Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin

Town receives $500K from disaster fund for Bayside Park

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The

through private donations to help communities affected by natural disasters.

More than $63 million was raised after Hurricane Ian for the fund with the backi n g o f F l o r i d a ' s F i r s t L a d y C a s e y DeSantis

hardest hit communities in Florida, it will only be receiving a small slice of the $63 million in funds

Of approximately $7 million in Florida

The

Disaster Fund raises funds

All of the $63 million has now been distributed across the state, according to an announcement regarding the aid issued by the press office of Gov Ron DeSantis While Fort Myers Beach was among the

Disaster Fund grants awarded Friday, $2 3 million will go to 17 long-term recovery groups in the counties hit hardest by Hurricane Ian These funds will help the long-term recovery groups that are coordinating the recovery process on the ground in Southwest Florida

Neptune looks to double

Hotel owners planning rebuild of hotel property, increasing number of rooms from 71 to 140

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Faced with catastrophic damage from Hurricane Ian, the owners of

The Neptune Resort are finalizing plans to rebuild the Fort Myers Beach hotel with twice as many rooms as before

One of the oldest family resorts on the island, the hotel dates back to the 1960s Under the plans unveiled this past week by Continental Hospitality Group and Springboard Hospitality, the 71-room hotel would morph from a twobuilding resort to a one-building com-

plex with four floors and 140 rooms.

The companies acquired the property two years ago for $27 million Planner Patrick Vanasse, whose firm The Neighborhood Co is representing the owners in their redevelopment plans, said the increase in density at the site w o u l d r e q u i r e r e z o n i n g t h r o u g h a 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 through the town’s Local Development Agency and would need approval from the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council

“We are asking for something we don’t have today,” Vanasse said

The company's vice president, Ken

G a l l a n d e r , m a d e a p r e s e n t a t i o n l a s t w e e k t o l o c a l b u s i n e s s o w n e r s

“We

Vanasse

See NEPTUNE, page 16 RENDERING PROVIDED

A d d i t i o n a l l y , $ 2 m i l l i o n h a s b e e n a w a r d e d f o r L e e C o u n t y w o r k i n g w a t e rf r o n t r e p a i r s L e e C o u n t y ’ s h i s t o r i c w o r k i n g w a t e r f r o n t o n M a t l a c h a e x p e r ie n c e d s e v e r e d a m a g e f o l l o w i n g H u r r i c a n e I a n T h i s p r o j e c t w i l l h e l p e n s u r e t h e f i s h i n g i n d u s t r y i s m a i nt a i n e d i n t h e a r e a w h i l e t h e y c o n t i n u e t o a w a i t a p p r o v a l o f a F e d e r a l F i s h e r i e s D i s a s t e r D e c l a r a t i o n

See BAYSIDE PARK, page 17

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Bowditch Point Park reopened on Fort Myers Beach Friday for the first time since Hurricane Ian.

The beach, located on the northermost end of the island at 50 Estero Blvd past the Pink Shell Beach Resort, has been closed since its boardwalk and restrooms were heavily damaged in the hurricane

While the beach will be open for swimming, the restrooms and boardwalk remain closed There are portable restrooms on site

The beach park will be open daily, d a w n t o d u s k w i t h l i m i t e d amenities There is no parking fee at this t i m e , t h e L e e C o u n t y P a r k s a n d Recreation Department announced

The day docks and nature trails are also closed

Debris continues to wash on shore and

See BOWDITCH POINT PARK, page 17

n W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , A u g u s t 1 6 , 2 0 2 3 f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h O b s e r v e r

1

OPINIONS

f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , A u g u s t

Report your news to FORTMYERSBEACHTALK COM

New academic year represents fresh start

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R a y m o n d M E c ke n r o d e re cke n ro d e @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m

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

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

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Lyn McElhaney

lmcelhaney@breezenewspapers com

I'm excited for the start of a brand-new academic year at the School District of Lee County. As we gather once again, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our entire community for their unwavering resilience and dedication during the past year

O n A u g 1 0 , w e a g a i n came together after facing the challenges of a tumultuous year marked by the recovery and rebuilding efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Ian. The journey to restoration has not been an easy one, but as a community, we stand strong and continue to support one another

al 2,000 student seats to the East Zone In addition, our t e a m s c o n t i n u e r e n o v a t i o n p r o j e c t s a t C y p r e s s L a k e Middle and Riverdale High, as w e l l a s a f u l l r e b u i l d o f F r a n k l i n P a r k E l e m e n t a r y School All of these projects are thanks in great part to the half-penny sales tax, for which we continue to share our gratit u d e t o o u r c o m m u n i t y f o r approving

Dr Christopher S Bernier

This academic year represents a fresh start a chance to build upon the foundation of growth and renewal that we established together Our schools are not just buildings; they are sanctuaries of knowledge, creativity and community Our teachers and staff are not just educators; they are mentors and guides, nurturing the minds and hearts of our students

We started the year off with two new schools, Amanecer Elementary and Lemuel Teal Middle School We also opened up the expanded portion to Lehigh Acres Middle School These three projects add an addition-

By FLORIDA ATTORNEY GENERAL

As we begin this new chapter, I am pleased to share some important updates and initiatives that will shape our journey toward being a world-class school system

The safety and well-being of our students and staff continues to be our top priority In line with this commitment, and in addition to our already robust safety and security programs, we have implemented significant upgrades across our campuses A new weapons detection system, OPENGATE, will be installed in all of our buildings in phases throughout the school year It will also identify other contraband items that are not allowed on school property All students and visitors to a district building will be subject to search Additionally, we will launch the Guardian Program These employees have successfully

completed the required training with the Lee County Sheriff's Office They will be uniformed and armed, and will assist our School Resource Officers during emergencies. We thank you for your support at all our buildings as we implement these security measures

Last spring, the school board approved a new student enrollment plan for elementary schools known as proximity Preliminary data on the impact of this plan is encouraging as we work towards our goal of getting students to school and from school on time This is not a fix-all, but is a step in the right direction This year, we will have conversations with our community as we develop the proximity plan for middle schools.

As we embark on this new academic year, I encourage all students to embrace curiosity and every opportunity to learn and grow I urge parents and guardians to be actively involved in their child's education, as your support plays a crucial role in their success I thank our teachers and staff for their dedication and resilience for the benefit of our students I ask our community to continue supporting and encouraging our students to achieve their highest potential Together, we will create a thriving educational community where knowledge is celebrated and everyone feels safe and supported

Dr Christopher S Bernier is superintendent of schools for the School District of Lee County

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Attorney General Ashley Moody is continuing the “Summer Scams Series: Tech Traps” with a warning about screen-sharing scams An umbrella term, screen-sharing scams include banking, tech support and any scam where fraudsters trick targets into giving full remote access to their computer, allowing personal and financial information to be stolen These scams often target seniors sometimes costing the victim's entire life savings The Federal Bureau of Investigation tracks the origin of many of these scams to India, including this one scamming U.S. citizens out of more than $20 million, yet it is known to occur worldwide

“As we continue our Summer Scams Series, it's important that Floridians know to never share their screens or access to their devices with anyone they don't know or trust,” Attorney General Ashley Moody said “If scammers do get access, then they will be able to steal personal and financial informat i o n t o e n a c t a l l s o r t s o f d e v a s t a t i n g schemes ”

Screen-sharing scams work like this: A target answers an illicit robocall or online message and connects with a scammer who claims to be a representative from a trusted

Guest Commentary

business, such as a bank or technology company The scammer then tells the victim that the account is compromised, and that the scammer will need to download screen-sharing software to help Once the screen-sharing s o f t w a r e i s d o w n l o a d e d , t h e f r a u d s t e r receives full access to the victim's computer and can hack accounts, steal personal information and set traps to further the scam The F B I ' s B o s t o n d i v i s i o n r e p o r t s a 1 3 7 % increase nationwide in losses from tech-support scams from 2020 to 2021

Screen-sharing scams can be financially devastating Once a victim agrees to share a screen, the fraudster will try to gain a victim's confidence and lay a trap to further the scam One common scheme occurs when a scammer pretends to be giving a victim a refund and “accidentally” sends more money than originally intended. The fraudster then brings up a second website displaying what looks to be the victim's bank account, but it's really a fake screen that has been tampered with to show a fake bank balance, “proving” that they sent too much money Taking advantage of the victim's generosity, the scammer

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

pleads to have the money returned If the victim goes through with the return, it will soon become clear that no money ever transferred, and the victim's money is now stolen The scammer may also use that fake website to steal the login credentials of the victim, allowing total control of the account

There are reports of fraudsters verbally berating seniors over the phone and schemes resulting in major losses from victims, like a Tamarac couple who lost $99,000 in life savings after falling victim to a screen-sharing scam

To avoid screen-sharing scams:

∫ Never share your screen or allow remote access with a stranger a bank will never need to access a screen to view account information

∫ Avoid clicking on any suspicious links

∫ Ignore unsolicited contact from supposed tech-support companies

∫ Be aware that phone numbers and emails can be tampered with, making it look like a call is originating from a trusted source

See SCREEN-SHARING SCAMS, page 5

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MERTF chair, King clash over statements

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

T o w n o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h M a r i n e a n d E n v i r o n m e n t a l R e s o u r c e s T a s k F o r c e ( M E R T F ) C h a i r S t e v e J o h n s o n a p p e a r e d i n f r o n t o f t h e t o w n c o u n c i l t h i s p a s t w e e k s e e k i n g t o c o r r e c t t h e r e c o r d f r o m a J u l y c o u n c i l m e e t i n g o v e r C o u n c i l m e m b e r J o h n K i n g ’ s s t a t e m e n t s a g a i n s t t h e a d v i s o r y b o a r d M E R T F v o t e d u n a n i m o u s l y l a s t m o n t h t o a s k t h e t o w n c o u n c i l t o c o r r e c t t h e r e c o r d o v e r w h a t J o h n s o n s a i d w e r e “ f a l s e a l l e g a t i o n s ” b y K i n g a t a p r e v i o u s c o u n c i l m e e t i n g . J o h n s o n s a i d K i n g ’ s a l l e g a t i o n s t h a t M E R T F d i sp a r a g e d t h r e e i n d i v i d u a l s o v e r b e a c h r a k i n g o v e r b e r m s w e r e f a l s e a n d b a c k e d b y n o e v i d e n c e a s “ t h e r e w a s n e v e r a n a c c u s a t i o n m a d e o r a n a m e m e n t i o n e d ” r e g a r d i n g a n y s p e c i f i c i n d i v i d u a l s o v e r b e a c h r a k i n g a t t h e M E R T F m e e t i n g c i t e d b y K i n g “ T h e r e w e r e n o p e r s o n a l a c c u s a t i o n s , ” J o h n s o n s a i d J o h n s o n s a i d t h e r e a r e n u m e r o u s i n d i v i d u a l s w h o c o n d u c t r a k i n g o n t h e b e a c h ( m o r e t h a n t h e t h r e e n a m e d b y K i n g ) a n d s a i d t h e r e w a s v i d e o e v i d e n c e o f i n d i v i d u a l s w h o r a k e d o v e r b e r m s . J o h n s o n s a i d K i n g ’ s a c c u s a t i o n a g a i n s t M E R T F “ a c t u a l l y c r e a t e d n a m e d r a k i n g v i c t i m s i n o r d e r t o t h e n d e f e n d t h e m p u b l i c l y i n a n a t t e m p t t o h u m i l i a t e t h e M E R T F a d v i s o r y b o a r d w i t h o u t a n y f a c t u a l k n o w l e d g e F u r t h e r m o r e , t o p u b l i c l y a n n o u n c e t h a t

‘ t h e s e i n d i v i d u a l s c a r e a b o u t t h i s i s l a n d a s m u c h , i f n o t m o r e t h a n a n y o n e w h o s e r v e s o n M E R T F ’ i s a n a b s o l u t e i n d i g n i t y t o t h e M E R T F a d v i s o r y b o a r d a n d a l e s s - t h a n - h o n o r a b l e s t a t e m e n t f r o m a n e l e c t e d o f f ic i a l Y o u a r e f a l s e l y a n d p u b l i c l y p i t t i n g n o n - r e s i d e n t , f o r - p r o f i t s e r v i c e p r o v i d e r s a g a i n s t h a r d w o r k i n g r e s id e n t v o l u n t e e r s a p p o i n t e d b y t h e c o u n c i l t o a n a d v i s or y b o a r d t o l o o k a f t e r t h e b e s t i n t e r e s t s o f t h i s t o w n ” J o h n s o n t h e n d e f e n d e d h i m s e l f a g a i n s t K i n g ’ s c h a r a c t e r i z a t i o n o f h i s s t a t e m e n t s r e g a r d i n g t h e s p r e a d o f “ p o i s o n ” o v e r r e s i s t a n c e a m o n g s o m e o n t h e s o u t h e n d o f t h e i s l a n d t o p r o t e c t i n g t h e s h o r e b i r d n e s t i n g a r e a J o h n s o n s a i d h e w a s r e s p o n d i n g t o c o n c e r n s s u bm i t t e d b y t h e F l o r i d a F i s h a n d W i l d l i f e C o n s e r v a t i o n C o m m i s s i o n J o h n s o n s a i d m o r e t h a n h a l f o f M E R T F b o a r d l i v e s o n t h e s o u t h e r n e n d o f t h e i s l a n d a n d n o t e d t h a t h e s p e c i f i e d a t t h e m e e t i n g t h a t h e w a s n ’ t “ l u m pi n g e v e r y o n e t o g e t h e r . ” J o h n s o n s a i d h e h o p e d t h a t K i n g w o u l d “ c o n s i d e r t h e b e n e f i t s o f c o n s t r u c t i v e a n d f a c t u a l d i s c u s s i o n i n t h e f u t u r e ” K i n g c o n t i n u e d t o d e f e n d h i s c o m m e n t s a t t h e c o u n c i l m e e t i n g s a y i n g h e h a d c h e c k e d w i t h t o w n s t a f f w h o t o l d h i m t h e r e w a s n o r a k i n g o f t h e b e r m s o n t h e b e a c h “ Y o u c a n p a i n t m e o u t t o b e t h e b a d p e r s o n , ” K i n g s a i d “ A l l I d i d w a s s h i n e t h e l i g h t o n w h a t w a s s a i d W h e t h e r y o u w e n t w i t h t h e t h r e e p e o p l e I m e n t i o n e d o r y o u c a s t a w i d e r n e t w i t h t h e s i x p e o p l e w h o r a k e

Screen-sharing scams

∫ Verify the validity of a call that appears to come from a legitimate business by hanging up and calling the number listed on the company's website

To stay ahead of scams, check out the “Summer Scams Series: Tech Traps” at MyFloridaLegal com

The Federal Trade Commission has

From page 4

released resource guides at https://consumer ftc gov/features/how-stop-unwanted-calls with tips for consumers to stop unwanted robocalls Floridians should report robocalls to the FTC online at FTC gov/Complaint

Victims of cybercrimes should report incidents to the Florida Department of

c u r r e n t l y o n t h i s i s l a n d , I d o n ’ t k n o w h o w t h a t m a k e s i t a n y b e t t e r ”

K i n g s a i d t h e “ p o i s o n ” i s s u e w a s m e n t i o n e d a r o u n d d i s c u s s i o n o v e r p e s t i c i d e a g r e e m e n t s a n d r a k i n g

“ T h a t w a s v e r y c l e a r t o m e , ” h e s a i d

K i n g a l s o t o o k i s s u e w i t h t h e r e s p o n s e b y M E R T F t o n e w s o f a c r e a t i o n o f a n o n p r o f i t

5 0 1 ( c ) 3 b y a g r o u p o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h p r o p e r t y o w n e r s w h o o w n l a n d n e a r t h e s h o r e b i r d n e s t i n g a r e a s

“ Y o u w a n t e d t o l o o k i n t o i t I ’ m n o t s u r e t h a t g o e s i n t o t h e p a r a m e t e r s o r t h e p u r v i e w o f w h a t y o u r c o mm i t t e e s h o u l d b e d o i n g I ’ l l g o b a c k t o w h a t M E R T F r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s a r e T h e g o a l i s t o s u s t a i n t h e q u a l i t y o f l i f e i n c o o p e r a t i o n w i t h a l l w h o s e l i v e l i h o o d s o r l i f e s t y l e s d e p e n d o n t h e h e a l t h o f E s t e r o B a y I t h i n k w e h a v e g o t t e n a w a y f r o m t h a t T h a t ’ s w h y I b r o u g h t i t u p a t t h e m e e t i n g , ” K i n g s a i d F o r t M y e r s B e a c h M a y o r D a n A l l e r s s a i d h e h a d h o p e d t h a t J o h n s o n a n d K i n g c o u l d h a v e s e t t l e d t h e i s s u e a m o n g s t t h e m s e l v e s “ I u n d e r s t a n d b o t h s i d e s , ” h e s a i d “ Q u i t e h o n e s t l y , I w i s h i t w a s n ’ t g o i n g t o b e s u c h a p u b l i c t h i n g I t h i n k w e a r e a l l a d u l t s h e r e W e a l l h a v e f r u s t r a t i o n s W e a l l v o l u n t e e r o u r t i m e f o r a l o t o f t h i n g s I t h i n k t h i s c o u l d b e e a s i l y h a n d l e d b e t w e e n t h e t w o s i d e s ”

A l l e r s s a i d , “ W e a l l n e e d t o b e r e s p e c t f u l W e a r e a l l s u f f e r i n g ”

Anyone who receives an illegal robocall can file a complaint with the Florida

t t o r n e y G e n e r a l ' s O f f i c e o n l i n e a t MyFloridaLegal com or by calling 8669NO-SCAM (866-966-7226)

T h e F l o r i d a A t t o r n e y G e n e r a l ' s C o n s u m e r P r o t e c t i o n D i v i s i o n i s s u e s Consumer Alerts to inform Floridians of emerging scams, new methods used to commit fraud, increased reports of common scams, or any other deceptive pract i c e F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t MyFloridaLegal com

Hamman departs Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce

STAFF REPORT

Brian Hamman has stepped down as president and CEO of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce one year after being appointed to the position Hamman, who also serves as District 4 Commissioner on the Lee County Board of County Commissioners, gave up the job with the chamber in order to focus on his family as his father navigates a serious health condition, the chamber announced

“This has been a difficult decision as I’ve valued the relationships that have been built with our members, our supportive board of directors and our hardworking Chamber team,” Hamman said. “Serving as the president and CEO of the Chamber has been a blessing in my life, and I’m proud of all that we’ve accomplished in the past year I know that the Chamber will continue to thrive under the leadership of the board and staff during this transition ”

Board Chair Jay Johnson, together with the support of the Chamber executive committee, board of directors and member partners, will fulfill the responsibilities of the president and CEO position while the board seeks a permanent replacement Johnson is the owner of Bubba’s Roadhouse and Saloon In the interim, Hamman will serve in an advisory capacity to support the Chamber and ensure a smooth transition

“Brian has been a true champion for the Chamber, rising to the occasion to provide much-needed leadership amidst the challenges of 2022 and guiding our Chamber and membership through hurricane recovery Our board of directors is incredibly grateful for his significant impact in growing and strengthening the Chamber while providing enhanced opportunities to empower, connect and unite our members and business community,” Johnson said “We are in a position to thrive as we enter this new chapter, and we are committed to bringing in a new leader that will continue this upward momentum for the Chamber and our region’s business community We thank Brian for his efforts and wish him the best as he prioritizes his family during this difficult time ”

In the coming weeks, board Vice Chair Jen Whyte will assemble and oversee a committee of businesssavvy leaders in the national search for the Chamber’s next president and CEO

Chamber announces ‘Savor the Shore’ campaign

STAFF REPORT

T h e F o r t M y e r s B e a c h C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e announced a new marketing initiative to draw visitors to Fort Myers Beach with the aid of the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau.

The chamber announced that the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau is now running local ads under a new initiative, “Savor the Shore ”

The aim is to inspire residents to enjoy a "daycation" and stay informed In response to the recent challenges faced by local businesses, Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce President Jacki Liszak announced Liszak said "revitalizing the local economy and supporting our struggling businesses is at the heart of the

Goss reappointed to SFWMD

'Savor the Shore' initiative We're committed to bringing vitality back to our beloved community "

As part of the initiative, locals and visitors will be introduced to a myriad of culinary experiences, special events, and promotional offers, encouraging them to relish in the unique offerings of the area, Liszak said

"The heart of Fort Myers Beach has always been its people and its local businesses,” Liszak said “This campaign is a testament to our resilience, community spirit, and determination to bounce back stronger than ever ”

For more information on "Savor the Shore" and to learn how you can be a part of this campaign, visit https://www visitfortmyers com/savor-the-shore

Business Briefs

Gov Ron DeSantis recently announced the reappointment of Chauncey Goss, John Steinle and Scott Wagner to the South Florida Water Management District

Goss is a managing partner of Goss Practical Solutions

He was previously a deputy staff director for the U S House of Representatives Committee on Budget and a program examiner for the Executive Office of the President

Goss currently serves on the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades Board of Directors

He earned his bachelor's degree in area studies from Rollins College and his master's degree in public policy from Georgetown University.

The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate

Vigilant Guardian Home Watch & Ser vices ear ns accreditation

Vigilant Guardian Home Watch & Services has earned accreditation from the National Home Watch Association

The NHWA was formed in 2009 in order to establish and maintain the highest industry standards for H o m e W a t c h a n d a b s e n t e e h o m e o w n e r s e r v i c e s throughout the United States and Canada (www nationalhomewatchassociation org) Home Watch is a visual inspection of a home or property, looking for obvious issues, which means that it is a service that “keeps an eye on things” at your vacation or primary home while you are not in residence. All principals of NHWA

A c c r e d i t e d M e m b e r c o m p a n i e s a r e b a c k g r o u n dchecked, insured, and bonded

Owners Tommy and Loretta Cameron are a former dual military couple who served in the U S Navy

Loretta has a master’s in business administration, and Tommy has a bachelor’s in cybersecurity.

Vigilant Guardian Home Watch & Services serves Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Sanibel/Capita Island and Pine Island Contact the company at 651-263-4574 or at vigilantguardian-swfl@proton me Learn more from t h e c o m p a n y w e b s i t e a t h t t p s : / / v i g i l a n t g u a r d i a n swfl com/

Wright named FSW Foundation board chair

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank announced that Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating officer John Wright has been named board chair for the Florida SouthWestern State College Foundation

He joined the board in 2021 and has served on the finance committee

Wright joined the bank in 2020 after relocating to Southwest Florida from Maryland

He also serves on the Lee County Horizon Council as a member at large

Wright graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science in accounting and he became a certified public accountant in 1990

Shell Point residents host school supply drive

The Shell Point Retirement Community reported that residents recently raised $20,000 at the 18th Annual School Supply Fund Drive to benefit employees' children and grandchildren who are entering K-5 grades Led by Manus O'Donnell and Jeanne Carguilo, the fundraising committee consulted local elementary schools' supply lists to identify needed items More than 50 volunteers worked assembly-line style over two days to fill and distribute a record-breaking 950 bags with the school supplies

Lee Clerk to host free class on how to 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 today, 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 require-

ments in response to a change in Florida law HB 1419 initiated a property fraud p r e v e n t i o n p i l o t p r o g r a m t o m a k e i t h a r d e r t o f i l e f r a u d u l e n t d e e d s . L e e

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 s e r v i c e , v i s i t w w w l e e c l e r k o r g / f r a udalert

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 v i e w u p c o m i n g s e m i n a r s , p l e a s e 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 t h e r e s o u r c e s a v a i l a b l e t o t h e m Recorded tutorials of past “How To” classes are available at www leeclerk org/how to

Brian Hamman

Beach Living

Farmers market returning

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

With a new home at Times Square, the farmers markets on Fort Myers Beach are set to return now that the fees have been sorted out

Linda Miller, who has been organizing farmers markets on Fort Myers Beach since 2015, recently gained approval from the town council and Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District Board of Fire Commissioners to hold a weekly farmers market at Times Square beginning in September As part of her agreement with the town, she would relocate to below the Matanzas Pass Bridge near the Matanzas Inn if construction begins on rebuilding Times Square

Before Hurricane Ian, Miller ran a farmers market at the Beach Baptist Church and Santini Plaza. With Santini Plaza still closed and with the demolition of the church, Miller had to find an alternative location for the market Times Square could be the perfect fit with all of the empty space Miller hopes to return the farmers market to Santini Plaza by November if it opens by then

For now, the plan is to run the farmers market at Times Square weekly on Fridays from 9 a m to 1 p m

Miller expects to have about 30 vendors at the market Some of her vendors lost as much as 90% of their busi-

Tur tle Time nest data

Non-nesting

ness due to being closed out of Fort Myers Beach since Hurricane Ian

“Hopefully it will take off,” Miller said.

This year, getting the permits for the market was a fight as Miller objected to the original rates the fire department wanted to charge her After meetings with the new Chief Scott Wirth and a back-and-forth dialogue comparing rates from neighboring districts, the sides were able to reach a compromise in which the department will charge her $573 for the permit (including the initial inspection)

Originally, Miller was looking at a charge of $1,350 Last year, the farmer’s market only paid $200, which was a discount on the fee hikes from the previous rate of $50.

The Fort Myers Beach fire commissioners raised the fees on nearly all permits in 2021, some of them substantially

During a recent meeting of the fire commissioners, Chairman John Bennett spoke about the loss in property tax revenue the department is facing as a result of the homes lost in Hurricane Ian

Yet Miller said the district’s own budget documents call for not using permits to increase revenue, only to pay for the costs to the department and offset any burden on the taxpayers

“We have never been a burden,” Miller said “We have never had a call for a fire or ambulance for eight years ”

As part of the agreement, the fire department will only do an initial inspection unless issues are brought to its attention that require a follow-up

After checking with other nearby departments, Wirth said several neighboring districts do not inspect their farmers markets at all except for generators or fire lanes

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

Fort Myers Beach Farmers Market organizer

Linda Miller will bring back the market to the island this September at Times Square

Farmers Market

“We don’t have admission fees, we don’t have alcohol sales or huge sponsors We’re just a free, family-fun event,” Miller said “We’re bringing commerce to the town ”

Miller said neighboring businesses see a boost when the farmers market is in town At Santini Plaza, Miller said two businesses

Fuel pumps to get safety stickers on preventing heatstroke

STAFF REPORT

With Florida leading the nation in child vehicular heatstroke fatalities, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson recently announced that every fuel pump across the state will be outfitted with a new inspection sticker featuring the safety messaging

“With daily routines changing for children heading back to school coupled with the still very present summer heat, it is imperative for parents and caregivers to be vigilant to protect their precious cargo,” Simpson said Simpson said new safety messaging to prevent vehicular heatstroke will go on all of the state’s approximately 75,000 fuel inspection stickers on gas pumps across Florida

Vehicular Heatstroke Prevention:

∫ Never leave children, vulnerable adults, or pets unattended in a vehicle – even for a short period of time

∫ If you see a child, vulnerable adult, or pet locked in a hot car, take immediate action

From page 8

that were on the brink of closing were able to stay in business after joining the farmer’s market “We were able to keep their doors open ” In addition, she pays Santini Plaza rent to be there

Miller said she is concerned by the rising fees and remarks from some of the fire com-

missioners that they could go up again next year “The numbers keep changing year after year,” Miller said “Other event planners are not happy ”

Miller stills needs a permit for Santini Plaza, which she has been told will not be as costly She also runs farmers markets in

by

calling 911

∫ Always check the back seat before leaving and locking your vehicle

∫ Florida law, section 768 139, Florida Statutes, provides for the rescue of a vulnerable person or domestic animal from a motor vehicle These good Samaritans may have immunity for damage to the motor vehicle if:

∫ The vehicle is locked and there is no other reasonable way the person or animal to get out.

∫ Has reasonable belief based upon the circumstances that entry is necessary because the person or animal is in imminent danger

∫ Notifies law enforcement or calls 911 prior to or immediately after entering the vehicle

∫ Uses no more force than is necessary

∫ Remains with the person or animal until law enforcement or other first responder arrives

Cape Coral at Surfside Market on Tuesdays and at the Miromar Outlets in Estero on Saturdays

Despite worries about higher fees, Miller is happy to be back in business on the island

“It’s nice to be back on the Beach,” she said

Petition movement afoot to reverse abortion restrictions

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

An effort is underway to claw back Florida’s controversial abortion laws by putting abortion on the ballot next year in a referendum

The ballot initiative would reverse the current 15-week abortion in place that was passed by the state legislature last year, as well as the six-week abortion ban approved by the state legislature and signed by Gov Ron DeSantis earlier this year

Florida Senate Minority Leader Lauren Book (D-35) has been at the forefront of advocating for the ballot drive, which is being led by the Floridians Protecting Freedom coalition The Davie-based legislator said more than 600,000 signed petitions have been collected so far that would seek to roll back all limits on abortion in Florida

Currently, a 15-week ban passed by the state legislature last year is in place until the State Supreme Court issues a ruling expected last month on whether the law violates the state constitution’s protections for abortion under the privacy clause

“As the Florida Senate Democratic Leader and one of the founders of the Reproductive Freedom Collective of Broward County, I am actively engaged in collecting sig-

natures through various avenues, including events, rallies, door-to-door efforts with volunteers, fundraisers, and collaborative initiatives with synagogues, organizations, and concerned citizens statewide,” Book said

“I am doing this for my daughter and the millions of women and girls across the state of Florida who deserve access to safe, legal, and affordable healthcare – because the alternative is not acceptable With the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v Wade, we have now lost the rights won by women two generations ago, and the clock has been turned back on women’s rights Our freedom is at stake, and we must fight ”

The ballot initiative would invalidate any law which prohibits, penalizes, delays, or restricts abortion before viability or when necessary to protect the patient’s health, as determined by the patient’s healthcare provider

Book said organizers of the petition drive are targeting 1 25 million signatures by the end of 2023 The December 31 deadline accounts for validation and county elections processes.

For ballot inclusion in the 2024 General Election, 891,523 valid signatures are required by Feb 1, 2024, alongside Florida Supreme Court approval of the question’s wording

Book said the current abortion law has “Floridians seeking reproductive care elsewhere, facing unclear policies, and enduring dangerous or unwanted pregnancies against their will ”

Under the 15-week ban, Book said some women have had to endure pregnancies despite knowing the fetus wouldn’t survive

“Women like Anya Cook, my constituent in Broward County, have been denied life-saving medical care because of extreme bans and families like the Dorberts in Lakeland have been forced to carry doomed pregnancies to term, only to watch their baby Milo die after 99 excruciating minutes gasping for air after being born with no kidneys and underdeveloped lungs ”

Book said “this is about a person’s right to privacy and personal freedom more than it is about the medical procedure of abortion If the Florida Supreme Court upholds the 15-week ban, it would trigger the enforcement of the sixweek ban within 30 days of the court's decision ”

Book said “people overwhelmingly oppose abortion bans and want to reject extremism. This issue has transcended partisan lines; support for reproductive freedom now unites individuals across political divides ”

Applicants announced for court judicial vacancies

The Twentieth Judicial Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission reported that the following candidates have applied for the Lee County Court vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Erik Leontiev and/or for the Circuit Court vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Don Mason:

∫ Kimberly Davis Bocelli

∫ Karla Campos-Andersen

∫ James Chandler

∫ Deborah Cunningham

∫ Kimberly Erwin

∫ Ryan Kuhl

∫ Steven Leskovich

∫ Amanda Levy-Reis

∫ Andrew Marcus

∫ Richard Frank Myers

∫ Michael Powell

∫ Tracey Redd

∫ Tylan Ricketts

∫ Dennis Wallace

∫ Christopher Whitney

An interview date has been reserved for Aug 29 The list of candidates who will be interviewed, schedule of interviews and location will be announced on Aug 21

Members of the judiciary, bar and public are encouraged to contact commission members concerning the applicants. Those who wish to submit a letter regarding any applicant must submit it in a PDF format to Chair Richard J Montecalvo at rmontecalvo@sao20 org He will disseminate all letters to the other members All correspondence constitutes a public record, pursuant to Florida Statutes

In addition to Montecalvo, the commission members are:

∫ Vice Chair Mike Carr

∫ Katherine Cook

∫ Paul Giordano

∫ Sharon M. Hanlon

∫ Steven E Martin

∫ Aaron J O’Brien

∫ Michael Randolph

∫ Andrea P Smith

A complete listing for each member is available at https://www flgov com/judicialand-judicial-nominating-commission-information/ or from Montecalvo at rmontecalvo@sao20 org

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

CROW welcomes new veterinarian interns

D r M a d e l i n e C h i l c o t e a n d D r K a s e y M i t c h e l l joined the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) as the newest Wildlife and Conservation Medicine Interns beginning their year-long veterinary internships on July 1

Dr Chilcote received her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in German from Kalamazoo College in Kalamazoo, Michigan and earned her doct o r a t e a t M i c h i g a n S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y ’ s C o l l e g e o f

Veterinary Medicine

Before coming to CROW, Dr Chilcote completed a R o t a t i n g S m a l l A n i m a l M e d i c i n e a n d S u r g e r y Internship at VCA Weymouth Animal Hospital and an Animal Care Internship at the Center for Wildlife in Cape Neddick, Maine. She also brings years of experience through previous externships at the following organizations: California Wildlife Center in Calabasas, C a l i f o r n i a ; T h e W i l d l i f e C e n t e r o f V i r g i n i a i n Waynesboro, Virginia; Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia; and the Department of Fish & Wildlife in Corvallis, Oregon

“I wrote my dream career speech on becoming a wildlife veterinarian in elementary school because of the work my uncle did with population management in wildlife,” says Dr Chilcote “During my junior year of college, I studied the three American black bear siblings at the Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek, Michigan

and thought I may want to go into research rather than medicine I decided to take a 3-month long animal care internship with the Center for Wildlife in Maine prior to applying to veterinary school After that internship, it was evident to me that I needed to pursue wildlife medicine I haven’t looked back since!”

Dr Mitchell returns to CROW after previously completing a Veterinary Medicine Externship in 2018 and most recently volunteering in the hospital Dr Mitchell received her Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Marshall University in West Virginia She earned her doctorate from University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine After graduating, Dr Mitchell completed an ER and Small Animal Rotating Internship in San Diego at VCA Emergency Animal Hospital and Referral Center

“I’ve seen all the negative effects humans have on our environment and the animals that live there,” says Dr Mitchell “I always felt the need to do what I could to reduce these impacts and to help the animals ” Dr Mitchell hopes to gain a strong foundation in wildlife medicine and triage throughout her internship

The Wildlife and Conservation Medicine Internship at CROW is centered around the ‘One World, One Health’ concept and designed for those who have completed their Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine and are interested in gaining experience treating wildlife. In

addition to clinical duties, interns participate in research and conservation projects, give case and journal club rounds, and help teach students, staff, and volunteers.

Veterinary interns work closely with staff from all departments in the hospital to gain a better understanding of the rehabilitation process while working with over 200 different species of native and migratory wildlife “I’m hoping to gain greater comfort with identifying species as well as age identification,” says Dr Chilcote “I am looking forward to working with adult mammals because they require so much teamwork and creative use of space and resources in a rehabilitation setting ”

CROW’s staff veterinarian, Dr Robin Bast, is excited to welcome this new intern class to campus. “We are thrilled to have Dr Chilcote and Dr Mitchell join the team and look forward to helping them grow their skills as clinicians over the course of this year They will treat thousands of emergency patients, learn a variety of surgical techniques, assist in teaching the students rotating through the hospital, and conduct research projects in conservation medicine Our interns are key members of the hospital team, and we’re thrilled to be a part of their conservation journey ”

To learn more about internships and externships offered at CROW, please visit www CROWClinic org /articles/student-programs.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Dr Madeline Chilcote (left) and Dr Kasey Mitchell (right) joined the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) as the newest Wildlife and Conservation Medicine Interns beginning their year-long veterinary internships on July 1

Criticism of FEMA at Fort Myers hearing

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The U S House of Representatives Oversight Committee on Oversight and Accountability held a hearing on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and its response to Hurricane Ian in Fort Myers last week with Rep Byron Donalds (R-19) and other representatives seeking answers from FEMA officials over delays in providing trailers after the storm among other questions.

The members of the committee also h e a r d t e s t i m o n y f r o m l o c a l o f f i c i a l s , including Lee County Board of County Commissioners Chair Brian Hamman, Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson and former Sanibel Councilmember Chauncey Goss Donalds entered into the record statements from Cape Coral and Fort Myers Beach as well

Tom McCool, federal coordinating official for FEMA, handled the brunt of the questions for the agency. Ian was the third-costliest hurricane in American history, and McCool said more than 50,000 homes were damaged by the storm

“Affordable housing remains a challenge for some survivors,” McCool said

McCool said 111 travel trailers were placed on properties in Lee County’s barrier islands, with 16 FEMA trailers still in place Some of those who had trailers, have now been moved into apartment rentals while their homes are repaired or their homes have been repaired, he said.

Donalds, whose district covers most of Lee County and Collier County, was most critical of the agency’s trailer policy

“There were two issues surrounding travel trailers The first was the initial deployment, which in my view took forever and a day considering the fact we had people who were instantly displaced The second concern was there was a concern with FEMA around FEMA’s regulation about putting trailers in a flood zone but Southwest Florida, we’re in a flood zone for the most part,” he said “The disaster is a flood zone ”

McCool said that if there is no practical solution, FEMA can put travel trailers in special flood hazard areas He said more than 900 trailers were placed in special flood hazard areas

Donalds was critical of the timeline for installing the trailers McCool said it took about 45 days to start getting the trailers

“Our administrative team of the county doesn’t have the confidence to fix or repair anything right now relating to county facilities or county infrastructure because until it gets an inspection by FEMA they are risking the reimbursement that could come from making those repairs.”

BRIAN HAMMAN Lee County Board of County Commissioners Chairman (District 4)

“There were two issues surrounding travel trailers The first was the initial deployment, which in my view took forever and a day considering the fact we had people who were instantly displaced The second concern was there was a concern with FEMA around FEMA’s regulation about putting trailers in a flood zone but Southwest Florida we’re in a flood zone for the most part ”

REP BYRON DONALDS

reimbursement that could come from making those repairs ”

Hamman said, “Many residents call us daily ‘Why haven’t you torn down the restrooms at Fort Myers Beach at Lynn Hall Memorial Park that look terrible?’ We are told we are not even allowed to touch them If we touch them, if we clean them, we are risking reimbursement ”

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers attended the proceedings though he didn’t speak at the hearing He met with congressmen on Fort Myers Beach afterwards along with FEMA and other federal officials

in place to residents

“I’ve got residents who are out of a house,” Donalds said “The first couple days they are trying to figure out what is going on Then they make a request and then they are waiting 45-60 days and sometimes longer than that.”

McCool said there were thousands of households in transitional shelter assistance after Hurricane Ian

“I don’t think we could have worked any faster,” he said “We did very deliberate flood plain analysis ”

McCool said the agency couldn’t have worked any faster “This is a unique situation ”

Donalds said FEMA had to be “flexible enough” to respond quicker to disasters “so we don’t have to go through a bureaucratic workflow like this ”

Donalds asked McCool how residents were more safe living in damaged homes while they waited for the trailers

McCool said FEMA speaks 22 times to survivors before they go into a trailer and they have to evaluate and identify sites “All of that takes time ”

Donalds also questioned why there was a delay in getting FEMA inspectors to the county to inspect work

McCool said more than 150 inspectors are on the ground and Lee County School District’s inspections would be completed within the next two weeks

D o n a l d s s a i d h e r e q u e s t e d m o r e inspectors for his district months ago

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers went on a tour on Fort Myers Beach with several congressmen including Rep Byron Donalds and other federal officials though no media members were invited.

without a response

Hamman, in his testimony, blamed a lack of FEMA inspectors on the delay in r e b u i l d i n g d a m a g e d c o u n t y s t r u c t u r e s such as Lynn Hall Memorial Park on Fort Myers Beach

“It didn’t help that FEMA initially blamed its slow process on our local land development code This triggered waves of distrust,” Hamman said “FEMA needed more of its inspectors here sooner rather than later ”

Hamman said, “Our administrative team of the county doesn’t have the confidence to fix or repair anything right now relating to county facilities or county infrastructure because until it gets an inspection by FEMA, they are risking the

“It was a chance to show them the examples of things that went right and where there still needs to be improvement in the process that they heard during the hearing,” Allers said “Our focus was to share that although the response with people on the ground was swift, the ultimate decision making was far from that, leaving our residents without homes, money, or answers to their questions We thank them for their willingness to hear our constructive feedback and commitment to implement changes to the process ”

The media was not invited to the tour of the island. Allers said security was of the utmost priority to the congressmen

“The tour of the island was a lastminute decision and security was of the utmost importance for capital security,” Allers said It was not clear what, if any potential security issues existed

The tour took place during a Town of Fort Myers Beach Council management and planning session

(R-19)

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JENNIFER DEXTER

RENDERINGS PROVIDED

Neptune

From page 1

The hotel was a “good performing asset” for the owners before the hurricane, he said “It was a dated resort ”

Under the current proposal, there would be a parking garage with two levels and four stories for the hotel above that, Vanasse said. There will be two pools, like before

“They want to honor the past of what the Neptune used to be - very family-oriented, but they are looking to the future to meet today’s expectations,” he said Among the new additions will be amenities such as a public restaurant, a ballroom that could host weddings, a meeting room and a new tiki bar with more public access.

“The consumer today is different than the 1960s,”

Vanasse said

The plans would also include a gathering place for neighbors and the public to enjoy the sunsets

In addition, the plans call for improving the public beach access by widening the access point near Mango Street. The owners would also construct 16 public parking spaces along Delmar Avenue, Vanasse said

Bayside Park

Lee County Emergency Management in partnership with the United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades counties will receive $900,000 to house and manage the distribution network of commodities to Hurricane Ian survivors This funding will support the long-term recovery efforts and connect available commodities and building supplies with Floridians in need and other non-profit organizations engaged in construction efforts

To further support the hurricane recovery process, t h e F l o r i d a D i s a s t e r F u n d i s a w a r d i n g $ 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 t o w a r d s p u b l i c b o a t r a m p r e p a i r s H u r r i c a n e I a n destroyed many of the public boat ramps in the area and the funds will expedite the use of these facilities rather than causing residents and visitors to be further delayed with the FEMA reimbursement process.

The Pine Island Beacon of Hope organization will receive $500,000 to continue its work in supporting local businesses and self-employed contractors to purchase tools that were destroyed in the storm, in addition to assisting seniors in navigating services to support their recovery and helping to rebuild the playground for the only preschool on Pine Island

T h e J e w i s h F e d e r a t i o n o f L e e a n d C h a r l o t t e Counties has been awarded $200,000 to continue its work in helping residents of Lee and Charlotte counties as they continue to recover following Hurricane Ian S i n c e H u r r i c a n e I a n m a d e l a n d f a l l , t h e J e w i s h Federation has helped impacted Floridians with food, debris cleanup, clothing and household items and many other important services

Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt recently announced the town would be replacing the coconut palm trees that had been placed at the park last year with another native palm tree, following recommendations from the town's Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force regarding the hazards at the park

The committee also has opposed plans for uplighting at the park, which they say will violate the town's lighting ordinance.

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said the town will rebuild the park the same way as the original (minus the coconut palms)

“Bayside Park will be built back to the way it was preIan and we are hopeful to have it open by Labor Day,” he said

The Town of Fort Myers Beach was awarded a $500,000 donation from the Florida Disaster Fund, which raises money from private donors, to rebuild Bayside Park at Old San Carlos Blvd. The park is being rebuilt at an estimated cost of $1.2 million.

The estimated cost of rebuilding Bayside Park is $1 25 million

Allers thanked the governor and first lady for their stewardship of the private fund “Their continued leadership and commitment in helping those impacted by Hurricane Ian will greatly increase our recovery,” Allers

Bowditch Point Park

q u i c k l y m a y b e obscured by sand,

t h e L e e C o u n t y

P a r k s a n d

R e c r e a t i o n

D e p a r t m e n t a d v i s e d i n i t s announcement.

“ B e a c h s h o e s should be worn at a l l t i m e s , ” t h e department said Debris can still be found in nearshore areas, such as d u n e s o r m a ngrove-lined coastlines

F o r t M y e r s

B e a c h F i r e C h i e f

Scott Wirth said , “ I t i s a p r u d e n t move to wear water shoes when in the water, even the brok e n s e a s h e l l s c a n cut feet ”

W i r t h s a i d t h e

d e p a r t m e n t received two emergency calls for cut or lacerated feet on the beach in March

a n d i n J u n e

N e i t h e r i n c i d e n t required the patient to be transported

From page 1

said “We look forward to using the donation to rebuild an important park in our downtown district ”

The park is scheduled to be the site of performances during the Island Hopper Songwriters Fest in late September

FILE PHOTO

Bowditch Point Park, at 50 Estero Blvd., is now opened on Fort Myers Beach with limited amenities.

Student access to media materials determined by parental consent forms

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

More lengthy discussion revolving around the student Media Access form sent to the parents resulted in no changes this week

A motion by Lee County Board member Chris Patricca Tuesday night regarding the form that allows parents to determine what materials their children may check out did not pass as most board members thought the process and form were fine

The board previously determined by consensus which option would be the default if a parent did not fill out the form, a decision made without Patricca and Board member Debbie Jordan present

The three choices parents are:

∫ My child has full access to check out books from the school media center, except for books that have been restricted or those that require parent/guardian consent

∫ My child is not permitted to check out books from the school media center

∫ My child is not permitted to check out books from the school media center that have been formally challenged and received for potentially objectionable material, regardless of the outcome

The default, if a parent does not fill out the form, is the third option.

Board Attorney Kathy Dupuy-Bruno said the administration is not denying students access to materials She said they erred on the side of caution with the default

“Parent rights will trump student’s rights We are asking parents to tell us what you

Options for parents

Parents with children in Lee County Public Schools have three options concerning the materials to which they child has access. They are:

n My child has full access to check out books from the school media center, except for books that have been restricted or those that require parent/guardian consent.

n My child is not permitted to check out books from the school media center

n My child is not permitted to check out books from the school media center that have been formally challenged and received for potentially objectionable material, regardless of the outcome

The default option, if a parent or guardian does not fill out the form is:

n My child is not permitted to check out books from the school media center that have been formally challenged and received for potentially objectionable material, regardless of the outcome

want us to do,” she said

Patricca’s motion was to “move to direct the superintendent to use the Media Access Form originally supported by staff and the Curriculum Advisory Committee until such time the board can pass a Media Access policy ”

The form was a recommendation by the Curriculum Advisory Committee, which included public input She said it was collaborative work and it was good work, as people on both sides of the issue came forth and praised the work of the committee, resulting in a form that represented the best they could do.

“We really rushed through this and landed in a place where I think it will lead to lawsuits filed against us,” Patricca said “Aren’t we doing this backwards here? Why are pro-

cedures written, approved and implemented before policies are created?”

Patricca said “book” and “restriction” should never appear in the same sentence

“What about protecting student’s rights? Logically the best way to keep objectionable material out of the hands of children is to restrict access to books Legally that is impossible if you believe in the First Amendment,” she said

Patricca said the restrictive view of the First Amendment violates the constitution She said the option will deny some students the opportunity to receive ideas and information and denies parents the right of whether their own children can receive ideas and information

Board member Debbie Jordan was also not present at the board meeting that dis-

cussed the form, as she was out of town.

“What was the purpose of us bringing it up to change the form? They did the work They did their jobs It’s not our job to make the form,” Jordan said

When the consensus was originally given for the Media Access form, Board member Cathleen Morgan was not comfortable with the idea

“It was poor management to bring this to the board just before the start of school during the time of year when board members have time away for vacations. We need, as a board, to give this time for all of us to have a conversation Go back to the original form,” Morgan said of the C u r r i c u l u m A d v i s o r y C o m m i t t e e a n d staff “If we want to engage in management of the district’s process, then we have to do a policy ”

Board members Jada Langford-Fleming and Melisa Giovannelli as well as Chair Armor Persons liked the form that went out to parents

“I believe there is going to be less litigation in this way, especially how things are framed The government is not restricting those rights,” Fisher said of the free, open and transparent choice for parents “This is for the 1 9 percent that we believe it will affect ”

“We are giving rights back to parents and protecting all students,” Giovannelli said “It takes a village and this is part of the village work This form puts the power back to the parents and there is nothing wrong with that.”

WHERE TO GO WHAT TO DO WHO TO SEE

Return of the Songs

I sland Hop per Song writ er Fest heads back to Fo rt Myers Beach

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

One day after the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Ian, the ninth-annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest will be getting underwa Myers Beach

On Friday, Sept. 29, the music festiva kickoff its weekend on the island with a s at the DiamondHead Beach Resort Bet Sept 29 and Oct 1, venues hosting live formances will include Pink Shell B Resort, DiamondHead Beach R Matanzas Inn, Lighthouse Tiki Bar, B Park and Mound House

The headliner for this year’s event Chris Janson, a winner of multiple Aca Country Music Awards Janson will be h the Pink Shell Beach Resort Pool Party Oct. 1.

With 90 performers scheduled to play at locations around the county, this year’s festival has the makings of another success The festival begins a week earlier on Captiva island beginning Sept 22

A slew of performances will happen around Fort Myers Beach between Friday, Sept 29, and Sunday, Oct 1 Most of performances will be free, featuring a large number of Nashville-based country musicians

The festival is organized by the Lee County Visitor’s Bureau in conjunction with Broadcast Music Inc , iHeartMedia and the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association.

Nancy MacPhee, Product Development Manager for the Lee County Visitor’s Bureau, said the Sept 29 show at the DiamondHead Beach Resort will be a preview party of the performers, providing a “good opportunity to see songwriters ” Each songwriter is expected to perform one song to help festivalgoers get a feel of where they may want to spend their time over the weekend

With the damage to a number of local hotels and resorts

during Hurricane Ian, MacPhee said, “We didn’t think we had had enough rooms” for the songwriters initially MacPhee said, “We had very generous hotel partners” that were able to offer free rooms to songwriters e festival Fort Myers Beach resorts so included the DiamondHead, ghthouse Inn and Pink Shell each Resort.

The Pink Shell pool figures o be a good time Oct 1 when nson plays with special st Kristian Bush, a twoGrammy Award winhe show will run from Tickets are $45 Last ol party was eerily ys before Hurricane gh Janson is known m McGraw’s 2012 hit “Truck Yeah” and for his own solo album “Buy Me a Boat ” His new single “21 Forever” features Dolly Parton and Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash The song appears on Janson’s latest album “The Outlaw Side of Me ”

Other scheduled shows set for Fort Myers Beach include a benefit Saturday, Sept 30, at the Mound House titled “Music on the Mound” with Fort Myers Beach musician Sheena Brook and Fort Myers native Brian Sutherland from 2-4 p m Tickets are $45

MacPhee said this year’s lineup will feature “a lot of diversity ” In addition to the large numbers of country music performers, there will also be Latin music and pop artists

Other artists set to perform during the festival include Autumn Nicholas, Ben Burgess, Clint Daniels, Sonia Leigh and Emily Shackleton

Among the other performers on the schedule are singersongwriters who have penned No 1 hits for such artists as Carly Pearce, George Strait and Morgan Wallen will perform at multiple Lee County venues from Sept 22 to Oct 1

A full schedule will be released later this month

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w i s l a n d - h o p p e r fest visitfortmyers com

Refuge, partners to hold Family Fun Night event at Lakes Park

To kick of Hispanic/Latine Month from Sept 15 to Oct 15, J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge staff has planned a Family Fun Night after-school event at Lakes Park in Fort Myers

On Sept 15 from 4:30 to 6:30 p m , attendees can enjoy free snacks and Hoverball archery Hands-on exhibits will include local wildlife skulls and pelts, along with an archaeology table presented by the Florida Public Archaeology Network

The refuge will have a table for planting

marigolds to-go and learning about how families can create their own ofrenda, or altar, at home with family for Dia de los Muertos on Nov 1-2 Marigolds are symbolic of the holiday Volunteer or staff members will assist youths with planting and everyone will take home their own small compostable pot with marigold seeds

The refuge is partnership with the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge and Florida Public Archaeology Network for the inaugural event

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

s 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 clearly 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

REFUGE/DDWS

Exploring the ocean’s treasures in Florida Keys

By SHANNON RIVARD

Sun-soaked days, crystal-clear waters and many marine wonders Coral Reef Weeks 1 and 2 in the Florida Keys were an unforgettable experience for the Sanibel Sea School's teenage adventurers With coral reefs as their classroom and the ocean as their playground, the campers embarked on a journey that left them with a newfound appreciation for nature's marvels

Despite advancing coral bleaching in the Florida Keys, the campers were able to explore the reefs and explore the many wonders of the unique coastal ecosystem

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

The first Coral Reef Week on July 10-14 took the eager campers to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park They stopped for a “slough slog” in the Everglades on their way down Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Environmental Policy Director Matt DePaolis joined the campers to reinforce the critical connection between the Everglades, water quality and coral reefs

All week long, excitement filled the air as campers delved into the world of reefs, discovering the incredible biodiversity they harbor

Guided by marine science educators, they studied cnidarians under microscopes, learning about their intricate structures and symbiotic relationships The up-close encounters ignited a sense of wonder and fascination among the campers, inspiring them to protect and preserve the precious ecosystems

Led by SCCF Marine Lab research associate Mark Thompson, hands-on labs allowed the young explorers to

better understand coastal ecology and the relationship between essential habitats like seagrass beds and reefs

Bahia Honda State Park

The adventure continued at Bahia Honda State Park for the second Coral Reef Week on July 17-21 The campers immersed themselves in the coastal wonders, exploring sandy beaches, lush mangroves and vibrant seagrass beds

On their way down, the campers stopped at the Sea Turtle Hospital in Marathon to learn about rescue, rehabilitation and release efforts. The week's labs included observing filter feeding using sponges as a test subject and completing a roving fish survey for REEF's community-based science program

The second week was a test of endurance as the campers embraced a rustic lifestyle in extremely high heat But sleeping under the stars and braving the elements brought them closer to nature, fostering resilience and appreciation for the comforts of modern living

Snorkeling a world of wonders

The highlight of both weeks, however, was undoubtedly the snorkeling expeditions Armed with masks, snorkels and fins, the campers ventured into the turquoise waters to witness the magic beneath the surface Their eyes widened in awe as they encountered sea turtles gracefully gliding past, sharks patrolling the depths and octopuses displaying their alien-like movements

Dreamlike encounters with eagle rays, their majestic wings gliding effortlessly through the water, left an indelible impression on the young hearts And as the sun dipped below the horizon, the ocean unveiled its most enchanting

spectacle bioluminescence The waters sparkled with glowing organisms, illuminating the night and creating a delightful ambiance

Empowered for change

Despite the lack of modern comforts, the campers discovered that true treasure lies in experiences pushing them beyond their comfort zones Their challenges only deepened their sense of accomplishment and enriched their spirits

As the camp came to a close, the campers shared their reflections. They expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to witness the beauty of coral reefs in their lifetime The importance of protecting the delicate ecosystems now resonated deeply within them

They left with a newfound sense of purpose, understanding that even small changes in their lives could benefit reefs and contribute to conservation efforts Armed with knowledge and inspiration, they returned home as ambassadors for the ocean, ready to make a difference in the world

Each Coral Reef Week proved to be more than just an adventure; it was a transformational experience that shaped young hearts and minds As they bid farewell to the shimmering waves and sandy shores, they carried with them memories of a summer well-spent one that taught them the value of nature, the power of resilience and the significance of embracing discomfort for the sake of growth

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-changing 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 signing event Guests will have the 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 art 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 Limited Edition Triptych: 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 ”

Shannon Rivard is director of the Sanibel Sea School and youth education director for the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation The Sanibel Sea School is part of the SCCF family

SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL

WHAT’S HAPPENING

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 moreinparadise com Attendees must be 21 years old Parking is free

After his groundbreaking win on “Last Comic Standing” in 2006, Blue has risen through the ranks to become a wellestablished headliner at venues throughout the world In 2018, Blue crushed his set on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon ” In the same year, he was honored with a performance at the William H Macy Gala at the prestigious Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal, Canada He wrapped up 2018 by recording his fifth hour special, “Broccoli,” at his home club, Comedy Works in Denver In 2021, following his 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

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t PaceCenter.org/Locations/Lee or call 239-425-2366.

For t Myers Mighty Mussels home games

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

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

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 member of the National Garden Clubs, the Florida

Calusa

Nature Center and Planetarium upcoming events

The Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium is at 3450 Ortiz Ave , Fort Myers It sits on 105 acres of wilderness within the city limits In the Nature Center there are over 35 different animals including 3 bald eagles, 2 adult alligators and 2 baby alligators There is almost 2 miles of walking/hiking trails one a 1/3 mile shell path that is an easy walk the other 1 ½ miles that takes you out into the wilderness around the property The Butterfly Aviary is stocked with native butterflies, native plants and a Raptor Aviary which houses birds of prey

In addition, the Calusa Nature Center has the only Planetarium within 90 miles of Fort Myers. The Planetarium does 4 different shows per month broke out by even and odd days with 2 shows occurring each day, one at 12:15 p m and the other at 2:15 p m

Between Planetarium shows there is a live animal talk in the Nature Center at 1:15 p m

Upcoming events:

∫ Friday, Aug 18, at 7 p m

A Late Night Double Feature: This month "Nosferatu" and "The House on Haunted Hill "

Tickets are $10 and the proceeds go to benefit our Haunted Walk

∫ Wednesday, Aug. 23, at 7 p.m.

Monthly Planetarium Premiere - this month "Traveling With Light"

"Through the conversation between a child and his mother, planetarium show “Travelling with Light” tackles the importance of light in all areas of our lives The movie presents different scenarios that reveal the complexity of light and its direct influence on our planet "

Tickets are $15 / Members free

∫ Saturday, Sept 9, from 9 to 11 a m

Monthly Nature Explorers Program for children 5 to 11. This month is Predators and Prey.

"Predators have ways to get their prey and Prey have ways to not get caught We are going to have fun while learning about the amazing lives of Predators and Prey "

∫ Sunday Sept 10, at 10:30 a m

Monthly Sensory Sunday Program "Wildest Weather in the Solar System"

"A spectacular journey to witness the most beautiful, powerful, and mysterious weather phenomena in the solar system Find out on which planet it rains diamonds! Audiences will fly through the thick acid clouds of the atmosphere of Venus, gigantic magnetic storms on the Sun, liquid methane showers on Titan, and anticyclones whirling at hundreds of miles per hour on Jupiter "

The show has been altered to remove loud noises, soften the lighting, and remove abrupt changes that might disturb people with sensory issues Tickets $ 5

∫ Wednesday, Sept 13, at 7 p,m,

Monthly Nature Speaker Series This month Kenny Coogan will be speaking about Carnivorous Plants

" Florida has more native species of carnivorous plants than any other state in the country These plants use appealing scents, leaves, and sticky fluids to trap and imprison insects Learn why Florida is a hotspot of carnivorous plants "

Presented by Kenny Coogan, author of the book “Florida’s Carnivorous Plants”

Non-members $15 / Members Free

Things get busy with the Friendly Forest celebration, Sept 23 and 24, Haunted Walk beginning in October and Holiday lights in December

Federation of Garden Clubs, and American Public Gardens Association

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

The Calusa Nature Center is open from 10 a m to 4 p m , Tuesday through Sunday Admission, which includes all our programming, animals, trails, and Planetarium cost $10 for adults and $5 for children 312 years of age Discounts offered for seniors and military

For more information, visit www calusanature org/

PET PALS

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.

Three tiered cage on wheels needed to house small kittens

By Jo Knobloch

Saveourstraysfmb @yahoo com

Founder of Save Our Strays Cat Rescue

a 501c3 organization on Fort Myers Beach

W e a r e i n n e e d o f a n e w s c a n n e r a n d a t h r e e t i e r e d c a g e o n w h e e l s t o h o u s e t h e s m a l l k i t t e n s G o i n g t h r o u g h l o t s o f k i t t e n f o o d , w e t a n d d r y a n d l i t t e r D o n a t i o n s c a n b e l e f t a t e i t h e r o f t h e t w o P E T S U P E R M A RK E T S t h a t w e w o r k w i t h f o r a d o pt i o n s e i t h e r a t M a j e s t i c P a l m s s t o r e o f f S a n C a r l o s B o u l e v a r d c l o s e t o t h e b e a c h o r t h e C o l l e g e / 4 1 s t o r e A n y M o n e t a r y d o n a t i o n s c a n b e s e n t t o o u r P . O . B o x 5 0 1 4 , F o r t M y e r s B e a c h , F L , 3 3 9 3 2 W e a p p r e c i a t e a n y a n d a l l d o n a t i o n s A l s o w e s t i l l a r e i n n e e d o f f e e d e r s f o r o u t s i d e h u rr i c a n e s u r v i v o r s a n d v o l u n t e e r s t o h e l p w i t h k i t t e n s a s w e l l a s f o s t e r s f o r k i t t e n s a n d a d u l t s

ROXIE - Senior Cat for Seniors Roxie is a 10-year-old medium hair female tabby She is a quiet sweet cat who will fit in with a quiet home with no dogs or other cats unless they too are seniors She has had a very tough first 10 years as someone had her fixed and then put her outside when she was a year old or less She is a Hurricane Ian survivor We rescued her from the north end of Fort Myers Beach a month ago where she was living in broken glass and hurricane debris all over She since has been fully vetted and had a dental cleaning also She is ready and deserves a wonderful safe home Please call 239-851-3485 if you would like to meet Roxie.

SWEETIE PIE - Is a sweet male white and gray tabby 4 months old He is timid at first but is fine once he gets acclimated to a new place He has the round bullets on his side which makes him even more stunning He plays with his siblings and likes to run and chase them as all kittens do He is fully vetted and ready for a forever home

SPORTS & RECREATION

Tee it up for GCHS!

Shelter to host second Top Golf Tournament Sept. 17

Grab those drivers and iron golf clubs out of the bag and join the fun for the Gulf Coast Humane Society’s Top Golf Tournament, Sunday, Sept. 17, from 1-5 p m at Top Golf, 2021 Topgolf Way, Fort Myers

No matter how you fair in the tee box, your participation will be a winner for the GCHS shelter animals, with the Top Golf Tournament being one of the shelter’s biggest fundraisers of the year

“Last year, everyone had a great time at the Top Golf Tournament and it became an important fundraiser for the shelter,” said GCHS executive director Gary Willoughby “We are expanding the event this time around to add more enjoyment and hopefully raise more funds for the shelter animals ”

Sign up today here: https://bit ly/47hWpnI or visit https://gulfcoasthumanesociety.org/events/.

This year, there is a new VIP Experience for $1,500 per bay The VIP Experience will include six players with access to comfy couches in each bay, a premium top shelf open bar, exclusive Fajita Fiesta buffet and three hours of unlimited gameplay

But the VIP Experience is limited to 10 bays, so it is urged to potential teams to register as soon as possible

There will be 26 open bays which costs $800 per golf team This package includes six players, access to the Fajita Fiesta buffet and three hours of unlimited golf play.

Each team is also able to register up to two extra

Mighty Mussels Promotional Calendar

guests to join The cost for VIP guests is $100 (which includes the buffet and open premium bar) and $50 for nonVIP (which includes the buffet). There will be plenty of extracurricular fun, including raffle prizes and a silent auction Prizes will also be won by participating golfers

Sponsorships are available for the event Please contact Lori Burke at lori@gulfcoasthumane society org or 239-332-0364 ext 321 for more information

Shoot an ace for the GCHS shelter animals by competing in the Top Golf T o u r n a m e n t ! S i g n u p t o d a y h e r e : https://bit ly/47hWpnI or visit https://gulfcoasthumanesociety org/events/

About Gulf Coast Humane Society:

Gulf Coast Humane Society is a regional organization dedicated to helping companion pets find their forever homes, no matter how long it takes GCHS provides an adoption center, spay-neuter and veterinary clinic, as well as education and awareness to the public about the welfare of homeless pets

GCHS’ mission is to care for companion pets in need by offering safe refuge, providing medical care and facilitating adoptions GCHS promotes the concept the “Adopt, Don’t Shop” and help educate the community about proper and responsible animal care, while providing quality, affordable veterinary care

To learn more about GCHS, visit its website at www gulfcoasthumanesociety org

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 biography 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

T o e n t e r , v i s i t h t t

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For more information and the full contest rules, v i s i t h t t p s : / / l n g c - z g p h m a i l l i s t - m a n a g e n e t / c l i c k / 1 3698b7781976cc6/13698b778196dcc7

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

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 visit

http://www scbps com, Facebook: https://www facebook com/San-Carlos-Bay-Sailboat-and-PowerboatSquadron

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

Tuesday, Aug 22 @ 7 p m

vs Daytona Tortugas

Game Highlight: Two For Tuesday

All fans get 2 for 1 on Beer, Soda & Hot Dogs! | Presented By Coors Light, 96 KROCK & ESPN Southwest Florida

Game Highlight: Publix 2 for 1 Ticket Tuesdays

All fans can get 2 for 1 tickets to all Tuesday Mussels home games by showing a Publix receipt dated from the previous two weeks at the Mussels box office | Presented By Publix

Wednesday, Aug 23 @ 7 p m

vs. Daytona Tortugas

Game Highlight: Dollar Dog Night

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

Game Highlight: Guaranteed Win Night

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

Game Highlight: Silver Sluggers

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

Game Highlight: Ladies' Night

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

Thursday, Aug 24 @ 7 p m vs Daytona Tortugas

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 25 @ 7 p m vs Daytona Tortugas

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: Mascot Olympics

Game Highlight: Friday Fireworks

After each Friday game the Mussels will light up the sky with the best fireworks show in Southwest Florida!

Saturday, Aug 26 @ 6 p m vs Daytona Tortugas

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: Racing Day

Game Highlight: Cancer Sucks Night #8

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

Source: www milb com

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