Helping kids
VolumE 48, NumbEr 15
Celebrating Pine Islanders: Carol Scott
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com
com
Matlacha Civic Association President Carol Scott said she is a problem solver and that she very much enjoys her role as president with the Civic Association, however, no matter what else is going on, her family comes first
She and her husband, Joe, moved to Matlacha in 2010, although, she said, her family originally moved to Lee County in 1977 She has been on and off the Greater Lee County American Cancer Society, Relay For Life and a leader for 25 years, she said, adding that she’s proud to work with them every year
According to Scott, there was no definitive moment in which Pine Island became special because, to her, it always was and still is
“Our goal was always to get out here We worked hard
Carol Scott
and saved our money and
Matlacha We came out here every chance we had and when we got close to retirement we thought we’d better build a house,” Scott said
The idea pulling friendships together came about thanks to the island community, she said, crediting the many dear souls who are
Everyone, she said, needs to do things together to make the island shine
Centennial Bank utilizes shred boxes for Pine Island Food Pantry donations
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com
Centennial Bank has a shred company, which sent many boxes to the Pine Island branch, that turned out to be un-needed Branch Manager Elsie Stearns said she didn’t want to simply throw the boxes in the garbage, but decided instead to give them a purpose
The boxes were decorated and a food drive was started, aptly named, "Stock the Box "
“Being a member of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, I knew their pantry donations were down and the requests were up because season is over and businesses and things are slower now,” Stearns said
Centennial Bank's food drive continues until the end of August Food can be dropped off at the bank at 5551 Sunset Lane, St. James City. Call 239-283-1618 for additional information
Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Church is at 12175 Stringfellow Road Call 239-283-0456 for information
Centennial Bank employees, above, from left, Assistant Manager Kim Essley, teller Lillie Overbaugh and Elsie Stearns, vice president and senior branch manager PROVIDED
“The island has a lot of artists I thought of us pulling ourselves together and doing projects, like the ‘paint and picnic’ where we painted the pilings and palm trees in Matlacha It was simple, just pulling the artists together,” Scott said
Trying to describe the island to someone who has never heard of it, she said, is answered with the words, unique, historic dating back to the Calusa Indians, and surrounded by beautiful waterways, where everyone knows each other
In addition to confessing that she asks God to make her a tool to make others happy, Scott said her greatest wish for the island applies now, in 2024
“I would wish that our restoration from Hurricane Ian
See CAROL SCOTT, page 15
GPICA hosts candidates for Lee County Commission
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com
Candidates for the Lee County Commission in the primary election on Aug 20, were the special guests of the Greater Pine Island Civic Association at the group's August meeting
The idea was to have a candidates’ forum, designed to allow community residents an opportunity learn about the people running for the Lee County Commission
GPICA President Deborah Swisher-Hicks introduced the three candidates, in attendance, David Mulicka, who running for District 3; Amanda Cochran, who is running in District 5; and Mike Greenwell, who is the District 5 commission incumbent
Matthew Thornton, who running for the District 3 seat, was unable to attend
Cochran began by telling members her family is local by six generations and that she has been both a wife and a business woman for 25 years Having never planned on a life in politics, what brought her to this arena was a radically changed community, she said
“My mother taught me, ‘You don’t get to complain unless you’re willing to be part of the solution,'” Cochran said.
It was at that point, she said, she dug in and studied t h e p r o
Commissioner She said she would like to represent Lee County as a voice of reason.
“I say often that I am endorsed by the people, not the powerful,” Cochran said, finishing her opening statement with a promise that if elected, she will serve the people of Lee County with transparency and accountability Mulicka, who is a Bokeelia resident and the president o
Industries owner Dan Honc, who is his uncle, as well as his father, John, owner of Honc Marine, and began his opening statement saying he is very proud of the Honc
See CANDIDATES, page 14
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F.I.S.H.’s 24th annual Back to School Basket Brigade for kids a huge success
A s p e c i a l h e a r t f e l t t h a n k y o u t o e v e r yo n e f o r p a r t i c i p a t i n g i n t h e 2 0 2 4 / 2 0 2 5
F I S H ( F e l l o w I s l a n d e r s S p e n d i n g
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u p c o m i n g s c h o o l y e a r A t o t a l o f 1 5 4
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t h i s y e a r
F I S H c o n t i n u e d l a s t y e a r ’ s f o r m a t
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C h u r c h a l o n g w i t h t h e f i r s t B l o c k P a r t y
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c l o t h i n g a n d g i f t c a r d s f o r n e w s h o e s ,
e a c h c h i l d r e c e i v e d n e w t o o t h b r u s h e s f r o m t h e G r e a t e r P i n e I s l a n d F o o d P a n t r y
a n d i n f o r m a t i o n o n d r u g a w a r e n e s s f r o m
t h e G r e a t e r P i n e I s l a n d E l k s C l u b
D a r c y C o n n e r , F . I . S . H . B a s k e t
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t h a n k t h e m a n y i s l a n d e r s a n d c o r p o r a t e s p o n s o r s w h o d o n a t e d a n d a d o p t e d c h i l -
d r e n i n t h i s y e a r ’ s p r o g r a m D u e t o t h e s c h o o l s c h e d u l e s t a r t i n g e a r l y , s h e s a i d
t h e y r e a c h e d o u t t o t h e c o m m u n i t y d i r e c t l y t o h e l p w i t h s p o n s o r i n g t h e k i d s a n d P i n e I s l a n d d i d n o t d i s a p p o i n t A l l o f
t h e k i d s w e r e a d o p t e d o u t , s h o p p e d f o r
a n d t h e i t e m s r e t u r n e d !
T h i s y e a r c o n t i n u e s t h e t r e n d o f i s l a n d e r s a l s o m o v i n g a w a y a n d n e w
f a m i l i e s m o v i n g t o t h e i s l a n d . T h e g r o u p w a n t s t o c o n t i n u e t o m a k e s u r e i s l a n d c h i l d r e n s
PHOTO PROVIDED
From left are Roberto Contreras, Ralph Herring, Cynthia Welsh, Carolyn Ryzanych, Shirley Battersby, Debra Hill, Darcy Conner, Jim Wentz, Lori Tidwell, Armando Perez, Ruth and Luis Ramos
OPINIONS
Publisher Raymond M Eckenrode
reckenrode@breezenewspapers com
Executive Editor Valarie Harring vharring@breezenewspapers com
Editor Paulette LeBlanc pleblanc@breezenewspapers com
Advertising Director Laurie Ragle
lragle@ breezenewspapers com
Advertising Sales
More than 100,000 students will head back to school on Monday as the new school year begins
It’s said that each year brings a fresh start, a new beginning, for children and educators alike
This year, maybe more than ever, we are among those who hope this is more promise than platitude.
For too many children are not doing well when it comes to educational basics, too m
District of Lee County itself acknowledged in June as the last school year wrapped up
Meghan Bradbury:
The district earned its lowest ranking ever ninth among the top 10 districts for the 2022-2023 school year
went from 13th among the largest 25 districts in the state in 2016-17 to 22nd
For the 10 largest districts for math, the district ranks ninth
For the 2022-2023 school year, the district had an 85 1% graduation rate, a ranking of 47th statewide
What does this mean on the student level?
We will use those third grade numbers
Only 27% of third graders were profi-
Centennial
Bank Food Drive is an ongoing success; first drop-off – 550 pounds of food
To the editor:
Centennial Bank is hosting a food drive on behalf of the Pine Island Food Pantry through the month of August Elsie Stearns, senior branch manager, is on a mission to fill 25 large boxes with food The first drop-off delivered 10 boxes and 550 pounds of food. This is a huge boost to our fellow islanders in need
Please consider dropping off any non-perishable food to help make this food drive a big success Centennial Bank is located at 5551 Sunset Lane, St James City
A big thanks to those who donated and especially to Elsie and the Centennial Bank team for their hard work and support to our food pantry and our island community overall You’re the best!
Diane Gleason Pine Island Food Pantry
cient in reading at grade level with
Department of Education
Only 37% were proficient in math with 44% scoring below the minimum “passing” benchmark
The numbers were abysmal as they have been for too many years, predating COVID, predating Hurricane Ian
Giovannelli summed up succinctly the information presented to the board in June:
“We have been neglecting children for 12 years Our job is to identify deficiencies and do something about it The data is quite clear and for me I have always spoken about identifying the problems and taking ownership I am prepared to move forward today because we can’t waste another year Let’s do something about it I don’t know how you go about making a meaningful change without really doing change. It’s about the children We failed because the data shows that,” she said
We point out that 12 years is pretty much the entire school career for the graduating
Letters to the Editor
The people need to take charge to assure clean water
To the editor:
My guess is that many of you read these columns regularly and have seen many letters written about the Florida Right to Clean Water Amendment We have presented our arguments in favor of this amendment and have mentioned that over 900,00 signatures by registered Florida voters are needed to place this amendment on the ballot Every week we are alerted to the disastrous conditions of our waters and potential health risks associated with them Since launching in late April, about 3,000 Lee County voters have signed the petition. That’s good, but, frankly, not good enough, and disappointing
The increase and frequency of harmful algal blooms, nutrient pollution discharged from Lake O, and poor management practices by water authorities all need immediate correction Outside of spending millions of taxpayer dollars on stopgap reservoirs, no
Class of ’25
So yes, it’s not only time for a change, change is long, long overdue
The board has taken action, including a decision to create four new “assistant superintendent” positions for a more hands-on emphasis on schools
Voters have taken action, too, converting the appointive superintendent of schools position to an elected post with the first elected superintendent since the ’70s to take office following the General Election in November
Will these two substantive changes in administrative re-structuring make a difference in the classroom?
We don’t know
But we do know that’s the only place district practices, policies, goals and objectives matter: whether our children all of our children, not less than half are getting the “world class education” the district has long said is its goal
May this school year, in fact, be a fresh start, a new beginning here in Lee County
That is exactly what district students need
That is exactly what they deserve
concentrated push has ever been effectively made to correct the source of our polluted waters and hold the polluters responsible. The only way to change this is for US to take charge With this amendment we can become the stewards of our waters and require the state to give us a compelling interest when through action or inaction it allows harm to our waters
If you agree, please sign our petition at L
FloridaRighttoClean Water org No one else can sign for you but you, and this is a small ask If you have already signed, please spread the word. By doing so, you will enable not only yourself but many others the ability to participate in caring for our waters
Mary Tracy Sigman Fort Myers
The Hispanic vote and three Republican presidents
To the editor:
Ronald Reagan often said “Hispanics are conservative They just don’t know it ” Reagan viewed Hispanic values as closely related to conservative values, as both tended to place emphasis on religious faith, family, and hard work
He also saw that both groups maintain strong opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage.
Reagan understood that the Hispanic vote w a
Republican share of the Hispanic vote from 24% in 1976 to 37% in 1980 when he was elected
United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is one of many nonprofits making an impact across Southwest Florida
Lee, Hendry and Glades counties are fortunate to have so many highly rated, highly effective nonprofits working diligently to shape our society and provide hope for a brighter future
U n i t e d W a y o f L e e , H e n d r y , a n d
Glades is proud to be among this group providing resources, programs and services that improve the lives of everyone in Southwest Florida The organization is one of 1,800 regional affiliates of United Way, each of which is an independently incorporated nonprofit with its own grantmaking guidelines and local board that make funding decisions
From providing therapeutic pets for Children's Advocacy Center of SWFL to offering free tax preparation for lowincome households to advocating for military veterans, United Way’s impact is felt daily across Southwest Florida
Please join me in recognizing and celebrating these organizations and others on National Nonprofit Day, commemorated
From page 4
on Aug 17 The annual observance encourages citizens to take some time to learn more about nonprofits operating in their community
That includes nonprofits such as Hope Clubhouse of S
p
Clubhouse supports adults living with a mental illness by providing opportunities for paid employment and access to education, housing and wellness By work-
Way, Hope Clubhouse can connect more deeply with
stronger, more resilient networks of support
Matt Humphreys Guest Commentary
Hope Clubhouse CEO Lauren Walker had this to say about her nonprofit having an opportunity to collaborate with United
Letters to the Editor
George Bush was also able to connect to Hispanic voters As the governor of Texas, he had a large Hispanic constituency. George Bush could credibly claim a connection with the Latino community Campaigning for President he often used a few words in Spanish to cement his connection with Latino voters
He was successful in courting Hispanic Evangelicals He obtained 44% of the Hispanic vote
Evangelicals helped Bush win the election They increased their share of the vote from 25% in 2000 to 32% in 2004 Trump strategy for attracting Hispanic votes is not grounded on the ReaganBusch presidential history
Way: “Southwest Florida is a naturally collaborative community For a smaller n
H o p e Clubhouse, nothing speaks to this more than being part of the United Way
honored to work closely with United Way through
Access to these programs directly impacts our ability to increase the quality of life for our members ”
As a new applicant and award recipient starting in January 2025, the United Way has opened doors for Trailways Camp to a broad range of collaborative relationships and potential partnerships that will improve the lives of adults with special needs and their caregivers
provider network meetings, with introductions to a variety of community providers and opportunities to make personal contacts leading to potential partnerships,” s
Senkeleski “There are opportunities for
Trailways Camp and how we can address such great numbers in need of healthy living opportunities and through overnight c
respite for caregivers ”
As a new organization with start-up capacity building needs essential to grow outreach and impact, the United Way has favorably considered Trailways Camp’s initial grant request that will spur outreach to hundreds of entrants from special education programs each year
As United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades gets set to commemorate National Nonprofit Day, we will reinforce our dedication to creating positive, lasting change in the Southwest Florida communities we serve By focusing on education, income and health, and leveraging the power of collective action, we continue to build
This again proves that together, we can make a difference
DACA or to deport millions of undocumented immigrants is not going to help him gain a large share of the Hispanic vote
Sigfredo Hernandez Bonita Springs
Directors Board President for United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades For
Make a plan so you are ready to vote
As your Supervisor of Elections, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of participating in your primary elections.
The upcoming Aug 20 primary election is
become an active partic-
ment at all levels.
This year, every voter will have something to
primary contests
G i v e n t h
cance of the races being decided in the primary,
historically low for primary elections
Florida’s Election Code provides you with three different voting options You can vote by mail, vote in person during the flexible Early Voting schedule or vote in person on Election Day As a reminder, you can only vote in your assigned precinct on Election Day
In our summer newsletter, we have provided a guide that includes everything you need to know for the Aug 20 primary election I encourage you to read it thoroughly, ensure your information is current with my office, request your Vote-by-Mail ballot as your justin-case insurance policy and make your plan so you are ready to vote!
T o v i e w t h e
Newsroom/Newsletter/Current-Newsletter
Tommy Doyle is the Lee County Supervisor of Elections For more information, visit https://www lee vote/ or call 239-533-8683
/
Lee County Commission votes to purchase 10-acre property on Pine Island for Conservation 20/20
The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted Tuesday to purchase 10 acres east of Stringfellow Road in St James City, Pine Island, for $50,000 The land will be added to the Pine Island Flatwoods Preserve –Bayside, an existing Conservation 20/20 property
The Conservation Land Acquisition and Stewardship Advisory Committee recommended approval of this purchase by unanimous vote on June 19
Closing costs are estimated to add up to $12,000 to the acquisition cost
In other action Tuesday, the Lee Board of County Commissioners voted to pursue acquisition activity on two parcels:
■ A 129 5-acre parcel located in Buckingham, south of the Orange River Road and east of Interstate 75 and north of Homestead Lane
■ A 14-acre in-fill parcel located in J N Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge in southwest Lee County The land is located about 500 feet east of Captiva Island, on an island known as Buck Key and is the last remaining privately owned infill parcel on Buck Key. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which contains 6,525 acres in
Lee
Lee County
Both parcels were recommended for acquisition by CLASAC Any purchase agreements will be returned to the Board for future consideration
Conservation 20/20 Land Acquisition Program. For more information about the program, go to www leegov.com/parks/conservation2020.
To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www.leegov.com/resources/ n
Facebook, www facebook com/leecountyflbocc
Health Bloodmobile to collect blood donations Saturday at island Moose Lodge
The Lee Health Bloodmobile will be visiting The Pine Island Moose Lodge at 8903 Stringfellow Road in St James City on Saturday, Aug 17, from 8 a m to noon All the blood collected remains in Lee Health, which includes the Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida, the Regional Cancer Center and the o n l y T r a u m a C
(
Memorial Hospital) within a 5-county radius The blood also supports Cape Coral Hospital and Gulf Coast Medical Center
One in three people will need blood in their lifetime You never know when you or someone you know or love will need blood. So come out and "Give the Gift of Life!"
All donors will receive a free health checkup, cholesterol screening and gift
New studies show that donating blood improves your overall cardiovascular health Regularly donating blood
helps men in particular to reduce the amount of iron in the blood This can reduce the chance of heart attack by 88% Additionally, regular blood donation can lower the risk of severe cardiovascular events such as stroke by 33% You also burn 650 calories! It's a win-win!
The Moose Lodge goal is 20 units of blood
Requirements for donating blood:
■ Weigh at least 115 pounds
■ Be at least 16 years old (16 requires parental written consent)
■ Be relatively healthy
■ Provide photo ID
■ Have 56 days between donations
Donors are asked to eat a meal before donating blood and be sure to drink plenty of fluids before and after donation
Questions about donating? Call 343-2333
Tommy Doyle Guest Commentary
Hurricane season is here. Are you prepared?
(
Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District Community Emergency Response Team will be providing a series on disaster preparedness for islanders.)
By NARCISSUS E. MAGTURO and KAREN TITOLO CERT team members
Welcome to your CERT team’s series of Disaster Preparedness articles
After the Storm – Disaster Recovery. SAFETY FIRST!
If there is an evacuation order, you are strongly encouraged to evacuate These are “orders” not “suggestions ” Emergency services may not be available to assist you until long after the event has passed, especially with road closures and blockages During Hurricane Ian, many Pine Island residents were cut off from assistance for several days to a few weeks due to the bridges being out, and trees, telephone poles, and power lines blocking roads
Take precautions after the storm has passed Damage to your home and community can be extensive Relief supplies and help may take several days to arrive If it’s unsafe to stay, leave or seek help elsewhere.
Keep these tips in mind:
1 Only call 911 for life threatening situations
2 If you are willing and able to, render first aid to
CERT Update
anyone injured
3 If it is safe and you are able, check on any neighbors who may have chosen to not evacuate
4 Contact your emergency contact to give them an update of your status and get updates of loved ones who may have also been impacted
5 Talk to kids A natural disaster is a traumatic experience, especially for kids
6 R e
Agency (FEMA) disaster assistance as soon as it is made available
7 Stay tuned to local media for re-entry information and follow Lee County Public Safety on social media for announcements
8 Have a valid form of identification, if needed, for re-entry
9. Avoid downed wires and standing water. Assume all downed electrical wires are live
10 If it is necessary to drive, avoid weakened roads, bridges, power lines, or tree limbs that could collapse unexpectedly
11. Call utilities to report hazards such as broken gas or water mains, downed power lines, or overturned gas tanks
12 Turn off the main breaker to your house if the power is out
13 Document! Document! Document!
14 Photograph and take note of all damage and make any necessary temporary repairs
15 Contact your insurance company
16. Be careful of any wild or domestic animals. Even if you know an animal, it may be frightened or injured and could be dangerous.
If you use a generator, extreme caution is required While convenient and useful, generators can create hazards for homeowners and electric utility workers
1 Operate generators outside with plenty of ventilation
2 Do not connect a generator to a home electrical outlet or to a circuit breaker panel to avoid back feed Tune into news or social media for official instructions Lee County Public Safety/Emergency Management has a list of hazards to review and a Family Emergency Plan, which can be found at www LeeEOC com and on the LeePrepares app
REMINDER: Stay tuned to local media for re-entry information It may take some time for local authorities to clear the area to ensure that it is safe for you to return
Have Questions about this article? Interested in volunteering with our CERT team? You can contact the
(After they appear in print, each of the CERT Updates is posted on The Eagle website at pineisland-eagle com )
Volunteers thanked for help with the Beacon Bites program
Beacon Bites is what the Beacon of Hope calls its meals on wheels program Volunteers deliver the meals six days a week with two meals on Saturday There are usually between 20 and 25 meals delivered each day.
Beacon staff gives a big thank you to all the volun-
teers who not only deliver the meals but interact with the clients in so many positive ways
Local restaurants make the meals Beacon Bites has had two clients who asked what restaurant made the meal so he could tell a friend to go there because it was so good
Many thanks go to Pfuzzys Crab Shack, Burnt Store Tavern, Salty Girls and the Waterfront They are greatly appreciated
If you or someone you know could use Beacon Bites, please call the Beacon of Hope at 239-283-5123 and sign up
Little Pine Island Bridge project update provided
BARTOW, Fla – This weekly report was prepared by the Florida Department of Transportation to inform the public about upcoming road work in Southwest Florida Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge Permanent Repairs
Construction project: As part of the Emergency Restoration of the Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge, crews will be working in the project boundaries along CR 78 Pine Island Road from west of Little Pine
Shoreview Drive
■ Phase 1 of construction on Little Pine Island Bridge has begun The bridge is reduced to one lane as part of the Phase 1 construction plan The bridge will remain one lane through the duration of Phase 1 Temporary signals are placed on both ends of the bridge and variable message signs are in place to alert drivers.
■ The Little Pine Island bridge has been reduced to a single lane width of 12 feet through the duration of Phase 1
■ Motorists can expect occasional lane closures on the causeway for delivery/removal of materials, transfer of equipment as crews perform work on the south side
■ Motorists are reminded not to block driveways or entrances and to follow all posted signage throughout the construction zone
■ Since the start of construction with the Little Pine Island Bridge, boaters are asked to be aware of construction equipment and erosion control measures that are in place
■ Please be alerted to construction equipment in the construction zone To maintain safety, motorists should find alternate parking areas
■ Pedestrians and bicyclists are not permitted within
the construction zone
■ Please use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and exiting the roadway
■ Noise from construction equipment in the area is to be expected.
Please be patient and plan for additional travel time as it may be slower than usual in the area
Travelers can visit www FL511 com or dial “511” from their phone to learn about traffic conditions on major roadways across the state
For additional information about FDOT, please visit its website at https://www.fdot.gov/
A tribute to a wonderful individual
By TERRY FRANKLIN Special to The Eagle
Those who touch our lives live on in our hearts forever!
D o n a l d ( D o n n y ) K n u t h passed away peacefully July 22, 2024, after a period of faili n g h e a l t h A f f e c t i o n a t e l y
referred to as “The Mayor of Matlacha” by many townspeople, he had a myriad of friendships and acquaintances that spread far and wide He is lovingly remembered as the man who would do anything for others having touched so many with his kindness and generosity
Donny was born in 1930 in a suburb of Chicago and was raised in a large family He was a gifted singer, winning many contests in his youth mimicking the likes of Fred Astaire, Perry Como and even Elvis Presley As a young man, his dazzling blue eyes, strong jawline and full head of sandy-colored hair gained him entry in the modeling industry where he dabbled for a brief time
Soon he met the love of his life, Tula, and they were married shortly after When they were blessed with a wonderful son, John, he put aside his modeling stint, and became successfully employed at a large company in the windy city There he quickly moved up the ranks as a talented troubleshooter Later when he retired in the late 1980s, they made their way to Southwest Florida and eventually to Matlacha where they found their “forever home” as Donny often referred to it
He had a soft spot in his heart for animals, often taking in stray cats and dogs and providing them with a loving home He would care for them until their end days and then provide a spot in his yard for their final resting place
Among his favorite past-times were caring for his beautiful waterfront property, boating and chatting with the “locals ” As an amazing storyteller, Donny often entertained others with tales of his adventurous youth and the unique experiences of his adult life.
Donny was a one-in-million individual who will be sorely missed and never forgotten
SJCCA Schedule
The St James City Civic Association has announced the schedule for its upcoming activities:
Thursday, Aug. 15
■ Ping Pong, 9-11 a m It's a fun way to meet the neighbors and play ping pong
■ Mahjongg, 1-4 p m This is a great place to learn to play mahjongg!
Tuesday, Aug. 20
■ Ping Pong, 9-11 a m
Additional details, contacts and ticket sales are available at the SJCCA website at sjccapi org
Donald Knuth
A message from the commander
This past week, I had the privilege of a t t e n d i n g t h e V F W 1 2 5 N a t i o n a l Convention in Louisville, Kentucky It was a remarkable opportunity to network with Post Commanders, Veteran Service Officers and State Inspectors from across the nation I discovered a wealth of valuable resources for our veteran community and our post, and I am excited about the p o t e n t i a l t h e y o f f e r T h i s e v e n t h a s inspired a vision of new initiatives and improvements, not only for our veterans and their families but also for the entire community The connections and knowle d g e g a
i g h t e r future filled with support, growth and unity
After returning from the convention, the VFW partnered with Churches on the Streets, another nonprofit with which our chaplain, Preston Balmain, and I are both involved Together, we unite church mini
y Tuesday night at the NFM Rec Park, providing items such as clothes, shoes, toi-
News from VFW Post 4353
letries, tents and tarps. The VFW will serve as a donation drop-off point for COTS, and we are currently seeking d o n a t i o n s o f c h i l d r e n ' s , m e n ' s a n d women's clothing, shoes and toiletries I feel truly blessed that God has placed me in this community, filling my heart with joy and purpose
We recently attended Pine Island's first annual Block Party at the United Methodist Church, where organizations gathered to celebrate the community's resilience. While there, I raised donations for the post by using my creative talents in face painting for the children It was a wonderful day, highlighting the strength and unity of our community and the i
Streets
Commander SJ VFW Post 4353
From left are Chaplain Preston Balmain, Angela Bradford Valdez, Zachary Meador and Commander SJ
Deadline Aug. 23 for Beacon of Hope’s ‘Paint the Attic’ fundraiser
The Beacon of Hope is holding a fun and friendly competition for local artists to participate in this summer. The “Paint the Attic” fundraiser is an opportunity to paint a welcoming 6-foot by 15-foot mural on the front of the Beacon of Hope’s building which reflects the heart of its island home.
All local artists on Pine Island and Matlacha are encouraged to submit an entry. Interested artists can request a contest application from the Beacon and submit it along with the $35 application fee and miniature rendering of their mural on an 8.5-inch by 11-inch sheet of paper.
The winning entry will be selected by The Beacon Of Hope Board members Submissions can be dropped off at the Beacon of Hope’s Attic thrift store located at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle during normal hours of operation by the Aug 23
A
The winning entry will be selected by Aug. 30.
For additional information, please call
www beaconofhopepineisland com
p e n Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p m , and Saturday, from 10 a m to 3 pm
Fishing getting back on track after storm
After hurricane Debby moved up our coast it took until mid-week for winds to settle down Heading into the weekend, winds were light and seas were flat With all the rain and wind from Debby, water clarity was often poor around the inshore waters and off the beaches
Fishing around the gulf passes turned up tasty mangrove snapper plush catchand-release snook Snapper limits were boxed in the passes on the slower or slack tides drifting shrimp, pilchards and small pinfish across hard bott o m S n a p p e r w e r e a l s o caught around oyster bars, shorelines and structure in Pine Island Sound near the passes.
Snook were concentrated along the beach a few feet into the surf, around downed trees and docks Live and artificial baits fooled snook up to 34 inches Most snook are running in the 20 to 26inch size
Seatrout were scattered with most coming over grassy bottom in 4 to 7 feet Drifting was the best method to cover ground Pilchards, shrimp or small pinfish under a popping or rattling float, or a host of artificial baits in white, red/white or chartreuse colors fooled trout up to 2 0 i n c h e s O t h e r s p e c i e s i n c l u d i n g m a c k e r e l , j a c k
crevalle, ladyfish, snapper, small sharks, and, of course, catfish were hooked as well Fishy areas included grass bottom off Red Light Shoals, between the fish shacks and Captiva Pass and south of the powerlines on the Sanibel side off the channel In Charlotte Harbor, between Bokeelia and Patricio Island, and the outside of Bull and Turtle bays
Redfish up to 30 inches took bait around Pine Island
PROVIDED
One last fishing day before heading back to the classroom. Zac and Trey with a pair of big redfish they battled while fishing Pine Island Sound with their dad, Capt. Tony Price, out of the Tarpon Lodge.
Sound and Charlotte Harbor On the higher water they were found along mangrove shorelines and over lower stages of tide along sand and oyster bar drop-offs
B e s t b a i t s i n c l u d e d c u
ladyfish, mullet, sardines and gold spoons
With a little luck Debby was our close call for the year and the remainder of hurricane season remains calm with good fishing.
S t a y u p t o
h fishing regulations by visit-
ing www myfwc com Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone It has current regulations and seasons with pictures to help identify fish
‘Clear
in
pet nutrition,
returning as the national sponsor and partner of Clear The Shelters for the
paign Swag bags will be given out to all adopters the day of the event
Capt. Bill Russell On the Water
PHOTO
tradition of hard work, honesty and integrity on Pine Island
“I’ve participated in community and charitable events and involvement my entire life and I’m proud to have been a part of the fabric of this community I’m running to do a good job for you,” Mulicka said.
Commissioner Greenwell began his opening statement, reminding members that in addition to being appointed to the seat by Gov DeSantis, he is currently the board chair with many endorsements, including Sheriff Carmine Marceno and State Attorney Amira Fox.
Just after Hurricane Ian, Greenwell said, he was fortunate to have been granted the first question to the governor
“He looked at me and said, 'Commissioner, what’s the most important thing you need?’ and I said, 'We have a major problem We have a bridge out in Pine Island the Matlacha Bridge is out That is our working class families a lot of retired folks out there It’s not the rich We need to figure out a way to get access to that island as quick as possible,'” Greenwell said
After opening statements were made by the candidates, Hicks presented them with questions from the GPICA Board The first question was regarding issues with the water and seagrass surrounding the community and the foreseeable outcome of a septic to sewer conversion
Cochran answered in favor of septic to sewer conversion, in the places they need to be, unlike Alva, she said, where there doesn’t seem to be a push
Mulicka answered with, what he called, a multi-prong approach solution to the water quality issues
“Septic to sewer conversion is a component of that. Upgrading the septic tank systems we have is also important fertilizer responsibilities and then a 2020 program Mike mentioned that they have a successful program today As we take the conservation land and maintain it, like the Calusa Trust does, doing these things to improve our water quality across the board there’s not just a single silver bullet that we’re gonna solve this with,” Mulicka said, assuring members that this is a critical mission for him
In answering, Greenwell said a large part of his district is on the river and he insisted there will be a conversion all throughout Lee County over time and said he will continue to champion it
To watch this meeting in its entirety, visit the Greater Pine Island Civic Association’s Facebook page
David Mulicka
Amanda Cochran
Mike Greenwell
The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted Tuesday, Aug 6, to accept a b o u t $ 4 0 7 , 7 5 0 f r o m t h e F l o r i d a Department of Children and Families for housing and services for people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness
The funding is expected to serve about 576 individuals before June 30, 2025 The funds are divided among four grant programs:
■ C h a l l e n g e G r a n t ( $ 1 4 8 , 5 0 0 )Administered by Lee County Human & Veteran Services direct services staff to provide housing and services to an estimated 420 individuals who are experiencing, or at risk of homelessness
■ E m e r g e n c y S
( $ 1 0 5 , 5 2 5 ) - A
County Human & Veteran Services to fund street outreach workers to engage persons living in places not intended for human habitation and connect them with housing and supportive services necessary to end their homelessness It also includes a Rapid Rehousing Program which provides move-in and rental assistance It is estimated that 120 individuals/families
will be assisted through street outreach a n d 1 2
through rapid rehousing
■ Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - Prevention Grant ($46,582)
Development Corp to provide case management and assistance with past due rent and utilities to prevent families from becoming homeless It is estimated that 24 individuals will be assisted
improve the overall quality of life for indi-
through advocacy and coordination with community partners
i
The Lee County Continuum of Care
advocates and program users who collectively plan and implement programs to serve persons who are homeless or at risk
Carol Scott From page 1
could be expedited No one wants to wait a ton of years to see Matlacha coming back I want to see it come back tomorrow If we could clean up the Olde Fish House faster, if we could fix the roads faster the Civic Building, the park
that’s my biggest wish for today If we could, it would bring a lot of joy and happiness and right now we have a lot of sadness, because we drive by it every day,” Scott said
Human & Veteran Services coordinate this effort, and the county submits grant
funding as the lead agency
To receive updates from Lee County
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Mulicka, Thornton face off in District 3 commission race
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
Lee County Republican primary voters will have a choice to decide who gets on the November ballot for the open Lee C o u n t y D
y Sandelli
David Mulicka, owner and founder of H O N C D e s t
M
w R Thornton, a retired contractor who lives off San Carlos Boulevard on Fort Myers Beach outside town limits and operates a ranch in North Fort Myers are running in the Republican primary
The candidates have different visions of the district and county, with Mulicka
f a v o r i n g m o
e d e v e l o p m e n
w h i l e Thornton calls himself an “environmental conservation” candidate
“ I a m v e r y p r o - p r o p e r t y r i g h t s , ”
Mulicka said “We are never going to stop growth from happening ” Mulicka favors developments proposed off Main Street in Fort Myers Beach for the Bay Harbour marina and hotel, townhouse and commercial project The project is currently in front of the Lee County Board of County Commissioners for a land use change
approval “Something good needs to happen there,” he said
Mulicka also favors the Kingston project which has drawn widespread opposition from environmental groups who say it represents threats to the endangered Florida panther population Mulicka said t h e d
, Cameratta Companies, “are very thoughtful about conservation ”
Mulicka, a lifelong resident of Lee County, is married to state Rep JennaPersons Mulicka He sees his years of experience in the contracting business and p u l
David Mulicka Matthew R Thornton
a
Department of Environmental Protection and working with the Army Corps of Engineers as a positive that could help the county rebuild the Fort Myers Beach Pier faster Mulicka said he has been visiting the pier since he was a child “It’s an engine for economic development We need to get it back as soon as we can,” he said
“I love Lee County and have had a wonderful life growing up here,” Mulicka said “I want to use my conservative business and community involvement experience to help rebuild and improve our paradise, keep our residents safe, restore and
protect our waterways, and get government red tape out of the way for businesses
Fernandina Beach and began visiting Fort Myers Beach as a child in the 1970s with his family tug boating, bought a residence on San Carlos Boulevard in Fort Myers Beach (outside town limits) eight months ago with his wife Christi They had been living in Cape Coral but Thornton said they grew tired of increasing taxes and paying tolls for trips to Fort Myers Beach He moved to Lee County four years ago and also owns a ranch in North Fort Myers
He said voters on Fort Myers Beach he speaks to want to keep the “small town feel” of Fort Myers Beach
“I want to see Fort Myers Beach go back to the way it was,” Thornton said Thornton said the town needs housing for those who work on the island and called the Bay Harbour project on Main Street
“not the greatest idea ”
Thornton and his wife Christi have started a golf cart business on Fort Myers Beach called Trippin Rides “It’s better to go tripping with us then tripping on the sidewalks,” he said Thornton said they have plans to expand to shuttling visitors to the area from the airport to Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel in what he sees as “a big need” due to the traffic
Thornton said the infrastructure can’t h
development projects heading for the Fort Myers Beach area “Infrastructure is a problem,” he said
Thornton is concerned about increasing development leading to delays evacuating the island in the event of another hurricane an issue cited in the initial rejection of the Bay Harbor plans by an administrative law judge
Mulicka said the town lost a lot of hotel rooms to Hurricane Ian
“So much has been removed, we need to start putting them back,” Mulicka said “We’ve lost so many homes ”
Mulicka said it was important to learn from Hurricane Ian to ensure properties are rebuilt the right way.
“We will learn from this thing,” he said
“The market knows where the best place in the world is to build is and will continue to build here,” Mulicka said He had a firsthand look at the devastation Hurricane Ian brought to Fort Myers Beach, as his company was responsible
See DISTRICT 3, page 19
Greenwell, Cochran vie for District 5 commission post
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
When Lee County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Mike Greenwell was hitting home runs for the Boston Red Sox three decades ago, running for political office was about the last thing on his mind Greenwell still doesn’t consider himself a politician though he takes his politics seriously representing District 5 on the board of county commissioners
“I didn’t think I was going to be a politician and I still don’t think I’m a politician,” Greenwell said.
The Alva Republican and former Red Sox All-Star faces a primary challenge from fellow Alva resident and Realtor Amanda Cochran, with the main issue between the two being the level of development in their communities and countywide
Cochran, who manages and co-owns RE/MAX River & Ranch, believes the L
e C o u n t y B o a r d o f C o u n t y Commissioners has been too permissive i
l o w i n g z o n
n g c h a n g e s
h a t g o against the county’s comprehensive plan including a rezoning of Greenwell’s property that led to a lawsuit she has filed against the county
G
e e n w
e rezoning was necessary after the state took approximately 17 acres of his property for an expanded highway on State Road 31 that connects to Babcock Ranch
For Greenwell, who counts two home runs against Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan to his credit and a runner-up finish to Jose Canseco in the 1988 American League MVP race, this political fight is shaping up to be about as tough as any at-bat he faced as a ballplayer He is seeking a second term in office after being appointed by Gov Ron DeSantis in 2022 to fill the seat left vacant by the late Frank Mann Greenwell went on to win a three-way Republican primary and then a special election
County resident, said the lawsuit she filed led to a greater awareness of the decisions and actions by the county commissioners in approving developments in the county
“What led me to my decision to run is seeing there are several communities concerned about overdevelopment in Lee County,” Cochran said
C
about Greenwell’s North Olga property which has been approved by the county commissioners for a rezoning to allow for 400,000 square feet of commercial space and 122 multifamily units
In the lawsuit, Cochran alleges that the project will be the largest commercial development ever requested by anyone on State Road 31. She alleges that the county’s rezoning of the property is spot zoning, allowing commercial development in a rural agricultural area
Cochran said that while she understood Greenwell is losing about 17 acres to the state for the road expansion, the result would be “urban sprawl ” The court case centers around, in part, whether proper notice was given to the public before the 2023 rezoning hearing took place, while Greenwell was on the Lee County Board of County Commissioners. Another hearing had been held in November of 2022, not long after Hurricane Ian
The main concern regarding the project for Cochran is traffic and safety
lion square feet of his property to eminent domain for the road expansion necessitated by the nearby 18,000-acre Babcock Ranch development which will ultimately will consist of 19,500 homes and an estim a t e d 5 0 , 0 0 0 r e s i d e n t s C o m m e r c i a l development includes a shopping center anchored by a Publix with an adjacent center under construction
As a result, Greenwell will be closing his 31 Produce fruit and vegetable market and his family’s Cracker Shack Cafe They are both still open for now
He said the rezoning of his property for commercial development is what is best for his family to compensate him for the loss of his property
el along Interstate 75 from Lehigh Acres
“We unfortunately don’t have a gate The people keep on coming,” he said “We live in paradise ” Cochran said her concerns about development extend to other projects throughout the county, including the Kingston p r o j e c t w h i c h c o u
u p t o 10,000 new units to Lee County and which has environmental groups alarmed a
Florida panther
“We have to be very careful about the developments coming through after a category 4 hurricane,” Cochran said “My heart goes out to the people of Fort Myers Beach and what they have been through ” Greenwell, who was on Fort Myers Beach during Hurricane Debby, saw firsthand the flooding on the roads there and
Boulevard to fix the drainage “We need to fix it,” he said
Greenwell said development can’t be stopped
“There is no way to stop the development,” he said He has had to change his phone number over what he said is an attack campaign focused at him and county commissioners for closing the Lee County Civic Center Greenwell and the county commissioners voted earlier this summer to build an
“Traffic is more than an issue It’s a life safety issue,” Cochran said “ W
“I didn’t seek out the city of Babcock R a n c h , c o m i n g u p t o m y p r o p e r t y , ” Greenwell said. “It (stinks). There is nothing I can do about it ”
, ”
Cochran said of the Alva and Olga community that includes some of the last large tracts of large and undisturbed rural lands in the county
“People come out there to gain a sense of exhale from the big city,” Cochran said For Greenwell, the rural nature of the community has already started to disappear since Babcock Ranch was developed with commercial components both completed and under way
He said he is losing more than 1 mil-
Mahjongg Scores
It was a welcome break from the heat to be inside playing mahjongg this week on Aug 8
We were happy to welcome Patty Gulliver and Dee Dee Hembrook to our group
T
n d Kathy Richardson each with 120 points, closely followed by Peggy Finley and Carolyn Crosby with 115 If you would like to join us, we play every Thursday from 1-4 p m at the St James City Civic Association on Lemon Street and Fourth Avenue For more information, call Carolyn at 239-2337682
H
k
As a county commissioner, Greenwell touts his work to speed up development of a new road connecting State Road 80 with Alico Road which he says will lessen trav-
replace the one destroyed by Hurricane Ian
“We had to build something special for Fort Myers Beach,” he said
Mike Greenwell Amanda Cochran
Doyle faces Peters in Supervisor of Elections race
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
T o m m y D o y l e h a s s e r v e d a s L e e
C o u n t y S u p e r v i s o r o f E l e c t i o n s s i n c e
2016 and has heard the worries espoused
b y h i s R e p u b l i c a n p r i m a r y o p p o n e n t
Michael “Mick” Peters and a contingent of the electorate concerned about potential voter fraud He has heard those who think the 2020 presidential election was stolen from former President Donald Trump
Doyle is here to tell you that election wasn’t stolen and that elections in Lee County are among the safest in the state and the country Voter fraud, he said, is a rarity When there is an allegation, his office looks into it and takes it seriously But the amount of voter fraud that would have been needed to happen in the 2020 election didn’t happen, as experts and many courtrooms have all agreed since
This primary is an open contest, meaning voters of any party or even independents can vote to choose the Republican candidate There are no other challengers for the office
The issue of voter fraud is the cornerstone of the campaign by Peters, who said he is also concerned about undocumented immigrants voting and even the identities of dead voters being used by voters
Doyle said there is no evidence any of that is occurring, has occurred or will
District
occur here “He has nothing,” Doyle said of the allegations by Peters
Peters, who is 65, is on the Lee County Republican Party Executive Committee. He moved to Lee County in 2011 and works as a commercial mortgage broker “
Florida,” Peters said
“Our current system is a trainwreck,” he said of the electoral process “Both parties really stink at this I don’t know why people think Republicans can do this better than Democrats ”
Peters, who resides in Fort Myers, said he is “data-driven” and calls himself “a bean counter.”
Doyle said the most recent case that bordered on a potential misuse of a ballot
woman whose husband died notified his office that a vote-by-mail ballot was sent to him and returned it Apparently trying to help his office, she signed the ballot as it was sent back with a note telling the office that her husband died
“She was trying to help,” Doyle said D o y
10,000 deceased voters from the Lee County voting registration rolls this year His office is notified by the Clerk of the C o u r t a n d t
Department every week of deceased residents
3 From page 16
f o r d e m o l i s h i n g m a n y o f t h e h o m e s destroyed on the island and off-island
“It was difficult because everybody needed everything at once,” Mulicka said “Everybody needed us but nobody wanted it We had tears on the contracts ”
Mulicka said the town has done a good j o b a t r e b u i l d i n g q u i c k e r t h a n m a n y expected
“It was so decimated I think people forgot how bad it was,” Mulicka said “People are still suffering PTSD from the amount of devastation.”
That said, Mulicka also sees the county’s growth as “putting strain on roadways and infrastructure We must change the mindset of building for today’s needs, and instead build for the needs of our future ”
He is also concerned about water quality and wants better water restoration plans
Thornton said the county needs a better mass transit plan and wants to conserve more land
District
“Our inland areas are being overrun by developers that are not doing their part to improve our infrastructure prior to building, then leaving it up to the taxpayers to foot the bill Yes, we need to continue to build, but in a sustainable way that serves
equally Housing in our suburbs should have larger parcels to promote an environmentally sustainable growth for those
mined,” Thornton said
Thornton said Fort Myers Beach needs a lot of assistance
“Fort Myers Beach needs a lot of help,” Thornton said “It needs help from a lot of people and needs help from people who aren’t on Fort Myers Beach ”
County commission candidates must live in the district which they represent but are elected countywide
The District 3 race has no Democratic candidate but does have a qualified writein candidate, Jake Cataldo
5 From page 17
Greenwell said the enlarged pier will be “a draw for the county.” Though a larger pier will cost more and take more time, Greenwell said he is working with state leaders to speed up the process
Greenwell also wants to redo plans for Crescent Beach Family Park The commissioners had approved replacing the sand at the park with an artificial turf field Greenwell said he wants to revisit the plan and discuss an alternative Cochran said her top issues are infrastructure, road safety, environmental conservation and clean water.
She is strictly opposed to amendments approved by commissioners to approve zoning changes such as the one county
c o m m i s s i o n e
s a p p r o v e d f
h e B a y Harbour marina and residential project on Main Street in Fort Myers Beach before Greenwell took office. A new zoning
Doyle said his office is notified by the Clerk of Courts anytime an undocumented immigrant reports for jury duty so that they can be checked to make sure they are not on a voter registration roll
This year, about 8,000 vote-by-mail ballots were sent back to his office by the Post Office, meaning the voters no longer resided there The ballots were never opened and the Supervisor of Elections does not forward ballots to forwarded addresses
His office also verifies every signature on a ballot If somebody were to open a ballot that wasn’t their own and try to fill it out, they would need to know the person’s signature, Doyle said Voters can also update their signatures by signing an application form online The office has a full-time staff to review signatures In the case that a signature is rejected, a voter will be notified and have the opportunity to come to the Supervisor of Elections office and verify their signature
The office also sends out confirmation
notices to voters every election cycle to ensure they are still residing at their residence If the Post Office notifies the Supervisor of Elections of a change in address, the voter is put on an inactive list
After two election cycles, that voter is removed from the rolls and de-registered Peters said he is also worried about drop boxes being potentially misused Doyle said the dropboxes are monitored in-person An individual is not allowed to possess more than two ballots that aren’t on their own at the dropbox though they can drop off as many ballots of family members
D
streamlining services to make the electoral process more efficient are his top issues
“When I first ran for election, I promised to eliminate long lines at polling locations, protect your tax dollars, and ensure our elections are secure I’m proud to say we’ve accomplished all those things and more,” Doyle said “Our community has faced numerous challenges over the past few years We’ve endured hurricanes, a pandemic, and a historic recount in 2018 In every instance I relied on my business experience, ingenuity, and outside-the-box thinking, and each time we persevered to conducted successful elections ” Doyle said he was recently asked by a voter if the 2020 presidential election was stolen “My reply to her was ‘voter fraud is very rare and it is usually a mistake by the voter,’” Doyle said Lee County is one of the best in the country in protecting against voter fraud, Doyle said “Our elections are secure and accurate ”
change request to allow for a hotel to be put there is expected to go in front of the county commissioners shortly after being opposed by a group of residents nearby Greenwell said he can’t comment on the proposal as he will be voting on it
“Stop amending the plan to erode the quality of life that people bought into for a lifestyle,” Cochran said. “We wouldn’t be fighting this if they stuck to the plan Every time they get an opportunity they amend the comp plan ”
While District 5 covers the area of Alva, Lehigh Acres, Buckingham, Olga and unincorporated eastern Lee County, all registered Lee County Republicans can vote in the closed primary race
The primary winner will face Fort M y e r s D e m o c r a t K i z z i e F o w l e r i n November
Tommy Doyle Michael “Mick” Peters
School District continues to implement new safety measures in all area schools
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com
The School District continues to hone their safety measures to be compliant with House Bill 1473 – the Safety Bill
Parents and staff received an email Monday informing them of the safety measures the district will make for the Safety Bill, which was recently signed into law by Gov Ron DeSantis
The email stated that “all school classrooms and other instructional spaces must clearly and conspicuously mark the safest areas in each classroom or other instructional space where students must shelter in place during an emergency ”
“Our safety and security team joined school administrators and school resource officers to survey every campus over the summer to determine and mark the safe area in all instructional space,” district
s p o k e s p e r s o n R o b S p i c k e r s a i d “ A s required by law, each area is clearly iden-
“Our safety and security team joined school administrators and school resource officers to survey every campus over the summer to determine and mark the safe area in all instructional space As required by law, each area is clearly identified. Students will be advised of the location and practice going to that area during some emergency drills ”
District spokesperson Rob Spicker
tified Students will be advised of the location and practice going to that area during some emergency drills ”
schools provide instruction on the use and misuse of FortifyFL, the state mobile suspicious activity reporting tool.
The FortifyFL app was created and funded by the Florida Legislature in 2018 as part of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act Spicker said students have been using this suspicious activity reporting tool for years
“Tips are reported to local law enforcement and school administrators for immediate investigation,” Spicker said “What is new this year, is that we must advise students within the first 10 days of school about the app and the consequences for
threats ”
The FortifyFL app is on each student’s Chromebook The app can also be down-
through the FortifyFL website Students can also report suspicious or concerning
Obituaries
behavior to their teacher, administrator, SRO or CrimeStoppers, Spicker said
“The School District of Lee County was in compliance with many of the features of HB 1473 before it passed, so the new law codifies much of what we were already doing We will continue to keep all doors locked, gates secured, expand the guardian program and implement our layers of security so that our students and staff are as safe as possible during the school day,” Spicker said “We continually look for ways to protect our students and staff and when new technology is available, we determine if it will work for us We are also proud to be the only district in Florida that uses OPENGATE weapon detection systems at every school and are focused on refining the procedures this year to enhance the protection they provide to our schools ”
For more about the Lee County School District, visit https://www leeschools net/
TOMáSCONCRETE,INC
