Category: SWFL Update

Digital security is becoming a top priority for the Southwest Florida business community. To address these evolving challenges, SWFL Inc. is hosting its 2026 Cybersecurity Summit on March 26. The event will take place from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. at the Plantation Golf and Country Club in Fort Myers.

Focus on Emerging Digital Risks

As cyber threats grow in sophistication across all industries, this summit is designed to provide business leaders and IT professionals with actionable insights. The program will feature subject-matter experts discussing the most pressing issues in the current digital landscape, including:

• Artificial Intelligence Security: How to implement AI tools smartly and securely.

• Data Protection: Strategies for safeguarding sensitive organizational and client information.

• Operational Continuity: Planning for resilience to ensure business remains functional during a digital crisis.

• Future-Ready Planning: Proactive steps to stay ahead of upcoming technological shifts.

Empowering Organizations of All Sizes

The summit isn’t just for major corporations; it is tailored to provide practical strategies for small and mid-sized organizations as well. The goal is to equip the local business community with the knowledge needed to protect their assets and maintain trust with their customers.

Event Details and Registration

• Date: March 26, 2026

• Time: 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

• Location: Plantation Golf and Country Club, Fort Myers

• Tickets: Available now through the SWFL Inc. website.

A striped mud turtle (Kinosternon baurii) is nearing the end of a long road to recovery at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) after suffering complications from a long-term shell injury.

The patient, identified as 25-4657, was admitted to the clinic six months after a local resident found it with a broken shell. The finder initially attempted to care for the animal personally, using tape to hold the shell together. Eventually realizing they could not provide the necessary care, they surrendered the turtle to CROW.

Medical Assessment and Treatment

Upon initial examination, CROW’s veterinary team discovered that the home remedy had not succeeded. The original shell fracture was still present and had deteriorated significantly; the tissue had become necrotic (dead) and was infested with maggots. Additionally, the turtle was diagnosed as severely dehydrated and extremely thin.

To save the animal, surgeons removed the necrotic shell material. Due to concerning blood work and the severity of the wound, the patient was placed on a regimen of systemic antibiotics. The rehabilitation staff performed regular wound care, flushing the area and applying silver honey—an animal-safe ointment used to promote healing and provide antimicrobial protection.

Prognosis: Ready for Release

Thanks to the ongoing treatment, the turtle’s condition has improved drastically. The fracture has successfully healed, and officials report that the turtle will likely be cleared for release back into the wild soon.

Species Spotlight: Striped Mud Turtle

The striped mud turtle is a diminutive species of freshwater turtle, generally reaching a maximum length of only 4 inches.

• Habitat: They prefer “blackwater” habitats, including ponds, wetlands, and ditches.

• Diet: This species is omnivorous, feeding on a varied diet of invertebrates, fish, algae, and seeds.

Important Reminder

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) prohibits the possession of these turtles or their removal from the wild.

CROW reminds the public that injured wildlife requires professional medical attention. If you encounter a turtle or other wild animal in distress, do not attempt to care for it yourself. Please contact CROW immediately for guidance to ensure the animal receives the appropriate care.

As 2026 begins, the Southwest Florida financial landscape is shifting through a significant new alliance. FineMark Bank & Trust, a staple of the local banking community since 2007, has officially finalized its merger with the 161-year-old national institution, Commerce Bank & Trust.

This strategic move combines FineMark’s personalized service model with the extensive scale and resources of Commerce Bank, creating a powerhouse in the wealth management sector.

Growth and Capital Constraints

Founded in Fort Myers, FineMark has experienced rapid expansion over the last two decades, growing from a single location to 13 branches across Southwest Florida, Arizona, and South Carolina. However, Joe Catti, FineMark’s founder, noted that such speed comes with challenges.

“With banks, growth can be limiting by the amount of capital that you have,” Catti explained. “To grow really fast, you have to have enough earnings to build the capital base. We never had enough earnings, because we were growing so fast.”

After raising capital five times since 2007 and navigating external economic pressures—including interest rate hikes and increased regulatory costs—leadership sought a partner that could support sustainable growth without the constant need for fundraising.

The Merger by the Numbers

The deal significantly elevates the profile of the combined entity.

• National Ranking: The merger vaults Commerce Bank from a top-23 position to a top-15 bank-managed trust company in the United States.

• Assets: Commerce Bank’s assets have increased from approximately $32 billion to $36 billion.

• Administration: Assets under administration have reached roughly $90 billion.

• FineMark’s Contribution: FineMark entered the agreement with approximately $4 billion in assets, $3.1 billion in deposits, and $2.6 billion in loans.

Commerce Trust CEO John Handy highlighted the significance of the acquisition. “This really vaults our position several levels up,” Handy said. “We have a lot of scale. We have more assets under management. I would say it’s very much a big deal for us.”

What Changes for Customers?

Despite the change in ownership structure, Catti emphasized that operations will remain largely consistent for clients.

• Leadership: Joe Catti will continue to lead the brand, serving as Chair of Commerce Trust.

• Staffing: All FineMark operations and employees will remain in place.

• Branding: The most visible change will be the removal of the word “National” from the FineMark name to comply with federal regulations.

A Cultural Alignment

Discussions regarding the merger began in January 2025, with an agreement reached by June. According to leadership from both sides, the speed of the regulatory approval (just 33 days) and the finalization of the deal were driven by a shared philosophy.

“We were very aligned,” Catti said. “That’s the most important piece. Culture and the people. We agreed to merge. They’re much bigger than us, but that scale will help us continue to grow.”

It appears to be a season of focused parenting for Southwest Florida’s most famous bald eagle pair. M15 and F23 will officially be raising a brood of one this year, following the determination that their second egg is nonviable.

While the pair’s first eaglet, E26, hatched on schedule and is currently thriving, the window for the second egg has closed. The standard incubation period is roughly 35 days; however, day 40 passed on Christmas Day without a “pip” or sign of hatching.

Status of the Nest

Virginia Pritchett-McSpadden, founder of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, confirmed that it has become apparent there will be only one eaglet this season.

“We have mixed emotions because we were expecting that second eaglet,” Pritchett-McSpadden said. “Mother Nature must have had something else in store.”

While the specific cause of the egg’s failure—whether it was infertile or an issue occurred during incubation—remains unknown, the outcome for the existing eaglet, E26, is positive. With no sibling rivalry, E26 will receive 100% of the food and attention from both parents, creating a stable environment for growth.

As for the nonviable egg, Pritchett-McSpadden noted that the eagles will likely handle it instinctively by consuming it for protein, rolling it out of the nest, or burying it within the nesting material.

Looking Ahead: The “30-30-30” Cycle

This season marks the third consecutive year the nest has faced challenges, following issues with avian flu and egg breakage in previous years. However, the focus is now squarely on the development of E26.

Pritchett-McSpadden describes the development phases as the “30-30-30” timeline:

• First 30 Days: Rapid growth in height and weight.

• Next 30 Days: Physical changes, including the loss of down coating and the growth of flight feathers.

• Final 30 Days: “Branching” (hopping to branches), exercising wings, and preparing for flight.

E26 is expected to reach the size of its parents within six weeks and fledge sometime in March.

How to Watch

Viewers can follow E26’s journey live via the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, now in its 13th season. The site utilizes four different camera angles to capture every moment:

• Camera 1: Situated seven feet above the nest with night vision.

• Camera 2: A side-view angle at nest level.

• Camera 3: The first-ever live 360-degree camera in a nest tree, allowing viewers to click and drag for an immersive experience.

• Camera 4: A wider view capturing the pond and pasture area.

Live Feed Access

To watch the live stream and track E26’s progress, visit the official website: Southwest Florida Eagle Cam

Residents and visitors in Downtown Fort Myers will soon have a fresh destination for their Saturday mornings. A new farmers market is officially set to launch in the heart of the downtown district starting Saturday, January 17.

Here is what the community needs to know about this upcoming addition to the local culinary scene.

Management and Operations

Pending final approval from the City Council on January 5, the market will be managed by Local Roots LLC, a well-known operator responsible for nine other popular markets across Southwest Florida, including Sanibel, Captiva Island, Lakes Park, and Coconut Point.

The initial agreement sets the market schedule from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., running weekly through at least April. Jean Baer, co-owner of Local Roots, has expressed optimism about the market becoming a permanent fixture.

“We hope it’s year-round, at least with a smaller footprint after April,” Baer noted regarding the future of the downtown location.

What to Expect: Vendors and Selection

The primary focus of this new market is agriculture and food. According to city briefing materials, 42 vendors have already been secured, with 78% of them focused on agricultural or food products.

Shoppers can look forward to a diverse selection, including:

• Fresh produce and plants

• Meats, seafood, and dairy

• Baked goods (including a French bakery)

• Specialty food items (such as a Vietnamese food tent)

To maintain the authenticity of a true farmers market, the city requires that no more than 20% of vendors fall into non-agricultural categories like crafts or retail. Additionally, Local Roots will enforce a policy requiring signage that identifies the origin of all produce, ensuring transparency for buyers.

Location and Local Impact

The market is designed to integrate seamlessly into the downtown layout. Stalls will occupy sections stretching from the corner of Monroe and First Streets to First and Broadway, extending over to Broadway and Main Street.

Economic Development Director Steve Weathers noted that the initiative is expected to draw more visitors to the city’s emerging culinary district. This sentiment is backed by data; Baer cited studies indicating that roughly 27% of every 1,000 market visitors go on to shop at other downtown businesses during their trip.

Fast Facts: Downtown Fort Myers Farmers Market

• Launch Date: Saturday, January 17

• Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

• Duration: Weekly through April (with potential for year-round extension)

• Location: Spanning from Monroe & First Streets to First & Broadway, and Broadway & Main Street.

• Parking: Standard downtown street and garage parking available.

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) continues to expand its reach with the launch of a major new route. Effective December 20, Delta Airlines began daily nonstop service between Fort Myers and Salt Lake City (SLC).

New Connections This marks the first nonstop connection between RSW and the Utah capital. The Atlanta-based carrier will operate the flight daily through May 6, 2026, offering Southwest Florida residents a new gateway to the West.

A Season of Expansion The new Delta route is just the latest in a series of service additions at RSW.

• Allegiant: Launched three new flights in November servicing Allentown, PA; Appleton, WI; and Des Moines, IA.

• American Airlines: Recently introduced nonstop holiday service to Phoenix.

• JetBlue: Announced upcoming service to upstate New York, set to begin in March 2026.

With over 11 million passengers served in 2024 and an operating budget of $212.7 million for the current fiscal year, RSW continues to grow without the use of ad valorem (property) tax dollars.

The Naples Airport Authority (NAA) is moving forward with significant upgrades to its infrastructure. At a meeting on December 18, the Board of Commissioners voted 4-0 to award contracts for Phase II of the North Road Terminal renovation project.

The Scope of Work With a total project cost cap set at $4,409,761, the NAA has selected Curran Young Construction, Garland, and Schenkel Schultz to execute the renovations. Additionally, a separate contract not to exceed $136,080 was approved for Schenkel Schultz to handle construction administration and design.

While Phase I focused on the exterior—hardening the building envelope against storms and updating landscaping—Phase II turns the focus inward. The project will overhaul the lobby, waiting areas, car rental spaces, and the grab-n-go cafe. Critical infrastructure updates, including roof repairs and new air-conditioning systems, are also included.

A Long-Awaited Update This project marks the first major improvement to the North Road Terminal since its original construction in 1983. Work is scheduled to continue through next year, with an estimated completion date of December 2026.

Situated along Corkscrew Road, RAD Winery has emerged as a refreshing oasis in an area that is rapidly transforming from open land to a bustling residential corridor. Located eleven miles east of Interstate 75 and just west of the upcoming Kingston development, the winery greets visitors with rows of passion fruit and dragon fruit leading up to a quaint, old-fashioned front porch.

Since opening last March, RAD Winery has quickly established itself as a central gathering spot for residents of the new gated communities in Estero. Owners Rockie and Allison Rick have cultivated a “Cheers”-like atmosphere where neighbors and newcomers mingle over live music, food trucks, and bingo nights. Residents from nearby communities, such as Verdana Village, often visit multiple times a month, noting that the winery fills a significant need for local activities and social connection.

From Michigan Roots to Florida Sunshine

The journey to Southwest Florida began in Southwest Michigan, a renowned wine region located along the same latitude as Napa Valley and France. Rockie and Allison Rick own two wineries in Michigan, where they honed their craft. Rockie, who grew up on a fruit farm, combined his agricultural business degree and MBA with Allison’s teaching background to build a successful business. They describe the winery industry as the perfect blend of business, farming, and education.

After years of enduring northern winters, the couple decided to relocate to the warmth of Florida. Rockie had grown up vacationing in the area, and while he initially hesitated because grapes do not thrive in the tropical climate, the couple was determined to make it work. They took a leap of faith, initially testing the market with a tasting room at Miromar Outlets before securing their permanent location.

Adapting to a Tropical Climate

To adapt to the Southwest Florida environment, the Ricks pivoted from traditional grape farming to cultivating tropical fruits. On their 10-acre property, they planted passion fruit, which grows on trellis systems similar to grapes, as well as dragon fruit. Rockie notes that despite the change in crops, he remains a farmer at heart.

The winery now focuses on creating sparkling and luscious wines derived from these estate-grown tropical fruits. Today, RAD Winery serves as more than just a business; it is a testament to the owners’ willingness to take risks and a vibrant community hub for the growing population of East Corkscrew Road.

Nature enthusiasts in Southwest Florida witnessed a heartwarming addition to the local wildlife community this week. The famous eagle pair, known as M-15 and F-23, officially welcomed their newest eaglet, designated E-26, at their nest in North Fort Myers on Thursday evening.

The Hatching Process

The anticipation began on Tuesday when cameras captured the first small crack, or “pip,” in the egg. Experts noted that this initial sign usually precedes the final hatch by one or two days. By Thursday evening, just before 6:00 p.m., the crack had expanded significantly, with viewers catching glimpses of a small wing moving inside the shell. At approximately 8:00 p.m., the eaglet fully emerged, marking the end of the hatching process.

A Tiny Miracle

Currently, E-26 is resting safely in the nest alongside one remaining egg that has yet to hatch. The team behind the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam took to social media to celebrate the event, describing the new arrival as a tiny miracle and a powerful reminder of how incredible nature is.

Residents and visitors interested in observing the eagle family and watching for the second egg to hatch can view the live feed via the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam website.