May 2016 Southwest Florida Business Today

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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S BUSINESS VOICE • 239-573-9732 Vol. 9 No. 7 / MAY 2016 www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com

Distributed in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Estero, Bonita Springs and Naples

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IN THE NEWS

New laws will enhance workforce systems

Gov. Rick Scott has signed into law Senate Bill 7040, which aligns Florida’s nationally recognized workforce system with the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014. WIOA provides key guidance and updates to the workforce system in every state, with a focus on delivering customerdriven workforce solutions and enhanced customer service through an integrated job-driven network.

“Connecting our talented workforce with career opportunities, building prosperity and ensuring Florida remains a national leader in workforce development is at the heart of everything we do,” said CareerSource Florida President and CEO Chris Hart IV. “We applaud the governor, Florida Legislature and our partners for their focus throughout this process of continuous improvement and exemplary customer service.”

LAWS See page 6

Collier’s Reserve names team for enhancements The board of directors at Collier’s Reserve Country Club has assembled the architectural, interior design and construction team for the $13.8 million club enhancement plan at the intimate North Naples country club.

Collectively, the team has more than 100 years of experience in Naples and Southwest Florida, and represents the best firms specializing in clubhouse and country club communities.

The plan, which was overwhelmingly approved by Collier’s Reserve members in 2015, will be realized by DeAngelis Diamond Construction, four-time recipient of the Builder of the Year award by the Collier and Lee Building Industry Associations; Humphrey Rosal Architects; and Noller Design Group. Jeff Nunner, PLAN See page 7

Above Board Chamber hosts workforce summit Jeanne Sweeney, founder and president of the Above Board Chamber of Florida, in cooperation with Title Sponsor Southwest Florida International Airport, is pleased to present the Southwest Florida Workforce Summit on May 12 at Harborside Event Center, 1375 Monroe St., Fort Myers. The event will feature an open job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for those seeking quality employment opportunities, and a panel discussion and luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for business owners, professionals, human resource managers and investors.

SUMMIT See page 8

Leadership NEXT presented its latest program about tourism in Southwest Florida.

Photography by Jim Jett

Leadership NEXT talks tourism Leadership NEXT, a professional organization for advancing business leaders in Southwest Florida sponsored by the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, recently hosted its monthly program at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers. The tourism-focused program began at the Lecture Hall in the South Florida Water Management in Fort Myers with a panel discussion followed by a tour of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.

Featured panelists included Chris Pendleton of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Eric Graff of Southwest Florida Attractions Association/Southwest Florida Distributing, and Pamela Johnson of the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau. Guests learned about the impact tourism has on Lee County, how Southwest Florida is being promoted to visitors, and about area attractions and the steps they are taking to help drive tourism to our area.

Leadership NEXT is a group of advancing professionals representing a variety of businesses and industries throughout Southwest Florida actively pursuing opportunities to develop new knowledge and skills, establish working rela-

A question and answer session followed the panel discussion before guests toured the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. tionships with colleagues, and engage in valuable programs and discussions to further enhance their careers. Programs take place on the second Tuesday of every month from 4 to 6 p.m.

MacFarlane Group unveils website for Campo Felice

The MacFarlane Group LLC has launched a new website at CampoSeniorLiving.com for Campo Felice, a new community of 323 independent living residences for the 55-plus market coming to 2500 Edwards Drive in downtown Fort Myers.

Doing business as Campo Felice Retirement Living, The MacFarlane Group is the sole owner of Campo Felice Senior Living. Company principal Robert MacFarlane, established and actively involved in residential and The MacFarlane Group has launched a website at CampoSeniorLiving.com commercial real estate since the early for Campo Felice in downtown Fort Myers.

1970s, has been recognized and cred• Features – A video shows the to menu samples, a 49-seat movie theited for his contribution in jumpstart- building’s unique exterior and location ater, resort-inspired pool and cabana ing the revitalization of downtown on the banks of the Caloosahatchee area, and more.

Fort Myers and building the first three River. A gallery of renderings shows • Floor Plans – Eight floor plans high-rises in Fort Myers in over two the exquisite design of common areas, ranging from 556 square feet to 933 decades. as well as the interior of a typical resi- square feet of living space offer selecThe clean, easy-to-read site with dence. tions to view the layout of one- and type fonts in three sizes begins with • Amenities – View the numerous two-bedroom residences. Each floor the navigable top menu allowing read- retirement-living community ameni- plan includes granite countertops, WEBSITE See page 3 ers to view information about: ties, from restaurant and dining rooms,

Page 2

Bruno Air receives regional award

Bruno Air Conditioning (BrunoAir.com) recently received the SOAR Award from Trane at the South Region Dealer Council Meeting in Fort Lauderdale.

This award is given annually to a recipient in recognition for being the leader for positive growth in sales and installations.

The prestigious award is given to only one company that stands out in the South Region of the United States, which consists of Florida, Georgia, Arkansas and Louisiana.

The award was presented to Louis Bruno, founder and owner of Bruno Air Conditioning, by Mauricio Patino, Trane sales director, and John Weber, Trane sales leader. Bruno Air was also named in Trane’s Top 10 for its exceptional growth in new dealer development.

Trane – a global company in existence since 1931 – offers a broad range of energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; dehumidifying and air cleaning products; service and parts support; advanced building controls and financing solutions.

Bruno Air Conditioning offers services in HVAC, plumbing and electrical for residential and commercial units in the Southwest Florida, Tampa and Orlando area.

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MAY 2016

Technology Partnership announces winners The Southwest Florida Regional Technology Partnership (RTP) recently announced its 2016 award winners at its Eighth Annual Awards Dinner.

The RTP was originally chartered in 2008 by and is a member of Lee County’s Horizon Council. It is the only group dedicated solely to the growth of the technology cluster in Southwest Florida. The RTP is comprised of technology companies and technology users, economic development groups and higher education institutions. Its mission is to “Catalyze, Cultivate and Connect,” which it achieves by producing educational seminars, forums and networking events. Information about the RTP is available at www.swfrtp.org.

The event was emceed by longtime supporter of the RTP, Mike Jackson, and Carl Stringer, Vice President, Information Technology and Employee Benefits for United States Sugar Corporation, served as the Keynote Speaker.

The winners were as follows for the following categories.

The Transformation Award, which is given to the business that has achieved success through implementation of IT to overcome a challenge, is Amerispec SWFL. The winner of the Innovention Award, which honors the company that has invented or demonstrated an innovative and creative technology solution, is REfindly.

The Woman in Technology Award was given to Tracey Lanham with Hodges University in recognition for her contributions made in technology through professional expertise and

Photography by Michael Shapiro Above: In a special presentation, RTP founding member Randy Mitchelson gives founder Kevin Barnhill the organization’s original banner signed by members. Below left: Dr. Al Ball, Hodges University, receives the 2016 Partnership Award for his exceptional support of the RTP organization. Below right: RTP President Marc Farron, left, gives the 2016 Transformation Award to the Amerispec SWFL team.

leadership.

The Partnership Award, which recognizes someone who has truly forwarded the mission of the organization, was given to Dr. Al Ball of Hodges University.

Special recognition was given to Kevin Barnhill, who founded RTP in

2008. Barnhill modestly stated, “The group came about due to the efforts of several people in the area.” He added, “I am proud to have been a part of its inception, especially at a time when a regional focus on technology was becoming more important and necessary.”

MAY 2016

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Page 3

Rick Severance named president for Babcock Ranch

Kitson & Partners has tapped veteran town builder Rick Severance to lead development of the company’s signature Babcock Ranch development project.

Syd Kitson, chairman and founding partner of Kitson & Partners, said Severance’s knowledge and experience in place-making and green building make him uniquely qualified to serve as president of Babcock Ranch.

“Rick has an outstanding track record that encompasses residential, commercial and resort projects that are livable, engaging and uniquely suited to their environment,” Kitson explained. “Most importantly, he shares our commitment and passion for making Babcock Ranch a leading example for responsible, sustainable growth.”

Designed to accommodate 19,500 residences, an engaging downtown, numerous green spaces, lakes and nature trails, Babcock Ranch will ultimately be home to approximately 50,000 residents. Kitson & Partners broke ground on the highly anticipated new town of Babcock Ranch in November. Severance joined the Fort Myers-based team on April 4, and settled in to his new role just in time for formal launch of Phase One of the new town on April 22.

“I have been keeping an eye Babcock Ranch since the plans for creating a truly sustainable, environmentally friendly new town were first announced nearly a decade ago,” Severance said, “and I am excited by the opportunity to help make it a reality. I

feel fortunate to be coming on at the crest of the wave to lead a great team with true integrity.”

A recognized leader in responsible development, Severance most recently served as senior VP of Planning, Development and Operations for the St. Joe Company based in Watersound. He previously served as the CEO for New Vector Ltd., a consulting firm based in New York. Exceptionally regarded in the industry, the firm’s strategic solutions delivered measurable results for numerous new urban and masterplanned resort communities and commercial town centers. During his tenure with New Vector, Severance was also engaged as COO of Dart Realty Cayman Ltd., the developer of Camana Bay, and as president of Sandestin

Investments, which owned and operated a 2,500-acre master planned resort community in the Florida panhandle.

Severance’s consulting career was preceded by his position as CEO of the Seaside Community Development Co., responsible for the direction and development of Seaside, the awardwinning town named Time magazine’s “Development of the Decade.” Under his leadership, Seaside made impressive gains, winning the Urban Land Institute’s highest award.

“Babcock Ranch is a place that reflects a decidedly different approach to town making,” Kitson said. “Rick brings a wealth of experience to our effort to create real community where residents share a basic hometown pride and desire to participate and belong.”

Managers receive leadership training through Hodges U program With a focus on results, Hodges University’s Multicultural Leadership Program the program is designed to provide middle managers from varying cultures with the necessary tools to reach their potential for greater leadership roles.

Sponsored by the Hodges University’s Hispanic Institute, the eight-week program is scheduled from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays from May 12 through June 30 on the Naples campus.

“The program’s emphasis is on self-awareness, confidence building, cultural competency, commu-

www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com PUBLISHER Karen P. Moore PRINT EDITOR Bob Massey SOCIAL MEDIA Angelica Torres WEB DESIGNER & EDITOR Michelle L. Hudson

P.O. Box 152299 Cape Coral, FL 33915-2299 News: 239-573-9731 All other: 239-573-9732 News email: editor@swfbiztoday.com All other information requests: publisher@ swfloridabusinesstoday.com The contents of Southwest Florida Business Today are copyright 2013 by Southwest Florida Newspapers, Inc. No portion may be reproduced without the express written consent of Southwest Florida Newspapers, Inc. The publication of any advertisement or article does not necessarily reflect the view of the publisher of Southwest Florida Business Today. For more information about any article or column appearing in Southwest Florida Business Today, for advertising rates or subscription information please call 239-573-9732 or email: publisher@ swfloridabusinesstoday.com

Southwest Florida Business Today is to provide the best business-to-business marketplace where business executives operating in Southwest Florida buy and sell goods and services via the exchange of news, advertising and information.

pants will hear from guest speakers, collaborate on weekly assignments, as well as participate in a case study, which will require research and application.

By applying what they know, participants will design solutions to a problem based on a topic they select, ultimately improving team building and skill development.

The cost to participate in the program is $600.

For additional information, contact Adriana Buitrago at abuitrago@hodges.edu or call (239) 598-6235.

Watch for tricky arbritration clause in contracts Part 2 of 2

Another provision found in many modern contracts is the arbitration clause. Arbitration is a method of alternative dispute resolution that’s similar to court, but not as formal, and usually is not as costly or demanding. An arbitration clause in a contract allows either party to request arbitration to resolve a dispute rather than resort to a lawsuit in state or federal court.

You may not think that’s a big deal – after all, if you do have to be involved in a legal action, you’d want it to be as cheap and easy as possible, right? Well, maybe.

Strategically, larger organizations (especially those with a propensity for screwing things up) like arbitration because it’s confidential. In court, if the judge issues a bad decision against them, it’s published for all to see, and sets a precedent that may be used against them continually in the future. If an arbitration results in a bad ruling against them, it’s not nearly as damaging in terms of the big picture.

This gives those big companies much less incentive to negotiate settlement of a contractual dispute. For that reason, they love forcing the little guy into arbitration. However, many arbitration clauses provide an “out” by allowing the parties to reject the arbitration clause in writing within a certain number of days

BY JOSEPH C. LOTEMPIO Guest Columnist

...is what keeps you and your business keeps you and your ahead of ...is thewhat game. business ahead of the game.

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without affecting any other portion of the contract. But few people realize this until they’re compelled into arbitration and they’re looking for a way out of it – only to see that it would have been very easy to accomplish had they simply read the contract they signed!

Although it may seem abnormal, inconvenient or just plain futile, you should never enter into any legal contract before thoroughly reviewing all of those pesky “terms and conditions.”

This applies equally whether you’re just trying to update the operating system on your phone or entering into a revolving credit line for your company.

Reading now can avoid problems later.

Joseph C. LoTempio, Esq. is a consumer litigation attorney with the Dellutri Law Group, P.A. LoTempio focuses his practice on protecting individual consumers from illegal debt collection activities taken by debt collectors and other creditors. Contact him at jlotempio@dellutrilawgroup.com or (239)939-0900.

Anticipating what’s next...

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nication and conflict resolution,” said Adriana Buitrago, director of the Hispanic Institute at Hodges.

The curriculum provides participants with “broad-based leadership perspectives.” Key benefits of the program include a better understanding of personality and work style, relationship building, effective leadership and communication in a multicultural environment, conflict resolution and change management, and collaboration with groups, multicultural peers and businesses.

Throughout the course of the program, partici-

Aug 12

Call to reserve your advertising spot today: (239) 770-7527

Call to reserve your advertising spot today: (239) 770-7527

WEBSITE PAGE 1 stainless-steel appliances, wood floors and floor-to-ceiling windows.

• Views – Website visitors can experience river views and city views, floor by floor, from the northeast side to the northwest side of the 24-story tower.

Residences are available from $1,900 per month.

• About – Learn about The MacFarlane Group and the community’s professional management team Validus Senior Living.

• Location – View the community’s location on a map, get contact information and see a brief gallery of downtown Fort Myers River District lifestyle.

The $60 million renovation and construction of the existing residential building located on more than four acres is expected to be complete in early 2017.

Page 4

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MAY 2016

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Enter to win Florida Realtors ENVY award

Bonita Springs salutes small businesses The city of Bonita Springs is grateful to be able to salute all our small businesses. They are, without a doubt, the bedrock upon which our economy rests and prospers. Sure, everyone gets excited when a new company comes to town with a couple of hundred jobs or more. But, as important as they are, they are also pretty rare. Let’s face it: As desirable as Southwest Florida is, there are still only so many Hertz-sized corporations that are likely to relocate here. Nothing against our area, it’s just that the national competition becomes so much greater as the size of a prospective company increases.

But small business? Now that is a different story.

It has been known and shared for decades that a successful economic development strategy involves the attraction and retention of small business in one’s community. In fact, it is often touted that 80 percent of job growth comes from expanding small businesses. The “order of magnitude” increases significantly because of the “volume” factor. When you think of 250 small business adding just two employees to each of their ranks, you

suddenly have 500 new jobs that you didn’t have to chase down.

It’s just natural growth that requires little more than a supportive atmosphere.

And that’s where the community comes in.

Just as all busiBY CARL nesses, large and SCHWING small, have obliGuest Columnist gations to provide good service and products, we have obligations to our small businesses as well. While they certainly increase job in a community, they also provide important services as well. They are typically locally owned and managed, meaning they are likely to be our neighbors. The CEO is likely to be in the store – maybe on the phone or at the front counter.

Further, because they are locally owned, chances are that they offer unique

Don’t wait to enter Florida Realtors annual Environmental Award program, or you may be green with ENVY when the winner is chosen. Popularly known as the “ENVY” award, the honor goes to a development that best preserves Florida’s natural quality of life. The award may be given in two categories: one for residential development and one for commercial development.

The winner in each category will receive a trophy, recognition at Florida Realtors 2016 Celebration from Aug. 24-28, and statewide news coverage as Florida’s top environmentally conscious builder.

The entry deadline is July 8.

All Florida commercial developments are eligible, and all planned residential developments with a minimum of 30 residential units in Florida qualify.

For more information, visit media.floridarealtors.org or call (407) 438-1400, ext. 2326.

products, services and a quality which may not be as available from larger organizations. After all, when the owner’s name is on the front window or on the side of the truck, so is his personal reputation.

Service and product delivery are therefore monitored and checked at a closer level.

That is good for us consumers. And of course, as we support our small businesses, they can prosper and grow, completing an important “circle of prosperity.”

So the next time you are out and about and have a chance to patronize one our small businesses, do so! After all, helping them helps us all in a number of great ways. Thank goodness for all our small businesses and the entrepreneurs who own, manage and promote them. We salute you!

Carl L. Schwing serves as city manager for Bonita Springs. He has attained the designation as an International City/ County Management Association Credentialed Manager and has served the public for over 33 years. Contact him at (239)949-6267 or carl.schwing@cityofbonitasprings.org.

Protect the business you built: non-compete non-piracy agreements Part 2 of 2 The non-compete aspect of these agreements (typically, if it’s an across-the-board agreement) is to ensure that there is no moonlighting without the consent of the employer. However, it is possible to ask, although questionably enforceable, that an employee or independent contractor not work for a competitor for a period of time after they work with your company.

We find that most employees/contractors (who actually read the agreements) would object to a posttermination restriction on working with a competitor because of concerns about making a living and feeding their families. There are fewer objections to issues regarding (1) non-solicitation/piracy of employees and customers, and (2) non-piracy of intellectual property. These agreements often include a clear delineation that all work done on behalf of the company which may be copyrighted, patented or otherwise protected; is produced on behalf of the company as part of the employment/engagement; is work-for-hire and is actually owned by the company and not the

individual (or contractor) who is performing the tasks.

Most employees and contractors find it fair that the work product they are producing and being compensated for should be owned by the person/company who’s paying them. We rarely hear objections regarding the prohibition on soliciting your workforce. Most people feel it is fair to prevent former employees from raiding their

BY GUY old company’s workers. You WHITESMAN just don’t want them calling Guest Columnist their old friends at work and saying, “I just went to work for Z Company and it is great over here! Why don’t you come join me?”

Making this type of form standard for all of your employees and all of your contractors can go a long way towards avoiding the headaches that might occur after the relationship ends.

Often the exit interview contains a reminder of the

confidentiality and non-piracy obligations under the contract signed as a condition of employment. While it may be one more step in the hiring process, the cost of implementing a standard contract requirement like this is much cheaper than finding yourself losing customers, trained employees or valuable intellectual property.

Note: The contents of this article do not create an attorney-client relationship. Should you have any legal questions you should consult with your attorney.

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

Guy E. Whitesman concentrates his practice at Henderson Franklin in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), business, tax and wealth preservation planning and health care law. He is board certified in tax law, and is chair of the firm’s M&A, Business, Tax and Intellectual Property practice groups. Contact him at guy. whitesman@henlaw.com or call (239) 344-1180.

IN BUSINESS SINCE 2009

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MAY 2016

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

New ALDI grocery store opens in Charlotte County

By Bob Massey SWFBT Editor

If you’ve never heard of ALDI, you will.

The German grocery store chain has opened approximately 1,300 stores in 32 states over the past few years. And now it has big plans for Florida, where 56 stores are scheduled to open from Ocala to Miami. Its latest addition in Southwest Florida is its recently opened Charlotte County location at 1391 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte (ALDI.us). Other stores in Naples and Cape Coral are scheduled to appear within a year.

You think Walmart offers great prices? Fuhgeddaboudit! ALDI is the nation’s leading low-price grocer, operating more than 1,500 stores in 33 states.

ALDI takes a simple, pragmatic and cost-effective approach to grocery shopping that essentially saves shoppers on their grocery bills – up to 50 percent on more than 1,300 of the most commonly purchased grocery items. More than 32 million customers each month benefit from the ALDI’s approach. There are several strategies the chain uses to keep prices to a minimum.

“We try to be energy efficient, from the refrigeration system to the lighting,” said Haines City Division Director of Operations Andreas Rohlfing. “Also, 95 percent of our

products are private label. We carry some organic items and our Fit & Active brand, which is for the health conscious.”

Each product comes with a “double back guarantee.”

“If you’re not happy with a product, we not only give you your money back, we also let you pick another product,” Mr. Rohlfing said.

Other ways ALDI uses to keep costs low: Shopping carts. They cost money!

– a paltry (and refundable) 25 cents.

All the carts are chained together with a device that require a quarter to release them. However, when you return the cart, you re-engage the device and get your quarter back.

No (free) bags. ALDI provides shopping bags for a charge, or you can bring your own.

Fewer items. There are about 30,000 items in a typical supermarket. ALDI sells only the things shoppers buy most. A decreased inventory means smaller stores, which also means lower rent and electricity costs.

Also, ALDI stays open only during the most popular hours that patrons are likely to shop. This means less money is spent in labor costs keeping a store staffed when there are fewer shoppers.

Speaking of which, one unadvertised secret is its labor practices.

ALDI See page 12

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Page 5

How much of a sale is subject to estate tax?

It’s not uncommon for business owners to let succession and estate planning fall by the wayside, which can result in heavy tax consequences.

The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (ATRA) brought some certainty to estate planning, but tax reform continues to be a hot topic on Capitol Hill. If it’s been awhile since you reviewed your plans for transferring your wealth and business management responsibilities to the next generation, it’s time to do that.

Current rates and exemptions

Under ATRA, the top gift and estate tax rate is now 40 percent and the permanent gift and estate tax exemption is an annually inflation-adjusted $5 million. For 2016, it’s $5.45 million. As a business owner, you can transfer up to that amount tax-free to your heirs while you’re alive, and bequeath whatever amount is remaining tax-free upon your death.

The same tax rate and exemption amount apply to the generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax. Generally, this tax is assessed – in addition to the gift or estate tax – on transfers to grandchildren and others separated from you by more than one generation.

The annual gift exclusion remains unchanged at $14,000 per donor and recipient in 2016. In other words, a married couple can gift up to $56,000 to their son and daughterin-law ($28,000 combined times two recipients) tax-free without using up any of their gift and estate tax exemption. Annual exclusion gifts are also excluded from the GST tax. You can also pay unlimited medical and tuition expenses on behalf of family members by making payments directly to the providers.

The unlimited marital deduction for wealth transfers between spouses remains unchanged. ATRA also made the “portability” of the estate tax exemption between spouses permanent.

This means that if one spouse dies with all or part of his or her exemption unused, the surviving spouse can use the deceased spouse’s remaining exemption. (Note: Portability doesn’t apply to the GST tax exemption and some states don’t recognize portability.)

How much will be subject to estate tax?

If a retiring plastics manufacturer decides to sell his business to the management team for $5 million in cash and $2 million per year for the next

BY MICHELE five years, all HOOVER of the sale proGuest Columnist ceeds could be transferred to a surviving spouse estate-tax-free upon the business owner’s death. Following the survivor’s death, up to an inflationadjusted $10 million – the combined amount for both spouses – could be transferred to the couple’s only child tax-free, while the remainder of the estate could be taxed at 40 percent. Additional estate and inheritance taxes may apply at the state level.

Your options

If you’re not ready to hand over the reins of your business to your heirs, various estate planning tools such as family limited partnerships and certain trusts can help balance the transfer of wealth without relinquishing managerial control.

The first step is to engage a qualified business appraiser to determine the value of your business. Minority interests, degree of control, marketability and the current economic climate can all impact value and change over time.

You’ll need regularly updated business appraisals to ensure your estate plan continues to make sense.

Business owners who neglect estate planning risk leaving behind a significant tax bill when they die. Your business may be your biggest asset. Protect it – and your loved ones – by contacting your tax advisor and attorney about planning your estate today.

Michele M. Hoover, CPA with Alexander & Hoover P.A., Certified Public Accountants provides a wide range of diversified accounting, tax, finance and consulting services to individuals and businesses. To learn more, contact Michele Hoover at (239) 481-4114 or visit AlexanderHoover.com.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MAY 2016

Does your planning allow for profit, cash flow forecasts?

By Lynn Fetterman Guest Columnist

There is a more reliable process to forecast future profits and cash flow in today’s fast-paced business environment.

The old budget process is a static baseline view of anticipated events that may take place in the future with knowledge and vision prepared at the present time.

However, when the budget is complete, the original assumptions that created the budgeted profit and cash flow forecast often become outdated when business actives change.

A more dynamic and modern approach to stay on top of your business plan is the rolling forecast. I refer to the process as “continuous business forecasting” (CBF).

This process creates greater short-term and longer term visibility as it generates realistic numbers that are constantly updated with current forecast assumptions.

The CBF process can take place monthly (which I prefer), or quarterly. However, this process can begin anytime during a year when the company is interested in implementing CBF. The CBF update process begins with a management meeting to discuss and review the monthly financial performance and future business activities. The meeting focus should be on variance analysis and the impact on future business performance.

Some key questions are: What new events or changes have occurred since the budget was prepared? What are the key business drivers and cost variables that will influence the bottom line? What are the key updates to the forecast?

CBF meetings require input from key sales, marketing and operational department personnel. The key is the management team owns the CBF forecast, not the finance department.

The reforecasting process involves the traditional methods of comparing actual results to expected results. After this process is completed, monthly data inputs are received from departments updating the remaining calendar months in the year with new forecast changes. As example, changes in sales pricing and volume, vendor cost increases, departmental expense changes and so on.

It is recommended to freeze the budget file and copy the budget file into a separate file where the first month’s actual results will be loaded into the first calendar month. The remaining calendar months from the budget file will be updated into the same file. This new file is updated with the CBF changes, and this file can be referred to as “Outlook 1.” It is recommended the CBF process include balance sheet movements in accounts receivable, inventory and payables as well as capital expenditures. This will be help with updated cash flow projections.

The forecast update process and input of data should focus on the key drivers and line items that most influence the profit so the process is agile (use the 80/20 rule). A timetable for completing the monthly process is recommended to ensure the process is completed within a timely manner.

If desired, updated forecasts can be rolled forward beyond the calendar year end as the process continues during the year.

This may be helpful in next year’s budgeting process.

A follow up management meeting should be held to review the completed “Outlook 1” to discuss the impact of the forecast changes compared to budget. In the first month this would include reviewing the months February to December, assuming the business was on a calendar year end.

It is helpful to create a list of the risks and hedges (upsides and downsides) and review the impact on the year end profit target. The risks and hedges should be regular management discussion items so there are never any surprises.

This process should be repeated monthly with “Outlook 2” compared to “Outlook 1” in the following month as well as the original budget if desired, hence the term “continuous business forecasting.”

Lynn Fetterman has 35-plus years of CFO/controller/auditor and executive experience in large, small, public, private, family owned and small growing companies. ACFO4U provides affordable parttime CFO consulting services for strategic, operational and financial issues. For more information, email acfo4u@gmail. com or call (317) 294-8145.

Stephanie Wardein and Kellie Nolan

Healthy Life Center hosts Business Before Breakfast

Lee Memorial’s Healthy Life Center at Coconut Point, 23190 Fashion Drive, Suite #105, in Estero hosted March’s Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce Business Before Business.

The event takes place on the fourth Thursday of the month. Guests take advantage of the opportunity to meet face-to-face with local professionals in the business community. They enjoy a light breakfast and a chance to win door prizes.

Designated as the 2014 Chamber of Commerce of the Year by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals, the Five-Star Nationally Accredited Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce strives to serve members, promote a region where business can grow and prosper and enhance the quality of life of the Bonita Springs area.

For more information, call (239) 992-2943 or visit BonitaSpringsChamber.com.

LAWS PAGE 1

record success in the number of blind and visually impaired Floridians who entered and reentered the workforce,” said FLDEO Division of Blind Services Director Robert Doyle. “With the signing of SB7040, more Floridians will have the opportunity to enter the job market, and maintain or advance in employment. Through this collaboration, we will continue to strengthen accessibility of systems of persons with visual disabilities, and assist businesses in meeting their hiring goals.”

WIOA requires states to formulate and submit four-year plans describing how they will fully integrate their workforce and talent development systems.

In 2015, Florida’s Legislature created a task force to engage key stakeholders and develop recommendations for Florida’s unified plan to implement WIOA. The task force recommendations were approved by the CareerSource Florida Board of Directors in November 2015.

The final unified state plan was submitted to the U.S. Department of Labor in March.

Many of the innovative workforce development priorities and expectations of the federal law already are in place in Florida. The state’s new legislation also requires a heightened level of collaboration with partners to ensure that Florida’s workforce system remains market relevant and focused on meeting the needs of businesses, job seekers and workers.

“The best way to assist unemployed Floridians is to help them get a job, and at DEO we are working with our partners every day to bring more jobs and opportunities to Florida workers,” said Cissy Proctor, executive director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (FLDEO). “By integrating our efforts with CareerSource Florida, the Department of Education and many others, Florida’s workforce development system continues to help job seekers get new jobs.”

“Last year, the division achieved

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Page 7

SCORE Awards honor exceptional business owners

“

We are creating jobs, bettering our economy and making changes one step at a time.

“

Southwest Florida SCORE recently held its 45th annual luncheon at the Gateway Golf and Country Club in Fort Myers, honoring recipients.

Sharing in honoring the award winners were Mayor Nick Batos of Village of Estero; Ralph Warmack, district director of SCORE; and Tina Davis of the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Sylvia Dorisme of Southwestern Vocational Training received the Client of the Year award, while Ali Frantz of Emmeline Textiles received the Businesswoman of the Year award. Pedro de Armas of Naples Mural received the Minority Owned Business Person of the Year award. Each of these recipients displayed the ingenuity and diligence to take their businesses to the next level, due in large part to their work and mentorship of Southwest Florida’s chapter of SCORE. SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, grow, and succeed nationwide. SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and has been mentoring small business owners for more than forty years.

Dorisme was honored for her work in expanding her business. At the young age of 25, Dorisme em-

– Steve Records, SCORE VP of Field Operations

barked on opening a vocational school in Cape Coral.

Upon starting her business, things began to grow faster than anticipated and she sought out assistance.

Frantz came to SCORE seeking guidance in how to grow her business in 2014. Starting a line of baby slings and embracing her passion she modestly started her business doing everything on her own.

De Armas came to the United States in 2009 from Havana, Cuba, with a goal and dream, as do so many immigrants. With a love of the arts and painting, he started Naples Murals. In order to provide for his family, he worked in a shipyard sanding hulls on

boats while also trying to grow his mural business.

De Armas, who only recently became a U.S. citizen, started with SCORE in July 2015. Within months of doing the work his mentors provided, he landed a Collier County School District contract to provide 41 murals in cafeterias and gymnasiums. In addition, he has continued to grow his business providing murals in libraries, private homes and churches. Much of de Armas’ work also hangs in galleries in Miami and Amsterdam.

“We are changing the world,” said Steve Records, SCORE VP of Field Operations, in his keynote address. “People are not interested in what you do, but why you do what you do. Our valued volunteers and mentors get to the why. Whether you are a volunteer, partner, member or business owner seeking guidance, we are here to help change the world. We are creating jobs, bettering our economy and making changes one step at a time.”

For more information, visit SCORE Southwest Florida Chapter 219 in the Social Security Building at 3650 Colonial Blvd., Suite 231, Fort Myers; visit www.SouthwestFlorida.SCORE.org; email score219@embarqmail.com; call (239) 489-2935.

PLAN PAGE 1 a professional engineer and certified building contractor with more than 25 years of experience, will oversee the project as project manager.

Groundbreaking began April 1 for the first phase of the three-year project, which will introduce a new fitness and activities center, two pickleball courts and an auxiliary entrance with parking for golf carts, automobiles and bicycles. Three new tennis courts will also be added for a total of five available to members and residents.

The initial phase also includes renovations to the golf operations building, which will convert the existing fitness center Rendering of new activities center planned for Collier’s to a multi-purpose activity room, expand the women’s locker Reserve. room lounge area, and refurbish the member’s locker rooms, double the size of the existing building and provide additional including enhanced interior finishes. space for special functions and outdoor dining. It will also have Construction is timed for the off-season, and when complet- a kitchen functioning independently of the clubhouse and offer ed in 2018 will include a completely renovated clubhouse and a a 19th hole lounge where members and guests can gather after new boathouse along the Cocohatchee River offering informal a round of golf. Installation of hurricane-impact windows and and al fresco dining. doors, external painting and air-conditioning upgrades at the The enhancements will propel Collier’s Reserve County clubhouse are planned in the final phase.

Club into the future, keeping it ahead of the activities, ameni“The goal is to not only maintain Collier’s Reserve’s unique ties and experiences members desire from the private country niche and desirability, but enhance the sense of an intimate, inclub. clusive and informally friendly club known for its understated “We gathered data on trends, and more importantly, infor- affluence,” said Stephen Guillard, board facilities chairman. mation from our new members,” said W. James Fischer, presiThe club enhancement plan also includes funds for the fudent of the board of directors. “While championship golf is still ture maintenance of the golf course, including replacement of paramount, members also want shorter-duration activities like greens, tees and bunkers, and replacement of cart paths. The bocce and pickleball and are increasingly interested in informal Arthur Hills-designed golf course was designated the world’s and alfresco dining, and wellness facilities.” first certified Audubon International Signature Sanctuary in The boathouse, part of the second phase of the club enhance- 1994. The plan will ensure that the golf course remains the ment plan and expected to open for the 2017-18 season, will club’s foremost asset.

Bonita, Estero WCR places third in nation The Bonita Springs-Estero Network of the Women’s Council of Realtors recently received national recognition for member retention and recruitment efforts.

The network placed third nationwide in the large network category for the period of Jan. 1 through March 31, 2016 – behind only Rochester, Mich., and Omaha, Neb. This effort is part of an annual membership drive that takes place within all WCR networks on a national level.

The Bonita-Estero Network of the WCR is dedicated to being the premier business presence, providing leadership opportunities and helping all members to acquire new skills to meet the challenges of the future with success.

For more information, visit WCRBonitaEstero.com.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MAY 2016

Local veterinarians attend educational seminar

Naples-based Animal Specialty Hospital of Florida recently invited the veterinary community to an interactive evening discussion of practical clinical neurology. Nearly 25 general practitioners listened to Michelle B. Carnes, MS, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology) and Nick Archambault, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology) deliver remarks on case-based neurology and seizure management, respectively.

ASH structured the program to encourage attendee interaction – allowing opportunity for rich dialogue and specialized guidance.

Highlighting several challenging neurological cases Carnes has treated firsthand, she covered a variety of topics, including the benefits of hydrotherapy, genetic mutations, intracranial diseases and advanced imaging.

“High-field MRI scans provide important details necessary to make an accurate diagnosis,” she said.

“When compared to older technology, such as a my-

SUMMIT PAGE 1 The region’s workforce has ridden the roller coaster from more than 10 percent unemployment to an impressive sub-5 percent. Industries in Southwest Florida are in need of qualified workers, including health care professionals, skilled laborers, airport workers and more. A panel of local industry leaders will join their counterparts from Puerto Rico to discuss topics that include what may be an untapped resource of skilled workers, collaborative business opportunities and economic growth in Southwest Florida.

State Rep. Heather Fitzenhagen (R-Fort Myers) will introduce the leadership panel, which includes: Cape Coral Mayor Marni Sawicki; Brenda Thomas, executive director of the Building Industry Association; Peg Elmore from Career Source Southwest Florida; Kristy Rigot, system director, Human Resources for Lee Memorial Health System; Jazmin Nievez Alvarez, executive and staffing director from IKON Group; and Kevin Brady, international trade specialist for the Small Business Development at Florida Gulf Coast University. Connie RamosWilliams, president and chief marketing officer of CONRIC PR & Marketing, will emcee the event.

Several dignitaries will also be taking part in the summit, including Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson, Puerto Rico Senator Carmelo Rios, and Puerto Rico’s Secretary of Economic Development and Commerce, Alberto Baco Bague.

The job fair is free and open to the public with no registration required. However, registration is required for the workforce summit luncheon and panel discussion. Registration on or before May 5 will be $25 for members, $30 for guests. After May 5, registration will be $30 for members and $35 for guests. Registration is open online at AboveBoardChamber.com.

Companies that have job opportunities may purchase a vendor table at the job fair to conduct interviews or collect resumes. For more information, contact Jeanne Sweeney at (239) 910-7426 or email Jeanne@aboveboardchamber.com.

Nick Archambault made a presentation during the Animal Specialty Hospital of Florida’s seminar. elogram, you see a drastic decrease in the amount of diagnostic information provided. This, in turn, could lead to a misdiagnosis or unnecessary surgery.

That’s why we’re thrilled to offer an in-house, highfield MRI at our hospital.”

During his presentation, Archambault stressed the importance of cerebrospinal fluid analysis. CSF is a colorless body fluid that is derived from blood plasma. It helps protect the mechanical and immunological functions of the brain and spine.

“Since seizures are inherently stressful, it’s critical we deal with them on an emergent basis,” Archambault added. “By immediately assessing a patient using both MRI scans and CSF assessments, we receive a complete understanding of what’s occurring. This then allows us to identify a proper treatment plan, as well as inform the owner of qualify-oflife expectations for his or her pet.”

By offering this seminar, ASH provided licensed veterinarians with two hours of continuing education credits. Florida requires veterinarians to log 15 CE hours annually.

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Intech Printing is in expansion mode

As many small business owners can appreciate, Intech Printing & Direct Mail has reached a point of growth that has allowed us to expand our leadership team. Recently, we formed a new strategic partnership with printing industry veterans Rodney Held and Dale Haddad, who have joined me on the Intech Printing executive team.

Held has assumed the role of CEO and will be responsible for all sales and marketing of Intech’s vast line of high-quality products and services. Held will work in tandem with Intech’s Director of Sales & Marketing, Sue Lampitt, who has provided exemplary service to the Southwest Florida market for the past 30 years. Haddad will serve as CFO and will be responsible for all financial planning, budget management and cost-benefit analysis of all strategic initiatives.

As COO, I continue to focus on all aspects of Intech’s operations, including further development of the company’s proprietary workflow software, as well as continuous process improvement in maintaining Intech’s position as the market leader.

Intech is also expanding its sales and marketing team to meet the growing demand from clients for a singlesource, full-service printing and direct mail marketing partner. We anticipate continued growth and have immediate plans to hire a total of 10 to 12 new positions in sales, client services and production.

Our clients can expect the same excellent service with an enhanced focus on new technologies and product de-

velopment. In addition, we will continue to focus on our comprehensive data analytics, enabling us to provide our clients with a more targeted approach to their direct marketing efforts – ultimately saving them time and money and providing a much greater return on investment.

Intech will also expand its sales and marketing efforts to the entire Gulf Coast of Florida, and we will continuously explore all

BY DAVID WACKER growth opportunities, including Guest Columnist potential acquisitions, specifically those that are closely aligned with Intech’s core competencies and underlying values.

Intech is approaching 30 years of service to Southwest Florida businesses. As a small business serving small businesses, we are laser-focused on enhancing client services such as our custom, specialty offset printing and digital/variable data personalization as well as custom finishing including foil stamping, embossing, die-cutting, and gluing – all of which are produced in-house, allowing us strict quality control, shorter turnaround times and lower cost.

David Wacker is COO of Intech Printing

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MAY 2016

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Page 9

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Lee Co. small business owners wear many hats

Encore demonstrates appreciation for clients Encore Bank truly appreciates its clients. To show their gratitude, the staff at the Naples branch recently held an after-hours event to thank their clients. Above: Tracy Ulrich and Ginette Carrier. Left top: Judy Schiff, Tammy Randolph, and Karen Loughrey Left bottom: Mike O’Dean and Bob Houchin

WCI selects Jinx McDonald for Altaira model WCI has selected Jinx McDonald Interior Design of Naples to design the first Altaira model residence in the company’s tower of 75 Sky Homes in The Colony Golf & Bay Club in Bonita Springs.

“Altaira’s light-filled interiors and panoramic views provide the perfect backdrop for coastal contemporary design,” said Chrissy Howard of Jinx McDonald. “Tailored silhouettes, a neutral palette and a focus on textures like glass, linen and chrome will convey effortless style grounded in modern, chic simplicity.”

Altaira’s Residence 202 model will encompass 3,315 square feet of living space and feature an open great room, generously sized kitchen, three bedrooms, private den, three full baths, powder room, and east-and west-facing terraces totaling 400 square feet.

Construction on the 21-story tower is on track for a spring 2017 delivery. Each of Altaira’s first 18 residential floors contains only four residences with 3,300 or 3,500 square feet of living space, depending on the floor plan. The top floor – with three penthouse residences – includes a unique Sky Home with a living area that encompasses the two center residences of a typical floor.

Altaira residences include hurricane-rated, solar-tinted expanses of exterior vision glass and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open to the terraces, as well as up to 529 square feet of open-air and screened-in terraces in select resi-

dences. These design features introduce natural light into each home, along with views of The Colony, Estero Bay and Gulf of Mexico sunsets from higher floors.

“Sky Homes live like grand single-family residences with a low-maintenance lifestyle,” said Dwight Thomas, vice president of WCI’s tower division. “The Altaira tower lifestyle provides its owners with free time to enjoy both the onsite amenities of the tower and those at The Colony Golf & Bay Club, WCI’s 809-acre master-planned community located within Pelican Landing.”

Members enjoy amenities including the award-winning Bay Club, a private dining club featuring gourmet dining and Estero Bay sunset views, and a recently expanded kayak and canoe launch facility.

The Colony Golf Club’s 28,000-square-foot clubhouse offers members 18 holes of Jerry Patedesigned championship golf, formal and casual dining, a cocktail lounge, golf pro shop, and the Spa & Fitness Center. Outdoor amenities include a swimming pool and a tennis pavilion with six Har-Tru courts.

Residents of The Colony Golf & Bay Club have access to Pelican Landing amenities: a 34acre private island beach park, canoe park, tennis courts, fitness center and community center.

Sky Homes in Altaira start from $1 million.

For more information, visit AltairaWCI.com or call (239) 495-1300.

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Your title might be CEO, but if you’re like many small business owners in Lee County, you find yourself being a customer service rep, sales associate, marketing manager, IT director, or accountant.

The success of your business hinges on your ability to wear multiple hats. At times, that can turn even the most capable person into an overwhelmed entrepreneur. That’s where the LEARN Network can help.

The Lee Entrepreneurs’ Assistance Resource Network was created to help small businesses thrive. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of any economy.

Statistically, small businesses provide between 70-80% of new jobs in a community.

If you are thinking about starting a business

BY RACHEL or growing your existing BUSCH one, the LEARN NetGuest Columnist work can help you succeed. LEARN experts assist with critical building blocks such as writing a business plan, hiring talent, qualifying for a loan, maximizing social media, and so much more “LEARN” is an exciting new partnership between the Lee County Economic Development Office and the following Partner organizations: • Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University • School of Business Florida Southwestern State College • Southwest Florida SCORE • Southwest Florida Workforce Development Board, Inc. • United Way • SWFL Community Foundation • SWFL MicroEnterprise/Goodwill • Fort Myers Technical College • Lee County Library System • Keiser University • SWFL Enterprise Center • Hodges University • Fusion Pointe The collaborative power of LEARN creates a one-stop-shop for business owners and streamlines the services offered to help them succeed.

If you are thinking about starting a business or growing an existing one, please come to the LEARN Kickoff on Friday, April 22, 2016 at 830am during the Horizon Council General Membership Meeting. The meeting will be held at Harborside Event Center and will include a panel discussion featuring the LEARN founding partners. Immediately following the meeting the LEARN expo will take place from 9:30-11 a.m.

There are ways to overcome the challenge of wearing many hats. Recognizing that you can’t do it all on your own is the first step. Getting help is the second. Let LEARN work to find the hat that’s right for you. Visit www.LEARNswfl.com!

If you feel like you’re wearing “too many hats, the LEARN Network can help, please contact Rachel Busch, rbusch@leegov.com, (239) 533-6816 or visit www.LEARNswfl.com Rachel Busch is the Strategic Projects Manager for the Lee County Economic Development office. Previous to joining the Lee County EDO, Rachel worked as an economic vitality specialist for the City of Scottsdale, City of Avondale Economic Development Office and for the Small Business Development Center. Contact her at rbusch@leegov.com, (239) 533-6816 or visit www.LEARNswfl.com

Page 10

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MAY 2016

Is your small business looking for a new home?

Here are a few things to According to the National Small Business Assoconsider and calculations that ciation’s 2015 Year-End Economic Report, 75 percan be done to start the discuscent of small business owners expressed confidence sion and potential course of acin the future of their own businesses, which the hightion: est this indicator has been in four years. If you’re Determine what type of in that 75 percent, you may be thinking of acquirspace your business needs: ing commercial property or expanding your existing Does the business need warespace. house, office or retail space?

As a small business owner, you might not be What about a blend between aware of all the intricacies involving commercial these different types? Before lending. The good news is there are experts availthe numbers can be run, it is able to help you determine the right time to buy or BY KIM DONNELLY important to assess the amount sell, consider available locations, and navigate the Guest Columnist and type of space needed. complexities of closing the deal.

Once that is determined, an If you’re renting or leasing, now might be a good estimate can be made on the time to consider whether buying a commercial build- cost of that space in today’s market (based on local ing makes sense for you. Low interest rates and in- comparable sales). Obviously there are no guarancreasing rental rates for commercial properties mean tees that an exact match can be found to the property that having a discussion about “renting vs. owning” you are looking for, but at least an estimate can be makes good business sense. made on the approximate purchase price.

Chrysalis Awards celebrate business For the seventh consecutive year, the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) and the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce will host the Annual Celebration of Business & Tourism Chrysalis Awards Luncheon and Trade Show from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 20 at Harborside Event Center, 1375 Monroe St., Fort Myers.

The Chrysalis Awards signify an ongoing partnership between the business and tourism communities that are working together to increase the business community’s awareness of the tourism industry, and to help tourism partners better understand the needs of non-hospitality businesses. This collaboration is creating stronger resources for the good of the area’s diverse communities and destination.

In addition to the Chrysalis Awards, the VCB will present its long-standing annual Junonia Award. This honor, awarded solely at the discretion of the VCB, was created in 2006 to recognize individuals in tourism who have demonstrated unique capabilities, leadership, commitment, and dedication throughout the local tourism community.

The Celebration of Business & Tourism Chrysalis Awards Luncheon and Trade Show is part of the VCB’s year-round Team Tourism program, which recognizes the value of tourism and community teamwork in maintaining and enhancing tourism as a major economic engine for Lee County.

The cost to attend the event is $45. Register online at LeeVCB. com.

Once the purchase price is estimated, calculate the estimated occupancy expense including loan payment, estimated real estate taxes, hazard and wind insurance and if in a flood zone, flood insurance.

With today’s low interest rates and many good bargains with commercial real estate buildings still available, comparing occupancy cost to what you are currently paying in rent might be a pleasant surprise.

If you are currently leasing commercial space, now is a good time to think about running the numbers to see if it’s in your best interest to “rent or own.”

For more information, contact your local Realtor, accountant, attorney or banker.

Kim Donnelly is a commercial lender representing Charlotte State Bank & Trust in Lee and Collier counties. Her office is at 15050 Elderberry Lane, Suite 6-12, Fort Myers. She can be contacted at (239) 476-0870 or via email at kdonnelly@csbtfl. com.

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

LSH Group focuses on continuity planning

At The LSH Group LLC, business continuity and disaster recovery (BC/DR) planning is our core focus, addressing the many facets of continuity planning needs of Florida businesses, organizations and government agencies to provide the best value and best practices in the industry. The LSH Group works across all industry segments – health care, transportation, finance, museums, education – to name a few.

The LSH Group currently hold two state term contracts (STCs) – STC 991-268-11-1 for IT Disaster Recovery Services and STC 973-561-10-1 for Information Technology (IT) Consulting Services that government agencies can piggyback on.

Located in Fort Myers, The LSH Group was founded in September 2006 as a small Florida State Certified Women-Owned Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE). The company has been shortlisted for the Top 20 Most Promising Government Tech Consulting Service Providers by CIO Review and recognized by Fortune as an industry leader.

Businesses, organizations and government agencies are depending on their critical processes and information systems more than ever before to operate efficiently. Our proven successful methodologies address implementation of the following professional services: business impact analysis (BIA), risk assessment (RA), business continuity plan (BCP), IT disaster recovery plan (DRP), continuity of operations plan (COOP), table top exercise, plan testing and maintenance, continuity program, independent BC software tool evaluation, IT strategy, backup and storage strategy, emergency preparedness planning (EMP), incident management planning, data center recovery planning, and training. We work with industry partners that supply telecommunication, hardware and software products to meet the needs of our clients.

The LSH Group founder and owner Linda Hanwacker holds degrees and certifications in IT/Computer Science (MS) and busi-

ness (MBA in Finance), and BC/DR with more than 30 years’ direct experience in these areas. She is recognized nationally as an industry leader, speaking at conferences as a subject matter expert and author. She is an adjunct college professor instructing the latest IT courses. As such, she understands the latest technology challenges and solutions that are more efficient and economically feasible.

Whether your BC/DR initiatives require a certified planner or a full range of professional services, The LSH Group is

BY LINDA here for you. We address your most imHANWACKER portant concerns. Our planning processes Guest Columnist and best practices are designed to minimize exposure to loss and disruption. Our Certified Business Continuity Professionals have extensive industry experience and are ready to assist you in all aspects of planning.

This team played a major role in the 9/11 Business Continuity recovery efforts and has firsthand experience with weather-related incidents. We host an annual workshop, “COOP Templates for Success!” at DRJ SpringWorld in Orlando. The LSH Group works to ensure the highest quality services and client satisfaction at the most competitive prices. As industry experts, rely on us to assist you.

Linda Hanwacker is an industry subject matter expert, guest speaker, author, and CEO and founder of The LSH Group LLC in Fort Myers, which has provided professional services with economical solutions for business continuity, IT disaster recovery and emergency management planning for more than 20 years. Contact her at (239) 466-1170 or email hanwacker@thelshgroup.com

Coming in next month’s issue: Disaster Services

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1949 THE POWER OF MORE THAN 65 YEARS OF PRACTICING LAW IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA.

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MAY 2016

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

Page 11

Team-building can increase employee productivity Successful business owners understand happy to work with from the first call employees working as a team are far more producthrough the day of the event. tive than unhappy employees who just think of themWe had ample space to meet/ selves. eat before our painting and evBuilding a constructive team atmosphere, though, eryone now has their painting isn’t always easy. There are different personalities, proudly displayed in their oftemperaments, patience levels, skills and knowledge. fices. We look forward to workEven great managers, business owners and leaders ing with PWAT in the future for can struggle with ways to build unified teams dediother team building opportunicated to the same goal. ties!”

Team-building exercises such as obstacle courses Through a custom team muor day-long retreats can be productive. However, ral, each team member works there are great ways to cultivate teamwork without BY LYNN on a piece of the big picture. spending a fortune, driving long distances or taking MCGREGOR Team members recreate your too many hours away from the workday. logo or the image you choose to Guest Columnist A fun, unique option for team-building is creatcreate a lasting representation ing a painting. Painting with a Twist Naples, at 13500 of an important vision, strategy, value or goal. This Tamiami Trail N., offers several options for getting a activity combines team building with motivation, foteam on the same page – or more accurately, on the cus, creativity and fun. Assembled, the multi-panel same canvas. Companies that have had a team-build- mural creates a masterpiece for your lobby, office or ing experience with Painting with a Twist Naples boardroom. have said that it was the best group event their comAnother option is to just have the employees topany has ever sponsored. gether painting individual paintings. Although every“We went to Painting with a Twist as part of a re- one may paint the same picture, subtle differences treat for our leadership team,” said Steve Syoen of emerge throughout the process, reflecting the artist’s Florida Gulf Coast University. “We arranged for a personality. Team members mingle as they build caleadership/team building twist that made it memo- maraderie in a relaxed setting and comfortable envirable and let everyone stress a bit less about how their ronment away from work. They can eat, drink and painting would turn out, and focus more on having enjoy learning more about each other. The bonding fun and being with each other. The staff were great experience encourages collaboration, boosts morale

and builds camaraderie. Sometimes all employees need to boost morale is to get out of the office and spend time with each other in a different environment.

Painting with a Twist Naples, which was ranked No. 1 by Entrepreneur for Paint and Sip Studios, may also be a good choice for busy companies that find it difficult to carve out time for team-building activities.

Sessions are available at various times and days and paintings can be completed in a few hours.

The company can choose the artwork and Painting with a Twist provides customers with paint, a canvas and brushes. Instructors provide the guidance and participants provide the creativity. Participants can bring their own finger food and snacks as well as wine or beer, or they can have the event catered. Wine and beer can also be purchased at the studio.

In addition to building team skills, Painting with a Twist Naples can build individual confidence. Some employees may not think they have the skill or creativity to complete a painting, but through the help of instructors, they may find a hidden talent. Even though the piece isn’t a creation of fine art, it’s at least fun art. Individuals may find they can do something they never thought they could.

Lynn McGregor is the owner of Painting with a Twist Naples at Wiggins Pass Crossing, 13500 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 7, Naples. For more information, visit PaintingWithATwist.com/naples or call (239) 4516139.

Bay Pines projects for veterans attract national attention

Two Bay Pines Veterans Administration (VA) Healthcare System (baypines.va.gov) projects were among the top 13 “Promising Practice” finalists selected as part of the Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA) Promising Practices Consortium (PPC) competition. This is a new platform hosted online where VHA employees can share

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successful operational, clinical and program practices with the potential for enterprise-wide implementation.

The PPC is championed by Dr. David J. Shulkin, undersecretary for health. It was created to foster a culture of innovation, enable system-wide dissemination of standardization of best practices and recognize VA employees in the process.

VA employees were invited to submit practices through December 15, and more than 250 projects VAwide were submitted and reviewed since launch. Of those, 41 were selected as semifinalists, including seven projects from VISN 8 facilities to include Bay Pines, North Florida/South Georgia and the network office.

The two Bay Pines finalist projects, “Audiology and Optometry Direct Scheduling” and “Unit Tracking Board: Where We Stand at a Glance,” made the final cut and were selected as “Gold Standard Practices.” Two Bay Pines employees who spearheaded the projects – Dr. Michelle Menendez, chief of Audiology and Speech Pathology Service, and Michael Finch, quality management specialist and clinical nurse leader (CNL), Quality Systems Service – were recognized as “Gold Standard Fellows.”

Project leads were offered the opportunity to present their ideas in front of a panel of Network and Medical Center Directors from across the country who will be supporting the spread of Gold Standard Practices through funding, dedicated personnel, and other resources.

The 120-day Audiology and Optometry Direct Scheduling Pilot began at Bay Pines in March 2015.

Its primary goal was for patients who needed audiol-

ogy (hearing) and optometry (eye) services to be able to schedule their appointments directly, without having to be referred by their primary care provider, which required a visit to their doctor and was the current practice. By the end of 2015, veterans who chose to schedule appointments directly reduced their wait times for appointments by 19 days in audiology and nine days in optometry.

Core health care data is often complex and difficult to display, with the result being that important information can be overlooked or neglected by those who provide direct patient care and are in the best position to make positive changes that can improve patient outcomes. Finch knew there was a better way to communicate this important information to front line staff – and it wouldn’t cost a lot to do it. In March 2014, he created a unit tracking board of core measures that’s simple, easy to understand and dynamic in that it can be changed and customized for different medical units with ease.

“Both of the projects recognized nationally as Gold Standard Practices speak to our organization’s goal to be a national leader, innovator, and early adopter of new programs aimed to improve the veteran experience,” said Suzanne M. Klinker, director of Bay Pines VAHCS. “While these projects are large in scale, smaller and equally as important improvements are made

by Bay Pines employees every day. I am very proud to be associated with these professionals and admire their commitment to building a high performing network equipped to meet and exceed health care needs of America’s heroes.”

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY

MAY 2016

ALDI PAGE 5

First Place Team, Bishop Verot Gold, Bernardo Aulino & John Kauffman with Ron Cavalieri, Chair, FSAWWA Region V

FSAWWA announces winners of model water tower competition The Florida Section of the American Water Works Association (FSAWWA) Region V announced the winners of the 2016 Model Water Tower Competition, held at Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers.

Winners of the competition included Bishop Verot High School’s Team BV Gold in first place, East Lee County High School’s Team Jaguar in second place, and Bishop Verot High School’s Team BV Black in third place. Each placing team received a trophy and cash prizes were given including $300 for first place, $2,000 for second place, and $100 for third place.

Bishop Verot High School’s BV Black also won the Most Creative Model Water Tower award.

The competition brings together middle and high school students and

teachers from a three-county region (Collier, Hendry and Lee), with the objective being to make participants aware of the importance of reliable drinking water and the rewarding opportunities available in the water profession.

Model water towers may be of any design and constructed from any materials.

The best model water tower is selected based on four criteria: structural efficiency, hydraulic efficiency, cost efficiency and design ingenuity.

FSAWWA Region V is actively recruiting teams for next year’s competition. For information, contact Ronald Cavalieri, Region V chair, at (239) 278-7996. Individuals interested in learning more can also follow FSAWWA on Facebook.

ALDI prides itself on compensating its employees well above the industry standard, which includes full health insurance, dental coverage and 401K for staff working at least 25 hours a week.

Thanks to input from loyal customers, the Port Charlotte store presents a new look, offering a modern and convenient shopping environment featuring more room for customers’ favorite products, inviting colors, high ceilings, natural lighting and environmentally-friendly building materials – such as recycled materials, energysaving refrigeration and LED lighting. The store is simple to navigate with easy-to-spot product signage and prominent product prices. Shoppers

can say hello to fresh with expanded cooler sections, healthy tips within the produce section and “Dietitian’s Picks” – healthy products handpicked by leading nutrition experts, all making it even easier for families to make smart choices.

In addition to the store’s new look, ALDI will bring shoppers a wide range of premium groceries from which to choose, such as organic produce, USDA Choice beef, the liveGfree gluten-free product line and the SimplyNature line of products free from over 125 artificial ingredients and preservatives. All exclusive brand food products are free of certified synthetic colors, partially hydrogenated oils and added MSG. Over the next several years, ALDI plans to add an impressive average of 130 new stores each year.

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