Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
Please enjoy the latest issue of the Chamber Trends Magazine - May 2015
Citation preview
TrendsChamber
To Promote and Serve Business and Community
MAY 13 GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCH AT PALMETTO PINE COUNTRY CLUB
GUEST SPEAKER STATE REPRESENTATIVE
DANE EAGLE
JOIN US FOR THEBUSINESS AFTER HOURS MAY 21
AT RED SALON AND SPA IN THE SHOPS AT SURFSIDE
JOIN US EVERY TUESDAY AT THE SHOPS AT SURFSIDE FOR THE SURFSIDE SUNSET MARKET, 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM
CAPE CORAL FARMERS’ MARKETEVERY SATURDAY AT CLUB SQUARE8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Publisher & EditorDonna Schuman-Germain
Interim Vice [email protected]
Contributing Editors
Stephanie RobersonTechnology Director
Claudia St. OngeBusiness Manager
Matt LambMembership Director
Annette Siner Membership Sales
Melanie LempkeAdministrative Generalist
Lyz Crouthamel Special Events Director
Amanda BrunsonSpecial Events Coordinator
Chamber of Commerce of Cape CoralP.O. Box 100747, Cape Coral, FL 33910
2051 Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral, FL 33904Phone (239) 549-6900 Fax (239) 549-9609
MAY 2015MAY 13
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCHTHE STATE OF THE STATE
PALMETTO PINE COUNTRY CLUB 1940 SW 9TH COURT
CAPE CORAL, FL 3399111:30 AM - 1:00 PM
MAY 21BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
RED SALON & SPA 2378 SURFSIDE BLVD
CAPE CORAL, FL 339145:30 PM - 7:30 PM
MAY 25THWELCOME CENTER CLOSED
FOR MEMORIAL DAY
TUESDAYS YEAR ROUNDSURFSIDE SUNSET MARKET
THE SHOPS AT SURFSIDE VETERANS PARKWAY AND SURFSIDE BLVD.
CAPE CORAL, FL2:00 PM - 7:00 PM (NEW HOURS)
JUNE 2, 2015BUUSINESS CARD EXCHANGE PARKER HOUSE PROPERTIES
808 MIRAMAR ST CAPE CORAL, FL 33904
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
TO REGISTER FOR ANY OF THE ABOVE EVENTS ONLINE VISIT WWW.CAPECORALCHAMBER.COM
LEADERSHIP CAPE CORAL ANNUAL SPONSORSHIPS$2,500 Annual Investment – Cornerstone• Company Logo on Jr. Leadership Shirt• Company Logo on Leadership Cape Coral Shirt• Company Logo on all Leadership Program Materials• 4 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Kick-off• 4 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Graduation• 4 Tickets to Jr. Leadership Graduation• Opportunity to speak at Leadership Cape Coral Graduation• Opportunity to speak at Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Graduation• Opportunity to hang banner at Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Graduation• Opportunity to audit one Leadership Cape Coral Day• Opportunity to audit one Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Day• Opportunity to audit one Advanced Leadership Day or Chamber University Day• Company Logo on Sustaining Partner Leadership Web Page• One Full page advertisement in Chamber Monthly E-Trends Newsletter Annually
$1,200 Annual Investment – Partner• Company name of all Leadership Programs Materials• 2 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Kick-off• 2 Tickets to Leadership Graduation• 2 Tickets to Jr. Leadership Graduation• Opportunity to speak at Leadership Cape Coral Kick-off• Opportunity to hang banner at Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Graduation• Opportunity to audit one Leadership Cape Coral Day• Opportunity to audit one Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Day• Opportunity to audit one Advance Leadership Cape Coral Day or Chamber University Day• Company Name on Sustaining Partners Leadership Web Page
$500 Annual Investment – Supporter• Company name on all Leadership Programs Materials• 2 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Kick-off• 2 Tickets to Leadership Cape Coral Graduation• 2 Tickets to Jr. Leadership Cape Coral Graduation
ARE YOU INTERESTED?It is simple to participate, just fill out the registration form below and fax, or mail it to the Chamber.
Leadership 2015
B U S I N E S S N A M E
B I L L I N G A D D R E S S
C A R D N U M B E R
C A R D T Y P E E X P I R A T I O N D A T E T H R E E D I G I T C O D E
P H O N E E - M A I L
BJM CONSULTINGBB&T-OSWALD, TRIPPE & COTHE AUBUCHON TEAM OF COMPANIES
2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORSChairman Ed Ramos, Ramos Builders, Inc.
Chair-Elect Brett Bisbe, B2 Technology Solutions, IncTreasurer Trish Lassiter, Lee County Electric Cooperative Past Chair Annette Carrasquillo,LAI Design Associates
Barb Adams, LeeSarBeverly Black, Black Business Solutions, LLC
Ed Bolter, Lamar AdvertisingDana Brunett, City of Cape CoralMatthew Connar, Boost Creative
Tony Constantino, Kevin M. Burns & Assoc. P.A.Diane Everhart, Northwestern Mutual Financial
Joseph Francioni, The Smart CompaniesCynthia Gallagher, The Breeze Newspapers
Sandra Griener, Sun Splash Family WaterparkTom Hansen, Boat House of Cape Coral
Tim Hauck, Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral ServicesScott Kashman, Cape Coral Hospital
Laura Koehn, CapeCoral.comCheryl Komnick, Caloosa Tent & Rental
Michelle Lewis, B2 Technology SolutionsKatharyn Owen, Jones, Haber and Rollings, PL
Christopher Spiro, Spiro & AssociatesMichelle Whitlock, Siesta Pebble Pool Interiors
Zachary Zeis, Storm Smart
CHAIRMAN EMERITUSWayne Kirkwood, Kirkwood Electric, Inc.
Thomas Giles, Avalon EngineeringJoseph Mazurkiewicz, BJM Consulting, Inc.
Donna Meola, Priority Payments of South FloridaThomas Shipp Jr, Attorney
Elmer Tabor, Wonderland Realty/Cape Coral Town Center
TRUSTEESKevin Ahmadi, Gulf Coast Village
Keith Banasiak, Waste Pro of FloridaRhonda Chapman, First Citizens Bank
Nancy Dunning, Cape Coral Association of RealtorsSallie Dywer, SunTrust Merchant Services
Mike Hollow, RE//MAX Realty TeamJay Johnson, Bubba’s Roadhouse and Saloon
David Owen, BB & T - Oswald, Trippe & Co.Larry Weir, Premier Insurance Corporation
CHAMBER STAFFDonna S. Germain, Interim Vice President
Claudia St. Onge, Business Manager & Farmers’ Market Director
Stephanie Roberson, Technology DirectorMatt Lamb, Membership DirectorAnnette Siner, Membership Sales
Melanie Lempke, Administrative Generalist Lyz Crouthamel, Special Events Director
Amanda Brunson, Special Events CoordinatorLisa Barrella, Membership Sales Contractor
BE NUMBER ONE...BE SECOND TO NONE!
New Chamber InvestmentDonna S. Germain
Interim Vice President
After a month long comprehensive
study comparing the membership benefits
and dues with other chambers in the area, the Chamber Board of Directors voted to unanimously at its April meeting to modify the Entrepreneur Tier dues to $375.00 per year effective July 1, 2015.
This adjustment to your membership investment equates to less than one dollar more per week or 14 cents per day. In 2013, the chamber adjusted its dues structure to $325.00 annually after a 5-year period with no increase at all.
Let us recap what this annual investment provide…
• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with photo published in The News-Press, CapeCoral.com and The Cape Coral Breeze• Listing in the Annual Chamber Magazine with a distribution of 15,000• Listing on www.CapeCoralChamber.com which
receives more than 2 million business directory referrals per year• FREE Links to you social media profiles included in your business directory listing• Welcome Center lobby space for business cards and brochures at both the South (Cape Coral Parkway) and North (FOS Furniture) Welcome Centers• Regular informational communications and opportunities• Discounts on Chamber products and services• 3 FREE Networking events per month• Access to CapeCoralVoice.com, a government affairs website • Member Pricing on the Monthly General Membership Lunches• Ability to use the Chamber logo on your marketing materials• Leadership programs• Community events• Membership Plaque
While we could go on, we hope that you will continue to find value in your annual membership investment.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at [email protected], 549-6900 ext. 107 or Chamber Chairman Ed Ramos at [email protected].
CHAMBER TRENDS
Chamber Trends Monthly Advertising Basic Advertising Prices
Full Page $337.00 1/2 Page $227.00 1/4 Page $147.00
Business Card $117.00 (All ads include a hyperlink to your company’s website or a 30-second commercial promoting your business.
Non-profit organizations receive 2 free 1/2 page ads per year upon request with their membership.)
Prime Advertising Pricing Full Page $367.00 1/2 Page $287.00 1/4 Page $207.00
Business Card $167.00 (All ads include a hyperlink to your company’s website or a 30-second commercial promoting your business and a banner ad in the
Chamber Trends Weekly E-Newsletter)
Specials Feature Your Business On The Cover
Cover photo showcasing your company with a full page article, up to 3 pictures and company logo spotlighting your business. Only one per month. First come first serve basis. Your spotlight can also be linked to your company website and/or a commercial
promoting your business.
Chamber Trends Weekly Advertising
Press Release $25.00 (Runs 1x, includes 60 words, company logo, link to your company website.)
(Non-profit organizations run 2x for $25.00)
Banner Advertisement $50.00 per month (runs 4x, includes link to your website)
Company Spotlight $157.00
(Runs 4x, includes short story, link to website, link to additional company information, 2 pictures and Company logo.)
E-mail Blasts Company Spotlight E-mail Blast $199.00
The investment for the Business Spotlight is $199 and will run twice throughout the month of your choice. Dimensions - 6 inches wide x 8 inches tall, 300 dpi resolution.
Please call Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext. 107 for more information. All Chamber Publications Are Distributed to More Than 16,000 contacts
NEW MEMBERS
1 Step Above Kathryn Nawskon
3 Pepper Burrito Tim Gossf
Acentria, Inc Janie Vanhoose
BAM German Bakery And More Sonja Stumpf
Barclay’s Real Estate Group Bert Parsley
Cape Community Partners Thrift Store Danielle Beauvois
Cape Coral Concierge Service Cary Thorne
Cape Coral Italian American Club of Lee County
Cathy Sangiovanni
Captain Bruce’s Bruce Harrington
Concierge Enterprises Todd Brownson
Key Luxury Builders Jamie Bangeman
Main Street Children Dentistry and Orthodontics
Shawn Wherry
Mast Cat Engineering, LLC Mark A. Hendry
Andrea Saint-Pere- Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
Andrea Saint-Pere
Poseidon Homes Donovan Dungan
Sicily Trattoria Vincent Tumminello
Total Title & Escrow, Inc. Marianne Jackowski
Triton Irrigation, LLC Rich Rourke
RENEWALS
A Touch Of Class Pet GroomingMember Since: 11/06/2012
American Cancer SocietyMember Since: 12/01/2001
Animal ER of Southwest Florida, Inc.Member Since: 04/05/2013
BB&T Bank - Del Prado Blvd BranchMember Since: 12/18/2002
Bert’s Bar & Seafood GrillMember Since: 04/25/2008
Blue Chip Financial - Diane EverhartMember Since: 04/13/1999
Boost CreativeMember Since: 03/05/2008
Cape Coral Charter SchoolMember Since: 03/18/2011
Cape Coral Irish American Club, IncMember Since: 04/13/2005
Cape Realty, Inc.Member Since: 03/01/1996
Cape Smoke ShopMember Since: 04/01/1995
CC Stone w/Coastal Realty SWFLMember Since: 03/03/2009
Cheetah Printing & SignsMember Since: 06/27/2012
Chicago PizzaMember Since: 06/24/2008
Coastal Building Materials, LLCMember Since: 03/21/2012
Coral Cove CondominiumMember Since: 03/16/2007
Coral Palms Professional CenterMember Since: 12/18/2013
Coral Ridge Funeral Home and Cemetery
Member Since: 04/28/2008
CRS Technology ConsultantsMember Since: 04/01/1996
Designers ShowcaseMember Since: 04/01/1990
Home Services By RafaelMember Since: 08/22/2007
Individual - Brittney GrimmMember Since: 02/12/2014
Kevin M. Burns & Assoc. P.A.Member Since: 04/01/1998
Kindness Animal HospitalMember Since: 04/01/1990
Kobayashi Dojo / Main CampusMember Since: 03/01/1997
Lee County Supervisor of Elections Office
Member Since: 04/11/2014
Men’s Rights Law FirmMember Since: 10/06/2008
Midwest Plumbing Contractor’s, LLCMember Since: 02/21/2012
Miromar OutletsMember Since: 03/19/1999
North Nicholas High SchoolMember Since: 02/02/2011
Papa Joe’s Italian RestaurantMember Since: 04/13/2012
Premier Wellness Group, LLCMember Since: 03/20/2013
Raso Realty, Inc.Member Since: 04/01/1989
Ronald McDonald House Charities of SWFL, Inc.
Member Since: 03/20/2014
Roofing By HOMEPLUS, IncMember Since: 03/03/2011
RumrunnersMember Since: 04/25/2011
Sea Breeze International Management Corp
Member Since: 04/26/2005
Shell Point Retirement CommunityMember Since: 12/01/2011
Stabley Marketing, LLCMember Since: 04/11/2012
Sunshine Jewelers & Gold ExchangeMember Since: 06/27/2012
The Breeze NewspapersMember Since: 04/01/1989
Tim Collier-State FarmMember Since: 12/01/1990
Timothy W. Barrier CPA, P.A.Member Since: 04/27/2012
WFTX-TVMember Since: 03/01/1989
Williamson Eye CenterMember Since: 03/01/1996
MARCH NEW MEMBERS & RENEWALS
“YOU CANNOT CHANGE WHAT YOU DO NOT
MEASURE”Salvatore Lacagnina, D.O.
Vice President of Health & Wellness, Lee Memorial Health System
Research continues to help us find the right balance when it comes to healthy living. When we look at the recommendations for nutrition and exercise, it is important to measure progress over time. Patients have asked me to help them determine if they are aging gracefully and there are many ways to do this including getting an assessment of their nutritional status, measuring
their fitness level by way of a body age assessment, and even using very high tech methods to evaluate the ends of the DNA (called telomeres) which shorten as we age.
If you have been reading my articles or attending any of my presentations, you already know that I am a major proponent of plant based nutrition and daily, moderately intense exercise. Research consistently reveals a negative association between the standard America diet, chronic illness and cancer; and a positive/beneficial relationship between plant based eating and health. This is the result of 50 years of altering the food sources in such a way that we have added many toxins to the food and therefore we must look for healthier food sources if our goal is to live long without chronic illness and cancer.
But how do you know if you are taking in enough healthy nutrition? What can we determine by measuring certain parameters in the blood? Can we do something similar when it comes to physical activity?
When it comes to eating certain foods, we can measure levels of macro and micro nutrients to see how well we are doing. The macronutrients include proteins, carbohydrates and fats. The micronutrients include vitamins, minerals and anti oxidants; and there are blood tests for all these components. We can measure the albumin level in the blood that gives us an indication of the body’s protein level. The blood glucose and a test called A1C gives information about the blood level of sugar and a person’s predisposition for diabetes. A lipid profile gives the levels of total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol) and the triglyceride level (fats that come from what we eat). We can even do a blood test that measures the size of the LDL and HDL particles. This is helpful since we know that small, dense LDL particles contribute more to the development of hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis).
We can also measure the blood levels of all the vitamins (A, D, E K, C and all the B complex vitamins) as well as minerals such as calcium, potassium, zinc, sodium and many more. We know that anti oxidants (AO) protect us from diseases such as heart disease and strokes; and also protect us from cancers, and we can also measure the AO level. I have no vested interest in this company but I use the Spectra Cell test to measure all these components. Once I have the results I sit with the individual to review all the details and this allows us to tweak the nutrition program in order to make it as optimal as possible for good health.
If an individual is eating more vegetables as compared to the standard America diet of meat and dairy, there are several components that need to be measured including calcium, Carnosine,
fiber, iodine, iron, Omega 3 fatty acids, essential amino acids, protein, zinc, vitamin D and B12. Calcium is required for strong bones but also for many other chemical reactions in the body. Carnosine is a natural compound that acts as an anti-glycating agent. Glycation is a chemical
reaction whereby glucose molecules attach to proteins in the body making them dysfunctional. Carnosine has the potential to stop this reaction and therefore allows the proteins to function normally.
Fiber is an essential part of a healthy nutrition program but can affect the absorption of zinc and iron. When zinc is deficient, there can be decreased wound healing; and when iron is deficient, the individual can develop anemia and suffer from chronic fatigue. This is why it is important to measure these components and supplement the diet when necessary.
Women of childbearing years might need to supplement with iodine so as not to become hypothyroid. Omega 3 fatty acid levels should also be monitored since this is essential for proper brain development and function. Essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine should be measured and replaced if low.
Some folks eating plant based foods often limit or avoid dairy products, many of which are fortified with vitamin D and therefore can become deficient in vitamin D leading to an increased risk for bone loss. These individuals simply need to take a Vitamin D3 supplement if the blood test reveals a deficiency. Also, since vitamin B12 is abundant in animal products, the levels might decline in people avoiding meats and thus should be supplemented.
Any talk of plant based nutrition always brings up the discussion about protein deficiency although this is an uncommon problem. In actuality, the protein sources found in a plant based meal are actually healthier when we consider the toxins found in conventionally grown/prepared meats and dairy. Certainly, pesticides are a concern when eating plant based foods but comparing this to the pesticide contamination of the grain most animals eat plus the growth hormone, antibiotics and fecal contamination known to be significantly problematic in all meats and dairy makes the choice of which to foods to eat easier. Also, you can buy organic produce and therefore limit the exposure to pesticides on the vegetables and fruits you eat.
The basic formula for protein requirements is generally about 0.5 grams per lb of body weight (85 grams of healthy protein for a typical 170 lb male). Females require less and intense athletes require more. In addition to getting healthy protein from the vegetables you eat, adding beans, legumes and soy products helps to provide all the protein you need to stay healthy. In the book “Rethink Food” by Castle & Goodman they highlight several professional and Olympic athletes who eat a plant based diet. If these individuals who exercise and perform at such a high level can maintain enough muscle mass with this type of a nutrition program, I would (and do) recommend the same to most patients, friends and family.
As mentioned above, in addition to measuring the effects of nutrition on our health we can and should also measure our fitness levels. A “Body Age Assessment” is a measure of overall fitness – endurance, strength, oxygen capacity and flexibility. Combine this with a “health risk assessment” tool and the results from measuring the levels of nutrients in the body and you have a very comprehensive evaluation of a person’s overall health. This information can be translated into prognostic and longevity information. Knowing that you eat a healthy diet and that the levels of nutrients in the body are adequate or optimal; plus knowing that you are physically fit, you can then use this data to tweak your health action plan for the present and future. Remember, it is all about growing old with vitality and not getting old with disease.
In summary, measure, monitor, evaluate, tweak and repeat. This is a great way to know that you are living well and making health your number one priority.
Stay well my friends and please feel free to send comments and questions to [email protected]
HEALTHY TRENDS
Get In Touch with New Residents, Prospects and Visitors with our Relocation Leads Program!
Contact Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext 107 or [email protected]
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Barclay’s Real Estate GroupBert Parsley
2225 First Street, Suite 201Ft. Myers, FL 33901
www.barclaysrealestategroup.com
Cape Community Partners Thrift StoreDaniel Beauvois
1056 N.E. Pine Island Rd, Unit ACape Coral, 33909
www.capecoralchurch.com
2 weeks FREEdigital subscription trial
news-press com/freeREGISTERTODAY AT:
Offer Expires 12/31/15
Whether You Just Joined or Just Renewed Your Membership...Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting Today!Call Matt Lamb, Membership Director
(239) 549-6900 ext 103
• ToptenUnitedWayemployeecontributorandcommunitypartner
• Employeesvolunteermorethan5,000hoursannually
• Maintaining8,000milesofpowerlinesyear-round
• On-call24hoursaday,7daysaweek,365daysayear
• Proudlyservingcustomerssince1940
• OneofonlysixCenters of Excellenceintheutilityindustry
Quality Service
Reliability
• Norateincreaseforsixyears.Ratedecreasein2014*
• Returned$220millioninequityovertheyears
* 7% Public Service Tax – Imposed by Cape Coral City Council* 3% Cape Coral Franchise fee* 4.5% Unincorporated Lee County Franchise Fee – Approved by Lee County Commissioners
Financial Strength
Community
www.lcec.net
LCEC – your cooperative empowers you!WhenyouareanLCECcustomer,youbelongtooneofthelargestnot-for-profitelectriccooperativesinthenation.Governedbycustomers,wearecommittedtodeliveringreliableandcostcompetitiveelectricity.
NO, IT’S NOT JUST YOU…Berge Aslanian (CDPE)
Realtor, RE/MAX Island Harbor
One can only wonder if what they experience is being experienced by others too. In talking with realtors, mortgage lenders, appraisers, buyers and sellers we are finding too many similar experiences to be coincidental…
But first, let’s take a quick look at the numbers. For the three month period ending 4/30/15:
Inventory of single family homes For Sale continues to shrink as sales increase. Median prices of listed homes are up again and numbers of sold homes are up again too. Inventory is not being replenished as quickly as before. And, it looks like the less expensive homes are being sold driving the median sold prices lower.
Condos For Sale decreased slightly again followed by median prices showing a slight decrease. Numbers of condos Sold are steady while median prices of Sold condos went down just a bit.
All in all, these numbers indicate a steady market continuing upward. The end of season frenzy to buy or sell has caused the less expensive homes to outsell the rest. But, units sold are up noticeably.
More and more, conversations with people in the real estate market tell us in different ways that our market is changing. Buyers and sellers have more information available but they don’t always understand it completely or use it correctly. Those of us providing services to buyers and sellers often see buyers and sellers outsmarting themselves in their zeal to carve out the world’s best real estate deal.
We’ve seen buyers making low offers because they were able to look up past prices of similar properties or even the same one they are trying to buy. But, knowing what was paid for that property doesn’t tell you what liens and taxes needed to be paid or what repairs had to be made before the current listing appeared. When told, they often do not seem to care! Telling yourself a story so often that you begin to believe it is the gospel truth can be very ostrich-like if you know what I mean.
During this recently ended season, I had the good fortune to meet a
nice couple from WI interested in buying a beautiful golf course home in a gated community. They liked the home so much, they were willing to offer 20% BELOW the asking price. When told that the sellers had turned down much higher prices than their offer, they simply said they would wait until the sellers came down because “they always do”. I had the great pleasure of calling them a week later with a property update; I was proud to inform them that the sellers had just accepted an offer 1.8% ($7,000) below list price. Their response was they would just wait for the next one because they were sure prices just had to come down. (Maybe that super cold, mid-west winter altered their ability to think clearly?)
Sellers often believe their particular home is more valuable because they painted two rooms in the past year and planted some new shrubs (honest, that was explained to me recently as justification for pricing $20,000 more than other similar homes). FYI, no I did not take that listing.
Please don’t lose faith in the market, the vast majority of properties are priced correctly but the glut of information on the internet makes it hard to see sometimes. Experienced buyers and sellers are able to sift through all that stuff and recognize the value when they see it. Can you?
If you can, Great! If you have any difficulty in sorting it out, please find an experienced realtor who is willing to help. We all get those calls from folks who have been here for two or more weeks then wait until their last day or two demanding to see properties before they leave.
We are here to help and we really do enjoy doing it. But, we do book appointments because we are tightly scheduled; waiting until the last minute does not do your search the justice it deserves. Buying and Selling is a process that takes time and it is a team sport. As always, we urge you to take advantage of our climbing market but please use a reputable realtor to help. Happy Property Hunting or Selling!
Berge Aslanian (CDPE) is a Realtor in Cape Coral with RE/MAX Island Harbor and an active member of the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral. For questions about residential real estate, please call his cell, (239) 989-3463 or email [email protected] or visit www.RECapeCoral.com.
REAL ESTATE TRENDS
4-30-15 Real Estate Trends No, It’s Not Just You…
One can only wonder if what they experience is being experienced by others too. In talking with realtors, mortgage lenders, appraisers, buyers and sellers we are finding too many similar experiences to be coincidental… But first, let’s take a quick look at the numbers. For the three month period ending 4/30/15: Feb ‘15 Mar ’15 Apr ‘15 Homes Median $ Home
s Median $ Homes Median $
For Sale 1821 $282,500 1719 $289,500 1590 $298,000 Sold 280 $175,000 404 $189,000 429 $184,500
Feb ’14 Mar ’15 Apr ‘15 Condos Median $ Condos Median $ Condos Median $ For Sale 266 $154,500 263 $151,500 252 $153,000 Sold 44 $123,000 67 $136,500 68 $132,500
Inventory of single family homes For Sale continues to shrink as sales increase. Median prices of listed homes are up again and numbers of sold homes are up again too. Inventory is not being replenished as quickly as before. And, it looks like the less expensive homes are being sold driving the median sold prices lower. Condos For Sale decreased slightly again followed by median prices showing a slight decrease. Numbers of condos Sold are steady while median prices of Sold condos went down just a bit. All in all, these numbers indicate a steady market continuing upward. The end of season frenzy to buy or sell has caused the less expensive homes to outsell the rest. But, units sold are up noticeably. More and more, conversations with people in the real estate market tell us in different ways that our market is changing. Buyers and sellers have more information available but they don’t always understand it completely or use it correctly. Those of us providing services to buyers and sellers often see buyers and sellers outsmarting themselves in their zeal to carve out the world’s best real estate deal. We’ve seen buyers making low offers because they were able to look up past prices of similar properties or even the same one they are trying to buy. But, knowing what was paid for that property doesn’t tell you what liens and taxes needed to be paid or what repairs had to be made before the current listing appeared. When told, they often do not seem to care! Telling yourself a story so often that you begin to believe it is the gospel truth can be very ostrich-like if you know what I mean. During this recently ended season, I had the good fortune to meet a nice couple from WI interested in buying a beautiful golf course home in a gated community. They liked the home so much, they were willing to offer 20% BELOW the asking price. When told that
BE NUMBER ONE...BE SECOND TO NONE!
Tuscany
Tuscany
OneHotelHoliday!
Departing October 20, 2015
With the Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce
For more information, please contact Amanda Brunson at (239) 549-6900
$2,899 per person,
$2,799 per person if
deposited by Nov. 30!*
GAC UPDATEJoseph Francioni, Chairman
The Smart Companies
This past week, during spring break, my family and I had the pleasure of visiting our Nation’s Capital. Washington, D.C.
is a fantastic place, with so much rich history, culture and knowledge at every turn. It also gave me a chance to re-discover the many facets to large government, compared to our local government here in the Cape. We are
always discussing laws, politics and their ultimate effects on us, but in actuality, it’s the local government that affects us on an everyday basis and begins the chain of events to change - not the other way around.
Although it was nice to experience and see our country’s legislative history, I personally believe local government is where we’ll see our future.
GOVERNMENT TRENDS
LOOKING FOR LEADERS!APPLY FOR A CHAMBER BOARD
OR TRUSTEE POSITIONDonna S. Germain
Interim Vice President
The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral is actively seeking trustee and director applications for the 2016 Board of Directors.
These volunteer leaders are required to attend monthly board meetings, networking events and serve on committees. For most, a minimum of 5 to 10 hours per month is normal. However, a few give much more. We truly appreciate their commitment, as the Chamber would only be able to accomplish one-half of what it does without volunteers.
The Nomination Committee has been formed with Brett Bisbe as the Chairman and members Trish Lassiter, Stacy Lomonaco, Scott Kashman, Tony Solgard and Tom Hansen. They are taking applications so that they can create a ballot of qualified members for the Board to vote on in September 2015.
Every eligible member in good standing who apply will be placed on the ballot. However, the Nomination committee will make recommendations to the board prior to the vote. Recommendations made by the nomination committee are based on industry, gender, involvement and participation in the Chamber leadership programs.
If you have any questions, please contact Donna Germain, Interim Vice President at (239) 549-6900 ext. 107 or [email protected]. Deadline for application submission is July 1, 2015.
Please see Chamber Board Application on Next Page!
CHAMBER BOARD TRENDS
Board Application for Board Member and Trustee
Name: _____________________________ Business Name: ____________________________
Title: ________________________ Business Address: ________________________________
Email Address: _________________________________________________________________
City: _______________ Zip: _________ Phone: _________________ Fax: ________________
Why are you requesting a Board or Trustee seat? ______________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Do you understand the requirements of the Board? Yes No
Please, describe your business or occupation. _________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Please list your history of community involvement. ____________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
How do you plan to contribute to the Chamber? _______________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Please return to Donna Germain, Interim Vice PresidentChamber of Commerce of Cape Coral, P.O. Box 100747, Cape Coral, Fl. 33910
Phone: (239) 549-6900 ext 107 Fax: (239) [email protected]
Deadline 7/1/2015
Lee Memorial Health SystemP.O. Box 2218
Fort Myers, FL 33902
CenturyLink Store2710 Del Prado Blvd. South
Cape Coral, FL 33904
LCEC4980 Bayline Dr
North Fort Myers, FL 33917
B2 Technology Solutions1406 SE 46th Lane
Cape Coral, FL 33904
Dean Street Insurance615 Cape Coral Pkwy W 104, Cape Coral
Gulf Coast Village Retirement Community 1333 Santa Barbara Blvd. Cape Coral
Premier Oncology RadiationSpecialists In Urology
24 Del Prado Blvd N, Cape Coral
The News-Press - Fort Myers Office2442 Dr. MLK Blvd. Ft. Myers
Suntrust Bank530 Cape Coral Pkwy E, Cape Coral, FL 339044532 Del Prado Blvd S, Cape Coral, FL 339041533 Cape Coral Pkwy, Cape Coral, FL 339142139 Del Prado Blvd S, Cape Coral, FL 33904
DiamondMember
Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral
ExecutiveMember
Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral
$LCEC works hard to manage costs, maintain the electric system, improve processes and create efficiencies so that electric rates can remain competitive for customers. We do not plan to raise rates in 2013 and will continue to do everything possible to keep rates stable.
The increase on your upcoming electric bill is due to a tax imposed by the City of Cape Coral. LCEC customers in Cape Coral will notice a change in their electric bill beginning October 1, 2013. Cape Coral City officials recently levied a public service tax of 7 percent that will be added to monthly electric bills. The new tax will be displayed on your LCEC bill as a separate line item so it can be easily identified. LCEC is required by law to collect the tax from business and residential customers who purchase electricity in Cape Coral. LCEC will deliver funds to the City similar to how Cape Coral franchise fees are delivered, which are also collected through electric bills.This new tax will be used to fund the City’s general operations. To calculate the amount the monthly public service tax will add to your electric bill, visit www.capecoral.net and utilize the PST Calculator. Please refer any questions regarding the Cape Coral public service tax to the Cape Coral Citizens’ Action Center, 239-574-0425.
LCEC hasn’t raised electric rates in nearly 5 years!
www.lcec.net • 239-656-2300
*
Memorial Day Remembrance Hosted by:
Coral Ridge Funeral Home & Cemetery 1630 SW Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral, FL
Monday May 25, 2015 @ 10:00am Join us to pay tribute to the heroism of our fallen Veterans, give
thanks for the valor of others, remember the splendor of America and those of her children who rest in this cemetery and others.
For more information call us today! www.CoralRidgeFuneralHome.com
(239) 283-0540
Refreshments will be served immediately following the service at the main entrance.
about
about LARC’S MISSION SINCE 1954 IS TO PROMOTE AND PROVIDE
OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL
DISABILITIES TO LIVE AND WORK IN OUR COMMUNITIES.
LEADERSHIP ROYALE
LARC
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Leadership Royale Chamber of SW Florida
239.433.4111
PLATINUM SPONSOR $7500� Exclusivity—Naming Event� Ten (10) Reserved Tickets� Logo on ALL Gala Advertising� Website link to your business� On-Stage recognition� Sponsor Information Table� Limo Service� Exclusive
GOLD SPONSOR $5000 (2)� Table of Eight (8)� Website Link to your business� Sponsor Information Table� Logo on ALL Gala Advertising� Valet Parking
BAR SPONSOR $3000� Table of Six (6)� Website Link to your business� Logo on ALL Gala Advertising� Sponsor Information Table� Valet Parking
SILVER SPONSOR $2000 (5)� Table of Four (4)� Sponsor Information Table� Website Link to your business� Logo on Gala Program
Each year the graduating class of Leadership Lee County gathers to decide how to give back to the community. For the Leadership Class of 2013-14, the idea took on an entirely new dimension. Involve alumni of three illustrious Leadership programs: The Chamber of Southwest Florida, the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, and the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral. Bring together the leadership skills of all three chambers to start a new tradition and make a bigger impact on the community.
Leadership Royale is born.
Leadership Royale 2015 offers an elegant evening, complete with the excitement and fun of a casino, savory flavors of cuisine and refreshing beverages. Add to that a live band. Mix and mingle with Southwest Florida leadership and program alumni while also helping a local charity, LARC.
Since 1954, LARC, Inc. has dedicated itself to meeting with quality and foresight the needs of people with developmental disabilities living in Lee County and their families. Our mission now, as it was fifty years ago, is to promote and provide opportunities in the community for these Lee County residents to achieve an independent, dignified and responsible lifestyle as their individual capabilities allow. LARC accomplishes this mission through the provision of a continuum of award winning community based services, using timely, individualized, goal-oriented methods. LARC, Inc. offers vocational training, community residential services, and a vast diversity of other state-of- the-art community inclusion services on a full time, year round basis for local people with developmental disabilities. LARC currently provides programs and services for approximately 300 local men and women annually. Learn more at www.larcleecounty.org.
LEADERSHIP ROYALE 2015
Saturday, June 13, 2015
LEADERSHIP ROYALE
— CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ALUMNI LEADING THE WAY —
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA CAPE CORAL GREATER FORT MYERS
AN EVENT TO BENEFIT LARC
MASTER OF CEREMONIESKrista Fogelsong
Date: Saturday, June 13 Time: 6-11 PM Cost: $75 per person Dress: Black Tie OptionalTables Available $1,000 for Seating of Eight (8)Location: Harborside Event Center1375 Monroe Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901 Downtown Fort MyersIncludes: Cocktails, Dinner, Casino, Live Music
LEADERS LEADING THE WAYFOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
All proceeds benefit LARC non-profit charitywww.leadershiproyale.com
facebook.com/LeadershipRoyaleLeadership Royale Chamber of SW Florida
239.433.4111
— CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ALUMNI LEADING THE WAY —
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA CAPE CORAL GREATER FORT MYERS
LEADERSHIP
ROYALE
Printed by Panther Printing
pixelpagedesigngroup.com
JIM NATHAN
then & nowJOE MAZURKIEWICZ
then & now
The Southwest Florida Chambers and Leadership Royale are honored to team with Krista for an evening of fun and philanthropy! When Krista isn’t delivering the news as an NBC2 anchor, she’s active in the community, volunteering for the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen, the United Way, and many other charitable organizations and events.
LEADERSHIP ROYALE
Show your Class pride! A traveling trophy will be awarded to the Leadership Class with the highest percentage of attendees at Leadership Royale. Be sure to connect with your classmates for an unforgettable evening.
There will also be a special presentation (and walk down memory lane with some gentle roasting) to spotlight several notable Leadership class members. Nominations are being accepted. Contact your Chamber Leadership today.
At the April General Membership Lunch, the members heard from a panel of experts on ADA Compliance
As business owners, it is crucial for our members to be informed of the regulations regarding the American’s with Disabilities Act.
Guest Speakers included Kevin Barry, Chairman ADA Council of SWFL, JoAnn Nesta Burnett,Attorney at Law Becker & Poliakoff and Paul B. Dickson, Building Official City of Cape Coral. (Pictured Mid Left)
Welcome to new member Ryan Niederberger with SUPciety and our guest from Penguin Air. (mid right)
Thank you to our lunch sponsors, The News-Press, CenturyLink and LCEC - Joe Padgett pictured bottom left. Don’t miss the May GMM at Palmetto Pine Country Club with State Representative Dane Eagle.
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCH
BE NUMBER ONE...BE SECOND TO NONE!
The Chamber had a great turn out for the April Business After Hours hosted by the Gulf Coast Humane Society.
It was really hard not to come home with some new family members from this after hours as there were many dogs and cats in need of a good home.
We would like to thank Jennifer Galloway (mid left) and her staff at the Humane Society for their hospitality.
Thank you to everyone who came out to this event to support this truly worthwhile organization.
We look forward to the future plans of a shelter in Cape Coral.
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
BE NUMBER ONE...BE SECOND TO NONE!
BE NUMBER ONE...BE SECOND TO NONE!
Network AdministrationMaintenance Agreements
Off-site Data StorageDell, Acer, Apple(239) 573-1000
www.entechcomputers.com
We Know Marketing.
We’ll help you turn new customers into brand advocates.
No one knows Southwest Florida better than The News-Press Media Group. From brands to customers, we connect more audiences, in more places, in more ways with the right mix of marketing. But it’s more than having the right tools; it’s knowing how to use them. We’ll help you stay ahead of what’s trending for the best ways to build your business.
CALL 239.335.0520EMAIL [email protected]
VISIT marketingstrategies.news-press.com
Could your business use a little more loyalty?
Loyal
Advertise in the Chamber Trends Weekly E-Newsletter.
A Banner Ad is just $50 per month!!
Contact Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext 107 or
2051 Cape Coral Parkway ECape Coral, FL 33904
(239) 549-6900(800) 226-9609
www.capecoralchamber.com
