Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin by BreezeNewspapers

WEEK OF OCTOBER 18, 2023

VOLUME 39, NUMBER 42

Observer 10/18/23

WEEK OF OCTOBER 18, 2023

VOLUME 39, NUMBER 42

Arches Bayfront put on hold By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

The Arches Bayfront project at Moss Marina on Fort Myers Beach has been put on hold, said Moss Marina owner Ben Freeland. Freeland, who had proposed a multihotel concept at the marina, cited a recent joint meeting of the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council and Local

Plans call for three hotels at the Moss Marina site as well as a four-acre bayfront property overseeing Matanzas Pass and the bay that would open up access to pedestrians and bicyclists along a 1,000-feet linear park overlooking the bay down to Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant, Bayside Park and Nervous Nellie’s. Planning Agency regarding the town's comprehensive plan in explaining his decision.

In a letter sent out by Freeland, he referred to two applications sent to the town for the project including a map

amendment which would include the Arches Bayfront properties in the Pedestrian Commercial future land use, and another application which would entitle the properties under a Commercial Planned Development (CPD) with uses of hotel, marina, restaurant, retail and civic spaces. See ARCHES BAYFRONT, page 10

Mosquito Control District could be at risk By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

Hostile Takeover Rep. Botana proposes to involuntarily merge Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District into Bonita Springs By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

Just a couple weeks ago on the anniversary of Hurricane Ian, state legislators were in Fort Myers Beach offering to give the town everything it needs. It’s not clear who mentioned the town wants to give up control of its fire district. This past week, State Rep. Adam Botana, R-80, unveiled a bill that would merge the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District with the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue

District into a joint district known as the Bonita SpringsSee MERGER, page 12 The Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District's Station 31 (pictured) off Donoroa Boulevard was totaled by Hurricane Ian. Rep. Adam Botana, R-80, who represents Fort Myers Beach in the state legislature, has proposed a bill to involuntarily merge the department with the Bonita Springs Fire and Rescue District.

Local control of the Fort Myers Beach Mosquito Control District could be jeopardized due to a bill proposed by Rep. Adam Botana, R-80. Botana, the Bonita Springs state legislator whose district includes Fort Myers Beach, has drafted legislation to combine the Fort Myers Beach Mosquito Control District into the Lee County Mosquito Control District. That is in addition to Botana’s bill to merge the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District with the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District. The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council voted Monday to oppose the merger as part of a vote also opposing a merging of the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District. Fort Myers Beach Mosquito Control District Board member Steve Johnson said the merger of the two mosquito districts would mean higher taxes for Fort Myers Beach residents as the Lee County Mosquito Control District has a higher tax rate. “We charge less than half of the Lee County millage rate,” Johnson said. Fort Myers Beach Councilmember Bill Veach, who led the call to oppose the mosquito control district merger, said the town would face higher rates under the merger because its property values are See DISTRICT, page 7

Beach Living............................................8 insideToday Opinions.......................................4 Business............................................6 Beach Bulletin..................................19-24

Classifieds.............25

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By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

The Town of Fort Myers Beach will not be swapping its town hall property with the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District’s property at the former Topps lot after all. There had been talks over the past several months regarding swapping the properties between town officials and the fire department. Initially started as a way for the town to potentially build a new town hall at the Topps lot. where the town’s trailers for its makeshift town hall and other offices are, that eventually changed as town management moved plans for a new town hall to its Bay Oaks Recreational Campus. The latest plans by the town would put a new town hall where a community building was going to be built at the Bay Oaks campus. The town hall property was being looked at as a new fire station property for the fire

“A lot of things have changed with flood plain standards, things like that, that have shown some challenges fire district side. It really limits their ability to build on the town hall property.” — Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers department to replace Station 31, which was totaled by Hurricane Ian. On Monday, Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said a decision was made that the town hall property would not work as suitable site for replacing their fire station. “A lot of things have changed with flood plain standards, things like that, that have shown some challenges fire district side,” Allers said. “It really limits their ability to build on the town hall property.” Allers said he would have preferred to

have been able to use the Topps lot property. “I can’t say publicly that it is a mutual parting of ways but I certainly understand it,” Allers said. “I don’t want to be one that stands in the way of public safety.” Allers said “I don’t feel it is mutual" adding, “We don’t know where town hall is going to be yet. We don’t have a specific use for that.” Town officials and management had spoken of using the lot for either a new gymna-

sium, water park or for workforce housing. Allers asked the town council if they would vote to approve not swapping the properties though Councilmember Bill Veach pointed out that “I don’t think it was ever approved.” Fort Myers Beach Fire Chief Scott Wirth said the Federal Emergency Management Agency was asking the fire department questions about where it would be rebuilding its fire station while working on reimbursement for the loss of the fire station on Donora Boulevard . “It really isn’t working as well as I hoped,” Wirth said of construction plans for the town hall property. Wirth said the plan is to build a new fire station on the back of the Topps lot while potentially selling the front lot. “That allows me to raise the station a little higher on our property than I would have been able to do on the town hall property.”

The interlocal agreements are between Lee County and the Barrier Island Parks Society, Captiva Erosion Prevention District, city of Cape Coral, City of Sanibel, Town of Fort Myers Beach, and the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society. Commissioners approved the funding with the adoption of the fiscal year 20232024 budget and the agreements authorize the work and reimbursement of expenses. The projects primarily allow for maintenance of beach park facilities including

public accesses, boardwalks, restrooms and equipment. Beach and Shoreline project funding accounts for 26.4% of the proceeds from the Tourist Development Tax assessed on short-term lodging such as hotels, resorts

and vacation rentals. The agreements are part of more than $11.1 million in projects using Tourist Development Taxes, including a $4 million allocation to the Beach Renourishment Trust Fund for scheduled projects. For more information on the Beach and Shoreline program, visit www.leevcb.com/fundingprograms/beach-and-shoreline.

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The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted Tuesday to authorize interlocal agreements to fund 11 Lee County Beach and Shoreline projects using nearly $4.4 million in Tourist Development Tax revenue. The interlocal agreements are between Lee County and the Barrier Island Parks Society, Captiva Erosion Prevention District, City of Cape Coral, City of Sanibel, Town of Fort Myers Beach, and the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society.

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Lee Commissioners approve agreements for nearly $4.4 million in Beach and Shoreline projects

Page 3 n Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Town will not swap town hall, Topps lot with fire department

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 n Page 4 Fort Myers Beach Observer

OPINIONS

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Editorial 19260 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931 Phone: (239) 574-1110 Fax: (239) 574-5693 Web: fortmyersbeachtalk.com Publisher Raymond M. Eckenrode reckenrode@breezenewspapers.com Executive Editor Valarie Harring vharring@breezenewspapers.com Editor Nathan Mayberg nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

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The Observer and Bulletin is published every Wednesday Customer service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except major holidays. Letters to the editor must be typed or hand printed. Your name and phone number must be affixed to the copy. In the event of an advertising error, we are responsible only for the first incorrect insertion of the ad itself. We are not responsible for any credit or reimbursement after 30 days from publication. Postal Information: Third class postage paid at Fort Myers Beach, FL. Permit 521. Postmaster: Send address changes to the Beach Observer, 19260 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931,

Web Poll Previous Web Poll Results Do you think the Fort Myers Beach Council was right in replacing members of MERTF? ∫ Yes 31% ∫ No 60% ∫ No opinion

Current Web Poll Question Do you support Rep. Adam Botana's bill to involuntarily merge the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District into the Bonita Springs Fire and Rescue District? ∫ Yes, I support the merger. ∫ No, I don’t support it. ∫ No opinion/Unsure Share your opinion at fortmyersbeachtalk.com

We stand with Israel Last week in Florida flags flew at half-staff at the state Capitol in honor of the victims of the terrorist strikes against Israel by Hamas. Those victims include more than 1,300 Israelis after an invasion by Hamas terrorists from the Gaza Strip that also included the killings of at least 27 Americans and the taking of more than 150 Israeli hostages and other international citizens including Americans. Last week in Florida, our state Capitol was lit with lights of blue and white. And today, tomorrow and through the fight that has followed the heinous holiday attack by Hamas terrorists upon both the State of Israel and the Jewish people, we stand with Israel after its nation witnessed the most unspeakable depravity of barbaric terrorism from the killing of babies in their homes by burning and decapitation, the slaughtering of families in their beds to the taking of hostages as young as ninemonths-old and as elderly as an 85-year-old Holocaust survivor. More than 4,000 rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip into Israel. Terrorists on paragliders, trucks and motorcycles attacked a peace festival where they killed more than 260 attendees fleeing for their lives. Dozens were kidnapped. We stand with Israel not because we don’t understand that among the innocent lives lost are Israeli and in Israel’s retaliation there are Palestinian victims alike. Not because we don’t understand that war and all of its repercussions will cause more suffering. But because Israel has the right to exist. No matter the belief of those who hope to

drive her into the sea, to stamp out her people. No matter the belief of extremists who write political policy with blood. No matter the pablum of justification being espoused by those who fail to understand the history of our ally and those who stand against her. In ordering the flags to half staff, Gov. Ron DeSantis called the attacks “a direct assault on the people of Israel and the Jewish community. We reinforce our commitment to Israel and our fight against anti-Israel sentiments." President Joe Biden summed up our country’s proper position well after the attack launched on the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, one day after the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War when Israel was attacked by more than half a dozen Arab neighbors. “This is terrorism,” President Biden said. “But sadly, for the Jewish people, it’s not new. “This attack has brought to the surface painful memories and the scars left by a millennia of antisemitism and genocide of the Jewish people. “So, in this moment, we must be crystal clear: We stand with Israel. We stand with Israel. And we will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself, and respond to this attack. “There is no justification for terrorism. There is no excuse. “Hamas does not stand for the Palestinian people’s right to dignity and self-determination. Its stated purpose is the annihilation of the State of Israel and the murder of Jewish people,”

Biden said. United we stand, President Biden said “Today, Americans across the country are praying for all those families that have been ripped apart. A lot of us know how it feels. It leaves a black hole in your chest when you lose family, feeling like you’re being sucked in. The anger, the pain, the sense of hopelessness.” “This is what they mean by a “human tragedy” — an atrocity on an appalling scale. “But we’re going to.. continue to stand united, supporting the people of Israel who are suffering unspeakable losses and opposing the hatred and violence of terrorism," President Biden said. And lastly: “This is a moment for the United States to come together, to grieve with those who are mourning.” “Let’s be real clear: There is no place for hate in America — not against Jews, not against Muslims, not against anybody. We reject — we reject — what we reject is terrorism. We condemn the indiscriminate evil, just as we’ve always done. “That’s what America stands for,” President Biden said. Standing with Israel is what the Fort Myers Beach Observer and Breeze Newspapers stand for. We stand against terrorists. It’s what being American is about. —Fort Myers Beach Observer editorial

Letter to the Editor Pay attention when choosing the next superintendent To the editor: Every vote we cast matters. We voted to change the superintendent to an elected position, which has cost us our current leader. We all must thoroughly vet the folks who do run for the office. This is a big job with a $1 billion-plus budget, and the person who takes the reins has to understand not only the core issues facing the district but also how to implement meaningful change. I am sure we will hear a lot of blustery rhetoric from candidates and cute one-liners that make you feel good. The person in this position must have classroom experience AND administrative experience. This is not the type of role where you can successfully lead the organization while attempting to figure out how it works. Our children will be directly impacted by the actions of the winner, and we all reap the benefit if it is done well, if done poorly

we will be picking up the pieces for decades. Todd Maurer Cape Coral

Dr. Bernier will be missed To the editor: Dr. Christopher Bernier’s decision not to run for the Lee County School District elected position next year will be a great loss for Lee County. In the last 30 years he had to be the best superintendent. Historically, Lee County favored the elected superintendent position until voters made the position appointive on Nov 5, 1974. Ray L. Williams was our last elected superintendent, serving from 1965 to 1977. His successor, Dr. Ray V. Pottorf, was the first appointed, serving from 1977 to 1984. I have had the pleasure of knowing Dr. Bernier. His door was open to our meetings twice a year. He was astute. He is a visionary.

I do agree with him that his career would be better off served somewhere else. I can see him as a dean in a college of education at a university. Good Luck, Dr. Bernier. Lou Navarra Cape Coral

Hurricane Ian edition appreciated To the editor: Congratulations to all on the three-part special section commemorating the anniversary of Hurricane Ian's impact on our community. You did a thorough job covering our area, from Fort Myers Beach to Sanibel, and Pine Island to the Cape. As a former community newspaper owner, I know how much work goes into planning and executing a special section, especially for the editorial and ad sales staff and press operators. Thanks for a job well done. Katy Odell Cape Coral

We want your opinion The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Opposing views are welcome. Letters to the Editor or guest columns may be mailed to: Fort Myers Beach Observer, 19260 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931; faxed to 239-765-0846; emailed to news@breezenewspapers.com; or posted to our Virtual Newsroom at www.breezenewspapers.com. Letters are due no later than noon Monday. All letters and guest columns must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes. You also can comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: fortmyersbeachtalk.com.

remind folks to keep filing A market conduct complaints against their exam is an independent insurance company if there audit done by a third are still problems or to party to examine the share your experience with claims paying practices your insurance company of the company in quesgood or bad. This data helps tion and the costs of the the regulator determine audit are borne by the which problem companies insurance company. If to target with outside the market conduct exam audits. finds the company is You can file a complaint guilty, the regulator can by calling the Insurance impose fines and or presConsumer Helpline at 1sure the company to pay 877-MY-FL-CFO (693the outstanding claims. Jim Atterholt 5236) or do so online at While fines are nice MyFloridaCFO.com. for the state coffers, it I also had the chance to would be much better if speak this week with Justin the regulator pressured Michaels from the Weather the company in question Channel who is working on to pay all outstanding legitimate claims or at a minimum pay a story about the impact of insurance any undisputed claims. This would help claims going unpaid. The concern I our residents and benefit our island’s raised with him is that roughly 20 % of recovery significantly. I raised the point the population is going bare (without this week while speaking with the property insurance). This is due in part to Florida State Insurance Commissioner, the rising premiums which average Mike Yaworsky, and he informed me around $6,000 per year in Florida but that some market conduct exams should that number is much higher on Fort soon be wrapping up and more are about Myers Beach. I believe many people in Southwest to be launched. Look for a public announcement very soon. He asked that I Florida are going without insurance

Guest Commentary

based upon the bad experience folks have had post Ian with their insurer. If you have a mortgage, you may not be able to choose this option. Some folks, however, with the means and the discipline are setting aside the premiums they otherwise would have paid to a company into their own emergency insurance fund. This strategy is risky for the first few years but after a while, one may be able to build up a sizable emergency fund considering there is no deductible and no one delaying or denying your claim when you have a problem. It is sad it has come to this but my advice is continue to fight. I will work to keep this issue front and center with state regulators. If you still have unpaid or insufficiently paid claims, I encourage you to file a complaint with the state regulator, hire a public adjuster or an attorney and just be diligent in staying on your insurance company to pressure them to do the right thing. Some companies are hoping you will give up—please keep fighting! — Jim Atterholt is the vice mayor of Fort Myers Beach.

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Insurance issues continue to plague Fort Myers Beach and we must remain vigilant. I see this first-hand as my wife and I have had to move five times since the storm because our condo building is still uninhabitable — primarily because of delayed insurance payments. Having served as the State Insurance Commissioner for Indiana before moving to Florida, I remain very concerned about how poorly many insurance companies have responded to legitimate claims from Hurricane Ian. In my opinion, there has been systemic corruption by some insurance companies that continues to thwart not only the lives of our residents but our overall recovery as well. I raised the issue again with the Florida CFO, Jimmy Patronis, at the ceremony for the one-year anniversary of hurricane Ian in Fort Myers Beach. As insurance is still primarily regulated at the state level, our regulators in Florida must continue to keep the pressure on the bad actors. I was told by the CFO and the state Insurance Commissioner at the FMB Insurance Village in April that various market conduct exams have been launched against some of the insurance companies who have received significant complaints after Ian from policyholders.

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Staying vigilant on insurance

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BUSINESS

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Woman’s Club attracting visitors with pub passports By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

Responding to a challenge by the philanthropic efforts of the King Family Foundation to attract visitors back to Fort Myers Beach after Hurricane Ian, the Fort Myers Beach Woman’s Club has responded with a pub passport that will reward patrons of the town’s restaurants. The passport also will help the organization rebuild their clubhouse on Sterling Avenue which was destroyed by Hurricane Ian. “The cost to rebuild is looking very high,” Fort Myers Beach Woman’s Club President Dawn Thomas said. “We are working with our members to figure out our next steps.” Thomas said the organization reached out to all of the town’s bar and restaurants for the pub passport concept and received cooperation from a dozen restaurants including The Beach Bar, Cabanas, Fresh Catch Bistro, Junkanoo, La Ola, Lighthouse Tiki Bar, Liki Tiki BBQ, Parrot Key Caribbean Grill, Snug Harbor, Wahoo Willie’s and the Yucatan Beach

Stand Bar & Grill. The goal, Thomas said, is “to create a true life passport and have visitors visit each participating bar (and) restaurant and receive a drink or food special. In exchange, they would receive a special passport stamp.” Thomas said 1,200 passports have

been sold and the goal is to sell 2,500 by Dec. 31. The passports can be purchased on the Woman’s Club website at www.FMB-WC.org and will be shipped directly to the purchaser. They can also be purchased in-person at Rude Shrimp, La Ola and Wahoo Willie’s. The cost of the passports are $25 and all proceeds will go

to the Fort Myers Beach Woman’s Club to rebuild their clubhouse. “Each passport is registered manually and mailed and is eligible to win prizes each month,” Thomas said. Prizes include trips on the Key West Express. Each participating local establishment will offer a drink special specifically for all passport holders. The passport holder will get a stamp proving they purchased the specialty drink. After completing their “passport adventure,” passport holders will receive prizes worth $50 or more. The passports must be completed by Dec. 31. Completed passports should be sent to the Fort Myers Beach Woman’s Club, PO Box 2786, Fort Myers Beach FL, 33932 – ATTN: Pub Passport. As for the details of what the future of the Woman’s Club clubhouse will look like, Thomas said “we are working through all those details now.” The clubhouse, which was a historic schoolhouse, was demolished. The building had been used by the Woman’s Club for its events and meetings since the 1950s.

Dixie Fish Co. featured on Florida’s Table Dixie Fish Company on Fort Myers Beach was featured in the fifth season of “Florida’s Table,” a custom video series by VISIT FLORIDA and Emergent Media that promotes Florida’s dynamic culinary scene. The “Florida’s Table” series is notable for its cheffocused storytelling and this newest season tells the story of Southwest Florida cuisine. In the video, Dixie Fish Company Chef Chas Tatigian shared the iconic restaurant’s origin story as an original Florida fishhouse. Originally built in 1937, the restaurant became known as one of the best places around to buy and sell the day’s catch. Still standing today, despite many hurricanes that have passed through over 86 years, the restaurant is beloved by locals and visitors alike. “The appeal of eating fresh is very important to us,” Tatigian said. “The local freshness of our seafood just sells itself.” HM Restaurant Group owns and operates Dixie Fish Company. An award-winning waterfront restaurant on Fort Myers Beach, Dixie Fish Company serves delicious, fresh food in an ideal location to enjoy the beach atmosphere, complete with live music and picturesque views. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., the restaurant is renowned for delivering a legendary guest experience.

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In the video, Dixie Fish Company Chef Chas Tatigian shared the iconic restaurant’s origin story as an original Florida fishhouse. Originally built in 1937, the restaurant became known as one of the best places around to buy and sell the day’s catch. Still standing today, despite many hurricanes that have passed through over 86 years, the restaurant at 714 Fisherman’s Warf is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Kropacek takes on role of community services director By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

Town of Fort Myers Beach Director of Operations and Compliance Frank Kropacek recently was given the additional title of director of community services by Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt. Hyatt announced the new title for Kropacek, whose salary is now $121,000. Kropacek takes over the department formerly known as community development. Community Development Director Steve Popsoki is now the town’s engineer. Kropacek will now oversee a department that handles the town’s building services, permitting, short

Town of Fort Myers Beach Director of Operations and Compliance Frank Kropacek will now oversee a department that handles the town’s building services, permitting, short term rentals, and zoning. term rentals, and zoning. A former procurement analyst for the Lee County Tax Collector’s Office, Kropacek was hired by the town in April as a contracts manager. A message left with Hyatt seeking comment was not returned by press time.

FILE PHOTO

Fort Myers Beach Mosquito Control District Board member Steve Johnson volunteers at the Fourth of July children's fishing tournament at Bonita Bills last year. “Following the storm immediately we identified all the derelict pools that are on the island of which there are over 500 that are just potential, absolute breeding grounds for mosquitoes and we have been managing those. You would not receive that type of service from Lee County because we would just be a small speck.”

Fort Myers Beach Observer

The district’s office, located off Lazy Way, was destroyed by Hurricane Ian. Johnson said the district’s insurance covered the damage to the district’s computer equipment, trucks and spray equipment. Despite losing all equipment, the district was back up and running within a week and responding to constituents, Johnson said.

Johnson said “mosquito issues are not an issue we like on a tourist island, or to ever become a negative issue for our guests.” Speaking to the town council Monday, Johnson said the district office had not received a copy of a draft bill for merging the mosquito district despite the talk by Botana. “We have not received a courtesy response,” he said. Johnson said that while the district can’t confirm with Botana that an attempt to merger the district would take place, he believed the state had to follow the process required under the law to conduct a study and involved the local community. “At a minimum we ask for that process to be followed through,” Johnson said. Next year will be the 75th anniversary of the district. That’s not the only merger talk going on. Councilmember John King said there is a merger being discussed regarding the Lee County and Collier County Metropolitan Planning Organization. King represents the Town of Fort Myers Beach on the board. “We would probably lose our seat in representation there,” King said. “My read on it is it would not be beneficial to us.” King said the merger is being driven by state representatives despite opposition from many of the municipalities represented on both boards. The town council also voted Monday to take a vote voicing opposition to the merger at the Oct. 30 Lee County Legislative Delegation meeting.

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higher than the rates of other communities in the Lee County Mosquito Control District. Botana said he has been under pressure from party leadership in the state legislature to look into combining special districts. The council agreed to have Town Attorney Becky Vose draft a letter opposing the legislation. A letter will be sent to the Lee County legislative delegation ahead of their Oct. 30 meeting at Florida SouthWestern State College at 9 a.m. The meeting is open to the public. The delegation includes more than half a dozen state legislators whose districts touch Lee County. Botana has said he believes the state legislature can merge the districts although state law requires local referendums. Johnson said the “only way” the mosquito district could be merged under state law is through a local referendum. The merger would also like spell the end of the town’s “concierge service,” he said. “We visit every single property in our district twice a year to make sure none are holding water and to make sure they are not breeding mosquitoes.” If there is a mosquito complaint, he said the district will respond within a day. “We walk the entire island inspect all the properties,” Johnson said. “The district focuses on larvae sighting which is essentially using our institutional knowledge to regulate breeding sites on the island and in the mangroves and the bays. That helps us to avoid using adulticide,” Johnson said. “It’s a much less-intrusive and safer way to treat mosquitoes.”

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District From page 1

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Beach Living

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Woman’s Club Christmas Tree Festival Dec. 8-9 The Fort Myers Beach Woman’s Club will host the sixth annual Christmas Tree Festival sponsored by Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, on Dec. 8 and Dec. 9 at the Mound House, 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. An early preview and cocktail party will be held Dec. 8 from 4:30 p.m. 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. For more information visit https://www.fmbwc.org/index.php/holiday-raffle-2023.

A decorated Christmas tree by the Friends of the Mound House from the 2021 Fort Myers Beach Woman's Club Christmas Tree Festival. The festival will return Dec. 8 and Dec. 9 at the Mound House.

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offering boating safety classes The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will be holding responsible boating classes on the third Saturday of each month beginning Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. to p.m. The course is held at the Pine Ridge Community Center, located at 15699 Pine Ridge Road in the Iona area of Fort Myers, next to the Iona McGregor Fire Station and across from the tax collector’s office. Completion of the course will make participants eligible for the state boating certificate. Greg Masonic, the Flotilla Commander of Fort Myers Beach Flotilla 9, said "attending an in-person class is an excellent opportunity for students to interact, share perspectives, and gain local knowl-

The one-day class costs $45 per person and includes study materials. Enroll today at Aux91FMB.org or by calling 239-690-6780 option 1.

edge. Participants learn about the importance of life jackets, risk reduction, preparedness, and exercising sound judgment." According to Florida law, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, who plans to operate a boat in Florida waters with an engine of 10 horsepower or more must complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Florida boating safety ID card. This card certifies that the person

has completed the required boating safety course, but it is not a boating license. The one-day class costs $45 per person and includes study materials. Enroll today at www.Aux91FMB.org or by calling 239-690-6780 option 1. The next dates will be Nov. 18 and Dec. 16 for the classes. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary is the lead agency in recreational boating safety, protecting America's seaward frontier.

Created by Congress in 1939, the Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the U.S. Coast Guard, supporting the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. Every day, vessels and aircraft deploy across the U.S. to aid or save countless boaters and dollars in property damage. For additional information about boating safety classes or registration for a class, contact Kevin McTaggart, Public Education Officer, cgaux91education@gmail.com, at 239690-6780 option 1, or www.Aux91FMB.org/Safeboating.

Town halls to explain how new ‘proximity plan’ will affect students By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

Parents of middle schoolers have an opportunity to see how new school zones might affect their child. Town hall meetings are scheduled for each existing zone to share information about the new middle school proximity plan, on which the Lee County School Board is expected to vote in November. Planning Growth & Capacity Director Dr. Adam Molloy presented the draft middle school proximity zone plan, which would go into effect for the 2024-2025 school year, to the board on Wednesday. “It isn’t a stand-alone solution, it’s a pivotal continuation of our efforts,” he said. The new plan will decrease the size of the attendance zones while creating zones capable of accommodating anticipated student growth over the next decade, Molloy said. As with the elementary proximity plan put into effect this year, the purpose is to assign students to schools closer to home and so save on transportation costs to the district. Parents will have fewer school choice options. “Currently our families have an average of 5.3 middle school options. To provide a personal perspective, our current system allows my wife to rank five schools. Our furthest school is 13.5 miles away from home,” he said.

The new plan will decrease the size of the attendance zones while creating zones capable of accommodating anticipated student growth over the next decade. The average zone is 154 square miles. The proposed middle school proximity zone decreases the average number of choices from 5.3 to 2.2 with an average zone of 87 square miles. Those zones include: n AA – Mariner Middle School and Trafalgar Middle School n BB – Challenger Middle School and Gulf Middle School n CC – Caloosa Middle School, Diplomat Middle School and North Fort Myers Middle Academy of the Arts n DD – The Alva School n EE – Fort Myers Middle School and Paul Laurence Middle School n FF – Cypress Lake Middle School and Lexington Middle School n GG – Bonita Middle School and Three Oaks Middle School n HH – Lemuel Teal Middle School, Lehigh Acres Middle School and Veterans Park Middle School n JJ – Harns Marsh Middle School, Oak Hammock Middle School and Varsity Lakes

Middle School The immediate impact of this will affect incoming sixth grade students, middle school students new to the district and rising middle school students living outside of their current school’s proximity zone and needing transportation. Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier said the proximity plan will affect sixth grade students going into seventh and seventh graders going into eighth grade. Rising seventh and eighth graders living outside of the new proximity zone can continue at the school if they provide their own transportation. There is a total of 19,402 sixth through eighth grade students with 12,541 living within their proximity zone and 6,861 outside of their zone. The displacement of sixth through eighth grade students is projected at 35.4%. The kindergarten through fifth grade displacement was 38.4%. Molloy said displaced students residing outside of their proximity zone will have the option to continue at the school, but district

transportation will not be provided. Transportation is available for sibling preference, as long as they are within the next proximity boundaries. Self-contained ESE programs and students with disabilities will maintain their current enrollment and district transportation. Molloy said that arts application programs will continue at the current sites and transportation will only provided if the school is within the student’s proximity zone. He said all 21 middle schools, including Sanibel offer band and visual arts. “Fifteen have chorus programs, 10 provide dance programs, 12 offer drama and 10 feature orchestra,” Molloy said. Various town halls will be held throughout the community to share the redrawn boundaries for sixth, seventh and eighth grade students. n South Zone, Thursday, Oct. 26, 5:307 p.m., Bonita Springs Middle School, 10141 Terry St. n West Zone, Monday, Oct. 30, 5:30-7 p.m., Challenger Middle School, 624 Trafalgar Parkway n East Zone, Wednesday, Nov. 1, 5:307 p.m., Oak Hammock Middle School, 5321 Tice St. The school board is expected to vote on the middle school proximity plan at its Nov. 21 meeting.

Page 9 n Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 fortmyersbeachtalk.com

Fort Myers Beach Observer

By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

The office of Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Sunday that Project Dynamo transported nearly 300 evacuees to Florida from Israel as part of an executive order announced by his office to bring back Americans from Israel. Israel is currently in the midst of a war with Hamas,after the terrorist group invaded Israel and killed more than 1,400 people while kidnapping approximately 200 Israelis and international citizens including Americans. At least 30 Americans were killed by Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip. According to DeSantis’ communications office, more than 270 Americans were transported to Tampa and seven to Orlando Sunday afternoon. It was not immediately clear how many were Floridians. DeSantis issued the executive order on Thursday to bring home Americans and Floridians from Israel who were unable to leave due to commercial flight cancellations. According to a statement, there are approximately 20,000 Americans inside

“Just a few days ago, I signed an Executive Order to allow Florida to carry out logistical, rescue and evacuation operations to bring Floridians back home and provide important supplies to our valued ally, Israel. I am proud of how quickly we have been able to activate resources and do what the federal government could not — get Floridians and other Americans back home, reunited with their families, free of charge.” — Gov. Ron DeSantis Israel seeking to leave. DeSantis announced that the state is sending medical supplies, hygiene products, clothing and children’s toys to Israel. “Just a few days ago, I signed an Executive Order to allow Florida to carry out logistical, rescue and evacuation operations to bring Floridians back home and provide important supplies to our valued ally, Israel,” DeSantis said. “I am proud of how quickly we have been able to activate resources and do what the federal government could not — get Floridians and other Americans back home, reunited with their families, free of charge.” Bryan Stern, Project Dynamo CEO and

founder, said the organization responds to crisis situations around the world. “It’s truly heart-wrenching to watch the destruction unfolding in Israel. We’re so grateful to Governor DeSantis for partnering with us on this mission, to save every American in need,” Stern said in a statement. The executive order signed by DeSantis allows for the logistical, rescue and evacuation operations to keep its residents safe. Specifically, this order enables the Florida Division of Emergency Management to bring Floridians home and transport necessary supplies to Israel. The Florida Division of Emergency

Fort Myers Beach Observer

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 n Page 10

Florida partners with Project Dynamo to transport Israel evacuees Management will lead efforts for additional flights which will take more supplies to Israel and continue to bring Floridians back home, according to the office of DeSantis. DeSantis has also expanded law enforcement resources upon request to prevent violence at demonstrations and protect Jewish schools and synagogues. The governor directed the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Florida Highway Patrol to work with the Attorney General’s Office and issue memos to law enforcement and Florida universities reminding them of their responsibility to protect the Jewish community from threats and unlawful harassment. If you or someone you know is a Florida citizen who is unable to leave Israel due to current situation, visit the FloridaDisaster.Org/Israel to fill out the form. In addition to the killings, Hamas has fired more than 5,000 rockets into Israel. Israel responded by stopping the infiltration by killing approximately 1,000 terrorists and gunmen. More than 2,000 people in the Gaza Strip are estimated to have been killed by retaliatory strikes by Israel.

Arches Bayfront, a multi-hotel project at Moss Marina in the planning stages, has been put on hold by Moss Marina owner Ben Freeland. FILE PHOTO

Arches Bayfront From page 1 Freeland said he invested in urban planners and undertook an “exhaustive community engagement process” which resulted in incorporating the community’s input for “a water ferry, visual lines of sight to the water, and a publicly accessible bay front park.” Freeland, in a letter, said "We have decided to pause our CPD application at this time. We very much want to be part of the rebirth of FMB, and are committed to proceeding in a way that is in alignment with what the community wants. We plan to move forward with the minor map amendment.” Freeland had proposed three hotels at the Moss Marina site which would range in size from 150 rooms each for two of the hotels that will have mid-

off the island. Freeland said he has spoken with other businesses and marinas about coordinating ferry service. Freeland also purchased Smokin' Oyster Brewery on Old San Carlos Boulevard, which he hopes to rebuild — Moss Marina owner Ben Freeland and reopen next summer. He said there are also expansion plans for RUDE looking the bay down to Snug Harbor Shrimp Co, which rents property from Waterfront Restaurant, Bayside Park Freeland near Moss Marina. “We are really excited about all the and Nervous Nellie’s. Freeland envisions spots along the baywalk being marina operations. First, we plan on opened up to vendors. He is also explor- expanding our drystack storage with up to 90 additional slips. We also puring options for restaurants and shops. Water ferries, waterboats, kayaks chased a new state-of-the-art forklift and charter boats would also be wel- that can handle up to 50-feet vessels, come at the marina with a focus on plus we have utilities back at the wet water ferries, or water taxis, in order to slips,” Freeland said. facilitate more efficient travel on and

"We have decided to pause our CPD application at this time. We very much want to be part of the rebirth of FMB, and are committed to proceeding in a way that is in alignment with what the community wants. We plan to move forward with the minor map amendment."

range and extended stays. A third hotel, which Freeland described as a boutique hotel, would be smaller with 100 rooms. Two of the hotels would be six stories high and another hotel would be five stories. Under the redevelopment plans, the four-acre bayfront property overseeing Matanzas Pass and the bay would open up access to pedestrians and bicyclists along a 1,000-feet linear park over-

Page 11 n Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 fortmyersbeachtalk.com Fort Myers Beach Observer

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 n Page 12 Fort Myers Beach Observer

Merger From page 1 Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District. Almost as quickly as it was proposed, it was opposed by Fort Myers Beach fire commissioners and the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council. The Fort Myers Beach Council voted Monday unanimously to oppose the bill. The Fort Myers Beach Board of Fire Commissioners are scheduled to meet today to discuss it. Botana’s bill caught Fort Myers Beach Fire Chief Scott Wirth and Fort Myers Beach Board of Fire Commissioners Chairman John Bennett by surprise. They hadn’t requested such a merger for a department that has been around since 1949. “This proposal came directly from Mr. Botana for unknown reasons,” Bennett said. The fire commissioners will meet today at 10 a.m. at the Diamondhead Beach Resort on 2000 Estero Blvd. Bennett said there was no prior notice from Botana, who represents Fort Myers Beach in the state legislature. “Personally, I was very surprised by this and shocked that no prior notice or justification was given by Mr. Botana,” Bennett said. In a phone call, Botana informed Wirth that he was moving forward with a bill to merge the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District into the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District. Botana has said that the merger would only need approval by the state legislature even though state law requires a local referendum. Wirth said he asked for a meeting

NATHAN MAYBERG

State Rep. Adam Botana, R-80, of Bonita Springs, who proposed involuntarily merging the Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs fire districts, speaks on the Beach at the Hurricane Ian remeberance ceremony. “I don’t work for the fire commissioners or the districts. I work for the taxpayers.” -

Rep. Adam Botana (R-80), who proposed legislation to merge the Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs fire control districts

with Botana after getting a phone call about the proposal. He said he was told by Botana that he would be out of town the next couple weeks. Botana, of Bonita Springs, said “I don’t work for the fire commissioners or the districts. I work for the taxpayers.” Wirth said “There is absolutely no information to prove that this will be a savings or an enhancement in services.” Botana said the impetus to merge the two fire districts was pushed by leadership in the State House and State Senate. Botana said he was told to look at special districts and is also proposing to merge the Fort Myers Beach Mosquito Control District with Lee County. A message left with Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, R-19, was not immediately returned. Renner, who represents a district that includes Flagler County and St. Johns County, has also proposed merging judicial districts in the state. A message left with State Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-19) was not returned. Botana said he thinks “less government is a good thing.” Wirth said ‘My No. 1 concern is that this district was put together by the will of the people. If this district is to be dissolved, it should also be the will of the voters. It should not happen in the back halls of the (legislature) 400 miles away from here.” Wirth said the state law requires a local referendum and a study before a merger goes up for vote.

Another concern of Wirth is that the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District provides ambulance transportation services as part of an agreement with Lee County EMS, while Bonita Springs does not. If the Fort Myers Beach fire district were dissolved, the town’s agreement with Lee County EMS could potentially end. “We were the first ambulance service in Lee County,” Wirth said. Public comment on proposal scheduled for Oct. 30 legislative delegation The legislation will be up for discussion at the Lee County Legislative Delegation meeting scheduled for Oct. 30 at 9 a.m. at Florida SouthWestern State College, 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers in the nursing building Room AA-177. The public is invited to speak on the bill as well as any other matters or priorities they would like to see state legislators take up. Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka (R-78) said “It’s imperative that we listen and hear from those that will be impacted.” The bill would need to be adopted by both houses of the state legislature and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis. A message left with the office of DeSantis was not returned. Botana maintains the legislation will not require a local referendum even though the Fort Myers Beach Fire See MERGER, page 12

“I can’t imagine taking this kind of a significant policy initiative without the appropriate data and study,” — Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt local governments by a majority of the resident electors or, for districts in which a majority of governing body members are elected by landowners, a majority of the landowners voting in the same manner by which each independent special district’s governing body is elected. The special act merging the districts must include a plan of merger that addresses transition issues such as the effective

“I haven't seen any evidence that this merger would be in the best interest of Fort Myers Beach. It would take over local control.” -

— Fort Myers Beach Fire Commissioner Jim Knickle District Accountability Act states that for the state legislature to adopt an involuntary merger of a special district created by special district, it “must be approved at separate referenda of the impacted

Fort Myers Beach Observer

Control District was created by local referendum and state law requires that a referendum be held for an involuntary merger of independent special districts. Chapter 189 of the Uniform Special

See MERGER, page 14

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

NATHAN MAYBERG

The Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District’s headquarters off Voorhis Street. The department’s 54 employees would be merged into the Bonita Springs Fire and Rescue District without a local referendum, under a proposal from State Rep. Adam Botana.

date of the merger, governance, administration, powers, pensions, and assumption of all assets and liabilities.” Bonita Springs and Fort Myers Beach are vastly dissimilar communities, with the Bonita Springs fire district more than five times the size of the Fort Myers Beach district. The Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District covers the Town of

Page 13 n Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Merger From page 12

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 n Page 14 Fort Myers Beach Observer

State Rep. Adam Botana’s bill caught Fort Myers Beach Fire Chief Scott Wirth (left) and Fort Myers Beach Board of Fire Commissioners Chairman John Bennett by surprise. They hadn’t requested such a merger for a department that has been around since 1949. NATHAN MAYBERG

Merger From page 13 Fort Myers Beach as well as San Carlos Island and unincorporated Lee County along San Carlos Boulevard down to Summerlin Road. The town is also dissimilar to Bonita Springs in that its stations cover three distinct areas of the town that can be nearly impossible to navigate during peak traffic hours of the tourist season in the winter. The town had three fire stations before Hurricane Ian and currently has only two after one was destroyed by Hurricane Ian. Bonita Springs has seven fire stations. Botana’s legislation would reserve one of the five seats on the new fire commission for Fort Myers Beach. Town council vote Councilmember Bill Veach questioned some of the assumptions Botana made in a letter sent to the town council regarding the merger, calling some of his figures a “misrepresentation of what our fire department does.” He noted that while Botana notes the town has a year-round population under 6,000, those numbers swell during the winter tourist season. The fire district includes many large condo towers and hotels that present their own risks with thousands of more visitors. “We have such a large transient population,” he said. Veach said that Botana’s letter referring to the history of the district’s millage rate contained inaccurate assumptions. Veach called for “a real study and not a back of the napkin sketch.” In voting to oppose the bill, Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt said that as a former state legislator in Indiana, “I can’t imagine taking this kind of a significant policy initiative without the appropriate data and study to reach whatever conclusion the data leads us to. I also can’t imagine doing it without talking to the principals involved.” Atterholt called for a study to be done and “the principals consulted” before the

My No. 1 concern is that this district was put together by the will of the people. If this district is to be dissolved, it should also be the will of the voters,” — Fort Myers Beach Fire Chief Scott Wirth resolution is introduced. Councilmember Karen Woodson said she doesn’t think the proper process was followed. She said that such a process needs to go through “the right steps, the right channels but at this point I would totally oppose.” Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said “we are all on the same page. There is not enough data, not enough detail to support it one way or the other.” Allers said he wants a further study of the costs. “We don’t know if it makes sense,” he said. “It’s just a little premature for myself to get behind it one way or the other,” Allers said, although he voted on a resolution to oppose the bill. ‘It’s going to die’ Bonita Springs Fire Chief Greg DeWitt was as equally surprised by the proposal as his Fort Myers Beach counterpart was. DeWitt said his department was “neutral” on the issue but believes that a planning study and local referendum should be held in accordance with state law. “My personal feeling and gut level is it’s going to die if it doesn’t have a referendum,” DeWitt said. DeWitt said he didn’t believe there was a precedent in the state for involuntarily merging two fire districts without a local referendum. A voluntary merger between Big Corkscrew and North Naples into North Collier Fire Department ended up costing more than $1 million, he said. One potential issue DeWitt sees in merging the districts is they have millage

rates that are in sharp contrast to each other. While the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District approved a millage rate this summer that kept its rate flat at $2.9851 per thousand dollars of assessed value, the Bonita Springs district has a millage rate of $1.9466. Wirth questioned if that would mean a blended tax rate or different assessments in the different districts. It’s also not clear what exactly the savings will be from the merger. Fort Myers Beach could stand to lose its chief only to have to pay for another chief to oversee a much larger district, just after dealing with the worst hurricane in its history. While Bonita Springs has a lower millage rate, its budget is actually much higher at $44 million compared to $28.9 million for the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District. Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District has a workforce of 125 people compared to 54 for Fort Myers Beach. On top of that, the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District purchased the former Topps Supermarket lot for $3.99 million in 2020 for what was supposed to be the replacement of Fire Station 31. Since Hurricane Ian, the lot has been used for Fort Myers Beach town hall offices and has been the subject of talks between the town and fire district of a property swap in which the town could take over the lot. Under a merger of the districts, the new Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District would take over all assets of the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District, including the Topps lot property.

Botana said the current Fort Myers Beach fire stations would stay in place. ‘Out of the blue’ Fort Myers Beach Fire Commissioner Jim Knickle said the proposal “came out of the blue.” Knickle said “I haven’t seen any evidence that this merger would be in the best interest of Fort Myers Beach. It would take over local control.” Fire commissioners only make $6,000 a year per state law so it’s not as if there will be major savings by splitting the cost of a board with Bonita Springs. “Rep. Botana hasn’t indicated how he is going to save us money,” Knickle said. Botana conceded that fire commissioners are “not too happy about it. The administrators are not too happy about it. I don’t work for the fire commissioners.” Wirth said that before Botana’s merger proposal he had been questioned over a proposal from the fire department to build a fire training facility at an estimated cost of $700,000 to $1 million. He said that Botana questioned him as to why he wouldn’t use the Bonita Springs fire training facility instead. Wirth noted the drive between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs could be well over an hour in season. “Every day I am dealing with this, I’m not designing and building a fire station,” Wirth said. Asked about how the merger proposal would benefit Fort Myers Beach and why a local referendum wasn’t being sought, Botana said “I work for one person and that is the taxpayer and the constituents of my district.” He added, “If I can make their taxes cheaper that’s what I’m here to do.” One year after Hurricane Ian as the Town of Fort Myers Beach works to regain its footing, Wirth is wondering “why now?” Knickle called the merger proposal a “bum rush. It doesn't feel right to me.”

Page 15 n Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 fortmyersbeachtalk.com

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 n Page 16

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

The Lee County School Board was presented with six main areas for this year’s legislative platform last Wednesday. Priority areas include increasing student achievement, safety, teacher certification and retention, school facilities utilization, post Hurricane Ian recovery and deregulation.

annex. We are asking for $2.5 million and letting the legislature know we have skin in the game and will match every dollar for every dollar. The total is $5 million,” Gomez said. The last is to increase per student funding by at least 5% from $8,933 to $9,350.

Teacher Certification and Retention The request is to exclude school social workers from taking and passing the Professional Education Exam — Florida Teacher Certification Examination, to maintain employment in a public school.

Post Hurricane Ian Recovery Gomez said the district was very successful following the needs and asking for appropriations and different requests from the state legislature following Hurricane Ian. “We want to continue to keep the ball rolling and remind everyone that we understand other districts were hit by a storm,” he said. The request is for a one-year extension to “the previously approved legislative action, so that roofing projects can process using pre-positioned continuing contracts for the remaining recovery efforts.” “We still have a lot of roofs to be replaced, construction that needs to take place. It’s great for us to continue the piggyback and extend it for another year,” Gomez said. Deregulation Gomez said the ultimate goal would be to have the same regulatory flexibility for all public schools.

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

Safety Gomez said the first request is to support an increase in the Safe Schools Allocation in the Florida Education Finance Program. In addition, the district will request $500,000 to continue the success with after-school programming. Bernier said they did not have beforeand after-school care programs at each of the elementary schools.With the help of the amazing principals there are now before- and after-school programs at each school at one base fee. There was also a small break for employees who have childcare needs. Bernier said the programs are selfsustaining due to the fees, which could be increased, as well as the increase in enrollment. Another ask in safety is for $1 million for such measures as perimeter fencing

as some of the outdoor corridors are not being fenced in. A new request is for funding for the School District Mobile Disaster Leadership Response Vehicle. Bernier said the mobile disaster unit would be used for such things as post natural disasters incidents. He said they did not have the ability to meet after Hurricane Ian. “It gives us an area to work from with connectivity and air condition,” Bernier said, as well as response to other emergencies, such as a bottled-water crisis when a main water break occurred. “It’s a place to be a part of the process and work from there.” The recommendation came from Safety, Security and Emergency Management Executive Director David Newlan based on what other school districts have when they need to respond to an emergency.

School facilities and utilization Gomez said they are asking to include pre-kindergarten in the Florida Inventory of School Houses calculations, as the program is already in the schools and would generate more revenue.

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

Increase Student Achievement The first plank is state appropriations for the expansion of career and technical education programs at Cape Coral Technical College of $2.1 million to continue the work for the actual construction phase. Angel Gomez, chief communications and government relations, said last year the district received an appropriation of $2.5 million for preconstruction. “This is the ask for phase two for the construction part to start building classrooms,” he said. Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier said more information regarding the Cape Technical College and where it stands will be forthcoming. “One of the reasons why the expansion has been delayed is because of the placement of the Hector A. Cafferata campus,” he said. There is also a request for a specific appropriation project of $2.5 million to create a new Career and Technical Education College in the east side of Lee County. “It will not be an addition to a school. The plan is to have its own small little

The first plank is state appropriations for the expansion of career and technical education programs at Cape Coral Technical College of $2.1 million to continue the work for the actual construction phase. Last year the district received an appropriation of $2.5 million for preconstruction for the new annex.

The second is to permit retired classroom teachers and administrators to return to the classroom after two months, rather than the current requirement of waiting a year.

Page 17 n Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Lee School Board sets legislative priorities

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 n Page 18 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

Lee School Board opens discussion on new taxes By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewpapers.com

With teachers asking for greater compensation, and surrounding districts having extra operational millage to put towards salaries, the Lee County School Board heard a presentation of what it would take to have that tax flow. Board member Cathleen Morgan said she pushed for this to be brought before the board, but not for advocacy. She said during the salary discussions it was frequently stated that the district is competing with counties that have additional millage funds. “If there is an interest this is something we need to be looking at sooner, rather than later,” Morgan said. “I did not do this because I am advocating and will be advocating to move forward on this.” Rather, the public and staff need to hear they are acknowledging the concern of compensation. Chief Financial Officer Dr. Ami Desamours said millage is the property tax that is applied to individual real property for

School districts can, with voter approval, impose two possible additional millage levies that can be used toward the district’s operational costs, including boosting compensation for teachers and other employees. Any such initiative would need to approved by the school board and then placed on the ballot by the Lee County Board of County Commissioners in a General Election year. If approved, the taxes would then sunset in two or four years, requiring new voter approval to remain on the books. The ballot initiative have to be included in every $1,000 of property value. The current millage for the school district a General Election, or even-numbered, year. Dupuy-Bruno said the board would have is 5.430 mills, which is $5.43 for every to pass a resolution in March, or April, so it $1,000 of real property taxable valuation. Desamours said the district has the oppor- could then be presented to the County tunity of two possible additional millage Commissioners by May. “We have about 120 days to make sure it levies. Each is allowable for a voter referendum, and both can be used towards the dis- gets on the election,” she said. The most common use of the added milltrict’s operational cost. She said one is not to exceed two years and the other is not to age is to enhance salaries for teachers. After the two or four years it would have to go back exceed four years. Board Attorney Kathy Dupuy-Bruno said out to the voters. If not passed again, that the board would have to pass a resolution at a funding source then would disappear or “sunregular meeting. Then it would go to the Lee set.” Chief Strategy Officer Dr. Ken Savage County Board of County Commissioners said some districts put out the scenarios to which would need to call for an election.

help the voters understand what happens if they lose the millage and the different ways those cuts could be addressed. After the presentation there was a mixed review as to whether the board wanted to move forward. “From my standpoint, looking at it, I don’t support moving further with this at the moment,” Board member Sam Fisher said. Board Chair Armor Persons said he would have to think long and hard before he could offer support. “What scares me the most about this is what do you do at the end of the two or four years,” he said, adding that there is an increase in salary for the next four years and then all of a sudden those funds are not there anymore. Board member Debbie Jordan on the other hand said she would be interested in having further conversation. “We do have a need,” she said, asking how do they accommodate that need. “I would definitely be interested in having more conversation.”

School District to hold recruitment event today and Oct. 25 The School District of Lee County will host two recruitment events this month for the 2023-24 school year – a Social Lee: Careers and Conversations event today, Oct. 18, and a recruitment fair on Oct. 25. On Oct. 18, the District will host a Social Lee: Careers and Conversations event from 4 to 6 p.m. This informational event allows participants to connect with the recruitment team, learn about open positions and walk through the process of becoming certified to teach in Florida. Select candidates may also

be offered an interview for potential employment. It will take place at West End at City Walk, 2250 McGregor Blvd. in Fort Myers. On Oct. 25, the District will host a recruitment fair in partnership with CareerSource from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a range of positions. During the fair, hiring managers will be interviewing and hiring teachers, school counselors and instructional support professionals. High-demand positions include English, elementary education, science, math and special education, as well as non-instruc-

tional positions. The event will be held at CareerSource, 6800 Shoppes at Plantation Dr., Suite 170, in Fort Myers. To register for the upcoming events, visit LeeSchools.net/Careers. The School District of Lee County is among the largest school districts in Florida and the United States. To be considered for a teaching or school counselor position, candidates must meet one of the following criteria: Hold a valid standard teaching certificate (Florida or out-of-state) OR Expected to graduate from a college of education by December 2023 OR Hold a bachelor’s degree in an area where certification can be obtained or any degree major and a passing score on a subject area exam AND School counselors must hold a master’s

degree in the proper area The District’s efforts to put “The Right Talent in the Right Place” means that new hires will receive the support and necessary resources that will enable them to succeed upon entering the field of education. The District offers a competitive and comprehensive compensation plan for its employees, and additional benefits and earning opportunities are also available via advanced degree supplement, summer school, athletic coaching and more. Upon hire, a personal benefits selection process will be made available to eligible employees. For support or additional questions, email careers@leeschools.net or call 239-3378676. To learn more about available career opportunities, visit LeeSchools.net/Careers.

WHERE TO GO

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WHO TO SEE WEEK OF OCTOBER 18, 2023

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Edison and Ford Winter Estates to hold Fun family-friendly Fall Festival —Page 21

Fort Myers Beach Halloween event returning to Bay Oaks STAFF REPORT ith Halloween on the way, a tradition that was lost after Hurricane Ian is returning this year: Fright Night. The Town of Fort Myers Beach Halloween event will take place outside the Bay Oaks Recreational Campus at 2731 Oak St., Friday, Oct. 20 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30

p.m. There will be a costume contest, trunk or treat, bounce houses, community organization booths, food, and music. For information on donating candy for the event, contact Barbara at BMacdonald@fmbgov.com. If you are interested in decorating your trunk and par-

insidetoday Pet Pals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

ticipating in the Trunk or Treat, contact Erin at EAdkins@fmbgov.com. If you are interested in volunteering or have any further questions about the event, contact Town of Fort Myers Beach Parks and Recreation Director Nicole Bezine at Nicole.Berzin@fmbgov.com or call 239-7654222.

Sports & Recreation . . . . .24

What’s Happening . . . . . . .22

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 n Page 20 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

‘Popcorn Falls’ now playing at the Off Broadway Palm The Off Broadway Palm Theatre presents “Popcorn Falls” playing through Nov. 18. Written by James Hindman, “Popcorn Falls” is a mile-a-minute two man show that proves art can save the world. Welcome to Popcorn Falls, a sleepy American town that is forced into bankruptcy when their only claim to fame, their namesake waterfall, dries up. Their only hope is a chance for a grant – if they can open a theater and put on a play! Just two actors play over twenty roles in this farce that

BroadwayWorld called a “laugh-out-loud comedic genius.” The Off Broadway Palm is an intimate theatre, located off of the main lobby at Broadway Palm. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Ticket prices range from $55 to $70 with discounts available for groups of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, visiting BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.

“Popcorn Falls” now playing through Nov. 18. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, visiting BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. PHOTO PROVIDED

Page 21 n Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

PHOTO PROVIDED

be able to participate. The climb is sponsored by the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association. Tickets for the Banyan Tree climb are $35 per person and may be purchased online at EdisonFord.org. There is no charge to stroll around the craft vendor booths and listen to music; however, there is a fee to participate in each activity and visitors are encouraged to bring cash. Parking is free in the Edison Ford lots. Admission to the museum, laboratory and riverside of the property is not included. For information about the site, or to purchase tickets for tours, visit EdisonFord.org. Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.

City of Cape Coral to host Trunk-or-Treat Oct. 27 The City of Cape Coral is hosting the second annual Trunk-orTreat on Friday, Oct. 27, from 6 to 8 p.m. The event will be held in the City Hall visitor's parking lot at 1015 Cultural Park Boulevard. The Nightmare Before Christmas will be played on the front lawn at 7 p.m. This Halloween event is free for all attendees and offers a safe environment for residents to come together and celebrate the start of the holiday season. Trunk-or-Treat will include candy giveaways from City departments (while supplies last), music, and skelefun for all ages. Costumes are encouraged. For more information, visit www.capecoral.gov. We hope you'll join us for a scary good time.

The Lee County Parks & Recreation has announced plans for Fall Festival events throughout October. Events include: ∫ 6-9 p.m., Monday-Friday and 10 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.

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

Edison and Ford Winter Estates will celebrate fall with it's second annual Fall Festival, Saturday, Oct., 28. This family-friendly event will include 40 craft vendors, food trucks, music, and several fun activities for children. Activities include inflatable axe throwing, mobile teddy bears, face painting, spin art, fairy hair and caricatures. Families will be able to select and purchase pumpkins in the Pumpkin Patch with the option to paint the pumpkins (paint will be provided) and enter a contest. The popular Banyan Tree climb (open to adults and children) will be offered again; registration is recommended since a limited number of people will

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

Lee County Parks Fun family-friendly Fall Festival & Recreation offers at Edison and Ford Winter Estates Fall Festival events

Children can participate in the pumpkin patch and pumpkin painting contest during the Fall Festival at Edison and Ford Winter Estates.

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 n Page 22 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

WHAT’S HAPPENING 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 proceeds 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 concert 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.

Fall Floral Arranging Class offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates Oct. 22 Sunday, Oct. 22, from 10-11:30 a.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will offer a Fall Floral Arranging Workshop. Floral designer, Anita Singh, will teach the art of creating a floral arrangement inspired by colors and textures of fall. Singh will share her expertise and techniques in floral design to help students create a unique fall-themed arrangement. Participants will learn how to choose the right flowers and greenery and put all of the pieces together. All flowers, foliage, and supplies will be provided. This class is suited for both beginners and experienced floral designers. Participants will be able to take their floral arrangement home with them to display or give away as a gift. Registration is required for this hands-on workshop at EdisonFord.org. Class cost is $85 for non-members or $75 for Edison Ford members.

Inaugural Art in the Wild to feature artist workshops and demos at refuge Eleven artists will demonstrate their skills, eight others will lead workshops and hands-on art stations, five duck stamp celebrities will present and sign, and an estimated 20-plus plein-air artists will paint at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel during Art in the Wild on Oct. 21-22. In celebration of National Wildlife Refuge Week and Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling's 146th birthday, the refuge and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge will introduce the inaugural, all-free event, which was originally scheduled for October 2022 but canceled due to Hurricane Ian. Art activities will honor 2023-24 Duck Stamp artists and the legacy of refuge namesake Darling, a Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist and artist of the early 20th century. “This will become an annual fall tradition to celebrate 'Ding' Darling's art legacy and role in creating the first duck stamp and Federal Duck Stamp Program, which has continued for nearly 90 years and preserved six million acres of sensitive wetlands and wildlife habitat,” Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland said. “The event offers something for everyone, all free of charge.” The Hautman brothers, of Minnesota — multiple Federal Duck Stamp Contest winners — will make appearances. A special exhibition of their nature art also will be on display in the refuge's Visitor & Education Center auditorium during the month. Also appearing will be 2023-24 Junior Duck Stamp winner Mila Linyue Ton, of Virginia, and Florida's best-ofshow placer Jenny Liu, of Port Orange. Other artists will demonstrate their skills on Oct. 21 from noon to 4 p.m. They will include world-renowned bird sculptor Jim Sprankle, pottery artist and educator Tim Smith and Andrew Corke, who used recycled bike tires to sculpt the refuge's manatees at its Best Restroom exhibit. Other demonstrators include penand-ink artist Jaye Boswell, painter Lacy McClare, fish-fly tyer Stan Bunick, origami artist Cabe Rieck, stained glass artist Deborah Kramer, polymer clay artisan Christine Keyworth and bird carver Ken Yacavone. Sanibel artist Rachel Pierce will conduct a work-

Better Together to host ‘A Night of a Million Dreams’ Gala on Nov. 10 Better Together, a nonprofit dedicated to families and children, is hosting ‘A Night of a Million Dreams’ Gala at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 10, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs. The gala will raise funds to support Better Together’s mission of helping parents find employment and provide a loving, safe and supportive foundation for their children. The Wizard of Oz-themed gala will take guests on a magical journey to the wonderful land of better families and better jobs with an evening of dinner, impactful stories and live and silent auctions, with all proceeds to benefit Better Together programs that serve families across the state. The event is chaired by Dr. Alise and David Bartley. Better Together is made up of two programs – Better Families and Better Jobs – that help parents who are going through a hard time to keep their kids out of foster care, find work and address the root causes of their struggle so that they can reunite as a family with the tools and support system to thrive. Established in Southwest Florida just over five years ago, the nonprofit’s programming has rapidly expanded to reach families in 21 counties across the state. To date, the organization has served over 7,800 children and kept 98% of families together, while helping 39,000 job seekers across 22 states find employment.

shop, “Paint on a Queen Palm,” and former Junior Duck Stamp winner John Brennan will teach hands-on how to paint ducks. Refuge Artist-in-Residence Jacqui Roch will lead a Community Mural project in the afternoon. Other hands-on art activities will include painting wine glasses, a nature journal hike, painting seashells, making recycled jewelry and decorating tea towels. Some activities limit participation; visit DingDarling.Eventbrite.com to register. On Oct. 22, the refuge expects more than 20 regional plein-air artists to participate in its first-ever Paint Out. Attendees can observe the painters along Wildlife Drive and at the Bailey Tract, then later place their vote for People’s Choice Award. Admission to Wildlife Drive is free both days. Other activities will include live music, yoga instruction, a nature puppet show, a Federal Duck Stamp art exhibition, and awards to winners of youth art contests and the amateur nature photography contest. For the full schedule or more information, visit dingartinthewild.com. For sponsorship opportunities, contact April Boehnen at aprilb@dingdarlingsociety.org. The gala will be held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, 5001 Coconut Rd., Bonita Springs and tickets are $350 per person and $2,500 for tables of eight. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit BetterTogetherUS.org/Gala.

GoldenFest XIII set for Nov. 12 at the Shell Factory Golden Retriever Rescue of Southwest Florida hosts GoldenFest XIII from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12, at the Shell Factory & Nature Park. Open to well-behaved leashed dogs of all breeds, the event includes vendors, a huge raffle, pet-related demos ranging from agility and flyball to obedience and rally, plus live music, other entertainment and tasty fare. 16554 N. Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers. www.grrswf.org, info@grrswf.org or 239-3690415.

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.

The Fort Myers Beach Observer & Beach Bulletin welcomes news from our community! Send news tips & releases to news@breezenewspapers.com

Find A Home Give A Home Pet Rescue

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

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.

Save Our Strays Feline Rescue Fort Myers Beach Beautiful cats and kittens need forever homes By Jo Knobloch Saveourstraysfmb@yahoo.com Founder of Save Our Strays Cat Rescue a 501c3 organization on Fort Myers Beach

Carmella is a special torti calico mix who looks like she was painted with a brush adding peach highlights on her sides. She mothered three beautiful kittens — Amber being one of them who is very sweet and playful. Carmella can be seen this week at our Pet Supermarket store on Majestic Palms Boulevard just off San Carlos Boulevard behind Fifth Third Bank in the Bealls Outlet Plaza. Her beautiful 3-month-old kittens can be seen by appointment at the rescue on south end of Fort Myers Beach. Please call 239 851 3485 to schedule time to see them. Food or other donations for cats and kittens can be left in our donation bin at the Pet Supermarket store. We are in need of wet and dry food for the kittens as well as wet and dry for the adult cats. We appreciate any and all donations. Our P.O. Box is 5014 at Fort Myers Beach, 33932 for monetary donations. We are hoping to have a couple fundraisers this season in February and March and are currently looking for places to hold them. Info will be forthcoming soon. Volunteers are needed to help in the planning of these fundraisers aswell as helping at the fundraisers. Please call Jo at 239 851 3485 if you are able to help in any way. We also will need baskets and items for the silent auction.

Carmella mothered three beautiful kittens, including Amber, who is very sweet and playful. They are available for adoption.

Check out our facebook page Save our Strays Feline Rescue Email us at saveourstraysfmb@yahoo.com. Cat donations can be sent to: P.O. Box 5014, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33932

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

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Unexpected friends. This week we bring you the story of four kittens who were posted for free on craigslist. As you may know our Rescue does concentrate on rescuing unwanted dogs mainly from high-kill shelters. However once in a blue moon we bend our rules and help the tiniest ones. We rescued from the same house a large breed pit bull. A very sweet, blind and deaf dog named Coal a few weeks back. He was adopted and the little ones are now in need after the lady who had has been forced to move. They have to go to the veterinarian as soon as possible where they will be tested, vaccinated and microchiped. They have a runny nose and watery eyes and will need a couple of weeks to recover. We do not know at this time if they are male or female (except the orange one, they are always male.) If you do love cats thanks for helping theses little ones. They all deserve to live a happy life. If you are interested, please call or text 239-2810739-

Page 23 n Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

PET PALS

Island pets seeking forever homes

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 n Page 24 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

SPORTS & RECREATION Registration begins for 2024 Lee County Senior Games – ‘Fitness Matters’ Lee County Parks & Recreation welcomes all senior athletes to participate in the 2024 Lee County Senior Games, themed “Fitness Matters,” which feature social, recreational and competitive activities. Registration opened Oct. 16. Register at www.leeparks.org/register or call 239-533-7275. Registration is $15 per event. Participants must be 50 years or older by Dec. 31, 2024, and qualifying event top finishers will be eligible to compete at the state level in the 2024 Florida Senior Games. The games will be held Jan. 26 through March 16, 2024, with eight sports in various locations throughout the county. The Florida Games Series Qualifier Events include: Table Tennis, Archery, Pickleball, Basketball Shooting, Basketball 3V3, Billiards, Swimming and Tennis. Participants will receive one shirt that will be distributed at event site. Medals will be presented to the first-, second- and third-place finishers of each event. For event schedule and more information about Lee County Senior Games visit www.leeparks.org. For more information about Lee County Parks & Recreation locations, amenities and other special events, visit www.leeparks.org, call 239-533-7275 or email leeparks@leegov.com. To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter here:

Lovers Key State Park to offer guided nature programs The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Lovers Key State Park will present weekly programs on park history and wildlife throughout the month of October. All programs will take place at Lovers Key State Park at 8700 Estero Blvd. Space is limited for all events; reservations are required. To register, visit the Friends of Lovers Key’s Eventbrite page. The park offers many recreational opportunities for visitors with disabilities. For accommodations assistance, please contact the park office at 239707-6328. October 2023 programs include: ∫ Friday, Oct. 20, at 10:30 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 the Friends of Lovers Key’s Eventbrite page. ∫ Saturday, Oct. 28, at 10:30 a.m. Sensational Sharks Program is free with paid park entry Join a park ranger for an interesting and informative lecture on sharks, the ocean’s most sensational residents. Discover why these awe-inspiring elasmobranchs are often misunderstood by the public, what crucial roles they play in our ecosystems, and how you can help protect them. Space is limited; reservations are required. To register, visit the Friends of Lovers Key’s Eventbrite page.

The Florida Games Series Qualifier Events include: Table Tennis, Archery, Pickleball, Basketball Shooting, Basketball 3V3, Billiards, Swimming and Tennis. www.leegov.com/resources/newsletters. Follow Lee County Government on Facebook, www.facebook.com/leecountyflbocc.

Fair at Fenway South returning to JetBlue Park Event to be held over three weekends from Nov. 3-19 The Fair at Fenway South will make its return to JetBlue Park Nov. 3-19. After being canceled last year due to Hurricane Ian, the popular community event is back for three big weekends with a brand new assortment of thrilling carnival rides, a kiddieland for the littles, family-friendly shows and attractions, challenging games and everyones’ favorite fair food and vendors. Fan favorites rides like the Rock Star, Vertigo and the Friendly Ferris Wheel, along with midway games and funnel cakes are all coming back, with new surprises in store. As always, a full schedule of award-winning entertainment is included with admission, with hours

of fun shows, educational demonstrations and thrilling performances daily. This year's lineup includes The High Flying Pages Circus, Dynamo Dogs, Rosaire's Royal Racing Pigs, The Wolves of the World, Cowtown USA Petting Corral, the Magic of Lance Gifford and a Las Vegas Hypnotist Show. For 2023, by popular demand, there are simplified ticketing options available both online and at JetBlue Park to make visits easy and affordable. There are also additional daytime hours, making it easier than ever for seniors and families with young children to attend. Advance discount tickets, unlimited ride wristbands, and BOGO admission deals are available at

Flounder recreational harvest season closes Florida Fish and Wildlife has announced that the recreational harvest of flounder in all Florida state and federal waters closed Oct. 15, and will remain closed through Nov. 30, reopening Dec. 1. This closed season provides protection to flounder during pre-spawning aggregations, which ensures more fish can reproduce each year, according to the FWC. To learn more about flounder regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine, click “Recreational Regulations” and select “Flounder.”

www.fairatfenway.com. Fair hours are Thursdays, 5-10 p.m.; Fridays: 5-11 p.m.; Saturdays, 1-11 p.m.; and Sundays, 1-10 p.m. There is plenty of available onsite parking at JetBlue Park located at 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort in Myers. For more information, visit www.fairatfenway.com. For vendor, sponsorship, and group sales information, contact info@fairproductions2.com. The Fair at Fenway will donate a portion of the proceeds to the Jordan Schuman Foundation for Kindness, which provides grants, scholarships and donations to charities and individuals in need within the local community.

The Fort Myers Beach Observer & Beach Bulletin welcomes news from our community! Send news tips & releases to news@breezenewspapers.com

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Fort Myers Beach Observer

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Observer 10/18/23