a “bittersweet confronta-
touch of bourbon vanilla leaves an incredibly
ra in Estero, Fort Myers and Naples.
tion.” It’s meant as a compliment. Available in local retailers including Dillard’s in Estero.
sensual trail. $146 chanel.com
$163-$365 tomford.com
$360 guerlain.com
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2022 1 1
TakeNote S PA C E S
M AY 2 0 2 2 By Aisling Swift
Del Mar Naples’ Dazzling Debut MEDITERRANEAN INSPIRATION ON FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH
When Café Lurcat and Bar Lurcat on Naples’ posh Fifth Avenue South closed in 2018, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants was too busy to consider another fine-dining spot two blocks away from its then 2-year-old Ocean Prime restaurant. But developer Phil McCabe urged CMR President and COO David Miller to take a hard look at the distinctive two-story building at 494 Fifth Ave. S. It offered something no other Fifth Avenue building had: Naples’ only second-floor dining option, with outdoor seating. “I call it the catbird seat overlooking Fifth Avenue South,” Miller says, adding that they worked for a year on a deal before opening Del Mar Naples in late December, making it award-winning CMR’s 97th restaurant. “The building is spectacular. It’s an iconic, stand-alone building.” Second-floor dining was grandfathered into city codes, making this the only second-floor dining spot on the eclectic, heavily trafficked, pedestrian-friendly street. “It didn’t have a defined look, but it was sparse and cold,” Mitchell says. “We gutted it … When you looked at it, it screamed Mediterranean.” So they opted for Mediterranean coastal cuisine, with influences from Italy, Spain and Morocco, due to their success with island bars. They worked with Chicago-based interior design firm Knauer Inc. to create a warm, comfortable, lush space. “We had a vision and Mark (Knauer) is great about listening to our vision and bringing in his own touch,” Miller says. They ripped out the staircase and took everything down to its studs. They Brian Tietz
opened the first-floor ceilings and painted over the exterior Tuscan yellow with soft white. “The tricky part was the second floor. The ceilings were 20 feet high,” 12 GULFSHORE BUSINESS A R I L2 022022 2 MPAY
gulfshorebusiness.com
REFINED DESIGN Cameron Mitchell Restaurants spent $700 per square foot to refurbish a 9,200-square-foot space to create Del Mar Naples. G UGLUFLSFHSOHROER EB UBSUISNIENSESS SA PMRAY IL 2022 13
TakeNote S PA C E S
Miller says, adding that they spent $700 per square foot to refurbish the nearly 9,200-square-foot space, or about $6.4 million in improvements. They brought the ceilings down, added contemporary, slatted woodwork that covers ducts and acoustic tile and added two olive trees in the center. The old staircase was replaced with a modern, lighted version with wood slats, stone walls and a lighted mural wall. To add warmth, softer candle-inspired pendants hang over tables, while stunning clear glass pendants in varied sizes and hammered copper pendants highlight the two bars, and pinpoint spotlights allow diners to read menus at tables. An Amish carpenter created tables from reclaimed oak, with no hard edges to bruise legs, while chairs throughout feature twine. There are two floors of dining, a covered patio and second-floor balcony that feature dining tables and soft couches in a cocktail lounge atmosphere, bars on each floor and opens out to the outdoor terrace. Both floors open to the outdoors, and soft lighting was added to highlight the distinctive curved façade, mak-
NATURAL BEAUTY Olive trees and other live foliage provide a focal point around tables of reclaimed oak in the new two-story Del Mar restaurant Brian Tietz
a 24-seat private dining room that
in downtown Naples.
1 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Banking About Community
We Make
As the president and co-founder of the oldest community bank in Lee County, Robbie Roepstorff has a special place in her heart for Southwest Florida. With over 48 years of banking experience, she began her career in 1974 as a teller and climbed the ranks to become the first female president of a bank in Lee County in 1990. Now celebrating the bank’s 25th Anniversary, Robbie leads a highly experienced team of banking professionals from four offices in Lee County, providing a personal approach to banking for all customers.
To learn more about our customer services and convenient locations, please visit EdisonNationalBank.com or call 239.466.1800.
An Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC | Bank of the Islands is an office of Edison National Bank.
Robbie Roepstorff, President
TakeNote S PA C E S
ing it a standout at night. “We try to personalize every restaurant we do for This is a new concept designed for Na-
added to porcelain wood tile, increas-
60 colorful planters and maintain
ples,” Miller says, noting it’s nothing
ing the acoustic functionality.
them weekly. Barnwell added white
“Music and people’s voices create
highlights, hung orchids above first-
energy, but you need to be able to
floor diners, brought in hundreds of
hear,” Miller explains.
hardy plants such as bromeliads and
like Del Mar SoCal Kitchen in Ohio. The
huge
$60,000
Grillworks
hearth, wood-fired grill and expo kitchen allow the chef to be on stage
Local artists’ works add pops of
palms, and designed a stunning en-
as diners watch the hustle and bus-
color. CMR also hired award-winning
tryway that features a calming wa-
tle. There’s also a 500-bottle wine
Naples garden designer Jack Barn-
terfall, curvy pavers, gray stones and
display. Throughout, area rugs were
well of C3 Gardens to add plants and
colorful plants. “They wanted a very
ai164745103622_11863 Gulfshore Business May Boat Storage.pdf
1
3/16/22
1:17 PM
Diplomat RV & Boat Storage
Store more with a commercial loan from LMCU. Diplomat RV & Boat Storage, a state-of-the-art, fully-enclosed storage facility in Cape Coral, came to LMCU to refinance their commercial loan.
Our experienced, local lenders are ready to help you finance your next project. Call Greg Barr at (239) 437-7038 to get started.
1 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Brian Tietz
the market, even if it’s an old concept.
LOFTY AMBITION
Naples, tropical, fun, lush feel,” Barnwell says, adding that
The new Del Mar restaurant space on Fifth Avenue
anything diners walk by and can touch is real, while most
South boasts second-floor dining options, a feature
harder-to-reach plants are faux or silk. “I loved the chal-
not offered elsewhere in downtown Naples.
lenge of having so many different shapes, sizes and styles of planters and working with faux and living plants to make the whole space feel like it all ties together,” he says. “It’s not every day I get to do a project like that.”
#22 ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCHOOL IN THE U.S. FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY IMAGINE WHAT WE CAN DO IN THE NEXT 25. LEARN MORE AT FGCU.EDU/25YEARS G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 1 7
TakeNote MAKERS
1 8 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
M AY 2 0 2 2 By Justin Paprocki
gulfshorebusiness.com
The Way of JBA JAMES BONNER’S MOTORCYCLE MANIA The last several years have been a challenge for James Bonner and JBA Custom Cycles, to say the least. In 2019 his store caught fire. It could have been worse; the fire actually ruptured a water pipe that helped put it out. But he had to operate elsewhere for eight months. Thankfully, through the generosity of his customers and fellow business owners, he was able to get back on his feet. But then, the day of his grand opening ended up being the same as the start of COVID lockdowns. “Ultimately, we prevailed,” he now says. The pandemic actually ended up boosting business, as people had a little more time
BUSINESS PREVAILS JBA Custom Cycles, owned and opErik Kellar
erated by James Bonner, started in Cape Coral and moved to Fort Myers.
and money on their hands—and taking the bike out proved to be a perfect COVID-free excursion. His 12 years in business have seen ups and downs, but overall, considering he basically started from scratch, it’s been mostly ups. G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 1 9
TakeNote MAKERS
ONE OF A KIND Erik Kellar
James Bonner never creates the same bike twice at his award-winning JBA Custom Cycles in Fort Myers.
2 0 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
ADVERTISEMENT SPONSORED CONTENT
Southwest Florida
THOUGHT LEADER OF THE MONTH This May, Chanel McGregor will
Receiving the right cancer care often
American Cancer Society (ACS) as the
means patients must travel far from
staff partner for one of the premiere
home for treatment. The American
distinguished events in Naples: The
Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge program
Bucket List Bash. The University of
provides people with cancer and their
Miami grad who earned her Bachelor
caregivers a home away from home in a
of Science in Communications and
supportive, caring environment so they
Women & Gender Studies and Master
can focus on getting better. In 2019, 10%
of Arts in Liberal Studies is no stranger
of the guests who stayed at the Richard
to the Naples philanthropic community.
M. Schulze Family Foundation Hope
She’s been working together with key
Lodge in Tampa were from Collier and
stakeholders in Southwest Florida for
Lee County.
over eight years.
This year’s Bucket List Bash mission
What’s on Chanel’s bucket list? The energetic
development
Senior Development Manager American Cancer Socity chanel.mcgregor@cancer.org www.acsbucketlistbash.com
GUTTER CREDIT
“The Naples community shows up and gives generously in the fight against cancer, and for that we are so very grateful.”
moment raised funds for ACS research.
professional
While the American Cancer Society
says it’s helping others recognize
conducts it’s own research, they are
the benefits and value of investing in
also the largest nongovernmental,
groundbreaking research and positively
nonprofit funder of research in the
impacting the lives of cancer patients.
United States, funding over $9 million
“It’s important to me to support cancer
in Florida alone* and proudly funding
patients, survivors, and those affected
49 investigators who have gone on to
by cancer,” said Chanel. “This is where
win the Nobel Prize.
I’ve always wanted to be.”
Chanel McGregor
an incredible resource.”
celebrate her first anniversary with the
Cancer and cancer research are
As a child, Chanel watched her
bigger than Collier County, but with
grandfather, who had never smoked,
support from the Naples community, we
battle lung cancer and undergo a variety
can fund research nationally, creating
of treatments including surgery to
a ripple effect. “We’re helping people
have his lung removed. The experience
here, but also nationwide, which is
influenced her career path in such a way
a unique, profound opportunity to
that it became her goal to work for the
change the world,” said Chanel. “The
American Cancer Society, the nation’s
Naples community shows up and gives
largest voluntary health organization,
generously in the fight against cancer
because she feels ACS is at the forefront
and for that, we are so very grateful.”
of cancer research, patient care, and advocacy. Chanel also had the opportunity
While Chanel may have only joined the American Cancer Society a year ago, she is already making an incredible
to experience ACS patient programs
impact
firsthand. “Before I came to American
Society’s mission to save lives, celebrate
Cancer Society, I had a former co-
lives, and lead the fight for a world
worker stay at a Hope Lodge in Ohio,”
without cancer. Congratulations on a
she said. “Several of our co-workers
successful first year, Chanel!
went with her as caregivers and it’s just
on
the
American
Cancer
*As of 8/1/21
OCTOBER 2018 GULFSHORE LIFE
2
TakeNote MAKERS
The Fort Myers native had been into all things motorized as a kid: dirt bikes, cool cars and the like. He actually got his first motorcycle—a sport bike—because of, let’s say, his enthusiasm for fast cars. Actually, he had so many tickets that car insurance was too expensive, he said, only half joking. So he bought a motorcycle from his
OVERCOMING ADVERSITY The pandemic ended up boosting business for James Bonner’s JBA Custom Cycles in Fort Myers.
neighbor, and it sparked a passion. JBA Custom Cycles started in Cape Coral, then moved to its current location in Fort Myers. It built its reputation mainly by word Erik Kellar
of mouth. Bonner’s bread and butter is repair work, but his custom
Congratulations Bank of America is proud to honor Gerri Moll as a Gulfshore Business 2022 Women in Business Awards Winner. Thank you for being an example of hard work, dedication and continually reaching for excellence. You’re an inspiration to our future leaders and to us all. Visit us at bankofamerica.com/local ©2022 Bank of America Corporation | MAP4117394 | ENT-217-AD
2 2 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
work is what gets him his reputation. His designs have gotten national recognition; he’s taken home trophies from the renowned Daytona Bike Week. Some of his bikes can take up to a year to make and cost six figures. He compares the process to creating a custom home. You sit and go down each component of the bike, put it in writing, create an illustration, then get to building. “Our customers have faith in what we do,” he says. “We never build the same bike twice. We always look to outdo what we’ve done before.”
Every great team needs a great leader. Not to brag, but ours is pretty awesome. Congratulations to Connie Ramos-Williams on being named a 2022 Woman in Business! Our agency shines bright because of your leadership. Sincerely,
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 2 3
TakeNote
M AY 2 0 2 2
C R E AT I V E S
By Aisling Swift
Building Pride in the Arts It’s been almost 18 months since Frank Ver-
Center at 585 Park St. and offering exhibitions,
poorten took the helm of Naples Art, and under
art classes for adults and children, festivals, ed-
his leadership, the 25-year-old downtown arts
ucation events and a summer ARTScool for kids.
center has lured new visitors and donors with
Through outreach programs, it helps under-
blockbuster shows, prompting a 1,600% increase
served and special-needs children by partnering
in attendance.
with nonprofits and Title I schools.
Verpoorten, the executive director and chief
Verpoorten plans to expand children’s and
curator, took over in January 2021 after work-
adult programs. “We just want to broaden the of-
ing as an art consultant following seven years at
ferings by inviting new art instructors to teach a
Artis—Naples’ The Baker Museum, where he’d
compelling selection of subjects or techniques,”
built a reputation for world-class exhibitions.
he says, adding that Naples Art will provide more
He said that appealed to the board of Naples Art,
online classes through Canvas.
which had just gone through a trifecta of issues:
Also on his radar is a small expansion and ren-
the executive director’s departure, water damage
ovation. “It would really be driven by the need
due to the ceiling air handler and closings due to
for more program space, but I also want to con-
the pandemic and renovations.
tribute to the urban landscape with an arresting
“It was a time for the organization to take a
design,” Verpoorten says. “We’re an organization
hard look at where it was and where they wanted
at the heart of this cultural community. We have
to go,” says Verpoorten, who has a dual master’s
an incredible location and if we are to attract peo-
degree and Ph.D. in art history and more than 20
ple, Naples has a lot of financial and intellectual
years of leadership in U.S. and European muse-
sophistication, and some people really want to
ums. “I have to remake the organization in many
come and see great programs.”
ways, and the future is bright. We’re polishing up
That’s what drives the Brussels native. At The
the brand, and I’m proud to have brought a few of
Baker Museum, he and his team were known
my existing donors into its orbit.”
for organizing 15 to 20 exhibitions every season.
At more than 60 years old, Naples Art is Col-
When he took over at Naples Art, he organized a
lier County’s oldest arts organization, operating
small exhibition with works from its permanent
the two-story, 16,000-square-foot von Liebig Art
collection, followed by what he calls a blockbust-
2 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Brian Tietz
FRANK VERPOORTEN’S WORK TO ELEVATE THE NAPLES ART EXPERIENCE
DRAWING ATTENTION Naples Art Executive Director Frank Verpoorten has worked to recreate the local association since taking over in January 2021. G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 2 5
TakeNote C R E AT I V E S
er show, “Keith Haring: Radiant Vision,” which ran from November to Feb. 6. “That really has done miracles for us,” he says, noting it prompted the 1,600% increase in attendance. “People came from as far as Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Myers and Sarasota because that’s what people want to drive two hours for. The word’s getting out that these are exciting programs.” He also noted that blockbuster shows are a must. “Local or not is irrelevant. I’m focused on the quality. You need to have compelling programs to increase attendance, create a buzz in the community and attract financial support,” he says. The Keith Haring exhibition was followed by “Toulouse-Lautrec: Master of the Belle Epoque,” which opened March 19 and runs through June 12. “It’s an elegant balance between these kinds of shows,” Verpoorten says, adding that exhibitions could include stellar local es. “But what I don’t want to have is a sequence of exhibitions that are not moving the needle with anyone.”
MAKING HIS MARK Frank Verpoorten, executive director and chief curator at Naples Art, has lured new visitors and donors with blockbuster shows.
2 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Brian Tietz
artists and works from Naples Art class-
We invite you to take business personally.
WE DO.
At Lutgert College of Business we know the value of business in shaping futures, economies and communities. We make sure that you get personal attention through one-on-one mentoring and small classes to help you succeed.
Chris Westley, Ph.D.
Dean, Lutgert College of Business
Professors and business leaders share their knowledge and talents to help you learn and internships allow you to put that knowledge into practice and make contacts for future jobs in the area of your choosing. Whatever that is. Because we know that’s personal, too.
fgcu.edu/cob
TakeNote C R E AT I V E S
Naples, unlike some other areas, does face one difficulty in bringing in major shows: “We live in a hurricane-prone area and for insurance purposes, things get complicated when you have art insured at a high value in your custody,” he explains. Naples Art is home to the Naples Art Association, which was founded in 1954 to encourage, improve and develop artistic talent and art appreciation in adults and children through exhibitions, education and lectures. Its articles of incorporation also say the association will promote development of high standards of creative arts Brian Tietz
by presenting fine-arts exhibitions.
Congratulations Nancy Dauphinais!
A Gulfshore Business 2022 Women in Business Honoree For 16 years, Nancy has demonstrated the highest level of compassion and drive to propel DLC’s mission of providing lifesaving and life-changing care for all in need of mental health and substance use treatment services in our community. She has aided in advancing many important initiatives to assist in the recovery of thousands of children, families, and adults that look to DLC for treatment and care each year.
Nancy Dauphinais, LMHC, MCAP
Thank you, Nancy, for your relentless commitment to advancing health, healing, and hope!
Chief Operating Officer
DLCenters.org | 239-455-8500 2 8 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
6075 BATHEY LANE | NAPLES, FL 34116 gulfshorebusiness.com
POPULAR SHOW “Keith Haring: Radiant Vision” was a blockbuster exhibition featured earlier this year at Naples Arts’ von Liebig Art Center at 585 Park St. in downtown Naples.
“A great thing that I learned in Naples is that for every exotic, hard-to-get special opportunity to bring exhibitions to Naples, there’s always someone in the community who will support it,” Verpoorten says. “That’s because Naples is a pride-of-ownership community. People give to the community they live in— and there’s no better way of ensuring that community continues to thrive artistically.”
CHEERS! TO WOMEN IN BUSINESS
On behalf of the entire Fort Myers Brewing Co. team, congratulations to all the amazing businesswomen in Southwest Florida! The brewery team raises their glasses in a toast to Jen Whyte, co-founder of Fort Myers Brewing Co., and all of the amazing female business leaders honored with the Women in Business Awards. Our customers and our community are quite fortunate to have these exceptional women on tap! LOCATED IN GATEWAY 12811 Commerce Lakes Drive Suite 28, Fort Myers 239.313.6576 • FMBrew.com
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 2 9
TakeNote
M AY 2 0 2 2
BOOKMARK
RALPH READS
Timely Thinking CYBER WARFARE AND THE VALUE OF EXPERTISE Nicole Perlroth’s book on cyber warfare, This is How They Tell Me the World Ends, could not be more on point. Russia is attacking Ukraine as this column is being written. The book Sandworm that we featured last year covered Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s power grid and commerce infrastructure. It is now apparent that those
RALPH STAYER, an avid reader and owner/CEO
were only dress rehearsals for the main event,
grid, transportation and supply chain are all
which began in February. The first sentence of
vulnerable. And then there is the big “what
Perlroth’s prologue is prescient: “By the time
if”—can nefarious agents take over some
my plane touched down in Kyiv—in the dead of
country’s nuclear system?
winter 2019—nobody could be sure the attack
Who are these hackers and who do they
Sausage, leads a
was over, or if it was just a glimpse of what was to
work for? These are the best and the brightest
book club in Naples
come.” We now know that it came, but there are
who were hired by our government—specifi-
with about a dozen
far greater implications for the world than what
cally the NSA and the CIA—to find ways to ex-
other high-power
is happening in Ukraine.
ploit operating systems all around the world.
of Johnsonville
Have you ever heard of the term “Zero-Day”?
Our government created a worldwide market
only reads non-fic-
It is a weakness in the software of a computer’s
for these Zero-Days that they dominated. The
tion as a way to
operating system that will allow a hacker to pene-
Snowden and other leaks alerted the world
trate it and employ malware that can lay dormant
to what we were doing, and a new arms race
and hidden for days or months or even years. The
ensued. Zero-Day hacks that used to sell for
hacker can then take over the system and wreak
hundreds of dollars can now sell for millions.
havoc whenever they choose. Russia again shut
Our world is now engaged in a new MAD:
down many of Ukraine’s systems when it be-
Mutually Assured Disruption, as opposed to
gan its attack. If it can shut down Ukraine, why
Mutually Assured Destruction. This book is
couldn’t it shut down our system? The truth is, it
incredibly well researched and written.
friends. The group
keep learning and sharpening the mind. Every month, Stayer shares the latest page-turners earning a permanent spot on his ever-expanding bookshelves.
can. In fact, since we are the most interconnected
We now live in a YouTube world. There is so
country in the world, we are the most vulnerable.
much information at our fingertips that peo-
Our defense systems, our water supply, electrical
ple are encouraged to think they are experts
3 0 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
in many subjects on which they, frank-
know and learn how to learn. For many
ly, have no clue; a phenomenon per-
students in those colleges, their educa-
haps best summed up by the “I stayed
tion has become “those magical sever-
in a Holiday Inn Express last night”
al years between high school and your
commercial. Tom Nichols’ book, The
first warehouse job.”
Death of Expertise: The Campaign
He tells of people who research
against Established Knowledge and
medical conditions on the internet and
Why It Matters, exposes the trend to-
think they know as much or more than
ward devaluing knowledge and experi-
doctors, and the disastrous outcomes
ence. He doesn’t say so in the book, but
that attitude creates. One of the great-
the inference is that much of the world
the institutions need the money. They
est destroyers of respect for expertise
has reverted to being teenagers again.
allow students to think they are the
is cable news. Since 24 hours is a lot
Nichols is a professor. Some may say
equals of their teachers and will not
of time to fill between commercials,
that this is a self-serving rant, but he
accept grades that are below what they
they bring on well-known people as so-
picks his examples well and he makes
feel entitled to, potentially causing so
called experts who never allow their
many good points. One of his concerns
much unrest that the administration
paucity of knowledge on a particular
is the field of education—he asserts
forces professors to bow to the pres-
subject to prevent them from having a
that many colleges now treat students
sure. This subverts the purpose of col-
strong opinion. This book is timely, en-
as clients rather than students because
lege, which is to learn what you don’t
tertaining and well-written.
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 3 1
TakeNote
M AY 2 0 2 2
TRENDLINE
By Justin Paprocki
EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY
Small Business, Huge Impact A CORNERSTONE OF THE SWFL ECONOMY
P E R C E N T O F T O TA L EMPLOYMENT FROM SMALL BUSINESSES
Other service industries*
56.1
Real estate and rentals/leasing
42.8
Professional, scientific and technical services
41.2
Construction
33.4
Mining, quarrying and oil/gas exploration
30.8 27
Finance and insurance Administrative/support and waste management
26.5
Transportation and warehousing
25.1
essential to Southwest Florida’s economy—maybe
Wholesale trade
22.7
more so than we thought.
Manufacturing
21.5
Educational services
19.7
Health care and social assistance
18.4
Regional Economic Research Institute. For the sake
Retail trade
16.1
of the report, small businesses were defined as
Utilities
15.8
companies with fewer than 20 employees.
Information
15.5
Accommodation and food service
14.9
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
11.8
Arts, entertainment and recreation
10.9
The mom-and-pop shops along the Gulf coast are
Small businesses account for about 24% of total employment in Southwest Florida, according to a new report from Florida Gulf Coast University’s
Employment in small business has ranged between 25.7% and 23.4% in the 2010s. Statewide, that number stood steady around 19%. The real estate and professional/tech services industries, in particular, consist largely of small businesses. For both, more than 40% of employment comes from businesses with fewer than 20
Management of companies and enterprises
9.9
* O t h e r s e r v i c e i n d u s t r i e s a r e d e f i n e d a s a u t o r e p a i r, h o m e g o o d s r e p a i r, p e r s o n a l c a r e s e r v i c e s a n d o t h e r s .
employees. 3 2 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
TakeNote E C O N O M I C C O M M E N TA R Y
M AY 2 0 2 2 B y V i c t o r V. C l a a r
Historic Advancements in Home Labor GENERATIONAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE GROWTH OF OPPORTUNITY I was born in 1965. Technically that makes me a Gen Xer, but barely. A year earlier and I’d be among the last of the baby boomers. Because I have lived a relatively long life, so far, I can understand what life looked like for Americans like my parents much better than my FGCU students can. Both of my parents grew up poor and were raised by remarkable single moms. And both were raised in poverty: one in Appalachian Pennsylvania and the other in rural Indiana. Because their own family lives had their shares of bumps along the way, they did their best to provide a stable home for me and my younger brother, and they made sure that we remained connected to our extended families on both sides. In one stunning instance, I was introduced to my mother’s father when I was already a young adult. It was hard for my mom to do—he was an alcoholic—but she thought it was important that I meet him. And I am glad I got to, once, on that Indiana summer afternoon. Because my parents grew up poor, I got occasional glimpses of what life looked like for families poorer than mine as I grew up. We were a working-class family (I qualified for reduced-price lunches in school), but many of my cousins lived even more difficult lives economically. I remember visiting the home of one of my dad’s brothers and being stunned at the sight of a wringer washing machine (not an automatic one). And the absence of a clothes dryer meant they really did use those clotheslines outside. At the home of another uncle, I was introduced to going “down the path”: a euphemism for leaving the home to use the outhouse in back. And these observations were from the relatively modern 1970s. Yet, in that period, housework remained work for most American families—not just poor ones. Even in my own family, where I was blessed with a caring stay-athome mom, housework was a chore. Literally. I remember keeping my mom 3 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
company while she worked through piles of ironing, accompanied by the heavy breathing of the steam iron that she manipulated expertly. And dishwashing: We never owned a dishwasher until I was off to college. And my father’s mother—who lived with us full time—washed dishes each night in a wonderful labor of love. She claimed the warm water soothed her arthritis, but I don’t really know. Yet today, most American families are blessed to possess many modern conveniences, like washing machines and dishwashers, that either didn’t exist in earlier generations, or were luxuries owned only by the rich. Even earlier generations had to deal with household tasks that today seem unthinkable: chopping wood to fire the stove to cook the evening meal or beating rugs rather than vacuuming them. Or planning carefully so the giant block of ice in the “icebox” didn’t run out at the wrong time. While the dishwasher and the electric iron, the gas stove and the automatic washer may not seem like thrilling advances, they are. They’re thrilling because advances like these have liberated families, of all shapes and sizes, to explore options that would have been impossible when housework required far more hours of labor than now—and when the labor was much harder. And they have given women, in particular, the opportunity to participate in the labor force at levels that would have been unthinkable 50 years ago. Entrepreneurial discoveries give us all more choices to live the lives that fit each of us best. Being a stay-at-home parent is a wonderful calling; I’m glad my mom was a stayat-home mom for me. But in 2022, I’m thankful that modern inventions give all of us more opportunities to discover the best work-life balance possible. Victor V. Claar is an associate professor of economics in the Lutgert College of Business at Florida Gulf Coast University,
ENTREPRENEURIAL DISCOVERIES
where he holds the Truist Distinguished Professorship in Free Enterprise. He also serves on the Research Advisory Council
Modern inventions give people more opportunities to
of the James Madison Institute, and the board of the Freedom
find the work-life balance, says FGCU’s Victor Claar.
& Virtue Institute. G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 3 5
WHY By Artis Henderson
MANG M AT T 3 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
ROVES PROTECTING COASTAL VEGETATION MEANS WEIGHING THE DEMANDS OF DEVELOPMENT AGAINST THE NEEDS OF THE ENVIRONMENT
ER G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 3 7
_WHY MANGROVES MATTER devastation: This is a dead place. Or, more accurately, a dying place. But it won’t be for long.
_DEAD ZONE
In September 2021, a team from the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve broke ground on one of
On a cool Tuesday morning in the
the largest mangrove restoration proj-
middle of December, fog sits heavy
ects in the state of Florida. The Fruit
over San Marco Road, the 10-mile
Farm Creek Mangrove Restoration
stretch of asphalt that connects Mar-
Project will install three 54-inch-di-
co Island and Tamiami Trail. Healthy
ameter culverts beneath San Marco
mangroves line the north side of the
Road, connecting the two sections of
road, the section that borders Fruit
wetlands and returning sheet flow to
Farm Creek. Their foliage is a dense
the mangrove forest. The project is
green, thick and impenetrable. But
budgeted to cost $1.4 million, a price
on the south side of the highway, it’s
many insist is worth it.
a different story. The road has been
Mangroves are essential to South-
preventing water flow between the
west Florida—not just for the health of
two sections of wetlands for decades.
the ecology, but as a barrier to storms.
Though mangroves are one of the most
Biologists, marine engineers and de-
resilient plant species in Southwest
velopers all know this. The problems
Florida—they grow in saltwater, for
arise at the intersection of these com-
Pete’s sake—they need flowing water
peting interests. Even as we create jobs
to survive.
for builders, contractors and trades-
The morning fog adds an eerie still-
men, even as we add more property
ness to the landscape. Tall snags of
value to the tax roll, even as we attract
what once were black mangroves rise
visitors and new residents who funnel
20 and 30 feet in the air. They are dried
millions of dollars into the state’s cof-
out, gnarled and gray, stripped of bark,
fers, we risk sacrificing one of the most
like upright pieces of driftwood. They
important parts of the Gulfshore.
stand in a thin layer of unmoving water that’s yellow and covered with a scrim of foam. Walk 100 yards east, where the water moves and the mangroves are alive, and the air is thick with vi-
_PROTECTING THE ECOSYSTEM
brancy—the chirp of frogs, the smell
Imagine the green propagules of man-
of brackish water, the quick darts of
groves, thick as a finger, long as a pen-
herons and egrets. But in the 64 acres
cil, some with green leaves already
of mangrove die-off, there is no noise.
sprouting from their tips. They drift
NATURAL NATIVES Mangroves protect the shoreline of the chain of islets making up the Ten Thousand Islands off southern Collier County.
No movement. No smells beyond the fetid water. The effect is nuclear in its 3 8 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
along currents in the Gulf of Mexico and make their way to Southwest Florida’s coast, tossed along the shore with the seashells, stretched out like stacks of cordwood. Some few will take root, landing just right, but most disappear into the debris along the shoreline. For millions of years, mangroves have been doing exactly this—propagating via these stick-like envoys that follow ocean currents to new homes. Scientists suspect that mangroves first arrived along the Gulf coast somewhere between 66 and 23 million years ago, during the period of time that stretched between the upper Cretaceous and lower Miocene periods. Early mangroves originated in the region that encompasses today’s India and Southeast Asia. The first propagules dropped into the Bay of Bengal before traveling westward toward the horn of Africa, then around the southern tip of the continent, before drifting into the Atlantic Ocean. Eventually they moved northward into the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, where they took root in the warm coastal regions of the Americas. There, they flourished. Unlike most plants, mangroves thrive in salty environments. They secrete excess salt through their leaves, allowing the uptake of water needed for survival. In coastal environments where even hardy natives are often stunted, the manMangroves are essential to the recreational saltwater fishing industry. The economic impact of saltwater recreational fishing is $9.2 billion, and it supports 120,000 jobs.
grove prospers. Above water, mangroves provide essential nesting and roosting grounds for coastal birds. Pelicans, herons, egrets and magnificent frigatebirds G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 3 9
_WHY MANGROVES MATTER
build rookeries in their branches. The trees serve as places to raise young and hide from predators. Below water, mangroves provide an essential habitat for fish, crustaceans and shellfish. They serve as nurseries for small fry, sheltering young fish as they grow. Ask any weekend fisherman about the best spots for snook, red snapper and sheepshead, and they’ll tell you, “Up against the mangroves.” Without man-
coastline is left bare, exposed to the ele-
groves, Southwest Florida’s recreational
ments, with no protection from the ris-
and commercial fishing industries would
ing tides and fierce winds of the tropical
be decimated.
storms that buffer our region. “The data is unequivocal,” says Dr. Win
_THE ORIGINAL HURRICANE PROTECTION
Everham, a professor in the department of ecology and environmental studies at Florida Gulf Coast University. “If you protect mangroves, you protect yourself.” An environmental scientist in this
Consider this: Mangroves serve as an
region for the past 25 years, Everham has
essential barrier during coastal storms.
led studies on mangroves in Estero Bay.
According to a recent collaborative re-
“If you get rid of vegetation on the coast,
port between The Nature Conservancy
there’s a price to be paid for it in terms of
and insurance professionals, mangroves
storms,” he says. “Take out mangroves,
prevented $1.5 billion of property dam-
and you’re going to suffer from storm
age during Hurricane Irma. In Collier
surge. That’s not an opinion. That’s just
County, they reduced annual flood risk
the way ecology works.”
to the properties that sit behind them by 25.5%. The thick branches, intermingled root systems and dense foliation all act as a first line of defense against winds and storm surge. Take out mangroves and the
ECOSYSTEM PROTECTION "If you protect mangroves, you protect yourself," says Win Everham (above) of FGCU's Department of Ecology and Environmental Studies.
4 0 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
_A COMPLICATED LEGAL MATTER Everyone seems to agree that mangroves are essential to the health of the Southwest Florida ecosystem. They protect local fisheries and birds. They even buffer the coast from devastating hurricanes. So, why is it so hard to protect them? The answer, as is so often the case in Southwest Florida, is development. Visitors and new residents love the nature of this region. They adore the water, the wildlife, the green spaces that define the Gulfshore. But they also want a waterfront home with a view. For years, the state of Florida has tried to balance this demand for unfettered coastal access with the need to protect our state’s fragile marine ecosystems. In 1996, the Florida Legislature passed the Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act, which was intended to simplify years of snarled and opaque regulations surrounding mangroves. The act stated that mangrove trees could not be trimmed, removed or otherwise disturbed without a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The act also prevents the use of any kind of Mangroves protect species that are the basis of a $7.6 billion
herbicide or other chemical to defoliate mangrove trees. Today, the FDEP is in charge of both creating policies
seafood industry, which em-
around mangroves and enforcing pro-
ploys 109,000 people in Florida.
tective measures. G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 4 1
_WHY MANGROVES MATTER
ESSENTIAL HABITAT Mangroves form the natural habitat for fish, birds and other wildlife along the Great Calusa Blueway paddling trail in Lee County. 4 2 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
tiful green sodded lawn that runs down to a vertical concrete seawall and then open water,” he says. “In many cases, they have very little knowledge or respect for the natural systems that constitute Southwest Florida.” It’s the job of those in the private sector—build-
_A DELICATE BALANCE
ers, architects and marine engineers such as Wilson—to protect the fragile ecosystem. Wilson firmly believes that people can accomplish their design
With nearly half a million acres of
objectives while using the natural en-
mangroves along Florida’s coast-
vironment as a partner.
line and an ever-increasing hunger
Take as an example a single-family
for coastal property, a compromise
home on a site with mangroves along
is needed between the demands of
the shoreline. “Some people come in
a healthy ecology and the appetites
with the mindset that they want to
of a growing economy. Hans Wilson,
nuke the mangroves and put in a ver-
founder of Fort Myers-based marine
tical seawall,” Wilson explains. But his
engineering firm Hans Wilson & As-
firm presents better options, such as
sociates, said this is entirely possible.
raising the elevation of the house. This
“People think that we’re destroying
keeps the mangroves in place and still
mangroves left and right in some kind
allows for a view of the water.
of Western free-for-all,” Wilson says.
Another possibility is to trim a win-
“That’s not the case.” In actuality, he
dow in the mangroves in accordance
believes, most people are exercising
with the state mangrove trimming
the proper permitting process.
rules, creating a view for the home-
“People come from other places and
owner while allowing the mangrove
they’re looking for their image of the
system to stay in place. “You keep the
perfect Florida environment—a beau-
mangroves producing detritus, which goes into the water for crabs and fish to use as a food source,” Wilson says. “And you also allow for oysters and barnacles to remain attached to the mangrove roots, an important component of keeping the water clean, which is what attracts many people to this community in the first place.”
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 4 3
BELOW THE SURFACE Gulf snapper and other fish find food and refuge within the prop-roots of red mangroves in the Ten Thousand Islands in southern Collier County.
4 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
_WHY MANGROVES MATTER Mangroves by the Numbers
$7,100 The economic value generated by each acre of mangroves for fisheries, watchable wildlife and the protection of infrastructure, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
$1.5 billion Amount in property damages avoided during Hurricane Irma because of mangroves, according to a study from the Nature Conservancy.
25.5% In Collier County, mangroves reduced annual flood risk by 25.5% to the properties behind them, according to the collaborative report “Valuing the Flood Risk Reduction Benefits of Florida’s Mangroves.”
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 4 5
COMMITTED TO PRESERVATION Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve stretches across 110,000 acres of mangrove forest, uplands and protected waters between Naples and Marco Island.
4 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
_WHY MANGROVES MATTER
_ A MITIGATING OPTION But sometimes it’s not possible to avoid cutting down mangroves, as for example
Types of Mangroves
when a lot is oddly shaped. In this case,
The red mangrove is the
a 4,670-acre island owned by the State
most widely encountered
of Florida and situated within the Char-
mangrove in our area. It
lotte Harbor Aquatic Preserve. A joint
marine engineers and builders turn to the Little Pine Island Mitigation Bank,
public-private partnership, the island is a
grows along the edge of
source of credits used to offset unavoid-
brackish water, often border-
able impacts to wetlands in Lee, Collier,
ing the canals that boaters
Charlotte and Sarasota counties.
and kayakers pass through.
The mitigation bank project was
It’s recognizable by its red
launched in 1997 with the aim of restor-
prop-roots, the tangled,
White mangroves are
knob-kneed roots that ap-
ing Little Pine Island, whose wetlands had
found at the highest
pear at low tide.
been destroyed by mosquito ditches in the
elevations near the coast.
1960s. Money raised through mitigation
Unlike red mangroves
credits allowed the island to be restored
with their prop roots and
to its original condition. The project was
black mangroves with
so successful that Little Pine Island is now
their pneumatophores,
part of the Great Calusa Blueway, open to
white mangroves have no identifiable aerial root systems. The leaves are pale green and silver in color, with two glands at Black mangroves sit away from the water on slightly higher terrain than red mangroves. Their most notable features are pneumatophores, black finger-like projections that rise from the soil around the tree trunk. Florida old-timers call them “dead man’s fingers.”
the base of each leaf for secreting excess salt.
birders, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Money from current mitigation credits is deposited into a trust fund, which pays for the ongoing maintenance of the island. It’s not an ideal solution, of course. In a perfect world, development and the environment would never collide. But this is the real world where the State of Florida, local builders and property owners are—for the most part—doing the best they can. “The reality is that most people in our community who exercise the mangrove permitting process care very much,” says Wilson. “Not all of them, but the good ones do. And the ones who don’t reflect this mindset? They don’t stay in business very long.” G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 4 7
FA R M -T O -T A B L E F I D E L I T Y THE DIFFERENCE AT RESTAURANTS LOCAL SOURCING BY TIM ATEN
IS DELICIOUSLY CLEAR THAT PRACTICE THE QUALITY THEY PREACH
_F A R M - T O - T A B L E FIDELITY
The concept of farm-to-table enterprises conjures up fruits and vegetables full of healthy, nutritious vitamins and antioxidants, fresh-picked and locally grown. Sometimes, though, the food concept popular in Southwest Florida and worldwide may be more show than substance. Chef David Robbins knows firsthand how difficult it is, in execution, to do a true farm-to-table process from local purveyors. “That’s the biggest challenge in Southwest Florida: just the dynamic where there’s really such a small amount of these actual gentleman farms, so to speak," he says. “Then they have a short growing season, so you’re stuck with having to buy from industrial purveyors at the end of the day.” Robbins also knows firsthand how to do farmto-table. He was chef de cuisine for the dining concept Harvest & Wisdom when it opened in 2019 with Executive Chef Allen Fisher at Shangri-La Springs historic resort in Bonita Springs. The organic, farm-to-table restaurant was built from the ground up. “Harvest & Wisdom's superspecial because we had a 5-acre, actually certified organic garden on site. And a gardener, Cecilia, who actually understands food forest dynamics—and she understood how to grow food 12 months out of the year out of that space,” Robbins says. The garden is no-till, an all-natural growing method that's easier on the soil and better for preserving micronutrients. Head gardener Cecelia Morales oversees five full-time gardeners. The restaurant’s seasonal menu included items such as squash salad with shaved organic zucchini and yellow squash, fresh-squeezed lemon juice,
CULINARY ROOTS Chef David Robbins, born and raised in Hawaii, developed a deep understanding of where food comes from.
flake sea salt, small batch hand-crafted olive oil, 5 0 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 5 1
SEASONAL CUISINE Harvest & Wisdom restaurant at Shangri-La Springs resort in Bonita Springs benefits from a 5-acre, no-till organic garden on the historic resort's property.
5 2 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
_F A R M - T O - T A B L E FIDELITY passion for ecology at his family’s flower and lei business and all-natural produce farm. He moved to Florida as a teenager and graduated feta cheese and just-picked baby opal basil and
with a degree in cultural ecology from Florida
mint; Circle C Farm lamb sausage with len-
Gulf Coast University.
tiled pigeon peas, pickled fennel, fennel fronds,
The Shangri-La Springs garden in Bonita
pickled mustard seed and demi-glace; and
didn’t close during the pandemic, although the
Circle C Farm bone-in ribeye garnished with
hotel and restaurant did temporarily. Owner
shaved purple carrots, sautéed radishes and
Addison Fischer kept the garden staffed full
seared garlic kale.
time with four or five people to keep grow-
Everything the restaurant used was organic
ing organic produce, but when the restaurant
and free-trade, from the produce grown on site
closed, Robbins parted ways and founded Not
to the wines, sodas, even the spices. Harvest &
A Burger.
Wisdom sourced grass-fed, pasture-raised pro-
After a nearly two-year hiatus, Harvest &
tein such as meats and eggs from Circle C Farm
Wisdom restaurant reopened in January with a
in nearby Felda.
new chef and menu at the hotel, which was built
In August 2017, Circle C Farm was awarded
in 1921 on Old 41 Road. It’s another milestone
the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grant of
in the hotel’s storied past that saw it shuttered
Inspection, making it Florida’s first and only
for more than 20 years before undergoing a
on-farm USDA federally inspected abattoir and
complete renovation and being relaunched a
butcher shop for both red and white meats, and
few years ago.
only one of three in the nation.
Harvest & Wisdom is open for breakfast and
“We are completely grass-fed and grass-fin-
lunch Tuesday through Saturday. Its new or-
ished. And that is absolutely critical,” said
ganic, seasonal menu includes brunch items
Nicole Cruz, owner of Circle C Farm, a family
such as green papaya salad with toasted pea-
owned and operated farm in Lee and Hendry
nuts, green beans, firecracker chili, crispy shal-
counties. “The value of the meat and the lack of stress in these animals translates directly to the meat profile flavors that come after the harvesting process of our meat.” In addition to producing beef, lamb, pork and poultry, Circle C has several thousand laying hens for egg production. The farm, which promises “from our pasture to your plate,” sells its meat and eggs in a little store just north of Shangri-La Springs in Bonita.
Fresh take Chef Robbins has the experience and ability to create incredible results with fresh produce. He grew up in Hawaii, where he developed a
_F A R M - T O - T A B L E FIDELITY “There’s this whole scene of plant-based products out there that are overprocessed, industrial junk food. They're full of chemicals, lots and nuóc chãm dressing; and house-made
additives, artificial ingredients,” Robbins says.
vegan burgers with vegan mayo, Dijon mus-
“So, we’re using locally grown organic beets,
tard, garden lettuce, longevity spinach, tomato
quinoa, fresh lentils, whole-grain oats, tamari,
and onion. Its lunch items feature Shangri-La
fermented chili paste. It’s all superfood ingre-
Toast Du Jour, a seasonal selection from the
dients. It’s all high-quality ingredients.”
resort’s garden.
Paying more for organic and healthier food,
Robbins’ new project, Not A Burger, is much
of course, becomes more difficult when faced
more than it’s not. It’s an all-natural superfood
with already-inflationary prices at the grocery
plant-based protein patty made with premium
store and elsewhere.
whole food ingredients. They are 100% vegan,
“It’s always a challenge," Robbins says.
gluten-free, non-GMO and sustainable. Then
“We’re fortunate to be in a demographic like
came Not A Meatball and Not A Cotta, a ricot-
Naples.”
ta-inspired garlic herb, cashew cheese spread. He’s working on a chorizo crumble and a chick-
Buzzwords
en nugget. “Just really trying to push this more
Although many restaurants, grocery stores and
than just a one-farmers-market business and
businesses in the food service industry promote
make it something substantial,” Robbins says.
their products with popular buzzwords such as
Nevertheless, look for Not A Burger’s tent
fresh, local, organic and farm to table, some of
Saturday mornings at Third Street South Farm-
these places talk the talk but do not really walk
er’s Market in downtown Naples. Burgers can
the walk, so to speak. They make claims that
be grilled to go, or the patties and other plant-
often can't be proven. “It’s inauthentic," says
based products are packaged to take home and
Robbins, who said he is familiar with the term
are available for local delivery and pickup. “We
greenwashing.
actually just incorporated into an LLC called Future Foods,” Robbins says.
Greenwashing, or green sheen, is a form of marketing spin that misleads consumers regarding the environmental practices of a company or the environmental benefits of a product or service. There are more green products than ever before … but not all are environmentally friendly. “It’s farm-to-table restaurants. It’s the plantbased industry at large. There’s definitely a lot of marketing where they use buzz terms to manipulate customer perception,” Robbins says. “You’re right to be suspicious and you’re right to ask questions. That’s why I encourage my cli-
gulfshorebusiness.com
SUBSTANTIAL SUPERFOOD Chef David Robbins, who creates Not A Burger plant-based protein patties, just incorporated his Naples company, Future Foods LLC.
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 5 5
_F A R M - T O - T A B L E FIDELITY that is produced “organically, holistically, sustainably, humanely and as close to nature as possible.” ents and customers to build relationships. Get
The term organic is the only term that’s ac-
to know the farmer, the restaurateur, the chefs,
tually regulated by a regulatory authority, the
the business owner. Hit them up to see if you
USDA. “Technically, a health inspector can go
can tour their space, too. Most of these people
into a restaurant and, if it says organic Inyoni
are happy to, if they’re the real deal.”
tomatoes on your menu, they can technical-
Oakes Farms walks the walk on its thousands of acres in Collier and Hendry counties. “You
ly audit your invoices, if they felt so inclined,” Robbins says.
can source the best product, but you shouldn’t
As USDA-certified organic farmers, Nick and
be able to call it local if it’s not local,” says Alfie
Natalie Batty grow certified organic products at
Oakes, founder of Oakes Farms.
their Inyoni Organic Farm on 10 acres off Im-
Oakes and other local farms invite visitors
mokalee Road in Collier County—without the
out to see what they are growing and how
use of synthetic ingredients as fertilizers or for
they’re growing it. Rosy Tomorrows Heritage
pest control. The local business grows a lot of
Farm welcomes folks to its 100 acres in North
lettuce and baby greens for local restaurants.
Fort Myers. Its open-air restaurant in a tree-
The turnaround time of less than 60 days for
filled dining room is open by reservation only
those greens is good for the farm’s bottom line
Thursday through Sunday.
ahead of cucumbers, eggplants, squash and to-
Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm was found-
matoes, which it also grows. Inyoni seasonally
ed by Rose O’Dell King, who wanted healthy,
provides strawberries, broccoli, Napa cabbage,
good quality food for her family, produced in
orange and purple carrots, green onions, dande-
an honest, wholesome way. She founded and
lion greens, jicama, sweet peppers, Swiss chard
became the first president of Slow Food South-
and herbs such as dill, cilantro and parsley.
west Florida, a local chapter of the worldwide
Operating now for two decades, Inyoni was
organization dedicated to good, clean and fair
there years ago when The Local Restaurant
food. Rosy Tomorrows’ website promotes food
launched in Bed Bath & Beyond Plaza at Airport-Pulling and Pine Ridge roads in Naples. Chef-owner Jeff Mitchell, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, created a menu filled with locally sourced food fresh from the Gulf and from area farms. The Battys give Mitchell the opportunity to choose the seeds he wants planted in the farm plot. Mitchell has partnered with Inyoni the entire time since opening with consistent results, especially with seasonal produce such as kale, arugula and spinach varieties.
5 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Mitchell also uses Blue Star Seafood for supplying all the local fish at the restaurant. He tries to source products locally, whether they be from a mushroom farmer or Farmer Mike’s growing business in Bonita Springs. “We look at it that we are trying to support those people instead of just going to the big box for everything,” Mitchell says. A new kid on the farm-to-table scene is The 239 Naples, planning to open soon at Mercato in North Naples. The restaurant and bar promises fresh, clean eating with craft cocktails and artisanal foods from the farms and fisheries of Southwest Florida. The 239 is moving into the former spaces of Zoës Kitchen and Taps. Cavo Lounge wraps around it near the middle of the open-air center. Also in North Naples, the all-organic restaurant and market Food & Thought 2 is planning to launch this spring. Its Fountain Park address fronting Airport-Pulling Road formerly was home to The Founders Market & Bistro, Original Pancake House and Calistoga. Oakes Farms founder Alfie Oakes is partnering with The Founders’ owner Randy Johns and Anthony High of Marjon Specialty Foods on the new local food venture. Oakes operates the original Food & Thought, marketed as “the organic general store,” in the Gateway of Naples retail center on U.S. 41. Established in 2005, Food & Thought features a 100% organic produce market, cafe, juice bar, coffee shop and retail health food store. Food & Thought 2 will have a restaurant and market, each in individ
GROWING PASSION
ual 6,000-square-foot buildings separated by a large courtyard. Executive Chef Dan Kniola
Natalie and Nick Batty (above) of Inyoni Organic Farm in Naples,
and Executive Sous Chef Raena Hobson have
and Rose O'Dell King (left) of Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm in
created recipes using an abundance of healthy,
North Fort Myers are among the much-respected local growers.
farm-to-table products. G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 5 7
_F A R M - T O - T A B L E FIDELITY
From the farm Oakes Farms covers both ends of the food chain. Its more than 3,000 acres supply stores, restaurants and consumers in Southwest Florida, including its own Seed to Table store. “We probably have 50 or 60 items coming in from the farm, and every single one of them is going to our store and into the culinary department. It’s all the items that we can grow here,” says Oakes, the owner of the local agricultural conglomerate that feeds thousands. “Outside of the corporate chains, I think we have the overwhelming majority of the independents in Collier County and a good part of Lee County, as well, with our distribution,” Oakes says. “So, we have a farm where everything that goes to Food & Thought and the front of Seed To Table is all organic, but a lot of what we grow is not organic that goes to other chain stores. The percentage of items is probably 30% of items that we grow are strictly organic. All the lettuces, all the kales, all of our heirlooms are organic; the root vegetables such as onions and radishes and carrots are all organic.” The end result is a healthier product grown with 100% organic fertilizer and not chemical fertilizers, Oakes said. “It’s grown in real, organic fertilizer that has all the micronutrients in it. So, when you eat it, you’re getting all the micronutrients,” he says. Oakes, a first-generation farmer, started working a 15-acre piece when he was 19 years old. Frank Oakes, Alfie’s dad and founder of the Food & Thought organic general store, started farming 10 years after Alfie, but he made quite an impression on the younger Oakes.
5 8 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
“I used to farm completely conventional when I started farming. My dad had a lot to do with changing my mind on that,” Oakes says. “He was the first one to ever farm anything organic in the family. I was farming completely conventional, and then he got into organics.” Frank Oakes started farming in Lee County but never had a big farm, Oakes said. “The biggest farm he ever grew was probably 15 or 20 acres, but he did it militantly organic. He did one row of this and one row of that and he was doing worm castings and doing all his own composting himself on site.” Oakes feels people can tell the difference when produce is home-grown. “I think the things that people really notice the difference in are the heirloom tomatoes, our vine-ripe tomatoes, the fresh lettuces that are so crisp and fresh; all the stuff that you would make a salad out of, whether it’s onions, peppers, red peppers, all the different varieties of peppers, all the eggplant, squash, the melons—all that type of stuff is so much better when you’re getting it fresh and local.” Oakes attributes his overall personal health to knowing what he’s putting into his body. “We don’t really hear that much about how much healthier it is when you get stuff that’s like living within a day or two from the time that you eat it—the living, electric energy that’s in the product—versus something that is a week to two weeks old,” he said. Oakes feels blessed to be around the farmto-table process, around stuff that’s picked that
AS FRESH AS IT GETS Oakes Farms, owned and operated by Alfie Oakes (above), has more than 3,000 acres in Southwest Florida. Chef Jeff Mitchell
day, he said. “Almost every day, I’m out on the farm eating something that comes right off the plant. There are health benefits to that beyond
(left), owner of The Local Restaurant, picks what's for dinner at
what I think our medical profession even un-
the 10-acre Inyoni Organic Farm in Collier County.
derstands at this point.” G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 5 9
WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022 If there is one thing that this year’s class of 10
women in business from Lee and Collier counties have in common, it’s passion.
Regardless of whether they’re talking about banking, accounting, marketing or owning a brewing company, staying passionate about what they do remains a constant. It’s what keeps them going. And it’s what they advise others to follow. Each one of them has stayed true to their dreams, and that has led them to all kinds of professional and personal successes. As you read the following 10 profiles, we hope that their stories help ignite a passion within you.
WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022
Banking on Her Passion
She may have held many of the jobs bank-
da Board of Regents and the Florida Board
ing has to offer, but when she ascended to
of Governors and currently serves on the
her current position in 1997, there weren’t
boards of Artis—Naples and Conservan-
a lot of role models. “You have to imagine
cy of Southwest Florida. She’s also won a
25 years ago, first there weren’t many wom-
slew of awards, both locally and nationally,
Gerri Moll may have worked for Bank of
en in banking in that position, and I was
for her professional and personal contri-
America for 38 years—and been in her
very young. I was 36,” Moll says. “But this
butions. “I realized early on we can’t be
current role there as the bank’s president
is the most welcoming place I’ve ever lived.
successful if the community we serve isn’t
for Southwest Florida for 25 years—but
I think it’s still that way. Everybody’s come
successful. We encourage our employ-
every day still seems fresh for her.
here from somewhere else, so they are very
ees to follow their personal passions and
welcoming to newcomers.”
interests in the community,” Moll says.
“Well, it’s felt like more than one career
And Moll gives back to the community
“Living in Southwest Florida for 25 years,
because I worked in multiple jobs and mul-
that welcomed her as much as she can. She
you just come to understand that this is a
tiple lines of business. It’s a great place to
served two terms on the Leadership Flori-
really special place.”
grow your career,” Moll says. Raised by her grandparents in Lakeland from the age of 10, she credits them for the character traits that have stood her in good stead for more than three decades. “My grandparents instilled in me a work ethic, the importance of education and caring about people. If you love economics and business, and you love helping people, it’s just the perfect career.” Now living in Naples, Moll said she always has loved the area. “It’s funny; I used to come down here fishing with my grandfather, and I always thought it was the most beautiful place in the world,” she recalls. After studying finance and economics first at the University of Florida and then at McMaster University in Ontario, Canada, she entered a bank training program. Having worked as a server throughout her school days, she said it was good training for some of the jobs she would later hold in banking. “I joined the training program straight out of college, and you got to spend time in different jobs,” she says. “I loved being a teller. You got to see a lot of people. Our tellers see more people every day than I see in a month. I loved the pace of it.” 6 2 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
The Empire Builder It’s safe to say that, along with her chef husband, Fabrizio, Ingrid Aielli has built a restaurant empire in Southwest Florida. With him in the kitchen and her in the office, the Aiellis have created four of the best—and most popular— restaurants in Naples: Sea Salt Naples (with a branch in St. Petersburg), Barbatella, Dorona Modern Italian Steakhouse and Grappino. And while Fabrizio handles the menus, Ingrid handles everything else, including the front of the house, public relations, marketing and community engagement. It would be a mistake to discount how much her savvy business sense has contributed to the couple’s success. “What started off as a coincidence became my calling. When I married chef Fabrizio Aielli it made sense to team up with my husband and complement his skillset. While he was responsible for the culinary concept, I managed our service staff and took responsibility for our PR and marketing efforts,” Aielli says. “I was blessed that I accidental-
Shelter in Naples. Every year, the couple
ways had a very clear understanding of our
ly was pushed in an industry where I was
hosts a Christmas lunch for Youth Haven’s
responsibilities and expertise,” she says. “As
able to utilize my strengths and evolve, not
charges at Barbatella, with Santa and gifts
you grow as a couple, you also learn from
only as a professional, but also as a person.
for the kids.
each other and know how to fill the gaps.
I honestly never thought of doing anything
“Our family not only takes pride in be-
else. The hospitality (business) allowed me
ing a part of the Naples community, but we
to follow my two passions: connecting with
also believe that it is our responsibility to
people and allowing me to be involved in
take action and give back to the people who
philanthropy.”
have been supporting us for so many years,”
“No matter what you do, if you want to
Aielli says. “They inspire and motivate us to
achieve great results in your career, you
be our best version.”
need to put in a lot of work, be open mind-
And Aielli is certainly involved in philanthropy. She and Fabrizio are heav-
Constant communication and the focus on a common goal is key.” But for Ingrid, her work is a real labor of love—in more ways than one.
ily connected with the Naples Children
Of course, working so closely with your
ed and relentless,” she says. “This requires a
& Education Foundation and the Naples
husband can be challenging, but the Aiellis
lot of energy, which you can only put into
Winter Wine Festival, as well as many oth-
have their various responsibilities down pat.
something you are passionate about, some-
er local causes, such as the Youth Haven
“At times it can be challenging but we al-
thing you really love.” G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 6 3
something together. The regulars that have been with us a while like to know how far we’ve come,” Whyte says. Then she adds a little advice for budding entrepreneurs. “I wouldn’t worry about starting small. It keeps you nimble and helps you get your idea off the ground,” she says. “There’s opportunity everywhere. I look around now and I see opportunity everywhere. If you have something that you are passionate about, if you have something that can bring joy and help people, just go do it.” Her own business acumen showed through during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whyte quickly adapted to continue operations and keep her team intact. Innovative strategies during COVID grew packaging by 81.5%, achieving overall growth, albeit small, when compared with 2019-2020 distribution. A sampling of her efforts includes shifting operations to to-go and expanding packaged products; diversifying with the launch of the area's first line of locally crafted spiked seltzer beverages; selling mer-
A Good Head on Her Shoulders
chandise and offering odd projects to boost staff income; and stopping her and her hus-
Jennifer Whyte doesn’t mind taking risks.
band's salaries to ensure staff continued to When her husband, Rob, had the idea of
ers,” the 44-year-old Jennifer Whyte says.
turning his homebrewing hobby into a
“And the people of Lee County have really
business, Jen had the entrepreneurial know-
embraced Fort Myers Brewing Company.”
receive health benefits. They even kept up a brewing company tradition: an annual visit from Santa. This
how and pioneering spirit to create a busi-
It started off slowly but gained steam
ness plan and launch a new company. And
quickly. When they started, they had a cozy
in 2013, the Fort Myers Brewing Co., Lee
1,500-square-foot space. These days, they’ve
“I can’t overstate how proud a moment
County's first craft brewery and taproom,
graduated to 22,000 square feet, annually
that was, to see kids and adults starting
was born.
time, however, Santa was in a life-size snow globe. Customers loved it.
producing 16,000 to 17,000 barrels of brews
to act normal again,” Whyte says. “To me,
“I love our business. I love the people we
such as Gateway Gold, Chocolate Peanut
that’s what Fort Myers Brewing is about. It’s
get to be surrounded by every day. We have
Butter Porter, FML (Fort Myers Light) and
about bringing people together and bring-
great employees. We’ve made some really
Tamiami Tan.
ing joy to the community. That was my
good friends. And we have great custom-
“We were very scrappy. And we hobbled
6 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
proudest professional moment.” gulfshorebusiness.com
WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022 Of Passion … and Purple Porsches You could say that Karen Mosteller, man-
low people to define their path to do what
band of 29 years, Chip. Most days, though,
aging partner at the accounting and con-
they want to do,” she says. “It’s never been
she’s always on the go, often visiting with
sulting firm of Markham Norton Mosteller
a job. It’s always been fun. It always was
clients. “I am one of those CPAs who can’t
Wright & Company, owes her career to a
a place that I looked forward to on Mon-
sit in the office,” she says.
purple Porsche.
days. It’s always been home.”
Mosteller has stayed passionate about
Did she ever get that Porsche?
her profession, and she advises future gen-
Back when Mosteller was in high school in
“I don’t drive a Porsche. I drive Mus-
erations of women in business to follow
Cape Coral and a member of Future Busi-
tangs,” says Mosteller, who is a certified
her lead. “Truly do what you are passionate
ness Leaders of America, Gail Markham,
health care business consultant, as well as a
about. Follow your passion and, at the end
the firm’s founding partner, came to speak
certified public accountant. “Mine is blue.
of the day, if you love it, you will end up
to students about IRAs. When the young
I have had four of them.”
where you want to be and on top,” she says.
Mosteller accompanied Markham to her
When she wants to relax and get away
“I’ve loved it and I’ve been passionate. I
car, she was hit with inspiration. “I walked
from it all, she goes RVing with her hus-
could never imagine doing anything else.”
her out to her car, and I saw that she had a purple Porsche,” Mosteller recalls. “I said, ‘Whoa, mama! I want to do what she does.’” On a visit to the firm shortly thereafter, Markham hired Mosteller on the spot as an intern/file clerk. That was in 1986, and Mosteller has been there ever since. It seems she always had her sights on her future role. “At 18, I told Gail I wanted to be partner,” Mosteller recalls saying to her mentor. “You know what? I guess I was so naïve. I am that type of person who if you tell me I can’t do something, then I go out and do it. The moment I opened my mouth and said this is what I wanted to do, Gail made a path for me so that I could do this. Gail really gave me direction and advice.” In fact, it’s what Mosteller describes as the family atmosphere at the firm—one of the largest in Southwest Florida, with offices in Fort Myers and Naples—that has kept her there for 36 years, she says. “I started when there were 13 of us, and now we have more than 50 people. We watch each other’s backs. We’re really like a family. We al-
WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022 The Internationalist Although her father was an accountant,
What’s it like going all virtual? “I love it.
she was one of 18 women professionals to
Marie Grasmeier never dreamed of be-
We’re much more efficient. We still have our
contribute to the national collaborative
coming a certified public accountant as
client contact. And it gives us more time,”
book project Wealth for Women: Con-
a kid. Nor a certified management ac-
Grasmeier says. “We’re always available. I
versations with the Team That Creates the
countant. Nor a chartered global manage-
think we are more responsive because we
Dream.
ment accountant. Now she’s all three (and
are virtual, as well.”
When she first opened her company in
Grasmeier practices what she preaches to
2009, she felt as if she was one of only a few
her clients. She personally invests and also
women running an accounting firm. But in
“I always thought I was going to be pre-
assists other investors in her role as manag-
the 13 years since then, a lot has changed.
med, and then I did an internship in a hos-
er of RealinFlorida, a consulting firm for
“Being virtual has helped more women
pital, and I didn’t like it,” says Grasmeier, the
international real estate investors that she
come into the business and be able to bal-
founder of Grasmeier Business Consulting.
co-founded with her husband John. And
ance their work and family life.”
trusts and estates practitioner, too).
“I just switched to the college of business.” Now, Grasmeier specializes in assisting foreign investors with their U.S. tax and compliance needs and enjoys working with entrepreneurs through the entire lifecycle of a business, from startup to succession planning. While she provides tax planning, compliance and traditional accounting services, Grasmeier offers real estate investment services by specializing in the tax benefits and tax ramifications of real estate investing. “I knew that if I opened my own business, I could serve my clients better than I could at someone else’s firm,” she says. “It turned out to be true.” Born in South Korea, raised in Sweden, educated right here in Florida and now living in Naples, Grasmeier has 1,500 or so clients from all over the world, many of whom are real estate investors with holdings in the state. But her client base isn’t the only thing that’s international about her business. Grasmeier manages and mentors team members in a 100% virtual and paperless environment and provides opportunities for accountants both locally and globally. 6 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
Community Minded Nancy Dauphinais, chief operating officer at the David Lawrence Center in Naples, has a strong sense of community, and it comes out in everything she does. Having worked at the nonprofit DLC, which provides mental health services to children and adults, for more than 16 years in a variety of jobs, Dauphinais has seen a lot of changes over time. “One of the things that I enjoy about the David Lawrence Center is that we’ve been in the community for 50 years, and I want to see us continue to be the hub for mental health care over the next 50 years,” she says. “I love being part of an organization that has a mission to save and change lives. Every day we get to help individuals who are really suffering. For other individuals who may not have severe symptoms, we’re able to improve their lives. It’s very rewarding.” As COO, Dauphinais, herself a licensed mental health counselor, oversees all clinical programming at the center, which includes
Dauphinais also manages DLC's partner-
years. We’re really impacting the entire fam-
40 individual programs and 330 clinical and
ships with Collier County Public Schools,
ily. In delivering treatment for children, we
administrative staff. Unfortunately, since
Collier County Sheriff 's Office, the Collier
find that children can get better at a faster
the COVID-19 pandemic, DLC has seen an
County judiciary and dozens of local non-
rate than adults. Their brains are really re-
uptick in demand for the center’s services
profits. But one of the most rewarding as-
ceptive. That helps them to be very resilient
that mirrors state and national trends.
pects of her job is being able to make a dif-
and to recover well.”
“I think that we are seeing a dispro-
ference in the lives of children and families.
In fact, for Dauphinais, working at DLC
portionate demand for crisis services. We
“Working with children and families is
is the culmination of lifelong ambition to be
would prefer to see a greater demand in
really important and rewarding. The earlier
seeking outpatient services instead of a
we can intervene in mental health challeng-
“It’s been a passion for me. I wanted to
greater demand for inpatient and crisis ser-
es, the better we can impact the child and
make an impact on others’ lives. I always
vices,” she says. “At some times, we’ve seen
mitigate long-term effects. It’s a great invest-
wanted to do something in the helping sec-
upward of increases of 45%. That is consis-
ment in the future of the community,” she
tor, and I knew it would involve psychol-
tent with trends being seen in Florida and
says. “It’s been really rewarding for us to be
ogy,” she says. “Winding up at the David
across the country.”
able to grow our children’s services over the
Lawrence Center has been a blessing."
able to help those in need.
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 6 7
er in the digital marketing space nationally. That‘s where our greatest growth is, and that’s where we are hiring for most of our new roles.” Just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Ramos-Williams had another one of those feelings. Something told her to forego the 6,500-square-foot office space the company was eyeing and eventually set up the firm so everyone could work remotely. It was no whim; she researched her options carefully. By September 2019 she was sure she was right. One month later, the company was transitioning staff to work remotely. Within six months, the pandemic hit the United States. “What a blessing that was. I had many of my friends in business and at other agencies calling when that pandemic hit and were, honestly, a little panicked. We just were blessed to be working that way when the pandemic hit,” she recalls. At that time, the firm went into overdrive, checking on clients, reaching out to the most vulnerable ones, delaying billing and working to make sure none of them successfully weather the financial storm
would close their doors permanently. The
and aid them in getting back on their feet
company started a Facebook page and be-
When Connie Ramos-Williams is struck
once the economy rallied. It turns out she
gan broadcasting the SWFL Strong podcast
by intuition, you’d be well advised to
was right again, and CONRIC pr + mar-
to spread a message of solidarity through-
follow it.
keting was born. Ever since, the firm where
out the community. “We told them, ‘We’re
she’s the president and chief marketing offi-
all in this together, and as a company, we are
cer has been going strong.
going to support you as much as we can,’”
Connie Ramos-Williams’ Sixth Sense
Back in 1999, she was convinced that the region was ready for its own type of parenting
“I would say that the vision I had when
magazine, so she created Southwest Florida
we started was staying very true to being
Parent & Child. Well, she was right, and she
local and staying very true to creating mar-
by the pandemic herself. She contracted
eventually sold the successful publication to
keting. And there were a lot of businesses
COVID-19 in October 2020 and spent a
Gannett five years later.
she says. “It was wonderful to help others.” Ramos-Williams
wasn’t
untouched
who needed extra help. We really want to
week in the hospital. Still, she remained
Then in 2007, during the height of a re-
see everybody succeed during a very diffi-
confident in herself and her firm. “Honestly,
cession, Ramos-Williams thought the time
cult time,” she says of CONRIC, which now
I don’t know what it was, I felt like we had
was right for a different kind of marketing
has offices in Fort Myers and Naples. “Our
a handle on it,” she says now. “I felt like we
firm, one that would help local businesses
vision for the company now is to be a lead-
could go through anything.”
6 8 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022 Banking in Her Blood If you ever needed proof that trail-blaz-
vasive species about five years ago. “Geoff
shy of $550 million in assets. “We nev-
ing local banker Robbie Roepstorff is
and I are real environmentalists, and if we
er wanted to come out big. We wanted
no pushover, you’d be wise to remember
don’t keep the animal population intact,
to stay a community bank and serve the
that she hunts pythons for fun.
we are really going to have issues.”
people of the area.”
Roepstorff ’s real claim to fame is
She and her husband of 29 years have
“Oh, my gosh. I didn’t intend to get into it,”
co-founding with her husband Edison Na-
banking in their blood. She serves as the
Roepstorff says with a laugh.
tional Bank, the oldest locally owned and
bank’s president, and Geoff serves as the
“My husband, Geoff, was gung-ho and
chartered community bank in Lee County,
CEO. They even met and married while
wanted to go. It was the last day of the
in 1997, and then the Bank of the Islands
working together at a bank. Now their
challenge, and it was Valentine’s Day. I
on Sanibel a year later.
focus is on providing the best services
said, ‘You are not going to go down there
“It’s been the best decision that we made
they can—always with a human touch—
by yourself,’” she explains about how she
in terms of our careers, let me tell you,”
to their local customers through their
first became involved in hunting the in-
she says of Edison, which now has just
four branches. “I truly believe our customers know our mission, and they know they are going to get to talk to a person. We still don’t have voicemail on our phones,” Roepstorff says. “You are always going to talk to a person when you call our bank. And you have the senior management right here making all the decisions.” When it comes to the next generation of women entrepreneurs looking for their shot, she offers some advice that’s always worked well for her. “You always, always want to balance family and career. Family is everything. We always say God, family, business. That’s first. The second thing I would tell them is to observe and listen. Watch what is going on in front on you. And listen when someone is talking to you,” Roepstorff says. “And the third thing I would tell them is you need HIT: honesty, integrity and trustworthy,” she adds. “If you can’t prove yourself in those three areas, it doesn’t matter how well you know your business, you won’t succeed.”
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 6 9
WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2022 Days of Wine and Poses bottle purchased to a local nonprofit, with
el photography, and I take photos wherever I
Sarah Newcomb stays pretty busy hold-
customers able to pick their choice of three
travel. I have them up in The Wine Room, and
ing down three jobs.
local charities being highlighted at that time.
people can buy them right off the wall. I don’t
“They not only get the support, but it’s great
do as much of it now because I’m working so
She’s the sole owner and operator of The
advertising for them,” Newcomb says. “It gives
much. But, again, it’s one of my passions.”
Wine Room, a tasting room/retail establish-
me the chance to talk about these nonprofits
For others out there who’d like to turn
ment/event space in downtown Fort Myers
and make people aware of the organizations.”
their passions into businesses, her advice is
that she opened in 2020. She has her own
Newcomb’s photography business comes
simple. “Go for it,” Newcomb says. “I think
photography business, S. Newcomb Pho-
from an interest she developed for the artform
people get so nervous about what could hap-
tography, which she set up in 2016. She also
as a teen. “I love photography. I started doing
pen that they don’t take risks. We would nev-
works as administrative specialist at the Lee
photography in high school with film and
er get anywhere without taking a risk. Just
County Department of Transportation. And,
switched over to digital,” she says. “I love trav-
take the chance.”
she is pursuing an MBA in her spare time. How does she do it all? “I don’t sleep. I like to stay busy, and I like to be productive,” says Newcomb, who lives in Cape Coral. “Everything I do I am passionate about. That’s my personality.” That’s a good thing because that passion helps to fuel her 14-hour workdays. And with The Wine Room growing in popularity, those days probably aren’t going to get a whole lot shorter. “I wanted my own brickand-mortar business that I loved and was passionate about,” Newcomb says of The Wine Room. “I could incorporate my passion for business and my love of the community. Well, I also have a passion for wine. Why not combine all three?” Although she opened during the COVID-19 pandemic, the business has been a resounding success, offering patrons wines from all over the country and around the world, including the specialty wines such as Cape Coral Cabernet, Caloosahatchee Chardonnay and Music Walk Merlot. “My first year in business was amazing,” she says. “Every dollar I had, I was able to dump back into the business.” Well, not every dollar. Newcomb donates 3% of every 7 0 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
Playing for Keeps When Teri Hansen does something, she does it for keeps. Her public relations firm, Priority Marketing in Fort Myers, celebrated its 30th year in business this past April. She’s also celebrating her 21st year cancer-free after being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in 2001. And, just for good measure, this year is her 41st wedding anniversary. “That is exactly right. I am a committed person. I think that really does describe me. I am a person who is dedicated and committed,” says Hansen, a Fort Myers native. “I think that is why we are here 30 years later.” Over the years, Priority Marketing, where Hansen is president and senior creative director, has won more than 150 awards for its work (with Hansen winning a slew of individual awards herself). The firm’s clients comprise a broad spectrum of industries, including hospitality and tourism, retail, health care, senior living, construction, legal, financial, government, education and locally owned businesses. Aside from being one of the largest local
45 members strong, about 75% of them
with others, don’t be impatient as you
PR companies, Priority Marketing is also
women, with many of them being long-
build your career and don’t focus on fi-
Southwest Florida's premier agency for
standing employees. “My team here, we
nancial rewards.
nonprofits and actively represents dozens
are family. Every single day I receive en-
“Always consider opportunity over
of charitable organizations.
couragement and support in everything
money. Evaluate something based on the
“I am so grateful for the opportunity
that I do. I have employees that have been
opportunity it provides you, not what
of serving so many amazing clients and
here for 26 years, 20 years. I love them
it’s going to pay. Focusing on money is
businesses in this community and in
and care for them and we have all grown
short-sighted,” she says. “I would not
helping businesses grow and helping so
together,” she says. “I love watching them
trade a higher paying job for the oppor-
many nonprofits. That is the reward for
grow, supporting that growth. I am so
tunities that were afforded to me to be
me,” Hansen says. “I have never had a de-
proud of having a part in their lives. To
able to grow and to have exposure into
sire to do anything else. I love coming to
mentor them, coach them and advise
the community. I tell young people all the
work every day. I love this business. My
them, that is a huge reward, too.”
time, ‘Look at what is going to give the
passion hasn’t waned.” Priority Marketing’s staff is more than
Hansen offers this advice for future entrepreneurs: Don’t compare yourself
most opportunity. Money follows you in your career.’” G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 7 1
SPONSORED CONTENT
WHO’S WHO IN COMMERCIAL CONTRACTORS p. 73
ARCHITECTURAL FIRM GUIDE p. 81
7 2 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
SPONSORED CONTENT
___ M A Y
2 0 2 2
A GULFSHORE BUSINESS SPECIAL REPORT & GUIDE
W HO ’ S WHO I N C OM MERCIAL CONTRAC TO RS
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 7 3
WHO’S WHO IN COMMERCIAL CONTRACTORS
SPONSORED CONTENT
For over 35 years, PBS Contractors has been building better lives for our team, clients, and community, and we are always looking for great people to support our mission. If you are looking for an atmosphere where team members are valued and respected for the skills they bring and the contribution they make, come join our team! If you are a client-focused, selfstarter hoping to join a team of like-minded professionals, then come build with us. If you like to work hard and want to give back to your community, then PBS Contractors wants you.
The PBS Way includes a set of 28 Fundamentals which are daily practices that make our unique culture come to life. These fundamentals set us apart from other contractors and help drive our extraordinary success.
Naples and all Southwest Florida will continue to grow, and PBS looks forward to being its Concierge Builder along the way. Whether it’s commercial projects like Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs, Bonita Springs Poker Room, or a custom luxury residential home, we are committed to excellence for our clients and our community. We welcome you to join our award-winning team on the journey. Apply today! PBScontractors.com/careers 7 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 gulfshorebusiness.com
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 7 5
WHO’S WHO IN COMMERCIAL CONTRACTORS
SPONSORED CONTENT
Gary Griffin, B&I Contractors For over 60 years, B&I Contractors, Inc. has developed into Southwest Florida’s leading commercial and institutional mechanical, electrical, and plumbing contractor—capable of handling the most challenging jobs and delivering on its promise of quality, innovation, and value. Embracing technology as the greatest change agent has driven the optimization of our communication tools and project management platforms, while specialized programs such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) have enabled us to enhance our manufacturing capabilities allowing us to automate more of the construction process. B&I has been able to cultivate a strong customer base guided by our belief in relationships, not jobs. By nurturing and encouraging long-term relationships, we offer value that helps our customers’ businesses succeed. We also recognize that our employee-owners are our greatest asset. Providing training and a career path to reach personal and professional goals is key in our objective to bring all our current employees to their full potential. Our mission would not be complete without giving back. Making an impact in the communities we serve, while engaging our employees in causes they really care about, is one of the best ways to strengthen our company culture and core values of Quality, Integrity, Teamwork and Safety.
BEST
STARTS WITH B...
Safety
In-house Expert Engineers and Skilled Professionals Functional, Efficient and Cost-Effective Solutions
FORT MYERS • SARASOTA • TAMPA • TAMARAC
Reliable and Proactive HVAC Service and Maintenance
MECHANICAL | ELECTRICAL | PLUMBING | SERVICE
LEARN MORE: CALL 239-332-4646 or VISIT bandiflorida.com 7 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
WHO’S WHO IN COMMERCIAL CONTRACTORS
SPONSORED CONTENT
The Evolution of Construction Delivery Methods Like all industries, change is coming to the construction industry. Historically, the upfront design process had oftentimes limited the involvement of the general contractor until after the building plans were complete at which time, they were then hard bid in the market. Typically, a project was awarded to the lowest responsive bid and contracted under a Stipulated Sum. In many cases, the project owner was left to decipher proposals for accuracy and thoroughness while hoping that the plans and specifications accurately conveyed all requirements of the project. We are seeing a shift to a more holistic approach from the inception of a project. Owners are engaging a qualified construction manager who assists throughout the design phase of the project and acts as the general contractor during construction. There is also a move to Cost-Plus Fee Contracts. Cost-Plus offers the appeal of “open-book” contracting and provides the opportunity to return all or part of the savings when the costs come
in below the guaranteed maximum price. There is tremendous value of this upfront partnership among the owner, design consultants, and contractor teams in the overall project constructability, transparency, schedule and cost. GCG Construction, Inc. has a tremendous amount of experience with the AIA Construction Manager as Constructor delivery method and has achieved great success with their clients. “GCG believes that upfront collaboration and transparency is critically important and is how we do business,” states Owner, Teely Byrd. Their commitment to this philosophy has earned their company a preferred Construction Manager role among repeat national and local clients. This mentality paired with well-organized and innovative construction management systems and technology ensures that GCG will continue to be an industry leader in the everevolving construction industry.
Award Winning Services DESIGN-BUILD GENERAL CONTRACTING CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
HEALTHCARE
COMMERCIAL
HOSPITALITY
RETAIL
MARINE
Contact us today at (239) 454-7304 | Reception@GCGbuilds.com WWW.GCGBUILDS.COM
GCG Construction, Inc. | 6819 Porto Fino Circle, Suite 1 | Fort Myers, FL 33912 CGC#1507846
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2022 7 7
WHO’S WHO IN COMMERCIAL CONTRACTORS
SPONSORED CONTENT
Throughout every project we complete, it is our desire to continually raise the bar for what clients should expect from the Construction Management Industry. This is reflected in the relentless service we provide our clients, which is rooted in our value proposition: SAFETY | We will be first amongst our peers in our commitment to creating safe working environments. QUALITY | We will deliver the highest quality workmanship and overall product in our marketplace. TIMELINESS | We will drive the schedule. VALUE | We will fiercely control project spending and protect our client’s budget to deliver the highest value. This mentality has proven successful for our 40-year relationship with Florida SouthWestern State College. During that period, we have completed over 200 projects on FSW’s four campuses. We are extremely grateful for the partnership we have with FSW and look forward to continuing in the collaborative relationship we have cultivated.
RELENTLESS SE RVIC E .
40 YEARS. OVER 200 PROJECTS.
FSW BUILDING G FSW RUSH LIBRARY (BUILDING J)
FSW BUILDING H
7 8 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
WHO’S WHO IN COMMERCIAL CONTRACTORS
SPONSORED CONTENT
Unparalleled Customer Experience, On-Time, On-Budget, and Professional Service with a Personal Touch!
We are proud to present our most recent project ”Farmer Joe’s Fresh Market” at 1401 SW Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral FL. Contact Compass Construction today to get started on your construction project of any size.
Winners of “The Best of Cape Coral” for the past 7 years in a row! Visit us online at www.CompassConstruction.com or Call (239) 542 -7118. Our office is located at 824 Lafayette St. • Cape Coral, FL.
EECON-INC.COM | 239-495-1900
“At EECON, we coordinate every project from start to finish; we’re not only your contractor, but also your partner. We’ve assembled a team of the most talented, experienced individuals in Southwest Florida, who come together to create a seamless project process that yields extraordinary results.” G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2022 7 9
Matt Devitt
Chris Cifatte
FIRST FAIR EVERYWHERE Lois Thome
SPONSORED CONTENT
___ M A Y
2 0 2 2
A GULFSHORE BUSINESS SPECIAL REPORT & GUIDE
ARC HI T E C TURAL FIRM GUIDE
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 8 1
ARCHITECTURAL FIRM GUIDE
SPONSORED CONTENT
BSSW Architects Deliver World-Class Senior Living The need for senior living options continues growing with 95 million Americans predicted to be 65+ by 2060. As seniors approach retirement, they are looking for communities that foster a comfortable, active lifestyle with resort-style amenities on top of plentiful health care options. Senior living communities can provide residents with a continuum of care while simultaneously affording them the luxurious sanctuary they desire. Through state-of-the-art spaces, modern touches and resort style amenities, today’s Senior Life Communities enrich residents’ quality of life, allowing them to experience life to its fullest with access to activities, fine dining, comforts, care, friends and family. With over four decades of hospitality design experience, BSSW Architects recognizes the importance of quality, security and peace of mind during one’s golden years. With extensive experience in senior facilities across a full continuum of care, BSSW integrates remarkable style with superior functionality. Moorings Park at Grande Lake in Naples, for example, is a BSSW-designed amenity and residence tower centered in a community of over 300 residential units that provide five-star living with high-end accommodations, upscale dining, entertainment and healthy living venues. Designed around a modern coastal theme with beautiful lake and golf course views, the project created an assortment of independent and assisted living options, as well as health and rehabilitative facilities. BSSW’s expertise ranges from government buildings and resorts to new residential and mixed-use projects.
8 2 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
TOGETHER,
WE CAN BRING THE FUTURE TO
LIFE .
BSSW Architects brings the future to life with a full range of architectural services. Senior Living | Hospitality | Education | Public Safety | Government | Cultural
DESIGNERS OF MOORINGS PARK GRANDE LAKE IN NAPLES, FL Let us help bring YOUR project to life.
Listen
•
Innovate
•
Perform
239.278.3838 | BSSWARCHITECTS.COM
ARCHITECTURAL FIRM GUIDE
Ms. Zepeda is a Registered Architect
SPONSORED CONTENT
headquarters and many others. Stofft
at Stofft Cooney Architects and is the
Cooney Architects is a proud supporter
Head of Commercial Architecture in
and is committed to giving back to the
the Naples office. Renée has over three
community that has provided many
decades of experience developing a
opportunities for them. Stofft Cooney
variety of building types which include
Architects works and donates to several
an extensive list of institutional, com-
non-profits that support causes that are
mercial, and healthcare projects. Her
dear to the firm, such as:
passion for the profession shows in her
RENÉE ZEPEDA
leadership and creativity of the built
• STARability
environment focused on improving the
• Immokalee Foundation
lives of communities.
• Naples Senior Center
AIA, NCARB, LEED, AP
has allowed her to lead architectural
Renée’s knowledge and talented involvement at Stofft Cooney Architects projects such as the Naples Senior
• The Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF) • The Shelter for Abused Women and Children Naples
Center headquarters, as well as NCEF
8 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
p_94 The business of beauty
2
B. BUSINESS 2 BUSINESS
H E A LT H C A R E
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
C O M M E R C I A L R E A L E STAT E
NEW & EXPANDING
A G R I C U LT U R E
Fantastic Fungi
MAY 2022
GROWING GOURMET MUSHROOMS FOR LOCAL RESTAURANTS p_90 By Artis Henderson
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S MAY 2022 85
Business 2 Business
M AY 2 0 2 2
H E A LT H C A R E
Taking a Stress Rest THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL WELLBEING IN THE WORKPLACE
By Bill Wasinger
The same factors that are influencing the hospitality and service industries are making an impact on many other business sectors, as well. And although an employee’s stress and anxiety may be less noticeable in a work-from-home office or warehouse environment, it can still affect the bottom line. For most employers, mitigating those effects should start with learning more about—and understanding—stress and mental illness.
Though the pandemic may be slowly fading from view, em-
“Anxiety is a mental illness. [Mental ill-
ployers are still dealing with lingering effects such as the
ness] is not just bipolar disorder or schizo-
worker shortage, supply-chain issues and inflation. Howev-
phrenia. Depression, trauma, PTSD, ob-
er, for many businesses, employees’ mental wellbeing, and
sessive-compulsiveness; all these things
how it’s managed in the workplace, is having a more signifi-
are mental illnesses that fall under the
cant impact on operations than ever before.
umbrella of stress,” says Esther Mugom-
“A lot of restaurants are … wondering where they’re going
ba-Bird, a board-certified psychiatric
to find workers right now. The people that are working are
mental health nurse practitioner with
working hard,” says Kathy Stephan, operations manager for
NCH Physician Group—Center for Behav-
Hospitality Group Holdings, which operates several casual
ioral Health. “Be aware and understand
dining concepts in Cape Coral, including Fathoms Restau-
that mental illness exists and is affecting
rant & Bar, The French Press, Gather and Black Salt. “Most
your employees. What can you do to alle-
of the stress comes from the shortage of workers and put-
viate the stress as well as be available?”
that we do have.
While awareness of workplace stress and triggers is important, another signif-
“You really want to keep everybody in the right state of
icant element in improving mental well-
mind to make the wheels turn and everything work togeth-
being in the workplace is to understand
er,” she says. “Having an employee that’s stressed creates a
the stigma surrounding mental illness.
little bit more tension, and that can trickle down the line to
To overcome that stigma, Mugomba-Bird
the other employees. Once we see it, we say, ‘Why don’t you
said, employers also should try to be more
take this next day off?’”
engaged with their employees.
8 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Gutter
ting more responsibility and more hours on the employees
MENTAL BREAK Staff shortages trigger workplace anxiety, which can affect the bottom line of a business.
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 8 7
Business 2 Business H E A LT H C A R E
“The biggest thing in mental health
mental health and engaging employ-
we’ve ever been in our lives. We’re not
is that lack of support. Inclusion is very
ees to acknowledge their mental well-
open on Mondays at all now because of
important. People like to be listened
being are ideal first steps, Mugom-
the shortage of staff and not wanting to
to. Ask people, ‘What are you going
ba-Bird said. But whether the triggers
overwork our workers,” Stephan says.
through? Let me understand.’ Allow
are in the workplace or elsewhere,
“I find myself on the floor and at the
that person to openly talk to you with-
actively looking for signs of employees
front of the house checking in on my
out feeling all the repercussions,” she
struggling with their mental health,
staff all the time. It’s just listening to
says. “We need to talk about [mental
and taking action to help those work-
your staff and making sure that they’re
health]. We need to acknowledge it as
ers, is hugely important as well. It’s a
in a good state of mind. It’s better to
just another illness … just as we look at
lesson that Kathy Stephan has taken
kind of face it head-on and recognize
any other condition when somebody
to heart.
that maybe these people just need a
has high blood pressure or diabetes.” Moving beyond the stigma around
“Shortage of staff is probably our
tiny bit of a reprieve … to give them a
main trigger and … we’re busier than
little bit of a mental break.”
2022 GIVING GUIDE: BUSINESS GIVES BACK Don’t miss out on the
Giving Guide, showcasing
Southwest Florida’s nonprofits and their important missions.
For more information visit: gulfshorebusiness.com/givingguide GIVING GUIDE:
Business Gives Back
P R E S E N TE D B Y
TEXT “GB” TO (239) 498-8500 FOR A
FREE
SUBSCRIPTION
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S BEST VIEW OF BUSINESS
Business 2 Business A G R I C U LT U R E
M AY 2 0 2 2 By Artis Henderson
Fantastic Fungi It’s harvesting day at Care 2 Grow farm, the
His farm has two climate-controlled ship-
2.5-acre property in Golden Gate Estates
ping containers, plus a 48-foot tractor trailer.
where Russell Hollander grows gourmet
“My footprint to produce what I produce is
mushrooms for the local wholesale and re-
small compared to other crops,” he says. “It’s
tail market. Inside a refrigerated shipping
very efficient.”
container whose atmosphere feels like a cool,
He grows between 120 and 200 pounds of
damp forest, Hollander, 41, is dressed in a pair
mushrooms each week, but he could sell five
of blue jeans and a T-shirt with a picture of a
times as much. In the next few years, he plans
mushroom on it. “Trust me,” the shirt says,
to up his yield to 1,000 pounds a week. The
“I have good morels.” He walks down the
market can bear it. His only limiting factor
line, naming the mushrooms he grows: lion’s
right now is time. “We don’t have any chairs
mane, golden oyster, black pearl king oyster,
here,” he says, gesturing around the farm.
hen-of-the-woods, shiitake. He talks about
“Nobody has time to sit down.”
fungi with the kind of knowledge and enthu-
Despite the challenges of the pandemic over
siasm that would put most Ph.D. holders to
the last two years—especially to the restau-
shame. “Fungi are part of the soil, they’re part
rant industry—Hollander has maintained a
of us and they’re an amazing, amazing part of
steady business. He sells his gourmet mush-
our health,” he says.
rooms to local restaurants in bulk. Though
Since the documentary Fantastic Fun-
he takes orders for specific fungi, most of his
gi came out in 2019, mushrooms have been
chef clientele prefer a mixed box—a pound
having a moment. Consumers have become
of whatever mushrooms Hollander has har-
more and more interested in the health and
vested that week. “Chefs like to be creative,”
culinary benefits of fungi, and enthusiastic
he says. “They enjoy the challenge of some-
mycologists such as Hollander are produc-
thing new.”
ing a ready supply. Originally a carpenter by
When he sends over a mushroom they
trade, Hollander started growing mushrooms
haven’t tried before, they’ll ask him how to
casually in 2015. “That’s when I kind of fell in
prepare it. Then they’ll test-run the ingre-
love with fungus,” he says. He started growing
dient in a new dish and see how well the dish
them more seriously in 2019, and launched
sells. From there, they’ll adjust their future
his business in 2020.
orders accordingly.
9 0 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
Brian Tietz
RUSSELL HOLLANDER GROWS GOURMET MUSHROOMS FOR LOCAL RESTAURANTS
NATURAL ENTHUSIASM Despite the pandemic, Russell Hollander has maintained a steady business growing gourmet mushrooms to sell in bulk to area restaurants.
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 9 1
Business 2 Business A G R I C U LT U R E
GROWING BUSINESS
Care 2 Grow, a small mushroom farm in Golden Gate Estates, plans to significantly increase its yield in the next few years.
9 2 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Hollander’s client list reads like a who’s-who of the local farm-to-table scene—Organically Twisted, Nosh, The Local, Inyoni Farms, The Claw Bar, Cafe Nutrients, Rosy Tomorrows, The 239. He also sells direct to consumers once a week at the Third Street South Farmers Market. The business-to-business experience is more natural for him, he says. “The chefs already know me, and they know they want my mushrooms. The farmers market gives me more exposure, but I have to be a salesman.” He might be hesitant with sales, but Hollander’s natural enthusiasm for his produce is contagious. Inside the converted trailer, he inspects the different mushrooms in various stages of development. In addition to the fungi destined to be stirred into risotto or folded into ravioli, he also grows medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, a flat, coppery-brown mushroom used in traditional Eastern medicine to boost the immune system. Hollander creates a powder from it that can be served in medicinal teas. The powder, plus tinctures he makes from other mushrooms, is one way he manages the highly variable nature of his industry. “It’s farming,” he explains, “so I don’t have a guaranteed harvest. And mushrooms are super perishable.” He’s had to figure out how to balance sudden bumper crops against unexpected setbacks. A recent problem with his sterilization machine, for example, cost him $5,000. Plus, he has to adjust to the seasonal restaurant demands of Southwest Florida. Tinctures and powders, which keep better and store longer than fresh mushrooms, are just one way he’s devel-
Brian Tietz
oped to counteract these problems. But for Hollander, the motivations behind his business aren’t simply financial. “I do this because I love it,” he says. “Mushrooms are not only delicious, but they’re a functional food. And the connections they form feeding our human community run even deeper.” G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 9 3
Business 2 Business
M AY 2 0 2 2
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
By Artis Henderson
The Business of Beauty KIRAN GILL RUNS SWFL’S ONLY FEMALE-OWNED BOUTIQUE PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER When Dr. Kiran Gill left an established plastic surgery office to launch her own boutique practice, she took what she calls “a leap of faith.” That was in 2018, and in four years she hasn’t regretted the decision. “I love being my own boss,” she says. “It’s hard work for anybody to own their own business, but it’s awesome.” Like many women—especially women entrepreneurs—Gill occupies multiple roles as she moves throughout her day. She’s a surgeon, helping her patients achieve their aesthetic goals. She’s the owner of a busy medical practice, which takes time outside her clinical duties. And at home she’s a wife and mother, which she calls “a full-time job, despite the great help my husband gives me.” Still, she’s able to laugh at life’s impossible moments, like when her son asked why his school art project wasn’t spectacular. “Everyone else’s pumpkin was 3-D,” he said. “All we did was paint it.” In times such as these, Gill reaches out to her own mother, also a physician. Her mother just gives her a wry smile. “Now you know how I felt,” she says. Even with superhuman abil-
I’m never comfortable sitting still.”
9 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
Erik Kellar
she’s giving it her best shot. “It’s a lot of juggling, but
Reagan Rule
ities, Gill admits that no one can do everything … but
gulfshorebusiness.com
WORK-LIFE JUGGLING Dr. Kiran Gill wears multiple hats daily as a surgeon, medical practice owner, wife and mother.
HOT TIP: EMPHASIS ON BRANDING “You need to establish yourself and who you are as a brand,” Dr. Gill advises other entrepreneurs. “Then you need to be consistent with it.” That’s one of the biggest reasons she’s leaning into a boutique feel with her beauty institute. “We want our patients to have a personal experience with everyone they meet, from the top down.” She stays on-point with this brand image in everything she does, from the name of her clinic to the way she remembers her patients’ names to whom she hires to work the front desk.
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 9 5
Business 2 Business ENTREPRENEURSHIP
OFFICE EXPANSION Reagan Rule
Dr. Kiran Gill, owner of Naples Aesthetic Institute Boutique Plastic Surgery and Skin Spa, brings a special skillset to her practice.
9 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Nationally Recognized. Locally Invested. Since 1868. Since launching her boutique surgery practice in 2018, Gill has
Business | Wealth Management | Personal
expanded her office, adding two more surgeons to her roster. She’s changed the name of her business from Aesthetics in Plastic Surgery by Kiran Gill to the Naples Aes-
busey.com/wealthmanagement
thetic Institute Boutique Plastic Surgery and Skin Spa. And last year, she launched her own medical-grade skincare line. As a woman who owns a business in aesthetics, Gill brings a special skillset to her practice. Most of her client base is female, and she can relate to their concerns around their changing and evolving bodies. “I’m growing with my patients,” she says, “and there are things I intimately understand”— such as having children and what it does to the female body. “I used to be a Division I athlete. Then I had three kids.” She confides, “I’ve had a tummy tuck. I know what it did for me and how it made me feel.” She shares this knowledge with the women who come to her practice, and her vulnerability and honesty ultimately make her a stronger businesswoman. G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 9 7
Business 2 Business
M AY 2 0 2 2
COMMERCIAL PROJECTS
By Adam Regan
Cook Legacy LLC purchased a freestanding office/warehouse building at 6201 Lee Ann Lane in North Naples from Interface Collaborative Group LLC for $2,627,760. Gary Tasman and Shawn Stoneburner of Cushman & Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida represented the seller.
939 2nd Ave. N. LLC purchased 3,600 square feet of retail space at 939 Second Ave. N. in Naples from M & M Enterprises Inc. for $1.85 million. David J. Stevens, CCIM, of Investment Properties Meadowcreek Mobile Park Inc. and Napco Construction Co. purchased a 65,000-squarefoot office property at 2675 Winkler Ave. in Fort Myers from DKM Property Holdings LLC for $8.9 million. George Vukobratovich and Jim Doane with Welsh Companies FL Inc. represented the seller, and Adam Palmer with LandQwest Commercial represented the buyer.
Corp. represented the seller, and
CHARLOTTE COUNTY
Barron Collier Partnership LLLP
1406 LLC purchased 3,380 square
bought 3.828 acres of vacant land
feet of warehouse condo space
COLLIER COUNTY
Patrick Fraley, CCIM, of Investment Properties Corp. represented the buyer.
Vicki Lee Aman Family Trust
Naples Owner LLC purchased
at 2096 Tamiami Trail E. in East
in the Enterprise Design Center
and Twin Oaks LLC purchased a
15.08 acres at 4670 Santa Bar-
Naples from Southern Corner-
East project, 3573 Enterprise Ave.,
4,964-square-foot commercial/
bara Blvd. in Naples from Strohl
stone Properties Inc., Gingercrest
Suites 64, 65, 86 and 87, in East
retail property at 122 Nesbit
Family LLC for $10.5 million. Bill
Inc. and Racetrac Inc. for $5.85
Naples from 3573 Enterprise LLC
St. in Punta Gorda from RJA for
Young and Biagio Bernardo of Lee
million. Craig D. Timmins of
for $825,000. Eric Edwards of Land-
$1,194,000. Justin Thibaut, CCIM,
& Associates Naples-Fort Myers
Investment Properties Corp. rep-
Qwest Commercial represented the
and Christi Pritchett of LSI Com-
represented the buyer and seller.
resented the seller, and David J.
buyer and seller.
panies Inc. represented the buyer
Stevens of Investment Properties
and seller.
Corp. represented the buyer.
9 8 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
LEE COUNTY Southern Exposure Studios LLC
Cubazul Travel Services Inc. pur-
LM Bruner Lane LLC purchased
Bonita Beach Road Ventures
purchased 2,508 square feet of
chased 0.42 acres of vacant land
2316 Bruner Lane in Fort Myers
LLC purchased 1.5 acres at 4750
commercial space at 5405 Taylor
at 2100, 2110 and 2120 Santa
from 7050 Pennsylvania LLC for
Bonita Beach Road in Bonita
Road, Suite 2, in North Naples
Barbara Blvd. in East Naples from
$2,979,000. Gary Tasman and
Springs from Quinn Ruelle for
from Mitchell H. Fogelman for
Joseph Mianecki and Dolores
Gretchen Smith of Cushman &
$2.1 million. Thomas Webb,
$650,000. Christine McManus,
Mianecki for $360,000. Christine
Wakefield Commercial Property
CCIM, MSRE, of Lee & Associates
CCIM, SIOR, of Investment Prop-
McManus, CCIM, SIOR, of Invest-
Southwest Florida represented
Naples-Fort Myers represented
erties Corp. represented the buyer
ment Properties Corp. represent-
the buyer.
the buyer and seller.
and seller.
ed the buyer and seller. Matthew and Jodi Martell purchased a 10.15-acre
DH Squared Properties LLC purchased 4,600 square feet of office space at 775 First Ave. N. in Naples from Women’s Healthcare Physicians Properties LLC for $3.15 million. Patrick Fraley, CCIM, of Investment Properties Corp. represented the buyer, and Dennis Bowers of Compass Florida LLC represented the seller.
agricultural property and a 3,608-square-foot estate home at 19500 Armeda Road in Alva from Latt and Deana E. Armeda for $899,999. Justin Thibaut, CCIM, and Christi Pritchett of LSI Companies Inc. represented the buyer and seller.
BWP Holdings Group LLC purchased 5,176 square feet of commercial space at 17520 Rockefeller Circle in Fort Myers from Tempo El. Calvario for $815,000. Chloe Maros with Select Real Estate represented the buyer and seller.
Playful Pooch Ranch LLC purchased 8951 Nalle Grade Road in North Fort Myers from Michael L. Ball and Gayle M. Jones for $798,000. Gary Tasman and Gretchen Smith of Cushman & Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida represented the buyer.
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 9 9
Business 2 Business
M AY 2 0 2 2
N E W & E X PA N D I N G
By Adam Regan
COLLIER COUNTY JFT Flooring and Handyman
Gilgan Family Holdings leased
space at 3200 Bailey Lane, Unit
Drive, Suite 1, in North Naples
Services Inc. leased 7,500 square
a 4,500-square-foot industrial
117, in North Naples from South
from Tamiami Newgate Ltd. Matt
feet in Lakewood Plaza, 4221
space in Collier Park of Com-
Florida Growers Association
Stepan, CCIM, and Jeffrey Clapper
Tamiami Trail E., Unit 104, in East
merce, 2960 Horseshoe Drive S.,
Inc. Gary Tasman of Cushman &
of Premier Commercial Inc. repre-
Naples from Kendall Perrine LLC.
Units 400-600, in East Naples
Wakefield Commercial Property
sented the lessee, and Tara Stokes
Thomas Webb, CCIM, MSRE, and
from Helios Colliers LLC. Dave
Southwest Florida represented
of Investment Properties Corp.
Michael Mahan of Lee & Associ-
Wallace, CCIM, SIOR, and David
the lessor and lessee.
represented the lessor.
ates Naples-Fort Myers repre-
Wallace of CRE Consultants rep-
sented the lessor and lessee.
resented the lessor and lessee.
Thesen Asian Bistro leased
Results Care LLC leased a
2,978 square feet of retail
1,600-square-foot retail space in
Suncoast Dental Center renewed
space in Restaurant Row, 6821
Heron Place, 4184 Tamiami Trail
4,862-square-foot industrial
its lease on a 4,500-square-foot
Collier Blvd., in East Naples from
N., in Naples from Heron Plaza LLC.
space in Collier Park of Com-
office space at 13040 Livingston
Advanced Southwest Group LLC.
Fred Kermani, CCIM, AIA, of CRE
merce, 2975 Horseshoe Drive
Road, Unit 3, in North Naples from
Mike Concilla and Laura Cari of
Consultants represented the lessor
S., Unit 700, in East Naples from
Livingston and Pine Ridge LLC.
LandQwest Commercial repre-
and lessee.
Helios Colliers LLC. Dave Wallace,
Eric Edwards of LandQwest Com-
sented the lessor and lessee.
CCIM, SIOR, and David Wallace of
mercial represented the lessee.
ARQAI LLC leased a
Distinctive Residential Construc-
1,456-square-foot office space in
Just Like Family Home Care LLC
tion PLLC leased a 1,625-square-
Collier Park of Commerce, 3050
leased 3,114 square feet of office
foot space at 5137 Castello
Horseshoe Drive N., Suite 100A, in
CRE Consultants represented the lessor and lessee.
CNI Consulting Inc. leased a
East Naples from Helios Colliers GTS Group US LLC leased 1,010 square feet of office space at 5150 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 206, in Naples from Tamiami Newgate Ltd. Tara L. Stokes of Investment Properties Corp. represented the lessor, and Thomas Webb of Lee & Associates represented the lessee.
LLC. Dave Wallace, CCIM, SIOR, and David Wallace of CRE Consultants represented the lessor and lessee.
Acopio International LLC dba Acopio Coffee leased 1,356 square feet of retail space at 5100 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 100, in Naples from Tamiami Newgate Ltd. Tara L. Stokes of Investment Properties Corp. represented the lessor, and Felipe Arcila of Kova Commercial represented the lessee.
1 0 0 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
JP Morgan Chase Bank National Association leased a 1,986-square-foot office in Renaissance Center, 9530 Marketplace Road, Suite 210, in Fort Myers from Brookwood SFL LLC. Randal Mercer of CRE Consultants represented the lessor and lessee.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Financing LLC leased a 10,414-square-foot office space at 7811 University Pointe Drive in Fort Myers from CDW 7811 University Pointe Drive LLC. Randal Mercer of CRE Consultants represented the lessor, and Brad Knop of JLL represented the lessee.
Trusted Insurance Agency Inc. leased 1,765 square feet of office space at 8260 College Parkway, Unit 204, in Fort Myers from
LEE COUNTY
Fountain Court Ltd. Gretchen Smith and Hanna Ray of Cushman
Aramark Uniform & Career
West Coast Properties LLC. Gary
Commercial represented the
& Wakefield Commercial Property
Apparel LLC leased 10,000 square
Tasman and Gretchen Smith of
lessor and lessee.
Southwest Florida represented
feet of industrial space at 5421
Cushman & Wakefield Commer-
Division Drive in Fort Myers from
cial Property Southwest Florida
CMG Mortgage Inc. leased a
CDW 5421 Division Drive LLC. Gary
represented the lessor.
2,019-square-foot space at The
Mentus Behavioral Health LLC
Offices at Coconut Point, 23190
leased 1,729 square feet of
Tasman and Shawn Stoneburn-
the lessee.
er of Cushman & Wakefield
AeroCare Holdings LLC leased
Fashion Drive, Suite 215, in Estero
office space at 12651 McGregor
Commercial Property Southwest
a 4,000-square-foot office in
from Chuck and Buffet LLC. Matt
Blvd., Unit 3-301, in Fort Myers
Florida represented the lessee.
Metro Commerce Center, 11270
Stepan, CCIM, and Jeffrey Clapper
from Gulf Stream West LLC. Gary
Metro Parkway, Units 6 and 7, in
of Premier Commercial Inc. repre-
Tasman and Gretchen Smith of
BX Fort Myers LLC leased a
Fort Myers from Metro Commerce
sented the lessor, and Kevin Her-
Cushman & Wakefield Commer-
7,408-square-foot, two-building
Center LLC. Randal Mercer of
man of Herman Commercial Real
cial Property Southwest Florida
car dealership at 3388 Fowler St.
CRE Consultants represented the
Estate represented the lessee.
represented the lessor.
and 2451 Hunter St. in Fort Myers
lessor and lessee.
from Ideal Florida Auto Holdings
Core Cleaning Services Inc.
Jersey Mike’s leased 1,600
LLC. Fred Kermani, CCIM, AIA, of
First Presbyterian Church of
leased a 2,000-square-foot
square feet of retail space in
CRE Consultants represented the
Bonita Springs Inc. leased a
office in Metro Commerce
Pine Island Crossing, 1751 NE
lessor and lessee.
2,469-square-foot space at Por-
Center. 11270 Metro Parkway,
Pine Island Road, in Cape Coral
ter Building, 9696 Bonita Beach
Unit 4, in Fort Myers from Metro
from Pine Island Crossing LLC.
Alliant Insurance Services Inc.
Road, Suite 203, in Bonita Springs
Commerce Center LLC. Randal
Bob Pekol of LandQwest Com-
leased 4,084 square feet of office
from Porter Group Limited
Mercer of CRE Consultants rep-
mercial represented the lessor
space at 1520 Royal Palm Square
Partnership. Matt Stepan, CCIM,
resented the lessor and lessee.
and lessee.
Blvd., Unit 160, in Fort Myers from
and Jeffrey Clapper of Premier
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 1 0 1
The most powerful media to reach the Southwest Florida Hispanic market.
ADVERTISING INQUIRES
239-443-9313
p_108
p_106
Boca Grande getaway
Joy on the golf course
AfterHours U N W I N D | H O R S E P O W E R | F I T N E S S | W E E K E N D G E TAWAY
Power Isn’t Everything X4 DOESN’T MARK THE SPOT p_104 By James Raia
AfterHours HORSEPOWER
Power Isn’t Everything X4 DOESN’T MARK THE SPOT FOR BMW ENTHUSIASTS The 2022 BMW X4 M and the more powerful X4 M Competition are siblings among a handful of vehicles competing in the high-performance sport utility vehicle niche. It’s a difficult automotive segment to fathom. What’s the purpose of a family-oriented vehicle with 503 horsepower and acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.3 seconds? Is there a racetrack SUV series? Is there a need for such speed en route to soccer practice, the grocery store or a weekend getaway? Apparently, more means better. The updated BMW X4 M is the most expensive choice in the 2022 field that includes its sibling the BMW X3, Genesis GV70, Mercedes-AMG GLC43 or GLC63, Porsche Macan and Volvo XC60. The new model features several exterior upgrades, including a revamped front bumper, headlights and taillights. The rear is also redesigned with full-LED taillights, a sport-oriented exhaust trim, horizontal turn signal bars and vertical air intakes. As the priciest vehicle in its class, the BMW X4 M features a 3.0-liter, six-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Competition trim pushes the centerpiece of the higher-performance option to 503 horsepower. It also features a heated steering wheel, front and rear heated seats, parking assist,
M AY 2 0 2 2 By James Raia
FACTS & FIGURES Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 3.3 seconds Airbags: 6 Fuel economy: 15 mpg city, 20 mpg hwy Horsepower: 503 Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $74,395 Manufacturer’s website: bmwusa.com Price As Tested: $90,645 Warranty: Bumper to bumper, 4 years/50,000 miles; Powertrain, 4 years/50,000 miles; Corrosion, 12 years/ Unlimited Mileage; Complimentary Maintenance, 3 years/36,000 miles
head-up display, gesture control and a rearview camera. The head-up display projects “deep” into the front window as if it’s a 3D view. It’s an eye-pleasing view, a keener perspective than many head-up screens. Technology is further impressive with the standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. All models come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Wi-Fi hotspot and a wireless smartphone charging pad are featured in the optional Executive Package. A Harman/Kardon 16-speaker stereo is standard. 1 0 4 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Open-road, high-speed driving has
Seating is satisfactory for four
With its substantial starting price,
long been a BMW forte, and the X4
adults, tight for the advertised five
the $7,000 Competition Package
M adheres to the carmaker’s repu-
passengers. Part of the BMW’s at-
addition, $4,500 add-on for the po-
tation. It’s a freeway beast, maneu-
tractiveness is its sloping roofline—it
larizing Malachite Green Metallic
vering through traffic with authority.
doesn’t reduce interior headroom,
exterior paint and $2,250 for the
But true to the German automaker’s
but the configuration of the front and
Executive Package, the new X4 M ad-
tradition, the ride is somewhat stiff
back seats and the vehicle’s head-
vances to more than $90,000.
and every bump is felt, notably for
rests presents a problem. While they
If driving were limited to high-
backseat occupants.
are adjustable, the headrests in their
speed travel on the German Auto-
Despite its power, the X4’s driving
standard position appreciably ham-
bahn and similar transportation
traits are hampered by an awkward
per the view through the X4’s small
TITLE GOES wonders, the BMW X4 would rule
shifter. It’s difficult to switch driv-
oval rear window.
HERE AND HERE the road and its price could be jusOther info goes here
ing modes from automatic shift-
While made with top-line leather
tified. But real-life motoring is far
ing to using the small red “paddle”
and configurable in numerous set-
shifter buttons tucked behind the
tings, the front seats are stiff, with
more complicated. What the luxury, here.
steering wheel.
odd design curves.
and here and here and
sporty SUV reveals is that performance is sometimes overrated. G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 1 0 5
AfterHours
M AY 2 0 2 2
FITNESS
By James Raia
Joy on the Links GOLF LESSONS TO GET OUT ON THE GREENS Southwest Florida is often called the Golf Capital of the World. It’s a worthy moniker considering the area’s more than 150 golf courses have more golf holes per capita than anywhere else in the United States. A hearty percentage of the 1.3 million locals are golfers, who get to choose their preference from lake courses with island holes to natural landscape layouts with varied trees, grasses and wetlands. The names are as varied as the properties—Old Corkscrew in Estero to Treviso Bay in Naples. As much as golf has grown, there must be area residents, youth and adults, who don’t play the game or haven’t for a long time. How and where do they start? It ain’t easy. Ben Hogan, the 64-time PGA Tour winner who died in 1997 at age 84, was considered among the best ball-strikers in the history of golf and most meticulous students of the game. He was renowned for his poignant quotes. “I don’t believe there is anything like a natural golf swing,” Hogan once said. “A golf swing is an unnatural thing, and it has to be developed.” Plenty of instructors know the game well, and they know how to teach it. Bobby Clampett, co-founder and CEO of Impact Zone Golf in Naples, succinctly states golf’s major issue, a stumbling block to many considering the game. “The
reality is that the game is too hard,” says Clam-
DRIVING SCHOOL
pett, a former PGA Tour and PGA Tour Cham-
A golfer practices at West Bay Golf Club in Estero (above).
pions player. “What I’ve really noticed is that
Bobby Clampett of Naples’ Impact Zone Golf tees off (top).
1 0 6 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
SWING TIME 10 FACILITIES IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA THAT OFFER GOLF LESSONS
Andy Scott School of Golf 12300 Kelly Greens Blvd., Fort Myers; 239.699.3985; andyscottschoolofgolf.com Durland Golf School
durlandgolf.com
2464 Vanderbilt Beach Road
1040 Collier Center Way #13, Naples; 239.236.5536;
ing into the grocery store pull-
believes in the Doppler radar
ing items off the shelf thinking
monitoring system, which mea-
[that] without a recipe, they’re
sures every aspect of a student’s
going to create a great meal.”
movement. It’s data-driven, not
students of varying abilities. Fit-
behind a golfer and records data
ness and biomechanics instruc-
and graphics for the student and
239.849.3352;
tion to improve body function
instructor to analyze.
golfdoctorusa.com
and swing performance are keys.
Jeremy Wells, director of play-
23001 Coconut Point Resort Drive, Bonita Springs;
Swing analysis, properly fitting
er development at Cypress Lake
Raptor Bay Golf Club
clubs and video footage are also
Golf Club in Fort Myers, gives golf
23001 Coconut Point
common in teaching golf.
lessons to players of all ages and
GolfTec brings golf to newbies
abilities. He utilizes bio-mechan-
with an introductory session.
ics to evaluate a student’s game
It includes swing evaluation or
explains and cause and effect re-
club fitting and determining a
lationship in swings. Wells knows
new student’s level, including
of what he teaches; he’s a former
newcomers. It’s “your first step
full-time touring pro with several
to better golf,” states the website
victories on his resume and still
tee2greengolfservices.com
of the company with locations in
competes when he’s not teaching.
Naples and Fort Myers, as well
At Raptor Bay Golf Academy
West Bay Golf Club
as throughout the United States
in Bonita Springs, Chris Pais, di-
4606 West Bay Blvd., Estero;
and five other countries. Pricing
rector of instruction and PGA
239.444.2310;
for its one-on-one golf lessons
teaching professional, stresses
westbayclubs.com
239.390.4600; raptorbaygolfclub.com Tee 2 Green Golf Services Blvd., Suite #236, Bonita Springs; 239. 877.1544;
impactzonegolf.com Jeremy Wells Golf Instruction
of Katie Detlefsen Dahl, who
of a laptop, the device is set up
27499 Riverview Center Impact Zone Golf
academy is under the direction
issues. They’re like a person go-
in Southwest Florida, instructs
#510, Naples; 239.514.4653; golftec.com
how to assess and correct their
video reliant. Roughly the size
Resort Drive, Bonita Springs; GolfTec
learn or better their games. The
Clampett’s business, like others
Mike Calbot International Golf Academy
7335 Premier Drive, Naples; 239.784.2208;
the average golfer doesn’t know
for juniors and adults varies by
golf lessons as “better golf and
Myers; 804.931.6299;
location, with recommendations
more fun.” It offers individual and
jeremywellsgolf.com
based on a student’s skill level and
group lessons and varies from ju-
goals. GolfTec instructors are cer-
nior golf to corporate clinics. Vid-
tified personal coaches with ex-
eo and written lesson summaries
pertise in golf mechanic analysis.
are included, and long- and short-
West Bay Golf Academy in Es-
game techniques are emphasized
239.272.9631;
tero utilizes TrackMan technol-
in lessons that include TrackMan
sowerwinegolf.com
ogy and video feedback to help
and several additional modern
new and experienced golfers
technologies.
6767 Winkler Road, Fort
Jim Sowerwine Golf Instruction 4450 Pelican’s Nest Drive, Bonita Springs;
G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 1 0 7
AfterHours W E E K E N D G E TA W AY
M AY 2 0 2 2 By Artis Henderson
Changes in Latitude WELL-HEELED BOCA GRANDE IS BIG ON CHARM AND SHORT ON PRETENSION It’s no surprise that posh yet understated Boca Grande has been attracting members of the glitterati for decades. The Bushes were known to vacation here, and so was Katharine Hepburn. Tucker Carlson, Tom Brokaw and Harrison Ford have all been spotted on its pedestrian-friendly streets. But unlike other Florida enclaves for the wealthy and famous, Boca Grande is free of strut. Flip-flops are the footwear of choice. A pair of Wayfarers is practically mandatory. The draw here is exactly the kind of laidback Florida charm that has been bringing visitors to the Gulfshore for more than a century. WORLD-CLASS SPORT FISHING The tiny fishing village of Boca Grande stepped onto the national stage in the late 1800s when upper crust gentlemen discovered that the Boca Grande Pass offers some of the finest sport fishing in the world. Wealthy sportsmen from the United States and Great Britain made their way to the barrier island, intent on fishing for the mighty tarpon, a top-notch game fish. 1 0 8 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
Today, Boca Grande Pass still offers some of the best sport fishing around. Capt. Chris Slattery of Reel Intense Inshore Charters (5800 Gasparilla Road, 941.468.1618,
reelintenseinshore.
com) has a reputation as an elite sport fisherman and guide. He’s won several local fishing tournaments, and his charters regularly reel in 100-pound tarpon. Capt. Andrew Herzog at Big Bully Fishing (6499 Gasparilla Road, 941.661.0304,
bigbullyfishing.com)
also takes his charters to just the right spot. His knowledge of local fishing is vast, and he works closely with NOAA and FWC. A NIGHT IN THE SOCIAL REGISTER For a weekend trip to Boca Grande, a stay at the Gasparilla Inn (500 Palm Ave., 800.996.1913, the-gasparilla-inn. com) is a must. The original hotel
was built in 1911. It began as a modest
GULF GETAWAY
structure, but was soon expanded to
Boca Grande in Southwest Florida has been providing visitors
become a world-class resort, adding
with laidback charm for more than a century.
on a beach club, a golf course, tennis G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 1 0 9
AfterHours W E E K E N D G E TA W AY
OFF THE BEACH For a weekend trip to Boca Grande, a stay at the Gasparilla Inn (above) is a must. Grab a bite to eat at The Pink (right).
1 1 0 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
courts and a croquet lawn. Today, the 137-room grande dame offers guest rooms, cottages and villas outfitted with tasteful tropical décor. Take note: The inn’s dining room has a formal dress code during the winter months from December to April. Jackets are required for dinner, though ties are optional. CATCH A BITE Like many Florida vacation spots— even the well-heeled ones—eating out is mostly a casual affair in Boca Grande. For an easy breakfast or lunch option, visit the Loose Caboose (433 4th St. West, 941.964.0440, loosecaboose.biz). Located in the historic train depot, the Caboose is a local institution. Don’t miss Tuesday’s meatloaf night. The Pink Elephant (491 Bayou Ave., 941.964.4540, the-gasparilla-inn.com) is known affectionately around town as The Pink. It features popular sandwiches on its lunch menu and a seafood-focused dinner menu. Explore the pink-themed cocktail list with its fresh and fun concoctions, and especially try the Spicy Elephant, which has jalapeno tequila, triple sec, watermelon puree and fresh lime juice. With the Gasparilla Inn just a short walk away, it’s OK to indulge. G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2 1 1 1
AfterHours
M AY 2 0 2 2
UNWIND
By Justin Paprocki
Stretched Out on the Sand FIND YOUR BLISS WITH BEACH YOGA Close your eyes and imagine you are heading into a downward dog pose, the sounds of waves against the shore filling your ears and the morning sun warming your skin. Now, open your eyes and stop imagining. You can actually make it happen. Year-rounders sometimes take the beach for granted. It can be a
Bonita Springs
Marco Island
hassle to get to and is frequently
Yes! Yoga Location: Bonita Beach yesyogafitness.com
Marco Island Yoga Location: South Beach (Search “Marco Island Yoga” on Facebook)
busy with tourists. So, why not give yourself a reason to head to the place that probably drew you down here to begin with? Beach yoga has been trendy over the last few years, with studios offering classes all along the Gulf coast. Fees are generally $10-$25 for a session (or just a donation in some cases). Just make sure you’re not forgetting to bring a towel, yoga mat, sunscreen and water. And definitely check schedules, because locations and frequency tend to change after season.
Cape Coral Florida Yoga Academy Location: Cape Coral Yacht Club floridayogacademy.com
Naples
Fort Myers Beach
Donation Yoga Naples Locations: Lowdermilk Beach, Miramar Beach, 18th Avenue South Beach donationyoganaples.com
Fort Myers Beach Yoga Location: Near Newton Beach Park fortmyersbeachyoga.com
Lo’s Yoga Location: Vanderbilt Beach losyoganaples.com
Naples Beach Yoga Locations: Lowdermilk Beach, 8th Avenue South Beach naplesbeachyoga.net Thai Chi, Yoga and the Healing Arts Private sunset sessions karenmcneil.net Sanibel/Capitva Ambu Yoga Location: Captiva public beach ambuyoga.com
Becky Lang Fitness Location: Near Edison Beach Hotel beckylangfitness.wordpress.com
1 1 2 G U L F S H O R E B U S I N E S S M AY 2 0 2 2
gulfshorebusiness.com
WOMEN IN BUSINESS HELPING YOUR BUSINESS When it’s time to grow your business, choose a local team that has your best interests at heart. We’re an award-winning team of local SBA experts who know the Naples, Florida area well, and our personalized service reflects that local commitment. When you come in and speak with us, we’ll help match you with the account that meets your business goals. Now is the perfect time to take advantage of our Easy Access Term Loan,1 which can help you secure up to $250,000 for equipment upgrades, replacements, additions, and more. We invite you to come in and speak with us any time.
TARA FEDORKO Senior Vice President, Market President Tara is committed to offering a full-service banking experience, and she’s enjoyed watching the Naples team grow. She volunteers at the Rotary Club of Naples and is on the board of the gift giving committee at the Naples Botanical Gardens.
WENDY AGUILERA Vice President Wendy is committed to developing our team and to giving back to the community. She volunteers at the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, and at local chambers of commerce.
Find out more at wintrustflorida.com/business
B ANKING C ENTER 3401 Tamiami Trail North | Naples, Florida 239-687-5200 | wintrustflorida.com
Wintrust Banking Center is a branch of Lake Forest Bank & Trust Company, N.A. 1. Easy Access Term Loan. Requires company’s primary checking account to be with the bank. Business must be in operation and in business for 12 months or more. Subject to underwriting guidelines. See a personal banker for details.
NCH NAMED AS ONE OF AMERICA’S
TOP 100 HOSPITALS BY HEALTHGRADES
NCH RANKS BETTER THAN 98% OF ALL HOSPITALS NATIONWIDE* The NCH Healthcare System has received the Healthgrades 2022 America’s 100 Best Hospitals Award™. This notable distinction places NCH in a small, elite group of hospitals who are in the top two percent of nearly 4,500 hospitals assessed nationwide for superior clinical care and patient outcomes for the treatment of the most common conditions and procedures as measured by Healthgrades, the leading resource that connects consumers, physicians and health systems. For more information on the award-winning services of the NCH Healthcare System, please visit NCHmd.org.
*Statistics are based on Healthgrades analysis of MedPAR data for years 2018 through 2020 and represent 3-year estimates for Medicare patients only.