Roger Mercado, 36, neighborhood relations coordinator, Lee County Department of Human Services, Fort Myers

When Lee County citizens need help, Roger Mercado is there for them. Through his efforts, the county's Department of Human Services has established an array of programs.

For example, Mercado helped develop a Web site that helps emergency and social-service workers make appropriate referrals. He's established a grant program that today has become a national model. And thanks to the Neighborhood Accountability Boards, volunteers throughout the county are now connecting youth with the resources necessary to prevent future delinquency. Recidivism is almost nonexistent.

In the four years he has worked in the department's Neighborhood Building Program, Mercado has developed partnerships with more than 100 different organizations, government agencies and businesses.

Shari Ogilvie, 39, chiropractor, Bonita Chiropractic Center, Bonita Springs

Patients seeking chiropractic help are looking for someone with just the right touch. Shari Ogilvie offers that dexter-ity on a physical and emotional level. "I give my patients the comfort of knowing that I am approachable and available when they need to speak with me personally," she says. Ogilvie's bedside manner has helped her build a strong practice in Southwest Florida. She's also well known for her accomplishments on a community level as an active volunteer, fundraiser and membership booster in various organizations.

"When Shari talks, people listen," says Trish Leonard, the membership director for Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce. "She is definitely, by far, the most enthusiastic person I have ever met, and she is a great chamber member."

Recently recognized as the Top New Member Recruiter of 2004 for the Bonita Springs Chamber, Ogilvie is secretary of the Collier County Chiropractic Society and membership chairwoman for Bonita's chapter of Zonta Club. She has also been active in Young Professionals of Collier County's Women of Vision and Action program, and the Greater Naples Area Chamber of Commerce's Profession-als Organized for Leadership and Opportunity program.

Amy Patnode, 28, director of resource development, Boys & Girls Club of Collier County

Amy Patnode knows how to get things done. Colleagues describe her as driven, going above and beyond her professional obligations to ensure success. Patnode also goes the extra mile for children in need. She's on the advisory board of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida. In 2003, the organization named her Southern volunteer of the year.

She also has a weekly lunch date mentoring a child as part of the Collier County Education Foundation Take Stock in Children program.

Michael Peel, 39, and Stephen Peel, 33, co-owners, Gulfstream Homes, Naples

The Peel brothers, co-owners of Gulfstream Homes, set an example other construction companies could follow. They've built their reputation on honesty and consistency. And the siblings are committed not only to treating their customers fairly, but to making their community a better place to live as well.

In the new Veridian community, they plan to be the first builders in the state to have all the homes certified as environmentally friendly. Winners of multiple Lee Building Industry Association Pinnacle Awards, they've been named Florida Junior Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurs of the Year two years in a row, and American Specialty Con-tractors of Florida Builder of the Year in 1999 and 2002. Stephen and Michael have also built two Habitat for Humanity homes, and are committed to completing a home each year for the organization and sponsoring families at the St. Matthews House at Christmas.

And the two take care of their employees as well as their customers. The company has twice been named to Professional Builder's "Top 101 Best Companies to Work For" list.

Pamela Prasad-Puccia, 39, co-owner, L.A. Limousine Service, Naples

Pam Puccia is a role model for working mothers everywhere. She and her husband, Anthony, have owned and operated L.A. Limousine Service for four years. In the beginning, Puccia completed the company's market research and created its logo. Nowadays, she still develops advertising campaigns, is in charge of hiring and customer relations, and acquires and negotiates corporate accounts. "My basic premise is to provide excellent customer service from your heart," she says.

In addition to being a busy businesswoman, Puccia is also a mother of two young children. Puccia donates limousine services as fund raisers for several community organizations, including American Cancer Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Florida and the March of Dimes. She also believes that dedication to service starts at home. Every Thanksgiving and Christmas, her family serves the homeless at St. Matthews House. "I believe if everyone just gave a little, in whatever way they can, it would be a happier world," Puccia says.

Ryan Richeal, 34, regional marketing and business development director, Miami Dolphins, Fort Myers regional office

In our state, there is no shortage of teams to root for. But Ryan Richeal wants fans in Southwest Florida to pledge their allegiance to the Miami Dolphins. He's out there huddling with the public and media to get to that goal.

As director of the Dolphins' regional marketing and business development, Richeal successfully negotiated a deal to broadcast the Coach Dave Wannstedt Show on WZVN-TV, ABC Channel 26 in Fort Myers, and a weekly half-hour segment with defensive lineman Jeff Zgonina on Beasley Broadcast Group's Sports Radio 770. He develops new corporate sponsorship accounts, and works with existing sponsors to create promotions to help increase ticket sales.

Richeal's ability to score business in the big leagues has come through experience. He previously worked for the Boston Red Sox, for the Madison Black Wolf (an independent Northern League team in Madison, Wis.), and for the Burlington Bees (a class A Midwest League affiliate in Iowa).

But Richeal has priorities aside from selling tickets. For example, he's big into working with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida. The organization grants wishes to children who suffer from life-threatening medical conditions.

"He is very dedicated to the mission," says Make-A-Wish's Sally Maitland. "When we opened our office here in Bonita four years go, he was one of the first people to help us out."

Rose Rundle, 32, general manager, Harborside Event Center, Fort Myers

Harborside Event Center is looking mighty sharp these days. Better yet, it's also pulling in more income. Why the changes? Two words: Rose Rundle.

"She oversaw the renovations and restoration of the Harborside." says Fort Myers Mayor Jim Humphrey. "She has achieved a significant increase in the revenues and has improved bookings and programs."

A graduate of Florida International University, Rundle joined the Miami Arena Football Team as director of operations, responsible for game production and promotions. It was then that she decided to focus her career on the "economics and operational challenges of public-assembly facilities," she says.

Subsequent years found her climbing the success ladder at various venues, including the Miami Arena, the James L. Knight/Miami Convention Center and the Reliant Park Complex in Houston.

Rundle serves on the Lee County Alliance for the Arts board of directors, and on the Fort Myers Confer-ence and Convention Council.

In addition to helping to increase Harborside's revenues, she's made it "much more accessible to community organizations and to other groups," Humphrey says.

Deborah Jude Schivinski, 34, owner and CEO, Portofino Homes, Cape Coral

Building a successful home-construction firm is a hands-on pursuit for Deborah Jude Schivinski. She oversees field operations, works closely with sales associates and keeps an eye on financial management.

When Schivinski started Portofino Homes in 2000, she had three employees and sold 10 homes. Today her staff has grown to 13; and in 2003, she sold 84 houses. Her home designs have been recognized by the Lee Building Industry Association, receiving two Pinnacle Awards last year.

"Debby sets a great example for young women entering the workplace," says Patti Schnell, executive director of the Cape Coral Construc-tion Industry Association Builders Association. Only six percent of women-owned businesses are in construction, according to the Center for Women's Business Research.

In high school, Schivinski helped at her father's painting business. While attending the University of South Florida, where she earned a bachelor's degree in business administration, she worked for the city of Cape Coral as an assistant to the clerk. She later went out on her own, offering consulting for homebuilders to help move them through the planning-approval process.

"She has proven you can accomplish anything you want if you put your mind to it," says Schnell.

Jessica Schneider, 32, director of marketing, Robb & Stucky, Naples

As marketing director for Robb and Stucky, Jessica Schneider, is responsible for the company's public relations in Naples and Bonita Springs, oversees special events and fund raising, and serves as a liaison between the company and builders.

The Marco Island native maintains a simple work philosophy. "I try to be honest with my customers and treat them with respect and professionalism," she says.

Schneider is active with the Collier Building Industry Association, serving on the sales and marketing council. She is the 2005 chairperson for CBIA's Sand Dollar Awards.

But Schneider never forgets where she came from. Her mother ran a cleaning service. When her mother died several years ago, Schneider took over, and now spends part of her weekend managing the business.

Kristin Scholz, 35, owner, C & S Marketing Group, Fort Myers

When marketing professional Kris-tin Scholz moved to Fort Myers from Buffalo, N.Y., six years ago, she immediately recognized the City of Palms was becoming a business hot spot. She made the rounds downtown, brought on clients and became involved with community efforts. Her tenacity paid off. "I came in when [the area] was really starting to grow," she says.

Besides offering her marketing services to local businesses and organizations such as the Humane Society of Lee County, she has produced some popular events, including speed dating and the Women's Wine Club. She serves on the board of directors for Professionals for Leadership and Opportunity. Scholz is a graduate of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Emerging Leaders program and sits on the board of directors.

"She really follows through with what she says she is going to do," her friend Sharon Torregrossa says, "and when she gets her mind set on something, she gives it all."

Stephanie Sherman, 36, owner, Davis/Keil Fine Art, Naples

As co-owner of Davis/Keil Fine Art on Fifth Avenue South in Naples, Stephanie Sherman shares her passion for contemporary art with clients every day, whether it's through the half-dozen exhibits she plans each year, or by helping someone find an unforgettable piece.

Tired of the hectic pace of Los Angeles, Sherman moved to Southwest Florida in 2000. In just three years, She has made a mark in the local art scene by introducing the work of some significant contemporary artists. When she's not dealing with the business side of art, Sherman serves on the board of directors of the United Arts Council of Collier County, and is a member of the Naples Art Association. She's also a tireless supporter of arts education. Last summer Sherman introduced a program she created called "Devel-oping" to Collier County. The photography project encouraged children to express their creativity, while learning about the technical aspects of both art and business.

Jessica Stilwell, 31, co-anchor, NBC2news, Fort Myers

Jessica Stilwell's dream to become a television news anchor dates back to her elementary-school years, when she would watch Jane Pauley on NBC's Today Show. That Stillwell made that dream a reality is no surprise to her family and friends.

Stilwell's drive and determination became evident a long time ago, says her father, Lee County manager Don Stilwell, who remembers getting up for his morning jogs at five each morning, only to find young Jessica studying.

Now the evening co-anchor for NBC2news, Stillwell has filed live reports from political conventions, tracked hurricanes and covered numerous breaking stories.

In 1995, she earned a degree in broadcast journalism and political science from the University of Southern California. Her career began at a cable station in Collier County, where she had to shoot, write and edit her own stories. She is on the advisory board for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. She lives in Fort Myers with her husband, Samir Cabrera, who was one of last year's 40 under 40.

"She's so genuine," says Don Stilwell. "What you see is what you get."

Shawn Stoneburner, 25, commercial real estate salesman, Grubb & Ellis|VIP, Fort Myers

A year after starting his career as commercial real estate salesman, Shawn Stoneburner was named rookie of the year at Grubb & Ellis|VIP. He generated more than $1.9 million in sales that year.

"He came out of the gate running," says mentor and supervising commercial realtor Gary Tasman of Grubb & Ellis|VIP. "He's worked on many, many complicated transactions that you would only expect a seasoned veteran to be capable of tackling."

Upon graduating with a bachelor's in business administration from the University of Central Florida a few years ago, Stoneburner entered the real estate field; he says his degree in finance with a special emphasis on real estate has helped him immensely. "He's got a personable attitude that people enjoy working with," Tasman says.

Samantha Todd, 32, vice president,

hospitality services, Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce

Since joining the chamber five years ago, Samantha Todd has been the driving force behind the Visitor and Information Center. Of the 170,000 visitors who traveled to Naples in the past year, 74 percent of them sought out the visitors' center. That's a testament to Todd's promotional and service skills.

In addition to her hospitality duties, Todd is program manager for the chamber's Leadership Collier, overseeing and organizing 16 full-day sessions on community issues for 40 local leaders. Todd is helping to establish the nonprofit Leadership Collier Found-ation, also affiliated with the chamber. Raised in the north of England, Todd has made her home in Naples. "My commitment is to work hard to try to give back to Collier County in some small measure the benefits I have gained since settling here," she says. When Todd isn't working during her average 60-hour work week, she relaxes by swimming, sailing and jet skiing.

Stacey Trippe, 33, marketing coordinator, Oswald Trippe & Co., Fort Myers

Making a good impression is Stacey Trippe's forte. She has helped mold the Oswald Trippe & Co. image into one of a benevolent company involved in numerous causes. Trippe follows through on a personal level as well.

She's "a team player who goes the extra mile to assist a coworker," says com-pany president John Pollock. "OTC's successful marketing initiatives are reflective of her outstanding skills."

Trippe handles the independent insurance firm's advertising and community involvement. She recently was a sponsorship co-chair of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, and the company was the sponsorship chair for the event.

She was among a group of women who helped to build a home as part of the Habitat for Humanity Women's Build program. She has been active in a Ronald McDonald House program that receives gift baskets from the Junior League of Fort Myers. In addition, she has been active with Junior Achievement. This year she is coordinating the annual Blue Chip Community Business Awards, OTC's recognition of small businesses in Collier and Lee counties.

"She is truly committed to making our community a better place to live," Pollock says.

Mario Valle, 37, president, Creative Homes of Southwest Florida, Naples

Owning a home is the American dream, and Mario Valle helps people achieve that dream every day. Creative Homes of Southwest Florida, the company he started in 1996, caters to first-time homebuyers living east of Naples and in Golden Gate.

Valle was born in Bolivia and grew up in South America before coming to Miami as a teenager. A Florida State University grad, he's a huge Seminoles fan. Just ask his wife: She agreed to move their wedding to a Friday night so Valle and his groomsmen could attend a game on Saturday. But Valle doesn't need a playbook when it comes to helping people in need.

In 2002, Gov. Jeb Bush nominated Valle to the Florida Commission on Human Relations. He's past president of the Golden Gate Chamber of Commerce, a board member with the Collier Business Industry Association, and will once again co-chair the Naples MS Walk in 2005.

Albie Varoski, 33, realtor, John R. Wood, Naples

The real estate world can be dog-eat-dog. But people who know Albie Varoski say his character and kindness put him apart from the pack. Varoski, who always has a smile to share, is known for going the extra mile for his clients and coworkers. He also has a soft spot for people in need.

Varoski donates blood every four months, and each Thursday you'll find him mentoring a student at Lely High School through the Collier County Education Foundation Take Stock in Children program.

He also lends a hand at events for the foundation, where his wife, Jennifer, works. As if his profession and good works didn't take enough of his time, Varoski also coordinates

the Naples Area Board of Realtors' tennis tournament every year to benefit Hope Hospice.

Sandy Waite, 39, co-owner, Platinum Dry Cleaners, Naples

People who know Sandy Waite call her the queen of time management. She and her husband, Joe, started Platinum Dry Cleaners in 1989. At the time, they didn't have money to hire workers, so the couple did everything-from dry cleaning to alterations to bookkeeping-themselves. Today, they manage 50 employees and the business continues to grow.

Waite is also president-elect of the American Business Women's Assoc-iation in Collier County, a member of the Collier Women's Republican Committee and a graduate of the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Collier.

She also is active with the Alternative Board, a focus group that helps entrepreneurs find solutions to business problems. But Waite is most proud of her work with Working Wardrobe, an organization she helped start in 2001. Working Wardrobe provides donated business clothes for women getting into the workforce. Waite's business is a drop-off location for donations, and the company provides free dry cleaning. Says co-founder Rachelle Dover: "Her generosity is the only reason this program got off the ground."

Suzanne Willis, 37, area director of public relations, Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples

A Fort Myers native, cheerful, outgoing Suzanne Willis knows that good manners never go out of style. Professionally, her work at the world-famous hotel has earned her a Golden Image Award from the Southwest Florida Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association.

But she honors her grandmother's legacy with her Mimi's Manners Etiquette Class. Hundreds of children have taken the course at the Ritz. She also volunteers to teach etiquette to school kids in Lee and Collier counties. For adults who still wonder which fork to use, Willis gives her Oh Behave class to community-service groups and at the hotel. Willis is also a Collier County Education Foundation reading partner, sits on the board of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and volunteers with the Naples Winter Wine Festival.