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After hurricane Charley ripped through southwest Florida leaving an unbelievable trail of destruction, it quickly became obvious that many people in a variety of industries, would be out of work for some time to come. How long? We really don't know. We do know that most of our friends come here to vacation and enjoy the beaches, fishing, and other watersports, and their favorite destinations are Sanibel, Captiva Island, North Captiva Island, Pine Island, and Ft. Myers Beach. All these areas were hit very hard by Charley, and local planners are hopeful that things can be back to normal in time for the upcoming winter season.
I started the Hurricane Fund after it became painfully obvious that the fishing guide business was out of business for the foreseeable future, perhaps two to three months. Since then Florida was struck by hurricane Frances. Although it wasn't a direct hit on southwest Florida, its weather affected the whole state, causing outright cancellations, and putting further fear in the hearts of potential visitors. Now, on the eve of September 10, we're looking down the barrel at a very likely direct hit on southwest Florida by Ivan the Terrible. Three hurricanes striking the state of Florida in one season is unprecedented, and the season is not over.
At the Lee County Professional Guides meeting on September 8, the subject was how we can survive and stay in business with little or no cash flow until things return to normal. There weren't many ideas put forth.
Many of my friends around the country have participated in, and in some cases donated to the Hurricane Fund. Although a participation of $400 was to be an advance deposit on a future trip, and not a donation, some folks have insisted they want neither to be listed on this page,nor want a fishing trip in return! They just wanted to help. Because I must honor those wishes, the list is not as long as it should be.
To all of those who have participated, I give my deepest, heartfelt thanks. Because of you, we will get through September, even if the whole month is blown out. And, it very well could be, as Ivan continues it collision course with southwest Florida. I urge those of you who are reading this now, and have not participated, to do so in some capacity. Our needs here are great, and are far from over! I also urge you, if you happen to be reading this, but have a favorite guide other than me, consider helping him in the same way, even though he may not have asked. I promise you he needs it, and any gift or deposit you send him will go a long way toward keeping him in business for you the next time you want to fish.
Following is a list of some of the most wonderful people walking the planet. They have cared enough about me, their Captain and guide, to participate and help insure that I will be here when the dust settles, and it's time to get back to fishin! I'm sure this list will continue to grow for a while. Last update 9/20/2004.
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