Running to the sorority house on Bid Day or accepting your bid to your fraternity is often based on friendships made in the process — and when you finally make it to senior year, those friends can help you in the networking process if you know how to utilize your Greek benefits.
“One of the recommendations I always tell people is to tap into your alumni network locally or nationally,” said Natalie de Rojas, assistant director of the University of Miami’s Toppel Career Center.
De Rojas, a member and adviser of the Florida International University Phi Sigma Sigma chapter, said these alumni associations are willing to help recent graduates. She suggests hosting an event with your chapter to bring current students and alumni together. Her chapter hosts a yearly career panel during which members come in and speak about their chosen career path.
“It’s a great way to contact recent alumnae and older alumnae as well,” de Rojas said.
Christian Garcia, executive director of the Toppel Career Center and founding member of the FIU chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha adds that it’s also helpful to start making contacts at events where alumni will already be attending.
“Tap into current events like Homecoming and create events during that week, since they’ll be here already,” Garcia said.
Networking has also moved to the Internet and members are connecting using Facebook, LinkedIn and other social media outlets. The organizations are creating pages and groups on these new sites to keep members connected.
“We’re first, finest, forever and if the forever component is not there, we’re not doing our job,” said Ashlyn Stallings, marketing and communications coordinator for Alpha Delta Pi.
Stallings said she’s seen an increase of members using social media to contact other members. Alpha Delta Pi is an international sorority with more than 140 active college chapters and its LinkedIn page boasts over 6,000 members, double from where it was a year ago.
Stallings said that Alpha Delta Pi is on par with other sororities in the National Panhellenic Conference, an organization of support for 26 sororities.
“Ours is a reflection of what most NPC groups are trying to do right now,” Stallings said.
Garcia said LinkedIn’s search feature is especially helpful in these types of connections because one can search members by group affiliation.
“If students are looking for specific alumni, LinkedIn is a good way to find them,” Garcia said.
Chris Levin, a recent UM graduate and member of Phi Delta Theta said he’s used LinkedIn to connect with his fraternity brothers.
“I know Phi Delts have gotten jobs or internships from other Phi Delts, so I’ve seen it happen,” Levin said. “It’s a great network to have.”
He said the Greek community as a whole is a great opportunity. He found his current job because of a connection to a woman in Sigma Delta Tau via Facebook.
Garcia said students should be prepared before networking with potential contacts, which means having a complete LinkedIn profile and appropriate social media profiles. He also stressed that one should follow LinkedIn etiquette while using the group.
“Once students get a hang of it, then they should get involved with the discussion board,” Garcia said.
He suggests not only using the group to look for positions but to also use the discussion boards to post helpful articles, which will heighten your online profile and increase the chances contacts will assist you in the future.
“People will start seeing your name more and more,” Garcia said. “It’s more of a conversation.”
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Kiwanis Club: What it can't sell it recycles
The bags pile up day by day into a mountain that almost touches the ceiling. The bags, full of books, electronics, toys and clothes, get sorted with most going out onto the sales floor of the Kiwanis Club thrift stores. But that’s only the beginning.
“We get a huge amount of items,” said Sam Huber, president of the Kiwanis Club of Cape Coral. “The sheer amount of clothes we get is phenomenally more than could be sold.”
This is when a little creativity comes into play for the organization. The Kiwanis Club is using some unique recycling tactics to get the most money for charity through their thrift stores. These techniques have saved the organization $75,000 over the past year, according to Huber.
One of the main recycling strategies comes into play when the volunteers sort out clothing. Huber estimates that the stores receive on average two tons of items each day, with most of that being clothing.
Volunteers such as Jackie Kahlke and Fran Leer spend countless hours sorting through the unending mounds of blouses, pants, jackets and skirts. These women have been volunteering for 12 and 25 years, respectively.
“It goes to a great cause. We work as quickly as we can,” Leer said.
Kahlke added: “We’re just happy people donate. We don’t care how high (the pile) is.”
Most of the clothing goes out onto the sales floor. Those that do not make the cut get tossed into red bins waiting to be salvaged. The club takes these bins and two-thirds of the remaining surplus gets sold to salvagers at a per pound weight. Huber said this earns the club $20,000 to $25,000 a year.
The other one-third of the items are shipped off in box trucks to local charities such as the Guadalupe Center of Immokalee. The club also donates to the center all of the thrift stores’ excess shoes.
“The last thing we ever want to do is be wasteful,” Huber said. “It’s not just about the money. It’s about the creative giving.”
The club also donates excess linens and mattresses that can’t be sold to the Animal Refuge Center in North Fort Myers.
“Because of the nature of our giving, we’re a children’s charity,” Huber said. “We don’t have cash in the budget to spare them some money but we can give them blankets and mattresses.”
Recently, the club has started salvaging donated, non-working electronics for scrap metal. The idea was presented two years ago. The club started off small but now makes $10,000 to $12,000 a year on the scrap metal in bi-monthly hauls to the scrap yard.
“Guys were waiting outside of the store (Dumpster) for our items and pouncing,” Huber said. “There’s value in that.”
What can’t be salvaged for monetary gain in turn goes into the community as donated items.
Children’s books and small stuffed animals get piled into boxes and barrels. These items are handed out to children during events where the Kiwanis are in attendance, such as the Red, White and Boom event each Independence Day. These books are also donated to local schools. The club estimates it has donated 20,000 books this year to local children.
Ann Vaughn is in charge of the book program. She said volunteers spend four hours daily sorting through the donated books looking for items that would be appropriate for children. She said she thinks the thrift store gives as many items away as the items it sells.
“It all goes back to Cape Coral residents. It helps the community,” Vaughn said. “This is a strictly local charity and means a lot to people.”
“We get a huge amount of items,” said Sam Huber, president of the Kiwanis Club of Cape Coral. “The sheer amount of clothes we get is phenomenally more than could be sold.”
This is when a little creativity comes into play for the organization. The Kiwanis Club is using some unique recycling tactics to get the most money for charity through their thrift stores. These techniques have saved the organization $75,000 over the past year, according to Huber.
One of the main recycling strategies comes into play when the volunteers sort out clothing. Huber estimates that the stores receive on average two tons of items each day, with most of that being clothing.
Volunteers such as Jackie Kahlke and Fran Leer spend countless hours sorting through the unending mounds of blouses, pants, jackets and skirts. These women have been volunteering for 12 and 25 years, respectively.
“It goes to a great cause. We work as quickly as we can,” Leer said.
Kahlke added: “We’re just happy people donate. We don’t care how high (the pile) is.”
Most of the clothing goes out onto the sales floor. Those that do not make the cut get tossed into red bins waiting to be salvaged. The club takes these bins and two-thirds of the remaining surplus gets sold to salvagers at a per pound weight. Huber said this earns the club $20,000 to $25,000 a year.
The other one-third of the items are shipped off in box trucks to local charities such as the Guadalupe Center of Immokalee. The club also donates to the center all of the thrift stores’ excess shoes.
“The last thing we ever want to do is be wasteful,” Huber said. “It’s not just about the money. It’s about the creative giving.”
The club also donates excess linens and mattresses that can’t be sold to the Animal Refuge Center in North Fort Myers.
“Because of the nature of our giving, we’re a children’s charity,” Huber said. “We don’t have cash in the budget to spare them some money but we can give them blankets and mattresses.”
Recently, the club has started salvaging donated, non-working electronics for scrap metal. The idea was presented two years ago. The club started off small but now makes $10,000 to $12,000 a year on the scrap metal in bi-monthly hauls to the scrap yard.
“Guys were waiting outside of the store (Dumpster) for our items and pouncing,” Huber said. “There’s value in that.”
What can’t be salvaged for monetary gain in turn goes into the community as donated items.
Children’s books and small stuffed animals get piled into boxes and barrels. These items are handed out to children during events where the Kiwanis are in attendance, such as the Red, White and Boom event each Independence Day. These books are also donated to local schools. The club estimates it has donated 20,000 books this year to local children.
Ann Vaughn is in charge of the book program. She said volunteers spend four hours daily sorting through the donated books looking for items that would be appropriate for children. She said she thinks the thrift store gives as many items away as the items it sells.
“It all goes back to Cape Coral residents. It helps the community,” Vaughn said. “This is a strictly local charity and means a lot to people.”
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Veterinary clinic complete with pet pool
Small paintings of pugs, Labradors and other breeds dot the pale green walls of the lobby at Pet Coral. The terracotta floors and soft dark brown leather couches welcome guests of both the two- and four-legged kind.
Pet Coral is a full-service veterinary clinic, boarding and day care facility that opened in late October on Del Prado Boulevard near Viscaya Parkway. The 30,000-square-foot facility features different fenced-in yards and a doggy water park with a pool.
“We’re trying to do all in one,” owner Lorena Rapoport said.
The center also offers grooming, as well as training courses and a retail area. Rapoport said she and her business partner, Dr. Baoz Rogan, have been planning the center for three years. She said business has been steady for the first few months.
“We’re getting clients every day,” Rapoport said. “We’re trying to be very competitive in prices with good quality care.”
The veterinary clinic houses a surgery center and offers dentistry services. Dr. Vicki Scott is one of the veterinarians in residence at the center. She’s been practicing in the Fort Myers area for 27 years and has made the move over the bridge. She said her previous clients are pleased with Pet Coral.
“They think it’s great,” Scott said. “What I heard is that they’ve never seen anything like it.”
Teresa Oliver, a Fort Myers resident, was there for the grand opening. She said she loves how she can go to one facility that houses so many options. Her three cats and most of her 11 dogs have visited Pet Coral.
“They’re very clean and they’re so nice,” Oliver said. “The animals love it.”
Scott said the facility is not just for canines. She’s also seen rabbits, ferrets and felines.
“So many clients have more than one species, so it makes sense,” she said.
Pet Coral also boards dogs and cats for short trips or extended stays. The center even has suites for dogs to live in the lap of luxury. Book your pets in the Royal Suite, $55 a night, and they’ll be spoiled with their own TV to watch, premium bedding and soft music.
Rapoport said the doggy day care program has also been popular with dog owners and the pets visit the water park three times a day during their stay.
“They love to come to the water park. It tires them out,” said Renee Temporale, an attendant.
The water park area features a bone-shaped pool where dogs can jump and play in the water. Temporale said that even the smaller dogs or ones who are a little uneasy around water like the play area.
Pet Coral is a full-service veterinary clinic, boarding and day care facility that opened in late October on Del Prado Boulevard near Viscaya Parkway. The 30,000-square-foot facility features different fenced-in yards and a doggy water park with a pool.
“We’re trying to do all in one,” owner Lorena Rapoport said.
The center also offers grooming, as well as training courses and a retail area. Rapoport said she and her business partner, Dr. Baoz Rogan, have been planning the center for three years. She said business has been steady for the first few months.
“We’re getting clients every day,” Rapoport said. “We’re trying to be very competitive in prices with good quality care.”
The veterinary clinic houses a surgery center and offers dentistry services. Dr. Vicki Scott is one of the veterinarians in residence at the center. She’s been practicing in the Fort Myers area for 27 years and has made the move over the bridge. She said her previous clients are pleased with Pet Coral.
“They think it’s great,” Scott said. “What I heard is that they’ve never seen anything like it.”
Teresa Oliver, a Fort Myers resident, was there for the grand opening. She said she loves how she can go to one facility that houses so many options. Her three cats and most of her 11 dogs have visited Pet Coral.
“They’re very clean and they’re so nice,” Oliver said. “The animals love it.”
Scott said the facility is not just for canines. She’s also seen rabbits, ferrets and felines.
“So many clients have more than one species, so it makes sense,” she said.
Pet Coral also boards dogs and cats for short trips or extended stays. The center even has suites for dogs to live in the lap of luxury. Book your pets in the Royal Suite, $55 a night, and they’ll be spoiled with their own TV to watch, premium bedding and soft music.
Rapoport said the doggy day care program has also been popular with dog owners and the pets visit the water park three times a day during their stay.
“They love to come to the water park. It tires them out,” said Renee Temporale, an attendant.
The water park area features a bone-shaped pool where dogs can jump and play in the water. Temporale said that even the smaller dogs or ones who are a little uneasy around water like the play area.
Cape Coral Festival of the Arts set for weekend
Crowds of art lovers will meander through white tent booths along Cape Coral Parkway this weekend for the 27th annual Cape Coral Festival of the Arts.
The event, hosted by the Rotary Club of Cape Coral, will feature 300 artists and craftsmen. Chair and founder John Jacobsen said the event always brings in heavy crowds with many repeat attendees.
“If the weather is nice, we’ll have about 100,000 for the weekend,” Jacobsen said. “People plan their vacations around it.”
Jacobsen said the Rotary Club aims to create a balanced show every year with different forms of arts and crafts at various prices.
“There will be sculptures or art that are eight to 10 thousand and some for $100 or $50 or even $5,” he said.
Artist Dawn Weber, a Cape Coral resident, said she is always happy with how the festival is run and the works featured.
“It has a really good variety of homespun talents like us and artists who are famous all over the world,” Weber said.
Weber and her partner, Cindylee Sly, are bringing hand-carved pens, wine bottle stoppers and other functional items using exotic woods and colored resins to the festival. Weber, a retired police officer, said the pair started to hone their craft as a way to relieve stress.
“Probably the most common feedbak is, ‘Do we really make this?’” Weber said. “We keep our standards high. It’s our biggest compliment.”
Jacobsen said the Rotary Club started this event nearly three decades ago for the community to become acquainted with art without the intimidation factor sometimes associated with an art museum or gallery.
“It was a chance to bring art and culture to the community in a non-threatening manner,” he said.
Festival-goers walk from booth to booth on a closed-off section of Cape Coral Parkway and often communicate with the artists themselves. They often ask questions about the subject of the piece or what inspires the artist.
“Having that opportunity is rare,” Jacobsen said. “(It’s) a real chance for people to have a true one-on-one.”
The feedback is also appreciated by the artists. Cape Coral resident Gretchen Kish Serrano said these conversations help keep her motivated.
“The best part to me is seeing the pet lovers and the reaction to my work,” she said.
Serrano paints pet portraits imitating works from master artists. She has works from more than 15 master artists featuring 40 different dog breeds.
“This year I have three new art styles, Gustav Klimut, Jackson Pawlick and Salvador Doggy,” she said.
Cape Coral resident Shirley Hales also receives feedback from attendees about her watercolor paintings of nautical, beach and nature scenes.
“A lot of folks do comment on the quality of my work and that always makes me feel good,” Hales said. “If it wasn’t worthwhile I wouldn’t do it. It’s a lot of work.”
The festival picks one artist’s work to grace the posters and advertisments for the festival. This year David King’s watercolor piece Blue Heron with its muted colors and majestic pose is featured. He said he hasn’t seen the poster yet but he has seen some advertisements.
“It looked beautiful on the billboard,” he said. “It was really well done, I thought.”
King, a retired dentist, said he’s inspired by landscapes and nature scenes. He works only with watercolors and works on his paintings in sections, having the color dry before adding to the piece. The self-taught artist said it normally takes him two to three days to complete a painting and he usually works on two to three at a time. He said he’s always impressed with this festival.
“It’s one of the better ones we’ve seen quality-wise, size-wise. It basically has something for everyone,” King said.
The event, hosted by the Rotary Club of Cape Coral, will feature 300 artists and craftsmen. Chair and founder John Jacobsen said the event always brings in heavy crowds with many repeat attendees.
“If the weather is nice, we’ll have about 100,000 for the weekend,” Jacobsen said. “People plan their vacations around it.”
Jacobsen said the Rotary Club aims to create a balanced show every year with different forms of arts and crafts at various prices.
“There will be sculptures or art that are eight to 10 thousand and some for $100 or $50 or even $5,” he said.
Artist Dawn Weber, a Cape Coral resident, said she is always happy with how the festival is run and the works featured.
“It has a really good variety of homespun talents like us and artists who are famous all over the world,” Weber said.
Weber and her partner, Cindylee Sly, are bringing hand-carved pens, wine bottle stoppers and other functional items using exotic woods and colored resins to the festival. Weber, a retired police officer, said the pair started to hone their craft as a way to relieve stress.
“Probably the most common feedbak is, ‘Do we really make this?’” Weber said. “We keep our standards high. It’s our biggest compliment.”
Jacobsen said the Rotary Club started this event nearly three decades ago for the community to become acquainted with art without the intimidation factor sometimes associated with an art museum or gallery.
“It was a chance to bring art and culture to the community in a non-threatening manner,” he said.
Festival-goers walk from booth to booth on a closed-off section of Cape Coral Parkway and often communicate with the artists themselves. They often ask questions about the subject of the piece or what inspires the artist.
“Having that opportunity is rare,” Jacobsen said. “(It’s) a real chance for people to have a true one-on-one.”
The feedback is also appreciated by the artists. Cape Coral resident Gretchen Kish Serrano said these conversations help keep her motivated.
“The best part to me is seeing the pet lovers and the reaction to my work,” she said.
Serrano paints pet portraits imitating works from master artists. She has works from more than 15 master artists featuring 40 different dog breeds.
“This year I have three new art styles, Gustav Klimut, Jackson Pawlick and Salvador Doggy,” she said.
Cape Coral resident Shirley Hales also receives feedback from attendees about her watercolor paintings of nautical, beach and nature scenes.
“A lot of folks do comment on the quality of my work and that always makes me feel good,” Hales said. “If it wasn’t worthwhile I wouldn’t do it. It’s a lot of work.”
The festival picks one artist’s work to grace the posters and advertisments for the festival. This year David King’s watercolor piece Blue Heron with its muted colors and majestic pose is featured. He said he hasn’t seen the poster yet but he has seen some advertisements.
“It looked beautiful on the billboard,” he said. “It was really well done, I thought.”
King, a retired dentist, said he’s inspired by landscapes and nature scenes. He works only with watercolors and works on his paintings in sections, having the color dry before adding to the piece. The self-taught artist said it normally takes him two to three days to complete a painting and he usually works on two to three at a time. He said he’s always impressed with this festival.
“It’s one of the better ones we’ve seen quality-wise, size-wise. It basically has something for everyone,” King said.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Cape beach-building begins on Monday
The city of Cape Coral will begin construction Monday on its second public beach, this one at Four Freedoms Park.
The 16,000 square-foot beach will be constructed by CW Roberts Inc. and is expected to be completed in early February. The total cost is $48,785, with the Cape Coral Community Redevelopment Agency contributing $41,785.
John Jacobsen, executive director for the CRA, said he’s looking forward to the completed project. He said that one of the things Cape Coral is lacking is more access to the waterfront.
“We are looking forward to getting this done and enjoying more activities in downtown,” Jacobsen said.
Jacobsen hopes this new project will be an attraction for people in the area and will help make downtown Cape Coral a destination. The new beach will also open up the park to water activites such as kayaking or small-craft sailing.
“The beach attracts new residents, new residents attract new businesses and new businesses create jobs and economic growth,” he said. “On any 70-degree day, you’ll see lots of people there.”
The project design will incorporate existing picnic shelters and landscaping while adding additional landscaping and access to Bimini Basin. Activities at the park will not be impacted, but the city warns visitors to be aware of the project and to maintain a safe distance from the work area.
City Councilman Marty McClain, who backed the project, is excited to break ground on the beach, which is only about three miles from the city’s other beach at the Yacht Club. He said he feels city officials took their time with making sure the project will run correctly and smoothly.
“It’s a great (addition) to the area. I think people will truly enjoy it,” McClain said.
McClain said the beach’s appeal will only grow as the city moves into the warmer months.
Joan and Tim Hanson, visitors from Connecticut, said the new beach will absolutely add to the area around the park. The couple said they already enjoy the beach area at the Yacht Club.
“We’d definitely come by to the new beach,” Joan Hanson said.
Elaine Elliott said she would use the new beach. She was visiting the park with her grandson to look for small sea animals in the exposed oyster beds.
“The kids have always liked it here,” Elliott said.
The response hasn’t been all positive.
Jim Mitchell, a Cape Coral resident, said, “I’ve been fishing here for 11 years and I enjoy it the way it is now.” He said he doesn’t understand why the city is spending the money with the Yacht Club nearby.
“I can’t comprehend why taxpayers’ money is being spent for a beach,” Mitchell said. “With that 40 or 50 thousand, it will hire a firefighter or a police officer for a year.”
The 16,000 square-foot beach will be constructed by CW Roberts Inc. and is expected to be completed in early February. The total cost is $48,785, with the Cape Coral Community Redevelopment Agency contributing $41,785.
John Jacobsen, executive director for the CRA, said he’s looking forward to the completed project. He said that one of the things Cape Coral is lacking is more access to the waterfront.
“We are looking forward to getting this done and enjoying more activities in downtown,” Jacobsen said.
Jacobsen hopes this new project will be an attraction for people in the area and will help make downtown Cape Coral a destination. The new beach will also open up the park to water activites such as kayaking or small-craft sailing.
“The beach attracts new residents, new residents attract new businesses and new businesses create jobs and economic growth,” he said. “On any 70-degree day, you’ll see lots of people there.”
The project design will incorporate existing picnic shelters and landscaping while adding additional landscaping and access to Bimini Basin. Activities at the park will not be impacted, but the city warns visitors to be aware of the project and to maintain a safe distance from the work area.
City Councilman Marty McClain, who backed the project, is excited to break ground on the beach, which is only about three miles from the city’s other beach at the Yacht Club. He said he feels city officials took their time with making sure the project will run correctly and smoothly.
“It’s a great (addition) to the area. I think people will truly enjoy it,” McClain said.
McClain said the beach’s appeal will only grow as the city moves into the warmer months.
Joan and Tim Hanson, visitors from Connecticut, said the new beach will absolutely add to the area around the park. The couple said they already enjoy the beach area at the Yacht Club.
“We’d definitely come by to the new beach,” Joan Hanson said.
Elaine Elliott said she would use the new beach. She was visiting the park with her grandson to look for small sea animals in the exposed oyster beds.
“The kids have always liked it here,” Elliott said.
The response hasn’t been all positive.
Jim Mitchell, a Cape Coral resident, said, “I’ve been fishing here for 11 years and I enjoy it the way it is now.” He said he doesn’t understand why the city is spending the money with the Yacht Club nearby.
“I can’t comprehend why taxpayers’ money is being spent for a beach,” Mitchell said. “With that 40 or 50 thousand, it will hire a firefighter or a police officer for a year.”
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Experienced estate planning attorney joins firm
or Thomas E. Shipp Jr., some of his best days are when clients write him a note saying thank you.
Shipp, an attorney with more than 30 years of experience in wills, trusts and estate planning, said he works with families dealing with difficult situations when a loved one passes.
“They’re relying on their confidence in me,” Shipp said.
Shipp, who has worked in Southwest Florida since 1980, recently joined the Martin Law Firm’s principal office in Cape Coral. He said he’s very happy with the new affiliation.
“It’s very exciting to go from a history of a solo practice and small partnerships to an organization that’s a group practice where a client can get many services under one roof,” Shipp said.
The Martin Law Firm is run by husband and wife team Steven E. Martin and Eviana J. Martin. The firm also has offices in Fort Myers and Naples. Steven Martin said he’s glad to have Shipp’s level of experience added to his firm.
“Tom’s been in practice for 30 years and we haven’t,” Martin said. “It’s exciting for us to get Tom’s depth and breadth of experience.”
Eviana Martin agreed, adding, “It’s important to get someone with experience in wills and trusts.”
Shipp, who has been at the firm for almost two months, said with a laugh that he’s getting all the old man jokes in the office. He said that in some firms, lawyers can be territorial but at the Martin Law Firm it’s more like a family.
“What’s really impressed me here is Steve and Eviana created a tight team, working together and helping each other out. I think it’s very unique,” Shipp said.
Although he jokes around in the office, Shipp is serious about his profession. He said that he focuses on the needs of clients in order to gain their trust because they rely on him to make the proper arrangements. He said you don’t get that reassurance when you prepare the documents yourself on the Internet.
“I want to be here when a person decided I need an attorney for a will or a trust,” Shipp said. “It’s part of the ability (of the client) to sit down and get personal advice from someone you have confidence in. With us, you don’t get a printed set of directions, or a toll-free number to call, you get a person.”
Shipp said some of the hardest hurdles he has to overcome are documents that were not properly prepared and he said these documents often affect the family members who have been left behind.
“It’s not just about the money the people inherit based on those documents,” he said. “It’s about the relationship of the family and how conflict can tear those relationships apart or how this moment could bring people closer together.”
Shipp, an attorney with more than 30 years of experience in wills, trusts and estate planning, said he works with families dealing with difficult situations when a loved one passes.
“They’re relying on their confidence in me,” Shipp said.
Shipp, who has worked in Southwest Florida since 1980, recently joined the Martin Law Firm’s principal office in Cape Coral. He said he’s very happy with the new affiliation.
“It’s very exciting to go from a history of a solo practice and small partnerships to an organization that’s a group practice where a client can get many services under one roof,” Shipp said.
The Martin Law Firm is run by husband and wife team Steven E. Martin and Eviana J. Martin. The firm also has offices in Fort Myers and Naples. Steven Martin said he’s glad to have Shipp’s level of experience added to his firm.
“Tom’s been in practice for 30 years and we haven’t,” Martin said. “It’s exciting for us to get Tom’s depth and breadth of experience.”
Eviana Martin agreed, adding, “It’s important to get someone with experience in wills and trusts.”
Shipp, who has been at the firm for almost two months, said with a laugh that he’s getting all the old man jokes in the office. He said that in some firms, lawyers can be territorial but at the Martin Law Firm it’s more like a family.
“What’s really impressed me here is Steve and Eviana created a tight team, working together and helping each other out. I think it’s very unique,” Shipp said.
Although he jokes around in the office, Shipp is serious about his profession. He said that he focuses on the needs of clients in order to gain their trust because they rely on him to make the proper arrangements. He said you don’t get that reassurance when you prepare the documents yourself on the Internet.
“I want to be here when a person decided I need an attorney for a will or a trust,” Shipp said. “It’s part of the ability (of the client) to sit down and get personal advice from someone you have confidence in. With us, you don’t get a printed set of directions, or a toll-free number to call, you get a person.”
Shipp said some of the hardest hurdles he has to overcome are documents that were not properly prepared and he said these documents often affect the family members who have been left behind.
“It’s not just about the money the people inherit based on those documents,” he said. “It’s about the relationship of the family and how conflict can tear those relationships apart or how this moment could bring people closer together.”
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Kids get gift of sight in combined effort
The Cape Coral Eye Center teamed up for a second year with the Lee County Salvation Army Christmas Cheer Program to give local children the gift of sight for the holiday season.
The center provided less-fortunate children with free refractive eye exams and glasses. The center gave away 20 pairs of glasses on Dec. 21 and another 30 to 40 pairs on Dec. 23. Some children who received the eye exams didn’t need prescription glasses.
Dr. Farrell Tyson, owner of Cape Coral Eye Center, said the goal was to help children who might not be able to get glasses otherwise.
“We decided to get involved with it because in our area we saw that the recession was hitting the families but more importantly the children,” Tyson said.
Russell Reider, resource management director for The Salvation Army, said the organization appreciates Cape Coral Eye Center’s efforts in helping needy children.
“If it wasn’t for them, there would be a lot of children who couldn’t afford eye exams,” Reider said.
The eye exams were done at Cape Coral Eye Center’s North Fort Myers office off Bayshore Road. Participants made appointments at the center and were seen by Dr. Jennifer Gallo, who specializes in pediatrics. After the exam, the children could pick out their favorite frames and the families will return soon to pick up their new glasses.
Gallo said that for some children this was their first eye exam. For Mari Kumar, 7, this was her first time getting her eyes checked. The shy second-grader said she wasn’t nervous going into the doctor’s office.
“I have good eyes,” she said.
Her mom, Laurie Kumar, waited patiently in the lobby. She said her family heard about the program through The Salvation Army.
“I have heard such great things about this eye center, I was very appreciative,” Kumar said.
Angel Moreno, 13, came with his dad because he needed a new prescription. The eighth-grader, who has been wearing glasses for three years, said the eye exam was a little difficult.
“It was a little bit hard to see the letters,” Moreno said.
He was hoping for a new pair of lenses in a black plastic frame.
Mark Geary, marketing manager for the center, said the program ran smoothly.
“Everybody seemed gracious that we’re doing this for the children and in a great mood,” said Mark Geary, marketing manager. “It’s a nice change of pace for the staff to be able to come in, work with children and give back to the community during the holiday season.”
Tyson had a similar feeling about giving back during the holidays.
“Christmas isn’t about getting, it’s the giving and it’s a great way to help out the community,” he said.
Tyson expects Cape Coral Eye Center to participate in the program in the coming years.
“Every year we’re learning how to be more efficient and help more people and I believe we will be able to continue to participate,” Tyson said.
The center provided less-fortunate children with free refractive eye exams and glasses. The center gave away 20 pairs of glasses on Dec. 21 and another 30 to 40 pairs on Dec. 23. Some children who received the eye exams didn’t need prescription glasses.
Dr. Farrell Tyson, owner of Cape Coral Eye Center, said the goal was to help children who might not be able to get glasses otherwise.
“We decided to get involved with it because in our area we saw that the recession was hitting the families but more importantly the children,” Tyson said.
Russell Reider, resource management director for The Salvation Army, said the organization appreciates Cape Coral Eye Center’s efforts in helping needy children.
“If it wasn’t for them, there would be a lot of children who couldn’t afford eye exams,” Reider said.
The eye exams were done at Cape Coral Eye Center’s North Fort Myers office off Bayshore Road. Participants made appointments at the center and were seen by Dr. Jennifer Gallo, who specializes in pediatrics. After the exam, the children could pick out their favorite frames and the families will return soon to pick up their new glasses.
Gallo said that for some children this was their first eye exam. For Mari Kumar, 7, this was her first time getting her eyes checked. The shy second-grader said she wasn’t nervous going into the doctor’s office.
“I have good eyes,” she said.
Her mom, Laurie Kumar, waited patiently in the lobby. She said her family heard about the program through The Salvation Army.
“I have heard such great things about this eye center, I was very appreciative,” Kumar said.
Angel Moreno, 13, came with his dad because he needed a new prescription. The eighth-grader, who has been wearing glasses for three years, said the eye exam was a little difficult.
“It was a little bit hard to see the letters,” Moreno said.
He was hoping for a new pair of lenses in a black plastic frame.
Mark Geary, marketing manager for the center, said the program ran smoothly.
“Everybody seemed gracious that we’re doing this for the children and in a great mood,” said Mark Geary, marketing manager. “It’s a nice change of pace for the staff to be able to come in, work with children and give back to the community during the holiday season.”
Tyson had a similar feeling about giving back during the holidays.
“Christmas isn’t about getting, it’s the giving and it’s a great way to help out the community,” he said.
Tyson expects Cape Coral Eye Center to participate in the program in the coming years.
“Every year we’re learning how to be more efficient and help more people and I believe we will be able to continue to participate,” Tyson said.
Santaland culitvates Christmas Spirit
hristmas carols poured through the speakers as visitors walked through a lighted tent filled with holiday figures. And that was only the beginning.
Once past the entry gate, guests hopped aboard Santaland’s very own polar express. The train, actually more of a hayride, drove visitors through an arch of twinkly Christmas lights and into Christmas town.
Santaland was a holiday experience in its third year, but the first year the operators paired with the City of Cape Coral’s Parks and Recreation Department. The event ran Dec. 20-23.
“It’s a great holiday experience for families and kids. We didn’t want it to not happen,” Todd King, special events coordinator for the department, said of the partnership.
He estimates that 5,000 people visited the park during the week it was open on the SunSplash property. Santaland operator Ryan Colmer said the event was created to bring something special to the area and that SunSplash was the perfect venue.
“It is a great, signature place to have it because everyone knows where SunSplash is in the county,” Colmer said.
This year, Santaland went through a few changes with fewer rides and more of a Christmas experience, according to King.
The park had a lighted enchanted forest filled with Christmas lights and holiday lighted figures that led guests into Christmas town. Claymation Christmas favorites played nightly on a big inflatable screen. A lighted, green tinsel tree was the park’s centerpiece.
Santaland also featured some kiddie rides, an arts-and-crafts tent and reindeer games for the children. The s’mores pit and a visit with Santa Claus were favorites among the crowd.
Leigh Tilman brought her family for a second year in a row. She said they returned because her children had so much fun last year.
“This year, there’s a lot less rides,” Tilman said. “They didn’t have the movie last year and I think they have more crafts this year.”
Her children Emily, 5, and Joey, 8, clad in red and green T-shirts, had a visit with Santa in his tent. Emily said she told Santa she hoped for a doll this Christmas, whereas Joey said he’s just excited to open presents on Christmas Day. His eyes lit up when he saw the large s’mores pit from across the park grounds.
The s’mores pit was continually packed and manned by volunteer elves who helped the children roast their own marshmallows. Families also enjoyed the arts-and-crafts tent and the reindeer games.
Volunteer Arinelle Lewis said the most popular reindeer game at her tent was by far the pin the nose on the Frosty game. Children were blindfolded and had to pin a carrot nose on the snowman.
“I think some of them can see but I’m not sure,” Lewis said, laughing.
After each game, the player wins a candy cane.
King said the city hopes to grow and expand the Santaland experience in the coming years. He said he wants to focus on the light displays and the tinsel tree centerpiece. King said the age the park is trying to reach is elementary school children.
“They believe in Santa and have the Christmas spirit in their hearts. Watching it in the children’s eyes is what it’s all about,” King said.
Once past the entry gate, guests hopped aboard Santaland’s very own polar express. The train, actually more of a hayride, drove visitors through an arch of twinkly Christmas lights and into Christmas town.
Santaland was a holiday experience in its third year, but the first year the operators paired with the City of Cape Coral’s Parks and Recreation Department. The event ran Dec. 20-23.
“It’s a great holiday experience for families and kids. We didn’t want it to not happen,” Todd King, special events coordinator for the department, said of the partnership.
He estimates that 5,000 people visited the park during the week it was open on the SunSplash property. Santaland operator Ryan Colmer said the event was created to bring something special to the area and that SunSplash was the perfect venue.
“It is a great, signature place to have it because everyone knows where SunSplash is in the county,” Colmer said.
This year, Santaland went through a few changes with fewer rides and more of a Christmas experience, according to King.
The park had a lighted enchanted forest filled with Christmas lights and holiday lighted figures that led guests into Christmas town. Claymation Christmas favorites played nightly on a big inflatable screen. A lighted, green tinsel tree was the park’s centerpiece.
Santaland also featured some kiddie rides, an arts-and-crafts tent and reindeer games for the children. The s’mores pit and a visit with Santa Claus were favorites among the crowd.
Leigh Tilman brought her family for a second year in a row. She said they returned because her children had so much fun last year.
“This year, there’s a lot less rides,” Tilman said. “They didn’t have the movie last year and I think they have more crafts this year.”
Her children Emily, 5, and Joey, 8, clad in red and green T-shirts, had a visit with Santa in his tent. Emily said she told Santa she hoped for a doll this Christmas, whereas Joey said he’s just excited to open presents on Christmas Day. His eyes lit up when he saw the large s’mores pit from across the park grounds.
The s’mores pit was continually packed and manned by volunteer elves who helped the children roast their own marshmallows. Families also enjoyed the arts-and-crafts tent and the reindeer games.
Volunteer Arinelle Lewis said the most popular reindeer game at her tent was by far the pin the nose on the Frosty game. Children were blindfolded and had to pin a carrot nose on the snowman.
“I think some of them can see but I’m not sure,” Lewis said, laughing.
After each game, the player wins a candy cane.
King said the city hopes to grow and expand the Santaland experience in the coming years. He said he wants to focus on the light displays and the tinsel tree centerpiece. King said the age the park is trying to reach is elementary school children.
“They believe in Santa and have the Christmas spirit in their hearts. Watching it in the children’s eyes is what it’s all about,” King said.
Almost every day someone new walks into Bill Hannong’s Amazing Tattoo Studio on Cape Coral Parkway.
Hannong said that since opening Dec. 12, he’s seen potential clients come into his new store and ask about his tattoo work. Hannong’s tattoo parlor is just one of the 54 businesses that have opened in or near downtown Cape Coral since July, according to the Cape Coral Community Redevelopment Agency.
John Jacobsen, executive director of the Cape Coral CRA, said these new businesses include three restaurants, five retail stores and 46 professional and personal services establishments. Jacobsen thinks this is a good sign for the Cape Coral economy.
“We believe we’ve turned a corner in the recession,” Jacobsen said.
He said he’s very encouraged about the progress downtown Cape Coral is experiencing.
“I think people are cautiously optimistic,” Jacobsen said. “2012 is going to be a much better year than last year.”
Hannong is also optimistic about the new year.
“Actually, for a new business it’s been doing relatively well,” Hannong said.
Hannong has been a tattoo artist for 35 years. He said many Cape Coral residents are loyal and that his clientele has followed him to his new venture. This isn’t a unique occurrence.
Jim Scully, owner of Upper Crust Pizzeria and Wine Bar on Del Prado Boulevard, said that many customers from his past restaurants have followed him to his new venue. Scully was a former owner of Sal’s Pizza Parlor and also owned the now closed Bella Sera restaurant. Upper Crust opened in October.
“We do have a following with the Sal’s and Bella Sera reputation,” Scully said.
Scully said that business has been slow starting in these times and in a favorable economy more people will come out and try what he has to offer. He said he’s trying to differentiate Upper Crust from other pizzerias in the area in order to bring in business.
“We tried to do a restaurant that did not feel like you were committed to have dinner but that’s more upscale than your typical Cape Coral style pizza joint,” Scully said.
Scully said he’s also having daily specials to bring customers in the door. Jen Velez, owner of Melux Hair Studio on Southeast 47th Terrace, is using online special deal websites in hopes of drumming up business for her new hair salon.
Melux, a full-service hair salon, opened in early December. Velez said the salon has done well during the holidays. Velez was a hairstylist at another Cape Coral salon for six years before opening her salon. She said that many of her clients followed her to the new location but she hopes that deal sites such as Groupon will help bring in new customers.
“It (the salon) just sells itself,” Velez said. “It’s what you make it. We’re looking forward to meeting new clients.”
Jacobsen said that it’s going to take a while for new businesses to get their engines running, but he’s hopeful. He remarked that driving into work he’s seen businesses with “now hiring” signs. He added that people are starting to patronize businesses again.
“They’re out spending — that’s a very healthy and good sign,” Jacobsen said.
Hannong said that since opening Dec. 12, he’s seen potential clients come into his new store and ask about his tattoo work. Hannong’s tattoo parlor is just one of the 54 businesses that have opened in or near downtown Cape Coral since July, according to the Cape Coral Community Redevelopment Agency.
John Jacobsen, executive director of the Cape Coral CRA, said these new businesses include three restaurants, five retail stores and 46 professional and personal services establishments. Jacobsen thinks this is a good sign for the Cape Coral economy.
“We believe we’ve turned a corner in the recession,” Jacobsen said.
He said he’s very encouraged about the progress downtown Cape Coral is experiencing.
“I think people are cautiously optimistic,” Jacobsen said. “2012 is going to be a much better year than last year.”
Hannong is also optimistic about the new year.
“Actually, for a new business it’s been doing relatively well,” Hannong said.
Hannong has been a tattoo artist for 35 years. He said many Cape Coral residents are loyal and that his clientele has followed him to his new venture. This isn’t a unique occurrence.
Jim Scully, owner of Upper Crust Pizzeria and Wine Bar on Del Prado Boulevard, said that many customers from his past restaurants have followed him to his new venue. Scully was a former owner of Sal’s Pizza Parlor and also owned the now closed Bella Sera restaurant. Upper Crust opened in October.
“We do have a following with the Sal’s and Bella Sera reputation,” Scully said.
Scully said that business has been slow starting in these times and in a favorable economy more people will come out and try what he has to offer. He said he’s trying to differentiate Upper Crust from other pizzerias in the area in order to bring in business.
“We tried to do a restaurant that did not feel like you were committed to have dinner but that’s more upscale than your typical Cape Coral style pizza joint,” Scully said.
Scully said he’s also having daily specials to bring customers in the door. Jen Velez, owner of Melux Hair Studio on Southeast 47th Terrace, is using online special deal websites in hopes of drumming up business for her new hair salon.
Melux, a full-service hair salon, opened in early December. Velez said the salon has done well during the holidays. Velez was a hairstylist at another Cape Coral salon for six years before opening her salon. She said that many of her clients followed her to the new location but she hopes that deal sites such as Groupon will help bring in new customers.
“It (the salon) just sells itself,” Velez said. “It’s what you make it. We’re looking forward to meeting new clients.”
Jacobsen said that it’s going to take a while for new businesses to get their engines running, but he’s hopeful. He remarked that driving into work he’s seen businesses with “now hiring” signs. He added that people are starting to patronize businesses again.
“They’re out spending — that’s a very healthy and good sign,” Jacobsen said.
Cooking Camp
A waft of cinnamon emanated through the kitchen along with bursts of children’s giggles. Tortillas were brushed with butter and sprinkled with cinnamon-sugar, prepped for a few minutes in the oven.
Seven children participated in the Cape Coral Yacht Club’s cooking camp, which ran from Dec. 26-30.
Every day of the camp brought a new recipe. The children learned to make flourless peanut butter cookies, savory and sweet pita chips and omelets in a bag. The week culminated with the children baking their own bread.
“It’s just teaching kids more or less some healthy snacks they can make for themselves,” said Christine Rogers, camp operator.
Rogers said the camp also teaches kitchen safety and kitchen sanitation, as well as having the kids learn about healthy choices.
“I’m learning a lot about healthy food,” said Anthony Onorevole, 8.
Rogers said the campers enjoyed themselves.
“The more hands-on, the more they seem to enjoy it,” she said.
The cooking camp was for children age 7 to 13.
“We don’t want them too young being around knives and hot stoves but too old and they aren’t interested,” Rogers said.
Tiana Osowski, 10, and Alexia Cedrone, 9, worked together on their pita chips, sprinkling the tortilla triangles with a spattering of garlic salt. The girls said they like to make things in the kitchen, especially brownies and cookies. They both said their favorite part of the camp was the omelets in a bag.
“You just put whatever you want in there and you shake it up,” Alexia said.
“Then you put it in boiling water,” Tiana chimed in.
The omelets were a favorite among the group and each one put in a different set of toppings. Rogers laid out ham, cheese, peppers, onions and tomatoes for the children to create their own special breakfast.
“Mine had cheese, ham and a little bit of onions,” said Tori McGary, 10.
Alexia giggled, saying hers had everything.
Rogers said the campers learned a lot about teamwork and worked together well in the kitchen. She said she purposefully made some ingredients scarce for the children to learn how to share and work in a group.
“The only day we didn’t work together was with the omelets,” she said.
The campers also created their own menus for fictional eateries. The room was filled with proprietors of bakeries, ice cream shops and Italian restaurants. Tiana’s menu consisted of food that was completely free, whereas Anthony’s menu was a little pricier.
“Mine wasn’t the cheapest,” he said. “It was mostly $1,100 and $2,000.”
Rogers said the boys were a little bit silly with their eateries while the girls really latched onto the idea.
The children finished off the cooking camp experience with the chance to make their own bread. The dough was prepped on a Thursday and rose overnight. That Friday, the kids kneaded the dough and baked their own loaves.
“They really like the mini-loaves of bread,” Rogers said. “The bread always smells so good when it’s cooking.”
Seven children participated in the Cape Coral Yacht Club’s cooking camp, which ran from Dec. 26-30.
Every day of the camp brought a new recipe. The children learned to make flourless peanut butter cookies, savory and sweet pita chips and omelets in a bag. The week culminated with the children baking their own bread.
“It’s just teaching kids more or less some healthy snacks they can make for themselves,” said Christine Rogers, camp operator.
Rogers said the camp also teaches kitchen safety and kitchen sanitation, as well as having the kids learn about healthy choices.
“I’m learning a lot about healthy food,” said Anthony Onorevole, 8.
Rogers said the campers enjoyed themselves.
“The more hands-on, the more they seem to enjoy it,” she said.
The cooking camp was for children age 7 to 13.
“We don’t want them too young being around knives and hot stoves but too old and they aren’t interested,” Rogers said.
Tiana Osowski, 10, and Alexia Cedrone, 9, worked together on their pita chips, sprinkling the tortilla triangles with a spattering of garlic salt. The girls said they like to make things in the kitchen, especially brownies and cookies. They both said their favorite part of the camp was the omelets in a bag.
“You just put whatever you want in there and you shake it up,” Alexia said.
“Then you put it in boiling water,” Tiana chimed in.
The omelets were a favorite among the group and each one put in a different set of toppings. Rogers laid out ham, cheese, peppers, onions and tomatoes for the children to create their own special breakfast.
“Mine had cheese, ham and a little bit of onions,” said Tori McGary, 10.
Alexia giggled, saying hers had everything.
Rogers said the campers learned a lot about teamwork and worked together well in the kitchen. She said she purposefully made some ingredients scarce for the children to learn how to share and work in a group.
“The only day we didn’t work together was with the omelets,” she said.
The campers also created their own menus for fictional eateries. The room was filled with proprietors of bakeries, ice cream shops and Italian restaurants. Tiana’s menu consisted of food that was completely free, whereas Anthony’s menu was a little pricier.
“Mine wasn’t the cheapest,” he said. “It was mostly $1,100 and $2,000.”
Rogers said the boys were a little bit silly with their eateries while the girls really latched onto the idea.
The children finished off the cooking camp experience with the chance to make their own bread. The dough was prepped on a Thursday and rose overnight. That Friday, the kids kneaded the dough and baked their own loaves.
“They really like the mini-loaves of bread,” Rogers said. “The bread always smells so good when it’s cooking.”
Learning about Nature
Some campers, knee-deep in mud and net in hand, dig around the oyster shell beds looking for tiny crabs.
Others turn their gaze to the murky calm water to catch minnows and other small fish with their homemade fishing poles.
“This is more fish feeding than fish catching,” Bridget Curry, head counselor, said laughing.
The campers, age 7 to 14, were participating in Rotary Park’s holiday nature camp. The camp, in its third year, aimed to teach children about the environment around them. The campers embarked on nature hikes, fish in the ponds and off the pier and make homemade nature crafts.
“The kids enjoy the ability to come out and be outdoors,” Curry said. “We do a lot of active stuff. We don’t sit around.”
The campers spend most of their time outside. On Dec. 29, the group embarked on a hike from the Rotary Park Environmental Center to the Glover Bight trail. Walking the trail, the children saw spiders spinning their intricate webs.
The tour ended at the pier, where the counselors encouraged the children to hop off the boardwalk and into the muck below.
“If it’s muddy that’s all the better for us,” Curry said. “We love to get muddy and yucky because most kids like messy. There’s no way around it.”
Once down in the dirt, the campers dug through the mud looking at tiny crabs, small clear shrimp and any other small marine life they could find. The campers also went fishing using English muffins as bait. Their homemade fishing poles were taped together. The poles were made out of sticks, had paper clips for hooks and fishing line. Some even used feathers to help catch the eye of a minnow.
Anonda Rapp, 11, said she was hoping to use something a little more substantial than bread as bait.
“I learned the fish like ham and cheese,” Anonda said. “When you put the ham in (the water) the sun fish go crazy.”
The fifth-grader said she was having a lot of fun at camp and would miss going outside once school resumed. Runa Chernik, 9, said she’d also miss the camp.
“My yard isn’t as fun,” she said.
Curry said she wanted the camp to focus on the old-fashioned values of having kids go outside and explore. The campers spent up to six hours out of an eight-hour day outside, either playing on the playground, around the pond or walking the various trails.
The nature camp concluded with a long hike through the park grounds.
“We basically follow the trail, then forage our way through the mangroves,” said Megan Fauci, assistant counselor. “Last year we got stuck in the mud up to our hips.”
Curry said the campers meander through the park, getting dirty, before eventually reaching the riverbed. Once they reach their destination, the campers start to explore the river.
This was Tre Cooper’s first time at the nature camp. The 10-year-old said he was excited to go on the hike.
“We’re going to hike for six hours and we don’t know where we’re going, it’s really fun,” Tre said.
Ethan Locklin, 9, was also looking forward to the adventure.
“I like going on the hikes,” he said, while trying to catch a crab in his small green net.
Ethan, a veteran camper, said his favorite part of the camp is getting messy and catching things.
Curry said the campers make up names for the areas they discover along their trek. She said there’s a beach named Monkeys and a part of the Rotary Park named Russia, according to the campers.
“We have very creative kids, it’s awesome,” Curry said.
Others turn their gaze to the murky calm water to catch minnows and other small fish with their homemade fishing poles.
“This is more fish feeding than fish catching,” Bridget Curry, head counselor, said laughing.
The campers, age 7 to 14, were participating in Rotary Park’s holiday nature camp. The camp, in its third year, aimed to teach children about the environment around them. The campers embarked on nature hikes, fish in the ponds and off the pier and make homemade nature crafts.
“The kids enjoy the ability to come out and be outdoors,” Curry said. “We do a lot of active stuff. We don’t sit around.”
The campers spend most of their time outside. On Dec. 29, the group embarked on a hike from the Rotary Park Environmental Center to the Glover Bight trail. Walking the trail, the children saw spiders spinning their intricate webs.
The tour ended at the pier, where the counselors encouraged the children to hop off the boardwalk and into the muck below.
“If it’s muddy that’s all the better for us,” Curry said. “We love to get muddy and yucky because most kids like messy. There’s no way around it.”
Once down in the dirt, the campers dug through the mud looking at tiny crabs, small clear shrimp and any other small marine life they could find. The campers also went fishing using English muffins as bait. Their homemade fishing poles were taped together. The poles were made out of sticks, had paper clips for hooks and fishing line. Some even used feathers to help catch the eye of a minnow.
Anonda Rapp, 11, said she was hoping to use something a little more substantial than bread as bait.
“I learned the fish like ham and cheese,” Anonda said. “When you put the ham in (the water) the sun fish go crazy.”
The fifth-grader said she was having a lot of fun at camp and would miss going outside once school resumed. Runa Chernik, 9, said she’d also miss the camp.
“My yard isn’t as fun,” she said.
Curry said she wanted the camp to focus on the old-fashioned values of having kids go outside and explore. The campers spent up to six hours out of an eight-hour day outside, either playing on the playground, around the pond or walking the various trails.
The nature camp concluded with a long hike through the park grounds.
“We basically follow the trail, then forage our way through the mangroves,” said Megan Fauci, assistant counselor. “Last year we got stuck in the mud up to our hips.”
Curry said the campers meander through the park, getting dirty, before eventually reaching the riverbed. Once they reach their destination, the campers start to explore the river.
This was Tre Cooper’s first time at the nature camp. The 10-year-old said he was excited to go on the hike.
“We’re going to hike for six hours and we don’t know where we’re going, it’s really fun,” Tre said.
Ethan Locklin, 9, was also looking forward to the adventure.
“I like going on the hikes,” he said, while trying to catch a crab in his small green net.
Ethan, a veteran camper, said his favorite part of the camp is getting messy and catching things.
Curry said the campers make up names for the areas they discover along their trek. She said there’s a beach named Monkeys and a part of the Rotary Park named Russia, according to the campers.
“We have very creative kids, it’s awesome,” Curry said.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Lifeline Family Center: Help for moms
Katherina Gonzalez, 19, said she never really got excited about Christmas before this year. Sitting near her 10-month-old Mila’s high chair clutching an accounting textbook, she talks about how her excitement for Christmas has changed.
“Now I have a reason to be excited,” she said. “It’s the birth of Christ so you have that spirit and with the baby it’s so much fun.”
This is Gonzalez’s first Christmas as a new mother and her second at Lifeline Family Center.
Lifeline is a charity that supports and houses unwed mothers and is home away from home for many young women this holiday season, most left with nowhere to go after they became pregnant.
This holiday, local churches have stepped in to help fulfill these women’s holiday wish-lists. For many, this is their first Christmas with their child as a new mother.
“We have been blessed with a ton of donations for the girls and the babies,” said assistant director Jenna Steffel. “With the little ones they really get into the spirit.”
Lifeline’s lobby is decorated with a Christmas tree and angel ornaments. Its conference room is filled with donated toys and baby items for the families living in the center.
Some of those items will be wrapped and stored under the tree for baby Mila. This is her first Christmas. Gonzalez said Mila’s first visit by Santa Claus was not a happy experience for the 10-month-old.
“She didn’t like him,” she said laughing. “She wouldn’t stop crying. She didn’t like him at all.”
Right now, Lifeline is hosting 11 women, with three expecting, and 11 babies. Some of the young women came in with toddlers. Gonzalez has been living at the center for about 15 months.
“When I got pregnant, I went to this clinic,” Gonzalez said. “I didn’t know what to do.”
She said a nurse at the clinic told her about the Lifeline program.
“She told me about it and it was like a miracle,” Gonzalez said.
During the year, the center provides food and shelter while encouraging the young women to continue their education. Once the baby is born, the new family stays at the center and is welcome until their child’s second birthday.
“So they can build a better life for them and their baby,” Steffel said. “It’s a personal journey. They become more focused on their schooling, then going out into the real world.”
Since being at the center, Gonzalez has obtained her GED and is now in an accounting program.
“I never thought I’d be good at math,” Gonzalez said. “I just started liking it and got better and better at it.”
Steffel said one of Lifeline’s main goals is the women’s education and that all are working for their GED or a program in higher education.
Steffel said a center this size could not operate without support and she said they have about 70 to 80 volunteers. They assist with everything from working in the nursery, to tutoring, to helping with mailings and promotional items .
Volunteer Dee Schuster has been working with the center since last March .
She said the nursery has touched her heart and that’s where she spends the most time. “It’s where I want to be. When I started, there were three kids but now there are 11,” Schuster said. “It’s a full house.”
“Now I have a reason to be excited,” she said. “It’s the birth of Christ so you have that spirit and with the baby it’s so much fun.”
This is Gonzalez’s first Christmas as a new mother and her second at Lifeline Family Center.
Lifeline is a charity that supports and houses unwed mothers and is home away from home for many young women this holiday season, most left with nowhere to go after they became pregnant.
This holiday, local churches have stepped in to help fulfill these women’s holiday wish-lists. For many, this is their first Christmas with their child as a new mother.
“We have been blessed with a ton of donations for the girls and the babies,” said assistant director Jenna Steffel. “With the little ones they really get into the spirit.”
Lifeline’s lobby is decorated with a Christmas tree and angel ornaments. Its conference room is filled with donated toys and baby items for the families living in the center.
Some of those items will be wrapped and stored under the tree for baby Mila. This is her first Christmas. Gonzalez said Mila’s first visit by Santa Claus was not a happy experience for the 10-month-old.
“She didn’t like him,” she said laughing. “She wouldn’t stop crying. She didn’t like him at all.”
Right now, Lifeline is hosting 11 women, with three expecting, and 11 babies. Some of the young women came in with toddlers. Gonzalez has been living at the center for about 15 months.
“When I got pregnant, I went to this clinic,” Gonzalez said. “I didn’t know what to do.”
She said a nurse at the clinic told her about the Lifeline program.
“She told me about it and it was like a miracle,” Gonzalez said.
During the year, the center provides food and shelter while encouraging the young women to continue their education. Once the baby is born, the new family stays at the center and is welcome until their child’s second birthday.
“So they can build a better life for them and their baby,” Steffel said. “It’s a personal journey. They become more focused on their schooling, then going out into the real world.”
Since being at the center, Gonzalez has obtained her GED and is now in an accounting program.
“I never thought I’d be good at math,” Gonzalez said. “I just started liking it and got better and better at it.”
Steffel said one of Lifeline’s main goals is the women’s education and that all are working for their GED or a program in higher education.
Steffel said a center this size could not operate without support and she said they have about 70 to 80 volunteers. They assist with everything from working in the nursery, to tutoring, to helping with mailings and promotional items .
Volunteer Dee Schuster has been working with the center since last March .
She said the nursery has touched her heart and that’s where she spends the most time. “It’s where I want to be. When I started, there were three kids but now there are 11,” Schuster said. “It’s a full house.”
Friday, December 23, 2011
Cape police officers help children with gifts
Cape Coral 10-year-old Arrissa Kubis was on a Christmas mission to find the perfect gift for her mother.
Equipped with an empty shopping cart and a Santa hat, she searched the jewelry section of the Walmart on Del Prado Boulevard looking for the perfect bauble.
Arrissa was one of the 35 children given opportunity to shop for free at the ninth annual Cape Coral Police Department’s Shop with a Cop event Thursday.
Arrissa’s eyes lit up when she found the perfect pair of earrings for her mom. She also picked up a sketchbook and a paint-by-numbers set to be placed under the tree for herself to open on Christmas day. She was accompanied by Cape Coral Police Chief Jay Murphy on her hour-long shopping spree.
“It was easy,” said Cape Coral Police Chief Jay Murphy, who was chaperoning her. “She knew what she wanted; she’s very pragmatic. I think we did it in record time.”
Each child roamed the aisles with an officer looking for toys and gifts, not just for themselves but also for their families. The department said 178 family members will be impacted by the gifts.
The morning started with officers picking up the children at their homes and taking them to breakfast at Perkins restaurant. After breakfast, the children received gift cards provided by Walmart and Capital Bank and were then free to roam the store with their officer. Murphy said most of the children don’t spend all the money on toys but instead focus on clothes, shoes or other necessities for their families.
“Quite often, most of these children stick to the basics,” he said.
For Arrissa, she said her favorite part of the shopping was buying for others, and she wasn’t alone. Eleven-year-old Payton Johns bought presents for her mother and grandmother.
“But first, I’m shopping for me,” she said, laughing, in the toy aisle.
Payton said the first thing she wanted to check off her list was Play-Doh.
The holiday shopping is as much fun for the officers as it is for the children.
“I try to do this every year I can,” said detective Alisha McDonald. “The kids are awesome, and I like being able to shop with them and help their families. I do it for them more than anything.”
Deputy Chief Bart Connelly shares the same sentiment.
“It’s a part of what we do as police officers. It’s giving,” Connelly said. “It’s helping others, who’re less fortunate, to have a good Christmas.”
After the shopping, the children went back to the police station to wrap their gifts and have a pizza party.
The children were scurrying around the wrapping room helping to pick out gift wrap for their family’s gifts. Murphy said what he likes most about the day is the transformation of the childrens’ demeanor.
“When they show up at eight in the morning you have to pry the words out of them. Now, they’re running around smiling,” he said.
Equipped with an empty shopping cart and a Santa hat, she searched the jewelry section of the Walmart on Del Prado Boulevard looking for the perfect bauble.
Arrissa was one of the 35 children given opportunity to shop for free at the ninth annual Cape Coral Police Department’s Shop with a Cop event Thursday.
Arrissa’s eyes lit up when she found the perfect pair of earrings for her mom. She also picked up a sketchbook and a paint-by-numbers set to be placed under the tree for herself to open on Christmas day. She was accompanied by Cape Coral Police Chief Jay Murphy on her hour-long shopping spree.
“It was easy,” said Cape Coral Police Chief Jay Murphy, who was chaperoning her. “She knew what she wanted; she’s very pragmatic. I think we did it in record time.”
Each child roamed the aisles with an officer looking for toys and gifts, not just for themselves but also for their families. The department said 178 family members will be impacted by the gifts.
The morning started with officers picking up the children at their homes and taking them to breakfast at Perkins restaurant. After breakfast, the children received gift cards provided by Walmart and Capital Bank and were then free to roam the store with their officer. Murphy said most of the children don’t spend all the money on toys but instead focus on clothes, shoes or other necessities for their families.
“Quite often, most of these children stick to the basics,” he said.
For Arrissa, she said her favorite part of the shopping was buying for others, and she wasn’t alone. Eleven-year-old Payton Johns bought presents for her mother and grandmother.
“But first, I’m shopping for me,” she said, laughing, in the toy aisle.
Payton said the first thing she wanted to check off her list was Play-Doh.
The holiday shopping is as much fun for the officers as it is for the children.
“I try to do this every year I can,” said detective Alisha McDonald. “The kids are awesome, and I like being able to shop with them and help their families. I do it for them more than anything.”
Deputy Chief Bart Connelly shares the same sentiment.
“It’s a part of what we do as police officers. It’s giving,” Connelly said. “It’s helping others, who’re less fortunate, to have a good Christmas.”
After the shopping, the children went back to the police station to wrap their gifts and have a pizza party.
The children were scurrying around the wrapping room helping to pick out gift wrap for their family’s gifts. Murphy said what he likes most about the day is the transformation of the childrens’ demeanor.
“When they show up at eight in the morning you have to pry the words out of them. Now, they’re running around smiling,” he said.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Cape Coral builders group chips in
The city of Cape Coral’s Special Populations program received an early holiday donation from the Cape Coral Construction Industry Association on Wednesday.
The association donated more than $2,000 worth of paper goods, baby wipes, cleaning supplies and arts and crafts supplies to the Special Populations program.
“They needed some assistance and I couldn’t think of a better organization that needed the help,” said Jeremy Johnson, CCCIA president.
Special Populations is a part of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department and provides people with developmental disabilities a variety of programs aimed to help promote independence and life skills. The program has around 100 participants who attend five days a week. Program activities including art and music therapy, job skills training and social and life skills.
The donations were off Special Populations’ “needs list” that was circulated to CCCIA members through email and at meetings.
“Their members really rallied and came through with donations this year and last year,” said Sara Sansone, Special Populations supervisor. “It’s nice they continued this year as well. We’re pleased with our new partnership.”
This year, the association also had a holiday luncheon of turkey with all the fixings at the Special Populations center. Members interacted with program participants sharing laughs and conversation.
“It was their idea to spend lunch with us,” Sansone said. “(They’re) getting to know them and seeing some of their needs.”
Johnson said he first met with the Special Population participants at a city leadership program and spent time at the center. He said that experience helped him to decide to have a CCCIA donation drive to help Special Populations.
“We got to meet them and it was really enlightening,” Johnson said.
The association is looking to make this donation drive an annual event and they hope to work with the center on future construction projects.
“I’m looking forward to carrying out the tradition,” said incoming vice president Anthony Greco Jr. “To help them out and raise awareness to what the city is doing with this great program.”
The association donated more than $2,000 worth of paper goods, baby wipes, cleaning supplies and arts and crafts supplies to the Special Populations program.
“They needed some assistance and I couldn’t think of a better organization that needed the help,” said Jeremy Johnson, CCCIA president.
Special Populations is a part of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department and provides people with developmental disabilities a variety of programs aimed to help promote independence and life skills. The program has around 100 participants who attend five days a week. Program activities including art and music therapy, job skills training and social and life skills.
The donations were off Special Populations’ “needs list” that was circulated to CCCIA members through email and at meetings.
“Their members really rallied and came through with donations this year and last year,” said Sara Sansone, Special Populations supervisor. “It’s nice they continued this year as well. We’re pleased with our new partnership.”
This year, the association also had a holiday luncheon of turkey with all the fixings at the Special Populations center. Members interacted with program participants sharing laughs and conversation.
“It was their idea to spend lunch with us,” Sansone said. “(They’re) getting to know them and seeing some of their needs.”
Johnson said he first met with the Special Population participants at a city leadership program and spent time at the center. He said that experience helped him to decide to have a CCCIA donation drive to help Special Populations.
“We got to meet them and it was really enlightening,” Johnson said.
The association is looking to make this donation drive an annual event and they hope to work with the center on future construction projects.
“I’m looking forward to carrying out the tradition,” said incoming vice president Anthony Greco Jr. “To help them out and raise awareness to what the city is doing with this great program.”
Monday, October 17, 2011
Building a Mystery
Contemporary art goes live at the inaugural Wynwood Art Fair, Oct. 21-23, taking over N.W. Sixth Ave. between 23rd and 29th Streets. Internationally acclaimed artists, from all over the world and working in a variety of mediums, aim to create spontaneous works as they invite fairgoers to become a part of the creative process. The proceeds benefit Lotus House, a non-profit organization that aims to provide housing for homeless women and children. Come get artistic! Here are some of the weekend's can't-miss happenings…
VIP Launch Party, Oct. 21
Guests mingle with artists and sponsors at the Margulies Art Warehouse for the Opening Night VIP Launch Party. The event features a live Sotheby's Benefit Art Auction. Tickets $500. 591 NW 27th St.
Performance Pieces, Oct. 21-23
Performance pieces litter the street during the weekend. Be on the lookout Friday and Sunday for "Magic, Luck and Friendship!" an installation by Samuel Borkson and Arturo Sandoval III of Friends With You. These brightly colored inflatable figures will parade through the streets of Wynwood putting smiles on the most skeptical of fairgoers.
Others to watch for…
New York-based artist Ellen Fisher is sure to please with whimsy. Fisher will create a relaxing story-salon at which fairgoers will be absorbed into a world visualizing classic stories that emphasize the heart.
The Intimacies Project is an ongoing collaboration between Marinov Dance and Red Dress Films. This multimedia event features dancers expressing the emotions of love to the sound of original music and poetry.
Collectors Brunch, Oct. 23
The final day of the fair will feature a special Collectors Brunch presented by Paramount Bay in the VIP lounge. Champagne will be poured while guests are privy to exclusive performances. Mingling is strongly encouraged. Tickets $150.
Fair hours are from 10AM to 6PM. General admission $10. N.W. Sixth Ave. between 23rd and 29th Streets, wynwoodartfair.org
This article was published online for Miami Magazine
VIP Launch Party, Oct. 21
Guests mingle with artists and sponsors at the Margulies Art Warehouse for the Opening Night VIP Launch Party. The event features a live Sotheby's Benefit Art Auction. Tickets $500. 591 NW 27th St.
Performance Pieces, Oct. 21-23
Performance pieces litter the street during the weekend. Be on the lookout Friday and Sunday for "Magic, Luck and Friendship!" an installation by Samuel Borkson and Arturo Sandoval III of Friends With You. These brightly colored inflatable figures will parade through the streets of Wynwood putting smiles on the most skeptical of fairgoers.
Others to watch for…
New York-based artist Ellen Fisher is sure to please with whimsy. Fisher will create a relaxing story-salon at which fairgoers will be absorbed into a world visualizing classic stories that emphasize the heart.
The Intimacies Project is an ongoing collaboration between Marinov Dance and Red Dress Films. This multimedia event features dancers expressing the emotions of love to the sound of original music and poetry.
Collectors Brunch, Oct. 23
The final day of the fair will feature a special Collectors Brunch presented by Paramount Bay in the VIP lounge. Champagne will be poured while guests are privy to exclusive performances. Mingling is strongly encouraged. Tickets $150.
Fair hours are from 10AM to 6PM. General admission $10. N.W. Sixth Ave. between 23rd and 29th Streets, wynwoodartfair.org
This article was published online for Miami Magazine
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Miami Spice
Filet Mignon with creamy béarnaise sauce, seared red snapper with a leek ragout, lavender crème brulee and chocolate soufflé grace the tables of the chicest restaurants in Miami.
For the average college student the thought of a gourmet dinner is food porn. However, now until September 30th Miami is celebrating Miami Spice, the city’s restaurant month.
The event is organized by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau and the restaurants are grouped into four districts. The event offers three-course fixed-price meals at some of Miami’s best restaurants including South Beach, Midtown, Coral Gables and Coconut Grove.
This year is the event’s 10th anniversary and Jennifer Diaz, associate vice president of Media Relations & Promotions for bureau said in an email that this year is more exciting than ever with 142 restaurants participating. She said it’s a great way to try new restaurants.
“Miami Spice is an excellent opportunity to venture out and explore a new culinary experience with minimal risk because of the discounted rate,” Diaz said. “The program makes a foodie out of anyone.”
“It’s cool because it’s fancier food,” senior Sabrina Ginete said. “It’s nice for an average college student, who’s a little broke, to experience fine dining.”
Ginete went to El Gran Inka in Brickell last week with friends for dinner. She said the menu was amazing.
The Miami Spice menu is only $22 for lunch and $35 for dinner, perfect for students with tight budgets. A word of caution-- not all restaurants participate for both meals and some do not include weekends. It’s best to explore the extensive website of restaurants and menus to find what your taste buds are lusting after.
“I think it’s a great opportunity to try different restaurants,” senior Asha Agrawal said. “Since they have the restaurant list I’m more likely to try a restaurant I wouldn’t have known about.”
She said she plans on going to BLT Steak in South Beach with some friends. Their menu features an heirloom tomato and watermelon salad as a starter. Diners can chose between top sirloin and yellowtail snapper for their main course.
Junior Nicholas Taubes agreed “The best dinners at cheap prices is the best thing that a student could ask for. A lot of these restaurants would have remained completely foreign if it hadn’t have been for these promotions.”
Over 100 restaurants are participating this year, from steak houses to sushi restaurants to tapas bars. The Miami Hurricane found some sure bets for a great meal.
The Royal at the Raleigh Hotel- The Royal serves up American fare with elegant presentation. Miami Spice diners can sample duck breast with morels while overlooking the Raleigh’s baroque pool. The Royal is participating weekdays for lunch. The special dinner menu is available Sunday through Thursday. 1775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. 305-612-1163.
Mercadito Midtown- Mercadito’s Miami Spice menu is perfect for groups. Diners chose different tacos, ceviches, guacamole and desserts for the table while those over 21 sip an included cocktail. The lunch and dinner menus are the same so go midday for ultimate savings. The Miami Spice menu is available weekdays for lunch and every day for dinner. 3252 NE 1st Ave., Midtown. 786-369-0430.
Red Koi Thai and Sushi Lounge- Red Koi is located on Miracle Mile and is known for it’s Asian fusion and specialty sushi rolls. Miami Spice diners can chose from lemongrass chicken, short ribs of the Havana roll for their main course. The menu is available for lunch and dinner Sunday through Thursday. 317 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. 305-446-2690.
Shula’s 347 Grill- This restaurant is perfect for freshman, it’s walking distance from campus. A 12 ounce flat iron steak with chimmichurri is on the menu along with grilled salmon and tenderloin tips. Dessert is capped off with cheesecake or key lime pie. The Miami Spice menu is available for both lunch and dinner weekdays. 6901 Red Road, Coral Gables. 305-665-9661.
For the average college student the thought of a gourmet dinner is food porn. However, now until September 30th Miami is celebrating Miami Spice, the city’s restaurant month.
The event is organized by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau and the restaurants are grouped into four districts. The event offers three-course fixed-price meals at some of Miami’s best restaurants including South Beach, Midtown, Coral Gables and Coconut Grove.
This year is the event’s 10th anniversary and Jennifer Diaz, associate vice president of Media Relations & Promotions for bureau said in an email that this year is more exciting than ever with 142 restaurants participating. She said it’s a great way to try new restaurants.
“Miami Spice is an excellent opportunity to venture out and explore a new culinary experience with minimal risk because of the discounted rate,” Diaz said. “The program makes a foodie out of anyone.”
“It’s cool because it’s fancier food,” senior Sabrina Ginete said. “It’s nice for an average college student, who’s a little broke, to experience fine dining.”
Ginete went to El Gran Inka in Brickell last week with friends for dinner. She said the menu was amazing.
The Miami Spice menu is only $22 for lunch and $35 for dinner, perfect for students with tight budgets. A word of caution-- not all restaurants participate for both meals and some do not include weekends. It’s best to explore the extensive website of restaurants and menus to find what your taste buds are lusting after.
“I think it’s a great opportunity to try different restaurants,” senior Asha Agrawal said. “Since they have the restaurant list I’m more likely to try a restaurant I wouldn’t have known about.”
She said she plans on going to BLT Steak in South Beach with some friends. Their menu features an heirloom tomato and watermelon salad as a starter. Diners can chose between top sirloin and yellowtail snapper for their main course.
Junior Nicholas Taubes agreed “The best dinners at cheap prices is the best thing that a student could ask for. A lot of these restaurants would have remained completely foreign if it hadn’t have been for these promotions.”
Over 100 restaurants are participating this year, from steak houses to sushi restaurants to tapas bars. The Miami Hurricane found some sure bets for a great meal.
The Royal at the Raleigh Hotel- The Royal serves up American fare with elegant presentation. Miami Spice diners can sample duck breast with morels while overlooking the Raleigh’s baroque pool. The Royal is participating weekdays for lunch. The special dinner menu is available Sunday through Thursday. 1775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. 305-612-1163.
Mercadito Midtown- Mercadito’s Miami Spice menu is perfect for groups. Diners chose different tacos, ceviches, guacamole and desserts for the table while those over 21 sip an included cocktail. The lunch and dinner menus are the same so go midday for ultimate savings. The Miami Spice menu is available weekdays for lunch and every day for dinner. 3252 NE 1st Ave., Midtown. 786-369-0430.
Red Koi Thai and Sushi Lounge- Red Koi is located on Miracle Mile and is known for it’s Asian fusion and specialty sushi rolls. Miami Spice diners can chose from lemongrass chicken, short ribs of the Havana roll for their main course. The menu is available for lunch and dinner Sunday through Thursday. 317 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. 305-446-2690.
Shula’s 347 Grill- This restaurant is perfect for freshman, it’s walking distance from campus. A 12 ounce flat iron steak with chimmichurri is on the menu along with grilled salmon and tenderloin tips. Dessert is capped off with cheesecake or key lime pie. The Miami Spice menu is available for both lunch and dinner weekdays. 6901 Red Road, Coral Gables. 305-665-9661.
Friday, August 19, 2011
More here take ACT, but their scores fall
More Southwest Florida students than ever are taking the ACT, but scores are declining and falling below state and national averages.
Some 3,073 Lee County seniors took the college aptitude test last year, 367 more than in the previous year, a 13.5 percent increase.
The rise can be attributed to a plan the district started two years ago that registers all seniors for the ACT who have not completed Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test requirements.
"In this past year's class we had about 200 graduates based on ACT scores who didn't pass the FCAT," said Richard Itzen, director of accountability for the Lee County School District. "Two hundred who were able to get their diploma."
Lee County's composite score, an average of the four subject
tests, declined a tenth of a percentage point to 18.9. ACT scores are broken down into four subject areas: English, reading, math and science reasoning, with a scale of 1 to 36.
The statewide composite score was 19.6; the national composite score was 21.1.
"It's all relative," Itzen said. "Eighteen or 19 is probably a low score if you're wanting to get into a selective college. If you want to satisfy the graduation requirements a 19 would do it."
Erin Harrel, dean of the school of education at Edison State College, said the dip in scores makes sense with students taking the ACT without having passed the FCAT.
"If they didn't do well on one test it's probable they won't do well on the other test," she said.
Harrel said the data would have to be examined further to see a true correlation in scores.
The ACT scores to graduate in 2010-11 are 18 for reading and 15 for math. The county's average for reading and math are 19.7 and 19.0, respectively.
Charlotte County also has seen student participation in the ACT increase. Some 810 seniors took the test last year, and Michael Riley, manager of adult education for Charlotte schools, said in a press release that more than 300 Charlotte students who had not passed parts of the FCAT graduated because of their ACT score. The mean composite score for the Charlotte County School District was 20.5.
Collier County schools had 61.5 percent of the graduating class, or 1,778 students, take the ACT and the district achieved a mean composite score of 19.5. More information about Collier's scores will be released this morning, according to Joe Landon, executive director of communications and community engagement for Collier schools.
Florida's composite score of 19.6 ties the state with Kentucky for 48th place in the nation. Only Tennessee and Mississippi achieved lower scores.
Comparisons between states can be difficult. Some states require the test of all high school students while in others, the test is generally limited to high-achieving students with an eye on attending the most selective colleges.
Florida's participation ranked higher than many states. In all, 117,575 graduates took the test. That's 66 percent of the graduating class, ranking 22nd nationally.
All told, 49 percent of the nation's high school seniors took the ACT last year.
- The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Southwest Florida Scores
- Charlotte County: 20.5
- Collier County: 19.5
- Lee County: 18.9
Some 3,073 Lee County seniors took the college aptitude test last year, 367 more than in the previous year, a 13.5 percent increase.
The rise can be attributed to a plan the district started two years ago that registers all seniors for the ACT who have not completed Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test requirements.
"In this past year's class we had about 200 graduates based on ACT scores who didn't pass the FCAT," said Richard Itzen, director of accountability for the Lee County School District. "Two hundred who were able to get their diploma."
Lee County's composite score, an average of the four subject
tests, declined a tenth of a percentage point to 18.9. ACT scores are broken down into four subject areas: English, reading, math and science reasoning, with a scale of 1 to 36.
The statewide composite score was 19.6; the national composite score was 21.1.
"It's all relative," Itzen said. "Eighteen or 19 is probably a low score if you're wanting to get into a selective college. If you want to satisfy the graduation requirements a 19 would do it."
Erin Harrel, dean of the school of education at Edison State College, said the dip in scores makes sense with students taking the ACT without having passed the FCAT.
"If they didn't do well on one test it's probable they won't do well on the other test," she said.
Harrel said the data would have to be examined further to see a true correlation in scores.
The ACT scores to graduate in 2010-11 are 18 for reading and 15 for math. The county's average for reading and math are 19.7 and 19.0, respectively.
Charlotte County also has seen student participation in the ACT increase. Some 810 seniors took the test last year, and Michael Riley, manager of adult education for Charlotte schools, said in a press release that more than 300 Charlotte students who had not passed parts of the FCAT graduated because of their ACT score. The mean composite score for the Charlotte County School District was 20.5.
Collier County schools had 61.5 percent of the graduating class, or 1,778 students, take the ACT and the district achieved a mean composite score of 19.5. More information about Collier's scores will be released this morning, according to Joe Landon, executive director of communications and community engagement for Collier schools.
Florida's composite score of 19.6 ties the state with Kentucky for 48th place in the nation. Only Tennessee and Mississippi achieved lower scores.
Comparisons between states can be difficult. Some states require the test of all high school students while in others, the test is generally limited to high-achieving students with an eye on attending the most selective colleges.
Florida's participation ranked higher than many states. In all, 117,575 graduates took the test. That's 66 percent of the graduating class, ranking 22nd nationally.
All told, 49 percent of the nation's high school seniors took the ACT last year.
- The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Southwest Florida Scores
- Charlotte County: 20.5
- Collier County: 19.5
- Lee County: 18.9
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Celebrity Chef Night supports charity for children with cancer
Three hundred guests walked the grounds of Rumrunners in Cape Harbour on Wednesday night, sampling fine dining and bidding in live and silent auctions.
It was all to raise money for Barbara's Friends, a charity dedicated to helping children with cancer.
The eighth annual Celebrity Chef Night featured culinary talent from across the area, including Chefs Todd Johnson and Ralph Centalonza of Rumrunners and The Joint, Chef Fabrizio Aielli of Sea Salt, Chef Harold Balink of Cru, Norman Love of Norman Love Confections and culinary teams from Yabo and Chef Brooke's Natural Cafe.
"People were here before 5 o'clock because it's so popular," said Duane Higgins with the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation. "The quality of the chefs, the food, the wine. ... It's a fun night."
The foundation and Johnson have helped plan the event since 2004. Johnson said the foundation approached him wanting to do a benefit dinner with celebrity waiters.
Barbara's Friends is part of the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation. The charity - named in honor of Barbara Haskell, who died of breast cancer at 32 - is dedicated to providing local treatment for children with cancer at The Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida.
To make a donation, call 343-6950 or visit leememorial.org/foundation and click on Barbara's Friends to learn about donating online.
Instead, he modeled the event after a benefit he attended in Aspen, Colo.
Guests at Rumrunners went from station to station in three different rooms sampling scallops, beef tenderloin, tuna and chocolate bread pudding. They mingled and meandered through the restaurant while sipping on wine and top-shelf liquor.
Johnson said last year, the night raised $48,000 for Barbara's Friends, and this year's goal is $60,000.
This year, the night had its first Child of Hope. Caliah Russell, 4, was all smiles decorating cookies and eating vegetable scones during the event.
"She went straight for the Norman Love chocolate," joked Caliah's mom, Mindy Russell.
Caliah has acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She has recently gone into remission, but still needs about 15 months of treatment. She has just started voluntary prekindergarten and resides in Cape Coral.
Russell said it's an honor Caliah was chosen.
Emad Salman, medical director of the Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida and the oncology center, said treatment of ill children often creates huge demands financially and emotionally.
"Events like this help build facilities, help pay for some of the expenses and make sure we can take care of every patient and not turn one away," Salman said.
He said Barbara's Friends and the hospital have a symbiotic relationship.
"We can't survive without the other," Salman said.
It was all to raise money for Barbara's Friends, a charity dedicated to helping children with cancer.
The eighth annual Celebrity Chef Night featured culinary talent from across the area, including Chefs Todd Johnson and Ralph Centalonza of Rumrunners and The Joint, Chef Fabrizio Aielli of Sea Salt, Chef Harold Balink of Cru, Norman Love of Norman Love Confections and culinary teams from Yabo and Chef Brooke's Natural Cafe.
"People were here before 5 o'clock because it's so popular," said Duane Higgins with the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation. "The quality of the chefs, the food, the wine. ... It's a fun night."
The foundation and Johnson have helped plan the event since 2004. Johnson said the foundation approached him wanting to do a benefit dinner with celebrity waiters.
Barbara's Friends is part of the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation. The charity - named in honor of Barbara Haskell, who died of breast cancer at 32 - is dedicated to providing local treatment for children with cancer at The Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida.
To make a donation, call 343-6950 or visit leememorial.org/foundation and click on Barbara's Friends to learn about donating online.
Instead, he modeled the event after a benefit he attended in Aspen, Colo.
Guests at Rumrunners went from station to station in three different rooms sampling scallops, beef tenderloin, tuna and chocolate bread pudding. They mingled and meandered through the restaurant while sipping on wine and top-shelf liquor.
Johnson said last year, the night raised $48,000 for Barbara's Friends, and this year's goal is $60,000.
This year, the night had its first Child of Hope. Caliah Russell, 4, was all smiles decorating cookies and eating vegetable scones during the event.
"She went straight for the Norman Love chocolate," joked Caliah's mom, Mindy Russell.
Caliah has acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She has recently gone into remission, but still needs about 15 months of treatment. She has just started voluntary prekindergarten and resides in Cape Coral.
Russell said it's an honor Caliah was chosen.
Emad Salman, medical director of the Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida and the oncology center, said treatment of ill children often creates huge demands financially and emotionally.
"Events like this help build facilities, help pay for some of the expenses and make sure we can take care of every patient and not turn one away," Salman said.
He said Barbara's Friends and the hospital have a symbiotic relationship.
"We can't survive without the other," Salman said.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Making pizza spices up kids' lives in Cape Coral
Dough was tossed, toppings were placed, pizza was cooked and kids snacked with a smile.
Three children from the Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida received a welcome from Chef Todd Johnson in Cape Harbor on Saturday for the third annual Cooking with Todd event. Johnson created the event to help give children with cancer and other illnesses a diversion from treatment.
Pizza-making started with high fives, followed with flour being poured into an industrial size mixer. The children formed the dough, spread the sauce and placed toppings on their very own pizza.
“She’s been looking forward to it for a few weeks now,” Mindy Russell said about her 4-year-old Caliah.
Caliah said she was looking forward to making the dough. She created a mushroom and pineapple pizza. Caliah has acute lymphoblastic leukemia which has recently gone into remission.
“She’s a little trooper. She’s been amazing through all of it,” Russell said.
After the kids ate their fill, the group went to Run Agrounds, a gelato shop in Cape Harbor, to learn how to make their own gelato. The kids mixed vanilla and cinnamon gelato adding their favorite toppings to create a special flavor.
Duane Higgins, with the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation, said this event is a precursor for the Celebrity Chef Night fundraiser Wednesday at Rumrunners in Cape Harbor. The night benefits Barbara’s Friends, a part of the foundation dedicated to providing local treatment for children with cancer.
“It’s really about these kids,” Higgins said. “That’s why we raise the money, have the night and we don't want the purpose of that to get lost.”
Johnson has helped host the Celebrity Chef Night for eight years.
“For me it reinforces where the money goes, we really enjoy it,” Johnson said.
He said he thought of making pizza with children after reminding himself of the time he worked at Pizza Hut when he was 15. The restaurant brought in kids from the March of Dimes to help Johnson make pizza.
“To see the enjoyment the kids have on their faces making pizzas, it always stuck with me,” he said.
Three children from the Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida received a welcome from Chef Todd Johnson in Cape Harbor on Saturday for the third annual Cooking with Todd event. Johnson created the event to help give children with cancer and other illnesses a diversion from treatment.
Pizza-making started with high fives, followed with flour being poured into an industrial size mixer. The children formed the dough, spread the sauce and placed toppings on their very own pizza.
“She’s been looking forward to it for a few weeks now,” Mindy Russell said about her 4-year-old Caliah.
Caliah said she was looking forward to making the dough. She created a mushroom and pineapple pizza. Caliah has acute lymphoblastic leukemia which has recently gone into remission.
“She’s a little trooper. She’s been amazing through all of it,” Russell said.
After the kids ate their fill, the group went to Run Agrounds, a gelato shop in Cape Harbor, to learn how to make their own gelato. The kids mixed vanilla and cinnamon gelato adding their favorite toppings to create a special flavor.
Duane Higgins, with the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation, said this event is a precursor for the Celebrity Chef Night fundraiser Wednesday at Rumrunners in Cape Harbor. The night benefits Barbara’s Friends, a part of the foundation dedicated to providing local treatment for children with cancer.
“It’s really about these kids,” Higgins said. “That’s why we raise the money, have the night and we don't want the purpose of that to get lost.”
Johnson has helped host the Celebrity Chef Night for eight years.
“For me it reinforces where the money goes, we really enjoy it,” Johnson said.
He said he thought of making pizza with children after reminding himself of the time he worked at Pizza Hut when he was 15. The restaurant brought in kids from the March of Dimes to help Johnson make pizza.
“To see the enjoyment the kids have on their faces making pizzas, it always stuck with me,” he said.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Chefs team up to help charity: Area's best culinary artists unite for cause
Succulent lobster paired with a creamy risotto, a margarita bar, surf and turf and various wine stations are just some of the culinary offerings at the 8th annual Rumrunners Celebrity Chef Night set for Wednesday, Aug. 17, at Cape Harbour.
The night benefits Barbara's Friends, a charity whose goal is to help children fighting cancer and other serious illnesses.
The event will feature a wealth of local culinary talent including Chefs Todd Johnson and Ralph Centalonza of Rumrunners and The Joint, Chef Fabrizio Aielli of Sea Salt, Chef Harold Balink of Cru, Norman Love of Norman Love Confections and culinary teams from Yabo and Chef Brooke's Natural Cafe.
"It's a privilege for us to participate each and every year," Norman Love said. "It provides us an opportunity to give back to needy children and their families."
Love plans to bring his signature truffles and confections, as well as gelato. He said there will either be a plated dessert with gelato or mini gelato cones.
Johnson said he came up with the idea for the night in 2004. The charity came to him in hopes of having a benefit dinner.
He told them, "Lets really do something special and make it a great event."
Johnson said he modeled the event after one he and his wife attended in Aspen, Colo. Food and wine stations were set up around the property and guests mingled and meandered to each station.
"It was awesome," Johnson said.
The event is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. but Johnson said people come early and stay late. Since there is no set time frame for a sit-down dinner like a traditional benefit, guests can eat and drink when they please. He said some go straight for dessert first.
"If you come at 7 you missed nothing, you melt into the crowd," Johnson said.
In the first year, the event was postponed due to Hurricane Charley.
"We didn't lose one reservation," Johnson said. "Every year since then, I've tried to make the event better than the previous year."
The event sells out every year. Johnson said $48,000 was raised last year and his goal for this year's night is $60,000.
"We will raise more than ever," said Duane Higgins with the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation.
Tickets are $150 per person and include food, refreshments and the chance to bid on items. The event has had a silent auction in the past but this year a live action has been added.
A highlight of the live auction is a nine-course private dinner for 10 prepared by Balink, Johnson and Love.
"It's a unique item and we hope people will bid high," Higgins said.
About Barbara's Friends
Barbara's Friends is part of the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation. The charity, named in honor of Barbara Haskell, who lost her life to breast cancer at the age of 32, is dedicated to providing local treatment for children with cancer at The Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida.
To make a donation please call 434-6950 or visit leememorial.org/foundation and click on Barbara's Friends to learn about donating online.
If You Go
What: Rumrunners Celebrity Chef Night
Where: 5848 Cape Harbor Drive
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Cost: $150
Attire: Caribbean casual.
Contact: To register to attend call 343-6950.
The night benefits Barbara's Friends, a charity whose goal is to help children fighting cancer and other serious illnesses.
The event will feature a wealth of local culinary talent including Chefs Todd Johnson and Ralph Centalonza of Rumrunners and The Joint, Chef Fabrizio Aielli of Sea Salt, Chef Harold Balink of Cru, Norman Love of Norman Love Confections and culinary teams from Yabo and Chef Brooke's Natural Cafe.
"It's a privilege for us to participate each and every year," Norman Love said. "It provides us an opportunity to give back to needy children and their families."
Love plans to bring his signature truffles and confections, as well as gelato. He said there will either be a plated dessert with gelato or mini gelato cones.
Johnson said he came up with the idea for the night in 2004. The charity came to him in hopes of having a benefit dinner.
He told them, "Lets really do something special and make it a great event."
Johnson said he modeled the event after one he and his wife attended in Aspen, Colo. Food and wine stations were set up around the property and guests mingled and meandered to each station.
"It was awesome," Johnson said.
The event is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. but Johnson said people come early and stay late. Since there is no set time frame for a sit-down dinner like a traditional benefit, guests can eat and drink when they please. He said some go straight for dessert first.
"If you come at 7 you missed nothing, you melt into the crowd," Johnson said.
In the first year, the event was postponed due to Hurricane Charley.
"We didn't lose one reservation," Johnson said. "Every year since then, I've tried to make the event better than the previous year."
The event sells out every year. Johnson said $48,000 was raised last year and his goal for this year's night is $60,000.
"We will raise more than ever," said Duane Higgins with the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation.
Tickets are $150 per person and include food, refreshments and the chance to bid on items. The event has had a silent auction in the past but this year a live action has been added.
A highlight of the live auction is a nine-course private dinner for 10 prepared by Balink, Johnson and Love.
"It's a unique item and we hope people will bid high," Higgins said.
About Barbara's Friends
Barbara's Friends is part of the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation. The charity, named in honor of Barbara Haskell, who lost her life to breast cancer at the age of 32, is dedicated to providing local treatment for children with cancer at The Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida.
To make a donation please call 434-6950 or visit leememorial.org/foundation and click on Barbara's Friends to learn about donating online.
If You Go
What: Rumrunners Celebrity Chef Night
Where: 5848 Cape Harbor Drive
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Cost: $150
Attire: Caribbean casual.
Contact: To register to attend call 343-6950.
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