Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin

Council approves budget with no millage rate hike

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council approved a $66 27 million budget Monday that will keep the millage rate flat by drawing down on the state’s $10 million bridge loan awarded last year after Hurricane Ian

Town officials have been hoping the state would forgive the loan though there has not been any actions over the past year from Gov Ron DeSantis and the state legislature to do so, despite some talk from state legislators over the past two state budget sessions

that the loan could be forgiven

The loan carries a 10% interest rate that will need to be paid back within 10 years under the current terms

The town will use $2 89 million of the bridge loan for the 2025 fiscal year budget to balance its budget and make up for lost revenue and other expenses in order to keep its millage rate flat

The town’s millage rate will stay the same at .99 mills per thousand dollars of taxable assessed value

The town’s total budget is actually

decreasing by nearly $10 million mostly due to a $9 6 million decrease in capital expenditures for the 2025 fiscal year The largest part of the town’s budget is capital improvements at $38 6 million

Fort Myers Beach Finance Director Joe Onzick said this year’s beach renourishment project and the use of state loans for capital expenditures this year are the primary reasons this year’s capital budget was $9 6 million more than next year’s will be.

Onzick’s description of capital expenditures differed on several slides

Forecast: C ategory 2 hurricane to pass by early Thursday

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The National Weather Service is forecasting a Category 2 hurricane to pass about 100 miles west of Fort Myers Beach late early Thursday morning, bringing winds of up to 60-70 miles per hour and four to six inches of rain Gov Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 41 Florida counties, including Lee County due to the expected hurricane

As of Monday, the storm was developing in the northwestern Caribbean Sea and was expected to turn into Tropical Cyclone 9, according to the National Weather Service By Wednesday morning, the storm is predicted to turn into a Category 1 hurricane The hurricane will be named Hurricane Helene, National

Weather Service meteorologist Rodney Wynn said

Wynn said Fort Myers Beach should

Wednesday night By Thursday, the hurricane is expected to strengthen into winds between 90 mph and 120 mph On Fort Myers Beach, those winds will be felt closer to 60 miles per hour with potential gusts of up to 70 mph, Wynn said

Deteriorating marine conditions off the coast along with an undetermined amount of storm surge is also in the forecast Residents should expect flooding on local roads

Wynn said meteorologists have not yet made a prediction on how much storm surge is possible for the region

The hurricane is expected to make

Florida on Thursday night

Town of Fort Myers Beach Public

announced that Town Hall has sand and bags available for residents at 2731 Oak Street

“Those that live in the areas prone to f

Town’s stormwater system will not alleviate water breaching the seawalls from the back bay,” Berzin said. “Please be mindful that most of the Tier One proj-

A forecast map from the National Weather Service has the storm expected to be named Hurricane Helene passing about 100 miles west of Fort Myers Beach on Thursday See HURRICANE, page 20

In another budget document, Onzick listed the town’s capital fund as decreasing $11 3 million from $26 8 million to $15 48 million

In another budget document on the town’s general fund, the town’s capital budget under the general fund is up 675% due to an Estero Boulevard landscaping project the town has undertaken, said town Finance Director Joe Onzick The capital budget went up from $111,000 to $860,098 under the general fund

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

A former Lee County Sheriff’s Office e

Carmine Marceno as a write-in candidate i n t h e u p c o m i n g November election, i s a c c u s

Marceno of having

consultant and then asking him to help

Marceno’s dad

M

H

w first posted the allegations on the Facebook page of his election campaign earlier this month Hollow posted audio, which has been edited, from

between himself and the former Sheriff’s Office consultant Ken Romano in which Romano alleges he made the payments to M

f o r a Mercedes

Romano, a Bonita Springs jewelry store owner, had a consulting contract with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in 2022 to assist with communications and social media According to Lee County Sheriff’s Office records, the contract was terminated that same year after the office said it found out Romano was under investigation by another law enforcement agency

Romano did not respond to messages seeking comment and Hollow said he didn’t know which agency was said to be investigating Romano at the time Marceno called the allegations against him “politically-motivated and baseless from a disgruntled employee ” Hollow worked for the Lee County

See MARCENO, page 20

Sheriff Carmine Marceno

Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer

o v a r y A b n o r m a l c e l l s m a y

∫ U n e x p l a i n e d f a t i g u e

Election Day, 40%

∫ 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

s t s a v a i l a b l e a n d s y m p t o m s c a n b e n o n s p e c i fi c o r n o t p r e s e n t a t a l l , r e s u l ti n g i n t h e c a n c e r o f t e n g o i n g

u n d e t e c t e d u n t i l a d v a n c e d

s t a g e s I n r e c o g n i t i o n o f O v a r i a n

Dr Edward Grendys Guest Column

C a n c e r A w a r e n e s s M o n t h i n S e p t e m b e r , i t ’ s i m p o r t a n t t o k n o w w h a t t o l o o k o u t f o r , c h e c k i n r e g u l a r l y w i t h y o u r b o d y a n d m a k e a n a p p o i n tm e n t w i t h a p h y s i c i a n i f s o m e t h i n g f e e l s a b n o r m a l

O v a r i e s a n d o v a r i a n c a n c e r T h e o v a r i e s a r e a l m o n d - s h a p e d o r g a n s i n t h e f e m a l e r e p r o d u c t i v e s y s t e m t h a t p r o -

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

c a n c e r c a n b e c a u s e d i n t h r e e w a y s :

∫ O v a r i a n e p i t h e l i a l c a n c e r f o r m s i n

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

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

m o s t o f t h e o r g a n s i n t h e a b d o m e n ) o r i n

t h e l i n i n g o f t h e f a l l o p i a n t u b e , w h i c h

d e l i v e r s e g g s f r o m t h e o v a r i e s t o t h e

u t e r u s ∫ O v a r i a n g e r m c e l l t u m o r s b e g i n i n

t h e e g g s , w h i c h a r e a l s o k n o w n a s g e r m

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

∫ O v a r i a n l o w m a l i g n a n t p o t e n t i a l t u m o r s s t a r t i n t h e t i s s u e c o v e r i n g t h e

for Sheridan Chester for Lee County School Board District 7 at lar ge To the editor:

Realistic living wage for our teachers, hire and retain qualified, dedicated educators for our students, maintain a safe environment for our students and teachers and practice responsible fiscal management

The Lee County School Board has been failing our children Comprised of mostly non-educators, the current board has failed

b e p r e s e n t t h a t c o u l d b e c o m e

c a n c e r , b u t t h i s i s u s u a l l y n o t

t h e c a s e

A l l t y p e s o f o v a r i a n c a n -

c e r a r e t r e a t e d t h e s a m e w a y

O v a r i a n c a n c e r c a n c a u s e

n o n s p e c i f i c s y m p t o m s , s u c h a s a b d o m i n a l s w e l l i n g o r p a i n , b u t f o r s o m e p a t i e n t s , n o s y m p t o m s a t a l l a r e e x p e -

r i e n c e d S i n c e i t c a n b e d i f f i -

c u l t t o d i a g n o s e a n d s y m pt o m s c a n s e e m v a g u e o r s i mi l a r t o c o m m o n i s s u e s , i t ’ s i m p o r t a n t t o s e e a p h y s i c i a n f o r r e g u l a r c h e c k u p s I f l e f t u n t r e a t e d , o v a r i a n

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

P o t e n t i a l s y m p t o m s o f o v a r i a n c a n c e r T h e s i g n s a n d s y m p t o m s o f o v a r i a n c a n -

c e r c a n b e d i f f i c u l t t o d e t e c t I f y o u e x p e -

r i e n c e t h e f o l l o w i n g p e r s i s t e n t i s s u e s , i t

m a y h e l p t o l e t a d o c t o r k n o w a b o u t t h e m

i f t h e y a r e a b n o r m a l f o r y o u :

∫ B l o a t i n g a n d s w e l l i n g i n t h e l o w e r

p e l v i s a n d a b d o m e n C l o t h e s m a y f e e l

t i g h t e r t h a n n o r m a l

∫ Y o u f e e l f u l l a l o t q u i c k e r t h a n n o r -

m a l o r h a v e t r o u b l e e a t i n g .

∫ P a i n i n y o u r b a c k , p e l v i s o r a b d o m e n

∫ U r i n a t i n g m o r e f r e q u e n t l y

∫ P a i n d u r i n g s e x

∫ U n u s u a l v a g i n a l b l e e d i n g

∫ U n e x p l a i n e d w e i g h t l o s s o r g a i n

to stem the drastic teacher shortage, has gone beyond state mandates to remove books from classrooms, and rejects a culture of tolerance and inclusion This in a district that has a 60% minority enrollment

The current 10-year plan sees significant student growth which may require10 new schools However, Sheridan knows that the severe teacher shortage along with high expenses and low wages in the county are forcing people to leave. As a school board member, Sheridan will ensure that the new 10-year plan clearly takes into account the actual circumstances

R i s k f a c t o r s f o r o v a r i a n c a n c e r I t ’ s i m p o r t a n t t o l e t y o u r d o c t o r k n o w a b o u t a f a m i l y h i s t o r y o f o v a r i a n c a n c e r a n d t o b e a w a r e o f a n y i n h e r i t e d g e n e m u t a t i o n s , s u c h

t s b e t t e r u n d e r s t a n d t h e i r h e a l t h A p o s i t i v e r e s u l t d o e s n o t d i a g n o s e a n y d i s e a s e ; i t t e l l s y o u i f y o u c a r r y t h e g e n e m u t a t i o n t h a t i n c r e a s e s y o u r r i s k A n e g a t i v e B R C A t e s t d o e s n ' t g u a r a n t e e y o u w i l l n o t g e t c a n c e r I t m e a n s y o u r r i s k i s l i k e l y t h e s a m e a s t h e g e n e r a l p o p u l a t i o n I f y o u t h i n k y o u ’ r e a c a n d i d a t e f o r t h e B R C A t e s t o r w o u l d l i k e m o r e i n f o r m at i o n , m a k e a n a p p o i n t m e n t w i t h y o u r p h y s i c i a n b y v i s i t i n g w w w l e e h e a l t h o r g I f y o u e x p e r i e n c

Sheridan Chester is a master educator, a dedicated public servant who has been teaching the children of Lee County for 23 y

Teacher, the last two years teaching GED Chester was twice named “Teacher of the Year for Middle School ” Lee County School Board needs at least one representative who has taught in our schools Sheridan knows what our students and families need and is superbly prepared to deliver

Dennis Raube Fort Myers

BUSINESS

FMB Strong recognized at CareerSource Southwest Florida Annual Awards

FMB Strong were honored at the CareerSource Southwest Florida Annual Awards Ceremony & Luncheon with the 2023-2024 Champion Award This award recognizes FMB Strong’s partnership and commitment to CareerSource's mission of connecting individuals to quality career opportunities and fostering economic growth in the region.

In addition to the Champion Award, last week at the Workforce Professional Development Summit in Orlando, FMB Strong's founder, Tim Ryan, was awarded the Workforce Partner Award This award, presented by the Florida Workforce Development Association, recognizes Ryan’s commitment and dedication to advancing Florida’s Workforce Network, helping to create lasting impacts on individuals and families throughout the state

“We are truly honored to receive these awards,” said Tim Ryan “This recognition is a testament to our community's resilience and the collaborative efforts we have forged to rebuild and strengthen the workforce here in Southwest Florida We remain committed to supporting the individuals and families affected by Hurricane Ian and will continue to work toward providing opportunities for growth, recovery, and success ”

F M B S t r o n g ,

u n d e d i n t h e a f t e r m a t h o f Hurricane Ian, is dedicated to supporting community members through various initiatives, including relief efforts, workforce development, and partnerships with local agencies

The Islander, Gift Gallery & Boutique is poised for a comeback that is about as important as any for Fort Myers Beach

The Islander makes its comeback

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Islander, Gift Gallery & Boutique is poised for a comeback that is about as important as any for Fort Myers Beach

Anita Cereceda, the town’s first mayor and current chair of the Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency, is reopening the store at Santini Plaza two years to the day that Hurricane Ian swept away her three businesses on the island Cereceda’s other two businesses The Pier Peddler and Local Color at Times Square were literally washed away Cereceda lost everything She had no insurance and had to start all over again She could have left the island where she has spent much of her life since returning from college more than 30 years ago to help run her family's business, The Pier Peddler

Yet she stayed And now her resilience will lead to the first store reopening at Santini Plaza since Hurricane Ian.

“I am the luckiest person on the planet because I have such extraordinary people surrounding me,” Cereceda said “Folks that don’t even live here are sending me encouragement,” she said Indeed, her Facebook page has been filled with wishes of success for the reopening of The Islander

“I am deeply, deeply grateful to everyone,” Cereceda said “A lot of these people I don’t know They are so extraordinarily supportive I just hope I don’t let them down ”

Islander, Gift Gallery and Boutique features women, men and children’s clothing as well as jewelry, housewares, artwork and gifts

“Everything that people were expecting to see in my stores they will see again,” Cereceda said “It’s incredible ”

Before Hurricane Ian, Cereceda organized an annual fashion show outside the store in conjunction with Leani’s Casual and Swimwear next door which is also close to reopening Cereceda is excited about other stores expected to open at Santini Plaza which include familiar business and new ones For now, Cereceda said she is anxious about Hurricane Helene and whether it will disrupt any of her plans A ceremony had been planned at Santini Plaza to mark the second anniversary of Hurricane Ian but details were still up in the air as of press time Tuesday

Opening on the anniversary of Hurricane Ian is important to Cereceda She made it her goal back in March

The Property Medic, based on Fort Myers Beach, did the buildout for Cereceda to get her store open on time. She has had help from friends and former workers who will be returning to assist her as well as old colleagues on the town council like former councilmember and friend Rexann Hosafros

“I’ve been working 6:30, 7 in the morning until 7-8 at night,” Cereceda said Now the only thing in her way is another hurricane but Cereceda said she will be ready to open though it will depend on the severity of the storm

“I will be ready ”

Event registration now open for 2024 Industry Appreciation Awards

Registration is now open for the 32nd Industry Appreciation Awards luncheon, which will take place on Friday, Oct 25, at Caloosa Sound Convention Center in Fort Myers

Hosted by the Horizon Council, Horizon Foundation and Lee County Economic Development Office, the awards program will recognize 27 companies as finalists across nine award categories, including Large Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Diverse Business of the Year, the Supplier Diversity Award, the Innovative Technology Award, Small Manufacturer of

Partnership Award and the Community Spotlight Award

The Oct 25 event will be held at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center, 1375 Monroe St in Fort Myers, and starts with networking opportunities at 10 a m before transitioning to the awards luncheon at 11 a m Event tickets for the 2024 Industry Appreciation Awards are $ 5 0

IndustryAppreciationAwards com Registration closes Oct 18

The Horizon Foundation was established in 1995-96 to provide a funding vehicle for businesses to invest in Lee County’s long-term economic development and vitality In 2000, the Horizon Foundation received its IRS ruling as a charitable 501(c)(3) organization The

foundation raises private-sector money to support efforts of the Lee County Economic Development Office and the Horizon Council to improve the area’s business climate For information, visit HorizonCouncilFoundation com, or call 239-533-6806

The Horizon Council is a public-private board established in 1991 to advise the Lee County Board of Commissioners on economic development issues The council has up to 80 members representing cities; chambers of commerce; economic development and trade

organizations; along with various officers and at-large members The Council’s mission is to improve Lee County’s business environment, retain and encourage the expansion of existing businesses, and attract new and d

information

The Lee County Economic Development Office provides business assistance to retain existing businesses, encourage entrepreneurship and attract new business to provide a strong economy and thriving communities The office also works to improve opportunities for the workforce to advance skills and have access to career ladders Visit LeeCountyBusiness com for more information

PHOTOS PROVIDED

The

Beach Living

Lee Commissioners award $39M contract to nourish Lovers Key shoreline

STAFF REPORT

The Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to award a $39 million contract to renourish beaches at Lovers Key Key State Park on Fort Myers Beach and at Bonita Beach to address chronic erosion as well as damage caused by Hurricane Ian

The main project consists of 1 1 miles of shoreline within Lovers Key State Park and 0 8 miles of shoreline at the northern end of Bonita Beach (Little Hickory Island) In addition, in cooperation with the City of Bonita Springs, hurricane damage to the upper beach and dunes will be repaired on a one-time basis extended south on Bonita Beach to the Lee-Collier County line Weeks Marine Inc will excavate, transport and place beach-compatible sand from a Gulf of Mexico sand source to nourish multiple beach segments.

T h e F l o r i d a D e p a r t m

Protection has designated the main project area as critically eroded The Lovers Key segment will be completed using funds from Lee County’s Tourist Development Tax – a tax on short-term lodging –f u n d

o m F D E P

Management Agency’s Disaster Relief Fund The Bonita Beach segment will include funding from the Tourist Development Tax, FDEP, FEMA, and City of Bonita Springs A south Bonita Beach segment will be solely funded by FDEP through the City of Bonita Springs.

The funding sources are: ∫ F

Protection − $23 6 million

∫ Lee County - $7 7 million

∫ City of Bonita Springs - $5 8 million

∫ FEMA - $2 million

See LOVERS KEY, page 10

Third time the charm for Captain Jack II

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Capt Jack II, the shrimp boat that struck the Matanzas Pass Bridge on Fort Myers Beach last week, crossed under the bridge on its third attempt last week Tuesday after the crew used torches to cut the outriggers in half

A second attempt at low tide last Tuesday morning didn’t work when

scraped some paint off the bridge though the bridge stayed open Owner Chris Gala said the boat docked successfully on Fort Myers Beach after being given clearance from the U S Coast Guard to cross under the bridge

“The boat is fine,” Gala said “They cut the outriggers in half and docked it at Erickson and Jensen,” she said

“We knew the outriggers were extra big,” Gala said “We had a plan to push it through with a boat during low tide ” Gala said the high tide was exacerbated by a full moon which made the tide extra high

The Texas-based shrimp boat initially struck the Matanzas Pass Bridge last week Monday after its outriggers became stuck under the bridge at a high tide Gala had purchased the shrimp boat from Texas as the first replacement boat for the fleet of 14 she lost to Hurricane Ian The collision with the bridge Monday shut down the Matanzas Pass Bridge for more than

Department of Transportation declared the bridge safe

The Florida Department of Transportation again declared the bridge safe a day later after a second bridge strike On the third try at about 3:50 p m , the boat passed under the bridge safely

Estero Island Historic Society seeks memorabilia from former businesses for exhibit

STAFF REPORT

The Estero Island Historic Society is asking for the public’s help to assist with an exhibit on the history of hurricanes on Fort Myers Beach The exhibit will open on Sept 28, the second anniversary of Hurricane Ian.

“We would like to fill the museu m w i t h m e m o r a b i l i a f r o m a n y island business that is no longer on the island due to Mother Nature or development,” said Ellie Bunting of the Estero Island Historic Society “We are looking for anything from an old sign to a matchbook If you have any items you would like to loan us for the exhibit, please let us know and we can arrange a pick up time and place.”

For more information on how to a s s i s

E

Society, email esteroislandhistoricsociety@gmail com

Historical items can be brought to the cottage museum which is behind the Fort Myers Beach Elementary School at 161 Bay Road The soci-

Estero

with

The American Heritage Girls troop FL 0330 helped pick up trash from Lynn Hall Memorial Park and Crescent Beach Family park as part of their national day of service over the weekend

PHOTO PROVIDED American Heritage Girls clean up the beach

PHOTO PROVIDED

The

Island Historic Society is asking for the public’s help to assist

an exhibit on the history of hurricanes on Fort Myers Beach. The exhibit will open on Sept. 28, the second anniversary of Hurricane Ian.

Capt. Jack II PHOTOS PROVIDED

Lee schools see bump but student proficiency numbers still low

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Numbers are improving but the School District of Lee County is still lagging behind the state average in terms of student proficiency in core subjects

“We are keeping pace with some of the gains and improvements with other districts and state level We are making strides We are going to have to do a little bit of work to keep up with peers,” Chief Academic Officer Dr Nathan Shaker said at this week’s school board meeting

According to the presentation given, English Language Arts for grades 3 to 5 had student proficiency at 47% in 2024 a level three or above compared to last year’s 45% For grades sixth through eighth the proficiency rate was 47%, compared to 2023’s 46%, and for ninth and 10th grade the proficiency rose to 48% from 44%

Proficiency is defined as working at grade level

Students statewide achieved 54% proficiency for 2024 for third through fifth grade; 52% for grades sixth through eighth, and ninth and 10th grade students had a 53% proficiency for 2024

In math, students in grades 3-5 had a 53% proficiency rate in 2024, the same as the previous year and grades sixth through eighth had 56% for 2024 and 53% for 2023

Statewide saw a 55% proficiency rate in grades third through fifth in 2024 and 59% for grades 6-8 all mathematics

For algebra, grades eight and lower, 81% of students achieved proficiency in

2024, compared to 82% in 2023 For algebra 1 EOC for ninth through 12th grade there was 19% proficiency for 2024, compared to 17% in 2023

Statewide students achieved 83% proficiency for grades 8 and lower algebra and 33% for grades ninth through 12th in 2024

Science for grade five saw student proficiency at 51% for 2024, compared to 50% in 2023. For grade eight, all science, 41% of students achieved proficiency, compared to 44% in 2023 For biology 1 EOC, there was a 49% proficiency in 2024, compared to 50% in 2023

Statewide, proficiency was at 49% for grade eight all science, and 66% for biology 1 EOC

For civics, the district had saw 58% proficiency for 2024, compared to 59% in 2023 and U S history had a 55% proficiency for 2024, compared to 53% in 2023.

The state’s civics and U S history proficiency was 67%

This comparable raw data was presented to the board, as part of a school grade data presentation

Shaker said F A S T has three separate assessments, with students already taking the first round, which acts as a baseline assessment from which they grow In December, when students have half a year of learning under their belts, the district gets a good idea of the progress they have made

“PM3 (progress monitoring) summative score measures the student’s mastery

See LEE SCHOOLS, page 10

Town announces end of commercial trailers

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The owners of commercial trailers on Fort Myers Beach are facing a deadline set by FEMA that will require them to pack up

“We were told in no uncertain terms by FEMA that all commercial trailers (and shipping containers) have to be removed no later than Nov 18,” Town of Fort Myers Beach Operations Director Frankie Kropacek said

Kropacek said the town has drafted letters which will be used as notices of violations to businesses and properties with commercial trailers that are out there.

“There is a channel of recourse for these businesses This is not the end-all, be-all,” Kropacek said Kropacek said a review of the cases will be handled by an independent magistrate based out of Tallahassee that the town has selected The town will facilitate hearings out of its town hall

“We totally understand the guidelines,” Kropacek said He said the rules FEMA is enforcing is the same as

the town’s own rules on the books which limits the use of commercial trailers

“Under the current situation, I can not ask somebody to pack up and leave right now,” Kropacek said He said he can’t ask businesses to close up their trailers when the town itself operates its own commercial trailers to conduct business

Kropacek said the town itself will not be able to vacate its own town hall trailers before Nov 18 since the new town hall isn’t ready yet Kropacek said the town will be issuing code violations to itself for the trailers

“If I am to ask a business to do it, we have to do it to We are in trailers. No different than they are,” Kropacek said “We can not be out of here by Nov 18 ”

Kropacek said the ban on commercial trailers also extends to Conex cargo boxes, or shipping containers A message left with Kropacek wasn’t immediately responded to

The town has been using the trailers at Oak St since Hurricane Ian destroyed the former town hall on Estero

Boulevard. Previously, the town hall was based out of trailers on the former Topps supermarket lot where the fire station is to be built until the state stopped covering the cost for the trailers That led the town to purchase its own temporary trailers at Oak St

Kropacek and Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt have previously told the town council that t h

Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie regarding the rules and deadline, and they were told that the deadline was firm

Kropacek said the trailer issue has been “a hot topic in town” particularly with a potential hurricane on the way. Meanwhile, the town recently completed its submittal to FEMA for a plan to address permitless work in town and other issues cited by FEMA in its review of how the town handled rebuilding work after Hurricane Ian, including alleged deficiencies and violations of FEMA regulations The commercial trailers could affect that review, Kropacek said

Tickets on sale for Premier Mobile Health Services’ casino night event

Tickets are now on sale for the Premier Speakeasy, a Roaring Twenties-themed night of gaming, glamour and Great Gatsby vibes to benefit Premier Mobile Health Services and its nonprofit medical clinic on wheels

Premier Mobile Health Services brings essential medical care to those in need at multiple locations across Lee County, as well as at a Fort Myers walk-in clinic Proceeds from the Nov 1 casino-night gala at Collaboratory benefit the organization

“As a nonprofit, our mission is to provide life-saving medical care to the medically vulnerable, most of whom are uninsured or under-insured,” said Dr Nadine “Deanie” Singh, founder and CEO of Premier Mobile Health Services “Community support is

Lee schools

of the B E S T standards,” Shaker said

critical to help keep our doors open and our wheels turning ”

The Casino Soirée runs from 6-9 p m

Tickets are $100 per person and include heavy hors d'oeuvres, two drink tickets and gaming vouchers Tickets can be purchased at the Speakeasy Casino 2024 website (https://premiermobilehealth ejoinme org/sp eakeasy), by calling 239-288-7949 or email info@premiermobilehealth org Event sponsors and donors include the following organizations and individuals Kevin and Krista Anderson, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Amity Home Care, Christopher Alan Homes, Chris-Tel Construction, Florida Blue, Lee Pitts Live, Neuropsychiatric Research Center of Southwest Florida, Owens-Ames-Kimball

From page 9

The presentation also highlighted how schools achieve their school grade which now includes third grade achievement as an individual item in the school grade component for elementary schools Both middle and high schools that are a c o m b i n a t i o n s c h o o l m u s t c l

6 4 % points, a 2% increase

Nineteen schools earned an A grade and 30 earned a B A

n E S S A ( E v e r y S t u d e n t Succeeds Act), which was presented by South Regional Associate Superintendent Cheryl Neely ESSA monitors student subgroups through such indicators as academic achievement, academic progress, graduation rate, school quality or student s u c c e s s , a n d p r o g r e s s i n a c h i e v i n g English language proficiency

“The Florida components for the federal index are the same as school grades The additional category monitors achieving English language proficiency,” Neely said

The categories include additional targeted support and improvement (ATSI), targeted support and improvement (TSI)

and comprehensive support and improvement (CSI)

The north region’s 21 schools include 14 ATSI, three TSI and two CSI Manatee

E l e m

Elementary School cleared all ESSA subgroups There were no A schools, seven had a B, 12 had a C and two had a D

Among the 17 schools in the east region, there were no A schools, four received a B, 11 a C and two a D There were 10 schools listed as ATSI, four as TSI and two as a CSI Mirror Lakes Elementary School cleared all ESSA subgroups.

The south region, which includes 22 schools, had five A schools, seven had a B and nine a C Fourteen schools were ATSI and three were TSI

There were five schools that cleared a

, Pinewoods Elementary School, Bonita Springs Middle Center for the Arts and Rayma C Page Elementary School

F o r t h e w e s

received an A, 10 a B, and six a C. There were 17 schools in the ATSI category and o n e i n t h e T

C

Co , Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, Strayhorn, Persons-Mulicka & Fisher, Suncoast Contractors Supply and Zeal Technical Institute

The mission of Premier Mobile Health Services is to provide quality health care services to the medically vulnerable and those most risk of developing and experiencing long-term illnesses and hospitalization Founded in 2018, the nonprofit organization operates a mobile medical clinic serving the uninsured and low-income children, families and individuals at multiple locations across Lee County, including a walk-in, bricks-and-mortar clinic in Fort Myers

Available services include early-detection health screenings, blood pressure and

diabetes checks, drug screenings, basic metabolic profiles, nutrition counseling, basic vaccinations, health education, school and sports physicals for children, as well as acute and chronic disease management

Patients without insurance and those who provide proof of income below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines account for two-thirds of its population and are provided care at no costs; others in need pay on a sliding scale based on income

To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 239-288-7949 Additional information, the monthly mobile clinic schedule, can be found online at www premiermobilehealth org

expert teachers

Littleton Elementary School cleared all ESSA subgroups

To exit ATSI, or TSI, a school must improve subgroup(s) performance on the federal percentage of points to 41% or higher To exit CSI, a school must have a federal percentage of points of 41% or higher, must have a D or F school grade and must have a graduation rate above 67%

Those schools that enter CSI because they were previously identified as ATSI based on subgroup performance for six consecutive years must raise their subgroups performance to 41% or higher to exit

As a response to this data presented, Shaker said they have a strong partnership between regional leadership and academic services with a focus on building capacity and finding and creating the best tools and seeking out innovation

“ W h e n w e f o c u s o n l y o n d i r e c t l y coaching teachers, we are limiting our scope (we have to) spread expertise wider,” he said, adding that training will be given to beginner, intermediate and

The regional superintendents are a factor in capacity, as they are analyzing data by region, and responding regionally by connecting the right curriculum tools for each region The tools fall within small group instruction, tools that involve pers o n a l e n g a g e m e n t a n d r e d u c i n g t i m e spent in testing environments

Innovation falls within a focus on ESOL and ESE There are 23,717 students receiving active support in the district and 12,426 of which have an individualized education plan

That’s 40% of the population needing support

Resiliency Florida According to the presentation, Florida is the first in the nation

empowers students to persevere and overcome challenges

Board member Jada Langford-Fleming said she loves the concept of Resiliency Florida

“You can’t teach this, but we can sure as heck model it. I am challenging the district to do that and allow our teachers to do this in their classrooms,” she said

Key From page 8

The project is scheduled to begin Oct 15, and will be complete by June of next year Beaches will remain open, except in the safety zones where sand is actively being placed

Last week, the county commissioners also awarded a $571,100 contract to Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc to provide design, permitting, and construction administration services to restore Bonita Beach Park, Bonita Beach Access 1, and Little Hickory Island Beach Park

The project includes restoring three public beach access points along Bonita

Beach, which sustained significant structural damage from Hurricane Ian The affected structures include the restroom and county office building at Bonita Beach Park, two restroom buildings at Little Hickory Island Beach Park, and the wooden boardwalks and pavilions at all

three parks The restroom buildings at Little Hickory Island Beach Park will be replaced, while the Bonita Beach Park restrooms and county office building will be repaired

Environmental Protection announced that Lovers Key State Park on Fort Myers Beach will present weekly programs on nature, park history and w

f August The park is located at 8500 Estero Blvd

Space is limited for all events; reservations are required To register, visit the Friends of Lovers Key’s Eventbrite page: https://bit ly/FOLKS-Events

Lovers Key State Park Programs

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

Programs include:

∫ Friday, Sept 20 at 10 a m

Walk on the Wild Side

Program is free with paid park entry

Join a park ranger for a guided hike along our Black

Island Trail Learn about the fascinating vegetation and wildlife that reside in our maritime hammock ecosystem and enjoy a little local history along the way Closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, and water bottles are highly recommended Space is limited; reservations are required To register, visit https://bit ly/FOLKS-Events

∫ Friday, Oct 4 at 10 a m

Beach and Estuary Walk Program is free with paid park entry

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 Space is limited; reservations are required To register, visit https://bit ly/FOLKS-Events

∫ Thursday, Oct 10 at 8:15 a m

Lovers Key Garden Club Workday

Park entry fee is waived for participants

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 Space is limited; r

https://bit ly/FOLKS-Events

∫ Friday, Oct 11 at 10:00 a m

Seashell Walk

Program is free with paid park entry

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 Space is limited; reservations are required To register, visit https://bit ly/FOLKSEvents

Mound House Events Schedule

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Race for Fort Myers Beach Council

i s c

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

e l e c t c o u n c i l m e m b e r s i n t h e T o w n o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h i n a n o n - p a r t i s a n

e l e c t i o n A l l e r s a n d A t t e r h o l t r a n s u c c e s s f u l l y f o r t h e i r s e a t s i n 2 0 2 0 w h

t l y a t r u s t e e o n t h e F o r t M y e r s B e a c h L i b r a r y B o a r d , i s t h e l o n e c h a l l e n g e r T h e s e a t o f t h e m a y o r a n d v i c e m a y o r a r e a p p o i n t e d b y t h e c o u n c i l a n d n o t e l e c t e d b y t h e v o t e r s V o t e r s o n l y

Our question of the week is on flooding. Flooding has been a major concern for town residents over the past year particularly on side streets. Residents are complaining of streets flooding after even minor storms. Can you comment on the current state of the town’s stormwater drainage system and the recent flooding? What has the town been doing in regards to stormwater drainage since Hurricane Ian and has it been working? The town received a grant from the state to repair the stormwater drainage What has that been used for and is that working? What do you suggest the town do to further address the flooding problems on its side streets? How serious of a problem is this for the town?

❑ dan allerS (Incumbent)

Living on a barrier island presents unique challenges, especially with the ongoing flooding from heavy rains and high tides The rising waters have nowhere to go until the tides recede, compounding the issues our town already faces.

Before Hurricane Ian, we began installing a new drainage system on Estero Boulevard and side streets to address both current and future needs Unfortunately, the hurricane damaged both old and new systems, filling the drainage with sand and sediment We are currently engaged in ongoing cleaning efforts to unclog these systems and improve water flow with new and added outfalls

Our contractor is diligently working on updating the drainage on the side streets as planned prior to the storm To ensure our drainage plan will meet the needs of the island’s anticipated growth, the council has directed staff to bring in a second firm for an independent review. This will provide valuable insights into necessary improvements and help establish a timeline for implementing changes as they are identified

It is going to take time and patience, but we are committed to enhancing our infrastructure to better manage these flooding challenges and protect our community from future storms

For the past few years, the Town of Fort Myers Beach has been working to replace the water and stormwater infrastructure adjacent to Estero Boulevard in conjunction with the County’s roadway improvements Substantial work, particularly on the Town’s water lines, was done prior to the hurricane which helped the Town restore water service quickly after the storm Certainly, the side streets and the stormwater system are the priority going forward as that is where most of the remaining flooding issues occur

For the side streets that are still experiencing flooding, the Town must meet with and listen to the impacted residents as they know best their respective street and their individual flooding problems Resources have been rightfully prioritized by the Town for this stormwater work We need to do a better job to work with and listen to the residents to make sure the improvements are made quickly and effectively in order to minimize the flooding during heavy rains This intermittent flooding is causing a severe hardship to a number of our residents some streets have seen relief while others need significantly more help

I would say our current drainage situation is poor at best Every time there is heavy rain and/or a high tide my phone lights up from frustrated citizens (not to mention my own yard floods). The Town needs to make this an absolute priority During our last meeting the mayor asked that we get a second opinion on our drains and the entire council agreed Here are the current numbers:

We received a $500,00 FDEP Stormwater grant $205k has been used to date Remaining $295k still left

We also got a $555,949 FDEM Stormwater grant $235k has been used and $320k remains

We also took out a $20 3 million State loan that can only be used for drinking and stormwater So far we have used $6 1 million, leaving $14 2 million remaining We converted the funds to advanced payments to help our cash flow (we get the money upfront, instead of paying for it and waiting for reimbursement)

As you can see, we have the funds, we just need to make this a priority

I have been contacted by several residents that are concerned about our storm water system It seems the Town has only used a single contractor, and in a move I support, Town Council has authorized another contractor to consult on the status of the storm water system All residents know that the storm water system is not working as it should Many side streets flood with even modest rains and while we all understand king tide season, the amount of bay water that is ending up on our side streets and the amount of rain water that remains, even when the tides recede, is extremely concerning It’s obvious to all residents that what is in place now is not working, and it needs to be seriously looked at and improvements made

❑ JIm atterholt (Incumbent)

❑ Scott Safford (Incumbent)

Town of Fort Myers Beach Council Candidate Bios

dan allerS

Candidate name: Dan Allers

Seat sought: Fort Myers Beach Council

Age: 51

Campai g n w

forourbeach

Education/degrees: Spring Lake Park High School in Minnesota, attended Northeast Metro Technical College

Occupation and place of employment and most recent previous occupation: Owner of Gulfview Solutions and coowner of Island Carts FMB. Previously worked as a project manager for Automated Shading and Lighting in Naples

Time living in Fort Myers Beach: 12 years

Political Experience/offices held: Fort Myers Beach Mayor, Councilmember, formerly Local Planning Agency board member

Civic/Community involvement: Town council liaison to the Bay Oaks Recreational Campus Advisory Board, Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce member

Family: Married with one daughter

Jim

atterholt

Candidate name: Jim Atterholt

Seat sought: Fort Myers Beach Council

Age: 62

Campaign website: jimatterholtfmb com

Education/degrees: BA in History and Political Science, University of Wisconsin 1986

Occupation and place of employment and most recent previous occupation: Owner of regulatory compliance consulting company, former Chair of the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, former congressional aide, Indiana state legislator, state of Indiana insurance commissioner and chief of staff to former Indiana Governor Mike Pence

Time living on Fort Myers Beach: 8 years full time

Political Experience/offices held: Congressional aide, state legislator, insurance commissioner, chair of the utility regulatory commission and chief of staff to the governor all for the state of Indiana

Civic/Community involvement: Former member of the Local Planning Agency (LPA) and served as condominium association board member

Family: Married (Brenda), three grown sons

Scott Safford

Candidate name: Scott Safford

Seat sought: Fort Myers Beach Town Council

Age: 59

Campaign website: www scottsaffordfmb com

Education/degrees: BA in Economics from the University of Dallas, MBA International Finance from the Thunderbird School of Global Management

Occupation and place of employment and most recent previous occupation: CFO of Sea Gypsy Vacation Rentals, previously owner of the Sea Gypsy Inn

Time living on Fort Myers Beach: Part time since 2007, full-time since 2012.

Political experience/offices held: Town Council member, Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency member

Civic/community involvement: Leadership Lee Class of 2024, Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce member

Family: Married (Jacki Liszak), three children, two stepchildren, eight grandchildren

Candidate name: Greg Scasny

Seat sought: Fort Myers Beach Council Age: 51

Campaign website: https://www fmbcommunity com

Education/degrees: BS - Electrical Engineering and Technology - Purdue - 2000

Occupation and place of employment and most recent previous occupation: CTO / Founder - Blueshift Cybersecurity, CTO / Co-Founder - Cigent Technology, Inc

Time living on Fort Myers Beach: Since 2018

Political Experience/offices held: Fort Myers Beach Library Board of Trustees Ci v i c / Co mmuni

Volunteer, FMB Little League Volunteer

Family: Wife (Marcia), Son (Gage)

Council approves fire station plans, groundbreaking ceremony set

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council unanimously approved plans by the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District to build a new fire station at the former Topps supermarket lot at 2545 and 2555 Estero Boulevard, next to the former town hall

Except it was only the first reading of an ordinance for a new commercial planned development at the property, which means a second reading will still need to be held on Oct 7 Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers announced the procedural error by the council after a recess at their Monday meeting, clarifying that a second public hearing will need to be held at the council’s next meeting. Monday’s hearing brought no opposition from the council or public

The plans had been previously approved unanimously by the Local Planning Agency

The approvals follow a four-year process to get plans in place for the new Station 31 since the Fort Myers Beach Board of Fire Commissioners approved the purchase of the property in 2020 for $3 99 million

Millage rate

The town is also forecasting $1 million in less wages budgeted for next year

The town’s general fund will increase by 2 8% from $12 36 million to $12 7 million while its stormwater fund will decrease from $12 1 million to $11 3 million

The town’s liability insurance went up 24% to $1 18 million

Other general fund budgets that went up by department are the town clerk’s office from $382,836 to $579,222, the finance department from $730,627 to $870,932

The new station will replace the department’s former Station 31, which was deemed a total loss after Hurricane Ian The former station, located off Estero Boulevard at the intersection of Donora Boulevard, dated back to the 1950s and the fire commissioners recently voted to sell the lot to local businessman Mike Miller

The council approved a commercial planned development (CPD) for the new fire station to allow the fire control district to also have a mixed-use development that could potentially allow retail, civic, office space or marine uses in a back portion of the lot

A new CPD was needed since the existing zoning did not allow for a use that included essential services, according to the town’s principal planner Judith Frankel Frankel said that the plans call for the fire control district building the new station in the front of the lot and selling approximately one acre of the property in the rear to be developed

The approvals would bar commercial dock usage, restaurants, bars or hotels from being developed there Among the potential uses in addition to office space, civic, or retail could include a park, bed and breakfast, house of worship or

and short term rentals from $53,250 to $155,518

The town’s budget utilizes $20.3 million in reserves mostly through the use of loans and grants, including $4 7 million from a Florida Division of Emergency Management loan for FEMA projects, $3 88 million for new turtle-friendly lights along Estero Boulevard and $2 89 million from the state’s $10 million bridge loan to offset the budget and avoid a millage rate increase The town’s budget calls for using

assisted living facility

According to the plans, the front portion of the property where the station will be is a little more than one acre, while the back portion will be about one acre

The fire station will be 17,184 square feet in front The rear site will have room for a 10,000 square feet building though no master concept plan currently exists for the back portion.

A groundbreaking ceremony for the new Fire Station 31 has been scheduled for Oct 25 at 2545 Estero Blvd at 10 a m The ceremony will be open to the public

The Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District has been busy juggling several projects at once Over the summer, the commissioners approved purchasing property off Shrimp Boat Lane formerly owned by Trico Shrimp Co next to Erickson and Jensen Seafood on San Carlos Island for $3 4 million for a new fire training center and administrative office

The district has also approved spending $89,311 on a merger study jointly financed with the Iona-McGregor Fire District

$1 975 million in insurance proceeds to help pay for a new town hall and more than $2.3 million for beach renourishment.

The town received $6 55 million in grants for its beach renourishment project from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and $1 3 million in Lee County Tourist Development Tax dollars The town’s budget lists $500,000 in state grant revenue to be used for stormwater drainage projects

Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim

Atterholt said he thinks the town is in “great fiscal shape ” Following Monday’s budget presentation from Onzick, Atterholt said he thinks the town is in a “great fiscal situation” that he credited to town officials and Mayor Dan Allers working with the state to obtain grant funding

Atterholt said state legislators “were responsive to our needs ”

Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt said the state has given the town more than $50 million in funding since Hurricane Ian

ect is still in progress, meaning drains may hold water for some time during significant rain events."

Lee County Emergency Management announced they are “actively monitoring the tropics and working closely with state and federal partners, including the Florida Division of Emergency Management, the N

National Hurricane Center ”

The county advises the public to moni-

Weather Service-Tampa, and the National Hurricane Center The county recommends signing up for AlertLee, an emergency notification system, and following Lee County Government and Lee County

From page 1

Sheriff’s Office for 17 years in various law enforcement capacities Hollow said he didn’t like the direction the organization was taking and said he had a different mindset

“I didn’t want to work for a corrupt individual any longer,” Hollow said

In a statement issued through the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in response to Hollow’s allegations, Marceno said “It’s unfortunate that politics have reached this level These politically-motivated and baseless claims from a disgruntled former employee are obviously untrue It’s sad that some people would engage in such vicious personal attacks for political purposes I’m proud to be the Sheriff of Lee County We provide an outstanding level of service to the great residents of the county and will continue to do so.”

T h e c o n s u l t i n g c o n t r a c t t h e L e e County Sheriff’s Office formerly had with Romano ran from January of 2022 to August of that year, according to records provided by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office The contract initially called for Romano to be paid $4,000 a month and was amended in March of that year to pay Romano $5,700 a month The contract was slated to run one year until it was terminated early

Hollow is alleging that Romano said $1,700 of the increased amount was being paid monthly to Marceno’s father for the vehicle

“ H e m i s a p p r o p r i a t e d t a x d o l l a r s , ” Hollow alleged of Marceno

According to the contract provided by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Romano was brought on as a consultant after Marceno determined “a need exists for a consultant to assist the Sheriff’s personnel by providing guidance regarding public relations including but not limited to social media presence and strategic communications ”

T h e c o n t r a c t f u r t h e r s t a t e d t h a t Romano had “the ability, certifications and experience to perform the services ”

U n d e r M a r c e n o , t h e L e e C o u n t y Sheriff’s Office has maintained an active social media presence on platforms such as Facebook

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office maintains consulting contracts with other individuals and businesses who are not county employees

The office currently has a $9,000 a m o n t h c o n s u l t a n t c o n t r a c t w i t h A G L Solutions, whose president is former State Sen Lizbeth Benacquisto, a Republican who formerly represented parts of Lee County The contract calls on her firm to

County will also be providing updates online at the county's website at www leegov.com.

The county advises residents to devel-

include where you would evacuate like a family member’s or friend’s home or a community outside the area If you or your family member is in need use of a Special Needs Shelter during a severe weather event visit the Special Needs Shelter website to learn more about the p

www leegov com/publicsafety/emergencymanagement/shelters/specialneedsprogram

In the event of heavy rain, it will take the infrastructure time to drain Please use

caution and don’t drive through flooded roads If the roadway is covered with water, take another route.

The county asks the public to report blocked ditches, swales, canals and areas of local flooding To find out if your road is maintained by Lee County DOT, visit http://leegis leegov com/RoadLookup/ If it is not maintained by Lee County, find

Request for Action (RFA) to improve surface water drainage along your countymaintained road by contacting Request

www leegov com/dot/requestforaction

People can use the same website to also report blocked creeks and streams

(example: downed trees, collected debris) The reported information will be directed to Lee County Natural Resources.

As tropical storm activity intensifies, Lee County Solid Waste urges residents to follow these important guidelines: Refrain from cutting trees, doing major yard work, or placing large amounts of bulk waste at the curb, as excess debris strains collection services

Secure loose items that could become projectiles before any approaching storm T h e F

Conservation Commission is calling on all vessel owners to prepare and secure their boats for impending severe weather

attend government, community and business meetings and provide advice

Another consulting contract lists John E M c G o w a n a n d L e g a c y S t r a t e g i c Consulting, Inc at a rate of $5,000 a month for helping to recruit members of the civilian support unit and to support them with marketing and community outreach activities

One consulting contract provided by t h e L e e C o u n t y S h e r i f f ' s O f f i c e i n response to a document request include $65,000 a year to Big Events Southwest Florida LLC to produce videography and m e d i a p r o j e c t s f o r t h e L e e C

n t y Sheriff’s Office

Other consulting contracts include consultants for a youth boxing program, physical evidence consulting, community o u t r e a c h p r o g r a m s a n d t h e A n i m a l Cruelty Task Force

“You can be a consultant but not a

ghost employee,” Hollow said Hollow said Romano “didn’t provide any services to the taxpayers,” alluding to Romano’s comments on their taped conversation

Hollow said he learned of the alleged dealings between Romano and Marceno after “Ken and I got connected ” Hollow said he owns two businesses since leaving the Lee County Sheriff’s Office though he declined to name them According to his election filings, he currently maintains a business as a Realtor H e p r e v i

Cape Coral mayor in 2017.

Hollow also announced that he has filed an ethics complaint against Marceno alleging that he didn't properly declared the purchase of a home in Sarasota in his financial disclosure filings with the state Marceno didn't respond to an email seeking a statement on that matter

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office budget totals $283 million according to Lee County Government records. The budget has increased more than $80 million since the 2019-20 budget was approved While Marceno controls his own budget, the budget is approved by the Lee County Board of County Commissioners Messages left with Lee County commissioners were not responded to as of press time Hollow said although Marceno has not been charged or convicted of any crime, he believes there is an ongoing investigation into Marceno’s dealings.

If an investigation exists, the State Attorney’s Office of Amira Fox said they are not involved "We are aware of the allegations but we are not involved in any investigation that may exist," said Samantha Syoen, the communications director for Fox

Marceno

FILE PHOTO

Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno on Fort Myers Beach after Hurricane Ian

WHERE TO GO WHAT TO DO WHO TO SEE

TBy NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

he Island Hopper Songwriter’s Festival will bounce over to Fort Myers Beach this weekend to cap off a weeklong-s worth of country music sounds culminating in the Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina Pool Party on Sunday with country music star Scotty McCreery

Dozens of musicians will be taking the stage at venues across Fort Myers Beach beginning Friday and right on through Sunday at local restaurants, hotels, eateries and watering holes

The star of the weekend will be McCreery, who is known for his hits “I Love You This Big,” “This is it,” “Five More Minutes,” “The Trouble With Girls” and “Cab in a Solo ” He won the 10th season of American Idol in 2011

“We are super excited this year’s because it’s the 10th anniversary,” said Miriam Dotson, communications manager for the Lee County

Visitor and Convention Bureau The bureau puts on the festival in partnership with BMI which supplies most of the artists, many of whom are from Nashville

The parade of music for this year’s festival is bulked up on country artists though there is a mix of other genres Local musician Sheena Brook and the British group Essex County are among the familiar faces returning to the Island Hopper

While most of the shows will be free across 20 different venues, there will be 10 ticketed events this year

They include the pool party finale at the Pink Shell with McCreery “People jumped on tickets pretty early (for the McCreery show),”

The Pink Shell Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach is gearing up for another Island Hopper Songwriter's Fest pool party (as seen at last year's concert) this Sunday with country music star Scotty McCreery FILE PHOTO

The Town of Fort Myers Beach announced Lee County's LeeTran will be offering its

service around Fort Myers

for the Island Hopper Songwriter's Festival Sept 27, Sept 28 and Sept 29

The hours will be:

Friday, Sep 27, from 4 to 10

Dotson said “That’s a good sign ”

One of the other special ticketed events on Fort Myers Beach will be “Music on the Mound” on Saturday, Sept. 28. The show starts at 2:30 p m and will be headlined by Grammy Award winning songwriter Tim James James is known for writing the Toby Keith chart-topper “My List,” the Bucky Covington Top 10 hit “It’s Good To Be Us,” and the Lost Trailers hit “Holler Back ” His other writing credits include the Trace Adkins single “All I Ask For Anymore,” which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Country Song of 2009, and the 2010 Billboard song of the year “Love Like Crazy” by Lee Brice

The event will also help benefit the Mound House, which is on the National Register of Historic Places for the location of a historic home which sits on top of a nearly 2,000-year-old shell mound built by the ancient Calusa tribe

“I personally love the Mound House,” Dotson said “It’s one of our hidden gems ”

Dotson said the pool party show at Pink Shell Beach Resort is an attraction for concertgoers who may not be country music fans “There is some pop crossover,” Dotson said “You can hang out in the pool It’s looking great ”

One of the aims of the Island Hopper is to infuse the area’s local hotels, restaurants and other business establishments with new visitors during a slow period in the tourism season

“The idea is to try and get people out of the area to visit and stay overnight,” Dotson said “Wake up on the beach and stay on the beach ”

Dotson said September is the slowest month of the year for Lee County tourism.

“This is a big event that we work on year-round,” Dotson said

The Fort Myers Beach venues that will be offering free shows Sept 27 through Sept 29 are Bayside Veterans Park, DiamondHead Beach Resort, Margaritaville Beach Resort, Yucatan Beach Stand Bar & Grill

The musicians for the Fort Myers Beach swing of dates will include the likes of Kurtis John, known for his hits hit singles “Pictures Of You” and “Stay Beautiful,” and Another highlight of the festival is a performance by Jeffrey Steele with the Gulf Coast Symphony scheduled for Sept 26 at the Florida Repertory Theatre in downtown Fort Myers Steele, who fronted the country band Boy Howdy, is a five-time Grammy Award nominee who has been inducted into the Nashville Songwriter's Hall of Fame Steele has written hits for LeAnne Rimes, Steve Holy, Steve Robson and Rascal Flatts.

To view the schedule, visit https://www islandhopperfest visitfortmyers com/schedule

Exhibitions open at Alliance for the Arts

The Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers is displaying “Allegories & Illusions” by Kathleen Kinkopf in the main gallery and “Piercing the Veil” by Danielle Branchuad in the Foulds Theatre Gallery.

Kinkopf has been creating since she can remember She grew up in rural Ohio, immersed in nature where she spent many hours creating imaginary worlds of her own Kinkopf earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Miami University of Ohio, which led to a career as a graphic designer and art director in Dallas It eventually led to illustration working with clients across the country Kinkopf later opened a gallery in Colorado before settling in Sante Fe, New Mexico, where she committed to painting full time

Her work has been exhibited in solo and group gallery exhibitions nationally and internationally, from Santa Fe to South Korea, and recognized and awarded by numerous organizations After living and working in New Mexico for nearly two decades, fate brought Kinkopf to Southwest Florida where she has found new inspiration for her work in a world of water, giant birds, thunderstorms, reptiles and the magic and mystery of sea life

Canadian-born artist Branchaud has lived and worked in Southwest Florida for over 15 years She specializes in the efficient and intimate use of acrylics, creating conc

Branchaud are notorious in their depth and intensity when it comes to facing those dimensions. She has exhibited work throughout the region and her working studio can be visited at the Union Artist Studios in Fort Myers She is presently working as the curator of exhibitions at Arts Bonita in Bonita Springs

KATHLEEN KINKOPF

Gathering”

Wonder Gardens to host ‘Boo-tanical Weekend’ Oct. 11-13

Wonder Gardens will host “Boo-tanical Weekend,” a Halloween-themed event Oct. 11-13 with family friendly activities, free with paid admission to the gardens

The event will take place from 5 to 8 p m Oct 11; and 11 a m to 2 p m Oct 12 and 13 and includes games, crafts, local vendors, face painting and more! Select activities are subject to an additional fee

As in previous years, Wonder Gardens will join zoos, animal-lovers and thoughtful consumers nationwide by choosing Halloween candy brands that support sustainable palm oil production and distribution Paper bags will be provided for children to collect candy

“Fun decorations, special animal enrichment programs, family games, activities and more are planned,” said Sarah Williamson, retail and communications manager “Part of our mission is conservation and education A lot of candy contains palm oil, and some of the palm oil industry has caused a major crisis for rainforests and critically endangered species around the world ”

The event on Oct 11 provides a unique opportunity for guests to visit the garden in the evening, when it is typically not open, to explore the lushly landscaped botanical gardens and interact with rescued, rehabilitated and non-releasable birds and reptiles

Costumes are optional but encouraged, and the event is free to Wonder Gardens members. Other guests will pay regular admission, which is free for children under age 3, $10 for ages 3 to 12, $15 for ages 13-64 and $13 for ages 65+ Discounted admission is available to the military and first responders Children must be accompanied by an adult

For information, visit wondergardens org or call 239992-2591

Wonder Gardens is at 27180 Old 41 Rd , Bonita Springs

About the Wonder Gardens

The Wonder Gardens, a charitable zoological park and botanical garden established in 1936 in Bonita Springs, is home to rescued birds and reptiles nestled among sprawling banyan trees and plantings While preserving the best of this site’s history, the nonprofit cares for resc u e d , r e h a b i l

upgrading wildlife enclosures and growing the botanical beauty of the property, while delivering education pro-

Wonder Gardens will host “Bootanical Weekend,” a Halloweenthemed event Oct. 11-13 with family friendly activities, free with paid admission to the gardens

Florida, an enduring symbol of the history of the region, and a resource for learning about the environment and wildlife For information, visit wondergardens org or call 239-992-2591

The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center to present Saltwater Cowboy Oct. 18

Bring your salty attitude and join your boat-runnin,’ fish-wranglin,’ briny friends for a night of great food, drinks, music, and dancing. The Heights Foundation/The H e i g h t s C e n t e r p r e s e n t s S a l t w a t e r Cowboy on Friday, Oct 18, from 6 – 10 p m at MarineMax, 14030 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers The event benefits The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center and Heights Early Learning programs

Last year’s event raised $160,000 for the organization that works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood of Fort Myers

“We believe a decent education allows at-risk kids to meet, challenge, and raise the bar on the world’s narrative of them,” said Kathryn Kelly, founder, president, and CEO of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center “Our enriching preschool, afterschool, and summer camp programs ensure that parents can work while their kids learn, are safe, and have fun In addition, our adult and family programs provide opportunities for self-sufficiency This event supports our families and is an opportunity for a lot of fun!”

Guests will enjoy

Restaurant & Fish Market, and signature

Roadhouse & Saloon will prepare a steak dinner that will be accompanied by fresh Gulf shrimp

The event will include a silent and live

Everglades Python hunt with Huntress Amy Siewe, an in-home dinner for eight by Black Salt Culinary, a sunset yacht cruise courtesy of MarineMax, and the ultimate in home raw bar party for sixteen courtesy of the Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market. Live music will be performed by the Back Country Boys, a dynamic country rock band In addition, guests will have the opportunity to view luxury boats available at MarineMax

Individual tickets are

cowboy or call Annie Campbell at 239482-7706 or email annie@heightsfoundation org

PHOTO PROVIDED

Melissa Barlow and Deb Mathinos with children from The Heights Center's programs.

grams and events and further engaging the community to enjoy this jewel in historic Downtown Bonita Springs

The Wonder Gardens, at 27180 Old 41 Road in Bonita Springs, is one of the few remaining cornerstones of Old

PHOTO PROVIDED

Gulf Coast Symphony to perform the Music of Star Wars and the Music of Harry Potter

When life hands you lemons you create magnificent music! Gulf Coast Symphony, in an effort to recoup its $150,000 loss from the state of Florida’s cuts to the Arts, will be performing The Music of Star Wars on Friday, Oct 18, and The Music of Harry Potter on Friday, Oct 25 The shows will be performed twice each evening at 6:30 p m and 9 p m

For The Music of Star Wars, audiences are invited to travel through galaxies far, far away as they relive the music of the Star Wars epic soundtrack for all nine movies of the Skywalker saga Led by Jedi, Maestro Kurtz, the Symphony will create the ultimate Star Wars musical experience!

Similarly, in The Music of Harry Potter, audiences will embark on a magical journey with Maestro Kurtz as they revisit the memorable professors, characters, and magical creatures from the beloved books and films The spellbinding scores define the iconic Harry Potter sagaa must-attend event for wizards and muggles alike!

Costumes are encouraged (but are not required) for all performances.

Note: These concerts will be music only, and not accompanied by a film screening

For tickets, please the Gulf Coast Symphony box office at 239 -0277-1700

IF YOU GO:

What:

The Music of Star Wars

Where:

Music and Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Ln, Fort Myers

When:

Friday, October 18, at 6:30 p m & 9 p m

Tickets from $55

For tickets call 239-277-1700 or online at GulfCoastSymphony org

Lee County Parks & Recreation to host National Public Lands Day celebration Sept. 28

Lee County Parks & Recreation invites visitors and residents to explore Prairie Pines Preserve, 18400 N Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers from 9 a m to noon Saturday, Sept 28, to celebrate National Public Lands Day at a free, family-friendly event

The event will feature guided hikes, a Touch-A-Truck experience, and information on recreation opportunities at public lands managed by local, state, and federal agencies from around the Southwest Florida region Visitors will also be able to learn about community services and volunteer opportunities

National Public Lands Day was established as a dedicated day for public engagement on public lands,

whether volunteering on a workday or recreating at a park or preserve Tens of thousands of volunteers across the country will join in trail maintenance and planting projects, trash pick-ups, and other activities aimed at restoring and caring for our public lands to celebrate the 30th annual National Public Lands Day (NPLD) Organized each year by the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort focused on public lands

For more information about this event, visit www leeparks org, email conservation2020@leegov.com, or call 239-533-5313

For more information about Lee County Parks and Recreation locations, volunteer opportunities, or amenities and special events: visit www leeparks org, call 239-5337275, email leeparks@leegov com or follow Lee County Parks & Recreation on Facebook and Instagram

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

Boys & Girls Clubs to host annual golf tournament Oct. 3

B o y s & G i r l s C l u b s o f L e e County has announced its fourth Annual Golf Tournament will be h e l d O c t 3 a t T h e C l u b a t Renaissance in Fort Myers

The tournament includes 18 holes of championship golf along with oncourse activities and challenges, raff l e p r i z e s a n d d i n n e r T h e L e e County Sheriff’s Office will assist with a closest-to-the-pin helicopter ball drop as part of the fundraising activities

A new venue for the annual tournament, The Club at Renaissance is a picturesque, Arthur Hills-designed 18-hole golf course featuring rolling fairways, lakeside vistas and stunning wildlife. In 2023, the event raised $50,000 to enhance Boys & Girls Clubs’ After-school Program a n d S u m m e r E n r i c h m e n t C a m p Both programs serve Lee County youth ages six through 18 and focus on five core areas: education and career, service and leadership, health and wellness, the arts, and sports and recreation

“The money we raise at the golf tournament helps clubs offer high-

quality, transformational programming to children and teens in Lee County,” said Denise Gergley, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County “We know our programs are successful, and fundraising is a criti-

x p

opportunities to additional youth to reach their full potential ” B o y s & G i

County offers multiple player packages and sponsorship opportunities

Player packages

∫ Drive Package ($1,000): player registration fee for four golfers, four mulligans, three raffle tickets per player and a company logo on a hole flag

∫ Pro Package ($800): player registration fee for four golfers, four mulligans and three raffle tickets per player

∫ Team Package ($700): player registration fee for four golfers Additionally, Boys & Girls Clubs is offering a Pro Package for $50 that includes one mulligan and three raf-

fle tickets Raffle tickets are $20 each or $100 for seven tickets Early sponsors include LMCU

include Lee Health (Golf Course

Wiles (Hat & Water Bottle Sponsor),

Taylor (Beverage Cart Sponsor), and Memorial Gardens, Coke Florida and Sharetea (Birdie Sponsors)

The Annual Golf Tournament will be held Thursday, Oct 3 at The Club at Renaissance, 12801 Renaissance Way in Fort Myers Check-in begins at 12:30 p m and the shotgun start is at 1:30 p m For more information about player packages and sponsors

events/2024-golf-tournament The Club at Renaissance

Myers

IF YOU GO:

What:

The Music of Harry Potter

Where:

Music and Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Ln, Fort Myers

When:

Friday, October 25, at 6:30 p m & 9 p m

Tickets from $55

For tickets call 239-277-1700 or online at GulfCoastSymphony org

2024 Annual Omega Family Health Forum set for Sept. 28

Free family event highlights health awareness, education and prevention

Lee Health is proud to participate in the Annual Omega Family Health Forum on Saturday, Sept 28, from 9 a m -1 p m , at Dunbar High School, 3800 E Edison Ave., Fort Myers. This health forum is a family affair offering support and education for men, women and young people

Presentations by community healthcare providers will be offered twice throughout the morning at 9 a m first and additionally at 10:30 a m

This free community event is focused on health awareness and prevention and will feature a variety of screenings and education, including:

∫ Breast Exams and Education, Colorectal Cancer Screening, Lung Cancer Screening, Prostate screening

∫ Injury Prevention

∫ Parkinson Education

∫ Rehab Services Education

∫ Lee Health Solutions Nutrition/COPD/Chronic Care Education

∫ Pulmonology Education

∫ Glucose Screening

∫ Blood Pressure Screenings

∫ NICU Ambulance

∫ HIV/STD Screening/Education

∫ Area Agency on Aging Education

∫ Smoking Prevention Education

"Lee Health is dedicated to being compassionate supporters of health and wellness, and our involvement in the Annual Omega Family Health Forum allows us to demonstrate this commitment by aiding families in enhancing their health through awareness, education, and prevention," says Sally Kreuscher, director of community affairs for Lee Health "We are thrilled to participate in this event once more and look forward to collaborating with families to encourage healthy lifestyles "

For more information, please call 239-343-8375

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

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge to present Family Fun Night

For the second year, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge will kick off Hispanic Heritage Month Sept 15 through Oct 15 with Family Fun Night on Sept. 20 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Lakes Park in Fort M

Conservation Week, the Honrando Nuestra Historia (Honoring our History) Series and National Public Lands Day with educational and cultural activities for the family Attendees will enjoy music and food, a take-home marigold seed planting, bilingual birding walk and kidfriendly archery, plus informational tables in partnership with Florida Public Archaeology Network

Registration now open for Lakes Park fall festival ‘Scarecrows in the Park’

The Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation and Lee County Parks & Recreation invite businesses, non-profits, groups and organizations to sponsor a “Scarecrow in the Park ” Entries will be exhibited Oct 11 through Oct 31 in the Children’s Garden at Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, and will be a part of the Lakes Park Fall Festival

The theme of the 2024 competition is “The Great Outdoors ” Design your single standing scarecrow to depict the great outdoors for display to the 50,000 visitors that enjoy this family-friendly festival Examples of scarecrows for this year’s theme include an animal, jogger, camper, tree, lumberjack or fisherman The possibilities are endless Your business, family or organization’s name will be on display showing your support of Lakes Park and the community of Lee County Youth and school groups are needed for those businesses that sponsor but do not wish to design and build their own scarecrow Youth groups receive $50 for supplies Scarecrows will be on display in the Children’s Garden with awards presented to the VIP and People’s Choice winners

The Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation has organized this event for the last 14 years as part of the Lakes Park F

, hayrides, inflatables, and concessions presented by Wheel Fun Rental, as well as the Halloween Express train ride presented by the Southwest Florida Train Museum

The deadline for registration is Sept. 29. For more information visit www LakesPark org or email scarecrows@lakespark org

Edison and Ford Winter Estates to host annual quilt show Oct. 5

Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the annual “Airing of the Quilts” Quilt Show, Saturday, Oct 5, from 10 a m to 2 p m Dozens of quilts from the Southwest Florida Quilters Guild will be on display, suspended from clotheslines between the palms in front of the historic homes Quilters Guild participants will also have quilts available for sale.

Certified quilt appraiser, Lars Cain, will be on site and conducting appraisals from 10 a m to 2 p m His vast experience includes the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian Institution He has been sharing his expertise for many years and has spoken to more than 1,500 quilt groups throughout the Midwest, New England area and south to Florida Since 1977, he has appraised more than 20,000 quilts Visitors may bring antique quilts for assessment Verbal appraisals will be offered for $25 and

"Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors" is an uproarious blend of classic horror and side-splitting humor This comedic adaptation breathes new life into Bram Stoker's iconic novel, delivering an unforgettable theatrical experience that will leave you howling with laughter.

PHOTO PROVIDED

The Laboratory Theater of Florida to present the SWFL premiere of ‘Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors’

The Laboratory Theater of Florida will present the southwest Florida premiere of “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen

"Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors" is an uproarious blend of classic horror and side-splitting humor This comedic adaptation breathes new life into Bram Stoker's iconic novel, delivering an unforgettable theatrical experience that will leave you howling with laughter Join the fearless Van Helsing, the bumbling Jonathan Harker, and a cast of eccentric characters as they confront the ultimate vampire himself, Count Dracula, in a battle of wits and whimsy With clever dialogue, ingenious sight gags, and plenty of surprises lurking in the shadows, "Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors" is a fang-tastic romp that's perfect for fans of comedy and horror alike

“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” is directed by Heather Johnson and features Steven Coe as Dracula, Katherine Taylor as Dr Westfeldt and others, Anghela Chavez as Lucy and others, Christian Rivero as Mina and others, and Liam Tritaik as Harker and others

Artistic Director Annette Trossbach adds,”Dracula A Comedy of Terrors lives in the same vein as The Mystery of Irma Vep and The 39 Steps Just right for the Halloween season, this oversexed Dracula will bite anything that moves, with hilarious results Get ready to sink your teeth into the SWFL premiere of this

the fee for a written appraisal will be $35 per quilt

Quilts have a long history with the Edison and Ford families Henry Ford and his wife, Clara, collected quilts and other historical objects that were created and used by people from all across the United States The quilts were often made from modest scraps of material, demonstrating the resourcefulness of American women

The quilt show is included with admission Tickets may be purchased online at EdisonFord org or at the ticket counter Admission is free for Edison Ford members Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

Per for mance dates

Oct 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31 at 7:30 p m

Oct 20, 27 at 2 p m

Nov. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9 at 7:30 p.m. Nov 3 at 2 p m

Special Events:

Half-price previews: Oct 16, 17 at 7:30 p m

Opening night: Oct 18 at 7:30 p m

Free Teen Tickets: Oct 19 at 7:30 p m

Sensory-Friendly Performance: Nov 7 at 7:30 p m

twisted take on a timeless tale of terror ”

“Sexy and campy with non-stop hilarity I didn’t stop laughing for 90 straight minutes you don’t want to miss this!” – Forbes

“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” is sponsored by The Bireley Family Foundation

Tickets are $37 each or $10 for students with valid student IDs There are half-priced previews on Oct 16, 17, and a new Thursday night special ticket price of $32 each for adults For tickets, please call the box office at 239-218-0481 or online at www laboratorytheaterflorida.com.

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/

PET PALS

Island pets seeking forever homes

Adopting a dog should not be quick

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

We receive many inquiries on our dogs and the process can be lengthy if we don’t get the right information from the start Adopting a dog should not be that quick We make sure we have a history of previous dogs, good veterinary history, references and especially a great feeling which is important to all of us in the rescue Many dogs end up in the wrong home and we do not want to make that mistake to be made twice We have repeat adopters who know that we tell the truth about the dog they want to adopt. How I say it: We give you the good, the bad, and the ugly so there are no surprises Many of our difficult dogs are in training and by the time they go to their forever home we have a plan for them making sure they won’t be returned That is what you get from a rescue Of course you can get a dog for $25 at the shelter but what do you know about the dog? Not much If you are dog savvy you can make sure you do what is right for your dog but if you are not then you could enter difficult territory Not everyone should adopt from a shelter Our work is valuable and we are proud to help our community Thanks for rescuing.

Who found a home? This week we are bringing you pictures of our latest adoptions. Just a feel good week for once.

Rats or cats

In the 1930s a group of local beach men went off the island and brought back 30 cats to live on the beach as the island was overrun with rats Well, that did the trick No more rats as rats sense when cats are aroud and leave the

area and also the cats help as they break their necks and rats are now dead Since Ian struck our island we lost most of the stray and feral cats that were here We have very few now and the few we have are strays lost from the hurricane and owners have not come forward looking for them since they abandoned them and left in homes when they evacuated which they should not have done Animals need to be taken with you when you leave for any reason and especially a hurricane These cats are scared and not used to living outside We have volunteers that help feed them daily which is essential in keeping them healthy Here is the problem: Many individuals are throwing out our bowls for water and food that we put in places where not seen but

Mickey is a five-month-old male kitten with shiny black fur and a fury tail to match He has a white symbol on his chest making him quite special Mickey is very affectionate and loving He plays well with his siblings as well as the other kittens in rescue Currently Mickey can be seen at the Babcock Ranch pet supermarket store until this next Sunday Mickey is from a litter of six that were left behind when owners evicted Blaze is an orange tabby male kitten found in a garden at a home near the golf course off Mcgregor Boulevard He is very sweet and playful and it is a mystery how he got where he was found as there are no adult cats outside at this area nor any other kittens He is 4 months old and ready for his new home preferably with another cat or kitten he can play with He is also close with three other kittens that he has been with so could go as a pair with any of them also

where the cats can easily find They must have water and food There is no reason for so few cats that are left to be treated like they are pests as they are doing a service keeping rats away in the areas where they are PLEASE stop picking on these cats and leave their food areas and food alone. The fewer cats we have, the MORE RATS we will have and rats can multiply quickly The few outside cats we have left are all spayed and neuthered and had rabies shots so please treat them with respect and STOP throwing out their food and dishes In fact if you would like to volunteer to help in the care of these hurricane cats, please call 239-851-3485 Your help will be appreciated