092425 Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin
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Chris Loffreno Allie Henry Charlie Smith Rita M. Oben Tracey Gore Summer Stockton Ronald Coveleski Dennis Boback Fran Canario Diane LaCorte
Voted Best Real Estate Company
Fort Myers Beach law firm seeks 50% increase to contract
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
As the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council weighs a 16% millage rate hike for town property owners and cuts to its staff at Bay Oaks ahead of a second budget hearing this Wednesday, the town’s attorneys are seeking a 50% pay increase.
Vose Law Firm LLP, which has represented the town since 2023, is seeking a new contract which will pay them $37,500 a month, or $450,000 a year.
That would represent a 50% increase from their current rate of $25,000 a month, or $300,000 a year.
The firm first made the proposal in July in a letter to town councilmembers and was referenced by the town’s finance director ahead of the town council’s vote in August to tentatively raise the millage rate to 26%.
Town of Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers said he expects the town council to discuss the contract.
“We haven’t had a chance to discuss this at a town meeting yet,” Allers said.
“The Vose Law Firm has been instrumental in our recovery efforts and in representing the town in various litigation matters. I look forward to discussing their services and any potential fee increases.”
Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt said he expected the contract to be discussed at a budget hearing.
Councilman John King said he supported the increase for the Town Attorney.
Fort Myers Beach businesses
By
NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Sunday will mark three years to the day that Fort Myers Beach was struck by Hurricane Ian, one of the worst storms to ever land in the United States and which brought incalculable, deadly devastation to an island still recovering from that day.
Step by step, islanders continue to make repairs, rebuilding their homes and businesses. Some have left, unable to afford a rebuild under the stricter codes requiring elevation, or unwilling to accept the risk of returning.
Others have continued to forge ahead. If it weren’t for Grant Erickson, the heart of Fort Myers Beach may have left Sept. 28, 2022 when more than 50 shrimp boats were damaged by the storm, some getting crushed against the docks and getting swept onto shore.
“The workload has increased exponentially, especially with the extra work they’ve had to do to help bring properties that need to come into compliance with town codes,” King said.
King said he expects the contract to be reviewed by the council.
In a letter from the town’s attorney Gretchen R.H. “Becky” Vose requesting the compensation increase, Vose cited “the massive amount of legal services that
Rood enters recall election race
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
A third candidate, Edward Rood, has entered the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council recall election.
Fort Myers Beach councilmembers John King and Karen Woodson are facing a recall for their seats on Tuesday, Nov. 4. The ballot also will include a vote for new council members to succeed King and Woodson, should voters approve the recall.
Protect FMB leader Tom Brady and school technology consultant Rebecca Link are the two other candidates seeking a seat should the recall prevail.
Rood, who currently sits on the Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force (MERTF), said he is running as a pro-development candidate.
“I made the decision to run when I realized that there was not another prospective candidate on the pro development side of the current controversy,” Rood said in an email to the Observer.
“I am not in favor of the recall movement, but if it is successful there needs to be a pro-development candidate so that both sides are represented equally,” Rood said. “I believe it’s best if future development is approached in a reasonable manner with common sense. Each project needs to be looked at individually and common sense applied in the decision-making process. I am in agreement that there are areas that have different needs, and thus need to be developed accordingly. We need to be responsible, but the entire island is not one-size-fits-all. I believe we need to be reasonable.”
Rood spent years in litigation with the Town of Fort Myers Beach in a bid to construct a boardwalk in the town’s environmentally critical zone over a lagoon
See RECALL ELECTION, page 19
Erickson and Jensen owner Grant Erickson (right) stands on the San Carlos Island docks he repaired after Hurricane Ian, speaking with Fort Myers Beach fisherman Matthews Pless (left). NATHAN MAYBERG
County commissioners vote to request using BP/Deepwater Horizon funds for Fort Myers Beach Pier
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted Tuesday to submit a request to use $7 million awarded to the county following BP/Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill in 2010 for the planned restoration and expansion of the Fort Myers Beach Pier.
The Fort Myers Beach Pier was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022. The county has approved designs and construction for the project, with the pier expected to be fully rebuilt sometime in 2027.
While FEMA has approved funding to replace the pier, those funds are limited to reconstruction of the pier in its original configuration.
The county approved a larger reconstruction of the pier, which would take more time and expense at an esti-
mated cost of $17.1 million. The larger pier was pushed for by some in the Fort Myers Beach community and led by Fort Myers Beach Councilwoman Karen Woodson in a request to the county commissioners.
Construction on the new 1,000 feet long pier is expected to begin next year and will add 415 feet of length to the pier compared to its original size. The pier will also be 12 feet wide, 4 feet wider than the original size.
Although the FEMA award has not yet been finalized, the shortfall between the final cost of construction and the amount of federal disaster assistance is currently estimated at about $6 million, according to Lee County officials.
After the Gulf oil spill, Lee County was awarded funds under the RESTORE Act Spill Impact Component, administered through Florida’s State Expenditure Plan
Sanibel soldier killed in Army helicopter crash STAFF
ASSOCIATED PRESS
A Sanibel man was among four soldiers killed when a Army helicopter crashed near a base in Washington state on Wednesday.
Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Kraus, 39, of Sanibel, was among the dead, the Army announced on Monday.
Also among the dead were Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Cully, Sgt. Donavon Scott and Sgt. Jadalyn Good, the Army said Monday in a release.
Cully, 35, was from Sparta, Missouri. Scott, 25, was from Tacoma, Washington, and Good, 23, was from Mount Vernon, Washington.
The helicopter was on a routine flight training west of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, according to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command.
The base is about 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of Tacoma under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Joint Base Headquarters.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. The skies in the area were mostly clear with light winds from the south around the time of the crash, according to the National Weather Service.
The soldiers “embodied the unwavering dedication, selflessness, and excellence that define the very spirit of the Army and Army Special Operations,” Col. Stephen Smith said in the release.
They were part of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, an elite team that does nighttime missions, when their MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crashed about 9 p.m.
The regiment’s mission is to organize, equip and employ Army special operations aviation forces around the world, according to the Army’s website.
“Known as Night Stalkers, these soldiers are recognized for their proficiency in nighttime operations,” the website said. “They are highly trained and ready to accomplish the very toughest missions in all environments, anywhere in the world, day or night, with unparalleled precision.”
This was the second deadly crash of this elite unit in recent years.
Five Army aviation special operations forces were killed when a helicopter crashed in the Eastern Mediterranean in 2023 during a routine air refueling mission as part of military training. They were all part of the Army’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
In March 2024, two soldiers from the Joint Base Lewis-McChord SOAR unit were hospitalized when their Apache helicopter crashed at the base during a routine training exercise.
Caution
managed by the Gulf Consortium. These funds are designated for projects that promote economic recovery, tourism, recreational fishing and community resilience in Gulf Coast communities.
Regardless of whether the county receives approval to use the funds managed by the Gulf Consortium, the county expects to have enough funds to construct the larger pier through use of Lee County Tourist Development Tax funds.
“The project is proceeding as planned and designed,” Lee County spokesperson Betsy Clayton said. “The plan all along was to use FEMA and Tourist Development Tax (funds).”
If the county’s request to use the BP/Deepwater Horizon funds are approved, “this would reduce the need for Tourist Development Taxes,” Clayton said.
Town announces process for unkept properties
REPORT
The Town of Fort Myers Beach, which continues to deal with properties that have not been repaired or cleaned up since Hurricane Ian and subsequent storms, announced the outline of a code enforcement process for “unkept properties” this week.
The process, outlined in a public advisory through Communications Director Nicole Berzin, is as follows:
Town of Fort Myers Beach Outlines Enforcement Process for Unkept Properties
The Town of Fort Myers Beach is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and welcoming community for all residents. To support this effort, the Town has outlined the enforcement process for unkept properties and the tools available to ensure compliance with community standards.
Unkept Property Enforcement Steps
1 Report or Identification –Property flagged by residents, inspectors, or Town of Fort Myers Beach Code enforcement Officers.
2 Inspection – Conducted within 7–10 days by Town of Fort Myers Beach Code Enforcement Officer.
3 Notice of Violation – Sent within 5 days; includes corrective actions and a reasonable time for compliance (generally 15–30 day deadline).
4 Compliance Period – Owner contacts the Town of Fort Myers Beach Code Enforcement Division with Notice of Violation corrections or request for extension.
5 Follow-Up Inspection – If resolved, the case is closed. If not, move to a hearing before the Special Magistrate for the possible imposition of fines and fees/costs. The Current Special Magistrate fee is $250.00, and costs of mailing
will be requested from the Special Magistrate if a hearing is requested.
6 Fines & Citations – Begin as ordered by the Special Magistrate at the hearing.
7 Town Abatement – The Special Magistrate may direct the Town to abate the violation, including demolition; with the costs billed to the property owner.
Tools Used in the Enforcement Process
∫ Code Enforcement Officers
∫ Hearings before Special Magistrate
∫ Abatement Policy – as ordered by the Special Magistrate
∫ Lien Placement – as ordered by the Special Magistrate
Residents are encouraged to report concerns or learn more about property standards by visiting https:// www.fortmyersbeachfl.gov/181/ Code-Compliance or calling (239) 765-0202.
Department of Health issues water warning for Bowditch Point
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Tests completed on Wednesday, Sept. 17, by the Florida Department of Health in Lee County indicate that the water quality at Bowditch Point Regional Park does not meet the recreational water quality criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health, according to an announcement from the Town of Fort Myers Beach.
The Florida Department of Health advises against any water-related activities at Bowditch Point Regional park due to an increased risk of illness in swimmers. Sampling conducted during regular water quality monitoring showed that the level of bacteria exceeds the level established by state guidelines, the announcement from the Town of Fort Myers Beach said.
This advisory will continue until bacte-
flashing light after bridge
The Florida Department of Transportation is advising motorists to use caution after crossing the Matanzas Pass Bridge on Fort Myers Beach this week as a new flashing yellow light is posted. The new traffic signal at the intersection of Fifth Street and San Carlos Boulevard began its flashing yellow phase on Tuesday. The flashing yellow phase serves as a warning to motorists that a new signal is in place and will soon become fully operational, the Florida Department of Transportation announced. An additional update will be provided when the signal is scheduled to become fully operational. Drivers are advised to exercise caution during this transition period.
ria levels are below the accepted health level, according to a statement from the Town of Fort Myers Beach.
On Tuesday, Fort Myers Beach Communications Director Nicole Berzin said the town had received no further information that the water quality levels had changed.
Test results are available at FloridaHealth.gov/ HealthyBeaches.
Live Music BEACHFRONT
Check out our September entertainment at CabaÑas Beach Bar + Grille and CŌste Island Cuisine
Fridays steve mcdougall band, 4-7pm
Saturdays
9/6 matt lee duo, 1-4pm | fractal brothers, 5-8pm
9/13 edison + the rum runners, 1-4pm kinetic souls, 5-8pm 9/20 pipe dream, 1-4pm | matt newbold, 5-8pm
SUNDAYS
9/7, 9/14, 9/21 CROSSROADS, 2-5pm
7-10pm
Wednesdays
9/10 deano + Marvilla 9/17, 9/24 classic roses
Thursdays lonza
Fridays
9/12, 9/19 pearl + CJ 9/26 barry lawrence
Join us for island hopper songwriter fest september 26-28
Saturdays dockside duo
Sundays 9/14, 9/21, 9/28 david rojas
Entertainment schedule subject to change
OPINIONS
Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Phone: (239) 574-1110
Fax: (239) 574-5693
Web: fortmyersbeachtalk.com
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Production manager Rob Braitling rbraitling@breezenewspapers.com
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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. FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Cape Coral Breeze, 2510 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral FL 33904.
Web Poll
Previous Question
Should there be more fines for those violating the town’s turtle lighting ordinance?
∫ Yes, 39%
∫ No, 57%
∫ No opinion/unsure, 4%
Current Poll
Should the town pay a 50% increase for the contract of its legal representation, Vose Law Firm?
∫ Yes.
∫ No.
∫ No opinion/unsure. Visit fortmyersbeachtalk.com
Every child deserves more than just the basics
When we talk about supporting children in foster care, the conversation often focuses on the essentials: school supplies, clothes, and food. These are, of course, critical needs. But what’s often overlooked is just as vital to a child’s growth and healing — their social and emotional well-being.
Research is clear on this point. The American Academy of Pediatrics has found that consistent, supportive relationships are one of the strongest predictors of resilience for children who’ve experienced trauma. Similarly, Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child emphasizes that positive social interactions, what they call “serve and return” relationships, are essential to healthy brain development. Yet in traditional foster care support systems, these types of experiences are not always prioritized.
tion, and belonging. That’s why, in partnership with the Children’s Network of Southwest Florida, HALO creates opportunities for foster children to participate in fun, enriching activities that let them simply be kids.
From trampoline parks like Sky Zone and Defy to hands-on exploration at the IMAG History & Science Center, our events give children moments of laughter, discovery, and connection. But the activities themselves are only part of the story. What makes HALO unique is the mentorship and friendship our high school members provide by pairing with foster children. These relationships help build confidence, spark trust, and give children a sense that they are seen, valued, and cared for.
essential to building resilience and success.
It may seem simple, a day at a trampoline park, a mentor’s encouragement, a moment of laughter. But for a foster child, these experiences can mean the difference between isolation and connection, between hopelessness and resilience.
I wanted to start HALO in 2023 because of the positive impact we could create for local kids and their families. Our communities are in need of additional resources that only a group like HALO can provide, while offering high school students a chance to make a real difference in a child’s life.
At HALO, our mission is to remind these children that they are worthy of joy and that their lives can be filled with love and possibility. Because every child deserves more than just the basics.
At HALO (Helping And Leading Others), we believe that children in foster care deserve more than survival, they deserve joy, connec-
Annie E. Casey Foundation has reported that foster children who experience stable relationships and opportunities for social connection have better long-term outcomes in school, employment, and mental health. In other words, joy and belonging are not “extras”—they are
— Sophia Fox, a senior at Fort Myers High School, founded HALO (Helping and Leading Others) in 2023. The student-led organization is committed to connecting children in foster care with high school students for fun and kidled events.
Help multicultural organ donations match the need
Just one donor can save up to eight lives and improve the lives of 75 others. If you have ever considered becoming an organ donor but hesitated, you should know that your decision can help save lives.
Multicultural communities are disproportionately affected by certain medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, which can contribute to organ failure and lead to the need for organ transplantation. African Americans, for example, experience kidney failure at three times the rate of white Americans.
Yet the rate of multicultural organ donation does not match the need within our communities. In Florida, African Americans represent nearly 15% of the population, but only account for 6% of registered organ and tissue donors.
That gap matters not because donors and recipients must always share the same racial or ethnic background, but because certain biological markers that influence compatibility (such as blood type, HLA antigens and other medical factors) can be more common within shared ancestry. The more these factors align, the better the odds that an organ is accepted by its recipient.
In this season — September kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month and August was National Multiethnic Donor Awareness Month — I want to educate and shine an extra spotlight on the ongoing need for more multicultural organ donors. In addition to the recent negative press regarding donation, there are longstanding misconceptions in multicultural communities regarding organ donation. As a person of color, I understand the history behind them. But as
an organ recovery surgeon who happens to be Black, I feel a responsibility to step up and provide information, so that our community can make educated decisions when it comes to end of life care and the ability to save lives.
When you know better, you should do better. But to get to where we need to be, we must meet people where they are and gain their trust. I recently joined a local initiative led by Hillsborough County Commissioner Gwen Myers to engage multicultural pastors in conversations about organ donation. We had heart-toheart dialog, answered the tough questions, and dispelled myths that have perpetuated for years. Those kinds of grassroots conversations are the beginning of what it takes to rebuild trust, close the registration gap and ultimately save more lives.
among the nation’s multicultural communities, which make up about 60% of the U.S. transplant waiting list.
I encourage you to educate yourself as people are dying while they await organ transplants. Donation does not cost the donor or their family money. It does not delay burial or prevent an open-casket funeral. Organ donation never occurs until all lifesaving efforts have been exhausted. And it gives donor families the opportunity to find a bright spot amid tragedy by allowing their loved one’s story to live on through organ recipients.
Progress is also happening at the national level. In 2022, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine released a landmark report titled Realizing the Promise of Equity in the Organ Transplantation System. Commissioned by Congress, the report identified areas of disparity and laid out bold recommendations to make the system more fair, transparent and accountable.
Across America, more than 105,000 men, women and children await a life-saving organ transplant, including over 5,100 patients in Florida. The need for organ transplants is highest
If you are ready to consider the ultimate gift, I invite you to learn more or register to become an organ donor at www. MyStoryContinues.com. You also can register when renewing or receiving your Florida driver’s license.
Let’s make sure our communities are educated and part of the solution. Together, we can save lives.
— Dr. Jacentha Buggs is an organ recovery surgeon and associate medical director with LifeLink of Florida. She was the first African American to complete the General Surgery Residency at the University of South Florida before becoming the first Transplant Fellow to complete the Transplant Fellowship with LifeLink® HealthCare Institute (now Tampa General Medical Group).
Sophia Fox Guest Commentary
Dr. Jacentha Buggs Guest Commentary
On the Bay holding soft re-opening Friday
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
News that Matanzas on the Bay was reopening this week as the rebranded “On the Bay” shook the Fort Myers Beach Observer Facebook page just 11 days after the restaurant announced initial plans to reopen in early October.
The comments, more than 200 of them, came pouring in on the Observer’s Facebook page to the announcement from the new owners that a soft opening will be held this Friday. When doors open for business, it will be the first time at the iconic restaurant since before Hurricane Ian in 2023.
“I can taste the grouper sandwich all the way up here in Illinois,” Faith Lindley said on Facebook.
Memories of a first date at Matanzas on the Bay more than 30 years ago were shared.
Best key lime pie ever, best snapper, best shrimp salad, readers said.
If the more than 2,600 Facebook engagements to the news this week are any indication, it could be competitive to land a seat at the soft openings this Friday and Saturday.
Reservations will be required, said On the Bay Manager DJ Weir.
“We’re excited to be moving forward delivering a family-friendly environment,” Weir said. “Everybody is pumped.”
A soft opening will start this Friday at noon, with doors open through 8 p.m. That will be followed by another soft opening on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The restaurant will then close before holding a grand opening on Friday, Oct. 3.
Weir and chef Jose Rivera said the restaurant wants to start with a soft opening to get staff acclimated before season starts.
The restaurant took in a lot of flooding from Hurricane Ian but its former owners were looking forward to opening in 2023 before they decided to sell the property. Petey’s Upper Deck, which is the upstairs restaurant and bar, has continued to operate since 2023 and through the change in ownership.
Plans to reopen the main restaurant were slowed last
year by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, Weir said.
The flooring was redone and the inside of the restaurant has undergone a makeover. Outside on the deck, yellow shade umbrellas have been replaced by tables with blue and white umbrellas. The same serene view of Matanzas Bay can be seen from each point on the deck.
From inside, diners can also peer out onto the bay. Weir said the kitchen has undergone a complete revamping to allow for equipment to be pulled out onto a truck at a moment’s notice if another major hurricane were on the way.
The opening of Matanzas on the Bay will include many familiar favorites from the grouper sandwich to the shrimp salad, shrimp burger, pastas and its popular bay bread.
Ribeye steaks and crunchy grouper breaded with corn are among the staples, as is the clam chowder served with shrimp. Shrimp and scallop ceviche also stays on the menu.
There is the queso dip, as well as the crab, shrimp and scallop dip.
Rivera, who previously worked at Naples Grand Golf Club, said the opening of On the Bay will offer “a little more upscale dining” than Petey’s Upper Deck though it will also include those menu options as well – highlighted by Petey’s Upper Deck’s popular pizza.
There will also be some updates to the menu. The bay bread is served with bleu cheese, cheddar cheese and mozzarellas, lump crab, artichoke, onions, tomato and scallops.
There are new stuffed pasta shells with ricotta cheese, topped with lobster, crab, shrimp and spinach.
Rivera said there is also the rum-dip coconut shrimp which is made from scratch.
To wash it all down will be a host of wines as well as house drinks.
The house wine is The Beach House “Sauvignon Blue,” which is the featured white wine. Wines will also be paired with entrees, Rivera said.
“We’re excited to be a part of rebuilding and recovering the beach, bringing that culture back and being able to serve the community,” Rivera said.
To make a reservation at On the Bay, call 239-4633838.
NATHAN MAYBERG
On the Bay will be holding a soft opening on Friday, Sept. 26 and Saturday, Sept. 27.
Laura Moreno holds a meatlovers pizza pie at Matanzas on the Bay
BEACH LIVING
Fort Myers Beach Woman’s Club sets
Putt & Pub date
STAFF REPORT
The Fort Myers Beach Woman’s Club announced that registration has opened for the 14th Putt & Pub to be held Saturday, Jan. 17.
Sponsored by The King Family Foundation, the golf putting event takes place at Fort Myers Beach businesses and promotes local nonprofit organizations while driving business to island bars and restaurants. The Putt & Pub is a signature fundraiser of the Woman’s Club, whose mission is to uplift and support the entire nonprofit community through creative events and collaborations.
The Putt & Pub course is expanding to 12 holes this year, giving more restaurants and nonprofits the chance to join the fun. Teams of four, many dressed in full costume, will putt their way through a pre-routed 9-hole mini-golf course. Along the way, they can enjoy drink specials, enter raffle drawings, and support multiple local causes—making it a day full of fun and community impact. “We will be creating designated routes for each team so that play runs smooth and keeps moving along,” stated Dawn Thomas, Co-Chair of the event.
“We are proud to be able to support this event once again,” said Alex King, of The King Family Foundation. “For over 60 years, The King Family has made Fort Myers Beach our home. Even after Hurricane Ian, we remain committed to supporting the island’s recovery. We sponsor the Woman’s Club Putt & Pub because they are the bridge connecting so many organizations and causes that give back to our community.”
Participating Nonprofits are: Lions Club, Friends of the Library, Friends of Lovers Key, Friends of the Mound House, Fort Myer Beach Art Association, FMB Strong, Beach Kids, Women of Irish Heritage, SW Florida, FMB Chamber of Commerce, Sanibel School Seahorse Choral, Community Foundation and The PTO.
“Each hole is run by a local non-profit and features creative challenges, drink specials, games, and other fundraising opportunities,” added Thomas. “With more holes, more partners, and more fun, this year’s Putt & Pub will be bigger than ever. Proceeds go directly to participating non-profits, and the day ends with a lively awards ceremony at the Margaritaville Sunset Terrace. This is one Fort Myers Beach event you won’t want to miss.”
To register your team and receive more Information visit https://www.fmb-wc.org/ and https://www.fmb-wc.org/index. php/putt-and-pub-2026/
To register, visit https://www.fmb-wc.org/index.php/puttand-pub-2026-registration/.
Junonia found on Fort Myers Beach
Mariah Jensen, of Nebraska, found this rare junonia on Fort Myers Beach recently. Jensen was vacationing with her family when she visited Fort Myers Beach and found the sought-after shell. The junonia is the shell of a sea snail.
Sea turtle nesting numbers
Fort Myers Beach
Nests: 113
False crawls: 313
Relocated nests: 44
Hatched nests: 80
Disorientation of nests: 30
Bonita Beach
Nests: 187
False crawls: 384
Hatched nests: 158
—Nesting data source: Turtle Time
Editor’s note: Loggerhead sea turtles are threatened in the United States and protected under the Endangered Species Act. The sea turtle nesting season on Fort Myers Beach runs through Oct. 31 and a town ordinance requires that all outdoor lights be turned off from 9 p.m. through 7 a.m. except for shielded amber, downward-directed lights. All blinds and curtains must also be shut from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. Beach furniture should be removed from the beach before dusk and holes should be filled in on the beach.
Lovers Key State Park Calendar
Lovers Key State Park, located at 8700 Estero Boulevard on Fort Myers Beach, is offering the following programs this week:
9/26 Friday
Program: Walk on the Wild Side
Time: 9 – 10:30 am
Location: Black Island Trail Head (Parking Lot #2)
Fee: Free with park entry fee
Instructor: Mitch (ranger)
Description: Join a park ranger for a guided hike along our Black Island Trail. Learn about the fascinating vegetation and wildlife that reside in our maritime hammock ecosystem, explore our native butterfly garden, and enjoy a little local history along the way. Closed-toe shoes, bug spray, and water bottles are highly recommended.
9/27 Saturday
Program: Junior Ranger
Time: 10 – 11:00 a.m.
Location: Community Room (Welcome and Discovery Center)
Fee: Free with park entry fee
Instructors: Mitch (Ranger)
Description: Join a park ranger for a Junior Ranger educational program and accompanying activity to explore the four components of the Junior Ranger program: natural resources, cultural resources, recreation, and service. Participants will be eligible for Junior Ranger passport stamps with the successful completion of each component.
10/3 Friday
Program: Beach and Estuary Walk
Time: 9 – 10:30 a.m.
Location: Mid-Beach
Fee: Free with paid park entry fee
Instructor: Mitch (ranger)
Description: Join a park ranger for a leisurely walk
over the estuary and along the beach to discover the natural treasures of the Lovers Key shoreline. Learn about seashells, crustaceans, starfish, and other creatures that can be found in our waters. Participants should be prepared to spend time in the water
For more info:
For program questions, call 239-707-6328 or email Ursula at Ursula.Gibbons@FloridaDEP.gov
Below you’ll find out what public events are happening, event cost, how to sign up, the who/what/when/ where, and a description of the event!
TO SIGN UP: visit https://loverskey.eventbrite.com. and scroll until you find the desired event. Click on the event picture or title. You will be redirected to FOLKS Eventbrite. Fill out info on Eventbrite. Reservations are made on Eventbrite only.
PHOTO PROVIDED
BANKING IS BACK on Fort Myers Beach!
Fort Myers Beach, we're here!
Our new office is on the way ... in the meantime, our temporary office is open and we're ready to serve you.
For over 20 years, we've proudly served the Southwest Florida community. Now, we're thrilled to bring our trusted, community-first banking services to Fort Myers Beach. Stop in, grab a cookie and experience the SanCap Bank difference today. Visit us Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Inside Access Title Agency 100 Lovers Lane, Suite 205, Fort Myers Beach
Fort Myers Beach Temporary Office
Open Wednesdays, 9:30 am to 2 pm
100 Lovers Lane, Fort Myers Beach (we're on the third floor of the Access Title Agency building)
Locally Owned and Operated
Fort Myers Beach restaurants participating in regional dining festival
By CJ HADDAD and NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Four Fort Myers Beach restaurants are taking part in an annual food extravaganza this month to help aid Blessings in a Backpack of Southwest Florida, a group dedicated to addressing child hunger.
Sizzle Dining continues through Sept. 30 and features 127 restaurants throughout Lee County and Collier County.
The four restaurants on Fort Myers Beach participating in the event are: Fresh Catch Bistro, Junkanoo Below Deck, JWB Grill and Pinchers.
All four of the restaurants are offering menus tied to the event, with the prices ranging from $29 to $49 per person, depending on the restaurant.
Fresh Catch Bistro is offering a high-end, seafood-heavy three-course dinner menu for $49 topped off with a choice of limoncello cake or chocolate overload cake.
At Junkanoo Below Deck, a two-course lunch for $29 will get you your choice of either fried calamari, firecracker shrimp or grouper bites for the first course, and either fried shrimp, teriyaki salmon, white fish Rockefeller or black and blue skirt steak for the second course.
JWB Grill offers diners a large variety of options for their three dinner courses priced at $49, from seafood to salads, filet mignon, chicken, Italian food for the first and second courses, and finishing with dessert choices of chocolate cake, key lime pie and raspberry sorbet.
At Pinchers, there will be several seafood options for a three-course dinner menu priced at $29, starting with soup or salad for the first course, five different choices of seafood entrees for the main course and topped off with key lime pie.
For every Sizzle Dining meal purchased, $1 is donated for Blessings in a Backpack of Southwest Florida, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that feeds local elementary school children who face food insecurity on weekends.
“We’re very excited to be able to finally kind of see what this could turn into for our community,”
STAFF REPORT
said Sizzle Dining Founder Guy Clarke of the longest-length event yet. “At this level — this isn’t just a weekend event anymore, it’s really taken on the essence of what a true community event could be at this level. It’s great to help the community out, and it’s great to see it will help the children out.”
In 2024, the event sold more than 62,000 meals in its three-week run.
“It’s not just a dining experience,” Clarke said. “It’s an opportunity to dine with purpose, supporting the hospitality industry while directly impacting the lives of children in our community.”
There are no passes or tickets required to participate. Diners simply browse the list of participating restaurants online, make their reservations, and go enjoy their meals, knowing that every bite supports a great cause.
Clarke said dining in the month of September also provides a boost during the slow time of the year, and has a ripple effect beyond just the restaurants.
“This is probably one of the worst summers that I’ve seen since the 2008 crash,” Clarke said. “We’re hoping that enough people come out. Out of all the times we’ve asked for support and for people to participate, this year truly, really matters. Restaurants need the help this year.
“The trickle-down effect not many people realize. The dishwasher gets extra hours, the servers make extra money, the uniform company has to clean more uniforms, the linen company has to rent more linen for the tables because they’re being turned quicker. Even the boutiques benefit, because when you’re going out to dinner, you have to go out and get that dress. I don’t think a lot of people realize how much this helps the community beyond the surface.”
Each participating location will offer special Sizzle Dining menus, so customers can try different types of food may normally be outside their comfort zone price-wise.
Sizzle Dining was founded in Naples in 2016 by Clarke, who also is the creator of BaconFest Naples along
with his wife Erin Clarke, a culinary school-trained chef and restaurant management consultant. The promotional event originally launched with 26 restaurants as dinner-only.
“Between the restaurants saying they’re going to extend their menu, and the consumer saying they need more time to go try all of these places, and us getting more restaurants on board, it was just a natural growth,” Clarke said. “It’s really amazing to see the balance of growth between the consumers and restaurants.”
Clarke said teaming up with Blessings in a Backpack is a no-brainer, and something that he resonates with from his youth.
“They’re fed during the week with a free lunch program, but what happens when they go home and have to make it through the weekend?” he said. “That’s where Blessings jumps in and says, ‘hey, we’re here to help you.’ The more money we give Blessings, the more kids we can feed.
“If you’re going to go out and indulge, and we’re blessed to be able to eat at these restaurants, it’s nice to know while we’re helping these places and people, that we’re helping the children, too.”
Beyond the obvious charitable component and discounted menus, Sizzle Dining is a great way to explore new spots and possibly find a new favorite restaurant.
“You’ve got all of these restaurants fighting for your attention and they’re coming out with the best of the best on their menu,” Clarke said. “They’re putting their best foot forward to shine and show off a little bit. The consumer gets to benefit because if they’ve never been to a place, more than likely this is going to be one of their better menus that they’re trying to put out there. That makes it exciting as a foodie. What a great time to experiment.”
To see the full list of 127 participating restaurants throughout the region, visit sizzledining.org and make your reservation directly with each restaurant.
For more information on Blessings in a Backpack, visit swfl.blessingsinabackpack.org.
St. Peter Lutheran Church to hold breakfast Fort Myers Beach Art Association’s plein air show starts this week
St Peter Lutheran Church will hold their first “Breakfast Church” on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 9 a.m. at the church building at
3751 Estero Blvd. The public is invited to come and have a bite to eat and some fellowship.
Mound House Calendar
The Mound House is the oldest standing structure on Fort Myers Beach dating back to 1906, sitting on top of a 2,000-year-old shell mound that was constructed by the native Calusa tribe who lived throughout the region for centuries. The Mound House is on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Mound House is at 451 Connecticut St. on Fort Myers Beach and features a museum, tours, gift
shop and serves as a public park for picnics and fishing.
Mound House schedule
Park Hours: Daily 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
∫ Museum Hours: WednesdaySaturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
∫ Calusa Tours: WednesdaySaturday 11 to 11:30 a.m., 1 to 1:30 p.m.
∫ Kayak Tours: WednesdaySaturday 9 to 11 a.m.
The Fort Myers Beach Art Association will be holding its “Plein Air Show,” a new art exhibit that opens Thursday, Sept. 25, at the member -owned and operated gallery of the Fort Myers Beach Art Association at Cypress Square Shopping Plaza in Fort Myers.
This exhibition brings together a diverse group of artists who all paint directly from life, creating works that are both vibrant and deeply rooted in place. Plein air describes the act of painting outdoors with the artist’s subject in full view. Plein air artists capture the spirit and essence of a landscape or subject by incorporating natural light, color, and movement into their works. While plein air painting is rooted in
direct observation, it also involves artistic interpretation and personal expression. For Plein Air Show, all featured works were created with a commitment to authenticity: at least 80% of each painting was completed outdoors and from direct observation. The result is a dynamic collection of landscapes, urban scenes, and moments in time that reflect the immediacy and energy of painting on location.
Featured artwork is by artist Dana Enders who is one of the leaders of the Plein Air Painting group run through the Fort Myers Beach Art Association. Artist Tamara Culp also leads the group who meet on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The exhibit will run from Thursday, Sept. 25, to Friday, Oct. 24, at the Fort Myers Beach Art Association gallery, at 13451 McGregor Boulevard next to the Prawnbrojwr. Exhibiting artists may be present, and there may be plein air demonstrations taking place during the run of the show.
For more information, visit Website: fortmyersbeachart.com or contact publicity@ fortmyersbeachart.com
“Koreshan Golden Hour” by Dana Enders
MADD Inshore Fishing Tournament to be held Firefighters to conduct controlled burns this week
Aloia Roland proudly announces the 2025 Fish Like MADD Inshore Fishing Tournament, presented by Golden Boat Lifts. A charitable catch-photo-release event to be held October 24–25 at Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant. All proceeds support Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and its vital efforts to end impaired driving, support victims, and educate youth in Southwest Florida and beyond.
Alcohol-related traffic deaths jumped to more than 13,000 for the first time since 2006. 13,384 people were killed in alcohol-related traffic crashes in 2021 – that’s one person every 39 minutes and 37 people a day killed by someone’s choice to drive drunk. In 2022, Alcohol Consumption was the #1 contributing factor in fatal boating crashes.
The annual Fish Like MADD Inshore Fishing Tournament is a community-driven virtual fishing tournament that raises awareness about drunk driving and underage drinking while uniting community members around MADD’s mission. Since it was established in 2020, this event has raised more than $70,000 that stays in the Southwest Florida community to save lives and support victims of drunk driving. Every dollar donated remains in Southwest Florida to provide victim services and prevention education at no cost.
Event Highlights:
∫Dates & Agenda
Friday, October 24 (6:30 PM – 7:30 PM): Captain’s meeting and kick-off party at Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant.
Saturday, October 25: Tournament and Award Ceremony
∫Lines in at 7 AM; tournament fishing across Southwest Florida’s inshore waters
∫The tournament will take place between 7AM4PM in Southwest Florida’s inshore waters
∫Award Ceremony will take place at 7PM. Tournament winners will be announced as soon as every team returns.
∫Format & Rules
∫Participants compete in a catch-photo-release format using the iAngler app, targeting snook, redfish, and sea trout. Teams consist of 2–6 anglers fishing from the same boat, and photos must clearly show length measurement against official tools. In the “Inshore Slam” format, the winning boat is determined by the total length of the longest fish of each species submitted; in absence of all three, total length decides the winner.
∫ Entry Fees & Prizes
Entry is $400 per team (up to 4 anglers, including captain); $100 per additional angler.
Cash prizes include:
∫ 1st Place – $3,000
∫ 2nd Place – $2,000
∫ 3rd Place – $1,000
∫ 4th Place – Free boat entry into next year’s tournament
∫ Location
Held at Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant, located at 645 Old San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL—the launch point and social hub for the tournament.
For more information about the 5th annual Aloia Roland Fish Like MADD Inshore Fishing Tournament, please visit https://give.madd.org/event/aloia-roland2025-fish-like-madd-inshore-fishing-tournament/ e669756.
ABOUT MADD
Founded by a mother whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit working to protect families from drunk driving and underage drinking. MADD also supports drunk and drugged driving victims and survivors at no charge, serving one person every nine minutes through local MADD victim advocates and at 1-877-MADD-HELP. Learn more at www.madd.org or by calling 1-877-ASK-MADD.
ABOUT ALOIA ROLAND
Aloia Roland is a full-service Southwest Florida-based
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com nmayburg@breezenewspapers.com
Firefighters with the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District are conducting controlled burns on a building slated for demolition on Pearl Street. The controlled burns started on Tuesday and will continue today and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Fort Myers Beach Fire Chief Scott Wirth said the fire department reached out to the property owners upon learning the building would be demolished The controlled burns will give the department’s firefighters valuable training.
Wirth said the controlled burns would be mostly inside the home and the roof.
Wirth said the department was also working with Lee County Emergency Management on Tuesday during the training on conducting a test flight with a drone equipped with thermal imaging.
law firm dedicated to providing comprehensive legal solutions for individuals, businesses and organizations in our community. With a team of experienced and passionate attorneys across diverse practice areas and backgrounds, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized, results-driven representation tailored to the unique needs of each client.
In partnership with MADD Southwest Florida, Aloia Roland is proud of our demonstrated success in Personal Injury cases representing victims of DUI and BUI crashes, in Southwest Florida and beyond. To view more about us, our attorneys and our involvement in our community, visit https://lawdefined.com/.
Skanska Selected to Renovate Florida SouthWestern State College’s Humanities Hall
Skanska, a leading construction firm, has signed a $12.8 million contract with Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) to renovate the college’s Humanities building in Fort Myers, Florida. The higher education project includes the complete overhaul of more than 50,000 square feet of academic space to support the college’s growing student population.
As FSW’s most prominent single-story building, Humanities Hall encompasses 57,316 square feet and has served the college for 43 years, providing associate degree and certificate programs within the School
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are necessarily required to fully serve the needs of the Town.”
Vose also detailed the collection of funds for the town through code enforcement cases to support the firm’s request. The law firm is usually represented at town council meetings by Nancy Stuparich, a partner in the firm.
In her letter, Vose said “The clear need for this increase is due in part to the unexpected workload increase resulting from the loss and reoccurring replacement of the Town’s workforce and continued demands due to storm-related issues.”
of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. The renovation will modernize classrooms, musical practice rooms, a black box theater, a makerspace, and student lounges. The building’s MEP systems will also undergo a complete overhaul and upgrade.
“Skanska is honored to return to FSW to renovate Humanities Hall to create a more modern and collaborative learning environment for students and faculty,” said Bob Kramer, Vice President and Account Manager for Skanska’s Florida building operations. “Our team is proud to partner with FSW leadership to bring their vision for
to redevelopment that has taken place as part of the Town’s rebuilding efforts,” Vose said. “This has taken massive amounts of attorney time that was certainly not expected either by the Town or by our firm when we were hired.
When Vose Law Firm was hired by the town, Vose stressed that the firm does not charge extra for litigation. Their flat fee, regardless of litigation or other extra time spent on town business, was advertised as an advantage into hiring them.
Humanities Hall to life and to support the continued overall growth of the college.”
With architectural design led by Grace Hebert Curtis Architects, the new stateof-the-art academic center will deliver an innovative building that will meet the needs of the School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. Construction began in July 2025 and is slated for completion in August 2026.
An active builder in the region, Skanska is currently leading the construction of a new state-of-the-art hospital and medical office building for Lee Health in Fort Myers and a major HVAC system renovation on
larization of the community related to redevelopment policies,” which she said could lead to more potential future litigation.
“Although our flat fee arrangement gives budgetary predictability to the Town, we do have concerns regarding future use of our firm’s resources without a fee adjustment,” Vose said.
Last month, the town piggybacked onto a response from the attorneys of Seagate to litigation filed by town residents over the town council’s approval of the Seagate condo tower project. The Vose Law Firm, in the town’s filing, cited the response issued by the attorneys for Seagate, as speaking for the town as well.
behalf of the School District of Lee County. Additionally, Skanska recently completed the renovation of FSW’s Hendry Hall to accommodate the building’s new role as the main technology academic building on campus. The project included constructing specialized high-tech classrooms equipped to meet current and future technological needs, improvements to the building’s energy consumption and cooling systems, and performing other electrical, lighting, mechanical, plumbing, security and communication work.
Vose identified employee turnover and litigation as the main reasons for their request for a higher fee.
“We frankly did not anticipate the massive employee turnover, including private consultants, and new litigation related
“Unfortunately, working with Town staff to implement best practices has been and it appears it will continue to be very time consuming, especially in view of new hires and continued employee turnover, which has occurred over the last two years,” Vose said.
Vose also blamed the “increasing po-
Messages left with Vose Law Firm seeking comment regarding their contract proposal were not returned by press deadline.
At the last budget hearing, the town council scaled back the millage rate to 16% on the backs of approximately $1.2 million in budget cuts which includes the elimination of positions at the Bay
Oaks Recreational Campus, the elimination of the town’s fireworks shows for New Year’s Eve, the Fourth of July and the elimination of the town’s Fourth of July parade among other savings the town has identified to make up for its budget shortfall.
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council voted 3-2 to lower the proposed millage rate from the 1.255 mills per thousand dollars of taxable property value that was set by the council last month to 1.15 mills per thousand dollars of property value, which would still represent a 16% increase in the millage rate compared to the current millage rate. King and Atterholt voted against the millage rate hike, seeking further cuts and savings to the budget.
The town’s current millage rate is .99 mills per thousand dollars of taxable property value.
The council is scheduled to hold another budget hearing today at 5:01 p.m. to finalize its budget.
The millage rate could be changed again at that date.
Gretchen R.H. “Becky” Vose
Erickson, whose family has owned and operated Erickson and Jensen for six decades, has been operating what remains of the Fort Myers Beach shrimping fleet. Since Hurricane Ian, the docks on his property are the only shrimp fleet docks remaining from what at one time spanned nearly the entire stretch of waterfront along Main Street on San Carlos Island.
The boats that use those docks have long supplied Fort Myers Beach restaurants and hotels with the freshest of catches of seafood.
Yet three years ago, Erickson didn’t know if he would be able to continue the family business that started on Fort Myers Beach in the 1950’s when his grandfather made his way down from Florida in a fishing boat.
After talking it over with his daughter Hally, they committed to rebuilding their fleet and repairing their docks, providing a future for not only themselves but the many shrimp boaters and fishermen who count on their docks for unloading their catches and the local restaurants who count on the fresh Gulf seafood to serve their customers.
“If I didn’t build my docks back, there would be no place to park a shrimp boat (here),” Erickson said.
Erickson’s shrimp boats go out deep into the southern Gulf to do their shrimping. Before Hurricane Ian, the largest shrimping docks in Florida were on Fort Myers Beach. Now the largest docks are in Tampa. At the time of Hurricane Ian, many of the boats docked in Tampa were on Fort Myers Beach as the storm was expected to land there instead of here.
“There were way more boats than normal. The docks were overrun by boats,” Erickson said.
Erickson lost three of his shrimp boats in Hurricane Ian. He still has eight shrimp boats, as big as 75-feet long. He is still working on repairing two of them. They date to the 1970’s. In addition to the docks that he had to repair and the boats he had to fix, Erickson’s home in Fort Myers also flooded. He lost many personal items.
While Erickson spent his personal savings on repairing the boats and the docks (he had no insurance), the recovery has not been easy due to the economics of the shrimp business.
“The price has been terrible,” Erickson said. “The only thing that has been good is the number of shrimp being caught.”
Erickson’s business has been hurt by the proliferation of farm-raised shrimp raised domestically and internationally.
“The farm-raised shrimp has been devastating on the industry,” Erickson said of the domestic wild-catch shrimping industry.
Erickson is hopeful that attention brought to foreign shrimp from in Indonesia that tested for positive for radioactivity, leading to a massive recall of shrimp sold at supermarkets and Walmart stores across the country, can lead to better business for cleaner, domestic shrimp.
“There is nothing like pink Gulf shrimp. It is a very high quality shrimp,” Erickson said.
Erickson said there needs to be more safety checks of the shrimp being imported from foreign countries where there is more pollution.
Erickson said tariffs can also protect the domestic shrimping industry. “Domestic production is only 10% of the shrimp market. Back in the 80’s and 80’s, we were almost all of it.”
He also wants to see truth in labeling for restaurants so that the shrimp is identified where it is from.
Erickson is optimistic the local shrimp fleet can grow again if boats are able to use docks next to his property where the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District has purchased land for a training center, and on the other side of his property where the county is planning to repair docks
damaged by Hurricane Ian. Right now, his docks can handle 20 boats.
“I get calls from fleets that want to be here but I have no room,” Erickson said.
“It hurts to turn them away.”
In addition to catching shrimp, Erickson sells the shrimp in five-pound bags at his market off Main Street and Shrimp Boat Lane. He will also sell lobster, octopus, squid and stone crabs.
Mom’s Restaurant
One of the longtime staples on Fort Myers Beach has been Mom’s Restaurant, owned by Heather Reagan.
Reagan lost her Mom’s Restaurant storefront to Hurricane Ian as well as her other business, Heavenly Biscuits. She also lost her home on Fort Myers Beach.
“It was devastating,” Reagan said of Hurricane Ian.
“Think of losing every single thing you own. When you lose everything you own and your way of making a living, it’s pretty devastating.”
On top of that, she is fighting cancer.
Since Hurricane Ian, she has been serving customers her popular cinnamon rolls, biscuits and other treats out of a trailer on Estero Boulevard. Just a month ago, she didn’t know if she would even be able to continue operating out of a trailer due to the confusion among town officials regarding FEMA regulations and whether the trailers would still be allowed.
The town has since started a new process which will residents and businessowners to keep their trailers if they can show a hardship and that they have a plan to rebuild.
“I am very pleased and proud of the town for working with us,” Reagan said. “There are very little options available to mom and pop businesses. It gives us an opportunity to continue having an income while investing in our future. The town staff has been absolutely amazing in working with us and I could not be more thrilled with the day-to-day interactions I’m having with the town staff. They have been more than available to answer my questions and have gotten answers to me directly and quickly.”
Reagan is still searching for a location where she build back her business but said she has narrowed it down.
“Normally we close this time of year, but not knowing what was going to happen, I didn’t want to close and for clients to think we were out of business,” Reagan said.
In addition to her biscuits and cinnamon rolls, Reagan also offers brownies, key lime coconut pie and cookies.
“We make everything in house,” Reagan said.
Reagan thanked her longtime customers for keeping her in business despite all of the turbulent changes on the island since the hurricane.
“We are like a family,” Reagan said. She compares Mom’s Restaurant to happy hour for breakfast.
“They town has worked really well with us and have gone out of their way to be accommodating,” Reagan said. We are trying to do the best we can.”
Mayor’s view
Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers has been involved in heading and shaping the town’s recovery since being appointed by the town council as mayor a little more than a month after Ian struck.
“Three years ago, Hurricane Ian changed our town forever,” Allers said.
“The days and weeks after the storm are stuck in my memory, the courage I saw from neighbors helping neighbors, and the heartbreaking losses many families endured.”
Allers said the town was “fortunate to make it through, but many paid the ultimate sacrifice, and I will never forget what I witnessed in those moments after the storm, both the best of our community and the most difficult scenes.”
Recovering from Hurricane Ian, Allers said, “ requires time, money, and coordinated effort. Today, we’re making steady progress. Our immediate and ongoing priorities remain getting people back into safe, secure homes and supporting local businesses as they reopen and rebuild. We are also investing in infrastructure improvements to better withstand future storms, and building reserves and emergency plans so we can respond faster and more effectively should there ever be a next time.”
NATHAN MAYBERG
Rebecca Link’s Fort Myers Beach home was destroyed by Hurricane Ian. She is now rebuilding.
Multi-platinum BMI singer-songwriter and global entertainer Chris Young will headline Island Hopper Songwriter Fest’s closing concert with a pool party performance on Sunday, Sept. 28, at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on Fort Myers Beach.
Young’s impressive accomplishments include membership in the iconic Grand Ole Opry, more than 9 billion global streams and 14 career No. 1 singles. He has also earned CMT Music Awards for “Performance of the Year” and “Collaborative Video of the Year.”
The Grammy and Academy of Country Music Awardnominated artist recently released his latest single, “Til the Last One Dies,” under a new label, Black River Entertainment. This comes on the heels of his 2024 album “Young Love & Saturday Nights” released after the success of his 2020 smash “Famous Friends” with Kane Brown. Young rose to fame after winning season 4 of the reality singing competition program “Nashville Star.”
Island Hopper also welcomes country music favorite and BMI singer-songwriters LOCASH. The popular duo will perform Monday, Sept. 22, at The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village in Cape Coral.
Named “Country music’s iconic feel-good duo” by PEOPLE magazine, Preston Brust and Chris Lucas have earned eight charting singles including their platinum-selling breakout,
“I Love This Life.” Their most recent hit, “Hometown Home,” peaked on the Billboard Country Airplay chart as No.1, the first time since 2016 when their song, “I Know Somebody,” reigned No.1.
In addition to writing their own music, LOCASH has penned songs for artists including Keith Urban and Tim McGraw.
In its 11th year, Island Hopper Songwriter Fest, named one of the Top 5 music fests by USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, gives fans the opportunity to see singer-songwriters perform in smaller venues with a tropical setting as the backdrop.
Be sure to catch a live Island Hopper performance at these four locations around Lee County:
• Captiva Island, Sept. 19-21
• Cape Coral, Sept. 23-24
• Downtown Fort Myers, Sept. 24-25
• Fort Myers Beach, Sept. 26-28
While most Island Hopper performances are free, the Chris Young and LOCASH performances, along with a few experiences, will be ticketed. For the full lineup and ticket information, visit IslandHopperFest.com or download the Island Hopper app.
As the oldest locally owned and managed community bank in Lee County, Bank of the Islands has deep roots in Southwest Florida. For decades, we’ve proudly stood beside our neighbors, not just as a trusted, responsive banking partner, but as an active force for good in the communities we serve.
We believe that true success is measured not only by financial strength, but by the positive impact we make in people’s lives. That’s why we dedicate time, energy, and resources to meaningful causes - from hosting back-toschool drives for local children to rolling up our sleeves for beach cleanups to supporting organizations that support individuals and families in need
This spirit of service and stewardship is part of who we are – Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.
Ticketed events Venues
While most Island Hopper performances are free, these are ticketed:
BMI singer-songwriter Frank Myers will perform with Cut the Chord String Quartet and Jimmy Nichols at the Captiva Civic Center on Captiva Island.
Captiva Cruises will host a Songwriter Sunset Cruise. Take in breathtaking views of the Gulf coast while listening to live music from BMI singersongwriters Ruby Amanfu and Sam Ashworth.
LOCASH will take the Island Hopper stage in Cape Coral at The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village. Their most recent hit, “Hometown Home,” peaked on the Billboard Country Airplay chart at No. 1. Book the Island Hopper room package deal at islandhopperfest.com to receive tickets included in your stay.
Take the Songwriter Sunset Cruise with BMI singer-songwriter Lilly MacPhee aboard the Silver King Water Taxi at The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village in Cape Coral. Limited tickets available. Hotel guests receive free admission.
Julianne Ankley and Tim McGeary will perform at the Luminary Hotel & Co.’s Island Hopper Dinner Experience in downtown Fort Myers.
Americana Community Music Association (ACMA) Showcase at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers will feature a variety of performances including Robert Bidney, Kim Mayfield, Bill Metts, Roy Schneider and Ray Cerbone.
Essex County will return to perform at Luminary Hotel & Co.’s Island Hopper Dinner Experience in downtown Fort Myers.
Canvas and Chords lets you immerse yourself in the sounds of BMI singersongwriters Danny Myrick and Katrina Cain at Alair Custom Homes on Fort Myers Beach while local island artist Lacy McClary paints a custom work of art. Ticket proceeds will support SWFL Reefs.
Multi-platinum BMI singer-songwriter and Grammy-nominated Chris Young will wrap up Island Hopper with a pool-party performance at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on Fort Myers Beach. Young has more than 9 billion global streams and 14 career No. 1 singles.
CAPTIVA:
Tween Waters Island Resort and Spa
Captiva Civic Center
Captiva Cruises
Jensen’s Twin Palm Resort and Marina
Key Lime Bistro
RC Otter’s
South Seas Island Resort
The Green Flash
CAPE CORAL:
Gather
High Tide Social House
Nauti Mermaid
The Westin Cape Coral Resort
Silver King at The Westin
FORT MYERS BEACH:
Alair Custom Homes
Bayside Park
Diamond Head Beach Resort
Margaritaville Beach Resort
Matanzas On The Bay
Nervous Nellie’s
Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina
Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant
Wahoo Willie’s
Yucatan Beach Stand Bar & Grill Island Hopping for 39 Years!
DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS
Lucky Screw
The Luminary Hotel Pool Deck
The Luminary Hotel Workshop
Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center
Come cruise the islands and more: • Cabbage Key Cruise • Cayo Costa Beach & Shelling Cruise • Boca Grande Cruise • Useppa Island Cruise
Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise
Wildlife Sunset Cruise
Complete schedule
The festival includes more than 100 performances, most of them free to attend. The complete schedule is available in the official festival app or online at www.islandhopperfest.com.
ARTISTS:
Adam Craig
Adam Ezra
Adriana
McDonald
Alan Bradford
Alex Miller
Alex Rohan
Alissa Moreno
Angie K
Audrey Spillman
Bill Metts
Billy McKnight
Bobby Tomberlin
Brian Sutherland
Briz and Lady
Brian Ruby
Cargan Murray
Carling Witt
Charlie Pace
Chloe Caroline
Claire Liparulo
Claudia Hoyser
Clint Daniels
Collin Roberts
Danny Myrick
Dave Pahanish
Dylan Altman
Erick Willis
Essex County
Frank Myers
Grace Leer
Hunter McDaniel
Hunter Smith
Jason Byrd
Jeffrey East
Jim McCormick
Jimmy Nichols
John Ellison
Julianne Ankley
Katrina Cain
Keefe Klug
Kelly Neff
Kim Mayfield
Krystal King
Kurt Stevens
Lacy McClary
Lance Miller
Lilly MacPhee
Madelyn Grace
Madison Morris
Matt McKinney
Matt Warren
Megan Linville
Race Ricketts
Ralph Curtis
Ray Cerbone
Robert Bidney
Robinson Treacher
Roy Schneider
Ruby Amanfu
Sam Ashworth
Sheena Brook
Spring Pace
Stephen Clark
The Reed Brothers
Tim James
Tim McGeary
Tony Saint Tone
Recall election
that flows through the Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area, an action opposed by several town councils. In 2023, a new council approved a special exception permit for the 298-feet lagoon walkover.
In addition to suing the town for the right to build the boardwalk, Rood and neighbor Kurt Kroemer also filed a lawsuit challenging state ownership of the Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area.
Rood also filed an unsuccessful Americans with Disabilities Act lawsuit in 2022 against the Town of Fort Myers Beach in federal court, claiming a handicap necessitated the need for the bridge to be built to allow him easier access to the Gulf.
The recall election will be held Tuesday, Nov. 4, with the qualifying period deadline for candidates to enter the race ending on Monday, Sept. 22.
There will be no early voting in the recall election. Voting will take place Tuesday, Nov. 4, at Bay Oaks Recreational Campus on Fort Myers Beach.
The deadline to be registered to vote in the election is Monday, Oct. 6.
The deadline to request an absentee or vote-by-mail ballot is Thursday, Oct. 23. Vote-by-mail ballots must be returned before 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 4.
If the recall election is successful, the candidates who succeed King and Woodson will have to run again in November of next year to retain their seat as the four-year terms of King and Woodson run through November, 2026.
The full details about voting in the recall election, visit www.lee.vote.
From page 14
Allers said that while some may want the recovery to go quicker, he said patience and “thoughtful investment” are required now.
The town has been battling budget woes and still awaits word on whether an $11.9 million state loan handed to the town after Hurricane Ian will be forgiven.
Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt sees bright days ahead for Fort Myers Beach. “The future of Fort Myers Beach is bright after a three year long struggle to rebuild after Ian,” Atterholt said. “We have over twenty different substantive projects in the pipeline that have already been approved.”
While Atterholt is optimistic he is also realistic. “We have a ways to go before we reach the phase that could best be described as normalcy,” he said.
While Atterholt sees the recently completed beach renourishment project as a major step forward, he also expressed reservations and discontent about the town’s political divide, including the recent recall effort.
Losing a home
Rebecca Link, a school technology consultant, who is now running for a seat on the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council, had to demolish her home on Fort Myers Beach and completely rebuild after her personal house and guest house were destroyed by Hurricane Ian.
“Walking onto the island after Hurricane Ian was devastating — not just for our family, but for our whole commu-
nity,” Link said. “Once we checked on our own homes, our focus quickly turned to our neighbors, many of whom couldn’t get here themselves. It was heartbreaking to take pictures of their homes in such
awful condition and have to share the horrible news over and over, especially when cell service and power were almost nonexistent. Three years later, the pain of those first days is still with many in
our community, some more than others,” Link said.
“I had just finished refurbishing the whole house, but losing brand-new furniture didn’t compare to losing a lifetime of family photos,” Link said. “Those pictures told our story — especially of loved ones who are no longer with us, like my parents. That loss can’t be replaced, and it’s what still hurts the most.”
She is in the middle of rebuilding her homes.
“An event like this changes you. On the positive side, we’ve also seen resilience take root. Rebuilding has been long and difficult, but month by month, our community is coming back more beautiful than ever,” Link said.
“I can say with all honesty that things are looking up for us. We’re so close to getting back into our brand new home,” Link said. “It’s stressful when hurricane season comes around. We’re immensely grateful that we were able to build a new home, high enough to hopefully not experience anything like Ian again. But for some of our friends and residents on the island, their recovery still isn’t complete. And that breaks my heart.
“Some say we’re not moving fast enough, but all you have to do is look at those pictures immediately following the hurricane and anyone can see how far we’ve come. I think we should be proud of what we’ve accomplished and I’m looking forward to watching this town become one of most beautiful places in our country, again,” Link said.
FILE PHOTO
Edward Rood, who currently sits on the Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force, has filed to run in the special recall election for the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council.
Ian
NATHAN MAYBERG
Fort Myers Beach resident Rebecca Link is rebuilding her home along the bay after it was destroyed by Hurricane Ian.
WHERE TO GO WHAT TO DO WHO TO SEE
Island Music
Dozens of musicians to perform across Lee County venues at Island Hopper Songwriters Fest
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
When country music star Chris Young takes the stage at the Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina this Sunday in the annual Island Hopper Songwriters Festival pool party, he will be marking three years to the day Hurricane Ian brought unspeakable devastation to Fort Myers Beach.
The concert and the sprawling festival that will spread out over the island this weekend with dozens of performances, are expected to help boost the town through its continued recovery from the abyss with songs ranging from country to rock and roll from some of Nashville’s most talented songwriters to musicians local to the area and beyond.
In addition to the Pink Shell, the other Fort Myers Beach venues participating in the festival beginning this Friday through Sunday will include the town’s Bayside Veteran’s Park, DiamondHead Beach Resort, Margaritaville Beach Resort and the Yucatan Beach Stand Bar & Grill.
Last year, the festival almost didn’t get off the ground on Fort Myers Beach after Hurricane Helene threatened to spoil everybody’s plans,
Hurricane Helene had struck just days before the big pool party finale at the Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina last year.
“Last year was such a testament to the love for the event,” Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau Communications Manager Miram Dotson said.
“Everybody thought it was going to get canceled and the Pink Shell staff cleaned everything within a week. I was just blown away,” Dotson said. “That is so Fort Myers Beach.”
Two years earlier, the Island Hopper Songwriter’s Festival had closed out at the Pink Shell Beach Resort before a packed pool party just days before Hurricane Ian struck.
So far, all weather reports are pointing to smoother sailing for the festival.
“The fans come out,” Dotson said of the annual migration to Fort Myers Beach for the Island Hopper Songwriters Festival. The festival attracts a lot of in-state visitors. The Tampa region in particular attracts a lot of festivalgoers, Dotson said.
“The idea is to get people to come in the slow season and boost tourism,” Dotson said. “The hotels will do special deals.” For example, those staying at the Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina on Sept. 28 will also get to see the pool party show for free with Chris Young.
Young’s hits include “Getting You Home (The Black Dress Song),” for which he was nominated for a Grammy Award. His numerous other hits which he sang and cowrote include “I’m Comin’ Over,” “Voices” and “Think of You.”
Among the new shows and experiences on Fort Myers Beach this year will be Alair Custom Home’s “Canvas & Chords” experience on Saturday, Sept 27. The show will feature a performance by Katrina Cain and Danny Myrick at a custom home built by Alair Custom Home at 15 Bayview Blvd on Fort Myers Beach. Local artist Lacy McCrary will be painting during the performance.
McCrary helped paint the Times Square mural where the former elevator shaft stood next to La Ola. That show starts at 4 p.m. with tickets on sale through the Island Hopper website. The show will benefit SWFL Reefs. “It will be a unique experience,” Dotson said.
While most of the artists who perform at the festival are based in Nashville, the festival also celebrates local musicians like Sheena Brook. The Lee County resident “has been with us from the beginning,” Dotson said.
Brook will be giving a free performance at Margaritaville Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach on Friday, Sept. 26 at 4 p.m.
Brian Sutherland, who grew up in Fort Myers and is based now in Nashville, will be playing four free shows on Fort Myers Beach this weekend with stops at the DiamondHead Beach Resort, Margaritaville, Bayside Veteran’s Park and the Yucatan Beach Stand Bar & Grill.
Nashville songwriter Adam Craig, who has written songs for George Strait and Blake Shelton, will be performing several shows on Fort Myers Beach from Sept. 26-28 including stops at Bayside Veteran’s Park, Margaritaville and the Yucatan Beach Stand Bar & Grill.
Dave Pahanish, a songwriter who has penned the #1 country hits “Without You” by Keith Urban, Toby Keith’s “American Ride”, and Jimmy Wayne’s “Do You Believe Me Now” will be playing free shows at DiamondHead Beach Resort and Margaritaville Sept. 26-28. He will be at Margaritaville on Friday, Sept. 26 at 7:15 p.m., at DiamondHead Beach Resort on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 6:45 p.m. and will be back at Margaritaville on Sunday, Sept. 28 at 3:30 p.m.
Other notable names performing on Fort Myers Beach
include Claudia Hoyser, Megan Linville and Brian Ruby, who will be playing multiple shows across different venues across Fort Myers Beach from Friday, Sept. 26 through Sunday, Sept. 28.
The festival is also known for celebrating up-andcoming artists and this year they include pianist and singer Spring Pace, who will play at the DiamondHead Beach Resort on Saturday, Sept. 27.
A full list of the arts and venues participating in the Island Hopper Songwriter’s Festival can be found at: https://www.island-hopperfest.visitfortmyers.com.
Dotson said the goal of the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau is to attract visitors to Lee County to attend the festival and stay at local hotels. Dotson said the bureau hopes the festival will help bring back visitors who may have not returned since the hurricanes that have hit the area the last few years.
“A lot of our guests look forward to this event,” said Katja Kunz, marketing director for the Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina.
Kunz said the resort is looking to sell out though there are still some rooms available.
“We are grateful to be able to be part of this memorable countywide event,” Kunz said.
The festival is a collaboration between the county’s tourism bureau, Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) and iHeart Radio.
Dotson said that closing out the festival on Fort Myers Beach at the Pink Shell Beach Resort each year helps bring the community together. “Fort Myers Beach is a special place,” Dotson said. “There is something special about the community.”
Animal Services to hold community event
Lee County Domestic Animal Services announced Pawsitive Futures — a community event dedicated to rescuing, fos tering and volunteering — planned for Sept. 27 from 10 a.m. to noon in Fort Myers.
It will welcome ani mal lovers and community members to learn more about how they can get involved in supporting pets in need. Attendees will have the op portunity to:
∫ Meet local rescue partners
∫ Sign up to foster or volunteer
∫ Connect directly with rescue, foster and volunteer co ordinators
“Pawsitive Futures is about building stronger connections between the community and the animals who rely on us,” Director Pablo Adorno said. “Whether
through fostering, volunteering or supporting our rescue partners, everyone has a role to play in the futures of our pets in Animal Services serves as the county’s only stray intake facility, providing care, shelter and second chances for thousands of animals each year. With community support, more pets can find their way to loving homes. To complete an adoption application online, visit www.LeeLostPets.
Follow Animal Services on Facebook or Instagram @leeanimalservices.
Lee County Domestic Animal Services is at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers.
MACC to debut comedy series
The Music & Arts Community Center will debut Comedy Club at the MACC on Sept. 26 at 7:30 p.m. at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers.
The new series will transform the MACC into a full-on comedy club, bringing nationally touring headliners and rising stars to Fort Myers. The debut show will feature headliner Michael Mack, bringing his high-energy blend
MACC to launch concert series
of music, parodies and spot-on impressions to the stage — capped off with his legendary closer, “Faces of Rock.” Rising star Nathan Wallace will kick off the night with sharp, relatable storytelling.
Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students. For tickets or more information, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony. org/.
The Music & Arts Community Center will present “Trumpet Talk: An Apple Pie Concert” on Sept. 25 at 2 p.m. at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. The new series will pair intimate and captivating performances with an engaging presentation. The debut concert will feature acclaimed trumpeter Cindy Scaruffi-Klispie. She will lead a fascinating exploration of the history and evolution of the trumpet, illustrated with live music and personal insight. After the concert, apple pie and coffee will be provided in the lobby. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for students. For tickets or more information, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony.org/. MUSIC & ARTS COMMUNITY CENTER
Bayside
Bongo’s
Cabanas Beach Bar & Grill
Coste Island Cuisine
Dixie Fish Co.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
Jack’s at the Pink Shell
Junkanoo
Coastal Properties of SW FL
Coastal Vacation Properties
Distinctive Beach Rentals
Diamondhead Beach Resort
Edison Beach House
Gulf Waters RV Resort
Gullwing Beach Resort
Hilton Seawatch on the Beach
LeeAnn’s Paradise Vacation Rentals
Lighthouse Island Resort
Lover’s Key Resort
Luxury Vacation Rentals
Margaritaville Beach Resort FMB
Marina Village at Snug Harbor
Matanzas Inn
ParrotEyes Vacation Rental
Adventure
Cruisin
Copacetic Sailing Day 5 Charters
Estero Island Parasail
Everglades Day Safari
Excursions Marina
County VCB launches ‘Just Feels Right’ campaign
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
With “season” just about ready to kick into full gear across Southwest Florida, county officials and independent agencies are marketing the region far and wide.
Data from the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) showed that in 2024, economic impact from both vacationers and “snowbirds” saw dollars in the billions spent locally.
According to the VCB, 3,199,500 visitors came to the area in 2024, an increase of 15.5% from the year prior. Visitor spending in ‘24 generated a total economic impact of $4,951,755,500, an increase of 17.3%.
Despite recent setbacks, VCB officials state that tourism indicators continue to move in a positive direction. The number of passengers traveling through Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) continues on an upward trend, with officials seeing notable growth.
“Each year the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau develops a robust marketing approach designed to attract both domestic and international visitors,” VCB Executive Director Tamara Pigott said. “Key domestic markets areas include the Midwest, Northeast and in-state visitors. The primary international markets are Canada, Germany and the United Kingdom.”
According to the VCB’s Sales & Marketing Plan, the target audience strategy is:
∫ Focus strategies to reach a more qualified audience based on who is currently visiting.
∫ Continue leaning into addressable audiences and leverage for year-round, 1:1 prospecting.
∫ Utilize contextual, behavioral, purchase, search and social targeting to capitalize on demonstrated intent.
∫ Target past visitors from 2021-22 and encourage them to return.
The VCB also is focusing on categories such as meeting planners, travel advisors and weddings.
In terms of an international approach, the VCB is keeping its presence in well-established markets, such as Canada, Germany and the United Kingdom (UK). It hopes to drive inbound visitation and visitor spending by capitalizing on rising international travel. There have also been media campaigns running during key travel-planning periods.
The VCB is also using data to learn from new search and booking patters as they return to pre-pandemic levels.
“In addition to directly targeting consumers, the VCB utilizes sales, public relations and destination weddings efforts to drive additional visitation to the area,” she said. “We also partner with the Lee County Sports Development, who helps fill area hotel rooms by hosting amateur sporting events throughout the year.”
In 2024, the “top reasons” for visiting Fort Myers included “relax and unwind,” “beaches” and “visiting friends/ relatives.”
Promotions also play a role in getting visitors to the area, as 38% of visitors recalled promotions within the six months prior to their visit.
Promotions influenced 20% of all visitors to come to Lee County and its islands.
According to data from the VCB, 88.5% of visitors to the area came domestically, with 34.4% from the Midwest, 20% from the Northeast and 18.9% from the South/Southeast. Internationally, 6.2% of visitors came from Canada and 2.1
UPCOMING EVENTS
MACC to present concert series
The Music & Arts Community Center will present “Trumpet Talk: An Apple Pie Concert” on Sept. 25 at 2 p.m. at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. The new series will pair intimate and captivating performances with an engaging presentation. The debut concert will feature acclaimed trumpeter Cindy ScaruffiKlispie. She will lead a fascinating exploration of the history and evolution of the trumpet, illustrated with live music and personal insight. After the concert, apple pie and coffee will be provided in the lobby. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for students. For tickets or more information, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony.org/.
Collective to present Jazz at the MACC
The Gulf Coast Jazz Collective will present “The Music of Ray Brown and Bill Evans” on Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the Music & Arts Community Center, at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. The electrifying evening will pay tribute to bassist Ray Brown, whose deep grooves and impeccable swing defined generations of jazz, and pianist Bill Evans, whose lyrical touch and harmonic brilliance reshaped modern jazz piano. Experience timeless compositions, inventive arrangements and the soulful interplay that made their music unforgettable. Tickets range from $46-49 for
adults and $15 for students. For tickets or more information, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony.org/.
Tribby to present concert
The Tribby Arts Center at Shell Point will present the FGCU Vocal Recital on Sept. 29 at 7 p.m. at 17281 On Par Blvd., Fort Myers. Students from Florida Gulf Coast University’s Bower School of Music will take the stage for an inspiring afternoon of classical and contemporary vocal performances. From soaring arias to heartfelt ballads, they will showcase their artistry, technique and passion for music. Tickets are $35. For tickets or more information, visit https://www.tribbyartscenter.com/ or call 239-415-5667.
CROW
seeking volunteers
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) on Sanibel reported that it is looking for committed volunteers to work in its baby room and in rehab. The hands-on roles require consistency, physical stamina and efficiency. Baby season is the busiest time of year at CROW, and it relies on volunteers who can commit to regular shifts and thrive in a fast-paced environment. While it always welcome volunteers for projects and patient transport, its greatest need right now is for those ready to dive into daily animal care — feeding baby animals, following treatment schedules,
traveled from Germany. Other international markets such as the UK and other European countries made up 3.2% of visitors.
As for how much time is spent here, VCB data shows that visitors spend an average of 6.4 nights in the area, with 25% being first-time visitors, and 21% having visited more than 10 times.
The top communities visitors traveled to were Fort Myers (34%), Cape Coral (18%), Fort Myers Beach (12%) and Bonita Springs (9%).
A new marketing campaign titled “Just Feels Right” was designed around the idea that people want to find moments when they can let go of daily and prioritize their peace of mind, with the underlying premise being that when you reclaim your sense of being present, you can follow what feels right.
“In terms of consumer marketing, the VCB’s ‘Just Feels Right’ campaign is designed around the idea that people want to find moments where they can let go of everyday stressors and prioritize their well-being by visiting the area,” Pigott said. “With a focus on how a vacation to this area feels, the campaign is built around our desire to be adventurous, connected, curious, playful and relaxed.”
The campaign uses emotion and humor to connect with consumers. With short attention spans in mind, the VCB created five 15-second videos based on five key feelings: playful, curious, adventurous, connected and relaxed.
When it comes to total travelers making their way through RSW, 2024 saw record-high numbers. A total of 11,028,182 passengers made their way through the gates last year, the highest on record, and up nearly 1 million from 2023.
According to data from RSW, 720,973 passengers traveled through RSW during July, an increase of 6.5% compared to July 2024 and the second-best July in the 43-year history of the airport. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is down 0.8%. The traffic leader in July was Delta with 173,395 passengers. Rounding out the top five airlines were Southwest (127,070), American (118,972), United (102,374) and JetBlue (70,046). Southwest Florida International Airport had 6,353 aircraft operations, an increase of 12% compared to July 2024.
Religious Services
Services at Beach Baptist Church
Beach Baptist church at 130 Connecticut St., Fort Myers Beach Service at 10:30 every Sunday
All are welcome, we are pet friendly! 239-463-6452 https://beachbaptist.org
Services at St. Peter Lutheran Church
St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in America at 3751 Estero Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach. Services 9 a.m.
All services now inside the sanctuary.
All are welcome, we are pet friendly 239-463-4251 stpeterfmb@gmail.com www.stpeterfmb.com
YouTube - St Peter Lutheran Church Fort Myers Beach FL
In cooperation with former Chapel by the Sea and Beach United Methodist Church.
Services at St. Raphael’s Episcopal Church
St. Raphael’s Episcopal Church welcomes the public each Sunday at 10 a.m. for services in its parish hall at 5601 Williams Drive in Fort Myers Beach.
For more information regarding services, contact 239-463-6057 or email office@ straphaelschurch.org
and assisting in rehab. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are required to attend an orientation. For more information about volunteering, visit https:// crowclinic.org/get-involved/volunteer/.
Al-Anon, Al-Ateen meetings
Are you concerned with a friend or fam-
ily member’s drinking? Let us help. Call our 24-hour helpline at 941-5645098 or visit www.SouthFloridaAl-Anon. org. Meetings are held every day in Lee County.
Al-Ateen meetings are also offered for ages 10-18.
PET PALS
Find A Home Give A Home Pet Rescue
By ISABELLE WELLS Co-founder of the
Home,
a Home pet rescue organization of Fort Myers Beach
All these little guys are all 9 weeks old and right over 2 pounds. Call or text Isabelle at 239-281-0739
Dexter (black collar) –Boy 3 lbs. 3 oz – Eating well and paper trainedDexter is the in charge big brother, he is very playful with his siblings and is friendly to all. Pick him up and he turns into the biggest cuddle bug.
Princess (pink collar) – Girl 2 lbs. 13 oz - Eating well and paper trained -Princess has a lot of energy and is constantly playing until she is exhausted. Gives many kisses when held.
Chandler (green collar) – Boy 3 lbs. 1 oz - Eating well and paper trainedChandler certainly keeps up with his siblings in the play department. He is a very calm boy and enjoys belly scratches the most.
Charlie (orange collar) – Boy 2 lbs. 11 oz - Eating well and paper trainedCharlie is the little guy in the bunch but he certainly doesn’t let that stop him. He keeps up in the play department and is vocal with his cute play wrestle growl.
Meet their Mom Mimi. 1.5 years - Mimi is a very sweet and attentive mom. She just got spayed Within five days she has turned into a big cuddle bug and follows me everywhere. She likes going on walks to meet the other dogs and people in the neighborhood and loves everyone.
A Home Give A Home Pet Rescue and see all the amazing pets we saved these past few months Please note our new PO Box #864,
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.
Our Strays Feline Rescue Fort Myers Beach
Fosters needed
By Jo Knobloch Founder
If you can foster a couple kittens or any adult cats, please give us a call at 239 851 3485. Food and litter will be provided if needed. We also need volunteers
come play with kittens and cats
We always are in need of food and litter. Please drop off at the Book Nook in Santini Plaza on south end of
Fort Myers Beach. Other cat items are always appreciated such as cat trees, toys, etc. We cannot accept used litter boxes.
Bennie is a male approximately 10 years old but acts much younger. He resembles a Bengal without the spots. He was rescued a few months ago laying in a trailer court on Pine Ridge road. He was skin and bones, had wounds all over his hind quarters and was very weak. He was immediately taken to our vet and spent a week there. He was very anemic. It was very touch-and-go the first week trying to get his blood count up and treating his bad wounds. It wasn’t looking good for him. Fortunately his blood count went up to 3% a week later and he had to be checked twice a week to be sure it was continuing to go up. He is now at 55% which is good and is ready for a forever home where he will be given lots of love which he so deserves. He has a chip but owner cannot be found. His old address is on Fort Myers Beach Primo Drive. If anyone recognizes this beautiful bengal-looking cat, please call us immediately. at 239-851-3485. It is a mystery how he got to Pine Ridge Road in such bad shape.
Katie is a female brown Tabby approx, 18 months old. She is very sweet and laid back. Was rescued froma bad hoarding situation as a kitten and is in need of a loving home. She is friendly and loves to be pet.
FORT MYERS
Community Thrift Store
15501 Old McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Fort Myers CVS
15550 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Gavin’s ACE Hardware
16025 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Gulf Point Square
15660 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Love Boat Ice Cream
16475 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
McGregor Bar & Grill
15675 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Pickles Pub
15455 Old McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Walgreen’s
15601 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Walters Automotive
15135 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
FORT MYERS BEACH
Chamber of Commerce
100 Lovers Lane, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
CVS Store
7001 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Bonita Bill’s
702 Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Diamond Head (Lobby)
2000 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Doc Ford’s
708 Fisherman’s Wharf Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
FMB City Hall
2731 Oak St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Lahaina Realty
6035 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Lani Kai
1400 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Lighthouse Restaurant/Bar
1051 5th St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Loffreno Real Estate Inc, 7317 Estero Blvd. C1, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Matanzas Inn
414 Crescent St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Nervous Nellies
1131 1st St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Parrot Key
2500 Main St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Pincher’s Crab Shack
18100 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Pink Shell Resort
275 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Post Office
200 Carolina Ave. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Santini (Marina) Plaza
7205 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Sea Gypsy
1698 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Snook Bight Marina/Junkanoo’s
4765 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Summerlin Café
11370 Summerlin Square Drive, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Sunflower Café
11410 Summerlin Square Drive, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Sunset Grill
1028 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
(News box out front)
Snug Harbor
645 San Old Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Parking Lot BOX
Tina’s Dive Bar
19051 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Wahoo Willie’s
645 San Old Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Wal-Mart
17105 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
7/11
7120 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
5
Justlike humans, pets experience anxiety due to various triggers such as loud noises, changes in their environment or separation from their owners. Understanding the root cause of your pet’s anxiety is the first step in coping.
Common signs of anxiety in pets include excessive barking, destructive behavior, pacing and restlessness – especially when experiencing separation or environmental stress. By recognizing these signs early, pet parents can take proactive steps – including these ideas from Oh Norman!, the pet wellness brand co-founded by “Big Bang Theory” actress and animal advocate Kaley Cuoco –to help their furry friends overcome anxiety and live calmer, happier lives.
Practice Desensitization Training
Harness the Power of Familiar Scents
Consider Science-Backed, Vet-Approved Supplements
Desensitization training involves exposing your pet to anxiety-inducing stimuli in a controlled (and gradual) manner. Start with short departures if your pet experiences separation anxiety and gradually increase the length of time you’re away to help your pet become more comfortable being alone. Pairing these departures with positive reinforcement, like treats or favorite toys, can help create a positive association.
In your absence, leaving behind a worn t-shirt or blanket that smells like you can be soothing for anxious pets. A familiar scent can provide a sense of security and reassurance, reducing anxiety levels.
For pets needing extra support, science-backed supplements can help anxious pups. All-natural daily supplements – developed with board-certified veterinary specialists – combat stress from separation, vet visits, travel and fireworks.
“I love seeing my dogs get super excited, but sometimes they need to chill,” Cuoco said. “Having a vet-approved natural supplement that calms stressed-out dogs gives me peace of mind. I only want to give my dogs something that is safe and effective.”
Supplements has been shown to reduce activity in anxious dogs by almost 20%, according to data collected via Tractive, a leader in GPS tracking and pet health insights, monitoring activity, sleep, barking and resting heart and respiratory patterns, signaling a step forward in addressing pet anxiety through nutrition and smart technology.
Provide Mental Stimulation
Regular mental stimulation can help reduce anxiety for some pets. Try introducing interactive toys, puzzle feeders and other engaging activities to keep your pet’s mind occupied and help prevent boredom-induced anxiety.
Increase Physical Activity
Exercise, such as daily walks or play sessions, helps release pent-up energy and promotes relaxation. Prior to departing, give your pet some extra attention by playing a game of fetch in the backyard, spending some time at your local dog park or going for a walk on a new trail. To find more pet health resources, visit www.ohnorman.com.
-Story and photo courtesy of Family Features • Source: Oh Norman!
FGUA recognizes Baby Safety Month with water tips
By FLORIDA GOVERNMENTAL UTILITY AUTHORITY
While the United States has one of the safest drinking water supplies in the world, how we interact with water in other ways — whether outdoors in a recreational sense or indoors in simple daily activities — can produce either tremendous enjoyment or great concern.
Water-related deaths and injuries occur both outside and inside the home, with drowning being the most common in both environments. Like many accidental deaths and injuries, most are preventable. Keeping water safety top of mind can save lives and reduce injuries for the young and old alike.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are more than 4,000 accidental drownings in the United States every year — an average of 11 drowning deaths per day. There are an additional 8,000 non-fatal drownings, which occur when a person experiences breathing difficulties due to being submerged in the water, but survives the incident. These can result in outcomes ranging from no injuries to brain damage or permanent disability.
Children at greater risk
More children ages 1-4 die from drowning than any other cause of death, says the CDC, and for ages 5-14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes. According to the Children’s Safety Network, infants under the age of 1 are most likely to drown in a bathtub, while those aged 1-4 drown mostly in
home swimming pools. However, people of all ages are at risk. According to the Florida Department of Health, Florida ranks fourth in the nation for unintentional drowning deaths among all ages.
Be safe in the tub
September is Baby Safety Month, sponsored annually since 1983 by the Baby Safety Alliance, which champions safety through advocacy, product safety, education and philanthropy. The alliance’s charitable arm, the Baby Safety Foundation, offers the following bathtub safety tips:
∫ Collect all necessary bathing materials before bringing baby into the bathroom.
∫ Never leave baby unattended during bath time. If you need to leave the bathroom, take baby with you. Do not rely on older children to watch baby for you.
∫ Never add water to the tub while baby is in it. Empty the tub completely immediately after each use. A baby can drown in as little as one inch of water.
∫ Always check the water temperature
before placing your child in the bathtub; the water coming out of the faucet should be no hotter than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
∫ Additional bathtub safety tips can be found at https://babysafetyfoundation.org/ bathroom-safety.
Safety is pool-time priority
With 1.6 million residential swimming pools in the Sunshine State and at least 25,000 public pools, the potential for pool-related drownings is significant. Add in the fact that Florida’s warm climate makes swimming a year-round activity, and the exposure is even greater. Consider the following pool safety tips from the CDC:
∫ Construct and use a four-sided fence that is at least 4 feet high and fully encloses the pool. The fence should separate the pool from the house, with self-closing and self-latching gates. Check with your local government for pool fence requirements.
∫ Assign a specific adult to supervise each child when they have access to water. Adults watching kids in or near water should avoid distracting activities like reading, using the phone and consuming alcohol.
∫ Learn CPR. These skills could save someone’s life in the time it takes for paramedics to arrive. Many organizations such as American Red Cross and American Heart Association offer CPR training courses, both online and in-person.
Boater safety on water
Often dubbed the “boating capital of
the world,” Florida is also the most dangerous and leads the nation in boating fatalities. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reported 685 boating accidents in 2024 resulting in 81 fatalities — 22 more than the previous year. Lack of boater education is a primary concern, with 65% of operators involved in fatal accidents having no formal training. The U.S. Coast Guard offers the following safety tips for boaters of all ages:
∫ Take a boater safety education course and become familiar with Florida’s boating laws, which can be found at https://myfwc.com/boating/regulations/.
∫ Create a float plan and leave it with a dependable person. To download a float plan form from the FWC, visit https:// myfwc.com/media/3235/boating_float_ plan.pdf.
∫ Make sure each passenger wears a Personal Floatation Device (PFD), regardless of age.
∫ Carry a fire extinguisher and first aid kit aboard your vessel and have a horn or whistle readily available to help notify nearby help should you need it.
∫ Just like when driving a motor vehicle, operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs is illegal.
∫ You’ll find additional boating safety tips from the FWC at https://myfwc.com/ boating/safety-education/safety-tips/.
The Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) serves 14 counties in Florida, including part of Captiva in unincorporated Lee County.
Help Wanted
Work and live rent free on Beautiful Fort Myers Beach
Maintenance and Property Manager
Full-Time | On-site at Sunset Condominium a 66-unit building
Salary and benefits - plus a fully updated two-bedroom, 2 bath onsite stand-alone residence, including utilities, is provided in addition to the compensation package. 7.5-hour day shift; possible weekends and evenings as needed.
On-site Maintenance & Property Manager - this role requires someone who takes pride in being dependable, solutions-focused, and hands-on with day-to-day maintenance. You will be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and smooth operation of the residential building, amenities (including pool), shared spaces, and your own on-site manager’s residence and office.
Key Responsibilities:
l Perform daily and preventative maintenance, repairs and inspections
l Coordinate with outside vendors
l Manage work orders, track inventory, maintain digital records
l Monitoring the property to ensure adherence to condominium rules
l Communicate professionally with residents, guests, vendors, and the board of directors Who You Are:
l Skilled in basic electrical, plumbing, painting, and carpentry work
l Knowledgeable in building systems - construction background is an asset
l Organized and proactive, with strong time management skills
l Strong understanding of safety codes and ADA requirements
l Self starter and problem solver
l Someone who thrives in an environment where approachability, reliability, communication, professionalism and accountability matter Requirements:
l High school diploma or GED
l CAM license preferred (or willingness to obtain/tuition refund)
l OSHA training required at hiring if not previously completed
l Experience – minimum 5 years in maintenance, facilities or operations preferably in a residential community (or equivalent)
l Valid Florida driver’s license
l Able to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors
l Computer skills such as email, MS Office, digital records
If you’re ready to bring a high standard of maintenance excellence to a beachfront property you can call home — we want to hear from you.
To Apply: Submit your resume through the “contact us” tab at the top of the Sunset website. www.sunsetcondominium.com
Wanted To Buy CASH PAID
I BUY Houses & Real Estate Any Condition Probate - Foreclosure
CallingCrafter&Vendors
WATERFRONT PRIVATE EVENTS
AT BONITA FISH COMPANY
Bayside Private Events at Bonita Fish Company offers a space that blends laid-back atmosphere with legendary service.
Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a big celebration, we’ve got the space, the flavor and the team members to make your event memorable.
Book Bayside Private Events at Bonita Fish Company today! Contact Private Events Manager Joe Sletten at joesletten@hmrestaurantgroup.com or 239-788-4067 to start planning an unforgettable event.
September 28th
WATERFRONT PRIVATE EVENTS
700 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach
Bayside Private Events at Bonita Fish Company offers a space that blends laid-back atmosphere with legendary service. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a big celebration, we’ve got the space, the flavor and the team members to make your event memorable. Owned & Operated by HM Restaurant Group
Contact Private Events Manager Joe Sletten at joesletten@hmrestaurantgroup.com or 239-788-4067 to
