Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin

London Bay’s Outrigger rezoning to meet LPA Friday

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

London Bay Development Group’s quest to turn the former Outrigger Resort property into a mixed hotel and condo development with multiple high-rise towers with plans for controversial water taxis, will take its first formal review from the Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency on Friday at town hall.

Public hearings will be held on four ordinances to allow the developers to make a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to

allow for a mixed used of hotel and residential units by rezoning the property and turning it into a Commercial Planned Development. They will need approvals to build above the four-story height limit in the town to allow for the high-rise towers they are proposing and additional intensity over the code

The extensive plans and agenda for the meeting were released to the public on Tuesday morning, three days before a public hearing scheduled for Friday

The meeting will be the first chance for

the LPA and public to comment on and address the final proposal from the Naplesbased development group London Bay Development Group made a presentation to the public in February in which the public raised concerns about the height of the buildings, traffic and potential impacts to nearby canals through the use of water taxis

The plans submitted to the town which will be reviewed by the Local Planning Agency confirms the concerns of neighbors that the developers will seek to pro-

Propo sed 17-story tower s would r equ ire exempt ion f rom town’s height code

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Looking to bring Fort Myers Beach

o n e o f t h e l a r g e s t r e s i d e n t i a l developments the town has seen s i n c e i n c o r p o r a

o n

h e d e v e l o p e r s behind Seagate Development Group’s 17-story twin-condo tower buildings met with some of the island’s summer public Wednesday to unveil their plans In a meeting room at the Pink Shell Beach Resort with a few dozen community members, Seagate Development Group CEO Matt Price heard from those strongly opposed to the 141 condo units proposed at the former Red Coconut Resort, and others who asked if the

developer was willing to compromise on the height of the buildings or provide more of a community benefit

Price asked those in the room if they knew why Fort Myers Beach incorporated almost 30 years ago. “Density,” he said For Price, one of the selling points of the project is that they meet the town’s density requirements of 10 units per acre for the location of the parcel

w h e r e R e d C o c o n u t R V R e s o r t s a t before Hurricane Ian wiped it out The problem for some in the room was that the project does not meet the town’s requirement for height, which does not allow any new building to be more than four stories high

“We incorporated for both density and height,” said Greg Scasny, who is running for a seat on the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council “What you are asking for is a lot,” Scasny said “Do you think that what you are giving back to the community fits that ask?”

For Price and Seagate Development Group, part of the tradeoff they are offering since purchasing the land for $52 million last year, is limited development on the beach side of their property Of the two acres they own on the beach, close to one-third will be for a 29,000square-foot private beach club which is behind the berm and back away from

vide and encourage the use of water taxis

Residents who live along the side streets and canals have deep concerns that their canals will be overrun by commercial boat traffic to service the hotel

Dawn Miller, who co-owns The Whale restaurant and lives on Bahia Via where the water taxis would run past, said representatives of London Bay Development Group met with the community in June to discuss their plans to use the water taxis

Miller said the water taxis will run along

Al Durrett, a co-founder and past president of the Fort Myers Beach Friends of the Arts, died at the age of 79. He was the longtime owner of Fish-Tale Marina and former general manager of Santini Plaza. He was named Humanitarian of the Year by readers of the Fort Myers Beach Observer in 2011

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Al Durrett, the 2011 Fort Myers Beach Observer Humanitarian of the Year and longtime owner of Fish-Tale Marina, has died Durrett, who also was the longtime general manager of Santini Plaza, was 79 Among the other businesses he owned was the former Fish-Tale Waterfront Dining He is survived by his wife Kathy, two children, three step-sons and his brother Walter Durrett sold Fish-Tale Marina in 2020 to Southern Marinas and relinquished management duties of Santini Plaza after its ownership group sold the Fort Myers Beach property in 2022 Durett sold Fish-Tale Waterfront Dining shortly before Hurricane Ian that same year

Former Fort Myers Beach Mayor Anita Cereceda, who has operated The Islander at Santini Plaza, said she knew Durrett for more than 30 years

Election results posted on Observer website

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers

While the outcomes of T mary races and school boar able as of press time, the Fo has posted the results on o myersbeachtalk com

T h e r a c e s i n c l u d e

Republican primaries for th

L e e C o u n t y B

C o u n

C o m m i s

s

District 3 seat that includ Fort Myers Beach and the D 5 seat currently held by bo man Mike Greenwell

In the District 3 race, pr candidate David Mulicka against Fort Myers Beach

Matt Thornton Republican is not seeking re-election

w

D

3 c o Myers Beach, Bonita Sprin and unincorporated South F

not seeking re-election challenge from fellow Amanda Cochran in campaign of seeking to t, particularly in Alva emocrat Kizzie Fowler Alva, Lehigh Acres, uckingham, Olga and astern unincorporated Fort Myers Only Lee

could vote in the two c

rimary races, regardss of their district L

pervisor of Elections yle, a Republican, is enged by Lee County

eters The race will be primary, meaning all d partake regardless of

party registration

Lee County Property Appraiser Matt Caldwell faced

Cunningham The race was on the primary ballot as

universal primary open to all voters

Lee County School Board

Three Lee County School Board seats were the ballot/ In at-large District 7, Vanessa Melbis Chaviano, Sheridan Chester and Joshua D Molandes were on the

Giovannelli was being challenged by Carol Frantz In District 3, which covers Fort Myers Beach, Bill Ribble and Kaitlyn Schoeffel faced off Lee County state GOP committee seats

There are two Republican state committee seats up for election in a primary

Michael "Mick" Peters, who is running against Doyle in the Supervisor of Elections race, is also running against Andrew Sund for the Republican state committeeman seat

There are four Republicans seeking to fill the open state Republican committeewoman seat: Adele Amico, Melissa Giovanelli, Krissy Houlihan and Tara Jenner

Lee County Domestic Animal Services to close temporarily for staff training Aug. 27

Regular hours resume Aug 28

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will be closed temporarily Tuesday, Aug 27, for staff training Animal Services will resume normal business hours on

Wednesday, Aug 28

Staff will continue to respond to emergency calls LCDAS is using posters at its site, social media posts and a website update to inform the public about the temporary closure

County Domestic Animal Services, visit www LeeLostPets com or call 239-5337387 (LEE-PETS)

To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at

Fax:

Web Poll

∫ No, I plan to vote on Election Day or Primary Day, 60%

∫ Unsure, 0%

Current Web Poll

Do you support Seagate's plans for two 17-story condo towers that will require a deviation from the town code limit of four stories?

∫ Yes, I support it

∫ No, I do mot support it

∫ Unsure

Public safety is top priority in Lee County

We are keeping you safe in Lee County, and here’s how

The public’s health, safety and welfare is of the upmost importance to the Board of Lee County Commissioners, and we are funding significant

Emergency Medical Services

include $315 million for the Sheriff’s Office, an increase of $38 million for 75 new

wages

Guest Commentary

Additionally, the county is investing $16 million in four new ambulance stations in the Central, Southeast, North and Northeast areas of the county, more resources in Cape Coral, and, in the past year, has approved 34 new positions

As chairman of the Commission, I hear citizens’ concerns about code enforcement and illegal dumping The budget we will approve in September includes four new positions in code enforcement

Relief from traffic congestion is an ongo-

Lee Health Conversion: Benefit or detriment to Lee County residents?

To the editor:

Based on my review and research of the Lee Health Conversion Proposal, I believe it to be detrimental to Lee County citizens I filed this Notice of Objections to our d

Commissioners regarding the Lee Health Conversion Plan from a Public Hospital to a Non for Profit Private Hospital

My Objections:

∫ The citizens of Lee County will no longer be the primary stakeholders and

Statutes and its Charter which has been the case since 1968

∫ The citizens of Lee County will not be allowed to vote for Board Members to represent the public interest versus private generated agendas and initiatives

∫ Lee Citizens will be barred from governance per the Sunshine Amendment (FS 112, 119), there will be no requirement for advertised meetings/agendas and or open meetings/public comments, no financial disclosure of board members will be required nor will citizens be able to make public records requests which holds Lee Health to

ing effort that includes new roads, adding lanes to existing thoroughfares, and ensuring light timing optimizes traffic flow

Two of the county’s top transportation priorities should spell relief for many commuters.

The county is widening and c

A

State Road 82 at Sunshine Boulevard, providing another w

motorists to get

improvement also will provide

Boulevard. And the Three Oaks extension north from Alico to Daniels will relieve congestion on other north-south roadways

Adding lanes to the soon-to-be replaced Cape Coral Bridge and existing Midpoint Bridge will help with morning and afternoon traffic across the Caloosahatchee River

Transit continues to provide Mobility on D

Lehigh Acres to augment fixed bus routes

Letters to the Editor

be transparent, accountable and responsible as to their organization and operations

I find it disingenuous and objectionable that Lee Health’s primary reasons for wanting to convert rests on fiction rather than facts Lee Health falsely claims that conversion will allow them to expand their market share outside the county.

Fact: Lee Health is currently providing h e a l t h a n d r e h a b i l i t a t i v e s e r v i c e s i n Charlotte, Collier and Hendry counties

Lee Health purports that conversion will enable them to increase their profit margin Fact: Lee Health’s profit margin as a public hospital is recognized as being healthy and is run effectively and efficiently by US News and World Report Lee Health recently received by the Governor the Sterling Award for Best in its Organization and Operations and sustainable service to its community

Lee Health bemoans as fact that not going private hinders its recruitment efforts Fact: According to Lee Health’s Consulting Firm Kaufman, it states in its report on page 54, by going Private will hinder recruiting efforts

Note because of the loss of sovereign immunity per Lee Health’s conversion plan it will undoubtedly cause increased malpractice insurance costs that will result in a rise in

And the county’s commitment to land preservation is strong This Tuesday, the Board will be asked to purchase a 41-acre tract in North Fort Myers off Moody Road

Finally, it has been one of my major goals as your county commissioner to revitalize the Lee County Civic Center and its surrounding property for the county’s rural youth and 4H.

The county ran its first ever Ag Expo this past February with maintenance updates to existing facilities The excitement I witnessed from local kids with their livestock and just those attending for the carnival activities was proof enough that while this county continues to be one of the fastest growing in the nation, we have a responsibility to protect the things that have made this area a special place to live

I want to continue that excitement into the coming years and make the Civic Center facilities one that we all can be proud of and can be an anchor for our east county neighbors

w Commissioners continue to work to make Lee County a safe and great place to live

Mike Greenwell is the chair of the Board of Lee County Commissioners

patient costs

Fact: Lee Health introduced a new fundi n g p l a n c a l l e d t h e L e e C o u n t y L o c a l Participation Fund (LCLPF) to Lee County Board of County Commissioners Meeting on July 30 Lee Health never brought up the LCLPF in their public hearings/final vote, nor in their submitted and draft Proposal Covenant Documents

The purpose of the Lee Health’s plan according to Dr Raymond Kordonowy, a physician is “basically a work around to reclaim Federal dollars that will be allowed to disband its Public District Charter ”

The bottom line is that Lee Health’s plan h a s s a d d l e d a n d b u r d e n e d t h e Commissioners with another task

This new task is that the Commission must come to terms with them; reviewing and considering how to keep their promise to provide “in perpetuity a safety net for the Public ” (Dr Kordonowy, August, 2024)

It is evident that the Commission “is now being instructed to start collecting levies from health care providers “(Dr Kordonowy, 2024) Does collecting levies mean taxes, fees, charges?

It should be noted that the legality of the Lee County Local Participation Fund is now

See LETTERS, page 5

Mike Greenwell

being reviewed by the Federal Office of the Inspector General

The Lee County Commission will meet on Tuesday, Aug 20, at 9:30 a m to discuss the review of its staff findings regarding Lee Health’s Proposal Steve Maxwell, MPA, EdD Sanibel

Medicare is fundamentally sound

To the editor:

I recently read the guest commentary by Sally C Pipes, “Medicare Doomsday Clock ticks toward midnight” and I was disgusted Using the word “doomsday” is a scare tactic intended to alarm seniors She also uses the term “Ponzi scheme,” which also is inflammatory and inaccurate Medicare has worked well for patients and doctors for 59 years and will continue to do so

Ms Pipes correctly points out that in 2023 Medicare had a shortfall of $12 billion That sounds like a lot, until you do a little research and learn that the total Medicare budget is $821 billion, something she failed to mention in her guest commentary This is deliberately misleading

If you do the math, Medicare in 2023 was 98 5% funded by the tax revenue it took in In other words, the s h o r t f a l l o n l y r e p r e s e n t e d 1 5 % o f t o t a l r e v e n u e Medicare is not going to go broke Some reforms are needed, but the system is stable Additionally, economists have noted that, after years of steady increases, annual spending per beneficiary has leveled off in recent years, something the author fails to mention

Of course, we should strive to continually reform Medicare, and we should try to root out fraud, waste and abuse. For instance, the Wall Street Journal recently reported that home health nurses were generating multithousand dollar bills on a single home health visit by padding the patients’ diagnoses lists The total cost of these? About $15 billion We always have room for improvement

And if you see a name brand drug advertised on TV,

you can be sure it is expensive The costs run into the thousands, tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands per year So there is fat there that can be trimmed But we don’t have to blow up the system to do it.

Ms Pipes has never been to medical school, never cared for patients and doesn’t talk to dozens of Medicare patients every day as I and my fellow Lee County physicians do She did not attend medical school, nor did she earn a Ph D in economics as far as I can tell She holds only an honorary degree from Pepperdine

Ms Pipes told us the sky was falling in the 2010s in her numerous treatises on the evils of Obamacare She claimed that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) would somehow ration care In fact, it has done the opposite It’s given affordable health insurance to millions of working adults. These are people with too much income to qualify for Medicaid, but who don’t earn enough to pay the $1,000 monthly premiums for conventional health insurance The ACA has kept people healthy And it has allowed entrepreneurial folks to leave their large employer (and its health insurance) and to go out and open a small business People aren’t necessarily stuck in their jobs because they want to keep their health insurance This is good for the economy Furthermore, selfemployed folks are able to get coverage and not worry about going bankrupt if they get sick and need hospitalization Her doom and gloom predictions were wrong then, and they are wrong now.

The sky is not falling Medicare may need some continual tweaks, but fundamentally the system is sound Dr Scott Crater Fort Myers

Prioritize autonomy of individuals & families

To the editor:

The experience of a family member’s pregnancies and the choices our family had to make have shown me the importance of safe and accessible abortion protocols My family member’s life was at risk during her second preg-

nancy, and the option of a safe abortion not only saved her life but also allowed her to have a healthy pregnancy and birth later on

Individuals and families must have the freedom to make these difficult decisions based on their unique circumstances, with the support of their trusted medical professionals and their own beliefs Government restrictions on reproductive care not only infringe upon this freedom but also have negative implications for our state’s economy and workforce

Limiting access to reproductive care can drive young couples away from Florida, hampering the growth of our workforce and economy Additionally, imposing invasive screening requirements before emergency female care can discourage tourists from choosing Florida as a vacation destination, leading to a decrease in tourist income for the state

Furthermore, the rise of abortion restrictions in the 1970s was driven by political agendas rather than genuine concern for the well-being of families and individuals It’s clear that these restrictions are not rooted in biblical law, and they have no place in dictating personal and family decisions

I urge policymakers to recognize the importance of allowing individuals and families to make their own reproductive health decisions in consultation with their healthcare providers and to refrain from imposing unnecessary restrictions. It’s time to prioritize the well-being and autonomy of individuals and families in our state

Vote for leadership

To the editor:

Attention: Independents, veterans, women, Swifties, Beyhives, LGBTQ+, gen x, gen z and millennials A new Democratic train has left the station. Hop on this train carries hope and joy, not fear and revenge

Vice President Kamala Harris and Tim Walz want a

See LETTERS, page 22

Karyn Edison Fort Myers

BUSINESS

Chamber to hold mini golf tourney

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce is closing out the summer with its “Jolly Roger Mini Masters” miniature golf tournament at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf on Aug 30

The event will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Fort Myers Beach miniature golf course off San Carlos Boulevard

The cost to enter is $200 per team

Check-in will begin at 3 p m at the Bayside Grille, at 17853 San Carlos Blvd , on Fort Myers Beach Majestic Transportation will transport teams to Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf free of charge

The pirate-themed event will include awards for lowest score, highest score and “finest pirate garb” according to the event description provided by the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce

For more information, visit https://www.fortmyersbeach org/events/jolly-roger-mini-masters/

IRS announces tax relief for Hurricane Debby victims

STAFF REPORT

The Internal Revenue Service has announced tax relief for individuals and businesses in Florida that were affected by severe storms and flooding that began on Aug 1 due to Hurricane Debby These taxpayers now have until Feb 3 to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments

Following the disaster declaration issued by FEMA individuals and households that reside or have a business in Lee County, as well as Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Brevard, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Glades, Gulf, H a m i l t o n , H a r d e e , H e n d r y , H e r n a n d o , H i g h l a n d s , Hillsborough, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, M o n r o e , N a s s a u , O k a l o o s a , O k e e c h o b e e , O r a n g e , Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Santa Rosa, S a r a s o t a , S e m i n o l e , S t J o h n s , S u m t e r , S u w a n n e e , T a y l o r , U n i o n , V o l u s i a , W a l t o n , W a k u l l a a n d Washington counties qualify for tax relief

See IRS, page 10

Town closing in on 7-Eleven property

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Town of Fort Myers Beach is closing in on acquiring the former 7-Eleven property at 6221 Estero Blvd for $1 7 million The town intends to use the property as additional parking for the new town hall at 6231 Estero Blvd nearby, which the town was expecting to close on Monday

Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt had informed the town council that he has made an offer of $1 7 million to the owners of the 6221 Estero Blvd property, which has been accepted According to county records, the parcel is owned by Texas-based Southland Corporation

The 7-Eleven is next to the town hall and borders Driftwood Lane on the other side

The town council voted in April to move forward with acquiring a former office building at 6231 Estero Blvd for $7 million. According to Town of Fort Myers Beach Clerk Amy Baker, there is no resolution that has been approved by the town council for the purchase of the 7Eleven building yet

A resolution had been in front of the town council on Aug 2 for accepting the $8 million state grant which will help fund the purchases of the two properties, which was put off until this past Monday when the council voted to approve the resolution The resolution states that the town intends to acquire the 7-Eleven property at 6221 Estero Blvd and will use the state grant, insurance proceeds and its emergency fund balance for the purchases

On Monday, councilmembers were informed by town counsel that the town is awaiting documents from the seller for the town hall property and received closing documents Monday to close on the ownership of the town hall property

The town will use insurance proceeds and its emergency fund balance for the purchases In addition, the state appropriation is a reimbursement grant which means

the town will need to pay the money out first before it is reimbursed

Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt had previously disclosed publicly at a town council meeting that he was working with neighboring property owners about potentially utilizing an additional site for town hall parking The town council had not publicly discussed the purchase until after he had made the offer to acquire the 7-Eleven parcel

According to town councilmembers, they had been informed privately by Hyatt that he was negotiating purchase of the 7-Eleven building before it was put on the Aug. 2 agenda.

Hyatt said he expects to be moving into the new town hall by the beginning of 2025 “in a perfect world ” Hyatt said he is hopeful a new elevator will be ready in the next two to three months Hyatt said there is some carpeting work and other work needed on the top two floors and painting the building

The town will then have to remove the trailers it has been operating out of and renting

At the 7-Eleven property, Hyatt wants to elevate the property for stormwater control

“We want to make sure our stormwater stays on our property, that we don’t dump it on the street. We will probably see an improvement in that area,” Hyatt said

Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt asked Hyatt if the town had increased its insurance coverage since Hurricane Ian and whether the town had been fully insured on the town hall Hyatt said he believed the town was underinsured on the town hall and has increased the town’s insurance coverages According to town finance director Joe Onzick, the town has received approximately $2 5 million in insurance reimbursement from the destruction of its town hall, with more funds expected to be received as part of the town’s insurance settlement Hyatt said the town is keeping the same insurance carrier.

FILE PHOTO

The Town of Fort Myers Beach is closing on the purchase of the former 7-Eleven building off Estero Boulevard next to the future town hall property. The town will use the lot for town hall parking.

Beach Living

Public can report horseshoe crab sightings

Horseshoe crabs can be found on many Florida beaches One may have had the opportunity to come across the prehistoric creatures spawning during a high tide, or perhaps found one of their molts on the shore

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that horseshoe crabs along the Gulf Coast of Florida are of special conservation interest because they remain unprotected from harvesting protections and face many threats.

Role of horseshoe crabs

Horseshoe crabs and their eggs are extremely important food sources for migratory shorebirds, including red knots a declining shorebird that has one of the longest migration paths of any bird.

“Red knots migrate thousands of miles between their breeding grounds in the arctic tundra and their wintering grounds in South America twice a year,” SCCF shorebird intern Riona Lahey said “These journeys cost considera b

extremely important for the survival of these birds ”

When horseshoe crabs in the northeast U S were overharvested in the 1900s, red knot populations rapidly declined Scientists quickly learned that horseshoe crabs are vital to the survival of the red knot, leading to the protection of both species

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission has protections in place to ensure the harvest of horseshoe crabs along the east coast of Florida remains at sustainable levels However, Gulf Coast horseshoe crabs are not protected by the ASMFC, so they are of special conservation interest

Humans also benefit from horseshoe crab blood, which contains limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL), which is used to test for bacterial contamination in medical products LAL is important for maintaining high safety standards, preventing infections and ensuring the effectiveness of pharmaceuticals, vaccines and implants Biomedical collection permits are required to collect blood from horseshoe crabs, and the animals must be released afterward Recent efforts have been underway to use synthetic alternatives

Development, shoreline armoring, the aquarium trade, beach driving, sea level rise and erosion also threaten horseshoe crab populations in Florida

About horseshoe crabs

Despite their name, horseshoe crabs are not crabs or crustaceans They are arthropods that belong to their own family, Limulidae, and are closely related to spiders and other arachnids

The Mound House on Fort Myers Beach is a public museum on the National Registrar of Historic Places which traces its roots to the Calusa, the ancient Native American tribe who built a shell mound approximately 2,000 years ago underneath the house and museum The house at 451 Connecticut St is the oldest standing structure on Estero Island The Town of Fort Myers Beach operates the Mound House as a museum complex and cultural and environmental learning experience that offers entertainment and educational programs, including for children There is also public land for picnics and docks for fishing along the bay. Overflow parking is available at 216 Connecticut St For more details, reservations, and a monthly programs schedule, call 239-765-0865

The oldest fossil records show that horseshoe crabs have existed for at least 445 million years. Limulus polyphemus is one of four living horseshoe crab species the other three are found in Asia This species has remained nearly unchanged since before dinosaurs roamed the Earth, so they are often referred to as “living fossils ”

Before horseshoe crabs reach maturity at 9-10 years old, they molt their shells up to 16 or 14 times One can tell if a shell has molted if there is a slit running along the front, which indicates the horseshoe crab has exited

Spawning and community science

Although horseshoe crabs in Florida can nest all year, peak spawning occurs in the spring and fall at high tides during full and new moons They can nest in pairs or groups with multiple males The female lays thousands of eggs in a hole in the sand, then the male(s) externally fertilize them

SCCF’s shorebird team has been documenting horse-

shoe crabs spawning throughout the summer In preparation for fall nesting, the team will attend public training on Aug 30 with Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch Those interested in participating in horseshoe crab tagging can s i

watch-training-workshop

The FHSCW is a partnership between the FWC Fish a n d W

Florida, with the goal of learning more about Florida’s horseshoe crab populations through community science Trained volunteers assist biologists in surveying, tagging and re-sighting crabs

“This work is important for understanding our unique Gulf Coast populations and protecting them from the many threats they face,” Lahey said

To report horseshoe crab sightings, visit https://survey123 arcgis com/share/e7946f74bcda43128eea8269 0b95047a?sm=f8QN2JV2JBVp4TIiJ61IE7WsMBGD ooQ2rzmR8u47ugM%3d?sm=f8QN2JV2JBVp4TIiJ61 IE7WsMBGDooQ2rzmR8u47ugM%3d

Mound House Events Schedule

Regular programming

The Mound House is currently offering regular kayak tours Wednesdays through Saturdays, from 9 to 11 a m The tours are $20 for Mound House members and $50 for non-members

Explore the winding mangrove creeks and go places only a kayak can go on this guided eco tour of Estero Bay This beginner-friendly tour allows you to experience and learn more about the natural beauty of a mangrove estuary and the history of the area Mound House kayak tours are conducted in accordance with Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism guidelines All paddling and kayak safety equipment are provided

The tours are restricted to ages 12 and up, weather permitting A maximum of 12 paddlers per tour are allowed Shoes are required Tours can be booked at

www MoundHouse org

Shell Mound Tours

S

Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 a m to 10:30 a m, from noon to 12:30 p m and from 2 p m to 2:30 p m

The tours are free for Mound House m e m b e r s , a n d c o s t $ 5 p l u s m u s e u m admission to non-members.

Discover the archaeology and history of the shell mound site and learn what clues were uncovered about the nearly 2,000-year-old shell mound This handson tour will explore the environmental and cultural history of the site and feature replica artifact demonstrations No reservations required

More information can be found at www MoundHouse org

PHOTO PROVIDED

School district to reduce number of assessment tests

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The School District of Lee Co reported that it will test students l this year

“I am so encouraged by knowing that you aren’t taking a step back from assessing, but evolving with the way that education is moving,”

B o a

Fleming said at the Aug 6 briefing session

I

Savage said assessments are a cri

m through the teaching process It is ess they always understand what evidence students can give of what they know and understand

“You cannot teach, really, without informing that process,” he said “In fact, we engineer our instruction on that students can demonstrate significant evidence.”

Savage explained there is a delicate balance between the time it takes to access and the time it takes to help students learn The district needs to take the time needed to deeply review every assessment it offers to students This will afford it the opportunity to identify specific assessment paths and find an alternative method, if needed

“It’s essential that teachers and parents understand

Casualty losses

Affected taxpayers in a federally declared disaster area have the option of claiming disaster-related casualty losses on their federal income tax return for either the year in which the event occurred, or the prior year In this instance, the 2024 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (the 2023 return filed this year) Taxpayers have extra time – up to six months after the due date of the taxpayer’s federal income tax return for the disaster year (without regard to any extension of time to file) – to make the election

Other relief

The IRS will waive the usual fees and requests for copies of previously filed tax returns for affected taxpayers

that every time we assess students it is with great e,” he said ne of the things Savage heard last ar was there were significant errors ith assessments assessments that n some cases showed multiple choice

answers

“Both answers were correct, and it n

grades The number of assessments hat had significant flaws was over 30 o say there is an opportunity for rovement is an understatement,” he “If they were given a test that is r not aligned with standard benchmarks, it is a problem that we have to address ”

Groeneveld said overall the district will test less this school year Notable changes are the removal of comprehensive assessments in elementary and high school Also, the district is limiting exemplars for no more than three per quarter per subject area

There also will be a change from iReady diagnostic to flexible iReady assessment to select students.

Chief Academic Officer Nathan Shaker said middle school will not use the iReady program The program is primarily for elementary school students

received from a government agency for reasonable and necessary personal, family, living or funeral expenses, as well as for the repair or rehabilitation of their home, or for the repair or replacement of its contents

Additional relief may be available to affected taxpayers who participate in a retirement plan or individual retirement arrangement (IRA) For example, a taxpayer may be eligible to take a special disaster distribution that would not be subject to the additional 10% early distribution tax and allows the taxpayer to spread the income over three years Taxpayers may also be eligible to make a hardship withdrawal Each plan or IRA has specific rules and guidance for their participants to follow

For this year, the only students who would take diagnostic testing for iReady would be incoming kindergarten students or those new to the district In years past, students would take an assessment or diagnostic test for iReady two or three times a year to reset the learning path.

He said students will not have to take the iReady diagnostic this year, as they will use the same path they had last year

“They will take the flexible assessment at the school’s discretion,” Shaker said

An intervention program that teachers use, iReady is computer based with the expectation to have students do 45 minutes a week in reading and math

“It does provide us with a source of data of how the students are progressing,” he said

Savage said iReady can be used as an intervention piece, as it drills down to specific benchmarks and standards, providing a customized learning path It also provides teachers with specific tools of how to utilize benchmarks in small groups

“It’s really understanding how to utilize that particular system for school learning,” he said

The school district may not schedule by grade level more than 5% of student total school minutes in a year to administer state, standardized or district assessments It is below the 5% for all grade levels

ment deadlines for taxpayers who reside or have a business in the disaster area For instance, certain deadlines falling on or after Aug. 1, 2024, and before Feb. 3, 2025, are granted additional time to file through Feb 3, 2025 As a result, affected individuals and businesses will have until Feb 3, 2025, to file returns and pay any taxes that were originally due during this period

The Feb 3, 2025, filing deadline applies to:

∫ Individuals who had a valid extension to file their 2023 return due to run out on Oct 15, 2024 The IRS noted, however, that because tax payments related to these 2023 returns were due on April 15, 2024, those payments are not eligible for this relief

∫ B u s i n e s s e s w i t h a n

Postponing filings and payments

porations whose 2023 extensions run out on Oct 15, 2024 T h e F e b 3 , 2 0 2 5 , d e a d l i n e a l

applies to any payment normally due during this period, including the quarterly estimated tax payments due on Sept 16, 2024, and Jan 5, 2025, and the quarterly payroll and excise tax returns normally due on Oct 31, 2024, and Jan 15, 2025

In addition, penalties on payroll and excise tax deposits due on or after Aug 1, 2024, and before Aug 16, 2024, will be abated as long as the tax deposits are made by Aug 16, 2024

Qualified disaster relief payments are generally excluded from gross income This means that affected taxpayers can exclude from their gross income amounts

The declaration permits the IRS to postpone certain tax-filing and tax-pay-

i n a l o r extended due date including, among others, calendar-year partnerships and S corporations whose 2023 extensions run out on Sept 16, 2024, and calendar-year cor-

The IRS automatically identifies taxpayers located in the covered disaster area and applies filing and payment relief But affected taxpayers who reside or have a business located outside the covered disaster area should call the IRS disaster hotline at 866-562-5227 to request this tax relief

For more information, visit the IRS website at www IRS Gov IRS From page 6

■ P a g e 1 2

F o r t M y e r s B e a c h B u l l e t i n 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 2 1 , 2 0 2 4

Lee County Animal Services to host lecture videos for dog and cat owners

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will host a video lecture for dog and cat owners by renowned certified animal behavior consultant Kelley Bollen As a shelter behavior specialist, Bollen consults with animal shelters across the country in the design and implementation of comprehensive behavior programs to address the behavioral health of the shelter animals during their stay Bollen offers many educational seminars and workshops that address the behavioral care of shelter animals, including her two-day “Shelter Behavior Seminar,”

which covers all aspects of shelter behavioral care She is a nationally recognized speaker at animal welfare conferences

Behavior problems are the No 1 reason for owner relinquishment to shelters Many of the problematic behaviors that pet owners struggle with are normal cat or dog behaviors that are misunderstood These videos will discuss the most common problematic behaviors in pets and provide owners with ways to resolve them.

The sessions will be held at the following dates and

times:

∫ Friday, Aug 30, 10 a m for dog owners; 11 a m for cat owners

∫ Saturday, Aug 31, 10 a m for dog owners; 11 a m for cat owners

All sessions are free to the public, and those attending will receive a goodie bag for their pet

For more information about Lee County Domestic Animal Services www.LeeLostPets.com or call 239533-7387 (LEE-PETS)

Animal Services:

W i t h t e m p e r a t u r e s a r e w a r m -

i n g u p , L e e C o u n t y D o m e s t i c

S e r v i c e s w o u l d l i k e t o r e m i n d

p e t o w n e r s t h a t i t i s n o t s a f e t o

l e a v e f u r r y f r i e n d s a l o n e i n a

v e h i c l e

W h e n t e m p e r a t u r e s r e a c h 7 0

d e g r e e s , i t i s t o o h o t t o l e a v e a n i m a l s u n a t t e n d e d i n a v e h i c l e

I n f a c t , w h e n i t i s j u s t 8 1

d e g r e e s o u t s i d e t h e t e m p e r a t u r e i n s i d e c a n s o a r t o 1 3 8 d e g r e e s w i t h i n m i n u t e s T h e c o u n t y ' s o r d i n a n c e s t a t e s , “ T h e o w n e r o r o p e r a t o r o f a m o t o r v e h i c l e s h a l l n o t p l a c e o r c o n f i n e a n a n i m a l , n o r a l l o w a n a n i m a l t o b e p l a c e d o r c o n f i n

Condo towers

the beach The rest will be open to the public with Price saying they will put it in writing that they will not develop the rest of the property as part of a development agreement with the town Other community benefits they say they are offering is a restaurant that will be open to the public and a bike path that will start at the beach access point and go throughout the residential side of their project

New zoning put into place after the town incorporated in the 1990s limited high-rises to four stories The only condo towers to be built over the past two decades are those that had been given approval before the new zoning went into effect such as the Grandview at Bay Beach Lane

I n s t e a d o f t h e u s u a l C o m m e r c i a l Planned Development review process, Price said Seagate would be seeking a development agreement process with the town as part of a new development review process that the town council approved this past year They will need approvals from the town’s Local Planning Agency and town council in order to get approval for the deviations from the town code over the height of the buildings

The project would also need approval f o r a p r o p o s e d p

a t would cross over Estero Boulevard similar to one the town allowed for the Margaritaville Beach Resort There would be six entrances to the site A water fountain is also proposed

For some residents who live on the adjacent street at Donora Boulevard and Shell Mound Boulevard, the 17-storyh i g h d e v e l o p m e n t w o u l d n e g a t i v e l y impact their views while new residents of the property would gain panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico

Mike Dagnese, an electrician who lives on Shell Mound Boulevard, and his wife Lynne, were among the most unpleased about the proposal Mr Dagnese said they live about 300 feet from the site and have

page 1

RENDERINGS PROVIDED

“Would you like to see a 17-story building in front of your living room window?”

“You have to understand there was a storm and that changed things,”

had a difficult two years already since Hurricane Ian Mike said he lost six vehicles to Hurricane Ian and had to rebuild

the downstairs of his home Lynne’s sister, Bonnie Gauthier, died in the hurricane

“You can’t put 55 pounds of potatoes into a five-pound bag,” Mrs Dagnese said of the intensity of the development Mr Dagnese estimated the condo towers would be close to 200 feet high and would be the tallest on the island Price didn’t dispute the estimated height of the buildings though he said his development group has not yet proposed a precise height. Price estimated that each condo unit would be an average of 3,000 square feet

F

l e n Vaughan asked whether Price could make some of the units smaller Price said there was the potential for some to be larger or smaller Price argued the towers are far enough from the road that they wouldn’t be as intrusive

Mr Dagnese asked Price “Would you like to see a 17-story building in front of your living room window?”

Price, who declined to answer, did argue that the developers were also providing a community benefit from not building the condos on the beach side of their property “If I wanted to make more money, I would stick the buildings on the beach,” he said By law, the developers can only build up to the erosion control line on the beach side of their land They currently have a trailer on the beach side of Estero Boulevard, close to the road

“We’re probably never going to see eye to eye,” Price said in response to earlier comments from Dagnese about the height of the buildings “You have to understand there was a storm and that changed things,” Price said

Price estimated there were about 150

Mike Dagnese

Seagate Development Group CEO Matt Price

Condo towers

trailers “give or take” at the Red Coconut RV Resort before Hurricane Ian Dagnese countered that those trailers were only about 10 feet high

Price said he had talked to members of the town council and Local Planning Agency and early feedback he received was to keep the condo towers away from the road Price said one member of the town council pushed for a restaurant that would be open to the public

Price said the feedback he received from talking to Local Planning Agency board members was they wanted to see the height of the buildings smaller. Price said he could build several condo buildings 12 stories high but they would need to be closer to the road

Some in the room applauded after Price said they would not be making any of the condos available to be rented “as of right now ”

One attendee asked what the plans would be for the lighting at the development and what would be done to limit any impacts on the environment, including sea turtles.

Price said a lighting plan hasn’t yet been developed

Behind the property is the Matanzas Pass Preserve, which is owned by Lee County

Another attendee asked about what kind of drainage for stormwater the development would have Price said they would be controlling their own stormwater with underground holding tanks

In response to concerns that allowing the height deviations would lead to other developers also seeking the same thing,

From page 14

Price said “this can not be easily replicated.”

redevelopment

seeking to construct a 17-story tower as part of a hotel and condo development

Price said he is hopeful the Seagate project could go in f

Myers Beach Local

D

Agency for review in September.

Fort Myers Beach

C o u n c i l m

J o h n K i n g , o n e o f four of the town’s

c o u n c i l m e m b e r s t o attend Wednesday's p r e s e n t a t i o n , s a i d

“I’m looking forward to the process playing out ”

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said “There was a good turnout for the discussion on the Seagate proposal with a lot of back-and-forth discussion ”

Allers said he was withholding judgment until he sees the final plans

“I have not formulated an opinion yet as they are still working with staff on their final submittal to the LPA,” Allers said Scasny said the developers should be giving more back to the community in

RENDERINGS PROVIDED

proportion to the amount of height they are asking for

“It’s very hard for me to agree with a proposal of this scope,” Scasny said “People bought their properties thinking there would be no more big buildings ”

“It’s a real loss for the community,” Cereceda said “Fort Myers Beach lost a great friend ”

Durrett owned a car dealership in Ohio before moving to Fort Myers Beach and acquiring Fish-Tale Marina He built it up from a 12-person operation with 30 docks to a company with more than 100 employees and 100 wet slips for boats

He took over what was formerly The Fish House and turned it into Fish-Tale Waterfront Dining

“I enjoyed owning it I rebuilt the whole restaurant and operated it as Fish-Tale Waterfront Dining,” Durrett said in 2022

“I moved to Fort Myers Beach because I wanted to get a 40-hour a week job and I wanted to play golf,” Durrett said in another interview with the Observer in 2020

Durrett and a group of investors bought the Fort Myers Beach Marina near the U.S. Coast Guard station in the 1980' before selling the property They also built the Naples Boat Mart which was eventually sold Durrett said he didn’t know anything about boats when he first got into the business “I knew how to run a business,” he said previously

Former Fort Myers Beach Mayor Ray Murphy was friends with Durrett “He was a good guy," Murphy said Murphy said Durrett had battled cancer

“It’s a shame I feel bad for Kathy,” Murphy said “He did a lot of good things for the beach He turned that place (Fish-Tale Marina) around and did a good job with it ”

Murphy said that Durrett sat on town advisory committees and volunteered his time to help the town. He was also a co-founder and past president of the Fort Myers Beach Friends of the Arts

“Every year, he helped me out with the St Patrick’s Day Parade He let us start the parade right there at Santini Plaza That was a big help,” Murphy said Fort Myers Beach Councilmember Scott Safford said he filled Durrett’s seat on the Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency “Al was a complete leader He was a successful businessman but he gave so much back to the community He was a true gentleman There was things he did that nobody even knew about,” Safford said Safford called

Durrett “a dear friend” and “a great man ”

In 2011, Durrett was named Humanitarian of the Year by the readers of the Fort Myers Beach Observer

During the COVID pandemic, Durrett kept employees at Fish-Tale Waterfront Dining on the payroll and covered medically even though the restaurant remain closed for weeks

In a 2020 interview with the Fort Myers Beach Observer, Durrett said he was most proud of the marina’s environmental certification as a Clean and Resilient Marina, which it achieved through a program with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to set practices that go beyond regulatory requirements for environmental standards The Resilient Marina certification was for its ability to withstand a disaster Through a filtration system, Durrett ensured that Estero Bay wasn’t polluted from any of the work done on site.

Former Fort Myers Beach Mayor Tracey Gore said she knew Mr Durrett most of her life from the time he moved to the island

“He quickly made friends with my family, so I saw him all the time growing up For me personally, Al’s generosity is up there with Tom Myers (the late Red Coconut RV Resort owner) and my Uncle Bill Semmer Great men who gave so much to both islands (Estero and San Carlos) in so many ways,” Gore said “There are a lot of contributions Al made that everyone knows about, however, there is so much Al did that people don’t know about He did not help people for the accolades, he helped when he thought it was important and necessary Due to my connection with the islands’s kids and Beach School, Al always reached out to me to see if there was a kid or family on the islands in need, and what he could do to help, privately ”

Gore said Durrett was always involved in assisting community volunteer efforts she was involved in whether it was Fort Myers Beach Fourth of July fireworks fundraisers, the Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival, Blessing of the Fleet, Ostego Bay Foundation, children’s fishing tournaments at Bonita Bill's, Beach Elementary School PTO and Beach Kids Foundation and more “There is not one event I put on

Al Durrett was a supporter of local causes, including the Beach Kids Foundation He is pictured at far right at a Beach Kids Foundation dinner with board members Tracey Gore, Fran Myers and Linda Beasley in 2017

for the community that Al did not support with his presence and his donations,” Gore said “Al was a close family friend to me, my mom (Joanne Semmer), my Uncle Bill Semmer and our whole family To me, Al is another big-hearted man who will be missed and remembered My family’s thoughts and prayers are with his wife Kathy, his kids and family.”

Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force Vice Chair Jennifer Rusk said Durrett was the first friend she made on the island “He was the first one to invite me and my husband to the Putt and Pub Crawl,” Rusk said “He was a wonderful people-person and he is going to be sorely missed in this community ”

Linda Miller worked with Durrett while running the Fort Myers Beach Farmer’s Market at Santini Plaza since 2017

“He was a very good and kind man,” Miller said Visitation will be held on Saturday, Aug 24, from 12:30 p m to 2:30 p m at Hodges Memorial Gardens in Naples A service will take place at 2 p.m. Hodges Memorial Gardens is at 525 111th Avenue N

FILE PHOTO

the canal between Bahia Via and Curlew Street “It’s a substantial amount of people that will be come to our town using our canal,” Miller said Miller said she believes the water taxis are in part a substitute for the developers not having enough parking on their property “They don’t have ample parking,” Miller said

Miller said during the meeting with the residents that live along the canal, the developers said they have a right to use the canal Miller believes they will have to erect a dock at the former Charley’s Boat House property to service the water taxis

She maintained water taxis would erode her sense of privacy along her canal with water taxis that could be passing by her property constantly every day

“There is zero privacy,” she said

The Outrigger, one of the most popular resorts on the island before Hurricane Ian, was demolished by London Bay Development Group to make way for a $200 million redevelopment

The plans call for 100 hotel rooms and 50 hotel/condo rooms in one of the highrises and 46 multi-family condo units in the other high-rise building along with restaurants, a public linear park, beach bar and a rooftop bar

According to one section of the application, the hotel and hotel-condominium buildings, adjacent to Estero Boulevard, are 10 and 11 stories over two stories of parking for 12- and 13-stories respectively A second part of the building is perpendicular with the beach and will accommodate a 12-story building also over two stories of parking, making it 14 stories high in total However, another section of the LPA documents submitted by the project’s

architect RVI Planning states that the proposed structures will range in height from 10 stories to 17 stories and up to a maximum of 200 feet The total proposed floor area is more than 510,000 square feet, according to planning documents submitted by RVI Planning

The Outrigger Resort was approximately 35 feet high at its tallest building

The developers are seeking an increase in density and intensity over what the town code allows

The site will provide 300 vehicle parking spaces and up to 72 spaces for bicycles, golf carts, and e-charge stations for scooters Recreational amenities include a pool, spa and outdoor area, a lobby, office space, private beach club and event/conference rooms Additionally, there is dedicated commercial public space that includes a public restaurant, hotel lobby bar, hotel

grab-n-go, rooftop bar and a beach access and linear park There will be a new public beach access and linear park will contain enhanced landscaping, benches/seating, public restrooms, and other hardscape site features

The resort is also proposing a new public beach access along the south property line The access abuts Beach Access 11Z (Bahia Via) to the south London Bay Development purchased

The Outrigger and Charley’s Boat House and Grille for $38 2 million last year and subsequently demolished the buildings

The Outrigger dates back to the 1960s London Bay Development Group built The Grandview at Bay Beach, a condo tower off Bay Beach Lane near Santini Plaza on Fort Myers Beach

According to London Bay Development Group’s application, the previous

Comprehensive Plan Development for the Outrigger Resort allowed for 144 hotel rooms

The proposed development will create up to 9,000 square feet of publicly accessible commercial retail uses including a tiki hut style beach bar “as the capstone to the linear park paying homage to the Outrigger Resort,” according to the plans

The park area will be surrounded by landscaping and seating and active beach amenities, wash stations and restrooms The hotel amenities include a ballroom and event terrace, caf’e and market,destination restaurant, hotel lobby lounge, and rooftop bar and terrace

London Bay Development Group partner Mark Wilson acknowledged at the February presentation that the developers were seeking a major deviation from the town’s local development code

“We are asking for a large deviation,” Wilson said “Nobody is going to take this parcel and do a two-story building over parking It would be a travesty for the land ”

In defense of their height deviation request, the developers cite several other high-rise towers that neighbor the property Those buildings were constructed before the Town of Fort Myers Beach changed its zoning after incorporation in the 1990s and limited the heights of all future construction to four stories.

Asked for comment on London Bay Development Group’s plans, Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said Tuesday morning “I have not seen their proposal yet ”

Rezoning From page 1

FILE PHOTOS

Mark Wilson

Margaritaville celebrates Jimmy Buffett Day and invites community to ‘Keep the Party Going’

i n g o n

A u g 3 0 , c o i n c i d i n g w i t h J i m m y B u f f e t t D a y T h e s e e v e n t s a r e o p e n t o t h e p u b l i c a n d i n c l u d e l i v e m u s i c

p e r f o r m a n c e s , f o o d a n d d r i n k s p e c i a l s , g a m e s a n d

f u n d r a i s i n g i n i t i a t i v e s

G u e s t s c a n a l s o e n j o y J D S p r a d l i n f r o m R a d i o

M a r g a r i t a v i l l e , w h o w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t i n g l i v e f r o m

M a r g a r i t a v i l l e B e a c h R e s o r t F o r t M y e r s B e a c h o n

S a t u r d a y f r o m 1 0 a m t o 2 p m “ T h i s d a y a n d w e e k -

e n d a r e b e i n g p l a n n e d i n t h e s p i r i t o f J i m m y a s w e

s t r i v e t o e m u l a t e h i s g o o d n a t u r e , k i n d n e s s a n d s p i r i t

o f f u n i n a l l w e d o , ” s a i d L i z M o r r i s , a r e a d i r e c t o r o f

s a l e s a n d m a r k e t i n g

J i m m y B u f f e t t D a y w i l l b e c o m e a n a n n u a l d a y o f

s e r v i c e a t M a r g a r i t a v i l l e p r o p e r t i e s a c r o s s t h e n a t i o n , p r o v i d i n g a l l h o t e l s a n d r e s o r t s a n o p p o r t u n i t y t o d o

s o m e t h i n g g r e a t i n t h e i r r e s p e c t i v e c o m m u n i t i e s i n t h e

s p i r i t o f J i m m y S e v e r a l f u n d r a i s i n g i n i t i a t i v e s a r e

u n d e r w a y Marg ari tav i l l e B e ac h Re s o rt Fo rt My e rs B e ac h:

∫ D ri nk f o r a c aus e : T h e r e s o r t w i l l d o n a t e a p o r -

t i o n o f i t s s i g n a t u r e d r i n k s a l e s t o F M B S t r o n g a n d a

p o r t i o n o f b e e r s a l e s t o C a l u s a W a t e r k e e p e r

A d d i t i o n a l l y , t h e r e s o r t w i l l h o s t t h e f i n a l e o f T a p s

F l o w f o r H 2 0 , a n i n a u g u r a l a n n u a l e v e n t h o s t e d b y

C a l u s a W a t e r k e e p e r

∫ B ac k- to - s c ho o l dri v e : M a r g a r i t a v i l l e B e a c h

R e s o r t i s c o l l e c t i n g i t e m s l i k e c r a y o n s , b a c k p a c k s , p e n c i l s a n d n o t e b o o k s t o s u p p o r t t h e F o u n d a t i o n f o r

L e e C o u n t y S c h o o l s a n d F o r t M y e r s B e a c h E l e m e n t a r y S c h o

P a r t y G o i n g f o r a c h a n c e t o h a v e y o u r J i m m y B u f f e t t - i n s p i r e d c o n t e n t f e a t

Sheriff's Office to hold Patriot Day Sept. 11

Staf f Repor t The Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the U S Coast Guard are inviting the public to attend a Sept 11 remembrance cer-

emony at the U S Coast Guard Station on Fort Myers Beach

The ceremony will pay tribute to the i n n o

9 / 1 1 attacks. It will be a day to mourn the vic-

Tur tle Time nest data

tims and first responders lost and express support for their families It is a day to honor those who participated in rescue, recovery, and identification of the victims.

The event will take place from 9 a m to 11 a m at 719 San Carlos Drive on Fort Myers Beach

Town accepting applications for advisory committees

STAFF REPORT

The Town of Fort Myers Beach is encouraging community members interested in serving as volunteers to advise and support the work of town government to apply to seats on its advisory committees There will be several open seats available on the following Boards/Committees:

To apply, visit www fortmyersbeachfl gov

The application deadline is Sept 19

New Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual signed

Jacksonville District to implement

2008 (LORS08) for the management of Lake Okeechobee

“We appreciate all the hard work a n d d e d i c

District put into making this happen,” said Brig Gen Daniel Hibner

“This district set a high bar for others to follow navigating this process remarkably well and being led by an extremely talented team.”

The LOSOM represents a significant shift in operational philosophy to a system-wide benefits approach

L

focused on making beneficial releas-

es at times and in quantities that improve water supply availability and enhance fish and wildlife in the region LOSOM also improves the ability of water managers to use system-wide analysis to adapt to realtime conditions to make informed decisions on lake releases The plan also facilitates more robust, structured communication and collaboration between USACE and stakeholde r s , a s o p e r a t i o n a l d e c i s i o n s a r e made

“Our nation made a $1 8 billion investment in the rehabilitation of H e r b e r t H o o v e r D i k e ( H H D ) t o allow development of a new operating manual that balances the needs of the entire system, said Col Brandon Bowman, Jacksonville District commander “LOSOM was developed over five years in collaboration with more than 50 stakeholder groups, and the value of that time investment, the cooperation it took to develop the plan, and the trust that was built with stakeholders matches

ment ”

Important We have worked for five years to get to the record of decision, and we are finally here,” said South Florida Water Management District Board Chairman Chauncey Goss

“I’m proud of the South Florida W

who worked with the team at the U S Army Corps of Engineers to ensure the Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual (LOSOM) was

reduces harmful discharges into our estuaries, sends more water south to benefit the environment and meets the needs of our communities I want to thank everyone who engaged in this process over the years, especially all of our stakeholders and members of the public who contributed to its development every step of the way ”

Spalletta resigns from METRF,

citing ‘toxic’ political atmosphere

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

C i t i n g a “ t o x i c ” a t m o s p h e r e s h e believes has been caused by the focus of “special interests,” longtime Fort Myers

B

R

M

T

y

Rose Spalletta has resigned her seat as vice chair of the volunteer advisory committee

A retired school teacher and longtime volunteer with Turtle Time, Spalletta has been a member of the committee for the past eight years Spalletta was the lone member to be reappointed last year to a two-year term after the town council

William Althoff and Dave Nusbaum after a social media campaign fueled by the committee’s opposition to the controversial 298-feet boardwalk that crosses over lagoons that flow through the state-pro-

Wildlife Area. Previous town councils had also opposed the walkover

“Unfortunately, MERTF has become a focus for special interests These special interests are not aligned with mine Their goals are not mine. They have distorted MERTF’s intentions. They have twisted our comments. They have labeled MERTF the enemy of the very property owners who stand to benefit from our sciencebacked environmental efforts and recommendations "

-Mary Rose Spalletta

Another social media campaign has developed this year involving similar actors to fill four seats that will be open for reappointment in October Already, six people have applied for the seats an unusually high number for any advisory committee

Among those applying for a seat on the committee is Ed Rood, who was denied a seat on the committee last year after multiple votes resulted in Spalletta receiving three v

Rood’s boardwalk was at the

d against the town by Florida Audubon over the town council's approval of the lagoon walkover The suit was ultimately dropped after a settlement Rood had previously sued the town over denials by past council’s for the boardwalk

Fort Myers Beach Mayor

last year, eventually switched his vote back to Spalletta to cast the deciding vote over Rood after multiple votes by the deadlocked town council

“We were sorry to see Mary Rose has chosen to resign We thank her for her years of work on the MERTF committee,” Allers said Wednesday morning Allers said Spalletta’s “input and expertise will be missed ”

MERTF member Jennifer Rusk was named vice chair to replace Spalletta

An outpouring of support on the Fort Myerd Beach Observer Facebook page for Spalletta followed the announcement of her resignation

“Thank you for your dedication and service You are loved,” former Fort Myers Beach Mayor Anita Cereceda said In addition to Rood, the five other candidates applying for a seat on MERTF as o f T u e s d a y a r e M a r g a r i t a v i l l e B e a c h Resort developer and TPI Chair Tom Torgerson, Sharon Hegstrom, Maureen Kocisko, James Onoda and David Patton Patton also applied last year All six candidates to apply so far are town residents and registered voters in the town as opposed to last year when Althoff and Nusbaum were appointed despite not being registered voters in the town when Fossum and DeGaetano were Nusbaum, whose primary residence is in Wisconsin, has been has been participating at meetings via Zoom.

Spalletta’s seat was not going to be up until next year

This year, there were already four seats

members Rob Howell, Rose Larkin and Rusk are up for reappointment Larkin has also signaled her intention to apply for r

t i o n means five seats will be up for appointment by the board Though advisory board seats are rarely contested, a social media campaign begun last year by those opposed to the environmental efforts of the group have changed the politics in the community for some

“I volunteered to serve on MERTF because I believed the health of our living

e a c h t o b e v i t a l t o i t s e x i s t e n c e , ” Spalletta said in her resignation letter “I still believe that I know that commercial ventures are also vital to Fort Myers Beach I believe that by encouraging best practices and enforcing existing laws we can both encourage business and sustain

nature

“Indeed, during all the years in which I have served on MERTF this has been an understanding Unfortunately, MERTF has become a focus for special interests These special interests are not aligned with mine. Their goals are not mine. They have distorted MERTF’s intentions They have twisted our comments They have labeled MERTF the enemy of the very property owners who stand to benefit from our science-backed environmental efforts and recommendations ”

Former MERTF chair and town councilmember Bill Veach, who was the town council’s liaison to the committee before resigning his town council seat earlier this year, believes the campaign to replace members of MERTF is misguided.

“One of the great successes of MERTF has been their (educational) booths and the way they engage with kids,” Veach said Veach said the committee works on a lot of the efforts that originate with the s

Commis s ion and federal cons ervation agencies including model ordinances, the Endangered Species Act and migratory bird treaties

“The federal law is prioritizing the safety of these endangered species over the convenience of people who live on the Beach,” Veach said

Asked why he applied to join MERTF, Torgerson said “I am a lover of the outdoors, the environment and marine life I believe human habitat can coexist on Fort Myers Beach with the environment in a r

MERTF would be to promote a balanced approach in this regard if appointed ”

The MERTF committee is an advisory board and in the past year opposed the town’s lighting at Bayside Veterans Park as not following the town’s own lighting ordinance The committee has worked on developing a children’s activity and coloring book on the island’s environment, advocated for more tree plantings, organized beach resiliency discussions and forums with resiliency experts, advocated for more dune plantings to protect the beach, met with state experts to discuss shorebird nesting protections among other

efforts

Mary Rose Spalletta, a MERTF board member for the past eight years, resigned halfway through her term over what she described as a toxic atmosphere driven by special interests

FILE PHOTOS

Mary Rose Spalletta, a longtime volunteer with Turtle Time, dressed up as a sea turtle at the Fort Myers Beach Fright Night costume contest while assisting at the Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force tent last year.

Consumer alert: Beware of disaster-related scams

On Aug 6, Attorney General Ashley Moody issued a Consumer Alert warning Floridians to be cautious of price gouging, disaster scams and fraud in the aftermath of Hurricane Debby

Debby affected millions of Floridians, bringing catastrophic storm surge along Florida’s west coast while making landfall in the Big Bend region on Aug 5 These Floridians may now be seeking food, shelter, debris removal or home repairs Moody’s Price Gouging Hotline remains activated for consumers to report allegations of extreme price increases, as well as scams related to the ongoing recovery efforts

“As the recovery process for Hurricane Debby begins, it is important to remain vigilant for scams and price gouging. Bad actors may try to take advantage of Floridians recovering from the storm with disaster-related scams, such as contractor fraud and debris-removal scams,” she said “Floridians, please make sure all services are legitimate research companies, verify licenses and review our Scams at a Glance: After the Storm brochure that provides additional tips and resources ”

Following a disaster like Debby, qualified contractors are usually in high demand and become booked up for months Scammers or unqualified out-of-state workers may flood in to take advantage of Floridians in need of legitimate service If property is damaged from the storm, follow these tips when hiring a contractor:

∫ Have an insurance company evaluate damage before arranging repairs to ensure that the work will be covered under a policy

∫ Get at least three written, itemized estimates on bids or repairs

∫ Watch out for unsolicited offers or contractors claiming to perform repairs at a discount with leftover supplies from another job

∫ Research a company and its reputation look for references online, or ask a friend

∫ Check to see if a company is properly licensed, insured and if there are any consumer complaints filed against a licensed contractor at MyFloridaLicense com

∫ Make sure a contractor is bonded and verified with a bonding agency

∫ Read the entire contract, including the fine print, before signing to ensure it includes the required buyer’s right to cancel language Understand penalties that may be imposed for cancellation

∫ Insist on releases of any liens that could be placed on the property from all subcontractors prior to making final payments Homeowners may unknowingly have liens placed against their properties by suppliers or subcontractors who did not get paid by the contractor If the contractor fails to pay them, the liens will remain on the title;

∫ Never pay the full amount of a repair expense upfront, and hesitate before providing large deposits

∫ Do not sign a certificate of completion or make final payment until satisfied with the work performed

The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers disaster relief to eligible victims through various programs Scammers may pose as FEMA officials to prey on vulnerable Floridians after a storm When seeking aid, consider the following:

∫ No state or federal disaster-relief agency will call asking for personal information

∫ State and federal workers carry identification and will not ask for or accept cash

∫ Know that applications for FEMA relief programs are free and can be accessed at DisasterAssistance gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA

∫ Be wary of anyone who offers to fill out, assist with or expedite an application as they may be seeking access to personal information

Water mains and personal wells can be affected during hurricanes Dishonest companies and individuals may insist upon pricey tests to determine water safety. Avoid falling victim by following these tips:

∫ Ask for proof of identification if someone claims to be a representative of a city, county or utility provider needing to inspect a water main or well

∫ Check for water safety alerts as provided by local media and utility providers

∫ Contact a local health or utility department if it is uncertain that water being used is safe Seek advice from state or local health departments to determine what tests should be performed and to help find certified testers nearby

∫ If in doubt, boil water vigorously for one to three minutes or drink bottled water.

Heavy winds from hurricanes or tropical storms often result in littered roads and uprooted trees If planning to request removals of fallen or nearby trees after a storm, follow these tips to avoid being conned:

∫ Watch out for anyone who approaches unsolicited about tree removal

∫ Get multiple written estimates and ask whether debris removal is included in the estimate

∫ Research a company thoroughly

∫ Check for proof of insurance and verify with the insurer that the policy is current

∫ Never pay the full amount upfront and do not make a final payment until completely satisfied with the work

Following a disaster, it is common to see charity scams pop up as scammers aim to take advantage of generous Floridians Review these tips to avoid falling for one of these schemes:

∫ Be wary of fake charities with similar names to wellknown organizations

∫ Avoid solicitors that use high-pressure tactics or are hesitant to provide additional information about the charitable organization

∫ Consider donating to an established disaster-relief charity.

∫ Ensure the charity is an accredited organization with the Better Business Bureau by searching the BBB Wise

Giving Alliance website at Give org and research the organization’s giving history at CharityNavigator.org.

Anyone who suspects price gouging on storm-essential items can report it to the Florida Attorney General’s Office by using the No Scam app, visiting MyFloridaLegal com or calling 1-866-9NO-SCAM The app can be downloaded for free on Apple and Android devices through the app store

Violators of the price gouging statute are subject to civil penalties of $1,000 per violation and up to a total of $25,000 for multiple violations committed in a single 24hour period, in addition to other applicable penalties that may be imposed

For more information about price gouging, visit https://www.myfloridalegal.com/sites/default/files/202308/price-gouging-pdf pdf

To download the Scams at a Glance: Price Gouging brochure, visit https://www myfloridalegal com/sites/default/files/Price+G ouging Scams+at+a+Glance v1a[1] pdf

For tips on what to do before and after a storm strikes, download the 2024 Hurricane Preparedness Guide at https://www myfloridalegal com/sites/default/files/2024hur ricanepreparednessguide pdf

For additional information about storm-related scams and recovery resources and to view Scams at a Glance: After the Storm, visit https://www.myfloridalegal.com/sites/default /files/afterthestorm pdf

The Florida Fish a d Wildlif Conser-vation Commiss

decals These vibrantly illustrated decals can be placed on water-

equally great on water bottles, coolers, tackle boxes and laptops

N

cals featuring original work are re-leased every July and are available for a $5 dona tion at your local tax collector’s office Donations for decals go dir funding manatee and sea t research, rescue and manag ment efforts.

R lt ” hi hlights Florida’s efforts ct sea turtles that resulted ecord numbers of loggeread and green sea turtle nests in 2023 Everyday actions such as keeping beaches clean and free o f d

beach visits and keeping beaches dark at night an protect nesting sea turand hatchlings from lifeing situations

This year’s decals emphasize the importance of con-

ways and beaches for manatees and sea turtles: “

Home” provides a remin-de

s a r e f o u throughout Florida’s waterw including rivers, bays, can coastal areas. Keeping track of trash and keeping Florida’s waterways clean can prevent manatees from ingesting and becoming entangled in marine debris and waste “ A G e n e r a

This year s de-cals also conveniently display the FWC’s Wildlife Alert at 888-404-FWCC (3922), e you can report a dead, ured, entangled or sick manatee or sea turtle. You can also contribute to manatee and sea turtle conservation through purc h a s i n g a “ S a v e t h e Manatee” or “Helping Sea Turtles Survive” specialty license plate at your local ax collector’s office F o

atee and sea turtle conservaFlorida, visit MyFWC com/ Manatee or MyFWC.com/ SeaTurtle. If you’re out of state or the new decals are unavailable at your tax collector’s office, or to view and collect decals from previous years (1992-2023), type “decals” into the search bar at MyFWC com

country where liberty, equality, character, decency, and honesty are paramount Democrats condemn bullying, chaos, illegal fake electors, lies, disinformation, and prevention in the peaceful transitions of power I want a President and Vice President

with a work ethic, platforms and plans to solve problems Vice President Harris agreed to a bipartisan border immigrations bill, veterans benefits to service men and woman who were injured by toxic burn pits, increased background checks

Infrastructure Act and supported the sup-

ported the Violence Against Women Act Vice President Harris believes in the working man and woman in the great USA. I do want chaos, fear, a dictatorship, revenge and retribution to reign in my future I want a decent leader, a world leader who is smart, steady, who is knowl-

WHERE TO GO WHAT TO DO WHO TO SEE

What’s new for Lovers Key

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Lovers Key State Park and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection have announced a brand new programming schedule for September

There will be weekly programs on wildlife and park history beginning Friday, Sept 6 at the Fort Myers Beach park located at 8700 Estero Boulevard

Reservations are required. To register, visit the F r i e n d s o f L o v e r s K e y ’ s E v e n t b r i t e p a g e a t https://bit ly/FOLKS-Events

The park offers many recreational opportunities for visitors with disabilities For accommodations assistance, please contact the park office at 239-707-6328.

The schedule of programs beginning in September includes:

∫ Friday, Sept 6 at 10 a m

Beach and Estuary Walk

Join a park ranger for a leisurely hike along the beach and estuary shorelines of Lovers Key. Discover the natural beauty of both ecosystems as you encounter the seashells, crustaceans, birds, and other creatures that reside amongst these waterways

The cost to partake is free to the public

∫ Saturday, Sept 7, at 10 a m

Beach Cleanup

Join a park ranger for a beach cleanup at South Beach Enjoy a lovely hour on the beach as you do your part to keep our state park (and planet!) clean Participants will record the types of trash they collect, and the findings will help inform park messaging Gloves, buckets, pickers, pencils, and data sheets will be provided. .The cost to partake is free

∫ Thursday, Sept 12t at 8:15 a m

Lovers Key Garden Club Workday

Join a park ranger to help maintain Lovers Key’s native pollinator garden. Weeding, pruning, and planting are all on the table at a garden club workday, and we welcome both beginner and expert gardeners to participate Closed-toe shoes are required, and work gloves, hand clippers, water bottles, sunscreen, bug spray, kneeling pads, and hats are highly recommended Park entry fees are waived for participants

∫ Friday, Sept 13 at 10 a m

Seashell Walk

Join a park ranger for a relaxing hike along the Lovers Key shoreline Learn the names of the seashells that wash ashore at the park, fun facts about the creatures who craft them, and the shelling regulations that help protect these iconic Florida treasures

Shell museum to kick off lecture series with program on land snails

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel recently announced the lineup for its summer and fall lecture series, which will be offered virtually via Zoom and free of charge.

“The museum is proud to present this series, which features great speakers and experts from some of the top natural history museums in the country and new insights into the wonders of shells and the animals that make them,” Executive Director Sam Ankerson said.

The first lecture will be “Ecological and Historical Studies on Land Snails: Tiger Snails and Glacial History” on Aug 22 at 5:30 p m with Dr Timothy Pearce, assistant curator of the Section of Mollusks at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania He will share two case studies of recent discoveries about land snail populations in the northeast and the influence on them of both ancient geological forces and modern environmental threats

Formerly abundant in northeast North America, the tiger snail has declined since the mid-1900s, which is about the same time that acid rain levels began increasing Pearce's studies on the subject reveal connections between the effects of acid rain, the tiger snail and other

land snails

The glacial history of northern Michigan starting about 20,000 years ago had ice covering the area before the glaciers retreated. Through present-day biogeography studies of land snails on Michigan's islands, upper peninsula and lower peninsula, Pearce analyzes the effects of the geological event on land snail species distribution in the region

“Dr. Pearce is at the cutting edge of his field, combining extensive fieldwork with deep geological history,” Ankerson said “This promises to be a very interesting talk ”

At the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pearce conducts research on land snails and cares for and promotes use of a collection of 1 8 million snails and clams He received his Ph.D. from the University of Michigan and Master of Art in paleontology from the University of California at Berkeley

The remaining lectures will include:

∫ Sept 19 at 5:30 p m on “Towards a New Great Hall of Shells” with Ankerson and museum curator and Science Director Dr José H Leal

In the fall, the museum's permanent exhibits of shells

BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM & AQUARIUM

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium will host Dr. Timothy Pearce on Aug. 22 for a virtual lecture on “Ecological and Historical Studies on Land Snails: Tiger Snails and Glacial History.”

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium will host Gary Kidder on Oct 17 for a v

Original Shell Collector.”

will reopen following more than two years of reimagination, planning and design Leal and Ankerson will offer a preview of the new exhibits, their educational outcomes and new design.

∫ Oct 17 at 5:30 p m on “Carrier Shells: Nature's Original Shell Collector” with Gary Kidder, collections manager for Malacology and Inventory at the Houston Museum of Natural Science in Houston, Texas

Collecting shells may seem like a strictly human endeavor, but one group of gastropods has been doing it for almost 100 million years Kidder will discuss the general characteristics of carrier shells, their method of attachment and the possible reasons for the unique behavior

While the lectures are free, advance registration in required.

T o r e g i s

ShellMuseum org/online-lectures

People can also watch recordings of previous lectures online

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

A virtual lecture on “Towards a New Great Hall of Shells,” with Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium Executive Director Sam Ankerson and curator and Science Director Dr José H Leal, will take place on Sept 19

Get your spook on early this summer at Fort Myers Brewing Co’s Summerween

Fort Myers Brewing Company is bringing a unique twist to seasonal festivities with its Summerween celebration on Saturday, Aug 31 This innovative event merges the warmth of summer with the chills of Halloween, offering an exciting and family-friendly experience for the community

Summerween promises a delightful mix of activities and entertainment:

Costume Extravaganza: Guests are encouraged to don their most creative costumes, capturing the spirit of Halloween in the summer heat

Jack-o'-Lantern Fruits: Attendees are invited to bring their own carved fruit Jack-O’-Lanterns to the brewery for a chance to win our Fruit Jack-O’-Lantern Contest! Carve your favorite fruit whether it’s a watermelon, pineapple, or something else and compete for a chance to win!, adding a refreshing twist to traditional pumpkin carving

Spyk’d Seltzers and Craft Beers: Fort Myers Brewing Co will serve its special Spyk’d seltzers and a selection of craft beers, perfect for cooling off while embracing the spooky theme

Food Trucks Galore: Local food trucks, including Island Vibez Grill, Spelltacular Sweets, and Wicked Streatery, will be on-site, offering a variety of delectable treats.

Live Music: The event will feature a live performance by the Hamilton Boys Duo at 6 PM, providing a lively backdrop to the festivities

Fort Myers Brewing Co has established itself as a cornerstone of the local community since its founding in 2013 The brewery has grown significantly over the

Area Agency on Aging to hold public meeting Aug. 26

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida will host its annual public meeting to propose direct services under the Older Americans Act Monday, Aug 26, at 8 a m , in the agency's main conference room at 2830 Winkler Ave , suite 112, Fort Myers

The meeting, which is open to the public, is also available online: Microsoft Teams Meeting, ID 254 219 993 312, passcode wtDDvd.

Services include education/training intake, techn o l o g y a s s i s t a n c e , t r a n s p o r t a t i o n , c a r e g i v e r training/support group, tailored caregiver assessment and referral, health and the following wellness workshops:

∫ A Matter of Balance

∫ Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (Living Healthy)

∫ Powerful Tools for Caregivers

∫ Savvy Caregiver

∫ Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program

∫ Arthritis Foundation Tai Chi

∫ Walk With Ease

∫ Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is a nonprofit organization serving Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee and Sarasota counties. AAASWFL is the state's designated Aging and Disability Resource Center for Southwest Florida The organization is committed to connecting older adults and adults with disabilities to resources and assistance for living safely with independence and dignity

Additional information is available at https://www. aaaswfl org or by calling the toll-free Helpline at 86641-ELDER

years and is now one of the largest in the state, producing 15,000 barrels of beer annually in its 22,000-squarefoot facility

Summerween at Fort Myers Brewing Co is more than just an event; it's a testament to the brewery's innovative spirit and commitment to creating memorable experiences for the community. This event exemplifies how local businesses can creatively engage with their communities, combining tradition with fresh, new ideas

About Fort Myers Brewing Company

Fort Myers Brewing Company was the first microbrewery in Lee County, founded in 2013 With over a decade of being founded Fort Myers Brewing Co grew to be one of the largest breweries in the state- a 22,000square-foot operation with a four-vessel, 30-barrel system churning out 15,000 barrels of beer annually for the taproom and distribution to local restaurants and retaile r s F o r m o

https://www fmbrew com/

Disaster preparedness tax holiday for consumers

Consumers in Florida can purchase qualifying disaster preparedness supplies exempt from tax during the 2024 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, which will run from Aug. 24 through Sept 6

∫ Wet dog and cat food if sold individually or the equivalent if sold in a box or case costing $10 or less

∫ Manual can openers, collapsible and travelsized pet food and water bowls, cat litter pans, pet waste disposal bags, and hamster and rabbit substrate costing $15 or less

∫ Reusable ice, pet leashes, collars and muzzles, and pet pads costing $20 or less

∫ Cat litter weighing 25 pounds and fewer costing $25 or less

∫ Portable self-powered light sources and pet beds costing $40 or less

∫ Portable self-powered radios, two-way radios and weather-band radios, gas and diesel fuel tanks, and AAcell, AAA-cell, C-cell, D-cell, six-volt and nine-volt batteries including rechargeable ones costing $50 or less

∫ Nonelectric food storage coolers and portable power banks costing $60 or less

∫ Smoke detectors and smoke alarms, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors costing $70 or less

∫ Tarpaulins and other flexible waterproof sheeting, ground anchor systems, portable pet kennels and carriers, dry dog and cat food weighing 50 pounds and fewer, and over-the-counter pet medications costing $100 or less

∫ Portable generators used to provide light or communications or to preserve food in a power outage costing $3,000 or less

For more information, visit https://floridarevenue com /disasterprep/Pages/default aspx

Bell Tower invites the community to ‘Family Fun Night’ every fourth Thursday of the month

Bell Tower, a landmark shopping, dining and entertainment destination c

, invites the community to its Family Fun Night from 5 to 7 p m on the fourth Thursday of every month from now until December This event is designed to provide families with a time to bond and have fun participating in shared activities Event will i n c

opportunities; face-painting; balloon twisting; inflatable axe throwing by Chuck it Axes; and delicious snacks, including sweet treats from Sweet D

Animal Encounters will also host a mini zoo featuring live exotic animals and offering educational handso

evening Beginning in Center Court and held throughout the shopping center, this event is free and open to the public; no pre-registration is

https://belltowerfl netlify app/events/ bell-tower-june-family-fun-night Bell Tower is at Daniels Parkway & US 41, Fort Myers

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Ser vices at St. Peter Lutheran Church

St Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in America at 3751 Estero Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach

Outdoor Services under the tent

Every Sunday 9 a m

All are welcome, we are pet friendly 239-463-4251

stpeterfmb@gmail.com

www stpeterfmb com

YouTube - St Peter Lutheran Church Fort Myers Beach FL

In cooperation with former Chapel by the Sea and Beach United Methodist Church

Pathways to Oppor tunity at Vice & Vougue Fashion Show Aug. 24

Get ready for an electrifying night of Fashion & Creativity that's not just an event – it's an experience!

Join the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center for the second annual fashion show and talent showcase, igniting the stage with passion and purpose, all in support of Pathways to Opportunity, Saturday, Aug 24, starting at 5 p m

All proceeds from this exhilarating event directly fuel Pathways, propelling our life-skills classes to new heights, funding adventurous trips, welcoming fresh faces into our community, and so much more! Mark your calendars for a night of dynamic energy and meaningful impact

Let's light up the night and amplify the possibilities together!

Tickets are available at www.eventcreate.com/e/.

Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is at 2301 First St , Fort Myers

‘Clear The Shelters’ pet adoption and donation campaign runs through Sept. 10

“Clear The Shelters,” NBCUniversal Local’s nationwide pet adoption and donation initiative – which has helped more than one million pets find new homes and raised millions of dollars for participating animal shelters and rescues since its 2015 inception – is returning for its milestone 10th annual campaign Aug 10 to Sept 10

Gulf Coast Humane Society, 2010 Arcadia St , Fort Myers, is once again participating in the annual “Clear The Shelters” adoption and donation campaign

GCHS will be running a month-long half-off on all adoption fees – including adult cats/dogs, puppies and kittens from Aug. 10-Sept. 10. Also during this time span, there will be a matching donations fundraising campaign for GCHS run through “Clear The Shelters ” Keep updated on the different ways to donate on the GCHS social media, which includes Facebook and Instagram

G C H S a d o p t a b l e s h e l t e r p e t s c a n b e f o u n d a

www gulfcoasthumanesociety org

For more information on “Clear The Shelters”, including participating animal shelters and rescues, along with details on local events, visit ClearTheShelters com and the Spanish-language site DesocuparlosAlbergues com

Follow “Clear The Shelters” on social media:

∫ X: @ClearTheShelter

∫ Instagram: cleartheshelters

∫ TikTok: @cleartheshelters

∫ H a s h t a g s : # C l e a r T

& #DesocuparLosAlbergues

Calusa Waterkeeper announces open enrollment for Fall Ranger Training Academy

PROVIDED

This unique vehicle serves as a rolling classroom throughout Southwest Florida, providing school visits and participation at community events, and area hospitals, including Golisano Children’s Hospital

The Southwest Florida Symphony to roll out its mobile educational tool, The Music Box Truck, Aug. 28

The Southwest Florida Symphony, Lee County’s only professional orchestra and fourth oldest in the state, rolls out its new mobile education and commun

Wednesday, Aug 28, at 12:30 p m for a very special visit with patients at Golisano Children’s Hospital

This 14’ long “box truck” is painted, polished, and ready to deliver a taste of the Symphony wherever it goes This unique vehicle serves as a rolling classroom throughout Southwest Florida, providing school visits and participation at community events, and area hospitals, including Golisano Children’s Hospital. Robert V

Community Outreach Ambassador, has created curriculum to accompany Music Box Truck visits, which he leads at every stop The Music Box Truck set-up

includes hands-on instruments from the orchestra, lectures, games, and even a first-rate boombox to provide musical support for visits There will also be demonstrations and mini-classes from professional musicians when possible Van Winkle says, “With The Music Box in play, we now have a greater ability to reach more young people and provide music education, appreciation, and motivation to attend classical music concerts The Southwest Florida Symphony is committed to reaching out in every way possible to show the community how beautiful, valuable, and accessible classical music can be.” To schedule a Music Box Truck visit to a school, house of worship, community center, or festival, contact Robert Van Winkle at rvanwinkle@swflso org or call the Southwest Florida Symphony office at 239-418-0996

b a s e b a l l h a t a n d a c e r t i f i c a t e o f c o m p l e t i o n u p o n g r a du a t i o n f r o m t

Rock Star Séance tickets on sale now

Celebrate Halloween by joining us for a special concert led by Andrew Lipke, where he and “spirit host” vocalists will channel legendary rock stars like Kurt Cobain, Amy Winehouse, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, and more! Dress as your favorite dearly departed rock star and enjoy a multimedia experience that promises to be a musical séance like no other Oct 24 at 7:30 p m at Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Pkwy, Fort Myers

For more information visit https://www bbmannpah com/

A n n u a l C a l u s a W a t e r k e e p e r m e m b e r s h i p , a R a n g e r

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PHOTO

Island pets seeking forever homes PET PALS

Home should be a quiet environment with no pets or an older quiet pet

By ISABELLE WELLS Co-founder of the Find a Home, Give a Home pet rescue organization of Fort Myers Beach

weight at all on his left hind leg We don’t know much about his life before being rescued with us

R o b y n h a s nursed him back

t o h e a l t h w i t h TLC, including a healthy diet to

which he has gained 10 well-needed pounds, filling out to show off his good looks! He also has been administered appropriate vaccinations and treatments Despite all of this, he is a sweet, well-behaved boy that is experiencing some temporary medical needs He is being a really

Food and volunteers needed

We need kitten and adult food for our over 50 cats and kittens in rescue Please check our website for info on ordering food from Chewey or Amazon. The kittens go through a case of 24 cans a day and adults go through at least a dozen cans daily Dry food is also needed for both kittens and adults plus Cat Chow Complete for the outside cats we feed daily Please Beach residents, do not throw out bowls for water and food that are kept in places that are not in the open for these outside cats They are doing the Beach a great favor keeping the rats away and need to be fed The majority of feral cats we had before Ian were killed in the storm which is why we now have a rat problem on this island so please stop throwing out food and bowls that are placed in conspicuous places for these cats They are not harming anyone or anything so please understand they need fed They kill rats and the rats do not come around when they scent that cats are in the area The food DOES NOT ATTRACT RATS! Thanks for your understanding and cooperation

Sarah is a beautiful black female cat that was left behind along with her six kittens when owners were evicted from their rental unit Sarah is very friendly and affectionate She is young and guessing no more than 1 to 2 years old

good boy about being crated most of the time (due to treatment restrictions) and is very gentle and loving with his foster This is very hard for him too because he wants so badly to interact with other dogs He had an extensive ACL tear in his left hind leg which required a costly surgery Post surgery, Baldo is doing great, but he has to be kept still and crated to allow his leg to heal properly

Throughout all of this he has exhibited an even temperament, loves to snuggle, obeys his foster mom and dad, enjoys being pet and playing quietly with his toys All and all, he has a very loving nature and indeed is a BRAVE boy! Recovery time will be not less than 8 weeks but his quality of life after that will be so much better Our choice was either to amputate or keep and repair his leg which we did Baldo is sweet with everyone even at the vet and, of course, loves dogs little and big If you can help him and give him a chance please contact us ASAP He is losing his foster mom and dad on Aug 28 Please call or text Isabelle at 239-281-0739

In Loving Memor y

A sad week for us We lost our little Greta She had endured so much She went to the vet and unfortunately didn’t make it after her spay operation Wanted to thank her foster mom Helena and her husband Mark for all the help and love they gave her.

Leah is a brown female tabby and is very small She had a litter of four kittens when she arrived at the rescue Leah is sweet and not even a year old yet She had kittens as a kitten herself This is why all cats and kittens need to be spayed and neutered by 4 months old Kittens given away free do not end up being vetted and fixed and when left behind or tossed outside they multiply quickly. This continues to be a major problem in this area.