Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin

Council lifts restrictions on Margaritaville development

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers

o p m e n t f o r a s e c t i o n o f t h e Margaritaville development on the Gulf side of Estero Boulevard

Two former council members who approved the 2018 CPD, former mayor

Tracey Gore and former vice mayor Joanne Shamp, wrote letters to the town council opposing the change to the order

Mayor Dan Allers recused h i m s e l f f r o m v o t i n g o n t h e amendment due to a business arrangement that he has to prov i d e g o l f c a r t s e r v i c e s f o r Margaritaville along with business partner Tim Ryan

A l l e r s h a d r e c u s e d h i m s e l f from taking part in discussions at t h e p r e v i o u s c o u n c i l m e e t i n g r e g a r d i n g t h e M a r g a r i t a v i l l e amendment on the advice of the former town attorney John Herin Jr , but said new town attorney Becky Vose cleared him to discuss the matter at the council meeting

“I asked the new attorney if I could participate in the discussion

Res ident’s garage s urvi ved I an but threat ene d by gov ernme nt

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Fo r m o r e t h a n f i v e d a y s , R i c k

Loughery sat on the roof of his

F o r t M y e r s B e a c h g a r a g e i n protest, bringing the attention of the island and much of the county to what he views as the betrayal of town and state government leaders to his plight to save his garage Loughery finally came down from the roof on Monday though his garage is still in jeopardy due to town and state orders

Loughery and his wife Amy survived Hurricane Ian They stuck it out on the island. Their home on Estero Boulevard, built in 1974, did not

But their 30-feet high garage, built in 2019 to withstand a hurricane as ferocious as Ian, has remained intact aside from a door that needed to be replaced

Yet after getting approved for permits to replace the door and restore electricity which cost the couple approximately $20,000, they are being told they have to replace the walls of the 30-feet high

garage with breakaway walls, build a second floor with livable space inside for air conditioning, and make foundation adjustments which would essentially require them to tear down the garage and build it back up again

The reason they are told is new

See GARAGE, page 12

today and she advised me that I could ”

The amendments will first strike out the restriction placed on the company to develop the property in the future in any w a y t h a t d i f f e r s f r o m t h e o r i g i n a l a p p r o v a l s , k n o w n a s a r e s t r i c t i v e covenant The second change is to lift a perpetual conservation easement that prohibits development on a section of property where the Cigar Hut once stood The

See COUNCIL, page 10

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Lee County will hold a public participation meeting on Fort Myers Beach

T u e s d a y , A u g 1 5 , a t the DiamondHead Beach Resort in Fort Myers Beach on the draft action plan for t h e $ 1 1 b i l l i o n C o m m u n i t y Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery funds received from the U.S. D e p a r t m e n t o f H o u s i n g a n d U r b a n Development

The county is seeking public input on the draft action plan which can be found at leegov com/recovery/cdbg-dr

The meeting will begin at 5:30 p m n e x t T u e s d a y a t the DiamondHead Beach Resort, 2000 Estero Blvd

A c c o r d i n g t o t h e c o u n t y ’ s d r a f t action plan, more than 9,900 residential u n i t s t h r o u g h o u t t h e c o u n t y w e r e destroyed by Hurricane Ian, and more than 13,173 residential units suffered major damage The hurricane is estimated to have caused more than $8 billion in damage to residential and commercial structures in the county

F e d e r a l E m e r g e n c y M a n a g e m e n t Agency real property damage estimates indicate that there are approximately 18,473 owner-occupied units and 4,655 r e n t e r - o c c u p i e d u n i t s t h a t s u f f e r e d major or severe damage. Insurance data indicates that an estimated 49 percent of homeowners are without insurance The C o u n t y e s t i m a t e s t h a t a p p r o x i m a t e l y 1 1 , 3 5 1 h o u s e h o l d s m a y n e e d s o m e a s s i s t a n c e t o f u l l y r e c o v e r f r o m Hurricane Ian The county further estimates, based that 4,742 of these househ o l d s m a y b e i n c o m e q u a l i f i e d f o r CDBG-DR programs

See PUBLIC MEETING, page 16

Rick Loughery, on the fifth day of his protest against the town and state, atop his 30-feet high garage roof NATHAN MAYBERG

Dan Allers

Town extends deadline for beach renourishment easements

STAFF REPORT

The Town of Fort Myers Beach announced that the deadline for property owners to sign easements on their land for beach renourishment has been extended to Aug 18

The town has been working with the United States Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) on replacing the sand which was washed away by Hurricane Ian

In an attempt to address questions and concerns about the easements, the town posted the following series of frequently asked questions and answers regarding the subject on its website:

Question: Does the placement of p u b l i c l y f u n d e d s a n d o n p r i v a t e property give the public the right to u s e o r a c c e s s p r i v a t e b e a c h f r o n t property?

Question: Why is public money being spent to place sand on properties that are owned by beachfront property owners who might be perceived by many as wealthy?

Answer – Public money is being spent on beach renourishment to protect the entire island If the beach goes away (as sadly some of it has due to Hurricane Ian), public infrastructure and private property on the island that is not beachfront will likely suffer damages in future weather events read more

Question: Are beachfront property owners required to sign an easement and agree to beach renourishment?

Town Hall demolished

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

owner make changes to the form easement agreement?

Answer – There is a form easement agreement that can be viewed and downloaded on the Town’s website at www fmbgov com/beach read more

Que s ti o n: W h e n m u s t s i g n e d easements be delivered to the Town to participate in the beach renourishment program?

The Town of Fort Myers Beach Town Hall was reduced to a massive pile of rubble Friday after it was demolished by the town, more than 10 months after Hurricane Ian tore it to pieces

The future of a new town hall is still not precisely clear as the town awaits funding

The town has applied to the state for partial funding for a new town hall though this year's state budget did not include specific line-item funding for a town hall replacement. The town has applied to the state Division of Emergency Management for partial funding through either grants or loans to help pay for a portion of the town hall replacement

State legislators sent over a request for $25 million for a new town hall, but it was not included in the budget passed by the state legislature

The town could still acquire funding for the town hall as part of $350 million in Hurricane Ian recovery funds that are available statewide as part of the state budget

Answer – No

The placement of publicly funded sand does not make the privately owned portion of the beach a public beach In addition, the public does not have the right to traverse private property to reach the p u b l i c b e a c h s e a w a r d o f t h e ECL/MHWL read more

Answer – No A beachfront property is not required to sign an easement, but without an easement, the Town will not place sand and take appropriate actions to maintain the beach in front of properties when the owners of the properties decline to sign an easement read more

Question: Is there a form easement agreement that must be signed to get publicly funded beach renouri s h m e n t , a n d c a n e a c h p r o p e r t y

Answer – There is a deadline of Friday, August 18, 2023 at 4:00 p m The deadline has been extended into August as the Town waits on the US Army Corps (USACE) to issue the permit Once the USACE permit is issued, staff will move quickly to issue the invitation to bid Staff will make every effort to include late easements into the project, but waiting to sign may jeopardize the properties inclusion into the project

More information regarding the easements is on the town’s website at www fmbgov com/beach

Questions can be sent by email to C h a d d C h u s t z , t h e T o w n ’ s Environmental Projects Manager, at chadd@fmbgov com

The For t Myers Beach Obser ver & Beach

The town's funding plans for the town hall are still not clear

A message left with Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt and Town of Fort Myers Beach Communications Director Jennifer Dexter was not immediately returned

Town officials have been in talks with the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District about swapping ownership of the town hall property with the fire district's two lots where the former Topps supermarket was. The town has been using the fire district's lot for its temporary office trailer offices

Under that scenario, the town would construct a new town hall where its trailers are The fire department has been looking to construct a new fire station to replace its station on Donora Blvd , which was destroyed by Hurricane Ian

The fire department is also looking to construct an administrative building and training facility off island

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Lyn McElhaney lmcelhaney@breezenewspapers com

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Stay informed as 2024 election cycle nears

Lee Elections hosted the 2023 Florida Supervisors of Elections Summer Conference in May at the beautiful Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort It was remarkable that the conference was held in Lee County only seven months after Hurricane Ian devastated our county

The resort made an except i o n a l r e c o v e r y e f f o r t t o ensure our election colleagues would enjoy their stay in one of the most beautiful landscapes Lee County offers

Conferences are essential for Florida’s election administrators to come together, share b e s t p r a c t i c e s a n d r e c e i v e guidance from the Division of Elections about how the new election laws will affect us moving forward

Guest Commentary

W h i l e t h e r e w e r e m a n y educational opportunities during the conference, networki n g w i t h f e l l o w e l e c t i o n administrators was among one of the best benefits Meeting and sharing with staff members from other counties with similar positions and responsibilities gives us a fresh perspective on our jobs It builds relationships that help us during the many stresses of conducting elections.

As we near the 2024 election cycle, it is vital that our office remains your trusted source for election informat i o n A s o f f i c i a l e l e c t i o n a d m i n i s t r a t o r s , y o u c a n b e sure that we will provide you with credible and accurate information We must remain vigilant in this new era of

Letter to the Editor

Opposition from for mer vice mayor to Mar garitaville plan changes

(Editor's note: The following letter was sent by former Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Joanne Shamp to the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council, Manager and Town Attorney opposing the changes to the Commercial Planned Development for Margaritaville before the council voted to approve the changes Shamp was on the board in 2018 t h a t a p p r o v e d t h e o r i g i n a l C o m m e r c i a l

P l a n n e d D e v e l o p m e n t ( C P D ) f o r Marfaritaville )

To the editor: Town Council, Town Manager, Town Attorney and Department of Community Development:

Previous Web Poll Results

I have become aware of application DCI 20230039 and am writing to voice my s h o c k a n d e x t r e m e d i s a p p r o v a l T h e Commercial Planned Development (CPD) ordinance was precisely crafted to balance development rights, parking and traffic concerns, precious view corridor, outdoor recreation space and environmental protection

The increased density granted by the CPD was approved ONLY based upon the exact conditions and the density/intensity adopted is the maximum that should be permitted at

Current Web Poll Question

Do

advancing technology and artificial intelligence. Bad actors can use this technology to fabricate false new stories, images, audio bites and videos to erode confidence in the successful administration of elections in Lee County and the United States

Florida set the gold standard for conducting elections in the 2020 and 2022 elections We aim to continue this standard and provide our voters with a safe and secure environment to cast their votes and protect the accuracy and integrity of elections in Lee County, w h i l e r e m a i n i n g o p e n a n d t r a n s p a r e n t through every aspect of the elections process. My staff and I are always available to answer questions Stay informed about election happenings via our newsletters, social media and website

T o m m y D o y l e i s t h e L e e C o u n t y Supervisor of Elections For more information, visit https://www lee vote/ or call 239533-8683

the congested town gateway where safe vehicular and pedestrian interaction is critical Preservation and expansion of the landmark view of the Gulf and open space preservation in perpetuity for recreation were also critical to the density permitted

As Vice Mayor during the adoption of the TPI/FMB CPD, it is well-documented that I painstakingly studied every detail of the ordinance, assisted in precise wording of each condition and was the critical third vote that allowed adoption at hearing The Town Attorney provided legal assurance that this ordinance could not be amended by f u t u r e T o w n C o u n c i l s o r a d m i n i s t r a t i v e amendments The applicant and their attorneys accepted every word of every condition read publicly at hearing Town Mayor Gore and Councilmember Boback knew that my decision to approve meant a 3-2 a d o p t i o n a l o n g w i t h C o u n c i l m e m b e r s

Cereceda and Butcher Gore and Boback’s affirmative votes were given to heal the divided community as the ordinance was assured to pass 3-2 by my decision The precise perpetual conditions within the ordinance earned my vote and reunited the community by assuring limitations to the TPIFMB development in perpetuity I WOULD H A V E V O T E D N O O N T H E O R D I -

NANCE WITHOUT ALL CONDITIONS, ESPECIALLY CONDITIONS 14 AND 20,

PARCELS 2 AND 3 IN PERPETUITY IT COULD NOT HAVE PASSED!

No changed conditions or circumstances in the location of this development exist that warrant change to the limitations of the CPD. The base of the bridge was, is now and shall always remain unique as the critical entry to the town The over-pedestrianized and overtrafficked location requires density control for pedestrian and bicycle safety, traffic management and open space preservation relating to the balance of environmental, commercial, recreation and aesthetic factors essential to the tourist hub of the island community The view corridor is an essential c o m m u n i t y c h a r a c t e r t h a t e n d u r e s Amending the ordinance provides benefit only to the applicant while decreasing the safety, and negatively impacting the welfare and quality of life of the community that you serve Please respect the ordinance as passed and supported by the community and developer PLEASE VOTE NO!

Respectfully,

Joanne K Shamp Gulfport, FL

Tommy Doyle

g e 5 n W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , A u g u s t 9 , 2 0 2 3 f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h O b s e r v e r

file property deeds

Lee County home buyers and sellers who would like more information about the new requirements for filing property deeds are invited to attend a free class hosted by Clerk Kevin Karnes

The class will take place on Wednesday, Aug 16 from 2-3 p m at the Cape Coral Public Library, located at 921 SW 39th Terrace in Cape Coral

Attendees will learn about recording property deeds and the new requirements in response to a change in Florida law HB 1419 initiated a property fraud prevention pilot program to make it harder to file fraudulent deeds. Lee County was chosen to be the state’s pilot location for the new program

In addition to the new deed requirements, the class will also cover general deed information, notary requirements, and information on how to help safeguard your property from fraud through the Lee Clerk’s Property Fraud Alert The free service notifies property owners when a deed, mortgage or other document with their name has been recorded To learn more and register for this service, visit www leeclerk org/fraudalert

Attendees will also be able to ask general questions about Clerk services However, the Clerk’s office is prohibited from providing legal advice.

The class is free, but registration is required To register for this event or view upcoming seminars, please visit www leeclerk org/seminar

This class is part of the “how to” series provided by the Lee Clerk’s office to educate the community about all of the resources available to them Recorded tutorials of past “How To” classes are available at www leeclerk org/how to

Better Together to host ‘A Night of a Million Dreams’ Gala on Nov. 10

Better Together, a nonprofit dedicated to families and children, is hosting ‘A Night of a Million Dreams’ Gala at 6 p m on Friday, Nov 10 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs The gala will raise funds to support Better Together’s mission of helping parents find employment and provide a loving, safe and supportive foundation for their children

The Wizard of Oz-themed gala will take guests on a magical journey to the wonderful land of better families and better jobs with an evening of dinner, impactful stories and live and silent auctions, with all proceeds to benefit Better Together programs that serve families across the state The event is chaired by Dr Alise and David Bartley

Better Together is made up of two programs – Better Families and Better Jobs – that help parents who are going through a hard time to keep their kids out of foster care, find work and address the root causes of their struggle so that they can reunite as a family with the tools and support system to thrive Established in Southwest Florida just over five years ago, the nonprofit’s programming has rapidly expanded to reach families in 21 counties across the state To date, the organization has served over 7,800 children and kept 98% of families together, while helping 39,000 job seekers across 22 states find employment

“Our goal is to end the foster care crisis in Florida, but we can’t do this alone,” said Megan Rose, CEO of Better Together “With the community’s support, we can address the root causes of child neglect and help families navigate the difficulties and challenges that come with life and parenting We are all better together, and together we can help our neighbors find their way home.”

Solutions and Pulte Homes

A range of sponsorship opportunities are still available for the fundraising gala, including Over the Rainbow ($15,000), Lion's Heart of Gold ($10,000), Ruby Slipper ($5,000), Yellow Brick Road ($2,500), Paddle ($1,000) and Fund a Dream ($500) sponsor levels. To secure a sponsorship or for more informat i o n , c o n t a c t L o r a B o s t i c k a t lora@bettertogetherus org

The gala will be held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, located at 5001 Coconut Road in Bonita Springs and tickets are $350 per person and $2,500 for tables of eight To purchase tickets or for more information, visit BetterTogetherUS org/Gala

About Better Together

The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted Tuesday to approve the immediate creation of 23 new p o s i t i o n s w i t h i n t h e D e p a r t m e n t o f C o m m u n i t y Development to address increasing building permit volumes

Increased permitting volumes are projected to continue over the next several years as Lee County’s population continues to grow and as residents continue to rebuild following Hurricane Ian From Oct 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, staff accepted 72,516 permit applications, 45,411 of which were identified by the applicant as being hurricane related Staff issued 68,362 permits, 43,006 of which were identified by the applicant as being hurricane related

In the same period, 207,056 inspections were requested and 131,323 inspections were completed, of which 108,831 were hurricane related

The estimated cost of the 23 new positions for the remainder of the current fiscal year, including benefits, indirect, computers, licenses and vehicles − for Building Inspectors only − is $806,033 For the next full fiscal year 23/24, this equates to a $2 8 million increase over the proposed budget.

The event is presented by Gaea Landscaping as The Emerald City Champion sponsor Additional sponsors include DeAngelis Diamond, LeeCorp Homes and Wilson & Johnson as Lion's Heart of Gold sponsors; HBK CPAs and Consultants, Priority Marketing, Southern Living Contractors and Southern Oak Wealth Management as Ruby Slipper sponsors; Mutual Trust Advisory Group, Tommy Bohanon Foundation and Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP as Yellow Brick Road sponsors; Other sponsors include Potter Homes, Maughan Himschoot & Associates Law Group, Priority Business

Community Development has implemented strategies to address permit backlog and review times, including filling of all vacancies, shifting internal staff resources as available, paying overtime and using consultants

In February, the Board of County Commissioners authorized a mid-year budget adjustment to hire 11 new positions to address permitting demands amplified by recovery following Hurricane Ian Building Services operations are funded by building permit fees as permitted under Florida Statutes There are currently 113 positions in DCD funded by building permit fees

To receive updates from Lee County Government,

Better Together is a nonprofit organization that helps parents going through a hard time keep their kids out of foster care, find work and address the root causes of their struggle so that they can reunite as a family with the tools and support system to thrive A privately funded and professionally supported organization, Better Together is made up of volunteers who believe helping people help themselves is the best way to restore dignity and bring families together Through the Better Families program, families are offered a preventive alternative to foster care while they get the help they need To date, the program has kept 98% of children served out of foster care The Better Jobs program was created to address the 76% of families that come to Better Together because of economic hardship tied to unemployment In addition to community job fairs, the program offers job seekers coaching, guidance, support and encouragement through local church partners For more information, visit BetterTogetherUS org

Janney Roofing named top 100 roofing company in nation

J a n n e y R o o f i n g , w h i c h s e r v e s S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a a n d o t h e r c o m m u n i t i e s i n t h e s t a t e , w a s r e c e n t l y n a m e d t h e 1 6 t h b e s t r o o f i n g c o n t r a c t o r i n t h e c o u n t r y b y R o o f i n g C o n t r a c t o r M a g a z i n e , t h e l e a d i n g i n d u s t r y p u b l i c a t i o n J a n n e y R o o f i n g t h e s e v e n t h - l a r g e s t p r e d o m in a n t l y r e s i d e n t i a l - f o c u s e d c o n t r a c t o r i n t h e U . S . , a s w e l l a s t h e l a r g e s t r e s i d e n t i a l - r o o f i n g c o n t r a c t o r i n F l o r i d a I n a p r e s s r e l e a s e i s s u e d t h r o u g h t h e c o m p a n y a n n o u n c i n g r e c o g n i t i o n , t h e c o m p a n y s a i d t h a t " J a n n e y ' s e m p l o y e e s a r e e n c o u r a g e d t o w o r k t o g e t h e r t o s o l v e p r o b l e m s a n d d e v e l o p c r e a t i v e s o l u t i o n s E m p l o y e e s h a v e t a k e n o w n e r s h i p o f t h e i r w o r k a n d h a v e b e c o m e m o r e m o t i v a t e d t o d o t h e i r b e s t w h e n t h e y f e e l t h a t t h e i r c o n t r i b u t i o n s a r e v a l u e d a n d a p p r e c i a t e d "

Do you have an interesting feature story worthy of print or know of someone who has accomplished something that needs to be noted in a local paper? Send an

Lee Clerk to host free class on how to

Lee County Commission approves creation of 23 Community Development positions

Wirth takes mantle of fire district

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

N o w t h a t F o r t M y e r s B e a c h F i r e Control District Chief Scott Wirth has had the “interim chief” label that he has worn since March lifted, he is ready to take on the challenges of the department that started long before Hurricane Ian finding a new home for a fire station along with the new challenges of managing a district reeling from the effects of Hurricane Ian

“The Fire District, like the Fort Myers Beach community itself, is on a long journey to recovery,” Wirth said “I am honored that the Board of Fire Commissioners has entrusted me to lead the organization during this trying time ”

Before being elevated to interim chief after the resignation of former chief Ron Martin, Wirth was the district’s chief of operations and had been closely involved in preparing the town’s plans to move Station 31 from Donora Boulevard to the lot acquired by the district at the former Topps supermarket Hurricane Ian rearranged those plans after it destroyed Station 31 The district is now in talks with Town of Fort Myers Beach officials

about swapping its Topps lot, which it acquired for $4 1 million in 2019, with the town hall lot so the town can build a new town hall The town has been operating temporary town hall facilities in trailers on the fire department’s property

Wirth is exploring potentially building a new fire station where the town hall was and building an administrative facility off island with a fire training facility

“Although we lost one fire station to the storm, our responders continue to serve the community with the same level of excellence as before the storm,” Wirth said

With 34 years of public safety service, Wirth has a lot of experience from which to pull as he takes on a district looking to regain its financial footing as much as its operational footing The district is facing an estimated 40% drop in property tax revenue and had to use $4 6 million of its reserves to keep its tax rate flat for its 2023-24 budget The district has multiple funding requests it has applied for to the Federal Emergency Management Agency and state to make up for lost revenue and to help build a new fire station.

Wirth joined the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control

District in 2017, prior to Hurricane Irma His career as a firefighter began with the Placid Lakes Volunteer Fire Department in Lake Placid, Florida He joined the City of Fort Myers Fire Department in 1991, where he rose to Division Chief of Operations

Wirth has an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration He is also a licensed general contractor though he has not worked on building homes since 2012

Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District Commissioner Ron Fleming credited Wirth for his “focus to do what needed to be done” in coordinating operational efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, despite damage to his home from Hurricane Ian and the displacement of his family Fleming said it was “amazing” Wirth was able to do his job daily in the weeks and months after the storm under the circumstances “I am really looking forward to getting us back and better than what we were,” Fleming said

“It’s because of the team we have in place that I am confident we will emerge better than we were before Hurricane Ian devastated our community,” Wirth said “I am honored to be a member of this public service family and proud of every one of my team members.”

Gas leak shuts down traffic around Margaritaville site

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

An underground gas leak in the vicinity of the Margaritaville construction project closed off traffic last week Traffic w

Mantanzas Pass Bridge, at Crescent Street and Fifth Street, and Estero Boulevard and Palermo Circle by the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District

The gas leak was eventually secured and shut down though a heavy concentra-

in storm drains extend the time of the road closures to ensure they are cleared

by TECO Gas

There has been heavy construction at the Margaritaville site since ground was broken in 2021 The hotel is expected to open in November

Fire Chief Scott Wirth

Beach Living

New children’s book inspired by Fort Myers Beach Portion of profits to go to Community Foundation

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Since she can remember, children’s book author Abigail Griebelbauer has been visiting Fort Myers Beach with her family, taking the trip from Indiana to enjoy the winter holiday season

Moved by her joyful experiences visiting the island and moved to help the community after the impact of Hurricane Ian, the 28-year-old Hoosier has used Fort Myers Beach as an inspiration to pen her latest children’s book “Winter Break at the Beach,” with 10% of its profits to be donated to the Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation

The 36-page book is illustrated by Cecilia Edwards This is their third collaboration together

Though the book is based on a generic beach, the pic-

ture book features illustrations inspired by places in Fort Myers Beach including the Fort Myers Beach Pier, the poinsettia tree and clock at Times Square, along with the dolphins and sea turtles

Griebelbauer sent Edwards photos she took of Fort Myers Beach to use for the book

“The Fort Myers Beach community has always made it feel like home during the holidays ” Griebelbauer said “The support of "Winter Break at the Beach" that we have received so far has proven how special the community is, both for locals and those who call it home for part of the year ”

A graduate of the University of Evansville in 2017, Griebelbauer taught fifth grade for two years In Indiana before living abroad and beginning her writing career She has published two books with Edwards: “D is for Darcy Not Dyslexia,” and “A is for Anthony Not ADHD ”

She still substitute teaches “I love being able to still teach in the classroom while following a dream,” Griebelbauer said Riebelbauer said she wrote her first book on a subject she knew about – dyslexia “I love going on author visits and speaking about how I struggled with reading and became an author

We saw the need for more representation and decided to make t h e b o o k i n t o a s e r i e s , T h e E m p o w e r E m p a t h y E a r l y Series,” Riebelbauer said Riebelbauer and her family h a v e b e e n t r a v e l i n g t o F o r t Myers Beach all her life, staying at a timeshare on the north side of the island for the winter holidays

“My family has traveled down to Fort Myers Beach for generations,” Riebelbauer said. “Before I w a s b o r n , m y g r a n d p a r e n t s started traveling to the area They became snowbirds and started the traditions my family continues to this day My dad made sure our family growing up always made our way to Fort Myers Beach We always went down to Times

Tur tle Time nest data

Square for the town's birthday celebration, watch the fireworks from the pier on New Year, and get a cake from The Bubble Room on Captiva ”

Riebelbauer visited Fort Myers Beach this past winter even though she couldn’t stay at her timeshare on the island. Her timeshare likely won’t be ready for occupancy until next year

Riebelbauer said she wasn’t prepared for what she saw “I had seen it in pictures so many times but nothing would have prepared me to see the destruction,” she said

Griebelbauer said that when Edwards sent her the drafted illustrations, “it brought tears to my eyes, knowing the place I have grown up with will be forever in this book Readers can expect to see local sites, flavors, and wildlife ”

Pre-orders are available through Aug 13 at https:// www thepassagepress com/fmb-arc In September, the book will be made available on Amazon.

Griebelbauer said “pre-orders are the best way for us to get donations for the Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation ”

The book is dedicated “to my grandparents and parents who passed their love of the area onto me,” Griebelbauer said

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: Fort Myers Beach Public Library 1217 East Cape Coral Pkwy , Suite 503 Cape Coral, FL 33904

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Illustrations from Winter Break at the Beach.

Abigail Griebelbauer

Team tracks toxic blue-green algae bloom

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that scientists at its Marine Laboratory recently developed an experiment to sample a toxic blue-green algae bloom as it moved from freshwater, to brackish, to saline waters in the Caloosahatchee Estuary

Along with partners from the University of Florida and South Florida Water Management District, the team targeted a visible blue-green algae bloom that had formed near Fort Myers on about July 17

Water samples revealed the bloom as the toxic species Microcystis aeruginosa, which is known to form in nutrient-rich freshwater It was predicted to move downstream toward the Shell Point Retirement Community over a one- to two-week period based on regional bloom transport models previously developed by researchers on the team

“The bloom likely formed due to warmer temperatures and freshwater conditions typical this time of year,” Marine Lab Director Dr Eric Milbrandt said

Additional water samples on July 20 and 24 confirmed that the bloom was at or near where it was projected to be Samples were also taken to a microscopy lab at UF to determine patterns in the shapes of the colonies as the bloom progressed downstream

“Our goal is to understand how the progression of the bloom impacts water conditions in the estuary over time through the production of toxins and release of toxins and nutrients into the water column,” he said

The Marine Lab and UF have been sampling microscopic algae in the Caloosahatchee since 2018 On the

first week of every month, they collect water samples from Lake Okeechobee, the Caloosahatchee from the Franklin Lock to Shell Point, and the Gulf of Mexico

“Our results are identifying the drivers of seasonal p h y t o p l a n k t o n b l o o m s t h r o u g h o u t t h e s y s t e m , ” Milbrandt said

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

SCCF: Lake Okeechobee reaches 15 feet

T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n Foundation reported that the new regulation schedule for Lake Okeechobee is not finalized yet, but the local area is already seeing a preview of what the management system could look like

“The risk of high damaging releases to the Caloosahatchee and St Lucie estuaries looms as tropical activity increases in the fall months,” SCCF Research and Policy Associate Leah Reidenbach said on July 26 “One tropical storm or hurric a n e c o u l d t r i g g e r s u d d e n d a m a g i n g releases that could contain toxic bluegreen algae, which is currently covering 84% of the lake ”

T h e L a k e O k e e c h o b e e S y s t e m Operating Manual (LOSOM) is expected to be finalized in December after the completion of a biological opinion from the National Marine Fisheries Service to determine the effects of LOSOM on red tide and sea turtles For now, the U S Army Corps of Engineers is managing the lake under LORS08

The SCCF reported that LOSOM will minimize the number of days of damaging discharges to the Caloosahatchee, while also maintaining the lake at higher levels, which has been made possible with the rehabilitation of the Herbert Hoover Dike to prevent flooding in the communities surrounding the lake U n d e r L O S O M , f l o w s t o t h e Caloosahatchee will not exceed 2,000 c u b i c f e e t p e r s e c o n d ( c f s ) a t t h e Franklin Lock and Dam (S-79) until the lake is over 16-17 feet, depending on the time of the year As of July 26, the lake was at 15 feet, and the Corps schedule w a s f o r a s e v e n - d a y a v e r a g e p u l s e r e l e a s e o f 2 , 0 0 0 c f s a t S - 7 9 , w h i l e

LORS08 calls for “up to 3,000 cfs” at S79

“The lack of larger releases during the dry season, when we were contending with red tide, has led us to the ecologically damaging situation we are in now with high lake levels in the wet season,” she said “High lake levels are damaging to the lake's submerged aquatic vegetation, which provides important habitat for young-of-the-year and juvenile bass

Council

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Multiple years of high lake levels can have devastating effects on the bass fishery ”

The SCCF reported that once submerged aquatic vegetation and emergent plants are damaged, it can take several years for them to recover, but only if lake levels remain low for extended periods of time

Additionally, higher releases in the late summer could coincide with oyster s p a w n i n g s e a s o n a n d h a v e n e g a t i v e effects on oyster survival due to the combination of high temperatures and low

From page 1

historic Cigar Hut building, one of the oldest on the island, was torn down by the d e v e l o p e r s a f t e r b e i n g d a m a g e d i n Hurricane Ian

Only an outdoor parking lot and outdoor recreation area are currently allowed on those parcels into perpetuity

The parking lot was deeded over to the town in exchange for the developers gaining access to a beach access point which led to a lawsuit over the council's 2018 approval

Obituaries

The conditions set for the four-story, 254-room resort to be built in the heart of downtown Fort Myers Beach at the nexus of Estero Boulevard and Crescent St were the subject of two years of contentious litigation over whether the size of the development deviated from the town's comprehensive plan and local development code by allowing too much density

Tom Torgerson, chairman of TPI and who has led the development plans, told the council that the change request to the council was born out of Hurricane Ian He and T P I a t t o r n e y S t e v e n Hartsell said the two cond i t i o n s i n t h e 2 0 1 8 agreement that TPI succ e s s f u l l y s o u g h t t o c h a n g e , b i n d s f u t u r e c o u n c i l s f r o m f u t u r e r e d e v e l o p m e n t o n t h e site

They said the restrictions in the plan would unfairly restrict redevelopment on the property into perpetuity

salinity

“The El Niño forecast is expected to b r i n g h i g h e r - t h a n - a v e r a g e r a i n f a l l i n Florida for the rest of the year and into next year's dry season, meaning high lake levels might be expected for at least another year,” Reidenbach said “We encourage the U S Army Corps to prioritize utilizing all available outlets, when safe and possible to do so, to reduce lake levels ”

“While LOSOM will not eliminate d a m a g i n g d i s c h a r g e s t o t h e Caloosahatchee estuary, it will greatly

reduce the number of days that we are receiving those discharges The plan isn't perfect, but it represents an improvement over the current system, with a more equitable distribution of the benefits and b u r d e n s o f t h e w a t e r , ” S C C F E n v i r o n m e n t a l P o l i c y D i r e c t o r M a t t D e P a o l i s a d d e d “ O n c e a d d i t i o n a l Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Projects projects come online, like the EAA reservoir, we will see compounding benefits to our environment, our eco n o my , an d o u r eco s y s tems acr o s s Southwest Florida ”

Councilmember Bill Veach, the lone c o u n c i l m e m b e r t o v o t e a g a i n s t t h e amendment, said that he supported TPI was asking for "overly broad" changes which would pave the way for an unspecified redevelopment of the property

Torgerson said there were no plans currently to add more density at the site

Allers said if new plans were brought by the property owners, it would still have to be approved by a town council "There is still a process you have to go through to get that density," Allers said Allers said it was unfair to close

Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt said it was "inappropriate" to bind future town councils from approving new plans at the property through the restrictive covenants

"You can't bind future legislative bodies " Atterholt said

Veach said "when we approve something, we are binding future councils "

"It's a two-way street," Veach said

Atterholt said "it's really a one-way street "

Atterholt said the 2018 agreement was the result of "some horse trading."

Veach said in response that "we are

giving away some horses "

Along with Atterholt, councilmembers John King and Karen Woodson voted in favor of amending the 2018 deal

Gore said "it's frustrating that the community worked so hard to get this right in 2018, now five years later this particular council just undoes it I only hope this council is as generous to the residential as they are to the commercial "

In a letter to the town council, Shamp expressed "shock and extreme disapproval" at the changes

"No changed conditions or circumstances in the location of this development exist that warrant change to the limitations of the CPD," Shamp wrote "The base of the bridge was, is now and shall always remain unique as the critical entry to the town The over-pedestriani z e d a n d o v e r - t r a f f i c k e d l o c a t i o n requires density control for pedestrian and bicycle safety, traffic management and open space preservation relating to the balance of environmental, commerc i a l , r e c r e a t i o n a n d a e s t h e t i c f a c t o r s

essential to the tourist hub of the island community "

n W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , A u g u s t 9 , 2 0 2 3 f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h O b s e r v e r

Rick and Amy Loughery spent approximately $100,000 to construct their 30-feet high concrete garage

Down from the roof

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

Rick Loughery came down from his roof late Monday afternoon, more than five days after he went up there Wednesday morning to protest the town and state’s decision regarding the status of his garage, which would need to be torn down and rebuilt to satisfy federal codes relating to a new flood map designation since Hurricane Ian

In scorching

h e a t f o r m o r e than five days, Loughery sat on a yoga mat and platform under an umbrella to b r i n g a t t e n t i o n to his cause

L o u g h e r y said “there was n o r e a s o n o r c o d e f o r m y g a r a g e t o b e destroyed ”

A f t e r c o m -

Garage

From page 1

F e d e r a l E m e r g e n c y M a n a g e m e n t A g e n c y f l o o d p l a i n m a p s w h i c h change the hurricane zone they are in w i t h t o u g h e r r e b u i l d i n g r e q u i r ements However, under the 50-50 rule they would not need to rebuild the garage unless it was more than 50% damaged which it was not T h a t i s u n l e s s i t i s c o n s i d e r e d attached to the home, which was completely demolished The town considers it “laterally attached” while the Lougherys said it was detached

“We have discussed your situation with the Town of Fort Myers Beach and Florida Division of Emergency Management's Office of Floodplain Management and have concluded that this issue resides with the local government.”

The cost to tear down the garage and rebuild it would be prohibitive, much more than the $100,000 they spent to build the garage four years ago before construction costs went up They have already spent $50,000 on plans to rebuild their home around the garage, which would need to be c h a n g e d T h a t i s o n t o p o f t h e $ 2 7 , 0 0 0 t h e y a l r e a d y s p e n t o n d e m o l i s h i n g t h e i r h o m e a n d t h e $15,000 they estimate it would cost to demolish the garage And with no help from any government agencies telling them to rebuild it in sight

“Should the town choose to disregard the floodplain management regulations in its ordinance and the flood provisions of the Florida Building Code, the town’s good standing in the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) and CRS (Community Rating System) could be jeopardized.

FEMA is aware of several high-profile properties and is watching closely to see if the town brings them into compliance It would be unfortunate if this property were added to their list ”

Conn Cole, State of Florida Floodplain manager with the State Office of Floodplain Management's Bureau of Mitigation for the Florida Division of Emergency Management

“I strongly encouraged the Town to help find a better solution I am told FEMA regulations leave the Town with solutions that are not helpful to Amy and Rick. This is an example of a situation post Ian that can steal people’s hope and jo y my heart breaks for Amy and Rick."

Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim

Atterholt

“Right now we are just literally splitting hairs over what the true definition of ‘laterally attached’ means.’

FEMA Floodplain Management Specialist James

Mascellino

ing down from his garage roof Monday to a group of supporters on his property in front of the trailer he and his wife share, he said “I’m here for you guys ”

Loughery said his protest was as much about his own run-in with bureaucracy as it was about the same issues facing many others in the community are facing with permits

“I knew when I went up there, I knew I wasn’t the only one struggling," Loughery said “No one should feel like they are going to the principal’s office when they enter town hall ”

Loughery believes the town council could act to reverse the decision by town staff but at Monday’s council meeting, there was no action to do so

“Another year in a trailer is a tough sell,” he said “Staff should be helping us through the process every step up the way,” he said. “They should be guiding us through the system instead of guessing what to do ”

After weeks of meetings and discussions in which the town and state have not changed their position, Mr Loughery began a protest on top of his roof Wednesday morning, sitting in temperatures that reached more than 90 degrees daily, and sleeping there at night on a platform with a yoga mat under an umbrella

He relented late Monday afternoon after a town council meeting b r o u g h t n o f u r t h e r h e l p t o t h e i r cause A meeting on Thursday with FEMA they had hoped would bring some aid, ended up with a letter T u e s d a y m o r n i n g c l a i m i n g t h e responsibility was with the town

Loughery and his wife moved to Fort Myers Beach more than 20 y e a r s a g o . E n t r e p r e n e u r s , t h e y opened a vacation rental business that grew to more to more than 400 u n i t s b e f o r e t h e y s o l d t h e m a l l around the time of the COVID pandemic Retired, they were looking to

a l i f e o f t r a v e l i n g , r u n n i n g marathons, long-distance bike rides and paddleboarding

Hurricane Ian “had other plans,” Ms Loughery said

Instead, they are in for a David and Goliath fight, pitting their desire to keep the garage they built out of the rulebook and codebook interpretations of government bureaucrats

The core of the disagreement centers around the town considering the garage to be laterally-attached to the home, which has since been demolished The Lougherys consider the garage to be detached with just roof flashing that was placed between the garage and the home to prevent water from getting stuck there The garage was permitted as a lateral attachment rather than as an accessory structure,

Amy Loughery

since it would have needed a variance to be an accessory, which Mr Loughery believes it is

The Lougherys are angry that they were approved by the town for permits to replace the garage door on the garage and to install electricity which cost them $20,000 and received a permit of completion for the demolition of their home with the stated understanding with the town that the garage would remain in place Yet when they went to apply for permits to rebuild their home around the garage, they were told the garage would need to be rebuilt or demolished

M s L o u g h e r y m e t l a s t Wednesday morning with Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy

See GARAGE, page 13

NATHAN MAYBERG

NATHAN MAYBERG Rick and Amy Loughery

From page 12

Hyatt, Community Development Director Steve Poposki, Town Attorney Becky Vose and Conn Cole, State of Florida Floodplain manager with the State Office of Floodplain Management's Bureau of Mitigation for the Florida Division of Emergency Management to try to bring a resolution to a case which had festered for weeks with emails between Loughrey and Poposki and the town’s floodplain manager Kristin Schumacher

Loughery said Cole was “adamant” about the changes needed on the garage to comply with the new Federal Emergency Management Agency flood maps which changed in November He stood by the decision made by Poposki that the garage was laterally attached to the home.

In a letter from Cole to the town on July 31, Cole wrote “Should the town choose to disregard the floodplain management regulations in its ordinance and t h e f l o o d p r o v i s i o n s o f t h e F l o r i d a Building Code, the town's good standing in the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) and CRS (Community Rating System) could be jeopardized FEMA is aware of several high profile properties and is watching closely to see if the town brings them into compliance. It would be unfortunate if this property were added to their list,” Cole wrote M e s s a g e s l e f t w i t h C o l e a n d t h e 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 were not returned

In more than five days of protest, Rick Loughery only came down from the roof of his garage to

Mr Loughery believes the town council could act to fix the situation by changing the permit to an accessory structure though he did not believe the town would do anything

The building department, he said, “has dug their heads in so deep, they won’t change their mind ”

Town response

At the center of the town’s reluctance to make a waiver or exception for the Lougherys is the precise threat outlined by Cole in his letter regarding the town’s p a r t i c i p a t i o n i n t h e N a t i o n a l F l o o d Insurance Program, which affords the town a 15% break on flood insurance r a t e s W h i l e C o l e d o e s n o t r u n t h e National Flood Insurance Program and the town has not been given any letters to date that would order a reduction in its Community Rating System if it allowed the Loughery garage to stand, that is the hill town staff is currently standing on.

T o w n o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h Communications Director Jennifer Dexter said that “since flood insurance is required to obtain a mortgage, that extra cost could make rebuilding in the Town even more financially difficult ”

Dexter issued a statement on behalf of town management Friday stating that the Lougherys had three options: “A new single-family home can be built with the garage connected to the new home The

home’s rebuilding must be built to current regulations, and the surviving garage portion must also be brought up to current standards,” or “convert the surviving garage into a stand-alone accessory structure (storage and parking only) and build a new detached single-family home The home would be treated as new construction, and the garage must be brought up to current accessory structure standards ”

All of those options would be cost prohibitive and require the garage be torn down to rebuild it to the new code, the Lougherys said

The third option, Dexter said, was “ d e m o l i s h t h e s u r v i v i n g g a r a g e a n d rebuild a new home with a new garage as new construction, meeting current regulations ”

D e x t e r s a i d “ t h i s s i t u a t i o n c o u l d impact the entire Town and its residents” because “the town must follow floodplain regulations and building codes that govern construction throughout the State of Florida Since the Town has agreed to be a participating community in the National Flood Insurance Program, which reduces flood insurance costs for residents and impacts mortgages, following the rules of the program is critical to maintain the Town’s good standing Maintaining the Town’s good standing also impacts postdisaster FEMA funding ”

Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt has been trying to assist the

Lougherys

“After speaking with Amy, I immediately raised the issue with the Town M a n a g e r a n d t h e T o w n A t t o r n e y , ” Atterholt said “I strongly encouraged the Town to help find a better solution. I am told FEMA regulations leave the Town with solutions that are not helpful to Amy and Rick This is an example of a situation post Ian that can steal people’s hope and joy my heart breaks for Amy and Rick ”

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said Friday afternoon that “I certainly sympathize with the struggles this situation has caused the Lougherys They have always been and continue to be great stewards of our community I’m currently working with staff to see if there is anything we can do and still stay in compliance with state and federal regulations ”

Ms Loughery said they are “wishing everything (that) the rebuilding process was easy for our community So many have stopped today in support and to share their permitting stories and struggled It’s heartbreaking ”

Mr Loughery said the garage “is really important to me It saved my life, No 1 You look at it, you can see it was built for a purpose. Its purpose is very defined for what I do ”

During Hurricane Ian,

See GARAGE, page 15

Mr Loughery stayed in a space behind the garage and in a crawl space above his home to weather

NATHAN MAYBERG

The inside of the Loughery garage includes a wall with signs from their previous businesses and their family’s businesses

Amy Loughery waves to passersby, many of whom frequently honk their vehicle horns in support

use the bathroom and shower.

Amy Loughery communicates with her husband Rick through a walkietalkie device as she delivers him a salad appetizer with grapes and strawberries

out the storm

He and Amy exercise in the garage and he had been repairing a vehicle inside before Ian They have signs from their formers businesses and the businesses of their families in upstate New York and Canada in the Niagara Falls area

“ T h i s i s n ’ t j u s t a b o u t u s , ” M s Loughery said “It’s about everything that is going on within our community for our residents It's also about the fact that our town government does not have enough help From a state level and a federal level whenever Ian hit, they had said they were going to be here to help us and not only our residents but our government and our local government as well And they were for a short time and then they pulled out ”

Up on the roof

Mr Loughery put two protest signs in front of his garage One reads “I survived Ian but not town staff” and the other sign reads “our community deserves better ”

He sat on top of the garage roof day and night, only coming down to use the bathroom His wife delivered him coolers o f w a t e r , l u n c h a n d d i n n e r w i t h a makeshift device and Home Depot bucker

Support for Loughery was evidenced by the frequent honking from vehicles passing the home Mr Loughery said the honking encourages him

To combat the heat, he gets a cooler every morning from Amy that gets filled up with water “As much as I need plus I have a ton of people who stop by on a daily basis and drop off all sorts of water and food and all sorts of goodies,” Mr Loughery said

Ms Loughery appeared in front of the town council Monday and said the couple had been considering moving out of Fort Myers Beach after they were told to take down the garage but do not want to do so

“All we asked for from the beginning was just a solid reason in code as to why and so far we have never received anything legally why as to why it has to go o t h e r t h a n s o m e o n e ’ s o p i n i o n , ” M r Loughery said

Ms Loughery said this wasn’t just about them

“I feel the same as all the people that have come and spoken to us in our driveway since (Rick) got up there: frustrated Would have love to have had answers from FEMA on Friday, would loved to have had our architect and contractor and permitting agent come to an agreement w i t h t h e t o w n p r i o r t o t h i s o n

Wednesday ”

Splitting hairs

In another statement from the town, D e x t e r s a i d “ T h i s b u i l d i n g m u s t b e brought into current compliance ”

Ms Loughery said “Right now we are just literally splitting hairs over what the t r u e d e f i n i t i o n o f l a t e r a l l y a t t a c h e d means,” Loughery said

Dexter said “If Fort Myers Beach does not strictly enforce the 50% Rule, there is the strong possibility that the property owners in the Town could end up losing 10% of their FEMA flood insurance discount ”

Yet aside from the threat by Cole, there has not been any evidence from the town that by not making the Lougherys tear down their garage that the town would in fact face such an option, or that FEMA has made such a threat

“I think I’m not alone We’ve heard countless, countless stories from other people” in problematic situations in their rebuilding efforts, Loughery said.

Fort Myers Beach Councilmember Bill Veach is facing a similar situation with his own garage which survived Hurricane Ian intact though may also have to be torn down Veach said the issue with the Loughery garage is the way in which it was permitted He said the garage could have been granted a variance as an accessory

Calling on the gover nor

Mr Loughery has called on Gov Ron DeSantis to come down to Fort Myers Beach to solve the issue

“Get the governor down here,” he said “This is a situation where I think we need help ”

Ms. Loughery noted that the state had staff helping the town building department with permits in the early months after the storm but have since left The state pulled out its staff on March 28 from assisting the town with its permit processing

"” lot of the problems that we as residents are encountering is a direct result of not having enough staff at town hall to handle the workload that is so enormous right now So it’s a trickle-down effect ”

Mr Loughery said the letter from Cole to the town was “insulting.” He said DeSantis needs to explain “why his floodplain manager is threatening Fort Myers Beach ”

M e s s a g e s l e f t w i t h t h e o f f i c e o f DeSantis were not returned

Under the draft plan, Lee County will implement the following housing recovery projects to address the unmet housing needs in Lee County:

∫ Affordable Multifamily Housing Development and Preservation

∫ Affordable Single Family Housing Development

∫ Individual Housing Rehabilitation, Reconstruction & Elevation

∫ Home Purchase Assistance

∫ Voluntary Residential Buyout

The housing programs together will receive $660 million of the allocated CDBG-DR funds from HUD. This represents approximately 60 percent of the C D B G - D R f u n d s a l l o c a t e d t o L e e County Approximately 2,800 househ o l d s w i l l b e p r o v i d e d a s s i s t a n c e through the projects listed above

According to information provided by Lee County, CDBG-DR funds may be spent on a limited number of eligible

Roof

a c t i v i t i e s r e l a t e d t o i m p a c t s f r o m

H u r r i c a n e I a n t h a t i n c l u d e h o u s i n g , infrastructure, economic revitalization, public services and planning At least 70% of the grant must be used for proje c t s t h a t b e n e f i t l o w - t o - m o d e r a t e income households, which HUD defines as a family at or below 80% of area median income For example, in Lee C o u n t y a s i n g l e - p e r s o n h o u s e h o l d 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 county has also identified an unmet infrastructure recovery need of $3 billion including damage to bridges s u c h a s t h e S a n i b e l C a u s e w a y a n d Matlacha Pass Bridge Energy systems, r o a d w a y s , t r a f f i c c o n t r o l s , w a t e r a n d w a s t e w a t e r t r e a t m e n t s y s t e m s , s e p t i c systems, cell towers, and voice and data services were also damaged

From page 12

Surrounded by family, Loughery said “it was time to come down ”

After striking out with town and state officials, the Lougherys had put new hope in a site visit from FEMA Thursday Instead, FEMA passed off the matter as a local issue

In a letter from FEMA received by the L o u g h e r y s o n T u e s d a y , F E M A

Floodplain Management Specialist James Mascellino said “W have discussed your

situation with the Town of Fort Myers Beach and Florida Division of Emergency

M a n a g e m e n t ' s O f f i c e o f F l o o d p l a i n Management and have concluded that this issue resides with the local government ”

Before the FEMA letter, Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers had painted the issue as a FEMA matter “I just hope that FEMA sees the light,” Allers said I am always a person who tries to find solutions and I think with the support that you have

U n d e r t h e p l a n , L e e C o u n t y w i l l implement the following infrastructure recovery projects to address the unmet infrastructure needs in Lee County:

∫ H u r r i c a n e M i t i g a t i o n G r a n t

Program Infrastructure Match Funding

∫ C r i t i c a l I n f r a s t r u c t u r e T h e i n f r as t r u c t u r e p r o g r a m s t o g e t h e r w i l l r e c e i v e

$ 3 5 2 , 4 8 6 , 9 5 0 o f t h e a l l o c a t e d C D B G -

D R f u n d s f r o m H U D T h i s r e p r e s e n t s

a p p r o x i m a t e l y 3 2 p e r c e n t o f t h e

C D B G - D R f u n d s a l l o c a t e d t o L e e

C o u n t y M i t i g a t i o n f u n d s a r e i n c l u d e d

i n L e e C o u n t y ’ s t o t a l i n f r a s t r u c t u r e b u d g e t a n d w i l l b e u s e d t o s u p p o r t i m p r o v e m e n t s t o i n f r a s t r u c t u r e n o t i m p a c t e d b y H u r r i c a n e I a n T h e u n m e t n e e d s a n a l y s i s i d e n t i f i e d a t o t a l e c on o m i c u n m e t r e c o v e r y n e e d o f

$ 4 4 0 , 3 2 0 , 9 0 7 T h r o u g h t h e u n m e t n e e d s a s s e s s m e n t a n d c o n s u l t a t i o n w i t h s t a k e h o l d e r s , L e e C o u n t y h a s d e t e rm i n e d t h a t t h e m o s t i m p a c t f u l m e a n s b y

and with the details that are involved, hopefully FEMA can see the light at the end of the tunnel ” Allers said “rules constantly change and hopefully they will see the light ”

It turns out, FEMA thinks it is the town’s decision

The Lougherys have not given up hope yet On Tuesday, they were scheduled to meet with another state official regarding the matter

w h i c h t o s u p p o r t e c o n o m i c r e v i t a l i z at i o n a r e i n c l u d e d i n h o u s i n g a n d i n f r as t r u c t u r e p r o g r a m s . F o r t h i s r e a s o n , n o

C D B G - D R f u n d s w i l l b e a l l o c a t e d f o r e c o n o m i c r e v i t a l i z a t i o n a t t h i s t i m e H o u s i n g p r o g r a m s w i l l s u p p o r t t h e d e v e l o p m e n t a n d p r e s e r v a t i o n o f a f f o r d a b l e h o u s i n g u n i t s t o s u p p o r t t h e w o r k f o r c e i n t h e C o u n t y I n f r a s t r u c t u r e p r o j e c t s w i l l p r o v i d e r e q u i r e d i m p r o v em e n t s t o e n s u r e b u s i n e s s e s h a v e a c c e s s t o e s s e n t i a l s e r v i c e s , i n c l u d i n g r o a dw a y s , w a t e r , a n d s e w e r Comments on the draft plan can also be emailed to recovery@leegov.com or mailed to Lee County Administration in c a r e o f t h e O f f i c e o f S t r a t e g i c R e s o u r c e s , 2 1 1 5 S e c o n d S t , F o r t Myers, Fl, 33901 Comments will be accepted through Aug 29 After public input has been received, Lee County will submit the action plan to HUD for review and approval

“We are still mourning our losses,” Loughery said about the community’s efforts to rebuild from Hurricane Ian He said the town needed a lot more help from the state and federal government

Like a football coach, Loughery gathered a group of supporters and led them in a chant

“On the count of five, community!”

STAFF REPORT

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office announced it will hold an event on Fort Myers Beach to interact with the public on Aug 30 at Mojoe’s Coffee Cafe

The event, titled “Coffee With A Cop” will take place at 10 a m at the cafe, at 1740 Estero Blvd

“Community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships and drink coffee,” Lee County Sheriff’s

Office Outreach Coordinator Barry Kurtz said

“Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Fort Myers’ neighborhoods,” Kurtz said

Clear The Shelters

Low-cost pet adoption initiative under way

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

Now might be the perfect time to add a new four-legged friend to the family, as local shelters are taking part in a nationwide campaign to help animals find new homes

T h r o u g h o u t t h e m o n t h o f A u g u s t ,

C U n i v e r s a l L o c a l ’ s n a t i o n w i d e p e t adoption and donation campaign, “Clear The Shelters,” will return for its ninth consecutive year As part of the initiative, Lee County Domestic Animal Services, NBC, and Telemundo are partnering to promote pet adoption

From Aug 1 through 25, all dog adoptio reduced to just $20 and cats/kitten adoptions to $10 with an approved application The month-long event will culminate from 10 a m to 4 p m on Aug 26, with the waived adoption event at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers

“The marketing involved with Clear The Shelters helps get the word out about the benefits of adoption versus buying and also the importance of helping shelter pets,” said spokeswoman for Lee County Domestic Animal Services Karen Frick. “It also increases traffic into our facility and drives our adoption rate up not only for the day of our event, but the entire month

LCDAS currently has more than 80 dogs and 60 cats/kittens in its care, with more returning from foster care each day

Frick said this number changes daily as does the intake rate

With Hurricane Ian having displaced so many pets from their families for a multitude of reasons, Clear The Shelters helps those that have been thinking about adding an addition to their family save money

“Now is the perfect time to adopt and give a possibly displaced pet a new home,” Frick said “Our adoption floor has seen a steady increase in pets over the past six months and many have been obviously well cared for and we would love for them to go back into a loving home as soon as possible ”

Of course, with a new pup or cat comes new responsibilities

“We encourage prospective pet adopters to do some

rch ahead of adopting,” Frick said “For xample, what type of pet will fit into your family and lifestyle? Is one breed a better fit, or a certain age or activity level?”

Since its inception in 2015, Clear The Shelters has helped more than 860,000 pets find new homes. In 2022, the campaign established a new single-year record with more than 161,000 adoptions, while also raising more than $540,000 Nearly 1,400 animal shelters and rescues in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam participated in last year’s efforts

We are proud that Clear The Shelters supmany outstanding shelters and rescues in our communities that perform the vital work of caring for vulnerable animals, so we are very excited for the campaign’s return this August to help them find new homes for animals in need and raise more money to fund their efforts,” said Meredith McGinn, NBCUniversal Local’s e x e c u t i v e v i c e p r e s i d e n t o f D i g i n e t s & O r i g i n a l Production, in a release “We are so thankful for our many generous supporters and partners, including our employees, participating shelters, affiliate stations and Hill’s Pet Nutrition, who enable Clear The Shelters to make such a meaningful impact each year ”

Another local shelter taking part in Clear The Shelters, as it has over the past six years, is Gulf Coast Humane Society

“It has been a wonderful experience with dual purposes in helping as a fundraiser and as an adoption campaign,” said GCHS spokesperson Brian Wierima

Currently, GCHS has 70-plus dogs and 80-plus cats in its care Wierima said not all are up for adoption, but will be eventually

The impacts of Hurricane Ian are still being felt for pets, with Wierima saying, “Since the hurricane, adoption numbers have been down and owner surrenders up With one adoption, forever families can make an impact on numerous shelter animals, since it opens up kennel space and GCHS can take in more rescues ”

For more information on Clear The Shelters or to donate, visit www.clearthesheltersfund.org. Adoptable pets may be found at leegov com/animalservices/adopt /search and gulfcoasthumanesociety org

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers one-day boating

safety class Aug. 19

Boating enthusiasts seeking to obtain the state boating safety certificate are encouraged to enroll in a one-day responsible boating class on Saturday, Aug 19, from 9 a m to 5 p m The course will be held at the Pine Ridge Community Center, at 15699 Pine Ridge Road, in Fort Myers, next to the fire station and across from the tax collector’s office.

Completion of the course will make participants eligible for the state boating certificate

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary offers the one-day program every third Saturday of the month Greg Masonick, the Flotilla Commander of Fort Myers Beach Flotilla 91, stresses the importance of education and awareness of boating hazards

Masonick said, "Attending an in-person class is an excellent opportunity for students to interact, share perspectives, and gain local knowledge Participants learn about the importance of life jackets, risk reduction, preparedness, and exercising sound judgment."

According to Florida law, anyone born on or after Jan 1, 1988, who plans to operate a boat in Florida waters with an engine of 10 horsepower or more must complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Florida boating safety ID card This card certifies that the person has completed the required boating safety course, but it is not a boating license

The one-day class costs $45 per person and includes study materials Mandatory registration is required and may be completed at www Aux91FMB org or by calling 239-690-6780, option 1

Boating is a popular recreational activity in Southwest Florida, but it can also be dangerous for the unprepared or uninformed Human error and poor decision-making can increase the risk of accidents According to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, statewide in 2022, there were 735 reportable recreational boating accidents resulting in 67 fatalities

For additional information about boating safety classes or registration for a class, contact Kevin McTaggart, Public Education Officer, cgaux91education@ gmail com, at 239-690-6780, option 1, or www Aux91FMB org/Safeboating

Lee County to host Florida-Friendly and Native Plant Swap & Seed Exchange Aug. 19

Lee County Parks & Recreation will host a Florida-Friendly and Native Plant Swap & Seed Exchange from 9 a m to noon, Saturday, Aug 19, at the Karl Drews Community Center, 18412 Lee Road, Fort Myers

Participants can expect a morning of

plant-related educational opportunities with fellow plant enthusiasts The event features a Plant Swap & Seed Exchange, the UF/IFAS Master Gardener Help Desk, a Native Plant Sale , local nurseries, consultation firms and more

To participate, bring one or more clear-

ly labeled healthy plants or seeds Plant species listed by Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council, Federal Noxious Weed or USDA Invasive Species will not be permitted

To RSVP and reserve a table, call 239533-1470 or email TRossi@leegov com

For more about Lee County Parks and

Rec locations, amenities and events, visit www leeparks org, call 239-533-7275, e m a i l l e e p a r k s @ l e e g o v c o m o r v i s i t leeparksandrecreation on Facebook and Instagram.

27th Annual Fall Home & Garden Show coming to downtown Fort Myers Aug. 26-27

Free event to be held at Caloosa Sound Convention Center

On Saturday and Sunday, Aug 26 and 27, the free admission 2023 Annual Fall Home & Garden Show returns to the Caloosa Sound Convention Center, adjacent to the Luminary Hotel, in Fort Myers

“The Home & Garden Show is always a great opportunity to meet with contractors, remodelers and home specialists to help residents,” said Bill Anderson, president of

Expo Management that produces the Home & Garden Shows “During this show, attendees can find experts to address all their home improvement needs under one roof over two days ”

Now in its 27th year, the annual Home & Garden Show features local and regional companies that display and present products and services to homeowners The free

event takes place from 10 a m to 4 p m on Saturday and Sunday

Attendees can experience the newest inhome improvement products and services inside and out from furnishings, accessories, decorating and remodeling ideas to landscaping and more. Hourly drawings and door prizes will also be given away Expo Management Inc was established

Acting auditions and behind-the-scenes roles announced for Florida Rep’s production of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’

Youth actors invited to audition for theatre education program

Florida Rep’s education program seeks interested youth actors to audition for the company’s conservatory production of “Little Shop of Horrors ”

Auditions are open to youth ages 1218 and will be held Aug 17-19

Advanced registration is required and may be done by visiting floridarepeducation org/conservatory

There is no fee to audition; students cast in the production must pay a tuition fee of $340 and attend rehearsals which begin in late August.

Youth interested in participating in behind-the-scenes roles may register for Florida Rep’s theatre tech program,

which includes two weeks of instruction (Aug 14-21) in the areas of stage management, props/set design, lighting, sound and costumes, plus 1:1 mentoring with a theatre tech professional to support behind-the-scenes roles associated with the “Little Shop of Horrors” conservatory production Tuition is $340

Florida Rep’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors” is directed by Monique Caldwell, with music directed by Emily Turtle. Performances will be held in the Historic Arcade Theatre in downtown Fort Myers from Sept 28 through Oct 1 and Oct 5-8 Both

Free autism screening for young children Aug. 18

Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida, offers a free monthly autism spectrum disorder screening for toddlers 18 months to five years of age

The next screening will be held Friday, Aug 18, from 9 a m to 2 p.m., at the Pediatric Specialist Office, 15901 Bass Road, Suite 102, Fort Myers

It is estimated that one in every 44 children is diagnosed with some form of Autism Spectrum Disorder,

making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined

The ASD screening is conducted by the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida The screenings are administered by an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, who has extensive training and experience in typical child development and developmental disorders

A physician referral is not required To schedule a screening, please call 239-343-6838

evening and matinee showtimes will be offered

Tickets are $30 for adults/$15 for students and may be purchased by visiting floridarepeducation org/littleshop-of-horrors or calling 239-3324488

“Little Shop of Horrors” is based on the 1960 film by Roger Corman and features a book and lyrics by Howard Ashman and music by Alan Menken

The horror comedy rock musical follows meek plant store attendant Seymour, his co-worker crush Audrey, her sadistic dentist of a boyfriend, and the man-eating plant that threatens them, and the world at large!

Florida Repertory Theatre’s education program is dedicated to enriching the lives of young people and families throughout Southwest Florida with exceptional theatre experiences; nurturing an appreciation for theatre in our students, audience, and community; educating and engaging young people, new artists, and adults with the high standards of performing arts training including classes, internships, and volunteer opportunities; advocating for the arts and making them accessible to all; creating lasting relationships with community partners and artists; investing new efforts to expand and improve upon existing programming; inspiring greatness in a future generation of artists and art patrons

in Fort Myers in 1987 The company has successfully produced 615 events over the past 36 years In 2023, they will operate 24 events in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee

For additional information about the Home & Garden Show, please contact David Pardi of Expo Management at 239205-6139, email fldave@expomanagementinc.com or visit expomanagementinc com

Alliance for the Arts and Southwest

Florida International Airport issues a call to artists for Art in Flight program

a v e c o n t i n u e d t h e l o n g s t a n di n g p a r t n e r s h i p t o b r i n g b a c k t h e A r t i n F l i g h t e x h ib i t i o n S e l e c t e d a r t w o r k s , f r o m F l o r i d a b a s e d a r t i s t s , w i l l b e o n d i s p l a y i n t w o o f t h e a i r p o r t ' s c o n c o u r s e s f o r a p e r i o d o f 6 m o n t h s f r o m S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 3 u n t i l F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 I n a r a p i d l y c h a n g i n g w o r l d , f r o m t e c h n o l o g y t o t h e p h y s i c a l e n v i r o n m e n t s , i t c a n f e e l d a u n t i n g t o t r y t o k e e p u p F o r t h i s e x h i b i t i o n , a r t i s t s a r e a s k e d t o m e d i t a t e o n t h e m e s o f c h a n g e t h r o u g h a h o p e f u l l e n s A r t i s t s a r e a s k e d t o c r e a t e w o r k t h a t e x p l o r e s i d e a s o f g r o w t h , p r o g r e s s , a n d r e s i l i e n c e A r t w o r k s c a n r e p r e s e n t t h e a r t i s t ’ s p e r s o n a l s e l fg r o w t h o r i m a g e s t h a t r e l a t e t o g r o w t h t h e y s e e i n t h e w o r l d a r o u n d t h e m A r t w o r k s c a n b e t r a d i t i o na l m e d i a , s u c h a s p a i n t i n g a n d d r a w i n g , a s w e l l a s a l t e r n a t i v e a p p r o a c h e s s u c h a s m i x e d m e d i a o r f i b e r a r t s T h e c a l l i s o p e n t o a l l a r t i s t s c u r r e n t l y r e s i d i n g i n t h e s t a t e o f F l o r i d a T h e r e i s a n o n - r e f u n d a b l e e n t r y f e e o f $ 2 5 p l u s $ 5 f o r a n y a d d i t i o n a l e n t r i e s , u p t o 3 M e m b e r s o f A F T A a r e e l i g i b l e t o r e c e i v e $ 1 0 o f f t h e e n t r y f e e w i t h u s e o f c o d e M e m b e r 1 0 I n d i v i d u a l m e m b e r s h i p s a r e $ 5 5 a n d a r e g o o d f o r o n e y e a r . S i g n u p f o r m e m b e r s h i p h e r e . I n t e r e s t e d a r t i s t s c a n s u b m i t t h e i r a r t w o r k a t h t t p s : / / a r t i s t c a l l f o r e n t r y o r g / f e s t i v a l s u n i q u e i n f o p h p ? I D = 1 2 1 9 3

Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County accepting registrations for after-school program

Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County are accepting registrations for after-school programs that begin Aug 10 at six locations across the county Clubs provide homework assistance and tutoring services, as well as projectbased learning activities, arts instruction, sports and recreation programs, and service and leadership projects Clubs also offer technology centers to enhance learning and play

After-school programs are designed for youth ages six through 18 and focus on five core areas: education and career, service and leadership, health and wellness, the arts, and sports and recreation

Community Clubs

∫ Park Meadows Community Club (1900 Park Meadows Drive, Fort Myers): until 6 p m

∫ Lehigh Acres Community Club (1262 Wings Way, Unit 201, Lehigh Acres): until 6:30 p m

School-based Clubs

Snacks are provided daily

For the 2023-24 school year, afterschool programs will be offered at the following six locations in Lee County:

∫ North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts (1856 Arts Way, North Fort Myers): until 6 p m

∫ James Stephens Elementary (1333 Marsh Ave , Fort Myers): until 6 p m

Neighborhood Clubs

∫ P u e b l o B o n i t o ( 2 6 1 2 0 P u e b l o Bonito Blvd , Bonita Springs): until 6 p m (restricted to residents of Pueblo Bonito)

∫ Renaissance Preserve (1633 Joust St , Fort Myers): until 6 p m (restricted to residents of Renaissance Preserve)

Weekly membership fees vary by location; scholarship assistance and sibling discounts are available There is a onetime $30 registration fee

To register or inquire about the availability of transportation, please call 239334-1886 or visit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County website at BGClee org

Priceless Dollars belong in a purse

Long ago and before banks, some folks saved their dollars by keeping them in a purse The dollars of this article are not monetary, but are, in fact, the sand dollar It’s interesting to note that a crowd or large group of sand dollars is called a purse! Sand dollars play a vital role in our marine ecosystem that is priceless Their protection is important

A f t e r H u r r i c a n e I a n d e v a s t a t e d F o r t M y e r s Beach in September it also wrecked havoc on sand dollars and as a result our beaches were strewn with the grey/white remaining endoskeletons called the t e s t T h e f l a t , r o u n d e d sand dollar is a member of the same family as sea urchins, starfish, and other e c h i n o d e r m s T h e i r unique properties enable them to act as marine filters as they consume detritus, planktons, algae, crustacean larvae, and debris from the seafloor As a part of the food chain, they help to control the population of smaller invertebrates and are a food source for a few larger organisms.

A live sand dollar ranges in color from dark greys, browns, reds, greens, to purples They are covered with spines called cilia Some types of live sand dollars will excrete a yellowish substance called echinochrome If you find a sand dollar these attributes, then it is alive and you need to leave it alone and gently return it to the water immediately They cannot survive more than a couple of minutes out of the water Without water the drying up process ultimately causes the spines to fall off and it dies Only dead sand dollars are grey/white and smooth

Prior to Hurricane Ian, Fort Myers Beach had signage at all beach accesses to inform beach goers about our marine and beach life In short, the taking of live shellfish, marine life, and sand dollars was, and remains, against the law in Florida

The sand dollar has the following 4 stages of life: Egg, Larvae, Juvenile, and Adult May and June are when the sand dollars release their gametes, eggs and sperm, into the water This is called broadcast spawning The fertilized egg then goes through multiple stages It is truly miraculous when considering the beginning stages of the sand dollar occur without the benefit of any protection of the tiny egg Gestation lasts for 2 days before it enters the larvae stage.

In the larvae stage, it undergoes a process where 2 arms develop into 4, then 6, and eventually divide into 8 (Pluteus 8-arm) The larvae is floating among the plankton during this phase that lasts approximately 6 weeks It’s only protection from predators is the ability to clone itself to become a smaller target

Once the 8 arms are developed the larvae, a tiny 0 03” in size, settles to the bottom where the Juvenile metamorphosis takes place in about a week The skeleton, guts, mouth, and anus form along with the ability to feed themselves and crush sand grains

Finally, the sand dollar has achieved Adult status, eventually measuring approximately 2”-4” and with a life span of 8-10 years Small fuzzy spines coat the top and bottom of its body It moves the spines back and forth to bury itself in the sand and move food into its mouth It usually takes between one and five minutes for a sand dollar to bury itself completely in the sand When sand dollars burrow into the sand, they provide more oxygen at lower levels of the ocean floor This allows for more organisms to live and thrive in that environment, creating greater biodiversity

Externally, on the top or aboral side, petalloids, specialized tube feet, are arranged in the shape of five flower petals that are used as gills Additionally, sand dollars can move by pumping water through their pores, the “flower petal” pattern on the top of the test are the sand dollars’ pores As water and gas get pushed through the pores, it propels the sand dollar forward

There are five narrow, oval shaped holes, lunules, that pierce the sand dollars’ test One pair towards the top, one longer hole in between and a second pair towards the bottom On the bottom side there are rings, similar to those of a tree trunk, which indicate the age of the sand dollar

Threats to the sand dollar include fishing, especially bottom trawling fishing and environmental changes due to pollution and climate change Ocean acidification and reduced salinity levels have adverse effects on the reproductive cycle of the sand dollar Natural predators such as

cod, flounder, sheepshead, and haddock along with sea stars, octopus, crabs and gulls are a part of the food chain But beach goers that collect live sand dollars pose a preventable threat In return, when those live sand dollars die, indiscriminate collectors are in for the putrid smell of death If caught with live sand dollars, in Florida the fine is $500 plus the possibility of 60 days of jail time

The sand dollar is a remarkable member of our SWFL ecosystem Not only is it a beautiful, unique example of marine life, but an important component of the food chain While alive, they need to be protected Sand dollars need to be kept safely in their purses! Only when they naturally reach the end of their lives should they be collected to be enjoyed for eternity

Wendy DeGaetano

Shoreline Spotlight

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Sand dollar larvae stage.

PET PALS

These little ones came from a breeder and fortunately for them they were rescued from a poor life Mom, Venus, was used for 8 years to reproduce multiple times with no vaccines and no care (she has four teeth left) Poppy is 8 months old and has never had too many dogs and people besides his mom and the breeder Now it is time to turn t h i s f a m i l y a r o u n d a n d g i v e them a chance Venus is a shitzu and Poppy a Shorkie (Shitzu and Yorkie mix)

If you would like to help them please contact us at 239281-0739

We would consider adopting them separately so Poppy can have many friends Not always great Mom wants some quiet time and Poppy is just a puppy!

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.

Cheeto and Nacho: Two adorable kittens in need of a new home

By Jo Knobloch

Saveourstraysfmb @yahoo.com

Founder of Save Our Strays Cat Rescue

a 501c3 organization on Fort Myers Beach

Cheeto and Nacho are two adorable 4 -month-old male kittens who are siblings. They are orange and white and very sweet and playful They will soon be fully vetted and ready for their forever homes Please call 239-851-3485 if you would like to schedule a time to come meet them

T h r e e k i t t e n s , A u r a , W i l l y a n d Bernie are at the pet supermarket on College and 41 Stop in and see them They are fully vetted and ready for adoption

As always we are in need of donations and volunteers. Please call 239851-3485 if you can help in any way

Mom and son a perfect family!

Venus

Poppy

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Southwest Florida Symphony to host movie screening of ‘Green Book’ Aug. 11

The Southwest Florida Symphony, the only professional orchestra in Lee County and fourth oldest orchestra in the state, will feature “Green Book” as part of its “Cinema with the Symphony” summer movie screening series The showing will take place at 6:30 p m , Friday, Aug 11, at the symphony’s Artistic & Operations Center at Bell Tower in Fort Myers, 13499 S Cleveland Ave , Suite #175

Lee County Black History Society Executive Director Autumn Watkins Holloway will introduce the film and provide insight into the Green Book’s significance for our local community. The pre-screening remarks begin at 6 p m

Tickets are $20 Popcorn, wine, soft drinks and movie style snacks will be available for a suggested donation Proceeds from these fundraising events will be used to support the symphony’s programming and educational initiatives At all showings, attendees will receive a discount code that can be used toward the purchase of concert tickets during the symphony’s 2023-24 season

The Southwest Florida Symphony’s “Cinema with the Symphony” features a variety of music-themed movies The last movie screening of the series featuring “Quartet” will be held Friday, Sept. 22.

To reserve tickets, visit swflso org or call 239-4181500

The Alliance for the Arts to present Into the Green: Botanical Insights through Aug. 28

The Alliance for the Arts invites the public to its opening reception of Into the Green: Botanical Insights by Susan Martin on August 4 from 5 to 7 p m The free event features the works of the Merritt Island based painter Susan Martin as well as light refreshments The exhibit will be on view from August 4-28, 2023 at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.

For more information visit www ArtInLee org

About Alliance for the Arts

The Alliance for the Arts is a nonprofit community visual and performing arts center located in the heart of Fort Myers, Florida. Since 1975, the Alliance has been committed to transforming lives and improving community through the arts The Alliance campus and galleries are open to the public from 9 a m to 7 p m Tuesday through Friday, and from 9 a m to 1 p m on Saturdays

Located at 10091 McGregor Boulevard just south of Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers For more information, p l e a s e c a l l 2 3 9 - 9 3 9 - 2 7 8 7 , v i s i t u s a t www ArtInLee org, find us on Facebook, Instagram or follow us on Twitter

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

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 C o m i c

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

Berne Davis garden tours now available

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

by recording his fifth hour special, “Broccoli,” at his home club, Comedy Works in Denver In 2021, following his third-place 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 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

Faces of Pace Celebration & Gala to benefit Pace programs in Lee County on Oct. 21

Pace Center for Girls, Lee will host its Faces of Pace Celebration & Gala on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 6 to 10 p m a t t h e C a l o o s a S o u n d C o n v e n t i o n C e n t e r & Amphitheater, at 1375 Monroe St Fort Myers

The gala will feature dinner, dancing and live music by Bay Kings Band, as well as a spirited live auction with p r o c e e d s b e n e f i t i n g P a c e p r o g r a m s a n d s e r v i c e s

Recognizing all the Faces of Pace who have played an integral part of the center’s mission to change the lives of girls and young women, the evening will include messages from founding members and alumni of Pace Lee

Presented by B&I Contractors, a range of sponsorship opportunities are still available for the gala, including the Creating Partnerships sponsor at $10,000, Invest in the Future sponsor at $7,500, Focus on Strengths sponsor at $5,000, Honor the Female Spirit table sponsor at $1,500 and in-kind sponsorships

The signature event is led by co-chairs Noelle Casagrande and Lt Angelo Vaughn with honorary chair Sandy Stilwell Youngquist B&I Contractors is the gala’s title sponsor

The fundraising event supports Pace Lee in providing girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy Programs are based on the belief that all girls and young women, regardless of race, ethnicity or socioeconomic status, should be uniquely cared for, supported and encouraged to become the best versions of themselves through a path of healing and recovery Through Pace Lee, 100% of students improved their academic performance, 100% had no involvement with the juvenile justice system within one year of exiting the program and 95% were either in school or gainfully employed after leaving Pace Lee

For

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

t 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

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

PHOTO PROVIDED Josh Blue

Clyde Butcher celebrates 30 years of Big Cypress Gallery

Clyde Butcher, the renowned and celebrated landscape photographer is thrilled to announce the 30th anniversary of the Big Cypress Gallery For the last three decades, the gallery has served as a testament to the inseparable connection between art and nature, emphasizing the importance of conservation in our ever-chang-

ing world To mark this significant milestone, Clyde Butcher and his wife, Niki Butcher, invite art enthusiasts and nature lovers to join them for a book signing and meet and greet event at the gallery on Saturday, Sept 2, from 10 a m – 3 p m , at Big Cypress Gallery, 52388 Tamiami Trail, Ochopee.

Book signing and Meet & Greet with Clyde and Niki Butcher

Join Clyde and Niki Butcher at Big Cypress Gallery for an exclusive book s i g n i n g e v e n t G u e s t s w i l l h a v e t h e opportunity to meet the artists, view their latest works, and learn about their artistic processes Clyde and Niki will be signing books and answering questions about their adventures living in and documenting Florida’s Everglades

Unveiling of two commemorative ar t pieces

As part of the 30th Anniversary celebration, Clyde Butcher will unveil two breathtaking commemorative art pieces that hold special significance for the gallery and its history

1 Li mi te d Edi ti o n Tri pty c h:

Search under way to find former USS Intrepid crew members

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum reported that Aug 16 will mark the 80th anniversary of the commissioning of USS Intrepid (CVS-11), the World War II-era Essex class aircraft carrier that is now the centerpiece of the New York City museum To mark the occasion, the museum will put out a coast-to-coast “all call” for I n t r e p i d f o r m e r c r e w m e m b e r s t o b e reunited at a special 80th Commissioning Anniversary Celebration on board the ship.

T h e m u s e u m i s a l s o s e e k i n g a n d accepting donations of personal artifacts and memorabilia from former crew members and their families The museum noted that each item added to the collection helps it perpetuate, honor, express and interpret Intrepid’s stories of service, and to fulfill its mission to honor, educate and inspire millions of people each year

The museum reported that the homecoming will feature a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of Intrepid’s commissioning on Aug 16, honoring former crew members from all eras of the carrier’s service, who will reunite and share stories of their tours of duty It will host a special former crew member dinner event that evening and guided tours of the ship

For some former crew members, it will be the first time they have been aboard their ship since the completion of their service

While the museum recognizes the ship’s

commissioning anniversary every year, the 80th celebration promises to be the largest gathering of former crew members since the 75th anniversary in 2018

The museum added that the Intrepid’s 8 0 t h C o m m i s s i o n i n g A n n i v e r s a r y Celebration is open to the public, and will feature events specifically tailored for former crew members and their families, as well as opportunities for members of the public to interact with the visiting former crew members.

Now a national historic landmark, the aircraft carrier Intrepid was one of the most successful and stalwart ships in U S history Nicknamed “The Fighting I” by its crew, it served in the Pacific during World War II, surviving five kamikaze attacks and one torpedo strike It later cond u c t e d s u b m a r i n e s u r v e i l l a n c e i n t h e North Atlantic during the Cold War and served three tours of duty off Vietnam It was also one of the primary recovery vessels for NASA during the Mercury and Gemini missions, and retrieved astronauts Scott Carpenter, Gus Grissom and John Young after their respective orbits and splashdowns in the Pacific

To learn more about the commemoration and for registration information, former crew members and their family members can visit intrepidmuseum org/80 or contact fcm@intrepidmuseum org

Remembering Leon Whilden

This compilation of three photographs takes you on a visual narrative of Clyde’s journey to finding the ideal location to build his home and gallery Perfectly capturing the essence of Big Cypress Gallery and the former Orchid Isles, this piece is a tribute to the late Leon Whilden Leon’s decision to sell the property to the Butchers, enabled Clyde and Niki to introduce the beauty of the Everglades to numerous individuals and foster a passion for conservation This Limited Edition triptych will be numbered and signed by Clyde

2 . Limited Edition Platinum Palladium: Celebrating Big Cypress Gallery

Clyde presents a unique limited edition of his very first 30×40” Platinum Palladium photograph taken on the Big Cypress property This masterpiece captures the pristine beauty and untamed wilderness of the gallery’s surroundings, showcasing Clyde’s artistic talent and profound connection with nature This very limited edition series will be numbered and signed by Clyde

“I am humbled and grateful to reach this 30th anniversary of Big Cypress Gallery,” said Butcher “Throughout these years, my mission has remained constant: to use my photography as a tool to advocate for nature conservation and foster a deep appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us I look forward to sharing this celebration with our visitors and continuing our collective efforts to protect our planet’s natural treasures ”

Public meeting to discuss future of Lee County Civic Center complex Aug. 17

Lee County Parks & Recreation will h o s t a d r o p - i n s t y l e p u b l i c m e e t i n g regarding the Civic Center complex from 6-8 p m Thursday, Aug 17, at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center, 2000 North Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers

A public survey was created in March to garner public input on long-term options for the Lee County Civic Center complex. The public meeting will give residents the opportunity to view the survey results and help give input on the future of the complex

The meeting will be a drop-in format so residents can attend at whatever time is convenient for them to view presentation materials and interact with staff

Lee County has launched a landing page, www leegov com/CivicCenter, to provide easy access to information about the Civic Center, including interactive maps, history, timelines and more in a u s e r - f r i e n d l y f o r m a t T h e s i t e a l s o includes summaries of recent Board of C o u n t y C o m m i s s i o n e r s ’ a c t i o n s a n d links to videos so residents can watch the Board discussions A virtual comment card will be available on the Civic Center

landing page for one week following the meeting for those who were not able to attend F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t L e e County Parks and Recreation locations, a m e n i t i e s a n d s p e c i a l e v e n t s , v i s i t www leeparks org, call 239-533-7275, e m a i l l e e p a r k s @ l e e g o v c o m o r v i s i t @ l e e p a r k s a n d r e c r e a t i o n o n F a c e b o o k and Instagram

To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter here: www leegov com/resources/newsletters

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Lee County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in its services, programs, or activities To request an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or a reasonable modification to participate, contact Joan LaGuardia, 239-533-2314, Florida Relay Service 7 1 1 , o r j l a g u a r d i a @ l e e g o v c o m Accommodation will be provided at no cost to the requestor Requests should be made at least five business days in advance

Offshore Sailing School announces anniversary contest

STAFF REPORT

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Offshore Sailing School, which has a location at the 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva, is hosting a photo-essay contest to win a one-week charter for its 60th anniversary

The 60th Anniversary Contest is open to sailing school graduates and Colgate Sailing Adventures flotilla sailors The grand prize winner will receive a gift certificate for a six-night seven-day charter aboard a Moorings 40-foot monohull or

catamaran in the British Virgin Islands next year, along with a $500 gift certificate from the Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina to use during their charter week

To enter, create an original photograph or artwork painting or sketch that illustrates or was inspired by taking a sailing or powerboating certification course with the sailing school or by participating in a Colgate Sailing Adventures flotilla Entrants must also include a 100-word typed essay about how the experience changed their life

Entrants must be age 21 or older to be eligible

Entries must be received by Aug 31

Entries will be judged by a three-person panel

In addition to the grand prize, the first place winner will receive a $1,500 gift certificate to apply toward an Offshore Sailing School course The second place winner will receive a copy of Onne van der Wal's “Sailing” coffee table book Three honorable mentions will receive an autographed copy of “OFFSHORE High,” the biogra-

phy of owners Steve and Doris Colgate and their sailing school

The prizes will be announced and displayed at the United States Sailboat Show on Oct 12-15 in Annapolis, Maryland

To enter, visit https://lngc-zgph.maillistmanage net/click/13698b7781976cc6/13 698b778196dcc9

For more information and the full contest rules, visit https://lngc-zgph maillistmanage net/click/13698b7781976cc6/1 3698b778196dcc7

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e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , A u g u s t 9 , 2 0

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PHOTO PROVIDED

Clyde and Niki Butcher at Big Cypress Gallery

SPORTS & RECREATION

F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva announces registration open and more for

annual 10K

STAFF REPORT

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva reported that its Annual 10K Race 4 F I S H planned for this year has been restructured, including a new title and additional activities, to celebrate the resilience of the islands

The 15th Annual F.I.S.H. 10K/5K will be held on Dec 2 beginning at 7:30 a m at The Community House on Sanibel

This year marks the first in-person event in recent years In 2020 and 2021, F I S H offered a virtual race only because of COVID, and the 2022 event was canceled due to Hurricane Ian This year's event will offer a virtual option, but F I S H is encouraging runners to join in-person and enjoy the islands

“Our islands have been through a lot since (Hurricane) Ian, and F I S H has been here every step of the way,” Executive Director Maria Espinoza said “We want our race event to be joyous and one that not only raises funds for F I S H , but also revels our community and how far we've come since Ian's landfall ”

New this year, the F.I.S.H. Race Committee has added a 5K to the day's activities There will also be a kids' race and family fun day, hosted in partnership with the Sanibel Recreation Center on Sanibel

“We feel the 5K will draw additional runners looking to do a shorter race and see it as the perfect opportunity to add other festivities to celebrate our islands,” committee Co-chair Diane Cortese said “I'm especially excited about this year's event and raising funds for F I S H while bringing folks to our special islands for a fun-filled day ”

Co-chair Leah Winkler noted that this year's event will be “nothing short of spectacular,” while Sanibel Recreation Department Director Andrea Miller encouraged the public to stay tuned for further details

“The Sanibel Recreation Department is excited to partner with F I S H to offer a fun-filled holiday themed event, with something for everyone, at the recreation center,” Miller said “We look forward to bringing the community together again for some holiday joy ”

The registration fees are as follows:

∫ In-person 10K/5K: $45 from now through Sept 25

∫ In-person 10K/5K: $50 from Sept 26 through Dec 1

∫ In-person 10K/5K: $55 on Dec 2

∫ In-person 10K/5K (age 18 and under): $35 from now until Dec 1

∫ Virtual 10K/5K: $50

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 239-768-4210 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, Aug 9 @ 7 p m vs Bradenton Marauders

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

Race packets will be available for pick up on Dec 1 from 8 to 11 a m at the Sanibel Recreation Center, at 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, and from 1 to 6:30 p m at Fleet Feet Fort Myers at the Bell Tower Shops, at 13499 S. Cleveland Ave , Unit 209, Fort Myers Packets will also be available on event day Dec 2 at the race site when registration is open from 6:30 to 7:15 a m

To register, visit runsignup com/Race/FL/ Sanibel/ 10K5KRace4FISH

In addition, F I S H is seeking volunteers for various positions throughout the morning, including cheering on runners and water station assistance Other opportunities include assisting at TCH with set up, registration and clean up, handing out ribbons, award ceremony assistance and assisting at the recreation center for the kids' race and family fun day

“We need many individuals to man driveways and water stations during the race to ensure the safety and health and wellness of our runners It's a great way to show support for F I S H and our community and can be loads of fun,” committee Member Nancy Craig said “Although the race isn't until early December, we need as many commitments as possible ahead of time ”

Interested individuals can contact Craig at ncraig64@gmail com or F I S H at 239-4724775.

Also, sponsorship opportunities are available For more information, visit http://fishofsancap org/

For more information about the event, contact Cortese at Dianerc10@gmail com or Winkler at leahwinkler12 @gmail com

The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

San Carlos Bay Sail & Power Squadron America’s Boating Course schedule

America’s Boating Course (8 hr) Aug 12, 8:15 a m

America’s Boating Course (8 hr) Sept 9, 8:15 a m

America’s Boating Course (8 hr) Oct 7, 8:15 a m

America’s Boating Course (8 hr) Dec 2, 8:15 a m

For more information call 239-466-4040 or v i s i t h t t p : / / w w w s c b p s c o m ,

Sanibel golf course open to public

The Sanibel Island Golf Club reported that it is the only public golf course open on the islands post-Hurricane Ian. Officials reported that thanks to staff's hard work and dedication, the course reopened in December The current rates are: $60 for 18-holes riding, includes sales tax and cart; and $40 for 18-holes walking, includes sales tax To book a tee time, text 239822-1012 For more information, visit sanibelislandgc com

The Sanibel Island Golf Club is at 1100 Par View Drive, Sanibel

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, Aug. 10 @ 7 p.m. vs. Bradenton Marauders

Game Highlight: $1 and $2 Beer Night

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, Aug 11 @ 7 p m vs Bradenton Marauders

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: Back to School Night

Presented By Raymond James

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 News-Press

Saturday, Aug 12 @ 6 p.m. vs. Bradenton Marauders

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: Wizardry Night

Game Highlight: Cancer Sucks Night #7

In the ongoing battle to fight Cancer the Mussels will partner with area organizations to raise money for the fight | Presented By Budweiser

Sunday, Aug 13 @ noon vs Bradenton Marauders

Game Highlight: Sunday Brunch

Join the Mussels for Brunch & Baseball! Get an all you can eat Brunch from 11-1 for just $15 with your game ticket

Game Highlight: Kid's Club Sundays

Kids can join the Mussels Sprouts and get tickets to each Sunday home game plus a shirt and access to VIP events for just $33! | Presented By Choice Charter Schools, The Law Offices of Spencer Cordell

Game Highlight: Kids Run the Bases

All kids can run the bases after each Sunday home game | Presented By BRANDT

Game Highlight: Kid's Catch on the Field

All kids can play catch on the field prior to each Sunday home game from 11-11:30 a m

Source: www milb com

Tony’s Tree Service

n W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , A u g u s t 9 , 2 0 2 3 f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h O b s e r v e r