Update to the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce

Ray Dempsey, Jr., vice president, Deepwater Horizon Response/Florida has asked that the word get out that BP will appoint an independent mediator to review and assist in the claims process for the spill.

According to a May 26 news release, “BP has said consistently that it will pay legitimate claims for loss and damage caused by the spill. BP remains fully committed to responding to and paying claims promptly.” Here is a link to the full release: http://www.bp.com/genericarticle.do?categoryId=2012968&contentId=7062448

Individual and business claimants may file a claim in one of three ways:
Call the Deepwater Horizon response hotline number at 1-800-440-0858
File a claim online at www.bp.com/claims
Visit one of BP’s Claims Centers.
For more information, please visit www.bp.com/claims

The VCB will continue to closely monitor the situation. At this time, the Deepwater Horizon oil spill has not impacted The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, and the Florida Division of Emergency Management does not expect the oil to come ashore in Florida between now and Monday, May 31. It has not made projections beyond that timeframe. Forecasts are still being made in 72 hour increments.
For easy access, attached is the List of helpful telephone numbers and websites.

As we communicate to our customers, we suggest the key messages are:
• Currently, there is no local impact from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
• We are open for business.
• We don’t know if our area will be affected, but it is in no imminent danger

In the meanwhile, please alert the VCB, by calling 338-3500 or e-mail VCB@leegov.com, to any news you hear regarding consumer queries on the matter as well as any community response efforts so that Lee County can work as a team as much as possible. We shall continue to keep you posted. Please send any comments to VCB@leegov.com.

Thank you,

Tamara Pigott
Executive Director

Do you enjoy telling people where to go? Our Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to work in our new user-friendly visitors’ center, welcoming visitors, answering phones and improving the experiences of the visitors to our area.  Our members’ information, many brochures, maps and restaurant menus give you a wonderful opportunity to help make a memorable stay for our visitors. Questions or ready to apply? Please contact Lisa Beckham or John Albion at 239-454-7500 or apply in person at the Chamber at 17200 San Carlos Blvd.

For vendor applications, sponsorship opportunities and more please visit this link