$100K Raised by Nate Edwards Tournament
By Olivia Johnson
We are thrilled to announce the incredible success of our 3rd Annual Nate Edwards Fishing Tournament! This year, we raised an unbelievable $100,000 to donate to charities, bringing our total to $265,000 in just three years! We couldn’t be more proud of what this tournament stands for and the difference it’s making in the community.
The charities benefitting from this year’s tournament include Everglades City School for trade scholarships, Autism Services of Florida, LARC, Inc. for special needs, the Nate
Edwards Autism Services Fund, East Lee County High School academics, GiGi’s Playhouse in Fort Myers, and Make-A-Wish. We are helping kids across our local communities, and it’s all thanks to the dedication of our sponsors, anglers, and volunteers.
A huge thank you to our sponsors, donors, captains, and volunteers for making this event a great success! We couldn’t do it without you. A special shoutout to Pastor Jesse for praying over our boats, DJ Robb Edge for providing music, and Camellia Street Grill and Everglades Fishing Company
Fall Festival Draws Record Crowd
by Jesse Wilson
The Light Up The Night Fall Festival drew the biggest crowd yet, with locals saying it was the largest turnout they’ve ever seen! A huge thank you goes out to our sponsors: the City of Everglades City, The Lions Club, Florida Stone Crabbers Association, Everglades City Airboat Tours, Captain Morgan’s Seafood, and Chokoloskee Family Church, whose support made this event unforgettable.
This year’s festival was packed with
fun for all ages. Uplifting music filled the air, while the petting zoo showcased over 20 animals. Kids enjoyed carnival games, a bounce house and slide, snow cones, and a thrilling hayride. To top it off, free hot dogs and delicious meal containers of yellow rice and chicken were served, making it a real treat for attendees from Naples, Marco Island, Port of the Islands, and all over the Ten Thousand Islands!
The annual Trunk or Treat was another highlight, with vehicles decked out in festive décor and filled
Festival p6
Photo by Alana Swales
Photo by Cameron Lord
CAPTAIN MORGAN’S SEAFOOD GRILL
Triad Seafood Market & Cafe
Events
November 8 & 9
Hook’em in the Glades
The 7th Annual Hook’em in the Glades fishing fundraiser supporting Everglades City Schools is scheduled for November 8 & 9, 2024! Teams will fish the 10,000 islands for a chance to catch the biggest Snook, Redfish, and Seatrout while supporting our school. Find out more: https:// hookemintheglades.com
November 9 & 10
GCA Holiday Bazaar
The Goodland Civic Association will hold its 15th Annual Holiday Bazaar, November 9 & 10, 10-4, at picturesque MarGood Harbor Park, 321 Pear Tree St., in the Village of Goodland. The Bazaar promises vendors from near and far offering fine art, unique crafts, holiday gifts, bath & body products, fun food, and a team of volunteer golfcart drivers ferrying folks around other Village sites. For more information contact Tara O’Neill, (239) 330-7543, Email: taraogallery@gmail.com
November 11
Free Day at the Park
Embrace the great outdoors! Visit our national parks on November 11 without paying the usual entrance fees! This one-day offer includes all National Park Service sites that typically charge for admission. Info: https://www.nps.
Local Event Calendar
gov/ever/planyourvisit/fees.htm
December 7
Swamp Heritage Festival: 50th Anniversary Celebration
The 2024 Swamp Heritage Festival celebrates 50 years of Big Cypress National Preserve while also highlighting the thousands of years of inhabitants that preceded and protected this area before it was formally set aside.Find out more: https://www. nps.gov/bicy/planyourvisit/swampheritage-festival.htm
December 11
Holiday Meet & Greet
Join us for a special exhibit showcasing Clyde Butcher’s stunning photographs taken exclusively within the Preserve. Clyde and Niki Butcher will be at the gallery for the day, signing books, sharing stories of their adventures in the swamp, and celebrating a place that has been central to their lives and work. Find out more: https://clydebutcher.
Community
Everglades Area Information Daily | 10 am - 2 pm
The Everglades Area Visitor Center is located at 207 Broadway W., Everglades City. The Visitor Center is open daily 10 am to 2 pm.
Food Pantry Wednesdays | 9:30 am - Noon
Food is distributed from the rear of Everglades Community Church located at 101 S. Copeland Ave., Everglades City. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Ladies Coffee Thursdays | 8:30 am
Ladies Coffee is a casual weekly gathering for women every Thursday at different local breakfast spots or homes. No rules or fees, just a welcoming space to connect and forge friendships.
Rep. Díaz-Balart’s in EC Office
First Tuesday | 2:30 pm
Every first Tuesday at 2:30 pm, a member of Congressman Mario DiazBalart’s team will be at Everglades City Hall to assist with federal casework,
including USPS, social security, veterans’ benefits, immigration, and other federal issues.
City Council Meeting
First Tuesdays | 7 pm
City Council meetings are held every 1st Tuesday of the month @ 7 pm in the City Council room, 2nd floor City Hall. The public is invited to attend. Info: https://www.cityofeverglades.org
Code Enforcement + P&Z Third Tuesdays
Code Enforcement and Planning & Zoning meetings are held monthly on the 3rd Tuesday of the month. City Council room, 2nd floor City Hall. Info: https://www.cityofeverglades. org/Meetings-Agendas
7th Annual Hook’em in the Glades
November 8-9, 2024
Get ready for a weekend of friendly competition at the 7th Annual Hook’em in the Glades, set for November 8-9, 2024! This exciting fishing fundraiser supports the Everglades City School, one of the smallest PreK12 public schools in Florida, where approximately 140 students learn on the beautiful banks of the Barron River.
Why Participate?
Fishing in the stunning 10,000 Islands helps raise funds for our school’s athletic programs and student activities, allowing us to create a supportive learning environment.
Community Resilience
After facing Hurricane Milton, we are thankful that the school remained undamaged thanks to the hurricane wall installed post-Irma. Our businesses are thriving again, and local restaurants are ready to welcome patrons back!
Tournament Details
Captain’s Meeting: Join us at The Gator Hole Restaurant at 5:30 pm on November 8 for check-in and dinner.
Tournament Day: The fishing begins at 7 am on November 9, with boat check-in from 2 pm to 4 pm at Everglades Fishing Company. The awards ceremony follows at 4 pm.
Awards Categories
The tournament features various awards for both adult and student divisions, including:
Adult Division:
• Team Boat & Paddle Division Student Division:
• Jr. Angler On-Shore (grades 3-12)
• Jr. On-Shore Pee Wee (toddlers to 2nd grade)
• Longest Snook, Redfish, and Seatrout
• Junior Team Boat Division
Entertainment
Gator Hole Bar (Everglades City) has music every Fri & Sat starting at 7pm!
11/9-Kerri Moore 12 pm
11/9-K&T Entertainment 7 pm
11/15-Feral Hearts (Rock Band) 7 pm
11/16-Feral Hearts 7 pm
11/22-K&T Entertainment 7 pm
Joanie’s Blue Crab Cafe (Ochopee) has live music on weekends.
Little Bar (Goodland) has live music every night.
Crabby Lady (Goodland) has live music every weekend.
(Goodland) has music TuesSundays. Shows start at 1 & 5.
The On-Shore Junior Angler Division will award prizes for the most total inches caught, among other categories.
Registration Costs
Boat: $250 (2 shirts & dinner)
Paddle Division: $75 (shirt & dinner)
Student Boat/Kayak: $50 (dinner & shirt)
On-Shore Student: $50 (dinner & shirt)
Your Support Makes a Difference
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all our sponsors! Your continued support ensures the tournament’s success. Because of Hook’em in the Glades, we can offer All Sport passes for just $25 for the entire year, a significant savings for our families. Students can enjoy all home volleyball, basketball, baseball, and softball games, with tickets typically priced
at $7 for adults and $5 for students.
Your contributions help fund events like Homecoming, Prom, the EVG News Crew, athletics, and even student government’s upcoming state conference in Orlando. We are blessed to see the positive impact this tournament has on our students!
While trophy sponsorships are sold out, other sponsorship opportunities remain, including the chance to sponsor a child to fish!
How to Register
To register, download the registration form and make checks payable to the Lions Foundation of Everglades, Inc. Mail them to:
Jill Whitcomb
Hook’em in the Glades PO Box 48 Everglades City, FL 34139
Join us for this fantastic event, where fishing meets community spirit. Let’s work together to support our students and make Hook’em in the Glades a success! For more information, visit the Everglades City School website or contact the event organizers. We look forward to seeing you on the water!
Publisher
Denise Wauters, Paradise Web
P.O. Box 513,Copeland FL 34137
MulletRapper@gmail.com (941) 999-1237
2024 In Stand Dates
January 20
February 3
February 17
March 2
March 16
March 30 April 13 April 27
May 25
June 22 July 20 August 17 September 14
12 October 26
November 9
November 23
December 7
December 21
or
Contributors
Patty Huff, Elaine Middelstaedt, Marya Repko, Rev. Dr. Bob Wallace, Dr. Cherie Allison, Olivia Johnson, Michael McComas, Dr. Chrissann Ruehle, Jesse Wilson, Janet Hamm.
Publishers Emeritus
Kathleen Brock, K Bee Marketing, Inc. Patricia A. Huff, Snook Publications.
Publisher’s Statement
We cover news and events for Everglades City, Chokoloskee, Plantation Island, Port of the Islands, Copeland, Jerome, Ochopee, Goodland, Lee Cypress, Big Cypress, and the 10,000 Islands. Our aim is accurate and diverse reporting. Opinions expressed may differ from those of the editors or publisher.
©2024, Paradise Web All Rights Reserved
“The Everglades is a test. If we pass it, we may get to keep the planet.”
~ Marjory Stoneman Douglas
Stans
Update From City Hall
By Michael McComas Everglades City Council
On October 1st the second meeting of the City of Everglades City Vulnerability Assessment and Adaptation plan was held at City Hall with a variety of community members in attendance by Zoom. Engineering firm CPH presented GIS/plan exhibits, reviewed budget and future plan actions. Next public meeting will be held the first week of December.
Council had recommended presenting an offer to Veolia Water to settle an existing lawsuit. We received
a counter offer and instructed the City Attorney to send our response with our counter offer.
The annual Red Ribbon Week proclamation was approved by Council. Council discussed funding for the preliminary design of a new community center to be constructed above the McLeod park pavilion. A future workshop will be held to receive input from the community on what components to include in the new facility.
Clyde Butcher Honored by Biden with National Award
Renowned landscape photographer and sponsor of our newspaper, Clyde Butcher, received the prestigious National Medal of Arts from President Joe Biden on October 21st. The private ceremony at the White House honored Butcher for his iconic black-and-white images of America’s natural landscapes, including the Everglades. The citation praised him for “focusing the lens on Mother Nature,” encouraging respect and conservation of our natural wonders.
Butcher described the experience as
beauty around us.”
unforgettable. He said, “From the Everglades to the Oval Office, receiving this award from President Biden is truly an honor. Photography is more than capturing images; it’s about sharing stories that stir emotion and remind us to protect the
Adding to this honor, Butcher’s new book, Lifeworks in Photography, was released just before his trip to Washington, D.C. It highlights his dedication to conservation and features his most iconic landscapes.
His work can be viewed at his galleries in Venice and Big Cypress. Fans can meet him at events on November 16th in Venice and December 11th at Big Cypress. For more information, visit ClydeButcher.com
FEMA Services & Cautions
As our community recovers from the impact of recent Hurricanes, FEMA personnel have begun canvassing the most affected areas in Collier County to assess damage and provide assistance. These representatives carry official photo identification and offer their services at no charge. It’s important to be cautious and avoid anyone who claims to promise a disaster grant in exchange for payment. If you suspect you are a victim of a scam, report it to your local police, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, or the Florida Office of the Attorney General at 866-9-NOSCAM (866-966-7226).
When applying for FEMA assistance, rest assured that the agency cannot seize your property. The application process does not grant FEMA or the federal government ownership of your land. A FEMA inspector may visit to verify damage, and this information is used solely to determine your eligibility for assistance to make your home safe and functional.
Residents in 34 Florida counties, including Collier, are eligible for FEMA disaster assistance if they experienced uninsured or underinsured losses due to Hurricane Milton. Assistance can cover temporary lodging, basic home repairs, and personal property losses. To apply, visit
DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or call FEMA’s helpline at (800) 621-3362. You will need to provide your contact information, current address, Social Security number, and a general list of damages and losses.
If you have homeowners or flood insurance, file a claim promptly. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses already covered by insurance. If your policy doesn’t cover all disaster expenses, you may still qualify for federal assistance.
In addition to physical assistance, mental health resources are available for those struggling with the emotional toll of recent hurricanes. The SAMSHA Disaster Distress Helpline offers 24/7 crisis counseling and can be reached at (800) 985-5990. For additional support, the Clear Warm Line is available at (800) 945-1355 from 4 to 10 pm ET, offering conversations with trained peers who understand the challenges you may be facing.
As we navigate recovery together, remember that you are not alone. For more information about FEMA assistance and recovery resources, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834 or follow FEMA on social media. Your resilience and support for one another will help us rebuild our community.
FWC Tackles Displaced Vessels Post-Hurricanes
In the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, hundreds of vessels across Florida have been displaced, with some pushed ashore, damaged, or even sunken. To address this, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has deployed additional officers and derelict vessel specialists to southwest Florida, including our local waters, to help locate, identify, and investigate these vessels.
Boat owners affected by the hurricanes are encouraged to report displaced vessels by calling
(888) 404-3922, providing details like registration number and location. If you cannot repair or salvage your vessel, the FWC offers a waiver process for turning over ownership of derelict vessels. Boat owners have 45 days to either recover their vessel or bring it into non-derelict condition.
For assistance with vessel recovery or to report a derelict boat, call the FWC Boating and Waterways Section at (850) 488-5600. For other waterway debris or spills, contact the Florida Debris Hotline at (850) 366-6007.
Tournament
From Page 1 for their amazing hospitality.
Tournament Results
1st Fish On USA (84”) $6,372
2nd: Blackjack (83.5”) $3,186
3rd: Marina Mike’s (80.5”) $2,548.50
4th: Team Hodge (77.5”) $2,336.40
5th: Rockport Rattler (76.5”) $2,124
6th: K&M (73”) $1,486.80
7th: Liquid Assisted (72”) $1,062
8th: Puff Puff Cast (70.5”) $849.60
9th: Dobbs Equip. (70.5”) $849.60
10th: Isla Bonita (69.5”) $424.80
Special Awards
Largest Snook: Blackjack (39”)
Largest Redfish: Fish On USA (30”)
Largest Trout: Rhino Diaries (21.5”)
Calcutta Winner: Marine Assets (12.5” Snapper) $1,850
Mystery Fish: Titan Contracting (13.5” Triple Tail) $500
Ladies Largest Snook: Ashley Godwin (39”) $600
Smallest Snook: Bent Rods (11.5”) $100 Trip to Mexico for the “Loser”: Tom Tiberio (47” total for all 3 fish)
Kids Winners
1st: Tatum Lynch (22” Snook)
$5,236.25
2nd: Stetson Dell (21” Redfish ) $183.75
3rd: Kayden Capling (20” Snook) $105.00
The Shotgun Start was spectacular this year, led by Captain Harry Henkel. Thank you to everyone who participated in making this event memorable. We can’t wait to continue building on this success next year!
We extend a heartfelt thanks to all our volunteers working behind the scenes—Nancy Hunter, Barbie Porter, Amber Shields, Nicole & Tim Edge, and many more. And to everyone who continues to support the Nate Edwards Fishing Tournament, you are truly making a difference. Stay tuned for more pictures from the event!
Let’s keep this momentum going, and we look forward to seeing you all again next year!
AI: Your Hurricane Helper
By Dr. Chrissann Ruehle, DBA, MBA, CPM AI Consultant and Strategist, & Management Faculty at Florida Gulf Coast University
As many of you know all too well, living in our beautiful coastal community comes with its share of challenges, particularly during hurricane season.
The recent Hurricane Helene left an indelible mark on our state and beyond, reminding us of nature’s power and the importance of preparedness.
In the aftermath, many of our neighbors are asking how they can better prepare for future storms.
Enter Artificial Intelligence (AI), a powerful tool that is revolutionizing how we approach hurricane preparedness, response, and recovery. While AI might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, it is a practical and accessible technology that is already integrated into many of the apps and devices we use daily. From predicting storm paths with unprecedented accuracy to streamlining post-hurricane insurance claims, AI is becoming an invaluable
safe and recover quickly when the next big storm comes our way. Whether you are a tech enthusiast or someone who still prefers a flip phone, there’s an AI tool out there that can help you weather the storm.
ally in our ongoing engagement with Mother Nature.
In this article, we will explore how you can harness the power of AI to stay
Before the Storm Weather apps like The Weather Channel and AccuWeather now use AI to provide accurate, localized predictions. Set up notifications on your smartphone to stay informed about potential risks in your area. Your virtual assistant can be a lifesaver for hurricane preparation. Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant can create custom prep lists tailored to your needs. Simply ask, “What do I need for a hurricane?” and you will get a comprehensive list. Some insurance companies offer See AI p9
Photo by Kortney Johnson
Drive Through a Swamp
By Reverend Dr Bob N. Wallace Everglades Community Church
Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve in Collier County Florida is a Florida State Park just west of Copeland, Florida. A “strand” is a piece of forested swamp where, according to the National Park Service, bald cypress trees have taken over. Growing on the trunks and branches of the cypress trees are epiphytes or air plants. Epiphytic plants attach themselves to other living plants, in this case the cypress trees, and instead of having their roots in the ground, they wrap around cypress trees to be kept securely in place. Well known epiphytes in the Big Cypress National Preserve are bromeliads and orchids. The Florida Star Orchid is a rare, endangered species primarily restricted to the Fakahatchee Strand swamp. It was first categorized in 1993 having been thought extinct because of hard freezes in the 1980s. It has been seen at times in the Fakahatchee. The cypress swamp, much of which is in Big Cypress National Preserve, is mostly composed of these types of plants. The Big Cypress is over 729,000 acres of vast swamp and is a mixture of tropical and temperate plants that are home to varied wildlife, including the Endangered Florida Panther.
Festival
From Page 1
Fakahatchee Strand is 85,000 acres and is the largest of 175 State Parks in Florida. Off S.R. 29, Fakahatchee Strand is one of the most biologically rich places in all the Everglades. It’s a geological feature unique to the region and centered on the world’s largest strand swamp. Known as the “Amazon of North America” and the “Orchid Capital of North America,” Fakahatchee could very well be South Florida’s best-kept outdoor secret being full of diverse, exotic species of plants and animals. It offers a variety of activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Some popular spots within the park include the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk, the East River, and the Janes Memorial Scenic Drive.
Janes Scenic Drive is named after the three Janes brothers who developed tomato farming in Copeland in the 1930’s and leads to the Main entrance of the Fakahatchee Preserve off S.R 29. The Drive became a railroad bed for logging the Fakahatchee’s old-growth Cypress trees in the 1940s. Today, it’s an unimproved narrow dirt road that gives visitors access to a portion of Florida’s continuing subtropical wilderness. At approximately eleven miles long, the drive begins at the Fakahatchee Preserve main entrance and continues for approximately six miles where Janes Scenic is gated. Vehicle access on Janes Scenic Drive to enter the Picayune is no longer available. The remainder of Janes Scenic Drive is now for pedestrians and cyclists up to the border of the Picayune Strand State forest.
Access to Janes Scenic Drive is possible ONLY via Route 29 which starts at the community of Copeland on SR 29, 2 ½ miles north of Highway 41 (The Tamiami Trail) and 14 miles south of I-75 exit #80 (Alligator Alley). At the ranger station where you pay your park admission fee you will find an informative kiosk, park brochures and restrooms. It’s open from 8:00 AM to sunset 365 days a year.
with candy. Thanks to our amazing community, McLeod Park was full of excitement and joy. The night concluded with a costume contest for three age groups: 0-2, 3-5, and 6-12, bringing out some creative and adorable costumes.
The Light Up The Night Fall Festival was a huge success, and we’re already looking forward to next year’s celebration!
New Pickleball Club in POI
Exciting news for pickleball enthusiasts! The Port of the Islands Pickleball Club has officially opened its doors, and now is your chance to be part of this vibrant community! With state-of-the-art facilities nestled in the beautiful Port of the Islands Resort, this club offers a welcoming environment for players of all levels.
Owner Tom Nguyen is thrilled about this new addition to the resort.
“We’re excited to enhance the Port of the Islands experience and provide our community with a unique opportunity to enjoy pickleball,” he says.
The grand opening event was a smash hit, featuring an exhibition with top professional players, including US Open Champion Barry Waddell. Barry shared his passion for the sport, saying, “Pickleball is a unique sport that bridges demographics, welcoming
players of all backgrounds and skill levels. It’s easy to learn and hard to master, but with some good technique, you’ll see great results!”
Now that the club is up and running, you can take advantage of special introductory membership rates! Memberships provide access to all six pickleball courts, complete with LED lighting for nighttime play, as well as the hotel and resort amenities.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Join the growing pickleball community and experience the fun, fitness, and friendships that come with it!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this exciting new chapter at the Port of the Islands. Grab your paddle and head over to the club!
Photos by Denise Wauters
Photos by Patty Huff & Jesse Wilson
Museum of the Everglades
105 West Broadway Avenue
Everglades City, FL
Originally a 1927 commercial laundry, the Museum of the Everglades building testifies to the town’s history as a bustling business center and the region’s first county seat. Now a museum, it’s open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm with free admission. Certain events may require reservations. Book your reservation at colliermuseums.com or call (239) 252-5026. Come explore Everglades heritage today!
Event
Fall Homeschool Day: Invaders of the Everglades
Nov 12 | 10:00 - 1:00pm
In conjunction with Museum of the Everglades’ latest special exhibit, “Python Hunters: Preserving Paradise One Snake at a Time,” Fall Homeschool Day 2024 will be talking about all things invasive that are impacting our unique Florida ecology! Learn about how invasive animals like the python, iguana, and curly-tailed lizard have made a home here in Southwest Florida, whether we like it or not, and the efforts to stop them. You’ll even get to observe some of these invasive animals up close! We’ll also feature other invasives, like insects and plants! This program features different hands-on activities and special exhibit exploration geared toward preschool, elementary, and middle and high school students. Parking at Museum of the Everglades is limited, you can park along medians as well as in McLeod Park across the street from the museum.
Exhibits
Python Hunters
Sept 17 – Jan 11
As South Florida’s invasive Burmese python problem slithers toward its third decade as a recognized environmental catastrophe, Museum of the Everglades will present an exhibit exploring the actions being taken to remove and/or neutralize this reptilian threat. Titled simply “Python Hunters,” the exhibit will share information and stories from people on the frontlines of this battle to save the Everglades ecosystem. Scientists, celebrities, hunters, hobbyists, and everyday citizens who have joined in the fight will all be featured. Striking images of the hunters and their prey will share space with the facts and statistics surrounding this continuing crisis and the work being done to preserve paradise, one snake at a time.
Third Thursday Talk Series
Florida’s First People
November 21 | 2 – 3 pm
While the massive cache of Calusa artifacts found on Marco Island in the 1890s is welldocumented, evidence of these early inhabitants of the 10,000 Islands can also be found just about everywhere around Everglades City. Did you know that the entire island of nearby Chokoloskee is a Calusa shell mound? Ancient artifacts were commonplace for early pioneer settlers to the region, but the story of the indigenous people who called the area their home for thousands of years remains shrouded in mystery. Just who were the Calusa and how big was their settlement here? How long were they here, and what happened to them? For the answers to these questions and more, please join us at Museum of the Everglades as we celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a Third Thursday talk dedicated to Florida’s First People: the Calusa Indians.
2024-25 Season
Join us for our monthly book club meetings on the second Tuesday of each month at 9:30 AM in members’ homes.
November 12
Gator Country by Rebecca Renner
Host: Patty Huff
Location: 207 N. Storter Ave. EC
December 10
The Women by Kristin Hannah Host: Diann Lock Location: 498 Collier Ave. EC
January 14
The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride Host: Volunteer Needed Location: TBA
February 11
The Lemon Tree by Sandy Tolan Host: Volunteer Needed Location: TBA
March 11
Someone Else’s Shoes by Jojo Moyes Hosted by Dianna Pollock Location: TBA
April 8
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus Host: Volunteer Needed Location: TBA
To host a meeting, contact Diann Lock at dmlock333@gmail.com
CLYDE BUTCHER
Reopens October
EVG School Updates
By Dr. Cherie Allison Principal, Everglades City School
The Everglades City middle school Team A volleyball team won the SWFAC Championship! Everglades City middle school Team A went undefeated on the season with an overall 16-0 record. Highlights of the season included winning the Naples High School Freshman tournament, defeating multiple high school junior varsity teams, and going undefeated in our conference play. The players worked hard and displayed high levels of perseverance and grit throughout the season. This team never gave up and always battled their way to victory! It isn’t an easy task to maintain an undefeated record, and this team showed incredible strength and dedication throughout the season! EVG is so proud of these girls and their coaches, Jason Mayberry and Naiara Rementeria Freeman. Also, we would like to shout out those parents that tirelessly get students to away games and are continuously supporting them through Athletic Boosters and concessions. We appreciate all you do for these incredible students. Last but certainly not least, we want to say thank you to Mrs. Whitcomb, who makes sure there are always officials, that games and times are set, and that workers are present, all of these things to ensure our kids have a great season. Way to go, Gators!!
Speaking of our illustrious Mrs. Whitcomb, the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) is pleased to announce that Jill A. Whitcomb has been recognized by the NIAAA as a Certified Athletic Administrator.
To earn this distinction, Jill A. Whitcomb has demonstrated the highest level of knowledge and expertise in the field of interscholastic athletic administration. The voluntary certification process included a thorough evaluation of the candidate’s educational background, experience, and professional contributions, as well as a rigorous, comprehensive written examination.
Jill Whitcomb is one of an elite group of interscholastic athletic administrators nationwide to attain this level of professionalism. We are so incredibly proud of Mrs. Whitcomb and all that she does for EVG.
Congratulations are also in order for Mrs. Susan Baumler, EVG’s 20242025 Teacher of Distinction. The Collier County Teacher of Distinction program is a communitybased initiative that recognizes and celebrates teachers in Collier County Public Schools. The program is run by Champions for Learning. Educators of Distinction are outstanding role models and exemplary practitioners who have made a lasting difference in students’ lives by encouraging them to strive for excellence, not just in their academic pursuits but in all their endeavors. Mrs. Baumler is an excellent candidate, and she will represent Everglades City School as she competes for this year’s Golden Apple Award! We love you, Mrs. Baumler!
EVG District All-Star | October
We’re thrilled to share that one of our very own EVG School students has been selected as this month’s CCPS District All-Star! Join us in celebrating their outstanding achievement as they shine among the best student-athletes in the Collier County Public Schools District.
Freshman Ava Lenz plays the middle front position on the Everglades City School Gator volleyball team. Her dedication to the sport shows in her stats. In 30 sets played so far
this season, she’s earned an 88% serving percentage with 16 aces and 48 kills. Coaches say Ava is known as an unselfish player and great teammate, gaining more confidence every time she steps onto the court.
EVG Calendar
Nov 9
CCPS Hockey Night
Nov 12
School Board Meeting
Nov 18
Boys JV Basketball Away
Boys VR Basketball Away
Nov 19
School Board Meeting
Girls JV Basketball Home
Nov 20
Boys JV Basketball Home
Boys VR Basketball Home
Nov 21
Girls MS Basketball Home
Boys MS Basketball Home
Congratulations to EVG fifth grader- Maddy Thoner for reading one million words.
Maddy loves to read and is an inspirations for all GATOR readers!
Way to READ Maddy!
New Digital Ticket
Everglades City School athletic events will exclusively use Digital Tickets this year. Buy tickets via the Go Fan App or scan this Go Fan QR code. Get the App
Stay informed with grades, events, news, and sports schedules.
https://www.collierschools. com/mobile
EVG Student of the Month
EVG celebrated our September Student of the Month for elementary and secondary. Congratulations to Sophia Biondino and Xzaviera Davis. Sophia and Xzaviera were recognized for helping someone or doing an extraordinary act of kindness. Way to go, Gators!
EVG staff are always on the lookout for students doing caring and helpful acts. Stay tuned for our November students.
From Page 5
AI-powered apps that evaluate your home’s vulnerability to hurricane damage. These tools can suggest specific ways to protect your property, potentially saving you from costly damage.
During the Hurricane AI-powered weather apps like NOAA Weather or MyRadar provide real-time storm tracking and emergency alerts. They can give instant notifications about storm movement, flooding risks, and evacuation orders.
If you need to evacuate, AI-enhanced navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps can provide up-to-date routes, adjusting for weather-related closures and flooding. They can guide you to safety and help you locate open shelters.
For those who prefer to stay home, smart home devices can monitor your property and alert you to issues like power outages or flooding, even if you have evacuated.
After the Storm
Many insurance companies now use AI to speed up the claims process. You can often upload photos of storm damage through their mobile app for
quick assessment, potentially reducing the time it takes to receive your payout.
AI-driven apps like Google Maps or GasBuddy can help you locate open gas stations, grocery stores, and pharmacies in your area. Community apps like Nextdoor can be invaluable for sharing local resources and recovery information.
When navigating disaster recovery assistance, AI chatbots can guide you through applying for FEMA aid, apply for grants, and connect you with local recovery resources.
AI offers valuable tools to help us prepare for, endure, and recover from hurricanes, from smart weather predictions to streamlined insurance claims. However, it is crucial to remember that AI complements, but does not replace, common sense, community spirit, and official guidance.
As AI continues to evolve, we may see even more advanced applications in hurricane management. Yet, our community’s resilience will always depend on our preparedness and ability to support one another.
Let us embrace these AI tools as allies in our hurricane preparedness toolkit, while continuing to strengthen our community bonds. By combining hightech tools with our strong community spirit, we will be ready to weather whatever storms come our way. Stay safe out there!
Have you ever thought about going to the Amazon? Now you can! Capt. Mike Merritt's lodge in Brazil's Amazon. Fishing and Ecotour packages available. 3,4, & 5 Day Trips 4,5, & 6 Day Trips Peacock Bass, Redtail Catfish, & More
Jungle Treks, River Tours, Pink River Dolphin Tours
5 room floating jungle lodge, with electricity, A/C, hot water, wifi, private bathrooms, & local cuisine. All fishing tackle, hotels, and transportation provided. Float plane trips available.
Captain Morgan’s Seafood Grill
Scallops of the Sea
Submitted by Janet Hamm
Ingredients:
1 cup Boiled Rice
5-7 Medium Scallops Sauteed with Everglades Seasoning & Poultry Seasoning
1 can of stewed Tomatoes
3 Large Mushrooms chopped
1 tsp parsley
1 stalk of green onions
1/2 tsp garlic powder - used after sauteing
Directions:
Mix all together except rice.
Place Rice in the bottom of the bowl.
Top with scallop mixture.
Top with crushed pineapple to taste.
Showcase Your Art Work in the Government Center
Call for Artists Collier County Looking for Artwork/Photography to Display at the Collier County Government Center
Collier County displays a rotating exhibit of local artists’ and photographers’ works in the Board of County Commissioners Chambers, third floor, Collier County Government Center, 3299 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, Florida.
Criteria
Artists residing in Collier County, at least parttime, shall meet at least two of the following criteria to have their artwork considered for display at the Collier County Government Center. This ensures that artists have achieved a level of expertise and recognition in their profession. All displays are solely at the discretion of county staff:
1. The artist has participated in other government/ educational displays, which may include exhibitions at educational institutions.
2. The artist has received awards, grants, or fellowships.
3. The artist’s work has been included in established public, corporate, non-profit, gallery/museum exhibitions, venues, or collections.
Instructions for Submission
In addition to meeting the preceding criteria, each artist shall submit the following three items to: ArtistofTheMonth@CollierCountyFl.gov
1. A brief letter/email of interest indicating which of the above criteria has been achieved. Artists shall also briefly describe their history, training, and experience or provide a resume.
2. Digital images of seven art pieces proposed for display.
3. A written artist profile to be displayed on a wall next to the artwork.
Requirements for Artwork
Artwork must be original.
1. Artwork must be of an appropriate size and weight for hanging on walls.
2. Artwork must be appropriate imagery or style for public space. Examples of non-appropriate imagery include artwork with religious content, nudity, or depicting violence.
3. Artwork should have a broad appeal to people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures.
4. Artwork must not require extraordinary handling; fragile pieces should not be displayed.
5. Artwork will be transported to and from the County Government Center by the artist.
6. Sale of art will not be transacted at Collier County Government; however, artists may display their contact/website information.
October 12, 2024 Puzzle Solution
Stone Crab Season Now Open
The recreational and commercial stone crab harvest seasons started Oct. 15 and will remain open through May 1, closing May 2.
Minimum Claw Size Limit is 2 7/8 inches.
As a reminder, an unobstructed escape ring measuring 2 3/16 inches in diameter must be located within a vertical exterior trap wall for all recreational and commercial plastic or wood stone crab traps.
Recreational Trap Registration
Recreational harvesters who are age 16 and older (including those normally exempt from needing a license) are required to complete an online, no-cost recreational stone crab trap registration each year. To register, visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, sign in, click the “Click here to get a License!” tile, scroll down to the “Saltwater Fishing” section, and select “Recreational Stone Crab Trap Registration.”
Upon completion, each person will receive unique trap registration numbers that must be included on each trap along with the owner’s full name and address. This information must be legible and must be permanently attached to each trap.
Other Tips and Regulations
Care should be taken when removing the claws so as to not permanently injure the crab.
Claws may not be taken from egg-bearing stone crabs. Stone crabs may not be harvested with any device that can puncture, crush or injure a crab’s body. Examples of devices that can cause this kind of damage include spears and hooks.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available for Hurricane Milton Impacted Floridians**
Florida Commerce has announced that Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is now available to residents and businesses in Collier County and other affected areas whose employment or self-employment was disrupted by Hurricane Milton. Those ineligible for regular Reemployment Assistance benefits may apply for DUA.
DUA is available for unemployment between October 6, 2024, and April 12, 2025. The deadline to apply is December 10, 2024. To file a claim, visit FloridaJobs.org, or call 1-800-385-3920.
Recreational harvesters may take a daily bag limit of 1 gallon of claws per person or 2 gallons per vessel, whichever is less, and may use up to five stone crab traps per person.
Traps that are not being fished should be removed from the water to avoid ghost fishing, a process in which marine species get caught in the trap for extended periods of time and are not harvested.
Stone crab regulations are the same in state and federal waters.
For more information on harvesting stone crabs for recreation, trap specifications, commercial stone crab regulations and licensing information, go online to MyFWC.com/Marine, click “Recreational Regulations,” select “Crabs, Lobster and other Shellfish,” then select “Stone Crab.”
First Baptist Church
Knowing Him and making Him known!
All-ages Sunday School: 9:45 am
Sunday Worship: 11:00 am & 6:00 pm
Wednesday Worship: 6:00 pm
416 School Drive | P.O. Box 550
Everglades City, FL 34139
Call Us: (239) 695-3871
Restaurants & Bars
Everglades City
Camellia Street Grill
Mon-Thurs 12-9 Fri-Sun 11-9 (239) 695-2003
Captain Morgan’s Seafood Grill Corp
Thur-Sat 11 am – 8 pm
Sun 12 pm-8 pm
Closed on Holidays (239) 232-0041
City Seafood MonFri 8 am – 3 pm
Sat & Sun 8 am – 4 pm (239) 695-4700
Diving Pelican
Sun-Thur 11 am – 8 pm
Fri-Sat 11 am – 8:30 pm
Everglades Cafe
Wed-Sat 7 am – 3:30 pm (239) 351-4875
Gator Hole Bar
Fri 4 pm – 12 am Sat-Sun 11 am – 12 am (239) 232-0475
Island Cafe
Daily 6 am – 9 pm (239) 695-0003
Nely’s Corner (Inside EFC)
Fri-Sun 6:15 am - 3 pm (239) 695-4222
Rod & Gun Daily 11:30 am - 7:30 pm (239) 695-2101
Triad Seafood Market & Cafe
Fri-Sat 10:30 am – 5 pm Sun-Thur 10:30 am – 4 pm (239) 695-2662
Wildman’s Pizza Pasta & Pythons
Wed & Thurs 12 pm – 8 pm Fri-Sat 12 pm – 9 pm (239) 426-9453
Chokoloskee
HavAnnA Cafe
Daily 8 am – 8 pm (239) 695-2214
Goodland
Crabby Lady
Tues-Sat 11 am – 6 pm Sun 11 am – 5 pm (239) 394-5663
Kirks Fish House
Mon-Sat 10 am - 5 pm (239) 394-8616
Little Bar
Mon-Sat 11:30 am – 12 am
Closed Sundays (239) 394-5663
Paradise Found Thur-Sun (239) 330-7773
Stans Idle Hour
Fri-Sun 11 am - 6:30 pm (239) 394-3041
Ochopee
Subway
Daily 7 am – 7 pm (239) 695-0949
Joanie’s Blue Crab Cafe Mon, Tues, Thur 10:30 am - 4 pm
Fri-Sun 10:30 am - 5 pm (239) 695-2682
CR92 & US41 (Naples)
Gator’s Crossing Daily 11 am – 11 pm (239) 394-0288
Markets
Right Choice Supermarket Daily 9 am – 7 pm (239) 695-4535
Glades Haven General Store Daily 9 am – 7 pm (239) 232-0486
Grimm’s Stone Crab Mon-Sat 8 am - 5pm (239) 695-3222
Worship
Chokoloskee Family Church Sun: 10 am School & Worship, 6 pm Service Wed: Youth 7 pm 1236 Demere Ln, Chokoloskee
Everglades Community Church Sun: 11 am Worship 101 Copeland Ave, Everglades City
First Baptist Church Sun: 9:45 am School, 11 am Worship & 6 pm Service Wed: 6 pm Bible Study 416 E School Dr, Everglades City
Holy Family Catholic Church Opens December 1 200 Datura St E, Everglades City
Goodland Baptist Church
410 Mango Ave. Goodland
Sunday: 10 am Worship
Wed 6 pm Bible Study
Volunteer
VOLUNTEER: Our Everglades Area Visitor Center is looking for volunteers. Contact (239)719-0020 or snookcity@ gmail.com for information.
Announcement
Birth Announcement October 29, 2008, at 2:33 pm Emma Virginia Lee Williams was born at home in Naples, Florida.
Help Wanted
WANTED: Ad Sales
Person. Join our team and help local businesses shine in our beloved community paper. Ideal candidates will have great communication skills, a knack for building relationships, and a passion for community engagement. Commission-based pay. Contact: MulletRapper@gmail.com
Clubs
AA
Suspended
First Baptist Church
416 School Drive, Everglades City Interested in meetings? Contact us at (239) 398-4666.
Everglades Lions Club
2nd Thursday of the month | 6 pm September - May Jinkins Fellowship Hall behind Everglades Community Church
101 S. Copeland Ave, Everglades City evergladeslionsclub@gmail.com
Ladies Coffee
Thursdays | 8:30 am
Rotates Everglades City Restaurants snookcity@gmail.com (239) 719-0020
Goodland Civic Association
3rd Tuesday of the month | 6:30 pm
Goodland Community Center
417 Mango Ave, Goodland (239) 776-1372
Helpful Numbers
EC Airport: (239) 695-2778
EC City Hall: (239) 695-3781
ECPublic Library: (239) 695-2511
EC Trash Pickup: (239) 252-2380
EC Visitor Center: (239) 232-0473
Carnestown Recycle: (239) 695-4331
Goodland Recycle: (239)252-2380
Post Office
Everglades City & Chokolosee: (239) 695-2174
Copeland: (239) 695-2202
Ochopee: (239) 695-2099
Goodland: (239) 394-7387
Local Parks
Big Cypress: (239) 695-2000
EVG National Park: (239) 695-3311
Fakahatchee Preserve: (239) 961-1925
