SWFL CRE, CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT
A look at commercial real estate & construction updates in Southwest Florida
Organizations to Watch
Businesses and organizations paving the way to the future in Collier, Lee and Charlotte counties are highlighted.
COMPANIES TO WATCH
Children’s Lighthouse enters Naples market
Submitted by Jacob Ogles, Editor Special to SWFBT
As the population of Naples has rapidly grown, so, too, has Malcolm Robertson’s own family. But when he and his wife sought out quality day care in the area, they realized the Naples market remains thoroughly underserved.
CRE Construction & Development
SPECIAL THIS ISSUE
This edition showcases a collection of information to help you navigate Southwest Florida’s CRE, Building and Development marketplace.
“There were people putting themselves on waiting lists while they were still trying to get pregnant,” he said.
The father found out his two-year-
old could end up on a one-year waiting list to get into quality day care. So the former Wells Fargo financial advisor explored and went into the preschool business. After researching several national franchises, he started working with Children’s Lighthouse, an early learning school operating in 11 states. He plans to open a Children’s Lighthouse of Naples location in about 18 months, likely in the South Naples area. That would be the second Children’s Lighthouse location in the state, behind
one already serving the Orlando market in Winter Garden. But the company at the national level sees an opportunity and need in the Southwest Florida region, especially at a time when few families can afford to have one parent stay at home to watch a child.
Matt Kelton, vice president of Franchise Development for Children’s Lighthouse, said the cost of housing alone already requires both parents to work to own a good home, with some
SWFL CRE, CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT
A look at commercial real estate & construction updates
FSW opens cybersecurity, entrepreneur institutes
Florida SouthWestern State College celebrated the grand opening of its new Rist Cyber Institute and the Frank G. Daveler Entrepreneurial Institute, located in the FSW School of Business and Technology.
Housed in the newly renovated
IN THE NEWS
Edison Awards fuels next generation of Lee innovators
Join the Edison Awards in its quest to empower students shaping the future. The Edison Awards called on Lee County high school teachers and students to join its quest to empower students shaping the future.
The 2025 Lee County High School AI + HI Innovation Challenge, presented by the Edison Awards, invited teams of three to five high school students to solve a real-world challenge
impacting Lee County’s workforce. Students built essential Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence skills through the Solvably platform.
Over five weeks in January and February, participants collaborated— remotely and in person—dedicating 2-3 hours per week to master guided modules that drive success. Students earned an AI + HI Literacy Certification from Credably.ai, showcasing their problem-solving expertise to future colleges and employers.
AWARDS See page 4
Building K on the FSW Lee Campus, the Rist Cyber Institute features a cyber lab, powered by SimSpace, where students will participate in real-world scenarios including cyber attack defense, incident response, threat intelligence and analysis, and ethical hacking.
The Frank G. Daveler Entrepreneurship Institute further enriches students’ experiences by offering opportunities to innovate and collaborate, while the stock ticker provides real-time market data, enhancing practical learning with live metrics.
BUSINESS UPDATES
FINCEN BOI reporting YO-YO
On Dec. 3, a U.S. District Court issued a nationwide injunction to stop enforcement of the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting rules.
Three weeks later, on Dec. 23, an Appeals court lifted the injunction to reinstate the reporting obligations while the government’s appeal was considered. The revised deadline was Jan. 13 instead of Jan. 1.
Three days later on Dec. 26, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals nulli-
fied the earlier motions panel’s ruling and reinstated the original injunction. The Department of Justice will start its appeal on March 25, so the outcome of the requirement to file is unclear until then.
Hurricane assistance updates
For the most current hurricane recovery news and information, updated throughout the business day, go to SWFBT’s Storm Impact Business Bulletin at swfloridabusinesstoday. com/storm-impact-business-bulletin.
FSW students, employees, community members and donors celebrate the grand opening of the FSW School of Business and Technology’s new Rist Cyber Institute and Frank G. Daveler Entrepreneurship Institute.
CHILDREN See page 4
ORGANIZATIONS TO WATCH
Clean Earth Initiative hosts conservation breakfast
Twenty-eight conservation nonprofits signed up to attend Clean Earth Initiatives Conservation Breakfast in Fort Myers on Jan. 28. This event was attended by elected officials, foundations, and non-profits serving Southwest Florida. CEI’s Executive Director Jonathan Rubin and Fort Myers Mayor, Kevin Anderson kicked off the breakfast.
“Our goal here today is to learn about the resilience of Southwest Florida. The stories and projects in the region are inspiring and can serve as lessons for other regions,” Jonathan Rubin said.
Clean Earth Initiative is an umbrella conservation nonprofit that brings together passionate people and talented organizations from around the State. As a unified voice, nonprofits are more efficient in their conservation efforts, share resources with others, and raise awareness of their causes.
Anderson shared, “Our city is rapidly growing with 25,000 new residents annually. Our city is adding 100 acres of parks and green spaces for our citizens to enjoy.”
Friends of Lovers Key State Park leaders shared about the challenges of running Florida’s second-most popular State Park. The park is home to beautiful beaches, estuaries, and a vast array of wildlife. The Friends of Group helped develop the new visitor center, educational program, summer camps and other services.
Local political and environmental leaders attend the Clean Earth Initiatives Conservation Breakfast, held in Fort Myers in January.
Cape Coral economic development plan gives legs to its vision
The City of Cape Coral is taking steps to ensure its economic future remains strong and sustainable. As the city looks ahead to a projected population of 375,000 by 2050, the recently completed Economic Development Strategic Plan will serve as our roadmap for navigating this growth and fostering long-term prosperity.
The specialized consultant, hired by the city to conduct the study included in the plan 50 key recommendations designed to guide the city’s economic development. These recommendations focus on recognizing the importance of tourism to the local economy, engaging higher education institutions as a catalyst for innovation and workforce development, and proposing a new urban model that promotes signature developments to create a distinct identity for the city.
This comprehensive plan not only identifies targeted industries and economic opportunities, but it also provides actionable insights to attract investment, drive development, and enhance the resilience of Cape Coral’s economy.
The Clinic For the Rehabilitation of Wildlife officials said about the 5,000 animals they take care of annually. This includes over 200 species of sick, injured, or orphaned animals. CROW welcomes over 200 volunteers annually to assist in their projects.
The Calusa Waterkeeper also talk-
ed about the work they have been doing for over 30 years including protecting the Caloosahatchee River & Estero Bay. The Calusa Waterkeeper takes water samples and encourages oyster growth. Oysters can filter and clean up to 50 gallons of water a day.
With a strategic focus on these areas, we are laying the foundation for a thriving, diversified economy that will support the needs of our growing community for years to come.
City officials said they are excited to continue building on Cape Coral’s strengths and momentum to make 2025 a year of innovation, growth and success for the city.
in Lee County Construction & Development
The Lee County Economic Development Office (EDO) values the construction and development businesses throughout the county that are actively contributing to the workforce Learn how the Lee County EDO and its partners are advocating for future job opportunities and hands-on training initiatives
SanCap Chamber looks to future in State of the Islands
Members of the SanCap Chamber and other community guests listened to Sanibel-Captiva leaders and stakeholders make post-hurricane predictions and recommendations during the second annual State of the Islands at Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort in Fort Myers. The speakers addressed the future of the islands with a balance of pragmatism, realism and optimism.
Last year’s inaugural State of the Islands painted a hopeful post-Hurricane Ian outlook, but as this year’s panelist Eric Pfeiffer put it: “We took a huge punch to the gut with Hurricane Ian….and then this fall, we got kicked in the teeth on top of that with hurricanes Helene and Milton.” Pfeiffer, from Pfeiffer Realty Group, was one of three panelists on the State of Real Estate panel, along with and Jeff Burns of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty with Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors CEO Bill Robinson moderating.
Other speakers and panelists included Nicole Decker-McHale, executive director of Community Housing & Resources; members of the Storm Surge and Standing Water team including South Florida Water Management District Chair Chauncey Goss, environmental engineer Mark Thompson, and city engineer Oisin Dolly, with Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation CEO James Evans as moderator; and Porter Goss, the first mayor of Sanibel.
The State of the City panel included city manager Dana Souza, building official Craig Mole, deputy city manager Steve Chaipel, and planning director Paula McMichael, with public information officer Eric Jackson acting as moderator. Mayor Richard Johnson delivered closing statements.
“We welcomed a distinguished assembly of some of the islands’ most informed and knowledgeable leaders,” said SanCap Chamber president and chief executive John Lai. “They successfully presented useful information on how the hurricanes affect the community to date and looking forward.”
CHR, McHale said, has plans to rebuild the 10 onebedroom complex at 1517 Periwinkle Way and construct a new building of 15 one-bedroom units. “We are a community with heart, and this is the heart of our community,” she said.
The storm surge group addressed changes in weather patterns, an increase in groundwater levels, the loss of vegetation that removes water, and other contributing factors to floodwaters brought in by recent storms.
Oisin said the city is developing a master plan with public input and recommended landowners should improve the efficiency of their property by planting more vegetation, maintaining low areas in their yards to encourage retention of fresh water and educating themselves about the water drainage systems in their neighborhoods.
As for real estate, despite a current slump credited to this fall’s storms, prices are up but sales are down. Insurance rates, the recent presidential election, problems with land development codes, and fear of future storm events also factor in, panelists said. Elevated homes and finished condos have been moving most quickly, they reported.
“The island is going to come back, and things are going to be a lot better, and there’s going to be a lot more inventory and new restaurants,” said Burns. “We do try to sell the future but it’s interesting that our property values still haven’t done what people suspected they’d do after the storms, which is take a big dip.”
The overarching question that directed panel dialogue and questions from the audience: Are we seeing a new, regular weather pattern or are the past three years of surge events a fluke?
“I guess my major advise would be ‘don’t be surprised when this happens again,’ because I think it’s going to,” said Chauncy Goss. “Not to be a downer, but it just seems to be the reality. So rather than be discouraged about it, adapt.”
Residents are trying to decide if it’s time to leave the island because of such a likelihood, and nearly all the panelists encouraged staying. Porter Goss pointed out that in the 1920s, two monster hurricanes that forever changed the islands hit also two years apart.
“My message is to stay here. Stay on Sanibel,” said Souza. “We need to be here. We need to hold onto our investment so we can recover… You need to keep the faith in this community.”
Stemcat: Unlocking community growth through tax benefits
By Melissa Reynolds Guest Columnist
In today’s economic landscape, Opportunity Zones offer a compelling avenue for investors seeking both financial returns and meaningful community impact. Established by Congress in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Opportunity Zones aim to spur economic development by providing tax incentives for investors in economically distressed communities.
Investors can benefit from deferring tax on any prior gains invested in a Qualified Opportunity Fund until the date the investment is sold or exchanged, or Dec. 31, 2026, whichever comes first. Furthermore, if the investment in the QOF is held for longer than five years, there is a 10% exclusion of the deferred gain; if held for more than seven years, this exclusion increases to 15%. Most compellingly, any gains from investments held in the QOF for at least ten years may be tax-free, concerning the appreciation of the QOF investment.
This unique investment opportunity is what makes STEMCAT a “SWFL Top Organization To Watch.” STEMCAT, a local leader in community-driven development, leverages Opportunity Zone investments to fund its Capital Campaign, focusing on constructing a state-ofthe-art facility that serves as a hub for STEM workforce development, telemedicine, and entrepreneurship education. This initiative not only aims to revitalize the local community but to create a local pipeline of skilled professionals ready to meet Southwest Florida’s economic challenges of tomorrow, thereby building community resilience and prosperity through opportunity.
Community benefits include:
• Economic Revitalization: Investments in the STEMCAT project stimulate local economies by creating jobs, enhancing educational opportunities, and fostering sustainable development.
• Workforce Development: STEMCAT’s focus on STEM education ensures that our local young adults gain the necessary skills to compete in a high-tech economy, reducing unemployment and underemployment in the community.
• Entrepreneurial Growth: Entrepreneurship education programs equip residents with the skills to start and sustain their businesses, boosting local innovation and economic independence.
For those interested in learning more about how to participate in this transformative project, contact STEMCAT at info@stemcat.org or call (239)666-8171 to schedule a visit. Discover how your investment can lead to substantial tax benefits while making a lasting impact on our local business community, on multiple levels, through STEMCAT’s innovative programs.
Melissa Reynolds is chief operating officer at STEMCAT. Contact (239) 666-8171 or melissarh@ stemcat.org
Sanibel City Manager Dana Souza, during a State of the City address at the SanCap Chamber, urged attendees to keep doing business on the island. “You need to keep the faith in this community,” he said.
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starter homes for families now running around $600,000. That means a significant and growing market exists for day care and early education.
“About two-thirds of children are in some kind of day care,” he said.
And as the population of Naples shifts from primarily retirees to younger professionals starting families, Robertson said the market will only need more places to receive licensed, quality early education. He is looking at locations in South Naples, where many of those families are choosing to live.
Children’s Lighthouse plans to serve families with children as young as six weeks old and as old as 12 and will offer service starting at $2,000 a month.
In exchange, the children enrolled will receive an education tailored to their age and personal needs. The youngest children, up until age 2, will be playing with building blocks and undergoing a curriculum based on research-based development theories. Older preschoolers through age 5 will receive more early reading education but will also have lessons on lifelong skills for positive peer interaction. Older children who are in grade school can also be enrolled for after school care.
www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com
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Cape Coral, FL 33915-2299
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News email: editor@swfloridabusinesstoday.com All other information requests: publisher@ swfloridabusinesstoday.com
COMPANIES TO WATCH
Brothers journey from high school to their own business
In the competitive business community of Southwest Florida, Davis Portable Toilets stands out as a remarkable success story. Founded by two determined brothers, Eli and Kaleb Davis, the company’s journey began with humble beginnings. At just 16 years old, Eli was balancing the demands of high school and entrepreneurship, while Kaleb, then 21, had a vision they both believed in. Together, they embarked on a mission to make their dream a reality.
The brothers started Davis Portable Toilets with nothing more than determination, a strong work ethic, and a parking spot at a storage facility in Downtown Fort Myers. There, they built their first pump truck using an old propane tank and a golf cart motor. Their days were challenging, with 12- to-14-hour shifts, and no days off. After finishing work, Eli would stay up late to complete school assignments, operating on minimal sleep but with an unphased focus on their goals. Facing constant adversity, the brothers bond grew stronger, built on trust and shared perseverance.
Today, Davis Portable Toilets has grown far beyond their vision. The company now has over 250 portable
From
toilets across Southwest Florida and continues to expand rapidly. Their commitment to innovation and client satisfaction is evident in their collaboration with DeAngelis Diamond, where they created custom logo toilets.
Their biggest accomplishment of their journey was providing portable toilets pro bono for the renovation of Youth Haven, a shelter for homeless and abused children.
This highlights the Davises’ dedication to giving back to the community that first supported them.
What sets Davis Portable Toilets
ORGANIZATIONS TO WATCH
apart isn’t just their high-quality service; it’s the inspiring story behind the business. As a family-run company deeply rooted in values of hard work, perseverance and innovation, the Davis brothers aim to set an example for aspiring entrepreneurs. The Davis brothers hope their journey inspires other young entrepreneurs to dream big and take bold steps, even when the odds seem stacked against them.
Contact President Eli Davis at (239) 470-0990 or edavis@davisportabletoilets.com .
Centers for Multiple Sclerosis expands into North Naples
The Centers for Multiple Sclerosis serves over 500 people with multiple sclerosis across Southwest Florida. Recognizing the challenges posed by distance to the organization’s headquarters in Estero, the Center launched the neighborhoodbased MS Community Center program in 2023, with each center providing weekly activities and services for people with multiple sclerosis.
“We are excited to announce the opening of our newest MS Community Center (MSCC) at Peace Lutheran Church in north Naples on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. This center will provide accessible and consistent support services while reducing isolation and increasing opportunities to come together with others with MS. No one should have to face this condition alone,” said
Kay Jasso, CEO of the Centers for Multiple Sclerosis.
“We are very grateful that Peace Lutheran Church has welcomed us to their beautiful location to provide this vital service to the community.”
The MSCCs provide a welcoming environment with accessible, consistent services and opportunities to build new friendships. Clients can plan their schedules and arrange transportation in advance, knowing their MSCC will be available on the same day each week, right in their neighborhood.
Each MSCC meets once a week and offers a full day of activities and services, including: on-site mental health counseling; social and support group meetings; mindfulness meditation; yoga or exercise sessions; catered lunches; art classes;
and monthly speakers on topics relevant to MS.
According to Commercial Property Southwest Florida “The inland region, east of I-75 and north of Alligator Alley, has been the most rapidly growing area in Collier County for more than a decade.” The new MSCC brings the Center’s services closer to people with MS in that quickly growing area of Collier County.
There are an estimated 5,000 people with MS living in Southwest Florida. To meet the increasing need, the Center has established MSCC locations in Buckingham/Alva, Cape Coral, Estero, Fort Myers, south Naples and now, North Naples.
Contact (239) 319-0904 or Judi@ centers4MS.org. Visit Centers4MS. org
AWARDS PAGE 1
Winners also took home cash prizes totaling $3,000 and received an exclusive invitation to the Edison Awards on April 3, where they will connect with global executive level innovators.
Featured speakers at the Awards event include the 2025 Edison Achievement Award honorees Jensen Huang, NVIDIA CEO, and Michael Crow, President of ASU. Established in 1987, The Edison Awards honor excellence in new product and service development, marketing, design and innovation. Its vision is guided by the legacy of Thomas Edison and his Menlo Park team that brought innovations to the market.
The 38th Annual Edison Awards come to the Caloosa Sound Convention Center in Fort Myers for the fifth consecutive year, April 2-3, 2025. To register, and for more details, go to edisonawards.com .
assembling their own pump truck to managing 250 portable toilets, Eli and Kaleb Davis have managed every business challenge that flows their way.
For over 20 years, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank has pledged to support our customers, team members and community with the same passion and dedication we’ve had since the day we opened our doors. We may have grown to eight locations, soon to be nine, throughout Lee County with 125+ employees, but we're still that small, neighborhood island bank at heart.
You can bank on it.
… deliver smart banking and lending solutions right for you and your business?
… recognize the value of establishing relationships with their customers?
… continuously support and contribute to local organizations ($5+ million donated since 2003)?
… average 1,000 volunteer hours annually?
What will Southwest Florida agriculture look like in 25 years?
By Craig Handel Guest Writer
For as much as people think tourism when talking of Florida’s economy, those who live in the southwest part of the state know the importance of agriculture.
Cattle. Citrus. Sugarcane. Vegetables. Horticulture.
The state continues to be developed. Acres that produced these commodities are being swallowed by houses, condos, communities. Gated communities.
So what does the future look like in the next 25 years for Southwest Florida?
Florida Gulf Coast University researchers Fritz Roka, Dr. Barry Goldwin and Ron Hamel sought to get a look into the future by interviewing those involved with the 24 agriculture-related businesses in the area.
Those businesses include Barron Collier Companies, BHG, Bethel, C&B Farms, Everglades Equipment Group, Everglades Harvesting Inc., Farm Credit of Florida, Farmers Alliance, First 1 Bank, Greenscapes, JB Ranch, King Ranch, I&M Family Farms, Lipman Family Farms, LSI Companies, Melon1, Scotlyn, Snygenta, Tarpon Blue, Troyer Brothers, U.S. Sugar, Valent, Wedgeworth’s and Alico Citrus.
Alico Citrus made news when it announced on Jan.
6 it will end citrus operations after the current crop is harvested. The state’s largest citrus company said about 3,460 acres of its citrus land will be managed by other operators through 2026.
John Kiernan, Alico’s president and CEO, said citrus production has declined approximately 73% over the last 10 years, despite significant investments in land, trees and citrus disease treatments. He added the impact of Hurricanes Irma in 2017, Ian in 2022 and Milton in 2024 were a dagger for trees already weakened from years of citrus greening disease.
Roka, a director and associate professor in FGCU’s Center for Agribusiness, gave a power point presentation at a Real Estate Investment Society of Southwest Florida at Pelican Preserve on Jan. 14. He called Alico, Inc.’s decision a “serious blow” to the local citrus industry, which will have a negative impact on the whole agri-business industry.
In Southwest Florida, agri-business has an economic impact of $2 billion while creating 19,000 jobs.
However, the industry has been forced to do more with less.
“More than 40% of the land 10-15 years ago was for agriculture,” Roka said. “Now it’s at 30%, 31%.”
What will it be like in 2050? Roka wouldn’t speculate
on a number but he said it’ll be less. “All the agriculture land on the urban fringe will be 100 percent gone,” he said.
Besides less land, other future challenges include:
• Cost, availability and quality of labor because of H2A visas and new technologies that may require a degree in either trade skills or a four-year degree.
• Environmental concerns because of climate variability and regulatory contracts that could impact productivity.
• Supply chain and policy issues, which include rising input costs and consumer demand for sustainable operations.
“The people we talked to didn’t want to embrace a debate on climate change but everyone accepted the climate is more variable with more intense storms,” said Roka, who did more than 50 hours of interviews with Goodwin and Hamel. “That creates a higher degree of uncertainty.
“I also was surprised how positive they were against foreign competition.”
Because of improvements in technology, consumer interest and greenhouses, Roka is optimistic in the future.
“Community engagement is very important as we go forward,” Roka said.
SBDC at FGCU announces 2025 Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards
The Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University announced the 13th Annual Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards, slated for Thursday, May 15, at the Cohen Ballroom at FGCU. This event recognizes and honors the achievements of Southwest Florida’s most innovative and resilient entrepreneurs. By honoring entrepreneurs who exemplify leadership, resilience and ingenuity, these awards help inspire the next generation of business leaders and reinforce the importance of a strong, locally driven economy. The event provides a platform to strengthen connections among industry leaders, helping to build the collaborative spirit that fuels small business success across Southwest Florida. The Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards celebrate
business excellence across three categories:
• Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year – Recognizing an outstanding business leader that provides a creative or necessary product or service, has demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in their industry and has shown a unique capacity for innovation.
• Servant Leader – Honoring an individual who has established themselves as a mentor or advocate for the SWFL small business community, has embedded community service into their company’s core values, and has played a pivotal role in maintaining a collaborative, thriving and charitable local business environment that champions small business growth.
• Emerging Business – Recognizing a business that was founded within the past three years and has
experienced success with its product or service. The award honors an entrepreneur with a unique mission and vision for their business, demonstrating resiliency and a strong capacity for leadership.
Attendees will have the opportunity to network with business leaders, local influencers, and past award winners while supporting small business development in the region.
Tickets for the 2025 Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards are now available. Seats are limited. Reserve your spot and be part of an evening celebrating Southwest Florida’s finest entrepreneurs.
Visit sbdc.fgcu.edu/events/distinguished-entrepreneur or contact the Florida SBDC at FGCU at: sbdc@ fgcu.edu.
WATCH US GROW!
Spreading sunshine with three new stores in 2025, Sunshine Ace Hardware will soon be serving customers at these convenient locations:
• Babcock Ranch: The Shoppes at Yellow Pines off S.R. 31
• Winchester Center: Immokalee Road and Orange Tree Boulevard near Golden Gate Estates
• Pelican Bay Marketplace: Along U.S. 41 in North Naples
By the end of the year, Sunshine ACE will solidify its place as one of the 10 largest Ace Hardware franchises in America – carrying the best brands and providing exceptional customer service at 18 stores!
This is only possible because of all the wonderful customers we have served since Sunshine Ace Hardware was founded in 1958.
Thank you, Southwest Florida!
ORGANIZATIONS TO WATCH
Sunshine Summit: A breakthrough for innovation and community impact in Southwest Florida
The Naples Hilton on Jan. 21 was buzzing with innovation, collaboration and energy as the Sunshine Summit brought together Southwest Florida’s brightest minds and community leaders for a day of groundbreaking discussions and actionable insights. The event proved to be a catalyst for regional change, sparking conversations and connections that will continue to shape the area’s future.
With a focus on addressing key regional challenges and fostering innovation, the Sunshine Summit delivered on its promise to inspire and empower participants from all walks of life, including industry leaders, entrepreneurs and community organizations.
Expert-led workshops
Attendees participated in over 10 dynamic sessions covering topics such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, employee engagement, and leadership. These workshops, led by professionals with extensive national and local expertise, offered practical strategies and solutions to tackle real-world challenges.
Inspiring speakers
The Summit featured keynote talks and panel discussions with local and national figures, including Arthrex’s David Worland and Collaboratory’s Dawn Belamarich. Entrepreneurs Gretchen Bauer of BSWANKY, Roberto Moreno of FC Naples, and digital business expert Harrison Ambs of Vectra Digital shared their inspiring stories and actionable strategies, moderated by Tim Cartwright of Tamiami Angel Fund.
Strong community partnerships
This year’s event was made possible through partnerships with HR Collier, Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW), BizKidz, Charity for Change, Cogent Bank, Naples Network Services, Kaykon Functional Medicine, and Writing.io, the largest AI educational platform based in Naples. The collaboration brought diverse perspectives and resources, further enriching the event.
A thriving entrepreneurial spirit
For storm recovery updates throughout the day, go to swfloridabusinesstoday.com/ storm-impact-business-bulletin/
The Sunshine Summit attracted a mix of established and new entrepreneurs, including recent transplants to the area.
Notable attendees included Veljko Pavicevic, owner of Sails Restaurant, Butcher Private, who also sponsored speaker gifts, and representatives from Writing.io and other exciting new ventures.
Interactive open space sessions
These participant-driven sessions encouraged attendees to set their own agenda, creating a space for meaningful dialogue on issues that matter most to the community. This innovative format fostered collaboration and led to actionable ideas that attendees are already working to implement.
The Sunshine Summit was more than an event—it was a movement to redefine what’s possible in Southwest Florida. Attendees left energized, armed with new connections, innovative ideas, and a renewed commitment to driving impact in their communities.
“The energy and passion at the Sunshine Summit were incredible,” said Iwona Wilson, event organizer and founder of Wilson.biz Consulting. “Seeing so many leaders, entrepreneurs, and residents come together to tackle challenges and explore opportunities is exactly what our region needs to thrive.”
The Sunshine Summit marked the beginning of an era of collaboration and innovation for Southwest Florida. Plans are already underway for the next event, which promises to build on the momentum created this year.
The Sunshine Summit was organized by Wilson.biz Consulting, a firm specializing in facilitation, training, and consulting. Led by Wilson, the firm empowers leaders to build strong teams, projects and communities through expert guidance, opportunity framing and strategic planning. Wilson.biz Consulting’s expertise ensured that the Sunshine Summit was an inspiring and impactful experience for all involved.
Go to www.wilson.biz for more information or contact Iwona Wilson at iwona@wilson.biz
COMPANIES TO WATCH
NK Enterprise Consulting provides catalyst for change
NK Enterprise Consulting, led by Dr. Nicole King-Smith, is a premier consulting firm specializing in generational leadership, workforce solutions, and organizational culture strategy.
NK Enterprise Consulting has emerged as a transformational force in leadership development, offering innovative training, consulting and executive coaching for businesses and organizations aiming to enhance workplace culture, intergenerational collaboration, and leadership effectiveness. The firm serves Southwest Florida and beyond, with a national reach through virtual and in-person engagements. NK Enterprise Consulting is currently expanding services and impact in the SWFL business community, with plans for specialized leadership retreats and corporate training programs in 2025.
With a deep commitment to workforce development, KingSmith has positioned NK Enterprise Consulting as a catalyst for change in Southwest Florida.
Through her expertise in generational leadership, she helps businesses and organizations navigate evolving workplace dynamics to build stronger, more inclusive teams.
A proud FutureMaker, KingSmith actively contributes to regional workforce initiatives by championing leadership development and generational inclusivity to prepare the next generation of professionals. She worked with ULI SWFL Women in Leadership to design and deliver a transformative three-part leadership series focused on empowering women leaders through skillbuilding, strategic visioning, and executive presence. She has also worked with CareerSource SWFL to bridge generational gaps in customer service and workforce navigation, ensuring professionals of all ages can collaborate effectively in today’s evolving job market. These are just a few of her impactful contributions. King-Smith continues to drive change through numerous partnerships, leadership programs, and initiatives that elevate businesses and professionals across Southwest Florida.
Dr. Nicole King-Smith is the CEO and founder of NK Enterprise Consulting. Contact her at nicole@nkenterpriseconsulting.com or (410)303-7120.
While many children turn to their parents for advice, the students we support often need a mentor outside their immediate family to help shape who they ultimately become, personally and professionally.
English is not the primary language for many of our student’s parents and often, it’s the students who are the first to pursue higher education, go off to college, or seek a career outside traditional agriculture. This makes having a mentor so pivotal in helping our deserving young people achieve their dreams and succeed. Immokalee Foundation mentors often become an extension of a student’s family.
Will you join our family of mentors?
Contact Yeimi Espinoza at 239.657.2461 or email Yeimi.Espinoza@ImmokaleeFoundation.org.
BY NICOLE KING-SMITH Guest Columnist
Stevens Construction completes Foxtail Coffee Co. in Cape Coral
GUEST COMMENTARY
SWFL office market expanding rapidly
Stevens Construction has completed construction of Foxtail Coffee Co., located on Liberty Park Drive in the Liberty Health Park in Cape Coral, announced Joseph Cimilluca, Stevens Construction director of special projects.
Over 85 days, the Stevens Construction special projects team provided a 1,540-square-foot build-out of a shell space into the fast-growing craft coffee brand’s first Cape Coral location. Now open Sunday through Thursday from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., the Winter Park-based cozy coffee hangout includes a coffee bar, retail space, Kelly’s Ice Cream, drive-thru and open dining area.
For the Q4 2024 office markets ranking report, the CommercialCafe blog compared the 100 largest markets based on CommercialEdge, CoworkingCafe, and Yardi Matrix data on asking rents, vacancy, construction pipeline, evolution of the coworking space scene and upcoming loan maturities.
of the coworking space segment, upcoming loan maturities, and quarterly shifts in online searches for both traditional and flexible office space.
COMPANIES TO WATCH Sunshine Ace Hardware expands by staying true to its roots
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units and retail space.
The Stevens Construction team included Project Manager Gio Cardet, Superintendent Josh Bishop and Project Administrator Ana Rodriguez. Ahkent Design is the architect of record and interior designer.
In 2018, Stevens Construction launched a special projects team serving projects under $1.5 million. The special projects team focuses on renovations, build-outs, additions, repairs and specialty projects with a team of skilled tradespeople who self-perform most scopes of work, benefiting the schedule and cost.
CRA focuses on revitalizing Fort Myers ORGANIZATIONS TO WATCH
The Community Redevelopment Agency of Fort Myers is actively revitalizing designated areas within our city, strengthening the foundation upon which the entire community thrives.
For 40 years, the CRA has strategically reinvested, transforming underutilized spaces into active hubs that benefit all of Fort Myers. This dedication makes them a “SWFL Top Organization to Watch.”
The CRA’s impact is clear. Last year, CRA officials painted 48 homes, improving living conditions for residents and boosting neighborhood value, contributing to the overall quality of life in Fort Myers. The Home Preservation Program further invested over $318,000 in 14 homes, addressing essential repairs and helping residents stay in their homes by mitigating code violations, thereby strengthening community stability. Beyond residential improvements, the CRA’s Commercial Property Improvement Program awarded 31 grants, totaling nearly $1.9 million, supporting business growth and strengthening our commercial areas, which in turn bolsters the city’s economic health.
A commitment to community is
Fischler Property Company, an authority in Southwest Florida’s commercial real estate market, announced the successful sale on Park Royal Drive in Fort Myers. The transaction, finalized on Dec. 20 for $5.9 million, represents a considerable investment return for the seller, B&K Building Partnership. Phil Fischler, founder of Fischler Property Company, said, “Our mission was to deliver the best possible outcome for our client by securing an optimal price, ensuring a smooth and timely closing, and minimizing risk for the seller.
Fischler also expressed appreciation to Maddie Sawatzky of Colliers International and the Lee Health team for their contributions to the success of this complex transaction.
Dr. Brian Harris, representing B&K Building Partnership, shared his satisfaction with the process.
“Working with FPC was like having
evident in initiatives like the White Coral Homeownership project, creating needed affordable housing. Debora Gillen’s donation for the Common Ground Pocket Park highlights the public-private partnerships fostered by the CRA, demonstrating how community support amplifies the agency’s positive influence across the city. The reimagined “Music Walk at McCollum Hall” demonstrates the CRA’s focus on cultural enrichment, bringing residents together for free events that celebrate our community and enrich the city’s cultural landscape.
The CRA understands that growth requires collaboration. Six listening sessions for the future of the Downtown, Cleveland and Dr. MLK redevelopment areas show a commitment to including community input in plans. This proactive approach ensures that redevelopment efforts reflect the needs of the people who live and work in Fort Myers, ultimately benefiting the city as a whole.
The CRA is a catalyst for positive change, working to elevate the entire city.
Contact the Fort Myers CRA at (239) 321-7100 or fmcra@fortmyers.gov
a trusted advisor by our side through every step of a challenging process,” Harris said. “Their expertise went far beyond just selling the building - they evaluated every option, from demising and subleasing to identifying a new office space. Their in-depth market analysis, financial modeling, and persistence gave us complete confidence in making the right decision for our unique circumstances. The FPC team’s professionalism, creativity, and unwavering commitment to our success made all the difference.”
The U.S. office sector continues to be transformed at the confluence of industry uncertainties; elevated interest rates and challenging inflation; paradigm shifts in occupancy; the emergence of fast-evolving technologies that seem to be reaching every aspect of our lives; and sustainability considerations as to how and where we build.
Accordingly, confidence remains cautious regarding the outlook for 2025 as both domestic and global developments can sway direction. That said, for this ranking report, we looked at how the 100 largest office markets in the country fared through the final quarter of 2024 and then compared their performances in terms of fundamentals — including asking rent, vacancy, market expansion and loan maturities — to score how each of them stepped into the new year.
In order to keep up with evolution in the industry, we capture key performance trends across the 100 largest office markets in the U.S. in a series of quarterly ranking reports that compare and score markets across several metric categories, including vacancy, pipeline, asking rates, evolution
Here are some of the key highlights: Southwest Florida Coast got the 5th highest ranking score among the country’s mid-sized markets in 2024’s fourth quarter, earning a total of 55.5 points.
• Office vacancy here reached the 2ndlowest rate in this group, compared to the previous quarter (9.8% in Q4 2024 following decrease from 10.2% in Q3 2024).
• Southwest Florida Coast scored among the 20 best entries for expansion of the office market compared to Q3, in terms of both space added in Q4 and the percent of office stock it represented.
Overall, California and the East Coast yielded six of the 10 best-scoring large office markets in Q4 2024, with Boston and San Diego in the lead. Meanwhile, more than half of the best-ranking mid-sized office markets in Q4 hailed from the Southern U.S. region, three of them from Florida alone.
You can find more information about this topic in our full study: commercialcafe.com/blog/national-office-coworkingreport.
The CommercialCafe blog is a resource for on commercial real estate industry news, reports and studies covering real estate development, the U.S. job market, architecture, urbanism, proptech, design.
The Perry Hotel Naples officially opened its doors.
Perry Hotel opens in Naples
The Perry Hotel Naples, a 160-room boutique hotel in North Naples, officially opened its doors, welcoming its first guests. This new venue comes in response to the increasing demand for upscale accommodations in Naples, a destination renowned for its pristine beaches, sophisticated shopping, luxury golf communities and vibrant cultural scene.
“We are thrilled to open The Perry Hotel Naples and welcome our first guests to experience our vision of elegance and hospitality,” said Michael Raymond, president of The Perry Hotel Naples. “Our team is dedicated to providing unparalleled service for each guest, ensuring the hotel becomes a standout destination on the Gulf Coast.”
Situated along the Cocohatchee River and designed by Casa Conde, the hotel incorporates local architecture and landscape elements, offering a modern, intimate connection to the outdoors. Concrete floors, exposed conduits and steel structural accents pay homage to its industrial roots, while anchors and natural wood textures provide a nod to the area’s nautical charm. Brass detailing, warm ambient lighting, and richly toned woods have been introduced to elevate the aesthetic, creating an environment that feels both raw and refined. These rugged elements are softened by breezy fabrics, thoughtfully curated artwork and accessories that evoke the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.
“We have long been excited about bringing this project to the Naples area, and now, as we open our doors, we couldn’t be happier to welcome the local community and guests from near and far to our new Perry-dise.” said Matthew Strunk, General Manager of The Perry Hotel Naples.
BY MICHAEL
When Don Wynn founded Sunshine Ace Hardware in 1958, he could have never imagined his mom-and-pop store would someday grow into one of Ace Hardware’s 10 largest franchises in America. Today, though, the Naplesbased company is a leader within a corporation overseeing 5,900 stores in 60 countries. Sunshine Ace Hardware has 15 hardware, paint and gift stores under its umbrella. By the end of 2025, that number will rise to 18 with the addition of three new hardware stores in Southwest Florida: The Shoppes at Yellow Pines off S.R. 31 in Babcock Ranch, The Marketplace at Pelican Bay along U.S. 41 in North Naples and Winchester Center at Immokalee Road and Orange Tree Boulevard near Golden Gate Estates.
Nationwide, many brick-and-mortar stores are contracting. Sunshine Ace Hardware, on the other hand, is expanding. The reason is simple: the company is staying true to its roots. When customers walk into any Sunshine Ace Hardware
location, they are greeted by smiling associates who, in many cases, know them by name. Customer service will always be the priority. Stores will continue offering a wide selection of products from top-selling brands at competitive prices. Homeowners, contractors and DIYers will still find whatever they need – grills, tools, hardware, plumbing, paint and supplies, lawn and garden supplies, fishing gear and gifts. If it’s not available in store, associates will order it online for delivery or pickup.
Sunshine Ace Hardware is not just a retail store; it’s your home improvement partner. Through its Helpful Hub, Sunshine Ace Hardware provides professional services such as screen repair, key cutting, color matching, delivery coordination and assembly. Its Ace Handyman Services of Southwest Florida offers licensed, experienced specialists for home maintenance projects like installing wall TVs and ceiling fans, repairing lanai screens, painting, updating cabinets, drywall and carpentry services. Businesses thrive when they put customers and employees first, and that’s what Sunshine Ace Hardware plans to do for generations to come.
Michael Wynn is President of Sunshine Ace Hardware and the grandson of founder Don Wynn. Visit SunshineAce.com.
WYNN Guest Columnist
SWFL CRE, CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT
Grant paves the way for milestone housing development in North Fort Myers
RD Management announced the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the completion of its brand-new residential development, The Alary at Merchants Crossing in North Fort Myers. The event was held Jan. 31 at the Alary on Stockton Street in North Fort Myers.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony marks a significant milestone in the redevelopment of the area, bringing new residential and commercial opportunities to the North Fort Myers community. The Alary will feature 283 residential units consisting of studio, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom homes across four buildings. Amenities include a private clubhouse, a resort style pool, a putting green, work-from-home pods, a business center, a state-of-the art fitness center and a dog park.
As a keystone project, this development was awarded grant funding through Lee County’s North Fort Myers Revitalization program to help support RD Management’s vision for the former Merchants Crossing Plaza. Incentive grant funding was used in the form of a reimbursement for the demolition work, new façades and enhanced infrastructure at the site in support of the
redevelopment project. RPM Living has been named as property manager for the development.
Developer Richard Birdoff said, “We are proud to announce the official ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of the Alary at Merchants Crossing. The Alary will complete the transformation of the Merchants Crossing Shopping Center into a true mixed-use campus that will benefit both the residents of the Alary and the entire North Fort Myers community. We want to especially thank Commission Hamman, the entire Board of County Commissioners and the Economic Development Council for all their efforts in seeing this project come to fruition.”
“This redevelopment will not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also attract new businesses and visitors to the area” said Commissioner Brian Hamman, whose district includes the area. “I’m excited by what RD Management has built, and the Board’s revitalization program has been a critical step to economic recovery in this area. This shows the process works.”
Cape Coral celebrates first attainable workforce housing development
Community leaders, stakeholders and dignitaries celebrated the ribbon-cutting for Civitas of Cape Coral, the city’s first attainable workforce housing development. Spearheaded by ReVital Development Group, in collaboration with the Lee County Housing Authority and Birdsong Housing Partners, the project addresses the region’s growing need for affordable housing for its hardworking families.
The 96-unit mixed-income development stands as a testament to public-private partnerships, receiving funding assistance from the City of Cape Coral, Lee County, Raymond James Affordable Housing Investment, Citi Community Capital and Florida Housing Finance Corporation program.
“This development underscores our commitment to ensuring that Cape Coral’s workforce has access to attainable housing,” said Michael Allan, president at ReVital Development Group. “CIVITAS represents a new chapter for the community, one where collaboration and shared vision meet the urgent need for housing that empowers families and strengthens the economy”.
Adam Hurwitz, originating banker for Citi Community Capital, expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “We are excited to see this project come to fruition. The 96 mixed-income apartments will help meet a critical need in the Cape Coral community, and we are proud to be the permanent lender for the project.”
Civitas addresses immediate housing challenges and sets the foundation for long-term growth and sustainability. By blending public funding with private investment, the development demonstrates the impact of unified efforts to create vibrant and inclusive communities. The apartments are thoughtfully designed to provide both affordability and comfort, ensuring residents can thrive in a stable environment.
RD Management announced the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the completion of its brand-new residential development, The Alary at Merchants Crossing in North Fort Myers.
ORGANIZATIONS TO WATCH
Immokalee Foundation building lab to serve future workforce
The Immokalee Foundation is building more than Southwest Florida’s future workforce.
When we opened our doors in 1991, we could not anticipate The Immokalee Foundation’s potential impact on Southwest Florida businesses.
Yet, despite our many years of educational support, Immokalee’s families still suffer intergenerational poverty and very low educational attainment. Immokalee’s per capita income is $17,927, ranking it 477th out of 485 communities in Florida.
Today, The Immokalee Foundation’s nationally recognized Career Pathways program provides Immokalee’s best and brightest with new pathways to success in Business Management & Entrepreneurship, Education & Human Services, Engineering & Construction Management and Healthcare.
After completing a career exploration phase in middle school, the students we support choose a pathway to follow during high school. Defined by hands-on experiences, innovative projects and the fusion of math and imagination, the Engineering & Construction Management Pathway is the go-to curriculum for young people interested in construction, engineering, architecture, or other STEM-related careers.
In addition to the Pathway’s robust after-school programming and our educational summer camp at Immokalee Technical College, we offer a weeklong summer camp experience at Florida Gulf Coast
BY NOEMI Y. PEREZ Guest Columnist
University to enhance students’ practical knowledge and engagement.
Participants also earn essential industry certifications, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10-hour Training Certificate (OSHA10), which provides the Federal regulatory safety training needed before working at a construction site, and the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Core Certificate, pre-requisite training required for all other construction skill training.
Then there’s the Immokalee-based Learning Lab.
Partnering with Immokalee Technical College (iTECH), BCB Homes, and Collier Enterprises, The Immokalee Foundation is building an 18-home subdivision, providing a local, hands-on professional career experience.
Now in its 5th year, the Immokalee-based Learning Lab enables students aged 16 and older to refine skills needed for residential construction, including concrete finishing, carpentry, masonry, roofing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Students experience all aspects of home construction, including the supervisory skills needed to complete the job safely,
COMPANIES
TO WATCH
as planned, and on time.
“The biggest surprise has been the incredible level of enthusiasm and talent from the students,” said Greg Brisson, President of BCB Homes and Learning Lab General Contractor. “We knew we were working with a dedicated organization, but seeing the students’ commitment and eagerness to learn has been inspiring. The level of curiosity and the quality of work they’ve demonstrated has exceeded our expectations, and it’s clear to us that this program is making a meaningful difference in their lives.”
The Learning Lab is made possible by generous donations from Foundation partners and numerous subcontractors and suppliers who provide their services on a pro bono or reduced-fee basis.
“The partnership with The Immokalee Foundation has introduced us to a new pipeline of young talent. The students we’ve worked with have brought fresh perspectives and new ideas, and some have even gone on to join our team,” Brisson explained.
“This relationship has been mutually beneficial, as it allows us to give back to the community while also investing in the development of the next generation of skilled tradespeople.”
Noemi Y. Perez is president and CEO of The Immokalee Foundation. Contact (239) 430-9122 or visit immokaleefoundation.org.
California Closets Southwest Florida expands local manufacturing services
The saying “home is where the heart is” is especially meaningful for our team of designers at California Closets Southwest Florida who have worked alongside thousands of local families to brainstorm, design and create the home of their dreams with beautiful and functional custom designed spaces. In our 37 years based in Southwest Florida, we have met families of all sizes and lifestyles, made visions and ideas a reality, and expanded our organization to better serve our customers in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties.
Established with a Naples showroom in 1988, our family-run territory has since grown to three showrooms across Naples and Fort Myers as well as through the establishment of manufacturing operations to meet the evolving product needs of our designers and clients. This spring, we are doubling our in-house manufacturing footprint with a 40,000-square-foot, state-ofthe-art manufacturing facility in Estero to further our
BY TAYLOR WOODS Guest Columnist
ability to locally produce nearly all of the company’s materials inhouse. This strategic expansion allows our team to work efficiently and quickly for the benefit of our clients. It also allows our team to challenge themselves and test new ideas for unique aesthetic visions and design concepts of all shapes and sizes.
The Southwest Florida franchise has grown to employ 84 people and ranks in the top 15 corporate franchises for revenue among nearly 150 showrooms throughout North and South America. Additionally, we were named Franchise of the Year for three consecutive years. High-quality products are showcased in some of the region’s most notable communities,
ORGANIZATIONS TO WATCH
Grace Place receives $100,100 donation to support food pantry
Grace Place for Children and Families announced a $100,100 donation from J.P. and Beth Davis, a gift that will have a profound impact on the organization’s food pantry and the hundreds of families it serves each week. With food insecurity affecting many families in Golden Gate, the Grace Place Food Pantry is a vital resource, ensuring that children and their families have access to nutritious food. When families have reliable access to food, children can focus on learning and growth without the burden of hunger, reinforcing the connection between nourishment and education. The generosity of the Davis family will directly support this effort, provid-
ing stability and opportunity for families working toward a stronger future.
“We are deeply grateful to J.P. and Beth Davis for their incredible kindness,” said Lara Fisher, CEO of Grace Place. “Their generosity will make a lasting difference for so many families, helping us continue to provide nourishment and stability to our community.”
Grace Place remains committed to empowering families through education, and this remarkable donation strengthens that mission. Thanks to the Davis family’s support, Grace Place can continue meeting the growing needs of the community. Visit graceplacenaples.org.
high-rises, offices, medical buildings and schools.
This year, we are excited to introduce special events like Shop and Sip and educational seminars at our showrooms. Later this year, we also plan to expand our portfolio of showrooms to include a location in Charlotte County, which will allow us to be more accessible for all our customers, and showcase the high-quality systems, unique finishes and accessories we offer.
As our team and services grow across Southwest Florida, we are honored to help our region’s businesses and families discover innovative custom closet design and home storage solutions that fit their unique needs.
Taylor Woods is partner and director of operations for California Closets Southwest Florida. Contact her at twoods@calclosets.com or (888) 991-1586. Visit CaliforniaClosets.com/Locations/Southwest-Florida.
Congress Jewelers returns to Sanibel Island, opens new showroom COMPANIES TO WATCH
After more than two years at the Bell Tower in Fort Myers, Congress Jewelers is returning to its original roots on Sanibel Island while continuing to retain showrooms in both locations. To celebrate the grand re-opening, the Sanibel-Captiva Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting event, with guests eager to witness the opening of another Sanibel business closed since Hurricane Ian.
Founded on Sanibel Island in 1984 by Larry and Dee Congress and one of Sanibel’s longest operating businesses, the high-end retail jeweler had been on Sanibel 38 years when Hurricane Ian damaged the Periwinkle Way store in 2022.
“The damage we experienced from the hurricane made rebuilding our Sanibel store far too challenging at that time,” said Scot Congress, president of Congress Jewelers, “but we had always planned to return to our beloved island. With help from our amazing staff, we were able to reopen in the Bell Tower just 64 days after the storm. Several other Sanibel stores joined us. We are now beginning another chapter in our long history of serving loyal customers from near and far.”
Added Melissa Congress, “As we return to Sanibel, we are looking to the future and excited about continuing our tradition of providing consistent quality, value, craftsmanship and service to our customers. Our new store enjoys the same footprint
and basic size with the new curved cabinets designed in a manner that conveys a flowing motion, reflecting the beaches and waters that surround us on Sanibel.”
Scot – who is a third-generation jeweler – and Melissa will continue to guide their retail operation. They remain Sanibel residents, where they have raised their four children. The family tradition of working with the highly respected jewelry retailer continues with the addition of daughter Whit-
ney Congress, a trained gemologist and son-in-law Cameron Samuel.
Knowing their clients would want to play a role in the Sanibel rebuild, Scot and Melissa had their jewelry designers create Sanibel Strong pendants in silver and gold, with a portion of the proceeds from this collection to be shared with the nonprofits FISH of San Cap and the Sanibel-Captiva Recovery Fund. Pendants can be ordered online at CongressJewelers.com.
In addition to their exclusive designer jewelry pieces, Congress Jewelers offers its trademark SeaLife by Congress, featuring creations inspired by the beauty of the Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Each piece in the Collection is entirely designed and handcrafted by the company’s in-house artisans, reflecting memories from their island vacations.
Scot credits his enduring success to the pride he takes in producing high quality jewelry along with highly personalized service. His father, Larry Congress, was a jeweler in Peoria, Ill. before the family relocated to Southwest Florida in 1981. He and Scot ran a bike and boat rental business for a time, but it quickly became evident that Sanibel Island needed a quality jeweler. The Congress family has continued to fulfill that need for decades.
For additional information, call (239) 472-4177.
(239) 201-0559
Congress Jewelers is returning to its original roots on Sanibel Island.
COMPANIES TO WATCH ORGANIZATIONS TO WATCH
Plumbing experts at David Miller Plumbing help repipe properties to improve efficiency and preserve long-term value for owners.
Repiping adds to the life of business buildings
In any residential or commercial property, the plumbing system is vital to daily operations and overall comfort. Pipes, like any other infrastructure component, deteriorate over time due to wear, corrosion and other environmental factors. When aging pipes begin to affect water quality, pressure, or safety, repiping—replacing old pipes with new ones—becomes a wise investment. Below are key reasons why repiping holds substantial value for both residential and commercial properties.
Improved water quality
One of the most immediate benefits of repiping is enhanced water quality. Old pipes, particularly galvanized steel or lead pipes, may corrode over time, leaching harmful substances or rust into the water supply. This can lead to discolored water and potential health hazards. By upgrading to modern, safe materials like copper or PEX piping, homeowners and business operators can ensure cleaner, healthier water.
Increased property value
Repiping can significantly boost the resale value of a property. Buyers are more likely to be attracted to homes and commercial spaces with updated plumbing systems, knowing that they won’t face costly repairs or health concerns in the near future. Highlighting a recent re-pipe project during the sale process can serve as a valuable selling point.
Enhanced water pressure
Leaky or corroded pipes often cause a noticeable drop in water pressure. This can affect everything from household tasks such as showering and washing dishes to business opera-
tions in restaurants or manufacturing facilities. A repiping project eliminates these issues, restoring optimal water flow and improving overall efficiency.
Reduced risk of plumbing failures
Aging pipes are prone to leaks, bursts and other failures that can result in extensive property damage and costly repairs. By proactively repiping, property owners can avoid emergencies that disrupt daily life or operations and lead to expensive water damage remediation.
Lower insurance premiums and lack of coverage
Some insurance companies may offer discounts for homes with new or updated plumbing systems because newer pipes reduce the likelihood of leaks, water damage and mold issues. Some insurance may refuse coverage due to old, corroded pipes.
Long-term cost savings
While repiping may seem like a significant upfront investment, it often leads to long-term financial savings. Newer pipes are more durable and less prone to leaks and blockages, reducing maintenance and repair costs. Additionally, efficient plumbing systems can help lower water bills over time.
Compliance with modern standards
For commercial properties, especially those in regulated industries, maintaining up-to-date plumbing systems is essential for code compliance. Health and safety regulations may require modern piping materials and configurations. Repiping ensures compliance, reducing the risk of fines or operational shutdowns.
PIPING See page 14
Society protects piece of Naples history
BY NANCY DAGHER Guest Columnist
Naples Historical Society, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, serves the community by maintaining Historic Palm Cottage (HPC). The cottage, the oldest building in Naples, was built in 1895 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Protected into perpetuity, it is flanked to the west by the Norris Gardens. And new in 2025, the Society expanded to the east of HPC and converted the inside of a 1950s home into a fun place to interact with history, Smith Exhibit Hall.
The mission of Naples Historical Society is to preserve Naples’ history and heritage for the community and future generations to enjoy. We believe in the three Ps: Persevere, Protect, and Preserve. We are diligent to persevere no matter the challenges that present themselves, whether they be weather or mechanical. We are committed to protecting our two
museums by researching and investing in ways to ward off future storms. And finally, we have demonstrated the effort to preserve buildings that expand our historic block.
One of these buildings is now the Smith Exhibit Hall. It is named after Mary and Stephen Byron Smith and their generous gift matched by many donors who believe in preserving Naples’ history for generations to come.
This interactive historical museum invites visitors to engage with a sensory multimedia mix increasing interest to proactively participate in displays and listen to oral histories.
I encourage you to experience history by taking a walking tour, visiting the Norris Garden, touring Historic Palm Cottage and interacting in Smith Exhibit Hall. The fun continues when you participate in Croquet & Chardonnay, attend the Christmas Gala or other events. Most importantly, I invite you to meet with me soon to share your passion for history.
Nancy Dagher is the Executive Director of the Naples Historical Society. Contact (239) 261-8164 or visit NaplesHistoricalSociety.org.
COMPANIES TO WATCH
Family brings fitness passion to Bonita Springs business
Sergio and Shauna Aguilar’s journey to opening Alloy Personal Training is a story of passion, family, and a love for fitness. After years of corporate travel and balancing a busy life with two young daughters, the Aguilars decided to build a business rooted in their shared commitment to health and community.
“Alloy Personal Training spoke to everything we believe in—fitness, integrity, and building connections,” explains Shauna, who recently closed her 20-year career as a hairstylist to co-found the gym.
The gym’s mission is simple:
empower adults 45 and older to feel strong, capable and confident through personalized strength training and community support.
With experienced trainers Christian O’Rourke and Liz Northey leading the sessions, members will have access to top-tier coaching and tailored fitness plans.
The Aguilars look forward to becoming an integral part of the Bonita Springs community, offering events, pop-up workouts, and collaborations with local partners like Nuesana Health. Visit alloypersonaltraining. com/location/bonita-springs-fl.
Big Brothers, Big Sisters of the Sun Coast provides mentoring services to local youth at no cost to families.
Big Brothers Big Sisters empowers youths for tomorrow
With its unwavering commitment to empowering youth through one-to-one mentoring, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has become a pivotal player in the lives of countless children in our community. Here’s why it’s time to pay close attention to this impactful organization.
At its core, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast is dedicated to matching mentors with youth in need of guidance and support. This transformative relationship, fostered through consistent interaction, is essential for a child’s development. The organization’s mission is straightforward but powerful: to create and support one-toone mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.
We have long provided a mission of filling a gap for at-risk youth, through services, support, and guidance they do not receive in school or at home. We provide youth with screened, trained,
PIPING PAGE 13
Environmental benefits
Modern piping materials, such as PEX and CPVC, are designed for energy efficiency and water conservation. Reducing leaks and improving flow efficiency can help conserve water resources, making repiping an environmentally responsible choice.
Whether for a residence or business, re-piping is a proactive investment that yields numerous benefits,
and compatibly matched volunteer adult mentors who help them to remain in school and make academic progress, avoid risky behaviors, and transition to a self-sufficient adulthood. We continually monitor and support the progress of each youth served through the Oneto-One Mentoring Program. All program services are available at no cost to youth, their families, and mentors.
Among the at-risk youth served: 98% achieve timely grade-level promotion or high school graduation; and 100% of graduated seniors continue their education, join the military, or successfully enter the workforce.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast stands out as a beacon of hope for youth facing extraordinary life challenges. For those interested in investing in their future, supporting this organization ensures that mentorship remains a transformative force in the lives of children in our community.
from improved water quality and property value to long-term cost savings and regulatory compliance. Property owners facing frequent plumbing issues or signs of pipe corrosion should consider consulting with a professional plumber to assess the need for re-piping. Taking this step now can prevent future headaches and ensure a safer, more efficient plumbing system.
Contact David Miller Plumbing at (239) 543-9539 or visit davidmillerplumbing.com.
Sergio and Shauna Aguilar opened Alloy Personal Training to empower those age 45 and older to stay in shape.
Shaping the future of Lee County through construction, development
Lee County is experiencing construction and development enhancements as the region continues to grow. Over the past decade, Lee County has seen significant business investments that have fueled the rise of new and innovative industries, creating a promising outlook for market expansion and diversification.
This continuous growth not only strengthens the county’s economic resilience but also establishes it as a prime destination for new business ventures, ensuring sustained economic progress for the future. The Lee Board Commissioners continue to enhance the community’s roadway infrastructure and foster a robust business environment, while remaining committed to water quality and conservation lands as the county population approaches 1 million.
One of the most impactful areas of development in Lee County is its transportation infrastructure efforts. Lee County Department of Transportation is investing in major road expansions and enhancements such as the Three Oaks Extension and Corkscrew Road widening project. These projects are aimed at improvements to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance road safety. These projects not only improve daily commutes and add safety, but also boost economic development by attracting new businesses and
BY JOHN TALMAGE Guest Columnist
residents. As Lee County continues to evolve, these investments in infrastructure will play a vital role in maintaining a high quality of life and creating a more connected and efficient community.
In 2024, Lee County had a 3.5% increase in new business openings, which equates to 3,252 new registered businesses. Since 2019, jobs have increased by 12%. Overall, Lee County has a high prime labor participation rate of 59%. There are 90,000 jobs currently under development or in the pipeline for creation. The growth in Lee County’s manufacturing and construction/development industry has played a key role in boosting these job opportunities. As new infrastructure projects, residential developments, and commercial expansions continue throughout the county, the more demand there will be for skilled labor and professional services, which will benefit the local workforce and economy.
Lee County will need 200,000 workers within the next three to five years. Leading businesses in the
COMPANIES TO WATCH
manufacturing and construction/development industries such as Advanced Hurricane Technology, Addman, Golden Boat Lifts, MY Shower Door, Storm Smart, B&I and more are committed to the county’s workforce development initiatives and ready to hire skilled individuals in the technical field.
Lee County stands at the threshold of a dynamic future, driven by strategic developments and a thriving job market. With continued investments in infrastructure, business growth and workforce training, the county is well-positioned to meet the demands of its expanding population. The collaboration between local government, businesses and the community is essential in sustaining this momentum. By embracing innovation and long-term planning, Lee County is not only preparing for growth but actively shaping a prosperous and resilient future for generations to come.
John Talmage, Lee County Economic Development Office director, has more than 20 years’ experience in city government and Economic Development. Nationally recognized as a leader in innovative practices, he has served on many national boards and committees. Contact (239) 533-6800 or jtalmage@leegov.com.
Day Adjusting expands beyond Florida on its fast track to success
By Sue Huff Guest Writer
Since founding his company in 2018, Blake Day exceeded his goals and expectations for growth. What began with licenses to do business in Indiana, Tennessee and Florida has now expanded to 12 additional states including Kentucky, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Mississippi, Colorado, Iowa, Ohio, Minnesota, Missouri, Texas and Virginia with
more states coming in the near future.
After working for many years as an Independent Adjuster for various insurance companies, Day saw an overwhelming need to represent and stand up for business owners and homeowners who were often underpaid by their insurance companies for claims against their policies.
“We fight insurance companies on the client’s behalf,” Day said. “Enduring a disaster, such as a fire, hurricane or
flood, and needing to file an insurance claim can be stressful and time-consuming. Our team works to relieve the anxiety for our clients, and to shorten the time it takes to receive compensation for damages.”
Day’s highly skilled and experienced team is positioned to help property owners with their insurance claims whatever the circumstances locally and nationally.
Supporting clients and giving back
to the community is at the heart of everything they do, and to reinforce their commitment to their philosophy, they actively support various nonprofits including Veterans organizations, domestic violence prevention programs, mental health initiatives, children’s charities, and disaster relief efforts. Day Adjusting and Consulting is a company to watch and admire in 2025 and beyond.
Contact (855) 729-0838 or visit DayAdjusting.com.
A TRADITION OF BETTER BANKING.
Like Thomas Edison, we believe there is always “a better way.” When it comes to the future of banking, we believe the winning approach means serving as a trusted financial partner and helping customers navigate the opportunities that lie ahead with better personal and business banking solutions.
With 28 years in business, Edison National Bank/ Bank of the Islands is standing strong with money to lend – and committed to empowering our community and business leaders to reach their goals with innovative, safe solutions for the modern user.
Sanibel Office
Captiva Office
River District Office
Cleveland Avenue Office
Robbie Roepstorff, President and Geoffrey Roepstorff, CEO
Our Founders