For Sara Lee Brinks, Ian was the first hurricane she's ever experienced. Originally from Michigan, the owner of Pine Island's Frozen Flip Flop said that
From Bokeelia to St. James City, inhabitants of the 17-mile-long unincorporated island have worked tirelessly in the weeks since Sept. 28 to clear debris from their properties and begin restoration efforts. The island has restored power and water. While Ian’s 155 mph winds and nearly 12-foot storm surge tore through and left physical scars on the area, there was no damage to the island’s sense of community and spirit. From delivering meals to first responders to planning events to raise funds for those in need, Pine Islanders have stepped up to help one another on the road to recovery.