Chamber features prominent local wellness expert
Medical Director of Lee Physician Group for Lee Memorial Health Systems Dr. Sal Lacagnina was the guest speaker at the July monthly North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Business Leaders Luncheon.
The local wellness expert talked to business leaders about ways to keep health care plan costs down for both the employer and the employee.
He explored both personal and corporate wellness plans, first giving advice on a personal plan, an annual wellness exam.
“Don’t just go when you are not healthy. A tip is to go around your birthday, so you can remember it.”
He talked about, if possible, to give employees cafeteria services of inexpensive but healthy foods, on-site exercise facilities along with information.
He also talked about some of the biggest health care problems out there right now. “One of the biggest epidemics we are facing now is obesity.”
He also stresses diabetes as an epidemic.
Chronic medical problems also can drag an individual and a company down.
“It costs a lot of money to take care of people who aren’t healthy. Health care costs are rising, as much as six times the inflation rate right now.”
He also noted another fact.
“The Unites States spends about $5,000 per person in health care costs. That’s twice the amount of other industrialized countries.”
He discussed at length the benefits of a Corporate Wellness Plan.
“Knowledge is the first place you start.”
He suggested giving employees access to accurate health care information. “Also show them that you care. It takes a lot of work to stay healthy.”
The event was held at The Fort Myers Diner on Cleveland Avenue.
Great Community Treasure Hunt
Festival and Business Exposition
You can win cash and prizes at the Great Community Treasure Hunt Festival and Business Exposition sponsored by the Chamber on Saturday, July 31.
The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shell Factory & Nature Park.
Participants can participate that day by going out and visiting area businesses.
“Fifty businesses will be set up throughout the Shell Factory Property including the Dolphin Room, the Party House and the Chamber Welcome Center,” said Chamber Executive Director Kim Constantine.
Prizes that day will include a $250 Regions Bank cash card; a Belk “Back-to-School Shopping Spree”; BJ’s Wholesale Club Gas Card and one-year membership; a $100 Visa Card from J Brooks and Associates.
Other prizes include a Best Buy Laptop Notebook, LCEC Power Surge Home units, a Family Day at Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral, a North Pointe Dental Free exam with X-rays and cleaning for child, a Brightway Insurance $50 Target Card and more.
Scheduled events include:
From 11 to 11:45 a.m. the first 60 children receive a free (stuffed with supplies) Back-to-School Back Pack from North Fort Myers Honorary Mayor, John Gardner and Marco Office Supply.
From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. free hotdogs and lemonade for Kids-Play – the treasure Hunt at the Business expo. (Final entries accepted at 1 p.m.)
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., children can play at the Best Buy Experience Station and enjoy All Star Kiddy Bowling at Capt’n FishBones restaurant.
12:30 p.m. – Cookies for kids at the Party House.
1:30 p.m. Treasure Hunt prizes drawn at The Shell Factory & Nature Park Pirates Grotto.
For a full list of activities, go to nfmchamber.org. For more information on any chamber event, call 997-9111.