VOLUME 40, NUMBER 43
VOLUME 40, NUMBER 43
Chair resigns; council appoints Rood to MERTF
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force was transformed Monday as longtime Chairman Steve Johnson resigned ahead of a vote by the town council
The elected board unanimously appointed Ed Rood to the advisory board and replaced Rose Larkin, a local master gardener and retired educator who had sought reap-
pointment
In his resignation, Johnson cited what he said is a year-long “politicization” of the advisory board by the town council
He also cited Councilmember John King’s sharing of an email sent by a MERTF member to council asking for support from what he called “attacks” by a social media outlet with which some on council choose to share their views
The outlet published the email, which, by
law, is a public record
Johnson said it was not intended as such
“It was a discreet email with a private concern,” Johnson said
In withdrawing his candidacy for reappointment, Johnson said that he refused to serve with King
“His actions defy any moral code or ethical requirement of a councilor,” Johnson said of King
King declined to address the matter when
Lag oon walkover collapses near Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Ar ea
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
Less than a year after a controversial 298-feet boardwalk was constructed on Fort Myers Beach to allow access across state lagoons that flow through the Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area, Hurricane Milton dislodged the bridge
The walkover, constructed behind properties owned by Texas Hold'em LLC (Ed Rood) and Squeeze Me Inn LLC (Kurt Kroemer) behind 8150 and 8170 Estero Boulevard on the southern end of the island, was the subject of numerous lawsuits and hearings over the years involving the property owners and the town, state and local and federal courts
Kroemer and Rood challenged the town’s zoning code which restricted the structure from being built in its environmentally critical zone without a special exception permit
Rood also filed a federal American with Disabilities Act claim against the town in federal court which was dismissed
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council voted to allow the construction of the bridge last year, overturning precedent set by previous councils that had opposed it Among other issues, opponents had contended the structure would be vulnerable to hurricanes
“Part of it was damaged by Milton but
will be repaired,” Rood said on Tuesday Town council approved the boardwalk in a split vote last year after Mayor Dan Allers joined newly-elected councilmembers John King and Karen Woodson in reversing votes taken previously to deny a special exception permit for the structure Florida Audubon sued the town over
walkover on Fort Myers Beach w
Milton and now lays across vegetation next to the Little Estero
contacted Monday or his vote for Rood, who, in the past, has contested some actions by the town council
Rood’s quest to build a private 298-feet boardwalk across state lagoons behind his home along with neighbor Kurt Kroemer ensnared the town in years of litigation as the town council sought to uphold its zoning, which prohibits the construction of the boardwalk in the environmentally critical
t h e p r o p e r t y a f t e r d a m a g e f r o m H u r r i c a n e I a n T h e v o t e d e n i e d t h e a p p l i c a n t s f o r t h e 7 5 - u n i t d e v e l o p m e n t f r o m m o v i n g f o r w a r d t o a s e c o n d r e a d i n g f o r t h e r e d e v e l o p m e n t o f t h e i r E s t e r o
B o u l e v a r d d e v e l o p m e n t T h e d e v e l o pm e n t , w h i c h i n c l u d e s t i m e s h a r e s , h a s a p p r o x i m a t e l y 3 , 8 0 0 o w n e r s a c c o r d i n g t o r e p r e s e n t a t i v e s M a y o r D a n A l l e r s , V i c e M a y o r J i m
A t t e r h o l t , C o u n c i l m e m b e r S c o t t
S a f f o r d a n d C o u n c i l m e m b e r J o h n K i n g v o t e d t o r e j e c t t h e p r o p o s e d r e z o n i n g C o u n c i l m e m b e r K a r e n W o o d s o n v o t e d a g a i n s t t h e c o u n c i l ’ s d e c i s i o n t o r e j e c t t h e o r d i n a n c e
A l l e r s s a i d h e w a s n ’ t s u r e i f t h e “ p u b l i c b e n e f i t ” o f f e r e d p r o p e r l y b a la n c e d t h e r e q u e s t t o b u i l d h i g h e r t h a n t h e t o w n ’ s z o n i n g c o d e a l l o w s “ I d o n ’ t t h i n k t h e L P A h a d a l l t h e i n f o r m a t i o n t h e y h a d t o m a k e t h e d e c is i o n w e m a d e , ” A l l e r s s a i d A l l e r s s a i d h e t h
Mammograms help detect breast cancer sooner
More than 30% of women over the age of 40 have not been screened with a preventive mammogram in the last two years That’s according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), which raises the concern about missed opportunities for early-stage detection.
The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all women who are at average risk get screened for breast cancer every other year, starting when they’re 40 years old and continuing through age 74 If there is a family history of breast cancer, a physician may recommend a mammogram before 40 years old. Some physicians also recommend being screened each year instead of every two years Working alongside physician advocates, it’s important that each patient make a plan that’s specific to their family history and risk levels
Guest Column
Breast cancer accounts for about 30% of all new female cancers each year A mammogram is the gold standard for detecting breast cancer early When it’s caught in earlier stages, chances of survival are much greater
Detection before symptoms
A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of the breast and decades of research show that
Medicare versus Medicare Advantage
To the editor:
This fall, seniors in Southwest Florida will b e b o m b a r d e d w i t h s o
women who have regular mammograms are more likely to find issues sooner, resulting in less aggressive treatments
Getting a mammogram should be part of every woman’s regular medical routine Ensuring preventive measures supports early detection Regular screenings can find changes that occur in the breast before any physical symptoms (such as lumps) start to show If something looks suspicious, further tests will be performed to determine if there is cause for concern and what next steps to take
A mammogram is only the first step to determine whether there is an issue that needs to be addressed further.
Minority women at higher risk
Minority women are more likely to develop breast cancer and at a younger age than white women. They are also more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive subtypes of breast cancer For example, triple-negative breast cancer is twice as common in Black women
If regular screenings are performed for all, the chance of catching any potential cancer is improved and chances of survival are much greater
Letters to the Editor
3D, MRIs and false positives
When someone gets a mammogram, it is likely going to be a 2D mammogram A 3D mammogram is an option for women with dense breasts. A breast MRI would be performed for women who have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, such as those who have a lifetime risk of breast cancer of 20% or more
Genetic testing can be performed at Lee Health for women who have a family history of breast cancer to determine if they carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, which will potentially put them at a higher risk for developing the disease
Women, especially those with dense breasts, may also experience false positives with their mammograms or follow up screenings More sensitive screening methods, such as MRIs or 3D mammograms, can pick up more false positives because the screening methods are more sensitive in nature and likely to flag more potential abnormalities
When more abnormalities are present, further testing is needed to rule out all issues and ensure the patient has proper treatment and support Additional follow ups to screenings do not mean it could be a positive breast cancer screening, but rather an opportunity to gather important information
Early detection is important
It is not uncommon for cancer to be developing in the body before physical symptoms start to show, making screening tests like mam-
MERTF and not to reappoint Rose Larkin?
∫ Yes, it was the right decision
∫ No, it was the wrong decision
∫ Unsure Web Poll
m Medicare Advantage insurance plans These plans will sometimes offer lower premiums than traditional Medicare or they will promise freebies in addition to regular Medicare benefits However, choosing a Medicare Advantage plan may significantly limit a patient’s options for treatment
One day, all of us are going to get an unfortunate, unforeseen diagnosis And when we get such a diagnosis, we will want to have all the treatment options possible available to us We might need referral to a specialized center in Miami or Tampa or even as far a w a y s u c h a s
M
Houston We might need a life-saving drug that costs tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars per year With a Medicare Advantage plan, some of these options may not be available However, traditional Medicare plus a supplemental policy is the gold standard, and it is the most wide-
ly accepted insurance a senior can have Traditional Medicare with a supplement may cost a little more, but when unforeseen diagnoses occur, a patient will have the widest possible options Medicare pays 80% of all costs, with the supplementary private policy paying the rest
All too often I hear a patient who is confused and believes they have Medicare when t
M
Advantage plan I have to explain to them that their treatment options may be limited because they in fact do not have Medicare Medicare Advantage is not Medicare
Once a person has signed up for one of these plans, their Medicare dollars are turned over to a private company to “manage“ payment for their care. The private insurance company will try to maximize profits So, rationing of care or denial of certain services may occur Insurance companies, as we all know, make more money when they don’t pay claims
Please don’t believe what you may have heard in the media, traditional Medicare is stable and healthy Furthermore, it is 98%
efficient This means that 98% of the dollars in the system go to pay doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies None of the dollars go to padding corporate profits
So, how did we get to this confusing situation for consumers? In 2003 Congress created the Medicare Advantage program under the George W Bush administration The thinking was that in the long term these plans would save the government money The hope was that private management of Medicare dollars would be more efficient That never happened Over the past 20 years numerous studies have shown that Medicare Advantage plans have not saved the government any money
As a practicing physician in Lee County, I recommend that patients sign up for traditional Medicare plus a supplement, such as the one provided by AARP You can access more information by visiting the AARP webs i t e a t https://www aarp org/membership/benefits/i nsurance/uhc-medicare-supplement/ Dr. Scott Crater Fort Myers See MAMMOGRAMS, page 5
Dr. Santosh Kagathur
BUSINESS
Beach businesses bounce back after Milton
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
It's not easy taking on a second major hurricane in as many weeks, but that's what Fort Myers Beach businesses and residents dealt with after the double whammy of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton only about a month or so after Hurricane Debby
And of course two years after Hurricane Ian
Yet that experience almost a little bit easier for local businesses to recover from the latest round of flooding
Local businesses announced within a few days, if not a week after Milton, that they were ready for customers again Over the weekend, Bonita Bill's Waterfront Cafe and Dixie Fish Co reopened
P
Waterfront Restaurant and Wahoo Willie's off Old San Carlos Boulevard, said the restaurants took on a lot of sand and water but escaped major damage Within a week after Hurricane Milton, they were back open
"Both places had water in dining areas We lost some TVs and a ceiling fan from wind Lots of mud and debris Best thing we did is get all of our equipment and booths off the island," Ennis said
At Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille, managing partner Joe Harrity was able to get the Fishermans Wharf restaurant back open within a week as well
"Overall we did pretty good," Harrity said The restaurant was recently nominated for a community spotlight award by the Horizon Foundation, Horizon Council and Lee County Economic Development Office Industry Appreciation Awards
"It's an honor being nominated for the community spotlight award this year," Harrity said "Community involvement is one of the pillars of our culture, and we find great value in participating in all sorts of things in the area Our FMB location lead by our GM Ryan Cook is consistently organizing and coordinating ways that our team can donate their time within the community "
At Fresh Catch Bistro and Junkanoo Below Deck next to Snook Bright Marina, owner Franco Russo said Russo said the ground level of Junkanoo took on more than four feet of water during Hurricane Milton and more than
feet of
prior
"We were much better prepared for Milton than we were for Helene," Russo said "We didn’t think Helene would be as bad as it was so we lost our bar equipment and a lot of other items at Junkanoo
Beach Bar breaks ground
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers
com
When Hurricane Ian swept away The Beach Bar and everything in the iconic Fort Myers Beach business, owner Greg Boyd didn’t abandon the property.
That’s not what you do when you are a Marine corporal, who helped get soldiers out of harm’s way while traveling in a heli
r e c o n n a i s s a n c e u n i t i n t h e Vietnam War
Despite having nothing left on his Estero Boulevard lot, Boyd reopened the beachfront bar just a few months after Hurricane Ian with not much more than a trailer to sell alcoholic refreshments from and some sun shades on the pilings that r e m a i n e d . T h e m u s i c f o l l o w e d a s i t always has at The Beach Bar the kind of place many tourists have just happened to stumble into over the years
Boyd and his sister Madeline Boyd celebrated at a groundbreaking ceremony this past week as the first shovels went into the ground for a new Beach Bar just a week after Hurricane Milton deluged the island with more flooding
The new Beach Bar will be a larger, two-story building with a living residence
above The new Beach Bar structure will be built to newer hurricane standards with a metal roof to withstand the threats posed by hurricanes like the ones the beach has experienced in recent years It may not have the same physical look of the woodframe, shack-like bar that dated back to the 1960s, but it will have a couple of spirited owners dedicated to its revival
“I want something that’s going to be here forever,” Mr Boyd said “The beach vibe is really going to come from us.”
Boyd said the Beach Bar atmosphere is partly a product of musicians who bring their bluesy brand of rock and roll to the place and a dedicated following “We do what we want to do,” he said “We are the only ones who play this kind of music ” Boyd refers to his regular customers as “our best friends ”
He and his sister stuck it out on Fort Myers Beach at their homes on the bay despite losing a lot in Hurricane Ian “We w e r e a l m o s t d o n e c l e a n i n g u p f r o m Helene,” he said Now they are busy cleaning up from Milton “Every surface has to be washed,” he said Mr Boyd has no illusions about the state of the island
See BEACH BAR, page 7
"Milton damage was very minimal because we took all of the equipment and other items out from behind the Junkanoo bar and moved it to a safe place Fresh Catch Bistro is on the second floor so it was fine for both storms We serve both Junkanoo and Fresh Catch from the same kitchen on the second floor so that was fine too "
Margaritaville Beach Resort and Bella Mozzarella Pizza & Grill at Times Square were still working to reopen Pink Shell Beach Resort General Manager Bill Waichulis had the place back up and running within days as employees worked around the clock to clean out sand from the pool and dry out about two feet of water from the ground floor
The hotel was evacuated two days before Hurricane Milton struck as part of a mandatory evacuation ordered by the town The hotel suffered some landscaping damage
"It wasn't a catastrophe," Waichulis said "It was a lot better than we thought was going to happen Worse than Helene and not even close to Ian "
The Beach Bar, which dated back to the 1960s on Fort Myers Beach, will be completely rebuilt by Greg and Madeline Boyd. The bar was wiped out by Hurricane Ian two years ago.
three
water during Hurricane Helene two weeks
NATHAN MAYBERG
NATHAN MAYBERG Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant reopened this past week after Hurricane Milton.
Beach Bar From page 6
right now after taking on three serious hurricanes in two years but is ever the optimist. “I knew it would take time,” he said He hopes to be open the new Beach Bar by this time next year
“You got to pick up and move on and keep swinging ” Boyd said
While from New Jersey originally, the Boyds were directors on the New York Mercantile Exchange and have owned more than a dozen businesses over the y e a r s “ T h i s o n e r e a l l y t o u c h e d o u r hearts,” Ms Boyd said
They bought The Beach Bar in 2009 and leased the property initially before eventually taking over management of the business
The Beach Bar has been considered a “hidden gem” by locals like Allyson Cartwright, who still visits despite having l o s t h e r h
g Hurricane Ian The bar’s almost-secret location down the block from the Lani Kai Island Resort and tucked in behind what was the Sea Gypsy Inn and the former Hooters helps add to its flair
“You have to know about it to be
Mammograms
mograms a crucial tool toward detecting any issues as soon as possible If breast cancer is caught early, it gives the cancer less of a chance to spread to other parts of the body, making it much easier to treat and more manageable for the patient
According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the fiveyear relative survival rate is 99% Early
From page 4
detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams and scheduling regular mammograms
For more information on how to do a breast self-exam, mammograms or to schedule an appointment for a mammogram, please visit www.leehealth.org.
Notice something abnormal
We are our body’s biggest advocates If
Joel Cassidy and Allyson Cartwright, Beach Bar diehards, rock special custom Beach Bar shirts that were made after the bar reopened last year
NATHAN MAYBERG
anything feels abnormal, it’s important to make an appointment with a physician as soon as possible
Consult a physician if you notice any of the following:
∫ Nipple discharge that is bloody or clear
∫ A lump in the breast
∫ Flattening of the nipple
∫ Changes to the breast’s skin texture
here,” Cartwright said “It’s a chill bar
Cartwright said its been a “long couple of years” since Ian “Some days it’s good, some days it’s bad I get sad sometimes looking at all of the buildings It’s a resilient community ” ,
Scott Safford, co-owner of the Sea Gypsy Inn, has been renting out his property to the hardware store Goodz next door since Ian “These guys were our neighbors before the storm” Safford said
Safford said. “The more small businesses that open it gives hope to everybody I am really happy for them ”
Mr Boyd appreciates his fellow local veterans who support the establishment “We have a wonderful veterans’ community here,” he said
After the ceremony, as some Beach
Boyd announced that a round of drinks would be on him – The Beach Bar vibe was back in full swing
∫ Dimpling of the skin
∫ Redness or swelling
∫ Changes in the size or shape of the breast
Dr Santosh Kagathur is an oncologist with Lee Health. For more information, visit https://www leehealth org/
Beach Living
Free meals on the Beach
By NATHAN MAYBERG
nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
There is such a thing as a free meal after all, about 500 or so people found out on Sunday on the Fort Myers Beach property of Gulfside 12 where Ex-Squids-It-Eats was giving away chicken and steak sandwiches to folks as part of an event sponsored by The Whale
The free event, which also included music at the Estero Boulevard property, was meant to lend a helping hand to those recovering from Hurricane Milton Beach residents were joined by local contractors and workers and visitors
"It was the right thing to do," said Ex-Squids-It-Eats coowner Beryle Herman Herman runs a food boat operating between St James City and Sanibel off Picnic Island On Sunday, Herman and his family were dishing out the food along with refreshments out of a trailer they pulled out of "two feet of mud" from Christian Life Academy, Herman said
"We spent 36 hours cleaning it," he said.
Herman was joined by Amanda Maddison, London Maddison and Jason Maddison who all help out in the family business
Amanda Maddison said it was important for them to help the community "They lost their food, they lost their refrigerators, they lost their jobs Some don't know where their next meal is coming from," Maddison said of some of the folks they helped out "If we were in that situation, we hope somebody would do that for us," she said.
Normally they serve food to boaters and personal watercrafter or those in jyacks who stop by off Picnic Island to grab a bite to eat On Sunday, it was the driveway of Gulfside Twelve, where two luxury condo buildings are going up
Tom Kiddy, a Realtor handling the sale of the 4,000-
square-foot condos, said the first four units in the first building have been sold The building is nearing completion and is expected to open next year The shell of the second building, which is nearly completed, will house eight luxury condo units
There are still seven of the 4,000-square-foot condos still available for purchase, Kiddy said. Those will not be as cheap as the free meals handed out Sunday The asking price starts out at $4 3 million for the beachfront condos and goes up to $5 3 million for the penthouse condos which have a 2,000-square-foot rooftop deck
"It's almost like a small family home," Kiddy said "They are the first new beachfront condos developed since the storm "
Kiddy said Gulfside Twelve would like to have more events on their property in the future.
Community Cooperative assists local families after Milton
REPORT
Community Cooperative recently collaborated with Fort Myers Beach Strong for a successful pop-up mobile food pantry aimed at supporting those in need within our community This pop-up mobile food pantry provided supplemental emergency groceries and hot meals to individuals affected by Hurricane Milton.
Community Cooperative served 180 individuals with nourishing hot meals and distributed emergency groceries to 60 households This effort underscores Community Cooperative’s commitment to addressing food insecurity and ensur-
ing that no one in the community goes hungry
In the wake of Hurricane Milton, Community Cooperative has become a vital distribution center for those impacted by the disaster, offering essential resources and support to help families recover Additionally, as a resiliency hub, Community Cooperative provides ongoing assistance, resources, and guidance to empower individuals and families in an effort to rebuild lives
For more information on Community Cooperative, visit www communitycooperative com
Gulfside
on Fort Myers
sponsored by The Whale to
Mound House Presents: “Reel Injun to Real Indigenous: Native Art and Pop Culture”
Join Mound House and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida for a compelling evening of art, film, and conversation that explores the portrayals of Indigenous peoples in Hollywood and how Miccosukee artists challenge and reframe these representations.
∫ Date: Friday, Nov 8
∫ Time: 6 p m to 9 p m
∫ Location: Mound House, 451 Connecticut St Fort Myers Beach, Florida 33931
Schedule of Events:
∫ Doors Open: 6 p m
∫ Art Reception: 6 – 7 p m
∫ Remarks from Miccosukee Tribal Secretary: 7– 7:15 p m
∫ Film Screening: 7:15 – 8:45 p m
∫ Program Concludes: 9 p.m.
The event begins with an exclusive art exhibition showcasing the work of Miccosukee artists, each offering their unique perspectives on the U S Through their pieces, the artists reflect on themes such as U S pop culture and history Attendees can enjoy light refreshments during the art reception
At 7:15 p m , the program will continue with an outdoor screening of the critically acclaimed documentary "Reel Injun: On the Trail of the Hollywood Indian" by Cree filmmaker Neil Diamond The film takes a deep dive into how Indigenous peoples have been portrayed in Hollywood films over the last century, offering a critical perspective on the effects these depictions have had on both Indigenous communities and global perceptions
Special commentary from Miccosukee community members will further contextualize the portrayal of the Miccosukee in media, offering insights into how these representations have impacted their identity and culture
This unique event provides a powerful blend of art and film, encouraging participants to reflect on the intersection of pop culture, history, and Indigenous experiences Additional concessions will be available for purchase during the film screening.
About Mound House:
Located on Estero Bay, Mound House is one of Southwest Florida’s most iconic archaeological and historic sites As a cultural and educational center, it offers visitors a window into over 2,000 years of Indigenous history, ecology, and heritage Mound House remains dedicated to engaging the community through programs that highlight the rich history and cultural diversity of the region.
About the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida: The Miccosukee Tribe is a sovereign Native American tribe in Florida, with a rich history and a unique cultural heritage The Tribe has played an integral role in preserving the ecology and cultural identity of the Everglades while contributing to the state’s vibrant cultural landscape
For more information about the event, please contact Adam Knight at 239-765-08
PHOTO PROVIDED
(Top photo) London Maddison (left to right), Beryle Herman, Amanda Maddison and Jason Maddison of Ex-Squids-It-Eats
Twelve
Realtor Tom Kiddy stands in front of the Gulfside Twelve luxury condo buildings under construction
Town announces procedures for permits, FEMA aid
The Town of Fort Myers Beach announced the following procedures for handling permits after Hurricane Milton, as well as how to obtain FEMA aid and what to expect from FEMA inspections
1 Properties with Issued or Completed Permits from Hurricane Ian:
∫ Issued Permits from Ian:
Properties with issued permits (in-progress) for Hurricane Ian repairs need to file for a permit revision if the structure sustained new damage
Specify in the revision application that the additional repairs are for damage from Hurricane Helene or Milton Provide contractor estimates, itemized materials, a
Hurricane Ian will not be included in the 50% rule calculations for Helene/Milton
The appraised value for the building will be based on the structure's replacement cost or actual cash value before Hurricane Helene/Milton
∫ Completed Permits from Ian:
Properties with permits completed from Hurricane Ian must file for a new permit if the structure sustained new damage
Specify in the revision application that the additional repairs are for damage from Hurricane Helene or Milton. Provide contractor estimates, itemized materials, and/or labor Any previous repairs permitted for Hurricane Ian will not be included in the 50% rule calculations for Helene/Milton
The appraised value for the building will be based on the structure's 2024 replacement cost or actual cash value before Hurricane Helene/Milton
2 Properties with No Permitted Work Post-Hurricane Ian:
Unless the property owner has copies of damage assessments or estimates from a licensed contractor for
each storm event, FMB must use a cumulative approach to determine substantial damage
In this case, substantial damage will be the cost of restoring the building to its before-damaged condition prior to Hurricane Ian
The appraised value for the building will be based on the structure's 2022 replacement cost or actual cash value before Hurricane Ian
3 Additional Resources
∫ FEMA Assistance: Contact FEMA for federal disaster assistance Be sure to have all required documentation, including damage assessments, proof of ownership, and insurance claims. Hurricane Helene FEMA web
p
release/20240929/how-apply-fema-assistance-floridaafter-hurricane-helene
∫ Town of Fort Myers Beach Disaster Assistance Webpage: Stay up to date on local regulations and permit requirements by visiting the town’s official website https://www fortmyersbeachfl gov/CivicAlerts aspx?AI D=1448
∫ National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): Review your flood insurance policy and understand Substantial Damage coverage, increased cost of compliance (ICC) benefits, and available flood mitigation assistance. https://www floodsmart gov/
∫ Florida Division of Emergency Management: Visit the Hurricane Helene webpage for additional resources https://www floodsmart gov/
Hurricanes Milton, Helene or Debby, a home inspection may be necessary to help determine the extent of damage and whether the home is safe, sanitary and livable
Inspectors do not make decisions regarding eligibility for assistance Information gathered during the inspection is part of several criteria used by FEMA to determine if applicants are eligible for federal assistance.
The inspector will consider:
∫ The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside
∫ Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are all in working order
∫ Whether the home is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely
Applications for more than one storm may require a separate inspection
Inspectors will make an appointment with the applicant before coming They will already have the applicant’s FEMA application number They carry photo identification. For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed or recorded Inspectors will never ask for, or accept, money Their service is free
The inspectors will call or text applicants to arrange to meet at the home They will leave messages and/or texts on the phone number listed on the FEMA application These communications may come from unfamiliar phone numbers and it is important that applicants respond so their application can be processed
A typical home inspection may take up to 45 minutes to complete After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing If they have questions about the status of their application, they can call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 or lookup their application status on DisasterAssistance gov or the FEMA mobile App
Learn more at fema gov/disaster/4834 2
For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema gov/disaster/4834 For Hurricane Helene, visit fema gov/disaster/4828 For Hurricane Debby, visit fema gov/disaster/4806 Follow FEMA on X a t x c o m / f e m a r e
facebook com/fema
FEMA offering aid for Milton, Helene victims
STAFF REPORT
For those looking to apply for aid from Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene, FEMA is offering assistance
FEMA is directing hurricane victims to visit the website www DisasterAssistance gov and to fill out an application to start the recovery process
A new application is required separately for both Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene, as well as past hurricanes such as Debby or Ian
Applicants are required to note the date and damage they received
FEMA offers Serious Needs Assistance payment to support basic needs like food, water and medicine for both incidents
Walkover
From page 1
the approval, saying the town's own planning staff recommended denial of the special exception permit
The lawsuit was later settled after Rood organized neighbors to send no trespassing letters to Florida Audubon The action kept the organization from conducting bird-nesting monitoring activities on those properties Rood and Kroemer ultimately agreed to allow the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to monitor bird nesting activities on their properties and rope off nests where necessary
As part of the settlement, Rood and Kroemer also encouraged neighbors to release the no trespassing letters Island's End Condominiums, Castle Beach and Island Winds did so though others did not
Under the terms of the settlement, the owners of the boardwalk would agree to close the boardwalk in the future during nesting season if an imperiled bird nest is found within 150 feet of the bridge
In order to build the bridge, Rood and Kroemer also needed the approval of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for a submerged-land lease Officials with the DEP were unable to comment on the matter by press time
Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt did not immediately return a message seeking comment as to how the town would handle the bridge collapse and what the permit process would entail for rebuilding the bridge
A FEMA Fact Sheet for Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton is available at www fema gov/disaster/4834
FEMA will not pay for the same loss twice but can help with new damage caused by the next disaster
If you received a letter from FEMA that says you have not been approved for assistance, that may not be the final decision A quick fix, like providing more information, may change FEMA’s decision
Be sure to read your FEMA determination letter carefully The letter specifies why you have not been approved and recommends actions that may change the decision
If you are in a county eligible for assistance for both hurricanes Helene and Milton, and were not approved for Helene assistance, you may still apply for Milton assis-
tance
FEMA adjusts the maximum amount of special needs financial assistance available to disaster survivors each fiscal year For Helene, the payment is $750 For Milton, the payment is $770
For more help, apply for FEMA assistance through DisasterAssistance gov You may also visit a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center to meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives or apply with the U S Small Business Administration (SBA) for low- interest disaster loans and more
To apply for assistance and find locations for Disaster Recovery Centers and get more information, call 1-800621-3362
NATHAN MAYBERG
The controversial 298-feet dune walkover was dislodged out of the state lagoons that it crossed after Hurricane Milton swept through Fort Myers Beach
County seeks public input on preserve amenities
Lee County Parks & Recreation invites the public to participate in shaping the future of local preserves by providing input on potential new amenities and trails The project aims to enhance outdoor experiences at four preserves through a partnership with the National Parks Service Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program
The preserves under consideration are:
∫ Four Mile Cove Preserve, at 2151 Four Mile Cove Parkway, Cape Coral
∫ Oak Hammock Preserve, at 2200 Carter Lane, Alva
∫ Pine Lake Preserve, at 27225 Kent Road, Bonita Springs
∫ West Marsh Preserve, at 6571 Felix Romano Ave , Fort Myers
After Hurricane Ian, Lee County Parks & Recreation requested master planning assistance from the Federal
Council
From page 1
zone without a special exception permit
Rood filed multiple lawsuits against the town and state, challenging the state’s ownership of the Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area next to the boardwalk and accusing the town of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act for denying the boardwalk (a federal judge tossed that suit)
A newly-elected town council approved Rood and Kroemer’s boardwalk in a split vote last year with Mayor Dan Allers joining King and Karen Woodson in approving the structure, which MERTF objected to MERTF then voted to call upon the town council not to issue a building permit for the boardwalk until a lawsuit filed by Florida Audubon was settled Council voted to issue the building permit anyway, despite objections that included the boardwalk’s potential vulnerability to hurricanes After issuing the building permit, the council then replaced two members of MERTF Dr Gregory Fossum and Wendy DeGaetano
The Council split over the appointment of Rood to MERTF last year, with King and Woodson voting to appoint Rood, while councilmembers Jim Atterholt and Bill Veach voted to support Mary Rose Spalletta Allers voted for Ed Schoonover until ultimately switching his vote to Spalletta
Spalletta, an eight-year member of MERTF, resigned her seat over the summer due to concerns similar to those expressed by Johnson regarding the alleged “politicization” of the task force. The task force has been the target of sharp criticism via social media, including calls to disband the advisory committee
Veach resigned from the town council earlier this year and was replaced by Scott Safford who joined the council in unanimously approving Rood’s appointment on Monday Allers, Atterholt and Safford had approved Rood’s boardwalk while on the Local Planning Agency though Atterholt voted against the boardwalk on town council
The boardwalk collapsed due to Hurricane Milton.
Town council also voted to appoint former Castle Beach Condo Board President Sharon Hegstrom and Sand Construction owner Leo Sand to join Rood as the new members of the task force Board members Rob Howell and Jennifer Rusk were reappointed
Sand’s application lists his home address as the Caper Beach Club on Fort Myers Beach while he lists his work address as Sand Companies in Waite Park, Minnesota
Rezoning
From page 1
t i n g z o n i n g c o d e T h e c u r r e n t p l a n s w o u l d e x c e e d t h e t o w n ’ s h e i g h t l i m i t u n d e r i t s c o d e w i t h -
o u t a d e v i a t i o n
W o o d s o n s a i d t h e L o c a l P l a n n i n g A g e n c y a s k e d f o r t h e v i e w c o r r i d o r . “ I ’ m p e r p l e x e d a s t o w h a t w a s w r o n g w i t h t h e o r i g i n a l p l a n t h a t d i d n ’ t h a v e a
v i e w c o r r i d o r ”
A c c o r d i n g t o t h e a p p l i c a n t s , t h e o r i g i n a l p l a n s h a d a p a r t i a l v i e w c o r r i d o r “ I ’ m k i n d o f p e r p l e x e d i f w e a s k e d f o r t h i s a n d y o u g a v e i t t o u s w h y a r e w e g o i n g b a c k a n d f o r t h o n
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the preserves due to limited staffing capacity In response, FEMA enlisted the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program to provide recreation planning assistance as part of the county’s recreation recovery efforts The initiative addresses public demand for additional passive recreational opportunities within the preserves
The public is encouraged to share feedback on what they would like to see at the trailheads and within the preserves
An online survey s available on the Lee County Parks & Recreation homepage at www leeparks org and social media pages The survey will remain open until Nov 1
“Public participation is vital for anyone who enjoys Lee County’s preserves and recreational sites, as it allows residents and visitors alike to offer valuable input on potential
improvements,” the county said
The National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance program helps communities and land managers with local conservation and outdoor recreation efforts around the country The National Park Service team works with local knowledge experts to develop or restore parks, trails, rivers and conservation areas, evolve resiliency strategies to a changing climate, recover from natural disasters, and create new and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities
For additional details about Lee County Parks & Recreation locations, amenities, and upcoming events, visit www leeparks org, call 239-533-7275 or email leeparks@leegov com Stay connected on social media by following leeparksandrecreation on Facebook and Instagram
“His actions defy any moral code or ethical requirement of a councilor,”
-Outgoing MERTF Chair Steve Johnson, in a comment regarding Councilmember John King
"We are fortunate to have a wide variety of individuals with different skill sets stepping up to serve on our various committees. When an abundance of people apply for a limited number of seats, it can be challenging to select those who will serve."
-Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers
Public kept in dark on how councilmembers voted
A complete breakdown of how each councilmember voted was not immediately available as the council once again engaged in a written ballot vote whereby the votes were only tallied aloud by Town of Fort Myers Beach Clerk Amy Baker and not read aloud to the public to confirm how each candidate voted
The Florida Sunshine Law requires that all of the votes by each councilmember be read aloud at the meeting so as not to violate the state prohibitions on secret ballots As of Tuesday afternoon, the votes by each councilmember still had not been released
Baker announced the vote tallies on Monday which showed that Rood was the lone MERTF candidate to receive five votes Hegstrom and Sand received four votes while Rusk received three Howell, known as “Ranger Rob,” won a runoff to keep the final seat Howell , who works at the Pink Shell Beach Resort as a naturalist, was involved in an attempted rescue of a manatee Rusk is an International Osprey Foundation monitor and organizes the town’s educational pop-up booths on the island’s nature She was instrumental in producing a children’s educational coloring book this year
MERTF loses longtime Beach resident, educator
The decision by the town council not to reappoint Larkin means the town was losing a longtime resident and volunteer who dedicated her time to the town and MERTF educational pop-up booths despite losing her home in Hurricane Ian
Larkin owned a home on Fort Myers Beach for more than 35 years until Hurricane Ian destroyed it She still owns the property but doesn’t intent to rebuild
A master gardener and retired educator, Larkin took an active interest in discussions on the board about encouraging native plantings on the island and working to update the town’s code to encourage more native plantings and discourage non-native plants Larkin opposed the town’s decision to install royal palm trees at Times Square which she said posed a safety hazard She also was recently critical of town staff for having damaged a garden planted at Times Square with community donations
Larkin joined MERTF in opposing the lagoon walkover as well as the lighting plan for Bayside Veterans Park Larkin also opposed the use of artificial turf at the park which she said posed risks to the environment by installing plastic at the park
Councilmembers comment on appointments
Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt was the lone councilmember to address questions regarding the council declining to name Larkin back to the board
“I would like to thank both Steve Johnson and Rose
Larkin for their service to the Town of Fort Myers Beach,” Atterholt said “I believe public service is a calling and I thank them for answering the call With respect to Ed Rood, although we may have disagreed in the past, we have always stayed cordial and continued talking. I welcome a wide diversity of viewpoints on an advisory committee so they can both guide and challenge the Town Council ” Councilmember Scott Safford said he was “saddened by the resignation of Mary Rose and Steve Johnson I see them quite often on the beach and they are environmental warriors I did feel much better after speaking to Mary Rose She said that she would continue to be a steward of the environment and continue her work with Turtle Time Knowing Steve, he will likely do the same. The sheer number of applicants to MERTF made it difficult to decide who to choose I based my votes on who reached out to me and showed a passion I feel that the appointments this week gave the committee a good balance of different views and backgrounds Everyone wants what is best for our environment and our sea life, but sometimes things get out of control I think a prime example is what Margaritaville is going through with their televisions It is absurd that they need to be turned off during the day to protect the turtles There needs to be a balance of protection and common sense ”
Mayor Dan Allers did not address his votes on Larkin or Rood specifically in a request for comment, though he said in an email “We are fortunate to have a wide variety of individuals with different skill sets stepping up to serve on our various committees When an abundance of people apply for a limited number of seats, it can be challenging to select those who will serve Institutional knowledge of the committee’s inner workings is invaluable, but so is the fresh perspective that new members can bring ”
There were 11 applications for the five open seats following Johnson’s withdrawal
Following the votes, Johnson said the council reaffirmed his opinion that they have politicized the advisory board by “promoting people who have self-interests to defend” rather than those on boards such as MERTF who had the qualifications to “serve the community ”
Larkin, who brings free plants from the Florida Native Plant Society and gives literature from the Lee County Extension Service on gardening to the MERTF pop-up booths, said she would continue to volunteer
“I’m disappointed,” she said
Councilmember Karen Woodson did not respond to a request for comment on Rood’s appointment and the vote to replace Larkin by press time
She was a recipient of a $1,000 donation from Rood before her successful bid for office in 2022,
Race for Fort Myers Beach Council
a t r u s t e e o n t h e F o r t M y e r s B e a c h
L i b r a r y B o a r d , i s t h e l o n e c h a l l e n g e r T h e s e a t o f t h e m a y o r a n d v i c e m a y o r a r e a p p o i n t e d b y t h e c o u n c i l a n d n o t e l e c t e d b y t h e v o t e r s V o t e r s o n l y e l e c t c o u n c i l m e m b e r s i n t h e T o w n o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h i n a n o n - p a r t i s a n e l e c t i o n A l l e r s a n d A t t e r h o l t r a n s u c c e s s f u l l y f o r t h e i r s e a t s i
UESTION OF THE WEEK
Please outline your vision for protecting the island's environment and natural resources and your thoughts on the town council replacing two members of the Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force (MERTF) last year who sought re-appointment and the council's decision to replace another sitting member of MERTF this year What kind of message do you think this sends to the public about the value the town council places in protecting the environment?
We are fortunate to have a wide variety of individuals with different skill sets stepping up to serve on our various committees When an abundance of people apply for a limited number of seats, it can be challenging to select those who will serve Institutional knowledge of the committee’s inner workings is invaluable, but so is the fresh perspective that new members can bring
As a council, we must consider our immediate needs, especially in protecting our environment, while balancing the safety and needs of our residents A diverse set of backgrounds and ideas offers the best opportunity to achieve our goals protecting our precious natural resources and addressing the needs of both residents and visitors
The accomplishments and dedication of previous committee members have been remarkable, and we are grateful for their years of volunteer service to our community I am confident that our newly elected members will build upon the solid foundation laid by their predecessors and continue to elevate the work of the Marine Environmental Resource Task Force (MERTF) with meaningful recommendations to the council
My first election to the Town Council was right after the Red Tide/Blue Green Algae disaster of 2018 it really impacted my views on the environment I fulfilled my promise during the campaign by leading a grassroots effort in 2019 aimed at both the state and federal legislators to rally support for additional resources for clean water initiatives and Everglades restoration. With the support of the Town of Fort Myers Beach, I helped to lead a multimedia campaign that included direct mail, full-page newspaper ads and media interviews which encouraged and directed voters in our area to write to both their state and federal officials to support more funding for all of the various clean water efforts Over the last four years we have seen record setting dollars appropriated It is my hope that this letter writing campaign in some small way helped to win that support The effort for clean water has seen folks of all different ideological backgrounds come together it is my hope we can do that again on the MERTF Committee. I believe the Town’s Advisory committees provide a tremendous service to our island With respect to the MERTF, I look for a diversity of opinion from this advisory committee in order to both challenge and guide the Town on important environmental issues
One of my priorities for a long time has been clean water and the environment It's critical that we focus on the improvement, protection, and preservation of our water in and around our island. I also feel we should do our best to protect our island creatures, whether it's shorebirds, dolphins, manatees or turtles We live in a special place and we all need to be stewards of our surroundings
I was saddened by the resignation of Mary Rose and Steve Johnson I see them quite often on the beach and they are environmental warriors I did feel much better after speaking to Mary Rose She said that she would continue to be a steward of the environment and continue her work with Turtle Time Knowing Steve, he will likely do the same The sheer number of applicants to MERTF made it difficult to decide who to choose I based my votes on who reached out to me and showed a passion. I feel that the appointments this week gave the committee a good balance of different views and backgrounds Everyone wants what is best for our environment and our sea life, but sometimes things get o u t o f c o n t r o l I t h i n k a p r i m e e x a m p l e i s w h a t Margaritaville is going through with their televisions It is absurd that they need to be turned off during the day to protect the turtles There needs to be a balance of protection and common sense
Our island is a treasure trove of biodiversity and unique ecosystems that deserve our utmost care and attention My primary goal to protect that is to ensure a sustainable future for both the environment and the community We can coexist in a sensible manner with some give on both sides
To achieve this, I propose the following key strategies:
1 Engaging our community: By involving residents and stakeholders in the decision-making process, we can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the environment Community outreach programs, educational initiatives, and public consultations will be essential to building support for environmental protection measures and balancing the needs of the community with the needs of the environment
We do a pretty good job at this, we just need to work together, again to bring some balance to the equation
2 Collaborating with experts: We must work closely with environmental scientists, conservationists, and other experts to develop evidence-based policies that prioritize the long-term health of our ecosystems
3 Promoting sustainable transportation options, such as cycling and walking, as well as improving public transit systems which can help to ease the traffic burden on the island
Regarding the replacement of MERTF members by the town council, it is crucial to maintain a diverse and experienced team to ensure effective decision-making While I understand that changes in membership may sometimes be necessary, it is important to communicate the rationale behind these decisions openly and transparently This will help rebuild public trust in the council's commitment to environmental protection
We need to lead with common sense and balance on the island when it comes to environmental issues
❑ dan allerS (Incumbent)
❑ JIm atterholt (Incumbent)
❑ Scott Safford (Incumbent)
Town of Fort Myers Beach Council Candidate Bios dan
allerS
Candidate name: Dan Allers
Seat sought: Fort Myers Beach Council
Age: 51
Campai g n
forourbeach
Education/degrees: Spring Lake Park High School in Minnesota, attended Northeast Metro Technical College
Occupation and place of employment and most recent previous occupation: Owner of Gulfview Solutions and coowner of Island Carts FMB. Previously worked as a project manager for Automated Shading and Lighting in Naples
Time living in Fort Myers Beach: 12 years
Political Experience/offices held: Fort Myers Beach Mayor, Councilmember, formerly Local Planning Agency board member
Civic/Community involvement: Town council liaison to the Bay Oaks Recreational Campus Advisory Board, Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce member
Family: Married with one daughter
Jim atterholt
Candidate name: Jim Atterholt
Seat sought: Fort Myers Beach Council
Age: 62
Campaign website: jimatterholtfmb com
Education/degrees: BA in History and Political Science, University of Wisconsin 1986
Occupation and place of employment and most recent previous occupation: Owner of regulatory compliance consulting company, former Chair of the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, former congressional aide, Indiana state legislator, state of Indiana insurance commissioner and chief of staff to former Indiana Governor Mike Pence
Time living on Fort Myers Beach: 8 years full time
Political Experience/offices held: Congressional aide, state legislator, insurance commissioner, chair of the utility regulatory commission and chief of staff to the governor all for the state of Indiana
Civic/Community involvement: Former member of the Local Planning Agency (LPA) and served as condominium association board member
Family: Married (Brenda), three grown sons
Scott Safford
Candidate name: Scott Safford
Seat sought: Fort Myers Beach Town Council
Age: 59
Campaign website: www scottsaffordfmb com
Education/degrees: BA in Economics from the University of Dallas, MBA International Finance from the Thunderbird School of Global Management
Occupation and place of employment and most recent previous occupation: CFO of Sea Gypsy Vacation Rentals, previously owner of the Sea Gypsy Inn
Time living on Fort Myers Beach: Part time since 2007, full-time since 2012.
Political experience/offices held: Town Council member, Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency member
Civic/community involvement: Leadership Lee Class of 2024, Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce member
Family: Married (Jacki Liszak), three children, two stepchildren, eight grandchildren
GreG ScaSny
Candidate name: Greg Scasny
Seat sought: Fort Myers Beach Council Age: 51
Campaign website: https://www fmbcommunity com
Education/degrees: BS - Electrical Engineering and Technology - Purdue - 2000
Occupation and place of employment and most recent previous occupation: CTO / Founder - Blueshift Cybersecurity, CTO / Co-Founder - Cigent Technology, Inc
Time living on Fort Myers Beach: Since 2018
Political Experience/offices held: Fort Myers Beach Library Board of Trustees
Volunteer, FMB Little League Volunteer
Family: Wife (Marcia), Son (Gage)
WHERE TO GO WHAT TO DO WHO TO SEE
Aloia R olan d Fish Like MADD Inshore Fishing Tournament to be held at Sn ug Harbor
STAFF REPORT
In an effort to support the ongoi
f i g h t a g a i n s t d r u n k d r i v i n g a n drugged driving, Aloia Roland and MADD will be holding the Aloia Roland Fish Like MADD Inshore Fishing Tournament presented by Golden Boat Lifts & Marine Systems on Saturday, Oct 26 at Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant on Fort Myers Beach
The event has already raised more t h a n $ 2 5 , 0 0 0 t o b e n e f i t M A D Southwest Florida’s community educa victim support services and youth pr provided at no cost. Participants will gather at Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant on Friday, Oct 25 for a captain’s party to receive their supplies for the tournament Lines will be in the water at 7 a m on Saturday, Oct 26 and out of the water at 4 p m that same day Alcohol-related traffic deaths jumped to more than
0 for the first time since 2006 84 people were killed in alcoholated traffic crashes in 2021 – that’s ne person every 39 minutes and 37 people a day killed by someone’s choice to drive drunk In 2022, Alcohol Consumption was the No 1 top factor in fatal boating crashes The annual Fish Like MADD Inshore Fishing Tournament is
ng while uniting community memund MADD’s mission Since it was established in 2020, this event has raised more than $70,000 that stays in the Southwest Florida community to save lives and support victims of drunk driving Every dollar donated remains in Southwest Florida to provide victim services and prevention education at no cost
Event sponsors include Title Sponsor Aloia Roland,
& M
Systems, Cash Prize Sponsor Galloway Auto, Florida
S
Schoenfeld & Kyle LLP, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, Scanlon Auto Group, Tunaskin Aquatic Apparel, Spotlight Sponsors Acentria Insurance, Fraternal Order of Police Collier County Lodge No 38 Inc , MADD Milestone Sponsors Entech, Forrester, Hart, Belisle & Whitaker, Lamborghini Naples, Port Charlotte Detox Calcutta Cash Prize Sponsor Stevens Construction, The Standard Restaurant, Zak’s Jewelry T-shirt Sponsor D’amore Consulting LLC, Moss Marina – Fort Myers Beach, Southern Trailer, and Vitality Infusions.
D
www madd org/flm<http://www madd org/flm> through Nov 26
For more information about the 4th Aloia Roland Fish Like MADD Inshore Fishing Tournament presented by G o l d e n B o a
& M
www madd org/flm
American Sand Sculpting Championship returns in November
STAFF REPORT
T h e 3 4 t h A
Sculpting Championship returns to Fort Myers Beach Nov 21-24, as the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce
p r e s e n t s t h e n a t i o n ' s t o p
advanced amateur sand sculptors
It's been five years since the island hosted the event Last time, the championship was held at the Wyndham Garden Inn - which was destroyed by Hurricane Ian
This year, the DiamondHead Beach Resort will be the site of the sand sculpting championship
"Fort Myers Beach is a special piece of paradise," Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce President Jacki Liszak said "It's a seven-mile island lined with beautiful sugar sand beaches, perfect for making intricate, giant sandcastles We are super excited about the response we are receiving from both the sculptor and spectator
c
advanced amateur sculptors signed up and ready to compete! The return of this
beloved signature event to Fort Myers Beach is a testament to the resiliency and perseverance of this small island community Even after the challenges posed by
Birding tour offered at
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with the Audubon of Southwest Florida to offer a unique tour experience for anyone interested in learning more about birds On Nov 16 from 7:30-9:30 a m , the Estates' plant curator and an experienced bird-
ing guide from Audubon will lead visitors through the property, where a variety of bird species may be found
While birding, guests will also have a chance to learn about the Edison and Ford families' interest in wildlife, their excursions into Florida's swamps and forests, and how Mina Edison fought to protect wild birds and what she did to attract birds to her own property Following the tour, participants will be provided with a pastry and beverage from the on-site Banyan Café and have an opportunity to talk with fellow birders and guides.
It is recommended that participants bring binoculars and d r i n k i n g w a t e r , a n d w
closed-toe shoes Guests should park in the parking area directly across from 2153 Larchmont
parking), where the group will meet before the tour starts
The tour will take place outdoors and is subject to cancella-
November 12 The tour does not include admission to the museum, laboratory or historic
Edison Ford members and $20 for non-members (includes pastry and beverage)
Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers, FL 33901
Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, the community is rising stronger and eagerly anticipates welcoming back its most devoted fans Join us this November as we celebrate together and create magical artworks and lasting memories! See you on the sand," Liszak said
To purchase tickets, packages, accommodation options, get more information and to sign up for event updates, visit www fmbsandsculpting com
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SHAPIRO
PET PALS
Island pets seeking forever homes
By ISABELLE WELLS Co-founder of the Find a Home, Give a Home pet rescue organization of Fort Myers Beach
Like us, many of you got affected by Milton and it has been an ordeal to get the houses cleaned up again I am sincerely thinking of you all and hope you are okay I have been on the beach since 1992 and have been through many hurricanes and of course, could not even imagine we would get two of them back to back As you might know, I am in real estate and many of my friends and clients have been affected I could not even think straight last week and write a column I am back now and moving forward I am a m a z e d h o w m a n y p e o p l e c a l l e d u s before the storm trying to give up their pets I had this young lady asking us to take her three dogs after she thought moving to Florida with her family would be a better fit That conversation took place on Sunday before the storm and I begged her to keep the dogs safe over the storm and reach out to other rescues after (which she did) She told me at that time she had no idea there was a hurricane coming Hard to believe!
Then you have your traditional situation: My wife had a baby and we don't like the dog around the newborn My wife is allergic to dogs after 10 years, etc
All of us in rescue are overloaded with dogs and cats There are too many coming in and hardly any adoptions.
A couple of days before the storm the rescues who pulled the most from Lee
C o u n t y D o m e s t i c A n i m a l S e r v i c e s , including us, took many out of the buildings It was amazing how many people stepped up to help Many were fostered and brought back after the storm Many of the dogs who were rescued only got out right before being euthanized We saved four lives and all of them are fabulous little ones Please remember the only way we can keep doing what we do is with your help These dogs need food, veterinary care and would benefit from some training If you can help and sponsor a couple of one that would be fantast i c Y o u c a n Z e l l a d o n a t i o n using pets@findahomegiveahome com
Go on our site and get all the info how to donate www findahomegiveahome com
Follow us on Facebook at Find A Home
Ren is a small version of a German Shepherd mix 20LBS – Right around 2 years old. Great personality. We would like an active lifestyle for her She was abandoned at the shelter Ren went to boarding before the storm and is now fostered
Bambi was at the shelter for a few days now waiting for Rescue to take her Unfortunately n o o n e w
was abandoned at the shelter She is an old lady who is g
e r dogs and people Fostered
s c o m i n g however I thought she was going to be a good d o g . B o x e r m i x a n d wiggly butt. She is a year old and 33 LBSCurrently in boarding
S
Apso, 1year old and 20 LBS- Came at the shelter the Tuesday M o r
Milton Fostered
You can also make a donation at www.findahomegiveahome.com
Please make sure you do it through “Friends and Family”
Donations needed
The SOS Rescue got flooded like many island residents The rescue lost all their cats trees, food and litter Donations are being accepted if you can help through: SOS FELINE RESCUE PO BOX 5014 FMB FL 33932
Links to send out supplies to the rescue are on our website: https://www.saveourstraysfmb.org. There is a Chewy link and an Amazon link
These adorable kittens are all looking for their "Forever Homes " They are all playful and fun kittens that are ready for adoption plus they are neutered and vaccinated. Please contact the rescue for information 239-851-3485. Volunteers and food always needed.
BBB offers post-storm resources and tips
By BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU
Hurricane Milton’s impact on Florida’s west coast is especially tragic as it has not yet recovered from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene less than three weeks ago The aftermath of such a storm can feel overwhelming Cleanup and recovery begin after everyone is accounted for and safe from immediate threat Storm victims from Milton and Helene should never feel pressured to make a hasty decision or choose an unknown contractor Make temporary repairs if necessary so you can take the time to choose a trustworthy contractor
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has tips to help you recover safely and effectively after the storm Take time to review these helpful tips below:
Assess the damage
∫ Assess the damage and take pictures
∫ Contact your insurance company immediately ideo, if possible
∫ Do not make any permanent repairs until you get approval from your insurance company Your insurer might not fully reimburse you for permanent repairs without authorization
Clean and make emporar y repairs
∫ Make minor repairs that will limit further damage to the home If you must make temporary repairs to protect your home from the elements, save all your receipts
∫ Wear protective clothing Long pants, a long-
sleeved shirt, and sturdy shoes Be cautious Learn more about how to clean up after a storm from the Red Cross, including the supplies you’ll need and how to handle fire hazards such as gas, electricity, and chemicals
∫ Be on the lookout for price gouging Report instances to your local BBB and the Florida Attorney General's office at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM
Hire a contractor
∫ Get references Get referrals from friends and relatives and check BBB org for ratings and reviews on contractors in the area.
∫ Do your research Local and national companies may both do a fine job with your storm damage repair needs, but if you choose to do business with someone not local, be sure to understand who will be taking care of any service needs that may arise after the completion of the project
∫ Learn about storm chasers Storm chasers are businesses that follow storms hoping for a quick buck Research anyone who offers you unsolicited assistance carefully
∫ Ask about preventive features and installations Check with your contractor about adding hurricaneresistant features to help protect against future damage during the repair process
Know what you sign
∫ Read and understand anything you are asked to
County reopens parks, recreational facilities post-storm
∫ H u n t e r P a r k
∫ J u d d P a r k
∫ K a r l D r e w s C o m m u n i t y P a r k
∫ K u r t D o n a l d s o n P a r k
∫ L e h i g h A c r e s T r a i l h e a d P a r k
∫ N a l l e G r a d e P a r k
∫ N o r t h F o r t M y e r s P a r k
∫ M a n a t e e P a r k
t h e p u b l i c w i t h r e g u l a r
o p e r a t i n g h o u r s :
B o a t r a m p s :
∫ A l v a B o a t R a m p
∫ D a v i s B o a t R a m p
P o o l s
∫ L e h i g h A c r e s C o m m u n i t y
P o o l
∫ N o r t h F o r t M y e r s C o m m u n i t y
P o o l
∫ S a n C a r l o s P a r k C o m m u n i t y
P o o l
P a d d l e c r a f t l a u n c h e s :
∫ R u s s e l P a r k P a d d l e C r a f t
L a u n c h
∫ T e l e g r a p h C r e e k P a d d l e C r a f t
L a u n c h
P a r k s :
∫ C h a r l e s t o n P a r k
∫ H i c k e y C r e e k M i t i g a t i o n P a r k
∫ M a r y M o o d y P a r k
∫ M i r a m a r P a r k
∫ O l g a P a r k
∫ R o y a l P a l m P a r k
∫ R u t e n b e r g P a r k
∫ S c h a n d l e r H a l l P a r k
∫ S h o r e s N a t u r e T r a i l P a r k
∫ V e t e r a n s P a r k
∫ W a - K e H a t c h e e P a r k
∫ W a t e r w a y P a r k
P r e s e r v e s :
∫ C a l o o s a h a t c h e e C r e e k s
P r e s e r v e E a s t a n d W e s t
∫ P r a i r i e P i n e s P r e s e r v e
∫ P o p A s h C r e e k P r e s e r v e
∫ T e l e g r a p h C r e e k P r e s e r v e
R e c r e a t i o n :
∫ K a r l J D r e w s C o m m u n i t y
C e n t e r
∫ K e l l y R o a d S o c c e r C o m p l e x
∫ L e h i g h A c r e s S e n i o r C e n t e r
∫ N o r t h F o r t M y e r s R e c r e a t i o n
C e n t e r
∫ V e t e r a n s R e c r e a t i o n C e n t e r
∫ W a - K e H a t c h e e R e c r e a t i o n
C e n t e r
A l s o , t h e O l g a C o m m u n i t y
C e n t e r a n d B u c k i n g h a m
C o m m u n i t y
C e n t e r a r e a v a i l a b l e
f o r r e n t a l s
D u e t o h e a v y i m p a c t s t o c o a s t a l
a r e a s , t h e f o l l o w i n g s i t e s r e m a i n e d
c l o s e d a s o f O c t 1 2 :
∫ B e a c h s i t e s : A l l c o u n t y b e a c h
p a r k l o c a t i o n s r e m a i n c l o s e d
∫ B o c a G r a n d e : A l l c o u n t y
f a c i l i t i e s i n B o c a G r a n d e r e m a i n
c l o s e d
∫ P i n e I s l a n d : A l l c o u n t y p a r k s a n d b o a t r a m p s i n t h e M a t l a c h a -
P i n e I s l a n d a r e a a r e c l o s e d
F o r u p d a t e s , v i s i t w w w l e e p a r k s o r g
T h e w e b s i t e a l s o l i s t s t h e
a d d r e s s e s , a v a i l a b l e a m e n i t i e s a n d
h o u r s o f o p e r a t i o n
sign Avoid signing an "estimate" or "authorization" form before hiring a particular contractor
∫ Get a written contract agreement with anyone you hire It should specify the work, the materials used, and the price breakdown for both labor and materials
Any oral promises should be written into the contract, including warranties on materials or labor
Make sure you know the terms and conditions if you cancel a contract
Understand the terms and conditions and get copies of warranties and guarantees
A contractor should be responsible for obtaining all necessary permits, not you
∫ Head to BBB org Check out BBB's tips for hiring a restoration contractor, hiring a tree service, and debris removal
Review contracts, deposits and payments
∫ Make sure the contract is specific Be sure the contract specifies the schedule for releasing payments to the contractor Ask for a start and end date for the work to be done
∫ Never pay in full in advance Do not pay with cash Don’t make a final payment or sign a completion agreement until all work is done satisfactorily
For more information on navigating the aftermath of Milton and Helene, visit BBB org/Hurricane A list of current resources curated by BBB to assist businesses and consumers in their recovery efforts can also be accessed
Comcast offers free Xfinity WiFi hotspots
To help residents and emergency personnel stay connected ahead of and after Hurricane Milton’s landfall, Comcast opened more than 261,000 public Xfinity WiFi hotspots in areas it serves across Florida The free and public hotspots are open for anyone to use, including nonXfinity customers
How to get connected:
For a map of public Xfinity WiFi hotspots, which are located both indoors and outdoors in places such as shopping districts, parks, and businesses, visit Finder wifi xfinity com
To find the nearest hotspot location in your city, search the WiFi Hotspot Map Enter your zip code, zoom in on the interactive map to view the results, and click on the locations for details
For assistance, customers can chat online with an
Xfinity com/response or connect with Comcast on Twitter at @xfinitysupport
& Bazaars
Saturday,Oct26th Preview9am
AuctionStart 10:00am
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Sat,Oct26th-Sun,Oct27th 8amto3pm 5605SW12thPl(off SkylineandElDorado)
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Pictures: facebook.com/RedBarnCapeCoral
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FAMILYOWNEDSINCE
