“Our business card ad program in Southwest Florida Business Today for $49 per month netted my company a lead that resulted in a sale worth thousands of dollars!”
We’re All Business
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S BUSINESS VOICE • 239-573-9732 Vol. 9 No. 11 / SEPTEMBER 2016 www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com
IN THE NEWS
Distributed in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Estero, Bonita Springs and Naples
TAKE ONE
— Steve Bray, Dry Zone FOLLOW SOUTHWEST FLORIDA BUSINESS TODAY ON:
SWFL PROFESSIONALS GAIN INSIGHT INTO HIGH-TECH MEDICAL TESTING
SBA launches website to streamline app process
SBA has launched certify. sba.gov, a new website to further streamline and improve the application processes for small businesses and entrepreneurs seeking to do business with the federal government. SBA South Florida District Director Francisco “Pancho” Marrero said the state has almost 5,000 women-owned small business firms registered for federal government contracting. “There are 4,889 firms registered, and of those 3,472 are designated as WOSB (women-owned small businesses) or ED-WOSB in the SBA’s contracting program,” he said. SBA’s contracting application and certification process for women-owned small businesses is now completely accessible online. SBA See page 5
Babcock Ranch issued its first housing permits
Photos by Jim Jett Fort Myers-based NeoGenomics, Inc. is a certified clinical laboratory that specializes in cancer genetics diagnostic testing--the fastest growing segment of the laboratory industry.
NeoGenomics showcases its high-tech lab
The Community Development Department issued the first four permits for new homes in the Babcock Ranch development on Aug. 11. The four permits are for model homes ranging in size from 1,955 to 2,660 square feet of living area. It is anticipated that construction will begin almost immediately on these homes. Babcock Ranch plans to develop approximately 17,900 dwelling units, 1.4 million square feet of retail space, 3.5 million square feet of office space, 700,000 square feet of industrial space as well as other ancillary uses. The project site contains 13,630 acres.
On August 10, local business professionals toured the NeoGenomics Laboratories, a cancer diagnostic reference lab providing high-quality cancer testing and partnership programs for pathologists and oncologists for more than a decade. The tour was sponsored by BioFlorida’s Southwest Chapter. BioFlorida represents nearly 6000 entities in the biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical technology and bioagriculture. Speakers included Robert J. Shovlin, Chief Growth Officer, NeoGenomics Laboratories; Dieter Kondek, CEO & President, insulinNG LLC; Nancy K. Bryan, President & CEO, BioFlorida.
Noela Chocolate garners William O. Webb Award
Craft brewery gets community involved
The Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University has awarded Ande and Shane Grant, owners of Noela Chocolate and Confections, the 2016 William O. Webb Award. Proceeds from the fund each year provide support to a small business owner in Southwest Florida who is working with the Small Business Development Center. The recipient receives a $1,000 to help them grow their business. The Grants handcraft their chocolates in small batches from their factory in Cape Coral using natural spices, juices and organic nuts as well as carefully selected fairtrade certified chocolate suppliers. The name Noela is a combined joining of their two sons names, Noah and Elijah.
Ani Farrell and Doug Vanoort
View more pictures from the event on Page 8. Dieter Kondek and Robert Shovlin
The first craft brewery in downtown Fort Myers kicked off its crowdfunding campaign Aug. 9 with the opportunity for four funders to receive free beer for life. Millennial Brewing Co.’s capital fundraising movement is to boost the launch of the community-driven, master craft brewery that will open its doors in October in a 6,300-square-foot former warehouse at 1811 Royal Palm Ave. Interested supporters can visit https:// igg.me/at/millennial and choose from 22 levels of rewards, including a $2,500 contribution that features four complimentary kegs of a Millennial Brewing craft beer every year for life. Two lifetime memberships are also available with a $4,000 buyin that offers 48 pints of beer every year and weekly 64-ounce growler fills forever, among other perks. Funding levels start at $10. BREWERY See page 9
Logan Roberts, left, and Kyle Cebull will open Millennial Brewing Co. in downtown Fort Myers in October. They are renovating a warehouse that will house their entire operation.
Page 2
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
SEPTEMBER 2016
CONGRATULATIONS
to the 2016 Industry Appreciation Award Winners Business Citizenship Award
Emerging Business Leader Award
LocalLEE Grown Business Award
Bruce T. Gora Legacy Award
Gary Trippe
For more information about our award winners please visit
www.LeeCountyBusiness.com
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT #wherebusinessistrending
SEPTEMBER 2016
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
Page 3
Collier Co. growth development patterns set for future
David Wilkison and James French, of Collier County’s Growth Management Department, discussed the latest growth and development trends at the Real Estate Investment Society (REIS) August 9th luncheon. A fourth generation Florida native, Wilkison grew up in Collier County. After a career of over 30 years as an engineering consultant in Southwest Florida, he joined the Collier County Growth Management Department (GMD) as department head in July 2015. He oversees a department that has 10 operating divisions, including Transportation Engineering, Road Maintenance, Development Review, and Code Enforcement. James “Jamie” French is deputy department head and oversees permitting, building plans review and inspections, and land development permitting. His team also manages GIS resources for land use and floodplain determinations. The department has an annual operating budget of more than $100 million and a full-time workforce of approximately 500. Collier County is currently updating its community plans for the Rural Fringe Mixed-Use District, Golden Gate Area Master Plan, Rural Lands Stewardship Area (where Ave Maria is located,) and Immokalee Area Master Plan. Public workshops are underway on these plans and the speakers presented an update of recent efforts along with an overview of infrastructure needs. Wilkison pointed out, using Scottsdale AZ as its model, that the Collier County Transportation and Commercial Development Divisions merged during this past recession. He stated, “Having transportation married up with growth management is vital to Collier County’s future growth.”
Collier County wants to restore some of the area’s wetlands via a water re-direction project. He pointed out that while the majority of Collier County is not developable, “There is much we can do with the remaining unentitled (developable) 135,764 acres.” In Collier County, Wilkison quipped, “The key to future development is to ‘Go east, young man,’ not west.” He shared that the rural fringe mixed-use plan is near completion. Golden Gate Estates, he pointed out, is the largest subdevelopment in the world, currently only 50% developed. Wilkison would like to “naturalize” this area. He noted, “We just had our first public meeting here, with several more to follow.” The Immokalee development plan is projected to be completed by 2019. He went on to share that, as a result of the 2010
oil spill, BP implemented a Gulf restoration plan. With funds from that project, Collier County wants to restore some of the area’s wetlands via a water re-direction project. Wilkison concluded, “We’ve got to plan for the future—and an effective transportation system is a crucial part of that planning process. While the population is growing again, the tax dollars for transportation projects are not growing (because autos are becoming so fuel-efficient.) So we’ve begun working on public/private transportation partnerships to keep our transportation infrastructure growing to keep up with population growth—now and in the future.”
Start www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com
your
PUBLISHER Karen P. Moore
subscription
PRINT EDITOR S. M. Henson SOCIAL MEDIA Angelica Torres
to SWFBT
WEB DESIGNER & EDITOR Michelle L. Hudson
today
P.O. Box 152299 Cape Coral, FL 33915-2299
swfloridabusinesstoday.com
News: 239-573-9731 All other: 239-573-9732 News email: editor@swfloridabusinesstoday.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
Anticipating next... Anticipatingwhat’s what’s next...
...is what ...is keeps you andyou yourand business what keeps your ahead of the game. ahead of business the game. SWFL Business Today seeks delivery Due to expansion, SWFBT offers great people for its monthly newspaper opportunity for sales in Estero. Pleaseprofessionals. call for details. Please email (239) 770-7527resume to
publisher@swfloridabusinesstoday.com
Here’s what is ahead for 2015 for Southwest Florida Business EDITORIAL FOCUS PUB. DATE (FRI- DEADLINE (WED., 5 Here’s what MONTH is ahead for 2016 for Southwest Florida Business Today.
MONTH
OUR MISSION
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.
OCT. NOV.
AUGUST Business Services July 24 EDITORIAL FOCUS PUB. DATE (FRIDAY) 21 SEPT Going Green UpdateSept.Aug 23
Salute to Entrepreneurs
July 15
DEADLINE (WED., 5 pm)
Aug 12
Sept. 14
Call to reserve your advertising spot today: (239) 770-7527
Anniversary Edition
Oct. 21
Oct. 12
Call to reserve your advertising spot today: (239) 770-7527
Transportation & land use discussed 9/29-30 Southwest Florida Sustainability is planning its two-day Transportation and Land Use Workshop and Summit spanning two cities, Bonita Springs and Cape Coral. Experts will address changing regulations, new approaches and shifting public expectations. Interactive workshop On Sept. 29, the Interactive Design and Planning Workshop is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Bonita Springs City Hall. The $125 registration includes breakfast and lunch. It is geared to engineers, planners, landscape architects, plan review staff, real estate agents, government leaders and developers. Led by Dan Burden, Ian Lockwood and Billy Hattaway, it will explore the why and how of community design, principles and the practivc of putting streets to work for economic and social gain. The workshop is limited to 48 people. Mini conference From 8 a.m. to noon Sept. 30, the program summit is at the Cape Coral Yacht Club. It is open to 300 attendees, includes breakfast and costs $40. It is geared to elected and appointed officials, land use attorneys, developers, real estate agents, planners and engineers. Organizers say nationally renowned experts will offers solutions to rapidly changing demands, impacts of new performances standards, new federal funding priorities and the state’s new Complete Streets program. For information and to register, go to www.swflsustainability.com or call (941)348-6981.
Page 4
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
SEPTEMBER 2016
Debunking some of the misconceptions in world of web design Part 2 of 2
The following items are huge misconceptions in the world of web design. SEO is a Monthly Fee I hate this one – just like the “web management fee,” search engine optimization involves manipulating the factors that determine how Google or other search engines rank your website. A monthly fee may be in order, but there’s no set “$300/month” rate as every industry, location, and keyword is different. Additionally, SEO is entirely holistic – every factor must be evaluated, as in many local situations you can simply update a tiny code and immediately rank at the top for many terms. In any case “SEO” is a misnomer. All of our sites are “search engine optimized” but the ongoing content writing is really important. The Web is Fast/Easy Nope, it’s going to take time, work, and money. It’s possible to achieve a lot on the web, but if you’re expecting fast riches
Nomination applications for Blue Chip Award due
you’ll probably be disappointed and quit too soon. Hosting is Not Important Hosting is technical and boring; it involves the computer your website and email sit and are presented to the world. Nothing is more important. Search engines use it as one of the tools in evaluating your ranking and, if you’re using it for email, any downtime means you’ll BY ZACH KATKIN be losing money paying emGuest Columnist ployees when they can’t do work. You Can Outsource Easily to Other Countries Outsourcing has its pros and cons. But I’m going to totally have to disagree with Tim Ferriss who, in his book “The Four Hour Workweek” advocates outsourcing all of one’s life. The idea is
S
Prime Office SPace
O tS Y
S tN Y
Zach Katkin is the co-founder & CEO of the Bonita Springs based web development and Internet marketing firm Atilus. He is a Certified Google Professional, author, and lover of technology. He helps Atilus stay out ahead of online marketing trends and loves driving results for Atilus’ clients.
Cyber security starts with the employees
Here’s a thought that is equal parts troubling and perplexing: Most companies that “specialize” The 22nd Annual Southwest Florida Blue Chip in data security will spend millions on securing the Community Business Award application deadline cloud but fail to sufficiently invest when it comes is fast approaching. to securing the employee. Coordinated and sponsored by BB&T- Oswald BluStor has set itself apart from most competiTrippe and Company and BB&T Bank, the award tors with its CyberGate Personal Mobile Cloud, recognizes successful, small businesses in Lee, which requires every employee, for every secure Collier or Charlotte counties that have overcome mobile transaction they conduct, prove they are adversity to achieve success. Applications must be who they say they are and that they are authorized submitted by Sept. 6. to do what they are requesting. Independent judges will pick the winner. Busi“It bears endless repeating that the current and nesses can nominate themselves or be nominated most vulnerable pathway for most cyber attacks lies by a third party. with the employee,” said Finis Conner, BluStor’s To qualify, the for-profit business must have founder and CEO. “The employee is the ultimate been in operation for at least three years under the gatekeeper and should only be allowed to access same ownership with principal office in at least one private information with his or her own biometrics, of the three counties, and employ five to 400 peosuch as facial recognition.” ple. The award ceremony will take place Nov. 3 “It’s overwhelmingly simple: Security has to reat Harborside Event Center, 1375 Monroe St., Fort side with the person who is trying to access proMyers. tected information.” To submit an application, contact Stacey MercaIndeed, with 73 percent of all passwords being do at 239-433-7189 or SMercado@BBandT.com. duplicates, hackers using stolen or broken passwords in 82 percent of all cybercrime, and a 614 rime ffice Pace percent growth in mobile malware, it couldn’t be uited O Our a less eedS secure time to use passwords or rely on the uited O Our eedS cloud. 1601 Lee S treet, river diStrict, fOrt mYerS Featured Property “What we’re offering is simplicity with a higher Newly renovated office building level security than is available with any other alin the heart of the of River District ternative,” of Downtown Fort Myers, Conner Florida. said. BluStor’s philosophy focuses on separating keys Modern art deco design. Adjacent to new libraryof and community identity from devices by replacing something you plaza. Over 8100 square feet total, with something you are (biometknow (passwords) available in three units of 2348 to data off devices and the cloud; rics), keeping critical 2988 square feet. Call now 1601 Lee Street, River District, ForttoMyers have build-out done to meet your and keeping data accessible via Bluetooth between needs. Professional space in downtown
P
alluring, the ability to concentrate more on oneself romantic, but outsourcing can be a huge pain as monetary, technical, and language barriers get in the way. Social Media is Extremely Important Social media is just not that important for most businesses right now. Here’s why – you need to invest your time, money, energy, on what will work and what will bring in results as FAST as possible. Social media is not the fastest way to more business. It’s important in later stages of a web marketing plan, but first, get a great site, have great content, then market it in other ways, then start thinking (and planning around) social.
N
Rent and teRms aRe negotiable. Fort Myers, ready to build to your needs. 5,887 square6309 feet, can be divided. $12 per foot. cOrPOrate cOurt, SOuth fOrt mYerS
the CyberGate card and devices. BluStor’s CyberGate Personal Mobile Cloud is equipped to meet all of the inherent security concerns by combining three proprietary features in a three-factor authentication solution: GateKeeper, the “bouncer at the door” that requires match-on card authentication and enables users to prove they are who they say they are with their biometrics to access authorized applications and data. File Vault, which resides behind the GateKeeper. Using Android, users securely encrypt and store 8GB of their critical data and documents on the CyberGate ultra-thin card, protecting against phishing, ransomware and other forms of email fraud. AutoLogN, which, when you approach one of your devices, automatically logs you into your Microsoft-based laptop, desktop or tablet via a Bluetooth connection. When you walk away, the device’s screen automatically locks itself. For more information go to BluStor.com
Other Available Properties Locate your • 6309 Corporate Courtoffice - Office with - 936 to other in foot. the 2,500 sq. ft.professionals from $8 per square quiet in the middle Sansetting Carlos Blvd. - Retail Store • 16200 ofsq.College - per Summerlin 1,000 ft. - $1,100 month • 16450 financial Office San Carlos area. Blvd. - Retail Store 936 to 2500 450space sq. ft. - from $700 per month
sq. ft. available. Build-out SaNd dOllar real eState / BuSiNeSS dePOt allowable! , lic. real eState BrOker larrY SteiNBOrN
Rent teRms Wand e Listen , We aRe Carenegotiable. 6309 Corporate Ct #205 S and dollar Phone: real239-433-1343 eState / BuSineSS depot Fort Myers, FL 33919 Email: bizdepot@aol.com larry SteinBorn , lic. real eState Broker
We Listen, We Care!
6325 Presidential Ct 7-A Fort Myers, FL 33919
IN BUSINESS SINCE
Phone: 239-433-1343 Fax: 239-433-5137 Email: bizdepot@aol.com
2007
Puzzled over how to keep up with changes in Southwest Florida’s Business Market? The missing piece is in your hands...
’re We
s
nes
usi
B All
Don’t miss a single issue. Get a one year subscription for just $30. Call (239) 573-9731 or e-mail: publisher@swfloridabusinesstoday.com to order your subscription for Southwest Florida Business Today now!
2008
2009
Planning • Counsel • Peace of Mind • Business & Personal Tax Preparation • Accounting, Bookkeeping, Payroll Processing, & Merchant Services • Holistic Financial Services
Partner | Investment Specialist
John Davis Partner
DAVIS & ASSOCIATES Certified Public Accountants
(239) 444-5945
Enn Luthringer, CCIM
www.johndaviscpa.com
Bonita Springs • Fort Myers • Naples • Port Charlotte • Cape Coral
Six Mile Cypress Corporate Park 12140 Carissa Commerce Court Suite 102 Fort Myers, FL 33966 T 239.481.3800 x235 F 239.481.9950 C 239.994.3703 enn.luthringer@creconsultants.com www.creconsultants.com/go/ennluthringer
CRE Commercial Real Estate Consultants, LLC F l o r i d a L i c e n s e d R e a l E s t a t e B r o k e r
SEPTEMBER 2016
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
Page 5
Tips to help small businesses find working capital loans
Question: I am starting a lawn care business with $35,000 in savings. This is enough to purchase needed equipment, but it will leave little left to cover ongoing expenses. I need a working capital loan. What do you suggest? Answer: I recently attended a seminar that had a panel consisting of a representative from the Small Business Administration and three local bankers who specialize in SBA-backed loans to small businesses. The SBA provides guarantees to participating banks that ensure against default by the borrower. This, in turn, allows the lenders to make loans to some businesses that might not otherwise qualify for conventional loans. In many cases, business owners put the cart before the horse. They spend what money they have saved on machinery and equipment and then ask their banker for a working capital loan. Lenders prefer hard assets as collateral for
loans as opposed to intangibles, such as accounts receivables. In your case, it is better to apply for a loan to finance a truck, mowing machine or leaf blowers, and keep the $35,000 in the bank as your source of working capital. Regardless of whether you are a corporation or a limited liability company, the bank will require your BY GRAY personal guarantee of the POEHLER loan. They also may require Guest Columnist you to pledge personal assets, such as your home. You should begin the process of applying for a loan by ordering free copies of your credit report from the three credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax and TransUnion.
Brian Beasley named COO Brian Beasley has been named chief operating officer of Beasley Media Group, Inc., a subsidiary of Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc., headquartered in Naples Beasley was executive vice president of operations. He has worked with the company since 1977. “This COO position is a great honor, considering my entire life has been dedicated to the radio business,” Beasley said. “I’ve benefitted greatly from my hands-on experience at all levels of this business and I’ll be continuing to contribute to the successful operations of our stations for many years to come.”
SBA PAGE 1 Women contractors can now manage the certification process, including Third Party Certifications. “This new SBA website has modernized the certification process for our WOSB Program by adding a plethora of online resources and presentations to assist with streamlining the self-certification process,” Marrero said. The website will eventually serve additional SBA contracting programs, including the 8(a) Business Development Program, the HUBZone Program, and others. The site also has a tool called “Am I Eligible?” which allows a
He is a former president of the Piedmont Radio Association and former director of the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters. He has worked Brian Beasley nearly four decades of his professional life in the radio industry and has made countless contributions to the success of the company, said Interim CEO Caroline Beasley. For information about the broadcast group, visit www.bbgi.com.
small business to answer approximately 15 questions and to determine if the Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contract Program, the HUBZone Program, and/or the 8(a) Business Development Program are a good fit for their business. “This new website first focuses on closing market gaps for women entrepreneurs in the federal marketplace by featuring the WomenOwned Small Business Program as we work toward breaking federal contracting goals for a second year in fiscal year 2016,” said SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet. Questions about the Federal Contract Program should be directed to wosb@sba.gov.
You might find the three do not always agree and you should take steps to correct any discrepancies. Log on to www.annualcreditreport.com Most importantly, meet with your banker to discuss your needs and determine what he or she will need to consider your loan request. Generally speaking, banks will require copies of your personal tax returns for three years, current financial statement, and a written business plan complete with financial projections. They also may require that you seek advice and direction from a qualified business counselor, such as one from SCORE, which offers free and confidential business counseling. Gray Poehler is a volunteer with SCORE Naples. Their counselors can assist and offer advice concerning management issues facing your small business. To register for free counseling or have a question, call 239-430-0081 or fill out the form located at naples.score.org/mentors
Rookery Bay partners with FIU
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and Florida International University have created a partnership that will serve FIU students as well as citizens of Collier County and surrounding areas. The educational and research partnership will enhance the environmental understanding necessary to manage the reserve’s 110,000 acres. Nine joint reserve-FIU staff positions have been created for scientific research, education and resource management. “Current watershed-level restoration projects, such as the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, make this a critical time for long-term research, education and stewardship in the Greater Everglades Ecosystem,” said Rookery Bay Reserve Director Keith Laakkonen. Partnership goals include enhancing FIU’s and the reserve’s ability to provide field-based environmental studies instructions to students; promoting shared use of facilities, vessels, vehicles and informational resources; establishing environmental studies, internships and research projects that address regional scientific priorities; providing FIU staff direct access to the reserve’s long-term water-quality, fisheries and biological data for analysis and use for joint research and publications; and expanding FIU’s partnerships in Southwest Florida ecosystems science, management and education fields with federal, state and local agencies and non-profit organizations. “Scientists from Florida Internation-
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and Florida International University partnership enhances environmental understanding. al University have long been involved in generating information vital to managers of many of the marine protected areas and parks in the region,” said James Fourqurean, director of the Marine Educational and Research Initiative in FIU’s College of Arts, Sciences & Education. A joint research and educational support facility is being planned to house programs from FIU adjacent to the reserve’s headquarters and Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center campus in Naples.
Page 6
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
SEPTEMBER 2016
Employee assistance gets name change at SalusCare The employee assistance program operated by SalusCare is undergoing a name change. Synergy EAP Solutions is the new name for the Southwest Florida Employee Assistance Program, according to Director Julia Corbett. Synergy reflects the multi-faceted approach to helping employees and their employers find solutions that impact job performance and productivity. A part of SalusCare, Synergy serves more than 40 area companies and government agencies, which
Thompson moves law firm
William deForest Thompson Jr., a solo practitioner law firm providing advocacy in serious personal injury and complex cases, has moved to 2030 McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers. The new office is within easy walking distance to the downtown River and the Lee County Justice Center, W. Thompson and provides better parking and discretion for clients, plus optimal conference room space for client meetings and conferences. In practice since 1995, Thompson advocates on behalf of his clients in cases including medical malpractice, wrongful death, automobile accidents, product liability, insurance and bad faith, and nursing home abuse. The building also houses Goede, Adamczyk, DeBoest & Cross, which focuses on condo and homeowner association law, real estate law, business law and wills, trusts and estates. “Our clients have suffered serious injury or loss, and our priority is to put them at ease while we prepare the most effective advocacy possible on their behalf,” Thompson said. “The new location offers the ideal accessibility, comfort and privacy that our clients desire and deserve.”
Corbett is hoping to increase during the next few months. A key to that growth is the new video counseling service, which allows employees to have private counseling sessions from workplace or home on smartphones, tablets or computers. Employees can access confidential counseling from any location that has a wi-fi or cellular connection. “We heard from many of our clients that it takes
too much time out of the workday for them to drive to our office in Fort Myers,” Corbett said. “Now they can have face-to-face counseling whether it’s in our office or over the internet.” Corbett said she expects the new video counseling service to be more convenient for clients such as the City of Clewiston, City of Sanibel, Florida Gulf Coast For information, visit www.synergyeap.org or call 239-278-7435.
Parent of C1 Bank repeats as top performing bank Bank of the Ozarks, parent company of C1 Bank, has been named the top performing bank in the nation in its asset size category by Bank Director magazine. This is the bank’s fourth consecutive year to be recognized by Bank Director, and it marks the sixth consecutive year that a national organization has named Bank of the Ozarks as number one in the nation.
“Our customers have high expectations and we work hard to help them achieve their financial goals. That requires us to constantly pursue being the best in all that we do,” said George Gleason, chairman and chief executive officer. The ranking is based on five key metrics related to profitability, capital strength and asset quality. The Scorecard evaluates and ranks the 300 larg-
est publicly traded US banks. Bank Director is the premier magazine written for senior officers and directors of financial institutions. Bank of the Ozarks, Inc. is a bank holding company which had $12.28 billion in total assets as of June. The company owns a state-chartered subsidiary bank that conducts banking operations through 256 offices in nine states, including Florida.
Vantage Construction Services has completed a renovation of The Island Fitness Center at Shell Point Retirement Community in Fort Myers.
Vantage wraps up Shell Point fitness center
Vantage Construction Services, a commercial general contractor, has completed a renovation of The Island Fitness Center at Shell Point Retirement Community, in Fort Myers. The project encompassed 6600 square feet and included selective demolition of existing interior structures, new walls, cabinetry, storefront assemblies, flooring, painting, bathroom ac-
cessories, acoustical ceiling and grid, plumbing and HVAC as well as fire sprinkler modifications and electrical. The expanded aerobic space, men’s and women’s locker rooms, offices, cardio, fitness and kitchen areas are now open. Vantage Construction Services LLC is a Cypress Lake-based construction company providing consult-
ing, pre-construction, general contracting, construction management and design-build services. Shell Point Retirement Community, founded in 1968, is a nonprofit continuing care retirement community offering independent retirement living, assisted living, and skilled nursing for its 2,400 residents in an active, resortstyle environment.
‘Tis the Season...To Optimize Your Business Performance
“It Pays to Advertise!” ✔ Direct Mail Advertising ✔ All Types of Mailing Lists ✔ Postage as Low as 14.2 cents ✔ Fast, Friendly Service Mention this ad and receive
20% OFF labor charges on your first mailing.
Join us Tuesday, Sept, 27 from 5-7:30pm at the Crowne Plaza Bell Tower in Fort Myers. Learn proven, practical, and solid strategies for optimizing the performance of your business and employees from guest speaker, Adam James!
Adam James, “The Coach”
239-574-2028
Call today for a quote! The Letter Box, Inc. 936 Country Club Blvd. Cape Coral, FL 33990
Tickets ONLY $25ea. until 9/20
www.biznetswfl.org/OBP
or call 239.246.7953
Sponsored by For a full list of sponsors please visit the website
SEPTEMBER 2016
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
Page 7
IT managed services explained for business owners
By Mona Hilton Guest Columnist
What are IT managed services? Is it a more cost effective option to support your business’ IT and computers? Or is it not right or too expensive for your type of business? You’ve most likely heard or read the term “managed services”. Maybe it sounds like intimidating tech talk or perhaps someone has suggested you try it but you haven’t quite felt that you know enough about it to make an informed decision. Either way, you’re in the right place. We’re going to explain managed services and dispel the mysteries surrounding how it works and help you determine whether or not you should consider it. What is “managed services”? According to Wikipedia, managed services are the practice of outsourcing day-to-day management responsibilities and functions as a strategic method for improving operations and cutting expenses. The organization that owns or has direct oversight of the system being managed is referred to as the client, or customer. The organization that accepts and provides the managed service is regarded as the service provider or MSP. In plain English, IT managed services is outsourcing your IT network and computer support to an outside company. How does it work? Just as you might outsource your payroll or bookkeeping to an outside expert, IT managed services is outsourcing your IT maintenance and support to an
outside expert for a flat monthly rate. There are certain expectations and limits in place in exchange for your monthly fee, but in essence, you know that your IT, computer hardware and software support are covered in your budget. Extra projects and upgrades will cost you extra, but normal maintenance and patches are included. How are MSPs able to provide that service within budget? Sophisticated management tools installed on your network allow them to support you remotely and address almost all issues except for physical or hardware changes. What are the pros? Using managed services means you can budget your normal IT service and support. Ideally, your MSP would provide you with a checklist of what you can expect them to check weekly and monthly, as well as when and how often you can expect to see a live network engineer on site. Because your network is being supported proactively and remotely, you can normally expect fewer unexpected issues (because your network is being proactively maintained) and quicker resolution to problems (no need to wait for an engineer to drive to your office).
What are the cons? The most common complaint with managed services is that clients can sometimes feel that they are paying monthly for services but not seeing an engineer onsite (and therefore not getting their money’s worth or not having someone to discuss their issues with).
Another complaint is the “surprise” bills when a service or project does not fall under your managed service agreements. Clients can feel like they are paying more in total than they would have in a call on demand service model. Those are legitimate concerns. One solution is to schedule a regular monthly meeting to discuss your network’s health, any issues you are having or plan for future projects. Who qualifies for managed services? While every organization is a potentially good candidate for managed services, the best business types are those who like to budget their IT expenditure and spread them out over 12 months. Seasonal businesses may want to consider their IT needs and cash flow variations when considering managed services. If not having downtime is an important issue for you, you might want to consider using managed services to avoid unplanned downtime. Whether you decide to give managed services a try, or stick with traditional break/fix service, you’ll want to ask good questions. How often will we see an engineer? What happens for after-hours emergencies? What’s included/excluded in the managed services plan? Will it include IT consulting and planning? Be informed, know your options and select the one that works best for you. Mona Hilton works with Genesis Global Technologies. For information, call 337-2667, visit www.GenesisGT.com or email info@genesisgt.com
Autistic teens Cape Coral dental practice changes owners get new space at Easterseals PBS Contractors has completed a construction project for Easterseals Academy, in Saint Andrew’s Square in East Naples. Designed by Stofft Cooney Architects, the construction consisted of converting financial space to functional educational space. Stofft Cooney Architects and PBS have helped Easterseals Academy reach its goal of increasing enrollment and restructuring programs to help more preteen and young adults with autism. Easterseals Academy will be able to serve 14 to 19 more individuals with Autism – helping to fill a gap in education for preteen and young adults. The new facility offers three classrooms, a work area, lounge and reading area, conference room, as well as a break room. Easterseals Academy is also now able to provide scholarships, summer camps, and family activity nights to the families of those students served “Building Better Lives is what we do, and having a small hand in providing facilities for families who have children with autism – it’s so much more than just a building,” PBS President Bart Zino said. “It’s building community for families who feel isolated and alone on their autism journey. That we can help with that, is a gift we are honored to give.” Easterseals Academy is an Easter Seals service supporting middle school and high school students with Autism and/or learning disabilities.
Dr. Nicole Rasmussen has purchased the dental practice of Dr. Timonthy L. Snyder, at 4113 Del Prado Blvd in Cape Coral. Dr. Snyder plans to retire after more than 30 years in dentistry in the Cape Coral area. Rasmussen was raised in Cape Coral, and graduated from Mariner High School. She holds a bachelor’s degree in microbiology and molecular biology from University of Central Florida. She earned her doctorate in Dental Medicine from the University of Florida, and an advanced education in general dentistry certificate from New York University Lutheran Dental Medicine. Rasmussen Family Dental will offer a range of services including basic cleaning, teeth whitening, extractions, root canal therapy, veneers, and many other cosmetic dental services. Dr. Rasmussen sees ages from 2 to adult. Rasmussen Family Dental is accepting new patients, and is offering a free second opinion with copy of treatment plan and x-rays. The practice will accept all PPO insurances. Visit www.rasmussenfamilydental.com or Dr. Nicole Rasmussen bought the dental practice of Dr. Timonthy call 239-540-1117. L. Snyder. The office is at 4113 Del Prado Blvd., in Cape Coral.
SWFBT HAS GONE! ... digital, that is ... See our newly re-designed web site for additional LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS throughout the month Call (239) 770-7527 for digital ad rates www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com
You only have one opportunity to
Sell Your Business
Trust a firm with proven credentials and success Eric J. Gall, Managing Partner/Broker 239.738.6227 eric@edisonavenue.com Serving all of Florida Over $140M lifetime transactions
Page 8
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
SEPTEMBER 2016
GROUP TOURS NEOGENOMICS LABORATORIES
Robert Shovlin
Photos by Jim Jett Attendees note that among NeoGenomics Laboratories’ company goals are to: 1) be the leading oncology-focused testing and information company in the world and 2) innovate aggressively to advance precision medicine.
NeoGenomics is a publicly traded company that serves the needs of pathologists, oncologists, other clinicians and hospitals throughout the United States with its scientific, medical and informatics expertise.
Nancy Bryan
IN BUSINESS SINCE 1999
2012
1999
Serving all of Southwest Florida
We offer senior and military discounts
1978
2014
For All Your Commercial Real Estate Needs
2007
Business Smarts Begins with SWFL Business Today.
Randy Krise, Krise, CCIM CCIM Randy randy@krisecg.com randy@krisecg.com
239-690-4100 239-690-4100 Virginia Avenue “We Mean Business” “We2040 Mean Business”
Randy Krise & Krise Commercial Group Randy Krise & Krise Commercial Group announce the relocation of announce the relocation of their offices to their offices to
Fort Myers, FL 33901
12650 New Brittany Boulevard 12650 New Brittany Suite 102 Boulevard Suite 102 33907 Fort Myers, Florida Fort Myers, Florida 33907
12610 Plaza Lane, (JustWorld off McGregor 12610 World Plaza Boulevard Lane, Suite Suite 1 1 239-690-4100 Fort Myers, FL 33907 fronting First Street Village) 239-690-4100 Fort Myers, FL 33907
Start Your Subscription Today! 239.573.9732
www.krisecommercialgroup.com www.krisecommercialgroup.com
“We www.krisecommercialgroup.com “We Mean Mean Business” Business” www.krisecommercialgroup.com
2006 Michael D. Pfeffer, MBA Certified Business Appraiser
Transition Specialist/Intermediary Certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser
Murphy Business & Financial Services Inc.-SWFL
Marco Island - Naples - Bonita Springs Fort Myers - Cape Coral Phone: (239) 793-0431 Fax: (239) 947-0715 Email: mpfeffer@murphybusiness.com www.murphybusiness.com/bonitasprings
1981
The Letter Box, Inc. It Pays To Advertise!
We appreciate your business SWFL
(239) 574-2028
www.LetterBoxInc.com
1995
SEPTEMBER 2016
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
Page 9
Merger results in new Bonita Springs-based company Three Southwest Florida accounting firms have merged to form Capital Care Group. Deavers Tax and Accounting Professionals Inc, Steven Phillips CPA and Bob Marsh CPA have joined forces to bring more than 50 years of combined experience to the community in the areas of accounting, tax consulting and financial planning. “We are excited to create an opportunity for both
current and potential clients by combining our experience and providing an expanded array of services,” said Capital Care Group principal Steven Phillips. Phillips, with the other Capital Care Group principals, Bob Marsh and Cheryl Deavers are offering free consultations for those interested in learning more about the firm and its extensive capabilities. “Our ultimate goal in this merger is to be able
to provide multiple services under one roof,” Marsh said. “We get to know our clients and their businesses inside and out and now we can provide a cohesive offering of accounting, tax and financial planning services as one entity.” For information, contact 239-992-1973, visit their offices at 3920 Via Del Rey, #4 in Bonita Springs or www.ccgcpas.com.
Charlotte County feeling the love of social media
Charlotte County’s version of Justin Timberlake’s video for his No. 1 song “Can’t Stop The Feeling” went viral, generating 118,000 views in the first 24 hours after it was posted to Facebook. The video features footage of county staff and local residents dancing and singing at county landmarks, businesses and parks. Produced by CC-TV Television Production Specialist Todd Dunn and Program Manager Elizabeth Billings, the video was featured on local TV broadcasts and websites. “The reaction to this video has been incredible,” said County Administrator Ray Sandrock. “People are sharing it all over the country
and posting wonderful comments about how much they love Charlotte County and how happy they are to live here or visit.” County Communications Manager Brian Gleason said the video reached more than a quarter-million people in 24 hours, and 50,000 of them clicked on the post, according to Facebook’s audience metrics “It is the most-watched video in the history of CC-TV’s YouTube channel, with nearly 11,000 views, which is exposing people to all the other content produced by CC-TV, many for the first time,” he said. To see the video on CC-TV’s YouTube page, visit www.youtube. com/user/charlottecounty.
“
People are sharing it all over the country and posting wonderful comments about how much they love Charlotte County and how happy they are to live here or visit. – Ray Sandrock, Charlotte County Administrator
Logan Roberts, left, and Kyle Cebull will open Millennial Brewing Co. in downtown Fort Myers in October. They are renovating a warehouse that will house their entire operation.
BREWERY PAGE 1 Millennial Brewing will include a 2,300-square-foot taproom, a massive cold storage area to house kegged beer and a cellaring program, and a standalone laboratory for yeast culturing and quality control. The brewery’s 10, ten-barrel fermenters will brew up to 1,500 barrels of beer — 46,500 gallons — in its first year.
Co-founders Logan Roberts, 29, and Kyle Cebull, 33, recently signed a distribution contract with Suncoast Beverage Sales. The Fort Myers-based distributor will deliver Millennial products to local bars and restaurants across Suncoast’s 2,500-square-mile territory from its 86,500-square-foot distribution center. For information, call 271-2255, Ext. 701 or visit millennialbrewing.com.
IN BUSINESS SINCE 2009
“
1981
1999
Managed Service Provider Cloud Computing Equipment Sales Online Backup Printer Repair
Alex Johnson alex@sjctech.com
㤀 䈀漀渀椀琀愀 䈀攀愀挀栀 刀漀愀搀 縀 䈀漀渀椀琀愀 匀瀀爀椀渀最猀Ⰰ 䘀䰀 ㌀㐀㌀㔀 ⠀㈀㌀㤀⤀㤀㐀㤀ⴀ㘀㈀㘀㈀ 縀 䌀椀琀礀漀昀䈀漀渀椀琀愀匀瀀爀椀渀最猀⸀漀爀最
www.paradigmrec.com Marie Hamling, CPM®
1989
2007
Making IT Possible
www.sjctech.com 239.324.9039 x 152 239.822.3857 Cell
We put technology to work for your business
NEW MERGER
FLOORCRAFTERS, INC. SWFL’s Largest Flooring Supplier And Installer Carpet, Tile, Hardwood, Laminate And Vinyl Planking Commercial And Residential
Jay Samoedjh Selling Craftsmanship Since 1989 12890 Metro Parkway Fort Myers, FL 33966 www.Floorcrafters.biz
1949
(239) 561-0222 Cell: (239) 218-2519 jayfloorcrafters@gmail.com
1995 THE POWER OF MORE THAN 65 YEARS OF PRACTICING LAW IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA.
Fort Myers: 239. 334. 2195 • Cape Coral: 239. 542. 3148
www.PaveseLaw.com
Bernadette Collier
Licensed Insurance Agent
239-939-6500 ext. 3233 bcollier@aaasouth.com
" Cover your home and car the right way with Triple A”
Tax Preparation • Estate Planning For Individuals & Businesses 239.939.5303 • 239.481.4114 www.SolomonHoover.com 1342 Colonial Blvd., Ste. B-11 • Fort Myers, FL 33907
2008
Page 10
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
SEPTEMBER 2016
United Mechanical approved as testing organization United Mechanical, with offices in Fort Myers, is now a North American Technician Excellence Testing Organization. An authorized testing company agrees to follow the testing protocols, offers at least one testing session a year and has a minimum of one technician excellence-approved proctor. “At United Mechanical, we understand the importance of continuing education, and we require all of our technicians to be NATE certified,” said Mike Clark, president of United Mechanical. “One of the
obstacles we found to obtaining NATE certifications was the limited amount of testing facilities in the area. We are very excited to offer this advantage to not only our employees but to all local HVACR technicians looking to be NATE certified.” Headquartered in Arlington, Va., the testing organization was founded in 1997 as the nation’s largest industry-endorsed, nonprofit certification organization for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration technicians. Candidates may earn installation and/or service
certification in nine specialty areas: air-conditioning, air distribution, heat pumps, gas heating, oil heating, hydronics gas, hydronics oil, commercial refrigeration, light commercial refrigeration and senior efficiency analyst. The organization also offers the international ground source heat pump test. Founded in 1987, United Mechanical, Inc. is a fullservice, state-licensed, mechanical contractor offering HVAC and plumbing across Southwest Florida. For information, call 239-939-4502 or visit www. umihvac.com.
Collier industrial land in short supply Any room to grow in Southwest Florida? We are all witnessing the positive trends in the Southwest Florida commercial real estate market whether in the strong retail growth surrounding Florida Gulf Coast University or mixed use developments such as NaplesSquare. Residential construction is strong and the pace of apartment construction is a bit staggering. The industrial market of Lee County is one of the hottest sectors with a vaBY GERALD cancy hovering HENDRY around 4 perGuest Columnist cent and rental rates averaging $6.50 per square foot. A little historical perspective will help those figures sink in. Mid-year 2012 we had a vacancy of 12.2 percent and average rental rates of $4.98 per square foot. Lee County is a growing market in which new construction is attempting to emulate the pace of demand as evidenced by construction occurring primarily in the Alico Road/Treeline Avenue corridors. However, Lee County has room to grow with more than 4,000 vacant acres in the Industrial Land Use categories of the Comprehensive Plan. Collier County has an industrial
market comprised of just more than 13 million square feet of space of which a minuscule 1.3 percent is vacant. The majority of the industrial vacancy is in the flex market at 4.1 percent with basically no vacancy (0.9 percent) in the warehouse market. Over the past four years, we have consumed much more space than available. A great problem to have, right? Yes and no…if you are in a market such as Lee County, the market will react and recognize an opportunity by constructing new space. Lee County has industrial land, and Collier County is basically running on empty. Historically, Collier County has absorbed an average of 240,000 square feet of industrial space per year which roughly correlates to a need of about 30 acres per year. A search of traditional commercial list-
Lee County disaster roundtable on 9/21 Lee County is hosting a roundtable discussion with business leaders on disaster planning, response and recovery 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, at the Lee County Emergency Operations Center, 2675 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. Responding to disasters requires the participation of the entire community. Collaborating with key businesses before disaster strikes is key to a successful response. Getting businesses up and running as quickly as possible is a priority and leads to a quicker recovery. This event will help to build stronger partnerships with the private sector and generate local best practices. The event is sponsored by Lee County Public Safety/Emergency Management, Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau and Lee County Economic Development. For registraion information, contact Lee Mayfield at lmayfield@leegov.com; or contact Pam Brown at pbrown@leegov.com.
ing sources reveals total available land at 37 acres. Those who own industrial land will develop or will sell at significant prices (current average asking price for industrial land is $10.75 per square foot). The most fundamental change will be a convergence of the Lee and Collier markets with most new industrial development in Collier County occurring in the Old US 41 Road corridor in North Naples and Bonita Springs. Gerald Hendry, MAI, CCIM , is a managing partner with Maxwell, Hendry & Simmons, a commercial and residential appraisal/consulting firm in Fort Myers. He is the 2016 President Elect of the SWFL CCIM District. Contact him at 337-0555 or geraldh@MHSappraisal.com
IN BUSINESS SINCE 1999
g k &
Duplication Services
. Short run to large run duplications . Direct-to-Disc label printing . Using only premium quality media . All duplications produced in-house . Visit our web site for competitive prices . Mention this ad and receive 20% off your first order! 11595 Kelly Rd . Kelly Carlos Office Center Building 300 . Suite 303 . Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-482-5333 www.emediamt.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN • PRINTING • DIRECT MAIL Cape Coral
SAVE MONEY NOW!! 2816 Del Prado Blvd. S. Cape Coral, Florida 33904
Tel: 239-541-3255 Fax: 239-541-3055
jreich@minutemanpress.com www.CapeCoral.MinutemanPress.com
2000
1996
ACCOUNTING SERVICES Get out and grow your business Leave the paperwork to me
Start Ups and Small Businesses
Suanne Jay, MBA
Taxes Payroll Financial Preparation
2007
2005 Booklets Brochures Newsletters Forms Flyers Postcards Envelopes Letterheads Business Cards Banners & Much More!
Puzzled over how to keep up with changes in Southwest Florida’s Business Market? The missing piece is in your hands...
eA
’r We
ess
sin
u ll B
Don’t miss a single issue. Get a one year subscription for just $30. Call (239) 573-9731 or e-mail: publisher@swfloridabusinesstoday.com to order your subscription for Southwest Florida Business Today now!
1986
Selling your business is our business
Buyers are looking for profitable businesses to purchase
Call now for a private discussion about the marketability of your business and how we can help.
(239) 433-1343 LARRY STEINBORN, Broker
239-777-0394 sj@amedproducts.com
SAND DOLLAR REAL ESTATE BUSINESS DEPOT BizDepot@aol.com 6309 Corporate Ct. #205, Fort Myers, FL 33919
SEPTEMBER 2016
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
Page 11
More tips to help make small business more successful Part 2 of 2
Stick to your core competency – Build a team of professionals We recommend that small business owners hire someone to do their bookkeeping and then have that individual or company prepare financial statements monthly. A lot of people feel or think “okay, I’ll just use Quick Books and I’ll get the report that I need.” Most people don’t use Quick Books or other software correctly, so the old adage still applies: garbage in, garbage out. Internet presence Is important If you want to capture your share of the market, you must have proper internet exposure. There’s something called search engine optimization, which is referred to as SEO, and that’s where you rank on Google, without paying Google to place an ad for you. You want your company to rank as high as possible with the lowest possible investment. When you look up a certain business on the internet, we all know that if that business doesn’t fall on the first page, we’re probably not going to go to page 2 and 3. The SEO approach used for one company
BY JOHN DAVIS Guest Columnist
or industry does not necessarily apply to another. As a business, you’re going to get a certain amount of business from word of mouth, a certain amount of business from maybe a print ad, a certain amount of business from people driving by your place, but the majority of your business today is going to come from the internet. Internet marketing strategy is a critical piece of your marketing campaign, and it must be mobile friendly.
Keep business, personal accounts separate There are a couple of ways that people co-mingle funds, and they’re both bad. If you have a business, you should not be operating out of your personal checking account. You should have a separate checking account just for the business. If the business checking account doesn’t have the money to pay certain business bills, then you should put money in from your personal account into the business ac-
count and pay them out of there. Don’t start paying business bills out of your personal account because that’s where the money is. Transfer the money, then pay the bills out of the proper account. The other real serious problem for co-mingling money is with sales and payroll taxes. The business owner will have all the good intentions in the world to pay sales and payroll taxes on time, but something (always) happens along the way when the business is not capitalized properly at the time these taxes are due. All of a sudden, the owner is paying payroll with money earmarked for the sales tax payment. An altogether separate account is needed because it is not the business’ money. Payroll taxes were withheld from the employee; that money belongs to the federal government, and sales taxes were collected from a customer; that money belongs to the state of Florida. That money not be available to pay day-to-day business operating expenses. Davis and Associates Certified Public Accountants has offices in Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Port Charlotte and Naples. The firm offers personal and business services including new business formation and small business accounting. Contact John at www.johndaviscpa.com or 239-444-5945.
Real estate symposium coming Sept. 15 The 2016 Real Estate Investment Society (REIS) educational symposium takes place at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) on September 15. Mike Timmerman will analyze national and state economic trends and put it into local context with an explanation of Southwest Florida’s real estate economics. Panel discussions with perspectives from both the public and private sectors focuses on
“What’s Hot” in the development industry in the Bonita Springs/ Estero area and downtown Fort Myers. The agenda includes developer input on fresh projects that are currently either under construction or going through the entitlement process. The halfday program is presented by REIS in partnership with the Lutgert College of Business at FGCU. Go to reis-swfl.org for more information
刀攀愀挀栀 吀栀漀甀猀愀渀搀猀 漀昀 倀漀琀攀渀琀椀愀氀 一攀眀 䌀甀猀琀漀洀攀爀猀 眀椀琀栀⸀⸀⸀ Cheldin Barlatt Rumer has launched the www.screamyourdream.com online marketing course for small business owners, entrepreneurs and independent sales professionals
Learn to scream your dream Brand Consultant Cheldin Barlatt Rumer, CEO, i-g creative and host/executive producer of This is it TV, has launched the www.screamyourdream. com online marketing course for small business owners, entrepreneurs and independent sales professionals It provides its participants with the skills and resources needed to market their businesses on and offline. “The majority of small business owners work full-time within their businesses. Unfortunately, many believe they don’t have the time for marketing and promotions. It is my goal to assist these entrepreneurs in finding their marketing voice and help them create plans they can manage and execute daily with ease,” Rumer said.
Rumer’s interactive course provides regional, national and international dreamers with marketing basics while sharing the tools needed to execute their own daily campaigns and promotional programs. Small business owners have limited time and often even less resources. The cost-effective online course aids participants by providing clear and direct instruction and assigning simple yet measurable tasks. Cheldin Barlatt Rumer has spent close two decades creating, managing and executing strategic grass roots marketing campaigns for clients within an array of various lifestyle industries. Find out more at www.cheldinbarlatt.com
“
The majority of small business owners work full-time within their businesses. Unfortunately, many believe they don’t have the time for marketing and promotions. It is my goal to assist these entrepreneurs in finding their marketing voice and help them create plans they can manage and execute daily with ease.
– Cheldin Barlatt Rumer, Brand consultant
爀琀攀搀 愀 琀 匀 琀 攀 䜀 吀漀搀愀礀℀
“
Page 12
Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY
SEPTEMBER 2016
Business survey reveals optimism, hiring plans Southwest Florida business executives are overwhelmingly positive about the state’s economy over the coming year, a survey by the Regional Economic Research Institute at Florida Gulf Coast University reveals. Nearly 9 out of 10 say they are optimistic about business in both Southwest Florida and the state. The Executive Business Climate Survey provides a quarterly view of the local economy that is based on responses from senior executives from a range of industries across the county. An invitation to complete the internet survey was sent to 565 executives and business owners in Lee County. Eighty-eight executives completed the survey from April 18, through May 2. This survey provides a key economic indicator for Lee County, the Executive Business Climate Index. The current survey’s Special Topics section focuses on the cost of doing business, prices, the state of the economy, and primary business challenges for business in Lee County.
Other findings for the second quarter of 2016 include: 59 percent stated that the current economic conditions have improved over last year, while 33 percent stated that they were the same; 50 percent expect the economy to improve over the next year; 50 percent stated that the current economic conditions for their industry have improved over last year, but 32 percent stated that economic conditions remained approximately the same, and 18 percent indicated they are moderately worse; 49 percent expect economic conditions for their industry to improve over the next year; 58 percent expect to increase investment next year while 2 percent expect to reduce investment levels; 50 percent had increased employment over the last year, while 2 percent had reduced employment; 44 percent expect to increase employment at their companies during the next year, while 56 percent of executives plan to remain at the same level;
41 percent indicate that they have increased prices by at least 2 percent over the past year; 87 percent stated they are optimistic about the Southwest Florida economy over the next year; 88 percent indicate that they are optimistic about the state of Florida economy over the next year; 58 percent stated that they are optimistic about the United States economy over the next year, while 42 percent are pessimistic about the United States economy over the next year; and 63 percent believe that finding qualified employees will be a top 5 challenge over the next year In addition to their overall economic optimism, local business owners also either expect to add employees or keep staffing levels the same. However, more than half think they will have challenges hiring qualified workers as we entered the second half of the year. Looking ahead, more than half also expect to increase their investment in their businesses in the coming year.
Small business is big business; claim the discounts
“
The Business Discount Exchange’s only goal is to be a true partner and to save small and medium-sized businesses money.
“
Any small business owner can tell you, they consistently experience frustration when dealing with their service providers -- no service, no support and no discounts. The Business Discount Exchange negotiates discounts on behalf of its members using its “power in numbers” negotiating strategy. “The Business Discount Exchange’s only goal is to be a true partner and to save small and medium-sized businesses money,” said Bob Wieden, president of the Business Discount Exchange. “It’s time for businesses from across the U.S. to join together in the BDE and turn our buying power into a juggernaut that demands attention.” According to the U.S. Small Business Administra-
– Bob Wieden, President of Business Discount Exchange tion there are more than 28 million small businesses in America that account for 54 percent of all U.S. sales. The Business Discount Exchange started as an offline, ad-hoc group of small business owners that start-
ing buying goods together. It continues to grow as a robust website, www.BusinessDiscountExchange.com. The website allows members from across the country to self-manage and automate their discounted products and services in a fast, streamlined fashion. Current business discounts span a wide range, including shipping discounts, printing discounts, merchant services discounts, web design discounts and much more. “I started by saving money on website design services and now I save on my shipping, printing and credit card processing costs — it has all added up to saving thousands,” said President Ram Motillal of Diversified Manufacturing Corp. For more information, go to www.BusinessDiscountExchange.com.
A c og ol t y Pharmacy a ly i a D d e s n e p s i D e c i v r Se g n i r a C “When searching for a site, the Cape Coral Economic Development Office helped us to find a good location and to get in contact with the right people to quickly get through permitting and inspections,” says Acology owner and pharmacist Mike Coppedge. “We definitely had a good experience with the city and expect to exceed $4.5 million in sales this year.” Acology Pharmacy 131 Del Prado Blvd. South, Cape Coral • (239) 573-2424 www.rx4u.com
To start or expand your business, contact the Cape Coral Economic Development Office today! (239) 574-0444 • ecodev@capecoral.net • bizcapecoral.com