Respiratory therapists at the Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida in south Fort Myers are breathing a sigh of relief thanks to a device that makes their lives and their patients' lives easier.
The $5,900 device, known as a magnetic resonance imaging compatible pediatric ventilator, was recently purchased as a gift for the hospital's Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.
It was purchased by the Women of the Moose Fort Myers Chapter 1020 after member Colleen Hrzenak heard about the struggle children faced every time they needed a test.
"The ventilator in the room we can't take with us to testing so we have to unhook them, bag them and do it by hand," said Vaughan Dixon, a 20-year veteran respiratory therapist at the hospital and lodge member. "Before, we did it by hand but you really don't know what kind of volume (of air) you are delivering."
The delivery of oxygen by hand can be dangerous to children because too much or too little air could be fatal.
"Kids were suffering for two hours at times when they couldn't take their ventilator with them to get tests done," Hrzenak said. "The priority for us became getting the children what they needed."
The Women of the Moose raised the needed money by hosting fundraiser breakfasts and karaoke nights. They raised $3,000 in the first weekend.
"The lodge itself does work with children with cancer so when we heard about this, we had to do it," Hrzenak said.
Other events were planned as fundraisers but the money was raised in just five weeks.
"This makes it so much easier. Some tests can take a long time and it ties up a therapist for hours," said Dixon adding that the machine has been in operation for a month. "The good part is that the elderly can use it."
The ventilator is used by many children and the elderly because it can be taken into an MRI machine for tests.
"It's not a huge machine but it sure does make their lives a lot more comfortable," Hrzenak said.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Ichabod's taking over Dwyer's
Ichabod the troll is about to be set loose in south Fort Myers.
His boss, Rob De Gennaro of Sanibel, will be using Ichabod to spread the word about a new and casual family-style tavern restaurant moving into the Dwyer's building on U.S. 41 in November.
The restaurant will be called Ichabod's Wicked Food & Drink.
"I'm taking the Dwyer's formal pub and turning it into a new concept. A casual menu where you don't need to spend a lot of money to have good food," said Gennaro, who has owned restaurants in Southwest Florida in the past. "It's gonna be a fantastic menu and atmosphere."
The menu will include burgers, salads, soups, Porter House steaks, meatloaf and Irish items to match the restaurant's decor.
Gennaro's inspiration for the menu came from a restaurant he owns in New England. The "Tan Turtle Tavern" is the family tavern where Gennaro first tried the concept of mixing family, casual atmosphere and a good time at the right price.
"He is going to have a pretty extensive menu and we were
impressed," said Jim Dwyer, who is leasing the building to Gennaro. Prior to leasing, the space was a fine dining establishment that succumbed to a slow economy. "He came to us and showed interest in it and he has a good background of 20 years in the business."
Before the Ichabod concept was born, Dwyer was already working with Gennaro on another project under construction on Summerlin near Health Park. Gennaro is building a cottage-style restaurant in the plaza.
"It's going to be an offshoot of the menu at the Tan Turtle in New England. It's going to look like a Bahama Breeze, sort of," said Gennaro about the restaurant that will open in March of next year.
But Gennaro's focus now is on Ichabod's interior, food and ambiance. He has plans to change the interior decor slightly, paint the outside and get a new sign.
"It's a great addition to the neighborhood because it's not a big corporate business. It's a local guy," said Marc A. Crowley, of Crowley Realty, LLC. He was the broker that handled the leasing of the property. "It's pretty exciting ... it's going to be closer to what Dwyer's was before the fine dining."
And in keeping with the Dwyer family tradition of Irish decor and feel, Gennaro choose a troll as a mascot. The troll was inspired by the dolls of the early '90's that featured brightly colored hair and distinct faces.
"People can come in here, bring a friend, meet a friend and make a friend. That is our hope," said Gennaro, adding that entertainment is also in the works for the eatery. "We are trying to open on Election Day if we can because people will have something to celebrate ... whatever that may be."
His boss, Rob De Gennaro of Sanibel, will be using Ichabod to spread the word about a new and casual family-style tavern restaurant moving into the Dwyer's building on U.S. 41 in November.
The restaurant will be called Ichabod's Wicked Food & Drink.
"I'm taking the Dwyer's formal pub and turning it into a new concept. A casual menu where you don't need to spend a lot of money to have good food," said Gennaro, who has owned restaurants in Southwest Florida in the past. "It's gonna be a fantastic menu and atmosphere."
The menu will include burgers, salads, soups, Porter House steaks, meatloaf and Irish items to match the restaurant's decor.
Gennaro's inspiration for the menu came from a restaurant he owns in New England. The "Tan Turtle Tavern" is the family tavern where Gennaro first tried the concept of mixing family, casual atmosphere and a good time at the right price.
"He is going to have a pretty extensive menu and we were
impressed," said Jim Dwyer, who is leasing the building to Gennaro. Prior to leasing, the space was a fine dining establishment that succumbed to a slow economy. "He came to us and showed interest in it and he has a good background of 20 years in the business."
Before the Ichabod concept was born, Dwyer was already working with Gennaro on another project under construction on Summerlin near Health Park. Gennaro is building a cottage-style restaurant in the plaza.
"It's going to be an offshoot of the menu at the Tan Turtle in New England. It's going to look like a Bahama Breeze, sort of," said Gennaro about the restaurant that will open in March of next year.
But Gennaro's focus now is on Ichabod's interior, food and ambiance. He has plans to change the interior decor slightly, paint the outside and get a new sign.
"It's a great addition to the neighborhood because it's not a big corporate business. It's a local guy," said Marc A. Crowley, of Crowley Realty, LLC. He was the broker that handled the leasing of the property. "It's pretty exciting ... it's going to be closer to what Dwyer's was before the fine dining."
And in keeping with the Dwyer family tradition of Irish decor and feel, Gennaro choose a troll as a mascot. The troll was inspired by the dolls of the early '90's that featured brightly colored hair and distinct faces.
"People can come in here, bring a friend, meet a friend and make a friend. That is our hope," said Gennaro, adding that entertainment is also in the works for the eatery. "We are trying to open on Election Day if we can because people will have something to celebrate ... whatever that may be."
Pet owners have two shelter options available
Written for the 2008 News-Press Hurricane Guide
Pet owners forced to evacuate during the hurricane season won't be worrying as much about their pets this time around.
Two animal-friendly shelters are available for residents in south Fort Myers and east Lee. And, the American Red Cross of Lee County and local animal clinics are working to get the word out about what to do with your pets in an emergency.
"Two new shelters are being offered now because they have found that because of hurricane Katrina, a lot of people didn't want to evacuate because of their pets," said Kim Pontif, the hospital manager at the Coral Veterinary Clinic in south Fort Myers.
Her clinic is telling owners to get their pets prepared early by getting the proper vaccines and having their pets microchipped.
"We have a packet we dispense for our owners during the season to let them know what they need," Pontif said. "Most places require reservations ahead of time and the pet owner has to set that up."
Heidi Ruster of the American Red Cross chapter in Lee County said pet owners must prepare and do it early.
"The best bet is to get a vet outside the storm zone area especially since the animal shelters will be just for those mandatorily evacuated," Ruster said. "Otherwise, they can leave pets with a family member and try to make those decisions beforehand."
The two shelters will be set up at South Fort Myers High and East Lee County High. Each shelter will be split into two sides. One for humans and the other for animals.
"There are more options than there used to be but prepare, prepare, prepare and do it early," Ruster said.
Pet owners forced to evacuate during the hurricane season won't be worrying as much about their pets this time around.
Two animal-friendly shelters are available for residents in south Fort Myers and east Lee. And, the American Red Cross of Lee County and local animal clinics are working to get the word out about what to do with your pets in an emergency.
"Two new shelters are being offered now because they have found that because of hurricane Katrina, a lot of people didn't want to evacuate because of their pets," said Kim Pontif, the hospital manager at the Coral Veterinary Clinic in south Fort Myers.
Her clinic is telling owners to get their pets prepared early by getting the proper vaccines and having their pets microchipped.
"We have a packet we dispense for our owners during the season to let them know what they need," Pontif said. "Most places require reservations ahead of time and the pet owner has to set that up."
Heidi Ruster of the American Red Cross chapter in Lee County said pet owners must prepare and do it early.
"The best bet is to get a vet outside the storm zone area especially since the animal shelters will be just for those mandatorily evacuated," Ruster said. "Otherwise, they can leave pets with a family member and try to make those decisions beforehand."
The two shelters will be set up at South Fort Myers High and East Lee County High. Each shelter will be split into two sides. One for humans and the other for animals.
"There are more options than there used to be but prepare, prepare, prepare and do it early," Ruster said.
New chief behind wheel at BMW store
BMW of Fort Myers in south Fort Myers has a new general manager, Darryl Shepherd, whose goal is to be the top rated customer service dealership in the United States.
That's a big challenge for Shepherd but he said he is prepared for it, especially because he has a new 52,000-square-foot building with customer amenities that rival most car dealerships.
"My general manager experience has been with high-volume imports and luxury domestics," Shepherd said. "I'm going to keep a positive 'can do' mentality and acknowledging that our customers are our only assets!"
Customers are so important to BMW that in the design of the new building, which opened in late March, amenities were added, including the Bear Rock Cafe, automatic car wash, business center, three TV lounges and free chair massages.
"Our customers are thrilled to share it with us. We have regular customers, especially the ones where each member in the family drive a BMW," said Lily Holley, the administrative assistant at BMW. "Some have stopped by just to have lunch at our on-site cafe."
Business at the BMW dealership has been steady because the building draws so much attention.
"We've seen an increase in our floor traffic ... some challenges we've faced since opening is meeting the customers demands," said Holley, adding that the sales staff has been expanded.
Expansion has always been in the plans for the dealership, which first opened in Fort Myers in the early 1970s, according to shop foreman Steve Faur.
"We wanted to accommodate a long-term growing market," said Chris Tuttle, the new and pre-owned sales director. "In 2004, plans started up for a new store so it would allow us to expand and prosper."
The prosperity of the dealership is what Shepherd hopes continues during his rein.
"I was asked to come to BMW of Fort Myers by Sonic Automotive to continue and increase the store's standard for success," Shepherd said.
That's a big challenge for Shepherd but he said he is prepared for it, especially because he has a new 52,000-square-foot building with customer amenities that rival most car dealerships.
"My general manager experience has been with high-volume imports and luxury domestics," Shepherd said. "I'm going to keep a positive 'can do' mentality and acknowledging that our customers are our only assets!"
Customers are so important to BMW that in the design of the new building, which opened in late March, amenities were added, including the Bear Rock Cafe, automatic car wash, business center, three TV lounges and free chair massages.
"Our customers are thrilled to share it with us. We have regular customers, especially the ones where each member in the family drive a BMW," said Lily Holley, the administrative assistant at BMW. "Some have stopped by just to have lunch at our on-site cafe."
Business at the BMW dealership has been steady because the building draws so much attention.
"We've seen an increase in our floor traffic ... some challenges we've faced since opening is meeting the customers demands," said Holley, adding that the sales staff has been expanded.
Expansion has always been in the plans for the dealership, which first opened in Fort Myers in the early 1970s, according to shop foreman Steve Faur.
"We wanted to accommodate a long-term growing market," said Chris Tuttle, the new and pre-owned sales director. "In 2004, plans started up for a new store so it would allow us to expand and prosper."
The prosperity of the dealership is what Shepherd hopes continues during his rein.
"I was asked to come to BMW of Fort Myers by Sonic Automotive to continue and increase the store's standard for success," Shepherd said.
Accuracy, speed hallmark of court reporters
Michelle Hordinski is a south Fort Myers court reporter who can type 260 words a minute.
Her business partner Maryanne Wagner can type 225 words.
At that speed Hordinski and Wagner are offering area attorney's a short turn-around time for transcripts from court hearings or depositions.
The two court reporters along with Debbie Cail recently opened Merit Court Reporting and business is booming.
"We love court reporting and we love our profession, especially in Fort Myers," said Hordinski, the company's secretary treasurer and court reporter. "That makes our turn around time quick and everything is accurate."
Accuracy is everything in the court reporting business.
"I do my best work when I'm in court. Then when I do my transcripts it doesn't take long because I did the hardest part ahead of time," Hordinski said. "The skill of the court reporter does dictate how quickly we can get it done."
And qualifications at the Merit Court Reporting office are plenty.
Hordinski has been in the business for 19 years and is a registered merit reporter - the highest designation given to a court reporter. Wagner is a registered professional reporter and has 24 years of experience.
"This isn't just any job. We enjoy what we do and have the experience to back it up," said Cali, the company's vice president and office manager. She helps run the logistics to make sure the attorneys get what they need, when they need it. "This (business) has been an opportunity for us to expand on some ideas we already had."
The ideas included opening a shop that offers depositions, hearings, standard six-day transcript delivery and free wireless access.
"We are full service and we offer things that attorneys sometimes need depending on the situation," Wagner said. "We even have six conference rooms that our clients can use if they need to do work while they wait for depositions."
Merit Court Reporting also offers a program called in which a live feed is provided as a witnesses testimony is taken.
"We felt there was need in the south end of town and attorneys like that we have free parking," said Hordinski noting that one of their conference rooms is often requested because of its sports memorabilia. "We love the profession in Fort Myers and we make sure people feel that in our atmosphere."
Her business partner Maryanne Wagner can type 225 words.
At that speed Hordinski and Wagner are offering area attorney's a short turn-around time for transcripts from court hearings or depositions.
The two court reporters along with Debbie Cail recently opened Merit Court Reporting and business is booming.
"We love court reporting and we love our profession, especially in Fort Myers," said Hordinski, the company's secretary treasurer and court reporter. "That makes our turn around time quick and everything is accurate."
Accuracy is everything in the court reporting business.
"I do my best work when I'm in court. Then when I do my transcripts it doesn't take long because I did the hardest part ahead of time," Hordinski said. "The skill of the court reporter does dictate how quickly we can get it done."
And qualifications at the Merit Court Reporting office are plenty.
Hordinski has been in the business for 19 years and is a registered merit reporter - the highest designation given to a court reporter. Wagner is a registered professional reporter and has 24 years of experience.
"This isn't just any job. We enjoy what we do and have the experience to back it up," said Cali, the company's vice president and office manager. She helps run the logistics to make sure the attorneys get what they need, when they need it. "This (business) has been an opportunity for us to expand on some ideas we already had."
The ideas included opening a shop that offers depositions, hearings, standard six-day transcript delivery and free wireless access.
"We are full service and we offer things that attorneys sometimes need depending on the situation," Wagner said. "We even have six conference rooms that our clients can use if they need to do work while they wait for depositions."
Merit Court Reporting also offers a program called in which a live feed is provided as a witnesses testimony is taken.
"We felt there was need in the south end of town and attorneys like that we have free parking," said Hordinski noting that one of their conference rooms is often requested because of its sports memorabilia. "We love the profession in Fort Myers and we make sure people feel that in our atmosphere."
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Fort Myers teen wins model car trophy
Justin Hough, 14, likes cars. Recently he and his mom flew to California to compete nationally in the Hagerty Insurance's National Youth Model-Building Contest.
Hough was invited to California after building a model car with David Moll and winning.
Moll and Hough are part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Florida program and the pair have been together for five years.
"My big brother had told me about (the contest) and me and him decided together that we would build it," said Hough, of Fort Myers.
The local contest was hosted by the Gulfshore Mustang Club of Southwest Florida, which selected the Big Brother Big Sisters program as its main charity.
"This is the first time I've had a little brother and big brother compete in a national competition," said Monica Monahan, vice president of Big and Little programs throughout Lee and Collier counties. "What an exciting opportunity."
And, the excitement grew when it was announced that Hough was the second place winner of the national competition held in California.
"He kinda tricked me. He looked down when I went to pick him up, and when the bags came, he pulled out this gorgeous trophy for second place," said Moll about a prank Hough played on him when he met him at the airport.
"That's the kind of kid he is. He likes to joke around and have a good time."
In California, Hough and his mom took pictures with Jay Leno from "The Tonight Show"and got his autograph. Leno was one of the judges at the competition.
"I didn't believe it really," said Hough after placing second. "It's been a great experience."
Moll said he wasn't surprised that Hough won the award because he put his best effort into the car.
The car originally came in a box in pieces that had to be assembled, painted and decorated with decals. It took a month and a half to build.
"He tried and gave this his best shot and I hope that this will carry into his school work and he will try harder," Moll said. "We talked about his (educational) interest beyond high school and he hasn't come up with anything yet but that's not unusual."
Hough was invited to California after building a model car with David Moll and winning.
Moll and Hough are part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Florida program and the pair have been together for five years.
"My big brother had told me about (the contest) and me and him decided together that we would build it," said Hough, of Fort Myers.
The local contest was hosted by the Gulfshore Mustang Club of Southwest Florida, which selected the Big Brother Big Sisters program as its main charity.
"This is the first time I've had a little brother and big brother compete in a national competition," said Monica Monahan, vice president of Big and Little programs throughout Lee and Collier counties. "What an exciting opportunity."
And, the excitement grew when it was announced that Hough was the second place winner of the national competition held in California.
"He kinda tricked me. He looked down when I went to pick him up, and when the bags came, he pulled out this gorgeous trophy for second place," said Moll about a prank Hough played on him when he met him at the airport.
"That's the kind of kid he is. He likes to joke around and have a good time."
In California, Hough and his mom took pictures with Jay Leno from "The Tonight Show"and got his autograph. Leno was one of the judges at the competition.
"I didn't believe it really," said Hough after placing second. "It's been a great experience."
Moll said he wasn't surprised that Hough won the award because he put his best effort into the car.
The car originally came in a box in pieces that had to be assembled, painted and decorated with decals. It took a month and a half to build.
"He tried and gave this his best shot and I hope that this will carry into his school work and he will try harder," Moll said. "We talked about his (educational) interest beyond high school and he hasn't come up with anything yet but that's not unusual."
Company specializes in homemade chocolate
Chocolate covered strawberries, designer chocolate bars and a Key lime truffle are a few of the offerings available at Irresistible Confections in south Fort Myers.
The company, which recently changed its name from For The Love of Chocolate, specializes in selling the best homemade chocolates.
That's according to owner Justin Schaffer who makes every piece of chocolate himself.
"We do it all. Boxes, baskets, printed ribbons and party favors for weddings or birthdays," said Schaffer. He first started working with chocolate as a young boy.
His mother, Tammy, worked in the restaurant industry for years and passed her interest onto her two children.
"As kids my sister and I had Confectionary Kids and then it got a new name and I started running it," Schaffer said. "Everybody loves chocolate so it's always been successful."
Success for Schaffer has meant being able to start looking for a retail location to replace the current location off Beacon Boulevard.
"The first of the year we should be able to move somewhere," said Schaffer who uses a kitchen in the building to make his creations. "We make everything fresh and it has to be consumed quickly ... we need a place with space for the kitchen."
The kitchen is where all the activity takes place at Irresistible Confections. The chocolate treats are made, packaged based on customers needs, and then delivered for a small fee.
"We do dessert trays, strawberry bouquets and we can put a picture on a piece of chocolate," he said.
But Schaffer's customer base isn't limited to just party planners, business professionals in the area are major fans.
"It's a great way to show your appreciation or get new clients and a lot of businesses will send a basket or chocolate sample to offices," said Glen Schaffer, the owner's father.
He helps at the shop with miscellaneous tasks when necessary.
"Everything is a little better with chocolate and it's a good way to get your foot in the door. Inexpensive way to make an impression."
Leaving that lasting impression is why Justin Schaffer takes the time to speak to each client, create a sample and have them choose what they want.
"We customize everything and we are a family-owned business so we have no restrictions," Justin Schaffer said.
The company, which recently changed its name from For The Love of Chocolate, specializes in selling the best homemade chocolates.
That's according to owner Justin Schaffer who makes every piece of chocolate himself.
"We do it all. Boxes, baskets, printed ribbons and party favors for weddings or birthdays," said Schaffer. He first started working with chocolate as a young boy.
His mother, Tammy, worked in the restaurant industry for years and passed her interest onto her two children.
"As kids my sister and I had Confectionary Kids and then it got a new name and I started running it," Schaffer said. "Everybody loves chocolate so it's always been successful."
Success for Schaffer has meant being able to start looking for a retail location to replace the current location off Beacon Boulevard.
"The first of the year we should be able to move somewhere," said Schaffer who uses a kitchen in the building to make his creations. "We make everything fresh and it has to be consumed quickly ... we need a place with space for the kitchen."
The kitchen is where all the activity takes place at Irresistible Confections. The chocolate treats are made, packaged based on customers needs, and then delivered for a small fee.
"We do dessert trays, strawberry bouquets and we can put a picture on a piece of chocolate," he said.
But Schaffer's customer base isn't limited to just party planners, business professionals in the area are major fans.
"It's a great way to show your appreciation or get new clients and a lot of businesses will send a basket or chocolate sample to offices," said Glen Schaffer, the owner's father.
He helps at the shop with miscellaneous tasks when necessary.
"Everything is a little better with chocolate and it's a good way to get your foot in the door. Inexpensive way to make an impression."
Leaving that lasting impression is why Justin Schaffer takes the time to speak to each client, create a sample and have them choose what they want.
"We customize everything and we are a family-owned business so we have no restrictions," Justin Schaffer said.
Ten minutes in the life of a librarian: School-related activities planned at Lakes Regional Library
Chrissie Bishop has programming on the brain at this time of year. School is starting and as a youth services librarian she has to plan activities for children of all ages and their parents.
Bishop has spent months getting ready for questions about homework help, science fair projects and even where to find books on different subjects.
"We try to have a lot of books on hand for them to go back to school because there are so many questions," said Bishop, who is a seven-year veteran of the library system. "We make sure to have books for parents and the children ... each have different needs."
The needs vary by age as well and Bishop knows that not everyone will start school in the fall.
Bishop assures parents that the little ones who aren't getting new pencils or riding the bus to school won't get left behind.
She has plans to offer pre-schoolers a "Fancy Nancy Party" complete with reading, dancing and activities.
"All the people in the department come up with different ideas and it's so much fun to get them going," said Bishop, who has been at Lakes Regional for more than a year. "We have to start early and get kids to love books."
Loving books is what landed Bishop in the library system. She worked as a page at a library while studying at Florida Gulf Coast University.
"I loved being a page and being in the library talking to the public," said Bishop, adding that she earned an English degree but the library was her calling. "Working with children is the best. Books show them so many experiences."
Being able to impart those experiences onto children is why Bishop can't see herself doing anything else.
"We try really hard to help kids become life-long readers, feel comfortable and love the library," she said.
Bishop has spent months getting ready for questions about homework help, science fair projects and even where to find books on different subjects.
"We try to have a lot of books on hand for them to go back to school because there are so many questions," said Bishop, who is a seven-year veteran of the library system. "We make sure to have books for parents and the children ... each have different needs."
The needs vary by age as well and Bishop knows that not everyone will start school in the fall.
Bishop assures parents that the little ones who aren't getting new pencils or riding the bus to school won't get left behind.
She has plans to offer pre-schoolers a "Fancy Nancy Party" complete with reading, dancing and activities.
"All the people in the department come up with different ideas and it's so much fun to get them going," said Bishop, who has been at Lakes Regional for more than a year. "We have to start early and get kids to love books."
Loving books is what landed Bishop in the library system. She worked as a page at a library while studying at Florida Gulf Coast University.
"I loved being a page and being in the library talking to the public," said Bishop, adding that she earned an English degree but the library was her calling. "Working with children is the best. Books show them so many experiences."
Being able to impart those experiences onto children is why Bishop can't see herself doing anything else.
"We try really hard to help kids become life-long readers, feel comfortable and love the library," she said.
Bonita Springs flood victims live in shelter, despair
Despair has befallen the Bonita Springs flood victims, now living at the Estero Community Center shelter.
The 570 residents have been eating, sleeping and laundering their clothes at the American Red Cross shelter for 12 days and calling it home has become difficult to bear.
"We are treated very well. They give us food and water. We haven't lacked anything but it's not home," said Ricardo Zambrano, 48. Zambrano lives at the Manna Christian Village RV park. Most of the people in the shelter are residents of Manna Christian or a neighboring RV park, Saldivar.
He is staying at the shelter with his wife and three teenage children. All are anxious to go home.
"It's really affected us. We have a small car and only had time to get one luggage of clothes out," said Zambrano noting important documents are still in his trailer home. "It's been hard on my kids and we aren't sure why ... if it's the food or change but they are getting sick."
Stomach aches or the common cold are what Zambrano believes is sickening his children and others he's heard about at the shelter.
"We have been going to a Mexican restaurant to eat sometimes," said Zambrano, who works as a truck mechanic. His wife is unemployed.
When the Zambranos left their home there was six inches of water under their trailer. As of Friday, he tried twice to enter the Manna Christian park but officials wouldn't let him in.
"Three months ago I bought a plasma (TV) and a computer and now with more storms coming..." he said. "I just don't know."
Hope was already hanging by a thread among residents at the shelter and news of Hurricane Ike's possible assault on southwest Florida isn't helping the angst.
"They don't want us in (the trailer park) and I just need to know what's happening," said Juanna Urvalle, 54. She lives with her husband Jose, 65, at Manna Christian. "We need help. Help to at least get our documents or use a truck or something."
Urvalle, whose extended family also is at the shelter, said: "We aren't safe anymore because if another (storm) comes we have no other options. We don't have a future. We can't even think about it."
The future seems bleak for residents like Zambrano and Urvalle. They are legal residents who applied for Federal Emergency Management Agency aid and said it's the small glimmer of hope left.
"They didn't say when we would get anything. They have to send inspectors to our homes," said Zambrano, noting the water has to go down before inspectors can enter the park. "I need help because although we are here, we are spending money to eat Mexican food or pizza and for clothes."
The owners of the Manna Christian and Saldivar parks say they will credit renters for days they spent at the shelter.
Heidi Ruster, the Lee County American Red Cross director, has no date for shutting the shelter's doors.
"We want to make sure they have a place to go before we shut down," said Ruster who can't determine the number of shelter residents because not all those registered have stayed overnight.
The Lee County Division of Public Safety's Emergency Management Department meets regularly with the Red Cross, as the shelter is a Lee County facility.
"It's federal mandate that the Red Cross run the shelter and Emergency Management oversees it. It's a combination effort," said Diane Holm, spokesperson for the public safety division and emergency management department. "We are always in contact because they would report to us if they need more cots for example, and we get them there."
Volunteers support the two organizations and Holm's said more are needed, especially now.
"We need people to help in the shelter and spot some of the volunteers who have been working for 10 days," said Ruster. She said squabbles have taken place between volunteers and Red Cross staff members. "Stress levels get a little difficult when people work too many hours. We are limiting burn out ... many (volunteers) have a heart of gold and just want to go, go, go."
Moving is exactly what Zambrano has in mind after he returns to his trailer.
"I don't feel stable anymore. I have an offer now for a trailer in Rosemary but we don't have money to put down," Zambrano said. "We wonder what will happen in reality."
The 570 residents have been eating, sleeping and laundering their clothes at the American Red Cross shelter for 12 days and calling it home has become difficult to bear.
"We are treated very well. They give us food and water. We haven't lacked anything but it's not home," said Ricardo Zambrano, 48. Zambrano lives at the Manna Christian Village RV park. Most of the people in the shelter are residents of Manna Christian or a neighboring RV park, Saldivar.
He is staying at the shelter with his wife and three teenage children. All are anxious to go home.
"It's really affected us. We have a small car and only had time to get one luggage of clothes out," said Zambrano noting important documents are still in his trailer home. "It's been hard on my kids and we aren't sure why ... if it's the food or change but they are getting sick."
Stomach aches or the common cold are what Zambrano believes is sickening his children and others he's heard about at the shelter.
"We have been going to a Mexican restaurant to eat sometimes," said Zambrano, who works as a truck mechanic. His wife is unemployed.
When the Zambranos left their home there was six inches of water under their trailer. As of Friday, he tried twice to enter the Manna Christian park but officials wouldn't let him in.
"Three months ago I bought a plasma (TV) and a computer and now with more storms coming..." he said. "I just don't know."
Hope was already hanging by a thread among residents at the shelter and news of Hurricane Ike's possible assault on southwest Florida isn't helping the angst.
"They don't want us in (the trailer park) and I just need to know what's happening," said Juanna Urvalle, 54. She lives with her husband Jose, 65, at Manna Christian. "We need help. Help to at least get our documents or use a truck or something."
Urvalle, whose extended family also is at the shelter, said: "We aren't safe anymore because if another (storm) comes we have no other options. We don't have a future. We can't even think about it."
The future seems bleak for residents like Zambrano and Urvalle. They are legal residents who applied for Federal Emergency Management Agency aid and said it's the small glimmer of hope left.
"They didn't say when we would get anything. They have to send inspectors to our homes," said Zambrano, noting the water has to go down before inspectors can enter the park. "I need help because although we are here, we are spending money to eat Mexican food or pizza and for clothes."
The owners of the Manna Christian and Saldivar parks say they will credit renters for days they spent at the shelter.
Heidi Ruster, the Lee County American Red Cross director, has no date for shutting the shelter's doors.
"We want to make sure they have a place to go before we shut down," said Ruster who can't determine the number of shelter residents because not all those registered have stayed overnight.
The Lee County Division of Public Safety's Emergency Management Department meets regularly with the Red Cross, as the shelter is a Lee County facility.
"It's federal mandate that the Red Cross run the shelter and Emergency Management oversees it. It's a combination effort," said Diane Holm, spokesperson for the public safety division and emergency management department. "We are always in contact because they would report to us if they need more cots for example, and we get them there."
Volunteers support the two organizations and Holm's said more are needed, especially now.
"We need people to help in the shelter and spot some of the volunteers who have been working for 10 days," said Ruster. She said squabbles have taken place between volunteers and Red Cross staff members. "Stress levels get a little difficult when people work too many hours. We are limiting burn out ... many (volunteers) have a heart of gold and just want to go, go, go."
Moving is exactly what Zambrano has in mind after he returns to his trailer.
"I don't feel stable anymore. I have an offer now for a trailer in Rosemary but we don't have money to put down," Zambrano said. "We wonder what will happen in reality."
New home to help group better serve Lee
Interfaith Caregivers is working to better serve its customer base in Southwest Florida and a recent purchase is sure to help the cause.
The service-based organization that runs a food pantry for the area between Gladiolus Drive and Coconut Road recently closed on a new $317,000 commercial property in San Carlos Park.
"The new building is almost twice as big as the place we are in now," said Nancy Martin, the community outreach director, about the current Estero location. "It's a logical move for us because paying rent is not a good way to spend money."
The organization relies on community monies, pantry donations and volunteer hours to sustain the program that helped 916 people last month alone. That's 50 percent higher than a year and a half ago.
"We keep getting bigger and bigger and we have outgrown this location. Two-thirds of our clients are in San Carlos Park so it's a logical move," Martin said. "We will be more accessible and the building can be suited for what we need for our clients."
The new space has an open layout, which will accommodate the growing food pantry, expanding counseling services and a Florida Gulf Coast University nursing class that uses the facility now.
"It's about being closer to the people that we serve and offer more services with the extra space," said Becky Robbins-Penniman, board president of the organization.
"Hopefully, we can do it without falling over boxes like we do now."
Not that Robbins-Penniman is complaining. She'd prefer to trip over boxes than worry the client count climbing more than the community support.
"More room will permit us to within a year ... add social work intake services and partner with more agencies," said Robbins-Penniman, who is also an associate pastor at Lamb of God Church. "We really want this to be the kind of place where people will come get services or volunteer."
Volunteers are crucial to the operation because they also serve as a United Way house, run a Meals-on-Wheels program and even host classes to teach people the English language.
"It's not just a one-way street. We have a lot of clients who come back and help," said Robbins-Penniman about the 2,000 clients in their database. Some are one-time clients. "We want to be a community resource where neighbors help neighbors."
Interfaith Caregivers has plans to move into the new property on Rockefeller Circle in September depending on the permitting process.
"We will serve them more efficiently but one of the biggest reasons we are moving is fiscal responsibility," Martin said. "We don't want to throw away donation money."
A capital campaign will also be started in September to help pay down the new location.
The service-based organization that runs a food pantry for the area between Gladiolus Drive and Coconut Road recently closed on a new $317,000 commercial property in San Carlos Park.
"The new building is almost twice as big as the place we are in now," said Nancy Martin, the community outreach director, about the current Estero location. "It's a logical move for us because paying rent is not a good way to spend money."
The organization relies on community monies, pantry donations and volunteer hours to sustain the program that helped 916 people last month alone. That's 50 percent higher than a year and a half ago.
"We keep getting bigger and bigger and we have outgrown this location. Two-thirds of our clients are in San Carlos Park so it's a logical move," Martin said. "We will be more accessible and the building can be suited for what we need for our clients."
The new space has an open layout, which will accommodate the growing food pantry, expanding counseling services and a Florida Gulf Coast University nursing class that uses the facility now.
"It's about being closer to the people that we serve and offer more services with the extra space," said Becky Robbins-Penniman, board president of the organization.
"Hopefully, we can do it without falling over boxes like we do now."
Not that Robbins-Penniman is complaining. She'd prefer to trip over boxes than worry the client count climbing more than the community support.
"More room will permit us to within a year ... add social work intake services and partner with more agencies," said Robbins-Penniman, who is also an associate pastor at Lamb of God Church. "We really want this to be the kind of place where people will come get services or volunteer."
Volunteers are crucial to the operation because they also serve as a United Way house, run a Meals-on-Wheels program and even host classes to teach people the English language.
"It's not just a one-way street. We have a lot of clients who come back and help," said Robbins-Penniman about the 2,000 clients in their database. Some are one-time clients. "We want to be a community resource where neighbors help neighbors."
Interfaith Caregivers has plans to move into the new property on Rockefeller Circle in September depending on the permitting process.
"We will serve them more efficiently but one of the biggest reasons we are moving is fiscal responsibility," Martin said. "We don't want to throw away donation money."
A capital campaign will also be started in September to help pay down the new location.
Salon filled with Charisma
Charisma Hair & Nail Studio is offering its clients more than just a new hair color, manicured nails and rested tootsies from the foot spa.
Owner and Stylist Kelly Wayne wants clients to feel glamorous, relaxed, and more importantly pampered.
That's why she opened the salon with a focus on the clients' needs and building a trusting relationship.
"It's about the treatment you get here and they are really interested in me as a client ... not creating a brand," said Anne Gregg, of south Fort Myers. She drives from Alico Road to the Colonial salon because she refuses to have her hair done by anyone except Wayne. "She moved and I followed. I feel comfortable here and these people know me."
Gregg is just one of many clients that visit the salon on a weekly basis whether it's for hair treatments, cuts or an hour and a half long pedicure.
"We are more than a big salon because we don't push products on customers and don't have a receptionist to set up appointments," said Wayne noting that appointments are made with each individual stylist.
The difference at Charisma is that each stylist rents an area from Wayne and runs it as their own business.
"They make their own appointments and have flexibility to open whenever they want," said Wayne, adding that each stylist must bring their own clientele with them. "It's about the personal attention and knowing that my client can go to another stylist and get good service at the salon."
Service is such a focus for Wayne that part-time employee Joyce Troiano comes in a few times a week to make customers comfortable.
"I do what needs to be done and it's all very nice and pleasant," said Troiano whose daughter Jill Duncan is a stylist at the salon. "I get (customers) snacks, drinks or whatever they need."
Being able to meet that need comes naturally to the Charisma staff because they have more than 20 years of hair experience. They opened Charisma in June.
"To be successful in my business you need to keep up with education, be motivated and disciplined," said Stylist Margie Weekly. "It's a great feeling when you can change ones confidence."
Diane Ferazzi is a nail specialist and the newest member at Charisma. She started just a month ago and is already seen an increase in customers looking for manicures and pedicures.
"This area is booming and people like it so much here that I have more clientele here than I did in a year at another salon," Ferazzi said. "It's very relaxing and my clients love it. This is a good group of people and everyone gets along."
Owner and Stylist Kelly Wayne wants clients to feel glamorous, relaxed, and more importantly pampered.
That's why she opened the salon with a focus on the clients' needs and building a trusting relationship.
"It's about the treatment you get here and they are really interested in me as a client ... not creating a brand," said Anne Gregg, of south Fort Myers. She drives from Alico Road to the Colonial salon because she refuses to have her hair done by anyone except Wayne. "She moved and I followed. I feel comfortable here and these people know me."
Gregg is just one of many clients that visit the salon on a weekly basis whether it's for hair treatments, cuts or an hour and a half long pedicure.
"We are more than a big salon because we don't push products on customers and don't have a receptionist to set up appointments," said Wayne noting that appointments are made with each individual stylist.
The difference at Charisma is that each stylist rents an area from Wayne and runs it as their own business.
"They make their own appointments and have flexibility to open whenever they want," said Wayne, adding that each stylist must bring their own clientele with them. "It's about the personal attention and knowing that my client can go to another stylist and get good service at the salon."
Service is such a focus for Wayne that part-time employee Joyce Troiano comes in a few times a week to make customers comfortable.
"I do what needs to be done and it's all very nice and pleasant," said Troiano whose daughter Jill Duncan is a stylist at the salon. "I get (customers) snacks, drinks or whatever they need."
Being able to meet that need comes naturally to the Charisma staff because they have more than 20 years of hair experience. They opened Charisma in June.
"To be successful in my business you need to keep up with education, be motivated and disciplined," said Stylist Margie Weekly. "It's a great feeling when you can change ones confidence."
Diane Ferazzi is a nail specialist and the newest member at Charisma. She started just a month ago and is already seen an increase in customers looking for manicures and pedicures.
"This area is booming and people like it so much here that I have more clientele here than I did in a year at another salon," Ferazzi said. "It's very relaxing and my clients love it. This is a good group of people and everyone gets along."
Harley motorcyclists ride lifestyle
Jeff Taylor of south Fort Myers has been riding Harley-Davidson motorcycles since the early '90s.
He says there is nothing like seeing the sights on two wheels and Southwest Florida local motorcycle nuts seem to agree.
More than 15 riders recently gathered for a two-day celebration at Harley-Davidson of Fort Myers to commemorate the company's 105th anniversary.
"It's American country, patriotism and 105 years of a company that represents that," said Taylor, 60.
The Fort Myers store was one of 25 stores in the nation chosen as official host sites for the party and starting place for locals to take the "Ride Home."
The ride involves riders from across the country starting from one of 105 locations as they make their way to Milwaukee for a weekend-long party.
"It's a great excuse to ride your motorcycle," said Bill Dannhel, the executive vice president of Harley-Davidson. He flew in from Milwaukee to see the Fort Myers celebration. "People like the celebration and the camaraderie of it."
Giving bikers an opportunity to spend time together is why the Harley-Davidson Motor Co. has been celebrating its anniversary every five years. The Fort Myers celebration started Aug. 21 with a party and then the send-off Aug. 22.
"I went to the 100th ride and it's just bikes and bikers and more bikes as you flow into Milwaukee ... it's a special ride," said Ron Hall, the general manager of the Fort Myers store. "This is not just a motorcycle ... it's a lifestyle."
The lifestyle is what has kept Taylor attracted to the company for more than 10 years.
And, in preparation for the weeklong ride to Milwaukee, Taylor packed two bags with rain gear, cold weather clothing and his leathers.
"I got nothing special, just what I'm going to need for the ride and then when I'm up at the party," said Taylor, who will be stopping at small eateries along the way and taking in the sights. "We're gonna meet a lot of people that share our bond with the open road."
And for the send-off, Taylor donned a Harley T-shirt, bandanna and leather vest with the Harley logo.
"Seeing our country on two wheels can't be beat," Taylor said.
Sid Pittman of Alva couldn't agree more. He, too, was participating in the ride to Milwaukee and came to Fort Myers for the send-off celebration.
"I went to the 100th year celebration and it's just to have a good time," said Pittman, who found out about the ride because he is a member of the Fort Myers HOG chapter, or bikers club. "You get to see a lot of sights too."
Hall wanted the riders leaving his store to feel special so he invited the Lee County Sheriff's Office to lead the riders from his store onto Colonial and to the interstate.
"People who don't ride don't understand it," Hall said. "It's a freedom and just everything that comes with it."
The 105th anniversary of the company will also be a fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
"We threw a great party and we raised $6 million last time," Dannhel said.
He says there is nothing like seeing the sights on two wheels and Southwest Florida local motorcycle nuts seem to agree.
More than 15 riders recently gathered for a two-day celebration at Harley-Davidson of Fort Myers to commemorate the company's 105th anniversary.
"It's American country, patriotism and 105 years of a company that represents that," said Taylor, 60.
The Fort Myers store was one of 25 stores in the nation chosen as official host sites for the party and starting place for locals to take the "Ride Home."
The ride involves riders from across the country starting from one of 105 locations as they make their way to Milwaukee for a weekend-long party.
"It's a great excuse to ride your motorcycle," said Bill Dannhel, the executive vice president of Harley-Davidson. He flew in from Milwaukee to see the Fort Myers celebration. "People like the celebration and the camaraderie of it."
Giving bikers an opportunity to spend time together is why the Harley-Davidson Motor Co. has been celebrating its anniversary every five years. The Fort Myers celebration started Aug. 21 with a party and then the send-off Aug. 22.
"I went to the 100th ride and it's just bikes and bikers and more bikes as you flow into Milwaukee ... it's a special ride," said Ron Hall, the general manager of the Fort Myers store. "This is not just a motorcycle ... it's a lifestyle."
The lifestyle is what has kept Taylor attracted to the company for more than 10 years.
And, in preparation for the weeklong ride to Milwaukee, Taylor packed two bags with rain gear, cold weather clothing and his leathers.
"I got nothing special, just what I'm going to need for the ride and then when I'm up at the party," said Taylor, who will be stopping at small eateries along the way and taking in the sights. "We're gonna meet a lot of people that share our bond with the open road."
And for the send-off, Taylor donned a Harley T-shirt, bandanna and leather vest with the Harley logo.
"Seeing our country on two wheels can't be beat," Taylor said.
Sid Pittman of Alva couldn't agree more. He, too, was participating in the ride to Milwaukee and came to Fort Myers for the send-off celebration.
"I went to the 100th year celebration and it's just to have a good time," said Pittman, who found out about the ride because he is a member of the Fort Myers HOG chapter, or bikers club. "You get to see a lot of sights too."
Hall wanted the riders leaving his store to feel special so he invited the Lee County Sheriff's Office to lead the riders from his store onto Colonial and to the interstate.
"People who don't ride don't understand it," Hall said. "It's a freedom and just everything that comes with it."
The 105th anniversary of the company will also be a fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
"We threw a great party and we raised $6 million last time," Dannhel said.
Carwash to help swimmers raise funds
Swimmer Michael Phelps won eight gold medals in the recently concluded Olympics and local students are hoping to benefit from his accomplishments.
Students from the South Fort Myers High swim team hope that swim fever catches on in south Fort Myers.
The South Fort Myers High School Swim Team will be hosting a carwash fundraiser at Eagle Wash & Lube in south Fort Myers on Aug. 30.
The team, which is co-ed, will be raising money to help offset the costs of traveling to local, regional and state swim meets.
"We have been pretty successful in getting these scheduled and helping the groups raise money," said Chris Heidrick, owner of the wash shop during the last carwash.
Heidrick works to support area students because he was once a Boy Scout and understands the importance of giving back.
He began offering fundraising opportunities at the carwash in February.
"The community really supports the kids who come out and wash cars," Heidrick said.
The team will wash customers' cars for donations using Eagle's professional, environmentally friendly equipment. The equipment will save water and energy usage during the event.
Eagle Wash & Lube will also not only donate the carwash stations, it has plans to donate $5 to the Swim Team for every Castrol Full Service Oil Change performed in its maintenance center during the event.
One hundred percent of money raised during the carwash will be handed over to the school along with the money from oil changes.
Eagle Wash & Lube holds two charity carwashes a month and has helped local youth groups raise almost $4,000 so far this year.
Students from the South Fort Myers High swim team hope that swim fever catches on in south Fort Myers.
The South Fort Myers High School Swim Team will be hosting a carwash fundraiser at Eagle Wash & Lube in south Fort Myers on Aug. 30.
The team, which is co-ed, will be raising money to help offset the costs of traveling to local, regional and state swim meets.
"We have been pretty successful in getting these scheduled and helping the groups raise money," said Chris Heidrick, owner of the wash shop during the last carwash.
Heidrick works to support area students because he was once a Boy Scout and understands the importance of giving back.
He began offering fundraising opportunities at the carwash in February.
"The community really supports the kids who come out and wash cars," Heidrick said.
The team will wash customers' cars for donations using Eagle's professional, environmentally friendly equipment. The equipment will save water and energy usage during the event.
Eagle Wash & Lube will also not only donate the carwash stations, it has plans to donate $5 to the Swim Team for every Castrol Full Service Oil Change performed in its maintenance center during the event.
One hundred percent of money raised during the carwash will be handed over to the school along with the money from oil changes.
Eagle Wash & Lube holds two charity carwashes a month and has helped local youth groups raise almost $4,000 so far this year.
Fay victims bide time at Estero center
Maria Reyes, 26, arrived at the Estero Community Center on Tuesday morning.
She came not to work out in its gym or to make crafts, but to flee the rising floodwaters at her Camp Saldivar mobile home park in Bonita Springs.
She is one of 426 Tropical Storm Fay flood victims from Bonita Springs who were forced to make the center home.
"It's very hard, especially with a baby. He cries at night," Reyes said in Spanish. She came to the shelter with her husband, Antonio Fernandez, and her sons Adrian Cruz, 5, and Jode Cruz, 1. "We keep hearing that the water is getting higher."
The community center became an American Red Cross shelter as water levels rose and victims had to evacuate. It's the first time the center has been used for such a purpose since it opened in 2006.
Reyes had plans to stay in her home until flood waters became knee deep on her 5-foot, 5-inch frame.
"We are worried that we have lost everything," said Reyes. "We didn't take anything. We had no time."
Reyes worries mirror those of the others in the shelter. They are preoccupied with the condition of their homes, little to no clothing for their children or prospects for the future.
Jose Uvalle de la Portill, 65, said he only brought the khaki shorts and striped polo he was wearing.
"It's hard at first, but thank God we are better now," Uvalle said in Spanish. He has spent a week at the shelter with his wife Juanna.
She doesn't expect to go home to a flooded Manna Christian trailer and applied for state aid at laptop stations set up at the shelter. Flood victims can receive food stamps and cash assistance.
"My husband is on disability, and we don't know what we will get," said Juanna Uvalle, who showed valid identification that she was documented and in the flood area.
Identification is not requested when victims enter the shelter, said Jan George, the shelter manager from the American Red Cross.
"Some of them might be undocumented ... when we start opening cases for assistance, they have to show something that has the correct address on it," George said. "It's unclear when the first victims will begin to receive state aid."
In the meantime, victims are being given a cot, blanket and hygiene kits to make their stay more comfortable.
"We don't give them pillows, so they won't be getting a mint on it," said Mariann Kircher, mass care shelter manager for the Red Cross.
Three meals - one of them hot - a day are also being provided.
"We are working with a Mexican caterer to offer some Spanish meals" (today), said Kathy Maloney, who works as a kitchen manager at the shelter's mess hall. "They don't eat the bread on their sandwiches. They take it out and put meat in the tortillas."
Parents are having a tough time feeding small children who eat mostly potatoes and hot stews.
"He doesn't eat sandwich bread, and he doesn't like cereal," said Reyes, reiterating that she is appreciative of the volunteers' efforts.
Hungry kids are also harder to entertain and groups such as the Bonita Literacy Council drop by during the day and put on reading and singing programs for tots.
"We have been trying to keep them occupied," George said. She estimates that there is a three to one ratio of children to every adult.
"It's a lot of kids for one shelter," she said.
Reyes and her family are losing hope - and quickly, she said.
"We don't want to think that, but you have to prepare for the future," said Reyes, adding that she isn't sure how they will pay for rent if they're forced to go somewhere else. "We haven't heard anything and we have no radio or television."
Red Cross volunteers said operating out of Estero for the first time was not a problem.
"It doesn't matter where we are," said George.
But the Red Cross will be more familiar with the facility next time, George said.
"Now that we know what rooms are available and their sizes, we'll have a better idea of where to place our staff, our sick room, the whole nine yards," George said.
Turning into a shelter meant canceling classes offered there, said David Gibbons, a senior maintenance specialist.
Otherwise, the inconvenience was minimal, Gibbons said.
She came not to work out in its gym or to make crafts, but to flee the rising floodwaters at her Camp Saldivar mobile home park in Bonita Springs.
She is one of 426 Tropical Storm Fay flood victims from Bonita Springs who were forced to make the center home.
"It's very hard, especially with a baby. He cries at night," Reyes said in Spanish. She came to the shelter with her husband, Antonio Fernandez, and her sons Adrian Cruz, 5, and Jode Cruz, 1. "We keep hearing that the water is getting higher."
The community center became an American Red Cross shelter as water levels rose and victims had to evacuate. It's the first time the center has been used for such a purpose since it opened in 2006.
Reyes had plans to stay in her home until flood waters became knee deep on her 5-foot, 5-inch frame.
"We are worried that we have lost everything," said Reyes. "We didn't take anything. We had no time."
Reyes worries mirror those of the others in the shelter. They are preoccupied with the condition of their homes, little to no clothing for their children or prospects for the future.
Jose Uvalle de la Portill, 65, said he only brought the khaki shorts and striped polo he was wearing.
"It's hard at first, but thank God we are better now," Uvalle said in Spanish. He has spent a week at the shelter with his wife Juanna.
She doesn't expect to go home to a flooded Manna Christian trailer and applied for state aid at laptop stations set up at the shelter. Flood victims can receive food stamps and cash assistance.
"My husband is on disability, and we don't know what we will get," said Juanna Uvalle, who showed valid identification that she was documented and in the flood area.
Identification is not requested when victims enter the shelter, said Jan George, the shelter manager from the American Red Cross.
"Some of them might be undocumented ... when we start opening cases for assistance, they have to show something that has the correct address on it," George said. "It's unclear when the first victims will begin to receive state aid."
In the meantime, victims are being given a cot, blanket and hygiene kits to make their stay more comfortable.
"We don't give them pillows, so they won't be getting a mint on it," said Mariann Kircher, mass care shelter manager for the Red Cross.
Three meals - one of them hot - a day are also being provided.
"We are working with a Mexican caterer to offer some Spanish meals" (today), said Kathy Maloney, who works as a kitchen manager at the shelter's mess hall. "They don't eat the bread on their sandwiches. They take it out and put meat in the tortillas."
Parents are having a tough time feeding small children who eat mostly potatoes and hot stews.
"He doesn't eat sandwich bread, and he doesn't like cereal," said Reyes, reiterating that she is appreciative of the volunteers' efforts.
Hungry kids are also harder to entertain and groups such as the Bonita Literacy Council drop by during the day and put on reading and singing programs for tots.
"We have been trying to keep them occupied," George said. She estimates that there is a three to one ratio of children to every adult.
"It's a lot of kids for one shelter," she said.
Reyes and her family are losing hope - and quickly, she said.
"We don't want to think that, but you have to prepare for the future," said Reyes, adding that she isn't sure how they will pay for rent if they're forced to go somewhere else. "We haven't heard anything and we have no radio or television."
Red Cross volunteers said operating out of Estero for the first time was not a problem.
"It doesn't matter where we are," said George.
But the Red Cross will be more familiar with the facility next time, George said.
"Now that we know what rooms are available and their sizes, we'll have a better idea of where to place our staff, our sick room, the whole nine yards," George said.
Turning into a shelter meant canceling classes offered there, said David Gibbons, a senior maintenance specialist.
Otherwise, the inconvenience was minimal, Gibbons said.
Jazzercise Lite class just wouldn't die
Women at the Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreational Center in south Fort Myers are changing their lives one Jazzercise Lite class at a time.
The recreational center recently added the low-impact workout class to its list of programming and area women are thrilled.
"It's great because by doing this we can enjoy our wine," said Patty Asci, 65, of Estero.
She is just one of 30 women who attend Jazzercise lite classes regularly at the center. The class is open to men as well.
"For me machines aren't fun (whereas) here you just keep moving," said Deborah Colbert, 53, of south Fort Myers. She is a tap dancer and uses the class to keep fit. "I'm the same size I was when I was 17 years old."
The Jazzercise lite class keeps women fit by packing moderate aerobics, dance and exercise into a 60-minute routine done to modern music.
"The Jazzercise philosophy has always been that exercise is for everyone - and by using effective exercise, jazz dance and popular music - we continually strive to make it fun for participants, too," said Debbie McGarry,the jazzercise lite instructor at the center.
Vera Ifka, 47, feels the difference after every class.
"I feel better now than I did when I started 10 years ago," said Ifka, of south Fort Myers.
McGarry became Jazzercise certified 20 years ago and first began teaching at the defunct Fort Myers Athletic Club. She then moved into her own studio until economics made the upkeep difficult. She wanted to retire.
"I didn't count on them not letting me retire ... the class was just going to dissolve," said McGarry, referring to her students, who banded together and found a new location for the class. "They wouldn't let me die ... they wanted me to teach in their garages if necessary."
But the necessity for the women to work out was more than just a fitness issue. They had formed strong bonds with fellow classmates and enjoyed spending time in and outside of Jazzercise.
"People here are nice and they make you feel comfortable," said Asci, who has taken the class with McGarry for three years. "We made new friendships and we didn't want to lose that."
That's when they contacted the Lee County Parks & Recreation department and asked for their help.
"I thought I was done until I got a call one day and here we are," McGarry said.
The location was ideal because the new space can hold three times the amount of students as her studio.
"We've got this great room that is huge and more and more people keep coming," said Anne Ramsey, of south Fort Myers.
"It's because of her."
McGarry, though, is very modest about the complements she gets from students.
"They are much too nice to me," McGarry said. "I don't think it's me so much as everything they get out of it."
Jazzercise Lite offers students many benefits no matter their age or health.
"This blends kickboxing, yoga, jazz, dance and pilates ... in one class you get everything," McGarry said. "We don't have room for boredom because we change the program every week."
Jazzercise Lite is also not the program of the past in which people listen to '80s pop and spend 60 minutes jumping around.
"If you can go shopping and walk, you can come in here and Jazzercise," McGarry said. "The program has changed but peoples perception hasn't."
At least until they take a class.
"I thought it was all dancing until I came. The difference is that she teaches you all the moves and makes sure you do them right," said Dawn Ciers, 52, of south Fort Myers who has taken the class for four months. "My blood pressure is better. I lost inches and my muscle mass is better by about 3 percent."
The class seems to improve everyone's quality of life.
"Some mornings I wake up and I don't want to work out ...," Ramsey said. "Then you go and when you're done, you feel great."
The recreational center recently added the low-impact workout class to its list of programming and area women are thrilled.
"It's great because by doing this we can enjoy our wine," said Patty Asci, 65, of Estero.
She is just one of 30 women who attend Jazzercise lite classes regularly at the center. The class is open to men as well.
"For me machines aren't fun (whereas) here you just keep moving," said Deborah Colbert, 53, of south Fort Myers. She is a tap dancer and uses the class to keep fit. "I'm the same size I was when I was 17 years old."
The Jazzercise lite class keeps women fit by packing moderate aerobics, dance and exercise into a 60-minute routine done to modern music.
"The Jazzercise philosophy has always been that exercise is for everyone - and by using effective exercise, jazz dance and popular music - we continually strive to make it fun for participants, too," said Debbie McGarry,the jazzercise lite instructor at the center.
Vera Ifka, 47, feels the difference after every class.
"I feel better now than I did when I started 10 years ago," said Ifka, of south Fort Myers.
McGarry became Jazzercise certified 20 years ago and first began teaching at the defunct Fort Myers Athletic Club. She then moved into her own studio until economics made the upkeep difficult. She wanted to retire.
"I didn't count on them not letting me retire ... the class was just going to dissolve," said McGarry, referring to her students, who banded together and found a new location for the class. "They wouldn't let me die ... they wanted me to teach in their garages if necessary."
But the necessity for the women to work out was more than just a fitness issue. They had formed strong bonds with fellow classmates and enjoyed spending time in and outside of Jazzercise.
"People here are nice and they make you feel comfortable," said Asci, who has taken the class with McGarry for three years. "We made new friendships and we didn't want to lose that."
That's when they contacted the Lee County Parks & Recreation department and asked for their help.
"I thought I was done until I got a call one day and here we are," McGarry said.
The location was ideal because the new space can hold three times the amount of students as her studio.
"We've got this great room that is huge and more and more people keep coming," said Anne Ramsey, of south Fort Myers.
"It's because of her."
McGarry, though, is very modest about the complements she gets from students.
"They are much too nice to me," McGarry said. "I don't think it's me so much as everything they get out of it."
Jazzercise Lite offers students many benefits no matter their age or health.
"This blends kickboxing, yoga, jazz, dance and pilates ... in one class you get everything," McGarry said. "We don't have room for boredom because we change the program every week."
Jazzercise Lite is also not the program of the past in which people listen to '80s pop and spend 60 minutes jumping around.
"If you can go shopping and walk, you can come in here and Jazzercise," McGarry said. "The program has changed but peoples perception hasn't."
At least until they take a class.
"I thought it was all dancing until I came. The difference is that she teaches you all the moves and makes sure you do them right," said Dawn Ciers, 52, of south Fort Myers who has taken the class for four months. "My blood pressure is better. I lost inches and my muscle mass is better by about 3 percent."
The class seems to improve everyone's quality of life.
"Some mornings I wake up and I don't want to work out ...," Ramsey said. "Then you go and when you're done, you feel great."
Green building comes to area
Green living is coming to Southwest Florida and it will only be a matter of time before more and more of the area becomes earth-friendly.
A new branch of the Tampa-based United States Green Building Council chapter has opened in Fort Myers. It is the 81st of its kind.
"We're so new that we are still putting our plan together," said Lynn Murtagh, the group's chairman. "We have plans to have meetings with speakers talking on different topics concerning green building."
Instead of opening a new chapter, group organizers decided to open a branch and that would allow members access to Tampa and Sarasota based meetings as well.
"We will educate our peers, build networks and share resources," Murtagh said. "People like to network and talk about these issues."
The issue at the forefront of the Fort Myers branch is a recent bill signed by Gov. Christ stating that all government buildings from here on out be Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified.
The designation "promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality," according to the national Web site.
"We have to pass this planet on to our kids one day and it'd be nice to give them one with air they can breathe and water they can drink," said Murtagh about the branch that will become the official local LEED certifying organization.
"Productivity increases in LEED certified buildings and they are just more environmentally friendly."
A membership kickoff is scheduled for Sept. 16 and it will be the first official gathering of the new branch.
"What a lot of people don't understand is that corporations join the national organization and individuals just join a local chapter," said Ken Bushle, the chapter adviser. He has helped bring interested members together. "The most important thing is that this is a forum for people who are interested in sustainability to meet and share ideas."
The sharing of ideas will also help foster discussions about how to be more green-friendly.
"In terms of joining the chapter, it's an individual commitment and how to bring these technologies to the local marketplace," Bushle said. "We will strategize to work together and cooperate to move this program forward."
A new branch of the Tampa-based United States Green Building Council chapter has opened in Fort Myers. It is the 81st of its kind.
"We're so new that we are still putting our plan together," said Lynn Murtagh, the group's chairman. "We have plans to have meetings with speakers talking on different topics concerning green building."
Instead of opening a new chapter, group organizers decided to open a branch and that would allow members access to Tampa and Sarasota based meetings as well.
"We will educate our peers, build networks and share resources," Murtagh said. "People like to network and talk about these issues."
The issue at the forefront of the Fort Myers branch is a recent bill signed by Gov. Christ stating that all government buildings from here on out be Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified.
The designation "promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality," according to the national Web site.
"We have to pass this planet on to our kids one day and it'd be nice to give them one with air they can breathe and water they can drink," said Murtagh about the branch that will become the official local LEED certifying organization.
"Productivity increases in LEED certified buildings and they are just more environmentally friendly."
A membership kickoff is scheduled for Sept. 16 and it will be the first official gathering of the new branch.
"What a lot of people don't understand is that corporations join the national organization and individuals just join a local chapter," said Ken Bushle, the chapter adviser. He has helped bring interested members together. "The most important thing is that this is a forum for people who are interested in sustainability to meet and share ideas."
The sharing of ideas will also help foster discussions about how to be more green-friendly.
"In terms of joining the chapter, it's an individual commitment and how to bring these technologies to the local marketplace," Bushle said. "We will strategize to work together and cooperate to move this program forward."
Halloween Megastore looks to scare up business
Scary costumes, spooky decorations and Halloween novelties are coming to south Fort Myers Sept. 1.
The Halloween Megastore has hired a staff of Halloween lovers who have been receiving daily shipments of ghoulish trimmings to help customers prepare for the Oct. 31 holiday.
"We started receiving merchandise early and we have it all ... we ordered every costume, every accessory," said Stephen Larosa, the general manager of the store.
"This year we expanded and have so much more that we have customers coming in and asking for items already."
Employees are still in the process of organizing the 9,000-square-foot space at the Sam's Club Plaza but Larosa doesn't think it will take long.
"We will have everything ready for customers," he said .
As staff organize, the store has some empty shelves and plenty of boxes full of merchandise yet to be delivered.
The Halloween Megastore opened for the first time in 2007 but Owner Paul Merk plans to have it open earlier this year.
Plans are also in the works for a year-round costume store for themed birthday parties, balls and occupations that require costumes.
"We want everyone to have a good time and get a costume they like," Merk said.
And, that's why Merk and Larosa are working so hard to appeal to customers of all ages and tastes.
"People love Halloween and no matter what happens or what is going on ... they still go out that night," Larosa said. "It brings a smile to their face and we love that."
The store sells children's and adults' costumes and accessories such as masks, wigs, face paints, decorations, and even swords.
They also have a complete offering of shoes and the Leg Avenue line, a more risque costume line.
"The atmosphere in the store is fun-loving, family oriented and something for all," Larosa said. "We literally have everything you can want for Halloween."
The Halloween Megastore has hired a staff of Halloween lovers who have been receiving daily shipments of ghoulish trimmings to help customers prepare for the Oct. 31 holiday.
"We started receiving merchandise early and we have it all ... we ordered every costume, every accessory," said Stephen Larosa, the general manager of the store.
"This year we expanded and have so much more that we have customers coming in and asking for items already."
Employees are still in the process of organizing the 9,000-square-foot space at the Sam's Club Plaza but Larosa doesn't think it will take long.
"We will have everything ready for customers," he said .
As staff organize, the store has some empty shelves and plenty of boxes full of merchandise yet to be delivered.
The Halloween Megastore opened for the first time in 2007 but Owner Paul Merk plans to have it open earlier this year.
Plans are also in the works for a year-round costume store for themed birthday parties, balls and occupations that require costumes.
"We want everyone to have a good time and get a costume they like," Merk said.
And, that's why Merk and Larosa are working so hard to appeal to customers of all ages and tastes.
"People love Halloween and no matter what happens or what is going on ... they still go out that night," Larosa said. "It brings a smile to their face and we love that."
The store sells children's and adults' costumes and accessories such as masks, wigs, face paints, decorations, and even swords.
They also have a complete offering of shoes and the Leg Avenue line, a more risque costume line.
"The atmosphere in the store is fun-loving, family oriented and something for all," Larosa said. "We literally have everything you can want for Halloween."
Railroad buffs open locomotive museum
As president of the Railroad Museum of South Florida, Jerry Ladner is just one of many railroad enthusiasts in the area who recently fulfilled a 14-year-long dream of opening an interpretive center dedicated to trains, railroads and education.
The nonprofit group recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony at Lakes Regional park in south Fort Myers to dedicate a 6,000-square-foot interpretive center that’s all about locomotives.
“We are finally where we wanted to be ... finally able to educate the public and show them everything we’ve had in storage this whole time,” said Ladner, who spent the last month getting the center ready for the public. “We have so much that people can’t imagine.”
Part of Ladner’s plans for the train center are to have displays and educational programs that will rotate every few months and showcase all the Railroad Museum has collected over the years.
In addition to providing a permanent home for the Railroad Museum, the center will add to the park’s existing and very popular train ride attraction and train village.
“We approached the county and told them to let us put a train ride in that would help us build an interpretive center in the future,” said Ladner.
The train ride was built in 1994. Cost of a ride is $2.
At first county officials were hesitant because they wanted the park to be about nature, Ladner said.
A survey was conducted and the train ride’s popularity prompted the county to further build on its train-themed area.
“The survey showed that 70 percent of the people came to the park for the train ... so we gave them $50,000 to start the building of the new center,” he said.
After plans were underway, Hurricane Charley destroyed some of the area, forcing the county to redesign it.
That’s when they committed to a $785,000 interpretive center, a $357,000 railroad-themed playground and addition of a renovated caboose to accompany the existing locomotive on site.
The train ride area will eventually feature brick pathways, street lamps and a redesigned concession stand.
When completed it will resemble the railroad heydays of downtown Fort Myers when the railroad industry had a significant influence on the city.
“It will work out great but for now it’s all about the train ride,” said Armando Ingratta, the lead engineer for the ride.
Ingratta drives the one and a half mile track that runs around the park.
He makes sure the train runs the way trains were run 40 years ago.
“You have to sound the horn when you near walkways as you go around. And we learn that from volunteers like Armando,” said Ladner.
The Lakes Regional Park Station and village are located at 7330 Gladiolus Drive in south Fort Myers.
The miniature train ride is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 1:45 p.m., Saturday and holidays from 10 until 3:45 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 3:45 p.m.
Interpretive center hours are the same as the train ride.
It costs $2 to ride the mile and a half track. The ride lasts about 15 to 20 minutes.
The new train-themed playground is covered to protect children from the sun and has benches for family and friends to watch children comfortably.
For more information, call 267-1905.
The nonprofit group recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony at Lakes Regional park in south Fort Myers to dedicate a 6,000-square-foot interpretive center that’s all about locomotives.
“We are finally where we wanted to be ... finally able to educate the public and show them everything we’ve had in storage this whole time,” said Ladner, who spent the last month getting the center ready for the public. “We have so much that people can’t imagine.”
Part of Ladner’s plans for the train center are to have displays and educational programs that will rotate every few months and showcase all the Railroad Museum has collected over the years.
In addition to providing a permanent home for the Railroad Museum, the center will add to the park’s existing and very popular train ride attraction and train village.
“We approached the county and told them to let us put a train ride in that would help us build an interpretive center in the future,” said Ladner.
The train ride was built in 1994. Cost of a ride is $2.
At first county officials were hesitant because they wanted the park to be about nature, Ladner said.
A survey was conducted and the train ride’s popularity prompted the county to further build on its train-themed area.
“The survey showed that 70 percent of the people came to the park for the train ... so we gave them $50,000 to start the building of the new center,” he said.
After plans were underway, Hurricane Charley destroyed some of the area, forcing the county to redesign it.
That’s when they committed to a $785,000 interpretive center, a $357,000 railroad-themed playground and addition of a renovated caboose to accompany the existing locomotive on site.
The train ride area will eventually feature brick pathways, street lamps and a redesigned concession stand.
When completed it will resemble the railroad heydays of downtown Fort Myers when the railroad industry had a significant influence on the city.
“It will work out great but for now it’s all about the train ride,” said Armando Ingratta, the lead engineer for the ride.
Ingratta drives the one and a half mile track that runs around the park.
He makes sure the train runs the way trains were run 40 years ago.
“You have to sound the horn when you near walkways as you go around. And we learn that from volunteers like Armando,” said Ladner.
The Lakes Regional Park Station and village are located at 7330 Gladiolus Drive in south Fort Myers.
The miniature train ride is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 1:45 p.m., Saturday and holidays from 10 until 3:45 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 3:45 p.m.
Interpretive center hours are the same as the train ride.
It costs $2 to ride the mile and a half track. The ride lasts about 15 to 20 minutes.
The new train-themed playground is covered to protect children from the sun and has benches for family and friends to watch children comfortably.
For more information, call 267-1905.
Jeweler jets the globe for ideas
Famed Hollywood starlets like Beyonce, Fergie and Paris Hilton are linked to Southwest Florida.
They wear jewelry designed by Erika Pena, the owner of Erika Pena Designs, a Fort Myers-based jewelry company that has been featured in a number of magazine.
"Beyonce bought like $6,000 worth of pieces and sometimes I flip through a magazine and say 'wow look at my necklace on her'," said Pena, 33, who designs lightweight, dramatic jewelry made of stone, gold and natural materials. "I just love to design so much."
And, designing comes naturally to Pena, who studied clothing design at the Parsons School of Design in New York. Jewelry was her calling and she opened the business four years ago.
She now spends much of her time being a jet-setter who promotes the Erika Pena jewelry line and creates collections every three months.
"I do my best work on planes," Erika said.
Her jewelry ranges in price from $53 to $170. "I am gone for months at a time but my travels are my inspiration."
Pena designed her first line on a plane after visiting the beaches of Portugal.
"The people, the cultures, the feeling of each place is so great," said Erika.
She frequently travels to exotic locations like Bali in Indonesia, Paris and her birthplace of Puerto Rico.
"It has a bohemian feel and I just found the idea on the beaches there."
The company sells to 30 countries worldwide and more than 300 in the United States.
Her business partner and sister, Bielka, is the behind-the-scenes operator of their Fort Myers warehouse and distribution center.
She often wonders how her sister juggles flying, meetings, schmoozing clients and designing.
"She isn't here much but that's how it's supposed to be. Erika trusts that I will make the right business decisions,"said Bielka, who lives in the area year-round. "Erika is very free-spirited and it shines through her design."
The offices of Erika Pena Designs were recently moved from Puerto Rico to Bali because of the craftsmanship of the area.
"I like my jewelry to mean something special to clients ... to identify themselves with," said Pena.
She flies to Bali and hand selects the materials for each piece.
"As women we want lighter materials and things that are comfortable," said here sister, adding that the materials in Bali are of higher quality.
Labor has also risen because of a slow economy in the United States and that contributed to the decision to move some of their operations abroad.
"We are expanding in Europe more because of it,"Erika said.
Sales of Erika Pena Designs often exceed 500 to 2,000 pieces a month.
Some are debuted in fashion shows in New York, Spain and Europe. Plans are in the works to launch a clothing line and another jewelry line in Spain.
And that's just the start. Within two years Pena plans to open retail locations in California, New York, Florida, Texas and Puerto Rico.
"I love designing. I'll be doing it for the rest of my life," she said. "It's who I am."
They wear jewelry designed by Erika Pena, the owner of Erika Pena Designs, a Fort Myers-based jewelry company that has been featured in a number of magazine.
"Beyonce bought like $6,000 worth of pieces and sometimes I flip through a magazine and say 'wow look at my necklace on her'," said Pena, 33, who designs lightweight, dramatic jewelry made of stone, gold and natural materials. "I just love to design so much."
And, designing comes naturally to Pena, who studied clothing design at the Parsons School of Design in New York. Jewelry was her calling and she opened the business four years ago.
She now spends much of her time being a jet-setter who promotes the Erika Pena jewelry line and creates collections every three months.
"I do my best work on planes," Erika said.
Her jewelry ranges in price from $53 to $170. "I am gone for months at a time but my travels are my inspiration."
Pena designed her first line on a plane after visiting the beaches of Portugal.
"The people, the cultures, the feeling of each place is so great," said Erika.
She frequently travels to exotic locations like Bali in Indonesia, Paris and her birthplace of Puerto Rico.
"It has a bohemian feel and I just found the idea on the beaches there."
The company sells to 30 countries worldwide and more than 300 in the United States.
Her business partner and sister, Bielka, is the behind-the-scenes operator of their Fort Myers warehouse and distribution center.
She often wonders how her sister juggles flying, meetings, schmoozing clients and designing.
"She isn't here much but that's how it's supposed to be. Erika trusts that I will make the right business decisions,"said Bielka, who lives in the area year-round. "Erika is very free-spirited and it shines through her design."
The offices of Erika Pena Designs were recently moved from Puerto Rico to Bali because of the craftsmanship of the area.
"I like my jewelry to mean something special to clients ... to identify themselves with," said Pena.
She flies to Bali and hand selects the materials for each piece.
"As women we want lighter materials and things that are comfortable," said here sister, adding that the materials in Bali are of higher quality.
Labor has also risen because of a slow economy in the United States and that contributed to the decision to move some of their operations abroad.
"We are expanding in Europe more because of it,"Erika said.
Sales of Erika Pena Designs often exceed 500 to 2,000 pieces a month.
Some are debuted in fashion shows in New York, Spain and Europe. Plans are in the works to launch a clothing line and another jewelry line in Spain.
And that's just the start. Within two years Pena plans to open retail locations in California, New York, Florida, Texas and Puerto Rico.
"I love designing. I'll be doing it for the rest of my life," she said. "It's who I am."
Breakfast event links area Jewish businesses
The Jewish Business Network is keeping the area's Jewish community connected and plans are in the works to expand.
The group, which was created 2007, recently added a new Breakfast & Business event to encourage area professionals to network and socialize at their convenience.
"There was nothing gluing the Jewish community together," said Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz, who had already created Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida.
He then saw a need for business professionals to do business in a non-religious way. That's why he created the networking group.
"We saw the potential growth and filled the need," he said. "The idea was to create a unifying force between all of us and offer certain programs that everyone
can benefit from."
The Breakfast & Business idea has given Jewish Business Network members who can't make it to mostly night events a chance to participate.
"We have already over 200 people at the events that we've done so far. We've had 100 people join," said Minkowicz shortly after hosting a few events.
"New people can come to town and start business and try to get to know Jewish infrastructures in the community easier."
The network takes that unifying factor one step further by offering a member directory that lists every Jewish business and affiliates.
"They are a wealth of information to the community. They're wonderful," said Juli Bobman, who has been involved with Chabad in Fort Myers, Temple Judea and Beth El.
Keeping connected is the basis for the networking events because "some people just want to meet other people," Minkowicz said.
The sky is the limit for the Jewish Business Network as it works on even more ways to expand its offerings.
"We want to build the Business & Breakfast, continue to build our directory and develop a Web site," he said.
The idea is to eventually make the networking group a self-run organization that continues to grow as the Jewish community in southwest Florida does.
"Everything we do, we will keep doing it and expand," said Minkowicz about the group that boasts 120 members. "We will take on more projects and programs."
The group, which was created 2007, recently added a new Breakfast & Business event to encourage area professionals to network and socialize at their convenience.
"There was nothing gluing the Jewish community together," said Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz, who had already created Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida.
He then saw a need for business professionals to do business in a non-religious way. That's why he created the networking group.
"We saw the potential growth and filled the need," he said. "The idea was to create a unifying force between all of us and offer certain programs that everyone
can benefit from."
The Breakfast & Business idea has given Jewish Business Network members who can't make it to mostly night events a chance to participate.
"We have already over 200 people at the events that we've done so far. We've had 100 people join," said Minkowicz shortly after hosting a few events.
"New people can come to town and start business and try to get to know Jewish infrastructures in the community easier."
The network takes that unifying factor one step further by offering a member directory that lists every Jewish business and affiliates.
"They are a wealth of information to the community. They're wonderful," said Juli Bobman, who has been involved with Chabad in Fort Myers, Temple Judea and Beth El.
Keeping connected is the basis for the networking events because "some people just want to meet other people," Minkowicz said.
The sky is the limit for the Jewish Business Network as it works on even more ways to expand its offerings.
"We want to build the Business & Breakfast, continue to build our directory and develop a Web site," he said.
The idea is to eventually make the networking group a self-run organization that continues to grow as the Jewish community in southwest Florida does.
"Everything we do, we will keep doing it and expand," said Minkowicz about the group that boasts 120 members. "We will take on more projects and programs."
Ovens, customers fired up at new Panera Bread store
Tina Nordgren, 52, is a fan of the cinnamon crunch bagels at Panera Bread and the opening Monday in south Fort Myers is going to further fuel her addiction.
Nordgren, who lives in south Fort Myers, enjoyed a cinnamon crunch bagel on opening day of the store at Cleveland Avenue and Fowler Street.
"I used to drive to the Panera at Coconut Point every two weeks just to see when it would open," Nordgren said.
She has plans to become a regular at the new location. "This is just more accessible and I love the atmosphere in here."
Nordgren's rave review was just one of many on opening day, according to general manager Kim Scully. She helped hire the store's 54 associates and oversaw the training and opening of the store.
"People just come in here smiling," said Scully, pointing out a customer who smiled when he saw the menu. "He doesn't even know us and I can tell he will be a regular."
And becoming regulars are what Scully knows will happen to many customers who know the bakery's offerings or are discovering them for the first time.
"Fort Myers has been in desperate need of more food options," Scully said.
The store offers breakfast, lunch and dinner.
"We are ecstatic that people just couldn't wait for us to open and are here to support us."
Supporting the bakery isn't difficult for customers because the menu has something for everyone.
"Their bread bowl soups are so good," said Amber Blevins, 20, of Fort Myers. She works at an eyeglass store at the Page Field Commons shopping plaza where Panera is located.
"It's so great that they are here now. I'll be a regular."
Panera Bread's new location is the third in southwest Florida. The other two are in Estero and Cape Coral.
Plans are under way for a store on U.S. 41 across from Coastland Center in Naples in December. Another store is planned at the Gateway Shoppes on Wiggins Pass in orth Naples in January.
"We will continue to look for sites and open more," said Jay Disser, Panera's district manager. "There is a warmth to our stores and people feel that they can stay and relax."
Nordgren, who lives in south Fort Myers, enjoyed a cinnamon crunch bagel on opening day of the store at Cleveland Avenue and Fowler Street.
"I used to drive to the Panera at Coconut Point every two weeks just to see when it would open," Nordgren said.
She has plans to become a regular at the new location. "This is just more accessible and I love the atmosphere in here."
Nordgren's rave review was just one of many on opening day, according to general manager Kim Scully. She helped hire the store's 54 associates and oversaw the training and opening of the store.
"People just come in here smiling," said Scully, pointing out a customer who smiled when he saw the menu. "He doesn't even know us and I can tell he will be a regular."
And becoming regulars are what Scully knows will happen to many customers who know the bakery's offerings or are discovering them for the first time.
"Fort Myers has been in desperate need of more food options," Scully said.
The store offers breakfast, lunch and dinner.
"We are ecstatic that people just couldn't wait for us to open and are here to support us."
Supporting the bakery isn't difficult for customers because the menu has something for everyone.
"Their bread bowl soups are so good," said Amber Blevins, 20, of Fort Myers. She works at an eyeglass store at the Page Field Commons shopping plaza where Panera is located.
"It's so great that they are here now. I'll be a regular."
Panera Bread's new location is the third in southwest Florida. The other two are in Estero and Cape Coral.
Plans are under way for a store on U.S. 41 across from Coastland Center in Naples in December. Another store is planned at the Gateway Shoppes on Wiggins Pass in orth Naples in January.
"We will continue to look for sites and open more," said Jay Disser, Panera's district manager. "There is a warmth to our stores and people feel that they can stay and relax."
Myerlee tourney to help slain police officer's family
Myerlee Golf and Country Club in south Fort Myers is hosting a golf tournament at 9 a.m. today to benefit the family of Fort Myers police officer Andrew Widman, who was recently killed in the line of duty.
The country club has partnered with the south Fort Myers Moose Lodge to organize the event.
"The entire amount goes to the Widman family and it's just $50 to play," said Ed Legola, the event spokesperson. "The club is going to pay for everything else as a service to the community."
The idea to host the event came from Moose Lodge members who play golf regularly at the course.
"The guys at the Moose are great because they know the importance of helping the community," Legola said.
Players will get to use the club's golf carts, course and golf pro. Legola hopes the tournament will also bring awareness about the course's offerings.
"You don't have to be a member to play here and some people just don't know that we are here," said Legola about the club that is nestled off Winkler Road.
"We also have a 60-par course so you won't get exhausted playing our 18 holes."
The country club has partnered with the south Fort Myers Moose Lodge to organize the event.
"The entire amount goes to the Widman family and it's just $50 to play," said Ed Legola, the event spokesperson. "The club is going to pay for everything else as a service to the community."
The idea to host the event came from Moose Lodge members who play golf regularly at the course.
"The guys at the Moose are great because they know the importance of helping the community," Legola said.
Players will get to use the club's golf carts, course and golf pro. Legola hopes the tournament will also bring awareness about the course's offerings.
"You don't have to be a member to play here and some people just don't know that we are here," said Legola about the club that is nestled off Winkler Road.
"We also have a 60-par course so you won't get exhausted playing our 18 holes."
South Fort Myers High gets science study grant
South Fort Myers High students will be floating into a new environment this school year as they further explore watershed environments in Southwest Florida.
A grant proposal for $106,000 has been recommended for funding by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association's (NOAA) Bay Watershed Education and Training program.
The school's science department chairman, Steven Wilkie, submitted an application to NOAA to expand on classroom lesson plans.
"Being able to take them out of the classroom makes lessons inside the classroom much more applicable," said Wilkie, who spent three years writing the grant proposal. "The textbook can only tell you so much."
The grant, which is expected to last for three years, will allow teachers to build a program incrementally until it is self-sufficient.
"You can't study watershed and the role we play in the environment unless you get them out into the environment," Wilkie said.
Marine Science students this year will be taken on field trips to watershed environments, or areas like rivers and beaches.
"We have been hit hard with budget cuts that keep our kids from going on field trips ... this will get them out there so they can study watersheds up close," said Wilkie who hopes to reach 300 students in three years.
Rookery Bay Research Reserve has agreed to donate a pontoon boat and access to its facilities to help the program locally.
"This partnership will help us as we fix the boat and spend time in the environment," said Wilkie, adding that students from different academies at the school will help in all aspects of the project.
They will eventually create lesson plans about watersheds, redesign the pontoon boat and educate others about watersheds.
The proposal is expected to be officially approved and sent to the school by Oct. 1.
"This will help them get more comfortable with the environment because they know about it," he said.
A grant proposal for $106,000 has been recommended for funding by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association's (NOAA) Bay Watershed Education and Training program.
The school's science department chairman, Steven Wilkie, submitted an application to NOAA to expand on classroom lesson plans.
"Being able to take them out of the classroom makes lessons inside the classroom much more applicable," said Wilkie, who spent three years writing the grant proposal. "The textbook can only tell you so much."
The grant, which is expected to last for three years, will allow teachers to build a program incrementally until it is self-sufficient.
"You can't study watershed and the role we play in the environment unless you get them out into the environment," Wilkie said.
Marine Science students this year will be taken on field trips to watershed environments, or areas like rivers and beaches.
"We have been hit hard with budget cuts that keep our kids from going on field trips ... this will get them out there so they can study watersheds up close," said Wilkie who hopes to reach 300 students in three years.
Rookery Bay Research Reserve has agreed to donate a pontoon boat and access to its facilities to help the program locally.
"This partnership will help us as we fix the boat and spend time in the environment," said Wilkie, adding that students from different academies at the school will help in all aspects of the project.
They will eventually create lesson plans about watersheds, redesign the pontoon boat and educate others about watersheds.
The proposal is expected to be officially approved and sent to the school by Oct. 1.
"This will help them get more comfortable with the environment because they know about it," he said.
Paint Misbehavin' camp teaches kids art
Kids are misbehaving in south Fort Myers and their parents are letting them.
Paint Misbehavin', a paint your own pottery and ceramic studio, is hosting a summer art camp in which kids are painting, beading and making mosaics.
"We cater to all ages but this camp is good for kids who need interaction with other kids and one-on-one attention," said Kelly Muselman, the studio's owner for the last 12 years. "They learn how to use different types of art materials and be creative."
Creativity is the focus of the camp and so is letting loose. That's why each week-long camp is themed projects like scrapbooking, the art of mosaics and beading.
"I create projects that help kids work on their fine motor skills and they are free to explore the topic through the projects we do," said Muselman, who bought the studio after having worked there for six months.
She also limits the number of children to 14 so that everyone gets the attention they need.
"We try new things every camp and see what kids like and don't like," Muselman said. "I let the kids tell me what they like to do."
Jada Fleming volunteers at the camp and said the shop is great for everybody.
"It's a great place for family and it's a good place to get the girls together and do something fun," said Fleming, who has been a long time customer of the store as well. "Everything runs smoothly and you get your stuff back really quick."
Being quick is essential because customers will often go in the shop, paint a piece and leave it to be fired.
"It's very therapeutic and you don't have to spend a whole lot of money," Fleming said.
The store also sells items that people can buy, paint at home and bring back for Muselman to fire. Customers will often return after just one visit, Muselman said.
"We have something for everyone and all our paint is washable," Muselman said. "We've been here the longest doing camps and events. We just have the experience."
Paint Misbehavin', a paint your own pottery and ceramic studio, is hosting a summer art camp in which kids are painting, beading and making mosaics.
"We cater to all ages but this camp is good for kids who need interaction with other kids and one-on-one attention," said Kelly Muselman, the studio's owner for the last 12 years. "They learn how to use different types of art materials and be creative."
Creativity is the focus of the camp and so is letting loose. That's why each week-long camp is themed projects like scrapbooking, the art of mosaics and beading.
"I create projects that help kids work on their fine motor skills and they are free to explore the topic through the projects we do," said Muselman, who bought the studio after having worked there for six months.
She also limits the number of children to 14 so that everyone gets the attention they need.
"We try new things every camp and see what kids like and don't like," Muselman said. "I let the kids tell me what they like to do."
Jada Fleming volunteers at the camp and said the shop is great for everybody.
"It's a great place for family and it's a good place to get the girls together and do something fun," said Fleming, who has been a long time customer of the store as well. "Everything runs smoothly and you get your stuff back really quick."
Being quick is essential because customers will often go in the shop, paint a piece and leave it to be fired.
"It's very therapeutic and you don't have to spend a whole lot of money," Fleming said.
The store also sells items that people can buy, paint at home and bring back for Muselman to fire. Customers will often return after just one visit, Muselman said.
"We have something for everyone and all our paint is washable," Muselman said. "We've been here the longest doing camps and events. We just have the experience."
Staff being hired for mid-August launch
Opening a new store is a lot more involved than stocking shelves, opening cash registers and preparing for sales.
It takes a crew of the best and brightest in southwest Florida and Bed Bath & Beyond is hoping to hire as many as possible.
The store, which is slated to open at The Forum in mid-August, recently hosted a job fair in south Fort Myers.
More than 400 people turned out to apply for sales, stock and cashier positions.
"We have had a very good turnout ... a little higher than expected, though," said Dan Peet, the store manager who organized the fair. "A lot of it has to do with the economy but we are excited about the prospects."
The applicant pool, Peet said, had a wide range of age and experience, but mostly, it was people who just need a job.
"Most applicants have come from other jobs where companies downsized or they've been fired," Peet said.
Heather Daniels, 29, is just one of the hopeful applicants. She needs a job after having relocated from LaBelle.
"I just quit a job when I relocated here and so far the interview went well," said Daniels, who used to work in Port Charlotte. "It's closer than my other job for sure."
The convenience of the store's location, just east of I-75 in Fort Myers has also drawn more applicants, Peet said
"People need jobs in this economy and we've been lucky to get a nice mix of ages and backgrounds," said Peet about the applicants who were also interviewed after filling out an application. "We will continue to take applications after the job fair."
Peet will spend the next weeks hiring a store set-up crew that will get things ready for customers.
It's one of the few big box stores at The Forum that has yet to open.
Target, Best Buy, Staples and PETCO have already opened.
Sasha Shim, 20, hopes she is part of the crew who will first greet customers on opening day.
"I need this to replace a waitress job ... my friend came yesterday and told me to come," said Shim, of Fort Myers, who attended the fair that on July 28 and 29 at La Quinta Inn & Suites.
Shim has previous retail experience.
"I got to do a small interview so hopefully I'll get it," she said.
It takes a crew of the best and brightest in southwest Florida and Bed Bath & Beyond is hoping to hire as many as possible.
The store, which is slated to open at The Forum in mid-August, recently hosted a job fair in south Fort Myers.
More than 400 people turned out to apply for sales, stock and cashier positions.
"We have had a very good turnout ... a little higher than expected, though," said Dan Peet, the store manager who organized the fair. "A lot of it has to do with the economy but we are excited about the prospects."
The applicant pool, Peet said, had a wide range of age and experience, but mostly, it was people who just need a job.
"Most applicants have come from other jobs where companies downsized or they've been fired," Peet said.
Heather Daniels, 29, is just one of the hopeful applicants. She needs a job after having relocated from LaBelle.
"I just quit a job when I relocated here and so far the interview went well," said Daniels, who used to work in Port Charlotte. "It's closer than my other job for sure."
The convenience of the store's location, just east of I-75 in Fort Myers has also drawn more applicants, Peet said
"People need jobs in this economy and we've been lucky to get a nice mix of ages and backgrounds," said Peet about the applicants who were also interviewed after filling out an application. "We will continue to take applications after the job fair."
Peet will spend the next weeks hiring a store set-up crew that will get things ready for customers.
It's one of the few big box stores at The Forum that has yet to open.
Target, Best Buy, Staples and PETCO have already opened.
Sasha Shim, 20, hopes she is part of the crew who will first greet customers on opening day.
"I need this to replace a waitress job ... my friend came yesterday and told me to come," said Shim, of Fort Myers, who attended the fair that on July 28 and 29 at La Quinta Inn & Suites.
Shim has previous retail experience.
"I got to do a small interview so hopefully I'll get it," she said.
The Edison reinvents historic good taste
Classic American cuisine is what’s on the menu at The Edison Restaurant on McGregor Boulevard. But the history on the walls says it all.
The 12,000-square-foot building was recently reopened as an eatery that celebrates American inventor Thomas A. Edison.
“This is something the community has been waiting for ... a restaurant that really celebrates the area’s rich history,” said Daniel Kearns, one of the owners of the restaurant. “The community has really embraced us.”
Kearns and Managing Partner Joshua Noland have recreated the mid to late 1800’s by decorating the restaurant with Edison photographs and mementos donated by the Edison & Ford Winter Estates.
“We will switch out the pictures and it will go well with the view we already have,” said Kearns referring to the restaurants panoramic view of the HIstoric Fort Myers Golf Course.
Kearns’ focus, though, is on the food and service. The restaurant menu has been created to include Edison’s Comfort Specialties such as pot roast, meat loaf, and old fashioned chicken pot pie.
“We give customers that straight-forward American food,” said Kearns about the restaurant that also offers tilapia wraps and a 12-ounce angus beef burger. “Our success has been the food at an affordable price.”
Affordable prices are offered everyday with specials like the $14.95 Sunday Jazz Brunch or Monday $1 burgers.
“We will change the food by season but the staple comfort foods will stay the same,” Kearns said.
The restaurant’s offerings of food in a cozy, elegant setting have been well received.
“People are in awe so far with the change and you’ll see them stop and look at all the pictures,” said Noland about the photographs that will be routinely changed at different times of the year. “The community has been waiting for this.”
That’s why plans are in the works to add a community bulletin board, renovate the second floor for parties and continue to offer live entertainment at night.
“Night life at The Edison is great because you can enjoy the entertainment and at the porch bar you can hang out,” said Noland about the restaurant that took over the former Syl’s Chicago Grill. “It’s the best place to be on a summer night.”
The Edison overlooks the historic Fort Myers Golf Course at 3583 McGregor Blvd.
The restaurant serves lunch and dinner and offers daily specials for hungry locals or those looking to have a good time.
The specials include $1 burgers on Mondays; a three-course dinner for $10.95 on Tuesdays; ladies night on Wednesdays; neighborhood backyard barbecue on Thursdays; happy hour Fridays; live music Saturdays and brunch Sundays.
For more information about the restaurant menu, live music entertainments or to host a party, call 936-9348.
The 12,000-square-foot building was recently reopened as an eatery that celebrates American inventor Thomas A. Edison.
“This is something the community has been waiting for ... a restaurant that really celebrates the area’s rich history,” said Daniel Kearns, one of the owners of the restaurant. “The community has really embraced us.”
Kearns and Managing Partner Joshua Noland have recreated the mid to late 1800’s by decorating the restaurant with Edison photographs and mementos donated by the Edison & Ford Winter Estates.
“We will switch out the pictures and it will go well with the view we already have,” said Kearns referring to the restaurants panoramic view of the HIstoric Fort Myers Golf Course.
Kearns’ focus, though, is on the food and service. The restaurant menu has been created to include Edison’s Comfort Specialties such as pot roast, meat loaf, and old fashioned chicken pot pie.
“We give customers that straight-forward American food,” said Kearns about the restaurant that also offers tilapia wraps and a 12-ounce angus beef burger. “Our success has been the food at an affordable price.”
Affordable prices are offered everyday with specials like the $14.95 Sunday Jazz Brunch or Monday $1 burgers.
“We will change the food by season but the staple comfort foods will stay the same,” Kearns said.
The restaurant’s offerings of food in a cozy, elegant setting have been well received.
“People are in awe so far with the change and you’ll see them stop and look at all the pictures,” said Noland about the photographs that will be routinely changed at different times of the year. “The community has been waiting for this.”
That’s why plans are in the works to add a community bulletin board, renovate the second floor for parties and continue to offer live entertainment at night.
“Night life at The Edison is great because you can enjoy the entertainment and at the porch bar you can hang out,” said Noland about the restaurant that took over the former Syl’s Chicago Grill. “It’s the best place to be on a summer night.”
The Edison overlooks the historic Fort Myers Golf Course at 3583 McGregor Blvd.
The restaurant serves lunch and dinner and offers daily specials for hungry locals or those looking to have a good time.
The specials include $1 burgers on Mondays; a three-course dinner for $10.95 on Tuesdays; ladies night on Wednesdays; neighborhood backyard barbecue on Thursdays; happy hour Fridays; live music Saturdays and brunch Sundays.
For more information about the restaurant menu, live music entertainments or to host a party, call 936-9348.
A store where all that's wood is good
A wood workers’ toy store opened one mile north of Edison Mall and customers are driving the distance to buy supplies, specialized tools and take classes about wood carving.
Woodcraft, a West Virginia-based franchise, is celebrating its 80th anniversary of offering wood lovers the supplies they need to get their projects done.
“We have everything for the hobbiest wood worker, professional cabinet maker or construction worker,” said Rose Ann Meyers, who owns the store with her husband Scott. “We focus on understanding the customer and making sure they walk out with what they need when they get home.”
Getting the right supplies is easy at Woodcraft which employs 11 people with an interest or expertise in wood working.
“We try hard to educate people and we have a reading area and three televisions that play different wood carving videos,” said Meyers, of North Fort Myers, adding that the store is set up to help customers learn as much as they want about their craft. “When guys come in, it’s like they are in a toy store.”
The 8,000-square-foot store is specifically laid out to make shopping easy. It even includes a mock work station with equipment and supplies every wood carver should have in his shop.
“I love the smell of the wood and the working environment,” said Jerry Hess, an employee that has been with the company since it opened in January. “Working with the customers is great because they are so nice.”
Hess has worked with wood since he was a child and is knowledgeable about how to help a customer no matter the request.
“I am good at helping people once I figure out what it is that they want to make or do,” said Hess.
Woodcraft also offers monthly classes in which customers pay anywhere from $65 to $150 to learn about hardware, equipment or woodturning.
“Everybody leaves with a project at the end of most classes,” said Meyers about the store that recently added a Sawstop to their classes. The saw has a system that stops and retracts the blade (within 5 milliseconds) upon accidental contact with body parts. “We have a lot of information to pass on and we do the classes to give people even more.”
Woodcraft, a West Virginia-based franchise, is celebrating its 80th anniversary of offering wood lovers the supplies they need to get their projects done.
“We have everything for the hobbiest wood worker, professional cabinet maker or construction worker,” said Rose Ann Meyers, who owns the store with her husband Scott. “We focus on understanding the customer and making sure they walk out with what they need when they get home.”
Getting the right supplies is easy at Woodcraft which employs 11 people with an interest or expertise in wood working.
“We try hard to educate people and we have a reading area and three televisions that play different wood carving videos,” said Meyers, of North Fort Myers, adding that the store is set up to help customers learn as much as they want about their craft. “When guys come in, it’s like they are in a toy store.”
The 8,000-square-foot store is specifically laid out to make shopping easy. It even includes a mock work station with equipment and supplies every wood carver should have in his shop.
“I love the smell of the wood and the working environment,” said Jerry Hess, an employee that has been with the company since it opened in January. “Working with the customers is great because they are so nice.”
Hess has worked with wood since he was a child and is knowledgeable about how to help a customer no matter the request.
“I am good at helping people once I figure out what it is that they want to make or do,” said Hess.
Woodcraft also offers monthly classes in which customers pay anywhere from $65 to $150 to learn about hardware, equipment or woodturning.
“Everybody leaves with a project at the end of most classes,” said Meyers about the store that recently added a Sawstop to their classes. The saw has a system that stops and retracts the blade (within 5 milliseconds) upon accidental contact with body parts. “We have a lot of information to pass on and we do the classes to give people even more.”
Forum shops lure underserved market
Many of the stores at The Forum and Forum Centre in Fort Myers are officially open and developers say shopping options are better than ever for area residents.
The Forum, a retail shopping complex that was once a slow-growing development, is now a retail destination.
"Our solid tenant lineup delivers several of the best retailers to one of the most underserved markets in the region," said David Rattner, vice president of development for North American Properties.
North American is the developer of The Forum retail complex that recently opened to include a Target, Best Buy, Books-A-Million, Staples and PETCO. Bed Bath & Beyond is expected to open in August.
The Forum, just east of Interstate 75, will serve more than 700 single-family homes and townhouses adjacent to the retailers.
"All the people that lived along the interstate system who used to go to congested areas can now shop easily," said Bob Evans, a partner with Evans & Wagner Commercial Group who developed the Forum Centre. "This will reach a niche in the market that needed to be addressed a long time ago."
Area residents are getting more than just big-box retailers though. Food options will get better with the addition of Bajio Mexican Grill, Subway and Five Guys Burgers and Fries, which will open in the coming months.
"Despite the economic slowdown, there is still strong demand for retail and dining alternatives close to home ..." Rattner said.
The development will also include a 27,000-square-foot YMCA to serve the growth in the area.
"The demographics in that area show that the growth will slow down a little due to the economy so it's a good time for us to get out there and offer services," said Jim Sanger, Lee county YMCA chief executive, about the facility that will include a fitness area, pool and an indoor/outdoor gym.. "Everything is on schedule and we are at about 70 percent with the drawings."
Several spaces are still available for lease at The Forum and Forum Centre.
"Our primary trade area boasts a strong population base and high incomes," Rattner said. "Over 100,000 shoppers with disposable income reside within three miles of The Forum, and the average annual household income in the primary trade area, the southeast quadrant east of I-75, exceeds $100,000. These numbers are ideal for retail, restaurant and entertainment."
The Forum, a retail shopping complex that was once a slow-growing development, is now a retail destination.
"Our solid tenant lineup delivers several of the best retailers to one of the most underserved markets in the region," said David Rattner, vice president of development for North American Properties.
North American is the developer of The Forum retail complex that recently opened to include a Target, Best Buy, Books-A-Million, Staples and PETCO. Bed Bath & Beyond is expected to open in August.
The Forum, just east of Interstate 75, will serve more than 700 single-family homes and townhouses adjacent to the retailers.
"All the people that lived along the interstate system who used to go to congested areas can now shop easily," said Bob Evans, a partner with Evans & Wagner Commercial Group who developed the Forum Centre. "This will reach a niche in the market that needed to be addressed a long time ago."
Area residents are getting more than just big-box retailers though. Food options will get better with the addition of Bajio Mexican Grill, Subway and Five Guys Burgers and Fries, which will open in the coming months.
"Despite the economic slowdown, there is still strong demand for retail and dining alternatives close to home ..." Rattner said.
The development will also include a 27,000-square-foot YMCA to serve the growth in the area.
"The demographics in that area show that the growth will slow down a little due to the economy so it's a good time for us to get out there and offer services," said Jim Sanger, Lee county YMCA chief executive, about the facility that will include a fitness area, pool and an indoor/outdoor gym.. "Everything is on schedule and we are at about 70 percent with the drawings."
Several spaces are still available for lease at The Forum and Forum Centre.
"Our primary trade area boasts a strong population base and high incomes," Rattner said. "Over 100,000 shoppers with disposable income reside within three miles of The Forum, and the average annual household income in the primary trade area, the southeast quadrant east of I-75, exceeds $100,000. These numbers are ideal for retail, restaurant and entertainment."
Spirituality goal of church's soccer, bible study program
Soccer and Bible study has come to the Daniels Road Baptist Church in south Fort Myers.
The church on Daniels Parkway is offering a weekly youth soccer league for children ages three to sixth grade.
Soccer games begin at 6:45 p.m. and are followed up with spiritual instruction including drama and crafts.
"It's a combination vacation Bible school and soccer camp," said Pastor Jim Galvan about the league that continues through Aug. 6. "It's a great opportunity for the summer time."
The league is in its second summer and parents are also being drawn to participate.
"We have some parents that will come and watch the kids play in games and then go to Bible study," said Galvan about the league that is offered for $5. "This league is unique in that we offer the instruction with soccer and (something) spiritual as well."
The children who participate in the league are given T-shirts and meet every Wednesday night for warm-ups followed by games with other teams in the league.
"We are doing it for 10 weeks and it works because it matched our facilities uses," said Galvan about the large field in front of the church. "We have a nice field out front and it has just been popular."
The league is open to anyone regardless of religious affiliation and lasts until about 8:20 p.m.
"We have been offering adult Bible study every Wednesday year round so this league fits well with the activities we already have," Galvan said.
The church on Daniels Parkway is offering a weekly youth soccer league for children ages three to sixth grade.
Soccer games begin at 6:45 p.m. and are followed up with spiritual instruction including drama and crafts.
"It's a combination vacation Bible school and soccer camp," said Pastor Jim Galvan about the league that continues through Aug. 6. "It's a great opportunity for the summer time."
The league is in its second summer and parents are also being drawn to participate.
"We have some parents that will come and watch the kids play in games and then go to Bible study," said Galvan about the league that is offered for $5. "This league is unique in that we offer the instruction with soccer and (something) spiritual as well."
The children who participate in the league are given T-shirts and meet every Wednesday night for warm-ups followed by games with other teams in the league.
"We are doing it for 10 weeks and it works because it matched our facilities uses," said Galvan about the large field in front of the church. "We have a nice field out front and it has just been popular."
The league is open to anyone regardless of religious affiliation and lasts until about 8:20 p.m.
"We have been offering adult Bible study every Wednesday year round so this league fits well with the activities we already have," Galvan said.
Some say new Super Target misses mark
The opening of big box shopping is usually a welcome addition to any neighborhood, but the new Super Target in south Fort Myers isn't being completely embraced.
The store, which opened a couple weeks ago, is already gaining negative attention from more than 900 residents at the Beach Walk Isles, a gated community across the street from the Plaza at Island Pass.
Kathy Miller of south Fort Myers owns a home near Beach Walk Boulevard and said the increase in traffic at the new Target is a major concern.
"It's horrible. The traffic on the street is worse. I can only imagine what will happen when season returns," said Miller. There are 170 homes in her community. There are two adjacent condominiums with more than 800 residents.
Miller wants the Target's developers, The Desco Group, to install a traffic signal at the intersection of San Carlos Boulevard and Majestic Palms Boulevard to help ease congestion on the road.
"There are plans to put in a traffic signal but they will have to do some traffic engineering studies first," said Steve Houston, the developers spokesperson. "They need the study to figure out what is the optimal signal and configuration for that area."
In the meantime, Miller said, she is unable to make a safe left turn out of her street onto San Carlos Boulevard and expects to see crashes until a signal is installed. She also is limited in the number of roads she can use to get out of her community - Beach Walk Boulevard and Gladiolus Drive.
"It's dangerous to make a left turn but people leaving the Target plaza can go straight onto Beach Walk Boulevard," said Miler about the private road that is maintained by the community. "The (Home Owners Association) is spending money to redesign the road to have roundabouts and speed humps."
And, that's the best solution according to Steve Jansen, the
traffic engineer for Lee County Department of Transportation.
"Those private roads pose a problem because if they put in a traffic signal things will get worse," said Jansen about the state-owned San Carlos Boulevard." Beach Walk Boulevard has to be redesigned to make it a less attractive cut through to Gladiolus Boulevard."
Installing traffic signals is a balancing act because they are meant to help people get off the side streets but never help traffic along, Jansen said.
"My guess is that (Desco) will do a study in a couple of months after the store opens and it will take a few weeks to crank out," he said about the possibility of installing a traffic signal as per the developers master plan. "But it could take up to a year after that to see a traffic signal ... it gets state approval first, materials are ordered and then it's installed."
The store, which opened a couple weeks ago, is already gaining negative attention from more than 900 residents at the Beach Walk Isles, a gated community across the street from the Plaza at Island Pass.
Kathy Miller of south Fort Myers owns a home near Beach Walk Boulevard and said the increase in traffic at the new Target is a major concern.
"It's horrible. The traffic on the street is worse. I can only imagine what will happen when season returns," said Miller. There are 170 homes in her community. There are two adjacent condominiums with more than 800 residents.
Miller wants the Target's developers, The Desco Group, to install a traffic signal at the intersection of San Carlos Boulevard and Majestic Palms Boulevard to help ease congestion on the road.
"There are plans to put in a traffic signal but they will have to do some traffic engineering studies first," said Steve Houston, the developers spokesperson. "They need the study to figure out what is the optimal signal and configuration for that area."
In the meantime, Miller said, she is unable to make a safe left turn out of her street onto San Carlos Boulevard and expects to see crashes until a signal is installed. She also is limited in the number of roads she can use to get out of her community - Beach Walk Boulevard and Gladiolus Drive.
"It's dangerous to make a left turn but people leaving the Target plaza can go straight onto Beach Walk Boulevard," said Miler about the private road that is maintained by the community. "The (Home Owners Association) is spending money to redesign the road to have roundabouts and speed humps."
And, that's the best solution according to Steve Jansen, the
traffic engineer for Lee County Department of Transportation.
"Those private roads pose a problem because if they put in a traffic signal things will get worse," said Jansen about the state-owned San Carlos Boulevard." Beach Walk Boulevard has to be redesigned to make it a less attractive cut through to Gladiolus Boulevard."
Installing traffic signals is a balancing act because they are meant to help people get off the side streets but never help traffic along, Jansen said.
"My guess is that (Desco) will do a study in a couple of months after the store opens and it will take a few weeks to crank out," he said about the possibility of installing a traffic signal as per the developers master plan. "But it could take up to a year after that to see a traffic signal ... it gets state approval first, materials are ordered and then it's installed."
Calusa Nature Center adds some zip with climbing tower
The Calusa Nature Center is adding on to its list of activities and community involvement opportunities with a ROPES course called On-TRAC this fall.
On-TRAC, which stands for On The Ropes At Calusa, will challenge local groups to climb a rock wall, stand on beams and fly down a zip line 45 feet in the air.
"It's an opportunity for team building outside of the classroom or office," said Jo Ellen Keller, the director of the course. "The idea is to get people back out in nature."
And getting them back in nature is why the Calusa Nature Center was selected as an ideal location for the course that offers high and low activities.
"The nature center is located on 105-acres in Fort Myers and it's a good location to get visitors from all over the area," said Keller, who is working with local businesses to gain sponsorships for different pieces of the course. "It's in a wilderness setting and it brings people into the center which is a hidden gem."
Keller hopes the center will become a destination for everyone looking to spend the day climbing a tower or zipping past nature on a harness tied to a line.
"We are doing this with a conscious effort to include the entire community," Keller said.
The involvement will be crucial especially now that Keller needs to raise $75,000 by August 20. This money will secure builders that will begin construction in September.
"It takes 15 days to build and it's a pretty intensive schedule," said Keller noting that if the money isn't raised by August the project will get pushed back to October. "We are competing to get our course done first but we need the community to help us."
The help will be beneficial because it will guarantee that the course include 23 varying activities, be designed for handicapped participants and be environmentally friendly.
"We will have special rigging and other types of things built in to make it safe for everyone to use," Keller said. "This is an investment in the community and it's something I've wanted to bring here for a long time."
On-TRAC, which stands for On The Ropes At Calusa, will challenge local groups to climb a rock wall, stand on beams and fly down a zip line 45 feet in the air.
"It's an opportunity for team building outside of the classroom or office," said Jo Ellen Keller, the director of the course. "The idea is to get people back out in nature."
And getting them back in nature is why the Calusa Nature Center was selected as an ideal location for the course that offers high and low activities.
"The nature center is located on 105-acres in Fort Myers and it's a good location to get visitors from all over the area," said Keller, who is working with local businesses to gain sponsorships for different pieces of the course. "It's in a wilderness setting and it brings people into the center which is a hidden gem."
Keller hopes the center will become a destination for everyone looking to spend the day climbing a tower or zipping past nature on a harness tied to a line.
"We are doing this with a conscious effort to include the entire community," Keller said.
The involvement will be crucial especially now that Keller needs to raise $75,000 by August 20. This money will secure builders that will begin construction in September.
"It takes 15 days to build and it's a pretty intensive schedule," said Keller noting that if the money isn't raised by August the project will get pushed back to October. "We are competing to get our course done first but we need the community to help us."
The help will be beneficial because it will guarantee that the course include 23 varying activities, be designed for handicapped participants and be environmentally friendly.
"We will have special rigging and other types of things built in to make it safe for everyone to use," Keller said. "This is an investment in the community and it's something I've wanted to bring here for a long time."
Free Family Film Festival a Regal idea for family fun
Summertime can be hot, humid and sometimes rainy and many parents aren't sure how to keep their kids occupied when there is no fun in the sun.
Regal Cinema Bell Tower 20 is hosting a Free Family Film Festival to help parents left scratching their heads as to fun activities for children.
As part of the festival, the cinema will be showing "Arctic Tale" and "Night at the Museum" on July 29 through 31.
"It's a program that we've held for a number of years and view it as a way for our theaters to be part of the community," said Russ Nunley, spokesperson for Regal Cinemas. "We are growing the next generations of moviegoers."
Moviegoers can be of any age though and everyone is invited to attend the free festival and spend some extra time with their family.
"We put together a schedule that offers G-rated and PG-rated movies that cater to everyone, even the grandparents and grandkids who want to be together," said Nunley about the first come, first serve festival. "We want every child to enjoy the big-screen experience and for some of these kids, it's their first visit."
Most Regal Cinemas are offering the film festival and the movies are rotated from theater to theater throughout the festival.
"We want to give back and we cover the costs because we've always seen an extremely strong response to our movie festivals," he said.
Regal Cinema Bell Tower 20 is hosting a Free Family Film Festival to help parents left scratching their heads as to fun activities for children.
As part of the festival, the cinema will be showing "Arctic Tale" and "Night at the Museum" on July 29 through 31.
"It's a program that we've held for a number of years and view it as a way for our theaters to be part of the community," said Russ Nunley, spokesperson for Regal Cinemas. "We are growing the next generations of moviegoers."
Moviegoers can be of any age though and everyone is invited to attend the free festival and spend some extra time with their family.
"We put together a schedule that offers G-rated and PG-rated movies that cater to everyone, even the grandparents and grandkids who want to be together," said Nunley about the first come, first serve festival. "We want every child to enjoy the big-screen experience and for some of these kids, it's their first visit."
Most Regal Cinemas are offering the film festival and the movies are rotated from theater to theater throughout the festival.
"We want to give back and we cover the costs because we've always seen an extremely strong response to our movie festivals," he said.
Auction to help with medical bills
Kristin Goellner and her mom Pam, both of south Fort Myers, are stepping up to prove that the negative impacts of cancer on a family can be stopped.
The duo will be hosting a silent auction July 27 to commemorate the loss of a family member named Eddie Torres who died of cancer.
"Eddie was always on the go and just full of life," said Kristin about the stepfather who took her in as a daughter. "He was vibrant, healthy and full of life."
The Goellners lost Eddie to pancreatic cancer, which was diagnosed two years ago. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation but the cancer spread to his liver and eventually ended his life.
"I was literally praying about what I was going to do," said Pam about the medical bills that came pouring in after Eddie's death and left her working 70-hour weeks.
Then came the idea for an auction and the community has already reacted generously.
"It's heartwarming that there are so many people out there that are willing to help when they don't even really know us," said Kristin about organizations and businesses that have offered auction items such as sunglasses.
The items will be at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at The Bell Tower Shops and the Goellners hope even more support will pour in.
"This should be a fantastic event and there is nothing going on on a Sunday afternoon anyway," said Pam, who was told by the hotel that they would host the event for free. "We started planning this auction when [Eddie] was alive and he was so proud that we were doing something."
There will be 20 tables with items that bidders can bid on after paying a $1 fee.
"It's all been a real blessing and even in these hard times people are still very giving," Pam said.
The duo will be hosting a silent auction July 27 to commemorate the loss of a family member named Eddie Torres who died of cancer.
"Eddie was always on the go and just full of life," said Kristin about the stepfather who took her in as a daughter. "He was vibrant, healthy and full of life."
The Goellners lost Eddie to pancreatic cancer, which was diagnosed two years ago. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation but the cancer spread to his liver and eventually ended his life.
"I was literally praying about what I was going to do," said Pam about the medical bills that came pouring in after Eddie's death and left her working 70-hour weeks.
Then came the idea for an auction and the community has already reacted generously.
"It's heartwarming that there are so many people out there that are willing to help when they don't even really know us," said Kristin about organizations and businesses that have offered auction items such as sunglasses.
The items will be at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at The Bell Tower Shops and the Goellners hope even more support will pour in.
"This should be a fantastic event and there is nothing going on on a Sunday afternoon anyway," said Pam, who was told by the hotel that they would host the event for free. "We started planning this auction when [Eddie] was alive and he was so proud that we were doing something."
There will be 20 tables with items that bidders can bid on after paying a $1 fee.
"It's all been a real blessing and even in these hard times people are still very giving," Pam said.
Hot business at Dairy Queen pleases CEO
John Gainor became the new president and CEO of Dairy Queen International on July 1 and during his first month in office, he's already toured the nine DQ Grill & Chills in Southwest Florida.
Gainor, 51, joined the organization in 2003 as chief supply chain officer covering many aspects of DQ operation, including distribution, frozen novelties and logistics. He now works directly for Warren Buffett, owner of Dairy Queen.
Gainor has a degree in communications from Ohio University and lived in Miami for 12 years while he worked at Burger King's supply chain.
The News-Press sat down with Gainor at the DQ Grill & Chill in south Fort Myers and he answered questions about the future of Dairy Queen and his experiences with the company.
Q: Is ice cream a luxury that people might be willing to give up in a slower economy?
A: We've found that despite the economy people still come to Dairy Queen. We are a 68-year-old brand that they grew up with. People love our treats and despite the economy sales are positive nationally.
Q: How does Southwest Florida or Lee County play into Diary Queen's success?
A: Lee County has been very important to us because Kraus Foods, DQ's franchisee, is among the leaders in our system. They have nine restaurants and this area continues to grow. Down here, it's a reversed economy because it's hot when up north it's cold. On sunny days, people come out more and eat our treats.
Q: How successful has the new DQ Grill & Chill's concept been for Dairy Queen International?
A: It's been very successful because we are more than an ice cream shop. We have foods, beverages and treats and the atmosphere has always been about families and children. Locally, Kraus Foods and DQ have been together for 21 years and they have really helped us move the new concept in this area.
Q: Why is a family-oriented atmosphere so important to DQ?
A: We are a large company but still very family-oriented. We are the kind of place where you walk in and there are families sitting and enjoying themselves. We are also very active in the community through the Children's Network. We actually will be hosting a Miracle Treat day on Aug. 7.
Q: What is in the future for Dairy Queen?
A: That we get better at what we already do and keep the focus on the customers because they pay our salaries.
Q: What is your favorite item on the DQ menu?
A: I always eat a double cheeseburger and a vanilla cone.
Gainor, 51, joined the organization in 2003 as chief supply chain officer covering many aspects of DQ operation, including distribution, frozen novelties and logistics. He now works directly for Warren Buffett, owner of Dairy Queen.
Gainor has a degree in communications from Ohio University and lived in Miami for 12 years while he worked at Burger King's supply chain.
The News-Press sat down with Gainor at the DQ Grill & Chill in south Fort Myers and he answered questions about the future of Dairy Queen and his experiences with the company.
Q: Is ice cream a luxury that people might be willing to give up in a slower economy?
A: We've found that despite the economy people still come to Dairy Queen. We are a 68-year-old brand that they grew up with. People love our treats and despite the economy sales are positive nationally.
Q: How does Southwest Florida or Lee County play into Diary Queen's success?
A: Lee County has been very important to us because Kraus Foods, DQ's franchisee, is among the leaders in our system. They have nine restaurants and this area continues to grow. Down here, it's a reversed economy because it's hot when up north it's cold. On sunny days, people come out more and eat our treats.
Q: How successful has the new DQ Grill & Chill's concept been for Dairy Queen International?
A: It's been very successful because we are more than an ice cream shop. We have foods, beverages and treats and the atmosphere has always been about families and children. Locally, Kraus Foods and DQ have been together for 21 years and they have really helped us move the new concept in this area.
Q: Why is a family-oriented atmosphere so important to DQ?
A: We are a large company but still very family-oriented. We are the kind of place where you walk in and there are families sitting and enjoying themselves. We are also very active in the community through the Children's Network. We actually will be hosting a Miracle Treat day on Aug. 7.
Q: What is in the future for Dairy Queen?
A: That we get better at what we already do and keep the focus on the customers because they pay our salaries.
Q: What is your favorite item on the DQ menu?
A: I always eat a double cheeseburger and a vanilla cone.
Smoothie shop quenches thirst for knowledge, too
Smoothie's have arrived in south Fort Myers and Ben Starr hopes the health nuts and snackers in the area embrace them wholeheartedly.
Starr recently opened a Smoothie King franchise on College Parkway and said customers are pouring in for their unique creations including blueberry heaven, power punch and coconut surprise.
"We have functions to our smoothies with a focus on keeping a healthy athletic lifestyle," said Starr, who is part-owner of the smoothie shop with Cory Dickson. "Everything here has a purpose and we give people quality above all else."
The menu is set into categories that were created at franchise headquarters to meet every specific need from slimming down to snacking right.
"People like what we offer because we take the time to educate them as much as possible about the different proteins and enhancers on our menu," said Starr about the extras people can add for stress relief or muscle building. "It's health-based and fruit-based."
The fruit blended into the smoothies is fresh.
"Some people have a misconception or misinformation and we have to educate them as to what we do," said Starr while standing behind a brightly colored counter surrounded by signage about the drinks. "I like to make them as knowledgeable as possible so they know what they will get when they come here."
That is what Starr hopes will keep them coming back time and time again.
"I'll give you one today and I feel confident that you'll come back tomorrow," Starr said.
Smoothie King has two locations in the Fort Myers area and they are in the process of looking for a third location, said Katherine Meariman, the executive vice president of administration for Smoothie King Franchises Inc.
Starr recently opened a Smoothie King franchise on College Parkway and said customers are pouring in for their unique creations including blueberry heaven, power punch and coconut surprise.
"We have functions to our smoothies with a focus on keeping a healthy athletic lifestyle," said Starr, who is part-owner of the smoothie shop with Cory Dickson. "Everything here has a purpose and we give people quality above all else."
The menu is set into categories that were created at franchise headquarters to meet every specific need from slimming down to snacking right.
"People like what we offer because we take the time to educate them as much as possible about the different proteins and enhancers on our menu," said Starr about the extras people can add for stress relief or muscle building. "It's health-based and fruit-based."
The fruit blended into the smoothies is fresh.
"Some people have a misconception or misinformation and we have to educate them as to what we do," said Starr while standing behind a brightly colored counter surrounded by signage about the drinks. "I like to make them as knowledgeable as possible so they know what they will get when they come here."
That is what Starr hopes will keep them coming back time and time again.
"I'll give you one today and I feel confident that you'll come back tomorrow," Starr said.
Smoothie King has two locations in the Fort Myers area and they are in the process of looking for a third location, said Katherine Meariman, the executive vice president of administration for Smoothie King Franchises Inc.
Florida Blood Centers in new location
Florida Blood Centers has moved to a south Fort Myers location that is more accessible to donors and visible from Daniels Parkway.
The new 2,200-square-foot facility was opened at the Sweetbay Plaza to show donors that the bank appreciates their efforts and wants to make it easier for them to give blood.
"It's more convenient for the donor and we appreciate that they donate," said Larry Ganns, the blood bank's spokesperson. "This is on the way to things, which is what you want your place to be. It's not a destination type place."
The new location replaces another location that was in orth Fort Myers but the move was necessary because the south Fort Myers population is growing.
"We base a lot of locations on how many donations we get," said Ganns adding that the orth Fort Myers location did well but this center is more visible. "The community is growing in a certain direction ... we think that we ought to be over there."
Florida Blood Centers has two other locations in Bonita Springs and Cape Coral but he expects airport traffic on Daniel Parkway to draw more donors.
"Part of what we are doing is competing against everything else that people have going on in a donor's life," said Ganns about the new branch, which has been well-received so far.
Encouraging donors to donate, Ganns said, is about educating them that it's not painful and it can save as many as three lives.
"Our job is to convert the casual donor into a loyal donor," said Ganns, adding that they sometimes use incentives to get people in the door.
Most recently, the blood bank offered people a gas card for blood donations with an appointment or who walked into a branch location. And each day, one donor will receive $100 in gas. The promotion ends July 31.
"Generally there is a blood shortage and it's almost always constant. We need people to just donate," Ganns said.
According to a press release, cancer patients are in daily need of platelet treatments, burn victims use plasma, trauma victims need red blood cell transfusions and routine surgeries depend on the gift of a volunteer donor.
The new 2,200-square-foot facility was opened at the Sweetbay Plaza to show donors that the bank appreciates their efforts and wants to make it easier for them to give blood.
"It's more convenient for the donor and we appreciate that they donate," said Larry Ganns, the blood bank's spokesperson. "This is on the way to things, which is what you want your place to be. It's not a destination type place."
The new location replaces another location that was in orth Fort Myers but the move was necessary because the south Fort Myers population is growing.
"We base a lot of locations on how many donations we get," said Ganns adding that the orth Fort Myers location did well but this center is more visible. "The community is growing in a certain direction ... we think that we ought to be over there."
Florida Blood Centers has two other locations in Bonita Springs and Cape Coral but he expects airport traffic on Daniel Parkway to draw more donors.
"Part of what we are doing is competing against everything else that people have going on in a donor's life," said Ganns about the new branch, which has been well-received so far.
Encouraging donors to donate, Ganns said, is about educating them that it's not painful and it can save as many as three lives.
"Our job is to convert the casual donor into a loyal donor," said Ganns, adding that they sometimes use incentives to get people in the door.
Most recently, the blood bank offered people a gas card for blood donations with an appointment or who walked into a branch location. And each day, one donor will receive $100 in gas. The promotion ends July 31.
"Generally there is a blood shortage and it's almost always constant. We need people to just donate," Ganns said.
According to a press release, cancer patients are in daily need of platelet treatments, burn victims use plasma, trauma victims need red blood cell transfusions and routine surgeries depend on the gift of a volunteer donor.
Smoothie King partners with youth sports
Smoothie King in south Fort Myers opened recently and is already involved in the community.
The health conscious smoothie franchise on College Parkway will be kicking off a fundraising partnership with the Cypress Lake Hornets on July 26 at Rutenberg Park.
"We always like to get involved in the community because it's a way to give back," said Ben Starr, part-owner of the smoothie shop.
Smoothie King is going to offer smoothies at each of the home games to raise money that provides a safe place for kids to participate in football and cheerleading.
"We got with Rutenberg Park because they are close to us and we will work to help them out," Starr said. "Those parents and kids can be our customers too."
The Cypress Lake Hornets are a Pop-Warner Little Scholars nonprofit youth football and cheer program that raises money for its rising operating costs.
That's why fundraisers and the help of the community are so important, Starr said.
Smoothie King will be at the park from 1 to 5 p.m. along with fire trucks, ambulances, Nortrax and Posen construction equipment and other sponsors.
Smoothie King has more than 430 stores operating in 34 states nationwide, including 18 stores in Seoul, Korea.
The health conscious smoothie franchise on College Parkway will be kicking off a fundraising partnership with the Cypress Lake Hornets on July 26 at Rutenberg Park.
"We always like to get involved in the community because it's a way to give back," said Ben Starr, part-owner of the smoothie shop.
Smoothie King is going to offer smoothies at each of the home games to raise money that provides a safe place for kids to participate in football and cheerleading.
"We got with Rutenberg Park because they are close to us and we will work to help them out," Starr said. "Those parents and kids can be our customers too."
The Cypress Lake Hornets are a Pop-Warner Little Scholars nonprofit youth football and cheer program that raises money for its rising operating costs.
That's why fundraisers and the help of the community are so important, Starr said.
Smoothie King will be at the park from 1 to 5 p.m. along with fire trucks, ambulances, Nortrax and Posen construction equipment and other sponsors.
Smoothie King has more than 430 stores operating in 34 states nationwide, including 18 stores in Seoul, Korea.
Relocated Sweet Bean to perk up music scene
Nita Flores is keeping her dream of owning a coffee shop and music venue a reality.
Flores, the owner of Nita's Sweet Bean Cafe, recently relocated her shop to Clayton Court in Fort Myers with plans to improve the local music scene.
"I've always been interested in making a music venue and there is a real need in this area," said Flores, who opened at the new location in April. "I grew up in Chicago and you saw a lot of venues for musicians."
And to celebrate her opening and the music scene, Flores will be hosting a July 19 CD release party for Roy Schneider.
"It's got a funny name ... Roy Schneider and the Roadside Turtle Rescue because I've rescued a lot of turtles on the road," said Schneider, a cartoonist and award-winning singer/ songwriter who wrote the nationally syndicated comic "The Humble Stumble."
The Fort Myers resident describes his music as eclectic with a touch of blues and some folk.
"He's got a very original sound with his original songs and it's refreshing," said Flores, who met Schneider at another music venue years ago. "The music is acoustic with a splash of Floridian and people are really drawn to that."
Schneider will have plenty of space to play at Flores' new cafe, which offers open mic night on Fridays and has plans to expand music offerings on Saturdays.
"It's a passion of mine and I like to have all kinds of music. I don't see affordable places that have a comfortable atmosphere for people to go and just relax," Flores said. "It's not a place where musicians are playing where people are out drinking heavily at a bar. People here come to listen to what somebody does."
The cafe offers more seating and a larger outside area for musicians to warm up before shows.
"Everybody here walks out feeling good and that's what makes it," Flores said. "People are coming together to enjoy themselves."
Flores, the owner of Nita's Sweet Bean Cafe, recently relocated her shop to Clayton Court in Fort Myers with plans to improve the local music scene.
"I've always been interested in making a music venue and there is a real need in this area," said Flores, who opened at the new location in April. "I grew up in Chicago and you saw a lot of venues for musicians."
And to celebrate her opening and the music scene, Flores will be hosting a July 19 CD release party for Roy Schneider.
"It's got a funny name ... Roy Schneider and the Roadside Turtle Rescue because I've rescued a lot of turtles on the road," said Schneider, a cartoonist and award-winning singer/ songwriter who wrote the nationally syndicated comic "The Humble Stumble."
The Fort Myers resident describes his music as eclectic with a touch of blues and some folk.
"He's got a very original sound with his original songs and it's refreshing," said Flores, who met Schneider at another music venue years ago. "The music is acoustic with a splash of Floridian and people are really drawn to that."
Schneider will have plenty of space to play at Flores' new cafe, which offers open mic night on Fridays and has plans to expand music offerings on Saturdays.
"It's a passion of mine and I like to have all kinds of music. I don't see affordable places that have a comfortable atmosphere for people to go and just relax," Flores said. "It's not a place where musicians are playing where people are out drinking heavily at a bar. People here come to listen to what somebody does."
The cafe offers more seating and a larger outside area for musicians to warm up before shows.
"Everybody here walks out feeling good and that's what makes it," Flores said. "People are coming together to enjoy themselves."
Sun sets on year-old JavaMoon
JavaMoon Cafe and Grill diners and coffee junkies in south Fort Myers will have to get their fix elsewhere.
The cafe, which opened in April 2007, has closed its doors at the Bella Rosa Shops on Daniels Parkway.
"There are a lot of variables. Mainly the economy and the building's poor visibility from the road," said Donna Magrino, one of three partners who owned the cafe.
The 5,080-square-foot restaurant offered an array of appetizers, soups and salads, including Solar Shrimp Tempura. It wasn't enough of a draw to customers, especially those strapped for cash.
"People have to pay their bills and restaurants are the first ones cut," said Magrino about the restaurant that was surrounded by a few gated communities. "If the big chains are closing and they have a lot of money behind them, we are smaller and have less of a chance."
Nicholas Dalin, CEO and president of the JavaMoon franchise, said the economy didn't help what was already a poor location.
"It closed because of a poor location choice and it's a shame because it was off a main highway," said Dalin, whose eight other restaurants in New Jersey are feeling the squeeze as well. "It just didn't get enough draw no matter how much we advertised it."
The only other JavaMoon in Florida was in Palm Beach Gardens but the owners want out of the franchise, Dalin said.
"It probably closed for a lot of reasons. The main reason is that she opened up at the worst time for restaurants in probably 18 years," said Sal Basile, who sold the building to the partners three years ago. "There is an abundance in restaurants closing right now."
The closing of JavaMoon also means the end of easily accessible food for neighbors and commuters in that area of Daniels Parkway.
"I'm sad that they weren't able to go because it had such fantastic potential," said Colbi Congress of Bradley's Fine Jewelers. "It'd be nice if somebody could pick it up and turn it into a fantastic restaurant."
Due to the cafe's closing, Congress was given the opportunity to host an after-hours event for the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce recently.
"JavaMoon was supposed to do the bash but (the chamber) offered it to us instead," said Congress, who hosted an Independence Day barbecue. "The cafe location was cool because it was one of the only places in the neighborhood. It's too bad."
There are no plans to reopen another JavaMoon location in Florida, Dalin said.
The cafe, which opened in April 2007, has closed its doors at the Bella Rosa Shops on Daniels Parkway.
"There are a lot of variables. Mainly the economy and the building's poor visibility from the road," said Donna Magrino, one of three partners who owned the cafe.
The 5,080-square-foot restaurant offered an array of appetizers, soups and salads, including Solar Shrimp Tempura. It wasn't enough of a draw to customers, especially those strapped for cash.
"People have to pay their bills and restaurants are the first ones cut," said Magrino about the restaurant that was surrounded by a few gated communities. "If the big chains are closing and they have a lot of money behind them, we are smaller and have less of a chance."
Nicholas Dalin, CEO and president of the JavaMoon franchise, said the economy didn't help what was already a poor location.
"It closed because of a poor location choice and it's a shame because it was off a main highway," said Dalin, whose eight other restaurants in New Jersey are feeling the squeeze as well. "It just didn't get enough draw no matter how much we advertised it."
The only other JavaMoon in Florida was in Palm Beach Gardens but the owners want out of the franchise, Dalin said.
"It probably closed for a lot of reasons. The main reason is that she opened up at the worst time for restaurants in probably 18 years," said Sal Basile, who sold the building to the partners three years ago. "There is an abundance in restaurants closing right now."
The closing of JavaMoon also means the end of easily accessible food for neighbors and commuters in that area of Daniels Parkway.
"I'm sad that they weren't able to go because it had such fantastic potential," said Colbi Congress of Bradley's Fine Jewelers. "It'd be nice if somebody could pick it up and turn it into a fantastic restaurant."
Due to the cafe's closing, Congress was given the opportunity to host an after-hours event for the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce recently.
"JavaMoon was supposed to do the bash but (the chamber) offered it to us instead," said Congress, who hosted an Independence Day barbecue. "The cafe location was cool because it was one of the only places in the neighborhood. It's too bad."
There are no plans to reopen another JavaMoon location in Florida, Dalin said.
Drive renewed to find marrow match
The Southwest Florida community is getting together for the third year in a row for the Kenny Conidaris Drive at the Lani Kai Island Resort on Fort Myers Beach.
Conidaris is a 14-year-old who was diagnosed two years ago with Severe Aplastic Anemia, a rare blood disease of the bone marrow.
The drive, scheduled for July 19, is being organized by his family members, who hope to find a bone marrow match for Kenny or other young children like him.
“It took many (blood) transfusions to keep him going. Because we needed so much, we wanted to try to help build up the bank again,” said Ken Conidaris, Kenny’s father, about the condition that his son survived thanks to blood from the bone marrow national bank. “If it’s for Kenny or somebody else, we are trying to do the right thing.”
And doing the right thing means organizing an event featuring live entertainment, free food and refreshments along with free transportation. Every donor receives a free T-shirt and a $10 gift card for gas or Publix.
“A drive like this puts a face to what people can do to help kids like Kenny,” said Lawrence Ganns, the spokesperson for Florida’s Blood Centers. The center is helping Conidaris organize the event.
The family has been at the forefront of doing the blood drive because the disease is so rare and the only cure is a bone marrow transplant, said Ken Conidaris.
“His numbers are going back down again but we hope he isn’t out of remission,” said Ken Conidaris in a phone interview from Duke University Hospital in North Carolina.
Kenny was getting tested again for the disease but the focus for the family remains on the drive and addressing the blood shortage.
“A shortage is a continual thing but it helps that these drives let people know where it’s going,” Ganns said.
Conidaris is a 14-year-old who was diagnosed two years ago with Severe Aplastic Anemia, a rare blood disease of the bone marrow.
The drive, scheduled for July 19, is being organized by his family members, who hope to find a bone marrow match for Kenny or other young children like him.
“It took many (blood) transfusions to keep him going. Because we needed so much, we wanted to try to help build up the bank again,” said Ken Conidaris, Kenny’s father, about the condition that his son survived thanks to blood from the bone marrow national bank. “If it’s for Kenny or somebody else, we are trying to do the right thing.”
And doing the right thing means organizing an event featuring live entertainment, free food and refreshments along with free transportation. Every donor receives a free T-shirt and a $10 gift card for gas or Publix.
“A drive like this puts a face to what people can do to help kids like Kenny,” said Lawrence Ganns, the spokesperson for Florida’s Blood Centers. The center is helping Conidaris organize the event.
The family has been at the forefront of doing the blood drive because the disease is so rare and the only cure is a bone marrow transplant, said Ken Conidaris.
“His numbers are going back down again but we hope he isn’t out of remission,” said Ken Conidaris in a phone interview from Duke University Hospital in North Carolina.
Kenny was getting tested again for the disease but the focus for the family remains on the drive and addressing the blood shortage.
“A shortage is a continual thing but it helps that these drives let people know where it’s going,” Ganns said.
Auto Butler new service concept
The Auto Butler in south Fort Myers isn't under construction yet but buyers better hurry if they want a spot to store their cars or boats in a climate-controlled garage condominium.
Scott Spence, partner at L&M Building and Development, and Steve Loveless, company president, have sold 23 of the 46 condos in Phase 1, which comes with state-of-the-art security and fire protection.
"We are in pre-sale mode right now and it's a perfect niche for us with people from Naples and Fort Myers buying these up," said Spence about the condos that start at $57,900 for the first floor.
Phase 1 of the project includes 60 units measuring 25 by 15 feet, some of which customers are turning into offices, Spence said.
Work on the $10 million to $12 million project should start in about three months and will take 10 months to complete.
"There isn't anything like this here and people have latched on to the concept," Spence said.
The Auto Butler will be built on Treeline Avenue at Airport Terminal Road, in The Promenade commercial park now under development.
"They can't work on cars in the gated communities. This gives them a place to escape and work on their classic cars," Loveless said.
Scott Spence, partner at L&M Building and Development, and Steve Loveless, company president, have sold 23 of the 46 condos in Phase 1, which comes with state-of-the-art security and fire protection.
"We are in pre-sale mode right now and it's a perfect niche for us with people from Naples and Fort Myers buying these up," said Spence about the condos that start at $57,900 for the first floor.
Phase 1 of the project includes 60 units measuring 25 by 15 feet, some of which customers are turning into offices, Spence said.
Work on the $10 million to $12 million project should start in about three months and will take 10 months to complete.
"There isn't anything like this here and people have latched on to the concept," Spence said.
The Auto Butler will be built on Treeline Avenue at Airport Terminal Road, in The Promenade commercial park now under development.
"They can't work on cars in the gated communities. This gives them a place to escape and work on their classic cars," Loveless said.
Library celebrates third birthday
Lakes Regional Public Library turned three recently and the celebration came complete with chocolate cake, games and free books.
The library threw itself a birthday bash that brought more than 60 kids out for a party that was chaotic but fun.
"I wanted to expose her to books and print as early as possible and these events are great for it," said Lisa Hanson, of south Fort Myers, who brought her daughter Heather, 2, to the library's celebration "Books are not really in vogue for kids anymore."
But the library is working to change that perception and show area kids some fun in the process.
"We do the party every year and try to incorporate stories, songs, and games to show kids that they can have fun here," said Chrissie Bishop, the children's librarian who helped organize the event's game stations. "We do our best to provide programs they'll enjoy."
The party, which focused on reading for enjoyment, began with Bishop reading two books and asking the children to participate. They also danced the Hokey Pokey just before singing Happy Birthday.
"They weren't quite sure how a library can have a birthday," said Suzanne Springer, of south Fort Myers, about the library being an inanimate object. Her children, Chloe, 4, and Owen, 2, couldn't wait to attend anyway. "We try to come once a week but they love special programs like these."
The mornings events also gave children time to socialize.
"She doesn't go to day care so this is a golden opportunity to spend with other kids," Hanson said. "I figure if she starts coming to the library young, she'll want to come when she is older."
That's exactly what Bishop wants parents to see.
"The kids are here for cake and the parents like the education of it," she said about the event in which every child was given a free book and bookmark." We try to make it as fun as possible to get patrons out more often."
Ranae Atkinson brought her daughter Hannah, 5, to the event because it keeps her busy during the summer.
"It's summer and I want her to do things that keep with her school schedule,"said Atkinson, of Fort Myers. "Anything we can do to interact with other kids is good."
The library threw itself a birthday bash that brought more than 60 kids out for a party that was chaotic but fun.
"I wanted to expose her to books and print as early as possible and these events are great for it," said Lisa Hanson, of south Fort Myers, who brought her daughter Heather, 2, to the library's celebration "Books are not really in vogue for kids anymore."
But the library is working to change that perception and show area kids some fun in the process.
"We do the party every year and try to incorporate stories, songs, and games to show kids that they can have fun here," said Chrissie Bishop, the children's librarian who helped organize the event's game stations. "We do our best to provide programs they'll enjoy."
The party, which focused on reading for enjoyment, began with Bishop reading two books and asking the children to participate. They also danced the Hokey Pokey just before singing Happy Birthday.
"They weren't quite sure how a library can have a birthday," said Suzanne Springer, of south Fort Myers, about the library being an inanimate object. Her children, Chloe, 4, and Owen, 2, couldn't wait to attend anyway. "We try to come once a week but they love special programs like these."
The mornings events also gave children time to socialize.
"She doesn't go to day care so this is a golden opportunity to spend with other kids," Hanson said. "I figure if she starts coming to the library young, she'll want to come when she is older."
That's exactly what Bishop wants parents to see.
"The kids are here for cake and the parents like the education of it," she said about the event in which every child was given a free book and bookmark." We try to make it as fun as possible to get patrons out more often."
Ranae Atkinson brought her daughter Hannah, 5, to the event because it keeps her busy during the summer.
"It's summer and I want her to do things that keep with her school schedule,"said Atkinson, of Fort Myers. "Anything we can do to interact with other kids is good."
Bradley's hosts networking event
Bradley's Fine Jewelers was the site of an Independence Day barbecue bash for the ages.
The specialty jewelry store hosted an after-hours event recently that drew more than 130 local business professionals.
"It was one of the most attended events in some time," said Angela Schivinski, who was in charge of membership development for the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce.
"The attendance was fabulous and it was a great networking opportunity for everyone."
Being able to network was just part of the after-hours event as professionals also enjoyed hot dogs, hamburgers and red, white and blue martinis.
"We wanted to put something together that was patriotic for Independence Day so we set up tents and
invited everyone," said Brad Congress, who is part owner of the jewelry store.
The store, which is part art gallery, joined the chamber of commerce three months ago and wanted to introduce itself to the community.
"We had many different business professionals from everywhere who came and enjoyed themselves ... I was stunned by the outcome," Congress said, noting that some event attendees had such a good time they stayed later than the two hours set aside for the event. "We even had local Miss America pageants (participants) from Cape Coral, Bonita and Fort Myers come and chomp down on burgers."
The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 20-year anniversary and boasts more than 1,300 businesses.
"There are very important people in the community and many of them come out specifically to meet other business professionals in the community," Schivinski said. "It's a way for them to connect and build a rapport with people they may have not had a chance to get a meeting with."
The specialty jewelry store hosted an after-hours event recently that drew more than 130 local business professionals.
"It was one of the most attended events in some time," said Angela Schivinski, who was in charge of membership development for the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce.
"The attendance was fabulous and it was a great networking opportunity for everyone."
Being able to network was just part of the after-hours event as professionals also enjoyed hot dogs, hamburgers and red, white and blue martinis.
"We wanted to put something together that was patriotic for Independence Day so we set up tents and
invited everyone," said Brad Congress, who is part owner of the jewelry store.
The store, which is part art gallery, joined the chamber of commerce three months ago and wanted to introduce itself to the community.
"We had many different business professionals from everywhere who came and enjoyed themselves ... I was stunned by the outcome," Congress said, noting that some event attendees had such a good time they stayed later than the two hours set aside for the event. "We even had local Miss America pageants (participants) from Cape Coral, Bonita and Fort Myers come and chomp down on burgers."
The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 20-year anniversary and boasts more than 1,300 businesses.
"There are very important people in the community and many of them come out specifically to meet other business professionals in the community," Schivinski said. "It's a way for them to connect and build a rapport with people they may have not had a chance to get a meeting with."
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