Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin

WEEK OF JANUARY 10, 2024

VOLUME 40, NUMBER 2

Observer 1/10/24

WEEK OF JANUARY 10, 2024

VOLUME 40, NUMBER 2

Council approves changes to Margaritaville deal

By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council approved changes to the 2018 agreement between the town and TPI for the Margaritaville Beach Resort at a meeting Monday during a first reading of the ordinance.

The changes to the agreement include a compromise from TPI over the extension of hours and amplified music after con-

cerns were raised by the Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency and members of the public through letters last month.

The agreement will allow for the extension of hours at Margaritaville’s aquatic area and Fins Up! Beach Club to 10 p.m. with the resort backing down a request for amplified sound in that area.

The owners of the resort had previously requested to extend the hours of its aquat-

ic area and Fins Up! Beach Club past 9 p.m. with amplified sound for private events though at Monday’s town council meeting the owners tempered that request.

The owners had previously also requested to allow for the aquatic area to be open to 11 p.m. for private events.

Under the new agreement, TPI attorney Steven Hartsell said the hours of amplified music in the pool area would be codified to be allowed until 9 p.m., rather

than the current agreement which allows for amplified music in the pool area until one hour after sunset. Under the previous agreement, the pool area would have to close by one hour after sunset, Hartsell said. Under the new agreement, the Fins Up! Beach Club, pool area and its outdoor patios could remain open until 9 p.m. for private events.

“What we want is flexibility,” TPI See COUNCIL, page 14

Town to crack down on derelict properties

By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

Jefferson St. modular part of newest island construction

By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

T

hey say money talks. Large-scale, multi-million dollar purchases of commercial properties on Fort Myers Beach throughout 2023 was a testament to the belief in developers in the future of the island. A modular home going up on Jefferson Street this past week is one of dozens of such houses on the way for Fort Myers Beach, a signal as to the optimism of builders and homeowners as well.

Leslie and Charlie Hornfeck lost their home to Hurricane Ian and are now the proud owners of a two-story modular house on Jefferson Street. Before Hurricane Ian, their house was used as a vacation rental and the plan is for the home to be used again as a vacation home. For now, the home will be a show house for the builder and manufacturer.

“We were devastated by the loss,” Ms. Hornfeck said. “But, once we processed it, we really didn’t have an option other than to rebuild and move

forward. We have loved Fort Myers Beach for a long time and for as much as this beach has given to us, we certainly wanted to be a part of the recovery.”

See CONSTRUCTION, page 13 This two-story modular went up at Jefferson St. this past week, one of a number of new modular homes planned for the town.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BILL VEACH

The Town of Fort Myers Beach could shortly be giving notices to property owners to tear down buildings or risk facing the town doing it for them along with a bill and lien from the town following discussion by the town council Monday.

Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt said notices could begin going out by Feb. 1 with 30 days to respond or come into compliance or risk the demolition of their properties.

The council gave guidance to town management to begin the process of sending out letters to property owners whose lots are considered derelict, or that haven’t been repaired since Hurricane Ian. The process could result in the town clearing the lots and sending a bill to the property owner for the cost if properties don’t fall into compliance by March 1.

The approved action, which was done without a formal resolution or vote, would allow Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt to start the process.

Town of Fort Myers Beach Attorney Becky Vose advised that the town council that it has the ability to “essentially force people to tear down structures that need to be torn down.”

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers asked for what the process was to take action.

“It’s been long enough,” Allers said.

Vose said it would be up to the town’s building official to make a determination that action was required and that a notice would be sent to property owners for a “reasonable amount of time.” Vose said it would be a shorter amount of time to See PROPERTIES, page 14

Beach Living............................................8 insidetoday Opinions.......................................4 Business............................................6 Beach Bulletin..................................21-27

Classifieds.............29

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OPINIONS 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

Advertising Director Laurie Ragle lragle@breezenewspapers.com

Advertising Sales Lyn McElhaney lmcelhaney@breezenewspapers.com

Obituaries Debbie Carletti obits@breezenewspapers.com

Production manager Rob Braitling rbraitling@breezenewspapers.com

Subscriptions 1 year, $65 Circulation (239) 574-1936

Fort Myers Beach Observer

Classified/Display Advertising (239) 574-1110

The Observer and Bulletin is published every Wednesday Customer service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except major holidays.

Letters to the editor must be typed or hand printed. Your name and phone number must be affixed to the copy.

In the event of an advertising error, we are responsible only for the first incorrect insertion of the ad itself. We are not responsible for any credit or reimbursement after 30 days from publication.

Postal Information: Third class postage paid at Fort Myers Beach, FL. Permit 521.

Postmaster: Send address changes to the Beach Observer, 19260 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931,

Previous Web Poll Results Should town councilmembers be permitted to use cell phones during town council meetings or should they be limited to emergencies? ∫ They should be permitted without limits, 2% ∫ Limited to emergencies, 96% ∫ Unsure/no opinion, 2%

Current Web Poll Question Should the Fort Myers Beach Council grant additional changes to the 2018 agreement between the town and TPI for the Margaritaville Beach Resort? ∫ Yes ∫ No ∫ Not sure/no opinion Share your opinion at fortmyersbeachtalk.com

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Bridging Futures: The crucial need for expanding career and technical programs in Lee County Public Schools Lee County, Florida, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant communities, is also home to a growing need for a diversified and skilled workforce. In recent years, the importance of career and technical education (CTE) programs in public schools has gained considerable recognition nationwide.

Lee County is no exception, Chris N. Patricca as it faces the imperative task of preparing its students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving job market. Expanding CTE programs within the public school system is not merely an option but a strategic move towards nurturing a workforce that can thrive in the 21st-century economy.Meeting the Demand for Skilled Workers:One of the primary reasons to expand CTE programs in Lee County is the increasing demand for skilled workers in various industries. By providing students with hands-on training and practical skills, these January 2024 Chris N. Patricca District 3 programs bridge the gap between traditional classroom education and the realworld demands of the workforce. With the

Guest Commentary

expansion of technology-driven professions, such as healthcare, information technology, and advanced manufacturing, CTE programs offer a pathway for students to develop the skills that employers are actively seeking.

Fostering Local Economic Growth Lee County's economic landscape is diverse, encompassing tourism, agriculture, healthcare, and technology.

Expanding CTE programs aligns with the needs of the local economy, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the skills required by industries driving the community's growth. By producing a workforce tailored to local demands, the county can attract new businesses, stimulate economic development, and create a sustainable cycle of growth.

Reducing Unemployment and Underemployment A well-developed CTE infrastructure in Lee County schools can address the issue of unemployment and underemployment among graduates. By offering specialized training and certification programs, students are better prepared for immediate entry into the workforce upon graduation. This not only reduces the time spent job hunting but also contributes to a higher employment rate, benefitting both individuals and the community as a whole.

Diversifying Career Pathways Not all students aspire to pursue a traditional four-year college degree, and CTE programs provide an alternative pathway to

success. Expanding these programs in Lee County public schools ensures that students have a variety of career options, fostering a sense of inclusivity and accommodating diverse talents and interests. By acknowledging the importance of vocational skills, the education system can empower students to pursue careers that align with their passions and strengths.Building a Competitive Advantage:As the global job market becomes increasingly competitive, Lee County can gain a competitive edge by nurturing a workforce with diverse skills and expertise. CTE programs focus on industryspecific training, ensuring that graduates possess a unique set of skills that make them highly sought after by employers. This not only benefits the individual students but also elevates the county's reputation as a hub for skilled professionals, attracting investment and fostering innovation.

Conclusion Expanding career and technical programs in Lee County, Florida, public schools is a strategic investment in the future of both the students and the community. By meeting the demands of the evolving job market, fostering economic growth, and providing diverse career pathways, the county can position itself as a leader in preparing students for success in the 21st-century workforce. The implementation of comprehensive CTE programs is not just an educational initiative but a vital step towards building a stronger, more resilient community.Respectfully, Chris N. Patricca School Board Member, District 3

Letter to the Editor Time for the U.S. to have an official language To the editor: In the last couple of years there have been a surge of people entering this country both legally and illegally. I think in 2024 the United States should push to have an official language. Recently in stores and public places I have observed many people get annoyed and frustrated, both employees and customers, by not understanding each other.

I still don’t understand how you can take a driver’s test in many languages when the signs and directions are in English. The United States in only one of five countries that do not have an official language.

Establishing an official language would promote unity and cohesion among the

diverse population. With a common language, communication barriers would be minimized, leading to enhanced understanding and collaboration among individuals from different cultural backgrounds. This would foster a sense of national identity and strengthen our social fabric.

Having an official language would help efficient government operations and public services. It would streamline communication between government agencies and citizens, ensuring that information and services are accessible to all. This would also result in improved efficiency, reduced costs, and a more inclusive society.

Declaring an official language would also provide economic advantages, foster unity, and enhance government operations. A

shared language would enhance workforce productivity and mobility, allowing individuals to participate in the job market more effectively. Ultimately, this would contribute to economic growth and competitiveness on a grand scale.

I understand that language is deeply intertwined with cultural diversity, and it is important to acknowledge and respect the various languages spoken within our nation.

However, having an official language does not mean disregarding or devaluing other languages. It simply serves as a common foundation for communication and integration and keeps a nation together.

Lou Walker Cape Coral

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.

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.

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BUSINESS

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Beach’s Ian-devastated Hammerhead Gym finds a home in Cape Coral

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A near Category 5 hurricane was no match for a United States Marine looking to follow his dream with his wife, despite Ian wiping their business clear off the sandy streets of Fort Myers Beach.

Armand McCormick, along with spouse and business partner Sarah, had just relocated to their own slice of paradise from Iowa, as they had opened a gym in the small town a year prior as a place for vacationers and residents alike to use. Their plans were to make the location even better, as they frequently vacationed on Fort Myers Beach and sold a portion of their business back home.

They even opened a subsequent location between the beach and Sanibel.

In fact, the couple had been there just two weeks before Hurricane Ian forever changed the landscape of Southwest Florida.

Hammerhead Gym on the beach was flattened. Back wall caved in. Roof collapsed. Equipment strewn about.

The location near Sanibel was flooded heavily with some equipment salvageable.

“We went from about two locations to zero really quick,” Armand said. “We stumbled upon a pile of rubble (at the Beach location). The entire back wall of the gym got knocked out and our equipment was thrown through it.”

Luckily for the McCormicks, their house located near the secondary gym location only suffered wind damage and no flooding, while their beach rental was decimated.

For any potential Florida resident, the dangers of a hurricane is always something you’re told when relocating. For that danger to be so present, so powerful, so soon, was something the couple couldn’t have imagined.

“We had talked about it before we moved down here,” Armand said. “It’s one of those things that everyone’s OK with. But I guess what you don’t actually think about is a building completely washing away. That was one that’s kind of not on the radar. It doesn’t feel like you can carry enough insurance or be prepared for an entire business just to wash away.”

Sarah added, “It was so much shock, really. We moved down here with this whole plan of being on the beach all the time and enjoying a whole different life than we were used to in Iowa, and none of that played out. It was really shocking and obviously emotional. It’s like losing a part of you. When you own a business and you really love it, it’s a part of you.”

Naturally, some doubt whether to go on or not crossed Armand’s mind.

“I would think anyone is a liar if they said, especially if they were in a case like some of the business owners and people who lost literally everything, they didn’t think

Storm wreckage left behind at their Fort Myers Beach location.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Armand and Sarah McCormick lost their Fort Myers Beach gym as well as their second location near Sanibel in Hurricane Ian. The Hammerhead Gym has since opened in Cape Coral at 1013 Cape Coral Parkway East. dren was running across their minds. about packing it up and leaving,” he said.

“We were looking for anything to do,” Armand said.

Sarah said the doubt didn’t come until six months after “People are still working to rebuild. People aren’t really the fact.

“At first it was like, ‘OK. Get it back together.’ looking to work out right now. We were scratching and Motivation was high and you think you can make life clawing trying to figure out how to make money.”

It was Sarah that stumbled upon what is now a piece normal again. Once I realized that it really was never going to be what I thought it would be, then I started to of their original vision come to life.

She found a building for sale in the Cape last April second guess.”

Armand, a former lance corporal in the U.S. Marine while still having ongoing repairs made to their home.

“It kind of clicked,” she said of what was formerly Corps, was presented the Silver Star for his actions in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. In March of ’03, his Gulf Coast Fitness on Cape Coral Parkway.

The McCormicks discovered the owner was not going battalion was blasted with mortars, rocket propelled grenades, and automatic weapon fire. He drove his light- to reopen the gym and was trying to sell. While they ly armored vehicle into heavy fire at an enemy machine weren’t necessarily looking to buy, the McCormicks gun position and crashed it purposely into an occupied worked out a deal to lease the 10,000-square-foot locatrench line. He then left the vehicle and continued fight- tion for a new Hammerhead Gym. “The stars kind of aligned,” Sarah said. ing while taking direct fire making his way through the Hammerhead Gym in the Cape opened on June 1 of trench and continued to press forward with success. As fellow soldiers arrived, he returned to his vehicle. His 2023, and slowly but surely, it has come into its own.

“We bring to the table something different than what actions greatly reduced the enemy’s ability to cause harm was here, and what the corporate-type gyms around the to his battalion.

When asked if his will and determination to go own state offer,” Armand said.

Sarah added, “It took some people time to realize what after his business was wiped out had anything to do with his military experience, Armand said, “Yeah. Absolutely. we are and have to offer. We know fitness and that’s our “The way I was in the military is very much the way I passion. That’s why we own gyms.

“Once people started to realize our passion, the vibe in run a business. And if you talk to anyone that’s been a here totally changed and there’s a lot of energy.” part of my team, they would say the same thing.”

The McCormicks say what sets Hammerhead Gym Armand also gave credit to his wife.

“I couldn’t ask for someone better to be with, because apart is their attention to detail and accessibility. The gym (Sarah) just says ‘OK, let’s go.’ We started with nothing is open 24 hours, 365 days. Memberships can also be purup in Iowa, and that’s been our mentality is we can defeat chased online. They offer high-level personal training, anything. We’ll do it. It’ll take a lot of effort and work. classes, and nutrition for all ages and levels. Armand and Sarah are often at the gym, always in the fold, and have a But we got it.”

While the secondary gym location, after a lot of hard team of professional and knowledgeable trainers.

“The knowledge that we bring with our experience — work, time, and refurbishing, became operational, the we’ve been doing this for 20 years, each of us,” Sarah McCormicks found another opportunity in Cape Coral.

The thought of “what are we going to do” in terms of said. providing financial stability for their home and two chilSee HAMMERHEAD, page 7

PHOTO PROVIDED

Orange ginger shrimp and banana leaf grouper have been added to the menu at Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grill as part of new menu options announced for the new year. shrimp. Coconut jasmine rice tossed with red bell pepper and buttered green beans provide the perfect accompaniment for the entree. Customers will also love the chicken taquitos, featuring slow-cooked shredded chicken breast tossed in sweet and spicy barbacoa sauce, hand-rolled into corn tortillas, fried golden brown and served with cilantro lime aioli dipping sauce.

Fig flatbread, pairing house-made fig jam with red onion rings, blue cheese crumbles, crispy prosciutto, arugula and jalapeño vinaigrette, joins Doc Ford’s popular flatbread appetizer menu.

Dixie Fish Company on Fort Myers Beach, a 2023 Yelp Top 100 Florida Restaurant based on community ratings and reviews, offers a modern twist on traditional Florida shrimp and grits for the new year.

Roasted corn and spinach add nuance to the comfort food, prepared with a half-pound of jumbo shrimp sauteed with fresh chorizo and the restaurant’s buttery special recipe grits with sweet red peppers and topped with crispy homemade fried julienne potatoes. HM Restaurant Group owns and operates Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille and Dixie Fish Company. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., the restaurants are renowned for delivering a legendary guest experience.

Award-winning Doc Ford’s offers food with a unique balance of flavors inspired by the Caribbean Rim. Known for its sauces, spices and passion, Doc Ford’s is beloved by locals and visitors alike as a spectacular seafood restaurant serving up its signature Yucatan shrimp daily. Established on Sanibel in 2003, Doc Ford’s has expanded from its original location to three others: Fort Myers Beach and two in St. Petersburg, on the St. Petersburg Pier and in Jungle Terrace.

Hammerhead From page 6 gym is half the battle.”

While it wasn’t always the vision, the couple are excited to have their business in one of the fastest-growing cities in America and to bring the highest level of service they can to residents.

“The amount of people Lee County is bringing in... it’s insane,” Armand said.

“We’re starting to see the culture in the

gym get better. The excitement is increasing every day.”

Sarah added, “I’ve been telling myself since last September that everything happens for a reason. I mean I feel that God put us here for a reason. And even though it might not show itself right away, I think we’re right where we’re supposed to be.”

The gym offers veterans and active

military a 20% discount on membership, with discounts also available to police, fire, and EMS. Hammerhead Gym in Cape Coral is at 1013 Cape Coral Parkway East. For more information, visit www.hammerheadgymfmb.com/cape-coral/.

Fort Myers Beach Observer

Both Armand and Sarah have a CrossFit background, having coached and competed.

Armand also has his Masters in exercise physiology strength and conditioning.

“The level of programming here is probably unmatched to anywhere throughout the state,” Sarah said.

“Knowing what to do when you go into a

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STAFF REPORT Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille and Dixie Fish Company are adding fresh-from-Florida flavors to their menus for the new year.

The additions include sun-kissed citrus and fresh Florida seafood, old-fashioned shrimp and grits, as well as banana leaf grouper.

“A new year is a great time for exploring new experiences, and our culinary team really wanted to highlight the tastes of the Sunshine State,” said Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group, the parent company of Doc Ford’s and Dixie Fish Company.

“These new dishes showcase the best of Florida while also introducing other mouthwatering flavor combinations our winter visitors and regular customers will love.”

Succulent Florida grouper is the star ingredient of the new banana leaf grouper and chimichurri grouper tacos. The leaf-wrapped entree features roasted pepper cilantro lime pesto and fresh corn salsa and is served with black beans and rice. For the tacos, sauteed blackened grouper and lime cilantro cabbage slaw are stuffed into two toasted flour tortillas and complemented by a savory chimichurri aioli drizzle and topped with queso fresco and avocado slices.

A half pound of jumbo shrimp is roasted with a vibrant melange of orange juice, ginger, mild peppers and spices for Doc Ford’s new Florida orange ginger

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Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill, Dixie Fish Co. add to menus

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 8 Fort Myers Beach Observer

Beach Living Mound House Caloosa Carvers Return The Caloosa Carvers, a group of local woodcarvers who have made accurate replicas of Calusa wooden artifacts for use in Mound House exhibits and programs, will return.Saturday, Jan. 20 to the Mound House. The Caloosa Carvers will return to carving these replicas on the grounds of Mound House. This is a free program, and no reservations are required.

Simply stop by, chat, and learn more about wood carving between 9:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. on the first and third Saturday of each month now through April.

Stories Beneath Our Feet Exhibit Reopens The Mound House announced that the Stories Beneath Our Feet exhibit has partially reopened. After being completely submerged in saltwater by Hurricane Ian in September of last year, the town has completed the necessary repairs to the exhibit to reopen the area to visitors. While there is still work to do to enhance the visitor experience with new museum components, the exhibit will be open at the same hours as the rest of the Mound House museum, Wednesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Included with price of admission.

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Coast Guard Auxiliary offers boating safety classes Boating enthusiasts seeking to obtain the state boating safety certificate are encouraged to enroll in a one-day responsible boating class on the third Saturday of the month, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The course is held at the Pine Ridge Community Center, located at 15699 Pine Ridge Rd. in the Iona area of Fort Myers, next to the Iona McGregor Fire Station and across from the tax collector’s office.

Completion of the course will make participants eligible for the state boating certificate. Classes are offered on the third Saturday of the month.

Robert Guenthner, the Flotilla Commander of Fort Myers Beach Flotilla 91, stresses the importance of education and awareness of boating hazards. "Attending an in-person class is an excellent opportunity for students to interact, share perspectives, and gain local knowledge.

Participants learn about the importance of life jackets, risk reduction, preparedness, and exercising sound judgment together with updates for regulatory compliance," Guenthner said.

According to Florida law, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, who plans to operate a boat in Florida

waters with an engine of 10 horsepower or more must complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Florida boating safety ID card. This card certifies that the person has completed the required boating safety course, but it is not a boating license.

The one-day class costs $45 per person and includes study materials.

Enroll today at www.Aux91FMB.org/SafeBoating or by calling 239-690-6780 option 1.

The US Coast Guard Auxiliary is the lead agency in recreational boating safety, protecting America's seaward frontier.

Created by Congress in 1939, the Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the U.S. Coast Guard, supporting the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. Every day, vessels and aircraft deploy across the U.S. to aid or save countless boaters and dollars in property damage.

For additional information about boating safety classes or registration for a class, contact Kevin McTaggart, Public Education Officer, cgaux91education@gmail.com, at 239-690-6780 option 1, or www.Aux91FMB.org/Safeboating.

Eco-Kayak Tours Wednesdays and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Explore the winding mangrove creeks and go places only a kayak can go on this guided eco-tour of Estero Bay. This beginner friendly tour allows you to experience and learn more about the natural beauty of a mangrove estuary and the history of the area.

Mound House kayak tours are conducted in accordance with Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism guidelines. All paddling and kayak safety equipment is provided. Ages 12 and up. Weather permitting.

Maximum of 12 paddlers per tour. Shoes required; water strongly recommended. Mound House members save at $20 per person, regular price $50 per person. Museum admission included. Register at MoundHouse.org.

Sunset Kayak Tours Friday, January 12, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Scheduled to catch a beautiful sunset in the hidden backwaters of Estero Bay as only a kayaker can. This tour captures the full beauty and solitude of the area's mangrove islands. Birds, dolphins, and other possible wildlife can be seen in the glorious colors of the setting sun.

Mound House kayak tours are conducted in accordance with Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism guidelines. All paddling and safety equipment provided. Ages 12 and up. Weather permitting. Mound House members save at $20 per person, regular price $50 per person. Museum admission included.

Reservations required. Visit www.moundhouse.org to make your reservations. Maximum of 12 paddlers per tour.

Fort Myers Beach Art Association’s Winter Juried Show opens STAFF REPORT The Fort Myers Beach Art Association's Winter Juried Show “Let it Be” kicks off Jan. 5 at a new show location at 4533 Coronado Pkwy, Cape Coral.

The gallery will be open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. and will be juried by Barbara Hill. Artwork in the exhibit is available for viewing and purchase until Jan. 25.

Gavin’s Ace Hardware has spon-

sored the show and reception to be held on Jan. 12th at 5 p.m. The public is invited to attend the show.

The association also announced that member Cheryl Fausel 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 (watercolor for experienced beginners and watercolor for intermediate artists).

https://fortmyersbeachart.com/water color-classes-with-cheryl-fauselaws/ https://fortmyersbeachart .com/event/watercolor-for-absolutebeginners/ Visit https://fortmyersbeach art.com/short-workshops/ for additional classes such as Mary Klunk’s Tonal Drawing and Sketching on Jan. 24, and Dana Enders’ Painting the Landscape with Fresh Eyes beginning Feb. 20.

Moonrise Kayak Tour Thursday, Jan. 25 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

This unique tour offers rare opportunity to experience the abundant life within our estuary in the quiet early evening of a full moon. Kayak tour is held the two hours before nautical twilight and ideally ends with the full moon rising over the mangroves. Mound House kayak tours are conducted in accordance with Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism guidelines.

Mound House kayak tours are conducted in accorSee MOUND HOUSE, page 10

TOWN OF FORT MYERS BEACH

Poinsettias available The Town of Fort Myers Beach announced that poinsettias are available to the public at no cost at the town hall complex.

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Fort Myers Beach Observer

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Council taking applications to fill Veach seat

By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council will be accepting applications from residents seeking to fill the vacant seat on the board left by the resignation of Councilmember Bill Veach.

Veach resigned last month over the state’s new Form 6 requirement that took effect Jan. 1 which requires all elected officials to provide to the state more detailed information regarding their finances, income and assets.

Veach opposed the new form as an “invasion of privacy” which would be available to the public and which he feared could expose his information to hackers and other risks. Dozens of officials around the state are reported to have announced their resignations or intent to resign.

The town will be posting information on its website regarding the application, which aspiring candidates will need to fill out to be considered. The remainder of the term of office runs through the next election in November and until the subsequent town council meeting following the election.

The town council intends to fill the seat by its Feb. 5 meeting.

During discussion about how the application would be worded, Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt suggested that the application form confirms the eligibility of candidates. They would need to be a resident of the town and an eligible voter within the town’s jurisdiction.

Atterholt said the form should ask why they want to serve and whether they intend to serve out just the remainder of the term or if they also want to run for election in November. Atterholt called for the application to include a resume and references.

“That way it would be very transparent, the public could see who has interest, what their motivation and background are,” Atterholt said.

Councilmember John King, who took part in Monday’s meeting from Hawaii, initially objected to the question on the application form regarding the intent of the candidates to run for office in November. “It’s not something that I think is a dealkiller for me but it seems intrusive to ask people if they want to run for the seat or

not. Especially, once you get involved, you might change your mind,” King said.

“Daily,” Councilmember Karen Woodson said.

Allers said “I am not opposed to asking the question.”

Atterholt said “The asking of the question does not pre-suppose any prejudice one way or the other.” If a candidate says they won’t run for office but then decides to, “They will have to deal with that with the voters and that’s fine.” If a candidate says they intend to run for the office and then gets exhausted and changes their mind, Atterholt said “That’s fine, too. There is nothing that would hold them or put them in stone,” Atterholt said.

Atterholt said he wants to know the intentions of the applicants.

Under the town’s policy, the vacant seat will be filled by a majority vote by the council.

Whomever is appointed would need to run for office in November if they wish to continue serving on the council. The seat is a four-year term. The offices of Allers and Atterholt also will be up for election in November.

Council to hold joint meeting with condo boards, LPA STAFF REPORT The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council will hold two separate, joint meetings Thursday morning with the town’s condo association boards and Local Planning Agency at the Bay Oaks Recreational Campus.

The council’s meeting with the condo boards will begin at 9 a.m. The meeting with the LPA will start at 11 a.m.

The discussion with the LPA will include talks regarding a proposed development agreement which would allow for deviations from the development rules of the code to “facilitate approvals of developments in the best interest of the Town by the ability to consolidate all related process” according to the agenda packet.

The agreement states “this article shall be an alternative method for review for

request for quasi-judicial rezoning, variances, special exceptions, and/or any other deviations from the strict regulations under this code...”

The proposal is stated as an amended development agreement process “to help small business owners on Fort Myers Beach, and speed up redevelopment of our devasted island.”

Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers

said the meeting with the condo boards will allow the council to hear what the issues are that condo developments are facing. A number of condo developments have yet to reopen since Hurricane Ian as they face issues with obtaining replacement equipment, parts, elevators and continue to deal with shortfalls in expected insurance payments.

Coastal flood watch issued overnight

By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood watch for Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning for the region. There was a potential for tides of one to two feet above normal, with some flooding into low-lying areas of Lee County including Fort Myers Beach High tide was expected to hit late last night with a potential high tide of three feet.

The tides were expected to recede by early morning Wednesday with the potential to rise again back to the same level Wednesday night. The National Weather Service was forecasting a half-inch to an inch of rain for Fort Myers Beach.

“There will be some impacts to the lowest-lying areas around the coast,” National Weather Service Meteorologist Eric Oglesby. “It shouldn't be widespread.”

Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt said Tuesday morning that “We are aware and will be responding accordingly."

GRAPHIC PROVIDED

Waterkeepers issue monthly report The Calusa Waterkeepers completed its monthly FIB (fecal indicator bacteria) collecting and testing, reporting that the winter storm from the testing weekend was a rain event coupled with very high tide inundation to the estuary. On the Waterkeepers' chart, above, in areas marked in green the samples between 0-35 MPN are good; samples in yellow between 36-70 MPN are moderate; samples in red between 71 to 250 MPN are poor; and samples in purple over 251 MPN are extremely poor. The Waterkeepers issued a thank you to its dedicated volunteers and rangers for their work this year. For more about the Waterkeepers, visit https://calusawaterkeeper.org/

Mound House From page 8 dance with Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism guidelines. All paddling and kayak safety equipment is provided. Ages 12 and up. Weather permitting.

Maximum of 12 paddlers per tour. Shoes required; water strongly recommended.

Mound House members save at $20 per person, regular price $50 per person.

Register at MoundHouse.org.

Shell Mound Tours Wednesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Discover the archaeology and history of the site and learn what clues were uncovered about this 1,600-year-old shell mound. This hands-on tour will explore

the environmental and cultural history of the site and feature replica artifact demonstrations. Mound House members save with free tours, and regular price is Museum Admission + $5. No reservation required.

Like the Fort Myers Beach Observer & Beach Bulletin?

Read us daily at Fortmyersbeachtalk.com! Follow us on Facebook!

Page 11 n Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 fortmyersbeachtalk.com Fort Myers Beach Observer

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 12 Fort Myers Beach Observer

DeSantis announces water quality project funding STAFF REPORT The office of Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the awarding of more than $30 million in state funding to support six water quality projects in the Caloosahatchee River Watershed. The projects included several projects in Lee County which are intended to help address excess nutrients, which are known to contribute to increased algal blooms, by investing in wastewater and stormwater infrastructure.

“These projects will continue our momentum and further our commitment to preserving the important role

Florida’s environment plays in our economy,” DeSantis said.

The projects are intended to improve water quality and better manage the timing and quantity of water flows from Lake Okeechobee, which serves as the entrance point for the St. Lucie River and the C-44 canal to the east and the Caloosahatchee River and C-43 canal to the southwest.

The projects include: ∫ Lee County ($2.5 milliom) – Bob Janes Preserve Nutrient Reduction Project.

∫ Lee County ($1.5 million) – Palm Creek Water Quality Filter Marsh ∫ Lehigh Acres Municipal Services Improvement District and Lee County ($15.5 million) – Frank Mann Preserve Water Quality Improvement Project. ∫ Florida Governmental Utility Authority ($7 million) – Wastewater Treatment Nutrient Reduction and Effluent Disposal Project. ∫ Florida Governmental Utility Authority ($2.76 million) – Lehigh Acres Advanced Wastewater Treatment Project.

Lee Health Foundation announces board of trustees Lee Health Foundation has announced its board of trustees.

Returning trustee Joseph R. Catti will continue to serve as chairperson.

Catti is chairman and chief executive officer of FineMark National Bank and Trust and FineMark Holding, Inc. He is a graduate of Florida International University and has been a FineMark Director since 2006. Catti has received

the Lee County Philanthropist of the Year award in the area of fundraising, the Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Citizen of the Year award for Lee and Collier Counties, was selected as one of Gulfshore Life Magazine’s Men and Women of the Year in 2010 and was inducted into Junior Achievement’s 2015 Business Hall of Fame for Lee County.

Trustees help guide philanthropic initiatives for Lee Health Foundation. Since 1995, the Foundation, its supporters and trustees have made it possible for Lee Health to serve a growing community with comprehensive medical services close to home.

“We count on and are grateful for the guidance

and support of leaders throughout Southwest Florida to help the foundation support the growth of nonprofit Lee Health to meet the needs of the community,” said Chris Simoneau, Lee Health’s chief development, marketing and communications officer.

“Philanthropic support is critical for developing and enhancing Lee Health’s cancer, heart and musculoskeletal institutes, as well as developing and expanding services in Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Naples and other areas as Southwest Florida grows.”

Returning to their roles are Dr. James W. Orr, Jr. as vice chairperson, Dominic Cameratta as treasurer and Jenny Gezella as secretary.

Newly elected trustee is James “Jim” Laurito of Bonita Springs. Returning trustees are David Call of Naples, Ryan D. Carter of Naples, Bill Cronin of Cape Coral, Richard Forman of Naples,

William Gruver of Sanibel, Chetan Gulati of Naples, Kristin Haag of Cape Coral, Jennifer “JJ” McCurry of Naples, Fred Pezeshkan of Naples, Gary Price of Naples, John R. Quinn of Naples, Garrett S. Richter of Naples, Brian Rist of Fort Myers, Ian Schmoyer of Bonita Springs, Dr. F. Brett Shannon of Sanibel, Sandy Stillwell Youngquist of Fort Myers and Debbie Toler of Bonita Springs.

Ex-officio trustees are Dr. Larry Antonucci, Lee Health president and CEO; Donna Clarke, Chair Lee Health Board; Gary Gold, Gulf Coast Medical Center Auxiliary president; Jim Eberz, Cape Coral Hospital Auxiliary president; and Sue Lester, Lee Memorial Auxiliary president. The board’s emeriti committee includes Amanda Cross, Dorothy Fitzgerald, Joe Gammons, Elaine Hawkins, and Garrett Reasoner.

Page 13 n Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Construction From page 1 ment through November. Raudenbush said the house is one of more than two dozen he is working on for Fort Myers Beach. He said modular homes are the “most costeffective way to build a home.” Raudenbush said the modular home construction is about two-thirds of what it costs for regular home construction and takes about half the time. “It’s just as good of a quality,” he said.

“We found a house that fit our need, our lot size, and the process was relatively simple from there,” Ms. Hornfeck said. “Now, less than a year after touring the

factory we have a brand new house and couldn’t be happier.”

Katie Smith, the marketing manager of Affinity Modular, said the company has several dozen contracts for modular homes in the area, including Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel. Another benefit of modular home construction is that it’s done inside a factory which keeps out any moisture, Smith said. “We have in-house engineers who can build pretty much everything you want.”

The show house will allow local property owners still making rebuilding plans to get a tour on the island rather than travel up to Georgia. “They will be able to see the quality of the construction,” Smith said.

Raudenbush is one of several contractors Affinity Modular is working with. Smith said Raudenbush has been helpful in working through the town’s permitting process.

Raudenbush also worked on designing the Jefferson St. home. Hurricane Ian has helped contribute to an increase of about 30% in production for Affinity Modular, Smith said. They had several homes in the area before Hurricane Ian and all survived, she said. “We build up to 180 mile-per-hour wind codes.”

The installation of the home garnered some attention on Jefferson Street when it went up by crane. The home went up in one day with Raudenbush putting the finishing touches on it.

“When I see dozens of neighbors standing around (watching the installation), I see more positivity in all of that than I have since the storm,” Raudenbush said.

“A lot of people will say the old Fort Myers Beach is gone and it will be replaced by Mcmansions,” Raudenbush said. The modular homes going up, he said, are “small, they are cute and they are family-owned.”

Raudenbush is bullish on Fort Myers Beach.

“I am really excited about the future of Fort Myers Beach. I think it’s going to be a lot better than people think,” he said.

Leslie and Charlie Hornfeck in front of the remains of their Jefferson Street home on Fort Myers Beach after Hurricane Ian. PHOTO PROVIDED

Fort Myers Beach Observer

The couple lives year-round in North Carolina. Ms. Hornfeck said the idea of rebuilding “was overwhelming.

That’s where the modular home came in.”

They toured the Affinity Modular factory in Georgia and were impressed with the quality and the firm’s specialization in building homes that can sustain high winds.

Affinity Modular manufactured the home and it is being installed by Idyll Construction of Bonita Springs.

Mark Raudenbush, owner of Idyll Construction, said the show house will be available for tours by appoint-

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BILL VEACH

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 14 Fort Myers Beach Observer

Lee Clerk to host free class on searching records Anyone who would like to learn how to search, access and electronically certify land and official records is invited to attend a free online class hosted by Lee County Clerk Kevin Karnes.

The class will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 17, from 2-3 p.m. through the online platform Zoom.

The Lee Clerk’s office offers an online service platform that allows community members to search for and easily access many public documents, including those from our Official Records Department. Official records consist of liens, plats, certificates of title, mortgages, lis pendens, marriage licenses, deeds, judgments, death certificates, military discharges and more.

The class will cover the following: ∫ A brief overview of Official Records ∫ What documents are accessible online ∫ How to perform a search online ∫ How to obtain an electronically certified document Participants should register for the class at www.leeclerk.org/seminar.

This class is part of the “How-To” series provided by the Lee Clerk’s office to educate the community about all of the resources available to them.

Recorded tutorials of past “How-To” classes are available at www.leeclerk.org/howto.

Council From page 1 Chair Tom Torgerson said. “The operation of the pool hours will vary by season, will vary by situations,” Torgerson said.

During the summer season, for example, Torgerson said the pool area would be open later into the night.

“We are looking at over 50% of our revenue being non-lodging. This is an entertainment complex that happens to have some guest rooms,” Torgerson said.

A previous discussion last month in front of the Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency led to numerous questions between the board and town staff over the requests. Among the concerns from town staff expressed at the LPA meeting had been over the areas specified by TPI where an unenclosed bar would be open to midnight.

There were also questions at the LPA meeting over how a request to extend the hours for private events would impact sea turtles during nesting season. During sea turtle nesting season, the town’s sea turtle ordinance calls for limitations on beachfront activities past 9 p.m., requiring blinds to be closed among other restrictions. The town council did not discuss impact to sea turtles Monday.

Hartsell said “the town’s sea turtle, conservation and lighting regulations remain in effect. The resort and Beach Club area has lighting that has already been approved, and is compliant with the sea turtle conservation and lighting regulations.”

The Local Planning Agency had expressed concern about how the extension of hours for private events would affect the aquatic venue’s 325-person limit for non-guest users and the

size of private events. Hartsell said the fire marshall sets the occupancy limits for the resort and those would be followed.

According to town staff, TPI also requested that any possible noise violations should be dealt with through the town’s noise ordinance policy which is enforced by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, rather than the town’s commercial planned development agreement.

The LPA had approved the requested changes with conditions that called for the hotel to define private events, provide a mapped plan of how mitigation will occur for special or private events at the venue, provide an explanation to how it would comply with the town’s sea turtle ordinance in respect to its extended hours and lighting, a clear map identifying the beach venue, pool and aquatic area, a private-event capacity limit, and to address public concerns about extending amplified music past 9 p.m.

The town council unanimously agreed to the new agreement, with Mayor Dan Allers abstaining from the vote over a business arrangement he has with the Margaritaville Beach Resort for his company Island Carts FMB. While Allers abstained from the vote, he took part in the discussions by the council.

A second public hearing will be held in February before the council votes to finalize the changes to the Commercial Planned Development.

The town council approved previous changes last summer to the town’s 2018 agreement for Margaritaville, including lifting limits on development for sections of the property.

Properties From page 1 require a property owner to mow the grass than to tear a building down. “If they don’t accomplish it, code enforcement would go out there to check and see if it has happened. If it hasn’t happened, they would be given another notice to tell them that in fact we are taking the building down or we are going to mow the grass and put a lien on it,” Vose said.

Contractors would be hired by the

“After a certain amount of time, you could authorize me to foreclose the liens,” -Becky Vose Town of Fort Myers Beach Attorney “I think we have been more than fair as a council and a town in allowing people to do what they want to do but there are people that are just going to do nothing and I don’t think we can wait any longer.”

-Dan Allers Fort Myers Beach Mayor town to do the demolition and the costs would be put on as a lien against the property, Vose said. “After a certain amount of time, you can authorize me to foreclose the liens if you want to,” she said.

Hyatt said a first round of letters had been sent out to homeowners in October for properties town officials notified that needed to have their properties cleaned up.

Allers asked if the list of properties needed to be updated and redo the list, including adding on properties that weren’t on the list before.

Hyatt said the list should be updated.

“To be concise and put forth our best effort, we need to just have staff go back and look at the addresses, double-check to make sure that nobody has done it or haven’t done it just in case somebody did something and we didn’t know about it.

We can check our demo permits but that doesn’t always mean somebody applied for a permit,” Hyatt said.

Hyatt said Federal Emergency Management Agency homes are “in a different wheelhouse.” Hyatt said he would talk to Vose to discuss legal options for addressing those properties.

Allers asked Vose if someone put fencing around a property but the building is still unsafe, “does that fall within the legal ramifications of doing enough, just securing the property?”

“No,” Vose said. “Just securing the property is not enough. They will need to tear it down. It’s been a year since the hurricane, more than a year, so obviously for public safety purposes the properties needed to be fenced to keep people out of

them. At this point they need to come down. If they are not going to come down, they need to be fixed.”

Allers said he was concerned in particular about a property on Times Square that was fenced off but hadn’t yet been cleared.

“We’ve come to that point, in my opinion, that we’ve given people plenty of time,” Allers said. “Those that have chosen to take care of their properties have done so. Those who have chosen not to for whatever reason. … I think we have been more than fair as a council and a town in allowing people to do what they want to do but there are people that are just going to do nothing and I don’t think we can wait any longer.”

Allers asked Hyatt to begin sending out letters again.

Vose said the timeframe for people to remove structures “needs to be reasonable.”

Allers said a request for proposals should be sent out for contractors to do the work. Allers said he wants a “solid date” for the council to decide on whether to move forward with the hiring of those contractors.

Allers asked Hyatt how much time would be given to property owners to come into compliance. Hyatt said the town could send out letters in the next coupe weeks and given property owners until the end of February to fix their properties.

Vose said the town didn’t have to tell property owners how much it would cost property owners to do the demolition See PROPERTIES, page 15

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

Health Notes Autism screening for young children Jan. 12 Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida, offers a free monthly autism spectrum disorder screening for toddlers 18 months to five years of age.

The next screening will be held on Jan. 12, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the

Pediatric Specialist Office, 15901 Bass Rd, Suite 102, Fort Myers.

Medical consultants for the project stress that an early diagnosis can make a vast difference for toddlers and their families. They say early intensive behavioral intervention can make an immense difference not just in the development of the child, but in their families as well.

The ASD screening is conducted by

the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. The screenings are administered by an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, who has extensive training and experience in typical child development and developmental disorders.

A physician referral is not required.

To schedule a screening, please call 239343-6838.

Lee County Injury Prevention Coalition presents six awards

“I think everybody has had enough time.”

Allers said the letters should be sent out by Feb. 1 with a compliance date by March 1.

Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt said he wanted Hyatt to be able to “maintain some level of common sense” if a property owner had demonstrated a hardship to the

town regarding insurance issues and shown good faith.

“Other than that, I am very comfortable with moving forward.”

Allers asked town counsel if a vote was necessary to be taken on the matter. “No,” Vose said. “You’ve given everybody direction.”

The Lee County Injury Prevention Coalition presented safety awards for 2023 to people who were instrumental in promoting safety through both the print and visual media. Syndi Bultman, president, Injury Prevention Coalition, told the audience that although falls remain See HEALTH NOTES, page 20

Properties From page 14 work and cleanup.

“We don’t have to tell them how much it is going to cost for starters,” Vose said.

During discussion about how much time should be given to property owners to respond to the letters sent out by Hyatt once they go out Feb. 1, Hyatt suggested 30 days be given for a response. Allers

suggested March 1 be the date set to come into compliance. “That would give us time to secure a contractor to be able to do the work,” Allers said.

Councilmember Karen Woodson said the date should be moved up. “If it could be moved up on a time schedule, I mean that would be the furthest out,” she said.

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

governor on down.

Form 6 provides more information with dollar amounts listed. For Form 1, which city council members and mayors previously filled out, they still had to report income, liability and intangible personal property.

“Instead of reporting dollar amount (they were) only required to report if exceeds a certain threshold. They just report that source, not the actual dollar amount associated,” Blais said. “Form 6 requires net worth, which is not something on the Form 1.”

She said the filing requirements have not changed, adding that it is still due on July 1.

“They would have until July 1 of this year to complete that Form 6,” Blais said.

If a city council member or mayor is qualifying to return or run for an office, the form would be submitted with paperwork during the qualifying period.

According to the form, net worth, assets, liabilities in excess of $1,000, income, interests in specified businesses and training are among the items to be listed.

As far as assets are concerned, “household goods and personal effects may be reported in lump sum if their aggregate value exceeds $1,000. This category includes any of the following, if not held for investment purposes: jewelry, collections of stamps, guns, and numismatic items; art objects; household equipment and furnishings; clothing; other household items and vehicles for personal use, whether owned or leased,” the form states.

Roach said he has seen reports sporadically around the state that a few elected officials have chosen to resign or threatened to resign.

“I really think that a lot of them don’t really understand what these requirements are. There’s a lot of exaggeration. It’s not that bad. I have been doing it for six years,” he said, adding that it does shine a spotlight on personal finances.

Roach said it might be intrusive and an invasion of privacy, but when serving the public, they are expected to be held to a higher level of transparency.

“I don’t enjoy having people know how little money I make or my assets. You are exposed to an additional layer of scrutiny and transparency,” he said.

Roach said maybe those who are resigning are not ready to be exposed and that is something to think about.

He said members of the Legislature have had to fill the form out since 1977, which is also required of county commissioners, school board members and constitutional officers. Local mayors and council members have dodged this level of transparency.

“If it’s good for the goose, it’s good for the gander,” Roach said.

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

A bill that went into effect on Jan. 1 requiring local officials to fill out the same financial disclosure form as other elected officials throughout the state has resulted in a scattering of resignations.

Sanibel City Councilmember Dr. Scott Crater tendered his resignation effective Dec. 28, citing the new Form 6. Town of Fort Myers Beach Councilmember Bill Veach resigned from his seat on Dec. 26.

After two years, the legislation which the Florida Commission of Ethics has had at the top of its priorities list for a decade, passed in the last legislative session with bipartisan support. It requires municipal council members and mayors to fill out Form 6, a financial disclosure that is much more detailed that the previous Form 1.

State Rep. Spencer Roach, who sponsored the legislation in the House, said it was a very organically driven bill that began two years ago at a Lee County Delegation meeting. He said he remembers the day well when Dr. Steve Maxwell stood up at the session and said he was aware that local officials do not have to file full financial disclosures.

Roach, R-76, said he did not think he ever realized that local officials were not held to the same requirements as other public officials. He said he and Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, R-28, locked eyes after that statement and expressed it was a good idea to hold all elected officials in the state to the same requirements.

Roach said this was neither his brainchild, nor Maxwell’s, but rather a proposal of the nine-member bipartisan Florida Commission on Ethics.

“Every year they introduce their legislative priorities to the legislature,” he said, adding that one of their top priorities for the past decade was holding all public officials to the same standards with Form 6. “You have this bipartisan body, ethical oversight to the elective officials to the state of Florida. This is at the top of their list. It’s good government.”

The bill had a 98% pass rate with the House of Representatives and an 89% pass rate in the Senate.

Roach said only three people in the House voted against the bill and five within the Senate.

“We have very few bills that get that level of support.

The public is with us on this. It wasn’t a partisan issue,” Roach said.

Florida Commission on Ethics Executive Director Kerrie Stillman said in an email that the form change — from Form 1 to Form 6 — for elected city commissioners and mayors was a recommendation made by the commission to the Legislature for the past several years.

“Filing a Form 6 by these municipal officials will serve to increase transparency and bolster the public’s

trust in its government. These officials hold positions of public trust similar to other officials such as county commissioners and school board members who have been required to file the Form 6 for many years,” Stillman said.

Roach said it is government of the sunshine — transparency.

“I was very proud to get it across the finish line. It is now the law of the land. It took two years,” he said.

Roach said the bill is truly trying to target people who are making procurement decisions for taxpayers, as city officials are paying out millions and billions of dollars in contracts.

“The public needs to know if they have a financial interest. It is something the public should know,” he said.

The Ethics Requirements for Public Officials was approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis on May 11, after being filed in the Senate on Feb. 14. As of Jan. 1, mayors and elected members of municipalities governing boards must “comply with the financial disclosure requirements.”

Maxwell said he went in year in and year out submitting a proposal, which only came to fruition after Roach saw the value. He said it is about “conforming uniformity” for all public officials, including municipality council members and mayors.

“I think it is good for the public. The public interest here is really the bullseye of this bill,” Maxwell said.

“There should not be two different standards between a city council person and a county commissioner or state representative. They are all spending taxpayers’ dollars and charged of being guardians of taxpayers’ dollars.”

Maxwell said the council members and mayors knew the terrain when they got into running for office — financial disclosure. He said they now have to comply and fill out Form 6.

“It’s a victory for the citizens. If you are going to serve, you serve,” Maxwell said. “I think it is good to enhance public trust. The confidence in our public officials has hit an all-time low.”

Stillman said city commissioners and mayors who have questions about their filing requirement can access the tips information available on the commission’s website at https://www.ethics.state.fl.us/ and should contact the commission with any questions.

“The commission's staff is committed to helping these officials with the transition to the Form 6 and electronic filing,” Stillman said.

Florida Commission on Ethics spokesperson Lynn Blais said Form 6 has been in existence since 1977. She said the only difference is now city commissioners and mayors have brought into the group, which includes virtually every other elected official in the state from the

Page 15 n Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

New state law requires more disclosure at the local level

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 16

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

fortmyersbeachtalk.com PHOTO PROVIDED BY LEE HEALTH

A patient undergoes a mammogram. steps,” Harewood said.

If the biopsy is positive, it usually will lead to establishing a breast cancer team based on results and choice of treatments.

“There is a whole breast navigation program with

nurse navigators who help patients once a positive biopsy is found. They reach out to the patient. They are their guide from diagnosis to getting treatment,” she said, as well as providing financial resources.

Navigator program aids patients through treatment options

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

A program within Lee Health helps patients who have been diagnosed with breast cancer navigate the next steps and provides guidance throughout the treatment process.

The Breast Health Navigator program began in 2012 after a collaboration with community partners began to bring resources together to one spot, so patients would not fall through the cracks but could get to where they needed to be for appointments and treatments.

Lee Health Breast Health Navigator Liz Bachoo-Garib said a multi-disciplinary breast clinic was created providing one appointment for the patient to meet the entire treatment team.

A breast health navigator is the liaison for the patient, who removes any barrier to treatment, education, making appointments, transportation and finances. Bachoo-Garib said whatever the barrier is, she is the contact person.

There also is another breast health navigator who works in radiology and

A breast health navigator is the liasion for the patient, who removes any barrier to treatment, education, making appointments, transportation and finances.

also meets with the patient.

“The healthcare system is not that straightforward,” she said, adding she provides assistance in where the patient is going and who they are going to see, as well as what health insurance covers.

“There are so many moving parts to breast cancer treatment. It’s difficult for a person to followup and keep up.”

Patients meet with a nurse navigator prior to coming to the clinic. She is the first contact after a patient receives their biopsy result.

Oftentimes after a patient hears their diagnosis, they are so shocked they forget to ask the questions.

“They get to ask those questions. I give them an idea of what the treatment

program will look like, different surgical options, role of radiation, chemo and additional tests,” Bachoo-Garib said. “It gets them ready for the appointment.”

It helps the patient not become overwhelmed when they meet with the treatment team, as they have heard some of the information beforehand.

The treatment team they meet with includes the breast surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, rehab navigator, clinical social worker and genetic counselor.

Bachoo-Garib said as part of the clinic they also have a breast chemo board, which is comprised of different physicians to discuss what the best

treatment is for the patient. They share the age of the patient, a bit of history and what they are seeing, so they can agree on the best plan for that patient.

“Patients do get more than just one opinion when they come to the clinic,” Bachoo-Garib said, adding that the information is reviewed prior to meeting with the patient.

She said she loves her job as she loves relieving the stress a patient is feeling, giving them that breath of relief. Bachoo-Garib said being in oncology and being a breast health navigator puts your own personal life in perspective.

“You don’t stress the little things anymore. We have a different perspective on life and a different outlook,” she said.

Patients do not need to be referred to the Breast Health Navigator Program, as they can call directly at 239-3439554. The navigation services are free of charge.

For more information, visit leehealth.org.

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

Although the mammogram remains the standard of care for biannual preventative screening, there are other options available.

“The biggest thing is you should always have a conversation with a physician to evaluate individual risk,” Dr. Janine Harewood, with Lee Health, said. “There is a big difference in survival expectation from someone that is diagnosed with stage one breast cancer with more than 90%. Early detection is the biggest factor in regards to people surviving.”

Harewood said new screening recommendations start at the age of 40 as they are trying to close the gap of a high-risk population, African Americans.

“Hopefully we can close that gap,” she said.

Based on the history of an individual, the screening may be recommended on an annual basis, rather than biannual.

Harewood said the mammogram screening, as far as risk versus benefits, still has the best outcomes. At-home breast self-examinations is also a good detector of breast cancer, as well as clinical examinations by a gynecologist or primary physician.

Based on questions and history, a physician will base the type of screening needed by either an average risk or above-risk diagnosis.

“Average risk, 2-D (mammogram) remains the best standard of care,” she said.

Previous history may be among the reasons some patients are referred to another type of screening, which can include a breast MRI, Fast MRI, breast ultrasounds and a 3-D mammogram.

“There is a fast MRI, which takes a little less time, about 10 minutes,” Harewood said, compared to 45 minutes. “Fast MRI costs less, too.”

The Fast MRI is less detailed than the regular MRI. The idea was to balance the amount of detail you are getting with the screening, she said.

A breast MRI is highly sensitive and has a better rate of detection.

There also is a downside.

“It has a higher false positive rate,” Harewood said.

The difference between a 2-D mammogram and a 3D mammogram is the number of pictures being taken.

She said a 2-D mammogram takes pictures from the top to the bottom of a breast, as well as side to side. The 3-D mammogram takes more of a complete picture with more detail and is more sensitive.

As far as next steps after a screening, it can vary as everyone's case is unique.

An abnormal screening will go on to a diagnostic mammogram followed by biopsy.

“Based on the biopsy results it will determine the next

Page 17 n Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Mammograms remain ‘best standard of care’

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 18 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

Deadline nearing for photo contest for high schoolers The deadline for the 11th annual “Ding” Darling-Theodore Cross High School Photography Contest is Jan. 15.

The contest 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 contest is possible thanks to a grant to the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge from the Theodore Cross Family Charitable Foundation.

Digital image entries can be shot from any outdoor venue in Florida. A writing component to the contest requires entrants

CHASE QUROLLO

Chase Qurollo, of Cape Coral High School, won first place in last year's contest with “Nature's Bandit.” 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 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 five-county 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 a t www.dingdarlingsociety.org/articles/phot o-contests.

For more information, contact the DDWS at 239-292-0566.

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

— Kelly Rico, ACT Violence Prevention Educator founder of Creative Architectural Resin Products, and Chantel Rhodes, who is a medical social worker at Golisano’s hospital.”

Rico said rather than teens just listening to these wonderful empowering women, they will have several interactive activities throughout the event in breakout sessions.

The “Main Character Energy Teen Male Summit” will be held hybrid, with either attendance through Zoom or at Collaboratory on Wednesday, Jan. 17. Registration starts at 3:30 p.m. with presentations beginning at 4 p.m.

Rico said they realize that because they offer services in three counties — Lee, Hendry and Glades — everyone might not have transportation.

“We wanted to be able to create that hybrid for the rural areas,” she said. “We will have two keynote speakers. For the teen boys summit, we have Devon Beck, Facilitator of Equity, Diversity, and inclusion at Talbot County Public Schools, and Zachary Mason, who goes

by Captain Mason and is a Florida Army National Guard and part of the Florida Counterdrug task force.”

This is the first time the teen male summit has been held. The teen girls conference was held last year.

“Both events are free. We are going to provide a boxed lunch for teen girls and dinner for the teen males.

We are also going to provide the swag bags full of gifts at both events,” Rico said. “We just want to invite everyone who wants to really know about our mission and be able to prevent sexual and relationship violence. If the mother, or the fathers, or any parents, caregivers want to attend with their teens, they can also attend. We want to create that safe environment and invite everyone.”

Collaboratory is at 2031 Jackson St., Fort Myers. To RSVP contact Rico at (239) 939-2554, or email KRico@actabuse.com, or bgrot@actabuse.com.

Tragedy, triumph in the SWFL eagle nest for new mates

By CHUCK BALLARO

news@breezenewspapers.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA EAGLE CAM

Newly hatched E-23 with the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam.

seemed normal for the new mates, with the first egg beginning the hatching process pretty much on schedule.

As always, the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam provided viewers with all the action in the nest. This is the 12th season the cam will show the goings on in and around the nest at the Pritchett Farm.

Pritchett-McSpadden said that it is better that the eagles have one hatchling to celebrate than to mourn the other egg that

did not make it.

“It’s big because it’s the first attempt ever for this couple. To successfully hatch one egg, let alone any, is a huge story,” she said. “Four months ago we didn’t think we would be looking at any eggs.

It’s an amazing blessing to have one to watch and hopefully grow.”

The Southwest Florida Eagle Cam may be viewed at https://dickpritchettrealestate.com/.

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

What a year 2023 was for the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam. It started with the disappearance of Harriet and the remarkable raising of the eaglets by M15 and ended with the first clutch of eggs from his new mate, F23, in the nest off of Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers.

Unfortunately, the first clutch produced by the cam’s new international stars will result in only one eaglet being raised.

M15 and F23 saw the hatching of eaglet E23 on Dec. 31 at about 7 a.m.

However, the second egg, which was badly damaged, will likely not hatch, cam organizers said.

Ginnie Pritchett-McSpadden, cofounder of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, said that since this was the first clutch by the pair, the result is not that surprising.

“We assumed this was the first attempt for F23 laying and incubating. She was a rookie all-around so our expectations were low. We didn’t know what to expect,” she said. “She incubated the eggs and feels more comfortable being the matriarch.”

The pip from the first egg, created by the eaglet with the “egg tooth” on its beak, was spotted on Dec. 29 at 8:54 p.m.

However, before that there was a large crack spotted in the second egg.

Many at first thought it was just a different pip from all the others, and the chick was seen and heard from inside.

Over the course of the next 24 hours, the condition of the egg worsened, with a spot of blood visible. By the morning of Dec. 31, the egg was cracked and crumbled.

“That second egg doesn’t seem to be developing or hatching any further. We have to assume that egg is no longer viable,” Pritchett-McSpadden said.

The Southwest Florida Eagle Cam was evaluating what exactly happened to the second egg. It is the first time this has happened on the live 24/7 multi-camera eagle cam, which was founded in 2012.

While there have been eggs that were not viable — it has happened twice — never has an egg cracked in the nest in this manner.

“We’ll be speaking with wildlife experts. We’re watching and waiting to see what unfolds like everyone else,” she said. “This isn’t the first time we’ve had an egg not hatch. It’s not that uncommon.”

People on social media were hoping for the best, but expecting the worst. As it was just Day 34 for the second egg, the eaglet inside would have been premature.

F23 laid her first egg on Nov. 24 at about 5:47 p.m., with the second egg coming on Nov. 27 at about 1:45 p.m., with the first view at 2:28 p.m. All

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

Teens are invited to join Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Inc. for a conference that empower them while helping them recognize personal boundaries in January.

“Our mission is basically to support, educate and empower victims of domestic violence and their children, survivors of sexual assault and human trafficking,” ACT Violence Prevention Educator Kelly Rico said. “We want to empower them to be able to recognize personal boundaries and prevent sexual and relationship violence and have the confidence to speak up for themselves as well.”

The “Main Character Energy Teen Female Conference” will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 29, at Collaboratory.

“We are trying to have them register at least a week before the event, so we have enough time to create the swag bags gifting for the kids,” she said, as well as meal count.

Rico said the girls conference will feature several motivational speakers.

“We want to be able to create that awareness for teen girls,” she said. “We have Claribel Bocanegra, who is the founder of Gemstones; Marilyn Santiago, who is the

“Our mission is basically to support, educate and empower victims of domestic violence and their children, survivors of sexual assault and human trafficking. We want to empower them to be able to recognize personal boundaries and prevent sexual and relationship violence and have the confidence to speak up for themselves as well.”

Page 19 n Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Teen empowerment sessions set

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 20 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

Health Notes From page 15 the number one trauma alert, progress is being made through positive public information. Roadway deaths continue to rise and Lee County citizens must help with reducing the number.

Bultman introduced the recipients of the awards: ∫ Lt. Greg Bueno, Florida Highway Patrol, received the Injury Prevention Coalition Professional of the Year award.

He has served as the public information officer overseeing an average of 75-100 hours a month of outreach. Bueno works with the Teen Driver Challenge program and Safe Kids Day. ∫ Ben Lutman, Creative Services

Producer, and Devin Turk¸ Creative Service Manager, received the Injury Prevention Media Partner of the Year Health Matters award. They have reached over 720,000 individuals through their health reports. The two also completed a trauma video for the High-Risk Driver program for the Lee Health trauma program. ∫ Brian Raimondo, Lee MPO, immediate past president of the Injury Prevention Coalition, was awarded the Outstanding Community Service award.

He served nine years as president of the IPC and was always available when fellow members had questions.

∫ Terri Erling and Angela Fischler, the United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades counties, were given the Injury Prevention Sponsor/Partner of the Year award. They addressed two challenges in Lee County — the diversion of prescription drugs and providing disposable bags for the Lee Health Ambulatory clinics. They also were instrumental in supporting disposable bags for the outreach program for Take Back Day, the Fort Myers Police department’s method of disposing prescription drugs safely. ∫ Jody Van Cooney, a volunteer for Lee County non-profits, was given the Injury Prevention Coalition Volunteer of

the Year award. She served IPC as secretary for a number of years, and provides safety-related news releases to community papers. She also works with the Pilot Club of Fort Myers in distributing bicycle helmets during a number of children’s events.

Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno was unable to attend to receive the Injury Prevention Coalition’s Organization/Agency of the Year award.

The sheriff’s office supports IPC’s Drug House Odyssey program in addition to serving the community in safety-related information and arresting violators.

WHAT TO DO

WHO TO SEE WEEK OF JANUARY 10, 2024

VISIT US ONLINE FORTMYERSBEACHTALK.COM

Celtic, classical concerts kick off the new year at Shell Point’s Tribby Arts Center —Page 22

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

T U O D L O S

Page 21 n Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

WHERE TO GO

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

Putt & Pub slots filled, gift baskets still available for raffles

By NATHAN MAYBERG

T

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

he King Family Foundation Putt & Pub may be sold out but there is still room to help local nonprofits and enjoy the day. The annual event organized by the Fort Myers Beach Woman's Club to support local nonprofits, will take place Saturday, Jan. 20. For the first time, all 77 team slots have been filled, Fort

Myers Beach Woman's Club President Dawn Thomas said.

While there are no more golf opportunities for the day, Thomas said the club still wants people to come out and support the local charities. “We encourage those who did not sign up to come and watch and support the local charities. Each bar and restaurant will have drinks specials that will benefit their designated nonprofit.There will

insidetoday Pet Pals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

also be gift baskets for raffle and anyone can register and win,” Thomas said.

See PUTT & PUB, page 23 Daniel and Nina Clarkston celebrate a putt at the former Shucker's at the Gulfshore and Cottage Bar during the 2022 Putt & Pub on Fort Myers Beach.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Sports & Recreation . . . . .26

What’s Happening . . . . . . .24

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 22 Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

Southwest Florida Community Prayer Breakfast announces Tim and Demi-Leigh Tebow as speakers for 2024 event Foundation, John and Pam Noland, the John E. and create a community of hope and support across the globe.

Registration is now open Aliese Price Foundation, Donna Sublett, and Bill and Tebow is also a board member of Her Song, an AntiThe Southwest Florida Community Prayer Breakfast will host its annual event at 6 a.m. on Thursday, May 2, at the Lee Health Sports Complex, located at 14100 Six Mile Cypress Parkway in Fort Myers.

Returning by popular demand is Tim Tebow, twonational time champion, firstround NFL draft pick and Heisman winner. trophy Tebow will be joined by his wife PHOTO PROVIDED D e m i - L e i g h Tim-Tebow Tebow, a former Miss Universe 2017 and founder of the Unbreakable Campaign, as this year’s keynote speakers. During the event, the couple will share their powerful stories of faith along with their shared passion for serving others.

Registration is now open at communityprayerbreakfast.com/. Thanks to the sponsors, the event is complimentary and includes breakfast and a unified prayer program, in addition to the keynote address.

The SWFL Community Prayer Breakfast event sponsor is the Daniel R. and Anne M. Harper Foundation, and the 2024 Speaker Sponsors are AIM Engineering, Edison National Bank, Ron and Sherry Inge, LSI Companies, Quinton B. and Beverly H. McNew

Kim White. Sponsorships are still available for the 2024 event. For more information, please email SWFLCommunityPrayerBreakfast@gmail.com or call 239-744-7769.

The event is held annually on the first Thursday of May, and local, state and federal observances are held from dawn to dusk nationwide. Over 2 million people participate in the special day annually and Fort Myers has honored the day each year since 1988, with the exception of 2021.

As the son of missionaries, Tebow has continuously worked to spread God’s word by serving people in need.

Tebow is the author of four New York Times Best Selling books, which include “Through My Eyes,” “Discovering Your True Identity,” “This Is the Day” and his most recent release, “Bronco & Friends.” He is also the founder of the Tim Tebow Foundation, an organization with the goal of bringing faith, hope and love to those in need of a brighter day. The foundation makes dreams come true for children with life-threatening injuries and provides surgeries to children in the Philippines through the Tebow CURE Hospital.

Demi-Leigh Tebow, a South Africa native, is the founder of the Unbreakable Campaign. The campaign’s goal is to educate and empower women globally on how to prevent and manage dangerous situations. The campaign was founded after she survived a hijacking attempt in South Africa. Through her work as Miss Universe, Tebow was able to expand the Unbreakable initiative to

Human Trafficking ministry within the Tim Tebow Foundation.

“Tim and Demi Tebow encapsulate the true essence of what it means to serve God in all that they do,” said Ron Inge, president of Southwest Florida Community Prayer Breakfast, Inc. “We look forward to having Tim return, joined by his wife, for this year’s annual breakfast and hearing their message of faith and outreach to others that they will share with the Southwest Florida community.”

Southwest Florida Community Prayer Breakfast, Inc. was founded to guarantee that the prayer breakfast continues to be celebrated annually, thanks to the generous support of local businesses, organizations, individuals and foundations. John Noland, Carl Barraco, Gary Trippe, Ron Inge, Richard Akin, Ashley Hull and Matt Roepstorff serve as board members of the Southwest Florida Community Prayer Breakfast.

About the Southwest Florida Community Prayer Breakfast The Southwest Florida Community Prayer Breakfast is held annually on the first Thursday of May in observance of the National Day of Prayer, a day when individuals of all faiths join in unified prayer for continued blessings on the nation. Southwest Florida has been honoring the National Day of Prayer since the Community Prayer Breakfast’s inception in 1988. To learn more, visit CommunityPrayerBreakfast.com or call 239-7447769.

Medical Breakthroughs & Discoveries healthcare speaker series offers free educational seminars at Shell Point The Legacy Foundation of Shell Point has announced the lineup for Medical Breakthroughs & Discoveries 2024. The series of six educational healthcare presentations features prominent local and national experts in the fields of urology, Parkinson’s disease, cardiology, oncology, and more.

The free presentations are open to the public and held at The Village Church, 15100 Shell Point Blvd. in Fort Myers.

Registration is required; call the event line at 239-433-7936.

Medical Breakthroughs & Discoveries is sponsored by The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company. A pair of January lectures kicks off the series: ∫ “Urinary Incontinence: The Problem Nobody Likes to Talk About” with Dr. Sandip Vasavada on Monday, January 15 at 2 p.m. Dr. Vasavada serves as the Urologic Director, Center for Female Urology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, at Cleveland Clinic within the Glickman Urological Institute. He will discuss the basics of urinary incontinence in aging, including why incontinence happens in both men and women, evaluation basics, and surgical and non-surgical treatment options. ∫ “Expert Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease Is Easier Than You Think” with Dr. J. Eric Ahlskog on Monday, January 29 at 2 p.m. Dr. Ahlskog is an award-winning physician and Professor of Neurology at the Mayo Clinic and is a full-time clinician. He will discuss the clinical diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, along with its symptoms, timeline, treatments, and strategies for prevention.

Upcoming lectures include: ∫ “New Breakthroughs in Heart Disease” on Monday, February 26 at 3 p.m. with Dr. Paul DiGiorgi, the

Cardiothoracic Surgery Section Chief with Lee Physician Group and President of the Florida Society of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons. ∫ “Breakthroughs in the Treatment of Cancer” on Monday, March 11 at 2 p.m. with Dr. Mark Roh, Chief Physician Executive of Oncology Services, and Debra Wilson, RN, MSN, OCN and Vice President of Oncology for Lee Health. ∫ “Joint Enhancement: When is it Necessary?” on Monday, March 25 at 2 p.m. with Dr. David E. Eichten, Specialist in Join Replacement and Arthroscopy of the Hip, Knee, and Shoulder at Joint Implant Surgeons of Florida. ∫ “What’s New in Macular Degeneration?” on Monday, April 29 at 2 p.m. with Dr. Stephen G. Schwartz, MD, MBA Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and Medical Director of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of Naples.

About Shell Point Located along Southwest Florida’s Caloosahatchee River and minutes from Sanibel and Captiva Islands is Shell Point Retirement Community. Home to 2,500 residents, Shell Point is the country’s largest, not-for-profit, single site continuing care retirement community (CCRC), offering independent and assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing services.

Shell Point provides residents exceptional care with a world-class health center, activities, and resort amenities, including championship golf, a marina, art and fitness centers, restaurants, pickleball courts, gardening spaces, a dog park, and miles of bike paths and waterfront trails. Learn why Ideal Living lists Shell Point among the “100 Best Places to Live” by visiting ShellPoint.org.”

PHOTO PROVIDED

Screaming Orphans

Celtic, classical concerts kick off the new year at Shell Point’s Tribby Arts Center Shell Point kicks off the new year in Tribby Arts Center with Celtic and classical concerts: ∫ Monday, January 15: Screaming Orphans, a chart-topping all-sister Celtic band from Donegal, will perform at Tribby Arts Center at 7 p.m. Known worldwide for their award-winning sound that combines original pop songs with a unique take on traditional Irish music, the sister’s pitch perfect harmonies have led them to many collaborations on recordings and stage with artists such as Sinéad O’Connor, Peter Gabriel, and Joni Mitchell. The band continues to tour and play extensively across America, Canada, and Europe and has released 15 albums.

Tickets $55. ∫ Thursday, January 25: Pioneers in the use of four-hands piano in jazz, Stephanie Trick and Paolo Alderighi will

perform at Tribby Arts Center at 7 p.m.

Trick, a leading exponent of stride piano, and Alderighi, one of Italy’s foremost jazz pianists, have earned widespread success with their arrangements of classics from the stride piano, ragtime, and boogie woogie traditions—as well as from the Swing Era and the Golden Age of Tin Pan Alley.

Most recently, they have focused on the repertoire created during a time when musicals were at the heart of American popular culture: the Classical Hollywood Cinema period and the Golden Age of Broadway. Blending impeccable technique with mature musicality, the piano duo has performed across the United States, Europe, and Asia, winning the acclaim of critics and fans alike. Tickets $55.

To purchase event tickets, visit TribbyArtsCenter.com or call the Tribby Box Office at 239-415-5667.

Page 23 n Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 fortmyersbeachtalk.com

Putt & Pub From page 21 The Fort Myers Beach Woman's Club will be raffling off the gift baskets, which can be previewed at the Woman's Club Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/FMBWomansclub and prebid at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdxh7Ki_r ZGjSVZSrpFCoNBdAUldvFsFkN44AL4mKpyepeeg/viewform?fbclid=IwAR1edr5DyGCxfbvj F r f b r U A q Z l e L M a G d Y g c A u 0 I q bKtHyhpMIwX1Xe3tRw. "This will be our largest event yet," Thomas said.

"Registration starts at 9 a.m. at Wahoo Willie's and they will be serving brunch to those who want to start the day early. La Ola will also be serving breakfast at 9 am."

The putting will begin at 10 a.m. The award ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. at the sundeck at Margaritaville.

Golfers can start at any hole.

Participating Fort Myers Beach bars and restaurants include the Beach Bar, Lah De Dah Bar, La Ola, Lighthouse Inn, Nervous Nellie's, Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant, Wahoo Willie's and Yucatan Beach Stand.

“Each hole is manned by a participating nonprofit organization and features drinks specials, games, and other fundraising opportunities,” Thomas said. “Proceeds are divided between the participating nonprofit groups.

This is one beach event you won’t want to miss.”

SCHEDULE: ∫ Wahoo Willie's Opens at a.m. for brunch Registration starts at 9:30 a.m.

Hole opens at 10 a.m. ∫ Yucatan Beach Stand Hole opens at 10 a.m.

Will have cocktails Food at 11 ∫ Rude Shrimp Hole opens at 10 a.m.

Will have cocktails Food at 11 a.m. ∫ La Ola Opens at 9:00 am with breakfast sandwiches Hole opens at 10 a.m.

The following bars/restaurants open at 11 a.m. for golf and business: ∫ Beach Bar ∫ Lah De Dah ∫ Nervous Nellies ∫ Snug Harbor ∫ Lighthouse Tiki Bar The following is a list of the venues hosting the King Family Foundation Putt & Pub and the nonprofits that each will be supporting: ∫ Beach Bar - Beach Kids Foundation ∫ Lah De Dah at Margaritaville - FMB Strong ∫ La Ola - Friends of the Mound House ∫ Lighthouse Inn Tiki Bar - Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce ∫ Nervous Nellie's - Fort Myers Beach Little League ∫ Rude Shrimp Co. - Friends of Lovers Key ∫ Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant - Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation ∫ Wahoo Willie's - Fort Myers Beach Elementary School Parent Teacher's Organization ∫ Yucatan Beach Stand - Friends of the Library

The Fort Myers Beach Observer & Beach Bulletin welcomes news from our community!

Send news tips & releases to news@breezenewspapers.com

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

PROVIDED

A map of the course with the participating venues for the putt and pub.

‘Celebration in the Sky’ largest fireworks show in Southwest Florida, comes to Seminole Casino Hotel Jan. 13 Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee will light up the sky with “Celebration in the Sky,” Saturday, Jan. 13, at 9 p.m. The fireworks display will be choreographed to lights and a custom soundtrack. Violinist Timothee Lovelock, who is nationally recognized for his one-ofa-kind violin and DJ shows, will perform.

Attendees are strongly encouraged to arrive early.

Parking at Seminole Casino Hotel will be limited, with clearly identified overflow parking nearby. All ages are welcome and admission is free. Guests should bring their own chairs to the viewing area for the show. Food and beverage options will be available for purchase at the event.

“Celebration in the Sky” is the largest land-based fireworks show in Southwest Florida. The show is produced by Zambelli Fireworks, one of the largest fireworks companies in the world. A traditional outdoor Zambelli Fireworks production is a complete sensory experience unlike anything else! Zambelli’s productions are some of the largest in the world, and their displays include a variety of shells and high-intensity multi-shot devices that awe and inspire.

For more information, call toll-free 800-218-0007 or visit moreinparadise.com or facebook.com/Seminole CasinoHotel/.

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee is at 506 South 1st Street in Immokalee.

Hybrid tropical hibiscus sale to be held Jan. 20 The James E. Hendry Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society will hold its Tropical Hibiscus Sale Saturday, Jan. 20, from 10 a.m. until everything is sold out. The sale will be held at the Covenant Presbyterian Church, 2439 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901.

According to James E. Hendry Chapter President Beth Meehan, “The sale will feature 38 varieties of beautiful hybrid tropical hibiscus plants in a variety of colors and forms. Because these plants are not available through garden centers, this sale offers the best opportunity for Southwest Florida residents to establish or add to their hybrid tropical hibiscus collection.”

Anyone who would like to learn more about how to grow the hybrid tropical hibiscus plant can do so by joining the James E. Hendry Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society at the sale.

The JEH Chapter meets monthly at the Berne Davis Botanical Garden at 2166 Virginia Avenue, Fort Myers on the second Sunday of each month (October to April) at 1:30 p.m.

More information is available at the chapter website: www.hendrychapterhibiscus.com

Gardening classes offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering gardening classes for residents who are new to Florida or anyone who wants to learn how to have a successful garden in Southwest Florida.

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 24

WHAT’S HAPPENING Upcoming classes: Introduction to Florida Gardening – Part I ∫ Tuesday, Jan. 23, at 1:30 p.m. or Saturday, Jan. 30, at 10 a.m.

Introduction to Florida Gardening – Part II ∫ Tuesday, Jan. 27, at 1:30 p.m. or Saturday, Feb. 3, at 10 a.m.

This program was created for those new to semi-tropical and tropical gardening. In this two-part program, participants will learn how to overcome the challenges of gardening in Florida, while leaving behind many concepts learned in northern states. Most garden books cover a general range of topics for the entire United States, but very few deal with the nuances of zone 10.

Part I includes an abbreviated refresher of plant biology as it relates to Southwest Florida weather, an introduction to Florida invasive flora species, palm basics, growing orchids in trees and becoming familiar with many of Florida’s native plants.

Part II takes a deeper look into Southwest Florida gardening techniques and challenges and introduces the participant to many more semi-tropical plants and trees. The class will introduce the conservation-oriented "Florida Friendly Landscaping" gardening program that was developed by the University of Florida and its benefits to the backyard gardener.

This in-depth program will also cover an overview of Florida turf grass, proper planting of trees, a brief introduction to growing roses in Southwest Florida, and choosing ornamental plants for the landscape. The goal of the series is to provide insight and resources for environmentally sound garden practices while affording the home gardener the opportunity to enjoy the best of semitropical gardening.

All attendees will receive a complete package of the material covered in class, a list of additional resources, and a reading list. This two-part program can also be purchased as a gift. The classes are held in the air-conditioned Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council building (entrance is on Larchmont Avenue, across from the Estates overflow parking lots).

During the last half hour of each class, participants will tour garden areas of the Estates, so everyone should wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and bring a hat. All participants will receive a 20% discount coupon for plant purchases in the Garden Shoppe.

Advance registration is required at EdisonFord.org and space is limited. The cost for each class is $45 for Edison Ford members and $60 for non-members.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.

Seminole Casino Hotel to host The Lalas Burlesque, a hilarious and sexy classic rock-themed show Feb. 2

PHOTO PROVIDED

Visitors attend the Antique Car Show at Edison and Ford Winter Estates.

Annual Antique Ford Car Show to be held at Edison and Ford Winter Estates Feb. 3 Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Ford Car Show, Saturday, Feb. 3, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each year, classic car owners exhibit their cars on the Ford estate lawn as a tribute to Henry Ford, the pioneer of the automobile industry.

Antique Mustangs, Thunderbirds, Model Ts and others will be on display.

During the car show, there will be a DJ on site playing music, and food trucks will have refreshments available for purchase. Visitors can also

tour the gardens, museum, laboratory and see the historic homes. The site includes more than 20 acres of botanical gardens along the Caloosahatchee River with plants and trees from all around the world.

This family event is free for Edison Ford members or $25 for non-members. Tickets may be purchased on the website at EdisonFord.org or at the ticket counter (purchase tickets for the selfguided tour, which includes the grounds where the car show is held).

Antique car owners wanting to participate can register their car (any Ford model, 1980 or older) for display in the show at EdisonFord.org before Jan. 27. Car registration is $30 for the first car, and $15 for each additional car and includes the self-guided tour, museum and laboratory. For more information, contact the marketing department at 239-334-7419.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee welcomes back the best-ever burlesque review: The Lalas Burlesque Show Friday, Feb. 2, 2024 at 8 p.m. Advance tickets are $44 and are available now from Ticketmaster or at www.moreinparadise.com.

The Lalas are the best in burlesque, with a show that is equally hilarious and sexy. The show is perfect for date night, girls’ night out, or just to see some empowered women rock the stage during 75 minutes of classic rock and blues music, perfectly choreographed dance moves, and fringe galore. The Los Angeles-based women on stage are all full-time working pros in the biz. No two shows are ever alike, so audiences are always in for a treat!

For more information, call toll-free 800-218-0007 or visit moreinparadise.com or facebook.com/Seminole CasinoHotel/.

Legendary Musician Willie Nelson to perform live in concert at Seminole Casino Hotel Feb. 7 Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee welcomes country music icon Willie Nelson live in concert Wednesday, Feb. 7, with gates opening at 7 p.m. and the show beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets for this outdoor concert start at $49.50 and are available from Ticketmaster or at See WHAT’S HAPPENING, page 27

Page 25 n Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

PET PALS

Island pets seeking forever homes

Find A Home Give A Home Pet Rescue

We created a movement!

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

ABOVE: Freedom picture of Pumba. Pumba and his brother were on the list to be euthanized and luckily both got a second chance.

It takes patience and love!

LEFT: Melbourne (cattle dog mix) was so scared they had to use a pole to move him. We will give him a chance to a good life after being abandoned at the shelter by his owner.

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

Missing

By Jo Knobloch Saveourstraysfmb@yahoo.com Founder of Save Our Strays Cat Rescue a 501c3 organization on Fort Myers Beach

Paisley is a beautiful 2year-old female calico torti. She was rescued from the engine compartment of a truck being serviced along with her two kittens Frosty and Patches who are now available for adoption.

Paisley can be seen this week at the College Parkway and 41 Pet Supermarket.

Stop in and see her.

Missing tuxedo cat... our beach mascot for the past 12 years is missing and we are quite upset. He was last hanging out at the Chapel By The Sea Church which is now being knocked down. He has not been seen anywhere in that area since demolition started, Jan. 2, but he was there the night prior and went under the building. Unfortunately he was under the building where they started the demolition. All had been told about this special blind-in-one-eye cat. He was in the Mango, Delmar area for many years. We are praying he is not under that ruble that was once a b e a u t i f u l church. Please call or text 239-8513485 if you should see this If you would like to meet and play black-and-white with the kittens please call 239-851tux. His name is 3485 to schedule a time to visit.

Tuxie.

We could use volunteers to come

Marcie is a 3-month-old female kitten and cute as a button. She is mostly white with some tabby markings.

Very playful and sweet. She loves playing with her three litter mates. to the rescue and entertain the kittens. Also need help with various rescue duties such as cleaning, sweeping, moping and feeding. If you can

Trista is a 3-month-old female kitten and sibling to Marcie. She is also very playful and affectionate. They have fun chasing each other and playing with all their kitten toys and tunnels.

spend an hour or two any day, please call 239-851-3485 or send a text to same number.

Visit our website at SaveOurStraysfmb.org 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 Observer

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

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

We have been busy trying to find fosters and adopters on www.nextdoor.com. We are not sure if you have seen our messages but if you haven’t please check us out. We are pulling many dogs from our local shelter. Many of the dogs are not suitable for public adoption because they are scared and will shiver, bark out of distress and shut down. Others will react, show teeth and charge at the door because they can’t stand to be locked up. Where do the pets come from? From people who decided to turn them in and who adopted them during COVID. Twice a week we are getting list of at least six or seven dogs who can’t make it. We are trying our best to help as many and these are the ones we know about. Many of them don’t make it to the list. Most of them come as strays even if they belong to someone. It seems it is easier to say that and less costly (there is a fee to surrender pets in shelters). All rescues are over capacitated and there is no end in sight. The prediction is that it will take years for the intake of animals to be at a normal pace. Our shelter is under budgeted and our population in Lee County is growing (1.4 million (est.) population), which has increased 21.5% since 2010. New construction is everywhere and unfortu-

nately for pets between the hurricane and COVID their numbers have been also increasing. It seems pets are everywhere and still people do not spay and neuter. As a rescue we can’t even breathe and take a break. Other services see their budget increase however when we ask for a rescue coordinator and behaviorist at the shelter so we can get pictures, videos and help the pets there we can’t even get that after 13 years of rescuing. We are not the only one frustrated.

How come other counties and cities get better shelters and we don’t. Am I frustrated? Oh yes I am.

Would I love to do something else than going to the shelter and hear and see the distress? Oh yes. But all of us who rescue do it for the love of animals!

Helping one pet at a time and placing that pet in a loving home is our mission. The responsibility is on the commissioners to listen to the population and do what needs to be done. Get a shelter that is pro active and respect lives. Pets are not just ID numbers, these are the pets we love and had for a few weeks, months and years and decided to abandon. We created a movement on next door and TikTok and will push until we get results. If you would like to be part of a change please contact your commissioners and demand a better shelter for our Lee County Pets. (For more information and list of our commissioners please email us at pets@findahomegiveahome.com.

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 26 Fort Myers Beach Observer

SPORTS & RECREATION Boys & Girls Clubs to host ‘Evening at the Ballpark’ March 14 at JetBlue Park Red Sox hall of famers and current players highlight fundraising event Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County’s annual Evening at the Ballpark event will be held March 14 at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers and include a Baseball Legends Panel with some of the game’s greatest athletes.

The event starts with appetizers, drinks, activities and games on the concourse, along with autographs from current players on the Boston Red Sox roster and photos with World Series trophies. Then, guests move onto the warning track at JetBlue Park, where they can bid on dozens of auction items, including signed baseball memorabilia. Following dinner on the outfield grass, the Baseball Legends Panel will feature an engaging dialogue with Major League Baseball greats who will offer insight into baseball a generation ago and unfiltered perspectives on today’s game.

In 2023, Evening at the Ballpark attracted nearly 150 supporters and featured a pair of legendary pitchers in Minnesota Twins great Bert Blyleven and Red Sox star Luis Tiant, along with autographs from three active Red Sox players: Kutter Crawford, Adam Duvall and Rob Refsnyder.

“Last year, we sat under the Green Monster and listened to Bert and Luis telling captivating stories about their playing days,” said Denise Gergley, CEO of Boys &

County taking registrations for annual senior games Lee County Parks & Recreation welcomes senior athletes to participate in the 2024 Lee County Senior Games, themed “Fitness Matters,” which will feature social, recreational and competitive activities.

The games will be held from Jan. 26 through March 16, with eight sports in various locations throughout the county. The Florida Games Series Qualifier Events will include: ∫ Table tennis ∫ Archery ∫ Pickleball ∫ Basketball shooting ∫ Basketball 3V3 ∫ Billiards ∫ Swimming ∫ Tennis To be eligible, participants must be 50 years or older by Dec. 31, 2024.

Medals will be presented to the first-, second- and third-place finishers of each event.

Qualifying event top finishers will be eligible to compete in the 2024 Florida Senior Games.

Registration is $15 per event.

Participants will receive one shirt that will be distributed at the event site.

To register, visit www.leeparks.org/register or call 239-533-7275.

For more information or the schedule, visit www.leeparks.org.

Girls Clubs of Lee County. “Evening at the Ballpark is a literal field day for baseball fans in Southwest Florida.

You don’t get many opportunities to enjoy dinner on the outfield grass and ask questions directly to players you idolized growing up.”

Proceeds from Evening at the Ballpark support Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County’s impactful After-school Program and Summer Enrichment Program, which focus on five core areas: education and career, service and lead-

ership, health and wellness, the arts, and sports and recreation. Boys & Girls Clubs operates eight community, neighborhood and school programs in Lee County.

Evening at the Ballpark will be held from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 14 at JetBlue Park, 11500 Fenway South Drive in Fort Myers.

Event tickets are $200 each, or $1,500 for a table with 10 seats, and include appetizers, drinks, games, dinner, raffle items, a silent auction, autographs and the Baseball Legends Panel. Event sponsorships are still available. For more information or to register, please visit bgclee.org/events/join-us-for-an-evening-at-the-ballpark.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County Established in 1974, Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County serve children and teens through school-based, neighborhood and community club locations. The nonprofit’s mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. After-school and summer programs focus on five core areas: education and career, service and leadership, health and wellness, the arts, and sports and recreation. For more information, please visit BGClee.org or call 239-334-1886.

33rd Annual Tour De Cape to be held Jan. 21 The City of Cape Coral is hosting the 33rd Tour De Cape cycling event, Sunday, Jan. 21.

Cyclists participating in Tour De Cape will be utilizing roadways across Cape Coral from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Motorists are urged to use caution and safely share the roads with cyclists.

The weekend's festivities begin with a kick-off celebration at Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road, Friday, Jan. 19, 4-7 p.m. Participants can pick up race packets,

maps & t-shirts.

Tour De Cape continues Saturday, Jan. 20 with a 5K run/walk and a mini kids bike ride.

The event culminates Sunday, January 21, with the Tour De Cape bike rides, during which bicyclists have a choice of 15, 30, 62, or 100-mile bike tours in the southwest, northwest, and northeast regions of Cape Coral.

For more information, visit www.tourdecape.net.

Registration open for Minnesota Twins Golf Classic Annual event supports Lee Health Cancer Institute STFF REPORT The annual Minnesota Twins Golf Classic returns Feb. 15 in support of Lee Health Cancer Institute’s lifesaving programs.

Registration for the event is now open.

The tournament will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. at Topgolf in Fort Myers, located at 2021 Topgolf Way. Participants of all ages and skill levels are invited to participate in the annual event. In addition to a fun game of golf, the event will feature in-game competitions and prizes, and the opportunity to interact with multiple Minnesota Twins celebrities.

Funds raised at the event will benefit Lee Health Cancer Institute

and its treatment, research, education, state-of-the-art technology and innovations. Through donations and support, the institute is able to provide top-of-the-line comprehensive services and programs to locals who are battling cancer, as well as their families who are supporting them through their treatment. Lee Health Cancer Institute bridges the gap between cancer care and financial difficulties by providing qualified uninsured and underinsured patients with care.

Registration and sponsorship opportunities are available for the 26th Annual Minnesota Twins Golf Classic. Individual registration is $250. Individual golfers

will be assigned to a team of five and partnered with a Minnesota Twins celebrity. Registration for a team of five golfers is $1,000, which includes tickets for five players, a Twins celebrity golf partner and a commemorative hole sign featuring autographs from all Minnesota Twins players.

A variety of additional sponsorship opportunities are available.

Those interested in becoming a sponsor may select a sponsor package when completing the online tournament registration form to be contacted by a Lee Health representative.

Registration ends on Feb. 8. To register and learn more, visit LeeHealthFoundation.org/Twins.

The Fort Myers Beach Observer & Beach Bulletin welcomes news from our community!

Send news tips & releases to news@breezenewspapers.com

Welcome to the darkest corner of your mind as Paranormal Cirque III comes to town! This one-of-akind production features incredibly talented artists with the sole purpose of taking you in a sensual journey of acrobatics, contortion, aerial acts and more.

Prepare to be on the edge of your seat while you witness death-defying stunts, creepy creatures, and haunting performances.

Horrifying yet seductive, this show comes to life under the mysterious white and black Big Top Tent with

IF YOU GO: What: Paranormal Cirque III When: Jan. 11-15

Where: JetBlue Park, 11500 Fenway South Dr., Fort Myers, under the stunning White & Black Top Tent

ent or guardian. This show has adult language and material. Paranormal Cirque is offering a special promotion: $5 off any full priced ticket purchased in levels 1, 2, or 3. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts or deals. Please call 941-704-8572 to get the promo code for your location.

For tickets and more information, visit www.paranormalcirque.com or call us at 941-704-8572.

Lee County Community Band to present Broadway Spectacular Jan. 14

PHOTO PROVIDED

walks of life who reside in Lee, Collier, and Charlotte Counties and welcomes new members every year. Persons interested in joining may phone 239-6009052.

Lee County Community Band concerts are open to the public and free of charge, although the band relies on donations from patrons and audience members to meet its expenses. Additional concert dates are Feb. 14, March 10, and April 7. All concerts will be at Mariner High School, 701 Chiquita Blvd., North, Cape Coral, beginning at 3 p.m.

An institution in Southwest Florida, the band enjoys a large, loyal, and enthusiastic audience at every concert. Plan to arrive early for best choice of seating.

For additional information, visit www.leecountyband.org.

What’s Happening From page 24 www.moreinparadise.com Parking is free.

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee is at 506 South 1st St., Immokalee.

Platinum-Selling Country Artist Aaron Lewis to take the Stage at Seminole Casino Hotel Feb. 8 Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee welcomes #1 Billboard country artist Aaron Lewis performing live Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024 with gates opening at 7 p.m. and the show beginning at 8 p.m. General admission tickets for this outdoor concert are $39.50. VIP tickets start at $54.50 per ticket and include reserved seating and two complimentary drinks (beer, wine or soda). Tickets will be available Friday from Ticketmaster or at www.moreinparadise.com. Parking is free.

Having recorded with George Jones, Willie Nelson, Charlie Daniels, Alison Krauss and Vince Gill, Lewis has put a traditionalist brand on his outlier country. His latest album, “Frayed At Both Ends,” offers the hard touring, 15million selling workingman’s country star at his most personal and unplugged, making for an intimate record that reflects his 2024 acoustic tour.

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee is at 506 South 1st St., Immokalee.

Tickets on sale now for The Price is Right Live Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee will play host to The Price is Right Live interactive stage show Tuesday, April 30, with doors opening at 7 p.m. and the show beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $65 and are available from Ticketmaster or at www.moreinparadise.com. Special VIP Packages also are available. Parking is free.

Get ready to “Come on Down” and join the excitement as we bring the legendary television game show The Price Is Right to life in an unforgettable live event! Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the show, this is your chance to be a part of the action and win incredible prizes.

Alongside our Celebrity Host, randomly selected contestants play everyone’s favorite games like Plinko, Cliffhangers, The Big Wheel and even the fabulous Showcase. The show features an array of fantastic prizes, from appliances and electronics to dream vacations and even a brand-new car. Lucky audience members can even win prizes right from their seat.

Playing to near sold-out audiences for more than 20 years, generations of fans across America have made The

Price is Right Live the perfect family entertainment experience. And the next contestant might be you! If you’ve ever dreamt of spinning the Big Wheel, now is your chance! Look for our special packages, where you can join us on stage and give the Big Wheel the spin you’ve always wanted!

The Price is Right remains network television’s #1 daytime series and the longest-running game show in television history. As a beloved piece of American pop culture, “Price” and its games are cherished by generations of viewers. This live travelling stage show version offers fans the chance to make dreams come true and relive feelings of nostalgia, while experiencing the same thrilling excitement of winning big, up close, locally and in-person.

For more information, follow The Price Is Right Live on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/priceisrightlive), Twitter (https://twitter.com/TPIRLIVE) & Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/priceisrightlive/).

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.

Fort Myers Beach Observer

The legendary Lee County Community Band will present Broadway Spectacular, a lively, fun-filled, free concert on Sunday, Jan. 14, at 3 p.m. at Mariner High School, Cape Coral.

The program includes Highlights from Jersey Boys, Camelot, Gershwin Classics, Highlights from My Fair Lady, and West Side Story Selections, plus solos featuring vocalists Fred Lamb and Jan Fenn.

The 55-member adult band performs six concerts between November and April. Programs reflect the band’s wellearned reputation for lively, upbeat music and promise an entertaining mix of familiar tunes, energetic marches, Broadway and Silver Screen hits, and much more.

The band includes musicians from all

fortmyersbeachtalk.com

Show schedule: • Jan. 11 – Thursday: 7:30 p.m.

• Jan. 12 – Friday: 7:30 p.m.

• Jan. 13 – Saturday: 6:30 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.

• Jan. 14 - Sunday: 5:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.

• Jan. 15 – Monday: 7:30 p.m. (MLK Day)

hypnotic and sultry acts. Provocative illusionists, freaks and mysterious creatures will make you see that this circus is anything but normal. Our wide range of otherworldly characters will send shivers down your spine.

From zombies to erotic witches; sexy vampires to gruesome ghosts, and everything in between, there's no shortage of terrifying beings in this show.

A brand new production, fresh out of the mind of the talented and successful entrepreneur Manuel Rebecchi; comes to join the other 5 touring shows Cirque Italia has produced since its creation in 2012. A new spectacle combining breathtaking visuals, first-class circus artists from all over the world and the latest technology.

Whether you're a horror aficionado or just looking for a thrilling night out, Paranormal Cirque III is an experience not to be missed.

"We're excited to bring this unique and thrilling show to Fort Myers," said Luisa Nealon, Cirque Italia’s Marketing & Public Relations Manager. "We've assembled an incredible cast of performers, and we can't wait to showcase their talents to our audiences. This show is perfect for anyone looking for a night of entertainment and scares."

Paranormal Cirque III will be performing at JetBlue Park from Jan. 11–15. Tickets are available now at www.paranormalcirque.com or by calling at 941-7048572. Get yours and step into a world of delicious scares, sensual horror, alluring acrobatics, and plenty of saucy secrets you’ll get to discover for yourself!

Don't miss your chance to experience the most spinetingling show of the year!

Restricted – under 18 REQUIRES accompanying par-

Page 27 n Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Paranormal Cirque III to perform at JetBlue Park Jan. 11–15

Fort Myers Beach Observer

fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 28

Annual Rentals

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fortmyersbeachtalk.com Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 n Page 32

Observer 1/10/24

Observer 1/10/24