Hurricane Season Haunts Naples Restaurant Owners

## Hurricane Season in Naples: Another Year, Another Round of “What Ifs?” Hey there, fellow Neapolitans! Another hurricane season is bearing down on us, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably feeling a mix of emotions. Excitement for the potential rain to wash away the summer heat, maybe a little thrill of adventure (let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good hurricane party… *before* the storm actually hits?), but mostly, a nagging sense of anxiety. It’s hard not to feel that way, especially after what we’ve been through. Ian, Irma, Wilma… these names aren’t just storms; they’re etched into our collective memory, a reminder of the power of Mother Nature and the vulnerability we feel in her presence. This article I stumbled across really hit home. It talks about Florida restaurant owners bracing themselves for another hurricane season, and it resonated deeply with me. It’s not just restaurants, though, is it? It’s every business owner, every homeowner, every single person in Naples who’s lived through a major storm. We all carry that baggage, those “what ifs?” and the lingering fear of what another big one could bring. So, let’s talk about it. Let’s talk about hurricane season in Naples, the anxieties it stirs, and what we can do to prepare ourselves, not just practically, but mentally and emotionally as well. **The Ghost of Ian Still Haunts Us** It’s impossible to talk about hurricane preparedness in Naples without mentioning Ian. It wasn’t just a hurricane; it was a paradigm shift. It redefined what we thought was possible, and the scars it left, both physical and emotional, are still very much visible. Drive around town, and you’ll still see blue tarps patching up roofs, construction crews rebuilding what was lost, and the occasional empty lot where a house once stood. For business owners, particularly those in the hospitality industry, Ian was devastating. Restaurants, already grappling with the challenges of the pandemic, were hit with a one-two punch. Lost revenue, damaged property, and the daunting task of rebuilding – it’s a burden that many are still carrying. The article I read highlighted the nightmares some owners still experience, the constant worry of another Ian wiping out everything they’ve worked so hard to rebuild. And that’s not an exaggeration. I’ve talked to local restaurant owners myself, and the fear is palpable. They’re resilient, no doubt, but the trauma is real. **Beyond the Board-Ups: Preparing for the Emotional Toll** We all know the drill when it comes to physical hurricane preparedness. Stock up on supplies, secure loose items, make an evacuation plan. But what about the emotional toll? How do we prepare ourselves for the stress, the anxiety, and the uncertainty that comes with hurricane season? First and foremost, acknowledge your feelings. It’s perfectly normal to feel anxious, scared, or even angry. Don’t try to suppress these emotions. Talk to your friends, family, or a therapist. Sharing your feelings can help you process them and feel less alone. Secondly, focus on what you *can* control. You can’t control the weather, but you can control your preparedness. Having a solid plan in place, knowing where you’ll go if you need to evacuate, and having a well-stocked hurricane kit can give you a sense of control and reduce anxiety. Thirdly, build your support network. Connect with your neighbors, join local community groups, and know who you can turn to for help if you need it. In Naples, we’re fortunate to have a strong sense of community. We’ve seen it time and again in the aftermath of storms. Neighbors helping neighbors, strangers lending a hand – it’s what makes this place special. **Naples Strong: Building Resilience Together** Hurricane season is a fact of life in Naples. We can’t avoid it, but we can learn to navigate it with greater resilience. This resilience comes not just from practical preparedness but also from fostering a sense of community, supporting local businesses, and acknowledging the emotional impact of these storms. This year, let’s make a conscious effort to be more than just prepared. Let’s be proactive in supporting our local restaurants and businesses. Let’s check in on our neighbors, especially those who might be more vulnerable. Let’s share resources and information, and let’s remember that we’re all in this together. Here are some specific actions we can take: * **Support local restaurants:** Dine in, order takeout, or purchase gift certificates. These businesses are the backbone of our community, and they need our support now more than ever. * **Check on your neighbors:** Especially elderly neighbors or those who live alone. Make sure they have a plan and offer assistance if needed. * **Volunteer your time:** Numerous local organizations provide hurricane relief and support. Volunteering your time is a great way to help your community and build resilience. * **Stay informed:** Sign up for emergency alerts from Collier County and stay updated on the latest weather forecasts. * **Review your insurance policies:** Make sure you have adequate coverage for hurricane damage. * **Strengthen your home:** Consider hurricane shutters, impact-resistant windows, and reinforcing your roof. * **Create a communication plan:** Have a designated out-of-state contact person that everyone in your family can reach in case you get separated. * **Prepare a “go-bag”:** Include essential documents, medications, first-aid supplies, and a few days’ worth of clothing. * **Stock up on non-perishable food and water:** Aim for at least a week’s supply. * **Trim trees and shrubs:** Remove any loose branches that could become projectiles during a storm. Hurricane season is a challenging time, but it’s also a time when our community shines brightest. By working together, supporting each other, and prioritizing both physical and emotional preparedness, we can weather any storm that comes our way. Stay safe, Naples! Let’s show the world once again what it means to be Naples Strong.