012225 Pine Island Eagle by BreezeNewspapers

VolumE 48, NumbEr 38

Celebrating Pine Islanders: Erin Lollar-Lambert

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

Pine Islander Erin Lollar-Lambert said she would describe herself as an islander who has both a love and a passion for this community and the things that make Pine Island so special

“Those of us on Pine Island that have a passion for this community are able to ban together and when we do, it’s amazing how many miraculous things can happen,” Lollar-Lambert said

Although she admits the community of Pine Island is one of diversity, she said she also sees an attitude of like-mindedness among fellow islanders that cannot be denied and often generates a collaborative spirit necessary to solve collective issues a spirit which also fos-

ters the unique qualities that personify the island and all it has to bring I n h e r p

Lambert said that it was her father, Kevin Lollar, who first came to live on Pine Island, she surmises in the late 1980s

“My father came here to work as the senior environmental reporter for the (Fort M y e r s ) N e

h e grew up in Siesta Key and this was the closest he could find that was affordable My grand-

mother moved here shortly after and I came about 14 years ago,” Lollar-Lambert said

After a Canadian blizzard hit her while working and left her temporarily unable to travel, she had to make some big decisions Having no desire to raise her son in a big city like Chicago, Lollar-Lambert was thrilled to bring him to Pine Island so he could be raised similarly to her own upbringing, on the water and with a sense of community, she said

“I quit my past life and came to the island and was a Realtor for a while I started a property management company and I did that prior to the storm,” LollarLambert said about Hurricane Ian

For the love of cats Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary celebrates

15 years

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

Thismonth marks the 15th year since owner and founder Marnie Sawicki opened the doors of Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary in St. James City.

“Fifteen years that’s a lot of fur It started out with my money - I cashed in my retirement and pretty much everything I had I put it into the shelter It took years but we finally got to the point where we could make it We get overlooked a lot This year, I want to remind people about our anniversary, so they’ll remember that we’re out here,” Sawicki said Survival of the shelter, and in many cases, the animals in the shelter, depends entirely on donations What began as a lay-off from her job, started an entirely new career for Sawicki, as she describes the experience as a dream fulfilled, likening the opening of the shelter to a dream along the lines of winning the lottery While not receiving a paycheck can, at times, be difficult, she is living proof that money isn’t everything to all people, as she said she has been paid in purrs and cuddles over the years

“I don’t get paid personally no one at the shelter does, we are all volunteers It’s a lot of work for no pay, but it’s my passion Obviously, we’re not in a position to pay me but even if we were, I can’t justify

See HELPING PAWS, page 13

One of the adoptable cats at Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary, right, and the sign on the door of the facility, top.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MARNIE SAWICKI

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce will present this year’s Stone Crab Fest from 11 a m to 6 p m , this Sunday, Jan 26, at the Winn-Dixie shopping plaza

According to GPICC Board Member Cynthia Welch, a $5 donation will be requested at the entrance to help support our island businesses

“The Chamber of Commerce is delighted to be able to host Stone Crab Fest, having had to delay it since the hurricanes and we’re thrilled to be able to gather our businesses together to showcase them and everything we have to offer This event will be a fun-filled day with live music, stone crabs, island businesses and crafters, local seafood, food vendors and adult beverages,” Welch said.

Live music will go on all day, she said, starting with Madison Morris at 11:30 a m Pipe Dream follows about 12:30 p m with Matt Lee Crew coming on stage around 3:30 p m

Over 70 island businesses and organizations will be represented at the festival with a great range of crafts, arts and business information, Welch explained, certain this event will do a great deal toward the promotion of Pine Island businesses

“There will be plenty of food for everyone stone crabs are the main feature on the menu with fresh claws,

STONE CRAB FEST, page 9

Erin Lollar-Lambert

PHOTO PROVIDED

A tub full of stone crab claws.

Matlacha Hookers 13th Annual ‘Island Luau’ March 2

Fundraiser to be held at SJCCA

The Matlacha Hookers' 13th Annual “Island Luau” will be held Sunday, March 2, from 1-5 p m at the St James City Civic Center on Lemon Street in St James City

Over the past 12 luaus, the Matlacha Hookers raised over $125,000, and last year the group increased the total donation amount to over $22,000 distributed to the Beacon of Hope and the St James City C

again

The Beacon of Hope, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, supports the Greater Pine Island community through programs like Beacon Bites, serving 20-plus recipients at an annual cost of $30,000 It also provides transportation, financial assistance, home repair services and more

The St James City Civic Association p

hosting events and activities The facility,

Milton, now requires extensive repairs

Join the Hookers for an afternoon of outdoor fun swaying to live island music, tropical beverages, delicious food and desserts Wear your tropical shirts, grass skirts or muumuus and get ready to be “leid” as you enjoy Mark Dupuy's calypso island rock and dance music, featuring steel drums, trumpet, flute, keyboard, and guitar, alongside captivating performances by the Hula Connections dancers

Relax under shady moss trees and tents, while sipping beer and tropical beverages, served indoors and outside, and explore the silent auction, raffles, mystery

Matlacha Hooker merchandise

If you own a business and would like to donate some items or be a sponsor of the event, three levels of sponsorship are available:

1 O

- $ 5 0 0 includes being on promotional items (Event Banners and brochures), 4 Tickets to the Event

2 H i b i s c u s - $ 2 5 0 includes being on promotional items (Banners and brochure), 2 Tickets to the Event

3 O r c h i d - $

(Banners and brochure)

Bohacek at 715-579-5009 or email her at lbrdh4pets@gmail com if interested, as these sponsorships close on Feb 1

Your ticket includes live music, two beverages, welcoming leis and islandinspired cuisine Don't miss the chance to join in the costume contest, dancing, and browsing the auction items in this unforgettable tropical celebration!

Tickets are $45 in advance as none will be sold at the event The luau has sold

out in the last four years, so please purchase your tickets by ordering online:

Use your QR app on this barcode below, and click on the website or go to directly

luau and the tickets will be emailed to you.

If you cannot deal with technology, call Tracy at 317-501-9930

@ gmail com so she can order them

For more information, see the Hookers' website at www matlachahookers org

The Matlacha Hookers is a 501(c)(3) woman’s charitable non-profit organization The organization has over 200 members from Matlacha and the Greater Pine Island area, Cape Coral, North Fort Myers and Fort Myers.

For additional information about the H

hookers org

Cape Coral man involved in fatal accident in Matlacha pleads no contest, sentenced to 24 years in prison

A Cape Coral man pleaded no contest last week to a number of manslaughter

a n d D U I

n Matlacha last April that left one person dead and several others injured He was sentenced to 24 years in prison with an additional six years of probation

Cody James Curtis, 25, was charged

after the April accident According to the Florida Highway Patrol report, Curtis was driving a 1992 Nissan east through Matlacha at 5:47 p m on April 13 when he veered across the roadway and struck five people sitting at tables outside of The BBQ Place at 4590 Pine Island Road, N W He also collided with a parked

truck, FHP reported.

Mary Lou Sharp, 80, of Matlacha, was pronounced deceased at the scene Three

injuries, the report states, and one was transported with minor injuries Toxicology screenings indicated that

bodily injury (3 counts), DUI property damage (1 count) and DUI injury (1 count) and booked into the Lee County Jail

OPINIONS

Publisher Raymond M Eckenrode

reckenrode@breezenewspapers com

Executive Editor

Valarie Harring

vharring@breezenewspapers com

Editor Paulette LeBlanc

pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

Advertising Director

Laurie Ragle

lragle@ breezenewspapers com

Advertising Sales

Charlene Russ cruss@breezenewspapers com

Design & Layout

Chris Strine cstrine@breezenewspapers

Calusa Waterkeeper mourns loss of Capt. Codty Pierce, beloved environmental leader, advocate

The Calusa Waterkeeper board and staff are deeply saddened to confirm the unexpected passing of our beloved waterkeeper, Capt. Codty Pierce, on Jan. 13, 2025. As the heart and soul of our organization, Codty’s unwavering commitment to protecting the waters of Southwest Florida and his fearless advocacy for the environment have left an indelible mark on all who knew him

There was no one like Codty his passion for the water, his tireless work and the generosity with which he shared his knowledge and love of nature made him a beloved figure to all who crossed his path He was often called “the watchdog of our waters” for his ability to speak hard truths, inspire action and ignite hope for a healthier future for our ecosystems

Codty was a rising environmental leader whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations of advocates, scientists and citi-

Pine Island FISH thanks Matlacha Hookers for donation

To the editor:

Pine Island FISH would like to thank the Matlacha Hookers and their Caroling Hooker Team for their lovely donation of $5,151

If you don’t know, during the holiday season, the carolers travel to the lounges and restaurants on Pine Island and Matlacha and

Web Poll

zens dedicated to safeguard-

resources He had the rare gift of making everyone he

understood and empowered to make a difference

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and loved ones during this

There is no one who met or

immediately feel the warmth of his spirit, his infectious enthusiasm and his deep love

worked so hard to protect

At this time, the Calusa Waterkeeper team is focused on honoring Codty’s memory

and continuing his work We are grateful for your understanding and support as we navigate this profound loss. Codty’s impact will never be

missed more than words can express

Codty Your legacy lives on in the waters you fought so hard to protect and in all of us

knowing you

With heavy hearts,

, executive director of Calusa Waterkeeper, on behalf our board and staff

Letters to the Editor

sing Christmas Carols for donations

Most people donate so they stop singing!

This check is the result of their efforts!

This money will go towards the Christmas Basket Brigade 2025 P

extend a warm “thank you” to all the volunteers across the Greater Pine Island area for their help in making this Christmas more beautiful for the children of the area

Volunteers came from the Food Pantry, the Matlacha Hookers, Cape Coral and as far away as New York!

Thank you everyone!!

Jim Wentz Pine Island FISH president

A plan for 2025

To the editor:

As we step into the year 2025, it's essential to adopt a mindset I focused on critical thinking and proactive financial management This year, I plan to carefully monitor my spending habits Evaluate my purchases and keep an eye on tariffs while establishing a solid budget for my expenses

I am committed to supporting local businesses, particularly restaurants, and choosing local products and fresh produce I’m also attending to pricing trends,seeking bundles,

We Want Your Opinion

The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that opinions These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper Opposing views are welcome Letters to the Editor or guest columns may be mailed to: Pine Island Eagle, 10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60, Bokeelia, FL 33922; e-mailed to pineisland@ breezenewspapers.com; posted to our Virtual Newsroom at www.breezenewspapers.com or faxed to 283-0232. All letters and guest columns must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes. You also can comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: pineisland-eagle com

utilizing delivery services and making decisions on data analysis

Whenever I come across a online post, I take a moment to consider these author’s credibility and reliability of the information presented

In the grocery industry, maximizing profits is a priority, with owners making strategic choices for their bottom lines A grocery store in a high-traffic area has the potential to generate up to $14 million annually in a high traffic area, often occupying 45,000 square feet to encourage customers to browse more items

Monopoly power is prevalent in various sectors as meat, automotive, banking, housing, energy, soft drinks and healthcare, where companies vie to claim the top spot in their respective markets,

We must ponder whether rising prices can be curbed and how we can put a stop to product shrinkage While prices seem to be on the rise, our interconnected world faces challenges such as global supply chains, conflicts, health/disease, climate change and other international issues

Legislation in the USA can be amended, circumvented or halted As prices continue to soar it is crucial to budget wisely, care for our loved ones and prioritize our health in 2025 Kathleen Callard,RNBS North Fort Myers

Law enforcement must suppor t Trump’s policies on immigration

To the editor:

I encourage Gov Ron DeSantis to have all Florida sheriffs, who are elected officials, put in writing that they are going to follow the laws of President Trump about picking up undocumented illegal immigrants in Florida Get it in writing and publish the results Next, have all cities that have a mayor and city council i e Fort Myers, Cape Coral,

Connie RamosWilliams Guest Commentary

PHOTO PROVIDED

The Hookers presenting the donation to Pine Island FISH.

Legion Post 136 now a non-smoking location

Effective Dec 19, 2024, Pine Island American Legion Post 136 is a non-smoking location All forms of smoking, use of tobacco products, vaping or other smoking products is prohibited anywhere inside the post's building

The Legion has a broad range of programs for family, youth, community and national affairs With over 27 different programs, the post has you covered from the baseball diamond to the nation’s borders

makes a difference not only within local communities, but nationwide as an organization

The American Legion, Department of Florida, stands at over 130,000 members with more than 300 posts

Registration underway for Pine Island Youth Baseball Spring Season

Four Chaplain Sunday Celebration of Life Feb. 2

On Sunday, Feb 2, beginning at 11 a m , American Legion Post 136 will celebrate the 82nd anniversary of the sinking of the USS Dorchester and the eyewitness accounts of comfort and aid given to the crew by four Army chaplains aboard

The Dorchester tragically sunk on Feb 3, 1943, while crossing the North Atlantic, transporting troops to an American base in Greenland

across the state Members rally to support the military and their families in a variety of ways through promoting s

honor, mentoring youth and sponsoring wholesome programs within the communities

Calling all kids ages 4-12! Pine Island Youth Baseball Spring Season registrations are going on now.

The season is for T-ball ages 4-6, Rookies ages 7-9 and Majors ages 10-12. The league has sponsorships available as well Please visit the website at www PIYBB org for more information on the season and to register your child(ren) today!

The last day to sign up for this season is Jan 31

The league is also looking for volunteers: coaches, assistant coaches, board members, umpires and concession stand help

If you have any questions, please email us at prespibaseball@gmail com Come out and play some ball!

The public is invited to the celebration Every first Sunday of the month, the Post does an allyou-can-eat breakfast.

The ceremony begins at 11 a m after the Sunday breakfast and all are invited

Pine Island American Legion Post 136 is at 4106 Stringfellow Road, St James City Call 239-283-443 for more information

children/grandchildren and spouses of veterans The Legion has an active Riders program to support the post Come in as a guest, leave as a part of the family

American Legion Post 136 is at 4106 Stringfellow Road in St James City For more information, call 239283-4434 or visit https://post136fl.org/

Pine Island Moose to host Bicycle Poker Run

The Pine Island Moose Bicycle Poker Run will be held Saturday, Jan 25, from 10 a m to 3 p m This exciting event will raise funds for the Moose Scholarship Program, which helps island students pursue higher education

Participants can purchase a $5 ticket for the Poker Run, which will feature stops at Phuzzy’s, Froggy’s, Low Key Tiki, American Legion, VFW and will end at the Moose Lodge

At the Lodge, there will be raffles, silent auctions, food and live entertainment to enjoy

Additionally, the Moose Lodge is raffling off an Ebike, with tickets available for $25 each or 5 for $100 Raffle tickets can be purchased at the Lodge leading up to and on the day of the event

Bicycles and E-bikes are available for rent from the Island Bike Works, please contact at 239-560-0320

Shell Factory auction continues with second wave of offerings

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

More than 750 items from the historic Shell Factory & Nature Park everything from a 7-foot fiberglass Santa and ginormous dinosaurs to collectables, statues of Elvis, Frank Sinatra and more are up from bid through Jan 28

Fort Myers Auctions owner Jared Cox

s a

November to start taking photographs of the many items, which will be close to 2,000 by the time the auction is complete

“About 70 years of accumulation there’s a lot of stuff to process and dig out,” Cox said

December, had 550 auction items

“The first sale is all picked up and removed from the property We had to

St James City Civic Association has a

n g

p c o m i n g events and activities: Thursday, Jan 23

■ Ping Pong, 9-11 a m It's a fun way to meet the neighbors and play ping pong

■ Mahjongg, 1-4 p m This is a great place to learn to play mahjongg!

■ Cribbage, 6-8 p m All are welcome for weekly cribbage fun and competition Friday, Jan 24

■ Shuffle Board, 9-11 a m All equipment provided Beginners welcome

■ YOGA with Carole, 9-10 a.m. Come join in on yin yoga Also for those who would like to participate in chair yoga All are welcome

restart the process over and over again,” Cox said

The second auction is now live through 7 p m Tuesday, Jan 28

“The catalogue is live at shellfactoryauction com You can see everything up for bid, all the pick-up information, and terms and sales in terms of pick-up days and payment,” Cox said

He encourages the community to register and bid high and bid often before the auction closes He said the removal of the items will be from Wednesday through Saturday following the auction

He said pretty much all of the questions someone may have will be listed in the common question area of the website

This auction includes most of the primary memorabilia: signs, statutes, and 25 fiber glass fixtures from around the park

There is also restaurant equipment and a retail jewelry section

“There is about 30% more from the first sale,” Cox said

The highlights of the auction items include the original Pick-A-Pearl giant

Teller game, Largest Gift Store sign and o

Tommy’s Budweiser neon sign, Elvis statue and pictures, Frank Sinatra statue, multiple coin operated kiddie rides, multiple dinosaur statues, jewelry, theatre costumes and restaurant equipment, supplies and furniture

The bids start as low as $10 to $15, with the most around $100 for the larger items

The final auction will be held in the middle of February

SJCCA Update

Saturday, Jan. 25

■ Garage Sale, 8-11 a m We have received a lot of new things, so stop by and shop! Accepting donations Tuesday, Jan 28

■ Shuffle Board, 9-11 a m

■ Ping Pong, 9-11 a m

■ Golden Brush, 1-4 p m Don't be

SJCCA’s painting group. The Order of the Golden Brush, founded over 45 years ago by Gladys Stroud, provides a supportive atmosphere for individuals wishing to play with paints and pencils Newcomers, current members, novices, and established artists are all welcome Need more inform a t i o n ? P l e a

239 313 1212

■ Dominoes, 6-8 p m Dominoes is a game that everyone can play: kids, adults, and even the old It is that simple, and it does not matter a person's skill type or level when it comes to gaming Wednesday, Jan 29

■ YOGA with Carole, 9-10 a m

“We are about one-third of the way done with the third sale cataloguing,” Cox said

The items are from the tool room, warehouse fixtures, pallet rack, catering equipment, and golf carts He said the items are things that are still being used for day-today operations

“It still has value and still needs to get removed from the building Everything will be removed from the property,” Cox said First established in 1938, the 18-acre old Florida roadside attraction was located in North Fort Myers Pam Cronin, and her late husband, Tom, took over the property in 1997 when it was under foreclosure Hit hard by recent hurricanes, Pam Cronin made the decision in September to close its doors

■ Kid’s Nature School, 10-11:30 a m Fun activities for the island's children hosted weekly

Upcoming Events

■ Verlon Thompson Concert, Sunday, Feb 2, 7 p m Thompson is an American singer, songwriter, guitarist and troubadour from Binger, Oklahoma. He has long partnered with Guy Clark as a producer, guitarist and song co-writer

Tickets $25 available @ SJCCAPI org All activities are held at St James City Civic Association, 3300 Fourth Ave., St James City Additional details, contacts and ticket sales are available at SJCCAPI ORG

VFW Auxiliary to hold Chili Cook Off and Cake Walk Saturday

The VFW Post 4353 Auxiliary is hosting a Chili Cook Off and Cake Walk Saturday, Jan 25, from 12-4 p m There will be chili sampling, a cake walk, games and hot dogs available for purchase Guests are welcome to attend

In addition, chili entries are open to everyone, and forms can be filled out at the VFW Bring your chili in a crockpot with a listing of ingredients and/or baked goods for the cake walk to the VFW between 11-11:30 a m Chili judging

will begin at 12 p m followed by the cake walk around 1:15 p m

First place, runner-up and People's Choice awards will be given for the best c h i l i s . A

People's Choice award winner

Come be a part of this tasty and fun afternoon either as a participant or as a taster All proceeds are used to support veterans V F W P

0 Stringfellow Road, St James City

Fishing seminar begins Jan. 29 at Pine Island Community Church

Calling all anglers!

Pine Island Community Church is hosting a free four-week fishing seminar starti n g W e d n e s d a y , J a n 2 9 J o i n l o c a l anglers for expert advice, exciting giveaways, and hands-on demonstrations

The seminar runs from 6-8 p m at 5320 Doug Taylor Circle in St James City

Space is limited, so RSVP today by contacting Capt Chuck Downes at 609412-7328

Blanchy

Do you speak Spanish? Blanchy was raised on the other coast and his caregivers spoke Spanish to him We never realized just how much language the cats understood until he got to the shelter Blanchy was extremely confused and frustrated with us That's when it occurred he couldn't understand us. Luckily the language of food and pets bridged the gap. That said, he will be more comfortable with a family he can understand. Is that you? Blanchy is around 2 years old and hoping to meet you. For more information, call Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary at 239-283-9100. If you’d rather just donate, our address is 10060 Mallory Parkway, E., Unit D, St. James City 33956 or there’s always our website www helpingpawsanimalsanctuary com

FDOT provides update on Little Pine Island Bridge work

The Florida Department of Transportation project team is dedicated to keeping the community well-informed about the progress of the Little Pine Island Bridge reconstruction To achieve this, the communications team will be actively delivering regular updates throughout Phase I

Since the bridge reconstruction began in June 2024, significant progress has been made All piles for the seawall and

bridge on the northwest side have been successfully driven. Currently, crews are focused on forming and pouring the concrete bulkhead and abutment caps on the east side Meanwhile, off-site work at the laydown yard is underway, including the assembly of reinforcing cages for pile caps Construction crews are diligently working six days a week to ensure the bridge reconstruction is completed

Celtic Worship Service Sunday at Fishers of Men Lutheran Church

Are you a fan of all things Irish?

Come join the congregation for a

The Little Pine Island Bridge sustained severe damage during the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian in 2022 Initially scheduled for 2027, the project timeline was accelerated due to the extensive repairs required It was procured as an emergency contract under the State of Florida Governor’s Executive Order No 22-218, as amended by Executive Order No 22-219

FDOT recognizes the vital role the Pine Island Bridge plays in connecting the

Understanding its importance for residents, businesses, and emergency services, FDOT is fully committed to completing its reconstruction This project is not just about rebuilding a bridge; it’s about restoring a lifeline for the Pine Island community

To sign up for updates and access the weekly Road Watch, please visit the proj-

Project

The Fishers of Men Church Choir concludes the worship service with the c h o r a l b e n e d i c

You're invited to come early and stay after the Celtic Service for Fellowship time in the church narthex

Sunday, Jan 26, at Fishers of Men Lutheran Church, 10360 Stringfellow Road The worship service will feature Celtic music from the Scottish and Irish heritage It will include the Appalachian carol, “Wayfaring Stranger,” featuring a fiddle and guitar.

bridge will be carried out in three phases, introducing significant improvements to drainage, utilities, and safety. The project also strengthens the bridge’s structure, enhancing its resilience to future weather events Once completed, the bridge will be widened from 35 feet to 53 feet while maintaining two 11-foot-wide lanes

You can also contact the communications team by calling the project hotline at 239-800-6391 or by emailing pineislandinfo@exp com

Church of God of Prophecy taking reservations for next chicken dinner

The Church of God of Prophecy will be holding a chicken dinner Saturday, Feb 8 Dinner will be takeout only, no dine in The price is $10 per dinner chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn or green beans, dinner roll and dessert Chicken is fried in peanut oil Gluten free and baked chicken available upon request

Call your order in to 239-283-2128 as soon as possible, quantities limited Pick up is from 12:30-3 p m

Stringfellow Road, Bokeelia

Stone Crab

crab chowder, crab cakes, crab Rangoon and crab rolls, just to name a few

"It certainly wouldn’t be a Pine Island festival without mullet dips, pulled pork, ribs and hot dogs With Kona Big Wave beers, Pine Island Red and rum punch, there is something for everyone Bring your chair and plan to stay a while and soak up some island style fun at Stone Crab Fest,” Welch said

The Winn-Dixie Plaza is just south of The Center at 9864 Stringfellow Road, St James City

School District to hold first in series of Town Hall meetings at Cape High

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The School District of Lee County has announced it will hold a series of Town

Thursday, Jan 23, at Cape Coral High School

School Board Chair Sam Fisher said as a board they talked about how they could get out into the community and have open dialogue He said once Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin came on board, they decided to hold town halls in locations unique, or important to each board member

“I wanted to look at somewhere fairly centrally located and an important school for people to go to,” Fisher said, adding that he also wanted to find a location that

would best accommodate people from all different parts of District 1

The first town hall Thursday, Jan 23, will include Fisher, Board Vice Chair Jada Langford-Fleming and Carlin

“I ran for superintendent on the promise I would empower parents to be partners in their child’s education,” Carlin said in a prepared statement. “I encourage as many families as possible to attend at least one of the Town Hall meetings Working together is the only way we can truly achieve the educational outcomes I want for our students and parents want for their children ” Fisher said he and Langford-Fleming will offer a few words, and Carlin will speak about the district’s priorities, followed by a question-and-answer portion

“Feedback is vital,” he said “I really want the community’s feedback – teachers, community members I want to hear from the community – insight of things they want us to look into That’s why I go out to schools, events, emails and meetings We want to know what is going on and want to know the feedback ” Fisher said they can put policy out there, and the superintendent can make a

impact of those comes from feedback from the community

An email will be sent to parents prior to each meeting to notify them of the day, time and place of the meetings It will also offer an opportunity for them to submit

included in the town hall meetings

Open Mic events continue at St. James City Civic Center

Open Mic events are held the second Friday of the month from 1-4 p m at the St James City Civic Center, at 3300 4th Ave

Organizers are looking for local musicians to take the stage … and folks to enjoy the music Sound equipment will

be provided The event to be held rain or shine, inside the building Food will be available on site Coolers are welcome

Mark your calendar for the dates:

■ Feb. 14 (Love songs theme)

■ March 14 (Irish theme)

■ April 11

All tips go directly to the St James City Civic Association to rebuild and repair the Civic Center facility

For more information, contact Myra W a t s o n a t 7 1 7 - 8 1 7

Huber at 208-290-2512

Museum of the Islands to celebrate 35th anniversary Feb. 8

The Museum of the Islands is celebrating its 35th anniversary Saturday, Feb 8

Letters to the Editor

Sanibel, Naples, whose police departments are under control of elected mayors and city councils declare they will provide enforcement for President Trump

A n y e l e c t e d o f f i c i a l s u n d e r G o v DeSantis need to comply or be removed by Gov. DeSantis.

I encourage Gov DeSantis to have all agencies be transparent and required to

Museum staff will be holding a drawing, and the goal is to have 35 prizes -- one prize for each year. I f a n y l o c a

would be willing to donate, please contact Stephanie Smith at motimembership@ gmail.com, or message on the Museum Facebook page

use news media to say yes or no that they are going to enforce the laws of this state and America

Time to take a stand. Zero excuses

This is what America’s voters voted for Eric Engelhart Lee County From page 4

Mahjongg Scores

The St James City Civic Association group had 16 players for mahjongg on Jan 16, and welcome to

D e b o r a h a n d L i n d a w h o joined us

The top scorers were

T o n i L i n d s a y w i t h 1 4 5 points, Peggy Finley and Mitch Gould tied with 125 and Carolyn Kelly scored 100

W e p l a y m a h j o n g g every Thursday from 1-4 p m at the St James City

C i v i c C e n t e r o n L e m o n Street at Fourth Avenue

It’s a new year and an opportunity to learn a new skill, we’d love for you to join our group!

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n about the mahjongg games, please call Carolyn at 239233-7682

Cold weather continues across SWFL

W i t h t h e e x c e p t i o n o f

Saturday, weather wasn’t the b e s t f o r f i s h i n g o v e r t h e week as it was often windy, c l o u d y , f o g g y a n d c o l d Saturday was the one day winds were down allowing a few boats to head offshore into gulf waters.

Fishing hard bottom and ledges in depths from 35 to 5 0 f e e t a n g l e r s b o x e d a mixed catch of sheepshead, snapper, grunts and a few hogfish Most were caught on live shrimp rigged various ways and fished on bottom Fishing further offshore in 70 to 90-foot depths was g o o d f o r a f e w b i g r e d grouper, plus mangrove and lane snapper. Baits included shrimp, cut mullet and sardines

Water

On days it wasn’t too rough and windy to fish around structure inside the gulf

p a s s e s t h e r e w e r e d e c e n t r e p o r t s o f sheepshead, redfish, black drum and a few pompano Redfish, sheepshead and black d r u m w e r e a

"Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge and St James

The best seatrout action came while slow bouncing various soft plastics with a shad or shrimp tail around deeper oyster bars and sand potholes In Pine Island Sound trout up to 19 inches were caught in sand holes and troughs east of Buck K e y a n d b e t w e e n D e

baits off of oyster bars did the trick for seatrout up to 21 inches in south Matlacha

Avenue Lots of ladyfish and a few pompano were caught on either side of the island as well

Looks like were in for

weather and windy condit

hamper fishing Eventually we will have a week of good weather, we are overdue

Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission w

upload the Fish Rules app on your phone It has current regulations with pictures to help identify fish If you turn on your GPS location the Fish Rules app updates to your location In my opinion, it is more accurate and up to date than FWC’s website

If you have a fishing report or for charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service -- call or text 2394 1 0 - 8 5 7 6 ; w e b

island com; or email gcl2fish@live com

Have a safe week and good fishin’

As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt Bill Russell has spent his life fishing and learning

in Pineland

Pine Island Sketchers announce schedule for February

Tuesday during season from 10 a m to noon at a different location each week to draw and paint together outdoors

Participants are asked to bring a chair, art supplies, and water

Everyone is welcome and the sessions are free Those who like to go out for lunch together after th session, is optional

from the 4-way stop on Pine Island, turn right (north) onto Stringfellow Road for about 5 miles. Turn left on Pineland Road

straight ahead Tarpon Lodge is across from the Calusa Heritage Trail

Stringfellow Road From the 4-way stop, t

(toward Bokeelia) about 4 5 miles, and the venue is on the right

■ Feb 18: The Charley Leize home at 3597 Tropical Point Road. From the 4way stop, go south onto Stringfellow Road for about 4 5 miles (toward St James City but don’t go all the way down ) Look on the left for the sign at Tropical Point, and turn left onto Tropical

Point Road The home is about a quarter mile on the right hand side

■ Feb 25: Carmen’s Kayaks, 16499

Porto Bello Road in Bokeelia From the 4-way stop, go north on Stringfellow Road (toward Bokeelia) about 7 miles, then turn right onto Barrancas Street Take the second road to Porto Bello and take it all the way to the end

Capt Bill Russell On the

PHOTO PROVIDED

Hogfish are always a surprise and welcome catch when bottom fishing gulf waters This one was caught in forty-five feet of water while fishing with Captain Tony Price out of the Tarpon Lodge

Helping Paws From

a salary because the cats need things,” Sawicki said

page 1

Although Helping Paws applies for eligible grants, Sawicki said donations are still the predominate means of getting the bills paid and how necessary items for the furry friends are purchased She even said she would get a second job if necessary in an effort to support the shelter.

Sawicki said she’d like to keep the shelter’s momen-

Erin Lollar-Lambert

After the hurricane, she said, all the properties she was managing were gone and that’s when she met Greater Pine Island Alliance co-founder Aaron Bareda as they were both volunteering One day, after they’d finished hanging drywall, she said, he made a call and told whomever he was talking to (likely fellow GPIA co-founder Jay Sanderson) that they’d found their executive director, which is something Lambert continues to do to this day In addition to serving on the Pine Island Kiwanis Club board, she has continued to contribute to the community as a Pine Islander, as she has been utilizing her background in business to help run the GPIA Her time so far in working to build the GPIA, she said, has been very satisfying

“We had a pretty awesome 2024 We did over 6,000 volunteer hours 3,000 of those were post Milton and Helene We did over a million dollars in donation-kind to the island My staff are survivors themselves and we are still working with a very large case load It’s been a really beautiful thing to watch grow My team is outstanding We’ve got International Orthodox Christian Charities with us on the island right now They have

tum going throughout the year

If you’d like to donate or adopt a furry friend https://www helpingpawsanimalsanctuary com

Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, no kill shelter, housing almost 200 healthy cats and kittens as well as special needs, FIV and FELV cats The sanctuary is at 10060 Mallory E. Parkway, St. James City For information, call 239-283-9100

From page 1

committed that they will be here with us for 2 years,” Lollar-Lambert said

She went on to explain that International Orthodox Christian Charities has brought the GPIA skilled laborers to finish houses currently being worked on by the organization She admits that one of the things that has made her role as GPIA executive director easier, is her experience as a Realtor as well as Pine Island Little League president and her volunteer schedule at Pine Island Elementary School Nothing compares, she said, to meeting the many amazing islanders who have helped shape her into who she is now

On how to describe Pine Island to someone who isn’t from here, Lollar-Lambert said it’s very easily done

“Pine Island is a community inspired by the love of the land as well as the sea It’s a community of residents who genuinely have a love for their neighbor, and Pine island has an enduring love for preserving the importance of our history,” Lollar-Lambert said

In thinking of her greatest wish for Pine Island, she said she simply wants us to maintain the ability to continue with our way of life

Legion Post 136 Commander's Ball Saturday

Pine Island American Legion Post 136 will hold its 5th annual Commander's Ball, hosted by the post officers, Saturday, Jan 25, from 6-9 p m

Tickets are $25 each and Pipe Dream will be per-

forming Come dressed in your best Post 136 is at 4106 Stringfellow Road, St James City Contact the post for additional information at 239283-4434

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MARNIE SAWICKI

Two other cats awaiting adoption at the Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary on Pine Island

Women's exercise classes at First Baptist Church of Pine Island

The First Baptist Church of Pine Island is offering exercise classes for ladies on Tuesdays at 11 a m until noon in the fellowship hall of the church. The classes

1 1 weeks The last class will be Tuesday, March 25

The classes feature aerobic and stretching exercises using videos Any age lady is welcome to attend The exercises can be modified to fit anyone’s level of exert i o n S o m e

d weights and stretchy bands, but they are not necessary; the exercises are still good

without the weights or stretchy bands

There is no charge for the classes

The church is located 5653 Avenue D, Bokeelia, across from the Pine Island Elementary School near the Center of Pine Island You do not need to pre-register, just come whenever you can

For additional information, please text Marilyn McManus at 239-233-1839 or email mcmanus1@netsync net; or Alice S i s l

a t 3 0 1 - 5 0 1 - 9 3 4 4 o r e m a i l allievs@comcast net

You can contact the church at 239283-1737

Vuic, Ambrose conversation at PIUMC Thursday

Author Jason Vuic

in a

United Methodist Church Join Friends of Pine Island Library at the church for this live event If you prefer

Beacon of HOPE offering free tax preparations beginning Feb. 7

Free tax preparation by IRS-certified volunteers is available again on Pine Island Tax returns will be prepared at the Beacon of HOPE on Fridays beginning Feb. 7 until April 4 by the AARP Tax Aide program

to Zoom from home, email authortalkpilibrary@gmail com and request the link to the event V

Medal winner, is author of "The Swamp

Scammers, and Retirees Built Modern Florida and Transformed the American

Dream " He will discuss his book with moderator Ambrose, a popular Fort Myers

Dresses of Italy," written under the pen name of M A McLaughlin Pine Island United Methodist Church is at 5701 Pine Island Road at The Center, across from the Fire Station 1

Appointments are required

If you have questions, please call the Beacon office at 239-283-5123

The Beacon of Hope is at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle, Suite 3, St James City

Please stop by the Beacon office on any Monday, Wednesday or Thursday to make an appointment and pick up a packet of materials which are needed for the appointment

Obituaries

Candidates sought for Friends of the Pine Island Library board of directors

The Friends of the Pine Island Library is currently making plans for its 2025 annual meeting to be held Feb 18 at the Pine Island Library

One of the important actions that takes place during the annual meeting is the election of the board of directors In preparation for the election, the Friends are now accepting candidates for consideration on the board

If you are an active member in good

standing and have interest in serving on the board, please email your name and contact information by Jan 20 to president@FriendsofPILibrary org and you will be contacted by the group's nominating committee

Library's annual meeting will be held Tuesday, Feb 18, at 3 p m when the members will vote on the budget and elect a new board of directors