Letters to the editor for Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Letters to the editor should be 250 words or less. Include your name and city or community of residence. Guest opinions should be 600 words or less and include a brief summary of the author’s credentials relevant to the topic. Guest opinions may include a head shot of the author. For the Fort Myers News-Press, email submissions to mailbag@news-press.com and for the Naples Daily News to letters@naplesnews.com

Everglades community center

Since Hurricane Ian, the community center of Everglades City has been closed with no plans to be restored. This building has served as the skating rink and center for children’s activities for generations. The community wants answers from the city’s planning and zoning team but all questions have gone unanswered for the past 11 months. With the rest of the town finally getting back to “normal,” the children are excited to get back to their activities; however, in a tiny town like Everglades, we don’t have many resources or places for the local kids to go outside of school.

Savanna VonSteenburgh, Ochopee

Appearances matter

Interesting that Brian Hamman resigned his position as CEO/president of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce to "focus on his family" including his ailing father.

How interesting also was the timing of this announcement. Citizens for Government Accountability CGA/SWFL, had been doing research on a possible "conflict of interest" which he recently became aware of. The county attorney opined that he could not find any legal problem with Hamman taking the post in addition to his position as Lee County commissioner. But he also advised that Hamman recuse himself from voting in favor of contracts involving Chamber members to which Hamman agreed.

However, Mr Hamman, contrary to his promise not to do so, actually did vote in favor of contracts. In June, 2023, alone, CGA/SWFL found Mr. Hamman voted on contracts to Sam Galloway Ford and Chris-Tel Construction and for expenses to be paid to, among others, Panther Printing, Caloosa Tent & Rental and the Banyan Hotel -- all Chamber members.

While not illegal, Hamman served 13 months in both capacities. For whatever reason, Commissioner Hamman did the right thing in stepping down. Appearances matter.

Charlotte Wheatcraft, Fort Myers

Insight about commissioner

It’s a simple matter, in the bigger scheme of things and yet as a loose piece of thread when pulled, often takes down a whole hem, a small lie often opens up worlds of a personality.

A recent article on page 3A in the Naples Daily News offers a specific example. It seems that a certain gentleman, in running for  the commissioner's office in District Two, led the voters to falsely believe that he was the incumbent, which was unfortunate for those running against him, on their own merits.

Upon investigation by the Florida Elections Committee, it was found that Commissioner Chris Hall was indeed guilty of the misrepresentation, and was fined.

The commissioner, upon being asked about the judgment, did not accept responsibility for his actions, but  referred to  Isaiah 54:17, invoking the Bible, no less. "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness, is of me, saith the Lord."

Thank you, Commissioner Hall, you’ve given us insight into your character and personality.

Maureen Trerice, Naples

Legion post a great help

I wanted to take a moment to recognize a local organization for the good that they are doing. For some time, the American Legion Post 135, here in Naples, has provided free medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, etc. to anyone who needs them. No questions asked. No requirements to meet. All they ask is that when you are done with the items you return them so that they can be cleaned up and passed along to the next person in need. They truly are a great help for many who cannot afford equipment, or whose insurance isn’t coming through in time to get them what they need. I have referred many people to them over the years, and they have never turned anyone away empty handed. It’s not often that these letters focus on the positive, so I wanted to use this platform to highlight this quiet act of public service, and to thank them for all that they do.

Patricia Hamel, Naples

Degrading treatment

I’m writing on behalf of my neighbor, a senior citizen. Spin City Arcade and Spinners Arcade have been in business over 20 years in Fort Myers. On July 25 Spin City was raided. Five senior citizens, including my neighbor and his sister, were read their Miranda rights, had their drivers licenses photographed and had photo head shots taken. The officers wore hoods with only their eyes showing. Customers were warned that if they were caught again, they could receive a misdemeanor. Very degrading. My neighbor was concerned that if the arcade was illegal why didn’t the sheriff’s department post a warning “Enter at your own risk.”

To some senior citizens, these arcades are one of their few enjoyments in life. They don’t care to travel 40 miles to and from the nearest casino (SR82-SR29). We would like to see the state issue these arcades legal permits and provide gambling tax forms for winning over $1,200.

Judith Wood, Fort Myers

Reality or imagination

Toddlers start understanding the difference between reality and imagination by the time they reach 3-4 years old. Those distinctions are "fuzzy" to a Collier School Board member.  At the last regular meeting, Jerry D. Rutherford (age 86), opposed the book "Took: A Ghost Story," because it “has witchcraft and other things in it. “ He supported his "no vote" on a graphic novel version of "The Witches" because “Witches are real,” he said. “They’re active in today’s world… Why do you think the police department checks up on cats that get killed and other animals like that? They are active, and if you talk to a real one, in today’s world, they’ll tell you what they’re doing… If you don’t recognize spiritual activity that’s happening in today’s world,” Rutherford continued, “I think you’re just not reading all the proper information.” Taxpayers elected Sheriff Rambosk to protect us from real people. Rutherford is uncertain about which is witch.Bebe Kanter, founder of Quiet Collier, Naples

Arcades will be missed

How many people have lost their job? How many empty stores will there be? How much lost taxes being paid and rent to owners of said stores? The casinos/arcades did nothing wrong to be shut down. No one was pulled in by the hair on their head. They were safe with security and a place for mostly seniors to go to for some conversation. Most provided some kind of lunch/dinner snacks, drinks. Most matched play of 20.00 for 20.00 or some 10.00 or five depending on the day. Are the big casinos going to provide free bus, with money to play and some for food? A lot of seniors would not go because of too long a ride and stay too long. Florida voters voted for casinos in Fort Myers? Today I am so lonely with no one to talk to or anything to do. DEPRESSING! I will miss everyone.

Charlotte Bernhardt, North Fort Myers

Cadets thank their community

Two former students of Barron Collier High School, Anthony Tinerella, class of ‘17, and Austin Henning, class of ‘21, are currently at the United States Military Academy and are starting their junior year in two of the highest positions the Academy offers to juniors as roommates. Henning is the first sergeant for a brigade of 3,000 people and Tinerella is leading his “ACT” program that helps address the problems of sexual assault, equal opportunity and fostering healthy climates. They both are about to affirm into the U.S. Army for the next seven years and are very appreciative of the opportunities that their community and former school have given them to be in the positions they are in today.

Anthony Tinerella, Naples

The humane thing

Regarding the two cocker spaniels dumped at the Humane Society of Naples initially reported on March 5. One died before medical services could be provided. Now it is August and we read that the surviving dog is to have surgery to remove his eyes and ear canals.  To my thinking these procedures would be cruel, especially given the poor condition the dog is in. Why is euthanasia not a better alternative? The Humane Society should do the humane thing.

Ethel Buchbinder, Naples

Keep Jaycee Park as it is

Cape Coral City Council has proposed changing the number one rated neighborhood park in the city, Jaycee Park, to a community park complete with six food trucks, a bar, 24 boat docks, a bandshell, a boardwalk, all shade pines removed, and perimeter parking. For 50 years the park has been an oasis for children who love the playground, families who picnic, celebrate birthdays, graduations, and weddings, Dog walkers can be seen all day, yoga and exercise classes take place, meetings and city races happen. Jaycee Park has been voted the number one park in the city because of ease of access by walking or biking, because it is not crowded, because it has a beautiful view of the river, and particularly because of its shade. This park was donated to the public to be used for recreation, and it is beloved. This is a park for the common man, not the boaters and the drinkers who have plenty of other places to do this activity. This is a place for the public who could never afford to live on the river to come, a truly green space for city residents. Upset with the change? Attend a City Council meeting and speak for the park. Send a post card to your council person.

Sally Flash, Cape Coral

Potential conflict

I have to admit I was surprised by Bill Smith's article in The News-Press regarding County Commissioner Brian Hamman's resignation as president of the Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Smith is a very respected journalist and usually gives more than a "press release" report. The front-page article you ran on the Hamman resignation mentioned none of the votes he made as county commissioner, which favored several members of the Chamber of Commerce.

I'm sure Mr. Hamman saw no conflict but appearances are important in the political climate we live in. The purpose of The News-Press should be to cover all aspects of such a controversial position and the sudden resignation of the president of the Chamber, held by the chairman of our county commissioners. Didn't he understand his voting record would be inspected by people who believed his two positions represented a potentially serious conflict?

Patty Duncan, Fort Myers

Wake up, Lee County citizens

I attended the Lee County Charter Review Commission on Tuesday evening and left with a bad taste in my mouth.  The commission members are appointed by the county commissioners and no way represent the demographics of the county.  Further, the commissioners ask the appointees how they will vote on a subject before approving them to serve.

This is a review mandated to take place every eight years.  The past history of this committee is a running record of doing absolutely nothing.  When this was brought up and a request to lower the bar to a reasonable level, the idea was squashed.

Lee County does not have a code of ethics and while the idea of having one is still breathing, the recommendations were to incorporate it into the clerk’s department.  Seems to me that is tantamount to having the fox guard the hen house.

A deputy county attorney was adamant, even though this committee is scheduled to run until September 2024, that this was the last time for a new topic to be introduced.  WHY?  WHY?  WHY?

Watching this spectacle made it easy to understand why the public does not attend.  However, this is a catch 22 because not attending further emboldens the politicians, if that is possible.

This is nothing but a show to make the citizens believe that this county is run fairly and for its citizens.

Wake up Lee County citizens and take an active interest.  This mess can be straightened out but it takes you to make it happen.  The resignation of the CEO of the Chamber of Commerce is a good example of what can be done with some effort.

Norman Cannon, Fort Myers

Request mail-in ballot now

Our votes in the upcoming elections are more critical than ever. Recent voting law changes invalidated all Vote By Mail registrations at the end of 2022. If you want to vote by mail, you will need to submit a new request to receive a mail-in ballot. Make your request now to be sure you receive your mail-in ballot. Just go to the Lee County voter website, www.lee.vote, to submit an online request or to print a form to fill out. Or call Lee Elections at 533-VOTE. Be sure to check the website afterwards to ensure your voting record reflects your updated request. The website is easy to navigate and has lots of good information to help Lee County voters.

Whether by mail, or in person, PLEASE VOTE.

Janet Johnson, Fort Myers

Problems with park plan

The Pelican Bay Foundation is proposing to Collier County to modify the Pelican Bay Community Park on Vanderbilt Beach Road by installing 20 pickleball courts, refurbishing eight tennis courts and adding 45 parking spaces. When this is completed Pelican Bay residents will play pickleball on 10 courts and tennis on three courts without charge.  The other residents of Collier County will pay for the privilege of playing on the remaining courts.  Pelican Bay residents have many times more income and assets than the average Collier County resident, whose median income is $82,750, and they play for free?  The perception of Collier County residents will surely be that “wealthy” Pelican Bay residents are using their privileged status at the expense of the rest of Collier County. There are other issues here also such as: loss of green space for North Naples residents; noise and disturbance of pickleball for other park users; increased traffic along roads leading in to and out of this park; parking -- whereas formerly residents could park in the lot to go to the beach and to the park, now there are only 45 new spaces for the 20 courts, parking will be scarce.

I call upon Collier County commissioners to vote “no” on the proposed management agreement with the county at their August 22 meeting. I urge citizens concerned about this to voice their opinion to their commissioner.

Anne Georger-Harris, North Naples

Flood insurance premiums

I have lived in Florida since 1987, 36 years.

I have paid flood insurance premiums each year. I want to thank homeowners in all of the other landlocked U.S. states who have paid flood insurance premiums for subsidizing my insurance.

Now because of the new Risk Rating 2.0 used by the National Flood Insurance Program that uses up-to-date actuarial methods, I finally have to pay the amount of flood insurance premium commensurate with the risk associated with my living in a flood prone coastal state. This sounds fair to me even though I don’t like higher premiums. (NFIP says 70% of premiums increased by less than $10 a month)

Why should other taxpayers pay more so I can take greater risk living in a flood prone area? Why should homeowners living on high and dry land (LaBelle, Lehigh Acres) pay to reduce premiums for the wealthy who build mansions along Florida’s coastlines?

Yet, your Republican leaders who used to claim to be for personal responsibility are now suing the federal government to stop this.

So let’s be clear, Republican leaders deny climate change, as a result sea levels rise, more disastrous rain events occur, Florida homes and businesses get flooded, Republican leaders demand taxpayers in states with lower risk of flooding to pay to repair our flood damaged properties (like Trump’s Mar-a-Lago mansion I suppose). Is this fair?

The worst part is that poor or irresponsible financially able people may drop flood insurance altogether (assuming they have no mortgage company requiring it) and then come begging taxpayers like you and me (that is, the government) for financial assistance when their property is flooded, shifting the cost to you and me. Is that fair?

We need a system that rewards people who choose to live in low risk areas and make those who choose to live where it floods often to pay for the consequences of their choice.

Isn’t that something Reagan or Eisenhower would say? You know what you need to do!

Robert Geltner, North Fort Myers

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Letters to the editor for Wednesday, August 16, 2023