Dick Ripp joins Chamber: Dick Ripp has joined the Lehigh Acres Chamber of Commerce. He is a Republican candidate for the Lee County Commission respresenting District 2. Here he is shown shaking hands with Don Whalen, right,the CEO and president of the Chamber. At left is Lehigh’s new honorary mayor, Oscar Gamble. Photo by Mel Toadvine

Sharon Merchant at Chamber: Sharon Merchant, center, who is running for State Senate, District 27, has joined the Lehigh Chamber of Commerce. Here she is shown with a political placard while former Honorary Mayor Marylou Land reads a proclamation in her honor. Looing on at left is Joan Starr, a member of the Lehigh Chamber. Photo by Blair Stitt

Hosts reception for Benacquisto: Jose Morillo, one of the many who hosted a reception recently is shown with Republican candidate Lizbeth Benacquisto who is running in the primary in August for State Senate District 27. The reception was held at the Bistro Munich restaurant recently and more than 40 people turned out to the private gathering.