National Weather Service veteran joins island emergency task force
Bokeelia resident Sobian’s expertise a valuable asset to GPIETF
Beacon of HOPE President Elsie Stearns is happy to report former 30-year National Weather Service veteran Dan Sobian is the newest member of the Greater Pine Island Emergency Task Force (GPIETF).
“While we are not going to be issuing weather reports, our focus (with him) is not just storms, but cold weather. When we have a cold snap coming, he can facilitate us with his expertise,” Stearns said.
Whether there is a storm heading for the island or any event where preparation is necessary, Sobian can assist the GPIETF team with true and honest expertise in communication. Sobian, who is himself a resident of Bokeelia, said when he met with and joined the GPIETF he was very impressed, in fact, amazed with the combined contribution of leadership represented on the team.
“I am the newest person on there (the GPIETF) but I have some background in emergency management because I worked for the National Weather Service for 30 years before I retired and moved to Bokeelia,” Sobian said.
After considering the position of the GPIETF, which is made up of the general leadership of Pine Island, working as private citizens who got together among themselves and decided to do something on their own, he said he was left with the impression that this team had already accomplished a great deal.
“I imagine very few people on this island know what these people are doing for them and the sacrifices they’re making,” Sobian said of the GPIETF team.
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The following was written by Beacon of HOPE executive director, Nancy Cote. Prepared and Proud: the Greater Pine Island Emergency Task Force (GPIETF) leads the way in disaster readiness Greater Pine Island Emergency Task Force: Building Resilience Through Leadership
The Greater Pine Island Emergency Task Force convened its core volunteer group at the Center of Excellence, a facility revitalized by the American Red Cross in recognition of the Beacon of Hope as the island’s Community Adaptation Partner and a leader in disaster preparedness and recovery efforts.
The Center of Excellence is equipped with Starlink Internet, a Generac backup generator, and a charging station, ensuring that island residents have a reliable hub for relief and communication following any emergency event. The Greater Pine Island Emergency Task Force remains committed to its mission: helping the Greater Pine Island community return to normal as quickly as possible before and after an event.
Each member of the GPIETF holds a leadership role within their industry and was instrumental in the island’s rapid recovery after Hurricane Milton. The meeting affirmed that leaders attract leaders, as the volunteer base includes medical professionals, mechanical engineers, and owners of landscaping and construction businesses-all ready to assist their neighbors when disaster strikes.
Those interested in joining this dedicated team may submit an application at: https://beaconofhopepineisland.com/volunteer/
Applications are carefully reviewed, as the selection process is rigorous to ensure the Task Force remains the trusted leader in hurricane recovery and preparedness for the island community.
To check out the entire GPIETF, visit the Beacon of Hope website at Beaconofhopepineisland.com.
To reach PAULETTE LeBLANC / pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com, please email