WEEK OF OCTOBER 25, 2023
VOLUME 39, NUMBER 43
Observer 10/25/23
WEEK OF OCTOBER 25, 2023
VOLUME 39, NUMBER 43
Fire commissioners vote against merger bill By NATHAN MAYBERG
nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Fort Myers Beach Board of Fire Commissioners voted 5-0 to oppose a draft bill from State Rep. Adam Botana (R-80) which would involuntarily merge the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District with the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District.
The vote followed a similar vote taken by the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council last week opposing the merger. Before the vote by the fire commissioners, State Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka (R78) said the Lee County Legislative Delegation would not be voting on the proposed bill at an upcoming Oct. 30 delegation
meeting open to the public though the bill will still be an agenda item for discussion. The delegation would have to approve the merger bill before it could go forward, Persons-Mulicka said. Persons-Mulicka, who chairs the county delegation, said the public is still welcome to attend the next delegation meeting at SouthWestern State College in Fort Myers Oct. 30 at 9 a.m. to comment though the delegation will not be voting on it.
The wounds of the Botana bill were still fresh this past Wednesday among fire commissioners despite the notice that the delegation would not vote on the bill for now. Some commissioners were struck by the timing of Botana’s announcement, just days after a remembrance ceremony for Hurricane Ian was held at Bayside Park in Fort Myers Beach with a visit from See FIRE COMMISSIONERS, page 12
Softball legend to help open new ballfield By NATHAN MAYBERG
nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Fright Night The Town of Fort Myers Beach on Friday held its first Fright Night event since before Hurricane Ian. The Halloween event featured a costume contest, games, food and candy at the newly refurbished Bay Oaks Recreational Campus baseball field. The Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force had an informational booth set up with information on threatened species such as sea turtles, manatees and gopher tortoises, as well as information on shells and recycling. The Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation had a booth with candy and local artist Chester Rodgers provided artwork to children. For more photos see page 10-11 and a gallery of photos online at www.fortmyersbeachtalk.com. LEFT: Vada Sanchez (dinosaur) and Casey Field (zombie bride) won prizes for their costumes in the second and third grade Fright Night Halloween costume contest held by Fort Myers Beach at the Bay Oaks Recreational Campus on Friday. ABOVE: Elijah MacPeek, of Fort Myers, took third place in the Fort Myers Beach Fright Night costume contest division for 5-year-olds and 6-year olds. Joining Elijah were his parents Tim and Iris MacPeek. NATHAN MAYBERG
The Town of Fort Myers Beach will hold its official ceremony reopening its Little League baseball field at the Bay Oaks Recreational Campus today in an event that is scheduled to feature Olympic gold medal softball player Jennie Finch. The event will take place from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Bay Oaks Recreational Campus. There will be a baseball clinic beginning at 5 p.m. Finch is expected to take part in the clinic. A National Softball Hall of Fame inductee, Finch had one of the greatest pitching careers in college softball history, leading the University of Arizona to victory in the 2001 College World Series. In 2004, she helped pitch the U.S. to a gold medal in the Summer Olympics in Athens. The Fort Myers Beach Little League baseball field suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Ian. A previously scheduled ceremony to celebrate the field’s opening was postponed due to Hurricane Idalia. The field was used this past Friday for the town’s Fright Night Halloween event. The town was awarded a $50,000 grant through Major League Baseball and The See BALLFIELD, page 12
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OPINIONS
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Looking for normal in housing market 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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Web Poll Previous Web Poll Results Do you think the Fort Myers Beach Council was right in replacing members of MERTF? ∫ Yes 25% ∫ No 69% ∫ No opinion 6%
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
Like many of us, the recent From Denver and Los Angeles anniversary of Hurricane Ian to Charlotte and Louisville, has been a source of intense these patterns are playing out reflection for me. similarly. One year after the 500Historically, we see more year storm upended our hesitancy when presidential region, and so many of our elections approach, as one is lives, my heart goes out to next year. Buyers, sellers and those who lost everything: you investors generally are lookcan buy a new home or ing to avoid the uncertainty replace a missing roof, but you that comes anytime a new can’t buy back lost memories. administration could come Not only did thousands of into office. families lose their homes and Aside from the current properties, but they also lost cool-off period, Southwest Aprile Osborne family heirlooms, photos of Florida’s housing market hastheir children and so much n’t necessarily shifted in a bad more. When you think of way. We’ve seen plenty of home, you don’t only think of excitement in the market, the walls surrounding you; including new developments you think of the photos on the and fresh homes, and there is walls, the blankets on the couch and the dish- plenty to look forward to as our region es in the sink. grows. Twelve months after Ian left its mark on Southwest Florida, the housing market has New homes, new values, certainly shifted. new arrivals Over a recent seven-day period in late Although hundreds of homes along Fort September, we saw over 900 active listings. Myers Beach and along our waterways were During that same period, about 630 homes destroyed, we’ve already seen homes popwere sold. ping back up and restoration making good In my experience, that’s the first time in progress. For a moment, view the redevelopquite a while where the number of listings ments through a lens of optimism: everything has surpassed the number of homes sold. In is becoming new. fact, the number of days that a listing remains Families are replacing the material things, on the market is increasing across Collier, essentially creating brand-new houses. Lee and Charlotte counties. Typically, when something in the home is This isn’t just a Southwest Florida phe- improved, the value of the home immediatenomenon. Our firm, Call It Closed ly goes up. Ian-caused remodels are no difInternational Realty, works with agents, bro- ferent. kers, buyers and sellers across the country.
Guest Commentary
To their disbelief, homeowners have watched the value of their waterfront homes shoot up. In Southwest Florida, we’re here to boat, beach and enjoy life in paradise. Being on the water is our form of happiness, and no storm will stop that. As we’ve seen for decades past, snowbirds and here and ready to buy. In fact, our seasonal residents are arriving earlier and earlier, proving that Southwest Florida’s resilience keeps us at the forefront of non-locals' minds.
No hesitation Buyer hesitancy has no place here in Southwest Florida. I’ve seen a surge of interest in Sanibel, Captiva and Fort Myers Beach. Recently, we saw that the Red Coconut RV Park in Fort Myers was purchased for $52 million. For a community still reeling from the effects of a monumental disaster, these numbers and trends are amazing.
The two-year plan Interest is undeniably high. As the Federal Reserve’s interest rate continues to climb, we are feeling the effects. In the first week of October, mortgage interest rates reached a 23-year high, averaging 7.5% for a 30-year, conventional loan. Though the rising interest rates are having an impact on Southwest Florida homeowners, there are workarounds. I’ve found that a lot of my clients are simply shifting how they manage their personal lives. Just the other day, I had a family with a decision to make: do we splurge on a bigger See HOUSING MARKET, page 5
For 20 years, help is just 2-1-1 away In the year 2000, the Available 24 hours a day, Federal Communications 365 days a year, United Way Commission designated 211 211 is a free non-emergency as a non-emergency dialing helpline with a comprehensive code for the purpose of prodatabase of over 1,245 agenviding citizens with communicies and programs that enable ty information and referral the 211 Community Resource services. Shortly after, United Specialists to meet the needs Way agencies throughout the of people in our community. U.S. began adopting the numMore importantly, United ber to connect people in the Way 211 is a lifeline to help communities they serve with people navigate their way valuable local resources to through the maze of human meet basic needs like housing, and social service agencies in food, transportation and Lee, Hendry, and Glades Jeannine Joy healthcare resources. counties by providing the United Way of Lee, most adequate resources for Hendry, and Glades now celetheir situation. Calls and outbrates 20 years since the reach to 211 include everylaunch of 211 in our commuthing from families looking nity, reaching an even greater for their next meal who are milestone — 1 million contacts since its connected to food pantries and social servicinception in 2003. es to folks looking for employment services.
Guest Commentary
Situations vary greatly in our community, and resource specialists are there to help and direct callers to the organization or resource to best meet their specific needs. For veterans, 211 offers specially trained Veteran Care Coordinators to assess their needs. United Way’s Mission United is an initiative that uses the existing United Way 211 comprehensive information and referral database to address the complicated and fragmented systems for veteran services currently in place. Mission United serves as a single phone point of entry utilizing the 211 number to help local active military, veterans, and their families in Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties navigate and access needed services. Throughout the years, United Way 211 has expanded throughout Lee, Hendry and Glades, responding to meet our community during crises, including response to hurricanes, tornadoes, floodings, red tide, the panSee HELP, page 5
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.
home, or do we work with the less costly home? Ultimately, they decided to set a two-year plan for themselves. Rather than viewing the less expensive home as a lifetime commitment, they perceived it as a steppingstone and decided to purchase it, fix it up and then sell it when the interest rates go down. After selling and making a profit, they’ll use the money to buy the house that they wanted in the first place.
More houses, more options In the last year, we’ve seen the highest level of inventory that we’ve seen in the last four years. Not only have we faced one major disaster in the last four years, but
Be strategic
ues to advocate for those impacted by the storm and needing resources. More than celebrating this milestone anniversary, we can’t emphasize enough that it’s okay to ask for help. We’re here, we’re ready, we’re listening, and we’ll guide you in the right direction. To speak with a United Way Community Resource Specialist please dial 2-1-1 or 239-433-3900. If dialing
2-1-1 does not work from your mobile device, please try 239-433-3900. Chat services are also available online at UnitedWayLee.org/need-help/ Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to assist you with resources. From hello to help, 211 is here for you.
If you are looking to sell your home right now, consider waiting until January. Speak with a real estate agent to determine exactly what your home's value is; math never lies, so be sure to find out the actual dollar amount that your house is worth. Find a real estate agent that will go to the bat for you and your family. Now is the time to negotiate and get a good deal; find the right agent to do it. — Aprile Osborne, Call It Closed International Realty co-founder, has been a licensed agent in Southwest Florida for almost 20 years. Naples-based Call It Closed International Realty currently operates in 16 states. Visit aprileosborne.callitclosed.com.
Help From page 4 demic, the government shutdown, and more. Most recently during Hurricane Ian, United Way 211 became the Emergency Information Hotline operating at Lee County Emergency Operations Center. United Way’s 211 hotline received over 25,000 calls in the days following the storm and continues to be a lifeline for those seeking information and assistance. Even today, nearly one year after the storm, United Way 211 contin-
The Fort Myers Beach Observer & Beach Bulletin welcomes news from our community! Send news tips & releases to news@breezenewspapers.com
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Your views on the editorials, letters and the guest opinions that appear on The Observer opinion pages can be shared on-line. Tell us what you think. Share your opinion at: fortmyersbeachtalk.com.
— Jeannine Joy is the CEO of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades.
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we’ve faced two. At the beginning of COVID-19, people began to shift the way that they live their lives at home for a simple reason: they were home. From lockdowns to hurricanes, I feel like the market is just trying to adjust, as are families. I had a family come to me and say “I have the choice to work from home, but I also have the choice to go to work. What do I want to do?” As society returns to normal, families looking to move to Florida are having to consider the possibility of their remote positions becoming in-person again. Will they go back to the area that they are originally from, or will they continue their journey to Florida?
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Housing market From page 4
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BUSINESS
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CVS on target for December opening By NATHAN MAYBERG
nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
CVS Pharmacy, the lone pharmacy on Fort Myers Beach, could be ready to open by December according to Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt. Atterholt said he recently met with the leadership of the CVS team rebuilding their Fort Myers Beach location on Estero Boulevard on the south side of the island near Santini Plaza. The building was damaged by Hurricane Ian but salvageable, according to Matthew Blanchette, senior manager of Retail Communications for CVS Pharmacy. The plan is to salvage and refurbish the existing structure, Blanchette said. Atterholt said “tremendous progress is being made” at the pharmacy with a tentative reopening date of Dec. 15. “An expanded pharmacy is being built with a private consultation area being installed for patients and pharmacists to meet to discuss health issues and administer shots,” he said. “CVS, the Town and the Fire Department are working very well together and we are extremely thankful and encouraged that CVS will be reopening soon! As this is the only pharmacy on our island, it is a critical piece of our recovery.”
Smiles with Care joins charitable group
NATHAN MAYBERG
Outrigger Beach Resort demolished The Outrigger Beach Resort is no more. The popular Fort Myers Beach resort property has been demolished by its new owners, Naplesbased developers London Bay. The resort was sold in July for $38.2 million along with Charley’s Boat House Grill & Wine Bar across the street. The property was of the longest-continually running hotels on Fort Myers Beach. The Estero Boulevard property was purchased in the 1960s by Dan Reinfried, Ray Joeckel, Dave Fagerness and Malcolm Young and was built into a 152-room hotel. The new developers have not yet proposed plans for the sprawling beachfront site which features expansive views of the Gulf of Mexico.
STAFF REPORT Smiles with Care, the Fort Myers Beach dentistry whose offices on Fort Myers Beach were severely damaged by Hurricane Ian, have since opened up a new office on McGregor Boulevard a few miles off island in Fort Myers. Owner Dr. Nancy Bouchard also recently joined the governing board of Partners in Care, a nonprofit charitable foundation dedicated to supporting cancer patients. Bouchard is a former president of the Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation and former advisory board member of the Nancy Bouchard Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce. Initially trained as a dental hygienist before dentistry, she has taught radiology at Hodges University’s dental hygiene program and lectures across the country about caring for patients with head and neck cancer. Partners in Care serves cancer patients across 18 states, with more than 8,000 patients supported through its programs over the past 16 years, and more than $1 million in financial assistance provided. The foundation offers payment for a variety of expenses that aren’t covered by medical insurance, including gas or transportation services, respite care at home or in a healthcare setting, medical supplies or equipment, childcare, and lodging or food during treatment, as well as cancer screenings. STAFF REPORT Let’s go FMB, the community nonprofit group which has worked on proposals to rebuild the Fort Myers Beach Fishing Pier and has been discussing other ways to help the town rebuild, will be holding its next meeting Thursday, Oct. 26.
Let’s go FMB to meet Thursday
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The meeting will be held at the DiamondHead Beach Resort beginning at 4 p.m. Let’s Go FMB founding member Becki Weber said there will be a presentation from Fort Myers Beach Fire Chief Scott Wirth and Richard Lee, who will give a 20-minute pres-
entation on the opportunities for town residents under the Unite Florida – SHRC Sheltering at Home for Recovery Continuation Program. The group also will discuss the Fort Myers Beach Fishing Pier, landscaping, transportation, boutique businesses, marketing and permitting.
By NATHAN MAYBERG
nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Fort Myers Beach Observer
protocols in place beginning March 2020 to prepare for ensuring the safety of our students’ return to school.” Adkins testified that he had to “err on the side of safety, particularly during a health crisis pandemic.” The district noted in its reply to the lawsuit that there were nearly 2,000 reported cases of COVID-19 in Lee County on June 1 and that hundreds of people had died from COVID-19 in Lee County when the contract was terminated. At the time, the district was delivering food to children though a drop-off method or by bus. Based on the lack of documentation from Oakes Farms regarding its health protocols, Badalamani found that “The School District did not need to wait for a COVID-19-related illness to occur from the fresh produce provided by Oakes Farms before taking action to prevent that harm from occurring.” In addition to the health concerns, Badalamani found that the public outcry to the Facebook post by Oakes also was enough to uphold the termination of the contract. More than 17,000 people signed an online petition calling on the school district to sever its ties from Oakes following his statements. Badalamanii also found that the ensuing public outcry that included protests and other related responses led to “significant disruptions to the School District’s operations,” that justified the termination of the contract over the First Amendment rights of Oakes. Lee County School District issued a statement on the ruling through spokesperson Rob Spicker, saying “The School District of Lee County has always maintained our actions were appropriate and is pleased the court reviewed the evidence and facts to rule the School District’s termination of Oaks Farms’ food service contract after Mr. Oakes’s June 6, 2020 Facebook post was not a violation of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.”
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A U.S. District Court judge ruled in favor of the School District of Lee County over a First Amendment retaliatory claim lawsuit filed by Francis A. “Alfie” Oakes and Oakes Farms Food & Distribution Services against the district over the cancellation of a produce contract in 2020. The district terminated its contract with Oakes to provide fresh produce to its schools after Oakes took to Facebook in 2020 during the COVID pandemic to question the legitimacy of the pandemic and to criticize protests over a police killing of George Floyd. Oakes also criticized Floyd, who was murdered by a police officer in Minnesota. In the decision handed down by U.S. District Court Judge John Badalameni this week, the court denied the claim of Oakes that his First Amendment rights were violated. The district claimed the contract was terminated over the failure of Oakes Farms Food & Distribution to provide documentation of food-handling precautions during the covid pandemic. Badalameni concluded that the school district’s “interests in promoting the efficiency of its free meal program and the health of its students outweighed Mr. Oakes’s free speech interest.” Oakes had been providing produce to the district since 2015 and in 2018 agreed to a new three-year contract with the district to provide produce. In 2020, the contract was renewed for $6 million. Despite the ongoing pandemic in which students were taking classes from home, the district was still committed to providing meals to students. Three days after renewing the contract in June of 2020, the district issued a statement on the death of Floyd to “affirm our resolute commitment to our values
of diversity and inclusiveness and condemn racism in all its forms.” One day later, Oakes posted on Facebook a long criticism of supporters of Floyd and claimed that the COVID pandemic was a “hoax” and “planned” by the “disgraceful powers that control this world with their puppets in the media.” After receiving complaints from staff and some in the community about the posts of Oakes, the school board and district officials began looking into whether to terminate the contract with Oakes, according to court documents. The district’s director of procurement requested from Oakes Farms & Distribution their COVID procurement policies. After receiving documentation on letterhead from another company (one of several dozen companies that provided produce to Oakes Farms), officials determined the response was inadequate and moved to terminate the contract over concerns about whether produce being was being handled by the company’s workers adequately, according to court documents. The district ultimately approved a new contract with U.S. Foods. Oakes claimed his First Amendment rights were violated but Badalameni ruled that while Oakes was entitled to First Amendment protections of his speech on a matter of public concern, he wasn’t protected from his speech leading the school district to develop concerns that the health and safety of its students were at risk. “The School District has introduced ample evidence that it was concerned with the potential health risks posed by Mr. Oakes’s apparent disregard for the severity of COVID-19,” Badalalameni ruled. Former School District of Lee County Superintendent Greg Adkins testified that due to “the significant danger COVID-19 poses to all people, the District put detailed
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Federal judge sides with Lee County Schools over Oakes lawsuit
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Beach Living
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Farmer’s market expanding to Moss Marina By NATHAN MAYBERG
nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Fort Myers Beach Farmer’s Market organizer Linda Miller announced a second market is on the way for the island at Moss Marina. The new market will be held on Wednesdays beginning Nov. 1, adding another option for shoppers in addition to the Friday farmer’s market that started in September at Times Square. The Moss Marina Market will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 450 Harbor Court downtown on Fort Myers Beach. The market helps replace the Beach Baptist Market. “Unlike any other farmers market in Southwest Florida, this market features freshly-caught fish thrown off the boat for purchase,” Miller said of the new location at Moss Marina. The Moss Marina Market will also feature fresh pro-
FILE PHOTOS
The Fort Myers Beach Farmer’s Market opened at Times Square after being on hiatus since before Hurricane Ian. The market will be expanding to a new location at Moss Marina on Wednesdays.
Town receives $1.5 million from county for beach work STAFF REPORT The Town of Fort Myers Beach will receive $1.5 million in funding through Lee County Tourist Development Tax funds for beach and shoreline maintenance, improvements to its beach accesses and for a shade structure. The town announced the details of how the funds will be used this week following a vote last week by the Lee Board of County Commissioners to fund $4.4 million in beach and shoreline projects throughout the county. According to an announcement from the town, the funds will be used on Fort Myers Beach for the following: ∫ Beach and shoreline maintenance $1,196,600 ∫ Replacement of a restroom trailer at Palm Avenue Beach Access - $10,100 ∫ Public beach access boardwalk replacements - $323,761 ∫ Newton Beach Park shade structure - $4,463 In addition to replacing the boardwalks at the beach access points that were damaged, the funds also will be used for permitting and construction of three boardwalks at the public beach access points at Pompano Street, Chapel Street and Mango Street.
Fort Myers Beach Farmers Market organizer Linda Miller will bring locally grown honey and a large group of other vendors to a new farmer’s market on Fort Myers Beach at Moss Marina. The market will replace the former farmer’s market that used to be held at Beach Baptist Church. duce, artisan bakeries, gourmet foods, beach gear, arts, Marina for market shoppers. For vendor information and applications, visit 41marcrafts, skincare products and other goods, Miller said. Free boat and car parking will be available at Moss kets.com
Merger bills to be discussed at state legislative delegation meeting By NATHAN MAYBERG
nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Although votes on the merger of the Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs fire district, as well as a proposed involuntary merger of the town’s mosquito control district with Lee County are now off the table for Monday’s meeting of the Lee County State Legislative Delegation meeting, both items will be on the agenda for discussion. State Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka (R-78), who chairs the delegation and represents Fort Myers, said the bills proposed by state Rep. Adam Botana (R-80) will not be up for a vote consideration though the public is welcome to attend the meeting and voice their opinions on the matters. The meeting also is an opportunity for residents to voice concerns on any other state legislative matters or to make requests of the delegation. Botana, of Bonita Springs, represents Fort Myers Beach in the state legislature. The Lee County State Legislative
Delegation will meet at Florida SouthWestern State College in Fort Myers at 9 a.m. The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council voted to oppose both bills and the Fort Myers Beach Board of Fire Commissioners voted against the fire district merger bill. “For the proposed local bills to proceed, they would still first require a vote of the Delegation, but that vote will not occur at the meeting on the 30th,” Persons-Mulicka said. Persons-Mulicka acknowledged that input from the community impacted her decision to take the bills off the voting agenda. “In the coming days, we will compile all information and public comment regarding these matters that I have received as Chair of the Delegation and distribute to each of the Delegation members. I’m grateful to each person who took the time to reach out to our office on these important community matters. Their voices were heard.”
Botana has proposed merging the districts involuntarily without a local referendum, though local referendums are required under the state law that governs the merging of special districts. Following Botana’s surprise proposal, Persons-Mulicka said “It’s imperative that we listen and hear from those that will be impacted.” The Lee County State Legislative Delegation includes eight state representatives and state senators who represent Lee County in the state legislature. In addition to Botana and Persons-Mulicka, the delegation includes State Sen. Jonathan Martin (R-33), whose district covers Fort Myers Beach, and Sen. Kathleen Passidomo (R-28), of Naples. Other representatives from Lee County include Rep. Mike Giallombardo (R79), Rep. Spencer Roach (R-76), Rep. Tiffany Esposito (R-77). State Senate Majority Leader Ben Albritton (R-27) also represents the northeastern section of Lee County.
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Fort Myers Beach Observer
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Fright Night at Bay Oaks
NATHAN MAYBERG Petra Magourick, of Fort Myers Beach, took secMembers of the Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation brought generous amounts of candy for ond place in the 5-year-old and 6-year-old divichildren at Fright Night, as well as WeAreFMB shirts. From left to right are: Roseann Cole, Sharon sion of the Fort Myers Beach Fright Night cosCook, Nancy Walker, Annie Lump, Donna Raymond and Jan Fleming. tume contest.
Mary Rose Spalletta transformed into a sea turtle at the Fort Myers Beach Fright Night costume contest while assisting at the Marine and Environment al Resources Task Force tent.
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Delaney Hollis, Garrett Hollis, Katie Hollis and Brynlee Hollis of Fort Myers enjoy Fright Night at the Bay Oaks Recreational Campus baseball field. NATHAN MAYBERG
Fort Myers Beach Observer
Local artist Chester Rodgers gives Tessa Schmucker a signed drawing of a sea turtle at the Fort Myers Beach Fright Night at Bay Oaks.
fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 25, 2023 n Page 12 Fort Myers Beach Observer
NATHAN MAYBERG
Fort Myers Beach Fire Commissioners Jacki Liszak (left) and Chairman Fort Myers Beach Fire Commissioner Jim Knickle. John Bennett.
Fire commissioners From page 1 Botana, state legislators and state officials to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the storm that killed 16 on the island. “He dropped a Pearl Harbor on us,” Commissioner Ron Fleming said. Fort Myers Beach Fire Commissioner Jack Liszak said “It was in extreme poor taste to bring this up at this point in this community’s recovery process. It’s only a year since we got completely devastated by the storm and the fact that this is even being brought forward at this point in the manner it was, I can’t even address it properly. It just goes to show how out of touch this particular individual is with the community he purports to serve.” Liszak said a referendum is needed. Fleming also criticized Botana’s bill to merge the town’s mosquito control district with the county, though the original draft bill actually stated the mosquito control district would be merged into the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District. A spokesperson for Botana’s office said that was a “typo.” Fleming said he called Botana “at least 10 times and didn’t get an answer. I texted him. He does not respond,” Fleming said. “He has no answers.” Fort Myers Beach Board of Fire Commissioners Chairman John Bennett said Botana has a “lack of a plan” for the merger. Bennett said he was suspicious of the motives of the merger, which would cede all assets of the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District to the new district. Bennett also criticized Botana’s attempt to merge the districts involuntarily without a local referendum or a planning study, which he said would violate state law regarding the merger of fire districts. “I think it took us all off-guard,” Bennett said. Under Botana’s proposal, there would be five new fire commissioners, with only one seat set aside for Fort Myers Beach. “They are going to throw us a bone. They are going to give us one commissioner from Fort Myers Beach,” Fort Myers Beach Fire Commissioner Larry Wood
“It’s not a merger, it’s a takeover.” Larry Wood Fort Myers Beach Fire Commissioner
“He dropped a Pearl Harbor on us.” Fort Myers Beach Fire Commissioner Ron Fleming, regarding the proposed involuntary fire district merger bill proposed by Rep. Adam Botana
Fort Myers Beach Fire Commissioner Ron Fleming. Bennett said the millage rate in a said. “Every vote conceivably could be 41 against anything we decide is good for merged district could go up. He reached out to Bonita Springs Board of Fire Fort Myers Beach.” The city of Bonita Springs has a popu- Commissioners Chairman Steve Lohan lation of about 50,000 which is much but didn’t get a call back. The Fort Myers larger than the nearly 6,000 residents in Beach Observer also left messages for the Town of Fort Myers Beach. The Fort Lohan that were not returned. Commissioner Jim Knickle said he was Myers Beach Fire Control District also includes portions of unincorporated Lee “vehemently opposed” to the merger. He County that are outside the town’s limits said the merger was “more political” than on San Carlos Island and the stretch of needs-based. “Politics should not be Fort Myers Beach along San Carlos involved in public safety,” he said. Knickle said the financial assertions Boulevard down to Summerlin Road. “It’s not a merger, it’s a takeover,” regarding savings and other data by Botana were “suspect at best” and lacked Wood said. Wood, the former principal at Fort evidence. Fort Myers Beach Fire Chief Scott Myers Beach Elementary School, said he has been through mergers before and said Wirth said he was questioned by Botana about the district’s plan to build a fire they are “not healthy.” Wood said “We will always be the out- training facility instead of using the one in siders” and worried that the “chances for Bonita Springs. Wirth pointed out that promotion will lessen dramatically” for such a drive can be an hour or more during season. Fort Myers Beach firefighters.
Knickle said that sending firefighters to Bonita Springs “takes firefighters out of district” and could be a risk to the town if a major fire were to break out during training. Botana, through a spokesperson, declined to comment on the vote by the commissioners. Wood said he has a lot of friends and neighbors planning to attend the Oct. 30 hearing and wondered if they should still attend now that the state legislators have announced they won’t vote on the bill that day. Wirth said “It could be picked up and carried by the next chair in a very quick fashion. I think showing up on the 30th does no harm.” Wirth said the public attending and giving voice to their opposition could help the legislators “think twice” about pursuing the bill. Jennifer Gordon, a union representative for Fort Myers Beach firefighters, said the union opposed the merger as does the Bonita Springs firefighter union. This is not the first time a proposal has been made to merge fire districts in Lee County. The Lee County Board of County Commissioners rejected a proposal in 2018 to merge all of the county’s fire districts.
Ballfield From page 1 Scotts Company LLC to help rebuild the ballfield, the Major League Baseball Office of the Commissioner announced earlier this year. The town also announced that 7-11
donated to restore the fields. In addition to work by town staff and community volunteers, Jason Clark of ICS Materials was credited by the town with donating time
and materials to restore the field. “We are grateful to so many for helping us get the little league field ready,” said Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager
Andy Hyatt. “This celebration will be the first of many yet to come as we continue the Town’s recovery from Hurricane Ian.”
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Fort Myers Beach Observer
Fort Myers Beach Art Association fall show opens STAFF REPORt The Fort Myers Beach Art Association's Fall Juried Show “Rush of Color” opens today at First Presbyterian Church on 9751 Bonita Beach Road in Bonita Springs. The show will run Monday through Friday until Nov. 19. The show will be available for viewing from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Seagate Development Group, which purchased the Red Coconut property, is sponsoring the show. A reception will be held Friday, Oct. 27, at 2 p.m. This show marks the opening of the new season for the art association. A list of upcoming events can be found at https://fortmyersbeachart.com/events/. The association’s work is also being featured at Alliance for the Arts in a show titled “Imaginations” on Nov. 3 with a reception scheduled at 5 p.m. Alliance for
the Arts, at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The association’s home off Donora Boulevard and Shell Mound Boulevard was destroyed by Hurricane Ian. The association has been working on plans to rebuild. The Fort Myers Beach Art Association also announced that member Cheryl Fausel has achieved Distinguished Signature Status with the Florida Watercolor Society for having her artwork juried into the competitive shows for ten years. Starting in January, Cheryl will be offering multiple classes. For more information, contact Fort Myers Beach Art Association publicity chair, Pam Flaherty, at publicity@fortmyersbeachart.com. Visit the website for updates at www.fortmyersbeachart.com.
Cheryl Fausel has achieved Distinguished Signature Status with the Florida Watercolor Society for having her artwork juried into the competitive shows for 10 years. PHOTO PROVIDED
Fort Myers Beach Observer
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Rush of Color
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fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 25, 2023 n Page 18 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin
Signed Kentucky basketball found By NATHAN MAYBERG
nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Are you a University of Kentucky basketball fan missing a signed basketball of the Wildcats? A University of Kentucky basketball featuring several signatures was found on Connecticut Street several months ago, according to Town of Fort Myers Beach Director Communications Jennifer Dexter. If the owner recognizes the ball and wishes to retrieve it they can email the town at publicinfo@fmbgov.com or call Town Hall at 239-765-0202 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. The ball bears the signature of Kentucky Men’s Basketball Coach John Calipari as well as several player signatures from the 2018-19 Kentucky basketball team including EJ Montgomery and Nick Richards. PHOTO PROVIDED The owner should provide to This University of Kentucky basketball, with the town a photo or other record several signatures, was found on establishing provenance of the Connecticut Street and has not yet been basketball in order to claim it. claimed by its owner.
St. Peter Lutheran Church to resume services STAFF REPORT The St. Peter Lutheran Church announced the resumption of church services beginning Sunday, Nov. 5. The services will be held outside the church at 3751 Estero Blvd. in a large tent near the parking lot of the Fort Myers Beach church. The church has not held services on site since Hurricane Ian destroyed much of the community room of the church and causes widespread damage to its buildings last year. Services will be held every Sunday at 9 a.m. There will be seating though the church advises that those with lawn chairs bring them. "Our first service since Hurricane Ian devastated our island will be celebrated with coffee, donuts and apple cider following church," St. Peter Lutheran Church Office Administrator Trudy Archer said. Local musician Stephen Clark will perform during the service. "Everyone is welcome to attend. We are working closely with the members
of Chapel by the Sea Presbyterian Church as well as folks who attended Beach United Methodist Church," Archer said. "This will be a service with prayer, music and lessons. Each service will include a sermon, and most will have communion available to everyone. If anyone attended the outdoor services we held in the past, we are planning to have this be the same type of service. We are still pet friendly." In a message sent out to the community, Archer said the church is "looking forward to seeing some of our long-time friends as well as making new ones as we work to restore our congregation, our church home, and our service to the community. St. Peter has been an active member of the Fort Myers Beach Community since 1967 and as a community of faith, we plan on continuing to minister to both residents and visitors long into the future." For those unable attend services, visit the website at www.stpeterfmb.com or phone the office at 239-463-4251 for further details.
Monofilament Madness: FMB marine cleanup to be held Oct. 28 STAFF REPORT Keep Lee County Beautiful will be partnering with the Town of Fort Myers Beach in cleaning up the shoreline, Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve and Fort Myers Beach Yacht Basin on Saturday, Oct. 28.
With debris from Hurricane Ian still scattered throughout the water, groups of volunteers will be going by boat, kayak and canoes to clean up the waters around the town. Teams will be meeting at three loca-
tions: Salty Sam's Marina at 2500 Main St., Moss Marina at 450 Harbour Court and The Mound House at 451 Connecticut St. The cleanup begins at 8 a.m. with a free catered lunch at noon.
For more information and to sign up, contact Sarah at 239-334-3488 or visit the Town of Fort Myers Beach website at www.fortmyersbeachfl.gov.
WHERE TO GO
WHAT TO DO
WHO TO SEE WEEK OF OCTOBER 25, 2023
VISIT US ONLINE FORTMYERSBEACHTALK.COM
Halloween events in Lee County —Page 24
Marcus Roberts Jazz Trio joins Southwest Florida Symphony for concert STAFF REPORT he Marcus Roberts Trio will be joining the Southwest Florida Symphony for a special “American Classical” performance to blend jazz and classical music on Saturday, Nov. 4, at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers. The symphony will be conducted by Maestro Radu Paponiu. The Marcus Roberts Jazz Trio will perform an exclusive jazz arrangement of “Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin in honor of the 100th anniversary of the masterpiece. The exciting program will showcase other iconic pieces including Aaron Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man” and “Four Episodes” from “Rodeo,” John Williams’ “Star Wars Suite” and Leonard Bernstein’s
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“Symphonic Dances” from “West Side Story.” As part of the symphony’s signature series, patrons will also have the opportunity to attend an exclusive pre-concert lecture prior to the show led by Roberts and Paponiu, including a Q&A session, to enhance the concert experience and provide insights into the pieces being performed. The lecture begins at 6:30 p.m. The Marcus Roberts Trio is a long-term musical partnership between renowned pianist and composer Roberts, drummer Jason Marsalis and bassist Rodney Jordan. Known for their virtuosic style and entirely new approach to jazz trio performance, the group equally shares in shaping the direction of the music by changing its tempo, mood, texture or form at any time – with lightning quick musical reflexes and creative imagination taking over the stage. Driven by a belief in “letting the music take over,” the result is a powerful sound filled with rhythmic, harmonic and dynamic contrast. Roberts has been hailed as “the genius of the modern piano.” In 2014, the celebrated CBS News television show, 60 Minutes, profiled his
insidetoday Pet Pals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
life and work on a segment entitled “The Virtuoso.” The show traced Roberts’ life to date from his early roots in Jacksonville and at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind to his remarkable career as a modern jazz musician. He began teaching himself to play piano at age 5 after losing his sight but didn’t have his first formal lesson until age 12. At age 18, he went on to study classical piano at Florida State University with the great Leonidas Lipovetsky, whose own teacher was the celebrated Madame Rosina Lhévinne. Roberts has previously recorded with the Berlin Philharmonic on a ground-breaking arrangement of Gershwin's “Concerto in F for Piano and Orchestra.” The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. To purchase tickets or learn more, visit swflso.org/tickets/. The Marcus Roberts Trio will join the Southwest Florida Symphony for a special performance Nov. 4 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers. PHOTO PROVIDED
What’s Happening . . . . . . .22
fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 25, 2023 n Page 20 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin
County to stage Lee County’s 100th Anniversary Fair Showcase event to continue at the Civic Center in 2024; Parks & Rec will host festivities The Lee County fair will go on in 2024 at the same location, the Lee Civic Center. “The 2024 Lee County fair will happen as planned at the Lee Civic Center,” the county said in a release issued Thursday afternoon. Lee County Parks & Recreation will host the event with assistance from a third-party vendor and volunteers. “The Lee Board of County Commissioners has a longstanding commitment to the 4-H program, the Future Farmers of America (FFA) program and the Lee County fair,” the release states. “As part of that commitment, the Board has never wavered that the 100th fair would happen in 2024 and will continue for years to come. Lee County assumed operation of the fair to ensure that long tradition contin-
ues uninterrupted after the previous organizer’s contract expired Sept. 30 despite efforts to negotiate a contract extension.” The county’s parks department has the expertise to make sure the organizational transition goes smoothly, officials said. “Lee County Parks & Recreation has extensive experience hosting large-scale special events year-round. Lee County is working with an entertainment and ride vendor — and long-time fair volunteers —to bring the classic fair experience and enhancements to the community,” the release states. Earlier this week, the Board received an update related to the fair and Civic Center. The discussion at the regularly scheduled Tuesday, Oct. 17, meeting included a vote to:
n Authorize staff to continue to work with 4-H partners to prepare an agenda item for a regularly scheduled Board meeting that will identify the cost of the equipment that is needed to maintain the 4-H youth activities. n Authorize staff to negotiate with the third-party fair show vendor for Lee County to host the 2024 Annual Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair; prepare an agenda item for Board approval once terms and conditions have been determined. To watch the discussion and video, please visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELs2Z7TJWXs. More information about the Board’s commitment to the Civic Center and its activities as well as an interactive map, video to past Board discussions and more are available at www.leegov.com/civiccenter.
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Captiva Cruises celebrates return of Lady Chadwick STAFF REPORT
trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
PHOTO PROVIDED
Captiva Cruises' 65-foot flagship boat, the Lady Chadwick, returned to the water on Oct. 10. ecosystems and native wildlife. www.captivacruises.com. Captiva Cruises also offers its sailing catamaran, Captiva Cruises is at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Adventure, for private charters. Captiva. For more information, call 239-472-5300 or visit
Spooky Splash at Sun Splash Oct. 28 By MEGHAN BRADBURY
news@breezenewspapers.com
ries as a family in a safe place and in a fun way,” she said. “It is hot during Halloween. No one wants to be baking in a hot dusty pumpkin patch.” Also, on Saturday, Sun Splash will be open during normal operating hours, also offering some Halloween fun. She said kids and family should come in costume, as the winners of the costume contest will receive prizes – including Sun Splash 2024 season tickets. Be sure to check out the Ohana Games tent, as there is a Trick-or-Treat and Scavenger Hunt from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Reed said the kids will receive a treasure map and as they go around to different attractions, they will receive a stamp. Before leaving the park, the youngsters can trade in their treasure map and receive a goodie bag of candy to go. Reed said they are donating some of the profits from the special events to the Cape Coral Animal Shelter, which is their next-door neighbors. “We love them and are so appreciative of what they do,” she said. During the day, Reed said the Cape Coral Animal Shelter will have a couple four-legged friends, some in costumes, available for adoption. “The community has been through a lot with Ian just destroying everything,” Reed said, adding that they wanted to come back with an event and that it is a blessing to the animal shelter, community and families. “People have been through a lot. We wanted to put it in a price point where people can come and enjoy, and it wouldn’t be out of people’s reach.” Sun Splash is at 400 W. Lake Kennedy Drive. Tickets are available at www.sunsplashwaterpark.com.
The 20th Annual Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament returns to Lee County on Saturday, Nov. 11, with proceeds benefitting the Candlelighters of Southwest Florida, a charity that supports children with cancer or blood disorders and their families. The tournament is a family fun event that features door prizes, raffles, food and silent auctions from noon to 4 p.m. on the day of the competition. It is organized by Gulf Coast Kayak and hosted by Scotty’s Bierworks. Event registration is open now and additional information can be found at FishDonkey.com. All fishing will be catch, photo and release using the FishDonkey app. Anglers must fish from paddlecraft on Lee County waterways. The tournament will begin at safe light. Weigh-ins will be at Scotty’s Bierworks noon to 3 p.m. The mandatory captain’s meeting and registration is 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10, at Scotty’s Bierworks, 901 East Industrial Circle, in Cape Coral. For more about Lee County Parks & Recreation, visit www.leeparks.org, call 239-533-7275 or email leeparks@leegov.com.
SAC exhibit on display online The Sanibel Art Colony's digital exhibition, “There's Calm In Your Eye: Art Inspired by the Impact of Hurricane Ian on Southwest Florida,” is available on its website from now through Nov. 27. Comprised of 86 pieces from 47 artists, it aims to foster an inclusive, healing and thought-provoking conversation. The exhibit captures some of the moments Southwest Florida been living through post-Ian and reflects the creative response of artists to their personal storm-related encounters. To view the exhibition or for more information, visit https://sanibelartcolony.com/theres-calm-in-your-eye/.
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Grab your swimsuits and head to Sun Splash next weekend for the inaugural Spooky Splash, complete with a pool pumpkin patch. Sun Splash Administrative Manager and Activities Director Hollie Reed said they wanted to hold the first Spooky Splash last year, but Hurricane Ian put a damper to those plans. So, this year they decided to make it bigger and better. With the city of Cape Coral’s Parks and Recreation Department wanting to do something fun and exciting for Halloween, the two joined forces. “We were on the same page separately. It became this perfect partnership. I am so excited. We want to make this an annual event,” Reed said. Spooky Splash will kick off at 5 p.m. and run until 8 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 28. Tickets are $14.99 per individual. “I don’t know where else you can go and have full access to a waterpark,” Reed said of the admission price, as all regular attractions will be open during the event. Spooky Splash is free for ticket pass holders. “You are going to be able to use it for Spooky Splash for free,” Reed said, which includes the pumpkin patch, balloon animals and face painting. “Kids will get a Spooky Splash swag bag. It’s a whole Halloween event for free.” Spooky Splash offers an abundance of fun for the family to enjoy. There will also be a one-of-a-kind attraction – the family pool being turned into a pumpkin patch. “Where else can you go swim out into a pool of 900 pumpkins bobbing – meet Duncan the Scarecrow and get your picture taken. I cannot wait for my own kids to go,” Reed said. There will also be a balloon artist on hand, a face painter and a deejay spinning spooky tunes for attendees to dance to. Sharky, who Reed said is their main man, will be at the event, along with a pirate crew and other characters for a meet-and-greet for the kids. She said out in the field there will be a 36-foot inflatable obstacle course and inflatable ski ball for attendees to enjoy. There will also be specialty food offerings at Sharkey’s Cobweb Cafe, such as mummy dogs and boo burgers, and creepy cocktails at the Pirate’s Oasis Bar. The Spooky Splash is “extra time to make memo-
Registration open now for 20th Annual Calusa Blueway Fishing Tournament
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Captiva Cruises' flagship boat is back on the water more than a year after Hurricane Ian struck. The Lady Chadwick held its first public cruise on Oct. 10 to Cabbage Key in the Pine Island Sound, which included time during the 4.5-hour adventure for passengers to explore the island or enjoy lunch. A length of 65 feet and able to accommodate 148 passengers, the boat had been undergoing repairs since last September. Captiva Cruises had moved the Lady Chadwick to a Fort Myers Beach boatyard before the hurricane for its annual inspection and maintenance, then it was damaged by storm surge. Operating out of McCarthy's Marina on Captiva, the family owned and operated cruise excursion service resumed a limited schedule of offerings in January by using its 45-foot catamarans, Playtime and Santiva. With the return of the Lady Chadwick, Captiva Cruises resumed its regular schedule. In addition to Cabbage Key, it offers trips to destinations like Useppa Island and Boca Grande, along with beach and shelling adventures, dolphin and wildlife cruises, and wildlife sunset excursions. All of the cruises are led by U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains, guiding passengers in encountering Southwest Florida and providing educational insights on the local
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WHAT’S HAPPENING ‘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.
Fair at Fenway South returning to JetBlue Park 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 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 on-site 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.
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 mag-
Refuge opens annual photo contest for high schoolers The 11th annual “Ding” Darling-Theodore Cross High School Photography Contest has kicked off with a deadline of Jan. 15. It invites high school students in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties to compete for prizes that include a Canon digital SLR camera package, one-year subscription to Adobe photography software and an annual pass to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel. Cross, who lived part-time on Sanibel, marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; advised the Johnson and Nixon administrations on anti-poverty programs; wrote the influential book “Black Capitalism,” among others; played a prominent role in President Barack Obama’s election; and created Birders United — a birding website that ranked legislators according to their record of bird protection support. Late in life, Cross decided to indulge his love for birds and photography and traveled the world to collect stunning portraits and stories to chronicle his adventures. He shot often at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel, and a number of the images in his book reflect his love for it. Cross published “Waterbirds” in 2009 at age 85; he passed away shortly after that in 2010. “The Theodore Cross Family Charitable Foundation has made possible this contest with a generous grant to the 'Ding' Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge,” DDWS Executive Director Birgie Miller Gresham said. “We couldn’t be more thrilled that they wanted their donation used in this way for a 11th year.” “We are so happy to be supporting a contest in my father’s name, a contest that will get our youth involved with nature by looking at it — as my father so loved doing — through a camera lens,” daughter Amanda Cross said. Digital image entries can be shot from any outdoor venue in Florida. A writing component to the contest requires entrants grades 9-12 to submit a 100-word description of the “moment” captured and how it reflects what nature and wildlife mean to the photographer. The entry rules and guidelines are as follows: Entries and information must be submitted in digital format to ddhsphotocontest@gmail.com. Submit ical 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. 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.
your full name, high school, grade and an original photograph that you took of nature and/or wildlife in the open outdoors. Include a title for the photograph and a written description (minimum 100 words) of the “moment” captured and how it reflects what nature and wildlife mean to you. You and your entry must comply with the following requirements: ∫ Students attending schools in Lee, Collier, Hendry, Glades and Charlotte (Florida) counties in grades 9 through 12 may enter the contest. ∫ Only digital images are accepted and may be taken with any camera, including smartphones. ∫ Images must be submitted in JPEG format and must have a size of at least 2000-by-1500 pixels or resolution of 2 megabytes. ∫ The photograph must be taken of nature and/or wildlife in the open outdoors in the state of Florida, which may include parks, refuges, backyards, and other open spaces. ∫ Panoramic photos are not allowed. ∫ Filters, cropping, enhancements and boarders are permitted. However, adding any elements not existing in the original scene will not be allowed. Judges, at their discretion, will disqualify any photos that appear to be manipulated beyond these guidelines. ∫ Each participant may enter up to two photos but is eligible to win only one award. ∫ Judging will be anonymous. Please do not put your name or anything that will identify you on your photograph. ∫ There are three judges: a refuge staff person, professional photographer and resident of the fivecounty region. ∫ Judging criteria: technical excellence (sharpness, lighting, composition, exposure); creativity; and explanation of photograph (minimum of 100 words). ∫ All photos will become the property of the DDWS. Photos may be used by the society in any way with appropriate credit. Find guidelines and prize information at www.dingdarlingsociety.org/articles /photo-contests. For more information, contact the DDWS at 239292-0566.
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
Urgent: Need a spot to land Adopt/Foster 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
Two special kittens need forever homes By Jo Knobloch Saveourstraysfmb@yahoo.com Founder of Save Our Strays Cat Rescue a 501c3 organization on Fort Myers Beach
Baby Cakes is a female, black and white, 6-month-old kitten. She is very sweet and affectionate and loves to be held and played with. She has siblings that she is close
with but is great with all other cats and kittens. Mya is a female gray and white tabby who just turned 8 months old. Her brother Taz was adopted and she is lonely without him. Mya is very sweet and affectionate and gets along well with all the other cats in rescue. If you would like to meet Baby Cakes or Mya, please call the rescue at 239-851-3485 to schedule an appointment.
If you have any food or other cat items to donate, please leave at one of two pet supermarkets - College and 41 store or the store on Majestic Palms Blvd. off San Carlos Blvd. not far from Fort Myers Beach. Volunteers needed. Please call 239-851-3485 if you have any time to help feed or any other duties that the rescue needs.
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
Follow us on Facebook at Find A Home Give A Home Pet Rescue and see all the amazing pets we saved these past few months
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Here’s sweet Chance and would do best as an only dog since he loves the attention! He was in a shelter for many months where he was pacing for hours. He was adopted by a very nice lady but she can't keep him any longer and he has only until Friday, Oct. 27. Chance is 7 years old and weighs 57 pounds. This is a note from his current Mom: “I call him Chancy and he knows his name. I’ve been working with him daily and he’s learning all his commands. I use both hand signals and words and he responds to both. He knows sit, come, drop it, down, and needs more help with lie down and heel. He’s a sweet dog who tries very hard to please me. He loves to cuddle
especially at bedtime. He has a stuffed teddy bear he loves to carry around and loves tennis balls. Play time for him is early morning and after dinner. He needs a lot of exercise and is very strong and muscular. He has learned to run around outside and comes back to me in a few minutes. Of course I only let him run before meals and watch him closely. He loves to eat so responds quickly then. He loves to look out my screened lanai windows and is great with new people. When we first got him he was afraid to walk on the grass and hates the wet grass in the morning. He does have a stubborn streak and sometimes he just stands looking at me. If I use the right voice and hand signals he responds better and better. He’s very smart and just wants to please. He has several scars and has had a tough life but with lots of loving he’s a great dog!” Please call or text 239-281-0739.
Page 23 n Week of Wednesday, October 25, 2023
PET PALS
Island pets seeking forever homes
fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 25, 2023 n Page 24 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin
PHOTO PROVIDED
Children can participate in the pumpkin patch and pumpkin painting contest during the Fall Festival at Edison and Ford Winter Estates.
Fun family-friendly Fall Festival at Edison and Ford Winter Estates Lee County Parks & Recreation offers Fall Festival events The Lee County Parks & Recreation has announced plans for Fall Festival events throughout October. Events include: ∫ 6-9 p.m., 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. ∫ 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.
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
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.
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Page 25 n Week of Wednesday, October 25, 2023
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fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 25, 2023 n Page 26 Fort Myers Beach Observer
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Page 27 n Week of Wednesday, October 25, 2023 fortmyersbeachtalk.com
Fort Myers Beach Observer
Fort Myers Beach Observer
fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, October 25, 2023 n Page 28
Observer 10/25/23
Observer 10/25/23