The Forest Matters Another Seabreeze Publication VOL. 31 NO. 9
www.seabreezecommunications.com
SEPTEMBER 2024
FPOA President’s Update As your correspondent is writing this Tropical Storm Debbie is pelting our community with heavy rain showers. We have three canals within The Forest to handle the drainage necessary for normal rainfall. Whether this storm overwhelms our system and creates some flooding will not be known for a day or so. By the time you read this you will know the answer. Lee County has the responsibility for keeping the canals clear from their beginning all the way to the weirs where the water is allowed to flow into the preserve and, later, into Hendry Creek and then into the Gulf. We, the FPOA, have the responsibility to report to Lee officials when dredging of the canals is necessary. While we are on the subject of water, Lee County has rules about the irrigation, (watering) of the lawns of single-family home properties in The Forest. They must be followed or fines will be given out. Here they are: 1. Odd numbered addresses (numbers which end in 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) may irrigate the lawns on Wednesday and Saturday from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 9 a.m. and from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. 2. Even numbered addresses (numbers which end in 2, 4, 6, 8 and 0) may irrigate on Thursday and Sunday from 12 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. Please follow these rules.
Last week an inspection tour of our roads and sidewalks was taken to determine whether any were in need of immediate repair. Several sections of sidewalks have been damaged by tree roots and will be redone to assure the safety of pedestrians. No roads were found to be in need of repaving. However, a sinkhole on Timberlakes was spotted and will be repaired. Another tour will be taken before the end of this year to check on the conditions of our roads and sidewalks. During the interim please report any anomalies you observe involving our roads or sidewalks to the main gate office: (239) 482-1109. A study will be taken to determine if upgrading our camera systems at our two gates will aid in identifying cars which tailgate residents through our automatic systems. We are all aware how tempting our lakes are to those who fish. Our lakes are connected to the Gulf and contain oceangoing sporting fish such as snook and tarpon along with trophy bass. If you observe some unknown person fishing, please report their position to the main gate office. As reported our executive committee has been operating regularly as has those committees which work to keep our community operating during the summer
Fort Myers YMCA To Host Annual River Nights Charity Event On Oct. 5 The Fort Myers YMCA is thrilled to announce its Annual River Nights Charity Event, taking place at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the historic Burroughs Home and Garden. This elegant evening promises to be a night to remember, featuring an open bar, delectable heavy hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auctions, music and dancing under the stars. All proceeds from the River Nights Charity Event are dedicated to providing essential services to children and families in our community. These funds will support the Fort Myers YMCA’s scholarship program, ensuring that every child has access to safe, enriching after-school care, summer camp, swim lessons, sports, wellness programs, health education and more, regardless of the ability to pay. “The Fort Myers YMCA is committed to serving the children and families in our community, providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can learn, grow and thrive,” said Suzie Starks, Fort Myers YMCA executive director. “Events like River Nights are crucial in helping us raise the necessary funds to continue offering these vital programs and services. We invite everyone to join us for a wonderful evening and support our mission.” The Forest Matters
By participating in the River Nights Charity Event, attendees will directly contribute to the YMCA’s efforts in making a positive impact on the lives of local children and families. This event is an opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable night while supporting a cause that strengthens the community. For more details or to purchase sponsorships and tickets, please visit River Nights Charity Event website or email Suzie Starks at Suzies@ymcaswfl.org or (239) 275-9622. About YMCA Of Southwest Florida YMCA of Southwest Florida is a leading nonprofit strengthening Southwest Florida communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Driven by its founding mission, the Y has served as a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community for more than 175 years. The Y empowers everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, by ensuring access to resources, relationships and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives PRSRT STD and generations, the Y aims US POSTAGE to improve overall health PAID FT MYERS FL and well-being, ignite PERMIT 751 youth empowerment and demonstrate the importance of connections in and across Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, Desoto, Hendry and Glades counties.
months. Our next meeting of the full Board of Directors of The Forest Property Owners Association will take place at 7 p.m. on Sept. 30 at The Forest Country Club. These meetings are open to all residents. At the beginning of each meeting we invite those residents who have questions or comments to speak on whatever subject they believe to be important. Stay well, Chuck Patten, President, Forest Property Owners Association Board of Directors
Downtown Fort Myers In September Art Walk Sept. 6, 5 To 9 p.m. Join us for September Art Walk! You’ll find local vendors, crafters, and artists demonstrating and selling their unique works of art from a wide variety of mediums.
Music Walk Sept. 20, 6 To 10 p.m. The streets of downtown Fort Myers come alive for a one-night-only concert showcasing musicians of all talent levels and a variety of styles! Free to attend! Fun for all ages. For information contact Lauri Langone, (239) 3135129, llangone@rdafortmyers.com.