We as citizens of this community, recognize the worldwide problem of violence against women occurs even here in Lee County, Florida; and

Whereas, violence against women is traumatic to the body, mind and spirit and can prevent people from being fully active participants at home and in the world; and

Whereas, violence against women costs the nation billions of dollars annually in medical expenses, police and court costs, shelters and foster care, sick leave, absenteeism and non-productivity; and

Whereas, in spite of some progress, we need only to look at our newspapers or watch a television newscast to see the unfortunate truth that violence against women has not yet been eliminated here in Lee County or around the world; and

Whereas, we applaud the efforts of individuals and organizations such as the Zonta Club of Fort Myers, the Zonta Club of Sanibel-Captiva, the Zonta Club of Bonita Springs-Estero, and the Zonta Club of Cape Coral, to raise awareness, stimulate discussion, and advocate for local solutions that will curb violence against women;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim
that during the 16 Days of Activism starting November 25, 2017, all citizens are urged to support work to end violence against women and to eliminate the detrimental consequences it has on the well-being of our community.

October 31, 2017 marked the 50th anniversary of incorporation for the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF); and

Whereas, the government and citizens of Lee County’s shared desire to conserve, enhance and protect our county’s natural resources has been advanced by SCCF’s work over the last five decades; and

Whereas, SCCF, realizing in 1967 that land acquisition was an essential conservation strategy, grew to become Sanibel’s largest private landowner, preserving approximately 1,500 acres of wildlife habitat on Sanibel and more than 850 additional acres on other Lee County islands including Captiva, North Captiva, Buck Key, Albright, York, Coconut, and the Long Cut Preserve on Pine Island; and

Whereas, SCCF, recognizing the increasing threats to local water quality in the 21st century, expanded its mission to include the conservation of coastal habitats and aquatic resources on Sanibel and Captiva and in the surrounding watershed; and

Whereas, SCCF’s dedicated leadership, staff and volunteers pursue that mission through program areas including its Marine Laboratory, Land Acquisition and Stewardship, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Natural Resource Policy, Native Landscapes & Garden Center, Landscaping for Wildlife, Environmental Education, Shorebird Management, and the longest running Sea Turtle Program in the State of Florida;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby call upon the citizens of Lee County to join us in celebrating the tremendous benefits and services Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation has contributed to our county, its residents, its coastal islands and estuary, and its other natural resources over the last fifty years.

There are an estimated 2,785 homeless in Lee County.  The homeless count completed in January 2017 indicated that of the sampling, 15.08% were chronic homeless, 3.25% were veterans, 35.5% reported having a disabling condition and among the 431 sampled were 38 families with 70 children; and

Whereas, the primary cause of homelessness is poverty and the lack of housing that is affordable to very low-income people, further complicated by domestic violence, substance abuse and mental illness; and

Whereas, the mission of the Lee County Homeless Coalition is to advocate, educate, and promote awareness of issues and obstacles facing homeless individuals in Lee County through community collaboration, planning and implementing solutions; and

Whereas, the month of November is designated as Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month to educate the public and bring awareness to the needs of the homeless; and

Whereas, the Lee County Homeless Coalition will sponsor several events during Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month to promote awareness in the community and to encourage support for homeless assistance service providers; and

Whereas, the Lee County Homeless Coalition will sponsor the “Homeless Challenge- Walk a Mile in their Shoes” as an educational program providing awareness to those who participate. During this event participants will become familiar with the social services network and methods of everyday survival for those who live on the streets. This Challenge will provide an experience that has the power to effect change.
 
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim the month of November 2017 as “HUNGER and HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS MONTH” in Lee County and recognizes that this is a month of special importance and encourages all citizens to recognize that many people do not have housing and need support from citizens, and public/private nonprofit service entities.

In the memory of Calvin Peete, a former North Fort Myers resident, PGA professional golfer and golfing pioneer, who won 12 PGA tournament titles, was a 2-time member of the United States Ryder Cup Team, Vardon Trophy recipient in 1983 for the PGA tour’s lowest scoring average, and who holds the PGA record of 10 consecutive years leading the PGA in driving accuracy (1981-1990); and 

WHEREAS,  Calvin Peete was the leading African-American PGA tournament title holder of all-time prior to the emergence of Tiger Woods, and was an inspiration to future generations of African-American and aspiring golfers worldwide; and

WHEREAS, Calvin Peete’s gracious style and professionalism distinguished him as a highly and truly respected gentleman both on and off the course by golfers as well as non-golfers worldwide; and

WHEREAS, the Calvin Peete Foundation, located in Atlanta, Georgia, has a mission of recognizing deserving young individuals for their drive, determination, and dedication to humanitarian efforts as well as the sport of golf, and bestows awards to young men and women who embody the same humility and fight that Calvin Peete worked so hard to build during his epic career; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of the North Fort Myers community feel honoring Calvin Peete for his outstanding contributions both on and off the golf course to Southwest Florida and beyond is long awaited and worthy of the utmost respect, admiration, and gratitude; and

WHEREAS, the North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce has created the Calvin Peete Classic golf tournament in his honor, as a way to remember and celebrate this truly remarkable golfer, pioneer, ambassador, and gentleman of the game, who left us with an incredible legacy of integrity, dignity, and grace;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby celebrate Calvin Peete’s life and accomplishments and proclaims that October 21, 2017, shall be known, designated and set aside as Calvin Peete Day in Lee County to forever recognize his contributions to the Southwest Florida community and beyond.    

Approximately one in every 700 children are born with Down syndrome, representing an estimated 6,000 births per year in the United States; and
 
WHEREAS, there are over 350,000 individuals living with Down syndrome in the United States; and

WHEREAS, while research and early intervention have resulted in dramatic improvements in the life span and potential of those who are affected, more investigation is needed into the causes and treatment of Down syndrome; and

WHEREAS, possessing a wide range of abilities, people with Down syndrome are active participants in educational, occupational, social, and recreational circles of our communities; and

WHEREAS, individuals with Down syndrome should have every opportunity to achieve the universally desired goals of self-fulfillment, pride in their achievements, inclusion in their community and reaching their fullest potential;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim that October 2017 shall be known, designated and set aside as Down Syndrome Awareness Month in Lee County and encourages residents to work together with local programs like GiGi’s Playhouse which provide programs to individuals with Down syndrome and help create opportunities, raise awareness and facilitate solutions for these valued members of our community.

Alcohol use by Lee County teens has decreased 21.4% in the past 10 years; and

Whereas, tobacco use by Lee County teens has decreased 17.2% in the past ten years; and

Whereas, use of prescription pain relievers has decreased 7.1% in the past ten years; and

Whereas, this shows that Lee County students are making good choices about alcohol and drugs, and that their parents are talking to them about alcohol and drugs; and

Whereas, for every dollar spent on prevention, seven dollars are saved in treatment according to United States Government Surveys; and

Whereas, families in Lee County show an extraordinary commitment to prevention and the health and wellness of their children as demonstrated by their participation in prevention programs like Red Ribbon Week and Drug House Odyssey; and

Whereas, hundreds of Lee County students participate in Red Ribbon Week events in their schools led by their extraordinary teachers and principals; and

Whereas, this year's theme of Red Ribbon Week is "Your Future Is Your Key, So Stay Drug Free"; and

Whereas, the Lee County Coalition for a Drug-Free Southwest Florida, the School District of Lee County, the Lee County Sheriff's Office, Lee Health, and Busey Bank will celebrate National Red Ribbon Week on October 19, 2017, at a ceremony honoring Lee County's Drug-Free kids;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim October 23-31, 2017 as Red Ribbon Week in Lee County.

A healthy, productive society is largely dependent upon the energy and vision of those individuals who step forward into positions of leadership; and

Whereas, the students here today have proven their leadership to both youths and adults in the Dominican Republic through outstanding academic achievement, contributions to their community, and serving as positive role models; and

Whereas, the Dominican International Foundation, together with the Hispanic American Business Alliance recognizes their leadership potential; and

Whereas, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners is proud to welcome this youth leadership group to Lee County;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby recognize these students for their desire to serve the larger community.  Our hope is that their visit strengthens their sense of purpose, self-confidence and personal responsibility as they continue, with drive and determination, to emerge as future world leaders.

The South Fort Myers Little League just completed its 25th year at Rutenberg Park culminating in its fifth State Championship; and

Whereas, the SFMLL Juniors for ages 13-14 won the District Championship over teams from Lee and Charlotte Counties; and

Whereas, this team won the Southwest Florida Sectional Championship by defeating district winners from Collier, Hendry and Sarasota Counties; and

Whereas, these 14 young men won four games in the Florida State Tournament, three of which were come from behind, one-run victories to become State Champions of Florida; and

Whereas, they played in Little League Baseball's Southeast Regional Tournament, defeating state champions from Georgia, West Virginia and Virginia before losing to North Carolina in the Region Championship game;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the South Fort Myers Little League All-Stars on winning the 2017 State of Florida Championship.

In Lee County close to 29,000 elementary school students may be deemed “food insecure” and receive breakfast and lunch during the school week; and

Whereas, Blessings in a Backpack of Southwest Florida supplements their breakfast and lunch during the weekend by sending home food every Friday; and

Whereas, Blessings in a Backpack focuses specifically on a major gap-weekends during the school year; and

Whereas, hunger has both short and long-term negative effects on children’s health and ability to succeed in school, Blessings in a Backpack of Southwest Florida is providing over 121,600 hunger free weekends this school year; and

Whereas, this food keeps hunger pangs at bay until children return to school on Monday morning, but the impact goes beyond that, student survey results show that children fed by Blessings in a Backpack experience the following impact on their lives:

•    78% feel cared for by their community
•    71% feel they are helping their family
•    60% get into less trouble
•    59% find it is easier to learn at school
 
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby recognize National Blessings in a Backpack Week in Lee County.

September is Hunger Action Month nationwide, with Thursday, September 14, 2017 designated as Hunger Action Day; and

WHEREAS, Hunger Action Month is a hunger awareness campaign started by the Feeding America network of food banks, which includes the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida; and

WHEREAS, Lee County is one of five Southwest Florida counties the Harry Chapin Food Bank serves; and

WHEREAS, Lee County has about 92,000 people who are food insecure, which means they may not know where their next meal is coming from, according to Feeding America’s 2016 Map the Meal Gap study; and

WHEREAS, about 30,000 of those 92,000 people are children; and

WHEREAS, the Harry Chapin Food Bank distributed 11 million pounds of food in Lee County alone in the last fiscal year, and a total of 22.3 million pounds in its five-county service area; and

WHEREAS, the Harry Chapin Food Bank provides food to more than 150 nonprofit agencies throughout Southwest Florida and through its mobile pantry program, called Fulfill; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim that September be designated as Hunger Action Month in Lee County and urges citizens to continue to volunteer, advocate and donate to help end hunger in our community.

8-15-17 Length of Service Awards

Lee County has always supported the men and women who selflessly served their country in the Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, The PURPLE HEART is the oldest military decoration originally created as a Badge of Merit by General George Washington in 1782; and

WHEREAS, The PURPLE HEART was the first American Service Award only awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who have been wounded or killed in combat by a declared enemy of the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, Lee County appreciates the sacrifices that our PURPLE HEART recipients have made in defending our freedoms and believe it is important that we acknowledge them for their courage and show the honor and support they have earned;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim Lee County to be a PURPLE HEART COUNTY, so designated, honoring the service and sacrifice of our nation's men and women in uniform wounded or killed by the enemy while serving to protect the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans.

The National Recreation & Parks Association has declared July as National Parks & Recreation Month; and

Whereas, Lee County Parks and Recreation touches the lives of individuals, families, groups, and the entire community, positively impacting upon the social, economic, and environmental quality of our county; and

Whereas, parks, greenways, and open spaces provide a welcome respite from our fast paced, high tech lifestyles while protecting and preserving our natural environment; and

Whereas, parks, playgrounds, nature trails, open spaces, community and cultural centers, as well as historic sites make a community attractive and desirable places to live, work, play and visit; and

Whereas, Lee County Parks and Recreation activities, and leisure experiences provide opportunities for young people to live, grow, and develop into contributing members of society; and
 
Whereas, Parks and Recreation agencies provide outlets for physical activities, socialization and stress reducing experiences;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim July 2017 as PARKS & RECREATION MONTH in Lee County and urges all citizens to visit the parks, especially on the weekend of July 29th and 30th when all parking fees will be waived at Lee County regional parks and boat ramps.  There will also be free admission at the county pools.

Community corrections is an essential part of the justice system; and

WHEREAS, pretrial services and probation professionals enforce court orders with dignity, while recognizing the right of the public to be safe-guarded from criminal activity; and

WHEREAS, pretrial services and probation professionals are responsible for supervising adult and juvenile offenders in the community; and

WHEREAS, pretrial services and probation professionals are trained professionals who provide services and referrals for defendants; and

WHEREAS, pretrial services and probation professionals work in partnership with community agencies and groups; and

WHEREAS, pretrial services and probation professionals promote prevention, intervention and advocacy; and

WHEREAS, pretrial services and probation professionals provide services and support for victims; and

WHEREAS, pretrial services and probation professionals advocate community and restorative justice; and

WHEREAS, community corrections professionals are a true Force for Positive Change in their communities;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim July 16th – 22nd, 2017 as PRETRIAL, PROBATION, AND PAROLE SUPERVISION WEEK in Lee County and encourages all citizens to honor these community corrections professionals and to recognize their achievements.

MANGO MANIA Tropical Fruit Festival was originated by the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce and held at the catholic church on Pine Island in July 1995; and

WHEREAS, establishing the festival was an effort to help the growers on Pine Island sell their fruit and plants during harvest time when the location of Pine Island was known by very few people; and

WHEREAS, the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce decided not to hold the festival for the next two years due to the fact there was no suitable site on the island.  By popular request of Pine Islanders, the MANGO MANIA Tropical Fruit Festival was reinstated in 1998 utilizing the facilities of the KOA Campground in St. James City; and

WHEREAS, the festival is used as fundraisers by the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, M.O.T.I. and Calusa Land Trust to enable them to make contributions to Pine Island Elementary School, scholarship programs, F.I.S.H. and other charities; and

WHEREAS, MANGO MANIA was such a success that by 2001 it had outgrown the KOA facilities, and since there were no other suitable locations on the island, the decision was made to move the festival to the German-American Club to allow for continued growth that saw more than 10,000 attendees last year.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby extend their best wishes for a successful 2017 MANGO MANIA Tropical Fruit Festival being celebrated July 15-16, 2017.

Trauma Awareness Month is designed to raise regional attention to trauma and what must be done to reduce the devastating impact of traumatic injuries; and

Whereas, trauma is the leading cause of death for all Floridians between the ages of 1 and 46 every year; with someone in Florida being traumatically injured every 12 minutes; enough to fill Germain Arena 6 times; and

Whereas, motor vehicle crashes and falls resulting in blunt force trauma make up more than 76% of all trauma cases treated in our trauma district area each year; and

Whereas, in 2016 more than 2,569 Florida residents and visitors in the Lee County Trauma Services District area were treated at the trauma center at Lee Memorial Hospital; and

Whereas, national studies show that patient mortality is reduced by 15 – 20% when the patient is treated for traumatic injuries in a Trauma Center rather than in a non-trauma center; and

Whereas, there are more than 1.2 million residents in the Lee County Trauma Services District comprised of Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee Counties; serviced by the only Trauma Center on the Florida Gulf Coast between Tampa and Miami; and

Whereas, recognition is due for our Lee County Trauma Services District for its accomplishments and contributions to improve public welfare by providing quality trauma care for all residents and visitors; injury prevention outreach, education, and research; disaster preparedness and response; and demonstrating that an effective trauma center saves the lives of our residents and visitors.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby extend greetings and best wishes to those observing Trauma Awareness Month during the month of May 2017.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bladder cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the United States; and

Whereas, among the states, Florida has the fourth largest population, the third highest incidence of bladder cancer, and the second highest rate of bladder cancer deaths in the country; and

Whereas, bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men and the tenth most common cancer in women; and
 
Whereas, men have a 1 in 26 chance and women have a 1 in 90 chance of being diagnosed with bladder cancer in their lifetime; and

Whereas, this year in the United States, approximately 77,000 new cases of bladder cancer will be diagnosed and nearly 17,000 people will die from the disease; and
  
Whereas, bladder cancer occurs in more women annually than cervical cancer; and

Whereas, women often have a delayed diagnosis due to bladder cancer being mistaken for common gynecological problems; and

Whereas, although bladder cancer can occur at any age, a high percentage of people suffering from the disease are over the age of 55; and

Whereas, even though bladder cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the United States, it ranks twenty-second in research money received; and
 
Whereas, due to a recurrence rate of 50 to 80 percent, bladder cancer is one of the most expensive cancers to treat.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim the month of May 2017 as Bladder Cancer Awareness Month in Lee County.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is a vital public service; and

WHEREAS, the members of emergency medical services teams are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week; and

WHEREAS, access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury; and

WHEREAS, the Emergency Medical Services system consists of first responders, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, firefighters, educators, administrators, emergency nurses, emergency physicians, and others; and

WHEREAS, the members of Emergency Medical Services teams, whether career or volunteer, engage in thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills; and

WHEREAS, it is appropriate to recognize the value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers by designating Emergency Medical Services Week.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim the week of May 21-27, 2017, as EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES WEEK in Lee County with the theme, EMS Strong: Always in Service, and encourages the community to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities.

The good health and general well-being of the people of Lee County, Florida is strengthened by our knowledge and understanding of a little-known genetic disorder called Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS); and

WHEREAS, children with CdLS are usually born with low birth weight and develop at a slower rate, both cognitively and physically, and experience various medical complications; and

WHEREAS, dedicated professionals are presently involved in valuable research to explore new therapies and diagnostic tools and to offer hope to children with CdLS; and

WHEREAS, an estimated 20,000 men, women and children in the United States have CdLS but remain undiagnosed or without support services; therefore, they miss out on critical medical services and support that can impact their quality of life; and

WHEREAS, the Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation observes National CdLS Awareness Day on the second Saturday of May each year to educate all segments of the population about the syndrome; and

WHEREAS, Lee County is pleased to join people throughout our nation in promoting a special celebration which seeks to raise awareness of Cornelia de Lange Syndrome, designed to have a positive and productive impact on the lives of all people with CdLS and their caregivers.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim May 13, 2017 as Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Awareness Day in Lee County and encourages all citizens to take part in activities and observances designed to increase awareness and understanding of the syndrome.

The National Association of Letter Carriers will conduct its 25th annual national food drive on Saturday, May 13, 2017.  The Stamp Out Hunger® Food Drive, the country’s largest single-day food drive, provides residents with an easy way to donate food to those in need in the community; and

WHEREAS, letter carriers are requesting that customers leave non-perishable foods, such as canned soup, canned vegetables, canned meats and fish, pasta, peanut butter, rice or cereal, next to their mailbox before their regular mail delivery on Saturday, May 13, 2017; and
                           
WHEREAS, local letter carriers will collect the food donations as they deliver mail along their postal routes; and

WHEREAS, the collected food donations will go to the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida to be packed, sorted, and distributed to more than 150 local agencies that feed people in need.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim Saturday, May 13, 2017 as LETTER CARRIERS’ NATIONAL FOOD DRIVE DAY in Lee County and urges citizens to support our local letter carriers in their food drive to help alleviate hunger in our community.

Motorcycle riding in the Sunshine State is considered to be some of the best in the nation because of the climate and scenery in Florida; and

WHEREAS, motorcycle riding is an energy-efficient form of transportation, increasingly used for commuting, touring and recreation; and

WHEREAS, more than one million drivers in Florida have a motorcycle endorsement on their driver license, and findings show a greater need for public awareness due to the increased numbers of motorcycles on the streets and highways of Florida; and

WHEREAS, motorcyclists and motorists must all be vigilant in their efforts to share the road and ensure the safety of everyone; and

WHEREAS, Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is intended to encourage other motor vehicle operators to share the roadways, be cautious, and check twice for motorcycles;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim that May 2017 shall be known, designated, and set aside as MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH in Lee County and urges all motorists to heighten their awareness of motorcyclists.

04-18-17 Length of Service

The State of Florida is dedicated to improving air quality, reducing traffic congestion, promoting health and physical fitness, and reducing energy consumption; and

WHEREAS, the Florida Department of Transportation, District One, through its Commuter Services Program, contributes
to these state goals by reducing traffic congestion and lowering greenhouse gas emissions throughout the region, by promoting the use of alternative commute modes; and

WHEREAS, Lee County Government and Lee County Transit, LeeTran, are promoting “Try Transit Day” on April 21, 2017 to raise awareness of our destinations and routes in Lee County; and

WHEREAS, LeeTran will offer free rides on “Try Transit Day” on all LeeTran fixed routes, in collaboration with Collier County Area Transit’s “Try Transit Day” to encourage residents
and visitors to use public transit.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim Friday, April 21, 2017 to be REGIONAL TRY TRANSIT DAY in Lee County and encourages residents and visitors to try alternative forms of transportation to work, school, shopping, or play.

Duly executed this 18th day of April 2017.

Many Lee County residents own bicycles and surveys indicate that the majority of Southwest Florida drivers ride a bicycle at least once a year, over one-third ride a bicycle at least once a month and more than 25 million Florida residents and tourists ride bicycles each year; and

WHEREAS, a bicycle is recognized as a vehicle and is a viable means of transportation for many types of trips and destinations; and

WHEREAS, national health organizations, environmental agencies, and physical fitness activists believe increased bicycling to be of national interest for health purposes; and

WHEREAS, an increase in the use of bicycles in place of motor vehicle use will correspondingly decrease greenhouse gas emissions in Lee County; and

WHEREAS, Lee County has an interest in encouraging the use of bicycles, increasing education, and promoting safety and awareness that our roadways are shared by bicycles and cars; and

WHEREAS, since 1998, Lee County has invested millions of dollars to construct approximately 1,405 miles of bicycle facilities as part of roadway improvements and retrofitting of existing roadways; and

WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners adopted a Complete Streets Resolution on November 10, 2009; and

WHEREAS, the month of May is being promoted by the League of American Bicyclists as National Bike Month, with Wednesday, May 10, 2017 as Bike-to-School Day and the week of May 15-19, 2017 as Bike-to-Work Week, and Friday, May 19, 2017 as Bike-to-Work Day;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby declare May 2017 to be Bike Month, with Wednesday, May 10, 2017 as Bike-to-School Day and the week of May 15-19, 2017 as Bike-to-Work Week, and Friday, May 19, 2017 as Bike-to-Work Day in Lee County.

04-04-17 Presentation to Veteran Services from Combat Infantry Men’s Association

Americans are the victims of more than 20 million crimes each year and crime can touch the lives of anyone regardless of age, national origin, race, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, immigration, or economic status; and

WHEREAS, intervening early with services that support and empower victims provides a pathway to recovery from crime and abuse; and

WHEREAS, the victim services community has worked for decades to create an environment for victims that is safe, supportive, and effective; and

WHEREAS, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is April 2-8, 2017 and is an opportune time to commit to ensuring that all victims of crime are offered accessible and appropriate services in the aftermath of crime; and

WHEREAS, honoring the rights of victims, including the right to be heard and to be treated with fairness, dignity, and respect, and working to meet their needs rebuilds their trust in the criminal justice and social service systems; and

WHEREAS, Lee County is dedicated to serving victims, building trust, and restoring hope for justice and healing;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim
the week of April 2-8, 2017 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week in
Lee County and recognizes those community members, victim service providers, and criminal justice professionals who are committed to improving our response to all victims of crime so that they may find relevant assistance, support, justice, and peace.

3-21-17 Horizon Council Service Award

March is Women’s History Month in the United States, a time when our nation reflects on the valuable contributions women make to our society; and

WHEREAS, the young women of Florida are considered to be tomorrow’s leaders; and

WHEREAS, it is very important that we provide young women access to the resources and opportunities they need to reach their full potential; and

WHEREAS, the PACE Center for Girls is instrumental in helping promote a better future through education, counseling, training, and advocacy, in collaboration with Florida’s Department of Children and Families, Department of Education, and Department of Juvenile Justice; and

WHEREAS, women are dynamic invaluable contributors to society; and

WHEREAS, February 6, 2017 marked the tenth anniversary of PACE Center for Girls providing services in Lee County; and

WHEREAS, March 14th is the ninth annual Grande Dames Tea, and PACE Center for Girls of Lee County will be honoring three local women for their lifelong impact in business, philanthropy and community engagement, and promoting awareness of the services provided by PACE Center for Girls of Lee County;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County  Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim that March 2017 shall be known, designated, and set aside as Believing in Girls Month in Lee County and urges all residents to engage in the Grande Dames Tea to honor the female spirit and promote the potential of all girls and women.

03-07-17 Paulette Burton Award

Engineers help to design, construct, and maintain the public and private infrastructure and facilities that contribute to the quality of life of all of the residents of Lee County; and

Whereas, maintaining the quality of life in Lee County during periods of both substantial growth and uncertain economic times depends in part on engineers developing innovative, creative and highly efficient solutions to a myriad of technical problems; and

Whereas, above all else in the practice of their profession, engineers hold paramount the health, safety, and welfare of all persons; and

Whereas, through the celebration of Engineers Week each year, the Calusa Chapter of the Florida Engineering Society is dedicated to developing and sustaining a dynamic engineering profession by ensuring a diverse and well-educated future engineering workforce, and by raising the public’s understanding and appreciation of engineering contributions to society; and

Whereas, this Board wishes to recognize and honor all engineers who live and work in Lee County and who practice the profession of engineering in an honorable, responsible, and competent manner and those students who have chosen to be educated in the field of engineering.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby extend greetings and best wishes to all observing Engineers Week, February 19-25, 2017.

02-21-17 Candy Pittro Award

Lee County welcomes the Boston Red Sox and their fans back to their 25th  Spring Training in our community and the sixth season at JetBlue Park; and

Whereas,  JetBlue Park at Fenway South opened in 2012 with the same field dimensions as Fenway Park.  It  hosts Red Sox Spring Training games, the FHSAA State Baseball Finals, amateur baseball tournaments, youth soccer events, and more; and

Whereas, we are now in the sixth year of a 30-year lease agreement with the ballclub, thereby guaranteeing that Lee County will be the Spring Training home of the Red Sox through at least 2041; and

Whereas,  Lee County recognizes and thanks the Red Sox for helping to raise millions of dollars for our community not-for-profits.  The Red Sox will continue last year’s initiative where they created a scholarship fund that will give a $5,000 scholarship to one student at all 13 public high schools in Lee County; and

Whereas,  the Boston Red Sox’s presence here has garnered international attention and thousands of fans for Lee County, which in turn generates a significant impact for our tourism industry; and   

Whereas, the 2017 Spring Training season will mark the fourth year of competition between the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins to win the “Chairman’s Cup”;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida – along with Lee County’s Parks & Recreation Department, Visitor & Convention Bureau, Sports Development Office, and Facilities Construction & Management Department – does hereby proclaim its full support for the Boston Red Sox organization and we send our most sincere best wishes for success in the upcoming 2017 baseball season.

Lee County welcomes the Minnesota Twins and their families back to the 27th Spring Training at the newly renovated CenturyLink Sports Complex and Hammond Stadium; and

Whereas,  Lee County Government officially welcomed the Twins into Hammond Stadium in 1991, and in 2015 completed a facility renovation that includes myriad improvements to benefit players and fans; and

Whereas, the completion of the renovation triggered a new 30-year lease agreement with the ballclub, thereby guaranteeing that Lee County will have a 50-year cumulative partnership with the Twins organization; and

Whereas, the Twins are beneficial community partners with many local not-for-profits and youth organizations, and have hosted more than a decade of free youth baseball clinics with its coaches and players in partnership with Lee County Parks & Recreation that have reached more than 5,000 participants; and

Whereas,  our partnership with the Twins has buoyed well-established ties to the Twin Cities with a significant number of tourists visiting us each year from the Upper Midwest region; and

Whereas, the 2017 Spring Training season will mark the fourth year of competition between the Minnesota Twins and the Boston Red Sox to win the “Chairman’s Cup”;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida – along with Lee County’s Parks & Recreation Department, Visitor & Convention Bureau, Sports Development Office, and Facilities Construction & Management department – does hereby proclaim its full support for the Minnesota Twins organization, and we send our most sincere best wishes for success in the upcoming 2017 baseball season.

January 2017 has been designated as National Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month by the federal government; and
  
Whereas, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and community organizations founded one of the first human trafficking task forces in the country in 2005 which continues to be actively involved in the fight against modern day slavery through the U.S. Attorney’s Southwest Florida Human Trafficking Task Force; and

Whereas, the State of Florida is recognized as one of three states with the highest incidence of human trafficking and also as one of the states which is doing the most to combat this crime in terms of legislation and victims treated; and

Whereas, federal, state and local law enforcement and local organizations such as the Southwest Florida Human Trafficking Task Force, Abuse Counseling Treatment, Catholic Charities, Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships, Children’s Advocacy Center, FGCU, Hodges University and Lee Memorial Health System are working collaboratively to build awareness through community and educational events and trainings, prevention programs for youth, businesses and medical facilities.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim the month of January, 2017, as Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month in Lee County.

01-24-17 Length of Service