012425 Cape Coral Weekend Breeze

Cape’s first affordable housing complex opens

“Developments like Civitas prove critical to allow people to live where they work and grow diverse communities Civitas is not just a safe and affordable housing option, it’s a place where individuals and families can thrive, where dreams can grow, and where people can feel secure in their futures ”

Michael

Allen, president of ReVital Development Group

i o n o

e v e l o p m e n t o f f P i n e I s l a n d R o a d

u i l d e r s , a s t h e C a p e C o r a l C o n s t r u c t i o n I n d u s t r y A s s o c i a t i o n ’ s a n n u a l S h o w c a s e o f H o m e s c o n t i n u e s C C C I A ’ s 2 0 2 5 B u i l d e r s ’ S h o w c a s e o f H o m e s k i c k e d - o f f l a s t F r i d a y , a s 2 3 o f t h e

C a p e ’ s b e s t c r e a t o r s a n d d e s i g n e r s d i s p l a y 3 1 d i f f e r e n t m o d e l s f o r p r o s p e c t i v e b u y e r s , o r j u s t a n y o n e , t o t o u r o v e r t h r e e w e e k e n d s . M o d e l h o m e s w i l l b e o p e n t o t h e p u b l i c t h i s F r i d a y , S a t u r d a y a n d S u n d a y , a s w e l l a s t h e

See HOUSING, page 16

Cape Coral bans ‘public camping’

Action required by new state law

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Camping or sleeping on public property in Cape Coral will now result in a trespass warning or arrest

City Council passed a camping prohibition ordinance Wednesday, giving the Cape Coral Police Department a process for the issuance of trespass warnings and arrests of those who camp or sleep on public property not designated for recreational uses.

The ordinance was brought forward to comply with state law

Police Chief Anthony Sizemore said the governor’s office made it clear that doing nothing was not an option and that failing to take action to comply would open Council, collegial body, to litigation

He also said doing nothing would exacerbate the issue the camping ban is intended to correct

“Doing nothing allows a homeless problem to continue to grow,” Sizemore said HB1365, which prohibits Florida cities and counties from allowing people to sleep in public places, passed this past session by the Florida Legislature and was signed into law by Gov Ron DeSantis

c a s e a r e 1 0 a m t o 5 p m o n F r i d a y

w e e k e n d o f J a n 3 1 “ W e l o o k f o r w a r d t o t h e S h o w c a s e o f H o m e s e a c h y e a r w i t h g r e a t a n t i c i p a t i o n , ” s a i d

The legislation, which went into effect on Oct 1, 2024 also allows local governments to create camps, or designate areas where sleeping is allowed, if shelters are at capacity

C C C I A E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r L y n n B o l d i s s a r “ I t ’ s a n o p p o r t u n i t y t o h i g h l i g h t t h e i n c r e d i b l e t a l e n t , c r a f t s m a n s h i p , a n d i n n o v a t i o n o f l o c a l b u i l d e r s w h i l e p r o v i d i n g t h e c o m m u n i t y w i t h a f i r s t h a n d l o o k a t t h e l a t e s t t r e n d s i n h o m e d e s i g n ” T o u r i n g h o u r s f o r t h e 2 9 t h a n n u a l s h o w -

Model homes open to the public this Friday, Saturday and Sunday See

The new state law has no direct enforceability but compels local governments to do what Council did Wednesday, Sizemore said

“It will provide another tool for law enforcement in a very multi-layered issue,” Sizemore said of Ordinance 2-25 “What this will not do is outlaw, criminalize homelessness ”

What it does is provide the police department with the ability to enforce prohibition on outdoor public camping, he said, adding that most individuals who camp are homeless

Public camping or sleeping is defined in the ordinance as “lodging or residing

B y C J H A D D A

City locks in Jaycee Park redevelopment plans

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Although Cape Coral City Council committed to existing redevelopment plan for Jaycee Park Wednesday, questions continued to be asked Wednesday

Councilmember Laurie Lehmann was the lone no vote on the consent agenda, where the addendum resolution for the riverfront park at the end of Beach Parkway was among the items that passed together

Lehmann focused her questions on the status of the contract with the city’s private partners in the redevelopment effort and whether they were in default of the agreement

“What are they being fined?” she asked “Did we start charging them the fines after Nov. 10? The contract was executed on Sept 10, 2024, which meant, per the contract, 60 days after when the money wasn’t received They should have started being fined with interest Is that the case?”

City Manager Mike Ilczyszyn said the city has not

taken in any payment from the private partners to-date Resolution 40-25 reaffirmed the council’s commitment, support, and contractual obligations that were set forth with the comprehensive agreement between the city and Fortress Secured, LLC, for the delivery of the 100% completed design for the parks improvements, as well as the concessionaire agreement with The Reef Cape Coral, LLC

City Attorney Aleksandr Boksner said the status of payment does not mean the contract has been violated.

“They have put us on notice as a result of (public) discussions,” Boksner said

Lehmann said the contractual fine, with interest, should be paid She said the whole situation of Jaycee Park is being questioned their way to wiggle out of paying the earnest money a cause for the city to terminate the contract

“It’s uncertainty of weekly discussions that have occurred for the proceeding several months have created

legal doubt in their mind in the ability of the City of Cape Coral to honor obligations and legal impact for concessionaire’s agreement,” Boksner said

He said the partners are asserting a potential case of action against the City of Cape Coral as a result of potential breach based on the resolution authorized on the unsolicited Public-Private partnership, or P3

“They are putting us on notice it does not avail ourselves to default them Its doubt based upon continued conversation in terms of alternating, modifying, or terminating (the contract,)” Boksner said

He said the partners struck first, for lack of better words

The continued conversation has detrimental impacts to the city

“This resolution memorializes what occurred at the Committee of the Whole The intent, if approved, will serve as the final point to require their compliance moving forward,” Boksner said

City adds to preconstruction contract for Yacht Club

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Wright Construction was awarded additional preconstruction services for the Cape Coral Yacht Club Improvement project Wednesday night

The additional preconstruction services include several new buildings including a community center, resort style pool and larger parking garage

The contract is for $1,202,049 92 The original contract was for $331,286 88, bringing the total for services to $1,533,336 80

Councilmember Laurie Lehmann was the lone no vote on the consent agenda, where Resolution 22-25 was among the items that passed together without discussion

City Manager Mike Ilczyszyn said the approval was for the construction manager to build what was designed the horizontal and vertical design for the Yacht Club.

He explained there are both preconstruction services and

construction management services to build the approved design

“When this project was initially envisioned it was a lot smaller,” Ilczyszyn said “We have had to add scope we amended the contract to design those ”

The additional preconstruction services include new buildings such as the community center, resort-style pool and larger parking garage The original contract was approved on Feb 17, 2021, for $331,286 88 for construction manager at risk services for the Yacht Club Park improvements

Kimley Horn and Associates, Inc. was contracted on July 17, 2024 for additional design services totaling $7,316,186 96 for the community center, as well as other buildings, resort style pool and larger parking garage

This is why additional preconstruction services are needed from Wright Construction Group, Inc , officials said Resident Tom Shadrach told Council approval would give Wright Construction pre-construction money, which guarantees them all the construction that happens at the Yacht Club, which could lead to an award of more than $150 million.

He said Wright Construction won the build work for the original $11 million Go Bond Yacht Club enhancements, which later increased to $34 million

“There is no reason to do that today Let’s decide how much this is going to cost in the current design that is being done for Kimley-Horn for $7 5 million,” he said “Kimley- Horn was given the design contract for all the community parks Yacht Club, Lake Kennedy and Festival Park ” Shadrach said there is still some debate on whether the Community Center should be on the Yacht Club property He said the city still does not know the status of The Boathouse, a contracted public-private partnership restaurant that is an integral part of how the project progresses

“They have exclusive rights to any other concession,” Shadrach said of the Yacht Club area “There are a lot of questions that need to be discussed before any more money (is given) to develop this plan Why give a sole source award for more work when the council hasn’t seen what the bill is going to be for the project?”

OPINIONS

CAPE CORAL BREE ZE

RAYMOND M. ECKENRODE Publisher

VALARIE HARRING, Executive Editor

CHRIS STRINE, Editor

2510 Del Prado Blvd • Cape Coral, FL, 33904

• Phone 239-574-1110 – Fax 239-574-5693

Member Florida Press Association

Testament to bravery

Jan 6, 2021:

“Valor is defined as showing great courage in the face of danger, and there has been no better illustration of this than what the world witnessed from our law enforcement members that day A mob of thousands launched a violent assault on the United States Capitol in an attempt to halt the counting of the electoral ballots The mob’s sustained assault at the Capitol precipitated an equally unprecedented response, with an urgent request for MPD to come defend the Capitol Without hesitation, our officers responded to the grounds to restore order and defend our country’s democratic process We were confronted by individuals engaged in heinous behavior, destruction, and with the intent to cause harm to our officers and anyone else who stood in their way or who sought to proceed with Congress’ business People from all over the world were watching this day unfold in front of them on television screens and through social media platforms. What they also saw was a police department that did not retreat, and though outnumbered, were determined to protect the Capitol

“Exhausted and injured, our officers spent hours fending off violent acts aimed at them They endured this treatment without waivering in their duty They upheld their oath, to protect and serve, in the face of adverse circumstances Their bravery is a testament to their commitment to our community and nation, and this courage is a reflection of their spirit

“We are immensely proud of the work that MPD did that day to return the legislative body to the Capitol and restore order to the democratic process Their actions were poignant and powerful. Our efforts to defend our nation’s capital against a violent insurrection to allow democracy to prevail provided a glimpse into the mantra of the Metropolitan Police Department: Excellence is Transferable ” Metropolitan Police Department, Annual Report, 2021

More than 1,000 law enforcement personnel deployed to the Capitol Grounds

Fifteen “partner agencies” responded to assist See EDITORIAL, page 7

This week’s poll question:

Do you support President Trump’s decision to pardon or commute the sentences of those charged in connection with their actions at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021? ∫ Yes

No

Don’t

Previous poll question

JANUARY 24, 2025

Support expanded manatee critical habitat

The U S Fish and Wildlife Service is accepting comments regarding the proposed expansion of 12 manatee zones around coastal Florida, including one that would encompass Venice to Estero Bay.

Manatees, including both the Florida and Antillean subspecies, have suffered setbacks in recent years from crowded waterways, habitat degradation, and sea grass die-offs caused in large part by the polluting consequences of explosive growth and development

One way to help protect Florida’s official marine mammal is to expand its critical habitat, which is designated based on “the physical or biological features essential for the conservation” of the species.

To view the existing habitat, visit https://www fws gov/media/critical-habitatflorida-manatee

Holly Schwartz

Guest Commentary

We hope you’ll join us in supporting the proposed critical habitat expansion by sending your comments to the USFWS comment portal by today, Jan 24

Suggested talking points:

∫ I encourage the expansion of manatee protection areas, specifically as it applies to the critical habitat from Venice to Estero Bay

∫ The rapid growth and development of Southwest Florida has substantially added to the impairment of our

We’re not Califor nia

To the editor:

water quality and overcrowded waterways, resulting in the need for added manatee protections

∫ Expanded manatee protection areas are critical to the survival of the species, especially as we repeatedly face threats to the health of our ecosystem including a recent state proposal to shrink the boundaries of the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve This would have had assured impacts to manatees and all marine life within the current aquatic preserve area

∫ Our environment is the cornerstone to Southwest Florida’s annual $3 5 billion tourism economy Expanded critical habitat for manatees will help ensure the recovery of our beloved marine mammals that depend on a healthy functioning ecosystem, while also supporting our continued economic success

To submit comments, visit

https://www regulations gov/commenton/FWS-R4-ES2024-0073-0001

Holly Schwartz is environmental policy associate for the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) Founded in 1967, the SCCF's mission is to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems For more information, visit www.sccf.org.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The opinion expressed in the Jan 17, 2025 Breeze editorial largely expressed liberal views, like those held by the people of California I do not agree with the assessments put forth

First point in contention is that women have been told they cannot be doctors or engineers, or lawyers or in a trade Perhaps if you go back to the turn of the century that was true but that certainly is not true today! Women who have the talent and the desire to achieve those positions are certainly encouraged to do so, so that is a moot point, in my opinion

As for combat, special forces, firefighters, etc I believe if a woman or other individuals categorized by race can perform their duties as effectively as men, with absolutely no reductions in the requirements, then there should be no restrictions for them to do so The problem is, there have been lower standards put forth to allow women to enter these professions.

That is where the problem lies

As we have seen in California not only can’t they perform the duties of a male firefighter, they also won’t perform the duties As we heard from LAFD’s Assistant Fire Chief and Diversity Officer, Kristine Larson, when asked about her ability to rescue a man from a burning building eloquently stated, “He got himself in the wrong place, if I have to carry him out of a fire ” Not only did she infer that she would not be able to carry a man out of a fire, the amount of callous disdain and entitlement shown was disgusting People’s lives are in danger If you cannot or will not do the job you are hired for, you do not get the job! You do not get a job just because you are a woman That is ignorant and dangerous thinking!

Only the most qualified for a position should be hired, period!

Nancy Nelson Cape Coral

Chiquita

Lock removal: No ‘money motive,’ no environmental har m

To the editor:

I recently had the pleasure (or displeasure) of attending to Cape Coral City Council meeting. In attendance on this occasion were many members of the red shirted, “FREE THE THREE FISHERMEN” Brigade Numerous typed

pages have been dedicated to the plight of the three fishermen, who are now faced with footing the legal bill for the City’s fight to oppose their opposition to remove the Chiquita lock

As a retired attorney, I used to advise my clients that if they chose to sue a municipality, they risked the possible outcome of having to pay the Defendant’s legal fees if they lost I wonder if these “Three Fishermen” were given the same advise prior to commencing their lawsuit?

However, this is not the purpose of this letter During the numerous speeches given by the red-shirted brigade, one of them asserted that the reason the residents behind the lock were so adamant in removing it was because they would see a significant increase in their property values Allow me to retort

There were many occasions, while attempting to enjoy a pleasant day of boating with my family, I was stuck waiting for (on several occasions) well over an hour to transit the lock either North to South or vice versa. In addition, this would frequently add hours to the days outing, Not breezing through the waters of the Caloosahatchee River but sitting in one spot baking in the summer sun!

My point is that the individual who thought my motive for seeking the lock’s removal was financial gain was ignorantly mistaken

Furthermore, I would point out that the lock has been shut down for over two years and there has been no obvious significant impact on the mangroves or wildlife

In the words of my mother, “Get over it ” Steven A. Salz Cape Coral

Countr y’s leaders should make personal donations to wildfire victims

To the editor:

I wish I could get this message to mainstream media but I don’t have the necessary connections

I am asking every governor, every congressman and congresswoman and every senator in our country to write a check for $1,000 for the victims of the wildfires in California A thousand dollars is a drop in the bucket for our leaders

I ask all news stations to please share Robert Pizzolongo Cape Coral

See LETTERS, page 6

Driving future dreams: Why we support Touch-A-Truck

Southwest Florida is the place many of us call home I was born and raised here, and it’s also where I’m raising my own children and operating my business As a familyowned and operated concrete ready mix company founded and headquartered in Fort Myers, we make it a priority to give back to the community we serve

Drake Ready Mix supports many local nonprofit organizations and causes, including partnering with Habitat for Humanity to pour concrete for all of its homes and sponsor several of its events. We also like to invest in the charities and personal hobbies of our team of over 100 employees, including Touch-A-Truck

For several years, Drake Ready Mix has sponsored and participated in the local Touch-A-Truck event that benefits Saint Michael Lutheran School We are excited to return as a presenting sponsor for this year’s seventh annual event and continue our tradition of providing both our trucks and support

Touch-A-Truck is an interactive, handson experience that allows children a behind-

the-scenes look at their favorite types of trucks and vehicles Kids can honk horns, open doors, sit in the driver’s seat and learn from community leaders and vehicle operators At this year’s event, children will also have the opportunity to explore fire trucks and police vehicles, a Coast Guard boat, bucket trucks, dump trucks, farm equipment and more

We look forward to this event each year and are excited to bring our own cement mixer truck and tanker truck to add to the more than 40 at the event

Terry Drake, Jr Guest Commentary

For us, it’s more than just showcasing the vehicles it’s about connecting with the next generation This event gives them a chance to see equipment up close and learn about business and products that are involved in their everyday lives, whether

they know it or not. The children are able to learn about the different industries that rely on these vehicles to provide their services and recognize local projects and services

The event also provides a day of no-cost fun for the entire family, with free face painting, games and giveaways, themed art activities and more. They can enjoy a day outside, sharing excitement and learning together Moments like this create unforgettable memories for children and their families As a sponsor, we’re proud to not only support the event, but also to bring our staff and their families out to participate It’s a great bonding experience for our team while reinforcing our commitment to supporting local initiatives that benefit our local schools, and our community as a whole. It’s a privilege to play a

role in providing this experience to local families, and we’re honored to have been part of this event for many years

We also hope to help inspire the next generation of construction workers, engineers, firefighters, drivers and builders Whether it’s a future firefighter who first got excited about fire trucks at the event, or a young engineer dreaming about constructing something for the community, we know that events like this plant the seeds for careers in industries that are vital to our society. We look forward to this year’s event and continuing our support for years to come!

This year’s event will take place Saturday, Jan 25, from 10 a m to 2 p m at Saint Michael Lutheran School, located at 3595 Broadway in Fort Myers To learn more, visit Facebook com/SaintMichaelLutheranSchool

Terry Drake, Jr is the president and founding partner of Drake Ready Mix, a presenting sponsor of the 2025 Touch-ATruck event.

Calusa Waterkeeper mourns loss of Capt. Codty Pierce

o u r w a t e r s ” f o r h i s a b i l i t y t o s p e a k h a r d t r u t h s , i n s p i r e a c t i o n a n d i g n i t e h o p e f o r a h e a l t h i e r f u t u r e f o r o u r e c o s y s t e m s

A s t h e h e a r t a n d s o u l o f o u r o r g a n iz a t i o n , C o d t y ’ s u n w a v e r i n g c o m m i t -

m e n t t o p r o t e c t i n g t h e w a t e r s o f

S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a a n d h i s f e a r l e s s a d v o c a c y f o r t h e e n v i r o n m e n t h a v e l e f t a n i n d e l i b l e m a r k o n a l l w h o k n e w h i m

T h e r e w a s n o o n e l i k e C o d t y h i s

p a s s i o n f o r t h e w a t e r , h i s t i r e l e s s w o r k

a n d t h e g e n e r o s i t y w i t h w h i c h h e s h a r e d h i s k n o w l e d g e a n d l o v e o f n a t u r e m a d e

h i m a b e l o v e d f i g u r e t o a l l w h o c r o s s e d h i s p a t h

H e w a s o f t e n c a l l e d “ t h e w a t c h d o g o f

from page 4

C o d t y w a s a r i s i n g e n v ir o n m e n t a l l e a d e r w h o s e l e g a c y w i l l c o n t i n u e t o i n s p i r e f u t u r e g e n e r a t i o n s o f a d v o c a t e s , s c i e n t i s t s a n d c i t i z e n s d e d i c a t e d t o s a f eg u a r d i n g o u r p r e c i o u s n a t ur a l r e s o u r c e s . H e h a d t h e r a r e g i f t o f m a k i n g e v e r y o n e h e e n c o u n t e r e d f e e l v a l u e d , u n d e r s t o o d a n d e m p o w e r e d

t o m a k e a d i f f e r e n c e

Connie Ramos-Williams

O u r t h o u g h t s a n d p r a y e r s a r e w i t h h i s f a m i l y , f r i e n d s a n d l o v e d o n e s d u r i n g t h i s i n c r e d i b l y d i f f i c u l t t i m e T h e r e i s n o o n e w h o

m e t o r k n e w C o d t y w h o

d i d n o t i m m e d i a t e l y f e e l t h e w a r m t h o f h i s s p i r i t , h i s i n f e c t i o u s e n t h u s ia s m a n d h i s d e e p l o v e f o r t h e n a t u r a l w o r l d h e w o r k e d s o h a r d t o p r ot e c t

A t t h i s t i m e , t h e

C a l u s a W a t e r k e e p e r t e a m i s f o c u s e d o n h o no r i n g C o d t y ’ s m e m o r y

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

I f T h e R e e f C a p e C o r a l L L C h a s n o t p a i d , t h e n t h e r e i s o n l y o n e p a r t y t h a t i s i n b r e a c h

New council members

i e n c e a n d C h a n g e s

T h i s i s t h e i n h e r e n t r i s k s o f d o i n g b u s i n e s s w i t h g o ve r n m e n t e n t i t i e s ; t h e r i g h t f o r t h e g o v e r n m e n t t o m a k e c h a n g e s T h e r e c a n b e n o b r e a c h o f c o n t r a c t f o r h a v i n g d i s c u s s i o n s t o i n v o k e c l a u s e s w i t h i n t h e “ 4 c o r n e r s ” o f t h e c o n t r a c t I h a v e r e q u e s t e d a c o p y f r o m p u b l i c r e c o r d s o f t h e n o t i f i c a t i o n f r o m t h e c o n c e s s i o n a i r e c o n t r a c t o r ’ s ( T h e R e e f C a p e C o r a l L L C ) l e g a l c o u n s e l c o n c e r n i n g w h y t h e y h a v e n o t p a i d t h e u p f r o n t p a y m e n t o f $ 1 , 3 7 0 , 4 8 8 t h a t w a s d u e o n N o v 9 , 2 0 2 4 ( A s o f t h e w r i t i n g o f t h i s l e t t e r , I h a v e n o t r e c e i v e d t h e d o c u m e n t ) I a m a r e t i r e d B o e i n g C o m p a n y C o n t r a c t s S r m a na g e r a n d p r o g r a m m a n a g e r I w a s a g o v e r n m e n t c o nt r a c t o r e m p l o y e e f o r 3 7 y e a r s I t w i l l b e i n t e r e s t i n g t o s e e t h e i r l e g a l a r g u m e n t f o r n o n - p a y m e n t

F o r o u r a t t o r n e y t o s a y w e a r e c r e a t i n g a b r e a c h o f c o n t r a c t b y h a v i n g d i s c u s s i o n s a b o u t t h e c o n t r a c t a n d i t s t e r m s i s l a u g h a b l e a t b e s t H o w m u c h a r e w e p a y i n g t h i s g u y t o b e i n f e a r o f t h i s t h r e a t ?

T o m S h a d r a c h C a p e C o r a l

T o t h e e d i t o r : A t t h e f i r s t f u l l m e e t i n g I a t t e n d e d a t C i t y C o u n c i l , t h e f i v e n e w m e m b e r s , l i k e t h e K e n t u c k y D e r b y , a r e o u t o f t h e g a t e a n d o f f t o a g o o d s t a r t M s L e h m a n n a n d h e r q u e s t i o n i n g o f t h e c i t y l a w y e r a n d J a y c e e P a r k c o n t r a c t w a s a s t u t e H e r t o w n h a l l m e e t i n g b r o u g h t o u t t h e r e a l i s s u e s I t r u s t t h e r e w i l l b e f o l l o w - u p M r D o n n e l l , M s N e l s o n - L a s t r a , M r K i l r a i n e a n d M s K a d u k a l l i n f o r m e d a n d a c t i n g a c c o r d i n g l y L e t u s n o t f o r g e t t h e o t h e r p r o m i s e s o f t h i s n e w c a d r e

o f c o u n c i l p e r s o n s L e t u s r e s t o r e t h e v o l u n t a r

a n d c o n t i n u i n g h i s w o r k . W e a r e g r a t e f u l f o r y o u r u n d e r s t a n di n g a n d s u p p o r t a s w e n a v i g a t e t h i s p r of o u n d l o s s C o d t y ’ s i m p a c t w i l l n e v e r b e f o r g o tt e n , a n d h e w i l l b e m i s s e d m o r e t h a n w o r d s c a n e x p r e s s W e ’ l l m i s s y o u d e e p l y , C o d t y Y o u r l e g a c y l i v e s o n i n t h e w a t e r s y o u f o u g h t s o h a r d t o p r o t e c t a n d i n a l l o f u s w h o h a d t h e p r i v i l e g e o f k n o w i n g y o u W i t h h e a v y h e a r t s ,

C o n n i e R a m o s - W i l l i a m s , e x e c ut i v e d i r e c t o r o f C a l u s a W a t e r k e e p e r , o n b e h a l f o u r b o a r d a n d s t a f f

DeSantis’ federal funding refusal puts all of Florida at risk

To

is alarming, especially as it faces severe climate risks

Despite being one of the most impacted states, Florida failed to accept funding over federal control concerns and refused to submit a carbon reduction strategy

The situation: rising sea levels, extreme weather, and increasing temperatures disproportionately affect vulnerable Floridians

Since 1950, Florida’s average temperature has risen by 3.5 degrees F, surpassing global trends. This impacts millions of low-income residents, with Broward County particularly hard-hit by poverty and inadequate infrastructure to address climate challenges

Solutions: Florida must take immediate action by i m

strategies tailored to its needs

Expanding electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is a critical step Broward County has only 320 public charging stations, meeting just 12% of demand

Addressing this shortfall with additional charging stations, particularly in low-income areas, would reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create jobs, and improve public health

Furthermore, public education campaigns on the benefits of EVs and accessible incentives can promote widespread adoption

DeSantis’ rejection of federal funds undermines efforts t

Adopting these practical, inclusive measures would build resilience, support vulnerable communities, and secure a sustainable future for the state

Sarah Martelly and Rosemary Oleh Westin

Parents get notice of proposed school time changes

b e l i e v e s i t i s a v e r y g o o d p l a n “ O b v i o u s l y , s a f e t y a n d t r a n s p o r t a t i o n

c o m e f i r s t f o r o u r k i d s , ” h e s a i d

A s a p a r e n t , t h e c h a n g e i n t i m e s w i l l i m p a c t h i m a s w e l l , a c o n c e r n o t h e r p a r -

e n t s h a v e s h a r e d w i t h h i m . F i s h e r s a i d

t h e c o n c e r n i s f o r p a r e n t s w h o w o r k e a r -

l i e r i n t h e d a y , a n d t h e p r o p o s e d c h a n g e s

h a v e t h e i r c h i l d r e n g o i n g t o s c h o o l l a t e r

T h i s c o u l d b e a d d r e s s e d b y t h e

b e f o r e - s c h o o l c a r e c u r r e n t l y o f f e r e d a t

s c h o o l s “ I a m w a t c h i n g t h i s v e r y c l o s e l y

R i g h t n o w , i t i s i m p o r t a n t , ” F i s h e r s a i d ,

a s c h i l d r e n c a n n o t a c h i e v e t h e i r h i g h e s t p o t e n t i a l i f t h e y d o n o t a r r i v e t o s c h o o l o n t i m e T h e t i m e c h a n g e f o r e l e m e n t a r y s c h o o l s w i l l b e b e

Editorial: A thank you to law enforcement for their efforts on Jan. 6, 2021

From page 4

It took five hours to secure the Capitol to make it safe for lawmakers to continue their counting of electoral ballots.

Approximately 140 officers from the Metropolitan Police Department and the United States Capitol Police incurred documented injuries

Damages to the Capitol building and grounds and other costs exceeded $2,881,360

There were more than 1,265 arrests including approximately 452 charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers or employees and approximately 123 charged with using a deadly or dangerous weapon or causing serious bodily injury to an officer

There were nearly 800 guilty pleas, including four who pleaded guilty to a federal felony charge of seditious conspiracy

Agree? Disagree? Weigh in! Letters, guest opinions,

That was then This is now

To those who upheld their oath to protect and serve, to those injured on the front line, to the families of those who died in the wake of service, we thank you for your sacrifice

We got your six

And neither we, nor history, will forget

comments welcome

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 e-mailed to vharring@breezenewspapers.com. All letters and guest opinions must be signed and must include a phone number for verification purposes. Readers are also invited to comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: capecoralbreeze.com

City sets community meeting for Parks and Recreation Master Plan

Nelson-Lastra to hold town hall that also will include parks projects discussion

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Cape Coral residents are invited to attend a community meeting on Tuesday regarding the Parks and Recreation Master Plan to both give and receive input about the parks that are important to them

“Your feedback is essential to ensure the updated Parks and Recreation Master Plan reflects the values and needs of our community,” said Parks and Recreation Director Joe Petrella in a prepared statement “We look forward to hearing from residents as we work together to shape the future of recreation in Cape Coral ”

The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Jan 28, at Mercola Market, 125 Southwest 3rd Place

Councilmember Jennifer Nelson-Lastra said in addition to a discussion about the updated Parks and Rec Master Plan, they will also talk about a parks and recreation stakeholder group Attendees will learn how they can become part of the group if they want to participate

“The city manager and his staff will spend time talking about how the stakeholder groups works, in terms of input,” Nelson-Lastra said

She said this will be an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to get involved and let their ideas be heard

“Your feedback is essential to ensure the updated Parks and Recreation Master Plan reflects the values and needs of our community We look forward to hearing from residents as we work together to shape the future of recreation in Cape Coral.”

Parks and Recreation Director Joe Petrella

“We have a lot of smart and wonderful people that live in our city that are subject matter experts in a lot of different things They are willing to donate their time,”

Nelson-Lastra said

www CapeCoral gov

Nelson-Lastra will also hold a town hall at 10 a m Saturday, Feb 10, at Banyon Trace, off of Palm Tree Boulevard Some of the discussion points will include the golf course, and parks and rec stakeholders group “I will give them updates on anything they want,” Nelson-Lastra said

Winter workshop to offer Cape residents opportunity for input on budget, plans, more

i n p u t t o c i t y c o u n c i l a n d s t a f f T h e w o r k s h o p w i l l i n c l u d e a n e c on o m i c u p d a t e , a r e v i e w o f v a r i o u s m a s t e r p l a n s , a n d a d i s c u

f o r t h e p u b l i c t o p r o v i d e

City to host second annual Water Ways Science Festival

The city of Cape Coral invites the pub-

l i c t o i t s s e c o n d a

l W

r W

Science Festival to be held Saturday, Feb 1, from 10 a m to 4 p m at Cultural Park, 528 Cultural Park Boulevard

This free, family-friendly event will include educational activities and games that focus on the importance of our waterways Attendees will learn about local, regional, and global water concerns

The event also will feature:

■ live animals

■ tree giveaways

■ planting event at Cultural Park

■ arts and crafts

■ mermaid

■ environmental hands-on activities

■ boating safety

■ food trucks

■ neurodivergent-friendly activities

■ and more!

The science festival aims to encourage community action on environmental issues that affect us all through activities, games, and art

Councilmember Lehmann to host District 2 Town Hall Feb 1

Cape Coral District 2 Councilmember Laurie Lehmann will hold a Town Hall meeting Saturday, Feb 1, from 10 a m to noon at Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road

Brett Limbaugh, city of Cape Coral Development Services director, and key members of his team will be joining this February 1 Town Hall to discuss plans and visions for the City and to answer citizens

encouraged to share their concerns, ask questions, and discuss ideas for the future of District 2 and the City of Cape Coral

The pavilion closest to the Environmental Center building will serve as the gathering spot for this event D

attendees are encouraged to bring their own beach or camping chairs

Drug House Odyssey set for Jan. 28-30

B y C J H A D D A D

c j h a d d a d @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m

A p r o g r a m t h a t t e a c h e s l o c a l y o u t h t h e n e g a t i v e i m p a c t s o f u n d e r a g e d r i n k i n g i s p r e p a

i n g f o r i t s 3 1 s t y e a r o f s p r e a d i n g a n i m p o r t a n t m e s s a g e

r u g H o

h i s e v e n t f

“It starts a conversation about making good choices If we can talk to our kids honestly about making good choices and listen to them our whole goal is to make kids resilient

“We want kids to be able to come up with a way to say ‘no’ that saves the respect they have for themselves. What we’re trying to do is help kids make good decisions ahead of time. So they’re not just faced with that decision as it’s happening. They’ve had a chance to talk to their parents, to know their parents love them and want the best for them, to know their parents will rescue them if they need to That can make a big difference as a child gets older ”

Deborah Comella, executive director, Drug Free Lee

Run for Prevention

This Saturday is the Titan Contracting Family Run for Prevention

The Run for Prevention is a chipped and timed 5K Family Run and Walk that is suitable for all ages and abilities The run takes place Jan 25 and starts at 8 a m at Babcock Ranch

Participants can bring their family and friends, form a team, and support Drug Free Lee The course is stroller and pet friendly

P

Odyssey possible

For more information and to register, visit www runsignup com/Race/FL/BabcockRanch/RunforPrevention Babcock Ranch is at 42911 Lake Babcock Drive in Punta Gorda

s

D r u g F r e e L e e E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o

o k e t o t h e

n g e v i t y o f t h e e v e n t a n d w h a t m a k e s i t p o s s i b l e e a c h y e a r

I t i s b e c a u s e o f t h e s u p p o r t o f t h e f i r s t r e s p o n d e r s a n d o t h e r a g e n c i e s , ” C o m e l l a s a i d “ T h e y a r e t h e o n e s t h a t , e v e r y y e a r , p r o v i d e t h e i r p r o f e s s i o n a l s f o r t h r e e

d a y s , a n d t h e y r e a l l y m o v e i t f o r w a r d I t ’ s r e a l l y a c o mm u n i t y e f f o r t . I t ’ s a l l o f t h e s e m a n y a g e n c i e s c o m i n g t o g e t h e r t o m a k e t h i s p o s s i b l e t o d r u g - p r o o f o u r k i d s ” P a r t i c i p a t i n g a g e n c i e s i n c l u d e t h e L e e C o u n t y

S h e r i f f ’ s O f f i c e , t h e C a p e C o r a l P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t ,

L e e H e a l t h , L e e C o u n t y E M S , B a y s h o r e a n d N o r t h F o r t

M y e r s F i r e D e p a r t m e n t s , t h e L e e C

C i r c u i t 2 0 S t a t e ’ s A t t o r n e y ’ s O f f i c e , L e e C o u n t y

S c h o o l D i s t r i c t , F l o r i d a H i g h w a y P a t r o l , t h e F l o r i d a D e p

C a p e C o r a l B r e e z e w w w . c a p e c o r a l b r e e z e . c o m J a n u a r y 2 4 , 2 0 2 5 ■ P a g e 1 2

Showcase: Cape Coral Construction Industry Association builders featured

From page 1

V i s i t o r

a n y w h o h a s t h e c h a n c e t o e x p e r i e n c e i t “ T h e S h o w c a s e o f H o m e s i s a n i n v a l u a b l e r e s o u r c e b e c a u s e i t a l l o w s b u y e r s t o e x p l o r e t h e l a t e s t h o m e

d e s i g n s , g a t h e r i n s p i r a t i o n , a n d c o n n e c t d i r e c t l y w i t h

b u i l d e r s , ” B o l d i s s a r s a i d . “ S e e i n g t h e s e h o m e s i n p e r -

s o n p r o v i d e s a u n i q u e p e r s p e c t i v e t h a t b r o c h u r e s a n d o n l i n e l i s t i n g s s i m p l y c a n ’ t m a t c h ” T h e C C C I A ’ s B u i l d e r s ’ S h o w c a s e o f H o m e s a w a r d s

p r e s e n t a t i o n t o o k p l a c e l a s t w e e k a t L a V e n e z i a

B a l l r o o m t o r e c o g n i z e t h o s e w h o s t o o d o u t a m o n g t h e b e s t “ I t i s o n e o f t h e m o s t r e w a r d i n g a s p e c t s o f t h e

e v e n t , ” B o l d i s s a r s a i d o f t h e a w a r d s c o m p o n e n t o f t h e

S h o w c a s e o f H o m e s “ T h e s e a w a r d s c e l e b r a t e e x c e l -

l e n c e , g i v i n g b u i l d e r s t h e r e c o g n i t i o n t h e y d e s e r v e f o r

t h e i r d e d i c a t i o n t o q u a l i t y a n d i n n o v a t i o n ”

Best overall home went to Koogler Homes for “Chalet de la Mer,” which also earned best outdoor living, best kitchen, and best interior design in category 15 in the CCCIA’s Builders’ Showcase of Homes The showcase features multiple builders offering 31 different models with prices ranging from $400,000 to more than $3 million

A w a r d s i n 1 4 c a t e g o r i e s ( d i f f e r e n t i a t e d b y p r i c e r a n g e ) w e r e g i v e n f o r b e s t e x t e r i o r d e s i g n , b e s t l a n ds c a p e , b e s t o u t d o o r l i v i n g , b e s t k i t c h e n , b e s t p o o l , b e s t b a t h , b e s t i n t e r i o r d e s i g n , b e s t l i v a b i

PHOTO PROVIDED

Showcase: New home options range from $400,000 to more than $3 million

From page 12

C o n s t r u c t i o n f o r “ A z u l M o d e l ”

■ B e s t o v e r a l l i n t e r i o r d e s i g n w e n t t o

K o o g l e r H o m e s f o r “ C h a l e t d e l a M e r ”

■ B e s t o v e r a l l l a n d s c a p e d e s i g n w e n t t o W i n d w a r d C o n s t r u c t i o n f o r “ A z u l

M o d e l ”

■ B e s t o v e r a l l h o m e t e c h n o l o g y w e n t

t o C o a s t a l C r a f t H o m e s f o r “ D r i f t w o o d ”

■ B e s t o v e r a l l h o m e w e n t t o K o o g l e r

H o m e s f o r “ C h a l e t d e l a M e r ”

■ C a t e g o r y 2 ( t h e f i r s t c a t e g o r y ) s a w

S u n l i f e H o m e s s w e e p w i t h “ P a r a d i s e

C o v e ”

■ I n C a t e g o r y 3 , D R H o r t o n s w e p t

w i t h “ T h e C a l i ”

■ C a t e g o r y 4 s a w S p o s e n H o m e s t a k e

h o m e b e s t e x t e r i o r d e s i g n , b e s t l a n d -

s c a p e d e s i g n , a n d b e s t k i t c h e n w i t h

“ H a r d w y n E d g e ” H o l i d a y B u i l d e r s w e r e

b e s t o w e d b e s t i n t e r i o r d e s i g n a n d b e s t l i v a b i l i t y w i t h “ C h a r l o t t e ” C o r a l I s l e

B u i l d e r s e a r n e d b e s t p o o l d e s i g n , b e s t

o u t d o o r l i v i n g , b e s t b a t h , a n d b e s t o v e r -

a l l w i t h “ T h e I b i s ”

■ I n C a t e g o r y 5 , b e s t l a n d s c a p e

d e s i g n w e n t t o H o l i d a y B u i l d e r s f o r

“ C a p t i v a , ” w h i l e T o t o C u s t o m H o m e s

r o u n d e d o u t t h e c a t e g o r y , i n c l u d i n g b e s t

o v e r a l l , f o r “ C a y o C o s t a ”

■ I n C a t e g o r y 7 , i t w a s T o t o C u s t o m

H o m e s s w e e p i n g t h e c a t e g o r y w i t h

“ A u g u s t a G r a n d e ”

■ I n C a t e g o r y 8 , P o s e i d o n H o m e s e a r n e d b e s t e x t e r i o r d e s i g n a n d b e s t l i va b i l i t y w i t h “ P e g a s u s I I I . ” T u d o r V i l l a s t o o k h o m e b e s t p o o l d e s i g n a n d b e s t o u t -

d o o r l i v i n g w i t h “ H a v a n a L u x u s ”

T r a c e y H o m e s w o n f o r b e s t l a n d s c a p e

d e s i g n , b e s t k i t c h e n , b e s t b a t h , b e s t i n t e -

r i o r d e s i g n , a n d b e s t o v e r a l l f o r “ G u l f M o d e l ”

“The overall quality of homes this year is exceptional The homes are built to withstand the elements, while maintaining design to cater to any preference “A lot of the models are only available for viewing during the showcase, it’s a unique opportunity to see homes that are not regularly open to the public.”

Lynn Boldissar, CCCIA executive director

■ C a t e g o r y 9 s a w A r n o l d R o b e r t s

S i g n a t u r e H o m e s e a r n b e s t b a t h a n d b e s t l i v a b i l i t y w i t h “ T h

K o o g l e r H o m e s w o n f o r b e s t l a n d s c a p e d

D M I H o m e

B u i l d e r s e a r n e d b e s t e x t e r i o r d e s i g n , b e s t p o o l d e s i g n , b e s t k i t c h e n , a n d b e s t i n t e r io r d e s i g n w i t h “ P u n t a G o r d a I s l e s ” M a j k o w s k i C o n s t r u c t i o n I n c w o n t h e

r e m a i n i n g c a t e g o r i e s , i n c l u d i n g b e s t o v e r a l l , w i t h “ G r a n d C a y m a n ”

■ C a t e g o r y 1 1 s a w F r e y & S o n s H o m e s w i n f o r b e s t e x t e r i o r d e s i g n a n d b e s t l i v a b i l i t y w i t h “ P a l m B e a c h I I ” P o s e i d o n H o m e s e a r n e d b e s t p o o l d e s i g n , a n d b e s t k i t c h e n w i t h “ A t l a n t i s S e r i e s . ” K o o g l e r H o m e s r o u n d e d o u t t h e

c a t e g o r y , i n c l u d i n g b e s t o v e r a l l , w i t h

“ M o n h e g a n I s l a n d ”

■ I n C a t e g o r y 1 2 , S W F l o r i d a D r e a m

H o m e s w o n b e s t l a n d s c a p e d e s i g n a n d

b e s t p o o l d e s i g n w i t h “ C a s a D e i S o g n i

G r a n d e ” A u b u c h o n H o m e s t o o k b e s t

e x t e r i o r d e s i g n , b e s t k i t c h e n , a n d b e s t i n t e r i o r d e s i g n f o r “ P e l i c a n ” T r a c e y

Q u a l i t y B u i l d i n g r o u n d e d o u t t h e c a t e g o -

r y , i n c l u d i n g b e s t o v e r a l l , f o r

“ H a m m e r h e a d ”

■ C a t e g o r y 1 3 s a w C o a s t a l C r a f t

H o m e s e a r n b e s t l i v a b i l i t y , b e s t b a t h ,

b e s t k i t c h e n , a n d b e s t i n t e r i o r d e s i g n f o r “ D r i f t w o o d ” T u n d r a H o m e s e a r n e d t h e r e m a i n i n g t i t l e s , i n c l u d i n g b e s t o v e r a l l ,

w i t h “ L a P a l m a E s t a t e ”

■ C a t e g o r y 1 4 s a w K o o g l e r H o m e s

s w e e p w i t h “ L u m a G r o t t o ”

■ I n C a t e g o r y 1 5 , K o o g l e r H o m e s

e a r n e d b e s t o u t d o o r l i v i n g , b e s t k i t c h e n , a n d b e s t i n t e r i o r d e s i g n f o r “ C h a l e t d e l a

M a r ” W i n d w a r d C o n s t r u c t i o n r o u n d e d o u t t h e c a t e g o r y , i n c l u d i n g b e s t o v e r a l l ,

w i t h “ A z u l ”

A s f o r w h a t m a d e C h a l e t D e L a M e r

t h e t o p o v e r a l l h o m e , B o l d i s s a r s a i d , “ W h a t s e t t h i s h o m e a p a r t w a s i t s i m p e c -

c a b l e a t t e n t i o n t o d e t a i l , s e a m l e s s b l e n d

o f l u x u r y a n d f u n c t i o n a l i t y , a n d s t u n n i n g

w a t e r f r o n t d e s i g n F r o m h i g h - e n d f i n i s he s t o b l e n d i n g f e m i n i n e a n d m a s c u l i n e t o n e s , e v e r y e l e m e n t w a s c a r e f u l l y c r a f te d ” S h e a d d e d t h e m o d e l h o m e s i m p r o v e i n q u a l i t y e a c h a n

We e k ly B R E E Z E R e c ap

Inauguration Day: Trump, Vance sworn into office

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

At the Capitol Building Monday morning, Donald J Trump was sworn in to the office of the President of the United States for a second time, officially commencing his tenure as the 47th President.

Trump, along with Vice President JD Vance, recited the oath signifying the transfer of power from previous president Joe Biden

During his inaugural address, Trump forecasted his presidency to be the “golden age of America ”

From the U S Capitol Rotunda, where the inauguration took place due to cold temps in Washington D C , Trump said, "From this day forward, our country will flourish and be respected again all over the world We will be the envy of every nation, and we will not allow ourselves to be taken advantage of any longer During every single day of the Trump administration, I will very simply put America first

“Our sovereignty will be reclaimed Our safety will be restored The scales of justice will be rebalanced The viscous, violent, and unfair weaponization of the Justice Department and our government will end ”

Trump said he returns to the presidency optimistic of the success for America moving forward He said a “tide of change” is sweeping the country, and that it's time to seize the opportunity

Trump said while there are challenges ahead, he is confident they will be “annihilated” by the momentum of his presidency

He spoke to his viewpoint of the current state of the U S government, stating there is a “crisis of trust ”

“For many years, a radical and corrupt establishment has extracted power and wealth from our citizens, while the pillars of our society lay broken and seemingly in complete disrepair,” Trump said

He said he believes the government fails to protect U S citizens, and provides sanctuary for “dangerous criminals ” That funding goes to foreign borders, and not to its own people

Trump said the country has issues with its healthcare system and education

“All of this will change starting today And it will change very quickly,” he said

Trump said he has been challenged and tested more than any other president in history over the past eight years, pointing to his legal battles and assassination attempt

“And I've learned a lot along the way,” he said “The journey to reclaim our republic has not been as easy one That I can tell you ”

Trump also called Jan 20, 2025, “liberation day ”

“It is my hope that our recent presidential election will be remembered as the greatest and most consequential election in the history of our country,” he said

Trump's inauguration also coincided with Martin Luther King Jr Day

“In his honor we will strive together to make his dream a reality,” Trump said

Following the ceremonies, Trump said he will sign a series of executive orders

“With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America, and the revolution of common sense,” he said

Trump said he will declare a national emergency at the southern border

“All illegal entry will be immediately halted, and we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came We will reinstate my ‘Remain in Mexico' policy I will end the practice of 'catch and release ’ And I will send troops to the southern border to repel the disastrous invasion of our county.”

Trump said under the executive orders to be signed, cartels will be designated as foreign terrorist organizations He said he will also use the power of federal and state law enforcement to eliminate the presence of all foreign gags and criminal networks

“As commander in chief, I have no higher responsibility than to defend our country from threats and invasions, and that's exactly what I am going to do,” Trump said

Trump then touched on how he will direct his cabinet to address “record inflation” and bring down costs and prices

Trump said the inflation crisis was caused by massive overspending and escalating energy prices, and that he will declare a “national energy emergency ”

“We will drill, baby, drill,” he said “America will be a manufacturing nation yet again.”

Trump said he will also revoke the Green New Deal, and revoke the electric vehicle mandate

“The American dream will soon be back and thriving like never before,” Trump said “To restore confi-

dence and effectiveness to our federal government ”

Trump added that his administration will establish t

Efficiency.”

He also noted that after what he called years of unconstitutional efforts to suppress free expression, he will sign an executive order “to immediately stop all government censorship and bring back free speech to America ”

Trump said during his first week back in office, he will also “end the government policy of trying to socially engineer race and gender into every aspect of public and private life

“We will forge a society that is colorblind, and merit-based ”

Trump made a polarizing statement when it comes to gender identification

“It will henceforth be the policy of the United States government that there are only two genders male and female,” he said

Trump continued to say he will reinstate any military that were expelled for objecting to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate with full back pay

“And I will sign an order to stop our warriors from being subjected to radical political theories and social experiments while on-duty It's going to end immediately,” Trump said

Trump said he wants to be a “peacemaker” and a “unifier ”

“I'm pleased to say that as of yesterday, one day before I assumed office, the hostages in the Middle East are coming back home to their families,” Trump said. Other changes Trump proclaimed are on the horizon, is that the Gulf of Mexico will be renamed to the “Gulf of America,” and that Denali will change back to Mount McKinley

Trump said also he plans to take back the Panama Canal, and to plant the American flag on Mars

“Above all, my message to Americans today is that it is time for us to once again act with courage, vigor, and the vitality of history's greatest civilization,” Trump said “As we liberate our nation, we will lead it to new

deterred ”

M a n y m e m b e r

Washington D C for the inauguration, taking in watch parties with like-minded individuals

There were also various watch parties around Lee County and Southwest Florida to see Trump take office once more

Republican State Committeewoman for Lee County Tara Jenner made the trip north to the nation's capital

“The energy and enthusiasm in D C is palpable and

See INAUGURATION DAY, page 35

Woman facing charges after fleeing from Cape Coral police

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

A Cape Coral woman was arrested Sunday after police say she fled the scene of an in-progress car theft, evaded officers, gave a false name and was found with drugs including fentanyl

Kayla Jean Locke, 29, has been charged with fleeing and eluding a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest, two counts of giving a false name to a law enforcement officer, hit and run, possession of fentanyl, possession of paraphernalia, DUI, DUI with property damage and operating a motor vehicle without a valid license

Cape Coral Police Department officials said officers were called to the parking lot of Dollar General on Southeast 10th Street in Cape Coral for a reported vehicle burglary.

CCPD officials said they observed Locke in the driver's seat of a beige Subaru Outback, and as they approached, Locke “erratically” drove off, nearly hitting

a police vehicle Police said the Subaru Locke was driving had no license tag

“Officers continued to try to stop Locke using lights and sirens, but she refused, breaking many traffic laws and nearly driving on the sidewalk,” CCPD officials stated “Locke drove into a raised center median, disabling the vehicle ”

Police said that Locke started running, and while doing so, began throwing "items" out of her pockets

A CCPD K9 officer chased Locke and released his dog

“The K9 Officer alerted Locke that she was about to get bit and gave her commands to stop,” CCPD officials stated “Locke quickly complied, and the dog was called off ”

Once detained, police said Locke initially provided

“multiple” false names, but later confirmed her identity Police said during their investigation, they discovered Locke had two outstanding warrants from the Lee County Sheriff's Office, as well as a suspended driver's license CCPD's investigation also determined that Locke was not involved in the car burglary

“During the investigation, officers discovered drugs, including fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia near where Locke had thrown items out of her pocket,” CCPD officials stated “Additionally, an uncapped syringe was found inside the vehicle, along with other drug paraphernalia

“Locke exhibited signs of impairment, prompting a DUI investigation The DUI investigation determined that Locke was impaired She was transported to a hospital for medical evaluation A preliminary blood test later confirmed the presence of illegal narcotics ”

Locke, following medical clearance unrelated to her arrest, was transported to the Lee County Jail

Kayla Jean Locke

President Donald J. Trump

Vice President JD Vance

Rental rate rise expected to continue

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

Southwest Floridians in the Cape Coral and Fort Myers area may find themselves reaching deeper into their pockets to keep up with the cost of living in 2025.

Despite low unemployment levels and subsiding inflation, median rent prices from 2024 to 2025 in the local area are forecasted to be 10 5% higher, according to a recent study

D a t a f r o m C o n s t

i o n C o v

g e shows that in 2024, the median rent in the Cape Coral-Fort Myers metro came in at $1,956, and in 2025, is slated to be $206 more expensive at $2,162

Nationwide, data from Construction

C o v e

Myers area as the 18th highest increase for “midsize metros,” with three other Florida-based areas in the same category above it

C o n s

Jones writes that rentals have been highly competitive across the country He said that many builders were hit hard by the recession, and as a result, the United S

rental vacancy rates are near record-low levels, meaning more renters are competing for fewer available units

Florida as a whole is predicted to see a 6 4% increase in rent prices, coming in at 15th nationally

From 2023 to 2024, the Cape CoralFort Myers metro saw a 15 2% increase in median rental rates, from $1,708 to $1,967

According to city of Cape Coral officials, the city is working toward “creating

“The problem is that income is not keeping up Salaries and hourly wages are not keeping up with the cost of housing in Lee County and Southwest Florida

“The increased costs these families are facing on an annual basis compared to the increase of their salaries and hourly wages are unsustainable.”

Lee County Housing Authority Executive Director Marcus Goodson, who said what’s occurring in the rental market right now is “scary ”

and preserving affordable housing for its residents through a variety of initiatives ”

Some of those initiatives include:

Grant (CDBG): Funds programs for housing rehabilitation, social services, and neighborhood improvements

■ State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP): Provides financial support for affordable housing and requires periodic Local Housing Assistance Plans

Offers up to $10,000 to help homeowners facing financial hardships

■ Non-Profit Partnerships: Works with organizations like Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable homeownership and rental options

■ Home Repair Grants: Assists lowincome homeowners with critical repairs through forgivable loans

■ Live Local Act: Ensures long-term

requiring 40% of residential units to be affordable for at least 30 years

■ Disaster Repair Grants: Assists lowincome homeowners with hurricane related repairs

deductibles post-disaster

An example of the city’s commitment

rental community for families, celebrated its official opening The project was made possible through a variety of sources, including the city’s funding commitment of more than $1 1 million in grant support

Executive Director Marcus Goodson said what’s occurring in the rental market right now is “scary ”

“Especially for minimum wage income earners, it's tough," Goodson said "When you have to pay for food, transportation, healthcare, medicine, childcare all of those things to live in this world, and you're already paying forty-five to fifty percent of your income towards your housing cost, it's unsustainable ”

Goodson said point blank, Lee County is an expensive place to live, and it's getting more expensive each year He said

there’s a ripple effect from landlords and

being passed down to tenants

“The problem is that income is not keeping up,” Goodson said “Salaries and hourly wages are not keeping up with the c

Southwest Florida

“The increased costs these families are facing on an annual basis compared to the increase of their salaries and hourly wages are unsustainable ”

income

with safe, decent, and affordable housing opportunities as they

improve their lives ”

The LCHA is committed to operating in an efficient, ethical, and professional manner, and creates and maintains partnerships with its clients and appropriate community agencies in order to accomplish this mission

“

assisted housing, is that our rents are always based on income,” Goodson said “If you didn’t have housing authorities (and similar programs), middle- to lowincome families, and certainly extremely low-income families, just wouldn’t be able to make it There would be far more homeless people than what we already have and we already have too many homeless people sleeping on the streets and in the park ”

Goodson said while LCHA is doing what they can with what they have, if you ride around Lee County, many housing

See RENTS, page 31

Housing: Pre-leasing program drew hundreds of potential renters

From page 1

s a f e a n d a f f o r d a b l e h o u s i n g t h a t s u p p o r t s e c o n o m i c s e c u r i t y a n d a c c e s s t o o p p o r t un i t y f o r a l l “ I t ' s e x c i t i n g I t ’ s o v e r w h e l m i n g , ”

A l l e n s a i d o f t h e e m o t i o n s f e l t T h u r s d a y m o r n i n g “ W e ’ r e h a p p y t o f i n a l l y s e e t h e v i s i o n c o m e t o r e a l i t y a n d p r o v i d e h o u si n g f o r h a r d - w o r k i n g f a m i l i e s i n C a p e

C o r a l ” W i t h r e n t a l r a t e s s t e a d i l y c l i m b i n g t h r o u g h o u t S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a a n d t h e c o u n t r y , t h e n e c e s s i t y f o r i n c o m e

a t a s u b s t a n t i a l d i s c o u n t t o m a r k e t “ D e v e l o

a n d g r o w d i v e r s e c o m m u n i -

t i e s C i v i t a s i s n o t j u s t a s a f e a n d a f f o r da b l e h o u s i n g o p t i o n , i t ’ s a p l a c e w h e r e

i n d i v i d u a l s a n d f a m i l i e s c a n t h r i v e , w h e r e d r e a m s c a n g r o w , a n d w h e r e p e o -

p l e c a n f e e l s e c u r e i n t h e i r f u t u r e s . ”

T h e m a i n d e v e l o p e r s o f t h e p r o j e c t i n c l u d e C i v i t a s o f C a p e C o r a l , R e V i t a l

D e v e l o p m e n t G r o u p , L e e C o u n t y

H o u s i n g A u t h o r i t y a n d B i r d s o n g

H o u s i n g P a r t n e r s C i v i t a s r e c e i v e d f u n d -

i n g a s s i s t a n c e f r o m C a p e C o r a l ( $ 1 1

m i l l i o n ) , L e e C o u n t y ( $ 2 m i l l i o n ) ,

R a y m o n d J a m e s , a n d s t a t e p r o g r a m s “ A e s t h e t i c a l l y , w e w a n t e d t h e d e v e l -

Officials and dignitaries cut the ribbon for Civitas of Cape Coral, an affordable residential enclave providing

range of living choices, from one- to three-bedroom apartments among three buildings in the development off Pine Island Road. Rental rates are based on income.

A l l e n s a i d a f t e r l e s s t h a n a w e e k o f p u b -

l i c a d v e r t i s i n g a n d n o t i c e , t h e r e w e r e “ h u n d r e d s ” o f p e o p l e l i n e d u p , s o m e e v e n c a m p i n g o u t o v e r n i g h t t o s e c u r e a

c a t e o f o c c u p a n c y f o r t h e c l u b h o u s e o n

N o v 7 o f 2 0 2 4 , C i v i t a s o f f e r e d p r e - l e a si n g o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r p r o s p e c t i v e t e n a n t s

o p m e n t t o a p p e a r a n d r e s e m b l e m a r k e tr a t e d e v e l o p m e n t s , n o t o n l y b e c a u s e t h e r e s i d e n t s d e s e r v e i t , b u t t o c o m b a t t h e o p p o s i t i o n w e o f t e n h e a r a b o u t a f f o r da b l e h o u s i n g , ” A l l e n s a i d U p o n r e c e i v i n g i t s t e m p o r a r y c e r t i f i -

s p a c e i n l i n e “ T h a t d e f i n i t e l y s h o w s t h e n e e d , a n d i t ’ s s a d t o s e e t h a t m a n y m o r e o f t h e s e

d e v e l o p m e n t s a r e n e e d e d , ” A l l e n s a i d

T h e l a n d C i v i t a s s i t s o n w a s a c q u i r e d

b y t h e L e e C o u n t y H o u s i n g A u t h o r i t y , w h i c h h a s a 9 9 - y e a r l e a s e f o r $ 1 0 a y e a r

t o t h e p r o j e c t ’ s e n t i t i e s

C i v i t a s w a s c o n t r a c t e d i n A u g u s t o f 2 0 1 9 C o n s t r u c t i o n d e l a y s , p r o j e c t c o s t s , s u p p l y c h a i n i s s u e s , a n d a m a j o r h u r r i -

c a n e , a l l p l a y e d a r o l e i n w h y t h e p r o j e c t w a s d e l a y e d T h e t o t a l c o s t o f t h e p r o j e c t c a m e i n a t a r o u n d $ 3 5 m i l l i o n “ W e h a d s i g n i f i c a n t i n f l a t i o n a l m o s t 4 0 p e r c e n t i n c r e a s e o f o u r c o ns t r u c t i o n c o s t s , ” A l l e n s a i d “ T h e

C O V I D - 1 9 p a n d e m i c a l l o f t h a t d e l a y e d o u r c l o s i

See HOUSING, page 17

CJ HADDAD

Housing: Second affordable development community planned for Cape Coral

From page 16

t r i b u t e d t o g e t t h i s p r o j e c t t o t h e f i n i s h

l i n e ”

D i s t r i c t 5 C o u n c i l m e m b e r J o s e p h

K i l r a i n e s a i d , “ P e o p l e t h i n k o f l o wi n c o m e h o u s i n g a s s o m e t h i n g t h a t ’ s k i n d o f n o t v e r y p r e s t i g i o u s I f y o u l o o k a t t h e f a c i l i t y h e r e a n d w h a t t h e y o f f e r i t ’ s u n b e l i e v a b l e T h e r a t e s t h e y ' r e a b l e t o p u t t o g e t h e r f o r p e o p l e t h a t a r e c o m i n g h e r e , i t ’ s a g r e a t a s s e t t o h a v e i n t h e c i t y I t ’ s a d e m o g r a p h i c t h a t w e u n d e r s e r v e "

D i s t r i c t 4 C o u n c i l m e m b e r J e n n i f e r L a s t r a , w h o s e r v e d a s m a y o r p r o t e m w h e n C i v i t a s w a

i

O u r c i t y n e e d s t h i s s o b a d l y A s t h e f a s t e s t - g r o w i n g c i t y , a n d t h e s e v e n t h -

l a r g e s t i n t h e s t a t e , w e d o n ’ t h a v e a t t a i n -

a b l e h o u s i n g f o r o u r f a m i l i e s , f o r o u r w o r k f o r c e ” A l l e n s a i d a f f o r d a b

n f

c u l t i v a t i n g p r o m i n e n t f u t u r e s f o r a l l i n v o l v e d “ I t c o n t r i b u t e s t o b e t t e r o p p o r t u n i t i e s , i m p r o v e s t h e q u a l i t y o f l i f e , a n d s t r o n g e r , m o r e c o n n e c t e d c o m m u n i t i e s , ” h e s a i d “ I t ’ s a b o u t g i v i n g p e o p l e a p l a c e

w h e r e t h e y c a n f e e l a t h o m e I t ’ s a n o p p o r t u n i t y f o r g e n e r a l c h a n g e I t p r o -

v i d e s a h a n d - u p , n o t a h a n d - o u t ”

B i r d s o n g H o u s i n g P a r t n e r s C E O

S t e v e A u g e r s a i d , “ S e e i n g w h a t ( A l l e n ) h a d p u t t o g e t h e r , a l o n g w i t h w h a t t h e t e a m h a d g o i n g o n d o w n h e r e , i t w a s r e a l l y s p e c i a l “ T o b e a b l e t o b e i n v o l v e d i n t h i s p r o j e c t i n t h i s l o c a t i o n h a s j u s t b e e n f a bu l o u s “ E v e n t h o u g h t h

s d i r e p

m u c h t h r o u g h o u t F l o r i d a , t h e p o l i t i c a l w i l l a t t h e l o c a l l e v e l i s n o t t h e s a m e

“When I think about what we’re doing here today, we’re not just celebrating the concrete, and the building, and the amenities We’re celebrating the vision and the stories that will come out of this development from the people who will live here Who will look at this as a launching platform for their lives

“I’m eager to hear about the people who are going to grow up in Cape Coral, who are going to get to live in a fine, quality, wonderful place that Lee County was a part of a team to make possible, and be pillars in our community ”

Commissioner Brian Hamman

t h i s , i n t h i s c o m m u n i t y , i s c r i t i c a l J u s t

b e c a u s e y o u r e l y o n g o v e r n m e n t a s s i s -

t a n c e , d o e s n ’ t m e a n y o u w a n t t o l i v e i n a

c e r t a i n p a r t o f t h e c o u n t y T o h a v e a

d e v e l o p m e n t l i k e t h i s i n C a p e C o r a l , a n d

t h e o t h e r p r o j e c t s ( w e ’ r e ) w o r k i n g o n i n

N o r t h F o r t M y e r s , t h a t i s a b i g d e a l

A e s t h e t i c a l l y , t h i s l o o k s l i k e a m a r k e tr a t e d e v e l o p m e n t , a n d t h a t ’ s w h a t w e

w a n t T h e r i g h t p a r t n e r s m a k e t h i s w o r k . ”

D i s t r i c t 4 L e e C o u n t y C o m m i s s i o n e r

a n d C a p e C o r a l r e s i d e n t , B r i a n H a m m a n

s a i d , “ W h e n I t h i n k a b o u t w h a t w e ’ r e

d o i n g h e r e t o d a y , w e ’ r e n o t j u s t c e l e b r a ti n g t h e c o n c r e t e , a n d t h e b u i l d i n g , a n d

t h e a m e n i t i e s W e ’ r e c e l e b r a t i n g t h e v i s i o n a n d t h e s t o r i e s t h a t w i l l c o m e o u t

o f t h i s d e v e l o p m e n t f r o m t h e p e o p l e w h o

w i l l l i v e h e r e W h o w i l l l o o k a t t h i s a s a

t h e i r h o u s i n g c o s t s , t h e y c a n ’ t a f f o r d f o o d , h e a l t h c a r e , t r a n s p o r t a t i o n , a n d t h o s e o t h e r t h i n g s t h a t s o m e t a k e f o r g r a n t e d . A p r o j e c t l i k e

l a u n c h i n g p l a t f o r m f o r t h e i r l i v e s

“ I ’ m e a g e r t o h e a r a b o u t t h e p e o p l e

w h o a r e g o i n g t o g r o w u p i n C a p e C o r a l ,

w h o a r e g o i n g t o g e t t o l i v e i n a f i n e , q u a l i t y , w o n d e r f u l p l a c e t h a t L e e C o u

t o m

k e p

i b l e , a n d b e p i l l a r s i n o u r c o m m u n i t y ” A l l e n s a i d h e t a k e s p

i d e i n h a v i n g C i v i t a s b e t h e f i r s t - o f - i t s - k i n d h o u s i

COMMUNITY

Caring for your poinsettia after the holidays

By CAROLE KERNS news@breezenewspapers com

Many people enjoy decorating their homes with plants for the December holidays The colorful poinsettia adds a festive atmosphere to homes and are often received as gifts

The poinsettia is native to Mexico and was given the botanical name Euphorbia pulcherrima which means “very beautiful ” It was named after Joel Roberts Poinsett, an avid gardener and the first U S ambassador to Mexico. Poinsett sent plants back to his greenhouse in Charleston, South Carolina, and they soon became known by the common name “poinsettia ” The ornate portions of the plant, which most people consider the flower, are actually colorful leaves called bracts The small, yellow flowers of the poinsettia are clustered in the center of the bracts

Once the holidays are

o v e r , w i t h p r o p e r c a r e , your poinsettia can remain

GARDEN

CLUB OF CAPE CORAL

c o l o r f u l f o r s e v e r a l months If kept indoors, keep the plant away from drafts Place the poinsettia in an area that is well lit, being careful not to place it in direct sunlight or hot, artificial light Because this plant needs moist but well drained soil, water the poinsettia when the surface of the soil is dry Place a saucer under the pot and drain, if water forms into it To prolong the plant’s color and life span, provide slightly humid air by misting the plant with a sprayer or by placing it on a gravel tray Do not fertilize your poinsettia until you are prepared to move it outside

When planting your poinsettia outdoors, always remember “Right Plant, Right Place ”

Light conditions: Plant the poinsettia in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight, making sure that it will not be exposed to artificial light at night Avoid the midday sun, as it can scorch the leaves

Planting: Place the plant in the soil at the same depth that it was growing in the container Gently pat the soil around the plant and water Add mulch to retain moisture, protect the soil from erosion and to suppress weeds

Moisture: Water when the top inch of the soil feels dry, so that the soil is evenly moist but not saturated.

Temperature: Although our area rarely experiences a frost, it can happen If a frost is predicted, bring potted plants inside or cover the in-ground plants during the cold nights

Pruning: In early spring, after the flowering period, prune back the plant by cutting the stems to within 1218 inches from the ground to stimulate new growth To encourage fullness, pinch back the tips of the stems in late spring or early summer

Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer sparingly from March to May and in October Lee

POINSETTIA, page 35

4th Annual WALK FOR THE POOR Feb. 15 at St. Andrew Catholic Church

The St Andrew Conference of the Society of St Vincent de Paul, a nonprofit organization that helps local neighbors in need, will sponsor its 4th Annual WALK FOR THE POOR Saturday, Feb 15 The event will begin at 10:30 a m at St Andrew Catholic Church, at 2628 Del Prado Blvd South, Cape Coral, and end at 1 p m

The Walk for the Poor fundraiser has raised over $15,000 for each of the last three years More importantly, it has raised the public’s awareness of the neighbors in need within Cape Coral

N o t a b l y a l s o t h

Conference is celebrating its 55 years of service to Cape Coral neighbors Since 1970, the St Andrew Conference has been providing tangible assistance in the form of rental assistance, food vouchers, water and electric utility assistance, prescription, temporary lodging, thrift store vouchers, bus passes, job resources, and referrals to other agencies and organizations

In FY 2024, the St Andrew Conference prevented eviction for 43 families by providing rental assistance, helped put food on the table for 217 families, prevented electric and water utility shut-offs for 270 families Altogether, SVdP processed 1,062 calls from neighbors

PROVIDED

James E Hendry Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society President Cathy Dunn with the holiday money tree.

Local Hibiscus Society chapter raises funds for Florida hurricane victims

At a recent holiday dinner, members of the non-profit garden society James E Hendry Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society contributed over $600 for Florida hurricane victims It was decided instead of exchanging holiday gifts between each other, the members wanted to help hurricane people locally

The chapter members said they felt it was important to support the many people who have been affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton in the Lee County area

A festive money tree was decorated at the Christmas dinner with cash donations and checks which were then d is tr ib u ted to th e U n ited Way H u r r ican e D is as ter Recovery Fund

The chapter members reported that this is a good way to help when hurricanes hit this area and hopefully other area clubs and societies will like this idea as well

requesting assistance By the grace of God and by the generosity of the parishioners of St Andrew and through awarded grants, the St Andrew Conference distributed over $139,000 in assistance to 514 families (860 adults and 519 children)

The St Andrew Conference of the Society of St Vincent de Paul is an official and registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1970 in Cape Coral Vincentians personally visit every neighbor who calls for assistance and engage them in a face-to-face dialogue to better assess their needs and determine the best assistance the conference can provide for them Vincentians also offer gifts of compassion, understanding, and prayer.

SVdP provides assistance to Cape Coral neighbors in need without regard to religion, age, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, socio-economic status There are no paid staff; all are volunteers

All proceeds and donations from the WALK FOR THE POOR will directly benefit the people in the Cape Coral area served by SVdP Anyone interested in walking or

capesvdp

Public invited to Four Chaplains Service Feb. 2 at Legion Post 90

The public is invited to American Legion Post 90 in Cape Coral on Sunday, Feb 2, for the annual “Four Chaplains” memorial service Post 90 has been conducting a Four Chaplains’ Service for the last seven years The ceremony is held at 1 p m and lasts about 25 minutes Light refreshments will be served after the ceremony

T h i s c e r e m o n y i s held each year on the first Sunday in February, which is known as Four Chaplains Day by the American Legion

A m e r i c a n L e g i o n posts nationwide remember Four Chaplains Day with memorial services that pay tribute to the courageous chaplains and the brave young men who lost their lives on that fateful night On the evening of Feb 2, 1943, an American troop ship was torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine Of 902 on board only 230 survived Four chaplains were aboard They gave up their life jackets, in a singular act of heroism, to help others survive

The American Legion is very much a family organization Post 90 welcomes veterans and veteran family members to learn about the American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion If you are a spouse, son or daughter, sister or brother, mother or father, grandmother or grandfather, granddaughter or grandson of a veteran, you are eligible to join If your veteran family member is deceased, we still honor their service and welcome you as their relative For this special service, all of the public is invited

The post has many upcoming events and activities with local schools and community

If you are interested in joining the American Legion stop by the Post at 1401 S E 47th St , Cape Coral

If you would like to learn more, please email Ted Clark, membership chair, at tedclark12@gmail com, or call 845-527-7948

PHOTO

Lions Club to hold Casino Night fundraiser

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

Cape Coral and Southwest Floridians can hit the tables next month for a fun night of games, all while raising money to support local youth

The Cape Coral Lions Club is putting on its first Casino Night on Feb 22, where money raised will go towards the purchase of new vision and hearing testing equipm

schools

Casino favorites such as blackjack, roulette, craps, poker, and even Wheel of Fortune will be played, with attendees being provided chips to “gamble” with, being able to turn winnings into prize opportunities at the end of the night

“We’re very excited about the event,” said Cape Coral Lions Club Fundraising Chair, Frank Lee “It’s going to be one of our major fundraisers this year to help us conduct screenings for kids in preschool

g money now to buy screening equipment that is pretty pricey ”

Casino Night will take place at the VFW Harney Point Post 8463 Hall on Southeast 11th Place, and runs from 6 to 9 p m , with doors opening at 5

Tickets are $50, and includes $5,000 in casino money Those who purchase a ticket by Jan 31 will receive an extra $3,000 in casino cash A food truck will be on site, and adult beverages will be available for purchase at the event.

Cape Coral Lions Club members are trained in screening for vision and hearing deficiencies in youth, conducting tests all around the city

“We use some state-of-the-art equipment to screen them for vision and hearing

IF YOU GO:

What: Cape Coral Lions Club Casino Nigh

When: Feb 22, from 6 to 9 p m , with doors opening at 5

Where: Harney Point VFW, 4709 Southeast 11th Place

More information: For more information visit visit www capecorallionsclub org

issues they may have,” Lee said “Once we detect any issues, we can then recommend treatment to the parents

“A lot of times parents aren’t aware their child is suffering. With hearing particularly, if you catch it early, you can fix it ”

The Cape Coral Lions have administered screenings for the last few years, and are continuing to bolster the service they offer

Lee said the Casino Night fundraiser is a great way to spend an evening while supporting the youth of Southwest Florida

“It’s a good opportunity for people to just come to get out, have some fun casino nights are generally a lot of fun,” he said “We have a company that’s coming in to supervise the games and run roulette and craps And we have volunteers that will

deal blackjack and poker People just love coming out to play ”

There will be various raffle prizes for players to have a shot at taking home, including tickets for the Key West Express, and Sun Splash Family Waterpark.

After the Club, which is a non-profit organization, covers the cost of the casino company and renting out the hall, all proceeds from the night will go towards purchasing the new equipment The club is currently sharing their equipment with the Bonita Springs Club, and to acquire its own, have a fundraising goal of $9,000

Lee spoke about how having the most up-to-date tools at their disposal is a benefit for all

“There are two big advantages to having state-of-the-art equipment,” he said “One is that you can screen more kids in a shorter amount of time The vision equipment is almost like a camera The kid sits down, look into the camera, and almost immediately the diagnosis is available With hearing, they are given different sounds to identify, so we can quickly find out what issues there might be, and to what extent

“Our volunteers go through special training to be able to conduct these screenings ”

VIP tickets for Casino Night are also available for $75, which includes $12,000 in chips, a free drink, and free 50/50 raffle ticket

Attendees can also purchase additional casino money at the event

The mission of the club is “to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs ”

“The Lions Club International is the

world,” Lee said “There are different clubs all over the world We set out to help youth with vision and hearing Lions Clubs also do diabetes screenings, and are always ready to help with disasters, such as hurricanes ”

The Cape Coral Lions Club also has locations around the city that collect used eyeglasses, sort them out, and ship them all over the world where they are needed

“We try to get involved in the community to help wherever there is a need,” Lee said “One of our slogans is that, ‘Where there’s a need, there’s a Lion ’”

The Cape Coral Lions Club currently has 20 members, and is always looking for additional members The Cape Coral Lions Club also received the 2019-2020 Club E x c

International

“It gives you an opportunity to do as much as you want to do, or as little as you want to do,” Lee said “You can get involved as much as you’d like, or do something once per year It gets you out into the community, and for me, I feel like I’m doing something good and giving back And you can see the results of the things you do ”

The club meetings every third Thursday of the month at 5:30 p m at the American Legion (1401 Southeast 47th Street)

Table sponsorships for Casino Night are still available

For more information on the Cape Coral Lions Club, Casino Night tickets, and s p

www capecorallionsclub org

H a r n e y P o i n t V F W i s a t 4 7 0 9 Southeast 11th Place in Cape Coral

Affordable housing community for seniors coming to North Fort Myers

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Hermosa North Fort Myers is the first new construction affordable housing community within unincorporated Lee County in more than 15 years

ReVital Development Group President Michael Allan said what’s more, it is the first affordable housing community to be built in North Fort Myers in more than 30 years and the first development to utilize Florida’s Live Local Act for the creation of affordable housing

“Without the support of Lee County’s staff and elected officials, Hermosa would

Hermosa North Fort Myers II in partnership with Birdsong Housing Partners and the Lee County Housing Authority, and will be the team’s third affordable housing community developed together in Lee County over the past two years ” T h e L e e C

y Commissioners approved $39 2 million in Community Development Block GrantDisaster Recovery funding early December with two projects in North Fort Myers to receive funds

Hermosa North Fort Myers II, at 16301 N Cleveland Ave , received $5 25 million in CDBG-DR funding The project’s total cost is $28 million for 88 multifamily units This project is for senior housing for those 62 years old and older

“The funding allows us to develop more affordable housing units than we otherwise would be able to,” Allan said “On the local and national level, the need for affordable housing is outpacing the amount of available affordable units A large factor for this is due to the expiration of the compliance period for existing affordable housing units; meaning units that are currently designated as affordable can be converted to

market rate upon the end of the compliance period ”

He said essentially, they are losing affordable housing at a rate faster than they can create them

“We’re committing Hermosa to a 99year affordability period, basically in perp e t u i

enhance the design and construction standards to ensure a sustainable and resilient community for the long-term, which this funding assists to accomplish,” Allan said The property will include both one- and two-bedroom units There will be a total of

Hermosa Phase II-Side View/RENDERINGS PROVIDED

Affordable housing: Construction on initial phase began in November

From page 1

three units for 30% AMI, nine for 40% AMI, and 76 at 60% AMI

Allan said they started construction on the initial phase 72 units in midNovember The second phase was then set to begin

“We’re closing on the construction financing within the next two weeks, with construction commencing shortly thereafter,” Allan said last last year

He said although they use a lot of data when considering their developments, they knew affordable housing is a dire need

“Hermosa is located with HUD identified Qualified Census Tract, a designated certified by HUD for census tracts that have greater than 50% of households with incomes below 60% AMI, or have a poverty rate of 25% or more,” Allan said “The median age is 67, and veterans make up approximately 25% of the population within the census tract The area is surrounded be great resources within close proximity ”

He said Hermosa will provide a safe, affordable and sustainable housing option for the area’s seniors earning up to 60% of the area’s median income, with a preference provided to veterans

“Residents will also benefit from the associated social and economic improvements that come with such a great project Prioritizing senior housing is critical as we continue to see more and more older adults on fixed incomes struggle to keep up with rising costs of housing and living,” Allan said Bayshore Pines, 361 Bayshore Road, the other project in North Fort Myers will receive $17 million in CDBG-DR funding. The project has a total cost of approximate-

ly $68 1 million and will offer 180 multifamily units

The units will serve those at 60% area median income or less

This project has a focus on creating a resilient, community-centered affordable housing development with designs to meet national green building standards, as well as incorporating hurricane-related concrete block construction, elevation to two feet above the base flood level. The project is anticipated to be complete by October

2026

The last project, located in Fort Myers Ekos on Evans, 3501 Evans Ave will receive $17 million in CDBG-DR funding The total cost of the complex is $53 8 million for 144 multifamily units

The project includes 22 units at 30% AMI or less, 56 units at 60% AMI or less and 66 units at 70% AMI or less

Following the landfall of Hurricane Ian in Lee County on Sept. 28, 2022, the U.S.

Recovery funds to Lee County for longterm recovery efforts in November 2023

The proposals

The funded projects will provide for the development of 412 affordable multi-family housing units.

Hermosa Phase II-Front View

EDUCATION

EDUCATION BRIEFS

Cape Coral students make Dean's List at Souther n New Hampshire University

MANCHESTER, N H -- Southern New Hampshire University congratulates the following students on being named to the Fall 2024 Dean's List The fall terms run from September to December

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3 500 to 3 699 for the reporting term are named to the Dean's List Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer

Students from Cape Coral named to the Dean's List i n c l u d e D r a g o s l a v M a k s i m o v i c , G e o r g e V i n c i , Frederick Gillis and Brittney Hampshire

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with a 92-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults Now serving more than 200,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, N H Visit https://degrees snhu edu/

Cotarelo named to LeTour neau University’s Fall 2024 Dean's List

LONGVIEW, Texas - The following students were named to the Fall 2024 Dean's List at LeTourneau University The Dean's List recognizes students who have achieved a grade point average between 3 50 and 3 99 for the semester

Among those named to the Dean's List was Saar Cotarelo of North Fort Myers who is majoring in engineering

LeTourneau University, a Christian polytechnic university, is located in Longview, Texas, 120 miles east of Dallas, Texas, and 60 miles west of Shreveport, Louisiana LETU is the 2nd Best Value College in

T e x a s a m o n g p r i v a t e i n s t i t u t i o n s , a s r a n k e d b y Payscale com and by SmartAsset com

For additional information about the university, visit www letu edu

Nor th For t Myers High students to present ‘Pippin’ the musical

North Fort Myers High School’s theater department will raise the curtain on the musical “Pippin,” with shows staged on Friday, Jan 31, and Saturday, Feb 1, at 7 p m and Sunday, Feb 2, at 2 p m

“Pippin” is a circus-inspired production, which features an acrobatic troupe of performers, led by the charismatic Leading Player (portrayed by Mia Zottolo)

The ensemble cast tells the story of Pippin, a young prince (Tyler Scott) who longs to find passion and adventure To prove his loyalty to his distracted father, King Charles (Dominic Pilozo), and his stunning new wife Fastrada (Rilyn Dick), Pippin goes to war alongside his dimwitted step-brother Lewis (Kevin ReesDiaz) But when the Leading Player convinces the prince to fight tyranny, Pippin kills Charles and takes over the throne Thanks to his cunning grandmother Berthe (Grace Duncan), Pippin realizes his mistake and begs the Leading Player to bring his father back to life The prince falls in love with Catherine (Jay Encalada), a widow with a young son, Theo (Parker Laux), and much to the Leading Player’s chagrin, Pippin struggles to decide whether he should settle down and pursue a peaceful life or continue to make magic with the dazzling troupe of performers

Tickets for each of the performances can be purc h

etleap com/ pippin/ or with cash at the door Seats range from $5-$20 and are assigned The lobby opens one hour before the curtain, and the house opens 30 minutes before the curtain North Fort Myers High School is at 5000 Orange Grove Blvd , in North Fort Myers

Contact the school at 239-995-2117 or visit its website at https://nfm leeschools net/

STEMtastic event set for Feb. 8 at Caloosa Sound Convention Center

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

More than 125 exhibits will be featured at the popular STEMtastic event this February in downtown Fort Myers

The 15th annual STEMtastic convention will be held from 10 a m to 2 p m Saturday, Feb 8, at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center, 1375 Monroe St , Fort Myers

President and CEO Marshall Bower said the event now runs simultaneously with the Edison Festival of Lights celebration He said it only made sense to partner with the celebration, as Thomas Edison was emersed in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)

The event this year is similar to events in the past, as the foundation has invited businesses and schools to set up booths with hands-on STEM activities to promote STEM in education and the workplace

“We added arts into the equation this year, also,” Bower said “Everybody understands there is a significant relationship between arts and STEM Most things are designed on computers ”

In addition, he said, children who participate in arts do better in math and science

The event, which will be full of activities for all ages, gives children the ability to really have a day of exploring their world and how STEM is so intertwined in their world,

Bower said.

When the youngsters arrive, they will be given a passport, which must have a signature from at least one science, technology, engineering and math booth to be entered into a drawing for prizes

The event typically attracts more than 3,000 people, Bower said

“What’s really fun to watch is the kids that started to come in as little toddlers They come in and are ready to come and explore the new things this year,” Bower said, adding that he really enjoys watching the little kids and seeing the wonder in their eyes

There will be food for purchase at the event

Additional information about STEMtastic can be found o n t h e S c h o o l D i s t r i c t o f L e e C o u n t y w e b s i

t www leeschools net

An exhibitor sign-up form is available on the School District website

Garden Club of Cape Coral accepting Merit Scholarship Awards applications

Garden Club of Cape Coral is now

Scholarship Awards, with awards of up to $2,000 to each recipient

environmental club sponsors, counselors, career specialists at high schools that enroll Cape Coral residents and some youth organizations also have information related to this opportunity

These Garden Club scholarship awards were established in 2011 as a civic project for the purpose of assisting eligible graduat-

Applicants are required to be residents of Cape Coral and to have demonstrated active, ongoing participation related to environmental issues, horticulture, agriculture, natural resources and conservation through classes, extracurricular activities and work or volunteer experience. Career goals compatible with the purpose of the awards, fostering environmental action, can be a factor in award decisions; however current involvement has more weight

Since 2011, 56 awards have been earned by students participating in environmental programs and projects at Bishop Verot, Cape Coral, Canterbury School, Florida Southwestern Collegiate, Ida Baker, Island Coast, Mariner, North Fort Myers, and Oasis Charter high schools Other schools, which enroll students who reside in Cape Coral are included on the application distribution list of contacts

Completed applications must be emailed to meritaward@gardenclubofcapecoral com no later than midnight, Wednesday, Feb 19 Yearly success of the club’s annual major fundraiser March in the Park, a juried plant and garden show and sale since 2009, supports the Merit Scholarship Awards This year’s March in the Park Plant Sale and Garden Expo is Saturday, March 8, from 9 a m to 3 p m at Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road

The Garden Club meets monthly at 5:45 p.m. on the second Tuesday of September-May at the Epiphany Episcopal Church, 2507 Del Prado Blvd Visit the club's website at https://www gardenclubofcapecoral com/

Lee Health Nova Southeastern University Nursing Scholarship Program available

Lee Health has teamed up with another local university to encourage nursing students to build their careers and live in Southwest Florida through the Lee Health Nova Southeastern University Nursing Scholarship Program

The Lee Health Nova Southeastern University Nursing Scholarship Program will provide scholarships to 20 nursing students who will apply for the Lee Health Nurse Residency program prior to their final semester and agree to work for Lee Health for 18 months after graduation

This initiative follows a similar partnership created last year with Florida Gulf Coast University.

The Lee Health Nova Southeastern University Nursing

Scholarship Program will offer up to $10,000 in financial support per student

In addition to the scholarships, Lee Health will provide participants with enriching activities, opportunities for clinical rotations and more

Applicants will be selected based on their academic performance, personal statement, interview and overall evaluation

Southeastern University Nursing Scholarship Program and for the application, please visit https://www.leehealth org/special-pages/lee-health-nova-nursing

County adds STEM exhibits to event lineup

Southwest Florida Ag Expo returns to the Lee Civic Center Feb. 27 through March

B y M E G H A N B R A D B U RY

n e w s @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m

A n e w d i v i s i o n h a s b e e n a d d e d t o t h i s y e a r ’ s C r e a t i v e L i v i n g S o u t h w e s t

F l o r i d a A g E x p S T E A M

U n i v e r s i t y o f F l o r i d a / I F A S E x t e n s i o n

L e e C o u n t y F a m i l y & C o n s u m e r

S c i e n c e s A g e n t J e n n i f e r H a g e n s a i d w h e n t h e c o u n t y t o o k o v e r t h e e x p o m o r e t h a n a y e a r a g o , t h e y d e s i g n a t e d a c o u p l e o f e x t e n s i o n a g e n t s f o r t h e e v e n t s S h e

s a i d t h e L e e C o u n t y B o a r d o f C o u n t y

C o m m i s s i o n e r s w a s i n t e r e s t e d i n t a k i n g

i t o v e r a n d m a k i n g i t m o r e o f a n e d u c at i o n a l a g r i c u l t u r a l e x p o

T h e i n t r o d u c t i o n o f S T E A M t h i s y e a r s c i e n c e , t e c h n o l o g y , e n g i n e e r i n g , a r t s , a n d m a t h e m a t i c s i s b e i n g i n c l u d -

e d t o b r i n g m o r e o f a n e d u c a t i o n a l f o c u s t o t h e e x p o . S T E A M i n c l u d e s f o u r f o c u se s r o b o t i c s , L E G O s t r u c t u r e , r e c y -

c l e d , o r r e u s e d m a t e r i a l a n d r e c l a i m e d w o o d M i r i a m D o t s o n , S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a A g

E x p o s p o k e s p e r s o n , s a i d i t i s e n g a g i n g p a r t i c i p a t i o n t h r o u g h m o r e e d u c a t i o n a l

w a y s t h a t p e o p l e c a n h a v e e x h i b i t s a t t h e e x p o “ T h i s t a p s i n t o c r e a t i v i t y , t e c h n i c a l s k i l l s I t c a n r e a l l y b e f o r a l l a g e s , ” s h e s a i d , a d d i n g t h a t s i n c e t h e c o u n t y t o o k

o v e r , t h e y a r e c o n n e c t i n g a c t i v i t i e s b a c k t o t r a d i t i o n a l , p r i d e f u l e v e n t s “ ‘ M y e x h i b i t c a n b e a t t h e A g E x p o ’ i t c r e -

a t e s m o r e o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r t h e m a n d a

l e v e l o f f u n a n d a c h a n c e t o p u t i t o n d i sp l a y ”

“This taps into creativity, technical skills It can really be for all ages ‘My exhibit can be at the Ag Expo’ it creates more opportunities for them and a level of fun and a chance to put it on display.”

Miriam Dotson, Southwest Florida Ag Expo spokesperson

D o t s o n s a i d i t ’ s a n o t h e r o u t l e t t o l e a r n m o

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T h e y a r e c o n s i d e r e d a l m o s t a n e n g i n e e ri n g t y p e p r o j e c t I t i n v o l v e s a l l k i n d s o f

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b e c r e a t i v e a n d c o m e u p w i t h t h e i r o w n

c r e a t i o n S h e s a i d l a s t y e a r t h e y h a d a

L E G O v e r s i o n o f D o w n t o w n F o r t M y e r s ,

F o r t M y e r s B e a c h a n d t h e B e s t i n S h o w

w a s a t r u e r e p r o d u c t i o n o f a t y p e w r i t e r

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s u b m i t t h a t a s a n o r i g i n a l c r e a t i v e b u i l d , ”

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T h e r e c y c l e d , o r r e u s e d m a t e r i a l m u s t

b e m a d e f r o m p r e v i o u s l y u s e d m a t e r i a l s

a n d m u s t b e f u n c t i o n a l o r u s e a b l e “ Y o u c a n b u i l d w h a t e v e r y o u w a n t , o r

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a l s , ” H a g e n s a i d “ I t d o e s n ’ t h a v e t o b e

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c a n b e ) e g g c a r t o n s , r e c y c l e d f a b r i c t h a t y o u a r e n o w c r e a t i n g a d r e s s o u t o f o l d T - s h i r t s ” T h e l a s t c l a s s f o r S T E A M i s r e c l a i m e d w o o d T h e p i e c e s s u b m i t t e d m u s t s p e c i f y t h e t y p e , o r i g i n a n d i n t e n d -

e d u s e o f t h e w o o d “ I t ’ s a n o d t o b a c k i n t h e d a y i n a g r i -

c u l t u r e , ” H a g e n s a i d “ A l o t o f b a r n s w o u l d c r e a t e w o o d q u i l t s q u i l t s b u i l t o u t o f w o o d a n d p u t a b o v e b a r n d o o r s ” S h e s a i d t h e s e f o c u s a r e a s a r e s h o wi n g i n n o v a t i o n , c r e a t i v i t y b y l e a n i n g i n t o t h e s k i l l s o f s c i e n c e , t e c h

Demolition for city’s Bimini East underway

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Demolition for the city of Cape Coral’s Bimini East Initiative began this week, with the clearing process likely to take a few months to complete

“Forty-three structures are set to be demolished as part of the Bimini East Initiative Demo began on the first structure yesterday,” city spokesperson Kaitlyn Mullen said Wednesday

As of Jan 21, 13 of 43 structures scattered through about 20 acres purchased by the city for redevelopment still were occupied

The project is intended to “revitalize the

South Cape,” city officials said

The completion date is spring 2026 Expenditures to date are $41,414,989

“Demolition will only begin once structures are confirmed to be vacant,” Mullen said

The neighborhood just east of Bimini Basin has been struggling, as it was severely impacted by Hurricane Ian.

“The community was never able to truly recover,” Mullen said

The demolition of the structures is to prepare the site for a developer, who will bring future growth and new opportunities to the area Mullen said the property has a lot of potential, as it is located off Cape Coral Parkway, next to Coronado Parkway

The future development will breathe new light into the community, Mullen said

“We won’t know that until someone purchases the land and comes up with a development plan,” she said of what the property may turn into “There is a lot of opportunities for that space We are hoping it brings vibrancy to the area and creates a community hub ”

Tenants were given until Jan. 31 to be out.

“There are several different lease types, and the city is working with each tenant to ensure their specific lease terms are followed,” she said “While tenants were notified in a timely manner about the relocation deadline, some 90-day relocation periods began later than others ”

Mullen said qualified applicants can

receive housing assistance for first and last month’s rent, as well as a security deposit, for maximum assistance of up to $6,000

“As of today, the city has only received one application, and we are in the process of issuing this tenant assistance,” she said

The South Cape Redevelopment Agency’s purpose is to target blight and revitalize declining areas. Mullen said the CRA is a special taxing district the funds that come from the taxes on residents and businesses within the CRA that are invested back into the area

“Every bit of the revenue from the CRA area is invested back into that specific boundary,” she said

February programs at Cape Coral Lee County Public Library

Next month’s roster of activities at Cape Coral Lee County Public Library offers topics for all ages The following activities are free to the public:

Adult Programs

Great Decisions Discussion Group

2 p.m., Monday, Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24

This eight-part series is created by the Foreign Policy Association to develop awareness, understanding and informed opinions on U S foreign policy and global

Decisions Discussions leader Klaus-Peter Voss, participants are encouraged to read the companion briefing book before each meeting Each participant will be able to check out a copy of the 2025 briefing book, which must be returned to the library at the end of the eight-week program Registration is limited to 22 participants for the eight-week series By registering for this program, you agree to attend all eight sessions

English Café

6 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25

10 a.m., Friday, Feb. 7, 14, 21

F

ESOL/ESL students

Book Discussion: “The Little Paris Bookshop” by Nina George

11 a m , Wednesday, Feb 5

Monsieur Perdu calls himself a literary apothecary

From his floating bookstore in a barge on the Seine, he prescribes novels for the hardships of life Using his intuitive feel for the exact book a reader needs, Perdu mends broken hearts and souls The only person he can't seem to heal through literature is himself; he's still haunted by heartbreak after his great love disappeared. She left him with only a letter, which he has never opened

Crafts at Cape: Watercolors

2 p m , Wednesday, Feb 5

10 a m , Saturday, Feb 22

This month we will explore watercolors and learn simple techniques to create different shapes and patterns Each class has a maximum seating of 20 Participants may only register for one class in the series Registration is guaranteed until the start of the program

Download Drop-In

11 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 6, 20

R

Libby/OverDrive and hoopla, two of Lee County Library System's largest online content providers Support also will be available to registered users of the National Library Service's Braille and Audio Reading Download

s e r v i c e ( B A R

Borrower Services and Lee County Talking Books

Note: Attendees should bring their preferred, charged device (tablet, phone, e-reader, etc ) along with any passwords needed to download apps Kindle users also must have an Amazon account and password Patrons interested in BARD should contact Talking Books at 239-5334780 before attending to ensure they have an active account or find out how to set one up

The History of Classical Music Told Through the Guitar

2 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 11

Join us for a grand musical journey performed by Edwin Culver, starting with an ancient melody discovered beneath Grecian ruins and cheeky folk dances from the medieval era Discover the mind-bending complexity of the Baroque period and the heart-wrenching melodies of the Romantic era Then, explore where music is heading next with avant-garde sounds from the world wars and new compositions by Edwin Culver

Beginner Spanish Class

2 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 12

This course is designed for those new to the Spanish language Learn fundamental vocabulary, essential phrases and basic grammar in a fun, informal and interactive environment Registration is required

Meet the Author: Jennifer Coburn

2 p.m., Monday, Feb. 17

Join us for an engaging author presentation and book signing featuring Jennifer Coburn Copies of her latest novel "The Girls of the Glimmer Factory" will be sold at this event (credit card only) This event is part of the 26th annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival, to be held Saturday, March 1 For more information about the festiv

Registration is required

Adult Coloring

2 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 18

Come and experience the latest trend in relaxation -adult coloring books Researchers and art therapists alike have touted the calming effects of coloring and adults have found this childhood activity a refreshing way to release their creativity, relieve stress and meet other participants Coloring pages designed especially for adults, as well as colored pencils, will be provided

“Books & Boozers: A Matter of Murder”

2 p.m., Monday, Feb. 24

Join local author Carol Freeman to celebrate the publication of her ninth murder mystery, “Books & Boozers: A Matter of Murder ” Readers will go on a madcap adventure throughout the Cape Coral area with Ellen and Charlie Green, 70-plus-year-old amateur sleuths who are at it again and reckless as ever Copies of all of her books will be available for purchase Registration is required

The International Osprey Foundation

2 p m , Thursday, Feb 27

Join Kathryn Brintnall, president of the International Osprey Foundation, as she explains the organization's e f f o r t s t o p r o t e c t o s p r e y T h e I n

y

Foundation was founded on Sanibel Island in 1981 and offers research grants on raptor-related projects internationally and recruits and coordinates teams of volunteers who build and maintain osprey nesting platforms and monitor osprey nests locally during breeding season Registration is required

Children’s Programs

Kids Read Down Fines

1-2 p m , Saturday, Feb 1

5:15-6:15 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 19

Children and teens can earn a $2 credit on overdue fines for every 15 minutes they read in the designated area for a total of $8 in one session Please bring your library card Please check in at the Youth Desk

Preschool Storytime

10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25

For ages 3-5 years Children attend this program independently while parents and caregivers wait nearby Space is limited to 15 tickets Please arrive early and pick up a ticket at the Youth Desk

Family Storytime

10 & 11 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26

For children through age 5 years and caregivers Families with young children enjoy a variety of stories, songs, rhymes and movement Space is limited Please arrive early and pick up a ticket at the Youth Desk.

Baby Rhyme Time

10:30 a m , Thursday, Feb 6, 13, 20, 27

For babies through age 18 months Babies and caregivers wiggle and giggle in a supportive environment Space is limited Please arrive early and pick up a ticket at the Youth Desk

Family Build It

10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 8

For all ages Drop in for building challenges the whole family will enjoy No registration required All materials are provided.

Pokémon Tweendom 4:15 p m , Thursday, Feb 13

For ages 9-12 years Battle it out in a trading card game showdown, show off your favorite Pokémon in our fan art gallery and test your knowledge with a trivia challenge Registration is required All supplies are provided while they last Snacks provided This program is intended for attendees ages 9-12 years to attend independently while caregivers wait nearby Please speak with staff if caregiver assistance is needed during the program

Cozy Corner Storytime 10:30 a m , Saturday, Feb 15

For children through age 5 years with a caregiver Join

See FEBRUARY, page 30

Public hearing for Burnt Store Road PD&E Study Tuesday

In-person presentation at Cape Coral Technical College, online option also available

The Florida Department of Transportation invites residents to a public hearing for the Burnt Store Road Project Development and Environment Study (PD&E) from Van Buren Parkway in Cape Coral to the Charlotte County line in Lee County Tuesday, Jan 28

This study will evaluate and document the benefits, costs and impacts of widening Burnt Store Road from the existing twolane undivided roadway to four lanes, while accommodating a typical section expandable to six lanes to address the deficient operational capacity and future travel demand projected as a result of areawide population and employment growth Also evaluated was the addition of paved shoulders/marked bicycle lanes and shared use paths

This hearing is being conducted to present the preferred alternative and all analysis to date, as well as to give interested persons an opportunity to express their views concerning the location, conceptual design, and social, economic, and environmental effects of the proposed improve-

ments Those interested can participate live online or in-person The information presented during either format will be the same and all attendees will have opportunity to comment

To attend the Jan. 28 public hearing: Live online option

Register in advance at https://tinyurl com/BurntStoreRdPH

5:45 p m How to submit comments

6 p m Formal presentation and comment

Please review the materials on project

www swflroads com/project/436928-1

Materials were scheduled to be posted by Jan 21

In-person option

Cape Coral Technical College

360 Santa Barbara Blvd , N , Cape Coral,

Anytime between 5-6 p m Open house

6 p m Formal presentation and comment

If you are unable to attend the hearing, comments can also be provided through

roads com/project/436928-1 or by email

mail to FDOT District One, Attn: Steven A Andrews, Project Manager, MS 1-40, 8

33830 While comments about the project are accepted at any time, they must be received or postmarked by Feb 7, to be included in the formal hearing record

All comments are weighted equally Questions can be answered by calling Steven A Andrews at 863-519-2270

A summary of the hearing will be available on the webpage approximately 30 days following the close of the comment

period

Project documents are available for public viewing until Feb. 7, at Northwest Regional Library, 519 Chiquita Blvd , N , Cape Coral, and at FDOT District One, Southwest Area Office, 10041 Daniels Parkway, Fort Myers (by appointment only) They will also be available on the project webpage

F

without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status People who require special accom-

Disabilities Act or who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Cynthia Sykes, District One Title VI Coordinator, at 863-519-2287, or email at Cynthia Sykes@dot state fl us at least seven days prior to the public hearing

The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by FDOT pursuant to 23 U S C §327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated May 26, 2022 and executed by FHWA and FDOT.

February: Programs, activities at Cape Coral Lee County Public Library

From page 29

us for a relaxing storytime with stories, rhymes, movement and music Space is limited Tickets are available 30 minutes before the program

Cape Kids Art Club

4 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 20

Kids ages 5-11 years will explore the works of famous artists through hands-on projects and creative activities This session will highlight Van Gogh's Starry Night, inspiring young minds to unleash their creativity and express themselves through art Dress for mess Registration required Your registration is only guaranteed until the start of the program All materials provided

Teen Programs

Kids Read Down Fines

1-2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 1

5:15-6:15 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 19

Children and teens can earn a $2 credit on overdue fines for every 15 minutes they read in the designated area for a total

of $8 in one session Please bring your library card Please check in at the Youth Desk

Magic Across the Houses

3:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 6

Experience the magic of the Hogwarts houses Show Gryffindor bravery, practice Hufflepuff kindness, sharpen Ravenclaw wisdom and channel Slytherin cunning at each of the themed activities For ages 1118 years Snacks provided This program is intended for attendees ages 11-18 years to attend independently Please speak with staff if caregiver assistance is needed

Family Build It

10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 8

For all ages Drop in for building challenges the whole family will enjoy No registration required All materials are provided

The History of Classical Music Told Through the Guitar

2 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 11

Join us for a grand musical journey per-

s

formed by Edwin Culver, starting with an

Grecian ruins and cheeky folk dances from the medieval era Discover the mind-bending complexity of the Baroque period and

Romantic era Then, explore where music is heading next with avant-garde sounds from the world wars and new compositions by Edwin Culver

Pokémon Tweendom

4:15 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 13

Battle it out in a trading card game

Pokémon in our fan art gallery and test your knowledge with a trivia challenge Registration is required. All supplies are provided while they last Snacks provided This program is intended for attendees ages 9-12 years to attend independently while caregivers wait nearby Please speak with staff if caregiver assistance is needed during the program

The Cape Coral Lee County Public L

Terrace in Cape Coral For more information about a program or to register, please call the library at 239-533-4500 Check the Lee County Library System’s website at www leelibrary net to find out about programs at other locations. Call the host library, or Telephone Reference at 239479-INFO (4636), for more information about a specific program

To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www leegov com/resources/newsletters

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Lee County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in its services, programs or activities To request an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or a reasonable modification to participate, contact Raphaela Morais-Peroba, 239533-8782, Florida Relay Service 711, or r

requester Requests should be made at least five business days in advance

Rents: Affordable housing situation in Lee County called ‘ scary, ’ ‘

From page 15

developments in the works are marketrate

“What we do is critical, the problem is we don’t have enough units to go around,” he said “We’re always one-hundred percent occupied (There’s always) a two, three, four-year waitlist to get in That in itself spells out the situation we find ourselves in ”

While rental prices have been eyeopening in recent years, Goodson said individuals and families being priced-out is an issue that’s been at hand for nearly four decades

“This has been around for quite some t i m e , ” G o o d s o n s a i d “ L o c a l l y , w e ’ r e beginning to talk about it a little more than we have in the last 10 years In my profession, we’ve been screaming as loud as we can scream for a number of years. Now, we do seem to have landed on the soft ears of people in decision-making positions It takes public and private partnerships to do this Government can’t do it all But, government has to do its fair share, or it’s not going to happen The return on investment is not enough for developers to get into this business on a similar scale as they get into the marketrate developments You’ve got to have subsidies, and only the government can provide that ”

T h e i n c r e a s e i n p o p u l a t i o n a c r o s s Southwest Florida is also a driving factor for increasing rates

“People are coming here in numbers,” Goodson said “And there’s only so many housing units in the state You can continue to build, of course, but at any given moment, there’s a finite number

“ W e ’ v e g o t t o p l a n ( f o r g r o w t h )

“Locally, we’re beginning to talk about it a little more than we have in the last 10 years In my profession, we’ve been screaming as loud as we can scream for a number of years Now, we do seem to have landed on the soft ears of people in decision-making positions It takes public and private partnerships to do this Government can’t do it all But, government has to do its fair share, or it’s not going to happen The return on investment is not enough for developers to get into this business on a similar scale as they get into the market-rate developments. You’ve got to have subsidies, and only the government can provide that.”

Lee County Housing Authority Executive Director Marcus Goodson

We’ve got to budget It’s one thing to talk about it ”

G o o d s o n c a l l e d d e v e l o p m e n t s l i

Civitas “critical” for Southwest Floridians to get by

leased up, and it happened in just a matter of days,” he said “That’s an indication of the demand ”

Goodson also spoke to the need for a f f o r d a b l e h o u s i n g s p r e a d a c r o s s t h e region, not just in certain communities

“You've got to be able to spread it out throughout the county And Civitas represents that,” he said “It’s over on Pine Island Road We have a groundbreaking ceremony in North Fort Myers coming up We’re looking to be part of projects that are outside of where they are traditionally found You want blended communities with different income levels You just don’t want it concentrated We’ve done that before in this country We’ve concentrated people, and we found out it doesn’t work Why are we still trying to do that?

City of Cape Coral programs

I’m thankful we have some projects that

boundaries in Lee County where you find affordable housing developments ” Goodson's advice for this looking at an increase in rent?

“Sometimes you have to take a step back to take two steps forward,” he said “Sometimes you may have to bring in a roommate, or move back home to figure things out Communicate with agencies that provide affordable housing in the community and see if there are some units available

“Sometimes you've got to pivot I had to do it over the course of my professional career Just be open to other housing options It may not be what you want at the moment, but you’ve got to have a vision, and you’ve got to be able to see down the road, see past tomorrow, and know that things will get better ”

For more information on LCHA and programs they offer, visit www leecountyha org

Consecutive life sentences in police shooting

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

A man convicted of multiple counts of attempted firstdegree murder of a law enforcement officer for shooting at Sanibel police officers and a sheriff's deputy in 2016 has been sentenced to life in prison

On Jan 13, Lee County Circuit Judge Bruce Kyle sentenced Jon Webster Hay, 57, to three consecutive life sentences for three counts of attempted first-degree murder on a law enforcement officer with a firearm. In addition, Hay was sentenced to the maximum of 15 years in prison for shooting at or into an occupied vehicle and the maximum of five years for fleeing to elude a law enforcement officer

State Attorney's Office Deputy Chief Assistant State Attorney Tyler Lovejoy and Assistant State Attorney Alyssa Wolf prosecuted the case

Defense attorney Mark Youngblood represented Hay

“Three consecutive life sentences for shooting a police officer should serve as a very direct warning that violence against law enforcement officers absolutely will not be tolerated,” State Attorney Amira Fox said in a prepared statement on Jan 13

On Dec 12, a Lee County jury found Hay guilty of the three life felonies, second-degree felony and third-degree felony following a four-day trial According to court records, the jurors also found him not guilty of a fourth count of attempted first-degree murder on a law enforcement officer with a firearm

“I support and appreciate the judge's decision regarding Mr. Hays,” Sanibel Police Department Police Chief William “Bill” Dalton said on Jan 16 “I am thankful he will never have the opportunity to hurt anyone ever again ”

“I also appreciate the State Attorney's Office in their

patience and dedication pursuing justice for the officers and deputy involved,” he added.

At about 8 p m on Nov 20, 2016, Sanibel police Officer Jared Ciccone was sitting in his patrol vehicle filling out a traffic report A gray van passed by and shot at him, striking him once in the shoulder Ciccone radioed that shots had been fired and provided a description of the vehicle, and the direction the van was traveling Officer Christopher Dowaliby heard the call and located a gray-green van, pursed it until it came to a stop Dowaliby saw a man, later identified as Hay, exit the van Hay fired several shots at Dowaliby with what appeared to be a rifle Officer Chad Maik reported that Hay opened fire with an AR-15 style rifle. Both of the officers' vehicles were struck by gunfire. Ciccone was transported to the hospital for treatment and later released

Ban: CCPD officers to also continue Homeless Outreach Team approach

From page 1

overnight in a temporary outdoor habitation used as a dwelling or living space and evidenced by the erection of a tent or other temporary shelter, the presence of cooking accoutrements, or storage of other personal belongings, including

but not limited to bedding, blankets, pillows, sleeping bags, backpacks, suitcases, huts, awning, lean-tos, chairs, tarps, or any person found being covered by material such as bedroll, newspapers, or cardboard, or inside any temporary shelter, including but not limited to hammocks ”

The ordinance further states that it does not include lodging or residing overnight in a motorized vehicle, or for recreational purposes on property designated by the city for such purposes

With the passage of the ordinance, the Cape Coral Police Department legal advisor will continue to train staff.

“Really threading a tight needle with constitutionality and provisions in 2-25,” Sizemore said, adding that when officers are on the street it will ensure they are not operating outside of the constitution and not stepping outside the confines “The training has already been done in earnest ”

The ordinance states that city property means “any public right-of-way, sidewalk, parking lot or facility, easement, street, road, alleyway, or other city-owned public ways, or the surrounding grounds, all city-owned, leased, or controlled property, buildings, structures, parks, or the surrounding grounds ”

What this ordinance will not do is eliminate the homeless “problem” in Cape Coral, officials acknowledged

There was a discussion at the meeting that the homelessness that was happening in the South Cape Community Redevelopment Area is not going to be permitted with this resolution Sizemore specified Southeast 47th Terrace by the bus station in particular

“Private businesses signed authorization to enforce trespassing,” Sizemore said “Currently, up to the passing of this, public property was allowed to be occupied whether you have bagged chairs, carts you were allowed to be on public property on the sidewalk Our goal before, now and into the future is utilizing the ‘HOT’ team concept ”

The Homeless Outreach Team concept is that when a police officer encounters someone experiencing homelessness in the moment, they do what they can to help, such as delivering them to a continuum of care a treatment facility, Sizemore said adding it’s about getting someone into the system to get the care and job skills they need to get them off the street

“We all know not everyone will choose that option,” Sizemore said “What this ordinance will not do is criminalize somebody who chooses homeless You are allowed to live on the street It is a tight line that my officers have to work ”

Sizemore said if an individual wants the help they will bring them to the Salvation Army complex, for example, if there is room available

“We call before we go,” Sizemore said, adding that if there is no room, officers will take the person to a less restrictive place where they need to go

Either way, the individual will not be allowed to remain in place

If somebody has all of their stuff, and is homeless, in public and living on the street, they are going to have to move along, he said, adding the department is not going to turn a blind eye to cause blight, or fear

“There are some issues happening there It’s another tool to be able to address it,” he said

The ordinance states that “any person found to be engaged in public camping, or sleeping in violation of this article shall immediately be told to cease engaging in public camping or sleeping by law enforcement and to depart ” It further states that a trespass warning for a first-time offense can be issued by law enforcement The warning will be valid for a year

Continued failure to comply will result in arrest and any possessions will be confiscated

“Law enforcement should not destroy evidence of camping, campsite materials, or personal property, but should instead seize and place such items into property and evidence,” the ordinance states

Where to find fish when it’s cold

Be it fresh or salt, nothing shuts down shallow-water fishing in Florida like a massive cold front With a predicted 38 degrees Saturday morning start, largemouth bass are bundled up, snook are sneezing, trout are trembling and even cold tolerant sheepshead are shivering

Fortunately, and especially for Florida’s snook population, the coming week will give us a break with predicted highs back in the 80s Those living here in 2010 saw first-hand what prolonged cold can do to our subtropical snook population with an estimated half million-plus snook killed

s t a t e w i d e , a l o n g w i t h many tarpon deaths as well.

W h e n t h e w e a t h e r calms down, sheepshead fishing should be hot and taking off at a bridge, o

point or dock Don’t forget that if you want to

s t a y o

s o m e a m a z i n g

h

Capt George Tunison

e p i e fishing often takes place each winter in downtown C a p e C o r a l U s e y o u r state-of-the-art electronics to probe the canal systems for sheepshead holding structure and you will probably find quite a few willing to bite There's a 12-inch size limit and each person can keep up to eight fish per day If you don’t have fiddlers for bait, small bits of shrimp, clams and oysters fill the bill

For the “I’d rather catch one fish on a lure than three on bait” purist type, stop by D & D Bait & Tackle in Matlacha and grab a fistful of imitation fiddler crabs and slow walk them on the bottom around bridge and dock structures and hang on Light line and leaders catch more fish but big double-digit sheepies also patrol the same territory and these guys fight hard in close quarters combat, so do your best to power them up and away from line-shredding concrete and barnacles Never overlook oyster bars and deep cuts on mangrove points for various sized sheepies as well

Prolonged cold weather will push fish off the flats into marinas, deep creeks and channels, Cape canals, far up river or even deeper offshore

For schooling trout, real cold snaps can actually improve the angler’s odds as it bunches the fish in predictable locations and once found these same locations will produce year after year

A good example is Matlacha Pass A really long cold spell will push the trout off the flats and into deeper and

14th annual Strides for Education 5K Feb. 1 at Florida SouthWestern

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

It’s that time again to register for the upcoming annual Strides for Education 5K race – a fundraiser to benefit the Take Stock in Children Scholarship program

The 14th annual Strides for Education 5K will be held Saturday, Feb 1, at Florida SouthWestern State College, 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers The check-in time is 6:30 a m and race time will step off at 7:30 a m There is no registration on race day

To register - $30 for the 5K run/walk – visit https://runsignup com/Race/Register/?raceId=81695

“We really encourage everybody to sign up and run, or cheer,” Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Inc President and CEO Marshall Bower said.

The popular race includes a competition between the schools and businesses for a traveling trophy The school that has the most runners signed up receives one of the trophies, and a business the other Heights Elementary School and Edison National Bank are in the running

“They take it seriously They get their groups together with matching clothes on, showing community,” Bower said

Bower said they have averaged anywhere from more than 1,200 to close to 1,400 runners, which does not include those that come out and celebrate the Take Stock in Children Scholarship program participants.

Wednesday Girls Soccer

District 3A-11 Tournament

Bishop Verot 8, Clewiston 0: Caroline Pelkofski had a huge night, scoring three goals and assisting on four others. The Vikings (14-0-1) also got two goals from Alyvia Mueller, a goal and two assists from Jillian Haataja, and goals from Gianna Fabrizi and Kaie Pelkofski

Aubrey Rogers 8, Oasis 1: The Sharks' season may have ended at 14-5-2 Aubrey Rogers, meanwhile, advanced to a semifinal match at Bishop Verot District 4A-11 Tournament

DeSoto County 3, Island Coast 0: The Gators' season ended at 3-16-1

District 5A-11 Tournament

Cape Coral 8, Port Charlotte 0: Payton Jones, Alexis Myers and Sophia Fallacara scored two goals each for the Seahawks (10-10-3) Olivia Toro and Alex Sanchez added goals, and Fallacara and Abby Mourning contributed assists Cape faces top-seeded North Fort Myers in Thursday's semifinals

Boys Soccer

District 4A-11 Tournament

Island Coast at Cypress Lake: (no report) District 5A-11 Tournament

North Fort Myers 4, Cape Coral 3: The Red Knights (5-15-2) advanced to a semifinal match against top seed Mariner Cape ended the year at 3-18-2

Boys Basketball

Gulf Coast 73, Mariner 31: A tough season for the Tritons continued, leaving the team winless (0-20)

Tuesday

Girls Basketball

North Fort Myers 54, Estero 51: Bianca Iten had 18 points and 11 rebounds for the 17-3 Red Knights Amrey Stockeland added 11 points as North handed Estero a rare loss (12-4)

Cape Coral 46, Oasis 40: The Seahawks (17-6) won at 13-5 Oasis

Ida Baker 51, Cypress Lake 28: Ida Baker won its fourth game in a row, improving its overall record to 6-13

Maia Berdebes led the Bulldogs with a double-double, 20 points 15 rebounds J’Kayla Thomas had 18 points and Jocelyn Hernandez added 7 points

“It goes to the program and to purchase full scholarships through the Florida Prepaid Program,” Bower said, adding that when new students come into the program, they can automatically attach a scholarship to them “To me, it’s a win-win for everybody It’s a win-win for the students that get into it A win for families – future families It’s a win for our community because most of them, hopefully, will return here after college and give back to the community ”

The kids are matched up with a mentor, which, he said, are the people who make the real difference in the whole program Bower said the mentors, more often than not, share they get more out of the experience than the students do

The foundation is currently conducting its interviews to bring on more kids – around 70-75 more – this year, which will bring the total up to more than 200 kids in the program

There were more than 300 applications this year, a little more than last year

“The last several, many years, the amount of students applying to go to college has gone down It’s a little bit alarming. The message can never be everyone goes to college – the interest of going to college should be given that opportunity,” Bower said Q u e s t i o n s a b o u t t h e 5 K r a c e c a n b

Flying to the hoop

Ida Baker ’s J'Kayla Thomas (11) flies down t h e l a n e p a s t C y p r e s s L a k e ’s G a b r i e l a Alarcon-geng and scores the basket in the Bulldogs’ 51-28 win Tuesday

Island Coast 37, Mariner 20: The Gators improved to 6-13

Private 8 Tournament

Bishop Verot 69, Community School of Naples 18:

See PREP REPORT, page 35

MARK CLIFFORD

Grampy’s Charities Tennis Tournament on March 8 at Beachview Tennis Club on Sanibel to benefit LARC

Grampy’s Charities, an organization that raises funds to support organizations transforming children’s lives, is presenting T h e B e a c h v i e w T e n n i s C l u b O p e n Doubles Tournament to benefit the Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

The event will be held Saturday, March 8, for men’s and women’s doubles 3 0, 3 5 and 4 0, and Sunday, March 9, for mixed doubles 3 0, 3 5 and 4 0 at The Beachview Tennis Club, 1101 Par View Drive, Sanibel Island

From page 34

Cameron O'Halloran and Caroline Ward scored 21 points each for the Vikings (156) in a Private 8 semifinal Bishop Verot plays host to St John Neumann on Friday

From page 34

warmer waters of the channel Use your jig and starting at the bridge, slowly hop and drop down the edges of the channel walls till you find a large school or, throw a live shrimp on a light jighead and slowly mend line as the shrimp sinks and kicks

Try trout along the channel in front of blown-away Bert’s Bar and other now empty docks as well

Slow fished soft plastics and DOA Shrimp rigged on 1/8 to 3/8-ounce light wire jig heads are potent cold water period medicine Pick your favorite color and cast

The entry fee is $100 per person for Saturday or Sunday or $150 for combined Saturday and Sunday play per person All entrants will receive T-shirts and lunch on Saturday and Sunday Awards will be presented to winners and runners-up

The tournament provides participants with a fun and meaningful way to contribute to an important cause while enjoying a day of outdoor recreation

Beachview Tennis Club is conveniently located near the Gulf of Mexico on Sanibel Island The picturesque facility has five HydroGrid clay courts

“LARC has been making an impact in Southwest Florida for 70 years,” said

for the conference title

Boys Basketball

Cape Coral 67, Oasis 63: Cape won its 18th game of the season (18-3), dropping the Sharks to 13-8

Try smelly GULP products and also adding commercial bottled scents to any lure always helps wintertime plastic tempt cold, yet always hungry, trout

Try fishing a live shrimp on a jig head but do it right so it doesn’t spin on the cast causing line twist Cut the shrimp’s tail off and rig backwards so the jig head is at the tail of the shrimp for best results Fish or crawl this ultra slowly along the bottom with frequent 5 second pauses

Rigging a live shrimp just under the horn and not through its dark spot allows the shrimp to fall naturally as it sinks on a jighead or just a small hook along with a

Poinsettia: Caring for your plant

From page 18

County has an ordinance that prohibits the use of fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorus between June 1 and Sept 30

Monitor for pests: Check your plants regularly for common pests such as mealy bugs and spider mites

Re-blooming: To encourage re-blooming, provide a period of darkness for poinsettias planted outside Cover them completely with a dark material such as a cardboard box or blackout cloth for 12-14 hours each night during the fall months Remove the covering during the day to allow them access to the sunlight

Take care: The milky sap of the poinsettia can irritate your skin, if the stem or leaf is broken Avoid contact with your eyes and wash your hands thoroughly after

handling Wearing gardening gloves is another safe alternative While not highly toxic, it is recommended to keep poinsettias out of the reach of children and pets.

This year we have been experiencing more cloudy days than usual in Southwest Florida Why not brighten up the next few months by caring for your lovely poinsettias They will give our spirits a lift and remind us of warm holiday memories

Don’t miss March in the Park - the Garden Club of Cape Coral’s biggest fundraiser on March 8 at Rotary Park, 9 a m to 3 p m

Carole Kerns is a Lee County Master Gardener Volunteer and is the assistant manager of the Berne Davis Botanical Garden

Inauguration Day: Trump, Vance

From page 14

as intense as the weather is cold,” Jenner told The Breeze “The people at the Capitol are hopeful and optimistic as the 47th President Donald J Trump retakes the helm of this great Republic

“While the venue changes have limited participation at in-person viewing of the inauguration, there has been no dampening of the spirit of those who traveled to D C to be a part of this historic event ”

F l o r i d a G o v R o n D e S a n t i s a n d Congressman Byron Donalds, who repre-

Angela Katz, executive director of LARC

“We are committed to providing life skills and vocational training, residential services and community inclusion programs aimed at helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead fulfilling lives By participating in the tournament or becoming sponsors, individuals, and businesses can directly contribute to LARC’s mission of empowering individuals with IDD to achieve their full potential ”

“I chose LARC to benefit from this tournament because I feel it is important to support local nonprofits, especially those like LARC,” said Toni Halski, tennis pro and owner of Beachview Tennis Club

Island Coast 71, Mariner 58: Jose Bido scored 23 points as the Gators raised their record to 12-10 SirJoshua Anderson scored 14 Private 8 Tournament Bishop Verot 44, Community School

split shot or two to slowly sink it

Wind and weather permitting, the coming week may provide the opportunity for a near shore or deep water trip to bring home some tasty treats for the table

Before going offshore, make sure communications and safety gear are in tip-top

“They play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in Southwest Florida LARC serves more than 300 individuals annually, and participants range from 14 to 83 Its main campus is located at 2570 Hanson St , Fort Myers LARC also operates two Residential Group Homes in Fort Myers and Cape Coral Contact Halski at 239-472-9099 to register for the tournament

For sponsorship information, please contact Nickole Hendra at 239-334-6285, extension 229, or nickolehendra@larcleeecounty org or visit www larcleecounty org/tennis

of Naples 41: Gavin Williams scored 24 points as the Vikings (13-7) advanced to the conference championship Jerry Ashley pulled down 11 rebounds Bishop Verot travels to First Baptist Academy in Naples on Friday for the Private 8 final

working condition

Capt George Tunison is a Cape Coral resident fishing guide You can contact him at 239-579-0461 or via email at captgeorget3@aol com

sents Southwest Florida, were also in Washington D C for the inauguration In a post on “X” Monday afternoon, DeSantis wrote, “There's no time to waste Perhaps the strongest part of (Trump's) inaugural address was about the necessity of immediately tackling immigration and border security As the President pointed out, states and localities must work with federal immigration and law enforcement p e r s o n n e l t o c a r r y o u t i m m i g

t i o n enforcement We need to get to work We must seize this moment ”

Kari is a 6 months to 1-year old female She loved playing with her foster siblings and gets along with all the dogs she's met so far Just one thing she likes a little privacy when it’s mealtime (a girl needs her space sometimes, you know?). When she first came to the shelter, she had a leg injury, but thanks to the amazing people here, it’s all fixed, and she is recovering like a champ Now Kari is ready to find a forever family that’s up for equal parts playtime and cuddle sessions

Little Luna is 12-plus years young She is a "super senior" kitty with a heart as gentle as her whiskers She's spent most of her life with a senior owner who loved her dearly, but now she is looking for a new chapter with a patient and quiet

soul Little Luna is a bit shy and loves to hide under her favorite blanket, but when she trusts you, she will really enjoy your affection She is not one for loud noises or fast movements, but if you’re someone who understands the quiet beauty of a soft purr, she'll be the best companion.If you are interested in meeting any of the animals available for adoption at The Cape Coral Animal Shelter, visit its website at www capecoralanimalshelter com for additional information

The shelter is located at 325 S W 2nd Ave , Cape Coral, and hours of operation are Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 5 p m , and Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p m

Please call 239-573-2002 for additional information

Little Luna

Cape Coral Breeze Athletes

Week of the

(Selected

by the Breeze Sports staff)

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Wanted To Buy

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Outdoor living spaces have become sought-after commodities among homeowners. A 2022 survey of homeowners conducted by the New Home Trends Institute found that open yards are less appealing to home buyers than they once were. The survey noted that just 28 percent of respondents chose open yards, while 65 percent preferred patios and 55 percent chose decks. Green spaces remain popular, but the survey indicates that many would-be home buyers also want an outdoor living area to make the most of their home exteriors.

Homeowners aspiring to transform their home exterior spaces typically must decide between a deck or pavers when the time comes to plan such areas. That’s a personal choice homeowners must make, but those without strong feelings on either option can consider these tips as they try to decide if a deck or pavers are for them.

·Determine your budget. Budget is a notable variable with any home renovation project, and the addition of an outdoor living space is no exception. The materials homeowners choose will ultimately determine the cost of each project. For example, composite decking materials tend to cost significantly more than wood decks, but that higher price tag also comes with less maintenance and typically a longer life span. Pavers may prove less expensive than composite decking, but those cost savings may be negligible if a yard requires extensive excavation to

prepare an area for a new patio. It requires patience, but gathering estimates of the various materials can serve as a good starting point when planning an outdoor living space. In addition, homeowners must recognize that material costs can fluctuate considerably over time, as such prices are often contingent on a range of variables, including supply chain issues. So it’s best to gather estimates in a short period of time to make the most accurate price comparisons.

Identify your vision for the space. Homeowners who have a vision for their outdoor living space, even if they are not sure about which material they prefer, may find the process goes more quickly and even more smoothly than those who are unsure about what they want. Those who prefer a flexible multi-use space may be best going with pavers, as the spaces can be easily converted and areas simply designated as one might differentiate between rooms inside the home. For example, an outdoor living room can be separated with the installation of a pavillion and fireplace, while kitchen and dining areas can be separate spaces on the same patio. Decks tend to be less flexible, which might make them ideal for homeowners who prefer an outdoor dining area but don’t need a more expansive entertaining space. Of course, decks can be as big as homeowners choose, which can make the spaces more multi-functional.

· Recognize both may be in your best interest. Homeowners also should know that many outdoor living spaces feature both a deck and a paver patio. Homeowners may like an elevated deck that steps down to a patio, which can easily distinguish between the spaces and establish the area as a multifunctional space.

Homeowners planning outdoor living space projects may find themselves choosing between a deck and pavers. Each option can work, and homeowners may even want to combine the two.