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The MULLET RAPPER What’s Happening in the Everglades City Area

SEPTEMBER 14 – 27, 2012

© 2012 Snook Publications P O Box 617, Everglades City, FL 34139 Volume VI Issue #168

Celebrating Great Gators Gator of the Week for August 17

Carl Nicholson Gators of the Week for August 24

Kindergarten – Cheyenne Taft First Grade – Katie Collins Second – Sienna Dungan

Gators of the Month (August) Third Grade – Lily Batman

Fourth – Billi Wells Fifth – Brandy Bowen Sixth – McBeth Collins

Seventh – Jasmine Lucas Eighth – Alan Burney

High School – Salem Louwsma

(All Gators of the Month will receive a blue backpack as shown above)

CONGRATULATIONS Facilities Manager, Bob Belliveau (above right), and Head Custodian Van Strickland (above left), along with Vicenta Pablo-Cruz, Zoe-Ann Zynda, and Joel Marrero are to be commended for receiving GCA’s August School of the Month Award for their “teamwork, dedication and superior performance.” Since arriv- ing at Everglades City School in July 2011, Mr. Belliveau has worked hard to bring the grounds and buildings up to the highest standards in the district. Van’s two sons, Coleman and Wade, also earned community service hours for their contribution, as well as Lexie Hendrickson. Ryan Roberts, High School and Middle School Social Studies teacher brought 17 students from the Salvation Army Community Service Program twice during the summer to assist. Our community, school, and district all appreciate the effort of this team to provide the best environment for our teachers and students.

A Message from

COUNTY COMMIS-SIONER

JIM COLETTA “On Tuesday, November 6, I will be making my last visit to the Everglades City area as your County Commissioner. It has been my pleasure to serve you over the past twelve years, but I am looking forward to my retirement. During my retirement, I will be spending quality time with my wife Mary Ann, our four adult children, six grandchildren and a great-grandchild who is our newest addition to the family. Be assured that while my political career may be drawing to a close, my community involvement will continue. I am sure that in the future our paths will continue to cross many times,” commented Commissioner Coletta.

I plan to attend the Everglades City Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 6. Afterwards, I will be having dinner at the Seafood Depot. If you would like to join me for dinner, please call 252-8391 or e-mail me at [email protected].

T I D E T A B L E R E S T A U R A N T S

If you have news, photos, announcements, or articles ... email [email protected] or phone 695-2397.

CONTENTS Calendar p. 2 Living Gulf Coast p. 8 Events p. 3 Local History p. 9 School p. 5 Museum News p. 9 Recipe p. 7 Investments p. 9 Tips p. 7 Florida Tales p.10 Fishing p. 8 Taxing Things p.10 FWC p. 8 Business Spot p.11 TIDES & RESTAURANTS p.11 CLASSIFIED p.12

FEATURE: “AMI Kids” p.7

The MULLET RAPPER What’s Happening in the Everglades City Area SEPTEMBER 14, 2012

email: [email protected] PAGE 2 www.evergladesmulletrapper.com

Nov 4: Clocks Change Nov 6: General Election Nov 7: BigC ORVs Dec 8: Art-in-the-Glades

THRIFT SHOP: Thurs, Sat, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm SKATING RINK: Fri, Sat, 7-10 pm DR DEMARTINO: By appointment only, call office LITTLE GATOR CLINIC: Closed until late fall FOOD PANTRY: Sat, 8:30-10:30 am, Community Church AA: Wed, 5:00 pm, Community Church AL-ANON: Thurs, 12 noon, Community Church NA: Sat, 11:30 am, Community Center (Skating Rink) MUSEUM: Tues-Fri, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; Sat, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm SMALLWOOD STORE: Daily, 11 am to 5 pm

SHERIFF AT CITY HALL: see the notice outside the office

SHERIFF: 695-2007 CITY HALL: 695-3781 PUBLIC LIBRARY: 695-2511 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: 695-3941 AIRPORT: 695-2778 FAKAHATCHEE: 695-4593 BIG CYPRESS: 695-2000 NATIONAL PARK: 695-3311 CURBSIDE TRASH PICKUP (FRIDGES, WASHING MACHINES, TVS): 252-2380 COLLIER COUNTY: 252-8999

SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT

SEPT 9

10 Hour of Prayer

Chokoloskee Church of God

7 pm

11

12Ladies Coffee

Island Café 8 am

13Congressional

Visit City Council Big Cypress AMI Kids

see p.3&7

RAPPER 14

15

new moon 16

17 Hour of Prayer

Holy Family Catholic Church

7 pm

18City Council

see p.3 Superintendent’s Town Hall Mtg

see p.5

19Ladies Coffee Adela Butler’s

Home 8 am

20SAC Mtg

see p.5

21

22National

Hunting & Fishing Day

see p.8

23 Photo

Workshop see p.3

24 Hour of Prayer

Everglades Community Church

7 pm

Photo Workshop see p.3

25

26Ladies Coffee

City Seafood 8 am

27Big Cypress AMI Kids

Graduation see p.3&7

RAPPER 28

29

full moon 30

OCT 1 Hour of Prayer Copeland Baptist

Church 7 pm

ESHP mtg see p.9

2 Congressional

Visit City Council

see p.1

3Ladies Coffee

Patty Huff’s Home 8 am

FME Mtg see p.9

4

5

6

7

Columbus Day 8 Hour of Prayer

Chokoloskee Church of God

7 pm OFCD

Booster Club see p.3

9Voter

Registration Deadline

10Ladies Coffee

Island Café 8 am

11Lions Club

see p.3

RAPPER 12

13Pet Vet

see p.3

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012



Ladies Coffee Every Wednesday the ladies of the community meet for coffee. Everyone (especially new residents and visitors) are invited. Adela Butler will be hosting the coffee on Sept. 19 and Patty Huff on October 3. For info, call 695-2397.

CITY COUNCIL The next meeting will be on Tuesday, September 18, at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall for the second reading of the budget. The regular City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 2. If you would like to speak during Public Comments, you must sign up before the meeting starts.

CONGRESSIONAL VISIT Monica Aranegui, the District Representative in Collier County at the office of Congressman David Riviera, will meet with constituents in City Hall on Tuesday, October 2, at 3:00 p.m. For info, phone 348-1620.

Rookery Bay Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve has announced their upcoming schedule of events. The Learning Center is located at 300 Tower Road, just south of US41 on 951, open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 6-12 and free for members. For more info, call (239) 417-6310 (www.rookerybay.org).

THRIFT SHOP The Reach Out Thrift Shop, behind the fire station, is open from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Thursday and Saturday. If you would like to volunteer, stop in or phone 695-3298.

Photographic Workshop Big Cypress Gallery will be offering a one-day workshop with Brian Call on both Sunday, September 23, and on Monday, September 24. Spaces fill up quickly; telephone 695-2428 for more information or email [email protected].

Big Cypress Preserve Artist-In-Residence Program

Big Cypress National Preserve is now accepting Artist-In-Residence applications from professional writers, composers, and visual and performing artists who wish to pursue their artistic discipline while being surrounded by the Preserve's inspiring landscape. Entries are accepted for the 2013-2014 program with postmarks dated September 1 through November 30.

For more information, visit website www.nps.gov/bicy/supportyourpark/artist-in-residence-program.htm or apply at www.nps.gov/bicy/supportyourpark/artist-in-residence-program-how-to-apply.htm

BIG CYPRESS AMI KIDS Graduation ceremonies for the AMI Kids are scheduled for September 13 and September 27. In addition to celebrating the graduation of the youth who have successfully completed the program, staff will provide facility tours and showcase all of the services offered to the youth. Lunch will be provided to all who attend.

If interested, the festivities kick off at 10 a.m. but all are asked to arrive at the Turner River Road address no later than 10:30 a.m. Please RSVP to Mr. Ron ([email protected]) or Mr. Robbi ([email protected]) by close of business the day before you plan to attend. This will ensure enough food for all in attendance. Contact information is: Big Cypress AMI Kids, 25959 Turner River Road in Ochopee, FL 34141; (239) 695-1001.

(Read more about AMI Kids on page 7)

OCHOPEE FIRE CONTROL DISTRICT

08/26/12: Vehicle Accident, 54 MM I-75 08/26/12: Emergency Med, SR 29 and I-75 08/30/12: Vehicle Accident, 53 MM I-75 08/30/12: Vehicle Accident, 80 MM I-75 08/30/12: Emergency Medical, Ochopee 08/31/12: Emergency Medical, Chokoloskee 09/01/12: Vehicle Accident, 46 MM, US 41 09/01/12: Vehicle Accident, 56 MM I-75 09/02/12: Emergency Medical, Chokoloskee 09/02/12: Emergency Medical, Chokoloskee 09/03/12: Vehicle Accident, 69 MM I-75 09/04/12: Emergency Med, Everglades City 09/06/12: Vehicle Accident, 56 MM I-75 09/08/12: Emergency Med, Everglades City 09/08/12: Emergency Med, Port of the Islands 09/10/12: Fire Alarm, Everglades City 09/11/12: Emergency Med, Everglades City 09/11/12: Emergency Medical, Ochopee ---------------------------------------------------------------- Ochopee Fire Control District Advisory Board will meet Monday, October 8, at Port of the Islands at 4:00 p.m.

BOOSTER CLUB The Booster Club meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Culinary Classroom at the School. Parents and residents are invited to attend and support our school. The next meeting will be on Monday, October 8.

DOCTOR’S CLINIC Dr. Kirk DeMartino of Marco Island will see patients on Fridays by appointment only. You can contact him at (239) 642-5552.

LIONS CLUB The Everglades Lions meets on the second Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the Seafood Depot. The first meeting is on October 11. For info, call 695-2695.

MOBILE PET VET Dr. Lopez will visit Everglades City on the second Saturday of each month. The next visit will be October 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at McLeod Park. Residents may also take their pets to his office in Naples. For more information and appointments, please phone 777-PETS (7387) or visit website www.naplesmobilepetvet.com.

Reach Out Meeting The next Reach Out Meeting is TBA. For information, call Carol at 695-2277.

The MEDICAL CLOSET at the Thrift Shop has canes, crutches,

wheelchairs, walkers, to loan out. Stop by if you need something or

phone Helen at 695-3298.



Daily Weekly Monthly Rentals

River Wilderness

WATERFRONT VILLAS

FREE WI-FI - SCREEN PORCH - CANOES SWIMMING POOL - BOAT RAMP - DOCK - OUTDOOR BBQ

210 Collier Ave. Everglades City, FL 34139 239-695-4499

[email protected]

EVERGLADES LIONS CLUB Serving our community with eye and hearing assistance since the 1950's.

Call us with your needs. New members welcome.

Come join our unique organization. Phone Elaine 695-2695 or email

[email protected]

ANTS-ROACHES TERMITES BED BUGS

FLEAS-TICKS SPIDERS RODENTS



SCHOOL NEWS Everglades City School phone: 377-9800 website: www.collierschools.com/evg

From Savannah’s Eyes I'm so happy right now because we just won our first volleyball game of the season! We played Marco Island Academy and won all three games! We were so proud of ourselves; and when we won that last point, we all came running together

in a circle, screaming and jumping. I can't wait to play our next game with the hope of winning again! Please come and support our volleyball team. We truly love our fans to get excited! This year we have two additional sports for our students: boys’ track teams and girls’ basketball. Of course, we love the other sports like baseball, softball, and boys’ basketball. It's really good to have more choices, just like the other schools. With more sports, we have more opportunity for our school to win games! It's already the third week of school, and it’s passing by so quickly! I love all my classes and teachers. This year I am taking Drivers Ed. Not only does it help prepare you for the driver’s license test, but it also lowers your insurance cost! It is a really fun and great course. I would recommend it to anyone! Can't wait till our next game! Come support the Lady Gators!! Love, Savannah

Savannah Oglesby is a student in the 10th grade at Everglades City School and is a regular contributor to this paper.

1st Town Hall Meeting – Everglades City The first in a series of six Superintendent’s Town Hall Meetings will be held in Everglades City on Tuesday, September 18, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the School Cafetorium. Topics include:

Renewal of Tax-Neutral Referendum; Parent Portal College & Career Pathways; STEM; “A” Grade Schools State Accountability and Graduation Requirements

These meetings present an excellent opportunity to communicate and engage in a meaningful conversation. Superintendent Kamela Patton invites all parents, students and community members to attend this first Town Hall Meeting.

For information, visit www.collierschools.com/townhall.asp.

Welcome, Ms. Myers

Ms. Mindy Myers comes to Everglades City with a long history in Collier County Schools. Moving to Naples in 1971, Ms. Myers graduated from Lely High School in 1978, then the University of South Florida in Tampa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early/Elementary Education and finally earned her Master’s degree in Primary/Elementary Education from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Myers. Since 1987 Mindy has taught students in Naples (Avalon Elementary, Mike Davis Elementary and Manatee Middle School) and in Immokalee at Pinecrest Elementary. She has received accreditation in Early Childhood, Elementary Education, ESOL Endorsement, Educational Leadership Certification, Reading Endorsement and ESE Kindergarten through Grade 12. Ms. Myers also has an Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership and is National Board Certified in Literacy. She was selected Collier County Teacher of the Year in 2005 and Distinguished Educator in 2006. Ms. Myers is a ballroom dance competitor with Modern Steps (next competition in November in Orlando where she “loves to see Mickey.”) Also, she was in the military 6 years prior to becoming a teacher, has a love for ROTC and hopes to see it back here at Everglades City. Everglades City is privileged to have Ms. Myers as its Intervention Support Specialist (INSS) and ESE.

Volleyball Schedule

Monday, September 17 GGHS Varsity at 4:30 p.m. HOME

Tuesday, October 2 SWFL C’Tian JV at 5:00 p.m., Varsity at 6:00 pm AWAY

School Advisory Council SAC meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Media Center. The next meeting will be on Thursday, September 20. Parents and members of the community are welcome. New council members will be elected at the October meeting and all parents will be given an opportunity to serve. A form will be sent to parents asking for their interest in participating. Please complete and return to the school.

Attention Volunteers A special thank you to all who have updated their applications

online! There are still a few volunteers that need to do so (see www.collierschools.com). Also, if you haven't received your new badge, stop by the school (with your I.D.) and get your picture taken by Gina. For more information, call Gina at 377-9800.

IMPORTANT DATES Mon, Sept 17: Early Dismissal Tues, Sept 18: Town Hall Meeting, 6 p.m. Thurs, Sept 20: SAC Media Center, 6 p.m. Thurs, Sept 20: College Night, Golden Gate H.S. Wed, Sept 26: Early Dismissal



DEANO’S A/C and HEATING

Sales Service

Maintenance

CALL ANYTIME

239-253-4860

Licensed CAC 1815185

Open Daily 9 am – 8 pm

Cuban Sandwiches Fish, Steak, Chicken Hamburgers, Pizza

Natural Juices

Located behind Right Choice

Telephone 821-9477



AMI Kids According to AMI Kids’ website www.amikids.org, the mission of this organization is to provide “kids an opportunity to transform into responsible young adults…help kids develop confidence and competency in vital life skills…leading them to acceptance of personal responsibility and assisting them in making better choices.”

Based in Tampa, AMI Kids started in 1969 when Ft. Lauderdale Juvenile Court Judge Frank Orlando was frustrated with seeing the same kids come before his court time after time. The only option for them was “reform” school, but they would soon be back out on the streets again. Judge Orlando wrote an article in the Miami Herald, expressing his frustration. His old friend, Bob Rosof, was conducting research with the Marine Science Department at Florida Atlantic University. After reading the article, he and Judge Orlando saw the opportunity for the troubled boys to work with him and his staff and act as role models, building a relationship in the hopes that the boys would envision a different future for themselves.

The AMI Kids program was organized at the Florida Ocean Science Institute in Boca Raton after receiving support from Senator Louis de la Parte and Ollie Keller. The focus was “changing the lives of kids.” Today over 105,000 youth have entered the program. AMI Kids operates 24 residential programs, 23 day treatment programs, six Infinity Schools and three WINGS programs throughout eight states.

The Big Cypress Wilderness Institute, a non-profit charitable organization, located on Turner River Road is part of the AMI Kids program. Executive Director, Ron Boyce, arrived in July and states that the Institute is part of the Collier County District Alternative Schools. He explained that they are concentrating on three projects: Bikes for Tykes, Bentley Village Senior Center, and the Garden for Hope and Healing at North Naples Hospital. Up to 36 students are enrolled at one time, attending classes. They come from South Florida and range in ages from 14 to 18 years, residing at the Institute for a minimum of six months. Graduation is held the second and last Thursday of each month. For more information, call Ron Boyce at 695-1001.

Recipe for Good Eating

Vegetable Sandwich with Herb Goat Cheese Spread

Submitted by Patty Huff

Ingredients: Spices: 2 Zucchini, cut lengthwise 3 tsp Oregano, Thyme (fresh, chopped) 1 Red Bell Pepper, cut in quarters Salt & Pepper 1 Eggplant, cut crosswise 2 TBS Extra-Virgin Olive Oil 1 TBS Red Wine Vinegar 5 oz Goat Cheese, room temperature 1 tsp Lemon Peel, grated 8 Slices Bread, whole grain 2 Cups Baby Spinach Leaves

In a large roasting pan, place all vegetables in a single layer and drizzle 1 TBS of EVOO on top; sprinkle with salt & pepper. Roast at 400° for 15 minutes, then stir vegetables and continue cooking until vegetables are tender, approximately 10 to 20 minutes more. In a small bowl, combine and whisk ½ oregano and thyme with vinegar and 1 TBS of EVOO. Add vegetables and toss. Mix goat cheese with remaining oregano, thyme and lemon peel. Spread cheese mixture on slices of bread, add vegetables and spinach. Enjoy!!

P.S. Avery Sumner recently returned to visit Everglades City. We talked about the recipes she created at JT’s when she owned and operated this successful restaurant 10 years ago. This is a variation of one of her recipes. Avery now lives in France and continues to write; read about her life and recent travels at www.averystypewriter.wordpress.com.

If you have a favorite recipe to share, please phone or email us. Patty Huff

HOUSEHOLD TIPS Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill it with hot water. Dump out

the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient, such as peanut butter, and watch how easily it comes right out.

Re-opening Envelopes: If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Voila! It unseals easily. Only for old- fashioned "lick-type “mucilage envelopes!

Goodbye Fruit Flies: To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2" with Apple Cider Vinegar and 2 drops of dish washing liquid; mix well. You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!

Get Rid of Ants: Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it 'home,' can't digest it so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed!

Drop a small object on the carpet and can't find it. Place panty hose over the end of the vacuum hose and start vacuuming. The panty hose will keep it from getting sucked into the vacuum.

Need to cut some corn off the cob: Use your Bundt pan. Place the ear on the opening in the center of the pan, and as you slide the knife down the ear, all the kernels will collect in the main part of the pan.

WANTED: The Culinary Class at the School would like donations of eggs, sugar, flour, butter (not margarine), vegetable oil. Also need Brita water filters for a PUR water pitcher (long blue filters). Drop off at school or contact Stacia at 377-9800.



“Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!”® Everglades Adventure University will host a series for women October 13-14

at Port of the Islands. Everglades excursions will also be offered on October 12. Registration starts at $89 and includes networking reception, fundraisers, classes, hands-on practice, meals, goody bags and more. The Friday Everglades excursions and guided fishing on Sunday are additional. This series is held in conjunction and with support from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. LLGF is a national organization dedicated to attracting more women to sport fishing and to promoting conservation and responsible angling. They also promote networking among women anglers and emphasize mentorship between novice and experienced members.

For more information, phone (954) 475-9068; email [email protected] or www.ladiesletsgofishing.com.

RedSnook Tournament Only a few spaces remain for the Redsnook Catch-and-Release Charity Tournament on the weekend of November 2-4 which

benefits the Conservancy. The Tournament is open to all amateur anglers. Awards will be presented to the top teams in each division, largest fish, grand slam, corporate team and top female angler. For an application, see www.conservancy.org/redsnook or telephone 403-4219.

FWC News The FWC has temporarily restricted public access to

portions of the Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area due to high water levels. This area lies in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties. Access to Conservation Area 2A from the L-35B levee north to the east-west airboat trail is still permitted. High water levels force wildlife to take refuge on tree islands and levees, resulting in increased stress for animals. Boaters must maintain a minimum distance of 100 yards from any tree island or levee when operating a vessel or airboat.

For wildlife info and regulations, see www.myfwc.com. Wildlife Alert Hotline: 888-404-FWCC (3922) Angler Tag Return Hotline: 800-367-4461

Did you know? Since 1972 the 4th Saturday in September has been celebrated as National Hunting and Fishing Day in order to promote outdoor sports and conservation. As early as 1842 managing wildlife resources has been an important topic. The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation has two basic principles: “that our fish and wildlife belong to all North American citizens, and are to be managed in such a way that their populations will be sustained forever.” Over the next 100 years legislation was passed to continue protecting and preserving our wildlife. In January 2012 the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies celebrated the 75th anniversary of cooperation between federal and state fish and wildlife agencies and conservation groups. New goals are now being established for the next 75 years. For more info, visit www.nhfday.org.

The Living Gulf Coast by Charles Sobczak

(Excerpt from The Living Gulf Coast available at the Chamber Welcome Center and the

Big Cypress Swamp Visitor Center)

Snail Kite (Rostrhamus sociabillis) Other names: Everglades kite, snail hawk / Status: FL = Endangered and still recovering, IUCN = LC / Length: 14.2-15.7 in. (36-40 cm) / Wingspan: 3.5-4 ft (106-121 cm) / Weight: 12.7-20.1 oz (360-570 g) / Life span: to 15 years / Nests: in mainland SW Florida / Found: Lee Co., Charlotte Co., Everglades Co., Hendry Co., mainland / Months found: JfmamjJASOND (lower case indicates nesting season). In the early 1960s, this neo-tropical species had been reduced to a remnant population of a scarce 25 birds. The DDT ban and the restoration of apple snail habitat resulted in a dramatic rebound. Estimates today put the snail kite population at well over 1,000 birds and growing. During extremely dry years snail kites, like wood storks, will forgo breeding entirely, and many adults will starve. During wet winters, when the snail population explodes, the snail kite’s population does the same, making it a perfect “boom or bust” species. In the worldview, which is what the much larger IUCN looks at, the snail kite is in excellent shape, with stable populations in Central and South America. All kites are raptors, related to hawks, kestrels, and eagles. They are called kites because they soar extensively and

predominantly feed while in flight. The snail kite swoops down and grabs unsuspecting apple snails on the wing, then perches on the ground or a nearby snag and devours the animal inside the shell. The snail kite has a specialized hooked beak allowing it to remove the operculum (the small lid that seals the

living mollusk inside of its shell) and access the snail meat. The arrival of the much larger invasive South American island apple snail taxes the kite’s beak, which is accustomed to feeding on a much smaller snail. It will be interesting to see how or if the snail kite adapts to this change. The limpkin, which is the other Florida bird that lives almost exclusively on snails, has learned to crush the shell of this larger snail and is thriving because of it. For birders, finding and seeing a snail kite in Florida (the only state in the U.S. where the bird occurs) is a dream come true. Several locations identified in this book make this task easy. Look for the snail kite along the fringe marshes of Lake Okeechobee in Glades and Hendry counties and in Harn’s Marsh, located in Lehigh Acres in Lee County. It can also be seen over freshwater marshes in Collier County. It is not a coastal species since the snails it feeds on are not saltwater or brackish-water tolerant.

Aside from falcons and owls, the mature snail kite has few natural predators. The chicks and eggs fall prey to snakes, alligators, and other mammalian predators. The largest impact to its population is the abundance, or lack thereof, of apple and island apple snails. Photos by Judd Patterson

Charles Sobczak lives and writes on Sanibel Island. To find out more about the author and his books, visit www.indigopress.net.



LOCAL HISTORY

LANDRUM’S FISH CAMP Thanks to Donny Barton who sent us this photo of Landrum’s Fish Camp, opposite the Everglades City Motel and near the Lake Placid “point” where the trains used to turn around.

Jim was born in Ft. Myers and moved to Everglades City in 1963, a year after his parents opened Landrum’s Fish Camp on property leased from the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad. He graduated from high school here in 1964, went to work at the Fish Camp and continued running the business after his parents retired in 1973. Six years later, in 1979, the Fish Camp moved to the marina at the Captains Table where it continued until it closed in 1983. Jim now operates “Landrum’s Fisherman’s Supply” at 102 Ixora Street, a block south of Right Choice Supermarket. He has marine hardware, Nissan outboards, Gheenoe boats and storage facilities. Call him at 695-2741 for more information.

ESHP News The Everglades Society for Historic Preservation is getting ready for the busy winter season with an exciting calendar of activities. The highlight will be the popular Homes Tour but there are also ideas for more Film Nights, talks, and Nostalgia Nights.

Tell us what you want! Everyone is invited to the next Board meeting on Monday, October 1, at 8:30 a.m. in City Hall when the agenda will focus on events. For info and to suggest ideas, talk to Marya at 695-2905 or Patty at 695-2397.

SMALLWOOD STORE The Smallwood Store and Museum in Chokoloskee is now open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Stop by and visit this historic site to see what life was like in this community 100 years ago.

MUSEUM of the Everglades NEWS

Kayla Goodman and her father Dennis were honored at a well-attended reception in the Pauline Reeves Gallery on Saturday, September 8. Their photographs on canvas will be on exhibit through September in the Museum of the Everglades. Please drop by to see these beautiful

images of our environment. All photos are available for sale.

The Museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. There is no admission charge, but donations are welcome. For more information (or to volunteer at the

Museum) phone Martha at 695-0008. When in Naples, be sure to visit the Collier County Sheriff’s office in Building J at the Government Center to view the Storter Collection which will continue to be on exhibit through October. The Friends of the Museum will have their next Board Meeting at the Museum on Wednesday, October 3, at 3:30 p.m. If you would like to become a member of the Friends of the Museum, visit website www.evergladesmuseum.org and download an application or call Helen Bryan at 695-3298. All members are welcome to attend the monthly meetings.

INVESTMENT INSIGHTS by Darcie Guerin, CFP®

Raymond James & Associates, Inc.

“Real difficulties can be overcome; it is only the imaginary ones that are unconquerable.”

Theodore N. Vail, 1845-1920, AT&T President

If you are anticipating major changes to estate and gift tax rules in 2013, now is the time to review and maximize your financial legacy planning. Laws affecting estate and gift taxes are set to expire at the end of 2012.

What is a gift? The IRS defines a gift as the transfer of property (any asset) while receiving nothing, or something of lesser value in return. Gifts can be made to provide financial assistance to family members (or others), to reduce the value of an estate before death, or to shift income from one taxpayer to another.

The first $13,000 per donor per recipient ($26,000 per couple) is excluded on an annual basis from gift tax. Gift tax is levied on amounts exceeding these figures and the IRS limits. If a gift exceeds the annual exemption, the amount is applied to the donor’s lifetime gift limit and affects the donor’s estate tax calculation. The IRS doesn’t consider certain transfers such as direct payments of tuition or medical expenses, transfers between spouses and annual transfers that do not exceed the maximum.

Gifting may be a useful strategy for donors and is often a component in legacy planning. There are additional techniques for transferring wealth that also provide benefits. Assets may be transferred during an individual’s lifetime as well as upon death.

Please consult with the appropriate tax or legal professional regarding your particular circumstances before making any investment decisions. Information obtained from outside sources believed to be reliable.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame logo), which it awards to individuals who successfully complete initial and ongoing certification requirements. Diversification and strategic asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss.

This article provided by Darcie Guerin, CFP®, Associate Vice President, Investments & Branch Manager of Raymond James & Associates, Inc. Member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC 606 Bald Eagle Dr. Suite 401, Marco Island, FL 34145. She may be reached at (239) 389‐1041, email [email protected]. Website: www.raymondjames.com/Darcie.



Florida Tales “Cone Heads”

by Chester Keene Two young dispatchers were working the late shift and it was a slow night. In time they became bored after doing the filing and paperwork. The chief caught them goofing off while they were thinking of ways and things to entertain themselves and chewed them out. He told them after he got their attention they were acting like a pair of Dunces; then he left. Being attentive to the wise words of the Chief and not to disregard their lecture and new title, they hatched a plan. Next night the Chief drove by the Station, the front door was glass and you could see into the front desk room lobby. The old Police Station was at 8th St. So. and 8th Ave. So. in Naples. What he saw was two Cones appearing from behind the dispatch room desk which divided the lobby and the Radio Room. What is this, he thought? He parked to the side of the police parking lot, walked up and threw open the door to the lobby. The two were not prepared to catch the wrath of about what he was to put on them. "What do you think you’re doing dressed like that"? Both told him they had taken his advice and had made some Conehead Dunces Hats with DUNCE wrote on them (It was one of those Gotcha moments). He left the station mumbling something and shaking his head. Later on in life there was a series on T.V. called Coneheads. I wonder.

Chester Keene is a retired law enforcement officer and Florida native. He retains the copyright to this article.

SHERIFF’S REPORT If you have any information concerning criminal or

suspicious activity, please notify the Collier County Sheriff’s Office immediately at 252-9300 non-emergency or “911” for emergencies.

Everglades Book Club Last season a group of enthusiastic winter residents thought it would be a good idea to start our own “book club” here in the Everglades City area. We met

several times, made a list of interesting books to read and scheduled the first meeting of the 2012-2013 “Everglades Book Club” for Thursday, November 15, when we'll discuss "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder. For more information about the Club or if you would like to join, call Patty at 695-2397.

TAXING THINGS by Mike the Tax Guy

We are now near the end of the calendar year, meaning that Congress should be done fighting over the tax rules by January. Meanwhile, it’s not too soon to start preparing. A few of thoughts to keep in mind: Income from your farming or fishing business: You may be able to avoid making any estimated tax payments by filing your return and paying your entire tax due on or before March 1st of the year your return is due. This rule generally applies if at least 2/3 of your total gross income was made from farming or fishing in either the current or the preceding year. If you choose not to file by March 1st, you can make a single estimated tax payment by January 15, to avoid an estimated tax penalty. Income and expenses from fishing are reported on either Form 1040, Schedule C or Form 1040, Schedule C-EZ. Fishermen may also be required to file Form 1040, Schedule SE to figure self-employment tax if their net earnings from fishing are $400 or more. Also see the "Fishing Tax Center" on IRS.gov for additional information on fishing income, deductions, and other tax issues for commercial fishing.

Miscellaneous Deductions: If you are able to itemize your deductions on your tax return instead of claiming the standard deduction, you may be able to claim certain miscellaneous deductions. You can deduct the amount of certain miscellaneous expenses that exceed 2 percent of your adjusted gross income, including; unreimbursed employee expenses such as searching for a new job in the same profession, certain work clothes and uniforms, work tools, union dues, and work-related travel and transportation. Tax preparation fees, and other expenses that you pay to produce or collect taxable income, manage, conserve, or maintain property held to produce taxable income, or determine, contest, pay, or claim a refund of any tax. Examples of other expenses include certain investment fees and expenses, some legal fees, hobby expenses that are not more than your hobby income and rental fees for a safe deposit box if it is not used to store jewelry and other personal effects.

Deductions Not Subject to the 2 Percent Limit: The list of deductions not subject to the 2 percent limit includes casualty and theft losses from income-producing property such as damage or theft of stocks, bonds, gold, silver, vacant lots, and works of art. Gambling losses up to the amount of gambling winnings. Impairment-related work expenses of persons with disabilities; losses from Ponzi-type investment schemes. There are also many expenses that you cannot deduct such as personal living or family expenses.

FLORIDA FLORA Bottle Palm

(Hyophorbe lagenicaulis) by Patricia Huff

This beautiful palm growing in our yard has been featured before in this column, but now the flower inflorescences are encircling the

trunk just below the crown shaft. The Bottle Palm is a native of the Mascarene Islands, east of Madagascar but does well in our South Florida climate in well-drained sandy areas.



RESTAURANT NEWS

Camellia Street Grill (695-2003): Re-opening mid-October

City Seafood (695-4700): 6:00 am – 6:00 pm; daily Fish Market also open

Everglades Seafood Depot (695-0075): 10:30 am - 10:00 pm; daily

Everglades Scoop (695-0375): Closed for the summer

Gator Express (695-3937): 7:00 am – 5:00 pm; Sun - Thurs 7:00 am – 6:00 pm; Fri, Sat Subway re-opening Sept 21

Glades Haven Deli (695-2091): 6:00 am – 6:00 pm; Sun - Thurs 6:00 am – 9:00 pm; Fri, Sat

Havana Café (695-2214): Closed for the summer

Island Café (695-0003): 6:00 am – 9:00 pm; daily

Ivey House (695-3299): 6:30 – 9:30 am; daily Continental breakfast, box lunches

Joanie’s Blue Crab Café (695-2682): 11:00 am – 4:00 pm; Thurs thru Mon

Oyster House Restaurant (695-2073): 11:00 am – 9:00 pm; Sun thru Thurs 11:00 am – 10:00 pm; Fri, Sat

Pizza Place and Sandwiches (821-9477): 9 am – 8 pm; daily

Rod & Gun (695-2101): 7:00 – 10:00 am Breakfast; daily 11:30 am - 9:00 pm; daily

Susie’s Station (719-0190): 11:00 am - 5:00 pm; daily

Triad Seafood (695-0722 or 695-2662): Re-opening October 1

Right Choice Supermarket (695-4535) 9:00 am – 7:00 pm, Mon-Sat 10:00 am – 6:30 pm, Sun

Grimm’s Stone Crab (695-3222) Re-opening in October

Loco’s Produce Frank’s cell phone (239) 462-7050

7:00 am - 4:00 pm; Saturday ECity Post Office

SSEEAAFFOOOODD FFEESSTTIIVVAALL

Sponsors are needed for our 40th Annual Seafood Festival on February 8, 9, 10, 2013.

For information, visit the Festival office behind Island Café from 1:00-4:00 p.m. or phone 695-2277 or visit the official website at www.evergladesseafoodfestival.com where you can also download vendor application forms.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Right Choice Pizzeria closed last month after many years of offering Andy’s homemade specialty pizzas. Andy has moved on to another venture in town, and we will miss him! In the same location, a new business “Pizza Place & Sandwiches” opened on September 8, and it will continue to serve not only pizzas (cheese, pepperoni, and ham) but also sandwiches (see menu below). The take-out restaurant is conveniently open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Picnic tables are also available on site. You may call ahead to order in advance at 821-9477, and fishermen may also call a day ahead to have their sandwiches available before leaving in the early morning hours. (I would recommend the Cuban sandwich – delicious! Patty Huff)

TIDES FOR BARRON RIVER Lat: 25.87ºN Long: 81.37ºW http://TIDESANDCURRENTS.NOAA.GOV

09/14 Fri 02:13am 2.8 H 09/14 Fri 09:04am 0.5 L 09/14 Fri 02:12pm 3.3 H 09/14 Fri 09:36pm 0.2 L 09/15 Sat 02:40am 3.0 H 09/15 Sat 09:45am 0.3 L 09/15 Sat 02:52pm 3.4 H 09/15 Sat 10:13pm 0.3 L 09/16 Sun 03:06am 3.1 H 09/16 Sun 10:27am 0.2 L 09/16 Sun 03:33pm 3.3 H 09/16 Sun 10:50pm 0.3 L 09/17 Mon 03:32am 3.2 H 09/17 Mon 11:10am 0.0 L 09/17 Mon 04:18pm 3.2 H 09/17 Mon 11:26pm 0.5 L 09/18 Tue 03:59am 3.3 H 09/18 Tue 11:56am -0.1 L 09/18 Tue 05:09pm 3.0 H 09/19 Wed 12:04am 0.6 L 09/19 Wed 04:30am 3.4 H 09/19 Wed 12:45pm -0.1 L 09/19 Wed 06:09pm 2.8 H 09/20 Thu 12:43am 0.8 L 09/20 Thu 05:08am 3.3 H 09/20 Thu 01:40pm 0.0 L 09/20 Thu 07:18pm 2.6 H 09/21 Fri 01:28am 0.9 L 09/21 Fri 05:58am 3.2 H 09/21 Fri 02:44pm 0.1 L 09/21 Fri 08:36pm 2.4 H 09/22 Sat 02:28am 1.0 L 09/22 Sat 07:13am 3.1 H 09/22 Sat 03:56pm 0.2 L 09/22 Sat 10:01pm 2.3 H 09/23 Sun 03:56am 1.1 L 09/23 Sun 08:55am 3.0 H 09/23 Sun 05:11pm 0.2 L 09/23 Sun 11:32pm 2.4 H 09/24 Mon 05:24am 1.0 L 09/24 Mon 10:28am 3.0 H 09/24 Mon 06:18pm 0.2 L 09/25 Tue 12:33am 2.5 H 09/25 Tue 06:35am 0.9 L 09/25 Tue 11:47am 3.0 H 09/25 Tue 07:16pm 0.2 L 09/26 Wed 01:08am 2.6 H 09/26 Wed 07:33am 0.7 L 09/26 Wed 12:50pm 3.1 H 09/26 Wed 08:06pm 0.3 L 09/27 Thu 01:34am 2.7 H 09/27 Thu 08:22am 0.5 L 09/27 Thu 01:40pm 3.2 H 09/27 Thu 08:51pm 0.3 L

EVERGLADES CITY Lat: 25.87ºN Long: 81.37ºW

see www.weather.gov for weather and www.nhc.noaa.gov for storms



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The MULLET RAPPER What’s Happening in the Everglades City Area

PUBLISHER Patricia A. Huff, Snook Publications

P O Box 617, Everglades City, FL, 34139 (239) 695-2397, [email protected]

EDITORS Patty Huff & Marya Repko

CONTRIBUTORS Helen Bryan, Linda Friar, Darcie Guerin, Chester Keene, Mike Klein, Bill Lindsay,

Savannah Oglesby, Charles Sboczak

PRODUCTION layout: Marya Repko, printing: Hinson Studios

PUBLISHER’S STATEMENT We aim to provide local news of interest to the extended community

of Everglades City, Chokoloskee, Plantation Island, Lee Cypress, Copeland, Jerome, and Ochopee.

We strive to present the facts accurately with no political bias or personal opinion.

The views expressed in signed articles are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES 25¢ per issue or $38 per year by US Post

© 2012, Snook Publications. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission.

www.evergladesmulletrapper.com

See the Rapper in full color! Visit our website.

PET PICS Thanks to Jürg Furer for this photo of “Awu”, his Basenji which is an old rare breed. Jürg, a regular visitor to ECity from Switzerland, says “he is almost like a cat” and doesn’t really bark, sort of purrs.” To learn more, see www.schensi.ch.

Send us your Pet Pics by email or post.

Everglades Area Hot Lines Narcotics Anonymous (NA) 239-216-1208 Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 313-530-3395 AlAnon 239-263-5907

12-Step Meeting Schedules are available in City Hall and

Chokoloskee Post Office

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Museum of the Everglades Phone Martha 695-0008.

Reach Out Thrift Shop Phone Helen 695-3298

JOBS ---------------------------------------------------

PUT YOUR JOB ADS IN THE RAPPER no charge! phone us at 695-2397

--------------------------------------------------- Staff wanted at youth program in Ochopee. Call Robbi at 695-1001.

------------------------------------------ Wanted: Housecleaner. Please email [email protected] or phone 616-558-9235.

--------------------------------------------------- Staff wanted at Subway. See John at Gator Express or phone 695-3937.

---------------------------------------------------

Tutoring Classes Offered Danielle Swisher is offering tutoring classes in various subjects. She also offers piano and other music lessons. All classes are private and customized For info and fees, call (239) 280-8971 or e-mail her at [email protected].

SNOOK CLASSIFIED

------------------------------------------------------ FOR SALE: 16’ kayak style sailboat, all accessories. $200 or best offer. Call 239-695-3298. --------------------------------------------------- FOR SALE BY OWNER: Lot on Chokoloskee; on canal behind Post Office. Call (561) 622-6011 or email: [email protected]. ------------------------------------------------- FOR SALE BY OWNER: 3 lots in Chokoloskee, 2 on Calusa Dr, Lot M-4; Lot M-5 (filled); Lot by cemetery. Call (419) 441-2068 or (740) 864-2179. --------------------------------------------------- FOR RENT: Studio apartment for rent. $600 a month or 1200 sq ft commercial space with office & handicapped-accessible bath w/shower plus apartment for $1000 a month. Call 239-340-4770. --------------------------------------------------- FOR SALE: If you're into fishing, this is the place for you! Lovely duplex with each unit having 2 bedrooms & 2 baths. Lower level completely redone. Located in Chokoloskee on a canal, deeded waterfront, with dock & lift. Reduced to $299,900. Call Bonnie Woodward, Keller Williams Realty, (239) 860-6369. --------------------------------------------------- FOR SALE: 14” Wood Cutting Band Saw, good condition. Call 695-0243. -------------------------------------------------

CLASSIFIEDS only $10/issue phone 695-2397 or email us at [email protected]

FREE Royal Poinciana Small Seedlings

Call Patty 695-2397

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