Dogged determination

Cape Coral veterinarian Elizabeth Dixie Brown doesn't waste time.

The veterinarian acquired a failing practice in Cape Coral in 2007 and, despite the economic downturn, she turned it around. For that, Brown earned the coveted Southwest Florida Blue Chip Community Business Award, an honor that recognizes area entrepreneurs who find innovative ways to overcome adversity.

Of course, back in 2007, no one knew Cape Coral would become one of the hardest-hit communities in the country. Brown had been practicing as a veterinarian at different clinics since she had moved to Southwest Florida in 2003, but she kept an eye out for a practice she could buy and grow.