WEEK OF JANUARY 31, 2024 FLIER INSIDE
Today’s feature Pine Island Business Card & Service Directory for 2024 published — INSIDE PINEISLAND-EAGLE.COM
VOLUME 47, NUMBER 39
County schools see bump in graduation rates By MEGHAN BRADBURY
news@breezenewspapers.com
The School District of Lee County saw an increase of 2.6 percentage points in its graduation rate, compared to an increase of 0.7 percentage points for Florida for the Class of 2023. “Our 2.6% increase from 2022 is the largest gain among the top 10 largest school districts in Florida and our neighbors in Charlotte and Collier County,” district spokesper-
son Rob Spicker said. The Class of 2023 rose to 85.1% which, according to the district, tied the mark set two years ago for the second highest graduation rate in district history. Last year, the graduation rate was 82.5%. According to the district, the only other higher graduation rate was in 2019-20 at 88.5% — when the graduating classes were exempt from statewide, standardized assessment requirements. Neighboring school districts such as Collier had
a 91.5% graduation rate, the same as the previous year, and Charlotte had a 85.9% graduation rate, a decrease from 87.9% the previous year. The Florida graduation rate was 88%, a jump from 87.3% the prior year. “Most importantly it means we are setting up our students for success after graduation. Whether they are entering the workforce, the military or college, we have prepared them to succeed. Second, it means our systems are working. We credit our principals for aligning to this See GRADUATION RATES, page 11
Celebrating Pine Islanders:
Community pulls together for 43rd annual Junior OIympics
DJ Ruscik By PAULETTE LeBLANC
pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
By PAULETTE LeBLANC
pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
On Saturday, Jan. 27, Pine Island’s Junior Olympic games were held at Phillips Park, in Bokeelia. By now, these games have become an annual experience, led, in part, by those who once competed themselves. According to Kiwanian Mike Shevlin, the Junior Olympic Tradition began in 1981, never ceasing to become catalyst for camaraderie amongst islanders. Thus year, he said, was not different. “This was a good year. There was so much help from everybody. We teamed up with the county from day one—Lee County Parks and Rec, but primarily the Matlacha Pine Island group. We also had parents who brought their kids who worked for park and rec that came out here,” Shevlin said. Due to inclement weather, the event had to be postponed a week, which, Shevlin said, may have affected the final tally on attendees, and yet, so many stalwart islanders committed to show up for the kids. The Kiwanis Club and the county teamed up, he explained, with a lasting bond, that has seen the grown up children, become parents of the current Junior Olympians. “It’s a community event. It’s nice to see the kids play and really play hard at it—trying to win. It’s
PAULETTE LEBLANC
See JUNIOR OLYMPICS, page 10
One of the competitors gets ready to make her toss.
Bokeelia resident Donna Jo (DJ) Ruscik has a heart for Pine Island. She said, for her and husband, Tom Ruscik, it began while vacationing here. “My parents had a condo they purchased in the mid 80s at Captain’s Cove. We were married in 1988 and started coming down in January of 1989. An overnight trip turned into a weekend, turned into three days, turned into a week to 10 days…We bought a boat that could go out into the Gulf of Mexico. We fell in love with the place and it became the only place we wanted to vacation,” Ruscik DJ Ruscik said. Recently retired from a 35+ year career in financial services, now Ruscik is able to focus on beloved island organizations in which she always taken part. In addition to being a Matlacha Hooker (Madame for 10 out of the 25 years served) she is also involved, she said, in the Food Pantry, The Pine Island Community Church, Pine Island Elementary School, the VFW, the Moose, the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, and Legion Riders. The Calusa Land Trust and the Elks Club have also had a hand in shaping her years as an islander, in fact, in her time on Pine Island, Ruscik said her leadSee DJ RUSCIK, page 11
insidetoday Bridge Beat........................7 Island Mahjongg...............2 On the Water......................8 Classifieds & Obituaries Athletes of the Week.......14
Cribbage Corner................7
Obituaries..........................8
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 2 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Learn how the Calusa Land Trust Works to protect the island during the next GPICA meeting The Greater Pine Island Civic Association will meet Tuesday, Feb. 6, and discuss how the Calusa Land Trust Works to protect the island. Also on the agenda will be the 2024 GPICA Board Elections. Members in good standing will vote for new GPICA Board Members. Nominations will also be accepted from the floor for write-in candidates before the vote. Nominees must be GPICA members in good standing (current in your dues) and have been a member for at least six months. There must be a quorum of members to vote, so please be sure to attend this annual meeting. The meeting is at 6:30 p.m., at Pine Island United Methodist Church, at 5701 Pine Island Road, N.W., Bokeelia. The meeting will be livestreamed on the GPICA Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PineIsland CivicAssociation.
Island Mahjongg Twenty of us gathered for Mahjongg on Jan. 25. Top scorers were Judith Engle and Sue Rasmussen with 140 points. Carolyn Crosby came in second with 110. Joyce Bieber, Tom Kopec and Mary Ann Harms all had 105 points to tie third place. We play Mahjongg every Thursday from 1-4 pm at SJCCA on Lemon and 4th Street. If you’d like to try this challenging but fun game, come and join us! For more information, call Carolyn 239-233-7682.
Golden Apple finalists announced The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools has announced its 30 Golden Apple Finalists. Among the finalists is Christine Bartz from Pine Island Elementary. The recognition is in its 37th year. “All of these exemplary professionals represent the outstanding teachers who work, day in and day out, to make sure our community’s greatest asset, our students, achieve at their highest potential. Our community is indebted to them,” said Marshall T. Bower, president & CEO of The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. The formal announcement will be made Friday at The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools office. The 30 Golden Apple Finalists are: ∫ Melissa Bailey – Bonita Springs High ∫ Christine Bartz – Pine Island Elementary ∫ Janet Bernard – Harns Marsh Middle ∫ Dr. Katherine Callard – Dr. Carrie D. Robinson Littleton Elementary ∫ Alexis Camputaro – The Sanibel School ∫ Chelsea Chase – Bayshore Elementary ∫ Paul Chilson – Pinewoods Elementary ∫ Suzanne Garrett – Veterans Park Academy for the Arts
∫ John Gibson – Bonita Springs Elementary ∫ Valerie Goyette – G. Weaver Hipps Elementary ∫ Jaime Hill – Oak Hammock Middle ∫ Elizabeth Jimerson – Patriot Elementary ∫ Allison Kerner – Harns Marsh Middle ∫ Sara Kizzire – Lehigh Senior High ∫ Jill Klausing – Dunbar High ∫ Janelle Laux – North Fort Myers High ∫ n Jessica Lisi – Tanglewood Elementary ∫ Bianca McGinley – Harns Marsh Middle ∫ Jamie Miller – Harns Marsh Middle ∫ Barry Miller – Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle ∫ Meredith Molseed – Harns Marsh Middle ∫ Tiffany Moore – Caloosa Elementary ∫ Christopher Morales – Fort Myers High ∫ Leanne Olmstead – Ida S. Baker High ∫ Jennie Rimes – Gateway High ∫ Krista Rivera – Gulf Elementary ∫ Michelle Smith – Lehigh Senior High ∫ Maria Stone – Harns Marsh Elementary ∫ Sarah Thornburg – Cypress Lake High ∫ Christine Zwaan – Skyline Elementary
After Ian: Fort Myers free legal clinic to focus on post-disaster insurance claims, contractor fraud A Fort Myers-based legal nonprofit is again hosting a free clinic for area seniors in need of no-cost, limited legal advice. Law at the Library is a quarterly conversation sponsored by Lee County Legal Aid Society with support from AARP Foundation. The next session is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 7, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Fort Myers Regional Library meeting room, 1651 Lee St., Fort Myers 33901.
A panel of three local attorneys will discuss post-disaster insurance claims and contractor fraud. That 30-minute presentation will be followed by an audience question-andanswer session and then 20-minute individual appointments on any legal issue. Advance registration is required. Participants should email Nanci@leecountylegalaid.org with contact information, a brief description of the legal advice being sought, and any relevant documents. The sessions are open to Lee County residents ages 50 and older. “Civil legal aid helps level the playing field for those who don’t have the financial resources to hire their own private attorney,” said Andrew Banyai, executive director of the Lee County Legal Aid Society. “Not all our older residents are wealthy retirees. Many live on a fixed income, with little access to legal services.” “We are grateful to the expert panelists who are donating their time and welcome the opportunity to again focus our community outreach on issues of elder law with the generous support of the AARP Foundation,” he added. Unlike in criminal law, there is no constitutional right to counsel in civil law, which includes landlord-tenant disputes, foreclosures, evictions, probate, debt collection, child custody cases, domestic violence orders of protection and more. Law at the Library follows a similar series of free legal workshops “Just for Seniors” offered by Lee County Legal Aid Society in prior years through support from The Community Foundation. For more information on Lee County Legal Aid Society, visit leecountylegalaid.org or call 239-3346118.
Page 3 n Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 4
OPINIONS
SCCF provides weekly legislative updates 10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60 Bokeelia, FL 33922 Phone: (239) 283-2022 Fax: (239) 283-0232 Web: pineisland-eagle.com Publisher Raymond M. Eckenrode reckenrode@breezenewspapers.com Executive Editor Valarie Harring vharring@breezenewspapers.com
pineisland-eagle.com
Editor Paulette LeBlanc pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com Advertising Director Laurie Ragle lragle@.breezenewspapers.com Advertising Sales Charlene Russ cruss@breezenewspapers.com Design & Layout Chris Strine cstrine@breezenewspapers.com Obituaries Debbie Carletti obits@breezenewspapers.com Subscriptions 1 Year $52 To Pay For Your Subscription P.O. Box 151306 Cape Coral, FL 33915 Circulation (239) 574-1936 Classified Advertising (239) 574-5644
Pine Island Eagle
Report your news to PINEISLAND-EAGLE.COM
Display Advertising (239) 283-2022
The Eagle is published every Wednesday Customer service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except major holidays. Letters to the editor must be typed or handprinted. Your name and phone number must be affixed to the copy. In the event of an advertising error, we are responsible only for the first incorrect insertion of the ad itself. We are not responsible for any credit or reimbursement after 30 days from publication. Postal Information: Bulk rate postage paid at Fort Myers, FL Postmaster. Send address changes to the Pine Island Eagle. Permit # 521.
Web Poll Previous Web Poll Question: Do you make New Year’s resolutions? n Yes, every year. 0% n No, never. 69% n Sometimes. 23% n It depends on if I feel I really need to set an accomplishable goal. 8%
Current Web Poll Question: In the past have you attend the Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair? n Every year. n Occasionally. n Once or twice. n Never. n What fair? Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com
The 2024 Florida of his second term. Legislative Session began on Specific gubernatorial Jan. 9 with Gov. Ron DeSantis environmental spending propresenting his State of the posals include: State address to spotlight his ∫ $500 million for the priorities for the upcoming Comprehensive Everglades session. He largely spoke Restoration Plan (CERP) about education and tax relief, ∫ $64 million for the EAA however, he highlighted that Reservoir to continue the Florida’s success is tied to the momentum of this critical environment. project to reduce harmful disIntroduced on Dec. 5, the charges and help send more governor’s proposed $114.4 clean water south billion Focus on Florida’s ∫ $135 million for the Future Budget included enviexpanded Water Quality Holly Schwartz ronmental priorities like $1.1 Improvement Grant Program billion for Everglades restorafor projects to construct, tion and the protection of upgrade or expand wastewater water resources. The funding facilities, including septic-toproposed this year ties into his sewer conversions, stormwaoverall pledge of $3.5 billion ter management projects, and for the Everglades that was made at the start agricultural nutrient reduction projects
Guest Commentary
Legislators were also been busy filing legislation and discussing bills. Some of those bills got a head start in committee during the pre-session interim committee weeks that ran from October to December. As of Jan. 12, the House had filed 1,679 bills and the Senate had filed 913 — fewer than last year for the House, but a record number in the Senate. Growth Management SB 738 — Environmental Management Unfortunately, the first week saw the advancement of Senate Bill 738, designed to discourage citizen legal challenges against the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Water Management Districts (WMD). The bill will require the losing party of any such challenge to pay $50,000 of prevailing and intervening parties attorney’s fees for failing to succeed in any challenge against the state agencies. See LEGISLATIVE UPDATES, page 6
Letters to the Editor A little knowledge is a dangerous thing To the editor: Last week's letter concerning illegal border crossings stated that "about one half of migrants walking illegally into our country last year had criminal convictions." This is simply not true. According to the Congressional report for FY 2023, there were 2.4 million encounters at the southern border. No doubt many more slipped through. A completely separate statistic is that there were 170,590 administrative arrests made by ICE in 2023. Half of those arrested by ICE had a criminal record. Guess what? That is why they were arrested! ICE was doing its job to track down criminals who are in this country illegally. But that number has nothing to do with how many people illegally crossing the border last year had a criminal record. The confusion comes from an article in Judicial Watch, which conflates the record number of administrative ICE arrests (a good thing), with the millions trying to enter this country illegally (a bad thing). But what is even more dangerous is that too many republicans choose to blame others for our broken immigration system rather offering any plans to rewrite our outdated laws. It is also simply not true that democrats want to open the borders to encourage illegals to enter the country so they can vote for democratic candidates. Illegal immigrants can't vote. And bogus claims that they do have been debunked by every reputable
source that has investigated these ridiculous accusations, including republican election officials in numerous red states. It is time to stop grandstanding. Most people crossing the border are not criminals They are overwhelmingly children and young families. Without these immigrants, our agricultural, food processing and food service industries would collapse. That said, our immigration system is a dysfunctional mess. So let's stop spreading false information, and start working towards finding some bipartisan solutions. John Hennessy St. James City
Fire district management and board changes needed To the editor: At the 1/24/2024 Fire Board meeting five executive session reconstructed minutes related to the termination of an ex-deputy chief were approved. The district’s own attorney stated in the 12/23/2023 minutes that this was in error and “there should have been a court stenographer at the executive sessions to record the meetings” and minutes produced. The law was not followed to hide this from the public. This lawsuit was settled for $750,000 and the insurance company is not reimbursing the district per the 5/24 2023 minutes because of the “District’s breach of an employment contract with a define term.” So we fired an employee in error and the tax payers are on the hook for $750,000….and no one was
We want your opinion The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Opposing views are welcome. Letters to the Editor or guest columns may be mailed to: Pine Island Eagle, 10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60, Bokeelia, FL 33922; e-mailed to pineisland@ breezenewspapers.com; posted to our Virtual Newsroom at www.breezenewspapers.com or faxed to 283-0232. All letters and guest columns must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes. You also can comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: pineisland-eagle.com
held accountable. The 9/13/2023 meeting minutes state that the that the district was proposing moving from a “roll back rate of 3.1565 to a proposed rate of 3.75”, an increase of 18.8%. It was approved by the board. So we hide a flawed termination from the public, thus not following the law, then raise the tax rate by 18.8% to pay for it. There needs to be management and board changes. Gordon Short Bokeelia
Another way to become informed To the editor: Do you have children in Lee County public schools and are confused about what you’ve heard about book “bans” and your rights as parents to let your own kids read what they find interesting, without the interference of book “challengers” with a restrictive agenda? We know that attending the school board meetings in Fort Myers is a challenge for busy families in the southern areas of Bonita and Estero. Here’s a chance to meet advocates who attend Lee public school board meetings to learn what is going on. The Purple Group is the non-partisan advocate for public schools, students, parents and professional educators. They are presenting at the Bonita Springs Library at 15060 Reynolds St. at a FREE event, open to the public, Tuesday night Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. They know your rights and closely follow the piling on of new school law out of Tallahassee. They are keeping tabs on how that is changing access to books and narrowing aspects of the curriculum. They will share what they have learned by attending public meetings, talking with administrators and joining curriculum committees. This meeting is sponsored by the Concerned Citizens of Southern Lee County, a non-partisan group of neighbors in and near Bonita Springs. They can be contacted at CCofSouthernLee@gmail.com Liz Matt Bonita Springs
Page 5 n Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 6 pineisland-eagle.com
FDOT: Repair work and utility installation continues in Matlacha area along Pine Island Road BARTOW, Fla. – This weekly report is prepared by the Florida Department of Transportation to inform the public about upcoming road work in Southwest Florida. Below are the work schedule and lane closure locations for major state road projects. Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge Permanent Repairs Construction project: As part of the Emergency Restoration of the Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge, crews will be working in the project boundaries along CR 78 Pine Island Road from west of Little Pine Island Bridge (Bridge No. 120111) to West of Shoreview Drive.
n Pedestrians and bicyclists are not permitted within the construction zone. n Noise from construction equipment in the area is to be expected. n Drivers are asked to please be patient and plan for additional travel time as it may be slower than usual in the area. For additional information, please visit the FDOT project web page at https://www.swflroads.com/project/451937-2 or email at shana.overhulser@dot.state.fl.us. Follow FDOT on social media at: https://www.face book.com/MyFDOTSWFL, https://x.com/myfdot_swfl, and https://instagram.com/myfdot_swfl
Legislative updates From page 4 Environmental advocates have opposed similar legislative measures in recent years, specifically bills that required no limit on prevailing party’s attorneys and court fees to citizen challenges of development orders, zoning measures and comprehensive plans. The bills filed this year seek to put an end to the very last opportunity for judicial review to citizen challenges to DEP and WMD actions. These laws have had a massive chilling effect, making it too risky to bring legitimate challenges that now have a chance of coming with potentially multimillion-dollar price tags. SB 738 has moved next to its second committee stop in Senate Judiciary. The identical House version, HB 789, had not yet been scheduled as of Jan. 12.
Week 2 Pine Island Eagle
CONTINUED: The contractor will be working on underground utility installation on the north side of the causeway. Crews work on desilting drainage structures on the shoulders west of Matlacha Pass Bridge. Drivers are asked to be alerted to construction equipment in the construction zone. To maintain safety, motorists should find alternate parking areas. Motorists should also use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and exiting the roadway. Crews are maintaining two-lane traffic on the roadway. Motorists can expect occasional delays due to flagging operations for delivery/ removal of materials, transfer of equipment.
The second week of the Legislative Session contained several important environmental bills. Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve — SB 1210 by Sen. Jonathan Martin passed unanimously last week in its first committee of reference. SB 1210 reduces the boundary of the Estero Bay Aquatic
Preserve around the southern end of San Carlos Island. The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation is working with the Estero Bay Buddies and other partner groups to diligently research this before we take a position on the bill. Our current concerns are that any contraction of the preserve must be rigorously vetted and ample evidence provided as to the reason for the change. Unfortunately, as it stands now, the bill and its staff analysis is opaque and does not provide a clear reason for the boundary change. Estero Bay was the first Florida Aquatic Preserve established in 1966 by a group of conservation pioneers that recognized the exceptional ecological significance of the area. Reducing the boundary of the preserve could impact important shorebird habitat and reduce the ecological and economic advantages it provides. Additionally, it would set a devastating precedent without a clear reason for the change. The identical House version, HB 957 by Rep. Adam Botana, had not yet been heard in its first committee as of Jan. 19. Mangrove Replanting — SB 32 by Sen. Ileana Garcia passed unanimously last week in its second of three committee
stops. The bill was supported last year but ultimately did not pass. The identical companion bill in the House, HB 1581, had not yet been heard in any of the three assigned committees as of Jan. 19. The 2024 Mangrove Replanting bills require the following of the DEP: ∫ Address significant erosion in areas of critical state concern ∫ Protect barrier and spoil islands ∫ Assist Everglades restoration and Biscayne Bay revitalization efforts ∫ Promote public awareness of the value of mangroves ∫ Identify vulnerable properties along the coastline and encourage partnerships with local governmental entities to create mangrove protection and restoration zone programs ∫ Protect and maintain access to the navigation of the marked channel and the right-of-way of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway ∫ Create permitting incentives and encourage the use of new strategies for living shorelines and nature-based features ∫ Encourage partnerships with local governmental entities to create projects for coastal protection through the
Resilient Florida Grant Program Local Government Coastal Protections — SB 298 by Sen. Tina Polsky was voted on favorably last week. SB 298 is similar to the saltwater intrusion vulnerability assessment bill that received bipartisan support last year but never made it over the finish line. This year, the momentum for the bill is strong and had already passed its two committees of reference in the Senate as of Jan. 19. In addition to containing saltwater intrusion assessment provisions, it also contains a local government preemption related to DEP authority of the coastal construction control lines approved after Dec. 1, 2023. The related House bill, HB 1079, had not yet been heard in any of the three committees stops as of Jan. 19. Visit the 2024 SCCF Legislative Tracker at https://sccf.org/what-wedo/environmental-policy/. Holly Schwartz is policy associate for the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation. 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.
The Matlacha Hookers are once again hooking up with Winn-Dixie on Thursday, Feb. 8, in the Winn-Dixie Plaza on Stringfellow Road in SJC from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Look for the Big Red Bus. As a thank you for your pint donation, you will receive a $20 eGift Card and a long sleeve OneBlood t-shirt. All donors receive a wellness check that includes blood pressure, temperature, iron count, pulse and cholesterol screening. Space is limited and donors are encouraged to schedule appointments online. Please visit www.oneblood .org/donate-now and use sponsor code #10492. For more information contact DJ at 239-910-3829.
The Friends of Pine Island welcome back musicians Suzanne and Jim , Wednesday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m. They will be performing for the Pine Island community at the St. James City Civic Center. These traveling troubadours present the beauty and richness of traditional Americana music. Expect to hear finely crafted duet singing, banjo, guitar, flute and autoharp along with a smattering of spoons, storytelling and homespun humor all adding up to an unforgettable good time. This program is free and no registration is needed. The Saint James City Civic Association is located at 3300 Fourth Ave., Saint James City. For more information or questions, call or text 239454-9196.
Pine Island Sketchers meet on Tuesdays from 10 am to noon at different venues on Pine Island from November through April. Just bring your art supplies and a lawn chair. No charge. Beginners are welcome. All directions are from the 4 Way stop at Pine Island Rd. and Stringfellow. n Feb. 6 -- Carmen’s Kayaks, 16499 Porto Bello Rd. Turn right on Stringfellow, appx. 7 miles, right on Barrancas, left on Porto Bello to the end of the street n Feb. 13 -- Tropical Point Kayak Launch, 3401 Tropical Pt. Left on Stringfellow appx. 5 miles, then left on Tropical Pt. to the end of the road. n Feb 20 -- Pending n Feb. 27 -- Promised Land Mangos 7127 Pineland Rd. Right on Stringfellow, about 4 miles, then left on Pineland Rd. Follow to the sign on left, parking in front. Look for the bright yellow signs
Bridge Beat Every Wednesday at 12:30 we play Bridge at the Fishers of Men church at Pine Island center. This week’s winners were first, Ellie Fenyohazi, second place, Judy Nyhus followed by John Nyhus who came in third place. Anyone who plays a decent hand of Bridge is welcome to join the group. You do not need a partner to come.
Cribbage Corner Island cribbage results from Jan. 25: 1st Place — Linda Bessette 2nd Place — Sue Mulder 3rd Place — Mike Mulder 4th Place — John Perkowski 5th Place — Judy Schuitema "Turkey of the Week" Ken Amid Cribbage is played Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Saint James City Civic Association (SJCCA) located at the corner of 5th Street and Lemon. Come out and join the fun and bring a friend.
available at the celebration. Many local non-profits and community organizations are participating in the special event. Those attending are urged to bring coolers and chairs. The Hookers ask that service dogs only, please There is no gate fee, but donations cheerfully accepted. The Matlacha Hookers would like to thank your community for 25 years of supporting our efforts to Make a Positive Difference in our Community. All are welcome. For more information, call 239-910-3829.
Pine Island Eagle
Pine Island Sketchers schedule for February
The Matlacha Hookers 25th Anniversary Party will be held this Sunday, Feb. 4, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., in the empty lot next to the Beacon of Hope on Doug Taylor Circle. (The Moose Lodge is the back-up location if the lot is too wet or weather is bad) The slogan for the celebration is “Years of Sharing, Caring, Giving and Living in a Community with Friends.” Music will be by the Fractal Brothers and Pipe Dreams. The stage will be provided by Beltram Nursery A food truck, provided by Nauti Tiki, will also be
breezenewspapers.com
Friends of Pine Island Library to present performance by Suzanne and Jim
Matlacha Hookers 25th Anniversary Party Sunday at Beacon of Hope
Page 7 n Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Matlacha Hookers Blood Drive to be held Feb. 8
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 8 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Sheepshead fishing is at its peak February is the peak seain gulf waters out to about son for one fish that thrives 40-foot depths are prime in our waters during the areas to target when weather cooler winter months. The allows. Sheeps-head (Archosaurs As mentioned, sheepsprobatocephalus). head are equipped with a Sheepshead are easily mouth full of teeth, however identified by their broad they are not sharp and very body with telltale black verseldom cut through a leader. tical stripes that many have Their teeth are for crushing renamed the convict fish. hard objects not catching They’re equipped with fast moving bait fish. A almost human-like teeth small, thin, sharp hook is that would give dental preferred to consistently get Capt. Bill Russell hygienist nightmares. That the hook to penetrate mouth full of teeth is used between those teeth. And for crunching crustaceans, even then, a little luck mollusks, barnacles, etc. comes in handy. When we think of Many anglers rig one of sheepshead and where to two ways. First, with a #1 or find them inshore, we look around oyster 1/0 circle hook tied to two to four feet of bars or anywhere oysters and barnacles 20-pound fluorocarbon leader with either are likely to grow. Oyster bars aren’t the a small sliding egg sinker or split-shot only place to look; sheepshead are struc- sinker. Use just enough weight to get it to ture oriented and prefer a good tide flow. the bottom, when you fish around oyster Put those two together and there are end- bars and structure you will get hung up a less places across our inshore waters to lot, if you go with as little weight as postarget. sible it will help to reduce hang ups. Structure with a good growth of oysFresh shrimp is the go-to bait. Many ters and barnacles should not be over- hardcore sheepshead anglers use various looked. Areas that should pop in your other, sometimes secretive baits, but we mind with that combination are bridges, are going to stick with shrimp. Shrimp piers, docks, jetties, seawalls and other are readily available, and they catch fish. submerged obstructions inshore and Either a small shrimp threaded up the along the beaches. Downed or submerged hook shank, hooked live or if the shrimp trees or large branches are a good possi- are large, cut them accordingly. The bility. They also congregate along shore- smaller the piece you can get away with lines, drop-offs, depressions and creeks. the better your hook-up success will be, Nearshore artificial reefs and hard bottom sheepsheads are notorious bait stealers,
Sheepsheads, seatrout and pompano are feeding on shrimp through the winter. Bill Esslinger and family lucked into a good weather and fishing day between cold fronts fishing north Pine Island Sound with Capt. Bill Russell.
On the Water
PHOTO PROVIDED
bring a lot of bait. Second, very productive, and my favorite, is a jig head rigged with a shrimp. Inshore we may use from an eighth to a half ounce depending on depth and current. Pinch or bite the tail off and thread the shrimp tail first up the shank of the hook bottoming out at the head of the jig. A slow bouncing retrieve works best but it can vary from day to day, don’t be afraid to experiment. But remember, they feed off the bottom, a quick suspended retrieve will go untouched. We usually fish both styles (circle hook and jig head)
and see what works best; it changes from day to day and locations. I have tried all the different colored jig heads, and they all catch fish, but one color may out fish the others on any given day. For tackle, a light to medium light action rod with a fast tip is best, you really need to feel the light tap when they pick up the bait. A bait caster or spinner with 10 to 20-pound line, monofilament, or braid, is all that’s needed. I use 15pound braid, this really allows the anglers See SHEEPSHEAD, page 10
Obituaries
02+3 0/#-&30/ #52+' 1#33'& 0/ 40 '#6'/ #/5#29 4* #52+' 7#3 $02/ #2%* +/ #-4+.02' #29-#/& 40 '24*+' #/& #52+%' '#)5' 0( +%,029 *' )2#&5#4 '& (20. '/700& #-4+.02' 05/49 !/+0/ '.02+# 031+4#- 3%*00- 0( 523+/) +/ #-4+.02' 7+4* #/ #/& )2#&5#4'& (20. 4*' !/+6'23+49 0( #-4+.02' 7+4* # !/4+2'4+2'.'/4 3*' 702,'& #4 4*' !/+6'23+49 0( #29-#/& *031+ 4#- (02 47'/49 (+6' 9'#23 (4'2 2'4+2+/) #52+' #/& 2#/, *'2 *53$#/& 0( 9'#23 .06'& 40 4 #.'3 +49 -02+&# 02 0/' 9'#2 4*'9 -+6'& +/ 05-&'2 0-02#&0 7*+-' 2#/, #44'/&'& 4*' !/+6'23+49 0( 0-02#&0 #/& #52+' 7#3 # %#.153 /523' *'9 .#/#)'& 40 )'4 +/ # -04 0( ,++/) 7*+-' 4*'2' #52+':3 (#602+4' #%4+6+4+'3 7'2' ,++/) 0#4+/) #2&'/+/) 2#6'-+/) /4'24#+/+/) #/& -'#&+/) # )00& -+(' 7+4* #%0 4*' 70/&'2 &0) "*'/ 4*'9 7'2' &#4+/) 3*' .#&' +4 %-'#2 '353 (+234 #.+-9 3'%0/& #/& *53$#/& 4*+2& 2#/, 7#3 +/ 45/' 7+4* 4*+3 #52+' 7+-- $' 2'.'.$'2'& $9 *'2 $'#54+(5- 3.+-' (2+'/&-+/'33 #/& 3*#2+/) 5' 40 2#/,:3 702, 4*'9 42#6'-'& 052 %05/429 #/& 04*'2 %05/42+'3 #/& '81'2+'/%'& 04*'2 %5-452'3 #/& 04*'2 7#93 0( -+(' #52+' +3 3526+6'& $9 *53$#/& 2#/, &#5)*4'2 #/&9 #/& 3+34'2 '$$+' 2#/&&#5)*4'2 *#2# +/31+2'& $9 #52+' )04 *'2 #/& -#4'2 '#2/'& *'2 #34'23 *'2' 7+-- $' # 3'26+%' #4 4*' 0/ 4* 42''4 4 #.'3 +49 3%*'&5-'& (02 '$25#29 4*
Death Notices
'#4*'2 // 52/'2 0( 4 #.'3 +49 -02+&# 1#33'& #7#9 #/5#29 22#/)'.'/43 '/42534'& 40 -'' 05/49 2'.#4+0/ '26+%'3 #1' 02#-
PHOTO PROVIDED
25th Annual Great Calusa Rubber Duck Raffle to be held March 2 The 25th Annual Great Calusa Rubber Duck Raffle on Saturday, March 2, at Marker 3 Coastal Cantina is almost here! The main event Great Calusa Duck Raffle has 3000 rubber ducks at $10 each plus 50/50 raffle tickets and the White Elephant sale The first place Duck wins $1000 for its ticket owner
and second place wins $500 and third place $250. You need not be present to win. Remember, all the net proceeds from the event go to the Calusa Land Trust to acquire and maintain environmentally sensitive or historically important lands in the Greater Pine Island area. Your donation is very much appreciated.
Pine Island Eagle
Zwetsch and Zan Deborah Lombardo. fine/high craft art. Her work has lead her down many paths, including exhibiting, curating and teaching. Part of her artwork has always had a collaborative teaching element. Zwetsch has had five solo exhibits in a commercial gallery in Philadelphia where she lived for fifteen years and she has also exhibited with students in both museums and other institutions. She majored in art, psychology and at 28, after working in advertising, was accepted into the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. Zwetsch learned all disciplines in drawing, painting, sculpture and printmaking. At the end of four years, she won a traveling scholarship, all expenses paid for a trip to explore art and culture throughout Europe. After returning home, she worked in an art-to-wear store, which influenced her to create her own business. She created Zwear; hand painted silk scarves, starting with retail shows in the Philadelphia metro area. In 2006, she decided to live in Florida, traveling up north to do shows in the summer. Zwetsch bought a home on Pine Island and settled into her new locale, delighting in the colors and fauna that surrounded her and painting them on scarves and designing patterns for her Print On Demand collection. To date, she has shown her scarves at wholesale shows in NY (NY Gift Show & Magic), Las Vegas, and ACC Baltimore. They were exhibited in the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery, other museum gift shops and boutiques all over the country.
breezenewspapers.com
We Contain Multitudes exhibit will be on display Feb. 2-24, at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, with workshops included on both Saturdays featuring artists Zan Lombardo and Deborah Zwetsch. Everything is circular in nature. This earth’s clock influences us all, and keeps a deep rhythm going inside. All disciplines are influenced by this circadian pulse. We experience it through our hearts and minds, manifesting it outwards. The moon is our reminder; life cycles continuously. We are born, live life, gather images and wisdom along the path, until it is time for the journey to end. We are an aggregate of all we have seen, heard, thought, created and felt. This exhibit brings forth the collection gathered by our experiences. It tells the story of ever changing cycles and moments. It captures ebb and flow of life. The title “We Contain Multitudes” is a take on Walt Whitman’s “I contain multitudes” from his poem ‘Song of Myself.’ He discusses the dichotomy of thought. How can one hold conflicting and opposite views (Do I contradict myself?) within their mind and heart?. This duality creates art. The dark and light, ugly and beautiful, sitting side by side, becomes a whole larger than its parts. As black and white prove each other; the juxtaposition of opposites is the essence of creation. Zan Lombardo is a Pine Island artist. She was educated at Northern Illinois University and taught for three years. She continued her education at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, followed by over 30 years of teaching art. During her career she was named Teacher of the Year by Chesterbrook Rotary, an Exemplary Teacher by The Philadelphia Inquirer, and retired in 2016 as a Golden Apple Teacher. She was honored three times by the National Energy Foundation in their Igniting Creative Energy contest and again as a Robert Rauschenberg Power of Art Honoree. Zan is best known for giant watercolor scrolls up to 30 feet in length. Her artwork was named best in watercolor at Pine Island Art Association and two People’s Choice Awards at Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center. This is her second two-person exhibit at Alliance for the Arts and she is teaching her “Larger Than Life Watercolor” class concurrent with the “We Contain Multitudes” exhibit. Deborah Zwetsch has worked as an artist for her entire career: producing
Page 9 n Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024
We Contain Multitudes exhibit to be on display Feb. 2-24
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 10 pineisland-eagle.com
Juinor Olympics From page 1 really great to be part of an activity like that, especially over 40 years of a kid’s activity on Pine Island. Forty years ago it was just as much fun as it is today,” Shevlin said. Shevlin maintains having been a part of this community event for as long as it’s been going on has done much to add to his time as a Pine Islander and said he’s certain everyone involved in this lasting program feels the same way. “I’d like to mention how thankful we are for the community businesses—also Horizon Bank for donating silver dollars for the second and third place overall winners, Waggoner and Bruehl and Stearns construction for the T-
shirts, and Winn-Dixie for lunch for the kids—and of course Pine Island Kiwanis and Lee county Parks and recreation. Thank you very much,” Shevlin said.
Junior Olympic highlights Above, a young competitor makes his throw with other Junior Olympians waiting their turn. At left, a family enjoys a picnic lunch at the event.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Jayson Rider, center, with Danny Honc and Kennedy McCathery holding thier trophies.
PAULETTE LEBLANC
Pine Island Eagle
Sheepshead From page 8 to feel the pick-up. Sheepshead aren’t as aggressive as snook or grouper when hooked, they put up a great fight but seldom make a hard effort to dash under rocks or pilings and cut you off, therefore a light rig is fine and a lot more fun. While targeting sheepshead from a boat obviously gives you more options, you are still in luck if you are stuck fishing from shore. Bridges in Matlacha, plus the Bokeelia Fishing Pier are noted hangouts. Sheepshead are feeding on goodies from the pilings or structure, you need to fish as close as possible to get their attention.
You can often see them feeding up and down the pilings. This is the top month to hook into the biggest sheepsheads of the year. If you put in some time to learn the tricks to locating and hooking sheepsheads, you will be on your way to some good fishing. And your reward, they are some of the tastiest fish in the water. Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting www.myfwc.com. Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations and seasons with pictures to help identify fish.
Have a safe week and good fishin.’ As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt. Bill Russell has spent his life fishing and learning the waters around Pine Island and Southwest Florida, and as a professional fishing guide for the past 23 years.
Winn Dixie is hosting a food drive once again to benefit the Pine Island Food Pantry. The holiday food drive in December was such a great success, bringing in over $2,000 of non-perishable food, that Dan Loughren, Winn Dixie manager and his staff, wants to help the GPI community again by hosting another for Easter. Winn Dixie will
sell $15 food bags with all the fixings for an Easter ham dinner. They will be available from Feb. 15 through March 15. On Saturday, March 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Winn Dixie will close the drive out by holding a formal event so please join us. The Pantry has been in existence since 1993 and is run by 100% volun-
food before you leave this season either at the Food Pantry or the many Pine Island “drop off box” locations: Winn Dixie, Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Church, Centennial Bank, Matlacha Post office. Thank you all in advance for your generosity this Easter season.
plan,” Spicker said. “This entails where they are at, what interventions are we offering and are the students taking advantage of them and making any necessary adjustments.” Work also took place behind the scenes, as district administrators did daily checks to verify the data, as well as quarterly meetings with principals to monitor their progress, he said. In order to keep the positive momentum with graduation rates going, they begin tracking students for graduation before they enter high school for the first day of class. “Ninth grade success is one of the best indicators of earning a diploma. Freshman also have a plan to reach graduation and
schools continuously track their progress, offer interventions and make sure they are being used,” Spicker said. “Second, we are making this student-by-student approach systemic. Every school is following the same process to ensure success and continuity through any leadership changes.” He said the increase in the graduation rate is truly a collaborative effort across the district. “Thank you to our administrators, teachers and supporting staff for their hard work and focus on student success and thank you to our parents for supporting their students through high school,” Spicker said.
Graduation rates From page 1 vision and putting in the hard work to implement a systemic change,” Spicker said. Among the schools that had the highest increase were East Lee County High School with a 9.1% increase, taking its graduation rate to 95.1%. A 5% jump to 88% was achieved at Island Coast High School, and the Lee Virtual School jumped to a 98.9% graduation rate, an increase of 8.1 points. The district had 10 schools, along with Lee Virtual, with graduation rates above 90%. There were also significant increases among the different populations of students: ∫ Black student graduation rate increased 3.9% ∫ Hispanic student graduation rate increased by 3.7% ∫ Students with disabilities graduation
rate increased by 6.7% ∫ English Language Learners graduation rate increased by 7.2% “Our students rose to the challenge to set the second highest graduation rate ever and improve on the pre-pandemic rate set by the Class of 2020,” Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier said in a prepared statement. “Their success is a testament to the collective effort and hard work of our teachers, support staff and school administrators to help each student focus on their graduation needs so they could earn their diploma. We are proud of their accomplishments, and they should celebrate their success.” The achievement rested on putting a focus on each and every student, as a way to help students reach graduation. “Every student had a plan and everyday school staff was checking to make sure every student was following their
breezenewspapers.com
teer staff, so all donations go to our clients. Since Hurricane Ian, our client base has increase by 50% and is still growing so the need is greater than ever. We ask that you consider purchasing a food bag at Winn Dixie to help our fellow Island residents “in need” this Easter. Also, to all our Snow Birds, please consider dropping off your extra
Page 11 n Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Pine Island Food Pantry Easter Holiday Food Drive
DJ Ruscik From page 1 cians, and people from all walks of life. “When you drive over the bridge, your shoulders drop. You can look around and take a deep breath and experience serenity in a very short period of time. I think it brings a peace that warms the heart and soul—it’s almost food for the soul— being able to sit on your back porch or canal and look at the water and see fish or birds play and listen to the sound of the wind through the palms,” Ruscik said.
Pine Island Eagle
ership skills have greatly improved, encouraging her natural ability to rally people. “I think I have the ability to work with people shoulder to shoulder, instead of delegating,” Ruscik said, emphasizing that the pathway to a destination is not nearly as important as simply reaching the outcome. Finding solutions is something Ruscik has managed to bring to the table in her role as an islander time and time again. The many organizations, in which she is involved, she said, all have a common criteria that made her want to become a part of them. When it comes to the Matlacha Hookers organization, Ruscik said, she’s always contended that they take care of what’s in their own back yard. “In a big broad picture—we don’t care what your background is, we don’t care how much money you have or how much you don’t, whether you were a server or an executive. What we care about is that you understand, if you get involved, this is a volunteer organization and we’ve got goals,” Ruscik said. A wish Ruscik admits she has for Pine Island is that any growth, progress, or development projects don’t force islanders off the island. When it comes to Pine Island, in general, Ruscik said, it’s an eclectic collection of artists, musi-
Pine Island Eagle
pineisland-eagle.com
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 12
Page 13 n Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Eagle
Pine Island Eagle
pineisland-eagle.com
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 14
Page 15 n Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 16 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Beacon announces funding aid for Hurricane Ian for individuals The Beacon of Hope has received a grant through Volunteer Florida to provide financial support for unmet needs to individuals on Pine Island and Matlacha who were affected by damage due to Hurricane Ian. The Beacon of Hope's mission is "to improve the lives of those who live in the Greater Pine Island area by fulfilling a need, giving a path upward, or by volunteering to help others". Over the last year, Beacon of Hope has helped hundreds of people recovering from Hurricane Ian. This application is for Individual Residents in the Greater Pine Island area. Eligibility criteria: ∫ Must have owned the property on Pine Island before Hurricane Ian.
Preference will be given to full-time residents. ∫ Must provide a current photo identification, Proof of primary residency, and IRS Tax Returns for the past two consecutive years* Criteria questions: ∫ What type of assistance, if any, have you applied for thus far? (i.e., Small Business Association {SBA Loan}, FEMA, Insurance, etc...) ∫ If applied for, what was the outcome? ∫ For what purpose will you use the funding? Other documentation, such as estimates, may be required later on "as needed" basis.
Required information to qualify: ∫ (criteria questions on the application must be complete) ∫ Initial required documentation must be attached to the application. If further documentation is warranted, the applicant will be notified for more documentation to be provided if needed. Grant applications can be downloaded from our website, www.beaconofhopepineisland.com on and after Feb. 1. It can also be downloaded from our Facebook page and paper applications can be picked up at the Beacon of Hope on and after Feb. 1. Completed applications can be mailed to or dropped off at the Beacon of Hope, 5090 Doug Taylor Circle, St
James City, FL 33956. Applications can be dropped off during normal operating hours on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 9AM-5PM. Please mark envelopes to the attention of JOANNE LEMBO. If you have questions about the grant process, please do not hesitate to contact Joanne Lembo at jlembo@beaconofhopepineisland.com. Decisions will be made on evidence of need. Applications will be available on and after Feb. 1, and applications will be accepted no later than close of business 5 p.m. on March 1. No applications will be considered after 5 p.m. on March 1, 2024.
Beacon of Hope activities, programs set for February The Beacon of Hope has scheduled the following activities and events for the month of February ∫ Free Tax Preparation by IRS-certified volunteers is available at the Beacon of Hope on Fridays starting Feb. 2 through April 5. Stop by the Beacon on any Monday, Wednesday, or Thursdays to make an appointment and to pick up a packet of materials which are needed for the appointment. Please call the Beacon at 239-283-5123 with any questions. ∫ Samaritan Health and Wellness, a primary care clinic, is now open at the Beacon every other Wednesday. It will now be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This Clinic provides care for the uninsured and underinsured. The cost is $50 and help is available if needed. People of all ages are
welcome. Mental health services are also available. Call 239-360-7520 to make an appointment. ∫ The Food Bank is presently on hold. The Emergency Pantry is available whenever the Beacon are open. ∫ Blood pressure screening is held every Wednesday from 1-2 p.m. and every Saturday from 10-11 a.m. ∫ The Veteran’s Support group meets on the first Friday of every month from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call 239-283-5123 to make an appointment. Beacon Bites (our meals on wheels) is available. Call if you need to sign up. n Transportation to medical appointments and treatments to anywhere in Lee County is available. Please call and reserve 48 hours before your appoint-
ment. ∫ Strange Arrangement – Monday 6 – 7:30 p.m. Lessons given. A musical experience. ∫ Wellness Committee – Next meeting to be announced. ∫ Fundraising meeting – Monday, Feb. 15 at 10 a.m. ∫ Pine Island Boy and Cub Scout Troop will be meeting Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m. ∫ Girl Scout Troop will meet on Friday nights at 6 p.m. ∫ GED classes are on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. ∫ ESOL classes are held every Monday from 7 p.m. at the Beacon and every Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. ∫ The Attic (Thrift Store) is open
Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations are accepted until 2:30 p.m. unless (occasionally) they get overloaded. Every Tuesday is 50% off clothing, shoes, and similar items. 50% off “almost everything” will be on Tuesday, Feb. 6, Thursday, Feb. 22, Tuesday, March 5, and Thursday, March 21. The Beacon of Hope, located at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle, St. James City, is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Computers, fax and printer are available for use. Case managers are available at these times. Call and make an appointment. The Beacon of Hope telephone number is 239-2835123.
Page 17 n Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 18
CLASSIFIED 574-1110
Wanted To Buy
&39 &89 =<</:;
'* 8=;/; $/+5 ;<+</
5;8 =A /7
HUGE ANNUAL FLEA MARKET
Burnt Store Colony 15550 Burnt Store Road Sat Feb 3rd, 7:30am-1pm
24óHOUR SERVICE NO OVERTIME CHARGES FAMILY OWNED/OPERATED Lic#CAC1817070
(239) 573-2086
2 FULL BUILDINGS
/7 =A; >/:A<2371 -86
Plus Tool Tent
Auctions & Bazaars
Furniture, Jewelry, Kitchenware, Books, Small Appliances, Bed & Bath Clothing, Early Attic, Plants BAKE TABLE, BREAKFAST & LUNCH AVAILABLE
Absolute Estate
INSTANT REBATES AVAILABLE óAir Purification Systems óHigh Efficiency Systems óDuct Cleani ng Free Estimates on Replacement Systems
âNo Bull - Just Quality Work You Can Trustã Residential Commercial Build Out Remodels ¯ Repairs Room Additions Tractor Service
Free Estimates
239-707-0654 Bonded - Lic CBC058576 - Insured
BulldogBuildersInc.com
qq q q AFFORDABLEq
Boat Lifts & Docks Saturday, Jan. 27th @ 10:00 am
CUSTOM DOCKS & BOAT LIFTS
Household, Appliances, Collectibles, Foreign Coins, Furniture and more Allcoast Auction & Realty
239-242-7661 www.allcoastauction.com au415/ab3589
Garage Sales
q FREE ESTIMATESq q
Estate Sale Sat, Feb 3 - Sun, Feb 4 8am to 3pm
WE BUILD QUALITY DOCKS
2712 Archer Pkwy (off Country Club)
HAWLEY CONSTRUCTION OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE ALL IN LEE COUNTY.
Total Contents of Home Mid Century Furniture, Artwork, Like new Queen adjustable bed. Kitchen, Lanai and Garage full Pictures: facebook.com/redbarnestate anddemolitionsale
FREE ESTIMATES www.marinedocks.net
Call (239) 561-8074
New Installation Includes Permit 2 Year Warranty Rain Bird Contractor
Saturday, February 3rd 8 am - Noon
Huge Sale Entire Neighborhood Stringfellow to Helen Rd
The Heritage Community
Rummage Sale
Installation & Repair Licensed & Insured FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1981 LEE#LSO200031 CAPE#06938 Sanibel #S11-000923
Sat. Feb 3, 9 AM - 2 PM
Bake Sale Raffle for 3 CASH Prizes
TOMáS CONCRETE, INC àn Tractor Service
Specializing in
Fountain View Park 18691 N Tamaimi Trail (2 1/2 miles north of the Shell Factory)
,;85=</5A
$ ;<36+</;
3000 Heritage Lakes Blvd, NFM Rt 41 North 1 Mile Past Shell Factory
Breakfast & Lunch
Fountain View Bazaar Sat Feb 3rd, 9am-1pm Crafts Raffles Bake Sale & Food
)3553+6 $37/2+:< +7.A6+7
/< 6/ 9=< 6A A:; 80 /@9/:3/7-/ <8 ?8:4 08: A8=
%8003<; =<</:; 8?7;98=<; D#:/;;=:/ )+;2371 D#+37<371 D +:9/< D +637+</ 588:371 D&35/ !/? $/9+3: $/1:8=<371 D 8695/</ )88.?8:4371 D 88: )37.8? $/9+3: D(37A5 /7-371
D&89 %835 D 355 3:< D :+.371 D%2/55 %<87/ D :8;387 87<:85 D 8< -:/+1/ 8?371 D :3>/?+A; $8+.; D ;92+5< #+<-2 %/+5 D =5>/:< #39/; D +7. 5/+:371
Concrete Slabs Drives Patios Sidewalks
D 7>+;3>/ @8<3- $/68>+5
Stucco - Landscape Curbing Spray Crete - Keystone
3-/7;/. 7;=:/. ??? -+693875+7.;-+9/ -86
âNo Job Too Smallã BackHoe - Grading - Fill Top Soil - Rock - Bush Hogging Pond Digging - Land Clearing We fix Drainage Problems
Laborers Wanted
239-543-3700 Cell 239-849-5375
3-
7;=:/.
Painting
A+ RATED - ANGIES LIST
CBC026058
C o n c r e t e Contractors Annual Carport Sale
Handyman
:// ;<36+</;
Fill & Dirt Grading
Bokeelia September Estates
/7;/. +7. 7;=:/.
15401 Thornton Rd Fort Myers 33908
=<</:; B B %/+65/;; =<</:;
RED BARN
Pine Island Eagle
Contractors
% #
pineisland-eagle.com
Air Conditioning
D 85/; +5871 %/+?+55;
D%85=<387; <8 9885371 ?+</:
One-Man Painting Company Interior & Exterior Detail Oriented Tidy and Personal No Job to Large or Small And Always Free Estimates References Furnished Thank You In Advance
(239) 339-7361 Steve
qq q q AFFORDABLEq
Sprinkler Systems Tree Service & Irrigation qq q q AFFORDABLEq
:6+7.8C; &:// %/:>3-/
!8? "00/:371 #+>/: 7;<+55+<387
q q FREE ESTIMATESq
New Installation Includes Permit 2 Year Warranty Rain Bird Contractor A+ RATED - ANGIES LIST
Installation & Repair Licensed & Insured FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1981 LEE#LSO200031 CAPE#06938 Sanibel #S11-000923
q q FREE ESTIMATESq
New Installation Includes Permit 2 Year Warranty Rain Bird Contractor
$ &" % &$ )"$ %&' # $ "(
Installation & Repair Licensed & Insured
' & &$' % $(
FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1981 LEE#LSO200031 CAPE#06938 Sanibel #S11-000923
Sprinkler Tune-Up Special
$29.99
#$" #& #$" %% "! % $(
Check for Leaks Check Valves Unclog/ Adjust Heads Check for Broken Heads Set Timer to Code Check Solenoids Check & Clean Filter
3-/7;/. 7;=:/.
Set Each Zone Individually
!C% % $ ! $ # $
$ %& & %
) !& &" *"'$ &$ '* "$ ) & ( $ *"' ! $ %& & %
Tony’s Tree Service
&:// $/68>+5 &:// &:366371 %<=69 :37.371
Call Today!
239-282-0558 Condo & Property Managers Welcome!
New Installation & Reclaimed Water Hookups
Pine Island Eagle
!8? 3:371 @9/:3/7-/. %-://7 7;<+55/:;
)"" ## $ % $(
breezenewspapers.com
&39 &89 $/;-://7 #885 %-://7 $/9+3:
3-/7;/. +7. 7;=:/.
# #
!% !%'$ )"$ $% " # "( $ $ $ % !& "
A+ RATED - ANGIES LIST
Screening
$/;-://7 +7. $/9+3: 08: +7 008:.+,5/ #:3-/ +55 8: *8=: :// ;<36+</
Page 19 n Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Plants & Trees
Pine Island Eagle
pineisland-eagle.com
Week of Wednesday, January 31, 2024 n Page 20