Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin

MERTF strikes back at councilman’s accusations

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Town of Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force has voted to request the town council correct the record over comments made by Councilmember John King in June concerning the advisory group at a council meeting which they believe were unfounded and inaccurate

At the June town council meeting, King

criticized the task force over a conversation at a MERTF meeting regarding raking on the beach and a letter sent from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation’s Southwest Florida Regional Species Biologist seeking help from the task force to address what the FWC saw as “unreasonable resistance” from some in the community to protecting shorebird nests

At the following town council meeting, MERTF board member Dr. Greg Fossum

made a committee report about several recommendations from the task force After Fossum spoke, King said the reputations of three individuals were being “sullied” and “disparaged” by comments made at the previous task force meeting regarding raking on the island Though task force member Robert Howell expressed concern at the meeting about what he said was raking on berms and near berms, no individuals were named.

Task For ce bel ieves uplighting at Baysi de Par k would violate li ghti ng ordinance

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Just a month before Hurricane Ian, town officials and community members celebrated the reopening of Bayside Park under fancy shade sails on a shaded stage platform and artificial turf after months of construction and two years of planning to replace the former park and gazebo

Completely wiped out by Ian, the park was the scene of debris piled up high in the days afterward Now, plans are in the works to reopen the park as

STEVE JOHNSON

Town of Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Chair

soon as the end of September, in what w o u l d c o i n c i d e w i t h t h e o n e - y e a r anniversary of Ian

While the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the park a year ago was cheerful amid songs, speeches and a new water fountain, it was also a project that faced oppo-

sition from the Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force for plans to install uplighting on the coconut palm trees and poles there.

The task force believes the uplighting violates the town’s lighting ordinance

See BAYSIDE PARK, page 12

“The tone, tenor, and rhetoric is not helpful,” King said

In addressing King at the June meeting, Fossum said “We had no documentation of it occurring or not occurring,” before being interrupted by King

“Accusations were made,” King said “You called people names,” King said Fossum never personally called anybody names or made accusations at the

See ACCUSATIONS, page 14

NATHAN MAYBERG

An adult drowned in the water near B o n i t a B e a c h D o g P a r k a f t e r attempting to assist a juvenile. The boy was brought to shore safely by a paddleboarder though the man could not be saved.

Man drowns at dog park

By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

A Fort Myers man drowned after being submerged in a rip current near Bonita Beach Dog Park at New Pass on Tuesday

The incident unfolded around 5:45 p m Tuesday night when a paddleboarder reported seeing an adult male, juvenile male and a dog trapped in a rip current

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office and U S C o a s t G u a r d r e s p o n d e d t o t h e Bonita Beach Dog Park, at 8800 Estero Blvd , where a witness said he was able t o r e t r i e v e t h e b o y s u c c e s s f u l l y b u t unable to reach the dog or adult

The witness said the man and dog were “too far away from the beach,” according to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office report Another paddleboarder was able to retrieve the man from the water and brought him to the beach and called out to emergency services

The second paddleboarder said he located the adult male in the middle of the channel face down After bringing him to shore, the paddleboarder started

See MAN DROWNS, page 14

Frank Haskell, co-founder of Barbara’s Friends, dies

Organization

has raised $25 million for Golisano Children’s Hospital cancer fund

Frank Haskell, 93, co-founder of Barbara’s Friends to support children with cancer, died on Wednesday, July 19

Through his efforts, Barbara’s Friends raised $25 million to support more than 10,000 children at Golisano Children’s Hospital and its cancer fund, the Lee Health Foundation announced in a press release announcing his death

“Without Frank Haskell, the achievements we’ve made to advance pediatric cancer care in Southwest Florida would not be possible,” said Dr. Emad Salman, VP and Chief Physician Executive – Children’s Services “Frank was committed from the moment I met him to making a difference He has saved the lives of thousands of children, forever impacting their families and our community His passion and tenacity and humor will be missed Frank was a true champion and friend to all children ”

Haskell retired in 1987 and relocated to Southwest F l o r i d a a f t e r a s u c c e s s f u l c a r e e r a t B u r r o u g h s Corporation in Boston, where he was the youngest vice president in company history, and Moore Business Systems in Dallas. He was invited to join the development board for the Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida in 1991

Haskell founded Barbara’s Friends with his late wife Betty in 1995, naming the fund in memory of their daughter Barbara, who died at age 36 after a battle with cancer Before Barbara died, she asked her parents to do more to help children fighting cancer, so they didn’t have to suffer The original goal was to raise $100,000 with the fund in her name

“Today, to have this wonderful facility is the greatest thrill of my life,” Frank Haskell once said from the Cypress Cove apartment where he lived since 2011 over-

looking Golisano Children’s Hospital “Losing a child of your own before you go is a devastating thing to have happened This has kept her life ongoing I think of her every single day ”

The Barbara’s Friends Medical Library was established at HealthPark Medical Center in 1998 Barbara’s Friends Pediatric Hematology Oncology Center on the fifth floor of HealthPark opened in 1999 to serve children until Golisano Children’s Hospital was built in 2017 The Barbara’s Friends permanent endowment was established in 2002.

Through a strong personal relationship, Haskell and former Boston Red Sox president John Harrington also founded the golf tournament in 1994 that has raised $15 million to date for programs at Golisano Children’s Hospital Haskell’s ties to the Red Sox started in 1993 when he was hired by the team to operate the scoreboard at the Red Sox former spring training home at City of Palms Park He was honored by the Red Sox at Fenway Park on his 80th birthday

In 2016, Lee Health Foundation established The Frank Haskell Humanitarian Award in his honor to recognize outstanding leadership in the advancement of quality health care for the citizens of Southwest Florida

Haskell helped establish Barbara’s Friends scholarships in 2020 that are awarded annually to high school students who are childhood cancer or blood disorder survivors So far, seven students have received scholarships

Barbara’s Friends funding also helped create Palmer the Turtle stuffed animals, coloring books and medical books, designed to entertain, comfort and educate cancer patients and their families In March, the Haskell family donated the Haskell Total Immersion Room in Frank’s honor at the Naples pediatric hematology oncology clinic, the only one in the country, offering children receiv-

ing chemotherapy and infusions a totally immersive virtual reality escape during treatment

For more information about the Barbara’s Friends fund and supporting child patients in your community, please call Lee Health Foundation at (239) 343-6950 or visit BarbarasFriends org

Frank Haskell

OPINIONS

u l y

W e d n e s d a y ,

W e e k o f

E x e c u t ive E d i t o r Va l a r i e H a r r i n g v h a r r i n g @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m

E d i t o r N a t h a n M a y b e rg n m a y b e rg @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m

A d ve r t i s i n g D i re c t o r L a u r i e R a g l e l rag l e @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m

Advertising Sales

Lyn McElhaney lmcelhaney@breezenewspapers com

O b i t u a r i e s D e b b i e C a r l e t t i o b i t s @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m

P ro d u c t i o n m a n a g e r R o b B r a i t l i n g r b ra i t l i n g @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m

Approximately 100,000 students will head back to Lee County schools next month and parents are gearing up for a first step to get them there: Back-to-school shopping

The National Retail Federation is projecting a pretty big number this year as parents break out the wallets to buy clothes, supplies and often, electronics to equip their kids from kindergarten through college for the classroom

According to a release recently issued by the NRF with data collected by Prosper Insights & Analytics, another record spending year is projected with spending “expected to reach an unparalleled $41 5 billion, up from $36 9 billion last year and the previous high of $37 1 billion in 2021 Back-to-college spending is expected to hit $94 billion, about $20 billion more than last year’s record ”

How does that break down per kid?

“Families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $890 07 on back-to-school items this year, approximately $25 more than last year’s record of $864 35 and a new high,” the NRF reports

For parents with children in college, the number is higher

“College students and their families are

Editorial

expected to spend an average of $1,366 95 per person, up from $1,199 43 last year, and a new record from the previous record of $1,200 32 in 2021,” according to the NRF which adds, that since 2019, back-to-college spending has nearly doubled

Budgeting for back to school is seldom easy for most of us and this year, with many still in recovery mode from Hurricane Ian, it’s even harder

But there are at least three things coming up that can provide a bit of a break the state’s back-to-school sales tax holiday began on Monday, F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva will distribute school supplies and more next week to qualifying households and the annual Big Backpack Event providing supplies for children in need has a record number of backpacks available for distribution

The 2023 tax holiday runs from now through Aug 6 and applies to many back-toschool necessities including clothing, footwear, backpacks, school supplies and electronics, including personal computers and accessories, tablets and book readers

There are some conditions: Clothing, footwear and qualifying accessories need to be

$100 or less per item; school supplies are limited to $50 or less per item; learning aids $30 or less; and qualifying electronics must cost $1,500 or less and must be for noncommercial home or personal use

In addition, F I S H will hand out essential items, like paper, glue sticks, notebooks and more, for grades K-12 plus socks, underwear and gift cards from July 31 to Aug 2 The program is open to families living and working on the islands For more information, contact F I S H at 239-472-4775

Meanwhile, the much-anticipated 24th annual BIG Backpack Event is set July 30 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fort Myers Skatium Thanks to event sponsors, including the Lee County Sheriff’s Office which donated 500 packs, organizers plan to distribute 2,500 free supply-stuffed backpacks to students ages 5 to 12 at the drive-thru giveaway

As an added bonus this year, the Midwest Food Bank and Community Cooperative will provide food for those who take part

Observer

Business visionaries invest in county’s workforce and future

“visionaries” commit financially to Lee County's economic future The nonprofit foundat i o n p r i v a t e l y f u n d s t h e Horizon Council, a public-private board that advises Lee

C o u n t y ' s B o a r d o f C o u n t y

C o m m i s s i o n e r s a n d L e e

A c c o r d i n g t o t h e U S

C e n s u s B u r e a u a n d U S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the county's population has grown by 3 3% annually and i s c u r r e n t l y e s t i m a t e d a t

802,178 On average, there are 90 new residents moving to Lee County every day. Business growth continues as w e l l , w i t h a p p r o x i m a t e l y

43,000 businesses now opera t i n g i n t h e c o u n t y J o b

Holly D Smith Guest Commentary

growth is up 5% over last year and Lee County has enjoyed explosive growth in every business sector, including health care, life sciences, logistics, manufacturing and technology In fact, the county is the fifthmost economically diverse county in Florida, according to Florida Atlantic University

Do

Share your opinion at fortmyersbeachtalk.com Previous Web Poll Results Do you think Donald Trump will be found guilty of the charges relating to his possession of classified documents? ∫ Yes, he will be convicted, 46% ∫ No, he will be aquitted, 22% ∫ No, there will be a hung jury, 29% ∫ Unsure, 3% Current Web Poll Question

To continue this successful track, a thriving Lee County business climate is dependent upon support from community partners, as well as the private sector As members of t h e H o r i z o n F o u n d a t i o n , l o c a l b u s i n e s s

C o u n t y E c o n o m i c Development Office on economic development issues The groups' mission is to improve the business environment by retaining and encouraging the g r o w t h o f e x i s t i n g b u s i n e s s w h i l e a l s o a t t r a c t i n g n e w , diversified employers. Known as the “voice of business” in the county, this trifecta partnership o f t h e H o r i z o n C o u n c i l , Horizon Foundation and Lee County Economic Development Office has created a business-friendly environment that continues to attract top talent, new companies and entrepreneurs from around the globe

Given the growth we're experiencing, one of the greatest areas of focus for businesses in Lee County has been workforce development Since 2010, the county averaged 10,000 to 15,000 new jobs a year In 2020, though, there were 20,000 new jobs added to the local economy The momentum contin-

a r, $ 6 2 C i rc u l a t i o n ( 2 3 9 ) 5 7 4 - 1 9 3 6 C l a s s i fi e d / D i s p l a y A d ve r t i s i n g ( 2 3 9 ) 5 7 4 - 1 1 1 0 Customer service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a m to 5 p m , except major holidays Letters to the editor must be typed or hand printed Your name and phone number must be affixed to the copy In the event of an advertising error, we are responsible only for the first incorrect insertion of the ad itself We are not responsible for any credit or reimbursement after 30 days from publication Postal Information: Third class postage paid at Fort Myers Beach, FL Permit 521 Postmaster: Send address changes to the Beach Observer 19260 San Carlos Blvd Fort Myers Beach FL 33931 The Observer and Bulletin is published every Wednesday 19260 San Carlos Blvd Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931 Phone: (239) 765-0400 Fax: (239) 765-0846 Web: fortmyersbeachtalk com We want your opinion

u e d a f t e r H u r r i c a n e I a n , t o o , w i t h L e e County adding 18,800 jobs in the six months following the storm Currently, the county has approximately 20,000 job openings, but only 8,000 job hunters. We are encouraged by several new initiatives, including microcredentialing, which is aimed at helping students and employees learn or advance their skills for employment and growth opportunities

A f t e r t h e L e e C o u n t y E c o n o m i c Development Office gave a $1 million grant to cover the cost of micro-credential courses for Lee County residents, funding that was provided by the American Rescue Plan Act, s e v e r a l H o r i z o n F o u n d a t i o n i n v e s t o r s , including Scotlynn, stepped up to offer micro-credentialing or digital badge courses and guarantee interviews upon completion These programs are offered through the area's higher education institutions, including F l o r i d a G u l f C o a s t U n i v e r s i t y , F l o r i d a SouthWestern State College and Hodges University, at no cost to students. Micro-credentialing is helping close the gap between skilled workers and employment opportunities in our region

This is just one example of Horizon Foundation members collaborating and demonstrating their support for Lee County's business community As the county continues to grow, so must the investment in our eco-

See WORKFORCE, page 5

Public input sought for $1.1 billion in recovery funds

STAFF REPORT

Lee County announced a public participation meeting for Tuesday, Aug 15 at the DiamondHead Beach Resort in Fort Myers Beach on the draft action plan for the $1 1 billion Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery funds received from the U S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

The meeting will begin at 5:30 p m at the DiamondHead Beach Resort, located at 2000 Estero Blvd.

The draft action plan will be made available Aug 1 at www leegov vom/recovery/cdbg-dr for review and comment through Aug 31 Comments can be emailed to recovery@leegov com, mailed to Lee County Administration in care of the Office of Strategic Resources, 2115 Second St , Fort Myers, Fl, 33901, or provided during one of the public meetings

According to information provided by Lee County, CDBG-DR funds may be spent on a limited number of eligible activities related to impacts from Hurricane Ian that include housing, infrastructure, eco-

nomic revitalization, public services and planning At least 70% of the grant must be used for projects that benefit Low-toModerate Income households, which HUD defines as a family at or below 80% of Area Median Income For example, in Lee County a single-person household would qualify at $47,700 or less per year, whereas the limit for total household income is $68,100 per year for a family of four

The Lee Board of County Commissioners at a regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday, Aug 1, is expected to vote to approve the Draft CDBG-DR Action Plan Publication for the public comment period, which begins with these resident participation meetings spanning Aug 2 through Aug 29 After public input has been received, Lee County will submit the Action Plan to HUD for review and approval

Other public meeting scheduled around the county on the plan will take place at the follow locations and dates:

∫ 5:30 p m Wednesday, Aug 2

Bonita Springs City Council

Town waives temporary permit fees

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

After announcing a week earlier that property owners would need to apply for new permits for temporary structures, t h e T o w n o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h announced that the $100 permit fee has been waived

"The Town has reconsidered the permit process for placement of temporary structures and decided to suspend the $100 permit fee until further notice," Town of Fort Myers Beach Communications Director Jennifer Dexter said in an announcement

Thursday

If a property owner has already paid the fee, they should contact the Town for a refund at 239-765-0202 during business hours, Monday through Friday,

8:30 a m to 4:30 p m

Permits are still needed to be applied for, Dexter said Temporary structures that require permits include trailers, manufactured homes and other temporary units that people are living in, working in, or using for storage on their properties while they rebuild from the damage caused by Hurricane Ian " T o w n C o u n c i l t o o k a c t i o n a f t e r

Hurricane Ian to allow temporary structures to be used and registered with the Town," Dexter said "This was to assist p r o p e r t y o w n e r s t o s t a r t r e b u i l d i n g quickly and to help the Town keep track of the number of temporary structures and their locations The registration that was required at that time has now been formalized as a permit process "

9101 Bonita Beach Road Bonita Springs, FL 34135

∫ 6 p m Thursday, Aug 3

Cape Coral City Council

1015 Cultural Park Blvd , Cape Coral, FL 33990

∫ 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10

North Fort Myers Recreation Center

2000 N Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers, FL 33903

∫ 5:30 p m Tuesday, Aug 15

Town of Fort Myers Beach / DiamondHead Beach Resort

2000 Estero Blvd , Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

∫ 5:30 p m Wednesday, Aug 16

Veterans Park

55 Homestead Road, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936

∫ 5:30 p m Tuesday, Aug 22

The Heights Center

15570 Hagie Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33908

∫ 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23

City of Fort Myers / Stars Complex

Workforce

2980 Edison Ave , Fort Myers, FL 33916

∫ 5:30 p m Thursday, Aug 24

Pine Island Elementary School

5360 Ridgewood Drive, Bokeelia, FL 33922

∫ 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29

City of Sanibel / Big Arts Sanibel

900 Dunlop Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957

The CDBG-DR webpage will continue to serve as an informational resource for CDBG-DR activities. Interested parties are encouraged to visit www leegov com/recovery/cdbg-dr for updates

Lee County’s Office of Strategic Resources and Government Affairs has prepared a timeline describing the necessary steps and other information at www leegov com/recovery/cdbg-dr This webpage will continue to serve as an informational resource for CDBG-DR activities Interested parties are encouraged to visit this resource periodically for updates.

From page 4

nomic development. Annually, more than 100 business leaders invest through the Horizon Foundation to fund Lee County's proprietary employment database, a real estate website, site selection and relocation marketing to attract new business, and multiple marketing and business technologies aimed at supporting existing businesses while attracting new ones to the market In turn, investors receive access to these tools as well as multiple marketing and networking opportunities More importantly, they

have a voice and a role in the economic prosperity of Lee County

By investing today, business leaders are guaranteeing the success of what's on the horizon To learn more about becoming a Horizon Foundation investor, visit HorizonCouncilFoundation com/Investors

Holly D Smith is president of the Horizon Foundation, a Sanibel city councilmember and former mayor of Sanibel

County Clerk to require ID for filing property deeds

STAFF REPORT

Lee County Clerk Kevin Karnes announced a new requirement for filing a property deed Beginning Aug 1, government-issued photo identification will b e r e q u i r e d f o r f i l i n g deeds in-person or by mail in Lee County.

The new requirement is a result of the new state law HB 1419, a property fraud prevention program which will have its first pilot location in Lee County

In an announcement from his office detailing t h e n e w i d e n t i f i c a t i o n r e q u i r e m e n t s , K a r n e s ’ s office said the new law was “initiated by Clerk Karnes and state lawmakers to make it harder to file fraudulent deeds in Lee County Lee County was chosen to be the state’s pilot location for the new program ” T h e n e w p r o p e r t y f r a u d p r e v e n t i o n p r o g r a m requires all persons listed on a deed to provide a government-issued photo ID before the deed is processed This will make it easier for law enforcement to verify the identity of the parties engaged in a property-related transaction and investigate fraudulent activity

“Criminals shouldn’t be able to steal your property,” Karnes said “Our goal is to make sure we know who is filing the deeds, so we can turn over that information to law enforcement if the deed is thought to be fraudulent I’m hopeful this new ID requirement will d r a s t i c a l l y c u t d o w n o n p r o p e r t y f r a u d i n L e e County ”

The Lee County Clerk’s Office will roll the program out in phases E-Recorded deeds, typically submitted by property professionals and title agencies, are not impacted at this time Identification requirements for e-recorded deeds will be implemented after technical updates are applied to our systems. The most up-to-date requirements will be posted on www leeclerk org/deeds

Property owners are also encouraged to sign up for the Lee Clerk’s free Property Fraud Alert service, which notifies property owners when a deed, mortgage or other document with their name has been r e c o r d e d T o l e a r n m o r e a n d r e g i s t e r , v i s i t www leeclerk org/fraudalert

MELISSA SCHNEIDER Beach furniture rentals as well as parasailing, banana boat rides and personal watercraft rentals are available from Wind & Water Sports at the Lani Kai Island Resort beachfront property at 1400 Estero Blvd on Fort Myers Beach

Lani Kai opens beach access, bar, sports rentals

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Lani Kai Island Resort has a lot of Hurricane Ian recovery work to do before it reopens but significant progress has been made to open up its beach for furniture rentals, along with one of its beach bars Wind & Water Sports has a rental stand at the property Parking is also available at the Lani Kai, at 1400 Estero Blvd

“Our rebuild is coming along nicely, it’s slow but thankfully steady, and our family has been working so hard to juggle so many projects so we can open what we can, when we can, as soon as we can,” Lani Kai Island Resort Marketing Director Melissa Schneider said “Our most recent completion was getting the impact doors and windows installed along our ground-level shops and storefronts ”

Along with beach chairs and recliners looking out to the Gulf of Mexico the beach, the Lani Kai is offering bar-to-beach service for food and drinks

Wind & Water Sports provides the beach furniture along with parasailing, personal watercraft and bananaboat-ride adventures.

Lani Kai has opened its Beach Bar 1, which is referred to as “Mr C’s Bar” as that was the first bar Lani Kai Island Resort owner Bob Conidaris opened back in 1978

“We’re coming full circle from the time he first built this legendary beachside icon 45 years ago,” Schneider said

“We all continue to push through this devastation to try to return the island to some sort of normalcy,” Schneider said

Town announces water, sewer rate hike

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Town of Fort Myers Beach announced an 8 percent increase on water, sewer and utility services as a corresponding move to a vote by the L e e C o u n t y B o a r d o f C o u n t y C o m m i s s i o n e r s t o a p p r o v e r a t e increases for Lee Utilities

The Town is supplied water by Lee Utilities and the sewer system on Fort Myers Beach is owned by Lee County

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

The sewer increase will be reflected on the July billing statement from the town while the other increases w i l l b e r e f l e c t e d o n t h e A u g u s t billing statement from the town, Fort

Myers Beach spokespersonr Jennifer Dexter announced Lee County spokesperson Tim E n g s t r o m s a i d t h e r a t e s w e r e approved May 2 by the Lee County Board of County Commissioners and advanced to the June 20 public hearing where they were adopted “ R a t e i n c r e a s e s a r e n e c e s s a r y keep pace with Lee County’s anticipated population growth with capital improvement projects and to restore the Fort Myers Beach Advanced Water Reclamation Facility following Hurricane Ian,” Engstrom said “ L e e C o u n t y U t i l i t i e s a g g r e g a t e Capital Improvement Program and major maintenance is $785 million

during the next 10 years.”

The rates apply to all water and wastewater customers of Lee County Utilities, which is one of about 10 water and wastewater providers in the county, Engstrom said T o w n o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h Manager Andy Hyatt did not immediately return a message seeking to clarify whether the town council has to also approve the rate hike before it takes effect

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said the town council has not approved the rate hike “We are provided water and sewer from the county They are the ones that determine the rates,” he said

Kevin Karnes

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Beach Living

Back to School at Liki Tiki

T h e F o r t M y e r s B e a c h K i d s F o u n d a t i o n w a n t s m a k e s u r e t h a t a l l p a r e n t s , s t u d e n t s a n d t e a c h e r s F o r t M y e r s B e a c h E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l a r e a w a r e o f o b a c k - t o - s c h o o l e v e n t b e i n g h e l d t h i s S a t u r d a y , J u 2 9 , a t L i k i T i k i o n F o r t M y e r s B e a c h T h e e v e n t w i l l b e h e l d f r o m 9 a m t o n o o n L i T i k i i s l o c a t e d a t 1 7 6 5 0 S a n C a r l o s B o u l e v a r d a t t h f o r m e r S k i p O n e S e a f o o d R e s t a u r a n t V o l u n t e e r s f r o m t h e B e a c h K i d s F o u n d a t i o n w i l l b p r e s e n t a l l m o r n i n g t o h e l p k i d s s e l e c t t h e i r o w n b a c p a c k s a n d f i l l t h e m w i t h e v e r y t h i n g t h e y ’ l l n e e d f t h e u p c o m i n g s c h o o l y e a r G i f t c a r d s w i l l a l s o b i n c l u d e d t o m a k e s u r e t h a t p a r e n t s a n d t e a c h e r s h a v e v e r y t h i n g t h e y w i l l n e e d t o o “ W e w a n t e d t o m a k e s u r e t h a t , w i t h a l l t h e t h i n g t h e s e f a m i l i e s h a v e h a d t o d e a l w i t h o v e r t h e l a s t t e m o n t h s , t h a t t h e y w o u l d n ’ t h a v e t o w o r r y a b o u s c h o o l s u p p l i e s , ” s a i d B e a c h K i d s F o u n d a t i o P r e s i d e n t B r i d g e t t e M y e r s “ A n d w e ’ r e p l a n n i n g m o r e s u r p r i s e s f o r o u r i s l a n d f a m i l i e s w h e n B e a c h E l e m e n t a r y f i n a l l y r e o p e n s i n N o v e m b e r . ” T h e B e a c h K i d s F o u n d a t i o n r e q u e s t s t h a t t h o s e a t t e n d i n g b r i n g p r o o f o f r e s i d e n c y o r e m p l o y m e n t o n F o r t M y e r s B e a c h a n d e n j o y a b e a u t i f u l S a t u r d a y m o r n i n g o n t h e m T h e f o u n d a t i o n i s a l s o h a p p y t o a n n o u n c e t h a t 1 2 s t u d e n t s s u b m i t t e d a p p l i c a t i o n s f o r t h e i r a n n u a l s c h o l a r s h i p p r o g r a m , w h i c h i s o p e n t o a n y s t u d e n t w h o i s j u s t g r a d u a t i n g h i g h s c h o o l a n d / o r i s a l r e a d y e n r o l l e d i n a c o l l e g e o r t r a d e s c h o o l a n d w h o e i t h e r l i v e s o n t h e b e a c h o r w h o s e p a r e n t o r g u a r d i a n l i v e s o r w o r k s o n F o r t M y e r s

B e a c h B e c a u s e o f H u r r i c a n e I a n , t h i s y e a r t h e b o a r d a g r e e d t o m a k e t h a t c r i t e r i a c u r r e n t a s o f t h e t i m e o f t h e s t o r m “ W e h a v e s t u d e n t s i n l o c a l u n i v e r s i t i e s , s t a t e u n i v e r s i t i e s , w e l l a s A r i z o n a S t a t e , U n i v e r s i t y o f

G e o r g i a D e n t a l S c h o o l , a n d t h e F i r e f i g h t e r p r og r a m a t F S W , ” s a i d B e a c h K i d s F o u n d a t i o n V i c e

C h a i r D e b o r a h G r o l l “ W e a r e s o p r o u d o f t h e m

G o o d L u c k t o a l l o f o u r s t u d e n t s ”

F o r a n y q u e s t i o n s a b o u t t h e b a c k p a c k e v e n t o r t h e a n n u a l s c h o l a r s h i p a w a r d s , c o n t a c t G r o l l a t s u m m e r i n o h @ g m a i l c o m

Tur tle Time nest data

For t Myers Beach

Nests: 69

Non-nesting emergence: 202

Nests Hatched: 15

Bonita Beach

Nests: 150

Non-nesting emergence: 266

Nests Hatched: 44

Library accepting donations

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers

com

The Fort Myers Beach Public Library, which lost approximately 9,500 books, DVD, CDs and other items in Hurricane Ian, is accepting donations

The library is accepting monetary donations as well as books and other materials.

Monetary donations can be sent to the physical library address at:

Fort Myers Beach Public Library

2755 Estero Blvd , Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

Donations of books and materials can be shipped to:

visitors

turn

or shield their lights at night, and remind everyone never disturb a sea turtle or nest. For more information or to report a nest, please contact Turtle Time, Inc. at 481-5566. visit Turtle Time at turtletime.org.

Fort Myers Beach Public Library

1217 East Cape Coral Pkwy., Suite 503 Cape Coral, FL 33904

Edison Sailing Center celebrates 40 years

The Edison Sailing Center, a non-profit organization f o u n d e d i n 1 9 8 4 , i s c o m m e m o r a t i n g 4 0 y e a r s i n Southwest Florida

The sailing center is dedicated to teaching children and youth 8-18 the passion of sailing Over the past 40 years, the Edison Sailing Center has taught more than 17,000 children

A 40th-anniversary celebration will be held at North Shore Park, 13019 N Cleveland Ave , North Fort Myers, on Saturday, Aug 12, from 9 a m – 3:30 p m The event will also celebrate the 80th birthday of co-founder Ross Webb

The schedule of events includes:

∫ 9 a.m.: gathering for sharing memories, photos, and stories Includes light refreshments

∫ 10 – 11 a m : Hobie Cats available for sailing

∫ 1 – 2:30 p m : "FUN" Gatta, racing in Optimist Cubes

∫ 11:30 a m – 1 p m : BBQ lunch Donations accepted Alumni, civic leaders, and friends are welcome to roast Ross Webb

∫ 2:30– 3 p m : Dessert and awards

C o - f o u n d e r R o s s W e b b , a l i f e l o n g r e s i d e n t o f Southwest Florida, started sailing on the Caloosahatchee when he was 8

"I started sailing because I was asthmatic and couldn't do anything else," he said "It saved my life by getting out in the fresh air and doing something on my own "

A pharmacist by profession, at the age of 40, he decided to take some time off work and give back to help kids

"We started doing it for a couple of younger relatives of mine in borrowed boats The program took off Parents wanted their children to learn sailing and selfreliance The kids enjoyed spending time on the water," Webb said

Although sailing's image may be as a sport of the middle and upper classes, the sailing center works to teach children from all parts of the community The center offers outreach programs to the STARS Complex and the Quality Life Center in Dunbar, the Boy Scouts, and Sea Scouts

Ross's wife, Stephanie Webb, who also volunteers at the sailing center, said the center has a "sense of paying it forward " Kids who want to learn sailing can do that at

The Edison Sailing Center’s programs include:

∫ Youth Learn to Sail: Each summer, Edison Sailing Center schedules sessions weekly and welcomes more than 200 children ages 8-15 to sailing In these weeklong sessions, instructors teach the basics of wind and current, points of sail, common knots essential to sailors, tacking, and boat handling

Youth grow in confidence, self-reliance, problemsolving, and teamwork while learning to maneuver their boats from the shore to the river and back again Depending on the boat, sailing can be an individual activity, a pair, or even a crew with a skipper The center uses the Optimist Dinghy & McLaughlin Cube, the Laser, and the Vanguard & Zim 420

∫ School Year Programs: Incorporate recreational and competitive sailing, emphasizing enjoying sailing as a lifelong activity. The School Year Program incorporates a calendar similar to the schools, roughly 32 weeks Instructor(s) teach sailing skills that include embedded academic skills (broad categories of mathematics and science) As their skills develop, students may be afforded opportunities in keelboat sailing, c r e w i n g o n l a r g e r s a i l b o a t s , a n d l o c a l regattas Throughout the year, students will demonstrate the proper way to rig/unrig a sailboat, understand and use basic terminology correctly, apply knowledge of weather (wind and current) to sail away from – and back to – the beach, and apply principles of navigation to sail to a specific destination and back. Sailing's unique platform provides opportunities for increased independence and collaboration

∫ High School Sailing: The sailing center participates in the ISSA (InterScholastic Sailing Association)

the Edison Sailing Center. "Ross has never turned a child away because of their inability to pay " The sailing center has taught more than 6,000 children that would otherwise not be able to have the opportunity to experience the water

"Edison Sailing Center taught our daughter Ali the life skills to become the person she is today," said Damien Lin, a retired Sunfish racer whose husband, John

as part of the South Atlantic District (SAISA) Any high school may participate with a minimum of four sailors

∫ FGCU Collegiate Sailing Program- the sailing cen ter w elco mes n ew an d ex p er ien ced co lleg iate sailors from our local university to extend their skills and participate in collegiate regattas when possible

∫ Safe Boating: Edison Sailing Center offers N a t i o n a l A s s o c i a t i o n o f S t a t e B o a t i n g L a w Administrators NASBLA-approved Safe Boater education programs that comply with state law which states that To operate a motorboat of 10 hp or greater, anyone born on or after Jan 1, 1988, must complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Boating Safety Education ID Card Edison teaches the U S Powerboat Safe Powerboat Handling course and the Florida Bobber Card course, How to Boat Smart, which includes time on the water in various types of outboard boats

∫ Powerboat Training: The ESC teaches youth ages 10 -17 and adults ages 18 and older Youth boater e d u c a t i o n c o m p r i s e s F l o r i d a F i s h & W i l d l i f e Conservation Commission's How to Boat Smart boater education course This is referred to as the Bobber Card course While this course teaches the content knowledge, it does not provide for any on-the-water skills development The U S Coast Guard and NASBLA have identified 30+ specific boat handling skills that all beginning boat operators must be able to demonstrate Edison teaches these on-the-water skills as part of its safe boater education training and requires satisfactory demonstration of the skills

Yarbrough, is a past president of ESC. "At 10 years old, she taught sailing in the summers and got a real paycheck Unlike the yacht club kids, the ESC kids learned how to take care of things independently, without mom and dad doing everything for them From running the motor boats to putting boats in at the ramp and keeping the fleet of racing boats in working order, our kids

PHOTO PROVIDED

Travis Maier at Edison Sailing Center in 1995

Edison Sailing Center

learned to do it all The self-sufficiency gained from ESC served them out on the water and in life. We cannot thank Stephanie and Ross Webb enough for being a huge part of our lives and being the village that helped raise our daughter "

Ali sailed on the USF Varsity Sailing team in college and is now 29, married, a n d t e a c h e s k i n d e r g a r t e n i n P i n e l l a s County

Travis Maier learned to sail at age of 8 at ESC summer camp and continues to compete in sailing regattas in the United States and internationally. As a kid that never fell in love with traditional sports, sailing was a positive outlet that allowed him to build confidence and develop as a young person He also gave back to the community as a young instructor who taught hundreds of kids how to sail and operate powerboats safely

"Ross allowed me to learn responsibility, overcome challenges and build relationships I have retained over the past 30 years,"Maier said "These life skills and experiences at ESC have allowed me to be successful in my career and continue my competitive sailing and youth coaching into adulthood Ross made what is typically an elitist sport available to local children who otherwise would never be able to participate based on the inherent costs ESC provided all the equipment, coaching, and travel assistance, allowing our sailors to race against the top private yacht clubs like St Petersburg Yacht Club, Coral Reef Yacht Club, Clearwater YC, and Fort Lauderdale YC. It was an extraordinary David versus Goliath kind of thing "

From page 10

M a r i n e B i o S c i e n c e T e a c h e r K a t i e Schlotterbeck has known the Webbs since 1982. Her eldest son took sailing lessons at ESC to learn how to survive in the water in an emergency

"I became a volunteer at the ESC when they chose me to pilot the U S Sailing Reach Program Curriculum while teaching middle school science My students had the opportunity to get their powerboat l i c e n s e s a f t e r c o m p l e t i n g t h e w r i t t e n course that I taught in class and the water portion that instructors at the sailing center taught Some of those students became avid boaters because of ESC. Ross and the ESC have done so much for thousands of children, students, and adults," she said

Today, the sailing center maintains 2 0 0 + b o a t s f o r i n s t r u c t i o n a n d racing The beginning classes take the group from the basics to being able to sail the boat by themselves Intermediate and advanced classes continue to sharpen their skills and deepen their understanding of the effects of weather and an awareness of their environment

Each participant is assigned a boat and is responsible for rigging, sailing, and unrigging that boat The sailing center a p p l i e s t e a m w o r k a n d c o l l a b o r a t i o n because the boats are bigger than the sailors One of the most important lessons the organization targets is "independence" to be self-sufficient on the water As t h e s a i l o r s l e a r n t o t h i n k s i t u a t i o n s through, they gain self-confidence Each class is accompanied by U S Sailing A s s o c i a t i o n - c e r t i f i e d i n s t r u c t o r s u s i n g coach-safety boats to instruct and encour-

See EDISON SAILING CENTER, page 14

Bayside Park

code The uplighting would be in addition to dual white lights and amber lights on the poles MERTF had supported singular amber lights that would follow the town’s o w n p l a n s f o r a m b e r l i g h t i n g o n i t s streets

As plans get underway to rebuild the park, MERTF Chair Steve Johnson said the town should follow its own lighting ordinance and not construct the uplighting which he said would direct light into the sky and cause light pollution The other white lights and amber lights on the poles are downward-directed

Johnson said the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission had rejected a similar uplighting plan the town had for Times Square in 2021 though it did not rule on the Bayside Park plan due to the smaller size of the property

A t a J u n e t o w n c o u n c i l m e e t i n g , MERTF Vice Chair Dr Greg Fossum gave the town council the task force’s recommendations regarding not putting in uplighting at the park

“We are very concerned about uplighting that was in the original park We were against it before the original park was put together,” Fossum said

“There is supposed to be no uplighting anywhere in the township,” Fossum said

From page 1

“It’s unbelievable that the Town of Fort Myers Beach has uplighting in its plans.”

Fossum said uplighting is against the town’s lighting ordinance

Town officials believe that the park needs to be rebuilt the way it was for full r e i m b u r s e m e n t f r o m t h e F e d e r a l Emergency Management Agency

“The lights will be the same as they were pre-storm due to the requirement from FEMA that the park be the exact same way that it was when Ian hit,” Town o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h s p o k e s p e r s o n Jennifer Dexter said.

However, it’s not clear that the town has ever requested to leave out the lights, which only adds to the cost of the construction of the park A request to the town for any letter from FEMA requiring the town to rebuild the park with the uplighting to get full reimbursement was not immediately responded to The town could stand to lose reimbursement for the

uplighting it had at the park previously though the cost of rebuilding the park could also be more now

Fossum said one alternative remedy that MERTF suggests the town consider is placing shields on the uplights in order not to interfere with the FEMA reimbursement Fossum said the task force also believes that instead of dual white lights and amber lights at the park, there should only be amber lights “since most of the town is now amber ” Johnson said the town has signed a proclamation to make the town all-amber.

During the town council meeting, Fort Myers Beach Councilmember Bill Veach a s k e d P u b l i c W o r k s D i r e c t o r J a s o n Freeman if the town can “omit things” or if the park has to be rebuilt the same way it was

Freeman said talks with FEMA suggest that “the best plan is to put it back to how it was ”

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said “in order to guarantee your funding and not have clawbacks you are to rebuild it the way it was pre-storm.”

Allers added though, that the town could change the park once it receives the funding “Doesn’t mean after it’s done you can’t make changes,” he said

Fossum said that MERTF is also conc e r n e d a b o u t t h e c o c o n u t p a l m t r e e s planned for the park, which are “just a bomb ready to happen and hit somebody in the head ” Fossum said the town should use non-invasive, native palms which aren’t as dangerous and which he doesn’t believe would affect FEMA funding.

Another worry about the artificial turf at the park, which the board believes could be harmful to wildlife and is a risk to being washed out into the water

“It’s plastic It’s going to flake off,” Johnson said “It’s putting microplastics into the ecosystem ”

The cost to design and build the park in 2022 was $950,000 No current cost estimate is available

Town of Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said he continues to support the park being rebuilt the way it was

“During the discussions and planning

See BAYSIDE PARK, page 13

There

is supposed to be no uplighting anywhere in the township ”

Dr Greg Fossum Town of Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources vice chair

FILE PHOTOS

Bayside Park, one month before Hurricane Ian destroyed it. Plans are being worked on by the Town of Fort Myers Beach to reconstruct the park by the end of September with expected reimbursement from the Federal Emergency Management Agency

Bayside Park

of Bayside Park the question was asked to staff and town attorney if the design was in violation of the town’s lighting ordinance and the answer was always no,” Allers said “I have and continue to support the design as was originally approved by council ”

Johnson said the uplighting is “against our municipal lighting ordinance It’s sky glow You can’t see the stars ” Johnson said the lights could impact migrating birds and potentially attract bats

Johnson said if the town can have uplighting at its park, then other commercial interests may want to have uplighting at their facilities.

“Technically, (now) I can go to my backyard and shoot 72,000 lumens up to the sky,” Johnson said “This isn’t the Vegas strip You don’t need uplighting on a barrier island ”

From page 12

Application deadline for infrastructure funds approaching

Lee County is reminding leaders of organizations such as Homeowners Associations that a deadline is nearing for applications to potentially receive state funding to repair infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Ian

T h e F l o r i d a D i v i s i o n o f E m e r g e n c y M a n a g e m e n t

( F D E M ) d e a d l i n e i s e n d o f d a y o n M o n d a y , J u l y 3 1

T h e p r o g r a m i s p a r t o f t h e $ 3 5 0 m i l l i o n a l l o c a t e d b y t h e s t a t e l e g i s l a t u r e a n d a p p r o v e d b y G o v R o n

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

H u r r i c a n e N i c o l e

H O A s a n d s i m i l a r o r g a n i z a t i o n s t h a t c a n p r o v i d e a

5 0 % m a t c h c a n a p p l y f o r s t a t e f u n d i n g f o r r e p a i r s a n d r e p l a c e m e n t s u c h a s r o a d s , s e w e r , w a t e r f a c i l i t i e s , b e a c h r e n o u r i s h m e n t , s e a w a l l s o r d e b r i s r e m o v a l . F D E M w i l l e v a l u a t e a p p l i c a t i o n s a n d s e l e c t p r o j e c t s f o r f u n d i n g T h i s p r o g r a m i s a m o n g s e v e r a l t h a t f a l l u n d e r t h e

Accusations

MERTF meeting

From page 1

Mayor Dan Allers closed the back and forth by saying “I think you made your point” to King

“We never mentioned anybody’s names,” MERTF board member Mary Rose Spalletta said at the task force’s July meeting

MERTF Chair Steve Johnson said that King “created named victims Nobody said anything like that ”

Spalletta said she felt that Fossum was “attacked” by King’s comments “There were many false accusations made and there were untrue things said about us MERTF members,” Spalletta said. “I was present at that meeting. I sat through it and it was difficult not to stand up and respond to the man ”

Johnson said he wrote to King and wants the council to correct the record officially

Spalletta said she wants town council to make changes to “prevent this from ever reoccurring ”

Spalletta said MERTF should advise the council “that there be something done so that a reoccurrence of the attack that occurred at that meeting is not seen again It was totally out of line and it’s the kind of thing that could set a precedent ”

MERTF board member Jennifer Rusk said the actions of King were “embarrassing, it was awkward to watch and it hurt my feelings to be honest I am extremely offended I have been volunteering for MERTF for years now and I have worked really hard to be a good community member I was extremely offended and hurt by those comments ”

Rusk said “MERTF deserved an apology from town council ”

Spalletta said “I am a volunteer I receive no personal benefit from this I do not sell yellow shirts I will not receive more from a rental property if a boardwalk goes through, I believe that it is bad policy to attack any advisory committee regardless of what statements they make,” Spalletta said

“It was very dismissive too,” Rusk said

Man drowns

2 0 2 3 / 2 4 H u r r i c a n e L e g i s l a t i v e A p p r o p r i a t i o n P r o g r a m , w h i c h m a d e t h e $ 3 5 0 m i l l i o n a v a i l a b l e

P r i o r t o a p p l i c a t i o n , H O A s a n d o t h e r o r g a n i z a t i o n s w i l l n e e d t o p r o v i d e :

∫ W h a t y o u a r e a p p l y i n g f o r ( p r o j e c t s c o p e )

∫ E s t i m a t e d t o t a l p r o j e c t c o s t

∫ E v i d e n c e o f a b i l i t y t o p r o v i d e m a t c h i n g f u n d s ( 5 0 % o f p r o j e c t c o s t )

∫ Primary contact and alternate point of contact Community associations may not apply directly to FDEM Applications must be submitted by counties or c i t i e s I n t e r e s t e d o r g a n i z a t i o n s s h o u l d c o n t a c t L e e County’s Office of Strategic Resources & Government Affairs by emailing StrategicResources@leegov com

The county will submit application via the FDEM program portal at https://portal floridadisaster org/ITM /ExternalFiles/DEMES/LAP%202023/LAP%20Applic ation%20Reference%20Guide pdf

Mangroves donated for restoration

Coastal Watch reported that the Coastal Conservation Association Florida and Duke Energy Mariculture Center recently donated 200 black mangroves and 50 white mangroves to the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation They will be planted at the SCCF's McGregor Boulevard preserve in the fall to provide shoreline stabilization, marine habitat and increased storm protection. Part of the SCCF family, Coastal Watch thanked the Lee County Natural Resources Department for facilitating the donation PHOTO PROVIDED

We are not a north and a south end. We have not been in all the years I have been here. We have a commercial area, we have a quiet area. We have always been symbiotic ”

MARY ROSE SPALLETTA Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force Board Member

When baseless accusations are made against people and an entire end of the island, I will speak up,”

JOHN KING

“This was stirred up,” Johnson said “It’s divisive for our community and it’s harmful for our community ”

The task force moved to pass a resolution seeking a correction in the official town council record

Johnson said he hopes the clearing of the record will “end this stirred-up mess ”

When contacted about the actions taken by MERTF, King continued to defend his own previous comments, saying “when baseless accusations are made against people and an entire end of the island allegedly taking I will speak up ”

King had also criticized Johnson’s use of the word “poison” to discuss issues of some property owners on the south end of the island taking down FWC signs and other hostile actions to FWC efforts to protect shorebird nests

Johnson said his own comments at the meeting were regarding some property owners who had sent threatening letters to Florida Audubon and that there had been talk among a small group of property owners to form “somewhat of a consortium down there to prevent FWC and Audubon from helping these threatened and endangered

From page 1

administering CPR to the man, but he remained unresponsive He told responders that he believed the man had been face down for about five minutes The U S Coast Guard took over chest com-

species, to be obstructive to them because of the activities that are going down there I don’t know if there is a way we can help this poison from spreading on the south end of the island ”

Johnson said there had also been an incident that occurred last year involving an FWC staff member in which police were called

King said “I merely shared what was said in a townsponsored MERTF meeting Those words were accepted by everyone on that committee I expressed my disappointment with the MERTF committee to their representative at the Council meeting so the Council and the public were made aware ”

Johnson said he will bring the MERTF resolution to the council. “For a councilmember to call us out falsely and twist things is just terrible,” Johnson said

“We are not two groups on this island,” Spalletta said “We are not a north and a south end We have not been in all the years I have been here We have a commercial area, we have a quiet area We have always been symbiotic ”

p r e s s i

b e f o r e t

n w a s r u l e d deceased

The drowning victim was identified as 35-year-old Kenneth Marc Miller

The U S Coast Guard reported that the

Edison Sailing Center

age the new sailors

The Sailing Center travels to regattas in Florida and throughout the U S and hosts one of the state's largest regattas Qualified skippers can go on saili n g /

w e e k e n d s , i n c l u d i n g a n a n n u a l J u l y 4 t h t r i p t o t h e D r y

Tortugas They also offer Level I USSA Instructor training for interested individuals

The organization has only two full-

From page 11

time staff members, along with part-time employees for summer instruction, special projects, and more They rely on volunteers to serve on the board of directors, maintain the boats, including repairs, painting, and fiberglassing, provide marketing support, assist with community outreach and events, and provide instruction and mentoring Ross and Stephanie Webb donate more than 3,500 volunteer hours annually

man had entered the water to assist the juvenile before becoming distressed Deputies with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and United States Coast Guard were assisted by the Bonita Springs Fire

The organization relies on donations and grants to continue its work To donate, visit www edisonsailingcenter org /donate

Ross Webb said he looks forward to the next 40 years of the Edison Sailing Center

"Our vision is to have a permanent brick and mortar location that will be a vibrant and dynamic feature, allowing public access to the water and a commu-

Department and Lee County Emergency Medical Services

The Bonita Beach Dog Park is near Lovers Key State Park within Fort Myers Beach but outside of town limits

nity sailing center open to youth, adults, and visitors," he said

To RSVP for the Aug 12 event, email S t e p h a n i e W e b b a t e d i s o n s a i l i n g w e b @gmail com or call 239-454-5114

To learn more about Edison Sailing School, visit www edisonsailingcenter org To donate, visit www edisonsailingcenter org/donate

Town of Fort Myers Beach Councilmember

5 n W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , J u l y 2 6 , 2 0 2 3 f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h B u l l e t i n

VP Harris calls Florida black history instructional changes propaganda

By CHRIS MEGERIAN AND BRENDAN FARRINGTON

Associated Press

Vice President Kamala Harris said extremists want to “replace history with lies” as she traveled to Florida on Friday to assail Republican efforts to overhaul educational standards two days after the Florida Board of Education approved a controversial revision of the state's Black history curriculum

The new standards include instruction that enslaved people benefited from skills that they learned

The revisions were meant to satisfy the state legislation known as the Stop W O K E Act passed by the state legislature last year and signed by Gov Ron DeSantis, a Republican presidential candidate who has accused public schools of liberal indoctrination The issue became a major flashpoint on the campaign trail as DeSantis was asked a question last week about the curriculum change and he defended the revisions saying they would teach ways that slaves learned skills.

In Salt Lake City on Friday, DeSantis doubled down on earlier arguments that the new curriculum was needed to prevent liberal indoctrination and accused Harris of attempting “to demagogue” and politicize history

DeSantis said he wasn’t involved in devising the Board of Education’s standards but defended the components concerning how enslaved people benefited

“They’re probably going to show is some of the folks that eventually parlayed being a blacksmith into doing things later, later in life But the reality is: All of that is

rooted in whatever is factual,” he said.

“They dare to push propaganda to our children,” Harris said in Jacksonville “This is the United States of America We’re not supposed to do that ”

The 2022 Stop W O K E Act mandates changes to the way Black History and other subjects are taught in schools and is meant to prevent critical race theory from being discussed

“How is it that anyone could suggest that in the midst of these atrocities that there was any benefit to being subjected to this level of dehumanization?” Harris asked

Earlier, DeSantis accused the Biden administration of being “obsessed” with his state as it ignores other problems, like border security and crime

Harris, the first Black person to serve as vice president, spoke from the Ritz Theater and Museum, located in a historically African American neighborhood of Jacksonville

She described “true patriotism” as “fighting for a nation that will be better for each generation to come,” and she said schools would better prepare students for the world if they don’t gloss over historical crimes

“Let us not be seduced into believing that somehow we will be better if we forget,” she said “We will be better if we remember. We will be stronger if we remember ”

Critics said the Stop W O K E Act was DeSantis’ attempt to suppress an accurate account of Black history The law is being challenged in court

“The full measure of African American history is not a hand-picked Rosa Parks here and a Martin Luther King Jr there,” said Democratic state Sen Bobby Powell, who is Black “It is the sweeping collection of stories spanning several centuries, the lessons of cruelty and inhumanity interwoven in the determination of a people to live and breathe free It is as much Florida’s story as the nation’s story and it needs to be fully told ”

Earlier this year, the DeSantis administration rejected a College Board Advanced Placement course on African American history, which DeSantis said was “indoctrination ”

Rob Spicker, spokesman for the School District of Lee County, responded to questions about how the state's revisions will impact instruction, by saying the district “teaches to the standards set by the Florida Department of Education State assessments are used to determine if students have met those standards ”

School Superintendent Dr Chris Bernier did not respond to questions as to how the changes would impact the way teachers provide instruction on slavery and other classes, and for which grades Spicker referred questions to the Florida Department of Education

The state's new Social Studies academic standards can be viewed at: https://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php /20653/urlt/6-4 pdf

Fort Myers Beach Observer Editor Nathan Mayberg contributed reporting for this story

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n l y p r of e s s i o n a l o r c h e s t r a i n L e e C o u n t y a n d f o u r t h o l d e s t o r c h e s t r a i n t h e s t a t e , w i l l f e a t u r e “ G r e e n B o o k ” a s p a r t o f i t s “ C i n e m a w i t h t h e S y m p h o n y ” s u m m e r m o v i e s c r e e n i n g s e r i e s F r i d a y , A u g 1 , a t B e l l T o w e r T h e s h o w i n g w i l l t a k e p l a c e a t 6 : 3 0 p m a t t h e s y m p h o n y ’ s A r t i s t i c & O p e r a t i o n s C e n t e r a t B e l l T o w e r i n F o r t M y e r s , 1 3 4 9 9 S C l e v e l a n d A v e , S u i t e # 1 7 5 I n s p i r e d b y a t r u e f r i e n d s h i p t h a t t r a n s c e n d e d r a c e , c l a s s a n d t h e 1 9 6 2 M a s o n - D i x o n l i n e , t h e f i l m s t a r s A c a d e m y A w a r d n o m i n e e V i g g o M o r t e n s e n a n d A c a d e m y A w a r d w i n n e r M a h e r s h a l a A l i W h e n T o n y L i p ( M o r t e n s e n ) , a b o u n c e r f r o m a n I t a l i a n - A m e r i c a n n e i g h b o r h o o d i n t h e B r o n x , i s h i r e d t o d r i v e D r D o n S h i r l e y ( A l i ) , a w o r l d - c l a s s B l a c k p i a n i s t , o n a c o n c e r t t o u r f r o m M a n h a t t a n t o t h e D e e p S o u t h , t h e y m u s t r e l y o n “ T h e G r e e n B o o k ” t o g u i d e t h e m t o t h e f e w e s t a bl i s h m e n t s t h a t w e r e t h e n s a f e f o r A f r i c a n - A m e r i c a n s C o n f r o n t e d w i t h r a c i s m , d a n g e r a s w e l l a s u n e xp e c t e d h u m a n i t y a n d h u m o r t h e y a r e f o r c e d t o s e t a s i d e d i f f e r e n c e s t o s u r v i v e a n d t h r i v e o n t h e j o u r n e y o f a l i f e t i m e L e e C o u n t y B l a c k H i s t o r y S o c i e t y E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r A u t u m n W a t k i n s H o l l o w a y w i l l i n t r o d u c e t h e f i l m a n d p r o v i d e i n s i g h t i n t o t h e G r e e n B o o k ’ s s i g n i fi c a n c e f o r o u r l o c a l c o m m u n i t y T h e p r e - s c r e e n i n g r e m a r k s b e g i n a t 6 p m T h e r e w i l l b e a n i n t e r m i s s i o n d u r i n g t h e s h o w H o l l o w a y h a s s p e a r h e a d e d c o m m u n i t y o u t r e a c h i n it i a t i v e s i n h e r e x e c u t i v e d i r e c t o r r o l e , a s w e l l a s i n h e r p o s i t i o n s a s a n a d m i n i s t r a t i v e l e a d e r o f t h e J e s u s See CINEMA WITH THE SYMPHONY, page 19

"Green Book," starring Academy Award nominee Viggo Mortensen and Academy Award winner Mahershala Ali will be playing at Bell Tower in Fort Myers Aug 11 as part of the Southwest F l o r i d a S y m p h o n y ' s " C i n e m a w i t h t h e Symphony" movie screening series PHOTO PROVIDED

Florida Family Summer Website launches

Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd announces the launch of the Florida Family Summer Website which encourages Floridians and travelers to relive the nostalgic memories of summer road trips by exploring Florida and discover informational, historical and cultural locations throughout the state that are family-friendly and affordable (or free)!

“A summer road trip is a great time to make memories! And what better way to make memories than by exploring the Sunshine State,” said Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd “Many of us have nostalgic memories of summer road trips with our families where we visited museums, parks, or other cultural and historical sites I encourage you and your family to relive those nostalgic memories on a family summer road trip through Florida ”

New exhibit opens at Shell Point’s Tribby

center

Nearly 60 paintings by 37 regional artists are on display now through Sept 7 in Fort Myers.

“Fortitude: Works by the Fort Myers B e a c h A r t A s s o c i a t i o n a n d S a n i b e lCaptiva Art League” presents paintings created in a wide range of mediums, from delicate watercolors to fabric collages, at the Tribby Arts Center at the Shell Point Retirement Community

According to resident curator Marge Lee, the exhibition is the result of an appeal for display space issued by the Fort M y e r s B e a c h A r t A s s o c i a t i o n w h e n Hurricane Ian destroyed its gallery. The center was among the local organizations that stepped forward to host exhibits for the FMBAA members

Lee noted that it was important to the center to also include members of the Sanibel-Captiva Art League, as many of its members also were impacted by the hurricane’s destruction

“Because so many artists in the region were and continue to be displaced or impacted by Hurricane Ian, we were uncertain how many artists would be able to respond to call for entries,” she said “But this exhibition of 58 engaging works proves that our local artists have fortitude and are creating excellent work ”

S e v e r a l t h e m e s s t r o n g l y e m e r g e throughout the body of work on display, including interpretations of the theme fortitude, depictions of popular places in the region, florals, landscapes and more

Concurrently on display, the Tribby’s C o l l a b o r a t i o n s G a l l e r y d i s p l a y s t h e n e w e s t e x h i b i t i o n o f t h e o n g o i n g

“Ekphrasis” series, with poems by Bruce Bunch and related paintings of David Tompkins In the Tribby Legacy and O v e r l o o k G a l l e r i e s , “ N e w H o r i z o n s : Artworks by Shell Point Glass Artists, Photographers, and Potters” is on display Free of charge, the galleries are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a m to 3 p m

The Tribby Arts Center is at 17281 On Par Blvd , Fort Myers

Back to School Sales Tax Holiday starts

The state of Florida reported that consumers can purchase qualifying back-toschool supplies exempt from tax during the 2023 Back to School Sales Tax Holiday, which will run now through Aug 6

Items exempt from sales tax include:

∫ Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles selling for $30 or less

∫ Most school supplies selling for $50 or less

∫ Clothing, footwear and accessories selling for $100 or less

∫ Computers and related accessories selling for $1,500 or less (when purchased for non-commercial and personal use)

The holiday does not apply to the rental or repair of any of the qualifying items. Additionally, it does not apply to sales in a theme park, entertainment complex, public lodging establishment or airport

For more information, visit https://floridarevenue com/backtoschool

DOS MyFlorida com/FamilySummer, includes an interactive map of Florida indicating the locations of Florida’s libraries, Main Street Communities, Arts and Culture facilities and even locations where you can see some of the Department of State’s archaeological collections on loan

Travelers can make their way through Florida, a local region, or their very own neighborhood, and visit sites that help to tell Florida's story or share Florida's unique history and culture! From libraries to museums to Main Street Communities, Florida has many family-friendly options

Ar t exhibit on display at Alliance

“ J o a n S o n n e n b e r g : A Retrospective” will be on display now through July 29 at the Alliance for the Arts, at 10091 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers Interested in geometric patterns a c h i e v e d t h r o u g h m u l t i p l e r e v e r s e etching processes, she superimposes and stacks up to 10 images on top of each other, creating a complex mon-

tage of lines, shapes and patterns

Sonnenberg strives to alter and combine abstraction with realism She also portrays street people, each imbued with stories to tell Gallery admission is free, but a suggested $5 donation k e e p s p r o g r a m m i n g a f f o r d a b l e a n d accessible For more information, visit https://www artinlee org/

Animal Services to offer Pet Safety Program

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will hold a Pet Safety Program for children of all ages on July 28 from 10 to 11 a m in the conference room at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers

It will be an opportunity for parents to learn along with their children how to safely interact with a dog and read its body language The program will include d i s c u s s i o n o f s o c i a l i z a t i o n , responsible pet ownership and avoiding risky situations It will be interactive for the entire family, so parents are asked to stay with their child. There will be games that will allow for fun learning

Seating will be limited to 35 people on a first-come basis

For more information, visit w w w L e e L o s t P e t s c o m o r c a l l 239-533-7387 (LEE-PETS)

TAMARA CULP

JOAN SONNENBERG

CROW resumes tours, launches program

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

Still continuing to recover nearly a year after Hurricane Ian, the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel is open and again offering programming to educate and engage visitors

A teaching hospital dedicated to saving sick, injured and orphaned native and migratory wildlife in Southwest Florida and beyond, it resumed its CROW Campus Tours earlier this month, which provide participants with an insider's look into the care and rehabilitation that staff provide to their patients

In addition, CROW recently launched a new story and snack time program for youths that aims to foster a love for literature and animals, while also sharing its mission Additionally, three days a week, CROW hosts a Program of the Week covering a range of topics related to wildlife and patient care

CROW Campus Tour

Taking place on Wednesdays through Fridays at about noon after the Program of the Week, the CROW Campus Tour gives participants an in-depth look into what patients experience from intake to release, including the inner workings of the hospital and treatment process. Added post-storm, visitors will also get a look into CROW's rebuilding efforts

“Our tours, even pre-Hurricane Ian, gave people an insight into the hospital and how it works,” Executive Director Alison Charney Hussey said “How our patient care is accomplished, how animals are rehabilitated once they are strong enough to be out of the hospital but prior to their release ”

Now, the tours also incorporate how CROW prepared and recovered from the storm

“And what our future plans are for rebuilding,” she said

On the guided tour, participants are taken to the hospital

“They get to walk through the lower level of the hospital,” Hussey said “As well as get a peek into the upper level of the hospital as far as treatments and intakes, if they're happening at that time, even a potential surgery if it's happening at the time of the tour ”

Next, participants are taken over to CROW's Animal Ambassador Enclosures, where they will meet Mina a great horned owl and Talon a red-tailed hawk up close and hear about their stories

The tour lasts for about 45 minutes to one hour

“The majority of the tour is outside, so we encourage our participants to be hydrated, to bring water bottles, especially in the summer heat in Florida,” she said

Each tour is limited to 12 people and participants must be age 10 or older

“What we do is sometimes very emotional, for even our staff,” Hussey said “Taking care of wildlife injuries, there can be the potential to see patients that have substantial injuries So we just want to make sure it's age appropriate ”

She noted that photographs are not permitted

“Our permits do not allow us to have the general public

take photographs of the patients in care,” Hussey said

The tour costs $25 per person, and advanced registration and payment is required

To register, contact 239-472-3644, ext 229 or reservations@crowclinic org

Story Time

A free program focused on conservation education and community engagement, Story Time is scheduled for Tuesdays at 2 p m at the Visitor Education Center from now until Aug 8 The interactive five-week program is aimed at educating and engaging children on the region's native wildlife

“Children are the future caregivers of our wildlife, so it's important to foster their love of animals and learning at an early age,” Hussey said, adding that staff is excited to welcome back visiting youths.

“Their happy faces and interesting questions lift our hearts and love of learning,” she said

During the program, a staff member narrates a conservation story for attendees Covering a variety of topics, each week will feature a different story showcasing a local author The remaining ones are:

∫ Aug 1: “Loggerhead Life,” the tale of a loggerhead turtle and a pelican

∫ Aug 8: “Jenny’s First Catch,” an adventure with nature's wading birds

In addition, CROW's Animal Ambassadors will be on hand for attendees to meet. The special animals will aid staff in engaging and teaching attendees about the subject highlighted in the featured story

Hussey noted that the program is designed for children and accompanying adults

“Adults are asked to enjoy Story Time with their child for a fun and interactive experience,” she said

Program of the Week

Held on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 11 a m , the Program of the Week covers a range of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW It is also free and takes place at the center

“Come out, visit the Visitor Education Center,” Hussey said “See what CROW has been doing since the storm ”

The center also houses CROW's gift shop

“We're got some great merchandise,” she said “It's a

Cinema with the Symphony

C h r i s t O u t r e a c h C e n t e r o f F o r t M y e r s ,

I n c a n d t h e o r g a n i z e r a n d c h a r t e r i n g p r e s i d e n t o f t h e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a

C h a p t e r o f J a c k a n d J i l l o f A m e r i c a , I n c , w h e r e s h e h a s b r o u g h t l i k e - m i n d e d b l a c k f a m i l i e s t o g e t h e r f o r i n d i v i d u a l a n d c o m m u n i t y e n r i c h m e n t D r a w i n g f r o m h e r m a s t e r ’ s d e g r e e i n e d u c a t i o n a l l e a d e r s h i p a n d h e r e x p e r t i s e i n e n g a g i n g d i v e r s e a u d i e n c e s , H o l l o w a y i n t r o d u c e s t h e f i l m , h i g hl i g h t i n g i t s r e l e v a n c e t o t h e h i s t o r y a n d c u l t u r a l f a b r i c o f L e e C o u n t y B y a m p l i f y i n g t h e s e s t o r i e s , s h e p r o m o t e s d i a l o g u e a n d f o s t e r s a s e n s e o f s h a r e d u n d e r s t a n d i n g a n d e m p a t h y a m o n g c o m m u n i t y m e m b e r s

From page 17

“ B y h e l p i n g t o l o c a l i z e t h e m o v i e , I h o p e t o b e a b l e t o s h e d l i g h t o n t h e e x p e r i e n c e s a n d c h a l l e n g e s f a c e d b y b l a c k t r a v e l e r s w i t h i n t h e s p e c i f i c c o nt e x t o f t h e r e g i o n , ” H o l l o w a y s a i d

“ T h r o u g h t h o u g h t - p r o v o k i n g d i s c u ss i o n s , w e w i l l d i s c o v e r d e e p e r u n d e rs t a n d i n g o f r a c i a l e q u a l i t y , s o c i a l j u st i c e a n d t h e s i g n i f i c a n c e o f h i s t o r i c a l n a r r a t i v e s i n s h a p i n g o u r l o c a l c o m m un i t y . ”

T i c k e t s a r e $ 2 0 P o p c o r n , w i n e , s o f t d r i n k s a n d m o v i e s t y l e s n a c k s w i l l b e a v a i l a b l e f o r a s u g g e s t e d d o n a t i o n P r o c e e d s f r o m t h e s e f u n d r a i s i n g e v e n t s w i l l b e u s e d t o s u p p o r t t h e s y m p h o n y ' s p r o g r a m m i n g a n d e d u c a t i o n a l i n i t i a -

great store for all ages ”

One hundred percent of the proceeds go toward supporting and caring for wildlife.

The Visitor Education Center and gift shop are open Monday through Friday from 10 a m to 4 p m

Residents and visitors are encouraged to sign up for a tour, enjoy a program or simply stop by “Sanibel is open, CROW is open Enjoy the island,” Hussey said

“Remember how wonderful CROW is and what we do for our wildlife,” she added

For more information, visit http://www crowclinic org/ or call 239-472-3644 People can also stay updated on CROW via its social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife is at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

t i v e s A t a l l s h o w i n g s , a t t e n d e e s w i l l r e c e i v e a d i s c o u n t c o d e t h a t c a n b e u s e d t o w a r d t h e p u r c h a s e o f c o n c e r t t i c k e t s d u r i n g t h e s y m p h o n y ’ s 2 0 2 3 - 2 4 s e as o n T h e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a S y m p h o n y ’ s “ C i n e m a w i t h t h e S y m p h o n y ” f e a t u r e s a

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t r a o n A p r i l 1 5 , 1 9 6 1 , p l a y i n g i n s c h o o l s a n d c o m m u n i t y c e n t e r s , w i t h a r o s t e r o f o n l y 2 4 v o l u n t e e r m u s i c i a n s T o d a y , t h e s y m p h o n y b o a s t s a r o s t e r o f 7 0 w o r l d - c l a s s m u s i c i a n s , a n d i s L e e C o u n t y ’ s o n l y f u l l y p r o f e s s i o n a l o r c h e s t r a T h e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a S y m p h o n y ’ s M u s i c D i r e c t o r M a e s t r o R a d u P a p o n i u , t h e s i x t h m u s i c d i r e c t o r i n t h e o r g a n i z a t i o n ’ s h i s t o r y , a l s o s e r v e s a s t h e a s s o c i a t e c o n d u c t o r a n d y o u t h o r c h e s t r a d i r e c t o r f o r t h e N a p l e s P h i l h a r m o n i c i n a d d i t i o n t o g u e s t - c o nd u c t i n g w i t h o r c h e s t r a s t h r o u g h o u t t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s a n d E u r o p e L e a r n m o r e a t s w f l s o o r g

CLINIC FOR THE REHABILITATION OF WILDLIFE

The CROW Campus Tour is offered on Wednesdays through Fridays on the Sanibel campus

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife recently launched Story Time on Tuesdays.

Southwest Florida Symphony announces lineup for 63rd season

The Southwest Florida Symphony, Lee County’s only professional orchestra, featuring musicians who have studied at the world’s most prestigious conservatories, is excited to announce an innovative and diverse lineup of performances for the 2023-24 season Acclaimed music director, Maestro Radu Paponiu leads the orchestra through its 63rd season of classical music’s most celebrated works, many of which are woven with groundbreaking pieces

The symphony opens the season on Oct 21 with Brave New Pops, “R E M Explored” featuring selections from R E M ’s legendary playlist newly imagined for the orchestra, with R E M ’s Mike Mills performing his eponymous “Concerto for Violin, Rock Band and Orchestra” alongside Grammy-nominated violinist Robert McDuffie

On Nov 4, the orchestra fuses a Masterworks and B r a v e N e w P o p s C o n c e r t , b l e n d i n g c l a s s i c Masterworks with jazz. The symphony and Marcus Roberts Jazz Trio will perform a jazz arrangement of “Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin in honor of the piece’s 100th anniversary Also on the program are A a r o n C o p l a n d ’ s i c o n i c “ F o u r E p i s o d e s ” f r o m

“Rodeo,” John Williams’ “Star Wars Suite” and Leonard Bernstein’s “Symphonic Dances” from “West Side Story ” The remaining Masterworks classical concert series will feature extraordinary guest artists such as Time for Three violinist Charles Yang, locally beloved pianist Alexandra Carlson, Southwest Florida Symphony Concertmaster Orin Laursen, and Sphinx Competition winner and cello prodigy Sterling Elliot.

The third and final 2023-24 Brave New Pops

Concert will take place May 18, 2024, and delight audiences with a nostalgic throwback to the 80s and 90s featuring tunes from the days of music television’s acoustical concerts, with returning guest Maestro Andrew Lipke Additionally, Lipke will present the symphony’s special Holiday Pops program at four venues throughout Lee and Charlotte counties.

Season subscriptions and single tickets to select concerts are currently on sale

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

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

Broadway Palm is dying to bring you ‘Murder in Paradise’

Broadway Palm is dying to bring you "Murder in Paradise" playing now through Aug 12 This fun night of murder mystery comedy is an interactive production, wrapped around a four-course meal that is served to your table by the suspects, of course. Bring your imagination and appetite it’s comedy to die for!

You’re invited to a very special birthday party! When you arrive, you’ll be given a new name and a new identity for the evening as you are an honored guest During the course of the evening, you’ll witness several crimes, including at least one murder, and it’s your job to figure out “who dunnit ” There will be a detective to lead the investigation, but you’re

HGTV Star, John Gidding to speak at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

John Gidding, an architectural designer, tv host, and author will give a special presentation about his newly published book, "At Home with Nature, a Guide to Sustainable, Natural Landscaping" on Sunday, July 30, at Edison and Ford Winter Estates The book provides plans for turning a turfgrass lawn into a well-designed landscape, with the goal of welcoming pollinators and other wildlife, using less water, eliminating pesticides and herbicides, and minimizing fertilizer use.

Books will be sold at the event, and Gidding will be available for signing, starting at 10 a m near the Banyan Café at the Estates The presentation will start at noon and will be held in the South Florida Water Management District building at 2301 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33901 (next to the Estates)

Gidding was previously the host of the HGTV shows “Curb Appeal,” “Curb Appeal Xtreme,” “Designed to Sell” and more He stars in the popular YouTube show, “In the Room” and is a frequent guest on Rachel Ray He has designed landscapes around the world; a few of his projects include the Brooklyn Bridge Park, Union Square in New York City, the campus plan for Carnegie Mellon University, and a pavilion for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing

"After years of installing lifeless lawns, I finally came to the stark realization of their ecological harm - ever since, I embarked on a journey to promote native planting," said John Gidding "In the pages of my new book, I invite you to join me in this voyage where we understand our relationship with nature, in the context of the history of the North American landscape "

free to do a little detective-work yourself Become part of the action or just sit back and watch the mystery unfold while enjoying a fabulous dinner Prizes are awarded to the person that solves, or comes closest to solving, the mystery This fun-filled evening is perfect for the entire family and a unique way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion!

Performances are Wednesday through Saturday evenings and tickets are $65 each Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, by visiting BroadwayPalm com or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers

In partnership with the nursery, FastGrowingTrees, Gidding is facilitating a donation of trees to be planted in the gardens at the Estates to assist with hurricane recovery Several trees will also be given away to visitors during the event, and some will be donated to other organizations in Lee County

In celebration of Henry Ford’s birthday, the event is free and open to the public (does not include tours, or admission to the museum or laboratory) Register at EdisonFord org to reserve a seat for the presentation Registration also ensures entry in the tree giveaways For more information about the Estates, visit www edisonford org

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

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Author, John Gidding will be speaking at Edison and Ford Winter Estates about his newly published book

J FARLEY PHOTOGRAPHY AND WINSTON-SALEM SYMPHONY R.E.M. Explored

Southwest Florida Symphony

PET PALS

Help two little girls!

These two little ones who need h e l p W e a r e l o o k i n g f o r fosters/adopters Their mom is not able to keep them anymore due to illness They are cute and are little seniors (10 years old 9 and 7 pounds) If you can help them please contact via email or text Isabelle at 239-2810739

Follow us on Facebook at Find A Home Give A Home Pet Rescue and see all the amazing pets we saved these past few months

Please note our new PO Box #864, Bonita Springs, Fl 34133

You can also make a donation at www.findahomegiveahome.com using the donation tab using PayPal

Please make sure you do it through “Friends and Family” so there is no fee and all the donation comes to us directly.

Still in need of fosters and volunteers

By Jo Knobloch

Saveourstraysfmb @yahoo com

Founder of Save Our Strays Cat Rescue

a 501c3 organization on Fort Myers Beach

We still are in need of fosters and volunteers to help feed various locations on and off Fort Myers Beach. The Summerlin/Pine Ridge area as well as Buttonwood on San Carlos Island are areas where we especially need help and have evenings open most days of the week It doesn’t take long to feed these areas and food will be provided if needed

Please call if you can spend 15 or 30 minutes feeding these hurricane survivors F o o d d o n a t i o n s c a n b e l e f t a t t h e P e t S u p e r m a r k e t s t o r e s o f f S a n C a r l o s B o u l e v a r d n e a r t h e b e a c h o r t h e C o l l e g e P a r k w a y s t o r e o n t h e c o r n e r o f C o l l e g e a n d 4 1 A s p e c i a l t h a n k s t o A l l i s o n i n O h i o w h o v a c a t i o n e d o n F o r t M y e r s B e a c h w i t h h e r h u s b a n d J o h n f o r m a n y y e a r s a n d h e a r d o f o u r d e s t r u c t i o n f r o m H u r r i c a n e I a n a n d a l l t h a t o u r r e s c u e l o s t A l l i s o n s e n t w e t a n d d r y f o o d , l i t t e r a n d a s m a l l c a t t r e e t h a t w a s n e e d e d f o r t h e k i t t e n r o o m I t w a s s o a p p r e c i a t e d a s w e g o t h r o u g h a l o t o f f o o d d a i l y f o r t h e c a t s a n d k i t t e n s i n r e s c u e a s w e l l a s t h o s e s u r v i v o r s o u t s i d e

Pepper and Smoky

Pepper and Smoky are very bonded male kittens that are almost 4 months old They love to run and play and chase each other Both are very timid as they were 8 weeks old when we rescued them from a trailer park We need volunteers to come play with and hold them to get them over their fear of people They have medium to long hair and are gorgeous kittens. Both are fully vetted and ready for their forever homes, hopefully together If interested in meeting Smoky and Pepper, please call 239-8513485 to schedule an appointment

P a g e

W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , J u l y 2 6 , 2 0 2 3 n

f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m 2 2

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Berne Davis garden tours now available

-

2 3 9

Lee County Domestic Animal Services and the BISSELL Pet Foundation, a national animal welfare organization dedicated to ending pet homelessness, are excited to announce they will team up with MetLife Pet Insurance for the foundation’s upcoming “Empty the Shelters” waived adoption fee event With the shared goal of helping pets find and stay in loving homes, this collaboration will save lives by expanding the foundation's reach to include more shelters across the country Animal Services will participate through July 31, at 5600 Banner Drive, offering waived adoption fees for adult dogs and all cats and kitten with an approved application

All interested adopters can find more details online at www leelostpets com

S i n c e t h e 2 0 1 6 i n c e p t i o n o f B I S S E L L P e t Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters,” nearly 158,000 pets

The Berne Davis Botanical Garden, 2166 Virginia Avenue, Fort Myers, is open for Tuesday morning garden walks from now until October between 9 a m and noon Admission and parking are both free; handicap parking is on Virginia Avenue; regular parking is on Larchmont

The botanical garden is a project of the Fort Myers Lee County Garden Council, whose headquarters are at the Virginia Avenue address The garden is staffed by Garden Council volunteers Those viewing the garden may also just walk the path and enjoy the gardens

The garden is the home of the Lorelei statue that was part of the old Fort Myers Library as well as the Mina Edison Botanical Library Many of the displays in the garden have been provided through the talents and contributions of the 29 local garden clubs, plant societies, and other affiliate members, representing over 1,700 members which comprise the Garden Council

The Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council was formed in 1957 and now comprises various clubs, societies, and affiliate members in the area The Council is a

at 669 animal welfare organizations in 49 states and Canada have received second chances An average of 1,200 shelter pets are adopted each day during each quarterly national event. Through this partnership and continued support, the foundation is looking forward to reaching more pets in more shelters and communities during this upcoming event

BISSELL Pet Foundation and Lee County domestic Animal Services urge families to do their research about the pet they are interested in adopting, as well as adoption requirements For more information on adopting or donating to “Empty the Shelters,” visit www bissellpetf o u n d a t i o n o r g / e m p t y - t h e - s h e l t e r s a s w e l l a s www LeeLost Pets com or call 239-533-7387 (LEEPETS) You may also submit an adoption application online. Adoption hours are 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday at Animal Services, 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers, next to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office off Six Mile Cypress Parkway

Comedian Josh Blue brings his ‘Freak Accident Tour’ to Seminole Casino Hotel Oct. 28

member of the National Garden Clubs, the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, and American Public Gardens Association.

For additional information about the Council, contact the president, Sylvia Swaartz, President, fmlcgardencouncil@ gmail com

break down stereotypes of people with disabilities His stand-up routine is in a constant state of evolution and his off-the-cuff improvisational skills guarantee that no two shows are alike.

For t Myers Mighty Mussels home games

T h e M i g h t y M u s s e l s p l a y h o m e g a m e s a t H a m m o n d S t a d i u m i n F o r t M y e r s t h r o u g h m i dS e p t e m b e r T i c k e t s s t a r t a t $ 1 0 a n d t h e s c h e d u l e f e at u r e s n u m e r o u s p r o m o t i o n s , i n c l u d i n g c o n c e r t s , f o o d a n d d r i n k s p e c i a l s , p o s t g a m e f i r e w o r k s c e l e b r a t i o n s , b e e r f e s t s a n d m o r e F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o n g a m e s , t i c k e t s o r s p e c i a l e v e n t s , v i s i t M i g h t y M u s s e l s c o m o r c a l l 2 3 9 - 7 6 8 - 4 2 1 0

PHOTO

An example of a tropical floral arrangement that guests can learn to make at Edison and Ford Winter Estates in

Fort Myers.

Floral Arranging Class offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

Edison and Ford Winter Estates will offer a Tropical Floral Arrangement Workshop on Saturday, Aug 5, from 10-11:30 a m , Floral designer, Anita Singh, will teach the art of tropical floral arranging, including how to choose the right flowers, how to weave Areca Palms and how to put all of the pieces together to create an arrangement

Participants will be able to take their tropical floral arrangement with them to display in their home or office Registration is required for this hands-on workshop All flowers, tools and supplies will be provided No experience is required Space is limited Class may be purchased as a gift Cost: Edison Ford members $75; non-members $85

For additional information or to register for classes, visit EdisonFord org E d i s o n a n d F o r d W i n t e r E s t a t e s i s a t 2 3 5 0 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

GOLD Entertainment presents comedian Josh Blue live in concert as part of “The Freak Accident Tour” at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee on Saturday, Oct 28 at 8 p m with doors opening at 7 p m Advance tickets are on sale now for $49 Additional fees may apply Tickets are available from Ticketmaster or at www moreinp a r a d i s e c o m Attendees must be 21 years old.

Parking is free

After his groundbreaking win on “Last Comic Standing” in 2006, Blue has risen through the ranks to become a well-established headliner at venues throughout the world In 2018, Blue crushed his set on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon ” In the same year, he was honored with a performance at the William H Macy Gala at the prestigious Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal, Canada He wrapped up 2018 by recording his fifth hour special, “Broccoli,” at his home club, Comedy Works in Denver. In 2021, following his thirdplace finish on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent,” Blue hit the road with his “As NOT Seen on TV Tour ” Blue does more than 200 shows a year, continuing to spread laughter and

Wonder Gardens offering enhanced guest experiences for the summer T h e W o n d e r G a r d e n s i s o f f e r i n g e n h a n c e d g u e s t e x p e r i e n c e s f o r t h e s u m m e r G u e s t s w i s h i n g t o g e t u p c l o s e a n d p e r s o n a l w i t h s o m e o f t h e a t t r a c t i o n s c a n s c h e d u l e a W i l d W o n d e r s A n i m a l E n c o u n t e r H a b i t a t C h a t s p l a n n e d o n T h u r s d a y s a l s o o f f e r n e w a n d a d d it i o n a l e x p e r i e n c e s W i l d W o n d e r s A n i m a l E n c o u n t e r s w i l l a l l o w g u e s t s t o f e e d S u l c a t a t o r t o i s e s , R a i n b o w L o r i k e e t s a n d A m e r i c a n a l l i g a t o r s T h e A n i m a l C a r e a n d E d u c a t i o n s t a f f w i l l l e a d g u e s t s o n a n a d v e n t u r e t h a t l a s t s a n y w h e r e f r o m 3 0 m i n u t e s t o a t l e a s t a n h o u r E n c o u n t e r s a r e o f f e r e d a t t h e d i s c o u n t e d o f f - s e a s o n r a t e s o f $ 2 0 p e r p e r s o n f o r W o n d e r G a r d e n s m e m b e r s a n d $ 2 5 p e r p e r s o n f o r n o n m e m b e r s , p l u s p a r k a d m i ss i o n G u e s t s m a y v i s i t W o n d e r g a r d e n s o r g t o v i e w a v a i l a b i l i t y a n d b o o k a n e n c o u n t e r f o r 1 1 : 3 0 a m o n s e l e c t d a y s I n a d d i t i o n , W o n d e r G a r d e n s h a s a d d e d H a b i t a t C h a t s a t 1 p m o n T h u r s d a y s H a b i t a t C h a t s a r e a n e w a n d i n t e r a c t i v e w a y g u e s t s c a n l e a r n a b o u t t h e a n i m a l s a t t h e G a r d e n s C u r r e n t l y , t h e e x p e r i e n c e c o m b i n e s a n a l l i g a t o r f e e d i n g d e m o n s t r a t i o n w i t h i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t d i e t , c o n s e r v a t i o n a n d f u n f a c t s T h e C h a t s a r e o f f e r e d f o r a l l W o n d e r G a r d e n s F o r i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w o n d e r g a r d e n s o r g / p r o d u c t / w i l d - w o n d e r s / o r c a l l 2 3 9 - 9 9 2 - 2 5 9 1

Al-Anon, Al-Ateen meetings

Are you concerned with a friend or family member's drinking? Let us help

Call our 24-hour helpline at 941-564-5098 or visit www SouthFloridaAl-Anon org Meetings are held every day in Lee County

Al-Ateen meetings are also offered for ages 10-18

PROVIDED

PHOTO PROVIDED Josh Blue

Lee County Solid Waste reminds residents to prepare for hurricane season

The hurricane season calls for proactive measures to safeguard homes and properties

Lee County Solid Waste encourages residents to follow these simple tips to minimize the risk of damage from high winds and flying debris during storms:

∫ Trim trees and branches: Cut back any trees or branches that make contact with your house, pool cage, shed or other buildings This creates a safe distance, preventing potential damage during severe weather.

∫ Thin foliage: Improve wind flow and reduce the chances of plants becoming uprooted by thinning the foliage in your yard This step allows wind to freely pass through branches, minimizing the risk of damage to your property and nearby structures

∫ Proper yard waste disposal: Place trimmings at the curb on your regular collection day Containerize or securely tie bundles of yard waste, ensuring they weigh no more than 50 pounds and do not exceed 6 feet in length Up to 50 pounds of unbundled palm fronds may be placed at the curb

∫ Remove potential projectiles: Prioritize safety by

thoroughly cleaning your property and removing any items that could become projectiles in high winds Place these objects at the curb on your regular waste collection day for proper disposal or storage

Professional property managers and residential homeowners’ association (HOA) presidents can take steps now to protect their community in the event of a hurricane or other declared major disaster in Lee County FEMA regulations require that private or gated communities have a current Right of Entry and Indemnification form on file with Lee County before any disaster debris recovery crews are allowed to enter the community

Lee County has an easy, online process for submitting t h e n e c e s s a r y p a p e r w o r k F o r m s a r e a v a i l a b l e a t https://leegis leegov com/ROE for communities located within unincorporated Lee County Filling out the form is quick, easy and only has to be done once a year Lee County Solid Waste encourages all HOAs to take time to complete the form prior to the start of hurricane season

The Right of Entry would only be used as necessary during the recovery period following a declared state of

Class on property assessments, collections and disputes

Kevin

Branning will host a comprehensive presentation on the property assessment, collection and dispute process on Aug 2 from 2 to 3 p m at the Estero Recreation Center in Estero

They will thoroughly explain their portion of the process The property appraiser w i l l d i s c u s s h o w p r o p e r t y v a l u e i s assessed; the tax collector will review the tax collection process for the property; and the county clerk will explain how property owners can contest their assessments, as well as help safeguard their

property with a free fraud alert service

There will be a question-and-answer session It will be an opportunity for attendees to ask the presenters questions they may have about the assessment, collection and dispute process

The class is free, but registration is required at www leeclerk org/seminar

Legal advice will not be provided at the seminar The clerk cannot address any specific case or VAB-related decision or outcome. For legal inquiries, property owners may speak with an attorney

The Estero Recreation Center is at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd , Estero

Elite DNA Behavioral Health holding Back-to-School Supplies Drive

E l i t e D N A B e h a v i o r a l H e a l t h , a c o mp r e h e n s i v e b e h a v i o r a l a n d m e n t a l h e a l t h c a r e p r o v i d e r , i s h o s t i n g a B a c k - t oS c h o o l S u p p l i e s D r i v e t h r o u g h o u t t h e m o n t h o f J u l y t h a t w i l l h e l p a r e a s t ud e n t s a n d s c h o o l s a c r o s s t h e s t a t e p r ep a r e f o r t h e s t a r t o f t h e n e w s c h o o l y e a r F r o m J u l y 1 - 3 1 , E l i t e D N A i s c o ll e c t i n g s c h o o l s u p p l i e s a t 3 0 l o c a t i o n s s t a t e w i d e a n d i s c a l l i n g o n t h e c o m m un i t y f o r s u p p o r t t h r o u g h d o n a t i o n s o f p o p u l a r c l a s s r o o m i t e m s , i n c l u d i n g n o t e b o o k s , c o l l e g e a n d w i d e - r u l e d p a p e r , p o c k e t f o l d e r s , b i n d e r s , p e n s , N o 2 a n d c o l o r e d p e n c i l s , p i n k e r a s e r s , h i g h l i g h t e r s , p e n c i l b o x e s , s t u d e n t s c i ss o r s , g l u e s t i c k s , w i r e d h e a d p h o n e s , s a n i t i z i n g w i p e s a n d m o r e C a s h d o n at i o n s a n d g i f t c a r d s a r e a l s o a c c e p t e d f o r s u p p l i e s t o b e p u r c h a s e d b y E l i t e D N A s t a f f I n S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a , t h e d r i v e w i l l b e n e f i t s t u d e n t s i n s c h o o l s a c r o s s L e e , C o l l i e r a n d C h a r l o t t e c o u n t i e s t h r o u g h t h e F o u n d a t i o n f o r L e e C o u n t y P u b l i c S c h o o l s , C o l l i e r C o u n t y P u b l i c S c h o o l s a n d C h a r l o t t e C o u n t y P u b l i c S c h o o l s E l i t e D N A i s c o l l e c t i n g s u p p l i e s a t m o r e t h a n t w o d o z e n o f f i c e s a c r o s s t h e s t a t e , i n c l u d i n g B r a d e n t o n , B r a n d o n , B r o o k s - v i l l e , C a p e C o r a l , D e l r a y

B e a c h , F o r t M y e r s , G a i n e s v i l l e , J a c k s o n v i l l e , J u p i t e r , L a k e l a n d , L a r g o , L e h i g h A c r e s , M a i t l a n d , N a p l e s , N e w P o r t R i c h e y , O c o e e , O r a n g e P a r k , O r m o n d B e a c h , O v i e d o , P o r t C h a r l o t t e , S a r a s o t a , S t u a r t , T a l l a h a s s e e , T a m p a , V e n i c e , W e s l e y C h a p e l a n d W e s t o n T h e c o m m u n i t y i s i n v i t e d t o d r o p o f f d o n a t i o n s o f s c h o o l s u p p l i e s a t a n y E l i t e

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D N A l o c a t i o n s a c r o s s S o u t h w e s t

F l o r i d a i n c l u d e :

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local emergency

It is important to note that waste generated by contractors is not eligible for disaster debris collection Waste and debris generated by contractors and left on public property creates safety hazards for pedestrians, motorists and emergency responders Any waste left behind by contractors on public property will be considered illegal dumping, and the contractors will be held liable for any associated fines or penalties. All contractors are strongly urged to dispose of their waste in a responsible and lawful manner

For more information and additional hurricane preparedness tips, please visit www leegov com/solidwaste Further questions can be directed to Lee County Solid Waste at 239-533-8000

To receive updates from Lee County Government,

e g o v c o m / r e s o u r c e s / n e w s l e t t e r s F o l l o w L e e C o u n t y G o v e r n m e n t o n F a c e b o o k , www facebook com/leecountyflbocc

DOH-Lee issues blue-green algae bloom alert

On July 11, the Florida Department of Health in Lee County issued a health alert for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in the Caloosahatchee RiverHorton Park and McGregor Colonial Park. It was in response to water samples taken on July 13 The public should exercise caution in and around the identified areas

It advised the public to take the following precautions:

∫ Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom

∫ Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have contact with algae or discolored or smelly water

∫ Avoid getting affected water in your eyes, nose or mouth

∫ Keep pets away from the area Waters where there are algae blooms are not safe for animals Pets and livestock should have a different source of water when algae blooms are present

∫ Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms Boiling the water will not eliminate the toxins

∫ Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts and cook fish well

∫ Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms

Also, the DOH-Lee lifted the health alerts issued between June 23-29 for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in the Caloosahatchee River-Fort Myers Shores, Caloosahatchee River-end of Coon Road, Hancock Creek-Moody Ramp and Caloosahatchee-north of Loftons Island. Follow-up water samples taken by the Department of Environmental Protection did not detect algal toxins, indicating the public may resume water-related activities

What is blue-green algae?

Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria that is common in Florida’s freshwater environments A bloom occurs when rapid growth of algae leads to an accumulation of individual cells that discolor water and often produce floating mats that emit

unpleasant odors

Some environmental factors that contribute to blue-green algae blooms are sunny days, warm water temperatures, still water conditions and excess nutrients. Blooms can appear year-round but are more frequent in summer and fall Many types of blue-green algae can produce toxins

Is it harmful?

Blue-green algae blooms can impact human health and ecosystems, including fish and other aquatic animals For additional information on potential health effects of algal blooms, visit floridahealth gov/environmental-health/aquatictoxins

Find current information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications for harmful algal blooms and beach conditions by visiting ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov. Protecting Florida Together is the state’s joint effort to provide statewide water quality information to prioritize environmental transparency and commitment to action

What do I do if I see an algal bloom?

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection collects and analyzes algal bloom samples To report a bloom to the DEP, call the toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903 or report online at http://www surveygizmo com/s3/344494 8/Algal-Bloom-Reporting-Form

To report fish kills, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute at 800-636-0511.

Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algal bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center; call 800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist immediately

Contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet has become ill after consuming or having contact with blue-green algae contaminated water

If you have other health questions or concerns about blue-green algae blooms, call the DOH-Lee at 239-690-2100.

Lee County Clerk and Comptroller

SPORTS & RECREATION

Lee County marks Park & Recreation Month with free pool admissions and parking

Lee County Parks & Recreation will offer free pool admission and free parking on Saturday, July 29, and Sunday, July 30, in recognition of National Park and Recreation Month

Lee County Parks & Recreation sites offering free swimming or free parking include:

∫ Parks: Lakes Park, Manatee Park, Hickey Creek Mitigation Park, Caloosahatchee Regional Park, Six Mile C y p r e s s S l o u g h P r e s e r v e , C a l o o s a h a t c h e e C r e e k s Preserve

∫ Beach sites: Bowman’s Beach and Turner Beach (north side only of Blind Pass)

∫ Boat ramps: Alva, Matlacha, Davis, Lavender’s Landing and Imperial River

∫ Pools: Lehigh Community Pool, North Fort Myers Community Pool, Pine Island Community Pool and San Carlos Community Pool

Bonita Beach Accesses No 1 and No 10, Bonita Beach Park, Lynn Hall Memorial Park and San Carlos Bay-Bunche Beach Preserve currently offer free parking until further notice These sites were severely impacted by Hurricane Ian and reopened in March with limited

amenities. Residents and visitors are encouraged to always wear beach shoes when visiting beach parks Debris continues to wash onshore and quickly may be obscured by sand

Other recreational sites within Lee County that are owned or maintained by other government entities are not included in the free swim/free parking weekend These include: Barefoot Beach, beach access points managed by the Town of Fort Myers Beach, and City of Sanibel sites, including the south side of Blind Pass

The free pool/free parking weekend happens annually Lee County Commissioners on June 20 voted to approve a resolution designating July as National Park and Recreation Month in Lee County In the resolution, commissioners recognized that Lee County Parks & Recreation touches the lives of individuals, families, groups and the entire community and positively impacts the social, economic and environment quality of the county

For more information about Lee County Parks & Recreation locations, amenities and special events, visit w w w l e e p a r k

com

Offshore Sailing School announces new combo class

The Offshore Sailing School, which has a location at the 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, announced the introduction of its first-ever combination catamaran and monohull cruising course

“Often new students aren't sure which yacht type they would like to learn on,” President and Chief Executive Officer Doris Colgate said “So, they will get 'the best of b o t h w o r l d s ' i n o u r n e w U l t i m a t e M o n o h u l l a n d

Catamaran Cruising Course ”

On certain weeks, the school will modify its Fast Track to Cruising course, so students learn to sail aboard a Colgate 26, followed by training on both a 44-foot monohull yacht and a 40-foot catamaran

Applicable to the new course, the Offshore Sailing School is promoting ChristMAST in July with $1,000

Mighty Mussels Promotional Calendar

Hammond Stadium at CenturyLink Sports Complex is at 14400 6 Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers

For Mighty Mussels ticket information call 239-7684210 or visit https://www milb com/fort-myers/tickets/

All giveaways, promotions and event dates are subject to change All Times ET Subject to Change

Wednesday, July 26 @ noon vs. Palm Beach Cardinals

Game Highlight: Big Splash

The Mussels welcome area kids camps for a water park experience and a game

Game Highlight: Dollar Dog Night

Every Wednesday home game, all fans can get $1 hot dogs all game long | Presented By 102 9 BOB FM

Game Highlight: Guaranteed Win Night

We are guaranteeing a Mussels victory! If the Mussels lose all fans in attendance get a free ticket to the next day's game

Game Highlight: Silver Sluggers

It's Silver Sluggers Wednesday! Join our Silver Sluggers Club to get free tickets and parking to each Wednesday home Mussels game | Presented By Amavida

Game Highlight: Ladies' Night

Ladies get 2 for 1 Seltzer's & Wine at each Wednesday Mussels Home Game

Thursday, July 27 @ 7 p m vs Palm Beach Cardinals

Game Highlight: $1 and $2 Beer Night

savings when two students enroll together for courses in Florida or the British Virgin Islands during the month of J u l y a n d t a k e t h e i r

O c t o b e r a n d December of this year Students will receive textbooks to study in advance, instruction aboard and resort accommodations

In addition, graduates receive an exclusive discount of up to 15% off of their first charter with the school's charter partner in the British Virgin Islands, The Moorings

To check course availability, contact 239-454-1700 or 800-221-4326 or Info@OffshoreSailing com

For more information, visit https://www offshoresailing com/

The 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa is at 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva

Coral Oaks to provide deals during PGA Golf Family Month

The PGA of America recognizes the month of July as “Family Golf Month,” and Coral Oaks Golf Course is proud to support the initiative by offering discounts through July 31.

Children under the age of 17 can receive a free bucket of range balls when an accompanying adult purchases a bucket of range balls, and two adults & two kids can play for $60 in the afternoons Children must ride in a golf cart with an adult.

“We are pleased to support the PGA’s Family Golf Month initiative once again at Coral Oaks,” said Allen Manguson, PGA Professional and Coral Oaks’ Manager “We hope plenty of families will take advantage of these

specials to spend quality time together and have some fun ”

For more information about PGA Family Golf Month specials at Coral Oaks Golf Course and to sign up for the c o u r s e ’ s f r e e E - n e w s l e t t e r , v i s i t www CoralOaksGolf com Tee times can be scheduled up to seven days in advance at 239-573-3100 or online at www CoralOaksGolf com

Coral Oaks Golf Course, 1800 NW 23 Ave., features an 18-hole, Arthur Hills-designed championship course built in a century-old oak hammock, TifEagle greens, PGA instruction, one of the largest driving ranges in the area, on-site restaurant and more

San Carlos Bay Sail & Power Squadron

America’s Boating Course schedule

It's the biggest party in town every Thursday with the Mussels with $1 12 oz cans & $2 draft beers during the game! | Presented By Budweiser, Twin Peaks & Gator Country 101 9

Game Highlight: Miracle Throwback Nights

Every Thursday we're throwing it back to the Miracle days and the Mussels will wear Miracle uniforms! Plus get $1 and $2 beers!

Game Highlight: College Night

All College Students get $5 tickets with Student ID

Friday, July 28 @ 7 p m

vs Palm Beach Cardinals

Game Highlight: Pre-Game Happy Hour

Get 2 for 1 on all Bacardi drinks at the Rusty's bar at Hammond Stadium from 6-7 P M | Presented By Rusty's, Bacardi

Game Highlight: Christmas in July

Game Highlight: Teddy Bear Toss Night

Game Highlight: Friday Fireworks

After each Friday game the Mussels will light up the sky with the best fireworks show in Southwest Florida! | Presented By Estero Bay Chevrolet

Game Highlight: Corona Hard Seltzer Night

Presented By Corona

Saturday, July 29 @ 6 p m vs Palm Beach Cardinals

Game Highlight: Guaranteed Win Night

We are guaranteeing a Mussels victory! If the Mussels lose all fans in attendance get a free ticket to the next day's game

Game Highlight: Bark in the Park

Bring your dog to the game as all dogs get in free and join Lee County Sheriff's Office as they spread the word against Animal Cruelty! | Presented By Lee County Sheriff's Office

Game Highlight: Ag Night

Game Highlight: Beerfest #3

What could be better than baseball and a beerfest! For just $20 fans can get admission into our beerfest with free beer samples from over 50 beers of choice from 5-8 P M ! Game ticket not included | Presented By Budweiser

Game Highlight: Mussels Hip Bag Giveaway

First 500 fans will receive a Mussels hip bag! | Presented By Chase | First 500 Fans

Source: www.milb.com

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