Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin

VOLUME 39, NUMBER 40

Council replaces two MERTF seats

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Following several votes by the Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force opposing the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council’s actions to approve a special exception permit and b u i l d i n g p e r m i t f o r t h e c o n t r o v e r s i a l 1,491 square-feet boardwalk near the Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area,

Council voted Monday to replace two of three members who were up for reappointment.

Several tie-breaking votes were needed over the reappointment of a third longtime member of the advisory committee –Mary Rose Spalletta, who was ultimately reappointed by a 3-2 vote over Ed Rood who has received approval from council to build the controversial boardwalk

New Times Square clock takes center stage

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Promises of assistance and pledges to see Fort Myers Beach through its recovery was the message delivered by a roster of state and local officials at a reopening of Bayside Park Thursday morning. While an announcement from the office of Gov Ron DeSantis later that afternoon for $14 million to the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District as well as $8 million to the Town of Fort Myers Beach for beach renourishment and a new $5 million loan was proof of that aid, it would be the unveiling of a new clock at Times Square that would bring the town together

Hundreds eagerly gathered to see the unveiling of the new clock, a replacement for the one

See CLOCK, page 14

George and Linda Merschman stole the show on the anniversary of Hurricane Ian with their donation of the new Times Square clock to the Town of Fort Myers Beach. The clock was unveiled in front of a throng of hundreds packed at the center of Ti m e s S q u a r e T h u r s d a y f o l l o w i n g a Hurricane Ian remembrance ceremony at Bayside Park. NATHAN MAYBERG

Mayor Dan Allers, Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt and Councilmember Bill Veach voted to reappoint Spalletta, a master naturalist, retired teacher and Turtle Time volunteer Councilmembers John King and Karen Woodson voted for Rood

The votes were conducted by secret ballot Dave Nusbaum, president of Island W i n d s C o n d o m i n i u m A s s o c i a t i o n , received four of five votes from the coun-

c i l W i l l i a m A l t h o f f , p r e s i d e n t o f Shamron Beach Condominium, received the other seat on the advisory committee.

Not reappointed were the committee’s vice chair Gregory Fossum and Wendy DeGaetano

“I voted for all the people who were appointed," Allers said Asked why he voted to replace members of the advisory

See COUNCIL, page 12

STAFF REPORT

M a r g a r i t a v i l l e F o r t M y e r s B e a c h announced they have opened reservations beginning Dec 26

A m b e r l y B u c c i , M a r k e t i n g a n d C o m m u n i c a t i o n s M a n a g e r f o r Margaritaville Beach Resort, said that will be the first day the long-anticipated resort opens its doors "We are very excited," Bucci said

" T h i s o c c a s i o n m a r k s p r o g r e s s towards recovery and revival of the island one year after Hurricane Ian,"

According to a media release sent by Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach Resort and TPI Hospitality, Fins Up! Beach Club will make its debut in mid-January "Until then, guests can soak up the sun with complimentary beach chairs, enjoy daily entertainment, food and drinks on site, activities, unforgettable sunsets, and no resort fees," the company said in an announcement

"By creating job opportunities, partnering with local businesses, and sourcing products and services locally, the resort aims to stimulate the island's economy and provide a boost to the community," the company stated

M a r g a r i t a v i l l e w i l l b e a n n o u n c i n g upcoming hiring events Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online For m o r e i n f o a n d t o a p p l y , v i s i t https://www margaritavilleresorts com/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 sbeach/hiring-events

In addition, entertainment auditions are now being accepted. To apply, candidates can send their contact Info (full name, phone number and email address), playlist and website link with samples, and details of previous local performances to LiveMusic@Margaritaville com

T h e M a r g a r i t a v i l l e r e s o r t w a s approved in 2018 by the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council for 254 rooms and

See MARGARITAVILLE, page 18

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 , O c t o b e r

School district, county release Hurricane Ian videos

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

W i t h t h e p a s s i n g o f t h e o n e - y e a r anniversary of Hurricane Ian impacting Southwest Florida, the School District of L e e C o u n t y a n d t h e L e e B o a r d Commission recently produced videos to share its impact

“Every student and every employee was affected by the hurricane, so we felt it important to mark the anniversary by telling the story of how we all came together in a time of need to support one another,” school district spokesperson Rob Spicker said “We look back as a reminder of what was happening before and after the storm, but more importantly we demonstrate the efforts of so many people to make sure our students, staff and community were able to recover ”

The video debuted on the district's Facebook page and YouTube channel on Sept 27 Both channels can be found through its website at leeschools.net.

The 25-minute video highlights the story of a teacher, whose home was badly damaged by the storm, unable to find a temporary place to live

“The principal of another school heard her plea for help and offered her a solution It’s really touching how much these acts of kindness made so much more possible,” he said “We have come a long way in the last year, but we still have a ways to go We are grateful for the way

our community responded for our students and staff and for the way our students and staff responded for each other “

Lee County also decided to publish a video series for the anniversary of Ian, with the first shared on Sept 21 on its Y o u T u b e c h a n n e l a t y o u t u b e c o m / c / L e e C o u n t y F L B O C C I t produced five more videos that were posted from Sept 23-28

“Over the last 12 months, Lee County staff, residents and our partners have worked tirelessly before, during and since the storm to rebuild our community,” commission Chairman Brian Hamman said in a prepared statement. “In recognition of Hurricane Ian’s one-year anniversary, Lee County is publishing a series of videos on its social media channels to honor our community’s response to this tragedy ”

The series is to honor the community’s response to the tragedy Ian left behind through a variety of videos featuring employees exemplifying the spirit that has fueled a vast array of progress, as well as what is still to be completed

“Featuring a variety of county employees and departments, the videos exemplify the spirit that has fueled so much progress, while emphasizing that there is still much to do,” he said “By working together we will build our county back to be even more resilient ”

The little more than two-minute videos

begin with a message “Hurricane Ian impacted every corner of Lee County This series is intended to tell Lee County

government’s story from the onset of the storm through the first year of recovery ”

Lee schools target reading proficiency

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The School District of Lee County is redefining its processes and changing curriculum to help students read by the third grade

The school board listened to a presentation regarding academic initiatives during its Sept 19 meeting, which included the third grade reading goal, as well as algebra support

Reading proficiency by third grade has long been a state and district goal

“The reason all the other goals have failed is because we have had leadership

t u r n o v e r A n y t r a n s i t i o n a l c h a n g e requires a minimal of three years to see t h e f u l l i m p a c t , ” B o a r d M e m b e r Cathleen Morgan said “If we are going to have transformational changes in this district If we are going to move the needle, this board has to acknowledge its responsibility to ensure that the leadership that has made effectively the promise to you is here to see it through If they are not, it’s not their problem, it’s our problem and we have failed the kids

and not the leadership I am so gratified to see the level of leadership we have brought into this district

“We have a real opportunity to step into the real world as a large school district in our laps It is here and it is on us to see that it happens They will be able to do the job if we create the conditions for them to be successful,” she added

The presentation as included “high school cohort talking” and principal supervisor professional development.

“We needed to refine our processes and reestablish clear expectations for t e a c h i n g a n d l e a r n i n g , ” A c a d e m i c S e r v i c e s D e p u t y S u p e r i n t e n d e n t D r Jennifer Cupid-McCoy said. “What’s different? We narrowed our focus to teaching the benchmarks at appropriate rigor, clear expectations around instruction to our school leaders and monitor those expectations for fidelity of expectations ”

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

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E d i t o r N a t h a n M a y b e rg n m a y b e rg @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m

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

Advertising Sales

Lyn McElhaney lmcelhaney@breezenewspapers com

O b i t u a r i e s D e b b i e C a r l e t t i o b i t s @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m P ro d u c t i o n m a n a g e r R o b B r a i t l i n g r b ra i t l i n g @ b re e z e n ew s p a p e rs c o m S u b s c r i p t i o n s

One year since Hurricane Ian hit

Hurricane Ian, a near Category 5 monster of wind, waves and catastrophic storm surge, roared ashore at Cayo Costa a year ago on Sept 28, 2022, destroying much of Fort Myers Beach and heavily damaging Sanibel, Captiva, Matlacha and parts of Cape Coral, North Fort Myers and Fort Myers

Winds were marked at 155 mph with gusts up to 161

Storm surge of 16 feet inundated Fort M

y e r s B e a c h , S a n i b e l a n d C a p t i v a a n d breached the Sanibel Causeway in multiple places and the bridge to Matlacha

Lee County took 14-1/2 inches of rainfall in the hours after Ian's 3:05 p.m. landfall and the storm's lingering presence

There were 161 deaths, 149 of them in Florida with 72 in Lee County, including 16 on Fort Myers Beach

More than 5,000 homes and 284 businesses were destroyed Thousands more incurred major damage

Ian was the fourth-strongest landfalling h u r r i c a n e i n F l o r i d a h i s t o r y , t h e f i f t h strongest in the U S

It is the third most costly behind Katrina in 2005 and Harvey in 2017. Damage estimates exceed $112 billion to homes and

businesses; $297 3 million to Lee County properties and facilities; $300 million to public school campuses.

One year later, all but two of the School District of Lee County's schools are reopened

One year later, our parks and beaches are almost fully accessible

One year later, the nearly 12 5 million square yards of debris strewn along roadways, piles of construction wreckage and mountains of destroyed vegetation is gone

But one year later, too many of us homeowners, businesses and government entities alike wait to be made whole as insurance payments and settlements drag and disaster funds continue to trickle in We'll not complain too much about government response, at least at the state level G o v R o n D e S a n t i s w a s h e r e w h e n Southwest Florida needed him and emergency funds and efforts for things like the repairs to the Sanibel Causeway and the Matlacha Bridge made a huge difference

On Thursday, Sept 28, 2023, the governor announced the awarding of $338 million i n h u r r i c a n e r e c o v e r y p r o g r a m m o n i e s , including $51 million each to the city of Cape Coral and the school district

One year later, though, the federal government and yes, the state, need to do more, especially in making insurance affordable and available

The Florida Legislature has begun the process Legislation has addressed insurers' costs by prohibiting assignment of benefits to third parties, allowing for mandatory arbitration, and addressing “bad faith” claims and how attorney fees are awarded.

For those of us who pay the premiums, insurance companies are now required to respond more quickly and face higher fines for failing to do so We, though, also must respond more quickly, filing claims within one year, instead of two

At the heart of the issue is how to address catastrophic claims, those FEMA classifies as disasters There are 10 on the current list,

A response concerning the walkover and MERTF board

This is information is in response to an article in the Fort Myers Beach Observer and its website Fortmyersbeachtalk com about the wooden walkover that was approved by the Town of FMB council last March

There is a lot of information that is misleading and untrue in the previous article by the Beach Observer that the opposition would like the public to believe

Web Poll

Previous Web Poll Results

Should repairing the Fort Myers Beach Pier be a top priority for Lee County?

∫ Yes, one of the most important priorities, 60% ∫ Important, but there are many other equally important projects, 29%

It's not a top concern of mine, 11%

Current Web Poll Question

Should the Fort Myers Beach Council issue a building permit for the 298-feet lagoon walkover near the Little Estero Critical Wildlife Area or wait until the lawsuit by Audubon Florida has concluded?

∫ Wait until lawsuit has concluded, once the boardwalk is built the damage will be done

∫ Issue the permit, the boardwalk can be dismantled if the town loses the suit

∫ No opinion

Share

The walkover project was before the Towns LPA board in October of 2019 and was approved by the LPA with a unanimous vote of 7-0 to approve The Council disagreed with the LPA the following month and voted to deny 3-2

Eddie Rood Guest Commentary

So in this instance there were a total of 9 appointed and elected officials that were in favor of the project and only 3 that voted against it

The project came before the LPA again in February of this year with almost totally different board members than the LPA in 2019 and the project was again approved by a vote of 61 in favor of the project The project went before council in the following month and was approved by a vote of 3-2 in favor This time again there were 9 appointed and elected officials that were in favor and still only 3 against.

Since the project has been presented to the Town’s elected and appointed officials, there have been 18 voted in favor of approving this

project and only 6 that have opposed Hardly a majority opposition

Addressing the incorrect comment about the walkover disturbing the wildlife with heavy machinery, there will be no heavy machinery involved in the construction. The Florida DEP permits require a method of construction termed “build ahead” and the construction is all performed by hand equipment This project has already been approved by the Florida DEP and U S Fish and Wildlife, organizations that their job is to protect the environment and the wildlife Florida Audubon has filed lawsuits against these property owners four times in the past few years The Audubon has lost all four lawsuits filed against the property owners Now they have turned on the Town of FMB and have filed a lawsuit against the Town to attempt to stop the construction

The prior Town of FMB attorney on March 6 at the meeting where the permit was approved by the Town stated that the current lawsuit by the Audubon against the Town was a long shot and probably would not go anywhere He implied that judges typically don’t intervene in Town council decisions

As to the information in Fortmyersbeachtalk com about the claim that if

the judge ordered the walkover to be removed it would cause double the damage to the environment At the last council meeting on Sept 11, when the attorney for the Town of FMB brought up the discussion about the permit, she told the council that the judge would not have the authority to order the walkover removed, that he could only advise the Town council to revisit all the information and take a new vote. Assuming the vote would still be 3-2 since there are no changes in councilors until November 2024, the walkover would stay The current Town attorney also advised the Council there was no legal reason to not issue the permit

The MERTF board that supported Audubon creates a conflict of interest in my opinion Here is a board of people that are appointed by the Town council and they aligned themselves with an organization that is actively suing the very people that appointed them.

Contrary to Council Atterholt’s comments that the walkover is not in the public’s interest, the Florida DEP disagrees and makes the point that the walkover is in the public’s interest because the walkover redirects the foot traffic from 11 residences using the walkover around and outside the Critical Wildlife Area rather than the residents traversing directly through the protected Critical Wildlife Area

A state judge ruled in one of the Audubon lawsuits that he agreed with the Florida DEP’s assessment that the walkover served the public’s interest

Anyone that actually knows this area where

page 5 See

One year From page 4

including Hurricane Idalia, but also wildfires, flooding and a variety of severe storms

Years ago, the federal government recognized that floods were a natural disaster of such scope that it partnered with a network of insurance companies, now standing at 50, to better assure affordable coverage

We recognize that in the last year or so, modifications have been made that have negatively affected flood insurance rates locally We still contend that needs to be fixed

But discussions on extraordinary catastrophic events, such a Category 4 or 5 hurricane, or a wildfire of thousands of acres, may warrant coverage separate from a simple homeowners policy and spread over policy holders nationwide.

And one more thing, one year later We fail to understand why Congress has failed to consider legislation to designate Ian as a qualified disaster, which would give Southwest Florida additional and deserved relief

Response

This must be done now

As Mary Feichthaler, a Cape Coral-based CPA, will explain in an upcoming guest column in the IslanderReporter, the Oct 15 extended deadline to file personal income tax returns is nearly upon us, and the ability “to maximize loss deductions without claiming other itemized deductions” would benefit those who took the heaviest hits We invite you to read her column when it prints on Oct 11

We invite you to read, as well, two other efforts concerning Ian

The first, a special edition “Hurricane Ian One Year Later,” was included inside the Sept 27 issue of the Observer and may be found on our web site among the eeditions. At 56 pages and encompassing three separate sections, it provides a bit of a look back but focuses on recovery among the communities the Breeze Newspapers is proud to serve

We thank those who took the time to speak with our

From page 4

the walkover will be located knows there are no nesting birds in close proximity to the walkover The imperiled nesting shore birds and seabirds make their nesting area far to the south of the location of the walkover

The closest nest to the area of the walkover was almost 700 feet away; that’s approximately an eight of a mile away

There are blue herons in the pond, there are ibis and pelicans Bird experts will tell you that birds love structure, they are drawn to structure. Manmade or otherwise. Structures are a beneficial attraction to wildlife in general The FWC has commented that they recognize the environmental benefit to the walkover

A topic the Florida Audubon does not want to discuss in public is that they themselves have an almost 2-mile-long walkover

of their own right through a highly sensitive environment and wildlife area It is Audubon Corkscrew

Rather than attempt to work with the neighborhood for a positive outcome, Audubon would rather file lawsuit after lawsuit to attempt to force everyone to bend to their ideals

I would like to point out to the readers that there are always two sides to every issue, but unfortunately, only one set of facts and the facts are not on the Audubon’s side which should be apparent by the fact that they have lost every lawsuit against these property owners

Although Town Council made its determination as to who will serve on the MERTF board on Monday, I would like to address my application as it was addressed

in the Observer

reporters, to contribute stories or photographs, or to advertise their own efforts and recoveries

We have, indeed, come a long way and much more quickly than any of us would have thought as we stood among the damage to our homes, our businesses and our communities and weighed the impacts on our lives

The second is “Ian,” a 128-page hardcover book produced by the Breeze Newspapers It features stories, firstperson accounts and more than 100 photographs, most of them crowd-sourced, which truly makes the book a grassroots effort

We thank everyone for their contributions

“Ian” is your story, one year later

Copies of the book are available for purchase at www.fortmyersbeachtalk.com by clicking on “Store” in the upper right-hand corner, as well as at the Breeze Newspapers, at 2510 Del Prado Blvd , Cape Coral Observer editorial

As far as the comments from MERTF that my putting in an application to be on the MERTF board would represent a cynical and dismissive view, that is unfounded rhetoric I know the beach and environment on the south end of the island better than any of those MERTF members I have spent literally thousands of dollars on environment studies and thousands of dollars in bird studies that have been required by the Florida DEP and were also used in the courts to defeat all the Audubon’s lawsuits The MERTF chairperson’s comment that there is a poison by the property owners on the south end that is disrupting the efforts of MERFT and the FWC was a malicious and unfounded accusation But it demonstrates their authoritarianism attitude and their unwillingness to

work with the south end property owners

There are MERTF board members who are not the friends of the beach property owners and are unwilling to make any compromise Audubon Florida is not a friend of any of the beach property owners and they are not a friend of the Town of FMB

The MERTF board should be a balance of reason and common sense that can work towards finding a balance between the property owners and the environment and wildlife and forge an equitable relationship with the property owners

I had hoped to bring that balance to the board

Eddie Rood, Fort Myers Beach property owner

BUSINESS

Lee County has resumed charging for parking at Bowditch Point Park on Fort Myers Beach The park's restroom area, washing stations and picnic area remain closed

No more free parking

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Parking is no longer free at Lynn Hall Memorial Park and Bowditch Point Park on Fort Myers Beach. The Lee County Parks and Recreation Department began a new pay-by-plate cashless system Monday for visitors to pay through their mobile phones Lynn Hall Memorial Park's restroom area was destroyed by Hurricane Ian and there are no current plans to repair it There are also no plans for repairing the Fort Myers Beach Pier The restrooms at Bowditch Point Park are also closed

Bowditch Point Park is located at 50 Estero Blvd while Lynn Hall Memorial Park is located adjacent to Times Square at 950 Estero Blvd

According to Lee County Government's communications office, the new cashless system means "visitors will no longer need to visit a kiosk or display a parking receipt on the dashboard of their vehicle Directions will be displayed on each parking space," a press release from the office stated Parking at the lot is $2 per hour, with the ability to add additional time

Messages left last week with the county's spokespersons seeking comment on whether Lynn Hall Memorial Park's restrooms may be rebuilt or when the Fort Myers Beach Fishing Pier may be rebuilt, were not returned Town of Fort Myers Beach officials have been told the restrooms may not be reconstructed in the same area

The other Lee County beach locations implementing pay-by-plate parking are:

∫ Bonita Beach Park, 27954 Hickory Blvd , Bonita Springs

∫ Bonita Beach Access #1, 27890 Hickory Blvd , Bonita Springs

∫ Bonita Beach Access #10, 26082 Hickory Blvd , Bonita Springs

∫ San Carlos Bay-Bunche Beach Preserve, 18201 John Morris Road, Fort Myers

NATHAN MAYBERG

Lee County has resumed charging for parking at Lynn Hall Memorial Park despite the restroom area in a state of disrepair since Hurricane Ian with no plans in place to repair it.

The Fort Myers Beach Fishing Pier at Lynn Hall Memorial Park remains closed and no new plans have been announced by Lee County to repair it

Town issues survey for planning

STAFF REPORT

A survey sent out to the Fort Myers Beach community seeks input for planning by town staff to help Fort Myers Beach recover from Hurricane Ian "Fort Myers Beach is now working to coordinate services and build resiliency f o r i n d

adversely impacted by the storm through the development of a long-term recovery plan," the town's website states " The purpose of the recovery plan is to engage the community and create

vision for Fort Myers Beach while reimagining the systems

landscape of the community

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Check presentation

Friends of the Mound House President Ellen Vaughan presented an oversized check of $10,000 to the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council Monday for funds raised by the organization to fund the replacement of items in the museum store and gift shop Educational materials, books, jewelry and other gift items were destroyed by Hurricane Ian.

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e m p l o y e e r e t e n t i o n D u r i n g t h e l u n c h e o n , a t t e n d e e s w i l l h e a r f r o m A s h l e i g h D r o z , d i r e c t o r o f i n t e r n s h i p s & c o o p e r a t i v e p r o g r a m s a t F l o r i d a G u l f C o a s t U n i v e r s i t y , s p e a ki n g o n h o w t o k e e p e m p l o y e e s e n g a g e d a n d h o w b u s i n e s s e s c a n l e v e r a g e i n t e r n s h i p o p p o r t u n i t i e s D r o z h a s 1 5 y e a r s o f e x p e r i e n c e w o r k i n g i n c a r e e r a n d s t u d e n t d e v e lo p m e n t i n h i g h e r e d u c a t i o n a n d h a s t a u g h t m o r e t h a n 8 0 u n i v e r s i t y c o u r se s o n c a r e e r d e v e l o p m e n t , s t u d e n t s u cc e s s , w o r k - b a s e d l e a r n i n g a n d p u b l i c s p e a k i n g S h e i s a l s o a f o u n d i n g m e mb e r o f t h e F G C U P A G E S P r o g r a m a n d f o c u s e s o n c a r e e r e x p l o r a t i o n a n d p r e p a r a t i o n o f h u m a n i t i e s a n d s o c i a l s c i e n c e s m a j o r s T h e O c t o b e r l u n c h e o n w i l l a l s o f e a t u r e t h e A R C H w a y I n s t i t u t e a s t h e n o n p r o f i t s p o t l i g h t A R C H w a y I n s t i t u t e s e r v e s t h e c o m m u n i t y b y p r ov i d i n g e d u c a t i o n t o i n c r e a s e a w a r en e s s a n d t r a n s f o r m p e r s p e c t i v e s a r o u n d s u b s t a n c e u s e a n d c o - o c c u rr i n g m e n t a l h e a l t h d i s o r d e r s T h e l u n c h e o n w i l l t a k e p l a c e a t t h e

C r o w n e P l a z a F o r t M y e r s G u l f C o a s t ,

a t 9 9 3 1 I n t e r s t a t e C o m m e r c e D r i v e i n F o r t M y e r s A d m i s s i o n i s $ 3 5 f o r c h a m b e r m e m b e r s a n d $ 4 0 f o r f u t u r e m e m b e r s a n d i n c l u d e s l u n c h T h e e v e n t i s s p o n s o r e d b y H B K S W e a l t h A d v i s o r s T o l e a r n m o r e o r t o r e g i s t e r , v i s i t F o r t M y e r s o r g o r c a l l 2 3 9 - 3 3 2 - 2 9 3 0 R e g i s t r a t i o n c l o s e s F r i d a y , O c t 6

Beach Living

Closing Act

Pink Sugar

Kristian Bush, a two-time Grammy Award winner with the country group Sugarland, found enough dry time in between rain spells to perform a solo set at the Pink Shell Beach Resort Pool Party Sunday to help close out the Island Hopper Songwriters Fest on Fort Myers Beach NATHAN MAYBERG

Country musician Chris Janson brought the house down at the Pink Shell Beach Resort Party Sunday in the Island Hopper Songwriters Fest finale on Fort Myers Beach. NATHAN MAYBERG

David Mulicka, a candidate for the Lee County Board of County Commissioners , enjoyed the Pink Shell Beach Resort Pool Party with wife and state Rep. Jenna ParsonsMulicka and their newborn.

n W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , O c t o b e r 4 , 2 0 2 3 f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h O b s e r v e r

Bringing the pier back

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

For Fort Myers Beach resident Allen Shanosky and the upstart civic group

Let’s go FMB, sitting around and waiting for Lee County to rebuild the Fort Myers Beach Pier is not an option

With little work being done by the county at the pier since its destruction from Hurricane Ian and no plans yet proposed by the county to replace the pier, Shanosky did what any other person committed to progress would do He started work himself

For Shanosky, that doesn’t include doing things halfway He and his wife Cynthia took their “Covid camper trailer” and went on a two-month tour of piers from Florida up to North Carolina before he began work on designing his own replacement pier

“I learned a lot about piers,” he said One lesson he learned though was that as much as people on Fort Myers Beach would like to see a new pier rebuilt tomorrow, in most cases the average time of c o n s t r u c t i o n i s f o u r t o f i v e y e a r s

Shanosky said the number of government agencies that will need to sign off on the project is one of the reasons the timeline is so long “ T h e p i e r i s o u r c a l l i n g c a r d , ”

Shanosky said The retired digital imaging director “called on quite a few favors” to work on the design and renderings that were used for a presentation to the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council on Monday

Shanosky, whose family has fished on the pier four generations, proposed ideas that would make more room for fishing as well as interpretive panels about wildlife such as manatees, birds and dolphins

“We think we can improve the fishing experience ” Shanosky said The Fort Myers Beach Pier is the third smallest in Florida, he said The pier is the top tourist attraction in the county after its beaches, he said Shanosky did all this while the future of his home is uncertain He and his wife lost their two bungalows on Hercules Drive to Hurricane Ian They are waiting for construction costs to come down before they decide whether to rebuild “The cost is prohibitive” at current prices, he said “Luckily we kept our place in Jersey,” he said When they are in Fort Myers Beach, they have been spending time with family in the area and sometimes hotels

During his tour of piers, Shanosky said the ones that stood out included a $20 million pier in Surfside, South Carolina that hasn’t opened yet Among Florida piers, Shanosky cited the pier at Juno Beach Park During his presentation to the council, Shanosky talked up the floataway decking at the Juno Beach Park pier Shanosky said the deck can be removed before hurricanes and placed back in afterward The process takes a day each to remove and reinstall, he said

In his presentation to the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council Monday, Shanosky presented two options – rebuilding the pier in the same location while extending

its length and width at a cost of $18 million to $22 million or moving it 60 feet away at an estimated cost of $34 million to $38 million The benefit to moving the pier would be potentially more parking, he said He also suggested the town take over the pier

Replacing the pier has been a top concern for the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of C o m m e r c e C h a m b e r P r e s i d e n t J a c k i Liszak recently called on county officials to make the project a priority during a presentation from Lee County Assistant Manager Glen Salyer on its $1 1 billion hurricane recovery grant plan from the U S Department of Housing and Urban Development Shanosky suggested the county could use a portion of those funds on the pier He said the county is currently planning to use five percent of the funds on administration ($55 million). A portion of that could go to the pier, he said

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said he would like to see more work done on the details of the project and the cost estimates lowered before going to Lee County with a proposal He suggested Shanosky and the civic group work with t h e B a y O a k s R e c r e a t i o n a l C a m p u s Advisory board to iron out details before going to the county

Allers said “$38 million is a big number for what they think is just a pier ”

Replacing the pier will have an impact on Fort Myers Beach residents still waiting to determine if they will stay and rebuild or go, Shanosky said “There is a large population on the fence,” he said

“Let’s move it to the front of the line,” he said in regards to Lets go FMB’s goal to get Lee County working on the pier sooner rather than later “Our goal is to just get people talking about it ”

FMB resident puts proposal together

n W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , O c t o b e r 4 , 2 0 2 3 f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h O b s e r v e r

What is the BRCA gene test and who should get it?

About 3% of breast and 10% of ovarian cancers result from inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer represents about 7,500 women who have inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes annually For ovarian cancers, this amounts to about 2,000 women per year

A genetic blood test called the BRCA gene test can help determine if a patient has an inherited mutation When mutations in those genes develop, there’s an increased risk of breast, ovarian and other cancers BRCA stands for BReast CAncer gene

A positive or negative result can help determine a patient’s needs and health management. The BRCA gene test can also help patients better understand their health To learn more or to schedule an appointment with your physician, please visit www leehealth org

What is an Inherited Gene Mutation?

Lee Health

Some people have changes in the blueprint of a gene, which are known as mutations Some gene variants explain differences in people’s hair or eye color, while others can lead to a disease or increase the risk of illness

An inherited gene mutation can be passed on to the next generation According to the CDC, all women have BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, but only some have mutations About one in every 500 women in the United States has a mutation in her BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene It’s also possible to have a mutation in both BRCA genes

It typically takes more than one gene mutation to become

From page 1

committee, Allers said “There is no specific reason It's nice to hear new voices sometimes and there was no other reason

a cancer cell But when someone inherits an abnormal gene copy, their cells start out with one mutation This makes it easier for other mutations to happen, which can lead to a cell becoming a cancer cell

Your doctor might suggest testing using a multigene panel, which simultaneously looks for mutations in several genes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2

A positive result does not diagnose any disease; it tells you if you carry the gene mutation that increases your risk A negative BRCA test doesn't guarantee you will not get cancer It means your risk is likely the same as the general population

Who Should Get a BRCA Gene Test?

Those with a family history of either breast, ovarian or both cancers are premier candidates for the gene test If you meet any of these specifications, it’s recommended to get a BRCA gene test:

n A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before age 45

n A personal history of triple-negative breast cancer diagnosed at 60 or younger

n A personal history of two or more types of cancer

n A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before 50 and second primary breast cancer, one or more relatives with breast cancer or an unknown or limited family medical history

n A personal history of male breast cancer

n A personal history of ovarian cancer

other than there was a lot of intent, a lot of support emailed to us "

An effort on social media among those

n A personal history of breast cancer and one or more relatives with breast cancer diagnosed before age 50, two or more relatives diagnosed with breast cancer at any age, one or more relatives with ovarian cancer, one or more relatives with male breast cancer or two or more relatives with prostate cancer or pancreatic cancer

n A personal history of prostate cancer or pancreatic cancer with two or more relatives with BRCA-associated cancers

n A history of breast cancer at a young age in two or more blood relatives, such as your parents, siblings or children

n A personal history of breast cancer and Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jewish ancestry

n A relative with a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation

n One or more relatives with a history of cancer that would meet any of these criteria for gene testing

If you think you’re a candidate for the BRCA test or want more information, make an appointment with your physician by visiting www leehealth org

What Can You Expect from a BRCA Gene Test?

The BRCA gene test is like any other blood test A lab analyzes the results, and a physician will review them

Many people who get the BRCA gene test also work with a genetic counselor Those who test positive may feel various emotions, including sadness, anxiety, or anger A genetic counselor can help you work through all of that

A genetic counselor is well-trained in helping patients deal with the results of a genetic test, offering options for management and ways to cope.

Dr Mark Roh is chief physician executive of oncology services at Lee Health

supportive of Rood pushed for replacing MERTF members Allers said he didn't support Rood's nomination "I felt the other person was better suited for that position," Allers said

The actions to replace sitting advisory members who sought reappointment has been a rare occurrence on the beach

Former mayors and councilmembers could only recall one specific instance of it happening over the past two decades.

Friends of the Mound House President Ellen Vaughan, who has had a home on Fort Myers Beach for the past 25 years, said she couldn’t recall such contention by the council over an advisory committee in the past decade

“It’s disturbing,” Vaughan said “I’ve never seen a contentious reappointment on an advisory committee I am glad to see Mary Rose was reappointed "

Allers said he received a lot of input from the public for the committee members, "more than any other committee I h a v e e v e r s e e n s i n c e I h a v e b e e n involved "

The social media effort to have members of MERTF replaced followed votes by the committee this summer opposing the council’s issuance of a building permit for the controversial lagoon walkover until litigation is resolved over a lawsuit filed by the Florida Audubon Society challenging the town council’s approval of the special exception permit.

John Cameron, a neighbor of Rood, called on the council at a meeting this summer to remove members of MERTF the same way the council had removed Manager Roger Hernstadt and former Town Attorney John Herin Jr Woodson said she agreed with Cameron’s statements and called them “brave ” Eleven neighbors will be allowed to use the walkover

Allers said the vote by MERTF opposi n g t h e p e r m i t s f o r t h e c o n t r o v e r s i a l boardwalk did not play into his decision

regarding the committee appointments a n d u l t i m a t e l y v o t e d a g a i n s t R o o d ’ s appointment

King cited ideological differences with M E R T F i n h i s d e c i s i o n t o r e p l a c e MERTF members

King said after his vote that “I did not feel the current makeup of MERTF was true to its stated responsibilities, "to sustain the quality of life in cooperation with all whose livelihoods or lifestyles depend upon the health of Estero Bay "

MERTF Chair Steve Johnson, who clashed with King over his previous statements at council meeting criticizing the work of the advisory committee, said the votes by the council was part of a “new culture the council is creating It is basically cancel culture ”

Veach believes council did not follow its own rules and procedures and town c o d e i n r e p l a c i n g t h e m e m b e r s o f MERTF. The code says town council should give consideration to those with the most experience in the subject matter “ O u r f o u n d i n g o r d i n a n c e s a i d w e should give preference to the most qualified,” Veach said He cited the teaching experience and master naturalist certification that DeGaetano has

Preference is also given to registered voters or property owners DeGaetano and Fossum are registered to vote on Fort Myers Beach; Althoff or Nusbaum are property owners.

“I respect the people that have been on the committee,” Nusbaum said “I will do my best to honor their commitment ” D e G a e t a n o , a r e t i r e d e l e m e n t a r y school teacher, cited the “push to dismantle the committee” as reason for her ouster “We stick to the facts and what’s best for the island,” DeGaetano said “If o u r n a t u r e a n d o u r e c o s y s t e m a r e destroyed, there is no reason to come here ”

Dr. Mark Roh

From page 1

destroyed by Hurricane Ian after 21 years as serving as a cornerstone of Times Square – a meeting place and gathering spot for visitors and tourists. Some said they had waited hours to get a good spot to mark the occasion

The clock was donated by George and Linda Merschman, of Illinois Dozens of mobile cameras recorded them cutting a ribbon to unveil the clock with the helping hand of Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez, the Fort Myers Beach Council and other elected officials In the background was the destroyed Fort Myers Beach Pier overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and the beach at Lynn Hall Memorial Park.

Earlier, at Bayside Park on Old San Carlos Blvd , Nunez was joined by a number of top officials to pledge future aid to Fort Myers Beach The town received a $500,000 grant from the private donations

of a hurricane recovery fund run by First Lady Casey DeSantis to rehabilitate the damage to the park from Hurricane Ian Nunez told the crowd "our administration remains committed We are going to be with you every step of the way "

Later that afternoon, Gov DeSantis announced that $338 million had been approved for communities throughout the state for hurricane aid recovery - part of the $350 million the state approved in its budget earlier this year The Town of Fort Myers Beach will get $8 million for beach renourishment and a $5 million loan, at zero percent interest The loan could potentially be used for projects such as repairing roads, a new town hall trailer, stormwater projects, water tower repairs, repairing the town pool, beach access repairs, mooring field and Times Square repairs. The amount was short of the

approximately $24 million in aid the town applied for to the state

The town is also seeking to have an $11.9 million bridge loan forgiven by the state Asked if Gov DeSantis would forgive the loan to Fort Myers Beach, Nunez said "I will certainly talk to him about it I haven't discussed that I know the governor is committed to the full-time recovery "

Sen Jonathan Martin (R-33) said talks are underway about forgiving the loan "There is talk about that," he said Martin suggested the state could also forgive the interest if not the entire amount

State officials at the remembrance ceremony promised they would not turn their back on Fort Myers Beach

"The State of Florida is not going to forget the pain you endured," said Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis.

T h e c l o c k w a s d o n a t e d b y t h e Merschmans at a cost of $40,000 while the town spent $151,000 on electrical work at Times Square for the clock as well as for future electrical work at the site Following the ceremony at Times Square, music took over nearby at La Ola Restaurant and down Old San Carlos B l v d . a t S n u g H a r b o r W a t e r f r o n t Restaurant, Wahoo Willie's, Matanzas on the Bay and Yucatan Beach Stand

Ms Merschman said she and her husband started coming to Fort Myers Beach in 2017 and invested in building homes on the island "It's a sign of rebirth," Ms Merschman said. "It's the least we can do. It brings back memories "

Mr Merschman said the couple have more donation plans for the beach They will be donating a percentage of each

See CLOCK, page 15

NATHAN MAYBERG

Fort Myers Beach Elementary School Chorus members gather to sing on the stage at Bayside Park to close out the remembrance ceremony

State Senator Jonathan Martin said talks are ongoing regarding forgiving an $11 9 million state bridge loan to Fort Myers Beach

F l o r i d a D i v i s i o n o f E m e r g e n c y M a n a g e m e n t Director Kevin Guthrie

Clock From page 14

home they sell on Fort Myers Beach to the town to rebuild its pool at Bay Oaks Recreational Campus "This is kind of our happy place," Ms. Merschman said. "It's where we get away from everything "

Closing out the Bayside Park reopening ceremony was the Fort Myers Beach Elementary School Choir Lee County Schools Supt. Dr. Chris Bernier spoke a b o u t t h e s c h o o l b o a r d ' s d e c i s i o n t o rebuild Fort Myers Beach Elementary School

"Schools are not just a place They are the heart of a community," Bernier said "They are where dreams begin "

Other state officials in attendance who s p o k e w e r e F l o r i d a D i v i s i o n o f Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie, Rep Spencer Roach (R-79), Rep Jenna Persons-Mulicka (R-78), Rep Adam Botana (R-80) and Lee County

Sheriff Carmine Marceno

Marceno spoke about landing by helicopter on Fort Myers Beach near Times

S q u a r e t h e d a y a f t e r H u r r i c a n e I a n . Marceno said the scene left him "at a loss of words " Marceno said "the feeling in my heart, it immediately brought tears to my eyes As Sheriff, we all want to press a button and fix things. There was no button I could press to help every single person at once," Marceno said The Lee County Sheriff's Office had fielded hundreds of calls for help during Hurricane Ian and its aftermath as friends and families sought word on loved ones in a town where there was no power.

"This is a horrific event that took place," Marceno said

Marceno spoke about "the heroes that were out there around the clock that lost their homes from everywhere." He spoke

about meeting with Patronis and becoming emotional in the early days after Hurricane Ian "Yes, your Sheriff teared up. I am human," he said.

Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim

A t t e r h o l t s a i d h e s p o k e t o P a t r o n i s

Thursday to ask that the state and insurance commissioner's office investigates the underpaying of insurance payouts to Hurricane Ian victims Atterholt said it was not enough to fine insurance companies He said the state must ensure the insurance companies pay out to what is owed to property owners

Atterholt said he believed the attend a n c e o f s o m a n y s t a t e o f f i c i a l s a t

Thursday's ceremonies "further invests them in the island I think it will pay dividends in the long run " He said the outpouring of the community on the one-year anniversary of Ian was "a wonderful mix

of reverence and optimism "

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers was another who became emotional when speaking Thursday thanking state and county officials present for "not only what you did for me but for our community "

State Rep Spencer Roach (R-76), of North Fort Myers, served with the U S Coast Guard on Fort Myers Beach. “One of the things I learned stationed here with the Coast Guard is about island people We get so many questions from friends, ‘those people on Fort Myers Beach, why won’t they just close down the Fort Myers beach school? Why, in some cases, why don’t they leave? Why didn’t they evacuate? Why don’t they just sell their house and move on?’ They don’t understand the mentality of island people that are very resilient, very resourceful and yes, very stubborn. They just won’t give up.”

A colorful mural on the side of an Old San Carlos Boulevard building

,

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 , O c t o b e r 4

e e k o f

e d n e s d a y , O c t o b e r 4 ,

f o r t m y e r s b e a c h t a l k . c o m F o r t M y e r s B e a c h B u l l e t i n

Margaritaville

commercial space but stalled after legal challenges against the town over whether the developers were entitled to the amount

From page 1

o f d e n s i t y a n d h e i g h t t h e c o u n c i l approved The town ultimately prevailed after a state appellate court in 2020

R e s e r v a t i o n s c a n b e m a d e a t : https://www margaritavilleresorts com/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 -

beach.

NATHAN MAYBERG

WHERE TO GO WHAT TO DO WHO TO SEE

WEEK OF OCTOBER 4, 2023

New season of programming for BIG ARTS aims to inspire

Slow Ride

WBy NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

hen it comes to gritty 1970s hard rock anthems, few songs bring into focus those pictures of long hair and loud music blasting from big cars quite like Foghat’s “Slow Ride ”

Nearly 50 years since that song rocked the charts, the English group is bringing their act to Fort Myers next week for a show at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater in Fort Myers Oct 12

Foghat drummer Roger Earl, currently the sole original member still playing in the group (original singer and lead guitarist Dave Peverett died of cancer in 2000), spoke with Breeze Newspapers ahead of the show over the phone from Long Island where he has called home the last few decades For a band with eight gold records, they have stood the test of time

They are ready to release their 10th album with new singer Scott Holt as well as longtime guitarist Bryan Bassett (known for his guitar work on Wild Cherry’s “Play that Funky Music”). Their latest album “Sonic Mojo” will be released Oct 10 and the band will be playing three songs of the album, which was recorded in the band’s studio outside of Orlando

Their latest work mixes their hard rock edge with their blues influences as well as country and gospel Earl cites

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame drummer Earl Palmer (Little Richard, Fats Domino) as an early influence as well as blues drummers Freddy Below and Frances Clay as other key influences

Earl grew up in post-World War 2 in bombed-out London with a family that grew vegetables and raised chickens under food rationing As the son of a car factory work, the sound of 50’s rock and roll pioneers Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis is what initially led him to music And of course Chuck Berry “We would all be out of business if it weren’t for Chuck Berry,” Earl said Later would come a love for country legend Johnny Cash and the blues titan Willie Dixon

Foghat’s first claim to fame was a rsion of Dixon’s song “I Just Want to Make Love to You,” a blues standard rst recorded by Muddy Waters which he band turned into a radio hit Earl aid the group would later meet Dixon during a three-night stay in Chicago in he 1970’s

“He invited us to his house on the south side of Chicago,” Earl said They stayed up late playing music, eating and listening to some of Dixon’s old records, Earl said. Earl said Dixon was imposing at six feet six inches tall “He was very warm and very knowledgeable about music he produced and wrote “He was easy to talk to and a smile never left his face,” Earl said Earl’s older brother Collin got him into Johnny Cash, by buying

him albums from Sun Records Earl said Cash wasn’t popular in England at the time. “What I liked about Johnny is he always had a story ” Collin would become a successful rock band in their own right, recording with the group Mungo Jerry who had a hit with “In the Summertime ”

Before Foghat, Earl and other members of the group played in the band Savoy Brown

There is only one song that Foghat closes out their sets with – it’s Slow Ride “It’s an industrial love song,” Earl said The song’s lyrics and the power chords of the main riff are not complicated – the song is what the kids today would call a hookup song Clocking in at more than eight minutes long, the band’s signature tune has a bit of sophistication about it though with bass jams and extended solos.

Earl credits the arrangement to the band’s bassist at the time – Nick Jameson, who would go on to be known as a character actor on shows like “24” and “King of Queens” and as a voice actor Earl said it was Jameson who came up with the timing of the smashing cymbals for the chorus part of the song “Just go ‘bang,’” Earl recalls Jameson saying to him

The loss of Peverett was tough on Earl personally He suffered from kidney cancer before dying at the age of 56 “I don’t think he got the best treatment,” Earl said “I miss him ”

The band’s new singer Scott Holt “gives everything he’s got,” Earl said “He never gives less than 110% ” Another former member, bassist Craig McGregor, died of lung cancer in 2018

“It’s a tough business unless you are willing to give everything you’ve got,” Earl said

The show at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater at 201 Edwards Drive in Fort Myers starts at 7 p m Tickets start out at $37

Foghat, known for the 1970's hit "Slow Ride" and cover of the Willie Dixon song "I Just Want to Make Love to You, will perform at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater in Fort Myers on Thursday, Oct. 12. Foghat is led by original drummer Roger Earl (third from left). He will be joined by (left to right) singer/guitarist Scott Holt, bassist Rodney O’Quinn and guitarist Bryan Bassett PHOTOS PROVIDED

New season of programming for BIG ARTS aims to inspire

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

BIG ARTS recently unveiled the lineup for its new season, which offers something for everyone

Packed with internationally-recognized performing artists, unique films, rewarding workshops, stimulating lectures and beautiful gallery exhibits, the theme for 2023-24 is “Be Inspired ”

“It's all about being inspired by the arts,” Executive Director Lee Ellen Harder said. “We probably have the best season ever we have some fabulous performing artists, fabulous lectures and workshops ”

“All the wonderful things that we do here at BIG ARTS,” she added

Under its Community Artists programming, the BIG ARTS Concert Band and BIG ARTS Community Chorus will hold their seasonal performances, with the Gulf Coast Symphony also taking the stage

Something new this season will take place in December

“We're doing a monthlong holiday celebration with happenings,” Harder said

It will kick off with an Open House, followed by shadowdance company Silhouettes performing, a community concert with youths from The Sanibel School and a showing of “The Polar Express ”

She noted that BIG ARTS will also host free community gatherings

For Performing Arts, there are 14 shows set, such as classical artists like Jeremy Denk, GRAMMY-winning vocalist Judith Hill, dance company BODYTRAFFIC, bluegrass band Twisted Pine and more

“Our season opener is going to be a really big, fantastic show called 'The Greatest Piano Men,'” Harder said “It's high energy and great music from the greatest pianists over the decades ”

In addition, BIG ARTS will host its Annual Benefit in March, featuring The Doo Wop Project

“It's choreographed, they dance,” she said “And incredible voices ”

Under its Lecture Series programming, BIG ARTS offers the FORUM and Talking Points

“The FORUM lecture series focuses on geo-political topics Talking Points is a different format,” Harder said, adding that an open discussion takes place after “We encourage community dialogue ”

Eight FORUM speakers are scheduled, like David Wasserman on the roadmap to the 2024 election, Al Franken on “Can Washington Work Again?” and Michael Steele on the current political landscape

“They're all fantastic,” she said “They're all really hot topics ”

Talking Points will feature three speakers, which include Avi Loeb on “Extraterritorial Life,” Craig Pittman on “The State You're In: Florida” and Dan Moldea on “Organized Crime in the 21st Century ”

For its Film Series, BIG ARTS will present a flick on Mondays from November to April

“We've got some great titles,” Harder said.

Some of the featured films for the new season are “Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom” (Bhutan), “Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, A Journey, A Song” (United States) and “Writing with Fire” (India)

Following each screening, a moderator-led discussion is held for those who want to stay

“We are really working to bring in the directors, filmmakers of these movies,” she said, adding that may mean via Zoom or in-person “That will just bring that much more to the discussion after ”

Under its Fine Arts program, BIG ARTS has six exhibits planned in the main Dunham Family Gallery, with additional exhibitions available for viewing in the Mezzanine Gallery and the West Gallery

“We have some wonderful exhibits coming in,” Harder said

It kicks off with “Involution,” featuring paintings by Dana Roes with poetry by Brandi George, followed by the Sanibel-Captiva Art League, metal sculptor Wendy Klemperer and others

“It's going to be fantastic,” she said

There will also be a guided field trip to The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in February

For Workshops, there is a wide range of mediums and options to choose from, from painting, hand sculpting, life drawing and other styles of drawing, to basket weaving, glass fusing, writing and more.

“We have a lot of wonderful workshops and new instructors this year,” Harder said

In addition, BIG ARTS will offer The Master Workshop Series

“These are artists that we bring in from around the country,” she said “They are here once a year ”

The community is invited to check out the programming and take part

“The first-class entertainment and art education that we offer we want people to be able to experience that,” Harder said “We all know what music and arts do for the soul.”

“Come and join us,” she added “Make new friends and see old friends ”

For more information, visit https://bigarts org/ or call the box office 239-395-0900.

BIG ARTS is at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

Al Franken Avi Loeb

“The Greatest Piano Men” will kick of the Performing Arts season for BIG ARTS. BIG ARTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Woman’s Club Christmas Tree Festival scheduled

The Fort Myers Beach Woman’s Club will be hosting the sixth annual Christmas Tree Festival sponsored by Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, on Dec 8 and Dec 9 at the Mound House, located at 451 Connecticut St, Fort Myers Beach

This two-day event is a fundraiser which supports participating nonprofits in the greater Fort Myers Beach area The event has raised more than $30,000 for local nonprofits since 2018, festival co-chair Megan Allers said

The festival includes two days of silent bidding on custom Christmas trees and holiday wreaths All trees and wreaths are donated and decorated by area nonprofit organizations and local businesses All funds raised for each tree will go back to their designated charity

Edison and Ford Winter Estates to host Annual Clothesline Quilt Show

On October 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the annual "Airing of the Quilts" quilt show 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 the fee for a written appraisal will be $35 per quilt

The quilt show is included with admission Tickets may be purchased online or at the ticket counter A d m i s s i o n i s f r e e f o r E d i s o n F o r d m e m b e r s Refreshments will be available for purchase at the Banyan Café Visit EdisonFord org to purchase tickets Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

Lee County Cattle Baron’s Ball to be held Oct. 14

The American Cancer Society is pleased to announce the 2023 Lee County Cattle Baron’s Ball which will be held at the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa Coconut Point on Saturday, Oct 14 The Cattle Baron’s Ball is the American Cancer Society’s signature western event with more than 50 events nationwide This year, we celebrate 19 years and an amazing history of support in Lee County Since its inception, the event has raised $4 million to support the American Cancer Society’s mission to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer

This year’s mission moment will support the newly created Lee and Collier County Health Equity Fund Cancer is a disease that can affect anyone, but it does not affect everyone equally Many barriers can impact a person's ability to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer and the American Cancer Society is committed to actively working towards ending cancer disparities This fund will support programs related to transportation and lodging grants, as well as increasing screening efforts with partners in our community

The 19th annual Lee County Cattle Baron’s Ball will feature music from "Whiskey County," along with an exciting live and silent auction, bull riding, axe throwing, Heaven’s Door bourbon tasting, Dunkin’s Diamonds Diamond Heist and a custom designed menu from the Hyatt For more information on sponsorship opportunities, volunteer opportunities, or to purchase tickets, p l e a s e v i s i t l e e c a t t l e b a r o n s c o m o r c o n t a c t N i n a Gasparrini, Associate Director of Development, at 239321-5018 or nina gasparrini@cancer org

Calling all South Floridians: Create Christmas in October to Honor Militar y Heroes

Every fall for the past 10 years, caring South Floridians have teamed up with the American Red Cross to create a little holiday cheer for our troops overseas and local veterans in hospitals and nursing homes The organization’s Holiday for Heroes project invites your community to write messages of thanks and donate snacks, playing cards and other small items for holiday care packages which are delivered in colorful stockings hand-sewn by Red Cross volunteers

More than 1,200 stockings were distributed during last year’s holiday season as a way to honor local veterans and active-duty soldiers around the world

This year’s deadline for donations is Oct 16, and it’s easy for South Florida residents to get involved Simply purchase some of the most needed care-package items (listed below) from your favorite local store or online retailer Ship them directly to the Red Cross collection site at 7051 Cypress Terrace, #110, Fort Myers, FL 33907 Or drop off donations at any of the following South Florida Red Cross chapters / your local Red Cross chapter location between 10:00 a m and 3:00 p m :

∫ Greater Miami and the Keys Chapter: 335 SW 27th Avenue, Miami, FL 33135

∫ Broward County Chapter: 3696 North Federal Highway, Suite 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308

∫ Palm Beach and Treasure Coast Chapter: 1250 Northpoint Parkway, West Palm Beach, FL 33407

∫ Florida Gulf Coast to Heartland Chapter: 7051 Cypress Terrace, #110, Fort Myers, FL 33907

Needed care-package items

∫ Individually packaged/travel-size snacks (nuts, trail mix, beef jerky, Slim Jim)*

∫ Protein bars, granola bars, breakfast bars*

∫ Non-perishable meat (individual packets of tuna, chicken, salmon; not canned)*

∫ Decks of playing cards and fidget spinners

∫ Gum, mints, hard candy (no chocolate)

∫ Individual packets of flavored drink mixes (Crystal Light, electrolytes)

∫ Individual packets of powdered hot cocoa or apple cider mix

∫ Holiday cards and letters of appreciation (Please do not use glitter or write the date, your last name, address or personal contact information Please use wording that will encompass the holiday spirit without reference to religion as these will go to a diverse group of service members )

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

Pace Center for Girls, Lee will host its Faces of Pace Celebration & Gala on Saturday, Oct 21, from 6 to 10 p m at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center & Amphitheater, at 1375 Monroe St Fort Myers

The gala will feature dinner, dancing and live music by Bay Kings Band, as well as a spirited live auction with pro-

An early preview and cocktail Party will be held Dec 8 from 4:30 to 5:30 p m featuring live music, cash bar and food trucks Access will be limited to 50 pre-sold VIP ticket holders Tickets are $50 each and available to purchase online All auction items will be on display for preview and bidding though out the evening.

On Saturday, the festivities begin at 1 p m and feature a holiday vendor market, bake sale, and the 6th annual Chili Tasting and Cook-Off The Chili Cook-off begins at 4:30 p m and will feature cash prizes

At 8 p m on Saturday, winners will be announced for the highest bidders of the trees and wreaths, the top chili Producers, along with the Grand Prize winner of the Holiday Raffle

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n v i s i t h t t p s : / / w w w f m bwc org/index php/holiday-raffle-2023

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

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

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

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

For more information, visit PaceCenter org/Locations/Lee or call 239-425-2366

Lee Van Asten, Mark Sanders, and Bonnie Lancaster in concer t Oct. 22 at St. Columbkille Catholic Parish

A concert presenting Lee Van Asten, Mark Sanders, and Bonnie Lancaster will take place Sunday, Oct 22, at 2 p m , at St Columbkille Catholic Parish in Iona Hall, 12171 Iona Road, Fort Myers

Music you love to hear, Jazz, Classical, Standards, Broadway & more

No tickets to purchase, this is a free will concert Open seating - no seats reserved! A free will offering will be taken.

For more information visit www stcolumbkille com

Al-Anon, Al-Ateen meetings

Are you concerned with a friend or family member's drinking? Let us help.

Call our 24-hour helpline at 941-564-5098 or visit www SouthFloridaAl-Anon org Meetings are held every day in Lee County

Al-Ateen meetings are also offered for ages 10-18

PHOTO PROVIDED

Quilts blow in the breeze at the annual "Airing of the Quilts" quilt show at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

PET PALS

Puppy Time!

By ISABELLE WELLS

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

S y l v e r i s o n l y 6 m o n t h s , 4 0 pounds pure bred Golden Retriever. She is a sweet puppy who was kept in a cage for 4 months only to be shown to people and play with other puppies once in a while She is so cute with her puppy eyes I am fostering her and never had a Golden What a treat She listens and is a complete lap dog She is working on her potty training very well, if you bring her outside she will go Sylver goes to the dog park and loves it there She is fine with cats and lives in a house with 5 other dogs. Call or text Isabelle 239-281-0739

Need a foster ur gent

Foster/Adopt a very sweet girlgentle and good with kids Never tested with cats but we do believe it s h o u l d n o t b e a n i s s u e B o r n 4/09/2023 and weighs 54 pounds and is great with kids and other dogs

Healthy and social

Follow us on Facebook at Find A Home Give A Home Pet Rescue and see all the amazing pets we saved these past few months

Please note our new PO Box #864, Bonita Springs, Fl 34133

You can also make a donation at www.findahomegiveahome.com using the donation tab using PayPal

Please make sure you do it through “Friends and Family” so there is no fee and all the donation comes to us directly.

By Jo Knobloch Saveourstraysfmb@yahoo com

Founder of Save Our Strays Cat Rescue

a 501c3 organization on Fort Myers Beach

Paisley is a female dark Torti Shell who is young, friendly and is a great mom to Frosty and Patches

Frosty is an all gray male kitten He is so lovable and enjoys playing with his sibling Patches

Patches is mostly white with black patches Very playful Both kittens are only 4 weeks old so can only be preadopted Please call 239-851-3485 if you are interested in meeting P a i s l e y o r h e r kittens Would be nice if the two kittens could be adopted together

Need volunteers desperately to help feed ian survivor cats on beach and

other close locations. Once or twice a week would help if you can spare a half hour Food can be provided Please call 239-8513 4 8 5 i f y o u c a n s p a r e some time to keep these cats fed as we need them badly on beach as many were lost in the hurricane and we now have rats due to all the losses

Food donations are way down the bins for donated items are empty most of the time at our two Pet Supermarket Stores San Carlos Boulevard store is close by beach nn Majestic Palms Boulevard behind the Fifth Third Bank We need wet and dry food as well as litter Thank you in advance for any help you can provide. Donations can be sent to our P O Box 5014, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33932

More new kittens have arrived - beautiful tortis

Sylver Penny

SPORTS & RECREATION

The Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel celebrated the return of its pickleball amenity with a SanCap Chamber ribboncutting on Sept. 28.

SANCAP CHAMBER

Lee County Parks & Recreation offers

Fall Festival events

The Lee County Parks & Recreation has announced plans for Fall Festival events throughout October

Events include:

∫ 6 - 9 p m , M o n d a y - F r i d a y a n d 1 0 a m - 9 p m

Saturday-Sunday starting Friday, Oct 13, through Sunday, Oct. 31, Fall Festival, Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers

The Fall Festival will include a pumpkin patch, bounce houses, hayrides, Scarecrows in the Park, the very popular Halloween Express train and concessions

Parking for the Fall Festival event is $3 per vehicle

Prices vary per activity

For more information visit www leeparks org/lakespark or call 239-533-7578

∫ 6-9 p m , Friday, Oct 20, Family Fall Festival, North Fort Myers Recreation Center, 2000 North Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers

This is a free family event for all ages. Activities include a costume contest, candy, games, a photo booth, a live DJ, bounce house, prizes and more Community businesses and organizations will have booths setup with information, samples of products and candy

Admission is free

For more information visit www leeparks org/nfm or call 239-533-7200

∫ 3-5:30 p m , Thursday, Oct 26, Fall Festival, Boca Grande Community Center, 131 1st St , Boca Grande

This is a free family friendly festival for kids of all ages Activities include bounce houses, a cake and pumpkin walk, tractor pictures, guess the candy jar count and goodie bags One bag of individual wrapped candy per child is appreciated and may be dropped off at the community center before Oct 24 Sponsored by the Boca Grande Women’s Club, The Friends of Boca Grande and Lee County Parks & Recreation

For more information call 239-533-2923

∫ 6-9 p m , Friday, Oct 27, Trunk or Treat and Movie in the Park, Veterans Park, 55 Homestead Road South, Lehigh Acres

Everyone is invited to this family friendly event Activities include a Trunk-or-Treat and a Movie in the Park, featuring “Coco”, rated PG. Movie starts at 8 p.m. Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue District providing popcorn and water

Admission is free

For more information visit www leeparks org/veterans or call 239-369-1521

∫ 5-9 p m , Saturday, Oct 28, Spooktacular Night, Estero Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero

Come out to the park for a night of family friendly and spooktacular fun Activities include a trunk-or-treat and a Movie in the Park, featuring “Halloweentown” rated PG

Admission is free

For more information visit www.leeparks.org/estero or call 239-533-1470

Pickleball courts reopen at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa

Following the debut of its resurfaced original 12 courts in August and the addition of four new courts earlier last month, the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa celebrated a SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting on Sep 28 for its pickleball facilities

First opened in 2017 across the road from the resort, the original pickleball stadium, with seating and clinics, became an immediate hit with residents and visitors Sundial added Plexicushion surfacing to the courts and built the four new ones on the resort's Gulfside as part of post-Hurricane Ian restoration

“We’re proud to be one of the largest pickleball facilities in the state,” General Manager Becky Miller said “The courts are open to the public with annual and monthly memberships, day passes, and lessons available ”

The resort was able to have a soft opening in December after repairing damage from Ian, which tore up fencing, gates, nets, landscaping and court surfacing and deposited heaps of sand and debris on the courts, including an upside-down Range Rover

“Our pickleball members were very supportive and appreciative of our quick work to get some of the courts playable within two months of the hurricane, making

our facility one of the very first things to reopen on the island post-Ian,” she said “Seeing progress in action was a reminder of the community’s resilience and dedication to restoring our beloved island Opening the courts brought back a semblance of normalcy to postIan island life ”

“The Sundial pickleball courts complex became a feather in the island’s hat from the beginning,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “It began drawing the pickleball crowd just as the sport was gaining steam We are so happy to once again count this among Sanibel’s top attractions ”

Since opening, the pickleball complex has hosted pro exhibitions, events with Pickleball Magazine, camps and tournaments It is often recognized for “best pickleball” throughout Southwest Florida Last year, Tennis Resorts Online ranked the courts No 2 in the nation “We’re excited for the return of all our annual tournaments, including Dink for Pink in October, which supports cancer needs in our community ” Miller said.

The Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is at 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel

Greater Fort Myers Chamber announces sponsorship opportunities, registration for golf classic on Oct. 20

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