Verandah View
What Is Developer Settlement?
You are not alone if you have no idea what the term “Developer Settlement” refers to, but it is a common legal process which occurs when the developer of a community turns over governance to its residents. In 2012, Kolter Land Development became the developer of Verandah through a purchase from the Bonita Bay Group, the original developer.
The simplest way to explain Developer Settlement is by analogy to what happens when a person has a new home built. Once construction is complete, the home buyer fully inspects the property. The buyer often discovers that there are problems with some aspects of the construction, which can range from minor cosmetic concerns to major structural or design flaws.
The home buyer gathers these problems into what is commonly referred to as a “punch list,” which is then reviewed with the builder. The buyer and the builder then work together to resolve the issues. Sometimes it is not possible to reach an amicable solution. This may necessitate involving third parties such as mediators, arbitrators, or the court system.
In Verandah, according to Florida law, once 90 percent of all residential parcels have been sold, the developer is required to turn over control of the community to a Homeowners Association run by a Board of Directors composed of homeowners. This turnover took place in Verandah on October 1, 2021. (For almost 20 years the developer controlled all aspects of the community including activities of the Club, the VCA, and the East and West Community Development Districts.)
Florida law requires that when turnover occurs, the developer must deliver to the new Board of Directors all VCA records and funds. This is the first opportunity for the ownercontrolled Board to review and analyze this information, much like the home buyer preparing to move into their newly constructed home.
One of the first steps taken by the newly elected Board of Directors after turnover in October of 2021 was the creation of a subgroup known as the “Developer Settlement Committee.” The purpose of this Committee was to organize and analyze the information being turned over by the developer, which consisted of thousands of pages of documents. Like the new home buyer, delivery of these records was the first opportunity for the Board of Directors to inspect how the developer operated the VCA.
In addition, the Developer Settlement Committee reviewed records relating to the development of Verandah as a community. These records were largely on file with Lee County, but gaining access and understanding these documents necessitated the engagement of an engineering firm, which has proved invaluable.
Working together with its consultant engineers and attorneys, the Developer Settlement Committee has discovered multiple areas of concern with actions taken by the developer when it was in control of all aspects of the community. These actions have both long-term and shortterm consequences for the Homeowners’ Association and are both large and relatively small in their financial impact on residents of Verandah.
In March of 2024, the VCA submitted its list of claims to Kolter together with a request that these matters be resolved amicably without court intervention. (The VCA has been advised that publicly disclosing the content of these claims is unwise.) The developer has retained its own legal counsel and has begun seeking additional information about the various claims. State law establishes deadlines for when certain claims must be settled. The VCA hopes to resolve these claims amicably. However, since some of the VCA’s claims would expire if not resolved quickly, the VCA needed to ensure it could bring legal action against the developer.
According to the VCA’s Governing Documents, the VCA was required to obtain the consent of our homeowners and our Neighborhood Representatives to file a lawsuit if necessary. In May 2024, with the assistance of Neighborhood Representatives, the VCA solicited the approval of homeowners to pursue legal action if we are unable to resolve our claims amicably. As of early June, the VCA had received sufficient votes from homeowners in 25 neighborhoods and Neighborhood Representatives to surpass the thresholds required. Many have asked what the cost of legal action might be and what might be collected if we are successful. Since we do not know what claims will require legal action the VCA is unable to respond to these questions. Be assured that the Board will provide all homeowners with periodic updates as this developer settlement process moves forward.
Meet The Verandah Community Association Staff
With its current count at 1,531 residences, the Verandah community is steadily progressing towards our final buildout of 1,636 residences. This sizable population requires a significant workload. Behind the beautiful streets and homes stands a dedicated staff working diligently to keep our community running smoothly. Each member of this four-person team plays an integral role in the day-to-day functioning of Verandah.
Meet Michele Boose, our new General Manager. She brings to us a wealth of experience and a vision for the community’s future. Originally from Massachusetts and now a 30-year resident of Cape Coral, Michele has three children and three grandchildren. She brings an impressive 19-year tenure in property management and accounting to Verandah. Boose is responsible for overseeing the operations and projects of the Verandah Community Association (VCA). One of her first priorities is to oversee the Comcast Project. Her knowledge and expertise with Florida’s homeowner and condominium statutes will serve us well as she navigates the complexities of community governance.
Meet Trisha Snook , the Assistant Manager of the Verandah Community Association. Snook has been a Florida resident for 34 years, relocating from Pittsburgh. She has two daughters and a grandchild. She brings both experience and a deep commitment to preserving the essence of Verandah. Providing support to the Design Review Committee, Snook
works to guide the building process and ensure the consistent quality of our neighborhoods’ aesthetics. She also oversees the community’s natural resources. Snook’s responsibilities extend to managing animal and wildlife issues. An issue occurred when a bear was reported near the gatehouse. She was called into action and bravely “escorted” the bear to the Access Road. Through her commitment to compliance and gatehouse matters, Snook works to ensure that Verandah remains safe and pleasant for all who call it home.
Meet Deanna Busbin , a native Floridian whose dedication to the VCA has become synonymous with efficiency and warmth. She is a proud mother of two with four grandchildren, and brings a genuine sense of caring to her role as Residential Service Coordinator. One of her primary responsibilities is welcoming new homeowners and guiding them through the intricacies of the Verandah Homeowner’s Handbook. She has processed up to 100 gate access stickers in a month and all invoices. She is also the go-to person for residents seeking assistance with the VCA website, guiding them through sign-ups, and managing website updates to keep the community informed and connected.
Meet Stephanie Rigo, the indispensable administrative assistant whose attention to detail and knack for organization keeps the wheels turning smoothly. Rigo, who moved here from New Jersey, is the proud mom of two children. Her role encompasses a wide array of tasks from handling leases and conducting background checks to assisting Deana with gate passes. She ensures that every aspect of residential logistics is managed with efficiency and care. She assists the Design Review Committee, reviewing paperwork to ensure compliance and smoothing the process, and assembles the News You Can Use newsletter and email blasts to deliver timely updates to residents. Recently, Rigo has taken on the challenge of supporting the community’s technological needs by assisting residents with the Envera app. She also sets up Zoom meetings for the Board. With her comprehensive approach to customer service and technical know-how, Stephanie Rigo is an integral member of the team.
When our VCA staff was queried about their favorite aspect of working within the Verandah community, they unanimously spoke about how gratifying they find the experience of assisting residents. As members of the Verandah community, we deeply appreciate their dedication to preserving the place we all call home.
Pet Of The Month
Black Lab Luna aka Luna-tic (used in the most affectionate way) is best known for her playful 2-year-old attitude. Luna loves to get wet and jumps to welcome anyone, especially if they are wearing white! Like most Labs, Luna is motivated by “food,” whether it’s a stick, plastic bag or even a CBD gummy she found on her walk one evening. Her perplexed and scared parents became so worried about her unsteady walking and extreme lethargy that they hurried her to Blue Pearl Emergency Hospital. Fortunately, Luna recovered completely but, curiously, she was seriously craving munchies the next day! You can meet Luna happily romping around in the dog park in the afternoon.
Luna’s parents are Karen and Charles Lynch.
Left to right, Deanna Busbin, Trisha Snook, Michele Boose and Stephanie Rigo
All About Verandah –
Part Four: Our Governance
Living in Verandah means living in our own tiny governed community. We are a community within a community within a county and a state (and so on) – you can think of it like a set of stackable dolls. Every HOA like Verandah must abide by state and federal laws but each HOA has its own unique set of Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs), governing documents, bylaws and other rules and regulation.
The Verandah Community Association, Inc. (VCA) is the master Homeowners Association (HOA) for the Verandah residential community. The Board of Directors of the VCA is responsible for maintaining the common property in Verandah and for enforcing its governing documents. All of these are available on the VCA website: www.VCAlife.com.
Currently, the VCA has seven homeowners elected by the community serving on the Board of Directors. The Board is supported by over 70 homeowners that serve on seven advisory committees addressing topics such as communications, design review, finance, landscaping, property and infrastructure, and traffic and safety. A very important special committee is made up of our Neighborhood Representatives. Homeowners in each of Verandah’s 32 neighborhoods elect a homeowner to communicate with the Board and staff about issues of concern to their neighborhood.
Verandah’s Condos and Sub-HOAs – As mentioned above, the VCA is the master HOA for Verandah. Verandah’s Sub-HOAs include our three neighborhood condominiums (Cottonwood Bend, Idlewild, Pebblebrook) and seven singlefamily homeowner associations (HOAs) including Bramble Cove, Lakeview, Orangetree Bend, Otter Bend, Palmetto Grove, Sabal Point, Shady Bend. Each have their own Board of Directors, management companies and governing documents. The remaining 22 neighborhoods are governed by the VCA.
Note that Subs cannot adopt rules that conflict with the master’s rules. A Sub’s governing documents will state that that the Sub’s board can create rules for the Sub, but those rules must be consistent with the master association rules.
Verandah’s CDD East and West – There are two Community Development Districts (CDD) that own nearly 1,500 acres of land and lakes in Verandah. They are governed by Boards consisting of Verandah homeowners. Each CDD provides infrastructure systems, facilities (utilities, storm water management, irrigation and wetland mitigation), conservation services and landscaping along with ongoing operations and maintenance to the Verandah community. RCS – Resource Conservation Service – Verandah has a dual water system. The first line is for potable or drinking water. The second line is the irrigation line, which comes from a non-potable water supply that is pumped into holding ponds. The residential irrigation water is currently generated through well fields owned and operated by Resource Conservation System (RCS), a for-profit company that provides non-potable irrigation water to commercial, residential communities and golf courses in Bonita Springs, North Naples and Fort Myers.
Save the Dates!
Another season of fabulous events brought to you by VWSC. Membership details will be available soon! Visit www.vwsc.club.
Little Black Dress
Tuesday, October 29
Put on your little black dress and join us for an evening of fun and a little surprise. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we will raffle off several great prizes with all proceeds going to Moffitt Cancer Center. Bring cash for raffle tickets!
Sip & Shop
Monday, December 9
Sip, shop, and socialize while checking off a few items on your Holiday shopping list. We have an awesome lineup of vendors, some favorites will return and new exciting vendors will join us. It ’s a great way to find some unique gifts.
Fashion Show
Monday, February 24
Tuesday, March 25
Dillard’s Pop-Up Shop
Monday, November 4
Dillard s is bringing their shop to you! They will set up the season’s hot accessories for you to browse and buy right at the Verandah Club. This event is open to all Verandah members men and women!
Boot Scootin’ Boogie
Tuesday, January 14
Bring on your best cowboy fashions and join us for a Boot Scootin’ Boogie good time featuring our favorite country music songs, dancing, and prizes for the best outfits.
The annual Fashion Show is always a favorite! Once again, we will feature some of our very own beautiful Verandah women who will model the season ’s new looks from the Verandah Golf House and Dillard ’s.
Don your best Boho style for our tribute to Mamma Mia. Enjoy live entertainment with songs from the movie and that era, and the best dance party around. Which character inspires you most? There will be prizes for the best Donna, Sophie, Tanya, Rosie, and Ruby outfits.
Music Bingo Dance Party
Tuesday, April 22
You asked for it, we did it. Back by popular demand! A night for ladies only that includes Music Bingo Dancing Prizes and fabulous food! There is no cash buy in. Come enjoy the fun. This was the perfect fun-filled evening to close out our season last year. Let’s do it again!
Fishing At Verandah
Verandah’s property contains natural flow ways and wetlands that are home to many species of Florida wildlife and birds, and form the backbone of Verandah’s water management system, along with the extensive system of 291 acres of over eight interconnected lakes and ponds. These are owned and professionally managed by the East and West Community Development Districts and the Resource Conservation Service owns two. How Deep Are The Lakes?
The depth of the lakes will depend on rainfall, but generally range from 12 to 20 feet deep. Alligators and other dangerous wildlife are common in and around the lakes, ponds and other bodies of water in this part of Florida, and it is likely that such animals can be found in and around the lakes and the Orange River. Residents are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings at all times and to avoid contact with these animals.
When The Water Level In A Lake Is Down, Can More Water Be Pumped Into It?
Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to raise or lower the water level in the lakes. Whether the level is up or down, they are filled naturally by rainwater – a part of the natural environment at Verandah. Can We Fish In The Lakes?
Fishing is allowed in all Community Development District (CDD)-owned lakes in the community except those lakes marked on the map prohibiting fishing at any time. The map is shown near this article and can also be obtained from the front gatehouse. On all other lakes, you must abide by the following rules:
• No fishing behind private homes (except your own of course)
• No fishing along golf course shorelines
• Use a standard, fly or spin-reel rod only to fish.
• Catch and release fishing is required in lakes.
• A Florida freshwater fishing license is required.
• No kayaks are allowed on community lakes.
• No vehicle parking along Verandah Boulevard to access a fishing area
• No trespassing into a preserve area to access a shoreline
• For your safety, nobody shall enter any areas under construction.
• Minor children (16 and under) may not fish unless accompanied by an adult.
• No fishing after sunset
Residents and/or renters and those accompanying them fish at their own risk and hold the Verandah Community Association harmless for injury or death. Violators of this policy may be subject to the fining policies of the Verandah Community Association (VCA).
Want To Be Like Einstein?
“I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.”
Albert Einstein
FGCU Academy is the right choice for you if you are curious, love to learn new things and want to be entertained. FGCU Academy is the adult learning experience sponsored by Florida Gulf Coast University. The Academy offers over 100 classes in a wide range of subjects for you to enjoy. Classes may be one day to five or more sessions depending on the course.
For example, you could take a science class studying the latest on UAPs – Unexplained Anomalous Phenomena – formerly known as UFOs, join a discussion on different genres in cinema, hear about little known facts and strategies of WWII, improve your Spanish, get wellness tips, explore studies in history, the arts and sciences or how really to use that new Apple watch!
FGCU Academy also has some delightful travels for you. Offered this year are several One-Day Excursions and, if it’s long trips you enjoy, sign on to one of FGCU Academy’s River cruises to such places as Africa, Turkey, Southeast Asia, Scotland and Iceland to name a few. All classes are conducted by experts in their particular fields. You can attend classes at one campus in Fort Myers, two in Bonita Springs, and 11 or more campuses in Naples as well.
FGCU Academy awaits you with fun, engaging, mind expanding and informative classes in many areas of study. If you want to know more and think more about life, past, present and future, FGCU Academy was established just for you. No tests ever!
Contact FGCU Academy to view the 2024/25 catalog at fgcuacademy@fgcu.edu or for more information call (239) 434-4737.
“Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.”
Albert Einstein
Verandah In Bloom
By Barbara Watson, VCA Landscape Committee Member, Florida Master Gardener
As many of you are enjoying your northern gardens this summer, Verandah is also in full bloom, putting on its best display of color. The following are just a few examples of flowering plants that are brightening the Verandah landscape this summer. All pictures were taken in the Verandah.
Ixora: Blooms are scant on this plant in the winter, but this summer, it is a showstopper with its large colorful blooms. The dwarf varieties as pictured are particularly impressive, resembling small bouquets of flowers.
Jatropha: A stand-alone tree or shrub is seen in many yards throughout the Verandah. It comes alive in the summer with its perky red flowers, a favorite of pollinators.
Hibiscus: All varieties of Hibiscus are in full bloom. The variety pictured is Snow Queen.
Comcast Fiber Installation Underway
VCA Management continues to meet with Comcast and their contractors weekly. At the time of writing, they are currently working with Idlewild, arranging to enter the condominium units. They have been digging along Verandah Boulevard and working through the communities in phase 1. At this point, they have started or completed the digging in Cottonwood Bend, Verandah Palm Court,
Thryallis: This shrub grows along the boulevard in groups or singularly. It appears woody and nondescript during the winter months but is now a cascade of yellow flowers. It is a nice complement to the surrounding greenery.
Oleander: Oleander also lines the boulevard in mass plantings. It flowers throughout the year, but much more heavily in the summer.
Poinciana: The hurricane did substantial damage to many of these colorful trees, but they are making a big comeback as seen in the photo.
There are many more flowering plants such as Lumbago, Crepe Myrtle, Duranta, Clerodendrum, Florida Hydrangea and, of course, Firebush, that are at their peak of bloom. Also, our colorful foliage plants are at their best. Caladium, Crotons, Copperleaf, Dracaena and Arboricola are a few that add to the color pallet. Wherever you reside this summer, I hope you are enjoying the beauty of your surroundings!
300 :
Ø Cottonwood Bend (MDU)
Ø Verandah Blvd
Ø Verandah Palm Ct
Ø Winding River Dr
Ø Bramble Cove Ct
Ø Bramble Cove Dr
Ø Shady Bend
Ø Idlewild (MDUs)
Ø Cypress Marsh Dr
Ø Orangetree Bend
Ø Sanctuary Point
Ø Oak Bend
Winding River Court, Bramble Cove, Shady Bend and Idlewild. They will continue to do so in Cypress Marsh, Orangetree Bend, Sanctuary Point, and Oak Bend. We have had minimal breaks and any issues have been addressed immediately. We will have more crews in the coming weeks. Phase 1 has an anticipated completion date of Sept. 15. Take a look at the schedule shown below.
Pon 200 :
Ø Verandah Club
Ø Verandah Blvd
Ø Hammock Creek Way
Ø River Village Way
Ø Mossy Way Ct Ø Mossy Oak Dr
Ø River Point Dr
Ø River Bluff Ct
Ø Pebblebrook Point Cir (MDUs)
Ø Pebblebrook Ridge Ct (MDUs)
Ø Lakeview Isle Ct.
Ø Otter Bend Cir
Ø Citrus Creek Ct
Ø Sabal Pointe Dr
Ø Arlington Hammock Ct
Ø Brantley Oaks Dr
Ø Whispering Oaks Dr
9-1-24 Estimated Completion 12-20-24
Ø Palmetto Grove Dr
Ø Cedar Hammock View Ct
Ø Fairway Cove Ct
Ø Torrey Way
Ø Woodhaven Cir
Ø Edgewater Trace
Ø Willow Haven Ct
Ø Preserves Edge Ct
Ø Heritage Pines Dr
Ø Heritage Preserve Ct
Ø Magnolia Isle
Ø Willow Ridge
Ø Amblewind Dr
Ø Amblewind Cove Way
Ø Verandah Blvd
Let’s Go To Dinner
Roy’s Bonita Springs
This restaurant is located in the Promenade at Bonita Bay. While I try not to review “chain restaurants,” this spot is unique enough to deserve a review. Roy’s combines Asian flavors with European culinary techniques resulting in an inventive and delicious menu.
For appetizers my first choice is the Lobster Potstickers. These tasty morsels are served with a Spicy Miso Butter Sauce.
If ribs are of interest to you, try the Szechuan Spiced Ribs in Roy’s Mongolian Sauce.
There are two salads to try as a first course. The Maui Wowie combines Shrimp, Butter Lettuce and Avocado. This salad is dressed in a Tomato, Caper Lime Vinaigrette and includes a Parmesan Crusted Crostini. Roy’s also offers a traditional Wedge.
Entrees at Roy’s are imaginative and very diverse. I often order the “Butterfish.” This “Butterfish” is Alaskan Black Cod and is presented with Baby Bok Choy and Furikake Rice. (See note.)
If you are “up for it” order the Filet Mignon and Maine Lobster Tail. This dish changes the usual surf and turf sides to Gruyere Scalloped Potatoes and Szechuan Vegetables.
Roy’s also offers other Mains like Sea Bass, Salmon and Short Ribs.
I don’t have much of a “sweet tooth” but, when dessert time comes around at Roy’s, there is one I can highly recommend – their Pineapple Upside Down Cake. The
pineapple is caramelized and is baked with a brown sugar pound cake and is served a la mode.
Heads up. Roy’s is currently offering (through September), a prix fixe menu, three courses for $49. The appetizer choices are Crispy Spring Rolls or a Wedge Salad. I have had both and they are great choices. Entrees have something for everyone – Grilled Salmon, Braised Short Ribs of Beef or my favorite, a combination of Butterfish and those Short Ribs.
Your three-course dinner concludes with a Chocolate Torte served with Berries.
Roy’s is located at 26831 South Bay Drive #100, Bonita Springs, Fla., (239) 498-7697.
Mahalo, Ginger Snap
Note: Furikake is a Japanese seasoning usually made with toasted sesame seeds, nori, salt and sugar.
Seared Scallops With Roasted-Garlic Sabayon
2 heads of garlic
4 teaspoons olive oil
1 1/4 pounds sea scallops or bay scallops
1/2 cup bottled clam juice
3 tablespoons dry vermouth
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
4 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon
1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
3 cups lightly packed arugula
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut top 1/4 inch off heads of garlic to expose cloves. Place garlic heads on large sheet of foil. Drizzle 1 teaspoon olive oil over garlic and wrap loosely but completely in foil; place packet directly on oven rack and roast until very soft, about 45 minutes. Cool. Squeeze garlic from skins into bowl. Using fork, mash roasted garlic until smooth.
Heat 3 teaspoons olive oil in a heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle scallops with salt and
pepper. For sea scallops : Sauté half at a time until opaque in center, about 1 minute per side. For bay scallops : Sauté half at a time until opaque, stirring frequently, about 1 1/2 minutes per batch. Transfer to plate. Tent with foil to keep warm.
Meanwhile, bring clam juice and vermouth to a boil in a small saucepan; remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice. Whisk egg yolks and 2 tablespoons roasted garlic purée in a large metal bowl to blend. Gradually whisk in clam juice mixture. Place bowl over saucepan of simmering water (do not allow bowl to touch water) and whisk until sabayon is thick and creamy and thermometer registers 160 degrees, about 3 minutes. Remove bowl from over water. Whisk in parsley, tarragon and chives. Season sabayon with salt and pepper to taste.
Keeping Cool And Safe While Working Out In Hot Weather
Steamy temps can present the dangers of dehydration and heatstroke or exhaustion. Plus, whenever you exercise outdoors, it’s essential to be mindful of sun exposure. Take these precautions.
• Take time to acclimate. If you’re new to exercising in hot temps or if the season has just shifted to warmer weather, your body needs time to adapt. Keep your outdoor sessions shorter than usual and go easy. According to the journal Sports Medicine , your body may need one to two weeks to acclimate.
• Be on the lookout for early symptoms of heat-related illness. Stop your workout and find shade if you feel weak, nauseated, feverish or dizzy or if you experience muscle cramps. Seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or do not go away.
• Avoid exercising outdoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. if possible. That window is when the sun is the highest and temps will be the hottest.
• Keep hydrated. Drink water before, during and after exercise.
• Wear sweat-wicking clothing. Fabrics, like bamboo or nylon, lift sweat away from your body and dry quickly. Avoid cotton. It traps moisture and heat against your skin.
• Wear sunglasses and a hat too. Make these items a regular part of your outdoor workout gear.
• Slather on a waterproof sunscreen of at least SPF 50. Reapply often if you’ll be outdoors for a while.
• Stay out of the heat all together and work out in the cool air conditioning at Verandah’s private fitness facility, featuring the latest exercise equipment.
Divide arugula among four plates: place scallops atop arugula. Spoon sabayon over scallops and serve. Serves 4.
Consumer Alert
Recognize Business And Government Imposters Who Want Your Money
By Alvaro Puig, Consumer Education Specialist
Scammers pretending to be from the government tell convincing stories to steal your money or personal information. But now they’re taking a new, layered approach — and here are some clues to spot it.
The scammers first say they’re with a company and contact you about a routine problem, like suspicious charges on your Amazon account, a virus on your computer, or an account breach.
The story quickly escalates: They lie and say your name is involved in serious crimes and claim the court is about to seize the money in your bank account or retirement savings. (Also a lie.)
Temperatures And Aggressive Behavior
Studies documenting a link between excessive heat and aggression date back centuries and all declare the same definite association between the two.
Next, they switch from being the bearer of bad news to acting like the hero. How? By (supposedly) connecting you to someone with the government to “help” you fix the problem.
But the person they transfer you to doesn’t work for the government. And they don’t help. They want to trick you into taking cash out of your bank or retirement account and giving it to someone.
Here’s what to know about how scammers try to deceive you:
An increase in violence, frustration and aggressive behaviors occurs annually as the temperature rises. Psychological studies attribute our altered behaviors to the extreme physical discomfort that we feel at higher temperatures.
While it is impractical to recommend staying cool during the blistering Florida summer, and while we have no mechanism to lower the temperature, it is imperative that we recognize that we are all victims of the oppressive heat and more likely to lose our temper.
A 2022 study completed by the Environmental Health Department in the Boston University School of Public Health, found that an increased number of patients went to emergency rooms for mental health conditions as outdoor temperatures rose.
June 28 - August 10
Everyone’s favorite nanny is back! Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she helps teach the family how to value each other again. Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixture of an irresistible story, breathtaking dance numbers and unforgettable songs such as Chim Chim Cher-ee, A Spoonful of Sugar and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.
August 16 - September 21
In a blend of suspense and humor, the renowned Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie, crafts a captivating murder mystery. At a secluded countryside guesthouse, seven strangers find themselves snowed in. Their predicament takes a chilling turn when a police sergeant arrives on skis, revealing there’s a killer among them. As suspicion mounts, each guest unveils their murky past, adding layers of intrigue to unfolding drama.
Dates may be subject to change.
• Scammers try to convince you they’re with the government to gain your trust by faking the caller ID to make it look like a government agency is calling.
• Scammers give you an employee ID or badge number or use the name of a real government employee.
• Scammers send official-looking letters with seals and make up government agency names that sound real but aren’t.
Someone who works for the government won’t tell you to get cash or gold and give it to someone. They won’t tell you to pay with a gift card, wire transfer, payment app, or cryptocurrency. They won’t tell you to keep your conversation a secret or to lie to anyone. They won’t tell you to transfer money from your accounts to “protect” it or for any reason. Only scammers do those things.
Check out How To Avoid Imposter Scams for more advice. And to report an imposter scam to the FTC, go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Interestingly, it was also noted that the number of penalties, in National Football League games, increased at higher temperatures!
It is my hope that if we recognize the effects of heat and humidity on our temperament and our behavior, perhaps we can take a few extra deep breaths and avoid altercations and incidents of aggression.
Think … choose your words and actions more carefully … separate yourself from potential altercations.
Avoiding stressful conditions, while difficult, may allow us to “keep our cool” and prevent behavioral escalation, road rage incidents, etc.
Let’s have a safe and pleasurable summer here in Lee County!
From The Desk Of Sheriff Carmine Marceno
Why Law Enforcement Agencies Must Address Animal Abuse
“They’re just animals.”
“Why would animal abuse be so important to the sheriff?”
“C’mon…it’s just a cat!”
We have heard many similar statements made over the years. After all, why should law enforcement agencies be so concerned about a dog? A cat? A cow?
While all animals share the right to safety and proper treatment, and while the Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) proudly protects our community’s pets, livestock
and wildlife, there are other issues, in regard to animal abuse, that the public must be aware of.
A United States Department of Justice study, “Animal Cruelty as a Gateway Crime,” shared information that we needed to share with our LCSO Animal Cruelty Task Force friends and supporters.
Consider this…
“FBI analysis of the lives of notorious killers suggested that many, if not most, had killed or tortured animals as children. Examples include the following:
• Serial killer Henry Lee Lucas killed at least 11 people between 1960 and 1983. “As a young teenager, Lucas reported having sex with the animals whose throats (he and his halfbrother) would cut open before performing bestiality. He often caught small animals and skinned them alive for pleasure.”
• Albert DeSalvo, the “Boston Strangler” who killed 13 women between 1962 and 1964, trapped dogs and cats in orange crates and then released them to attack each other.
• Between 1964 and 1973, serial killer Edmund Kemper committed at least eight murders. As a teen, he killed both grandparents and beheaded his own mother. “From a broken home, (Kemper) showed all the ‘early warning signs’ of violence to come … playing death games with his sister, beheading her dolls and later cutting the family cat into pieces.”
• David Berkowitz, the “Son of Sam” killer who killed six and wounded several others in New York City in the mid-1970s, poisoned his mother’s parakeet.
• Dennis Rader, the BTK killer (“Bind, Torture, Kill” was his signature on letters to the authorities), killed 10 in Kansas between 1974 and 1991. It’s reported that he used to hang stray animals as a child.
• Jeffrey Dahmer, who raped, murdered and dismembered 17 men and boys between the years 1978 and 1991, reportedly would kill and skin animals and then soak their bones and mount them on stakes in his backyard.
• Patrick Sherill, who in 1986 killed 14 coworkers at an Oklahoma post office and then shot himself, had a history of stealing local pets and tying them to a fence with baling wire.
• In 1997 outside Jackson, Miss., Pearl High School student Luke Woodham stabbed his mother to death and then opened fire on classmates with a rifle, killing two and wounding seven others. Woodham had written of the torture and killing of his pet dog, calling it his “first kill.”
• In May 1998, 15-year-old Kip Kinkel shot his parents to death before emptying three guns at his classmates in Thurston High School in Oregon, leaving one dead and 26 injured. Kip had often bragged to others at school about how he tortured animals.
Our efforts to eliminate animal abuse and mistreatment in Lee County have taken many malicious and corrupt individuals off of the streets. There is no mechanism with which we can calculate the criminal activity and abuse that we have prevented by responding to and investigating allegations of animal abuse.
It is critical to remember that the vast majority of these arrests were initiated by a phone call from a concerned resident.
So … even if you are of the opinion that “it’s just a cat,” please report any and all suspicions of abuse to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency.
Lee County Parks And Recreation
Florida-Friendly And Native Plant Swap
Saturday, Aug. 10, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Karl Drews Community Center, 18412 Lee Road, Fort Myers, FL 33967
Come join us for a morning of plant-related fun with fellow plant enthusiasts! Our plant swap will take place inside the Karl Drews Community Center. To participate, please bring one or more clearly labeled healthy plants! RSVP by calling (239) 533-1470 or emailing TRossi@ leegov.com to reserve a table space.
Did You Know?
There Is No Such Thing As Vegetables, But You Should Eat Them Anyway
The rumors are true: Vegetables aren’t real – that is, in botany, anyway.
While the term fruit is recognized botanically as anything that contains a seed or seeds, vegetable is actually a broad umbrella term for many types of edible plants. You might think you know what carrots and beets are, but carrots, beets and other vegetables that grow in the ground are the true roots of plants. Lettuce and spinach
are the leaves, while celery and asparagus are the stems, and greens such as broccoli, artichokes and cauliflowers are immature flowers, according to Steve Reiners, a professor of horticulture at Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
As for produce that grows from flowers, such as peppers and tomatoes, the hot-debated crops are botanically classified as fruits, Reiners added. Cucumbers, squash, eggplant and avocados are also classified as fruit due to their anatomy, according to the European Food Information Council.
The term vegetable does not have a set definition when it comes to botany. However, in horticulture, the science of growing garden crops, a vegetable is defined as any herbaceous plant – a fleshy plant that completes its life cycle in a growing season – in which some portion “is eaten either cooked or raw, during the principal part of the meal, and not as like a snack or dessert.”
The legal definition of a vegetable versus a fruit – at least in the United States – was determined during a 19th century U.S. Supreme Court case that concluded that the tomato is a vegetable.
While vegetables are just the roots, stems and leaves of plants, experts don’t recommend eating just any roots, stems and leaves.
One example is rhubarb. The fleshy stalk is the edible part of the plant, but the leaves are poisonous. Stay safe by eating plants that grocery stores commonly call vegetables.
“We know (vegetables) are healthy. We know the vitamin content, we know the mineral content,” Reiners said. “We know how much fiber is in all of it, and we also know that the vegetables you either grow or you’re purchasing at a farmers’ market or grocery store are safe to eat.”
By understanding the various parts of vegetables and the nutrients they carry, people can eat well, according to Sherri Stastny, a registered dietitian, and a professor in the Department of Health, Nutrition, and Exercises Sciences at North Dakota State University. Stastny also stated that a head of broccoli is a great source of nutrients, but the stem of the green, which is more commonly thrown out, is also rich in fiber and nutrients. The regular consumption of flowery produce such as broccoli and cauliflower has been found to be associated with a decrease in the risk of cancer, she added.
“Heart disease is still the No. 1 killer in the United States, and we know that if you eat enough fruits and vegetables, you lower your risk for heart disease – and that goes along with obesity, diabetes and all these other chronic diseases. It is important to eat a variety of vegetables since each one will have varying beneficial nutrients,” Stastny said.
Dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale are great sources of certain phytonutrients, natural nutrients from plants that are beneficial to human health and help to maintain sharp eye vision, while carrots will help to strengthen night vision.
Per Stastny, “If you think of the richest, darkest, most colorful vegetables, that’s where you’re going to find those (nutrients),” while potassium-rich vegetables and fruit, such as potatoes, pumpkins and squash, could help to lower and maintain blood pressure.
For parents looking to get young kids to eat their fruits and veggies, breaking down the anatomy of the plant, while describing the colors, taste and texture, could be a fun and educational way of introducing the nutrient-dense foods to the early explorers.
