North Fort Myers Living

Tommy Bohanon Foundation raises more than $220,000 in 2022

The Tommy Bohanon Foundation supports local youth on and off of the playing field and, thanks to the generous support of the Southwest Florida community, the non-profit raised more than $220,000 for local families and children in need in 2022.

The Southwest Florida non-profit expanded its efforts this year, helping fund community rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Ian, officials said

Every dollar donated to the Tommy Bohanon Foundation goes directly to local Southwest Florida schools, children, and families Last year, the foundation hosted several fundraising events to benefit local atrisk youth, including the annual Playmaker ’s Tailgate Party and Softball Tournament. In addition to its fundraising efforts, the foundation offers workshops, camps, and events for local adolescents, including the highly anticipated Tommy Bohanon Youth Football Camp

“Thanks to our generous donors in 2022, our community is coming back stronger than ever,” said former NFL player Tommy Bohanon “Our donors are truly the ones who make positive change possible We are so proud to help make a difference in the lives of hundreds of children and families through our annual

programming, and this year with the assistance we’ve been able to provide after Hurricane Ian We could not have done it without the support of each and every one of our incredible partners, donors, and volunteers.”

During the annual Playmakers Tailgate Party in mid-June, $10,000 scholarships were awarded to three high school seniors, Jackson Shinneman, Patti Patricca, and Natalie Stafford, to help them achieve success in continued education The event surpassed its fundraising goal by raising approximately $131,000 with the help of local business leaders.

Weeks later, the foundation doubled the number of attendees at their annual Football Camp with approximately 200 local youth participating These young athletes did more than perform NFL-style drills, they spent the entire day forming relationships with mentors and fellow students, gaining professional insight and networking skills from community leaders, and learning the value of hard work. Tommy Bohannon Foundation workshops help students build their selfconfidence and improve their chances for success as they begin to transition into the working world

In 2022, the Tommy Bohanon Foundation also dispersed $42,000 through its Sports Equipment Grant to six Southwest Florida high schools: Island Coast, Oasis, North Fort Myers, Riverdale, Mariner, and Dunbar The grants were used to purchase athletic program necessities such as new uniforms, equipment,

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

The Tommy Bohanon Foundation founders Tommy and Katie Bohanon. / PHOTO PROVIDED

Competitions are a big part of the Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair, attracting youths and adults alike. Individual competitions this year include the Whip Cracking, Youth Tractor Driving, and the popular Youth BBQ Cook-Off Competition.This year’s theme is "Barn in the USA."

Four NFM teachers among Golden Apple finalists

New ‘ mayor ’ of North Fort Myers elected

Story & Photo by Chuck Ballaro

From the moment he came to town, Reid McDaniel has been a leader for the North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, participating in all its events and taking a hand in its direction

In January, McDaniel added one more title; honorary mayor of North Fort Myers

McDaniel was given the sash to become the first new honorary mayor since Doug Dailey was so named in 2015 and then held in abeyance due to staffing changes and then the COVID pandemic.

To win, McDaniel raised the most money more than $8,500, mostly through a fundraising golf tournament, defeating challenger Melissa Martin Each dollar raised equaled one vote

“I’m fortunate to partake in the event It means somebody is going to champion the community, the Chamber, and bring some exposure as a leader in the community,” McDaniel said. “The idea is to being focus to the Chamber and highlight the things they’re doing ”

Honorary mayor is a ceremonial position The " mayor " attends the major events and takes part in other things such as grand openings and ribbon cuttings and will get to throw out the first pitch at a Mighty Mussels baseball game on May 11

McDaniel plans to do much more than just be a figurehead, though - he wants to continue to move the chamber in the right direction.

For next year ’s election, McDaniel said he wants to make the golf tournament an annual event, allowing all candidates to find ways to make money fundraising

McDaniel plans to run his office as he does his business, McDaniel Insurance Solutions, which he

established in North Fort Myers more a year ago at age 29: All in

He got his start in the industry following a great job right out of high school He wanted to get insurance on some things.

He wasn’t happy with the service he received and it was that experience that led him to become an agent

Just 19 when he started in the insurance industry, he worked for a number of brand-name companies in training and development, teaching agents how

to do their job better and more efficiently

Eventually, he started his own agency in Indiana, later selling it and moving to Southwest Florida and starting McDaniel Insurance Solutions in late 2021 at 3443 Hancock Bridge Parkway.

McDaniel did his homework before relocating and found there was an opportunity to thrive and teach people about how the industry works, particularly homeowners insurance, which is complicated and set to become even more so following Hurri-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

community connection

Your Civic Association has lots in the queue

Hello all, I hope the end of 2022 found you healthy and well I am starting a long stressful time in life as I will be getting both knees replaced, the first set for Feb. 17 and eight weeks later, the second knee.

In 2023 we hope to have a few fundraising events, these are still in the talking stage as we know many of our supporters are still in recovery mode We are monitoring the situation and will respond as the ability changes

This time of year brings a lot of events to the area the recent Cracker Day Rodeo at the Lee County

Posse Arena, Swamp Buggy Races in Collier County, this month's Swamp Cabbage Festival in LaBelle, and Edison Light Parade and Baby Parade and The Shell Factory events every weekend through February and March. There's so much more, so please check out all you can do

We will have our annual awards event on March 21 6:30 p m at the North Fort Myers Rec Center

At this event we give out awards to citizens of North Fort Myers, including the Tom Cronin Award, Cheryl Diamond, and Ron Hoover Awards Look at NFMCivic.com for descriptions of awards.

Capt Joe More – Tom Cronin Award

Deana Campbell – Cheryl Diamond Award

Barbara (Bobbie) Dewey –

Ron Hoover Award

Please come and join us.

Our next meeting is March

14 at 6:30 p m at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center, 2000 North Recreation Way

In January, Reid McDaniel was named honorary mayor of North Fort Myers .

Danny Ballard President NFMCA

cane Ian, which seriously damaged his business for a time as the building, like so many others, flooded in the storm

“I’m a Hoosier by heart, but I fell in love with the area I did a lot of research and found a lot of agents are older and retiring and there is a lot of misinformation in Florida, especially as it relates to homeowners insurance,” McDaniel said shortly after opening his business in 2022 “I enjoy the education aspect the most ”

Not only do they sell insurance for life, health, home and business, the company also serves some human resource roles with payroll and benefits packages

McDaniel found another niche by being an independent seller of AAA in Southwest Florida. Further, while many agencies are either commercial or personal, McDaniel offers both

“We’re at a point in time where it’s very difficult to hire people So, we will build them a business package, often at no cost to the owner, give them payroll and 401K options and make them a rock star and get good candidates to stay with you,” McDaniel said. “We reinvest commissions into our clients. We pay for a lot of services others don’t.”

McDaniel still sells in Indiana and Ohio as well as Florida, and plans to expand into Kentucky and Illinois in the future He said he is interested in longterm relationships with clients, which means being honest and fighting for them

When Reid isn’t working you will find him on the bourbon trail in Kentucky, at a car race or show, or spending time with his family.

As for Dailey, the previous and long-tenured honorary mayor, it was nothing but great memories.

“Bringing this event back is a great thing We had

two great candidates and Reid will represent the community rather awesomely,” Dailey said “It was great to represent the Chamber Everything we did was special I’d say be yourself, have a lot of fun and enjoy the experience ”

Another former " mayor " John Gardner relayed a story during his time in charge. His first duty was to be master of ceremonies at the Weiner Dog Derby, which was a passion of Dailey’s for many years Gardner also got phone calls from residents complaining about goings on in the neighborhood, with residents thinking he was an actual mayor, which he wasn’t because North Fort Myers is unincorporated

Also, the chamber named its small business of the month, which was Eagle Roofing.

For more information on the Chamber, go to www.nfmchamber.com. NFMNL

New beginnings for Hancock Square

Story by Chuck Ballaro

Lee County Commissioner Brian Hamman said he has had many great days, and some not-so-great days, in office

But perhaps the best day he has had came when he learned the news that an old shopping center in North Fort Myers may soon come down with a pending project in the works

A new company has purchased the 14-acre property where Hancock Square stood in September and expressed interest in turning much of the plaza into multi-family homes and apartments.

The market value of the property was $2,750,454 as of 2021 It sold for $12.8 million

Hamman said he has spoken to the new owners and said there are plans to tear down the old Office Depot building and the buildings to its side.

This is a great opportunity to improve commerce in North Fort Myers and the opportunity for nearby busi-

nesses to get more customers, Hamman added

“They’re putting their permits together for a new development there. It’s exciting. This is something we have waited for a long time, more than a decade,” Hamman said “This will create the live, work and play vision we have for that area ”

The old grocery store and Irish restaurant were not included in the deal, remaining in the hands of the previous owner, Hancock Bridge Square, LLC, which had bought the plaza in 2013

The plaza was built in 1984 and originally housed a Wal-Mart, Office Depot and many smaller stores

Over time, the market shifted over the bridge, resulting in many businesses leaving. When the Office Depot left in 2015, that pretty much left the plaza without an anchor

There had been plans to put in mixed-use construction in and around the area, creating something of a downtown feel like Fort Myers has. Hamman said this concept could be the next best

thing.

“The fact we’re going to see a developer come in and put apartments behind the stores here now will be a real nice product at market rate that will drive business to the Big Lots plaza next door, the restaurants and the bank in front,” Hamman said, adding that maybe those businesses will be enticed to undergo a facelift as well

There is no timeline as to when the buildings will come down or when the apartments will be built However

Hamman said this project could be the start of something big in that area of North Fort Myers

“The new owners have a vision for improving the area. I believe this will be the catalyst for revitalizing that stretch of 41,” Hamman said “Success usually beings more success. If they are successful, we’ll begin to pique the interest of other people who will make more investments in North Fort Myers.” NFMNL

Thousands attend Posse for Cracker Day weekend

Story & Photos by

Chuck

Ballaro

It was a tale of two Cracker Day Rodeos at the Lee County Posse Arena Jan 27-29, with the first night being chilly and the final performance on Sunday being warm and sunny

Warm or cold, the competition at the 62nd Cracker Day Rodeo was hot, with thousands coming throughout the weekend to see cowboys and cowgirls rope and ride.

The rodeo, which serves as the biggest fundraiser for the non-profit organization, is a tribute to the Florida ranchers who moved their cattle throughout the state

“We survived Ian and we’re bouncing back. We are elated people were showing up this weekend It has been amazing,” said Bobbi Harrison, Lee County Posse Arena spokesperson “Saturday, we were packed to the gills and everybody had a great time ”

The youth rodeo was held Friday night under chilly conditions Saturday’s rodeo featured some of the best talent in the country, including legendary barrel racer

Fallon Taylor

Sunday’s rodeo, which didn’t have the bucking broncs Saturday’s rodeo had and wasn’t quite as packed, still featured some fun events such as the cowgirl trifecta and the buddy pick-up, which lived up to their reputations as the wildest events at the rodeo

Brilee Cochran, a high school rodeo competitor from LaBelle who competed in barrels, breakaway roping and the trifecta, said the latter event gives cowgirls the ability to show they can compete all-around.

“I came here for the money I’m pretty good at goattying and barrel racing My breakaway roping needs

some work,” Cochran said “I like how the rodeo community comes together like a family and competing not against everyone else but against yourself ”

Caleb Thomason, who won the bull riding Sunday, said he had studied the bull he rode and wanted his chance at him

“A good friend of mine who passed away wanted

me to do it I just fell in love with the sport,” Thomason said “It’s not about the adrenaline It seems like more of a job now ”

One of the things that was different this year was the announcer. Tyler Cornett took over from longtime announcer Al Curry after he had served that role for years

“I used to live here in Fort Myers, but went to Texas to become an announcer and compete in rodeos and have more work,” Cornett said. “I’ve known Al my whole life and he’s done a great job I’m glad to carry the torch ”

Caleb Butler holds on during the bull riding event at the 62nd annual Cracker Day Rodeo at the Lee County Posse Arena Jan. 27-29.

Brilee Cochran turns a barrel in the cowgirl trifecta event at the 62nd annual Cracker Day Rodeo.

Jillian Sanchez attempts to get on the horse during the buddy pick-up event at the 62nd annual Cracker Day Rodeo.

Four NFM teachers among Golden Apple finalists

Story by Chuck Ballaro

Since 1986, the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools has recognized teachers who go above and beyond to make their classroom experience an empowering one

Nearly 200 teachers have been honored with the Golden Apple award, the highest honor a teacher in Lee County can get and what many teachers have called a pinnacle of their career

North Fort Myers has had its share of Golden Apple winners, including two teachers from North Fort Myers High School last year, Taylor Ashby and Kaleigh Stewart.

This year, four teachers from schools in North Fort Myers have been named among the 30 finalists for the 2023 award which will be awarded to six educators in March, marking the program ' s 36th year

They are Lindsay Maxwell, Bayshore Elementary; Dr Katherine Callard, Carrie D Robinson Littleton Elementary; Danielle Hopkins, Hancock Creek Elementary; and Kathy Rivadeneira, North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts.

Maxwell, a fifth-grade teacher, is a finalist for the second time, having been named one in 2020 just before COVID She said this is a team effort between her and her kids

“It’s always been about my students, so when I was announced as a finalist, I ran in and told my kids. I said we are finalists because they helped writing my application and talking through it,” Maxwell said “They are a part of it We have observers coming in and if they’re not comfortable with it, I just wouldn’t do it But they’re so excited about it I want to win for the kids.”

Callard, who teaches second grade and has been at Littleton for 21 years, has been a Golden Apple finalist four times and a Teacher of Distinction twice, said being a finalist is exciting and stressful

cracker day FROM PAGE

What wasn’t different was the reaction from the crowd. Nikki Midolo, of Fort Myers, brought her two sons to their first rodeo. Everyone loved it.

“We have some friends who come here and we wanted to come and try it out I got my clothes from Gypsy Outlaws, a local business,” Midolo said “It’s really cool to see this part of Florida. I’ve been here 18 years and never really knew this existed It will be one of many rodeos we attend ”

The Lee County Posse Arena is the only non-profit equestrian arena in Southwest

“To be nominated by your students is an honor because they took the time to nominate you. So to go through the process and meet new people and network is a great honor It’s great that the hard work we are doing is being recognized,” Callard said.

Hopkins, an art teacher, has spent her 10-year career at Hancock Creek. She was a Teacher of Distinction two years ago and this is her first time as a Golden Apple finalist

“I was overwhelmed with joy. I was surprised and humbled They made the announcement at a school dance an they gave me a group hug,” Hopkins said. “I work hard like all the other teachers I try to go above and beyond and make my lessons as engaging as possible for my students, and I love them.”

Rivadeneira is no stranger to being named a top teacher. In 2016 she was presented a Lighthouse Award for her work in the Cape Coral Charter School system

For Rivadeneira, a middle school drama teacher, this is her second time as a nominee, having been a Teacher of Distinction last year. It took her a while to go through the process, as it is a lot of work.

“I finally went through the whole process last year When I was named Teacher of Distinction I got to go to a party and that was it,” Rivadeneira said

8

Florida It was established in 1960 by Lee County Sheriff Snag Thompson and others

“Their objective was to provide a place where kids can come to ride enjoy themselves and be safe,” Harrison said “We’ve been rolling with all volunteers ever since ”

The Lee County Posse Arena is at 17401 Palm Creek Drive For more information, including upcoming events, visit leecountyposse.com

“This year will be tougher because they will observe and interview me, so that will be a little nerve wracking ”

Students, parents, teachers, administrators and the public can nominate any Lee County School District teacher who is making an extraordinary contribution to students

Typically, more than 6,000 nomination forms are submitted each year nominating over 2,000 individual teachers, who apply to become selected

The Golden Apple Selection Committee, made up of community and business leaders, is charged with selecting the Golden Apple recipients as the applications are reviewed and narrowed down to 100 semifinalists, then 30 finalists

Those finalists are personally interviewed and observed in their classrooms by the Selection Committee and six teachers are chosen as recipients of the award.

The six recipients are guests of honor at the annual Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Banquet, where the community recognizes the Golden Apple recipients, finalists, Teachers of Distinction and members of the Academy of Teachers. NFMNL

Lindsay Maxwell Dr. Katherine Callard Danielle Hopkins Kathy Rivadeneira

NFMNL

Abraham Pickering busts a mutton at the 62nd annual Cracker Day Rodeo at the Lee County Posse Arena.

Fair offers competition opportunities for youth and adults

Story by Meghan Bradbury

Competitions have been a great addition to the Southwest F orida & Lee County Fair attracting youths and adults a ike to share their skills.

Individua compet t ons this year inc ude the Youth BBQ Cook-Off Compet tion, Wh p Cracking Compet tion and the Youth Tractor Driving Competition

Fair President Mike Peak said this will be the third year running for the Youth BBQ Cookoff

This year ’s theme is "Barn in the USA "

The compet t on will be held at 3 p m Sunday, Feb. 26 at the LeAnne Yancey Pav lion, which is behind the Whaley Hal at the fairgrounds

Each contestant will rece ve two quarter ch cken pieces

"They set up a grill they barbecue a ch cken leg quarter, their own barbecue sauce and they cook it and bring it to the udges to have a taste " Peak said "We supply the chicken they bring their gri l, charcoa and sauces "

The cook-off includes three divisions Junior ages 8 to 10; ntermediate, ages 11 to 13 and senior ages 14-18. The judging is based on cooking 2 hours allowed internal temperature of the chicken, taste of the chicken and sauce, as well as the finished product appearance, knowledge of the pro ect and how the chicken is presented

The number of contestants has ncreased each year as the cook-off gains popularity Peak sa d

"What is rea ly neat about it is they set it up under the oak trees on the fairgrounds and the parents are there It has become quite a family event," he said "It s real y a fun event to come and see It is free part of the entry to get into the fair It's a good family event "

The compet t on is open to Lee Char otte, Collier Desoto Glades and Hendry county youths

One Cape Cora family has been part of the Youth BBQ Cook-Off Competition for many years BobbiJo Cassaday s children prepare for the event with seven days of competition at home.

Cole Michae , a freshman at Mar ner High School said they purchase chicken from Wa mart every year and practice the entire week before

"We get everything together, sauces and seasonings and practice " he said "For my sauces it takes about five to 10 minutes and grilling the chicken s supposed to take two hours I get done in about 40 minutes before (t me s up)."

BobbiJo said all three of her ch ldren Cole Michael Hailey and Britteny cook with this year being the first year they are competing against each other n the senior d vision All of the youths prep

their own chicken and make their seasoning, while she times the competition The home competition also includes BobbiJo putting sticky notes under the plates so her husband picks the best through taste

"My husband is the one who tastes it and picks first, second and th rd Seven days; we have chicken every night," BobbiJo said Britteny said it’s a learning experience and she

enjoys the competit on and the friend y udging that gets them ready for the main event

“We a so have a fami y competition and we compete aga nst each other and my mom puts the chicken on the plate and marks under the p ate so we know whose chicken is who and my dad s the judge and he picks the winner We have so much fun doing this” she said

Cole Michael said he enjoys the competition because he gets to eat his own food

"I have never actually won a chicken gri ling competition," he sa d. "I fee accomp ished when I do it. Last year I got a partic pation trophy. Every year I do it It s fun and k nd of one thing I am good at "

Fair marks

99th year

Story by Chuck Ballaro

Th

Fair Board President Mike Peak

e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a & L e e C o u n t y F a i r h a s b e e n e nt e r t a i n n g p e o p l e f o r n e a r l y a c e n t u r y w t h g re a t r i d e s t a l e n t e d p e r f o r m e r s , a l l k i n d s o f l i v e s t o c k a n d d e l i c i o u s ( i f n o t n e c e s s a r i l y n u t r i t i o u s ) f o o d T h e 9 9 t h e d i t i o n o f t h e f a i r w i t a k e p l a c e f ro m F e b . 2 3 t o M a rc h 5 a t t h e L e e C i v c C e n t e r, w h i c h h a s s e r v e d a s t h e v e n u e s i n c e 1 9 7 9 a f t e r t h e e v e n t s p e n t n e a r l y 6 0 y e a r s a t Te r r y P a r k A f t e r t w o y e a r s o f C O V I D a n d o n t h e h e e l s o f o n e o f t h e w o r s t h u r r i c a n e s t o e v e r h t S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a , F a i r B o a rd P re s i d e n t M i k e P e a k s a i d t h e y a re re a d y t o g o L a s t y e a r ’ s f a i r d re w m o re t h a n 1 0 0 , 0 0 0 p e o p l e a n d t h e y h o p e t h a t t re n d c o n t i n u e s “ We d o n ’ t h a v e a n y f e a r s a b o u t t h e e c o n o m y We t h i n k p e o p e w i l b e w i l l i n g t o p a y f o r e n t e r t a n m e n t We d o n t s c a l e b a c k m u c h w e t h i n k p e o p l e s t w a n t t o e n o y t h e m s e l v e s ” P e a k s a i d P e a k a d d e d t h a t H u r r i c a n e I a n d i d n ’ t d o m u c h d a m a g e t o t h e g ro u n d s o r t o t h e b u i l d i n g , s o t h e re s h o u d n ’ t b e m u c h t h e y c a n t d o . CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

The 99th edition of the Lee County Fair will take place from Feb. 23 to March 5 at the Lee Civic Center. FILE PHOTO

Siblings Britteny, Hailey and Cole Michael Cassaday are veteran competitors and will vie again this year in the Youth BBQ Cook-Off Competition. They have practiced for weeks in preparation for the event./ PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BOBB JO CASSADAY

Above, Hailey Cassaday seasons some chicken. Below, Cole Michael Cassaday’s effort is gilled to perfect and ready to sample.

Fair offers competition opportunities for youth and adults

Story by Meghan Bradbury

Competitions have been a great addition to the Southwest F orida & Lee County Fair attracting youths and adults a ike to share their skills.

Individua compet t ons this year inc ude the Youth BBQ Cook-Off Compet tion, Wh p Cracking Compet tion and the Youth Tractor Driving Competition

Fair President Mike Peak said this will be the third year running for the Youth BBQ Cookoff

This year ’s theme is "Barn in the USA "

The compet t on will be held at 3 p m Sunday, Feb. 26 at the LeAnne Yancey Pav lion, which is behind the Whaley Hal at the fairgrounds

Each contestant will rece ve two quarter ch cken pieces

"They set up a grill they barbecue a ch cken leg quarter, their own barbecue sauce and they cook it and bring it to the udges to have a taste " Peak said "We supply the chicken they bring their gri l, charcoa and sauces "

The cook-off includes three divisions Junior ages 8 to 10; ntermediate, ages 11 to 13 and senior ages 14-18. The judging is based on cooking 2 hours allowed internal temperature of the chicken, taste of the chicken and sauce, as well as the finished product appearance, knowledge of the pro ect and how the chicken is presented

The number of contestants has ncreased each year as the cook-off gains popularity Peak sa d

"What is rea ly neat about it is they set it up under the oak trees on the fairgrounds and the parents are there It has become quite a family event," he said "It s real y a fun event to come and see It is free part of the entry to get into the fair It's a good family event "

The compet t on is open to Lee Char otte, Collier Desoto Glades and Hendry county youths

One Cape Cora family has been part of the Youth BBQ Cook-Off Competition for many years BobbiJo Cassaday s children prepare for the event with seven days of competition at home.

Cole Michae , a freshman at Mar ner High School said they purchase chicken from Wa mart every year and practice the entire week before

"We get everything together, sauces and seasonings and practice " he said "For my sauces it takes about five to 10 minutes and grilling the chicken s supposed to take two hours I get done in about 40 minutes before (t me s up)."

BobbiJo said all three of her ch ldren Cole Michael Hailey and Britteny cook with this year being the first year they are competing against each other n the senior d vision All of the youths prep

their own chicken and make their seasoning, while she times the competition The home competition also includes BobbiJo putting sticky notes under the plates so her husband picks the best through taste

"My husband is the one who tastes it and picks first, second and th rd Seven days; we have chicken every night," BobbiJo said Britteny said it’s a learning experience and she

enjoys the competit on and the friend y udging that gets them ready for the main event

“We a so have a fami y competition and we compete aga nst each other and my mom puts the chicken on the plate and marks under the p ate so we know whose chicken is who and my dad s the judge and he picks the winner We have so much fun doing this” she said

Cole Michael said he enjoys the competition because he gets to eat his own food

"I have never actually won a chicken gri ling competition," he sa d. "I fee accomp ished when I do it. Last year I got a partic pation trophy. Every year I do it It s fun and k nd of one thing I am good at "

Fair marks

99th year

Story by Chuck Ballaro

Th

Fair Board President Mike Peak

e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a & L e e C o u n t y F a i r h a s b e e n e nt e r t a i n n g p e o p l e f o r n e a r l y a c e n t u r y w t h g re a t r i d e s t a l e n t e d p e r f o r m e r s , a l l k i n d s o f l i v e s t o c k a n d d e l i c i o u s ( i f n o t n e c e s s a r i l y n u t r i t i o u s ) f o o d T h e 9 9 t h e d i t i o n o f t h e f a i r w i t a k e p l a c e f ro m F e b . 2 3 t o M a rc h 5 a t t h e L e e C i v c C e n t e r, w h i c h h a s s e r v e d a s t h e v e n u e s i n c e 1 9 7 9 a f t e r t h e e v e n t s p e n t n e a r l y 6 0 y e a r s a t Te r r y P a r k A f t e r t w o y e a r s o f C O V I D a n d o n t h e h e e l s o f o n e o f t h e w o r s t h u r r i c a n e s t o e v e r h t S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a , F a i r B o a rd P re s i d e n t M i k e P e a k s a i d t h e y a re re a d y t o g o L a s t y e a r ’ s f a i r d re w m o re t h a n 1 0 0 , 0 0 0 p e o p l e a n d t h e y h o p e t h a t t re n d c o n t i n u e s “ We d o n ’ t h a v e a n y f e a r s a b o u t t h e e c o n o m y We t h i n k p e o p e w i l b e w i l l i n g t o p a y f o r e n t e r t a n m e n t We d o n t s c a l e b a c k m u c h w e t h i n k p e o p l e s t w a n t t o e n o y t h e m s e l v e s ” P e a k s a i d P e a k a d d e d t h a t H u r r i c a n e I a n d i d n ’ t d o m u c h d a m a g e t o t h e g ro u n d s o r t o t h e b u i l d i n g , s o t h e re s h o u d n ’ t b e m u c h t h e y c a n t d o . CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

The 99th edition of the Lee County Fair will take place from Feb. 23 to March 5 at the Lee Civic Center. FILE PHOTO

Siblings Britteny, Hailey and Cole Michael Cassaday are veteran competitors and will vie again this year in the Youth BBQ Cook-Off Competition. They have practiced for weeks in preparation for the event./ PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BOBB JO CASSADAY

Above, Hailey Cassaday seasons some chicken. Below, Cole Michael Cassaday’s effort is gilled to perfect and ready to sample.

Hailey, a senior at Mariner High School, said she enjoys the Youth BBQ Cook-Off Competition because she enjoys spending time with family.

"Some of my family members show up and we all get to eat afterwards," she said

Hailey cooks dinner quite frequently in her house and has a ton of fun during their seven-day family competition at home She has been perfecting her marinated chicken for the last few years, all while taking tips from judges

The chicken is marinated in lemon pepper and lemon juice. The chicken also has Everglades seasoning.

"When I am grilling it, I will put a little bit of lemon juice on it every time I turn it," Hailey said

BobbiJo said Hailey's chicken is very tender and juicy

Hailey said she recommends all youths to try and experience the competition because it is a lot of fun

"I am always the first one to start and the last one to end. I definitely take advantage of all the time that I get. I feel like you are on the time limit and you show how much you can handle with pressure I like the time, a little stressful It's fun to look back on, " she said

Another newer competition, Whip Cracking Competition, will be held at 6 p m Sunday, Feb 26, in the horse arena The competition started last year by one of the fair's board member's brother-in-law, Carl Poole.

Peak said Poole demonstrates how to crack a whip, and the competitors do their thing The winner is chosen by the response from the audience "People cheer for them," he said "It is a really neat thing to see. "

The competition has four age divisions, junior, 8 to 10 years old, intermediate, 11 to 13 years old, senior, 14 to 18 years old and adult 19 and older The deadline to register is Friday, Feb 17, by midnight at www swflcfair com/competitions

Contestants have a maximum of two minutes to perform as many tricks and pops as possible with a whistle instructing them when they are done.

The final competition is the Youth Tractor Driving Competition with a date still to be determined at press time The competition will be held in the horse arena, where a driving obstacle will be set up for the kids Participants will drive the tractor through different obstacles both forward and backward maneuvers without hitting, or knocking over any cones

"Last year was the first year that we did that. It was very enjoyable and we had a good crowd. This day and age with ATV and side-by-side we have some really good driving skills for tractors," Peak said

All of these competitions are included in the fair tickets Peak said new this year is a clear bag policy for entrance, with the exception for diaper bags, which will require security going through them Advanced tickets are now on sale for the fair, with the mega pass tickets stopping on opening day.

The Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair, now in its 99th year, is held at the Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers

The fair opens Thursday, Feb 23, and continues through Sunday, March 5

Visit swflcfair com for more information including daily specials, calendar of events and hours of operation.

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Thousands attend ‘Gumbo Fest’ Story & Photos

by Chuck Ballaro

The Shell Factory & Nature Park needs one thing more than anything: To rebuild the nature park, hard-hit by Hurricane Ian. And under clear skies and warm temperatures, the 21st annual edition of Gumbo Fest the attraction's largest fundraiser and homage to Cajun food and zydeco music was another huge success with thousands coming in to enjoy food, drink and good times

This year ’s version is perhaps the most important in the event’s history, considering how devastated the nature park was following the near Category 5 storm

“This fundraiser is something we need more than we have in 21 years because of our lovely Ian We want to have a good time and raise a little money to get those habitats rebuilt,” said Pam Cronin, owner of the Shell Factory

More than a half-dozen vendors, as well as the Southern Grill, sold plenty of gumbo and other

Cajun classics including boils, jambalaya, po boys and much more Cronin said she went a little heavier than usual with the trucks, since many businesses have struggled since the storm

Cajun Gringos came and served a long line of customers, that is until they ran out of food around 3:30 p.m. Owner Shawn Dumas was happy with the response.

“We brought a little Cajun food to stir up business We had a great day today The people were friendly, the music was awesome and we want to come back next year,” said Dumas, who had attended before as a customer, but not a vendor

As for the gumbo, it got great reviews, no matter who was dishing it up. Cherie Zundel, of North Fort Myers, who has attended Gumbo Fest for a few

From left, Brooke and Jen McBreairty enjoy some gumbo with their friends Linda and Amanda Thompson at the 21st annual Gumbofest at the Shell Factory on Feb. 5.

years, had the Caribbean seafood gumbo.

“The lines have been real long today. This is the first gumbo I’ve tried I love it I wish they would hold this over two days,” Zundel said “The music is the best part I’ll do that once I have the voodoo punch ”

Many came for the gumbo Some came for the music There was plenty to dance about as The Porchdogs and Dwayne Dopsey & and Zydeco Hellraisers provided the high-energy, upbeat music

Dopsey said Gumbo Fest has a taste of home every time he comes and adds the music makes everyone feel good.

“The atmosphere and the people here are so good and I love coming back,” Dopsey said “The music is happy Nothing is going to bring your spirits down and lifts you up and makes you shake a foot ”

Andy Burr of the Porchdogs said he loves coming back every year because of how they are treated by fans and the Shell Factory He loves how people react to their music

“It’s feel-good music, even the said songs and waltzes are high-energy. It’s also a very good niche. Everybody plays Top 40 and classic rock,” Burr said.

tommy bohanon foundation

and more for each school’s sports program of choice

The Tommy Bohanon Foundation also raised money for locals impacted by Hurricane Ian Traveling to highly-impacted areas to donate supplies, clothes, and other necessities, the foundation provided further support with additional fundraising to help ease the burden of financial challenges some families face during the holidays

Thousands of toys and donations were collected for the annual 3-in-1 holiday fundraiser, which included its Softball Tournament, Toy Drive, and Hurricane Ian Drive The event included activities and fun for all ages, such as crafts, bounce houses, food trucks, and raffles. A generous anonymous donation of $25,000 was made to the foundation, collecting a total of more than $38,000 for the Holiday Fundraiser

“2022 was filled with challenges and wins, and we can’t thank everyone enough for their support and for helping us to carry out our mission,” said Katie Bohanon

“With such rapid growth from when we began in 2017, we are excited to have a positive impact on even more children and families in 2023 You all inspire us to do better each day, and we look forward to serving our phenomenal Southwest Florida community for another year.”

The Tommy Bohanon

FROM PAGE 3

Foundation is a nonprofit organization working to ensure that every child can achieve their goals on and off of the field These programs, like everything at the foundation, are done with the hope and intention of making a positive impact on at-risk children's future and the community. To learn more about the organization’s mission, or how you can help, please visit www tommybohanonfoundation org If you are a local business leader looking to get involved in this year ' s Playmakers Tailgate Party, contact katie@tommybohanonfoundation org NFMNL

Left, Tommy Applegate, who plays washboard for the Porchdogs , with washboarder and violinist Sue Goldstein at the 21st annual Gumbofest at the Shell Factory on Feb. 5.

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