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Beach Bulletin
VISIT US ONLINE FORTMYERSBEACHTALK.COM WEEK OF DECEMBER 14, 2022 ‘A Very Rowdy Christmas’ holiday concert at Fort Myers Brewing
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Lani Kai bartenders teaming with Rumrunners in Cape Coral
Monday event part of toys for tots drive
Staff Report
The bartenders of the Lani Kai Island Resort will join forces with Rumrunners in Cape Coral on Monday. Dec. 19, for an all-day takeover and holiday toy drive at their waterfront property at 5848 Cape Harbour Drive, Cape Coral. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Joe Conidaris, his son Josh, his niece Holly, and longtime Lani Kai Island Resort bartender Sandy will take part. From 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., bartenders Jason, Beth, Kristelle, Mikey G and Dustin will be serving. “This gives our fabulous staff the chance to enjoy serving their patrons once again, and the chance for our wonderful patrons to come out and see some of their favorite Lani Kai crew, from one beautiful Southwest Florida waterfront venue to another, ” Lani Kai Island Resort Marketing Director Melissa Schneider said. Bacardi will be onsite offering holiday drink specials and Bacardi buckets throughout the day, and Rumrunners is hosting its annual Toys for Tots toy drive as well. The public is welcome to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the cause, Schneider said. There will be a happy hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the bar area, and steel drums entertainment with Dave Lapio from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. There is no cost to enter and walk-ins are welcome. Lunch and dinner reservations are based on availability (call 239790-5786). “Thank you so very much to our gracious hosts at Rumrunners for allowing us to be a part of this wonderful venue for the day, ” Schneider said. “We can't wait to see you, serve you and say ‘Thanks for being here’ once again. ”
insidetoday ‘HA! HA! HO! The Holiday Show’ - page 12 Annual Bonita Holiday Fair to return with rides and more- page Decorate Christmas cookies at Edison, Ford Estates - page 14 Collective to present Jazz at the MACC - page 14 Sports & Recreation - page 20 What a Catch - page 21 13
The Music Hub to present ‘A Very Rowdy Christmas’ holiday concert tonight at Fort Myers Brewing
Event to support local toy drive for children in need
Local musicians are coming together to support a local nonprofit’s holiday toy drive by presenting “A Very Rowdy Christmas” (A Totally NonRowdy Event) concert, today, Dec. 17, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Fort Myers Brewing Company. A production by The Music Hub, the free, family-friendly Christmas spectacular will feature multiple live music acts including Irish pub sing and showband The Rowdy Bards, along with special guests Sheena Brook and Chris Bepko. The show will also spotlight lively performances by students of the Naples School of Irish Dance as well as a special solo sung by concert emcee and 96.9 WINK-FM on-air personality Maggie Potts. The Christmas spirit will come alive with a big, old-fashioned Christmas carol sing-along and free photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Fort Myers Brewing will also be pouring an array of specialty holiday brews and several local food trucks will be serving up food onsite. Attendees are encouraged to come in their most festive attire and to bring donations of new, unwrapped toys to benefit the Lewis P. Tabarrini Children’s Music Outreach Foundation’s annual toy drive, bringing holiday cheer to children in need across the region. Additionally, all contributions to the musicians’ tip jar that evening will go directly to the Foundation, which provides musical instrument group lessons through the School of Rock Fort Myers to local children who are unable to afford lessons. In 202122, the organization provided over 300 hours of music education to deserving kids who otherwise wouldn’t have the resources to be exposed to music at all. “Our Christmas concert will be packed with great entertainment and holidayspirit–it’llbejustasmuchfun for the adults as it is for the kids, ” said Slim Gillian, chief visionary of The Music Hub. “Our nonprofit beneficiary for the show has a special place in our hearts, and we’re excited to shine the spotlight on their work. As artists and musicians, we all had people in our lives to help foster our love of music, and the Foundation is doing the same for dozens of children who otherwise wouldn’t have access. ” “A Very Rowdy Christmas” is presented by Dorcey Law Firm. Additional event sponsors include Worthington Realty, FrontLine Cyber Solutions, MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, Builders Glass of Bonita, York Services, The Treasure Chest, Adam’s Glass Services & Repairs, Lacy McClary Studio & Gallery, Gibson Pro Service and Cadence Music. The holiday festivities will be held at Fort Myers Brewing Company, 12811 Commerce Lakes Drive, Suite 28, in Fort Myers. For more information and latest event updates, visit TheMusicHubUS.com.
Magic of Santa’s Wonderland continues through Dec. 24
Bass Pro Shops is proud to invite families to the beloved tradition of visiting Santa Claus this holiday season during the annual Santa’s Wonderland experience. The festivities run through Saturday, Dec. 24. Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s will help millions of happy families experience Santa across North America this holiday season. Photo sessions began Nov. 6. Reservations are recommended and can be made at www.basspro.com/santa. Throughout the holiday season, visitors will have the opportunity to: printed 4×6 photo ∫ Reserve a spot to see Santa up to a week in advance through digital reservation system ∫ Enjoy holiday-themed games and receive festive giveaways ∫ Send their holiday wish list to the North Pole via mailbox Bass Pro Shops is at 10040 Gulf Center Dr., Fort Myers.
FMBAA presents new Winter Juried Show
Fort Myers Beach Art Association new winter juried show:"Finding Inspiration" is at the First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs, 9751 Bonita Beach Road. The show runs through Jan. 29.
Ha! Ha! Ho! The Holiday Show Frank Hughes as Santa.
‘HA! HA! HO! The
Palm Theatre
“HA! HA! HO! The Holiday Show” is playing now through Dec. 25. The Off Broadway Palm is an intimate theater, located in the main lobby of Broadway Palm. Performances are Wednesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Ticket prices range from $50 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 Blvd., Fort Myers
The Bonita Holiday Fair will return for its second year from Dec. 16 through Jan. 1 on the grounds of the Bonita Springs Poker Room, at 10601 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. Hours will be Thursdays from 5 to 10 p.m., Fridays from 5 to 11 p.m., Saturdays from 3 to 11 p.m. and Sundays from 3 to 10 p.m. There will be special hours on Christmas Eve from 1 to 5 p.m. and New Years Eve from 1 to 6 p.m. Opening night will feature “First Responder Friday” with free admission for first responders and hurricane relief workers. The fair will feature more than 30 state fair-style amusement rides and Kiddieland, with a selection for youths, families and thrill seekers. The Giant Ferris Wheel stands over 100 feet tall and the midway will be packed with games, prizes, fun and fair food. Entertainment will include The Magic of Lance Gifford, Rosaries' Royal Racing Pigs, Wolves of the World — the world's only traveling wolf pack — a petting zoo and more family-friendly attractions. Attendees will also find holiday displays and music, visits from Santa until Dec. 24, games of skill and festive merchandise vendors. Admission and ride tickets can be purchased at BonitaHolidayFair.com or onsite at the fair.
LCDAS to celebrate with Gift Giving Tree
Lee County Domestic Animal Services will celebrate the upcoming holiday season with its annual Gift Giving Tree in the lobby of the adoption center, at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers. The tree is decorated with ornaments that have a wish list of gifts for the shelter pets on it. Visitors may pick one up and return them to LCDAS by Dec. 21 to help make the animals’ holiday a little brighter. The ornament is the gift giver's to keep for their tree. The adoption center has dogs, cats, bunnies and guinea pigs looking for a home just in time for the holidays. To see pets available for adoption or for an application, visit www.leelostpets.com.
Hope Hospice’s Tree of Lights tradition offers a meaningful way to commemorate loved ones while providing essential funds for those in need of hospice care and grief support. Hope’s Care Centers in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres will each feature a Tree of Lights adorned with white paper butterflies. With a $50 gift, Hope will customize a butterfly with the name of your loved one and place it at the location of your choice. Donors who give $100 will also receive a 2022 keepsake metal ornament engraved with the Hope Hospice logo. For more information, visit MoreHope.org/Tree or call 239-4824673.
Honor a loved one with Tree of Lights
Wonder Gardens announces winter camp sessions
The Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs will host Winter Camp Wonder day camp sessions. “We invite local and visiting children to celebrate our resident animals and plants as they explore cultural and artistic connections and tap into their creative sides, ” Education and Volunteer Manager Katie Grimes said. “Activities include inquiry-based tours, games, science, art and free time. ” The weekly sessions will include: ∫ Dec. 19-23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: “World of Wonder” for ages 6-9 will explore resident animals, the countries where species live in their natural habitats, and some celebrations associated with those countries. Campers will make some special gifts for animals to help them celebrate the season. ∫ Dec. 19-23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: “Creatures and Cultures” for ages 10-12 will offer campers more advanced opportunities to get to know the animals, plants, and their global communities as well as design gifts through the lens of cultural inclusion and conservation. ∫ Dec. 26-30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: “Nature’s Canvas” for ages 6-9 will look at nature like an artist, exploring how animals create patterns and forms and then use similar processes for self-expression. ∫ Dec. 26-30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: “Wild Design” for ages 10-12 will give campers an opportunity for creative expression as they are inspired by natural elements, from scales and feathers to tendrils and fronds. Campers will tap into principles of sustainable design and draw on nature to inspire their own works of art. The sessions are $175 per week for members and $200 per week for non-members. To register, visit wondergardens.org/camps. For more information, contact Grimes at Education@wondergarderns.org The Wonder Gardens is at 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs.
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers is providing families with a chance to decorate cookies and see the holiday lights all in one night with classes on Dec. 19-22 from 6-8 p.m. Cookies are unfrosted sugar cookies that are pre-cut in various Christmas-themed shapes. The class will include a do-it-yourself cookie bundle kit with 12 cookies, four different icing options and three types of sprinkle toppings. A hot cocoa bar and admission to Holiday Nights is included. The river pavilion will be festively decorated and holiday music will be played. A family ticket is $115 for four people for members and $125 for four people for non-members. Up to two more family member tickets can be purchased for $30 each, with additional cookies included. Space is limited to 12 families per class, and each family will have a reserved table. For more information or to register, visit EdisonFord.org. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.
Families enjoy the holiday lights at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers.
EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES
Alliance for the Arts to host movie nights
The Alliance for the Arts will host an outdoor double feature, “Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Krampus, ” on Dec. 18 starting at 6 p.m. at 10091 M c G r e g o r Blvd., Fort M y e r s . Doors open at 5 p.m. Attendees
are encouraged to bring chairs. T i c k e t s are $15; children ages 8 and under are free. In addition, it will host “A Bad M o m s Christmas Movie Night” on Dec. 20 at 6:30 p.m. We all know “Christmas is the most stressful time of the year. ” Rather than hide in a bathroom when things do not go your way, grab your fellow “Bad Moms” and come watch. Movie is rated R. There will be a food truck and adult and non-adult beverages. Tickets are $8 for members and $10 for non-members. For more information or tickets, visit https://www.artinlee.org/.
Collective to present Jazz at the MACC
The Gulf Coast Jazz Collective will perform “Swinging Holiday” on Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. at the Gulf Coast Symphony's Music & Arts Community Center, at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. Valerie Gillespie on vocals and Herb Bruce on trombone will team up with the collective for an evening of swinging holiday favorites. Tickets are $38-44. For more information and tickets, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony.org/.
Broadway Palm set to kick off the New Year with ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat!’
Broadway Palm proudly presents the magnificent “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” playing Jan. 6 through Feb. 11, 2023. The age-old Biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to life on stage in this fun-filled, colorful musical that has entertained audiences for over 40 years. “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” is one of the most spectacular and entertaining musicals to ever hit the stage. Andrew Lloyd Webber teams up with collaborator Tim Rice to tell this compelling story from the Old Testament. Told through a kaleidoscope of song and dance, the musical is set in the desert of the Middle East many centuries ago. Jacob gives his son Joseph a magnificent coat of many colors. His eleven brothers become so jealous of Joseph and his splendid coat that they sell him into slavery. Upon arrival in Egypt, Joseph is sold once again. Because of his great gift for interpreting dreams, he rises from the status of lowly house slave to become the Pharaoh’s advisor. The spectacular score from nearly every genre includes “Any Dream Will Do, ” “Close Every Door” and “Go, Go, Go Joseph. ” Go! Go! Go! and get your tickets. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Tickets are $65 to $95 with children and group prices available. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, by visiting BroadwayPalm .com or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.
The
Laboratory Theater of Florida will present the southwest Florida premiere of Dorothy Marcic’s “SISTAS: the Musical. ” The show runs through Jan. 15. After Grandma’s death, the women in the family clean out her attic and unpack love and memories. They sing hit tunes that trace the history of Black women, from the trials of the 1930s through the girl groups of the ’60s to the empowerment of the ’90s. “SISTAS: the Musical” is sponsored by Art Zupko. Rehearsal space sponsored by Winged Foot Title. Performance dates: ∫ Dec. 16, 17, 28, 29, 30 at 8 p.m. ∫ Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. ∫ Jan. 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 at 8 p.m. ∫ Jan. 8* , 15 at 2 p.m. Special Events: ∫ Half-price preview nights: Dec. 14, 15 at 8 p.m. ∫ Staging Teen Success Through Theater: Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. 8 ∫ Post-performance talkback: Jan.
Tickets are $37 each or $15 for students with valid student IDs. For tickets, please call the box office at 239-218-0481 or online at www.laboratorytheaterflorida.com. For more information, visit www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com. The Laboratory Theater of Florida is at 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers.
‘The Parking Lot’ to open at Alliance theater
The Theatre Conspiracy at the Alliance for the Arts will present “The Parking Lot” on Dec. 15-17 at 7:30 p.m. and on Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. at the alliance, at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. By Adam Szymkowicz, “The Parking Lot” is directed by Madelaine Weymouth and stars Rachael Endrizzi and Ken Quiricone. J and Terry are married, but they might not stay that way for long. While most couples have the benefit of negotiating the ups and downs of marriage in private, or in therapy, J and Terry have taken a different approach. Instead they have chosen a parking lot as the setting to answer one of life’s biggest questions: Should we get divorced? Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for non-members. For more information, visit https://www.artinlee.org/event/parkinglot/2022-12-08/.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Broadway Palm proudly presents the magnificent “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” playing Jan. 6 through Feb. 11, 2023.
Theater presenting ‘The Sound of Music’
The Fort Myers Theatre is performing “The Sound of Music” from now through Dec. 24 at 16120 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers. The final collaboration between Rodgers and Hammerstein was destined to become the world’s most beloved musical. Featuring a trove of cherished songs, including “Climb Ev’ry Mountain, ” “My Favorite
Things, ” “Do Re Mi,
” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and the title number, “The Sound of Music, ” it earned five Tony Awards and five Oscars. Tickets are $25-35. For more information and tickets, visit https://ftmyerstheatre .com/. FORT MYERS THEATRE
PHOTOS PROVIDED
ABOVE: Making crafts and smiles with FineMark Bank's Jessica Catti. RIGHT: Reindeer games! BELOW: Holiday fun and games. Family Initiative offers sensory-friendly visits with Santa
In a quiet enclave of FineMark National Bank & Trust in Fort Myers, families with children and teens on the autism spectrum visited Santa Claus in a peaceful, festive setting away from loud music, long lines and crowds associated with many Santa-visit experiences. Family Initiative, a Florida-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting children with autism and strengthening their families, hosted 65 families for a visit with Santa. Hosted by FineMark Bank and United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades, the Dec. 3rd event included holiday crafts, a pizza party, hot cocoa bar, holiday movies and more. “Understandingthatchildren and teens on the autism spectrumaresensitivetonoise,overstimulation and new experiences, our team at Family Initiative worked with our partners at FineMark and United Way to create a more subdued and controlled experience duringtheirvisitwithSantaClaus, ” said Anjali Van Dries, cofounder and vice president of Family Initiative. “Santa was very gentle, offering a warm welcome and allowing the kids to approach him at their own comfort level. Watching their faces light up was such a joy, and we are grateful to FineMark Bank for providing this safe and inviting venue for the families we serve to enjoy this time together.
Guests learn how to create floral arrangements at Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Art Classes for adults offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers many opportunities throughout the year for residents and guests to learn painting techniques, create floral arrangements or make other pieces of artwork. Classes are taught by local artists. Registration is required for each at EdisonFord.org and classes can be purchased as gifts. Registration is open for the following classes: ∫ Silk Scarf Painting with Marie Dyer Jan. 14, Feb. 25, and March 11 at 9 a.m. Marie Dyer has been teaching at the Estates for many years. Participants will paint a scarf that can be worn or hung as a piece of artwork. To ensure adequate supplies, registration is required. All materials are included. Students of all experience levels are welcome. Space is limited. Members $90; non-members $100 ∫ Palm Weaving with Megan Kissinger Jan. 15 at 12 p.m.
‘Ding’ Darling hosts 10th annual photo contest for high schoolers
The 10th annual “Ding” Darling-Theodore Cross High School Photography Contest has kicked off with a deadline of March 1, 2023. 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, a one-year subscription to Adobe photography software and a one-year family pass to all Florida state parks. The contest’s namesake, Ted Cross, lived part-time on Sanibel Island; marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; advised the Johnson and Nixon administrations on antipoverty programs; wrote the influential book Black Capitalism, among others; played a prominent role in President Obama’s election; and created Birders United - a birding Web site 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 J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel, and a number of the images in his book reflect his love for the refuge. Cross published "Waterbirds" in 2009 at age 85; he passed away shortly after that in February 2010, just two weeks after he made a presentation at “Ding” Darling as part of its annual lecture series. NPR’s All Things Considered called Cross’ collection of 179 images and countless anecdotes “spectacular. ” The New York Times described it as “part visual encyclopedia, part memoir. ” “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, ” said Birgie Miller, DDWS executive director. “We couldn’t be more thrilled that they wanted their donation used in this way for a 10th 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, ” said daughter Amanda Cross. Digital image entries can be shot from any outdoor venue in the state of Florida. A writing component to the contest requires entrants grades 9 through 12 to submit a 100-word description of the “moment” captured and how it reflects what nature and wildlife mean to the photographer. Entry rules and guidelines are listed below. Guidelines and prize information are also posted at dingdarlingsociety.org/articles/photo-contests. Call DDWS at 239-2920566 for more information. All entries and personal information must be submitted in digital format to the email address ddhsphotocontest@gmail.com. Submit 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 high 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 x 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 borders 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 (2) 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, a professional photographer, and a resident of the five-county region. ∫ Judging criteria: -- Technical excellence (sharpness, lighting, composition, exposure) -- Creativity -- Explanation of photograph (minimum of 100 words) -- All photos will become the property of DDWS. Photos may be used by the society in any way with appropriate credit.
About DDWS As a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, DDWS works to support J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s mission of conservation, wildlife and habitat protection, research, and public education through charitable donations and Refuge Nature Shop profits. To support DDWS and the refuge with a taxdeductible gift, visit www.dingdarlingsociety.org or contact Birgie Miller at 239-2920566 or director@dingdarlingsociety.org.
In 2022, Dani Moser from Cape Coral High took first place with her image "Fly. "
DANI MOSER
Art classes From page 16 Students will join local artist, Megan Kissinger, to learn how to make woven crafts that they can take home. All materials and tools will be provided, but students may bring their own ribbons and scissors. Participants are also encouraged to bring a snack or lunch. Space is limited and registration is required. Members $40; nonmembers $60 ∫ Floral Still Life Painting with Marie Dyer Jan. 21 and March 18 at 9 a.m. Impressionist painter, Marie Dyer, will explain color mixing, effect design, impressionistic techniques, shading and effective color contrast to create mood. This acrylic on canvas painting workshop is for any experience level. Capacity is limited and registration is required. Members $90; non-members $100 ∫ Zen Drawing with Megan Kissinger Jan. 28 at 10 a.m. Participants will explore meditative drawing with local artist, Megan Kissinger. This class will take place outdoors on the sprawling grounds. Participants are encouraged to bring a lunch. The class will meet at the Visitor Pavilion before departing to paint on the grounds. All materials are included. Registration is required and capacity is limited. No experience is required. Members $40; non-members $60 ∫ Pre-Valentines Floral Arranging with Anita Singh Jan. 29 at 10 a.m. Guests will learn how to create their very own botanical masterpiece. The class will highlight designing with roses, foliage, and how to create a unique Valentine's Day floral arrangement. Each participant will take home their custom floral arrangement to enjoy. All materials are included, as well as tools and refreshments. Students of all experience levels are welcome. Seating is limited and registration is required. Members $75; non-members $85 ∫ Acrylic Landscape Painting with Marie Dyer Feb. 18 at 9 a.m. Impressionistic local artist, Marie Dyer, will guide participants in this plein air acrylic landscape painting workshop. She will cover the fundamentals of composition and structure, color creating, mood, mixing paints, and assist in developing a pallet that speaks to each guest. This workshop is for artists of all skill levels. All materials are included. Capacity is limited and registration is required. Members $90; non-members $100 For additional information or to register for classes, visit EdisonFord.org. Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.
Football tourney raises funds for storm relief
The Hurricane Ian Relief Flag Football Tournament took place on Dec. 3 at Dunbar High School in Fort Myers. The 7-versus-7 adult tourney included a men's division and a co-ed division. Event coordinator and The Sanibel School teacher Joe Camputaro reported that the $775 raised will benefit The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools' Hurricane Ian Relief Fund. The tournament was hosted in partnership with the foundation and Employee Wellness. Camputaro added that the tourney would not have been possible without the support of Dunbar High School and Principal Carl Burnside.
Team GasEmOut scored first place in the Hurricane Ian Relief Flag Football Tournament.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Event coordinator and The Sanibel School teacher Joe Camputaro and Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Chief Executive Officer and President Marshall Bower.
SPORTS & RECREATION
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering a oneday, “Boat America” class Saturday, Dec. 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Cypress Lake Community Church, 8260 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. This beginner boating class will provide the novice recreational boater with the knowledge needed to obtain the FWC safety certification. Many boat insurance companies offer discounts on boating insurance to boaters who complete the Boat America class. The class presenters are trained U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary members who facilitate sharing experiences and relate courseware to the Fort Myers Beach area. Greg Masonick, the Flotilla Commander of the Fort Myers Beach Flotilla 91 stated, “Education and awareness of potential risks while boating is the key to safe boating. Understanding the hazards is especially important after a hurricane. Participants learn the different styles of life jackets, minimizing risks, being prepared, and exercising good judgment. People are very busy today, and the class can easily fit into everyone’s calendar. Unlike online classes, this program offers student interaction, shared perspectives, and local area knowledge. ” The cost is $45 per person and includes study material. Advance registration is required, by phone at 239690-6780 option 1 or online at http://www.aux91fmb.org/safeboating/ - the class fills up quickly so register today. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the lead agency protecting America’s seaward frontier in recreational boating safety. Our vessels and aircraft deploy across the U.S. and aid or save countless boaters every year. Every day the auxiliary saves hundreds of thousands of dollars in property and saves countless lives. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. The Auxiliary wascreatedbyCongressin1939.Formoreinformation, please visit www.cgaux.org
FWC proposes rule to help improve survival of released reef fish
At its recent meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission proposed a rule to require the possession of a descending device or venting tool that is rigged and ready for use on board a vessel when harvesting or attempting to harvest, including catch and release, reef fish in state waters. The proposed rule is designed to increase the survival of released reef fish, a top priority management issue in the Gulf and South Atlantic. If approved, it would also require the use of a descending device or venting tool if releasing a fish that is exhibiting signs of barotrauma prior to release. As reef fish are reeled up from depth, they can suffer pressurerelated injuries known as barotrauma. These injuries include the stomach protruding out of the mouth, bulging eyes, bloated belly, distended intestines and inability to swim down independently. If not treated correctly, barotrauma can be lethal to reef fish. Tools including descending devices or venting tools can help released fish recover from the effects of barotrauma. Descending devices are weighted devices capable of releasing fish at a depth that is sufficient to recompress expanded gas and help fish recover from the effects of barotrauma. Venting tools are sharp, hollow instruments that allow expanded gas to escape from an over-expanded swim bladder. Barotrauma mitigation tool requirements have already been adopted in Gulf and Atlantic federal waters. In Gulf federal waters, fishers have the choice of possessing either a descending device or a venting tool that is rigged and ready for use. In Atlantic federal waters, fishers are required to have a descending device that is readily available for use. A final rule hearing will be presented at a future commission meeting.
LCEC Goblin Gallop 5k to be held Jan. 7
The 11th Annual LCEC Goblin Gallop 5k/Kid Run to benefit the United Way will take place on Saturday, Jan. 7, at Jaycee Park at 4125 S.E. 20th Place in Cape Coral, Florida. The Goblin Gallop was originally scheduled for Oct. 29, but was rescheduled due to Hurricane Ian and restoration efforts following the storm. The 5k starts at 7:30 a.m. and the Kids Fun Run starts after 5k ends. Registration fees are $30 for the 5K run/walk/virtual before Jan. 6, and $35 thereafter. The fee for the Kids Fun Run (ages 12 and under) is $15 by Jan. 6 and $20 thereafter. Packet pickup will be Thursday, Jan. 5, and Friday, Jan. 6, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at The Run Shoppe at 1407 Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral. All virtual racers can pick up their items during packet pickup. Visit www.runsignup.com/goblin2023 for race information and to register. Contact 5k@lcec.net with questions. Since its inception, the Goblin Gallop has raised nearly $24,000 to benefit the United Way. LCEC sincerely thanks all the sponsors, volunteers and participants who make the Goblin Gallop a success for the United Way!
Twins, Red Sox announce joint donation in support of Southwest Florida Hurricane Ian relief efforts
Takingthenextstepintheirongoingsupport of Southwest Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, the Minnesota Twins, in partnership with the Boston Red Sox, announced Tuesday a joint financial contribution to five Lee County-based nonprofits to assist with their relief and recovery efforts. The two Major League teams will donate a combined $200,000, with half going to Collaboratory (formerly the Southwest Florida Community Foundation), and the remaining half distributed equally amongst the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, Lee Health Foundation’s SWFL Stronger Together employee relief fund, Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Inc. and Community Cooperative’s Lee County Strong relief fund. “Lee County is a special part of Twins Territory, and we – along with our friends and Fort Myers neighbors, the Boston Red Sox – will be there for our Southwest Florida family in this time of recovery, as they have always been for us, ” said Twins President & CEO Dave St. Peter.
“The Twins have readily given the Lee County Sports Complex to house first responders, stage emergency vehicles and distribute more than 1 million meals through World Central Kitchen; now, we hope these new funds will assist our community partners in their critical efforts to ease the suffering wrought by Hurricane Ian. At the same time, we recognize that much work remains. We are committed to providing our continued support as this beloved region rebuilds in the days, weeks and months ahead. ” “Lee County has been the home of Red Sox Spring Training since 1993 and in that time, we have built a strong bond with countlessfans,localofficials,andpartnersin the area. We know how resilient our Southwest Florida community is, and we, along with our neighbors down the road, the MinnesotaTwins,willcontinuetodoallthat we can to support our community as we recover from the devastation of Hurricane Ian, ” said Red Sox President & CEO Sam Kennedy.
“We are grateful to the local, state and federal officials, organizations and volunteers on the ground in Lee County who continue to focus on recovery and relief efforts, as well as our Red Sox employees, families and teammates in Fort Myers, who have worked tirelessly every day to make JetBlue Park available for recovery response teams. As we look to the future, the Red Sox stand ready to support Lee County as we rebuild our community together. ” More about the beneficiaries: ∫ Collaboratory is reimagining everything a community foundation can and should be, with a commitment to bring SouthwestFloridatogethertosolveallofthe region’s major social problems on an 18year deadline. Currently, 100 percent of donations to Collaboratory go to assist the SWFL Emergency Relief Fund, in partnership with United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties. ∫ Harry Chapin Food Bank is the largest hunger-relief nonprofit and the only Feeding America member in Southwest Florida, servicing Charlotte, Collier, Hendry and Lee counties. The organization is actively responding the enormous community need in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. ∫ Lee Health Foundation, the philanthropic branch of Lee Health, created the SWFL Stronger Together employee relief fund to provide critical aid to the thousands of healthcare professionals who suffered incredible loss in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, many while serving patients at Lee Health hospitals across Southwest Florida. ∫ Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, Inc., which enhances and enriches the quality of public education in Lee County, is currently raising funds to provide relief for educators and students in need following Hurricane Ian. ∫ Community Cooperative, whose missionistoeliminatehungerandhomelessness in Lee County while simultaneously inspiring and supporting sustained positive change in its clients, has created the Lee CountyStrongemergencyrelieffundtohelp rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.
WHAT A CATCH!
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Angler Kathryn Barnes with a 26-inch redfish, caught on shrimp in southern Estero Bay on an inshore Fishbuster Charter. Capt. Dave’s Fishing Report
I ventured out 19 miles west of New Pass on Tuesday, Dec. 6, on a sight-seeing/exploratory/ occasional fishing trip with Erwin and Millie Metusiak. The Metusiaks have gone out with me for years, but always in the bay (inshore.) Since my bay boat remains in the shop, undergoing repairs since Hurricane Ian, Irwin and Millie decided to head offshore with me in calm waters, mostly to see what the waterways are like post-storm. Dolphin were everywhere (which usually means fish aren’t!) I did have some frozen squid onboard, so we did immerse a line or two, and released a half dozen grunts, a dozen small red grouper, a 12-inch triggerfish, and a bunch of squirrelfish. Keeper-sized lane snapper were abundant, but are currently out-of-season. We saw some red tide, close-in, but none beyond five or six miles. We also saw a lot of debris still littering the trees along the bay and even to about a mile offshore.
Captain Dave's Fishing Tips
Fishing tip #1: I don’t fish exclusively for tarpon because they are so unpredictable; however, if you do target tarpon, I would suggest you wait until the tarpon jumps — he will jump as soon as he picks up the bait and feels the hook. Then, give him some slack and bow to the jumps. When the fish goes back in the water, give a few good hook-sets. I would suggest using a medium/heavy rod. If you use a rod that is too light, you will not be able to maintain the pressure needed to keep the hook set: This is also not good for the fish because you will not be able to get him to the boat fast enough to prevent completely exhausting him.
Fishing tip #2: The best way to find a "secret spot" is to turn on your bottom machine and drive around in depths of 30 to 45 feet. There are small strips of ledge, and honey-holes, all over the gulf. I would suggest you start at locally known areas, then work your way away from them. Do not look for major structure, as most of the structure around here is less than 2 foot high. If you start catching small fish, that is a good sign that the bigger ones are in the area to feed. – Capt. Dave Hanson
Angler Kathryn Barnes with a 15-inch sheepshead, caught on shrimp in southern Estero Bay on an inshore Fishbuster Charter. Angler Jack Eaves with a 14-inch sheepshead, one of three this size he and his friends caught on shrimp in southern Estero Bay on a recent inshore Fishbuster Charter.
