VolumE 48, NumbEr 8
GPIA gives update on island’s recovery
Representatives of United Policyholders attend meeting, provide information to assist islanders
By PAULETTE LeBLANC
pleblanc@breezenewspapers com
Last Tuesday, June 18, the Greater Pine Island Alliance providing an update on the island's recovery during its monthly meeting at the Pine Island Community Church where guest speakers from United Policyholders were asked to give a presentation
GPIA founder Aaron Barreda reminded everyone at the meeting that although the GPIA does not have the ability to financially fund everyone who may have home repair needs from Hurricane Ian damage, he is confident that everyone will be helped at some point.
“Financially, we are always looking to continue $60,000 or $100,000 sounds like a lot and we are very
Celebrating Pine Islanders: Norma Salter
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com
Islander Norma Salter said she would describe herself as a workaholic, Realtor, mom and grandma who loves Pine Island
Raised in Plant City, Florida, she owned a horse farm where she gave kids riding lessons, broke horses and even did some barrel racing Salter owned a western store for 20 years before she came down to Southwest Florida in 2005 after she was supposed to retire
She said someone told her about Pine Island, which was odd since she thought she knew about every place in Florida She said she fell in love with the island and never left.
“I just decided this was the place I wanted to be I loved it I came here and never left,” Salter said The feeling that this was the place she wanted to
See NORMA SALTER, page 18
grateful to be able to have that and have a place to work out of and operate but some of these homes they take $20,000 they take $30,000 to put back together, so those funds come and go very quickly so we’re always looking for donations Please come to the website and feel free to donate because we have a lot of survivors on the list that we have not funded,” Barreda said
Barreda reported that construction on six homes has been completed in the last month. In April the organization was able to raise another $79,000 and in May, $36,000 through Unmet Needs of Lee County, he said
Annie Barbour, from United Policyholders, explained that the non-profit organization has been around for 33
When Norma Salter discovered Pine Island, she immediately knew it was the place she wanted to be.
The photos above and at left show her enjoying some leisure island activities
PHOTOS PROVIDED
UnitedPolicyHolders org, such as how to choose a contractor, read your policy or keep from getting scammed Much work can be completed remotely such as on Zoom, she said, making it possible to help people from various parts of the country
“We go where we’re needed and where we’re invited,” Barbour said
Barbour introduced another United Policyholder representative, Julitza Perez, who assured attendees they were not alone in recovery, although something as catastrophic as Hurricane Ian would likely take a great deal
See RECOVERY UPDATE, page 18
County accepts $1.8 million federal grant to help
people who are experiencing homelessness
The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted last Tuesday to accept a federal grant of more than $1 8 million to assist individuals or families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness due to Hurricane Ian or another natural disaster
The funding is through Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Rapid Unsheltered Survivor Housing (RUSH) entitlement grant funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for fiscal year 2023-2024 budget
Hurricane Ian made landfall in Lee County on Sept 28, 2022 The Lee Board of County Commissioners r e m a i
throughout the county
The funds accepted Tuesday will fill a gap in federal disaster assistance for people experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness People experiencing predisaster homelessness have very limited eligibility for FEMA Transitional Sheltering Assistance
FEMA does not provide long-term housing assistance, and as a result when short-term FEMA assistance ends, many displaced people are at risk of long-term homelessness After disasters, the cost of rent often increases, adding an additional barrier to available housing
ESG RUSH funds will fill this gap in assistance, giving communities much-needed resources to provide long-term housing solutions for people experiencing predisaster homelessness and to prevent long-term homelessness among newly displaced people
The funding addresses housing and service needs for persons who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in Lee County, as identified in the Homeless Continuum of Care Strategic Plan
To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www leegov com/resources/ newsletters
The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce and Centennial Bank are presenting the 2024 MangoMania Youth Drawing Exhibit
These works of art were created from a contest where students were invited to submit a drawing that represents their idea of what “Mango Fun” looks like to them S t a
through Saturday, July 13, over 50 drawings from the students of Pine Island Elementary will be on display at Centennial Bank, which is located at 5551 Sunset Lane
in St James City, for everyone to view and enjoy
From the submitted drawings, four were selected to be the front graphics for the 1,000 free fans that will be given away during MangoMania
Stop by Centennial Bank during regular branch hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a m to 4:30 p n and enjoy this local young artist exhibition
MangoMania will be held Saturday, July 13, at Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Church, 12175 Stringfellow Road, Bokeelia, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Matlacha Civic Association to host July 4th Potluck Picnic
This Independence Day, the Matlacha Civic Association will host a community July 4th Potluck Picnic in the Matlacha
Park from 5-9 p m
Activities to be held from 5-9 p m at Matlacha Park Check
There will be a cornhole tournament, c a s t i n g c o n t e s t , a w a r d s f o r t h e b e s t dressed patriots, games and trophies
The celebration is highlighted with a “Light It Up” Parade
Everyone is invited to trick out their bikes, golf carts and pull carts in lights a n d d e c
o n s f o r t h e parade through the park
Trophies will be awarded in the best decorated s e n i o
gories
Staging begins at 8 p m
8:30 p m For additional informa-
lachacivic org/ and click on "Contect Us."
Matlacha Park is located along Matlacha Park Road off of Pine Island Road, w e
M
Drawbridge
OPINIONS
10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste 60 Bokeelia, FL 33922
Phone: (239) 283-2022
Fax: (239) 283-0232
Web: pineisland-eagle com
Publisher Raymond M Eckenrode
reckenrode@breezenewspapers com
Executive Editor
Valarie Harring
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Editor Paulette LeBlanc
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Advertising Sales
Charlene Russ cruss@breezenewspapers com
Design & Layout
Chris Strine cstrine@breezenewspapers com
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Web Poll
Previous Web Poll Question:
Will former president Trump’s conviction determine how you vote?
■
■ I’m undecided 7%
Current Web Poll Question:
What do you think of the judge’s recommended order that could allow the removal of the Chiquita Lock?
■ I agree, the lock should be removed
■ I disagree, Cape Coral should replace the lock
■ I have no opinion
Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle com
Informed voters key to good governance
Election year 2024’s political climate continues to heat up with the likelihood of another tempest of record proportion
And that’s unfortunate
W h e n r h e t o r i c r e i g n s , b o l d
thunder and emotions flash, it’s easy to lose sight of why we not only weather the storm but embrace it: We, as Americans, have an obligation to our elected form of governance.
We, as Americans, understand that voting is more than a right: It is a duty, a duty that must be performed to the best our individual ability
That is our bedrock
We concede that the philosophy of “team politics” with its blind adherence to this party or that or loyalty to a particular candidate has become a bunker for many on the state and national front
We concede that campaigns focused solely on a hot-button issue or two can drive and determine local races
But we believe that the truism cited by founder Thomas Jefferson back in 1789 when he was explaining the strength of a new form of government to a detractor: “Whenever the people are well informed, they can be trusted with their own govern-
s
Letters to the Editor Eagle Editorial
ment...”
On the national level, the two major party c a n
incumbent Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump, have agreed to televised debates
Hosted by CNN, the first is scheduled for next Thursday, June 27, in Atlanta It is slated to start at 9 p m
To be hosted by ABC, the second is scheduled for Sept 10
If conducted well, these forums will add a unique perspective on the face of these candidacies, if not their depth
On the local level, there are a multitude of key races up for grabs seats on the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District Board; a first-time-since-the-’70s race for Lee County superintendent of schools; one at-large and two district-only school board races; two at-large county commission races and three constitutional office races as well as state House and Senate races
Local races are the ones that most impact our day-to-day lives and pocketbooks. While mailers, websites and other politi-
cal advertising funded by candidate campaigns may abound, debates or multi-candidate Q&As are scant
It’s a tad tougher to become informed although we believe that local media outlets, including The Breeze, do a good job with pre-election coverage
A list of the candidates who qualified last Friday for the various local seats and offices may be found on the Breeze website at www capecoralbreeze com
We have two elections rapidly approaching the Aug. 20 Primary and the Nov. 5 General Election
Let us quote Thomas Jefferson again: “The government you elect is the government you deserve ”
If our belief is we deserve better, we, as voters, must do better
If casting a ballot is the foundation of sound governance, information is its underpinning
There is ample opportunity to be well informed
May we all take advantage of it this election season as the political winds blow
Chiquita Lock from a boat owner’s perspective and why the lock must be removed
To the editor:
Over the past 14 years I have traveled through the Chiquita Lock hundreds of times When the lock was operational and we waited for our turn for more than an hour sometimes on holidays and in-season weekends, we had plenty of time to observe people as well as wildlife including manatees and dolphins moving around the lock area
I have seen the slow lumbering manatees swim into the lock while boats are moving in and out under power The boats move back and forth to position themselves against the lock wall using forward and reverse movements. Once the manatees are in the lock they face injury and death from boats large and small as props are spinning all around them They have nowhere to go to get out of the way and there is no safe way to mix power boats and marine life in small, confined spaces like the Chiquita Lock It is distressing to see the deep cuts and painful looking damage to the backs of the manatee caused
unintentionally by boats just operating as they should in the lock Even at slow speeds the props and motor skags can be deadly to animals and people These animals must be traumatized while trapped in the lock with numerous boats moving all around them
A few years ago while in the lock we saw a small manatee struggling to get free of the slow closing lock door behind us. The manatee moved in a violent fashion flapping its tail and, after being trapped in the door momentarily, it eventually freed itself and got through How do we know that these partially crushed manatees that are still alive as they swim away aren’t suffering from internal injuries and eventually die? Can it get any more inhumane and traumatizing than this? These types of tragedies probably happen more than we know and will only stop when the lock is removed
Since public safety is and has to be everyone’s No 1 goal we have to consider the long lines waiting to lock through as dangerous for boaters Boats line up for hundreds of yards in both directions waiting for their turn to lock through When you have up to 50
The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that opinions These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Opposing views are welcome. Letters to the Editor or guest columns may be mailed to: Pine Island Eagle, 10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60, Bokeelia, FL 33922; e-mailed to pineisland@ breezenewspapers.com; posted to our Virtual Newsroom at www breezenewspapers com or faxed to 283-0232 All letters and guest columns must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes You also can comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: pineisland-eagle com We want your opinion
boats waiting for the lock all crowded together battling current and wind you are asking for trouble The people who suggest replacing the current lock with a “high speed lock” have likely never been in the lock and observed how long it takes to get the boats in and tied off before the lock operator can close the door Depending on the size of the boats, there can be as many as six or eight boats tying up one at a time inside of the lock The speed of the lock is not the problem, the time it takes to lock through is directly attributable to the time it takes boaters to navigate into and secure their boat inside of the lock and eventually pull out slowly without running into each other or the exposed lock mechanisms
Boat engines of any type are not meant to sit and idle for long periods of time it is bad for the engines and in the case of inboard motors there are carbon monoxide fumes that build up in engine compartments and even fuel leaks that could easily explode due to lack of ventilation This happens all of the time when gasoline powered inboard motors sit and idle. Bilge blowers do not ventilate as well as the ventilation provided by the boat m o v
designed There is no place to tie up outside of the lock and therefore no way to turn off your motors because you are constantly moving or maintaining your boat in position
Shifting in and out of gear constantly is certainly not good for the boats and dangerous in general for people in the boat We have seen and heard more than a few shouting matches as boats get too close for comfort
It is well past time for the lock to be removed for the safety of people and our valued wildlife
Tom Kraska Cape Coral
Lee Health Board of Directors votes to move forward
Lee Health has been assessing the benefits and considerations of converting to a community-focused nonprofit health system to determine if a new governance structure is in the best interest of the residents of Lee County The case for the transition from a public governmental system has been clearly articulated by and holds unanimous support from the senior leadership of Lee Health I am pleased to share that on June 13, the Lee Health Board of Directors voted overwhelmingly in support of moving forward with the process to return to a community-focused nonprofit health system
The vote by the Lee Health Board of Directors follows months of thoughtful and deliberate work, first, reviewing the findings of the independent evaluation report, which recommended Lee Health should continue the conversion process and, second, conducting a deep analysis to determine how conversion would affect our ability to deliver on our safety-net mission
Throughout the process, Lee Health has been clear that securing Lee Health’s safety-net mission is of the utmost importance Today’s vote affirms our commitment to caring for Lee County’s most vulnerable residents now and in the future By transitioning to a community-focused n o n p r o f i t , w e c a n b e t t e
c u r e t h e resources needed to uphold our safety-net mission and ensure continued delivery of exceptional healthcare for the residents of Lee County
Conversion to a community-focused nonprofit will help safeguard a financially strong and resilient Lee Health that sup-
T
h e j o y o u s s o u n d s o f hundreds of our students tossing their caps in celebration filled the air as the Class of 2024 graduated this May These graduates
a r e n o w e m b a r k i n g o n diverse paths: entering the workforce, joining the mili-
t a r y , p u r s u i n g t e c h n i c a l education, or attending tra-
d i t i o n a l c o l l e g e s T h e y
l e a v e u s w i t h c h e r i s h e d
m e m o r i e s o f f r i e n d s h i p s , f a m i l y m o m e n t s , a n d achievements in sports, the
a r t s , S T E M , a n d v a r i o u s
ports our vibrant community As the largest employer in the county, employing nearly 16,000 staff memb e r s a n d p r o v i d i n g c a r e through more than 2 6 million patient encounters per year, the opportunities conversion allows will help to strengthen our standing in the community and support our ability to provide the safe, high-quality care Lee
C o u n t y r e s i
h a v e come to expect from its health system for generations to come
Additionally, this transition will enable us to compete fairly in a dynamic and challenging h
enhance and diversify programs, services and community access points to meet patients where they need care Operating as a community-focused nonprofit system will also enhance our flexibility and help ensure that the productive partnership we enjoy with Lee County and its residents continues and flourishes We look forward to continuing to work together in
y partners to serve the residents of Lee County
It’s important to know that local control will remain a cornerstone of our governance, with leadership and representation drawn from across the community To ensure we uphold our commitments, we have proposed the creation of an oversight board dedicated to confirming that
c l u b s W i t h t h e i r h a r dearned technical certifications and mastery of social, cultural, civic, and political skills, they are well-prepared to become confident, productive, and happy members of society. Congratulations, graduates!
Now that we have closed out another school year, we reflect on its challenges and accomplishments High expectations have been met, and
v a l u a b l e l e s s o n s h a v e been learned As we move forward, we remain committed to our strategic plan, E n V i s i o n 2 0 3 0 , w h i c h
f o c u s e s o n p r e p a r i n g a l l students for life after gradu-
a t i o n , e n h a n c i n g a s a f e l e a r n i n g a n d w o r k p l a c e
c u l t u r e , r e c r u i t i n g a n d retaining highly effective staff, strengthening student, f a m i l y , a n d c o m m u n i t y partnerships, and improv-
ing internal operating sys-
t
s each student achieves their highest personal potential, and we are dedicated to meeting these goals
The work of our strategic plan continues throughout the summer For our t e a c h e r s a n
ators, the first week of summer break was dedicated to professional development, with teachers and administ r a t o r s e n h a n c
n
i r skills and preparing for the upcoming year For some
m
e structured pursuits: catching up on credits, taking enrichment courses, attending STEAM camps, and participating in internships to build personal and professional skills. Many of our staff members are at work supporting these summer sessions; from
Lee Health lives up to the promises made to the residents of Lee County in the l e g a l l y b i n d i n g M i s s i
Agreement
S
h o l d e
outreach and engagement continues to be a top priority and so far has included 19 public information sessions and public hearings, m o r e t h
with Lee Health physicians a n d s t a f f M o r e t h a n a dozen meetings with stakeholders have ranged from t h
Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance to local chambers of commerce, to community homeowner associations, industry action committees, elected officials and many more
I am deeply grateful for the hard work and dedication that brought us to this phase, and the engagement of our leadership team, team members and community. We look forward to finalizing the Mission Agreement with the Lee County Board of County Commissioners over the next several months to ensure Lee Health continues to be the safety-net provider for Lee County, caring for patients regardless of their ability to pay, and to conducting formal votes by the Lee County Board of Commissioners and the Lee Health Board of Directors to complete the process For more details, regular updates, and answers to frequently asked questions, p l e a s e v i s i t LeeHealth org/LookingAhead
Dr Larry Antonucci is the president and chief executive officer of Lee Health
Where do dolphins go when the hurricane blows?
It is officially hurricane season 2024 and it is predicted to be very active As we make preparations when receiving a hurricane watch (hurricane conditions are possible in the specified area of the watch within 48 hours) or hurricane warning (hurricane conditions with sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or higher are expected within a specified area issued 36 hours in advance), dolphins are also making preparations.
Hurricanes are large, spiraling tropical storms that can pack wind speeds of over 160 mph and unleash more then 2 4 t
i o n g a
o n s o f r a i n a d a y Dolphins sense this change in weather because the rain reduces the salinity of t h e w a t e
t h e s u r f a c e D o l p h i n s respond by fleeing to deeper water where the intensity of the storm’s impact is sign
f i c a n t l y r e d u c e d B y s w
n g t o greater depths, dolphins can avoid the
d
and turbulent currents, finding refuge in calmer waters below As the hurricane force winds move over our South-
back and forth, stirring up sediment and depriving the w
e r o f o x y g e n S a n d , shells, sea grass and small fish become flying debris
Territorial fish that cannot leav e th e s h allo w w ater s , succumb to death because their gills get clogged with debris This is why dolphins are safer in deeper water
Capt Cathy Eagle Dolphin Tales
Dolphin will find sheltered areas such as reefs, coves and the leeward side of
islands to find temporary r e s p i t e f r o m t h e s t o r m
These sheltered areas offer protection from the harsh w i n d s a n d t u r b u l e n t waves, allowing dolphins t o c o n s e r v e e n e r g y a n d ride out the tempest Dolphin still must surface to breathe every 1015 minutes. This can be very challenging, especially when a female has a n u r s i n g c a l f i n t o w A n e w b o r n c o u l d d r o w n within the first two weeks of life if separated from its mother The calf does not have enough fat to float and must ride in the slipstream of the mother
Because dolphins are highly social
creatures living in tightly knit groups called pods, they stay close, providing p r
n g t h e safety of each pod member This social cohesion plays a crucial role in their survival during hurricanes
Following the passage of a hurricane, dolphins exhibit remarkable resilience in their recovery efforts They possess a strong homing instinct that guides them back to familiar territory once the storm has passed They reunite with their pods and rebuild their social structures in order to resume their normal behaviors
Captain Cathy Eagle has spent over 40 years boating on our local waters
As a professional charter captain, she specializes in Dolphin and Nature tours Visit CaptainCathy com or call /text 239 994-2572 Welcome aboard!
Lee County Commission OKs expansion of eastbound right-turn lane on Pine Island Road at Veterans Parkway
Lane to be extended by a total of 350 feet
The Lee Board of County Commissioners today voted to approve an agreement with a developer who will donate right-of-way along Pine Island Road to allow construction to extend the eastbound right-turn lane onto southbound Veterans Parkway for motorists exiting the Matlacha-Pine Island area.
Eastbound traffic congestion on Pine Island Road often queues beyond the entrance to the existing 210-foot right turn lane
The approximately 350-foot turn lane extension will aid motorists who wish to travel south on Veterans Parkway by moving the entrance to the right turn lane a total of 560-feet away from the inter-
Owner, LLC, will donate the right-of-way needed for the turn lane extension and has agreed to construct the turn lane when it completes its site access-related improvements as required by Development Order
The county will be responsible for the cost of the turn lane extension, which is estimated at about $329,000
The timing of the work will depend on the developer but is expected to take place late this year
Public-private cooperation agreements for the construction of county roads are permitted under Florida Statutes Section 336 71 provided the project:
■ Is in the best interest of the public;
■ Would only use county funds for portions of the project that will be part of the county road system;
■ Would have adequate safeguards to
ensure that additional costs or unreasonable service disruptions are not realized by the traveling public and citizens of the state;
■ Upon completion, would be a part of the county road system owned by the county; and
■ Would result in a financial benefit to the public by completing the subject project at a cost to the public significantly lower than if the project were constructed by the county using the normal procurement process
To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at w
Facebook, www facebook com/leecountyflbocc.
Hurricane season is here. Are you prepared?
(Editor’s note: In the coming weeks, the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control
islanders )
By NARCISSUS E. MAGTURO and KAREN TITOLO, CERT team members
W
series of Disaster Preparedness articles
D
CERT Update
Should you evacuate?
shelter in place depends upon the incident or event Having a plan allows you to prepare in advance so you feel more confident and secure Regardless of the event, the first step is to know your risks and personal needs When it comes to weather events, think through factors that may result in evacuation orders
E v a l u a t i n g y o u r r i s k s w i l l h e l p y o u decide what to do and where to shelter When deciding where to evacuate, consider how available fuel will be, both in leaving and returning. During Hurricane Ian, and Hurricane Irma in 2017, many gas stations in the area and along evacuation routes ran out of fuel Remember, you need only evacuate to a location not under evacuation orders.
To determine your risks, consider these factors:
1 What is your evacuation zone? Pine Island and Matlacha are in Zone A as are most coastal areas in Lee County
2 D o e s y o u r n e i g h b o r h o o d f l o o d during heavy rains?
3. Do you require electricity for medical reasons?
When Lee County Emergency Management issues an Evacuation Order for your zone, you should leave the area for your safety. If Lee County has pulled emergency responders, you are on your own until the county determines it is s a f e f o r r e s p o n d e r s t o b e d e p l o y e d Hazardous weather, downed trees and downed power lines may also prevent you from evacuating during an event or keeping first responders from being able to get to you. During Hurricane Ian, many Pine Island residents were cut off from assistance for several days to a few weeks due to the bridges being out, trees, telephone poles and power lines blocking roads.
Identify an evacuation location now Although Lee County opens emergency shelters during an emergency, it should be used as a last resort LeeTran will p r o v i d e s p e c i a l t r a n s p o r t t o s h e l t e r s once they have been opened
If you do decide to evacuate, ensure your home is safe before you evacuate.
1 Secure all outside items (lawn/ p
include yard items that can become projectiles, plants in containers and trash cans
;
2 Put up hurricane shutters if necessary
3 Turn off water and gas to your property
4. Turn down refrigerators and freezer temperature
5 Keep a frozen cup of water in the freezer with a coin on top to determine if your power has gone out or if food in your freezer has thawed
6 Do you have liquid items such as paint that is no longer needed, pesti-
?
c
Secure them safely; hazardous waste can also be dropped off at the Lee C
6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers
Tune into news or social media for official instructions Emergency Management has a list of hazards to review and a Family Emergency Plan that you can find at www LeeEOC com and on the LeePrepares app
Sheltering In Place
REMINDER: Did you prepare your
include supplies for pet(s)
Below is the summary list of actions you can take now, ahead of a storm, to be prepared Use this list as a reminder each week of actions you can take now to be better prepared
Prepare Now actions:
1 Make an Emergency Plan (article #1)
2 Know your warnings and alerts (article #2)
3 Register now, ahead of time, with Lee County if you have Special Needsonline at www.leeEOC.com or by call-
registration is required
4 Review important documents
5 Strengthen your home (this article)
6 Get tech ready
7 Help your neighborhood
8 Gather supplies (article #2) Have questions about this article?
July programs at Pine Island Public Library
Next month’s roster of activities at the Pine Island Public Library offers topics for children and teens The following programs are free to the public
Children’s Programs
Puppet Playdate
10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 11
Do you have a favorite character or creature? The library's collection of puppets are coming out to play Bring them to life in the puppet theater Favorite character books will be available for you to read with your puppets along with a make your own paper bag puppet craft For ages 2-5 years
Don't Try This at Home
2 p m , Friday, July 12
Get ready for a messy, hair-raising, explosive, freezing and dangerous show This summer reading program will be a unique mix of some of The IMAG's craziest demonstrations Tickets are required for this event Please stop by the library one week before the event to secure your spot For ages 6-11 years
Preschool Splish Splash Water Play
10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 18
Today we will explore all types of waterplay Aqua Mats, Liquid Tiles and Watercolor Art will be available and our lifeguard friends from the Pine Island Pool will stop by to share some pool safety tips Join us for a splashing good time For ages 2-5 years
“Eat Your Spanish” Bilingual Music
2 p.m., Friday, July 19
Join Evan and Vanessa, hosts of the children's Spanish learning podcast "Eat Your Spanish," as they share their beautiful bilingual music, fun games and interactive sound activities in a live performance Tickets are required for this event
Please stop by the library one week before the event to secure your spot For ages 611 years
Moving the Story Off the Page
10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 25
We are "Moving the Story off the Page" at this special preschool program
Read a story together and then stretch, jump, leap, dance and sing to music while
Museum of the Island's June membership drive winding down
The month of June is the Museum of the Island's Membership Drive month.
The all-volunteer museum, located in The Center of the island, is a local hidden jewel filled with amazing artifacts, dating back thousands of years and is a wonderful part of the island community
The purchase of a membership is the perfect way to help keep the doors open and show your support
Family memberships are $25 This gives members and their families unlimited visits for 12 months There are also individual memberships for $20 and
lifetime memberships for $100
Islanders can supper the museum and be a part of the preservation of the history of the islands
Summer hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 11 a m to 3 p m
Winter hours resume in the fall, Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a m to 3 p m
Memberships can be obtained in person at the museum, located at 5728
Sesame Drive, Bokeelia, or by mail to PO Box 103, Matlacha FL 33993 Visit the museum website museumoftheislands.com.
using props. Learn the importance of daily reading and physical activity and the positive impact it has on children's lives
Tickets are required for this event Please stop by the library one week before the event to save your spot For ages 2-5 years
Fire Safety and Awareness Program
2 p m , Friday, July 26
Do you know what it takes to keep you and your family safe during a fire or emergency? The Firefighters from Pine Island Station No 1 will show us important tips on fire safety, how to wear firefighter gear and demonstrate their equipment Tickets are required for this event Please stop by the library one week before the event to secure your spot For ages 6-11 years
Teen Programs
Teen Adventure Back in Time
1 p m , Wednesday, July 10
Bring your friends and travel back to medieval times during this fun and creative program Make your own catapult using craft sticks then challenge your
friends Whose will launch the farthest? Paint a medieval stained-glass work of art and enjoy games and a movie For ages 12-18 years
Teen Trivia 1 p m , Wednesday, July 17
Teens are invited for a special adventure-themed trivia Bring your friends and test your trivia skills There will be prizes and bragging rights awarded to the winners For ages 12-18 years
Knowing the Calusa: Teen Anthropology Program
1 p.m., Wednesday, July 24
How did the Calusa Indians survive in
Research Center will answer this question Replicas of Calusa Indian artifacts will be on display during the presentation After the program stay for crafts, games
Registration is required
Bokeelia For more information about a program or to register, please call the library at 239-533-4350 Check the Lee C
www leelibrary net to find out about programs at other locations Call the host library, or Telephone Reference at 239479-INFO (4636), for more information about a specific program
To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www leegov com/resources/newsletters
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Lee County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in its services, programs or activities To request an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or a reasonable modification to participate, contact Raphaela Morais-Peroba, 239533-8782, Florida Relay Service 711, or
Requests
Wind relaxes for the weekend fishing
E a r l y a n d m i d - w e e k windy conditions hampered anglers, then heading into the weekend seas flattened opening up inshore and offshore fishing opportunities
T a r p o n h u n t e r s f o u n d calm water along the Gulf beaches protected from the easterly winds. Pods of tarpon were found from Redfish Pass north to Boca Grande, within a half mile of shore
Small live crabs, pinfish and large pilchards, either freelined or under a float work best casting a head of the m o v i n g f i s h S
beaches
On the Water
A b o u t a n y w h e r e y o u f i s h , i
c h a n c e s
Sharks from 3 to 7 feet were caught in Charlotte Harbor along the Burnt Store Bar north of Two Pines, around Oyster Shoals, in Pine Island Sound west of the Fish Shacks and around the Clam Farms, p l u s i n a n d a r o u n d t h e G
Chunked mullet and ladyfish fished on bottom or under a float, plus large live pinfish under a float worked for a variety of s h a r k s i n
i p , s p i n n e r s , lemons and bulls
As usual for summer, seatrout of size are hit and miss Trout up to 18 inches were found along sand hole edges off oyster bars near Buck Key, around Red-Light
S h o a l s a
ther north in Pine I
report trout to 17 i n c h e s i n t h
west of Bokeelia Trout went for a variety of baits includ-
pilchards and small pinfish
was over the incoming water before the tide got to high
T
extremely high early afternoon tides Redfish up to 24 inches took cut bait, pinfish, shrimp and jerk baits while fishing shorelines and creek mouths on the east side of the Sound near the powerlines and further north in the Sound near Rocky Channel
Offshore, once the weather cooperated, boats making the long run 5
American red snapper, plus an assortment of other species This is the last week to bring home red grouper for a while as season closes July 1
Stay up to date with stte fishing regulations by visiting www myfwc com Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone It has current regulations and seasons with pictures to help identify fish
If you have a fishing report or for charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service at (239) 410-8576, on the web at www.fishpineisland.com or email: gcl2fish@live com
Have a safe week and good fishin’
As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt Bill Russell has spent his life fishing and learning the waters a
Florida, and as a professional fishing guide for the past 23 years
Her first fish
There’s nothing better than a child's first fish Visiting Matlacha for a family vacation, 8-year-old Emma caught her first fish (seatrout in photo), and followed that up with numerous more trout and snook. She was fishing with Capt. Bill Russell in Charlotte Harbor
Capt Bill Russell
Pickles
Poor Pickles was returned to us when his owner left him behind in her dorm room, and her roommates were unable to keep him. He's only a year old and desperately looking for someone to love him Like any young cat, Pickles loves to play He also likes to help with the dishes - anything involving the sink intrigues him Please give him another chance at a furever home!
VA to hold outreach for women veterans
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com
Female veterans will have the opportunity to attend a Veterans Administration event tailored to them, where they can e x p e r i e n c e a o n e - s t o p - s h o p o f v i t a l healthcare information
The Bay Pines VA Healthcare System will hold outreach events exclusive to women veterans on June 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p m The events will take place at the C W Bill Young VA Medical Center in Bay Pines, as well as the Lee County Healthcare Center in Cape Coral
Organizers state the outreach is being held to inform and educate women veterans about gender-specific medical and mental health services available to them through VA, enroll them for VA’s medical benefits package, assist with disability claims, and more All women veterans and their loved ones are encouraged to attend at no cost
“It’s really a terrific opportunity to find out if you’re eligible for VA care,” said Donna Sherman, a licensed clinical social worker and the Bay Pines VA Women Veteran Program manager “And also, if you’re already enrolled, you can see if you're eligible for increased service connection due to our PACT Act screening, which will be provided at both locations ”
The outreach event on June 29 will see representatives from VA radiology, mammography, social work, intimate partner violence program, suicide prevention program, eligibility staff, full health staff, women veteran program, FGVA, and the VA’s clinical contact center (24-hour hotline)
The PACT Act is a law that expands VA health care and benefits for veterans who were exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances
“Women can conveniently jump into our programs, find out quickly what they might be eligible for, meet some of the
s t a f f t h a t w e h a v e a n d c o m m u n i t y providers that we work with, and make an informed decision,” Sherman added
Women veterans represent the fastestgrowing population of VA users in the nation The Bay P i n e s V A H C S c u r r e n
s e r v e s a b o u t 1 1 , 0 0 0
w o m e n p a t i e n t s Nationally, nearly 1 million women use the VA for their medical and mental health care, or 11 percent of all VA users, officials said
As for how this event
h e l p s b r i d g e t h e g a p
b e t w e e n t h e V A a n d women veterans, Sherman said, “It’s a lot easier when
y o u a c t u a l l y m e e t s t a f f h a n d s - o n , f a c e - t o - f a c e You develop that beginning r e l a t i o n s h i p S o m e b o d y
e x p l a i n s i t t o y o u Y o u don’t have to read the fineprint or get through a complex document Someone can shepherd you through a complex process ” S h e r m a n s a i d t h e V A wanted to tailor this event for female veterans because “ w o m e n s o m e t i m e s m a y not perceive that they are a veteran, even though they served in the military
“Sometimes women feel
a little hesitant to go into this large government hospital space; might feel a little bit nervous We want them to know that we have set up huge programs that are especially for them to take advantage of and to get the healthcare they so deserve as a result of having served ”
Sherman, a 16-year VA employee, said the VA has worked hard to ensure w o m e n v e t e r a n s a r e c o m f o r t a b l e a n d understood when they seek assistance, especially for those ages 54 to 65
“These are women that I call the trailblazing group, because they were among the first recent women to enroll in the military, and they may have been the only women in their military group,” she said “That creates a different kind of stress, especially when you combine that with combat situations, foreign country situations and so forth And I think some of those experiences may have been a little harder to process for them They want to feel that they’re not the only woman veterans coming to VA They want to feel that there are other women here and we have healthcare that’s set up specifically for them ”
Sherman said a lot of veterans, including female veterans, don’t always realize what benefits and coverages are out there
Summer break
bus drivers continuing to deliver our students to and from school, to maintenance workers keeping our schools clean and ready for the new school year Our leadership team will use this precious time to plan and ensure that budgets, policies, and staffing are aligned for a successful start to the 2024-25 school year
Whether our students and staff are out for only part of or all of summer break, it is important to make time to detach from the classroom routine and enjoy the different rhythms of the season. This time of year offers a chance for relaxation and vacation, which is incredibly important to
school year
for them Hosting events such as the upcoming outreach expos just for women, that can help remove any barriers to attend
“And hopefully once they get there, they can put faces to names and faces to s e r v i c e s , a n d e v a l u a t e f o r t h e m s e l v e s what their level of comfort is and whether they think it would be worthwhile to engage with VA,” Sherman said
Many female veterans are more comfortable talking to and working with a female doctor or healthcare employee, and more than 50% of Bay Pines employees are female
“But what we’ve done in primary care is really terrific,” Sherman said “Primary care providers who are specially trained in women’s health many of them are women Some are men This way veterans have a choice It’s basically a one-stop shopping experience where they can get all of their preventative care, and all of their gender-specific care all in one spot rather than go to two different appointments.”
The VA has added additional services just for women, such as specially trained women’s providers in the areas of psychology, social work, pharmacy, physical therapy, nursing, and more “ I t ’ s a
From page 5
To all district employees, thank you for your unwavering dedication to providing high-quality educational experiences and safe learning environments for every Lee County student Enjoy your summer, and
Sherman said. “And then we have the woman veteran program where we will have all different kinds of events for women that give up-to-date information about women’s healthcare issues, provide opportunities for women to meet and socialize with one another Opportunities to be honored in different ways for their service ”
There is currently a photography display program ongoing at every Bay Pines VA location, where six different female veteran photos and stories are on display. They are updated every six months to honor as many female vets as possible Bay Pines even hosts baby showers, with one having taken place at the Cape Coral location this past April
“We want to make sure that women know we’re here for them, and that this is their day,” Sherman said
Lee County Healthcare Center is at 2489 Diplomat Parkway, East, in Cape Coral The C W Bill Young VA Medical Center is at 10000 Bay Pines Blvd.in Bay Pines
To learn more about women veterans health services and how to apply for care, v i s i t w
needs-conditions/womens-health-needs/
we look forward to seeing you all again in August!
Cathleen O'Daniel Morgan represents District 7 School Board of Lee County
Facing the fury: Preparing for the 2024 hurricane season
Insights from a veteran medical specialist
By JOE HERNANDEZ
Special to The Eagle
After over two decades of service as a medical specialist in Florida's urban search and rescue operations, I've witnessed the harrowing and transformative impacts of hurricanes on our communities Now retired, I continue to be deeply involved as a fire commissioner, subject matter expert, educator, facilitator, industry research and development contributor, sharing my knowledge and experience to ensure we are better prepared for future challenges The 2024 hurricane season is predicted to be exceptionally busy, with a higher-than-average number of storms expected In this article, I will provide insights into our preparations, the importance of partnerships, and the collaborative efforts necessary to face these impending challenges.
The Team:
A Cohesive Unit of Specialists
Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams, both at the federal level under FEMA and at the state level (SUSAR), are composed of diverse and highly skilled specialists These teams are crucial for effective disaster response, and their success depends on seamless coordination and mutual support The core team includes:
1 Medical Specialists: Providing emergency medical care to both victims and team members, ensuring their physical and mental well-being throughout the mission.
2 Search and Rescue Technicians: Utilizing advanced equipment and techniques to locate and extricate victims trapped in collapsed structures or debris
3 Engineers: Assessing building integrity to ensure the safety of both victims and rescuers
4 Canine Teams: Highly trained dogs and their handlers play a vital role in quickly locating survivors in complex environments
5 Logistics Specialists: Managing the supply chain to
ensure the availability of necessary equipment, food, water and medical supplies
6 Communications Specialists: Maintaining clear and reliable communication channels, critical for effective coordination
7 Hazardous Materials Specialists: Identifying and mitigating chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear hazards to ensure a safe operational environment
Medical Specialist and Team Care:
As a medical specialist, the primary mission is the health and well-being of team members. Once activated, the medical team is responsible for the physical health and mental well-being of the team or assigned squad, including our canine partners Duties include:
Vital Checks and Monitoring: Each work rotation begins and ends with a vital check and brief interaction to log and monitor trends in health This consistent monitoring helps catch potential issues early, ensuring everyone is fit for duty
Mental Health Oversight: Watching for mental health issues that might affect team members, addressing stress,
fatigue and trauma promptly to maintain morale and effectiveness
Emergency Medical Care: Provide immediate medical interventions, such as wound care, fracture stabilization and advanced life support
health of both victims and team members to prevent the spread of disease and manage chronic conditions exacerbated by the disaster
Canine Care: Ensuring the well-being of our canine partners, addressing any medical issues, and ensuring proper nutrition and care.
The 2024 Hurricane Season: A Grim Forecast
Meteorologists predict that the 2024 hurricane season will be one of the busiest on record, with an anticipated higher-than-average number of storms Factors contributing to this prediction include warmer ocean temperatures and atmospheric conditions conducive to storm development
Key Predictions:
1. Increased Storm Frequency: More named storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes compared to historical averages
2 Higher Intensity: The storms are expected to be more intense, with stronger winds and greater potential for catastrophic damage
3 Extended Duration: The season may start earlier and end later, prolonging the period of heightened alert and readiness
Preparing for the Storms
Preparation for such an active hurricane season requires meticulous planning, training, and resource management Here’s how to best gear up:
Training and Drills
Continuous training is essential to maintain our skills and readiness This year, the training schedule has intensified to simulate the conditions expected during a busy hurricane season Key components include:
4 Simulated Scenarios: Conducting realistic drills that mimic the chaos and challenges of hurricane response, covering mass casualty incidents and hazardous material spills
5 Interdisciplinary Coordination: Joint exercises with other agencies, such as local fire departments, law enforcement, and the National Guard, to ensure seamless collaboration
6 Canine Training: Rigorous training for canine teams to maintain their ability to quickly locate survivors in complex environments
PHOTO PROVIDED
Joe Hernandez on duty walking through high water caused by a hurricane
Little Pine
Island Bridge construction underway, traffic down to one lane in area
BARTOW, Fla – This weekly report was prepared by the Florida Department of Transportation to inform the public
about upcoming road work in Southwest Florida Pine Island Road Causeway and
Bridge Permanent Repairs
Construction project: As part of the Emergency Restoration of the Pine Island
The F I B results from Calusa Waterkeeper's testing Saturday, June 15 Assisting in the lab were Dr Lee, Amanda Z , Kailani R and Ken C The Waterkeeper thanks the Rangers for their support and time to achieve a county-wide sampling effort in a weekend If you have any questions or would like more information, please reach out to the Calusa Waterkeeper team or visit its website at http://www calusawater keeper org/testing/
Road Causeway and Bridge, crews will be working in the project boundaries along CR 78 Pine Island Road from west of Little Pine Island Bridge (Bridge No. 120111) to West of Shoreview Drive
■ Phase 1 of construction on Little Pine Island Bridge has begun The bridge is reduced to one lane as part of the Phase
1
remain one lane through the duration of Phase 1 Temporary signals are placed on both ends of the bridge and variable message signs are in place to alert drivers
■ Motorists can expect occasional lane c
delivery/removal of materials, transfer of equipment as crews perform work on the south side
■ Please be alerted to construction equipment in the construction zone To maintain safety, motorists should find alternate parking areas
■ Pedestrians and bicyclists are not permitted within the construction zone
■ Please use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and exiting the roadway
■ Noise from construction equipment in the area is to be expected
Please be patient and plan for additional travel time as it may be slower than usual in the area
be more than anywhere else happened immediately for Salter, as she recalled feeling as though she’d known those she met here her whole life
“Pine Islanders are some of the friendliest people ever No matter what problem p e o p l e h a
, e v e r y b o d y c h i p s i n a n d helps,” Salter said. As a hard working member of Century 21 Team Shevlin since 2011, Salter often has to deal with people who are looking to buy a home on Pine Island She said she does her best to sell to people who really have a desire to live here If she honestly
Salter was
City, Fla., where
did some barrel racing.
doesn’t foresee someone being happy here, she will take them elsewhere, such as Cape Coral
“I try my very best, because I want good people here I don’t want to just make a sale I want to help the people and help the island it’s the best and friend-
liest place in the world that you can live. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else,” Salter said
Over competitive are not two words S a l t e r s a i d s h e e v e r t h o u g h t b e l o n g together, as she could not bring herself to retire before heading to Pine Island and said she finds no flaw with being a workaholic She said she has been tops in sales around the office for as long as she can remember
“I’ve done so many different things but I’m competitive so whatever I go into I don’t have enough sense to quit I just keep going I kept winning Realtor of the month and I had people tease me and say, ‘Are you the only one that works there?’” Salter said
of time from which to recover Currently, the organization is visiting all the communities that were affected by Hurricane Ian, she said The services offered are free, she said, and although there is no legal representation offered, there is guidance through the process
“If you still have doubts and you need to learn how to read your policy, come by We’re here to help,” Perez said.
She said people should call with any questions regarding help they might need: Julitza Perez at 787-454-3353 or Annie Barbour at 707-479-8152
Barreda said for help, folks could also call the GPIA office 239-558-4901 or visit the website GPIALLIANCE org
Norma
Equipment and Supplies
Ensuring we have the right equipment and sufficient supplies is critical This involves:
7 Inventory Checks: Regular cache maintenance to update and check inventory to ensure all equipment is functional and up to date
8 S u p p l y C h a i n M a n a g e m e n t :
Establishing robust supply chains to guarantee access to necessary resources, even during prolonged operations
9 Advanced Equipment: Investing in advanced technology and equipment, such
a
advanced medical kits for field care
Community Engagement and Education
Preparation extends beyond our team to the communities we serve Engaging with
the public to enhance their preparedness is crucial This includes:
10 Public Workshops: Hosting workshops to educate the public on hurricane
emergency kits and evacuation plans.
11 Information Dissemination: Using social media, local news and community meetings to keep the public informed about potential threats and safety measures
Authorities: Working with local government and emergency services to coordinate evacuation plans and resource distribution
The Role of Partnerships
The success of USAR operations hinges significantly on cultivating robust partnerships across diverse sectors The Medical Special Operations Community (MSOC) aims to play a pivotal role in this by facili-
Obituaries
resources within the medical community of urban search and rescue first responders and other all-hazards response personnel By fostering collaboration with government entities, military units, and civilian organizations, ensuring a comprehensive
response
Importance of Partnerships
1 3
Collaboration with FEMA and state emer-
resource allocation and strategic planning
14 Military: The military provides critical support in logistics, transportation and additional manpower during large-scale disaster responses
1
mental organizations (NGOs) and private s
resources, expertise, and support services
16 Interagency Cooperation: Working together across different agencies ensures a unified and effective response, maximizing the impact of our efforts and minimizing duplication
Personal Preparedness and Resilience
On a personal level, each team member must also ensure their own preparedness and resilience This includes:
Ensuring our families are safe and have a clear plan in place allows us to focus on our duties without additional worry
18 Physical Fitness: Maintaining peak p
demands of the job are physically taxing
19 Mental Health: The psychological toll of disaster response can be significant We prioritize mental health through regular check-ins, access to counseling services, and fostering a supportive team environment that goes beyond deployment Facing the Storms Together
As we brace for the 2024 hurricane season, the importance of teamwork and community cannot be overstated Every member of our task force understands the gravity of our mission and the trust placed in us by the communities we serve We are united by a common purpose: to save lives and help our communities recover and rebuild in the aftermath of disaster
Reflections on Two Decades of Ser vice
Reflecting on my more than 20 years with the task force, I am reminded of the resilience and strength of the human spirit Each hurricane season brings its own challenges, but it also highlights the unwaver-
ing determination of individuals and communities to overcome adversity I have
indomitable will to survive and rebuild In addition to my professional experience, I am also a hurricane survivor I rode out Hurricane Ian, witnessing firsthand as it devastated my home and the entire neighborhood The destruction was overwhelming, and the sense of loss profound This personal encounter with the fury of a hurricane deepened my empathy and understanding for those affected by such disasters I know the fear, the uncertainty and the pain of rebuilding My experiences drive my commitment to helping others navigate these challenging times, offering both professional expertise and heartfelt support
Memorable Missions
Over the years, certain missions have left an indelible mark on me It all began in 1992 with Hurricane Andrew The 2004 H
Katrina, 2017 Hurricane Irma and 2022 Hurricane Ian are just a few examples of the profound impact hurricanes can have Each mission taught us valuable lessons and reinforced the importance of preparedness, adaptability, and compassion 20 Hurricane Charley (2004): This Category 4 hurricane caused widespread devastation in Southwest Florida including Pine Island Our team was deployed to some of the hardest-hit areas, where we w
response and the critical role of community support networks
and Mississippi, the scale of Hurricane K
deployed to assist in the aftermath The overwhelming need for medical aid, search and rescue operations, and basic supplies was a stark reminder of the importance of n
ness
22 Hurricane Irma (2017): This powerful storm impacted almost the entire state of Florida Our task force was stretched thin, but the coordinated effort across multiple agencies and communities demonstrated the effectiveness of comprehensive planning and the strength of our collective resolve
23 Hurricane Ian (2022): A recordbreaking Category 4 hurricane causing widespread devastation again in Southwest
School Board seeking members for advisory committees
Committee
actively searching for members to join its Citizens Advisory Committees These committees meet on a regular basis to provide input, support and advice to the Board
There are five committees on which members of the public may serve:
■ Construction Advisory Committee
■ Curriculum Advisory Committee
■
From page 20 T
■ Finance Advisory Committee
■ Strategic Planning and Accountability Advisory Committee
Information about each committee is available on the School District’s website
a
school board/advisory committee infor mation Anyone interested in serving on one of these committees should fill out an online application School Board mem-
Facing the fury
Island and most of Fort Myers Beach Every Florida USAR team, both federal and state were deployed to the hardest-hit a r e a s , w h e r e w e w i t n e s s e d i n c r e d i b l e resilience in the survivors among their devastated neighborhoods. Those teams found their way to my home by air, while providing incredible support for the entire community until roads were finally rebuilt
Looking Ahead: Hope and Determination
As we prepare for the 2024 hurricane season, there is a sense of determination and hope We are better equipped, more experienced and more connected than ever before The challenges we face are significant, but so is our commitment to protecting and serving our communities
The forecast of an unusually busy hurricane season is daunting, but it also serves as a rallying call for vigilance and preparedness We continue to train, plan, and engage with our communities to ensure we are ready to meet whatever challenges
come our way
In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude to my fellow team members, our partners in emergency services, fellow first responders, and the resilient communities w
storms, learn to navigate, support each other through the aftermath, and emerge stronger on the other side The spirit of u
through the 2024 hurricane season and beyond, reaffirming our commitment to safeguarding lives and fostering hope in the face of adversity
Joe Hernandez, EMTP, CCP, CTO, has 3 0 - p
Disaster Response experience and currently serves as a Fire Commissioner with the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District on Pine Island
Upon formation of FEMA and ESF-9 in the early '90s he was assigned to the U r b a n S e a r c h a n d R e s c u e ( U S & R ) Program serving the National Response
bers will choose and approve new members in September Members serve for two years and may be appointed to serve additional terms on the same committee
Advisory Committees, the School Board shall make every effort to reflect the diversity of the community population whenever possible In addition, Board Members will seek to appoint citizens with knowledge and skills that are bene-
System and S Florida Task Force II as Medical Specialist and Coordinator, while responding to our nation’s most challenging disasters Joe has participated and/or d
numerous national and international mass
c
including the OKC Bombing, Value Jet C
Olympics, World Trade Center Attacks, n
Katrina to Ian, and the Haiti Earthquake in 2010
ficial to specific committees. All advisory committee meetings are open to the public and audio recordings are uploaded to the School District’s website Each committee shall be subject to the Sunshine Law Online applications will be taken continually to be considered for appointm e n
throughout the appointment year(s) on each of the committees
He serves as an instructor in Fire Service, Technical Rescue, and Emergency Medical Services, and works as an international technical advisor, seasoned lecturer,
Emergency Medical Services, and Tactical programs Joe has developed and taught courses for a diverse array of local, state, and federal agencies, the U S Department of Defense, universities, conferences, and seminars both across the United States and internationally
l i n e s
r a l F l a g
o d e , S e c t i o n 2 , p a r a g r a p h ( a ) , i t i s t h e u n i v e r s a l c u s t o m t o d i s p l a y t h e f l a g o n l y f r o m s u n r i s e t o s u n s e t o n b u i l d i n g s a n d o n s t a t i o n a r y f l a g s t a f f s i n t h e o p e n . H o w e v e r , w h e n a p a t r i o t i c
e f f e c t i s d e s i r e d , t h e f l a g m a y b e d i s p l a y e d t w e n t yf o u r h o u r s a d a y
i f p r o p e r l y i l l u m i n a t e d d u r i n g t h e h o u r s o f d a r k n e s s .
S o u r c e : V e t e r a n s o f F o r e i g n W a r s
