THURSDAY'S CUP: Appreciative crowds in unappreciative times

With the economy still in a funk, industry appreciation has taken on new meaning.

Take the “industry appreciation” event in Fort Myers on Aug. 17, for example. About 950 people attended the Horizon Council's annual luncheon at Harborside Event Center, nearly 20% more than usually attend the see-and-be-seen event.

In a hopeful sign, the Horizon Council, an economic advisory board to Lee County, says this year's event drew a record crowd. On average, about 800 people attend the annual event. While the ceremony is always laced with over-the-top hyperbole, it was a welcome, adding some needed cheer to a dreary year for many businesses.

The Horizon Council recognized survivors such as accounting firm Myers, Brettholz & Co.; software developer Dataworks; hurricane shutter maker Storm Smart Industries; hoteliers at the Hilton Garden Inn; and genetics-testing firm Neogenomics. The organization also recognized the contributions of Steve Shimp, the retired president of construction firm Owen-Ames-Kimball.