Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin

VOLUME 38, NUMBER 4

Fort Myers Beach utilities director resigns

By NATHAN MAYBERG news@breezenewspapers com

It was just a couple months ago, before an election, when the Town of Fort Myers Beach was finding its way out of the worst hurricane it had seen The town council heard some good news from Utilities Director Christy Cory that water was being restored after broken lines and mains and disruptions to Lee Utilities

connections There was a large round of applause from the large crowd that filled Skip One Seafood restaurant in what was the first feel-good moment of the community coming together

On Monday, Jan 9, Cory tendered her resignation in a letter that the town has not made public

C i t i n g s t a t e s t a t u t e , t h e t o w n h a s declined to both comment and release the

letter which it said is not a public record at this time

In a letter detailing why the resignation letter was being withheld, Town of Fort Myers Beach Clerk Amy Baker cited state statute section 119 071(2)(k) “because it c o n t a i n s a c o m p l a i n t o f m i s c o n d u c t against a Town employee that is the subject of an on-going internal investigation by the Town ”

To whom that complaint of misconduct refers was not disclosed and town council members and the interim town manager have all declined comment

Cory has declined comment as well Town of Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers stated “I cannot comment on former Utility Director Cory’s resignation at this time ”

County parks on Fort Myers Beach remain closed

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W h i l e t h e s i g h t o f b e a c h g o e r s h i t t i n g t h e w a t e r a n d l o u n g i n g a r o u n d w i t h u m b r e l l a s m a y b e a w e l c o m e s c e n e f o r s o m e , t h o s e d o i n g s o o n c o u n t y p r o p e rt y a t L y n n H a l l M e m o r i a l P a r k a r e a c t ua l l y d o i n g s o a t a p a r k t h a t i s c l o s e d

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T h e r e w a s a s i g n i n f r o n t o f t h e p a r ki n g l o t w h e r e t h e e n t r a n c e w a s g a t e d o f f a n d l o c a l s a n d v i s i t o r s a r e a s k e d t o t a k e h e e d

“ C o u n t y - o w n e d b e a c h p a r k c l o s u r e s i n c l u d e b o t h t h e p a r k i n g l o t a n d t h e b e a c h , ” L e e C o u n t y C o m m u n i c a t i o n s D i r e c t o r B e t s y C l a y t o n s t a t e d “ S i g n s a r e p o s t e d i n a r e a s w h e r e b e a c h - p a r k p a t r o n s t y p i c a l l y e n t e r t h e s i t e s ”

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Th e L e e C o u n t y S h e r i f f ' s O f f i c e h a s c o n f i r m e d t h a t t h e r e m a i n s f o u n d o n a b o a t F r i d a y b e l o n g i n g t o m i s s i n g F o r t M y e r s B e a c h m a n J a m e s H u r s t , w e r e t h o s e o f H u r s t H u r s t h a s b e e n m i s s i n g s i n c e H u r r i c a n e I a n a n d h i s b o a t w a s l o c a t e d i n M a t a n z a s P a s s o n T h u r s d a y b y t h e L e e C o u n t y S h e r i f f ' s O f f i c e D i v e T e a m T h e r e m a i n s w e r e d i s c o v e r e d F r i d a y H u r s t , w h o w a s 7 2 , w a s t h e l a s t p e r s o n b e l i e v e d t o b e m i s s i n g f r o m

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T h e r e m a i n s o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h r e s i d e n t I l o n k a K n e s w e r e d i s c o v e r e d e a r l i e r i n t h e w e e k i n t h e m a n g r o v e s o f a c a n a l o f f T r o p i c a l S h o r e s W a y , n e a r t h e t o w n h a l l

T h e d e a t h s o f H u r s t a n d K n e s b r i n g t h e t o t a l n u m b e r o f d e a t h s o n F o r t M y e r s B e a c h f r o m H u r r i c a n e I a n t o 1 6

K n e s , 8 2 , h a d b e e n m i s s i n g s i n c e H u r r i c a n e I a n S h e i s b e l i e v e d t o h a v e

d i e d b y d r o w n i n g L e e C o u n t y S h e r i f f C a r m i n e M a r c e n o s a i d K n e s w a s d i s c o v e r e d b y a d e b r i s r e m o v a l c o n t r a c t o r d e e p i n t h e

A B O V E L E F T: T h e r e m a i n s o f J a m e s H u r s t , 7 2 , w e r e f o u n d underneath the water on his sailb o a t " G o o d G i r l " i n M a t a n z a s Pass ABOVE RIGHT: The remains of Ilonka Knes, 82, were found last week in the mangroves of the canal off Tropical Shores Way FILE PHOTOS

T h e r e i s n o r e o p e n i n g d a t e s e t f o r a n y o f t h e c o u n t y ’ s b e a c h p a r k s o n F o r t M y e r s B e a c h

“ D e b r i s i n t h e w a t e r a n d b u r i e d i n t h e s a n d a t t h e w a t e r ’ s e d g e c r e a t e s a s a f e t y h a z a r d T h e c o u n t y i s w o r k i n g a l o n g s i d e s t a t e a n d f e d e r a l a g e n c i e s t o c l e a n a n d r e m o v e t h e d e b r i s s o t h a t b e a c h e s a r e s a f e f o r v i s i t o r s P a r k s a n d r e c r e a t i o n s t a f f i s d e d i c a t e d t o c l e a n i n g d e b r i s o f f b e a c h e s d a i l y A s m o r e d e b r i s w a s h e s a s h o r e d a i l y , t h e p r o c e s s i s o n g o i n g , ” C l a y t o n s t a t e d .

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e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , J a n u a r y 1 8 ,

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

For several days this month, the House of Representatives was in a state of paralysis, the Congress unable to function without a Speaker of the House C o n g r e s s m a n B y r o n D o n a l d s ( RN a p l e s ) , w h o r e p r e s e n t s F o r t M y e r s Beach, most of Lee County and Collier County, was part of it all, running for the speakership for two days before pulling out

“For me personally, it was pretty surreal to be nominated,” Donalds said With the ascension of the Republicans to the majority of the House and the stepp i n g d o w n o f H o u s e S p e a k e r N a n c y Pelosi, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy was the presumed Speaker in waiting He even moved his office into the Speaker’s office before being elected to the speakership

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Yet there were loud rumblings that right-wing members of the Republican Party Freedom Caucus did not want him t o l e a d t h e c h a m b e r I t w o u l d t a k e McCarthy 15 ballots over the course of a w e e k t o w i n t h e e l e c t i o n f o r H o u s e

Speaker

After voting for McCarthy on the first two ballots, Donalds switched to Jim Jordan before being nominated by Lauren Boebert (R-Colorado) for House Speaker on the fourth ballot Donalds would give his support back to McCarthy on the 12th ballot two days later

Reflecting this past week on the highscale drama, Donalds said he was “happy

Congressman Byron Donalds (rear) attended Lovers Key State Park in Fort Myers Beach last year for a meeting and press conference with Gov Ron DeSantis and local politicians

to help my colleagues so we could finally get back to work.”

Donalds said an agreement was finally brokered that ended the standoff over McCarthy “We sat at the table and negotiated out some critical things to make everybody comfortable,” he said

“We had a situation where we were kind of deadlocked Members came up to me about my willingness (to run for

Speaker) It was about trying to find ways to make things work,” Donalds said. Donalds said the critical piece of the agreement was restoring the ability of a single member to initiate a vote to remove the House Speaker Donalds criticized Pelosi for removing that lever of power for legislators Donalds said that action “put more power in the hands of the Speaker ” Congress was “not a represen-

tative republic,” he said. Another outcome of the agreement will be “more teeth on the committees to investigate the government going after free speech,” Donalds said

“We want to make sure we are doing the people’s job to hold government accountable,” he said “We are going to work hard and show the people they did the right thing to choose Republicans to lead the House,” he said

D o n a l d s r a n u n s u c c e s s f u l l y i n November for Conference Chair against sitting chair Elise Stefanik (R-New York), for the third-highest ranking position in the House Republican Party Donalds was recently appointed to the finance committee where he expects to work on banking regulations and access to capital legislation

Going forward, Donalds said voters can expect to see Republicans in the H o u s e t a c k l e i m m i g r a t i o n , e c o n o m i c issues and investigations into President Joe Biden

“The first thing we did was what we said we were going to do, we repealed the 87,000 IRS agents (which was approved last year by the Congress),” Donalds said

As for Fort Myers Beach, Donalds said he expects there will be some supplemental to aid the island in its recovery from Hurricane Ian

“The biggest thing for Fort Myers Beach is to continue the hard work they are doing We are going to do everything we can to make sure they aren’t left behind,” Donalds said

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

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For the first time, the School District of Lee County will hold a High School Student Enrollment Showcase for eighth-grade students.

It will be held on Jan 21 at the Lee County Public Education Center, at 2855 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers Attendees are asked to enter through the main entrance across from Colonial Boulevard and McDonald's; they will be given a map to show where to go

“We want our incoming high school students to choose a school that meets their interests, but recognize not every family has the ability to attend each school’s open house,” Superintendent Dr Christopher Bernier said in a prepared statement “By holding a showcase, with every school available on the same day, we are making it easier on our families to compare the high schools in their zone All of our high schools have done a great job creating unique opportunities, so that every student can find their place ”

In addition to all 15 traditional high schools, Lee Virtual School will be among the schools present Rising eighth-grade students have from now through March 3 to submit their choices for the high school assignment lottery In addition, applications for IB, Cambridge, arts, FGCU and STEAM advanced programs are due by Jan 27

The schedule for the showcase is broken down into zones:

DOH-Lee to host immunization clinic

The Florida Department of Health in Lee County is reminding parents of kindergartners, seventh-graders, and out-of-state, transfer and college students to make sure their children’s immunizations are up to date before the start of the new school year

The DOH-Lee will host a clinic to provide services only for back-to-school immunizations on Jan 21 from 9 a m to 1 p m at the Florida Department of Health, at 3920 Michigan Ave , Fort Myers

All students are required to receive the Tdap booster before entering seventh grade Children may receive the Tdap booster as early as age 11

Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins will be accepted on a limited basis For an appointment, contact 239-461-6100 Travel vaccinations will not be provided during the clinic

Bring the child’s shot record and insurance card People may also fax a copy to 239-332-9517 or e m a i l D O H L e e I m m u n i z a t i o n s @ f l h e a l t h g o v T h e parent or guardian bringing the child must provide his or her photo ID

al student information

“A lot of times freshmen may not be thinking about career and technical academies,” Simmons said, adding that it might spark an interest and help in selecting a school “All of the high schools, no matter where you go, have an advanced curriculum IB, AICE, or Cambridge program There may be other factors that weigh into what parents may want It’s time for them to walk around and see what’s there ”

Open enrollment for middle, high school

The district's Open Enrollment process is moving entirely online for the 2023-24 school year

To rank schools for the student assignment lottery, families must use their FOCUS Parent Portal account Students who wish to change schools for the 2023-24 school year must also use their FOCUS Parent Portal to rank their choices for the lottery The online application process makes it unnecessary for families of students enrolled to stand in long lines outside the Student Enrollment Office

The Open Enrollment period for rising fifth- and eighthgraders is from now to March 3

Open Enrollment for elementary school is being delayed until a new proximity plan is implemented that will shrink school zones to create neighborhood schools Elementary school parents can view the proposal presented to the Lee County School Board on Jan 5 at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS8GClSDM E.

∫

Dunbar High School ∫

East Lee County High School ∫ Gateway High School ∫ Island Coast High School ∫

Lehigh Senior High School ∫ Riverdale High School

South Zone from 1 0 to 1 1 :3 0 a.m. ∫ Bonita Springs High School ∫

Cypress Lake High School ∫ Dunbar High School ∫

Estero High School ∫ Fort Myers High School ∫ South Fort Myers High School

West Zone from noon to 1 :3 0 p m ∫ Cape Coral High School ∫

Ida S Baker High School

The DOH-Lee's Immunization Program provides routine, childhood immunizations free of charge to children 18 and under

∫ Island Coast High School ∫ Mariner High School ∫ North Fort Myers High School School Development Executive Director Clayton Simmons said although they will still have the regular Choice open houses, the event will provide parents with the opportunity to see all of the schools at the same time and obtain information about them He said it also allows parents and students to see what career and technical programs the schools offer

The showcase will feature a counselor table, student enrollment information, exceptional student education and athletics In addition, the schools will focus on their clubs, activities, special academic programs, academies and gener-

Parents without a FOCUS account can create one at https://www leeschools net /our schools/focus

Student assignment uses a lottery system, so a family who registers the first day of Open Enrollment has the same chance of getting a school as that of a family who registers the last day

Rising high school students interested in the IB, Cambridge, Arts, FGCU and STEAM Advanced Programs must submit their Advanced Program application directly to the school of their choice by Jan 27 A Choice Application Submission Receipt obtained through the FOCUS Parent Portal showing the desired school ranked first is required to be included with the Advanced Program application.

Any student who is new to the district or transferring into the district from a charter school must still come to the Student Enrollment Office, at 2855 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers, to register and fill out the application More information about Open Enrollment is available at https://www leeschools net/

Inaugural High School Student Enrollment Showcase set

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On Jan 10, Gov Ron DeSantis signed the sweeping Executive Order 23-06 in support of improving water quality within Florida. The order directs the state to spend $3 5 billion over the next four years on Everglades restoration and water quality improvements

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O b i t u a r i e s D e b b i e C a r l e t t i o b i t s @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m P ro d u c t i o n m a n a g e r R o b B r a i t l i n g r b ra i t l i n g @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m S u b s c r i p t i o n s 1 y e a r, $ 6 2

C i rc u l a t i o n ( 2 3 9 ) 5 7 4 - 1 9 3 6

The order is an ambitious ask from the governor and seeks to improve our water quality around the state and our resiliency into the future As more funding is directed toward Everglades restoration we expect to see less damaging discharges to the Caloosahatchee and improved water quality

The order marks an increase of $1 billion from the executive order that was signed four years ago It also directs additional funding to work to restore the Indian River Lagoon with $100 million earmarked for the creation of a protection program with enhanced water quality monitoring

Matt DePaolis

Beyond allocating funding, the order directs the agencies within Florida to continue their efforts to support water quality The order directs the South Florida Water Management District to expedite Everglades restoration projects and focus on sending more clean water south to the Everglades

It also directs the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to work with the Florida Legislature to expand the wastewater grant program to address impacts from non-point source pollution. Non-point source pollutants originate from agriculture runoff, stormwater, leaky

Customer service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30

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septic systems, and similar sources and are major drivers of the nutrient pollution in our waterways The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation is excited to work with our partners and the DEP to tackle the issues of non-point source pollution, algal blooms, and resiliency and improve Florida’s waters for everyone

Additionally, the order provides guidance to the DEP to work with the Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services to strengthen Basin Management Action Plans for our waterways and to improve best management practices for agriculture. If enacted properly, this could result in less nutrient pollution entering our waters

The order also seeks to reduce harmful algal blooms within the state It creates grant funding to work on mitigating blue-green algal blooms. Finally, the order seeks to increase resiliency around the state and will create a coral reef restoration and recovery initiative to help with coral growth and storm surge protections

The order is a good step on the path to restoration and resiliency, and it will be important to monitor that funds are directed to projects that will have the largest impact on the quality and quantity of our water.

Matt DePaolis

New state property insurance law leaves little recourse for consumers

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W h i l e t h e r e i s n o d o u b t t h a t t h e p r o p e r t y i n s u ra n c e i n d u s t r y n e e d s h e l p , m y e x p e r i e n c e i n d i c a t e s t h i s l a w w i l l p r i m a r i l y h u r t n o t b e n e f i t c o ns u m e r s l i k e y o u a n d m e

T h e n e w l a w i s n o t a l l b a d I t r e m o v e s A s s i g n m e n t o f B e n e f i t s , w h i c h a r e a g r e e m e n t s t h a t t r a n s f e r t h e i n s u r a n c e c l a i m s r i g h t s o r b e n e f i t s o f t h e p o l i c y t o a t h i r d p a r t y A s s i g n i n g b e n e f i t s t o r e s t o r a t i o n c o m p a n i e s i s o n e o f t h e b i g g e s t c o s t e s c a l a t o r s t o i n s u r a n c e c o m p a n i e s b e c a u s e i t g i v e s c o n t r a c t o r s a n u n n a t u r a l i n c e n t i v e t o i n f l a t e e s t im a t e s a n d s c o p e o f r e p a i r s W h e n i n s u r e r s b a l k a t t h e i n f l a t e d c l a i m s , t h e a s s i g n e e s a r e o f t e n q u i c k t o s u e F r i v o l o u s l a w s u i t s f o r i n s u r a n c e c l a i m s t h a t a r e d r i v i n g u p t h e c o s t o f i n s u r a n c e a r e p r i m a r i l y t h e r e s u l t o f A s s i g n m e n t o f B e n e f i t s

s t a t u t e , w h i c h r e q u i r e d i n s u r e r s t o p a y t h e p l a i n t i f f s ’ l e g a l f e e s i f t h e c a r r i e r l o s e s i n c o u r t T h e l a w h a d b e e n i n e f f e c t , i n o n e f o r m o r a n o t h e r , s i n c e 1 8 9 3

T h e a b i l i t y t o h o l d i n s u r a n c e c o m p a n i e s r e s p o n s i b l e f o r p a y i n g c l a i m s i s n e c e s s a r y b e c a u s e i n s u r a n c e c o mp a n i e s , m a n y o f w h i c h a r e a l r e a d y i n f i n a n c i a l t r o u b l e , w i l l m a k e l o w - b a l l o f f e r s o r d e n y c o v e r a g e o n m a n y o c c a s i o n s , h o p i n g a d e s p e r a t e h o m e o w n e r o r b u s i n e s s w i l l j u m p a t t h e o f f e r R e c o r d s f r o m t h e F l o r i d a O f f i c e o f I n s u r a n c e R e g u l a t i o n s h o w t h a t i n s u r a n c e c o m p a n i e s d e n i e d r o u g h l y 3 0 % o f t h e n e a r l y 1 m i l l i o n c l a i m s f i l e d a f t e r H u r r i c a n e I r m a i n 2 0 1 7 .

I n o t h e r c a s e s , i n s u r a n c e c o m p a n i e s m a y t r y t o c l a i m t h e y d o n o t h a v e t o c o v e r a n y t h i n g i f d a m a g e w a s c a u s e d b y b o t h f l o o d i n g a n d w i n d I n 4 5 s t a t e s , i n c l u di n g F l o r i d a , i n s u r a n c e p o l i c i e s h a v e a c l a u s e a l l o w i n g i n s u r e r s t o d e n y c l a i m s i f t w o c a t a s t r o p h i c e v e n t s o c c u r r e d s i m u l t a n e o u s l y a n d o n e o f t h o s e e v e n t s w a s n o t c o v e r e d , l i k e w i n d o r f l o o d i n g

W h i l e r e m o v a l o f t h e A s s i g n m e n t o f B e n e f i t s i s a p o s i t i v e c h a n g e , a n o t h e r p r o v i s i o n o f t h e n e w l a w w i l l m a k e i t e x t r e m e l y d i f f i c u l t f o r c o n s u m e r s t o g e t i n s u r a n c e c o m p a n i e s t o p a y l e g a l f e e s w h e n l a w s u i t s a r e n e c e s s a r y t o f a i r l y c o v e r c o n s u m e r l o s s e s T h e l a w e f f e c t i v e l y m e a n s p o l i c y h o l d e r s m u s t p a y a l l t h e i r a t t o r n e y f e e s , e v e n i f t h e i n s u r a n c e c o m p a n y w r o n g f u l l y d e n i e s , u n d e r p a y s o r d e l a y s t h e i r c l a i m s

T h e n e w i n s u r a n c e l a w n e g a t e s F l o r i d a ’ s o n e - w a y a t t o r n e y f e e s

Guest Commentary See GUEST COMMENTARY, page 5 Previous Web Poll Results Have you applied/will you apply for a trailer while your home is repaired? ∫ Yes 14 3% ∫ No, I am able to live at my house while repairing it 19% ∫ No, I am renting or living at another location 57% ∫ No, my home was destroyed; I will not be rebuild 9 5% Current Web Poll Question What are you most concerned about in regards to rebuilding from Hurricane Ian? ∫ Debris removal ∫ Insurance ∫ 50% rule and whether I can afford to rebuild ∫ Permits for repairs/rebuilding ∫ Government leadership

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

must be signed and must contain a phone

purposes You also can comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: fortmyersbeachtalk com

Lyn McElhaney lmcelhaney@breezenewspapers

is the environmental policy director for the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Founded in 1967, the SCCF's mission is to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems. For more information, visit www.sccf.org.

G o v R o n D e S a n t i s s i g n e d l e g i s l a t i o n D e c 1 6 t h

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TPI acquires Silver Sands Resort

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A t t e m p t s t o r e a c h S i l v e r S a n d s R e s o r t o w n e r A n d r e a G r o v e s w e r e u n s u c c e s s f u l T h e F a c e b o o k p a g e o f S i l v e r S a n d s s t a t e d “ i s w i t h h e a v y h e a r t t h a t I a n n o u n c e t h a t o u r b e l o v e d S i l v e r S a n d s h a s b e e n s o l d D u e t o t h e l a c k o f i n s u r a n c e p r o c e e d s a n d t h e s t a t e o f t h e t o w n a n d i t s p e r m i t t i n g p r o c e s s e s I c h o s e t o s e l l a n d r e t i r e I w a n t m y g u e s t s t o k n o w t h a t i t w a s o n e o f t h e m o s t d i f f i c u l t d e c i s i o n s I h a d t o m a k e . I w i l l m i s s e v e r y o n e a n d h o p e t o s e e y o u i f y o u g e t i n t h e a r e a ”

$7.1 million.

Voting open for ‘Picture this as a Career ’ poster contest

Staf f Repor t

The voting for the annual "Picture This as a Career" Poster Contest is underway

Since 2004, CareerSource Southwest Florida has challenged fifth-grade students at Southwest Florida schools to show their creativity and share their future career aspirations through the “Picture This as a Career” Poster Contest

More than 200 fifth graders from Lee, Charlotte, and Hendry County schools are participating this year and voting is now open to the public

T h e p u b l i c i s e n c o u r a g e d t o visit www careersourceSWFL com and cl ick on the “POSTER CONTEST 2023” link.

You may vote for more than one poster but only one vote per poster, per person, is permitted

You can sort through the photo gallery

by county/school district and simply click on the “VOTE HERE” icon There is no cost to vote. Voting is open NOW through Jan 31

“ T h i s p r o j e c t e x e m p l i f i e s t h e w o nd e r f u l p a r t n e r s h i p C a r e e r S o u r c e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a h a s w i t h o u r l o c a l s c h o o l d i s t r i c t s t h r o u g h o u t S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a , a s w e l l a s t h e a b u n d a n c e o f t a le n t a n d c r e a t i v i t y o u r f i f t h - g r a d e s t ud e n t s d e m o n s t r a t e e a c h y e a r c a p t u r i n g t h e i r c a r e e r a s p i r a t i o n s i n w r i t t e n a n d p o s t e r f o r m , ” s a i d P e g E l m o r e , P r e s i d e n t a n d C E O f o r C a r e e r S o u r c e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a .

F i r s t a n d s e c o n d - p l a c e w i n n e r s i n e a c h C o u n t y / D i s t r i c t r e c e i v e a $ 5 0 g i f t c a r d a n d t h e t e a c h e r w h o s u b m i t s t h e m o s t p o s t e r s p e r c o u n t y / d i s t r i c t r e c e i v e s a $ 1 0 0 g i f t c a r d t o h e l p p u r c h a s e i t e m s f o r t h e i r c l a s s r o o m

d a m a g e w a s d u e t o n o r m a l w e a r a n d t e a r , n o t t h e s t o r m

T h e l a w a p p r o v e d i n D e c e m b e r e f f e ct i v e l y g i v e s i n s u r a n c e c o m p a n i e s , w i t h r e s o u r c e s a n d e n g i n e e r i n g e x p e r t s a v a i la b l e t o d e n y o r l o w - b a l l c l a i m s , t h e a d v a n t a g e o v e r h o m e o w n e r s w h o f a c e h i g h d e d u c t i b l e s a n d p o s t - s t o r m e x p e n se s , a n d m a y n o t h a v e t h e f i n a n c i a l

From page 4

r e s o u r c e s t o d i s p u t e i n s u r a n c e d e n i a l s o n t h e i r o w n T h e p r a c t i c a l i m p a c t i s t h a t i t i n v i t e s a F l o r i d a i n s u r e r t o d e n y , d e l a y a n d u n d e r p a y o n a s y s t e m i c b a s i s

W h i l e t h e s t a t e ’ s p r o p e r t y i n s u r a n c e c r i s i s d i d n o t h a p p e n o v e r n i g h t , i t ’ s i n t e r e s t i n g t h a t t h e l a w t o u t e d a s b e i n g n e c e s s a r y t o h e l p l o w e r i n s u r a n c e p r e m iu m s w e n t t h r o u g h t h e a p p r o v a l p r o c e s s

i n j u s t s i x d a y s , w i t h p u b l i c c o m m e n t l i m i t e d t o o n l y o n e m i n u t e

D a m a g e f r o m H u r r i c a n e I a n i s s o e x t e n s i v e a n d i n s u r a n c e l o s s e s s o g r e a t , t h e c h a n c e s o f p r e m i u m s b e i n g r e d u c e d a n y t i m e s o o n i s n o t l i k e l y .

I n s u r a n c e c o m p a n i e s w e r e n o t p r ep a r e d f o r t h e k i n d o f d a m a g e a s t o r m l i k e H u r r i c a n e I a n c o u l d d o t o t h e s t a t e

H o w e v e r , t h a t i s n o t a f a c t t h a t s h o u l d h u r t c o n s u m e r ’ s a b i l i t y t o b e a b l e t o e n s u r e a f a i r i n s u r a n c e c l a i m

R i c h a r d L P u r t z i s a f o r m e r i n s u ra n c e a d j u s t o r a n d a t t o r n e y a t G o l d s t e i n , B u c k l e y , C e c h m a n , R i c e a n d P u r t z

PHOTO VIA LEE COUNTY APPRAISER'S OFFICE

The Silver Sands was wiped put by Hurricane Ian though the property has been acquired by TPI for

Hero’s Welcome

wows

By NATHAN MAYBERG news@breezenewspapers com

It was one of those special nights that come along rarely in music A special performance by an exceptional group of musicians during a turning point in the world

The Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine was in Fort Myers Monday at the Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall just days after 40 people were killed in a Russian missile attack on an apartment building in their home country

For the past year, Ukraine has been fighting to save the independence of their country from the invading forces of their n e i g h b o r s , t h e R u s s i a n F e d e r a t i o n Monday’s concert was planned two years in advance but it has taken on all the more significance with the ongoing war. The U S State Department is sponsoring the philharmonic’s six-week tour of the United States, which was in its fourth performance in four nights Monday

So it was fitting that on a night where

nearly all 1,800 of the Barbara B Mann Performing Art Hall’s seats were filled as their countrymen battled to defend their nation from the onslaught of their neigh-

Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine performed Dvorak’s Symphony No 9 in E minor, Op 95 “From the New World ” The c o

9 t h

Century during the Czech composer’s stay in the U S while he served as director of the National Conservatory of Music in New York

The score should be recognizable to American audiences as various parts were used, borrowed, lifted or otherwise influenced the music in blockbuster films such

Theodore Kuchar directs the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine performance

NATHAN MAYBERG

Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine Principal Conductor Theodore Kuchar directs the group's performance of Tragic Overture, Op. 81 by Johannes Brahams at the Barbara B. Mann Performance Hall in Fort Myers on Monday.

performance in Fort Myers Monday night.

PHOTOS BY NATHAN MAYBERG

Philharmonic

as “Lord of the Rings,” “Jaws” and “Star Wars ” The main theme in Dvorak’s “From the New World” closely resembles the celebratory and heroic battle cry arch in “Lord of the Rings,” whose ending is what the Ukrainian symphony and their brethren in their native country hope their nation will achieve in their fight to defend themselves against Russia

Monday’s performance was buttressed by mesmerizing Ukrainian art on display in the lobby and a rousing speech from the symphony’s conductor about the fight for the independent life of Ukraine

Yet it was tough to top the orchestra’s rendition of “Violin Concerto in D major” by Johannes Brahms, which is the only violin concerto by Brahms, with one of the most dazzling violin solos in classical music Soloist Vladyslava Lucheno played the impossible violin solo work on the piece, on a Francesco Gobetti violin of 1710, on loan from a private collection The impeccable flourish of her violin solo was met with multiple applauses including a round of applause after the first movement The symphony opened the concert with a performance of “Tragic Overture, Op 81” by Brahms

The crowd handed the orchestra multiple standing ovations

After Monday’s intermission before the symphony performed the Dvorak symphony, their American-born conductor Theodore Kuchar, spoke to the audience about the nation’s history, its dire state and the philharmonic’s journey to the U S which was planned two years ago before war broke out after Vladimir Putin’s invasion in February of 2022

“We believe (Ukraine) will once again return to being a safe democracy for many years to come after this completely unnecessary and pointless war comes to an end,” K u c h a r s a i d K u c h a r , a f i r s t - g e n e r a t i o n U k r a i n i a n American who was born in New York, said the brave fight Ukrainians are putting up against Russia is the result of an “incredible amount of pride, patriotism and nationalism ” Kuchar said if the U S hadn’t supported Ukraine the war might have been over already

Speaking before the concert to the Fort Myers Beach Observer, Kuchar spoke of the importance of the philharmonic’s tour amid the war in Ukraine

“Nobody could have imagined in their wildest dreams that what has happened right now in a daily basis,” Kuchar said “We are extremely happy to be here We see ourselves as ambassadors for a free, loving country which wants nothing more than to simply be a respected, accepted democratic nation that is respected by the rest of the world ”

Kuchar, who has directed Queensland Philharmonic Orchestra in Australia, the Slovak Sinfonietta, the Janacek P h i l h a r m o n i c O r c h e s t r a ( f o r m e r l y t h e C z e c h R a d i o O r c h e s t r a ) , a n d d i r e c t e d t h e A u s t r a l i a n F e s t i v a l o f

Chamber Music and Nevada Chamber Music Festival, said “we are extremely grateful to the United States of America” for its support

Maestro Kuchar said the entire orchestra is dealing with issues from the war “What’s happening right now with lack of stability, with no electricity, with no running water in some places, with no gas, existence is very much taken for granted when you have all those things,” Kuchar said

“Rations for electricity in many places in Ukraine is limited to four hours for 24-hour periods ” Kuchar said

“every Ukrainian believes that this war and this onslaught will result in the independence Ukraine seeks ”

Though he was born in New York City to Ukranian parents, they moved to Pittsburgh when he was 5 and to Cleveland when he was 10 He learned to play the violin and then switched to the viola After studying at the Cleveland Institute of Music, he would go on to become artistic director of the National Symphony of Ukraine and later as resident conductor of the Kent/Blossom Music

Festival, the educational institution established in cooperation with The Cleveland Orchestra, where he was responsible for the orchestral program

“This tour, I regard as a very important, very symbolic trip,” Kuchar said

For those who missed Monday’s show, you can still catch the philharmonic down U S Route 41 on at the Venice Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p m Wednesday, Jan 18

NATHAN MAYBERG

Fort Myers Community Concert Association President Mary Lee Mann and Vice President Ian Mann at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers Monday for the performance by the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine during intermission

e e k o f

RV show returns to the Lee Civic Center

By CHUCK BALLARO news@breezenewspapers com

For those who live the RV lifestyle, it brings adventure, freedom and ability to share time with family and friends

For those who want to, the Fort Myers Recreation Vehicle Show will motor back to the Lee Civic Center for its 37th annual show from Thursday through Sunday, Jan 26 to 29

This year’s show will provide attendees an opportunity to see the latest and best camping products available to RVers and lovers of the great outdoors offered by a slew of local RV dealers and vendors

Dave Kelly, executive director of the Florida RV Trade Association, said the show will appeal to all levels of travelers and provides the perfect learning ground for those interested but afraid to ask questions at a dealership

and styles of RVs,” Kelly said “There are RVs for every price point, hobby and interest ”

The Fort Myers RV Show is one of the largest RV shows in the state, with more than 11,000 attending for last year’s show and as many as 16,000 during its heyday 20 years ago

Attendees can view hundreds of recreation vehicles aged 2018 and newer of all different types, sizes and price points.

In years past, the show featured mostly new RVs, with some models costing nearly $1 million That changed a few years ago so the event could include older models to allow more people the opportunity to afford one, including a growing number of younger people.

to use them to do things outside the RV ”

Units on display will include gas and diesel motorhomes, travel trailers, toy haulers, 5th wheels, park models and van campers

The show also will feature more than 50 outdoors and camping supply vendors that focuses on the fun, flexibility and affordability RVs can provide, along with equipment and accessories to help outfit RVers or provide information on camping throughout the nation

Items will include new towing systems, specialized lighting RV insurance, unique camping equipment and where to camp throughout the nation Daily free RV travel and maintenance seminars also will be offered.

Impact Study, released by the RV Industry Association shows the RV industry has an overall annual impact to the U S economy of $140 billion, supporting nearly 680,000 jobs and paying more than $48 billion in wages. This is a 23 percent increase in economic output in just the past three years

“Even after COVID, you see how storms have impacting flying and having trouble getting people where they need to be Since 2020, people have reevaluated how they travel and vacation,” Kelly said “They want those experiences that you want in traveling, not just getting on a plane and going somewhere ”

f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m

“RV shows are a great place to come whether they are just getting started or experienced RVers The great thing is you have multiple dealers showing multiple brands

Resigns

From page 1

Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt cited advice from town counsel in declining to comment “Our Town Attorney advised the entire Council not to comment as it is a personnel matter,” Atterholt stated

Town of Fort Myers Beach interim Manager Keith Wilkins, in response to an email, stated “We cannot comment at this point due to our ongoing investigation Active investigations are protected and exempt from public records law until the i n v e s t i g a t i o n i s c o n c l u d e d O n c e t h e investigation is complete, it will become public record ”

Former Fort Myers Beach Mayor Ray Murphy said Cory “was the face of the recovery” while he was on the council “When people were standing up and vilifying us (at town council meetings after Hurricane Ian) and really going after us for everything, Christy, she was the hero She and her crew got the water back on w i t h t h e a s s i s t a n c e o f M i a m i - D a d e (County Utilities, who had been brought i n t h r o u g h f o r m e r M a n a g e r R o g e r Hernstadt)

“Everybody was clapping, everybody was happy,” Murphy said “She did a

Found

“Some people don’t want to buy something brand new as a first unit, so seeing some used models gives them an idea of where they can get started,” Kelly said “For a while, bigger was better. It’s now switching with a younger audience, who now just want a place to sleep because they’re going

There is a fundamental change happening in the way Americans travel, work, and live More people are choosing RVs as their preferred option for travel as they prioritize spending time outdoors and embracing the freedom that comes with RVing

The new RVs Move America Economic

The 37th-annual Fort Myers RV Show is open from 10 a m to 5 p m Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p m on Sunday (Jan 26, 27, 28, 29)

Admission is $10 with children under 16 free Parking is free courtesy of the RV Trade Association

For more information, visit www FRVTA-Region1 org or www FRVTA org/show/ft-myers-rv-show

" I h o p e t h i s d i s c o v e r y c a n b r i n g t h e f a m i l y s o m e c l o s u r e , " M a r c e n o s a i d

T h e i r d e a t h s b r i n g s t h e t o t a l n u m b e r o f L e e C o u n t y r e s i d e n t s w h o s e d e a t h s h a v e b e e n a t t r i b u t e d t o H u r r i c a n e I a n t o 7 5

H u r s t a n d K n e s w e r e b e l i e v e d t o b e t h e l a s t p e o p l e m i s s i n g f r o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h s i n c e H u r r i c a n e I a n

h r i s t y C o r y h a s r e s i g n e d a s

great job ”

Cory and staff had responded to homes in the middle of the night to turn on meters and help residents turn on the water They had gone door to door and street to street from dawn to dusk to check

on water lines

Town resident Cindy Johnson, a volunteer with Turtle Time, called Cory a “rock star” for her efforts early on in the aftermath of the hurricane and before the hurricane “Her team would take people up in carts to Topps to do free laundry and to get food,” Johnson said in an interview in November Johnson also credited Cory and her team for filling up sandbags for residents before the hurricane

Former Fort Myers Beach Mayor Anita Cereceda said Cory was “extraordinarily h a r d - w o r k i n g a n d h e l p f u l i n g e t t i n g everything online as quickly as she did” after Hurricane Ian “I’m sure it was probably the most challenging time of her career She was on 24/7 ”

Cereceda said that during her tenure on the council, Cory “always did a great job,

w a s a l w a y s h e l p f u l a n d a c c o u n t a b l e Whenever I had a question with water, she was very helpful I never had any issues with her ”

Murphy said “I don’t know what happened between then and now ” Murphy said he was aware that Cory had a problem with an individual with whom she was working

“Obviously something was wrong,” he said “By all indications she was doing a great job ”

Cory is the third department head to leave since the new management firm H2 Solutions took over in November after being appointed by the new town council to replace Hernstadt The town’s community services director and head of payroll a n n o u n c e d t h e i r r e s i g n a t i o n s i n November.

t e r s a i d t h e y f o u n d b r o k e n g l a s s a n d a w r e n c h i n t h e s a n d t h i s p a s t w e e k

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LEE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

“ T h e c o u n t y e n c o u r a g e s r e s i d e n t s t o v i s i t a s p e c i a l G I Sb a s e d m a p t h a t w a s c r e a t e d p o s t - I a n T h e m a p h e l p s p e o p l e b e tt e r u n d e r s t a n d w h a t ’ s o p e n , w h a t ’ s p a r t i a l l y o p e n a n d w h a t r e m a i n s c l o s e d , ” W e l t o n s t a t e d

The county encourages residents to visit a special GIS-based map that was created post-Ian

F o r L y n n H a l l M e m o r i a l P a r k , “ t h e p a r k b o u n da r y i n c l u d e s a p o r t i o n o f t h e b e a c h f r o m t h e m e a n h i g h t i d e l i n e l a n d w a r d a n d f r o m j u s t n o r t h o f t h e p i e r o n t h e s o u t h e n d o f t h e p a r k t o t h e e n d o f t h e p a r k t o t h e n o r t h , ” s a i d L e e C o u n t y C o m m u n i t y E n g a g e m e n t D i r e c t o r K a t i e W e l t o n

The map helps people better understand what’s open, what’s partially open and what remains closed.

The map can be found under “Hurricane Ian Parks Progress Map” at www leeparks org

T h e m a p c a n b e f o u n d u n d e r “ H u r r i c a n e I a n P a r k s P r o g r e s s M a p ” a t w w w l e e p a r k s o r g

The LCSO Dive team located the sunken sailboat “Good Girl” in Mantanzas Pass.

Parks

director of the Town of Fort Myers Beach Utilities Department

In determining the resignation letter is not a public record, Town of Fort Myers Beach Clerk Amy Baker cited state statute section 119 071(2)(k) “because it contains a complaint of misconduct against a Town employee that is the subject of an on-going internal investigation by the Town.”

By NATHAN MAYBERG news@breezenewspapers com

A local musician who spent two dozen years performing on Fort Myers Beach, largely at Petey's Upper Deck at Matanzas on the Bay, has died and his family has organized a concert to celebrate his life

Peter H Beard, 68, passed away this past Christmas in New Albany, Indiana Beard was known around Fort Myers Beach for his performances of original songs as well as covers of Johnny Cash to Jimmy Buffett and Pink Floyd

The memorial concert will take place Saturday, Jan 28, from noon to 4 p m at Mullock Creek Marina at 18501 Mullock Creek Lane in Fort Myers

Beard’s daughter Brandi Wise Howell is helping to organize the celebration of life

“They made a trip out west visiting many places on their way to Yellowstone They took a couple of their grandchildren and were met with my brother and his family,” Howell said

“They had also just bought property in Southern Indiana and were in the process of building a tiny house They were very excited to be true snow birds. With Dad’s health, cold weather was not his friend After losing their brand new fifth wheel in hurricane Ian they had decided to stay in Indiana this winter Dad first got COVID and then pneumonia Unfortunately, his lungs just were not able to recover,” Howell said

“It is a huge loss for our family One of main gatherings was always going wherever Dad was playing Most restaurants knew ‘Pete’s Family’ we came in numbers, all his kids and grandkids,” Howell said

The guitarist was known for his saying “I don’t do a lot of anything, but I do do a whole lot of everything,” according to an obituary provided by the family

An avid fisherman, he loved beach life and was a Army veteran who served in Vietnam

In a profile on Beard that ran in the Fort Myers Beach Observer and Beach Bulletin in 2021 when Beard decided to stop performing on Fort Myers Beach, he cited arthritis as leading to his decision His wife Jan worked at the PierSide Grill and they had plans to travel together to South Dakota and the West

Beard said he played just about every restaurant and venue on Fort Myers Beach “at one time or another” on the island since he arrived in Florida from Kentucky in 1996 A heart attack made him leave the restaurant business in

Kentucky

Beard said he has enjoyed the people at Matanzas on the Bay who enjoy his music and compliment him

“You get to know they people and they get to know you,” he said in 2021

Some of his favorite songs to cover were “Carolina in my Mind” by James Taylor and “Cat's in the Cradle” and “Taxi” by Harry Chapin He also enjoyed modern country musicians such as Chris Janson

“Willie (Nelson) is my favorite,” Beard said

His favorite song to play is “Pancho and Lefty,” by Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard, originally sung by John Townes

Van Zandt “It has that upbeat, western outlaw feel and everybody likes it,” he said

For Johnny Cash, he preferred “Folsom Prison Blues” and for Pink Floyd he liked to play “Comfortably Numb” and “Wish you were here,” among others

“It’s time to retire,” Beard said at the time “It’s been a good run ”

For those who can not attend the celebration of life Jan 28, the family suggests memorial gifts be made to either the Harry Chapin Food Bank or to the Fort Myers Beach Hurricane Ian Recovery Fund at ftmyersbeach org

Annual Antique Ford Car Show at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pete Beard, who was a musician on Fort Myers Beach for more than two decades, died on Christmas in Indiana A celebration of his life will be held Jan 28 at Mullock Creek Marina with local musicians playing in his memory

1 8 ,

Alliance for the Arts opens dedicated phone line to collect stories of Ian survival

p l a n n e d f o r n e x t f a l l " W e ' r e t r y i n g t o f i g u r e o u t h o w w e c a n t a k e t h i s o n t h e r o a d , " D e c k a r t s a i d o f b u d d i n g p r o j e c t " W h e t h e r i t ' s a l i s t e n i n g b o o t h o r s o m e w a y t h a t t h e p u b l i c o u ts i d e o f L e e C o u n t y c a n r e a l l y a c c e s s t h e s e s t o r i e s "

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b e t t e r s h a r e t h e s e s t o r i e s w i t h t h e c o m m u n i t y . T h i s p r o j e c t w i l l c u l m i n a t e i n a m u l t i - m e d i a , a r t i s t i c e x p r e s s i o n e x h i b i t i o n a r o u n d t h e a n n i v e r s a r y i n S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 3 t h a t w i l l r u n f o r a m o n t h

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T h e A l l i a n c e f o r t h e A r t s i s a n o n p r o f i t c o m m u n i t y a r t s a n d c u l t u r a l c e n t e r l o c a t e d i n t h e h e a r t o f F o r t M y e r s a t 1 0 0 9 1 M c G r e g o r B l v d F o r m o r e t h a n 4 0 y e a r s , t h e A l l i a n c e h a s b e e n c h a r g e d w i t h t h e m i s s i o n t o f a c i l i t a t e a n d n u r t u r e t h e c r e a t i o n , d e v e l o p m e n t , p r o m o t i o n a n d e d u c a t i o n o f a r t s a n d c u l t u r e i n S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , c a l l 2 3 99 3 9 - 2 7 8 7 O n l i n e S t o r m S t o r i e s s u b m i s s i o n c a n b e m a d e b y v i s i t i n g w w w A r t I n L e e o r g / S t o r m S t o r i e s

C o n n e c t w i t h t h i s r e p o r t e r o n T w i t t e r : @ h a dd a d c j

Shell museum announces topic, speaker for next lecture in series

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum on Sanibel is continuing with its annual lecture series, which is offered virtually via Zoom and free of charge The next lecture in the series will be: ∫ Jan 19 at 5:30 p m : “Land Snails in Los Angeles: An Experiment in Urban Citizen Science” with Dr Jann Elizabeth Vendetti, associate curator and Twila Bratcher Chair in M a l a c o l o g i c a l Research at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Dr Jann Elizabeth Vendetti

The land snail and slug fauna of Los Angeles County, like that of many other metropolitan areas, is under-surveyed and under-studied To address the shortfall, in 2015 the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County began a citizen/community science project called SLIME (Snails and Slugs Living in Metropolitan Environments), focused on the terrestrial malacofauna from southern California As of early 2022, there have been more than 18,000 observations added to the project and approximately 100 species documented Results have included first occurrence records for several species within southern California counties and the documentation of range extents and limits of native and introduced taxa

The outreach aspect of the project has engaged students and school groups, museum associates and members, and

other community groups The success of SLIME has been replicated with similar iNaturalist projects elsewhere in the United States, including Atlanta, Georgia and Seattle, Washington

Vendetti will share highlights and insights of building a successful citizen science movement in the nation's largest urban area and surprising discoveries about land snail and slug species in Los Angeles.

Vendetti is associate curator of malacology at the museum and co-director of its Urban Nature Research Center She is interested in the natural history, evolution, systematics, and conservation of marine and terrestrial snails Vendetti joined the museum in 2014 and has focused on collections-based research and the SLIME project, championing the important role of citizen/community science to

understanding terrestrial gastropod biodiversity She earned her Ph D from UC Berkeley's Department of Integrative Biology and Museum of Paleontology, and had a postdoctoral fellowship at California State University, Los Angeles, which was partly funded by a Smithsonian Encyclopedia of Life Rubenstein Fellowship

Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum Executive Director Sam Ankerson will provide the introduction for the lecture, along with an update on the museum postHurricane Ian

Advance registration is required

For more information or to register, visit https://www shellmuseum org/online-lectures

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

The Southwest Florida Symphony rocks out with Elton John tribute concert

The Southwest Florida Symphony, the only professional orchestra in Lee County and fourth oldest orchestra in the state, is excited to announce tickets are on sale for the first Brave New Pops concerts of the season “Remember When Rock was Young – the Elton John Tribute” will offer a full-strength stage experience unlike any other, capturing the music, costumes, and charisma of Sir Elton John in a show that is sure to leave audiences breathless

Concerts will be held at:

∫ Jan 20 at 7 p m : Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita St , Punta Gorda

∫ Jan 21 at 7:30 p m : Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Pkwy , Fort Myers

Performances will feature multiple award-winning, multitalented singer, actor and pianist Craig A Meyer bringing a fresh take on nostalgic classics In addition to his numerous credits with roles in film, television and on Broadway, Meyer has toured internationally and recorded with music legends including Frankie Valli and Barry Manilow, who said, “Craig A Meyer is one of the most talented people I have ever worked with; he can do anything!” He is considered to be the best Elton John tribute artist in the market today whose strong vocals, striking resemblance and amazing talent on the piano has audiences everywhere remembering when rock was young

This spectacular theatrical experience will be a musical journey celebrating Elton John’s decades of chartt o p p i n g h i t s , i n c l u d i n g “ B e n n y a n d t h e J e t s , ” “Philadelphia Freedom,” “Crocodile Rock,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” and “Candle in the Wind ” Meyer’s fully produced show has captivated audiences throughout the United States and internationally

The Southwest Florida Symphony’s Brave New Pops series is sponsored by Ellie Fox

T o p u r c h a s e t i c k e t s o r l e a r n m o r e , v i s i t swflso org/tickets/

The Southwest Florida Symphony made its debut as a community orchestra on April 15, 1961, playing in schools and community centers, with a roster of only 24 volunteer musicians Today, the symphony boasts a roster of 70 world-class musicians, and is Lee County’s only

Symphony’s

year continues the orchestra’s tradition of artistic excellence as newly appointed Music Director Maestro Radu Paponiu leads his inaugural season of spectacular performances Maestro Paponiu, the sixth music director in the organization’s history, also serves as the associate conductor and youth orchestra

For more information about the Southwest Florida Symphony, upcoming season performances and subscription and ticketing information, visit swflso org or call 239-418-1500

Grammy Award winner Gil Shaham joins the Southwest Florida Symphony for first Masterworks concert of the season

The Southwest Florida Symphony, the only professional orchestra in Lee County and fourth oldest orchestra in the state, is thrilled to announce Grammy Award winner and world-renowned violinist Gil Shaham will perform the first Masterworks concert of the season on Saturday, Jan 28 The performance begins at 7:30 p m at Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers Conducted by Maestro Radu Paponiu, the concert will feature pieces by Coleridge-Taylor, Tchaikovsky and Mozart

As part of the symphony’s signature series, patrons will also have the opportunity to attend an exclusive preconcert lecture prior to the show led by Shaham and Paponiu, including a Q&A session, to enhance the concert experience and provide insights into the pieces being performed The lecture begins at 6:30 p m

Shaham has been recognized as one of the foremost violinists of our time for his flawless technique combined with an inimitable warmth and generosity of spirit Named Musical America’s “Instrumentalist of the Year” and a recipient of the Avery Fisher Prize, he is sought after throughout the world for concerto appearances with leading orchestras and conductors. He also regularly gives recitals and appears with ensembles on the world’s greatest concert stages and at the most prestigious festivals

Shaham, who is originally from Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, moved to Israel with his parents, where he began

violin studies with Samuel Bernstein of the Rubin Academy of Music at the age of 7, receiving annual s c h o l a r s h i p s f r o m t h e A m e r i c a - I s r a e l C u l t u r a l Foundation He received a scholarship to attend Juilliard and also studied at Columbia University Shaham has earned numerous academic awards, including first prize in Israel’s Claremont Competition and an Avery Fisher Career Grant

Shaham has regularly appeared with the Berlin Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, Chicago Symphony, Israel Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, New Y o r k P h i l h a r m o n i c , O r c h e s t r e d e P a r i s , a n d S a n Francisco Symphony as well as multi-year residencies with the Orchestras of Montreal, Stuttgart and Singapore Additionally, he has more than two dozen concerto and solo CDs to his name, earning multiple Grammys, a Grand Prix du Disque, Diapason d’Or, and Gramophone Editor’s Choice

The Southwest Florida Symphony’s Masterworks series is sponsored by Uhler & Vertich Financial Planners, with this opening concert also being sponsored by the Southwest Florida Symphony Society

T o p u r c h a s e t i c k e t s o r l e a r n m o r e , v i s i t swflso org/tickets/

For more information about the Southwest Florida Symphony, upcoming season performances and subscription and ticketing information, visit swflso org or call 239-418-1500

fully professional orchestra The Southwest Florida

62nd

director for the Naples Philharmonic in addition to guestconducting with orchestras throughout the United States and Europe

PHOTO PROVIDED

Craig A Meyer performs as Elton John

PHOTO PROVIDED

Gil Shaham, guest artist

BIG ARTS to host community gathering with demos and more

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

An upcoming event hopes to bring the islands together to heal through the power of the arts

BIG ARTS will host a “New” New Year Community Gathering on Jan 18 from 4 to 6 p m on its campus on Sanibel The free open house will feature artist demonstrations, music and more

“It's for the community,” Executive Director Lee Ellen Harder said, explaining that BIG ARTS was lucky to suffer only about a quarter-million in manageable damages as a result of Hurricane Ian

“We know we're in much better shape than many on the islands,” she added “We want to make a contribution to the community with no cost to it with these healing community events ”

Harder noted that next week's event will be the first of several

“We're going to have one every month,” she said There will be a handful of artists conducting demonstrations in the education classrooms.

“It's going to be three artists, instructors doing demos,” Harder said, adding that each one will showcase their medium, which they provide instruction on through classes offered at BIG ARTS

Attendees will be able to see what Zentangle drawing entails from Donna Cole There will be basket weaving offered up by Gisela Damandl, and Petra Kaiser will showcase how glass fusing works

“We want to encourage people to go to the Education

Fort Myers Coin Club coin, currency show set

The Fort Myers Coin Club will hold a numismatic coin and currency show on Jan 21 from 9 a m to 3 p m at the Masonic Lodge, at 10868 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers It will feature 30 tables For more information, visit fmcc.anaclubs.org.

If you go

What “New” New Year Community Gathering

When Jan 18 from 4 to 6 p m

Where

BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel Details

Free and open to the community

Center,” she said

Live entertainment will be provided by Jenny Ve in the Sculpture Garden, weather permitting

“We want people to roam,” Harder said of the build-

ing and campus.

The Mezzanine Gallery, with its elevator access, will be open

“It's featuring Lynda Fay Braun,” she said

“Finding Perfection” features her digital art, which combines photography, digital applications and painting Braun's exhibit will be on display through the end of July, which is the end of season

There is no exhibition in the Dunham Family Gallery, but attendees will want to stop in

“There will be two different projections on two different walls,” Harder said, explaining that they will be slideshows of past exhibits. “The gallery will be open for people to sit and have drinks and food ”

Complimentary bites and beverages will provided Attendees can also browse and shop the recently reopened gift shop

“The gift shop will be open,” she said

The community in encouraged to come and relax

“It's an opportunity for all of us to reconnect and just experience the healing power of the arts and community,” Harder said “To be with each other in a beautiful atmosphere ”

“We're really looking forward to it and anxious to see everyone again,” she added.

R S V P s a r e r e q u e s t e d a t 2 3 9 - 3 9 5 - 0 9 0 0 o r info@bigarts org

For more information, visit https://bigarts org/ or call 239-395-0900

BIG ARTS is at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

Reser vations open for DDWS fundraiser

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge is now taking reservations for its annual fundraiser, “Go Bully for “Ding” An Evening with Teddy Roosevelt ” The event will take place on March 6 at the Broadway Palm in Fort Myers In consideration of the hardships island residents and business owners have suffered since Hurricane Ian, the DDWS has lowered the price of tickets to $75 per person this year New event supporters include: Wayne and Linda Boyd, and In Memory of Boomer Duvin as Champion sponsors; William and Barbara Millar, and Doug and Sherry Gentry as Guardian sponsors; Tiffani Kaliko and John Silvia as Protector sponsors; and The Gresham Family, Bob and Kathy Wiesemann, and Sanibel-Captiva Islander and Island Reporter as Defender sponsors For tickets or sponsorship information, visit https://www dingdarlingsociety org/ articles/go-wild-for-ding

‘Changing Direction’ exhibit opens at Alliance

The exhibition “Changing Direction: National Association of Women Artists” will be on display now through Jan 28 at the Alliance for the Arts, at 10091 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

Juried by Florida Gulf Coast University professor Morgan Paine, the exhibit presents 50 pieces by NAWA

members meditating on the theme “Changing Direction ” Founded in 1889, the NAWA is the oldest professional women’s fine arts organization in the United States

In addition, the exhibition’s juror will host a panel discussion with several artists on Jan. 21 from 11 a.m. to noon The discussion is free and open

to the public; however, RSVPs are recommended

Gallery admission is free, but a $5 donation keeps programming affordable and accessible

For more information, visit https://www artinlee org/event/changing-direction/.

Strictly Sinatra to perform at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

On Jan 27, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Frank Sinatra tribute, Michael Dutra and the Strictly Sinatra band This will be the first Rhythm on the River concert of 2023 The event will take place on the Ford lawn, along the Caloosahatchee River Gates open at 6 p m and the concert starts at 6:30 p m

T h e g r o u p p e r f o r m s m a n y o f Sinatra's greatest hits and has been performing all across the country since 2002 They opened for Howie Mandel at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City and performed at

the Governor Chris Christie inaugural event in 2010 Dutra shares many similarities to Frank Sinatra: both are left handed, both born on December 12, they are the same height and both of their fathers were boxers at one time

Food and beverage vendors will have refreshments available for purchase No coolers or picnic baskets will be permitted. Free parking is available in the main Edison Ford parking lot at 2350 McGregor Blvd

Tickets may be purchased online or at the ticket counter Individual tickets

purchased in advance are $30 for Edison Ford members or $35 for nonmembers; tickets at the door will be $40 Individual ticket holders should bring a lawn chair and sweater or blanket if the weather is chilly

A VIP seating area may be reserved by the table for $225 Each table holds up to 5 people; table ticket price includes the use of a table and chairs For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit EdisonFord org Edison and Ford Winter Estates is a t 2 3 5 0 M c G r e g o r B

Edison, Ford estates to offer gardening programming

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers offers opportunities throughout the year to learn about gardening in Florida

Programming scheduled for the month of January includes the following:

Garden Talks

∫

Jan 1 4 : Staghorns and Jungle

Cactus at 1 0 a.m.

Learn about the largest “ferns” that hang on heavy chains at the estates and about another kind of “epiphyte,” the jungle cactus While some have adapted to growing in a loose soil medium, many of these are pendulous and do not tolerate drought Cost is $10 for members or $15 for non-members

Gardening Classes

∫ Jan. 2 4 : Introduction to Florida

Gardening Part I from 1 :3 0 to 3 :3 0 p m

Participants will receive a foundation of how plants work, their nomenclature and understanding of unique weather patterns and unusual soils found only in Florida, zone 10. The class will educate them with identification of native and nonnative plants and how to recognize invasive species Palms will also be

discussed and participants will spend the last 20 minutes in the Palmetum Participants should bring a notebook, pencil and drinking water Hats, sunscreen and good walking shoes are recommended for the outdoor portion Participants will receive handouts, a recommended reading list and additional resources Cost is $45 for members or $55 for non-members

∫ Jan. 2 8 : Introduction to Florida Gardening Part I from 1 0 a.m. to noon

Participants will receive a foundation of how plants work, their nomenclature and understanding of unique weather patterns and unusual soils found only in Florida, zone 10. The class will educate them with identification of native and nonnative plants and how to recognize invasive species Palms will also be discussed and participants will spend the last 20 minutes in the Palmetum Participants should bring a notebook, pencil and drinking water Hats, sunscreen and good walking shoes are recommended for the outdoor portion Participants will receive handouts, a recommended reading list and additional resources Cost is $45 for members or $55 for non-members

p m

Participants will be introduced to the concepts of “Florida Friendly Gardening,” including learning the proper use of fertilizers and soil amendments. Pest identification will be covered, as well as when to use chemical versus biological controls as recommended by the Green Industries Best Management Practices concepts Weed identification and diseases will also be covered, along with a discussion on selecting plants for a Florida landscape, followed by a question-andanswer session The last 20 minutes of class will be held in the Butterfly Garden. Participants should bring a notebook, pencil and drinking water Hats, sunscreen and good walking shoes are recommended for the outdoor portion Participants will receive handouts, a recommended reading list and additional resources Cost is $45 for members or $55 for non-members

Seating is limited and registration is required

For more information or to register, visit EdisonFord.org.

Shell museum launching new citizen science project

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum reported that aquatic mollusks and their shells are known in Lee County, but people often forget about the area’s other mollusks: land and tree snails, and slugs

These animals and their shells may be overlooked, but snails and slugs are critical decomposers, breaking down organic material and putting those nutrients back into the soil They are also prey for other animals, and some are carnivores themselves, helping to keep the local food web in balance

The museum is launching a new citizen science project called Snail Search of Lee County that aims to gather more information about the biodiversity of land and tree snails Previous studies in the area are sparse and outdated, and do not include photographs an area where citizen scientists can play a role

The museum reported that with the information gathered, staff are hoping to learn more about the populations of common and rarely spotted local species, and introduced and invasive species

The public can participate by:

∫ Downloading the iNaturalist app and creating a free account

Jan. 3 1 : Introduction to Florida Gardening Part II from 1 :3 0 to 3 :3 0

∫

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

∫ Going out and finding snails and slugs

∫ Taking clear photos of observations Photos should be as close as possible and clearly focused

∫ Uploading photos to the app (the observation will automatically be added to the project page) or emailing photos with location information and date to jfalker@shellmuseum org Information GPS coordinates or exact address, date and time are required for each photo sent via email

For more information, visit https://www shellmuseum org/snail-search

Opera and ballet to per for m ‘Song & Dance’

‘Faceless’ to open at Alliance theater

The Theatre Conspiracy at the Alliance for the Arts will present “Faceless” on Jan 19-21 and Jan 26-28 at 7:30 p.m. and on Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. at the alliance, at 10091 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

A white 18-year-old from the Chicago suburbs was arrested at O'Hare International Airport for conspiring with ISIS Recent Harvard Law grad and practicing Muslim Claire Fathi has been brought on to p r o s e c u t e I n s p i r e d b y r e a l c o u r t c a s e s , S e l i n a Fillinger's crackling drama looks at two women fighting for justice in a world gripped by fear Directed by Miguel Cintron

Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for nonmembers

For more information, visit https://www.artinlee org/event/faceless/2023-01-19/

ALLIANCE FOR THE

GULFSHORE OPERA

Annual Antique Ford Car Show at Edison and Ford Winter Estates Feb. 4

Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Ford Car Show, Saturday, Feb. 4, from 9 a m to 2 p m , Each year, classic car owners exhibit their cars on the Ford estate lawn as a tribute to Henry Ford, the pioneer of the automobile industry Model Ts, Mustangs, Thunderbirds and other models will be on display

Along with the car show, there will be a DJ on site playing music, and food trucks with refreshments available for purchase Participating food vendors include Easy Cheesy, the Hungry Pony Food Cart, and Millennial Brewing Company

This family event is free for Edison Ford members or $25 for non-members, which includes a self-guided tour of the entire site Visitors can tour the gardens, museum, laboratory and see the historic homes The site includes more than 20 acres of botanical gardens along the Caloosahatchee River with plants and trees from all around the world General admission tickets may be purchased on the website at EdisonFord org or at the ticket counter

Antique car owners wanting to participate can register their car (any Ford model, 1980 or older) for display in the show at EdisonFord org before January 27 Car registration is $30 for the first car, and $15 for each additional car and includes general admission

Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

Gulfshore to present ‘Opera to Broadway’

composers, the program will consist of selections from operas and classic Broadway shows by Gershwin, Porter and Sondheim. A quartet of artists will perform with piano accompaniment Tickets range from $34-49 For tickets or more information, visit https://www.gulfshoreopera.org/.

Alliance for the Ar ts to continue concer t series

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T i c k e t s a r e $ 1 5 f o r m e mb e r s a n d $ 1 6 f o r n o n - m e mb e r s

P r e - s a l e s e a t i n g i s l i m i t e d t o 1 3 2 a n d i s f i r s t c o m e , f i r s t s e r v e

I n t h e c a s e o f b a d w e a t he r , t h e c o n c e r t w i l l b e m o v e d i n d o o r s t o i t s F o u l d s T h e a t r e F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t i c k e t s , v i s i t A r t I n L e e o r g o r c a l l 2 3 9 - 9 3 9 - 2 7 8 7

Weekly Farmer ’s Market continues at Mercola Market

Working with the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral, natural health store Mercola Market of Cape Coral continues to host its Mid-Cape S u n s h i n e F a r m e r ’ s M a r k e t e v e r y Tuesday, from 10 a m to 4 p m , at its centrally located campus at 125 SW 3rd Place

“ T h e M i d - C a p e S u n s h i n e Farmer’s Market has shown great s u c c e s s w i t h n e a r l y 3 0 v e n d o r s offering organic, homemade goods and more, even after the devastation that Hurricane Ian brought to our c o m m u n i t y , ” s a y s P a t r i c k R o s s i , C a m p u s O p e r a t i o n s M a n a g e r a t Mercola

Running through April 2023, the weekly market showcases a variety of goods, from organic produce and homemade bread to handmade jewelry and home décor

For more information about both events, visit capecoralfarmersmarket.com.

T h e M e r c o l a M a r k e t o f C a p e Coral is a natural health retail store and café located in the center of the city at 125 SW 3rd Place It exclusively offers Dr Mercola® supplements and other premium products for your health, home, pantry and pet Its Café offers one-of-a-kind biodynamic beverages, fit for the m o r n i n g a n d t h e e v e n i n g , a n d healthy food options for each meal of the day. The main campus serves as a hub for the community, hosting family-friendly events throughout the year, including yoga, trivia, food truck gatherings and comedy nights, while offering a 4,000-square-foot event space for local businesses and organizations to rent The Mercola Market & Café is open Tuesday through Thursday from 7 a m to 6 p m , Friday and Saturday from 9 a m to 6 p m , and Sunday from 10

a m to 2 p m For more information or a complete list of upcoming events

a n d u p d a t e s , v i s i t m e r c o l a m a rketcc com

Registration open for antique car owners

PHOTO PROVIDED Guests attend the Antique Car Show at Edison and Ford Winter Estates.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Running through April 2023, the weekly market showcases a variety of goods, from organic produce and homemade bread to handmade jewelry and home décor

The Gulfshore Opera will perform an “Opera to Broadway” on Jan 19 at 7 p m at the Gulf Theater, at 900 W Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, and on Jan 22 at 4 p m United Church of Marco Island, at 320 N Barfield Drive, Marco Island Featuring solos and ensembles by great American

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Republican women to recognize Public Defender at Jan. 18 meeting

K a t h l e e n S m i t h , P u b l i c D e f e n d e r f o r t h e 2 0 t h J u d i c i a l C i r c u i t , h a s b e e n n a m e d t h e r e c i p i e n t o f t h e F o r t M y e r s R e p u b l i c a n W o m e n ’ s C l u b ’ s G E M a w a r d T h e a w a r d w i l l b e p r e s e n t e d d u r i n g t h e J a n 1 8 l u n c he o n m e e t i n g b e i n g h e l d a t T h e H e l m C l u b , T h e L a n d i n g s , S o u t h F o r t M y e r s

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Tickets on Sale for ‘WILD About CROW’

T i c k e t s a r e o n s a l e n o w f o r t h e C l i n i c f o r t h e R e h a b i l i t a t i o n o f W i l d l i f e ( C R O W ) ’ s f u n d r a i s i n g e v e n t ‘ W I L D A b o u t C R O W ’ T h e e v e n t w i l l t a k e p l a c e o n F r i d a y , J a n 2 0 , f r o m 6 : 1 5 p m t o 9 : 3 0 p m a t t h e h i s t o r i c B u r r o u g h s H o m e a n d G a r d e n s i n d o w nt o w n F o r t M y e r s

“ H u r r i c a n e I a n w i l l n o t s p o i l o u r f u n o r s t o p u s f r o m c o n t i n u i n g C R O W ’ s m i s s i o n t o s a v e w i l d l i f e a n d e d u c a t e o t h e r s o n w h a t t h e y c a n d o t o s a v e t h e m t o o , ” s a y s A l i s o n C h a r n e y H u s s e y , E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r f o r C R O W “ W e a r e t h r i l l e d t o b r i n g b a c k W I L D A b o u t C R O W f o r a n o t h e r y e a r a n d p r o v i d e a n o p p o r t u n i t y f o r t h o s e i n t h e c o m m u n i t y t o e n j o y t h e m s e l v e s a s w e l l a s s u p p o r t i n g o u r r e b u i l d i n g e f f o r t s ” C R O W w e l c o m e s E d i s o n N a t i o n a l B a n k a s t h e G o l d e n – B a l d E a g l e P r e s e n t i n g s p o n s o r f o r t h e ‘ a n im a l p r i n t a t t i r e o p t i o n a l ’ e v e n t w h i c h w i l l f e a t u r e a s i t - d o w n d i n n e r , a b e h i n d - t h e - s c e n e s l o o k a t t h e i n n e r w o r k i n g s o f t h e C R O W C l i n i c , a n d p l e n t y o f f u n s u rp r i s e s f o r g u e s t s t o s h o w t h e y a r e W I L D a b o u t C R O W ! T h e n i g h t w i l l i n c l u d e a l i v e a u c t i o n a n d , f o r t h e f i r s t t i m e e v e r , a s i l e n t a u c t i o n w i t h v i r t u a l b i d d i n g f o r o u t - o f - t o w n p a r t i c i p a n t s !

“ W I L D A b o u t C R O W i s o n e o f o u r f a v o r i t e e v e n t s a n d w e a r e s o p l e a s e d t o b e a b l e t o s u p p o r t C R O W ’ s r e b u i l d i n g a f t e r t h e w r a t h o f I a n S o m u c h o f o u r b a rr i e r i s l a n d c o m m u n i t y a n d o u r w i l d l i f e w e r e d e v a s t a te d b y t h e s t o r m N o w m o r e t h a n e v e r i t i s i m p e r a t i v e t h a t C R O W ’ s w o r k c o n t i n u e s , ” s a y s G e o f f R o e p s t o r f f , C E O o f E d i s o n N a t i o n a l B a n k / B a n k o f t h e I s l a n d s T i c k e t s a r e $ 2 5 0 e a c h f o r t h o s e a t t e n d i n g i n p e rs o n V i r t u a l a t t e n d e e s c a n r e g i s t e r t o b i d o n s i l e n t a u ct i o n i t e m s o r m a k e a o n e - t i m e d o n a t i o n ! G u e s t s a l s o h a v e t h e o p t i o n t o b e c o m e s p o n s o r s a t v a r i o u s l e v e l s t o r e c e i v e V I P s t a t u s a n d a n i n v i t a t i o n t o a n e x c l u s i v e g a t h e r i n g p r i o r t o t h e e v e n t ! I n t h e a f t e r m a t h o f H u r r i c a n e I a n , C R O W i s w o r k i n g t o r e b u i l d t h e

S a n i b e l c a m p u s . J o i n C R O W f o r t h e f u n t o r a i s e f u n d s f o r F l o r i d a ’ s w i l d l i f e !

T i c k e t s a n d s p o n s o rs h i p s c a n b e p u r c h a s e d o n l i n e a t h t t p s : / / W i l d 4 C r o w g i v e sm a r t c o m F o r m o r e i n f o rm a t i o n o n b e c o m i n g a s p o n s o r , d o n a t i n g a n a u ct i o n i t e m , o r p u r c h a s i n g t i c k e t s , p l e a s e c o n t a c t A i m e e W h i t e a t d e v e l o pm e n t @ c r o w c l i n i c o r g

Marcia Ball to per for m live in Boca Grande Jan. 23

Symphony to present ‘The Thing About Men’

The Gulf Coast Symphony will perform “The Thing About Men” on Jan 19 to Feb 4 at the Music & Arts Community Center, at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers It is a musical comedy based on the 1985 German farcical film “Men,” by Doris Dérrie With music by Jimmy Roberts and lyrics and book by Joe DiPietro, it was written as a follow-up to their long-running musical “I Love Y o u , Y o u ' r e P e r f e c t , N o w C h a n g e ” T h e p l o t r e v o l v e s a r o u n d a l o v e t r i a n g l e a n d shows what men will do to keep their pride and love affairs intact The show is a comic exploration of men, modern m a r r i a g e , a n d f r i e n d s h i p Tickets range from $39-50 For more information or tickets, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony.org/.

Texas-born, Louisianaraised pianist, songwriter and vocalist Marcia Ball will perform live at the Friends of Boca Grande Community Center in Boca Grande on Monday, Jan 23 Ball has won worldwide fame and countless fans for her ability to ignite a full-scale roadhouse rhythm and blues party every time she takes the stage Ball’s romping Texas boogies, swampy New Orleans ballads and groove-laden Gulf Coast blues have made her a one-of-a-kind favorite with music lovers all over the world Her latest album, “Shine Bright,” produced by Steve Berlin of Los Lobos, is full of everything music fans love about Marcia–rollicking two-fisted piano, soulful vocals, a topshelf band of Texas and Louisiana musicians, and Marcia’s magnificent songwriting Recently, she won the 2022 Living Blues Readers’ Poll Award for Most Outstanding Musician (Keyboards) In 2018 Ball was named the Official 2018 Texas State Musician and inducted into the Austin City Limits Hall Of Fame

Concert information is as follows:

∫ Date: Monday, Jan 23

∫ Event: Boca Grande Live!

∫ Venue: Friends of Boca Grande Community Center –Friends Pavilion

∫ Address: 131 1st St. W

∫ City: Boca Grande, FL

∫ Phone: 941-964-0827

∫ Showtime: 5 p m

∫ Ticket price: $40-$190

∫ Website: www friendsofbocagrande org

*See website for complete event details

Shell Point to present concer t

The Shell Point Retirement Community will present the Merz Trio on Jan 23 at 7 p m in Connie Brown Hall at the Tribby Arts Center, at 17281 On Par Blvd , Fort Myers Their narrative programming style juxtaposes classical standards, new music, and their own arrangements of familiar and forgotten works Tickets are $50 For more information or tickets, visit https://www tribbyartscenter com/ or call 239-415-5667

The Alliance for the Ar ts calls for Ar tists (in Florida) to submit work to the 37th Annual All Florida Juried Exhibition

The Alliance for the Arts is excited to be hosting the 37th Annual All Florida Exhibition This annual show is the most anticipated of the year As the name suggests, this exhibition features pieces created by artists working in a wide variety of media from all over the 65,000 square miles that make up Florida

Artists in Florida are encouraged to submit their pieces for this juried exhibition Categories for entry are sculpture, painting (including oil, acrylic, collage, watercolor and mixed media), photography, prints and drawing An entry may consist of 1 to 3 artworks All entries are due by Jan 23 If you would like to be considered for this show, please

download the prospectus found on our website, ArtInLee org/AllFlorida2023 For more information, please email our gallery manager at exhibitions@ArtInLee org

The accepted entries will come together for an awardwinning and exciting exhibition in March 2023 representing Florida’s contemporary artists Awards include $1,000 cash for Best In Show, a 2nd place gift certificate, $100 cash for 3rd place and Juror’s Choice Award(s) of Alliance for the Arts membership(s)

Receptions and gallery tours are open to the public and do not require tickets or reservations. While the gallery admission is free, a $5 suggested donation keeps the Alliance programming affordable and accessible

While visiting the exhibit, please be sure to also partake in the Arts & Economic Prosperity survey All answers are anonymous and help to measure the economic and social impact of arts and culture in our community! More information can be found at americansforthearts org

American Cancer Society

announces 2023 Bucket List Bash to be held on Feb. 18

The American Cancer Society is pleased to announce the 2023 Bucket List Bash will be held at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort on Saturday, February 18th, chaired by Darlene and Don DeMichele and Beverly Fanning This year, we celebrate 13 years of amazing support in Collier County Since its inception, the event has raised $10 8 million to support the American Cancer Society’s mission to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer

This year’s mission moment will support the newly created Collier and Lee County Health Equity Fund Cancer is a disease that can affect anyone, but it does not affect everyone equally Many barriers can impact a person’s ability to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer and the American Cancer Society is committed to actively working towards ending cancer disparities This fund will support programs related to transportation and lodging grants, as well as increasing screening efforts with partners in our community

The Bucket List Bash will celebrate hope and courage and will feature dancing from Powerhouse The Next Generation, a live auction of bucket list worthy items, and a custom designed menu from the Ritz-Carlton Black and white attire is encouraged For more information on sponsorship opportunities, volunteer opportunities, or to purchase tickets, please visit www acsbucketlistbash com or contact Chanel McGregor, Senior Development Manager, at 239-259-4242 or chanel mcgregor@cancer org

k o f W e d n e s d a y , J a n u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 2 3 f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h O b s e r v e r

Red Sox to begin Spring Training season at JetBlue Park

The Red Sox recently announced that the 2023 Spring Training exhibition season will begin on Feb 24 at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, where the team will launch the season with a game a g a i n s t t h e N o r t h e a s t e r n

University Huskies

The club will play 18 home games and 16 away games, including 32 Grapefruit League games against seven American League teams and four National League teams For the first time since 2017, a World Baseball Classic exhibition game will be p l a y e d a t J e t B l u e P a r k o n March 8

The Red Sox will play 11 games against divisional opponents, including two against their American League East rival New York Yankees The club will f a c e t h e Y a n k e e s o n M a r c h 9 a t G e o r g e M Steinbrenner Field in Tampa and will host the Yankees at JetBlue Park on March 12 Other divisional match ups include four games against the Tampa Bay Rays, three games against the Baltimore Orioles, and two against the Toronto Blue Jays The team will also square off against the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Miami Marlins, Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, Detroit Tigers, and Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Red Sox will look to defend their Lee County Commissioners Cup title against their cross-town foes the Minnesota Twins at JetBlue Park on Feb 27, March 22 and 26 A total of five match ups will take place between the Lee County rivals with the Red Sox heading to Hammond Stadium at Lee County Sports Complex on March 3 and 11

The Red Sox will play six games against the Atlanta Braves, the most of any opponent The final two exhibition match ups of the season will be against the Braves, with the Red Sox set to travel to CoolToday Park on March 27, and host the Braves at JetBlue Park the following day, March 28, to close out the Spring Training season

For more information including game times and tickets, visit https://www mlb com/redsox

JetBlue Park is at 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve hosting classes

The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is offering Tiny Tots Yoga and Guided Meditation classes for the spring season at the preserve's Interpretive Center, at 7751 Penzance Blvd., Fort Myers.

∫ Now through May 3 1 : Tiny Tots Yoga on Wednesdays from 1 0 to 1 1 a m

Guardians and toddlers up to age 5 can enjoy meditation, movement and songs in an active, family-friendly yoga class Taught by certified yoga instructor Mariela Gémez, the class uses music, yoga play props and stories to help children establish a connection with their caretakers while benefiting from active movement Participants must bring their own gear, including yoga mat, blanket or towel, and water bottle Provided props will be disinfected thoroughly both before and following the class

∫ Now through April 2 7 : Guided Meditation on Thursdays from 9 to 1 0 a.m.

Tickets are available for 2023 Boston Red Sox Celebrity Classic events

Registration is open and sponsorship opportunities are available for the 30th An Sox Celebrity Classic series plann February and March Events incl the Boston “Tee” Party and the Go Tournament, both hosted at The Forest Country Club, and Dinner on the Diamond at JetBlue Park

T h i s y e a r , s u p p o r t f o r t h i s e v e n t s e r i e s w i l l h e l p b r i n g enhanced neurosurgical services to Golisano Children’s Hospital, lay the foundation for a pediatric trauma center and ensure families can stay close to home for lifesaving care

Over the past 29 years, the e series has raised more than $14 mill children’s health care Events include:

∫ Feb 16: The Boston “Tee” Party, which includes a dinner, cocktails and more, with live and silent auctions Individual tickets are $75

∫ Feb 17: The Celebrity Golf Classic, which includes Red Sox players and other celebrities in a tournament on two award-winning Forest Country Club courses Tickets are $400 for the Golf Classic and Tee Party

∫ March 22: Dinner on the Diamond, which includes

autographs from Red Sox players, dinner and etBlue Park Tickets are $150 for a icket or $75 for general admission

Sponsorships levels range from preenting sponsor to table and hole sponsorships For information or to r e g i s t e r , v i s i t L e e H e a l t h F o u n d ation org/redsox

Established by Lee Health in 1 9 9 4 , G o l i s a n o C h i l d r e n ’ s Hospital of Southwest Florida has been named a “Top Hospital” t h r e e t i m e s b y T h e L e a p f r o g Group It is the only recognized hildren’s hospital between Tampa d Miami Lee Health opened the 1 3 4 - b e d G o l i s a n o C h i l d r e n ’ s al in May 2017, relocating the children s hospital from the adjacent HealthPark Medical Center It includes comprehensive pediatric services including a 24-hour pediatric emergency department, hematology-oncology unit, milk lab, Regional Perinatal Intensive Care Center, and Level II and Level III NICU with 70 private rooms Since 2019, Golisano Children’s Hospital has been a member hospital of the Children’s Miracle Network

F o r a d d i t i o n a l i n f o r m a t i o n , p l e a s e v i s i t GolisanoChildrensSWFL org

Harvest of gag grouper and gray triggerfish closes

The recreational harvest of gag grouper and g triggerfish closed in Gulf state waters on Jan. 1.

The recreational harvest of gag grouper for all Gulf state waters, excluding Monroe County, will open on Sept 1 The recreational harvest of gray triggerfish in Gulf state waters will open on March 1.

The modification of the Gulf gag grouper recreational season was approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission i July in order to reduce overfishing and improve abundance

The FWC is committed to collecting recreational harvest fishing data to inform management of popular reef fish The State Reef Fish Survey provides a clearer picture of stock health, so make sure you are signed up as a State

f Fish Angler The designation is required for ecreational anglers and spearfishers who intend to fish for or harvest certain reef fish species from a private vessel in Florida

To learn more about the State Reef Fish Survey, visit MyFWC com /SRFS

For more information on recreational grouper regulations, visit MyFWC com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations,” “Reef ish” and then “Grouper ” For more information on recreational gray triggerfish regulations, visit MyFWC com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations,” “Reef Fish” and then “Triggerfish.”

People can also download the Fish Rules App to keep up to date on current fishing regulations

Harvest of red grouper and lane snapper reopens

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported that the harvest of red grouper and lane snapper reopened in Gulf state waters on Jan 1, after early season closures

The FWC is committed to collecting recreational harvest fishing data to inform management of popular reef fish The State Reef Fish Survey provides a clearer picture of stock health, so make sure you are

signed up as a State Reef Fish Angler The designation is required f o r r e c r e a t i o n a l a n g l e r s a n d spearfishers who intend to fish for or harvest certain reef fish species from a private vessel in Florida

To learn more about the State R e e f F i s h S u r v e y , v i s i t

MyFWC com/SRFS

For more information on recreational regulations for red grouper, v i s i t M y F W C . c o m / M a r i n e a n d

Direct your attention and intentions inward during guided meditation and qigong in the stillness of the slough Each week will focus on a different technique: reducing stress, promoting focus, mindfulness, visualization and kindness Classes begin with simple stretches and qigong movements to shake off any stale energy before beginning meditation Wear comfortable clothing and bring water, a yoga mat and blanket or pillow to sit upon Open to ages 18 and older

c l i c k o n “ R e c r e a t i o n a l Regulations,” “Reef Fish” and then “Grouper

For more information on recreational lane snapper regulations, v i s i t M y F W C c o m / M a r i n e a n d c l i c k o n “ R e c r e a t i o n a l Regulations,” “Reef Fish” and then “Snapper ”

People can also download the Fish Rules App to keep up to date on current fishing regulations.

The cost for a full session of four classes is $40 or $10 for a single class

A paid parking fee of $1 per hour per vehicle is required

Preregister at www leeparks org; walk-ins welcome if there are open spaces

For more information, visit www leeparks org/sixmilecypress or call 239-533-7555.

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