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LeeCares accepting applications online

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

Online applications for LeeCares Housing Assistance programs have opened with funds allocated from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to be dispersed to those impacted by Hurricane Ian. There is $241.5 million allocated for individual housing programs under LeeCares, according to Lee County Deputy

There are three distinct programs in the $241.5 millian housing assistance allocation — $175 million for housing rehabilitation, reconstruction, and elevation of owner-occupied units, $10 million for home purchase assistance and $56 million for voluntary residential acquisition.

Director Jeannie Sutton, who spoke at the Cape Coral City Council workshop Wednesday.

There are three distinct programs in the allocation — $175 million for housing

rehabilitation, reconstruction, and elevation of owner-occupied units, $10 million for home purchase assistance and $56 million for voluntary residential acquisition.

The Housing Rehabilitation,

Reconstruction, and/or Elevation portion is for homeowners, or small rental properties to make repairs, reconstruct their home if destroyed, or elevate their home if needed due to flood zones, Sutton said.

Although the cost varies from site to site there is a maximum per house of $450,000 for elevation and $250,000 for rehabilitation.

The home purchase assistance is up to

See LEECARES, page 43

Cape Coral eyes bump in utility capital expansion fees

AOW

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

The Cape Coral Breeze presents Athletes of the Week — Page 47

INDEX Business........................38 Commentary...................4 Coupon Corner........28-30 Death Notices...............50 Education......................19 Puzzles..........................48 Real Estate....................14 Sports..........................45 Weekly Recap...............35

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‘Pj’s & Paws’ sleepover to raise funds for shelter pets Donations benefit the Cape Coral Animal Shelter

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

T

he most adorable sleepover to raise money for local shelter animals takes place this weekend in Cape Coral.

The Cape Coral Animal Shelter will host its fourth annual “Pj’s & Paws — A Night at the Shelter to benefit the animals” this Friday where proceeds directly benefit the shelter and low-cost clinic.

The sleepover features 16 local “celebrities” or “representatives” of local businesses who will cozy up in their favorite pajamas to spend the night with the animals of CCAS.

See Pjs and PAWS, page 16 The Cape Coral Animal Shelter will host its fourth annual “Pj’s & Paws — A Night at the Shelter to benefit the animals.”/PHOTO PROVIDED

Cape Coral property owners looking to build a new home on their lot may be asked to pay more in utility impact fees.

An increase in the city’s “utility capital expansion fees” may be on the horizon as the levy has remained the same for more than a decade and no longer is enough to make sure “growth pays for growth,” officials said Wednesday.

Jeff Dykstra, principal planner with Stantec, said the city’s capital expansion fees have remained the same since 2008.

“The cost to provide capacity costs have increased. Every dollar from the existing fee doesn’t recoup the cost for providing that infrastructure,” he said.

The concern over affordability with the anticipated rate increase is in large part due to growth.

“That puts the burden on existing ratepayers to pay for the growth,” Dykstra said.

The recommendation he set forward is to establish a plan to phase in increases in the capital expansion fee — essentially an impact fee — with each of the services at full cost except for potable water service. He said the irrigation and wastewater would be at full recovery for

See FEES, page 42

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 2

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

Cape Coral City Council agrees primitive camping at Yellow Fever Creek Preserve would be a great amenity for the community, but had a few suggestions this week, including IDs for each camper once the park opens.

“I think this is outstanding to have this in our city. A lot of families enjoy this, and they don’t have to go very far to enjoy it,” Councilmember Bill Steinke said.

The Yellow Fever Creek Preserve is located in northeast Cape Coral with about 200 acres that the city owns among the nearly 538 acres of mostly pine flatwoods.

Part of the city’s voter-approved $60 million GO Bond initiative, the park is not yet complete or open.

It is expected to be complete later this year, possibly by late spring/early summer.

Parks and Recreation Director Joe Petrella said 48 acres make up the park, which will offer 20 primitive single campsites, three group campsites, a welcome center, outdoor class-

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Cape Council considers operating rules as Yellow Fever Creek Preserve opening nears The park portion of the preserve in the northeast Cape will offer 20 primitive single campsites, three group campsites, a welcome center, outdoor classroom, fishing pond, disc golf and trails. room, fishing pond, disc golf and trails.

As far as staffing, Petrella said they have four full-time staff assigned to the facility, as well as a team from Parks & Recreation to maintain the parks and grounds. They are looking into security throughout the year with either a park ranger, or third-party security company.

“We are working to get quotes now,” Petrella said.

The preserve and trails will be open year-round from sunrise to sunset, as well as the campground.

The Welcome Center has hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Petrella said those times may change due to night programming and events.

Some of the things the city is going to host are campfire nights, movie nights, full moon trail hike, camp wilderness and overnight summer camp.

The campsite check-in is between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. with check-out no later than 11 a.m. to make sure the campsite is ready for the next group. Quite time would be from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.

The presentation highlighted some general safety — no climbing, feeding wildlife, or cutting or scaring trees for firewood, as well as no alcohol and fireworks permitted.

The city is looking into a valet service in the morning to pick up trash from the campsites.

Mayor John Gunter said he thinks it will offer a great

amenity for the city but had concerns about the visitors maintaining the site after their visit for the next guests. He asked if there could be any deposit required to make sure sites remain in the same condition.

Petrella said they could definitely look into it to see if it is something feasible.

A topic echoed by many council members was the possible issue of fire banning during the dry season. The fire department would issue a fire ban that would have to be followed by all campers.

The allowance of “aggressive dog breeds” also was a concern, which Petrella said he would look into, as well-behaved dogs are permitted on a leash.

There is also a 14-day maximum for camping and one 18year-old adult for each campsite.

“While it is required at least one person 18 years or older on site, I would certainly be in favor of a positive ID of all members,” Steinke said, adding that is something happened at the campground where everyone had to be interviewed or contracted, the city would need names.

“There’s six people, well who are they? Who are the six people?”

Gunter agreed that having that information available should be provided for everyone 18 and older, with a list of the children’s names.

“I think it’s a great recommendation,” he said.

Lee Clerk partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters Lee County Clerk and Comptroller Kevin Karnes has announced a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast that will allow students to gain an inside look and hands-on experience with the Lee County Clerk’s office and several other Constitutional offices.

Cape Coral Breeze Vol. 63, No. 14

Through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, called “Beyond School Walls,” students from North Fort Myers High School (Littles) are paired with Clerk employee mentors (Bigs) to build relationships and learn all about the services provided by the Lee County Clerk’s office and other local governments and the functions the organizations perform. The program is also tied to the concept that the Littles would hopefully choose career paths in the public sector.

Beyond School Walls recently kicked off at the Clerk’s office students have had the opportunity to go on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Courts department, visit the evidence room to learn about the role evidence plays in the judicial process, and go into a courtroom to hear from Karnes about the Clerk’s role during courtroom proceedings.

“This is such a wonderful opportunity for us to continue our commitment of giving back to the community in meaningful ways,” Karnes said. “Partnering with an organization like Big Brothers Big Sisters will not only create a lasting impact with these kids, but also our Clerk mentors. We couldn’t be more excited to teach these students about the Clerk’s office and our role in local government.”

The students come to the Clerk’s office once a month and spend several hours with their mentor.

The Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast “Beyond School Walls” program was first launched in 2014.

For more information about the Clerk’s Office visit leeclerk.org.

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February 16, 2024 ■ Page 4

OPINIONS CAPE CORAL BREEZE RAYMOND M. ECKENRODE Publisher VALARIE HARRING, Executive Editor CHRIS STRINE, Editor 2510 Del Prado Blvd. • Cape Coral, FL, 33904

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• Phone 239-574-1110 – Fax 239-574-5693 Member Florida Press Association

Help ‘end the stigma’ Unless you are one of the very lucky ones, addiction has touched your life or that of someone you know.

A neighbor.

A co-worker.

A family member or someone else you love.

Addicts — those with what is now called substance abuse disorder — are not limited to that “druggie,” “mugshot,” “panhandling-to-support-their-habit,” unknown person on the street who we have labeled.

Too often — too heartbreakingly often — it is someone we know as a friend, have broken bread with, or by the nickname we gave them in childhood when any thought of drug or alcohol abuse was an impossibility.

In the world we live in, it is not.

Fostered by the very institutions we pay taxes to to protect our families and our communities, the worst era of addiction the world has seen began in the 1990s when opioids were considered a miracle drug for those with chronic pain.

Touted as non-addictive in time-release form, these pills were aggressively marketed by pharmaceutical companies while “clinical norms also began emphasizing patients’ pain and treating it with opioids,” according to “The Opioid Crisis and Recent Federal Policy Responses,” a September 2022 report published by the Congressional Budget Office. “In addition, oversight and reimbursement incentives in the health care system encouraged opioid prescribing.”

THE BREEZE FEBRUARY 16, 2024

A people-first approach to affordable housing trends and commonalities and connect Southwest Florida is home to residents them to both onsite and offsite programs. of all ages and economic backgrounds, Every household is different, and this tool and the need for affordable housing is allows us to pinpoint their struggles and growing. Everyone deserves a safe place link them to applicable resources. to call home and the opportunity for a sucBecause of these programs and services, cessful future, and it’s critical for our residents can decrease their dependency community to rally together for solutions. and grow toward self-sufficiency.

Urban Strategies is honored to partner However, it takes more than one partwith the Housing Authority of the City of ner to make this all possible. Lee Health Fort Myers to bring people-focused, lifeis our champion for health and wellness changing resources to the Fort Myers programs, specifically providing seniors community through a large-scale revitalwith classes and instructors. The School ization project in the heart of Dunbar District of Lee County has provided our called The Greater Dunbar Initiative. school-age youth with free tutoring sesHaving grown up in an affordable housing Rachel Walker sions that include assistance from on-site community myself, I know how important case managers. We also can depend on our role is. Because of our partnership, organizations like Goodwill, Dress for residents living in affordable housing Success and CareerSource to help resicommunities are given more than a roof dents who may be experiencing job loss over their head. They are given a supportor are having difficulty securing a steady ive community full of people here to lift job. With their help, job seekers can get them up and help them reach their full potential through resident services, including quality out interview training and an outfit that helps them feel like of school programming to supplement classroom their most confident self. All it takes is a little support instruction, employment readiness, job placement, and knowing your community has your back.

Our residents are proof that circumstances can be health and wellness programs, comprehensive family temporary. They work hard to overcome challenges and support services and more.

With a system called LEARN (Learning for Effective make the most of what they have. Residents even work Actions to Revitalize Neighborhoods), we can assess See GUEST COMMENTARY, page 6 children, adults and seniors and compile data, explore

Guest Commentary

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR No deal

To the editor: Separation… boundaries… compartmentalization. In case you happened to wonder about all of the ways you can bend me, this is not one.

Let’s get specific. The borders of U.S. allies are NONNEGOTIABLE. Haven’t you ever heard of the saying, “You do not negotiate with terrorists”?

I know that I’m overly passionate and you probably think this clouds my outlook. But I assure you I can compensate with sobering facts. So how’s a cold hard glass of reality? The idea of territorial “settlement” is not compromise, it’s not realism, it’s not even real-politic— it’s just real pathetic.

Yet in an incredibly special way, the idea gets shoved See EDITORIAL, page 6 down our throats thanks to men like top American journalist Tucker Carlson, Southwest Florida’s very own.

This week’s poll question: The Tucker-Putin interview revealed that the former KGB master of deception turned decades-long dictator is actually When it comes to addiction and recovery, ready to negotiate Ukraine’s borders “with the U.S.” Insults aside, one can not truly be that naive to believe the which comes closest to your opinion? * ∫ Addiction is a choice and addicts suffer as a result of current Kremlin regime is actually interested in negotiations, when they outrightly refuse negotiation with the very country their choice. in which they invade. ∫ Addiction is a disease and needs to be treated as an First: Ukraine will not negotiate with Russia unless there is illness. a complete withdrawal of Russia’s occupation from its territo∫ I don’t know. ry.

Vote at capecoralbreeze.com.

Second: It’s not just about territory. Ukrainians will not abandon family and friends to live under the oppressive * The Breeze poll question above is a sample question from a survey Russian regime, which killed their children, raped their being conducted by SalusCare as part of the Addiction Policy Forum’s women, and burned down 500 churches.

Anti-Stigma Initiative. To take part in the survey to “help identify chalThird: Ukrainian soldiers came so far. My friend, lenges to addiction treatment” visit https://bit.ly/49ruqT4 .

Commander Yuri lost several soldiers in his brigade this week, and gained a POW. Ukrainians sacrificed too much and fought too hard to give in. To suggest “negotiation” now is not only callous and irrational, but one-sided.

Previous poll question Yet in a talk with world leaders in Dubai this week, Tucker Should members of the Florida National Guard and Florida State Guard be deployed to Texas to assist Carlson reiterated “Putin is not going to be more open to negotiation as it goes on …..”

Texas with efforts at the boarder.

Guess they want us to hurry. ∫ Yes. 11% Assuming the ancient advice is correct and no country has ∫ No. 88.5% ever benefited from prolonged warfare, if Putin realizes his mistake in invading Ukraine, then the demands for negotiation * 557 votes at press time seem less quid like pro quo and more like desperation pulsing beneath the surface.

Poll results are not scientific and represent only the opinions of But if Putin actually thinks he can wait it out to get his Internet users who have chosen to participate. demands, this is bolstered by those dare I say, useful idiots who anticipate the worst possible outcome.

While I understand we need to be prepared for the worst, if you want to “negotiate” an end to war, your starting point should not be your enemy’s demands.

We need to position ourselves for the most effective outcome possible. In the long run, men only hit what they aim at.

We can’t squander this opportunity to aim high.

The world thought Ukraine would fall in five days. Since then, Ukraine has decimated and exposed the Russian military for what it really is — incompetent, barbaric, nevertheless defeatable threat.

Ukraine has been incredibly effective with the aid we’ve given them, completely outperforming expectations by a landslide.

We underestimated them back then, and that resulted in the current U.S. admin slow-rolling tanks, missiles and heavy machinery that could have ended the war long ago.

It would be a big mistake to underestimate Ukraine again by rushing into “negotiations.”

I wonder if Charles Lindbergh ever gave second thought to why historical perspective is never justification to brutally invade other countries or rewrite international borders.

Indeed, the relevant historical template is not confined to World War II, so I’ve come up with a little more breadth.

The war in Ukraine is a continuation of the precedents we set in our post 9/11 intervention which, contrary to popular belief, did not begin with Iraq. It began in Eastern Europe, Georgia — also now occupied by Russia, where U.S. militants fought side-by-side Russia and further destabilized the now Russian-controlled Chechnyan republic.

But the “lord of bunker” forgot that part in his extended history lecture to Tucker Carlson.

From the U.S. perspective, “negotiation” defined in the sense that Ukraine should cede territory to Russia would ensure a repeat of the same mistakes we made in Afghanistan, where our botched pull-out resulted in tens of billions worth in U.S. military equipment falling into the hands of the Taliban, a state-sponsor of terrorism.

To that end, Trump appears adverse to this idea of “negotiation.” Recently he said of Ukraine aid, “Give them the money, and if they can pay it back, they pay it back. If they can’t pay it back they don’t have to pay it back … but if they go to another nation, they drop us like a dog. . . If that happens to our country, then very simply we call (in) the loan and we say we want our money, because we give money and then they go to the other side.”

In other words, we can lose all of our investment in See LETTERS, page 6

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Cape Coral Breeze

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 8 www.capecoralbreeze.com Cape Coral Breeze

Cape discusses water conservation initiatives

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

The city of Cape Coral is looking at ways to conserve water and protect the city’s aquifers.

Increasing fines for water violations, limiting pool size, and having homeowners hire a third-party company to fill and refill pools were among the discussion topics.

City staff provided a presentation called Northeast Cape Coral Potential Water Conservation Measures with Cape Coral City Council providing staff with additional direction.

The boundaries of the Southwest Florida Water Management District water shortage are the west boundary for Nelson Road, east boundary of Northest 24th Avenue, north boundary of Gator Slough and south boundary of Pine Island Road.

Utilities Director Jeff Pearson said private wells are among the issues.

There were eight potential initiatives to mitigate further Mid-Hawthorn Aquifer decline that were shared during Wednesday’s workshop.

The ones that gained the most traction were accelerating the 2023 Conservation Ordinance enactment and increased fines for water violations.

“I would be supportive of A, accelerate conservation ordinance. That would be an easy one to implement if the need arises,” Councilmember Keith Long said, adding that it would be proactive in getting ahead of water depletion.

Councilmember Bill Steinke said with fines it should be a second occurrence increase, which other council members agreed.

Another that gained some traction was for homeowners to hire a third party to fill or refill a swimming pool.

The initial mitigation provided by Pearson was cap on the size of swimming pools, as they are a big source of water usage. One of the options was having shallower pools.

Another suggestion came from Councilmember Dan Sheppard in regard to educating property buyers in the area that there may be the possibility of water issues.

He said they are not telling people not to build, but rather being transparent that there might be an issue.

“That’s a great suggestion,” Pearson said.

“We will see about potentially doing that during the permitting process.”

The Southwest Florida Water Management District requires compliance

“We got lucky this season. It’s not going to be like that all the time.

Even if we did all the initiatives, we wouldn’t see any impacts on this chart for several years. The ordinance and increased fines would give us a small change.

Everything else would not be instantaneous.”

— Councilmember Jessica Cosden, who stressed urgency and a focus on incentives rather than requirements with the city’s once a week watering schedule that went into effect on Nov. 28, 2023, for residents on private MHA (MidHawthorn Aquifer) wells for outdoor irrigation.

“I don’t want to put a restriction on any homeowner unless I am 100% that there is a need there,” Mayor John Gunter said. “We have only applied these restrictions for 10 weeks now. Let the data steer us in the direction we need to go. I don’t want to do something prematurely. If the data shows we have to go a different course, I am all for it.”

City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn said it is possible they may need to do an amendment for the ordinance with a 30-day notice to the industry as soon as April.

He said if they do nothing, then the Southwest Florida Management District has the hammer.

“They can turn around and say no irrigation permit allowed period,” he said.

Ilczyszyn said they have to make sure with everything they are trying to do that they do not end up with a city inside of a city.

“That whole sector of the city is different from everywhere else until they have water and sewer,” he said.

Councilmember Jessica Cosden said they should approach this with a sense of urgency.

“We got lucky this season. It’s not going to be like that all the time,” she said of the rain. “Even if we did all the initiatives, we wouldn’t see any impacts on this chart for several years. The ordinance and increased fines would give us a small change.

Everything else would not be instantaneous.”

Cosden said they are planning for years in the future, and they should be looking at incentives rather than requirements.

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

Steve Pohlman, former city Parks & Rec director

See REMEMBERED, page 12

Cape Coral Breeze

the center and attendees to share a laugh."

Ilczyszyn added that Pohlman was a mentor to him, as he built a deep appreciation for the Parks and Recreation profession.

“He had a remarkable ability to convey the quality-of-life parks provide to our residents, businesses, and tourists,” Ilczyszyn said. “There was never a problem ‘Salty’ couldn’t navigate through in the Parks and Recreation profession. He was a true visionary in every sense.”

Pohlman, at one point in his career, also served as the interim city manager of

“We have had a great working relationship with Steve and staff,” Tabor said. “Steve and I became best buddies and spent a lot of time together, and enjoyed life.”

Tabor reminisced on boating, fishing, dinners, and good times with Pohlman throughout the years.

“His make-up was much like mine — we both absolutely loved the water,” Tabor said. “Any time we could take advantage and get on the water, we certainly would do that.

“Steve always described himself as being in the ‘fun’ business. And if you think about it, it’s 100% correct. Parks and Recreation is the fun business. So Steve was really a different director. He had his hands full with growth.

“In all aspects of Steve’s life, he got up in the morning every day and enjoyed going to work, which not many can say due to the nature of the business. He had a strong belief it was all about the citizens. From special events, from development of athletic fields and supporting the local youth, and the environmental end of things, too. He fought, really hard, to grow the parks system as the city needed.”

Former Cape Coral Councilmember and also a Cape pioneer, Gloria Tate, worked with Pohlman over several terms.

“His heart was all about Parks and Recreation, and he wanted nothing more than to make the experience great for families in Cape Coral,” Tate said.

“Whenever it’s time for the ‘movie in park’ the city offers, it’s because Steve made it possible to get the inflatable

www.capecoralbreeze.com

The city of Cape Coral is mourning and remembering the life of an individual who served residents for 20 years.

Stephen Pohlman, 71, passed away Feb. 12 at his home surrounded by family and loved ones.

Pohlman served as the city’s Parks and Recreation Director for two decades until his retirement in 2017.

Known to friends as “Salty,” Pohlman was an Illinois native and University of Illinois graduate, earning a degree in Parks and Recreation Management in 1974. It was his Delta Tau Delta fraternity brothers who dubbed Pohlman “Salty.”

According to his obituary, Pohlman “never met a stranger and made friends wherever he was.” He had a love for adventure, experiences, sports, traveling, boating, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.

City Manager Mike Ilczyszyn, who worked with Pohlman for some time, expressed his sadness upon hearing of his passing.

“Steve leaves behind a legacy of profound impact on our community,” Ilczyszyn said. “While serving as our Parks and Recreation Director, Steve was instrumental in delivering both of our Parks and Recreation Master Plans which brought to our community many neighborhood and community parks including Joe Stonis, Paul Sanborn, Jim Jeffers, Lake Kennedy Tennis and Pickleball, Festival Park, Crystal Lake, and many more. One of his greatest accomplishments was delivering the Special Populations programming to our community. Almost every week he would visit

Cape Coral. During that time, Ilczyszyn worked directly for him as the city’s business manager. Ilczyszyn said under Pohlman’s leadership, the city purchased 491 parcels at a tax certificate sale from a foreclosure, saying “The purchase of those properties was transformational for the City of Cape Coral.”

Some of those parcels are now developed as fire stations, a police training facility and include the Seven Islands, many neighborhood parks, and some of which have yet to be developed.

“Steve’s vision was to expand the Parks and Recreation system, but we know today this action is one of the most impactful real property land acquisitions the city ever performed,” Ilczyszyn said.

Long-time resident and Cape Coral pioneer, Elmer Tabor, was the first person to meet and welcome Pohlman to the city when he relocated from Illinois.

Tabor, being heavily involved with Rotary, city happenings, and Rotary Park, the two had not just a professional relationship, but a personal one.

“When Steve first came to town, one of the first things he wanted to do was meet with Rotary and see what the relationship was,” Tabor said.

Tabor recalled teasing and joking with Pohlman on who the park belonged to, the city or Rotary.

“Over the years, he and I turned out to be very, very personal friends, and professionally had a lot of involvement,” Tabor said.

In fact, Pohlman was the one who came up with the idea to have the dog park located at Rotary Park, which was not in the original plans.

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Former Cape Parks & Rec director remembered

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February 16, 2024 ■ Page 10

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February 16, 2024 ■ Page 12 www.capecoralbreeze.com

Music & Arts Fusion Walk set for Saturday

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A city of Cape Coral event welcomes a combination of music and arts to the downtown area this Saturday night.

The city’s Parks and Recreation Department will present the Cape Coral Music & Arts Fusion Walk on Feb. 17, from 5 to 9 p.m. along Southeast 47th Terrace.

The city invites the community to enjoy a family-friendly showcase of local musician and artists, going down between Vincennes Boulevard and Southeast 15th Avenue.

“The Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department is proud to bring local artists and musicians together for Music and Arts Fusion Walk,” said city spokesperson Laura Kurkimilis via email. “The whole family can enjoy an evening of live music and art while supporting local businesses. This event will feature pop-up shops by local artists that showcase everything from handmade jewelry to paintings.”

Artists, designers, and makers with high-quality, handmade, original work are invited to participate in Cape Coral

“The Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department is proud to bring local artists and musicians together for Music & Arts Fusion Walk. The whole family can enjoy an evening of live music and art while supporting local businesses. This event will feature pop-up shops by local artists that showcase everything from handmade jewelry to paintings.”

—Laura Kurkimilis, city spokesperson Music and Arts Fusion Walk. Acceptable categories are candles, clay, digital, glass, jewelry, leather, living plants, mixed media, paintings, photography, soaps/lotions, and woodwork.

“Events like Music & Arts Fusion Walk allow our community to enjoy family-friendly entertainment while enjoying the season’s mild weather,”

Kurkimilis said. “It will enable residents to come together, celebrate local talent, and enjoy a creative and engaging experience.”

This event’s music entertainment features John Dilascio, Jesse King, and Daniel Isareal.

This will be the third time the city has held this event, and Kurkimilis said “we are excited to see how it’s evolving and growing with each iteration.”

This event will showcase 30 art vendors, which is twice as many featured during the first event. Patrons can also expect to find some businesses on and near Southeast 47th Terrace, offering food, drinks, and entertainment.

For more information, visit capecoral.gov and find Music & Arts Fusion Walk under the special events tab via the Parks and Recreation Department.

IF YOU GO: What: Cape Coral Music and Arts Fusion Walk When: Saturday, Feb. 17, from 5 to 9 p.m.

Where: Along Southeast 47th Terrace More information: For more information, visit capecoral.gov and find Music and Arts Fusion Walk under the special events tab via the Parks and Recreation Department

Cape Coral Breeze

Remembered : Steve Pohlman leaves behind a ‘legacy of profound impact’ From page 9 screen. He lived life to the fullest, and loved the water and great music. He has left his mark in our city and will be missed.”

Survivors include his wife Vicki, son

Jeff (Caitlin) Pohlman of Plantation, , Chelsey (Chad) Bitner of Cape Coral, and Megan (Adam) Snell of Whitehouse, Tenn., brother Robert “Bud” (Dawn) Pohlman of Elgin, Ill., his stepmother Margaret “Peg” Pohlman of Winter Haven, stepsisters; Sandy (Bob) Jones of

Gurnee, Ill. and Donna (Butch) Kirkegaard of Spring Grove, Ill, three grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

“As we bid farewell to a man who dedicated a part of his life to improve all of ours, let us celebrate the influence his leadership had on Cape Coral,” Ilczyszyn

said. “The lives he touched while he was with us was significant and his vision will impact many more for generations to come.”

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

—Mayor John Gunter The Resilient Lee Recovery is an overarching plan. There are branches under the plan — planning and capacity, infrastructure, housing, economic recovery, education and workforce, natural resources, cultural resources and health and social services.

“The county does not plan to amend it at all,” Harner said of using it as is. “We have our recovery plan that we are working on — the board’s plan. Objectives will match that as well. We have Hurricane Ian items morphed into longterm recovery items.”

He said they are waiting until March 19 to approve the plan, as they want to make sure that the task force and municipalities approve.

Mayor John Gunter, who has been a member of the task force over the past year, said the goal was to come up with a regional approach on how to recover, or provide resiliency for the future.

“This is only the first step — developed silos and understand funding restrictions,” he said as state dollars have a lot of tentacles and restrictions that go along with it.

The second step, Gunter said, is how

Cape Coral Breeze

County Commissioners. That is what it is going to take,” Councilmember Tom Hayden said.

Assistant County Manager Glen Salyer said the evaluation committee will assess all projects in relationship to community needs and score all applications on a technical basis. He said they will rank the projects and make a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners.

“The County Commissioners will see all the applications, the technical scoring package and the evaluation committee rankings,” Salyer said.

County Manager Dave Harner said the Board of County Commissioners first created the advisory committee for a long-term recovery plan after Hurricane Ian, which was followed by a workshop and bigger discussion.

He said the commissioners wanted to ensure the county was a little more involved — having county staff involved to make sure county issues were being addressed. He said the board also decided that municipalities also needed to be partners and have their own autonomy with a plan.

to apply the dollars in the silos identified and meet the needs of the community.

“We have to develop a Cape Coral Plan. We have to see how we are going to do that moving forward,” he said.

“Utilize existing staff, a contractual staff, or combination of both. It is important for all of us to recognize it’s only the first step. We have to look at projects we identified — prioritize those projects and how we are going to move forward.”

Lamb said pending the recovery task force finalizing the plan, they are looking to bring it back before the Cape Coral City Council for the overarching goals.

He said Resilient Lee is the overarching guide for cities to recover with their own resiliency plans.

“We are looking at all those things to accomplish specific priorities we have and set some timelines,” Lamb said of the Cape Coral Recovery and Resiliency Plan.

He said they are working with FEMA Public Assistance, as well as the CBDG_DR notice of funding availability, which closes on Feb. 23.

“We have a number of projects coming back on the 21st to move forward,” Lamb said.

Hayden said the key component of this is communication. He asked if they could have a standing agenda item about recovery, so Council could be kept abreast of where they stand at every level and every step of the plan.

“Keeping that information circulating not only among us, but the public, will be important moving forward,” Hayden said.

www.capecoralbreeze.com

Steps continue to be taken with the Lee County Recovery Task Force regarding Resilient Lee Recovery, which now includes municipalities selecting who will represent them for the evaluation committee.

Fire Chief Ryan Lamb said the ordinance that has been adopted by the Board of County Commissioners includes a 12member board for the evaluation committee for projects.

There is one representative from the County Commission, as well as one from each municipality.

“The makeup of those people cannot be an elected official, employee, or driven a benefit — subcontractor or contractor,” Lamb said, adding that there is a rubric for rating, which will get sent to the board of commissioners for a final vote.

Cape Coral City Council had a great deal of conversation stemming around if they should write the Board of County Commissioner chairman a letter expressing the desire to have more than one representative on the board.

Councilmember Richard Carr said he understands the idea behind having more than one representative due to the size of Cape Coral, but he did not know if the outcome would be any different. He said it’s about getting the right person in the seat, so they are heard properly with the city’s needs and concerns.

“Every municipality will fight for their slice of the pie — wanting their fair part of the project. It still comes down to the County Commissioners. The best role is to stay in communication with the

“We have to develop a Cape Coral Plan. We have to see how we are going to do that moving forward. Utilize existing staff, a contractual staff, or combination of both. It is important for all of us to recognize it’s only the first step. We have to look at projects we identified — prioritize those projects and how we are going to move forward.”

Page 13 ■ February 16, 2024

Municipalities to have membership on Lee resiliency & recovery board

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 14 www.capecoralbreeze.com Cape Coral Breeze

REAL ESTATE

THE BREEZE FEBRUARY 16, 2024

Tips to find a Listings, pendings up as deadline approaches for homeowners legitimate buyer Mr. Feichthaler: I have had my house on the market for about four months now. I accepted two offers, only to have them cancel at the very end of the inspection period. I really need to sell the house and find a legitimate buyer, any suggestions on how I can do this?

— Steven N. Dear Steven: I have many clients in this same position. There are so many “investors” out there looking for a deal, they will indiscriminately make offers on hundreds of properties in the hopes they can flip it prior to inspection ending. As a result, the seller removes the property from the market, the buyer often cancels and Eric P. Feichthaler disappears and you are back to square one.

There are several steps you (and your Realtor, if you have one) can take to protect yourself from these types of buyers, and to complete your transaction in a timely manner. First, requiring a reasonable escrow deposit is important. If you are selling your home for $500,000, and the offer includes a $1,000 escrow deposit, this is a sign your buyer may not be a serious one. As a rule of thumb, for a home, I would require 5%, and no less than 3% under any circumstances. A reasonable escrow deposit tends to show a serious buyer.

Second, only allow a reasonable inspection period for the buyer to determine they wish to proceed. The typical time period for a home is 14 days, which provides the buyer plenty of time to have inspections done, check with the city on any issues that may impact the property and to make any other investigation they wish. Buyers requiring 30, 60, even 90 days often want that time just so see if they can flip or assign the contract to another buyer.

Which brings me to another thought. If you have a serious end-user buyer, they will not require that the contract be assignable at all. If the buyer is willing to proceed with a contract and make it unassignable, this is a strong indicator they actually want to buy your home.

Another strategy you can employ is to require a certain amount of the deposit to be non-refundable after the inspection period is complete. This can be particularly important if the buyer is requiring a long closing, like 6090 days. If a portion of the deposit is nonrefundable, this can at least pay for your carrying costs for the home while it is off the market. Only serious buyers will agree to a portion of the deposit being non-refundable.

There are other options to consider. I remind all clients that the contract is THE way to protect yourself, and your sale, from a wide variety of problems. You can negotiate any term that benefits you if the other party agrees. It may take a little longer to find a quality buyer, but this will save you time and money overall. Good luck!

Real Estate Law

Eric P. Feichthaler has lived in Cape Coral for over 35 years and graduated from Mariner High School in Cape Coral. After completing law school at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., he returned to Cape Coral to practice law and raise a family. He served as mayor of Cape Coral from 2005-2008, and continues his service to the community through the Cape Coral Caring Center, and Cape Coral Kiwanis. He has been married to his wife, Mary, for 22 years, and they have See TIPS, page 15

as you met these requirements by Jan. 1, We continue to see rising inventories 2024, you are eligible to apply for this and pending sales while the preliminary substantial property tax benefit. numbers in the overall Cape Coral singleThe deadline to apply for your Florida family home market for the month of Homestead Tax Exemption benefit is January are showing that the number of March 1, 2024, and it is easy to do closed home sales are running some 17% online through the Lee County Property below the number of sales registered in Appraiser’s website. Just go to January 2023. As you may recall, in “leepa.org” and click on the tab on the January 2023 home sales in the Cape right side of the property appraiser’s were still in recovery mode with a lot of homepage titled, “Apply for Your storm damaged homes being sold at big Homestead Exemption Online.” You discounts as our market bounced off of will need to provide the Florida driver’s the post-Hurricane Ian lows set in license number and the date of birth for October 2022. each person listed as an owner of your The number of closed home sales this home (or condo) in the records at the January is positioning our current market Bob and Geri Quinn appraiser’s office. Once you have your somewhere above the 263 sales from Homestead Exemption in place, you do back in January 2019, and below the prenot need to reapply for it every year COVID number of 314 January sales in unless your information has changed.

2020. Remember, most of the homes If the purchase of your home closed being posted as closed sales in January went under contract with a buyer some 30 to 45 days prior after Jan. 1 of this year, and if the seller had a Homestead to the sale being finalized, and as noted below, we are see- Exemption in place on the home, that exemption will ing a solid seasonal increase in the number of homes going remain in effect for the remainder of this year, and then you would need to apply for your own Homestead Tax under contract with buyers since the first of the year.

While the sales are lower, the preliminary overall medi- Exemption, if eligible, by March 1, 2025. Keep in mind an home sales price for this January has edged about 6% that your future property taxes will reset based on your higher than in January 2023, and at $425,000 it will be purchase price for the home and they will likely be higher the best January number ever in the Cape. At the same than what the current homeowner/seller is paying for their time, we continue to see a rising supply of homes listed for property taxes. The Lee County Property Appraiser’s websale to go with the continued softness in the median list site also has an easy-to-use property tax calculator that lets prices and median pending sales prices, while the unsold you plug in a purchase price for a home and it will calcusupply of homes on the market hit 13 months, for its high- late a property tax estimate for you on both a homesteaded est January level since reaching 12 months in January and non-homesteaded property basis. Be sure to click on 2014, and 16 months of supply in January 2009. In the website for the property appraiser in Lee County, January 2023 our supply of homes on the market was at 7 Florida, and not Lee County, Alabama, when searching months, so plenty of challenges remain for the current and online.

Finally, if you have owned a home in Cape Coral withgrowing influx of home sellers.

Before we get into data for active listings and pending out a Homestead Exemption, while maintaining your prisales, here are a couple of important “house cleaning” mary residence through a home located in another state, items for homeowners. First, the deadline is fast approach- and if you became a Florida resident by Jan. 1, 2024, and ing for new homeowners who bought a home in Cape if you have established your Cape Coral home as your priCoral in 2023 to apply for their Homestead Tax mary residence, you should look into applying for your Exemption. In order to qualify for a Homestead Tax Homestead Exemption before the March 1 deadline.

Exemption, you have to declare Florida as your permanent Qualifying for a Florida Homestead Tax Exemption proresidence, which generally means being registered to vote vides some great benefits and tax savings to homeowners.

Briefly, another thing to look into if you own a home, in Florida, and if you drive, having a Florida driver’s license, along with using your Florida address as your home address on your Federal Income Tax Return. As long See LISTINGS, PENDINGS, page 15

Homing In

REAL ESTATE BRIEFS SVN Commercial Partners completes series of deals Recent deals completed by SVN Commercial Partners included: ∫ Keltour USA purchased 14,000 square feet of warehouse space, located at 2673 N.E. 9th Ave. in Cape Coral, for $2.65 million from TL Fliss Real Estate. Lauri Albion and Tiffany Luongo of SVN Commercial Partners represented the seller and Luongo represented the buyer. ∫ All Stylez Salon, LCC leased 1,532 square feet of retail space at 9108 Bonita Beach Road in Bonita Springs from Wynn Properties, Inc. Donna Marrero and Tiffany Luongo of SVN Commercial Partners represented the tenant. ∫ United Flooring & Interiors leased 3,727 square feet of industrial space, located at 13750 Treeline Ave. S, Units 2 & 3, in Fort Myers, from Shanahan Enterprises of FL, LLC. Donna Marrero Zaldivar and Bryan J. Myers of SVN Commercial Partners represented the lessee.

SVN Commercial Partners, with five offices in Southeast and Southwest Florida, is a commercial real estate services firm dedicated to providing expertise to investors and occupiers of commercial real estate. It provides a full menu of services to clients in the Southeast and Southwest Florida regions in addition to serving a national

client base.All SVN offices are independently owned and operated. To learn more about SVN Commercial Partners, go to svncp.com.

Real Estate Investment Society announces new officers and board members The Real Estate Investment Society this week announced the election of officers and its board of governors for 2024: President Justin Thibaut, CCIM, of LSI Companies; Vice President Josh Philpott, AICP, of Stantec; Treasurer Kristine Smale of Christopher Alan Homes; and Secretary Phil Fischler, CCIM, of Fischler Property Company.

The board of governors includes Kevin Beauparlant of Bank OZK; Lee County Property Appraiser Matt Caldwell; Jennifer Fisher of Strayhorn, Persons-Mulicka and Fisher; Zannon Garza, of DeAngelis Diamond; Donald Schrotenboer of REALVIZORY; Ryan Shute, PE, of Morris-Depew Associates; and Shelton Weeks, PhD., of Lutgert College of Business. The immediate past president, Lori Moore of Roetzel & Andress, also joins the board.

REIS is an independent organization, dedicated to

See REAL ESTATE BRIEFS, page 15

From page 14 assisting members in the effective utilization of real estate through networking, education, public service, and a common voice on pertinent issues. The membership represents a broad spectrum of real estate, environmental, financial, legal, design, construction, marketing and management companies.

REIS luncheon meetings convene at 11:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month, at Pelican Preserve in Fort Myers, to network and discuss current civic and business issues affecting the commercial real estate and development industry. Information on membership and meeting programs is available at www.reis-swfl.org.

MK Architecture has been awarded the architectural design for the renovation/restoration of the older classroom building at Citygate Ministries located on Jackson Street in downtown Fort Myers. The project includes a 4,300-squarefoot renovation including new offices, skills lab, a large new meeting room and ADA restrooms.

The selected general contractor is Meridian Construction and Development of Fort Myers. Construction is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of this year.

MK Architecture specializes in commercial, multi-family, and hospitality architecture, with offices in Fort Myers, Naples and Lexington, Kentucky.

MK Architecture's Fort Myers office is at 8200 College

Seagate Development Group promotes Kowalczyk to chief of staff Seagate Development Group has promoted Jenna Kowalczyk from vice president of operations to chief of staff. In her new role, Kowalczyk is responsible for advising and supporting the executive leadership team, facilitating strategic decision-making and managing high priority initiatives.

Kowalczyk joined Seagate in 2017. During her time as vice president of operations, she oversaw operational processes to improve efficiency and ensure quality control and implemented strategies to enhance overall business performance and drive growth. Kowalczyk has more than a decade of experience in the homebuilder and real estate development industries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing from the University of Florida.

Launched in 2015 and based in Southwest Florida, Seagate Development Group is a vertically integrated real estate company focused on delivering excellence and concierge-level service. Seagate’s separate yet integrated divisions offer an extensive array of services encompassing land acquisition, entitlements, design, permitting, site development, construction, interior design, sales, leasing, asset and property management and disposition.

For more information, visit seagatedevelopmentgroup.com.

Tips: Finding a legitimate buyer for your home Circuit Civil Mediator. He can be reached at eric@capecoralattorney.com, or 239-542-4733.

This article is general in nature and not intended as legal advice to anyone. Individuals should seek legal counsel before acting on any matter of legal rights and obligations.

Listings, pendings: Update on the number of sales in the Cape From page 14 condo, business property or land here in Lee County, is to register for the Lee County Clerk of Court’s “Property Fraud Alert” service. This service is designed to notify you within 24 hours if any documents are filed with the clerk’s office that affect a property you own. This is a free service and you can sign up at www.leeclerk.org/fraudalert. It is a simple process that requires your name and email address, and you can also register for it from your phone.

Getting back to our market, as of Tuesday, Feb. 13, there were 2,784 active listings for Cape Coral singlefamily homes in the MLS at prices ranging from $249,900 to $11.9 million, with the median list price at $499,970.

The number of active listings is up 14% from 2,442 homes on the market about six weeks ago on Jan. 1, and it is 110.7% higher than the 1,321 active listings one year ago on Feb. 14, 2023, when the median list price was at $519,000. Currently, there are 1,107 homes listed for sale in the Cape at $450,000 and under, with 41 of these homes priced below $300,000.

At the other end of the price spectrum, there are 357

Cape Coral homes listed at $1 million and above. One year ago, there were only 498 homes listed at $450,000 and under, including 22 homes priced below $300,000. At that time there were 180 homes on the market at $1 million and above, with the highest-priced listing in the Cape at $4.275 million.

Along with the steady rise in active listings, we are also seeing our usual seasonal surge in pending home sales since Jan. 1, with 716 Cape Coral homes now under contract with buyers as of Feb. 13. This is up 67.7% from the 427 pending sales in the pipeline at the beginning of this year, but still 6.4% below the 765 pending sales from a year ago on Feb. 14, 2023. Back one year ago, 482 pending sales were priced at $450,000 and under, while 34 homes were pending at $1 million and above. Currently, a total of 433 homes are pending at $450,000 and under, with 48 pending sales at $1 million and above.

Of note, especially to people trying to sell their existing Cape Coral homes, out of the 2,784 active home listings through the MLS in the Cape, a total of 854 or about 31% of them, are for new construction homes. In addition, 276 or 38.5% of the current 716 pending home sales in the

Cape are for new construction homes. New home builders are offering much more aggressive incentives to potential buyers and their Realtors, creating stiff competition for sellers in the existing, older home market trying to sell to the same buyers.

The sales data for this article was obtained from the Florida Realtors Multiple Listing Service Matrix for Lee County, Fla., as of Feb. 13, 2024, unless otherwise noted.

It was compiled by Bob and Geri Quinn and it includes information specifically for Cape Coral single-family homes, and does not include condominiums, short sales or foreclosures. The data and statistics are believed to be reliable, however, they could be updated and revised periodically, and are subject to change without notice. The Quinns are a husband and wife real estate team with the RE/MAX Realty Team office in Cape Coral. They have lived in Cape Coral for over 44 years. Geri has been a full-time Realtor since 2005, and Bob joined with Geri as a full-time Realtor in 2014. Their real estate practice is mainly focused on Cape Coral residential property and vacant lots.

Cape Coral Breeze

From page 14 four children. He earned his board certification in Real Estate Law from the Florida Bar, and primarily practices in real estate law and wills and trusts. He is AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell for professional ethics and legal ability, and is a Supreme Court Certified

The Urban Land Institute Southwest Florida chapter will hold its inaugural Focus Real Estate Forum event scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 22, from 1:30-6 p.m., at Florida Gulf Coast University. The event will bring together industry leaders, professionals and stakeholders, offering a unique platform for exchanging ideas, insights and strategies shaping the future of real estate in the Southwest Florida region.

The forum will include four content sessions focused on recovery and rebuilding post Hurricane Ian, new development in our Tri-County area, growing trends in healthcare and conclude with Emerging Trends in the real estate industry for 2024.

Speakers include Mayor Dan Allers, Fort Myers Beach; Tim Aten, Gulfshore Business; Larry Buckner, Zonda; Scott Burgess, David Lawrence Center; Ben Freeland, Arches Bayfront; David Kistel, Lee Health, Jonathan Kling, NCH Healthcare; Matt Price, Seagate Development; Kenny Siggs, Christopher Alan Homes; Jim Zboril, L&L Development, Gary Tasman, Cushman & Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida; Pat Utter, Collier Enterprises Aysegul Timur, Florida Gulf Coast University, and Mark Wilson, London Bay Homes.

Following the sessions will be a networking reception.

Investment is $95 for ULI members and $130 for nonmembers. Discounts are offered to students and public sector attendees.

The program will take place in room 138 of the Water School (Academic Building 9) at FGCU. Registration deadline for the Forum is February 19. For more information or to register, call 800-321-5011 or visit swflorida.uli.org.

The Urban Land Institute is a global organization dedicated to responsible lane use and sustainable community development. ULI Southwest Florida serves as a local hub, bringing together industry professionals to share knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions.

www.capecoralbreeze.com

MK Architecture awarded contract for Citygate Ministries renovation, expansion

Parkway, Suite 201. Contact the office at 239-482-2121 or visit www.MK-ARCH.com.

Focus Real Estate Forum Thursday

Page 15 ■ February 16, 2024

REAL ESTATE BRIEFS

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 16 www.capecoralbreeze.com Cape Coral Breeze

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pj's & Paws participants will be matched with one of CCAS’ resident canines or assigned to one of their cat manors and are encouraged to decorate their “suite."

PJs & Paws: Sleepover benefits shelter pets From page 1 Participants will be matched with one of CCAS’ resident canines or assigned to one of their cat manors and are encouraged to decorate their “suite."

The human can read to their K9 or feline, sing, take them for a walk, play, or just spend time together. At the end of the night, when all is quiet, humans can cuddle up and spend the night with their new friend.

The evening also features a “paint party” where the pups and kitties, with the assistance of participants, paint abstract art they send home as a memento of the occasion.

“This is one of my favorite events and I think it's a lot of fun, and a really great night for the animals, and the people that participate,” said CCAS Executive Director Liz McCauley.

The first PJ’s and Paws was a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, McCauley said, adding that since fundraisers were canceled or postponed, CCAS had to find creative ways to raise funds while still being able to social distance.

“We felt this was a fun way to raise money and awareness for our adoptable animals,” she said “Much to our amazement, we raised over $36,000. It was a lot of fun, and it has now become one of our signature events.”

Each participant works towards a goal of raising a minimum of $2,000 through their networks and social media, with an overall goal of raising $40,000 to support the lifesaving work being done at the shelter.

“Every dollar matters to us right now,” McCauley said. “We are packed, as we always are. We have so many puppies right now. So many nursing moms.

So many kittens. And it costs a lot of money to take care of them. So every dollar raised goes directly towards the care of the animals here at the shelter.

We’re grateful for the donations.”

Throughout the event, there will be Facebook live check-ins and each business/celebrity participating will get a chance to shine in their pajamas and show off their four-legged pal for the evening.

2024 Participants include: Dr. Cecilia Fisher, Cape Coral Pet Vet; Brittany Probeck, Galeana Dodge Jeep Fiat; Taylor Petras, WINK News; Lisa

For more information on the Cape Coral Animal Shelter and its Pj's & Paws fundraiser, find them on social media, or visit capecoralanimalshelter.com/news-events/signature-events/pjs-paws/.

Petruska, Premier Plus Realty Company; Gretchen Cuthbertson, Cape Coral Animal Shelter; Shelley Moore, Berkshire Hathaway Florida Realty; Attorney Amy McGarry—Amy McGarry Law Office; Charlene Ruocco, Superior Builders Group; Jennifer Miller Shore Premier Finance/Centennial Bank; Jane Williams and Melissa Harvey, Point 57/Jungle Bird/Seacraft/Front Porch Social; Nychole Manning; Noelia Iglesias, Cape Coral Animal Shelter; Chelsea Castoria, Hertz; Kerry Kaynes, Lauren Millang, and Dana Walpole, Petsmart; Kristen Cardoso and Tricia Magliola-Langbein, The Home Team of Century 21 Sunbelt; Rich and Mary Macchiaroli.

“What’s been neat about this event is we have people that have participated every year, and we get new people every year,” McCauley said. “We get a different group, and that brings a broader audience for us, which is really great. It gets our mission out there to a lot more people.”

McCauley shared her thanks to the community, which has shown major support for the shelter since its inception.

More than 4,200 animals have been adopted from CCAS, and the shelter has plans to expand in the near future.

“The community has been amazing, and supports us through volunteers and donations, and just spreading our message,” McCauley said. “It definitely has been a community effort to keep us going strong.”

For more information on CCAS and the Pj's & Paws event, find them on social media, or visit capecoralanimalshelter.com/news-events/signatureevents/pjs-paws/.

Page 17 ■ February 16, 2024

By CHUCK BALLARO

news@breezenewspapers.com

Hundreds of people gathered Thursday at the Burnt Store Presbyterian Church in Punta Gorda for a community forum with law enforcement and elected officials in Lee and Charlotte counties to discuss the issues concerning Burnt Store Road and what could be coming next regarding water, expansion, and construction near the area.

John Fleming, chairman of the Burnt Store Corridor Coalition, a Political Action Committee concerning the long-discussed road, said the goal is to make the road as safe and environmentally friendly as possible.

Most importantly, they want the road — whose expansion on Burnt Store Road in Charlotte County is complete except for the final 1,000 feet but still two-laned from near the county line to Van Buren Parkway — expanded as quickly as possible.

“We’re trying to move up the timeline.

Right now, completion is set for 2032. We have people from the Lee and Charlotte delegations to discuss the timelines and some amendments for the design of the road,” Fleming said.

The price tag for the expansion as of now is around $200 million.

Though a Q&A segment wasn’t planned, there were several questions posed regarding a number of topics.

One of the biggest concerns in the aftermath of the four-laned Burnt Store Road in Charlotte has been the increase in speeding, attendees contend. Much of the road is 55 mph and it becomes a speedway at times during the busy hours of the day.

The coalition has made it a priority to address the safety of the road and increase police resources, Fleming said. Police have made it a point to patrol the road, and have handed out dozens of citations since November.

Also of concern are the older communities along the corridor which some say will face flooding issues.

“All the communities south of Zemel Road are having problems related to the old infrastructure, some of which is too old,” Fleming said. “When a new community goes up, more people use the road and as it gets worse, more rain will result in the system totally collapsing.”

Over the past four months the coalition has also been working with the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center to measure the extent of damage to the wildlife along the corridor.

More than 100 animals have been spotted along Burnt Store Road dead, from gopher tortoises to bobcats, said Ashley Cook, park manager at Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center.

The coalition has been in discussions with Gov. Ron DeSantis' office and Congressman William Steube’s office for the purpose of securing funding to create a wildlife corridor.

Also discussed was an update of the 2005 Burnt Store Master Plan, without which the older communities will experience more flooding, environmental and infrastructure problems.

Another issue could be commercial development, which will be especially big in Lee County as well as along the county line.

The road will become a major thoroughfare and hurricane evacuation route for Lee County.

Most of those who attended lived in Charlotte County, though Lee County Commissioner Kevin Ruane was there with members of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

Ruane said the forum was a success, and they received a lot of input from residents about what they wanted and it gives everyone a chance to work on what’s needed ahead of expansion.

“We can take this back to the commissioners and our coalition can work with the Charlotte County coalition,” Ruane said.

“There’s a great desire to move this along as quickly as possible.”

John Smart, of the Northwest Neighborhood Association, a Cape Coral organization, attended with Sam Yaffui, a fellow member and realtor. Smart said he learned a lot about how they did the drains.

“The meeting seemed to concentrate more on Charlotte County and it needed to emphasize Lee County and Cape Coral more,” Yaffui said.

Smart said it might be a good idea for the NWNA to hold its own forum on Burnt Store Road sometime in the future. The Burnt Store Corridor Coalition is planning another meeting.

Cape Coral Breeze

Community forum held on Burnt Store Road issues

www.capecoralbreeze.com

CHUCK BALLARO John Fleming, chairman of the Burnt Store Corridor Coalition, speaks during a community forum on Burnt Store Road at the Burnt Store Presbyterian Church in Punta Gorda on Thursday.

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 18 www.capecoralbreeze.com Cape Coral Breeze

Biergartenfest this weekend

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

With memories of Oktoberfest not in the far-too-distant past, the German American Club of Cape Coral is opening its grounds to the public this weekend.

The first of two Biergartenfests will be hosted on GASC grounds this Saturday and Sunday, as the Bavarian Gardens welcomes a weekend of traditional German food and drink.

Club members are excited to bring back some fun and get festivities back into fullswing.

“We’re always excited to welcome guests and put something on for the community,” said GASC President Erich Kohl.

“It allows us to showcase the club, hopefully get new members, and get the public excited for Oktoberfest.”

With German music performed by the Manni Daum Trio throughout the day, the Bavarian Gardens will be bustling, and the organizers anticipate a crowd of joyful dancers or foot tappers on the dance floor at the pavilion, raising their cups and enjoying a potato pancake or a brat.

The festivities will be held Bavarianstyle, with Southwest Florida invited to enjoy two pleasant and fun-filled afternoons of German food, beer or wine, music, and above all, what we’ve come to understand as Gemutlichkeit — a feeling of good spirit and cheer.

Throughout the day, the gardens will be filled with the delicious aroma of typical German fare such as bratwurst, knockwurst, schnitzel and potato pancakes. With fun planned for kids and grownups alike, there’s plenty to look forward to as the community can enjoy the shaded gardens

with friends and family.

“Our artists always put on a great show,” Kohl said. “We have music to dance to traditionally, as well as hear a take on some American songs such as country and rock ’n’ roll.”

From 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday night, GASC is especially excited to be featuring the international blues and rock duo Martini Russa, a virtuoso guitarist Martini (Brazil/Spain) and powerful vocalist and rhythm guitarist Anastasia (Russia/USA).

Their repertoire spans over 100 years, consisting of unique acoustic-electric renditions of blues standards, classic rock ballads, and fiery originals. They are proud winners of Rock the Stage SWFL 2022 and SWFL Blues Society People's Choice Award 2022.

This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the GASC in the Cape. Kohl, who has been a member since 2011, and whose family has been involved since the ’80s, said it’s been amazing to see the growth over the years.

“It’s fantastic that enough people care that we’re able to continue these traditions,” he said. “We try to make our parents proud. We work at this and continue what they did, but just keep building upon it.

Tickets are $5 and parking is free, as are children ages 12 and under. The Biergartenfest is open on Saturday from noon to 8 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m.

“We hope people come on out and enjoy our gardens,” Kohl said. "It should be a lot of fun.”

The GASC is at 2101 Southwest Pine Island Road. For more information, visit www.gasc-capecoral.com.

FEBRUARY 16, 2024

EDUCATION NOTES Bender named to Kennesaw State's Fall 2023 Dean's List The winning entry in the Grade 7-9 division of the Keep Lee County Beautiful Art Contest from Mia De La Cruz Matos of North Fort Myers High School.

PHOTO PROVIDED

University of Tampa honors dean's list students for the Fall 2023 semester

Burch named to Flagler College's Fall 2023 President's List ST. AUGUSTINE -- Logan Burch of Cape Coral was among a distinguished group of students who were recognized for their academic excellence earlier this month.

The President's List is compiled in recognition of students achieving a certain standard of academic excellence and is distributed by the Office of Academic Affairs. To qualify for this award, Burch a Coastal Environmental Science major, had to earn at least a 4.0 GPA with at least 12 semester hours of graded credit.

Flagler College offers 42 majors and 47 minors.

Located in the heart of St. Augustine's Historic District, Flagler's around 2,400 students live in a small town with big adventures. Flagler College was founded in 1968 within the Hotel Ponce de Leon, a National Historic Landmark opened in 1888 by Standard Oil co-founder and visionary behind the Florida East Coast Railway, Henry Flagler. For more information about Flagler College, visit www.flagler.edu.

13 ‘Ding’ Darling Wildlife Society conservation scholarships available Application deadline is March 31 for 13 environmental studies scholarships amounting to more than $25,000 from the “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge. Ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 each, the scholarships are available to high school seniors, college students and graduate students in or from Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades counties pursuing degrees in environmental-related studies.

See EDUCATION NOTES, page 21

Winners announced in Keep Lee County Beautiful Art Contest Keep Lee County Beautiful Inc. has announced the winners in the 35th annual “Leave The Scene Clean” Art Contest and would like to thank all the teachers, parents and students who participated. The contest drew hundreds of entries from local students, representing public, private and home schools in Lee County.

For the contest, students were asked to visualize a correct environmental action and transfer that mental picture into a work of art. Submitted work was judged on artistic execution and originality as well as environmental theme, such as litter prevention, recycling, community cleanup and protecting the environment.

The four overall winning illustrations will be enlarged and appear on the side of a Lee County Waste Pro truck and printed on reusable tote bags. The overall winning and honorable mention artwork will be on display at Fort Myers Public Works/Community Development building during April in honor of Earth month.

Keep Lee County Beautiful will host an award reception on April 1 from 5-7 p.m. at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates Caretaker’s House at which time the artwork will be exhibited, and the winners will receive their awards.

The reusable tote bags will be released in the Fall and can be had for a $5 donation each and will be available through participating Lee County Schools, who retain all proceeds collected with the funds being used to support on campus environmental projects.

The “Leave the Scene Clean” project is made possible through corporate sponsorships. Sponsors for the 2024 art contest include Lee County Solid Waste, WM, The Edison & Ford Winter Estates, Covanta Energy, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, Greenfield Marketing & Media, Coastal Waste & Recycling, Ron Jon’s Surf Shop, Southwest Waste and Waste Pro. Sponsorship spaces are still available. Please call Tisha at 239-334-3488 or

email Tisha@klcb.org for more details on how you can become a sponsor.

The four first place winners and their schools are: Grade K-3 – Antonella DaRosa – St. Francis Xavier Grade 4-6 – Olivia Baker – Oasis Middle School Grade 7-9 – Mia De La Cruz Matos – North Fort Myers High School Grade 10-12 –Jennifer Cedeno – Dunbar High School The honorable mention winners and their schools are: Grade K-3 Elena Aristizabal – St. Francis Xavier Dailyn Dambrose – St. Francis Xavier Diego Guzman Lopez – Mirror Lakes Elementary Grade 4-6 Mara Burnside – St. Francis Xavier Sadie Siggs – Orangewood Elementary Sara Aristizabal – St. Francis Xavier Grade 7-9 Julianna White – Harns Marsh Middle School Akeiyah Givens – Trafalgar Middle School Olivia Kulchawick – Oasis Middle School Grade 10-12 Alex Davis – Dunbar High School Brody Ellis - Cypress Lake High School Emma Corbin – Cypress Lake High School About Keep Lee County Beautiful, Inc. Keep Lee County Beautiful, Inc., established in 1989, is the county’s largest volunteer-based community action and education organization. This local nonprofit forms public-private partnerships and programs that engage individuals to take greater responsibility for improving their community environments. For more information, call 239334-3488 or visit www.klcb.org. Follow us on Facebook @KLCBInc or Instagram keepleecountybeautifulfl

Students receive Cambridge Awards for 2023 The School District of Lee County has announced that 152 students have received awards from Cambridge International Education, part of the University of Cambridge, to acknowledge their outstanding performance on the June 2023 Cambridge examinations.

The Cambridge Scholar Awards celebrate the success of students taking Cambridge examinations around the world. Every year, more than a million students in over 160 countries prepare for their future with an education

from Cambridge.

Cambridge Scholar Awards come in three categories: with Distinction, with Merit and Scholar. Awards with Distinction require at least three “A” grades or higher on the assessments. Cambridge Awards with Merit require at least three “B” grades and Cambridge Scholar Awards require at least three “C” grades.

See CAMBRIDGE AWARDS, page 20

Cape Coral Breeze

TAMPA -- The University of Tampa has honored 2,217 students who were named to the dean's list for the Fall 2023 semester. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.75 or higher to be eligible for the dean's list.

The following Cape Coral students were named to the dean's list: ■ Jordan Serrano, a freshman majoring in human performance.

■ Caspian Schultz, a junior majoring in criminology and criminal justice.

■ Meredith Chesley, a freshman majoring in nursing.

Another local student, Aidan Smith of Bokeelia, also earned dean's list honors. He is a junior majoring in human performance.

The University of Tampa is a private, comprehensive university located on 110 acres on the riverfront in downtown Tampa. The university has about 200 programs of study and serves more than 11,000 students from 50 states and most of the world's countries.

For additional information about the University of Tampa, visit www.ut.edu.

www.capecoralbreeze.com

KENNESAW, Ga. -- Chase Bender of Cape Coral has been named to Kennesaw State University's Fall 2023 Dean's List in recognition of academic achievement.

Majoring in undeclared - business and management, Bender is among the more than 8,000 students named to the Fall 2023 Dean's List.

To qualify, students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.5 or higher and complete a minimum of nine credit hours.

Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 45,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges.

Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7% of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.

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Lee County Parks & Recreation summer camp registration to begin on Feb. 26 Program runs from June 10 through Aug. 2 at several locations Lee County Parks & Recreation Summer Camp registration opens at 7 a.m.

Monday, Feb. 26. Registration is expected to draw thousands of youngsters to programs, outings and activities at the department’s traditional camps, middle school camps and specialty camps.

Traditional camps are for children who have completed kindergarten through fifth grade. Middle school camps are for sixth through eighth grades. Specialty and special needs camps ages vary; check locations for specific ages.

Summer camp runs for eight weeks

from June 10 through Aug. 2. The cost for traditional and middle school camps are $75 per week per child. Specialty camps vary; check location for price. For locations visit www.leeparks.org.

Parents are encouraged to sign up early.

Camp registration is ongoing as long as space is available.

Parents will be able to register for summer camp at Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation Center this year. The center was closed last summer and is currently closed for building renovations from Hurricane Ian damages. It is set to reopen before summer

camp begins.

Helpful tips from the registration desk: ■ To register for camp at one of the three large recreation centers – Estero, North Fort Myers, or Veterans Park in Lehigh Acres – obtain a membership first by visiting the location.

■ If you currently have a membership at one of these facilities, please make sure it is active by calling or visiting the location selected.

■ Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation Center will not require a membership at registration. Memberships will be collected at the

start of the summer camp program.

■ A household account at www.webtrac.leegov.com is needed to register online.

■ Registration for swimming lessons and other aquatics programs begins Wednesday, March 6.

Camp sites will participate in countywide initiatives, such as service-learning projects, fitness and wellness programs and National Park and Recreation Month.

For additional information about Lee County Parks & Recreation locations, camps, amenities and other special events, please visit www.leeparks.org, call 239533-7275 or email leeparks@leegov. com.

Cambridge Awards: 152 area students earn special recognition From page 19 Kyra Ritter from Estero High School and Brody Yueng from North Fort Myers High School both earned Cambridge Awards with Distinction, the highest honor.

Thirty-five students received Cambridge Scholar Awards with Merit and 115 earned Cambridge Scholar awards.

The 152 students who students received Cambridge Scholar Awards for their exceptional performance on the June 2023 exam series attend the following schools.

■ Bonita Springs High School -- 3

Cambridge Scholar Awards ■ Cypress Lake High School -- 1 Cambridge Scholar Award ■ East Lee County High School -- 1 Cambridge Scholar Award ■ Estero High School -- 1 Cambridge Scholar Award with Distinction, 9 Cambridge Scholar Awards with Merit and 29 Cambridge Scholar Awards ■ Gateway High School -- 2 Cambridge Scholar Awards with Merit, 18 Cambridge Scholar Awards ■ Island Coast High School -- 7 Cambridge Scholar Awards ■ Lehigh Senior High School -- 9

Cambridge Scholar Awards with Merit and 18 Cambridge Scholar Awards ■ Mariner High School -- 2 Cambridge Scholar Awards with Merit and 4 Cambridge Scholar Awards ■ North Fort Myers High School -- 1 Cambridge Scholar Award with Distinction, 13 Cambridge Scholar Awards with Merit and 33 Cambridge Scholar Awards ■ South Fort Myers High School-- 1 Cambridge Scholar Awards Students in the Cambridge program take AICE classes to prepare for the exams to earn college credit and a potential Cambridge diploma. The Cambridge AICE

diploma is awarded to students who have passed seven Cambridge exams in three different subject groups as well as a Global Perspectives and Research exam. The exams are rigorous college-level tests taken twice a year by 175,000 students worldwide.

In addition, 22 students from charter schools also received Cambridge Awards.

One at Oasis High School with Merit and 12 with Scholar Awards. Three students at Gateway Charter High School earned Cambridge Scholar Awards with Merit and six earned Scholar Awards.

From page 19

TAMPA -- Aidan Smith of Bokeelia earned dean's list honors at The University

Michael Wynn, president of Sunshine Ace Hardware, is the new chair of Florida Gulf Coast University’s Board of Trustees.

Blake Gable, the CEO of Barron Collier Companies, previously held this position and admirably led the Board of Trustees for a total of six years.

In this role, Wynn leads a 13-member board that serves as FGCU’s governing body. It holds the university president responsible for the college’s operations and management, performance, fiscal accountability, and compliance with federal and state laws and regulations, including those set by the Florida Board of Governors.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Wynn to the Board of Trustees in March 2022.

Wynn is an FGCU graduate, earning a master of business administration degree in 2005.

As president of Sunshine Ace Hardware since 2005, Wynn has led an ambitious growth period with a retail portfolio that

Haitian-American Community Coalition of SW Florida holding citizenship classes Are you considering U.S. citizenship but feeling uncertain about the naturalization interview and test?

The Haitian-American Community Coalition of S.W. Florida is free citizenship classes to gain insights into the naturalization process, enhance your English skills (speaking, reading, writing) and master civics/history knowledge.

The coalition provides free morning and afternoon classes for various English proficiency levels. Classes are held every Thursday from noon to 2 p.n. and 4-6 p.m.

Successful students get the chance for a mock interview before their USCIS visit.

The coalition is at 3949 Evans Ave., Suite 304, Fort Myers. Call 239-2028955 for additional information or to register.

Achieva Credit Union offering $55,000 in scholarships; application closes March 8 High school seniors and students currently enrolled in a college or trade school

can now apply for one of 22 $2,500 scholarships through Achieva Credit Union.

To be eligible, the student must be an Achieva Credit Union member in good standing, a graduating high school senior or currently enrolled in college or trade school, an accredited two-year program leading to a four year undergrad degree, an accredited two-year degree program or an accredited trade or technical school.

Applications will be accepted until March 8, 2024 at https://fs26.form site.com/NN8gUx/ualk2twiif/index.

“Achieva is committed to giving back to our local communities,” said David Oak, chief marketing officer at Achieva Credit Union. “We have raised over $405,000 to benefit local schools and offering these scholarships is our way of paying it forward for our next generation.”

For additional information, please visit https://www.achievacu.com/Events.

Prior Achieva Scholarship recipients, employees, officers and directors of Achieva Credit Union and their family members are not eligible to apply for or receive funds from the 2024 Achieva Scholarship program.

Achieva Credit Union was founded in 1937 in Pinellas County. Today, it has more than $2.8 billion in assets and over 25 branches serving more than 194,630 members. Anyone who lives or works in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, and Sarasota Counties, or whose family member has an Achieva Credit Union account can bank with Achieva.

For additional information, please visit www.achievacu.com.

Cape Coral Breeze

Bokeelia’s Smith earns dean's list honors at UT

Wynn named chair of FGCU Board of Trustees

now includes 15 hardware, paint and gift stores, with four additional locations under development. The Naples-based company is among Florida’s largest family-owned home improvement retailers and one of Ace Hardware’s top 10 franchisees in America. Wynn also serves as board chairman for Wynn Family Companies, which has served SWFL since 1938.

For locations and operating hours, please visit SunshineAce.com.

www.capecoralbreeze.com

This year’s named scholarships include the following: Richard Bailey Scholarship, Mike and Terry Baldwin Scholarship, Dr. Andrew and Laura Dahlem Scholarship, Dr. H. Randall Deming Scholarship for Conservation and Environmental Studies, "Ding" Darling Conservation Scholarship, Hans and Leslie Fleischner Scholarships (two scholarships), The Mary Elaine Jacobson Memorial Scholarship, Win & Marilyn Kloosterman Scholarship, Barry & Francine Litofsky Scholarship, Tarpon Bay Explorers Scholarship and Jane Werner Environmental Scholarships (two scholarships) DDWS will award the scholarships at a special ceremony at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island in June 2024. Now in its 18th year, the DDWS scholarship program presented its first awards in 2006, donated

by Tarpon Bay Explorers, the refuge's official recreation concession. To date, the program has awarded a total of $262,400 to deserving students.

Interested students can find more information and printable application forms at dingdarlingsociety.org/articles/studentscholarships.

To learn more about the scholarship program and establishing a permanently endowed scholarship, contact Ann-Marie Wildman at wildman@dingdarlingsociety.org.

of Tampa for the Fall 2023 semester.

Smith is a junior majoring in human performance. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.75 or higher to be eligible for the dean's list.

The University of Tampa is a private, comprehensive university located on 110 acres on the riverfront in downtown Tampa. The University has about 200 programs of study and serves more than 11,000 students from 50 states and most of the world's countries.

For additional information about the University of Tampa, visit www.ut.edu.

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Pine Island ROAR to meet Saturday in Cape Pine Island ROAR's next monthly meeting is Saturday, Feb. 17, at 10 a.m., at the Painters Union Hall at 1216 S.W. 4th St., Suite 6, in Cape Coral.

The guest speaker for the meeting will be Denise McCleary, Florida House 79.

There will also be discussions on a number of other issues.

Legion Post 90 to hold breakfast for veterans in need

Cape Coral Computer Club scheduled to meet Wednesday The Cape Coral Computer Club meets over Zoom the first and third Wednesday of each month, with the next meeting being from 2-4 p.m., Feb. 21. The meeting topics are "The Latest iPhone" and "Android OS" and new features. There will be time for questions and answers. All skill levels are welcome. For more information, visit the club website at https://www.capecoralcomputer.club/ Use the “CONTACT US” feature to register for a complimentary Zoom link. If you have any questions or need help with Zoom, call: 321-430-5959.

Club Zoom meetings are recorded. If you become a member and miss a meeting you have the opportunity to watch the presentation at a later date. See the website for additional information.

Monday Movie nights kicks off Feb. 19 at SBDAC

'John! The Music of John Williams' Feb. 25 at South Fort Myers High The Southwest Florida Concert Band will perform “John! The Music of John Williams” concert, with feature vocalist Janna Braun, Sunday, Feb. 25, at 2 p.m., at South Fort Myers High School, 14020 Plantation Road, Fort Myers.

The 40-member community band will perform a concert to celebrate the music of John Williams. The concert will start with “A Musical Guide To John Williams,”" which includes many familiar movie melodies. There will be a dramatic rendition of the theme from “Shindler’s List.”

The concert will feature Williams’ “The Cowboys” from the John Wayne movie, and some music from “Harry Potter” and “Superman.”

The program will also include “Mambo Italiano” and "Unforgettable" sung by Braun and the trumpet solo “Come Back to Sorrento.” There will, of course, be a march with “Midway March” and the show will conclude with an impressive arrangement of music from “Star Wars.”

All concerts are free with donations accepted.

Additional information on the group, its scholarship program and other performances can be found on the concert band's website at www.SouthwestFloridaConcert Band.org.

PRIDE Cape Coral to host weekend LGBTQ celebration PRIDE Cape Coral hosts its sixth annual celebration on Saturday and Sunday, March 2-3, on Southeast 47th Terrace in South Cape Coral.

PRIDE Cape Coral is a free outdoor event celebrating the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community in Cape Coral and across Southwest Florida.

Saturday activities are from 3-10 p.m. and include a parade, live entertainment, food and drinks and carnival games. An official after-party begins at 10 p.m. at Cruisers Lounge at 1517 S.E. 47th Terrace. Sunday is a Drag Brunch on Southeast 10th Place from 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

The brunch includes catered food and specialty drinks from South Cape restaurants and a drag show. Tickets for the brunch are $30.

This year’s entertainment will be headlined by Kylie Sonique Love, winner of the sixth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars. Entertainment also includes DJ Mad Mel, musician Taylor Tones, and performances from local and national drag entertainers.

For more information about PRIDE Cape Coral, visit www.pridecapecoral.com or follow @pridecapecoral on Facebook and Instagram.

Cape Coral Breeze

The Fort Myers Film Festival's Monday Movie nights kicks off with award-winning "Apples, Oranges, Lemons & Limes" at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. Feb. 19.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; the show begins at 7 p.m.

The series is set to screen indie movies the third Monday of each month at the

SBDAC. For more information head at https://email.cloud2.secureclick.net/c/519 2?id=28961.384.1.bb5cff884daf014527 50ba6cee930cf5> Director Patrick Mitchell will be in attendance for the screening.

The film is about a timid young man chronically who suffers from social anxiety. At a party, an unlikely encounter inspires a night of drinking, joy and romance.

For tickets and more information, call 239-333-1933.

www.capecoralbreeze.com

The public is invited to a special breakfast to support Project Vet Relief. It will be held Sunday, Feb. 18, at the post at 1401 S.E. 47th, Cape Coral, from 8-11 a.m.

Project Vet Relief is an official program of the Department of Florida American Legion which provides emergency assistance, benefits support and community engagement for Florida veterans. Project Vet Relief assists veterans during times of immediate need, works to secure benefits earned with service and provides mentorship.

This is a great breakfast for a great cause. For only $10 a person you get eggs to order, pancakes, bacon, sausage, juice, tea and coffee. Bring friends or bring the whole family. There will also be a cash bar for special priced drinks like $2 bloody marys and mimosas.

Florida has over a million veterans, thousands right here in Cape Coral and tens of thousands in Lee County. Project Vet Relief is available to all veterans. They do not have to be an American Legion member and all services are free. So come and support a great cause.

This breakfast is open to all but if you

are a veteran or a family member of one, come and see Post 90.

For more information about Post 90 and membership, call 239-540-8128 or contact alpost90cape@yahoo.com or the Legion First Vice Commander Ted Clark, tedclark12@gmail.com, 845 527-7948.

Find out more about Project VetRelief at Project: Vet Relief (projectvetrelief.org).

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Breaking the silence: Navigating mental health in the Black community Mental health is a prevalent issue impacting people of all races and cultural backgrounds. However, these challenges aren’t a new discovery – mental health has always been an underlying issue in our society, but many people are too afraid to have the conversation. During Black History Month in February, it is a time to shed light on the various ways our cultural backgrounds, beliefs and values can impact the way we view and talk about mental health.

Culture plays a fascinating role in mental health challenges, with people of diverse backgrounds often experiencing the same conditions in different ways. In the case of Black individuals, people are more likely to report persistent symptoms of emotional distress, such as sadness and having feelings of dread toward daily life activities. However, only one in three Black adults will seek treatment. You may find yourself wondering why this is the case, but there are many barriers to mental health for this group, including: n Stigma: This is one of the most common reasons people of any culture or background avoid seeking treatment for mental health issues. Not considering race, people worry about how others will perceive them if they have a mental illness. Many feel shame and have fear surrounding the difficult conversation. Black adults, especially older individuals, view mental health conditions as a consequence of personal weakness. n Socioeconomic status: 10.4% of

n Only 6.2% of psycholBlack adults have no form ogists, 5.6% of advancedof health insurance. If practice psychiatric nurses someone cannot afford to and 12.6% of social workobtain the care necessary to ers are members of minority help with their mental illgroups. Do not let lack of ness, they will not seek representation deter you treatment. from seeking necessary n Medical mistrust: treatment.

There is a significant lack n Research local BIPOC of trust amongst Black providers in your area.

Americans in the medical Community and faith organcommunity. This is largely izations in your area may due to past experiences also have a list of available where the Black communimental health providers, and ty has faced barriers preTanika Williams online medical directories venting equal access to can also help you identify care. potential providers. Use spen Misdiagnosis: Many cific search terms like Black individuals describe “Black therapist” or “multitheir mental illness with cultural counselor” to help physical symptoms, like narrow your search. You body aches and pains when describing depression. Lack of cultural may also discover a good recommendation competency can lead to their symptoms through a friend or family member. n A primary care physician that you are being overlooked or misdiagnosed as something only physical. Additionally, already comfortable with can be a great Black individuals are more likely to place to start, as they can provide an initial receive a misdiagnosis of schizophrenia health assessment and help refer you to a when expressing symptoms related to multicultural mental health professional. n Read online reviews and testimonials mood disorders.

So how do we break down these barriers to determine if a provider is the right fit. and ensure that we all can obtain the sup- This will give you insights into their port and treatment we need? The first step approach and whether they are best is to courageously acknowledge you need equipped to meet your needs. n When meeting with a provider for the help. Once you decide it’s time to seek professional support, there are a couple of first time, ask questions to get a snapshot of their level of cultural awareness. Discuss things to consider:

Guest Commentary

your concerns during your initial meeting to determine if the provider is the right fit.

Ask them if they have experience treating people of similar backgrounds or if they have multicultural experience. n Consider local companies with inperson and telehealth options. This can greatly expand your network of potential providers that best fit your needs.

When embarking on this mental health journey, it is critical to remember that you are not alone. Family, close friends and support groups can all help you feel seen and heard. Do not be afraid to admit that you need help, and to lean on others when necessary. While everyone’s experience is uniquely their own, talking openly about your journey and listening to others’ experiences may help others realize they are struggling too.

Statistics don’t lie – mental health is a global issue, and we need to work together to help break the stigma and ensure every person of every background can get the help they need. Taking care of your health will help to educate and set a positive example for generations to come.

It will take all of us, but together, we can break the silence on mental health.

Tanika Williams is a Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner for Elite DNA Behavioral Health, a comprehensive mental and behavioral service provider with locations across Florida. For more information, visit EliteDNA.com.

DeSantis announces initiatives to fight retail theft

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

when they do not enforce the law, the governor said.

The other part includes making penalties severe enough to deter would-be thieves.

Currently in Florida, it is a felony charge to take part in five different retail thefts within a 45-day period.

DeSantis said that is not a deterrent.

“If you do it and get caught, you go back to the well again. They should drop the hammer on you,” DeSantis said.

“And you should not have to get five thefts to make a felony. So we're going to work to, say, if you have two thefts in a year, at most three thefts in a year, that's not going to be a misdemeanor at that point, that's going to be a felony offense.”

See DESANTIS, page 44

Cape Bike Night returns

By JONATHAN MINEHAN

news@breezenewspapers.com

Cape Coral Bike Night returned Saturday with entertainment, community vendors, hot food and a line of motorcycles that stretched down Southeast 47th Terrace from Coronado Parkway to Vincennes Boulevard.

Free VIP parking passes were granted to riders with Harley-Davidson bikes, which automatically entered the driver in a $100 gift card raffle.

The event’s popular slow races also returned for the first Bike Night of '24.

Susan Hoffman, 57, enjoyed the event’s food and sense of community.

“It's really fun, and we have been to the event several times before, and we enjoy meeting up with friends here for this event. We enjoy it every time we go, and we brought a Harley here for Bike Night,” Hoffman, an eight-year resident, said.

With so many options for entertainment, Hoffman suggests bringing a good seat to enjoy the live performances that, this go-around, featured Relentless Fire and Completely Unchained. The two rock 'n' roll bands played from 6:30 to 10 p.m. for the crowd.

Many local businesses and community groups attended as vendors to promote their cause and engage with residents. Boy Scout Troop 82 sold popcorn, bracelets and water to raise funds for summer camp.

Two youths from the troop, Logan Quinones, 13, and Lucas Halstead, 15, were gathering attendees looking to purchase water for a dollar, and shared a little about their mission.

Quinones and Halstead said they have taken part in the event about five times and were excited to get out there and make some money for their troop. They also

agreed they like going to events like these and that the food and music create a really good experience.

“The area is expanding super fast, too fast I would say,” Quinones said. “I think the people are probably what's best about living here. I like the community of people I have met down here so far.”

Robby Burchetta, 25, a biker, was grateful to attend the event after missing it the previous two years due to mechanical issues with his motorcycle.

“It's something that everyone looks forward to,” he said.

Motorcycles are a family passion.

“I love bikes and own and operate Full Throttle Garage with my dad fixing bikes my uncle has here in Cape Coral,” Burchetta said.

“We would love to start bringing the freshly restored bikes here. I enjoyed going to the Fort Myers Bike Night, but I preferred the atmosphere in Cape Coral.”

Burchetta shared some advice for newcomers interested in joining the community and festivities at Bike Night.

“Even if you don't have a bike, park somewhere and walk here. Honestly, it's a different culture around you here with Bike Nights and bike events like this. It’s kind of similar to a little Daytona Bike Week. Obviously on a smaller scale, of course,” Burchetta said.

The next Bike Night will be held on April 13, again in the South Cape along Southeast 47th Terrace.

The National Transportation Safety Board is continuing to investigate a plane crash on I-75 near Naples Friday that resulted in the death of the pilot and co-pilot.

The deceased were identified by the Collier County Sheriff's Office as pilot Edward Daniel Murphy, 50, of Oakland Park, Florida; and second-in-command Ian Frederick Hofmann, 65, of Pompano Beach, Florida.

There were three survivors from the plane including crew member Sydney Ann Bosmans, 27, of Jupiter, Florida; and passengers Aaron Baker, 35, and Audra Green, 23, both of Columbus, Ohio. Survivors were transported to an area hospital for treatment of their injuries.

The plane collided with a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Pickup Truck and a 2023 Nissan Armada SUV. The driver of the pickup truck, a 48-year-old from Naples, sustained minor injuries. The three occupants of the Nissan Armada, all from Massachusetts, were uninjured.

According to published reports, the plane originated from Ohio.

The NTSB is requesting anyone with video of the crash on Interstate 75 at mile marker 106, contact the NTSB via the following email address: mail to: Witness@NTSB.gov. The agency does not need photo or video after the crash.

The crash closed the southbound lanes of I-75 and northbound lanes near Pine Ridge Road between exits 105 and 107 in Collier County Friday afternoon.

Northbound traffic was opened as of 7:40 p.m. Friday night. The southbound lanes reopened Sunday evening.

A photo provided by the Florida Highway Patrol showed large plumes of smoke rising over the highway after the crash.

FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL

Motorcycles lined up on Southeast 47th Terrace to kick off Bike Night.

JOHNATHAN MINEHAN

A plane crash on I-75 near Naples and the Pine Ridge Road exit, killed two people Friday.

Three of the five occupants of the plane survived after the plane collided with two vehicles on the southbound lanes.

Cape Coral Breeze

Investigation into I-75 plane crash continues

www.capecoralbreeze.com

Gov. Ron DeSantis led a press conference at the Cape Coral Police Department Tuesday morning, touting proposed legislation to better combat retail theft, a crime that has a billion-dollar impact nationwide.

DeSantis pointed to cities in states such as California and New York, where he said policies have bred “legal” shoplifting and “lawlessness.”

“If you commit a crime in Florida, you are going to be held accountable,” DeSantis said. “We will not tolerate retail crime, porch pirates and the lawlessness that they allow in California and New York.”

The hour-long morning conference also included Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark

Glass and Rep. Bob Rommel, R-Naples, the sponsor of HB 549, which would provide for more stringent laws and penalties, something DeSantis said he supports.

“While we've done a good job, there's always ways we can do even better,” DeSantis said.

“We understand this is an issue that is really negatively impacting places around our country,” he said. “We also want to make sure we continue to do things right here in Florida.”

In retail theft alone, $112 billion was lost nationwide in 2022, DeSantis said.

He is working closely with the Florida Legislature and Rommel to “make sure we are deterring this type of retail theft.”

Part of that initiative is making sure prosecutors “do their job” and the willingness to suspend prosecutors

Page 35 ■ February 16, 2024

Weekly BREEZE Recap

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 36

COMMUNITY

THE BREEZE FEBRUARY 16, 2024

For your consideration: Wrightia antidysenterica

By JANETTA FOX

www.capecoralbreeze.com

news@breezenewspapers.com

If you find yourself in the market for a lovely, upright growing shrub that sports delicate, five-petaled, snowwhite blossoms the majority of the year in Southwest Florida, you need look no further than Wrightia antidysenterica, also known as Milky Way, Arctic Snow or Asian Snow.

Originating in Sri Lanka, this small, woody plant with opposite leaves can reach an average height and spread of 5 feet. Certain parts of the plant, e.g., the bark, have been used in Ayurvedic medicine in certain Asian countries.

Being low maintenance, its needs are quite basic. It enjoys full sun to ARDEN part shade; however, fewer blooms can be expected in LUB OF less light. The bush appreciates moderate water and APE ORAL well-draining soil. “Wet feet” are a no-no. Milky Way does well in almost any soil conditions, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.

An occasional light application of all-purpose fertilizer helps replenish nutrients. When applying, err on the side of too little with each application. I used to think that if a little fertilizer does the trick, more will be better. Definitely not the case! Note: Fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorous should not be applied from June 1 to Nov. 30; therefore, time your fertilizer applications accordingly.

Every time I pass my beauty when taking a stroll outside I can’t help but smile. Planted in the ground on the west side of my property two years ago, it gets morning shade and afternoon sun. The leaves have continued to retain their shiny green texture. The shrub has stayed compact, with minimal spread to date, and has proven to be highly insect and disease resistant (always a plus!).

Starting out at one foot, my W. antidysenterica has grown in height to just under 4 feet, with unscented 1inch flowers in clusters, also known as inflorescence, gracing the entire shrub. Although normally visible without one, when I have taken my trusty magnifying glass with me, I have noted up close and personal that one flower at the center of each cluster opens first, followed by a myriad of others. Along with its petals, there is a frilly corona around the throat, which serves to attract pollinators, along with a yellow cone housing stamens.

Presents quite a mellow view.

The plant has yet to exhibit signs of legginess and so no trimming has been needed. Although I hesitate to do anything when the shrub looks so healthy, I may consider a light prune at some point (late winter time frame is recommended by those in the know) to encourage a bit more spread.

I recently placed a second Milky Way in a mediumsize container on the east side, where it receives morning sun and afternoon shade. When determining how much moisture it needs, I remain aware that container plants normally have a need for more water applications because the soil dries out more quickly than those placed directly in the ground. It will be interesting to observe the plant’s progress over time and how it compares stamina- and health-wise with my earlier purchase. So far so good though!

I have yet to experience frost where I live; however, if frost is predicted during winter, consider protecting your W. antidysenterica. While the plant may tolerate some mild frost, without protection the plant will probably shed part of its leaves. Never fear, though, since the leaf loss should only be temporary and the plant will make its comeback as the weather improves. It is quite the resilient shrub!

G C

Cape Coral Breeze

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Janetta Fox is a Lee County Master Gardener Volunteer and member of the Garden Club of Cape Coral. Visit us at www.gardenclubofcapecoral.com.

PHOTO PROVIDED

LARC employees at the Culinary Training Kitchen groundbreaking.

LARC breaks ground on Culinary Training Kitchen Initiative will help fill workforce gaps in the hospitality industry The Lee Association of Remarkable Citizens is celebrating the groundbreaking of its state-of-the-art Commercial Culinary Training Kitchen. This initiative will help with critical workforce gaps within the local hospitality industry.

With a legacy of excellence dating back to 1954, LARC Inc. provides support and empowerment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. The unveiling of this project marks a pivotal moment in LARC's journey towards fostering inclusive employment opportunities and unleashing the potential of every individual it serves.

“In 2019, we recognized a pressing need to address the substantial workforce shortages plaguing Southwest Florida's hospitality sector, which stands as the region's second-largest industry,” said Angela Katz, executive director of LARC. “As champions of inclusivity and empowerment, we asked ourselves, ‘How can we leverage our expertise to not only fill these gaps but also empower individuals with disabilities to thrive?’”

Despite facing fundraising setbacks amidst the challenges of the global pandemic, LARC received a signifi-

cant boost with a $650,000 State Appropriation.

Spearheaded by State Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka, this funding is part of Gov. Ron DeSantis' Freedom First Budget. Under the craftsmanship of Stephen R. Bowen Construction, this Culinary Training Kitchen will provide a state-of-the-art space where staff will deliver training designed for the hospitality industry.

This culinary hub will be a focus in LARC's innovative LAB (Learn, Achieve, Become) Program, launched in 2019. Through LAB, individuals with IDD are nurtured in a dynamic learning environment tailored to their unique abilities, encompassing vocational training, independent living skills and holistic personal development. Five Labs include Lab for Living, Wellness Lab, Smart Living Technology Lab, Vocational Exploration Lab, and Collaboration Lab. “With the launch of our Commercial Culinary Training Kitchen, individuals with disabilities are poised to showcase their talents, dedication, and skills in the food service industry,” said Katz.

LARC serves more than 300 individuals annually, and participants range from 14 to 80. LARC's main campus is located at 2570 Hanson St., Fort Myers. LARC also operates two Residential Group Homes in Cape Coral and Fort Myers.

For more information, visit https://larcleecounty.org/

Fort Myers First Assembly to host Gaither's Moments To Remember Tour stop on March 9 Multi-Grammy Award and Dove Award-winning recording artist Bill Gaither will kick off the Moments To Remember Tour this spring, as he brings his group, The Gaither Vocal Band, to Fort Myers First Assembly Saturday, March 9, at 6 p.m.

For nearly half a century, Gaither has been a musical trailblazer. His reputation as a performer, songwriter and mentor for newly-discovered artists is known worldwide. His beloved series of Homecoming CDs and DVDs continues to top the sales charts and attract an everincreasing audience. Honors and accolades have flowed his way in bunches, including his most recent Grammy nomination for Best Roots Gospel Album of the Year for the Gaither Vocal Band Shine recording.

Taking the stage with Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band, featuring Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles and Reggie Smith, will be popular female vocalist Ladye Love Smith and male vocalist Gene McDonald, as well as Gaither’s musical entourage, comprised of Kevin Williams, Matthew Holt and Michael Rowsey.

The 2024 Spring Tour affords Gaither, who turns 88 in March, the opportunity to continue to share the message he has been proclaiming for more than six decades.

Tickets for the 2024 Gaither Moments To Remember Tour stop at Ft Myers First Assembly, located at 4701 Summerlin Road, on are on sale now. To purchase tickets or obtain additional details, visit www.gaither.com.

Huge show to feature more than 300 vehicles vying for 50-plus trophies

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

IF YOU GO: What: 8th annual Cape Coral Charity Car Show When: Saturday, Feb. 24, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Mariner High School, 701 Chiquita Blvd., North More information: For more information visit capecoralcharitycarshow.com ny the wide variety of makes, models, and style, will be a display of large model airplanes.

“This event is designed for families and children, to see these vehicles and planes up close,” Deems said. “We'll have the car selection of your dreams.

From Ferrari, Rolls Royce, street rods, original classics, and more.”

The event is rain or shine. Pets are not permitted.

Cape Coral Breeze

Ian and inflation.

The show includes a Tribute to the Military at noon including color guard, pledge and live music; a deejay playing ’50s and ’60s music, food; and door prizes. There will be many additional vendors, plus information booths for the charity and church sponsor. Judging will be done by co-sponsors with over 50 trophies being presented.

Also returning this year, to accompa-

www.capecoralbreeze.com

One of Southwest Florida's largest charity car shows returns next Saturday to Mariner High School.

The eighth annual Cape Coral Charity Car Show, sponsored by Cape Coral First Methodist Church, takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Feb. 24.

The event is expected to be packed with more than 300 different makes, models and styles, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the Cape Coral Caring Center.

The day-of-show entry fee is a $20 donation for show cars; parking is $5 for spectators.

Last year, the show raised $60,000 for the local food pantry, and has raised close to $300,000 since its inception.

Event organizer Phil Deems said they expect this year’s exposition to be the largest car show ever held in the Cape, with an expected 4,000 attendees.

“We are very excited for our eighth year,” Deems said. “It takes about 90 people to put it on. The church is a big help with volunteers and helpers, as is the Mariner JROTC program.”

Deems said without the help of Maj. Kim Williams and the Mariner cadets, the event would not be possible.

“They take care of so much,” Deems said.

The fundraising goal is $100,000, with the need this year being greater due to those still recovering from Hurricane

Deems also noted the Cape Coral Caring Center, which serves more than 12,000 people in need in the community and provides more than 143 tons of food to the less fortunate, can turn a $1 donation into $8 worth of food, making donations even more impactful.

“It’s beyond words in what it means to give back to the Cape Coral Caring Center,” Deems said.

Just a few months back, 600 families received Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners; 300 children got toys from Santa; and 300 children got school supplies in a backpack thanks to the Cape Coral Caring Center. They provide special food for the elderly with special dietary restrictions linked to disability and illness. The Cape Coral Caring Center also helps people build resumes for job searches and provides free bus passes so they can get to interviews.

“The reason for the whole show is to help the people that have maybe lost a home and have no table at all to have food from Ian,” Deems said. “Or people that have had a disability or death in the family, or a lost job or job that has cut hours through no fault of their own.

That’s what makes us happy, is to help people and to give them a ‘hand up’ rather than a 'handout.'”

Mariner High School is at 701 Chiquita Blvd., North. Visit capecoralcharitycarshow.com for more information.

Page 37 ■ February 16, 2024

Charity Car Show rolls on on Feb. 24

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 38 www.capecoralbreeze.com Cape Coral Breeze

BUSINESS

THE BREEZE FEBRUARY 16, 2024

BUSINESS BRIEFS Scooter’s Coffee partners with TBS’ 'Stupid Pet Tricks' to support Best Friends Animal Society Call them pup cups with a purpose – Scooter’s Coffee, a specialty drive-thru coffee company with a location in Cape Coral, through its partnership with “Stupid Pet Tricks” on the TBS television network, is inviting its customers to support Best Friends Animal Society, a leading national animal welfare organization.

Through April 30 this year, customers and their pets can Scoot On Around to their nearest Scooter’s Coffee location to order a special “Stupid Pet Tricks” edition pet cup. Customers who request a pet cup will have the opportunity to donate $1 to Best Friends Animal Society -- 100% of all donations will go directly to the organization.

A Scooter's Coffee shop is at 686 Del Prado Blvd., S., at Cape Coral Hospital. There are also three locations in Fort Myers.

Hosted by the comedy legend Sarah Silverman, “Stupid Pet Tricks” is a re-imagining of the iconic segment from “The Late Show with David Letterman.” The show features funny animals and their equally funny humans. The show airs on TBS every Monday at 8 p.m.

CST. Pet cups at Scooter’s Coffee include a dollop of fresh whipped cream topped with a small dog treat to make your best friend’s day.

Visit scooterscoffee.com for more information.

Greater Fort Myers Chamber’s Feb. 22 ‘Talking Baseball’ luncheon to share business insights for baseball season The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 22 will focus on all things baseball ahead of Southwest Florida’s spring training season.

The Chamber’s “Talking Baseball” program will feature a panel of senior management from the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins, focusing on 2024 spring training and industry insights. Attendees will leave with information that they can take back to their businesses to capitalize on spring training crowds.

Luncheon speakers include the Boston Red Sox’s Chief of Baseball Operations Craig Breslow and Chief Marketing Officer Adam Grossman, Minnesota Twins President & CEO Dave St. Peter and Minnesota Twins President of Baseball Operations Derek Falvey.

The event is sponsored by HBKS Wealth Advisors.

To learn more or to register, visit FortMyers.org or call 239-332-2930.

Serving Lee County and surrounding areas since 1989, the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is a business organization that provides solutions and serves as a catalyst for growing the economy. The Chamber represents nearly 750 professionals and businesses throughout Southwest Florida. For additional information regarding membership opportunities or events, please call 239-332-2930 or visit www.fortmyers.org. For the latest news and updates, follow the chamber on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gfmcc.

Silver Airways to start service between Fort Myers and Key West this April The Lee County Port Authority recently announced that Silver Airways will start service into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers this April. Silver will inaugurate nonstop flights to Key West, Florida (EYW) on April 18.

Silver Airways, an independent regional airline, will operate four weekly flights on an ATR-42 aircraft between RSW and EYW on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

To book or find out more information, please visit silverairways.com.

For more information about Southwest Florida International Airport, please visit flylcpa.com or facebook.com/flyRSW.

The JP Sports Collectibles store on Del Prado Boulevard, just north of the Veterans Memorial Parkway overpass, in Cape Coral.

PHOTO PROVIDED

JP Sports Collectibles celebrating 30th anniversary

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

From flea market to superstore, one Cape Coral business that serves as a collector's paradise is celebrating 30 years of business this weekend.

JP Sports Collectibles, located on Del Prado Boulevard near the corner of Veterans Memorial Parkway, boasts the largest selection of sports trading cards, memorabilia, comics, collectors items and more in Southwest Florida.

This weekend, JPs is offering some of its best deals to date, all as a way to say “thank you” to customers and patrons that have supported the family-owned business for decades.

“It's going to be a really big weekend,” said JP Sports Store Manager Jonathan Powell, who has been with the company since 2010. “We're super thankful. Just being around for 30 years is a huge accomplishment. Not a lot of family-owned businesses can say that, especially in the industry that we're in. Being able to give back to the community that has supported us for 30 years is huge. We wouldn't be who we are without our customers coming in and supporting us. We have customers that have been with us for over 20 years.”

This coming Saturday and Sunday, JP Sports' customer appreciation weekend will see deals that Powell said rival, and even trump savings seen on Black Friday.

Deals include: five free FCBD comics per customer, 15% off NBA and MLB collector cards, 20% off gaming boxes and packs, 15% off all mini helmets, 20% off all Funk Pop vinyl, $20 off all kids crates, buy-one-get-one 25% off all apparel, and 50% off comic book back issues 2022 and older. There will also be live breaks taking place Saturday night starting at 7 p.m. with free food and drink.

The shop's owner, “JP,” got the ball rolling when he set up at Fleamasters in North Fort Myers as his wife wanted him to clear out cards in the house. A table at the market turned to two, then to three and then to a booth. Eventually, the first brick and mortar store opened in North Fort Myers in 1994, then-known as JP Kards.

The North Fort Myers location operated for nearly 20 years, and that business rebranded to JP Sports Collectibles. The sports and collectables juggernaut previously had locations at the Gulf Coast Town Center, Edison Mall and Port Charlotte Town Center. During the COVID-19 pandemic, locations were limited to Cape Coral and Gulf Coast Town Center, before the Cape location (in operation since 2012) became the stand-alone “superstore” for JPs last year.

With more than 600,000 items, JP Sports is the go-to spot for team apparel of all kinds, sport-branded memorabilia, cards, collectables and so much more.

Powell said it's great to see familiar faces come in each

PHOTO PROVIDED

Clockwise from bottom center are Jonathan Powell, store manager; Powell and his wife Justyne; their daughter Madelyn; store manager Billy Barbetta; and sales associate Loretta Fields. week.

“It's loyalty that's immeasurable, honestly,” he said.

“It's a nod to what we do. Customers aren't just customers -- it's like a family. We know them. We know their lives.

We get to talk and chat with them all the time. That's why we call our rewards system the 'loyalty' system. The customers are so loyal, and it's a points and rewards system to give them a discount to show our appreciation.”

The 5,200-square-foot haven for sports and pop culture collectors alike has grown and developed with the times.

They serve as a direct hobby retailer for Upper Deck, Topps and Panini. In 2020, JP Sports started to branch out and include comic books (new releases, back issues and graded collectibles).

When the business first opened, though, it wasn't as difficult as it is now to have a direct line to major card manufacturers.

“Everyone had that same availability. And it got harder down the road,” Powell said. “What kept JP Sports unique is we didn't just stop with cards. We got into NASCAR See JP SPORTS, page 41

By CJHADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

— Donna Germain, Chamber President/CEO Dan Pulieo, Cape Cleaners ■ Membership Development Committee Member of the Year: John Solaroli, Faith Generation Church ■ Education Committee Member of the Year: Toni Mueller, Finemark Bank ■ Chamber Champions: Rotary Club of Cape Coral, Kiwanis Club of Cape Coral, Technology at Work, IncredibleBank, Rachel Kaduk ■ Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award: B. Pat O’Rourke “We have a great mix of people that can not only provide historical knowledge, but also provide a fresh outlook on where the chamber wants to go in the future," Germain said.

She congratulated the following members on their appointments: Dusty Shelton, Chairman - It’s IT; Jay Johnson, Chair Elect - Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon; Julie Ferguson, Past Chair - Cape Coral Caring Center; Mick Sheldrake, Treasurer - Guardian Angels for Special Populations; Stephanie Ramirez, Financial Advisor - Assured Bookkeeping Plus; Bill Johnson, Jr, Member at Large Lee County Horizon Foundation.

Directors: Bill Jones - WastePro USA; Chuck Warren - Coral Ridge Funeral Home and Cemetery; Jay Santos Busey Bank; Jeff Justin - LCEC; Jenell Dolan - LCEC; Lorri Philbin - Lee Health; Matthew Connar - Boost Creative; Molly Scott – Chris-Tel Construction; Molly Wright – Suncoast Beverage; Nancy Travis - Lee Health; Nita Whaley - CC Real Estate Services; Rachel Kaduk Sanibel Captiva Community Bank; Samara Weidner Technology At Work; Toni Mueller - Finemark Bank;

Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral President/CEO Donna Germain (left) with 2024 Chamber Chairman Dusty Shelton with It's IT at the annual Chairman's Gala & Excellence in Business Awards last week. / PROVIDED Barry Kadel - The Westin Cape Coral; Eric Gundersen Drones SWFL; Kurt Godwin - Discovery Maps.

Trustees: Susanne Noriega - Individual Member; Tracy Sicard - Fast Signs; Vanessa Chaviano - LIV Digital Marketing; Michelle Richard - Semper Home Loans.

Chairman Emeritus: Annette Carrasquillo - LAI Design Associates, LLC; Brett Bisbe - B2 Technology See CHAMBER, page 40

Cape Coral Breeze

■ Board Member of the Year: Bill Johnson, Jr, IOM, Horizon Foundation ■ Trustee of the Year: Eric Gundersen, Photo Booth Cape Coral ■ New Member of the Year: IncredibleBank ■ Welcome Center Volunteer of the Year: Karen Terbenche, Miloff Aubuchon Realty ■ Member of the Year: Mick Sheldrake ■ Volunteer of the Year: Suzanne Noriega ■ Government Affairs Committee Member of the Year:

“We love being able to recognize the hard work of all of our members each year and celebrate them at the Chairman’s Gala.”

www.capecoralbreeze.com

Leaders in business throughout the Cape Coral community were recognized last Friday as part of the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral’s annual Chairman's Gala & Excellence in Business Awards.

The event took place at The Mercola Event Center, where Chamber officials recognized sponsors, volunteers, board members, and all that put in time and effort to make the year a success.

The gala, which was attendees dressed in their best, included the annual Chamber Awards, silent auction, and induction of the board for 2024.

“We love being able to recognize the hard work of all of our members each year and celebrate them at the Chairman’s Gala,” said Chamber President/CEO Donna Germain. “This year, we added the Excellence in Business component back to our awards ceremony. The Excellence In Business Awards are by nomination and are voted on by a selection committee. We started this year with three categories, Non-Profit, Small Business and Large Business of the Year. We hope to expand on that in the years to come.”

Germain said the Chamber is fortunate to have a great group of volunteer leaders. The Chamber is governed by a board of 25 directors, four trustees and 13 chairman emeritus.

Award recipients include: ■ 2023 Non-Profit of the Year: Thrive SWFL ■ 2023 Small Business of the Year: Priority Business Solutions ■ 2023 Large Business of the Year: LCEC

Page 39 ■ February 16, 2024

Chamber hosts Chairman’s Gala & Excellence in Business Awards

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 40 www.capecoralbreeze.com Cape Coral Breeze

Chamber: Awards From page 39 Solutions, Inc.; Christopher Spiro - Spiro & Associates; Donna Meola - Truist Bank; Ed Ramos – Ramos Builders, Inc.; Elmer Tabor – Big John’s/Cape Coral Town Center; Joseph Mazurkiewicz - BJM Consulting, Inc.; Michelle Lewis - B2 Technology Solutions, Inc.; Thomas Giles – Avalon Engineering; Wayne Kirkwood – Retired; Trish Lassiter - Lee County Electric Cooperative – LCEC; Joseph Francioni - SWFL Water Testing; Zachary Zeis - Suncoast Beverage.

“Our amazing team of staff and volunteers devote countless hours to the chamber’s mission each year,” Germain said.

“We are a champion for business and an advocate for community.

“We would not be where we are today without the countless volunteers, leaders and of course the amazing chamber staff this organization has had over the years.

Each and every one of them had a part in growing this organization over the last 63 years.”

For more information on the chamber and how to get involved, visit capecoralchamber.com.

Left: The 2024 Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral Board of Directors were named and recognized last week at the Chairman's Gala & Excellence in B u s i n e s s Awards.

Below: Lee County School Board Member Sam Fisher, Dennis Shelton and the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral 2024 Chairman Dusty Shelton.

PROVIDED

The Garden Club of Cape Coral invites the public to participate in its class, “Fun with Flowers,” where participants will create a spring-inspired flower arrangement to take home for just $25.

You do not need to be a member of the club to attend.

This fundraiser will benefit “Cups of

Cheer,” the Garden Club of Cape Coral project that provides floral arrangements for assisted living facilities.

All supplies—container, greens, flowers, as well as the use of any necessary tools - will be included in the $25 fee. This session is on Friday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Garden Council head-

quarters, 2166 Virginia Ave., Fort Myers.

A registration form is available on the Garden Club of Cape Coral’s website (gardenclubofcapecoral.com) under the “Events” heading. Please complete the form and return it with your check for $25 made payable to the Garden Club of Cape Coral no later than March 7.

Those wishing to participate can also make a reservation with Susan Lawson (slawson921@gmail.com) and pay at the door.

This fun opportunity is filling up quickly. If you have any questions, please contact Lawson at slawson921@gmail.com

JP Sports: Business in Cape Coral celebrating 30th anniversary From page 38

beyond their storefront, as for many years they were a sponsor for the Cape Coral Soccer Association. Recently, JP Sports is sponsoring Cape Coral softball and is a supporter of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter.

Being a family-owned business, JP Sports loves to see the family connection with its customers, as many fathers and sons, grandparents and grandchildren, come in to share their passion together.

“It's a shared experience,” Powell said.

“It's a nostalgia and bonding thing. It's almost a weekend ritual for some to come in and grab some cards or a comic.”

Powell and the JP Sports staff are looking forward to a memorable weekend.

“This is probably the biggest sales weekend we've ever had,” he said. “And if you're not here for the nostalgia aspect, just come to take advantage of the sales. We'll be giving away free comics right when you walk through the door. It'll blow you away.”

JP Sports Collectibles is at 2323 Del Prado Blvd., Suite #10.

For more information, and to purchase products online, visit www.jpsports.net.

Cape Coral Breeze

not just the community coming to us.”

Powell said the staff at JP Sports is knowledgeable on their products and provide a top-notch customer service experience.

“We want our customers to come back,” Powell said. “We can help you find what you need. We wear a lot of hats because we carry so many different items.

“The more the employees know, the more our customers feel they're being helped. They're assured that they're getting exactly what they want. We love our job and we love helping people. We can share that same connection.”

Even during the pandemic, where the current sport and trading card craze blossomed, JP Sports had customers wanting to pick up their boxes and packs.

“We had curbside pick-up,” Powell said. “We were ringing cards up, and walking their hobby boxes out to their car.

“Pop culture and sports are so tight-knit now, and it's really nice now to get new repeat faces with our sports and comic customers. And it's fun, because I'm one of those people that likes both.”

JPs has been a community supporter

www.capecoralbreeze.com

memorabilia and started opening more accounts with NFL, MLB, NCAA. It's just a sports smorgasbord. Anything sports related, we had it.”

Another aspect of JPs that sets it apart is it doesn't just feature local teams. With a good majority of residents coming to the Sunshine State from another part of the country, JPs caters to all fandoms.

“We didn't just stop at local teams like a lot of shops do,” Powell said. “We make sure we have something for everyone.”

Powell said bringing in comics four years ago is another way JP Sports, decades into its service, adapted with the times.

“We still made changes,” Powell said.

“The business has to change. There's recessions, and hurricanes, and you've got to just keep on rolling with the punches.”

Walking into JP Sports, you're greeted with wall-to-wall stock from all of the pro and collegiate teams you could imagine. In the center of the store, an abundance of sports and trading cards, from high-end hobby boxes to retail, are encased and stacked on the 360-degree display.

From baseball, to football, to basketball, to wrestling and combat sports, to Pokémon and Magic, JPs has it all.

“The number one thing I hear is that it's like an overwhelming feeling of happiness when someone comes in for the first time,” Powell said. “They look around and see every logo that's existed for sports. It can be a little overwhelming at first, but we let them know everything is organized by sport and alphabetically. If you like stuff.

We have it.”

JPs is even a retailer for “Grunt Style” apparel.

“There is no way you can walk into a JP Sports and not find something you love,” Powell added.

With the card and collectables boom that took place during the pandemic that is still ongoing, JP Sports is a staple of local card shows. You'll find Powell and his wife Justyne with a table full of “wax” and comics, getting to meet even more collectors in the hobby.

“It's a good way of meeting customers and getting them into the store so we can help them the best way we can,” Powell said. “It's us going out into the community,

Page 41 ■ February 16, 2024

Cape Garden Club’s ‘Fun with Flowers’ class March 15

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 42 www.capecoralbreeze.com Cape Coral Breeze

Fees: Cape Council hears presentation on utility expansion costs & who pays From page 1 four years.

“You have a couple different options within the service area,” Dykstra said.

For single service potable water only, and not irrigation, the discussed increase is $476 phased in over the four years of a one-time fee.

The current fee is $2,551. The first year of the phase-in, the fee would rise to $2,789, followed by the second-year increase to $3,027, which remains the same through year four.

“Most of the customers in the city for new connections are going to be dual service,” he said.

For water, there would be an increase of $552 over four years and $382 for irrigation in the same time frame.

The current fee is $1,106 for water.

The first-year increase would rise to $1,244, followed by $1,382 in year two, $1,520 in year three and $1,658 for year four.

The current fee for irrigation is $2,254. The first-year increase would rise to $2,445, followed by $2,636 for year two through year four.

The last fees were for sewers, which were separated into District 1 and District 2.

Dykstra said District 2 is anything southwest and beyond for UEP, while District 1 is the rest of the system. He said it’s a one-time fee for a typical new single-family home.

“You can have a customer in year one just under $7,400. A customer that develops in year four is $8,748. That is

“The impact fee is designed to have new growth paying for new growth rather than existing customers pretty much having to foot the bill for new growth. One of the big parts of that are the impact fees. Only new customers are paying the impact fees. Existing customers will not.”

— Utilities Director Jeff Pearson

the fee in those individual years. Over a four-year period, there is an increase of just under $2,000 for residential units,” he said. “The cost of building a new home, just under $2,000 increase that would ultimately be paid for by the developer and passed on to a homeowner ultimately.”

Councilmember Bill Steinke said the city has done a good job of doing this study with the previous councils given the opportunity to change the fees every four years.

“I would like to make sure we don’t find ourselves in this situation again where we wait so long to do something about it and bring a shock to the system to be brought up to date,” Steinke said.

Utilities Director Jeff Pearson said councils in the past have not shown the willingness to raise it to the full cost recovery. He said based on the most recent analysis, there are more capital

projects, which is why there is such a large increase.

The new north wastewater treatment plant, originally scheduled for 2035 was moved up.

“The impact fee is designed to have new growth paying for new growth rather than existing customers pretty much having to foot the bill for new growth. One of the big parts of that are the impact fees. Only new customers are paying the impact fees. Existing customers will not,” Pearson said.

Financial Services Director Mark Mason said with the new wastewater treatment plant they do not have to upsize the lines to ship wastewater south to the two plants.

“We are here now. We need to look at funding these improvements going forward, or we won’t be able to continue the UEP program as we know it today,” he said.

Mason said the city is limited to use only 50% increases and in another four years they will already be behind 50%.

City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn said the impact fee law requires them to look at the capacity of the system, or the CIP plan. He said when people pay the impact fee they are buying into the existing system at the time.

“When you add on large capacity improvements, or transition improvements, it will grow at a little bit of a higher rate. With the four-year phase in those projects in (20)27 will likely start in (20)25, (20)26. By the time pay in (20)27 those improvements come online,” he said.

Pearson said the wastewater treatment plant will probably take five years with the facility coming online in 20282029. He said they are already starting the initial work and research for building the facility.

“We have to have the money available when we bid those projects. We have to identify those funds when we write those contracts to those contractors. There is a lot of advanced funding and planning that goes into it,” Pearson said.

Mason said he needs the rates in place to borrow funds, which will allow them to do construction.

“When we identify the project for work in 2027, I am going to need the capacity to borrow the funds in order to do the job and construction,” he said.

Individuals can apply online at leeflcares.com. There will also be help provided at Northwest Regional Library, 519 Chiquita Blvd. N., this Saturday, Feb. 17, and Saturday, Feb. 24, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for all the programs. For a household of four there is a maximum of $68,100 per year in income earned.

“We have discussed, and still continuing to consider taking a look at the demand of low-income applicants and hope to explore a waiver to higher income folks as the program continues on,” she said, adding that right now it is strictly 80%

AMI. Individuals can still apply if they received assistance from FEMA and insurance, as long as they are income eligible.

“It may prevent them from receiving the full benefit amount, but they can definitely still apply for the program,” Sutton said.

To apply, the individual must have a photo ID, proof they owned the property at

the time of the storm and still own the property, as well as third party authorization for communication, a 1040 for their last tax return, and proof of employment if changed.

Individuals can apply online at leeflcares.com, which Sutton said is the fastest and easiest way. There is also a LeeCares Outreach Center at 9400 Gladiolus Dr., Suite 270 in Fort Myers from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

There will also be help provided at Northwest Regional Library, 519 Chiquita Blvd. N., this Saturday, Feb. 17, and Saturday, Feb. 24, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

www.capecoralbreeze.com

From page 1 $75,000 for someone who lived anywhere in Lee County during Hurricane Ian. The Home Purchase Assistance Program gives an individual the opportunity to purchase a home outside of the special flood hazard area by receiving closing costs, down payment assistance, or mortgage guarantee to help someone move into a home.

The Voluntary Residential Acquisition Program is for someone who resided in a special food hazard area and has had multiple instances of flood loss in a 10-year period. This helps the homeowner sell their home and relocate to another area outside of a flooding area.

Sutton said there is income eligibility

Page 43 ■ February 16, 2024

LeeCares: Housing assistance funds available to qualifying Ian-affected residents

Cape Coral Breeze

From page 35 DeSantis said the state also is looking to create a criminal offense called “aggregated retail theft,” which will be a first-degree felony. This would involve any thefts performed using a firearm, or anyone who already has two or more convictions for retail theft.

DeSantis is also proposing a third-degree felony charge for groups of individuals (five or more) performing a theft at the same time, and a second-degree felony using social media to solicit others to participate.

Lastly, DeSantis said the state wants to increase penalties for individuals who steal packages from front doorsteps.

Cape Coral Breeze

www.capecoralbreeze.com

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 44

DeSantis: Governor’s press conference at Cape Police Department

VALARIE HARRING

John Gavin, owner of Gavin’s Ace Hardware in Cape Coral, speaks at Tuesday’s press conference at the Cape Coral Police Department.

Moody said last year, nearly half of Americans had a package stolen from their porch.

“We are not going to stop this if people don't feel they're going to be held accountable,” she said.

The governor referenced a recent retail theft incident in Cape Coral.

Cape Coral Police arrested a two individuals store personnel believed were shoplifting at Lowe's on Pine Island Road Sunday afternoon. Police said when the man and woman were confronted, the man showed a gun in his waistband, while the woman spit at an employee. CCPD, which had posted video-captured photos on its website and to social media, arrested the two early Monday morning, thanks to an anonymous tip. Both remained in custody at the Lee County Jail as of Tuesday morning.

According to a recent study by Forbes surveying retailers around the nation: ■ 41% of small business retailers said the value of items stolen in 2023 has increased compared to previous years.

■ 75% of small business retailers reported monthly losses between $500 and $2,500 due to theft.

■ 85% of small business retailers said they experience theft at least once a year, and just 5% of small business retailers report never experiencing theft.

■ Increasing prices (64%) was the most popular measure small business retailers reported implementing to reduce theft.

John Gavin, owner of Gavin's Ace Hardware in Cape Coral, spoke at the press conference and thanked CCPD and first responders for the work they do to keep retailers and citizens safe.

Gavin told a story of his father, who had owned hardware stores in the Southwest Florida area, and who responded to a store alarm in the early morning hours.

Gavin said thanks to his father's ability to recognize the individual and their vehicle, police were able to arrest the individual, who turned out to be tied to a string of thefts in the area.

“The one person who could put him away was my dad,” Gavin said.

“It was his civil duty. As a civilian, he knew he was the last link in the chain between legislation, prosecution and

VALARIE HARRING

Gov. Ron DeSantis led a press conference at the Cape Coral Police Department Tuesday morning, touting proposed legislation to better combat retail theft, a crime that has a billion-dollar impact nationwide. doing the police work. It was his job to back (the police) and help put him away, and he did it.”

Gavin said while the massive “smash and grab” thefts involving dozens of people like you see in larger cities doesn't occur in the Cape, the amount of money lost due to thefts and recovery, they could employ four additional staff members.

“One of the proudest things (we) do is create jobs, and we help put meals on tables for people,” Gavin said. “Well, the people that are stealing from us are taking that away.

They're taking jobs away. They're raising prices.”

The 2024 Florida Legislative Session began on Jan. 9 and is set to end on March 8.

Now’s a good time to test your luck by heading upriver

TIDES CHART Tide Time

at Cape Coral Bridge Height Sunrise Moon Time Feet Sunset

Day

High /Low

% Moon Visible

Sa 17 17

Low 5:06 AM High 8:14 PM

-0.2 0.9

7:02 AM Set 1:49 AM 6:21 PM Rise 12:21 PM

51

Su 18 18

Low 6:30 AM High 9:29 PM

-0.2 0.9

7:01 AM Set 2:50 AM 6:22 PM Rise 1:11 PM

61

Sa 17 17

Low 4:32 AM High 7:42 PM

-0.3 1.7

7:03 AM Set 1:50 AM 6:22 PM Rise 12:21 PM

51

Su 18 18

Low 5:56 AM High 8:57 PM

-0.4 1.7

7:02 AM Set 2:51 AM 6:22 PM Rise 1:12 PM

61

at Matlacha Pass (Bascule bridge)

By NATHAN MAYBERG

nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

There are four words that diehard baseball fans look forward to each year: pitchers and catchers report.

That day was Wednesday when catchers and pitchers reported for their first official workouts at Hammond Stadium and JetBlue Park in Fort Myers for the Minnesota Twins and Boston Red Sox, respectively.

Both teams have been relatively modest in their offerings this offseason. The Red Sox hope the addition of free agent right-hander Lucas Giolito will help bolster their pitching rotation while the Twins added Anthony DeSclefani in a trade to help make up for the loss of American League Cy Young Award runner-up Sonny Gray and 2020 American League Cy Young runner-up Kenta Maeda.

While it remains to be seen if either team still makes a major move while some big ticket free agents are still out there (such as reigning Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell and World Series champion southpaw Jordan Montgomery), they both already have new looks.

Twins For the Twins, an 87-75 season last year brought them the American League Central title and a 2-0 win over the Toronto Blue Jays for their first playoff win since 2004.

The Twins ultimately lost to the Houston Astros in the American League Division Series.

Minnesota will have a legitimate shot to capture the American League Central again this year if they are about as good as they were last year. The AL Central was not particularly strong last year and doesn’t figure to be as tough this year either.

What is certainly tough about the Twins is their formidable starting pitching with the likes of Pablo Lopez, Bailey Ober, Joe Ryan and the addition of DeSclefani, who

Minnesota Twins to hold open house at Lee Health Sports Complex Monday With spring training officially underway in Fort Myers, the defending American League Central Division Champion Minnesota Twins, in partnership with Lee Health, will hold the club’s 2024 Open House and Health Fair, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday, Feb. 19, at Lee Health Sports Complex.

Monday’s event is open to all fans and featuring free parking, free admission and half-price concessions – includes on-field workouts for the 2024 Twins; a health fair with more than 20 complimentary screenings and services; and a chance for kids to get on the field and play ball with their favorite Twins players.

Twins 2024 Spring Training single-game tickets, along with season and group plans, can be purchased now at twins.com, by visiting the Lee Health Sports Complex Box Office, or by calling 800-33-TWINS or 612-33-TWINS. Visit www.twins.com for more about the Twins.

The Lee Health Sports Complex is at 14100 6 Mile Cypress Parkway in South Fort Myers. was acquired through a trade that sent infielder Jorge Polanco to the Mariners.

Lopez developed into one of the best starters in the American League last year after developing his slider. He went 11-8 with a 3.66 ERA and finished seventh in the American League Cy Young Award voting after coming over from the Marlins in a trade for batting champ Luis Arraez.

Arraez, who won a batting crown with the Twins in 2022, also won a batting title with the Marlins last year.

See SPRING TRAINING, page 46

PREP REPORT Wednesday

Parrish Community at North Fort Myers

Girls Basketball Region 3A-3 First round Bishop Verot 41, Calvary Christian 38: Cameron O'Halloran scored 18 points as the Vikings (21-6) advanced to the regional semifinals. Bishop Verot also got 12 points from Josee Fry. The Vikings will travel to play Tampa Catholic, a 63-30 winner against Bradenton Christian, in Monday's semifinal.

Girls Lacrosse Bishop Verot 11, Cape Coral 2: The Vikings, playing for the second time in as many days, picked up their first victory (1-1). As for the Seahawks, the defeat came in their season opener.

Boys Soccer Region 5A-3 First round Lely 1, Mariner 0: Despite dominating play for much of the evening, the Tritons (17-7-3) couldn't find the back of the net. Lely (13-5-5) won its eighth consecutive match to advance. The Trojans' foe will be Barron Collier, the top seed in the region, which beat Parrish Community 5-0.

Girls Lacrosse St. Stephen's Episcopal 18, Bishop Verot 2: The same team that ended the Vikings' 2022-23 season opened the new season by defeating Verot again.

Tuesday

Girls Tennis

Girls Soccer

Mariner 6, Cypress Lake 1 Singles: Carolina Solomon (CL) d. Morgan Everly 7-6 (7-2), 6-1. Lily DiMurro (M) d. Catelyn Hocomb 6-2, 61. Emma Tuescher (CL) d. Devin Haddock 6-4, 6-0.

Morgan Peterson (M) d. Zulai 6-0, 6-1. Cara Everly (M) d. Hannah Hummel 6-0, 6-1. Doubles: M. Everly/Cynthia Perez (M) d. Solomon/Holcomb 8-5, DiMurro/Tuescher (M) d. Haddock/Perez 8-0.

Region 5A-3 First round Mariner 3, Seminole 0: Kelsi Longabardi and Stephanie Sarascione scored for the Tritons (19-3), who also took advantage of a Seminole own goal. Mariner advanced to a home semifinal Friday with Naples, which edged rival Barron Collier 1-0.

North Fort Myers 3, Osceola 0: Brooke Hankinson posted a shutout in goal, while Sophia Kerns had two goals to power the Red Knights' attack. Evie McCarthy also scored for North (15-3), and Kenlee Dominguez and Sophia Quartuccio made assists. The Red Knights will be home Friday against Parrish Community. Parrish Community ousted Braden River 4-2.

Semifinals 7 p.m. Friday Naples at Mariner

Boys Tennis Mariner 4, Bishop Verot 3 Singles: Ryan Kendrix (CL) d. Karl Schott 6-1, 6-0.

Kieran Kurkimilis (M) d. Bennett Hoffman 6-4, 6-2.

Damien Gleason (M) d. Oscar Arroyo Rios 7-5, 7-5.

Robert Preston (M) by default. Fabio Ronda Vigoa (M) d.

Colton Gulotta 6-2, 6-2. Doubles: Kendrix/Rios (CL) d.

Kurkimilis/Ryan Hunter 8-5. Hoffman/Gulotta (CL) d.Preston/Emanuel Barrios 8-1.

Cape Coral Breeze

See UPRIVER, page 46

Red Sox, Twins begin Spring Training workouts

www.capecoralbreeze.com

With winter, most of our inshore fish, snook, reds and trout, tend to run on the small side with some exceptions like an occasional slot-sized redfish. These days, time spent in deeper water areas like creeks, canals, holes or marinas will up your angling success. These deeper spots offer more thermal comfort than all-night north windchilled flats.

If you’re fishing your usual chilly Matlacha and Pine Island spots with little success it’s time to change your game plan. Surprising how many locals don’t venture upriver in winter to fish where you’ll find big snook, reds, trout, jacks, even tarpon and others a little more limber and hungry than their colder coastal cousins.

One problem, even Capt. George though most already Tunison know better, it’s hard for most wintertime artificial lure anglers to actually slow down their retrieves to match the cold conditions.

Learn to crawl! A great winter “crawling” lure would be a GULP Shrimp on a 1/4 ounce jighead – inched along the bottom a foot at a time with some long pauses thrown in to let the scent disperse. Fly anglers can fish sink-tip fly lines and weighted flies in deeper water marinas to get flies on bottom for inching retrieves. Think keel fly designs with the hook riding upwards for best results.

Trophy snook hunters will find the area's warmest waters, bringing with them a truckload of patience, and be fishing larger cut bait on bottom with circle hooks.

The Cape’s miles of wind-protected canals hold big snook all winter and schools of sheepshead as well so save gas and fish locally, but if you seek even warmer waters, now’s a great time to check out the Caloosahatchee.

The I-75 Bridge/Orange River area would be a good place to start, then keep moving eastward as it only gets warmer as you go. We have snook and redfish all the way to Lake Okeechobee so you’ll obviously have unlimited shoreline and various structures to explore with little fishing competition along the way. As you move east into warmer waters, slowly fished suspended twitch baits and soft plastic shrimp imitators are good choices if you’re tired of soaking bait.

This time of year the faster action happens on nearshore reefs out to the 100-foot zone and beyond

FEBRUARY 16, 2024

Page 45 ■ February 16, 2024

SPORTS

THE BREEZE

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 46 www.capecoralbreeze.com Cape Coral Breeze

Edison and Ford Winter Estates to feature special exhibit about Terry Park and baseball legends who played there To celebrate spring training and Thomas Edison's love of baseball, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is holding a special event to showcase a new exhibit that highlights some baseball legends who once played at Terry Park. The event will take place Friday, March 1, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., in the museum at the Estates at 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.

Cornelius McGillicuddy, aka “Connie Mack,” was the manager and owner of the Philadelphia Athletics. He provided the specifications to build Terry Park, which opened for spring training in 1925.

Thomas Edison was a frequent visitor at Terry Park and on at least one occasion, participated in batting practice with the Athletics team.

The Mack and Nolen families graciously loaned the Estates key artifacts to create a new baseball exhibit entitled “Fanatics: Edison, Mack, and Baseball in Fort Myers.” On March 1, the public is invited to come to the event and meet Connie Mack, III, see the new exhibit, listen to baseball presentations, and tour the museum and botanic research laboratory. There will also be kids' activities and food and

beverages will be available for purchase.

Admission to the event is $10; however, Edison Ford members and children 12 and younger will be admitted free. The riverside of the property will not be open during the event. For more information about the Estates, visit EdisonFord.org.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates Edison and Ford Winter Estates is the internationally known winter home site of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. More than 220,000 visitors walk through the location each year from all around the globe. The

organization has received many awards, including the National Stewardship Award from the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the National Garden Clubs’ Historic Preservation Award. The property is an official project of “Save America’s Treasures," a Florida Historic Landmark and a National Register Historic Site. The Edison Botanic Laboratory is a National Historic Chemical Landmark.

The site is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and until 9 p.m. during the month of December for Holiday Nights.

Spring Training: Twins, Red Sox begin workouts in Lee County From page 45 "Our pitching is the backbone of our team," Twins Manager Rocco Baldelli said this week. "That's always going to be the case."

Baldelli said he had "a lot of confidence" in the rotation. He said he told his pitchers at the start of training camp that it's a long season and they "have to be pretty resilient."

Baldelli said he tries not to dwell on the loss of players like Gray and Maeda.

"It's never easy but it's part of our reality. We know it's coming from time to time.

I don't spend time dwelling on players when we don't bring them back or are unable to bring them back. I focus on just how we are going to continue to get outs, cover innings and build a pitching staff that can go to the playoffs and win the World Series. Obviously you miss the guys when you lose them," Baldelli said. "Good players like Sonny and Kent, they are not guys that you are just in a singular sense replacing but you have to find ways to still win."

The loss of Gray will be tough to overcome while Maeda was never able to replicate his historic 2020 form during a COVID-shortened season and battled back from Tommy John surgery. He heads to the Detroit Tigers. Mahle was limited by injuries last year and signed a deal with the Texas Rangers. Gray signed a three-year deal with the Cardinals worth $75 million.

Due to the team's uncertainty with its television deal, they weren't able to sign back those pitchers, President of Baseball Operations Derek Falvey said.

The Twins had to negotiate a new television deal they announced this week, though it is believed to be be far less than their previous contract.

The Twins signed slugging first baseman and designated hitter Carlos Santana, who replaces the departed Joey Gallo.

They traded utilityman Nick Gordon to the Marlins for bullpen help from Steve Okert.

They also signed reliever Josh Staumont.

Some of the bright spots for the Twins last year was the emergence of the 2017 top draft pick Royce Lewis. He batted .309

Boston Red Sox to hold Annual Spring Training Open House Saturday at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers The Boston Red Sox will hold its Annual Spring Training Open House this Saturday, Feb. 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at JetBlue Park at 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers.

This free event is open to the public and welcomes fans to walk around the park and the grounds, while enjoying concessions and entertainment on Fenway South Drive – a street festival inspired by Jersey Street in Boston. In partnership with Community Coopera-

tive, the Red Sox are hosting a canned food drive during the Open House. Fans are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items and drop them off at Gate B in front of the team store.

The Red Sox Spring Training games begin Friday, Feb. 23, against the Northeastern University Huskies at JetBLue Park.

The Sox then take on the Baltimore Orioles Saturday, Feb. 24, at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota.

with a .372 on-base percentage and 15 homers in just 58 games.

Another rookie to make an impact was Matt Wallner, who hit .249 with 14 homers in 76 games and carried an impressive .370 on-base percentage.

Veteran Max Kepler had a strong bounce-back year last season with a careerbest .260 batting average while slugging 24 homers. Kepler credited being healthy, along with a nutritional and dieting program that he said has helped his mental game. He said he eats a lot of vegetables, proteins and makes sure he is getting enough rest.

"I found a good routine that worked for me. I believed in it. When you are healthy, stuff is a lot easier. Everybody is dealing with some sort of dings," Kepler said.

In the past he has dealt with knee and hamstring injuries that limited his playing time since hitting a career-high 36 homers in 2019.

Kepler was in camp early beginning last week even though fielders don't have to report until the coming week.

"I'm always excited to come in a little early," said the native of Germany who grew up with an American mother and German father learning the game at summer camps when he visited America while attending a bilingual school in Berlin. He looked up to players like Derek Jeter and Josh Hamilton.

Kepler said part of the success of improving his mental game was reminding himself that "It's just a game. Even when you fail you have to realize it's just a game."

The Twins host the University of Minnesota for an exhibition Friday, Feb. 23, at 6:05 p.m. Their first official Spring Training game will be against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Hammond Stadium Saturday, Feb. 24, at 1:05 p.m.

Red Sox For the Red Sox, the ship never left the ground as the team struggled to a 78-84 record and finished last in the American league East.

The division has only grown stronger in the offseason, with the division-leading Orioles adding Cy Young Award candidate Corbin Burnes to their pitching rotation and the Yankees adding slugger Juan Soto to their lineup.

Giolito is a former All-Star with three seasons in the top 10 of Cy Young Award voting but hasn’t been as consistent the last three years. He played for three teams last season, pitching for the White Sox, Indians and Angels. The Red Sox signed him to a two-year deal worth $38.5 million plus incentives if he can regain his old form. He threw a no-hitter in 2020 and was pulled early during a no-hit bid earlier in the year

last season.

The Red Sox hope a career year last year from right-hander Nick Pivetta, after splitting his time as a starter and out of the bullpen, can be replicated. Pivetta went 109 with a 4.04 ERA while only allowing 110 hits in 140 innings, good for a stingy 6.9 hits per nine innings. His hits per innings mark would have ranked among the best in the majors last year if he qualified for enough innings.

Pivetta said he tries to compete against himself and his teammates when he goes out for an outing.

"If I struck out five last time, I want to strike out seven." If a pitcher throws a good game before him, he tries to post an even better game. "It's finding those little games against yourself," he said.

The Red Sox traded pitcher Chris Sale to the Braves after an injury-plagued tenure with the team. In return, they received shortstop Vaughn Grissom.

Another offloading measure taken by the Red Sox in the offseason was to trade outfielder Alex Verdugo in a rare deal with their division rival New York Yankees for some bullpen help in the form of Greg Weissert and two pitching prospects.

With third baseman Rafael Devers in the lineup, the Red Sox lineup will still be a threat. Devers hit .271 with 33 homers, 100 RBIs while slugging .500 in what was about a usual year for him with a little lower average. Rookie first baseman Tristan Casas came around late and showed promising power.

Japanese import Masataka Yoshida proved to be a valuable bat in his rookie season. Jarren Duran, delivered on the promise he had shown in the minors and previous camps with a breakout season hitting .295 with 34 doubles and 24 stolen bases.

Spring Training workouts are open to the public.

The Red Sox will play their first Spring Training game Friday, Feb. 23, against Northeastern University at JetBlue Park at 1 p.m. They host the Twins Sunday, Feb. 25, at 1:05 p.m.

Upriver: When it’s cool, you can find fish in warmer waters to the east From page 45 when the weather allows safe trips. This year the best sheepshead catches have been close to the coast reefs and structures while moving deeper provides shots at porgies, grunts, big mangrove snappers and red grouper. Any floating debris and, of course, trap floats and markers along the way could host a hard-fighting, as well as delicious, tripletail and is worth inspecting with a live shrimp or its plastic cousin.

If offshore isn’t your thing and you’re looking for a nice change of fishing scenery then pack up the boat or arrange a charter a little south of here in the beautiful 10,000 Islands area. If you’ve never fished there, be advised this is a great place to ruin your prop, lower unit or maybe your hull and also get very lost, so a guide definitely makes safety, time and money sense. I forgot to mention that winter also means fewer bugs in one of the buggiest places I’ve ever experienced in all of North

America. When you go, take head netting, sprays and potions, as well as sensible clothing, including socks and gloves. That being said, the 10,000 Islands, Chokoloskee, Everglades City area offers some great winter fishing for a large variety of species, including sight-fishing small to large tarpon in shallow bays, sharks, lots of redfish and a quickly rebounding snook population.

Fishbooker.com lists several guides working the area's waters. This is a great

time to scratch this trip off your bucket list before the bugs arrive.

Another fun winter trip is exploring the many fishing opportunities along Alligator Alley where largemouth and peacock bass roam.

Capt. George Tunison is a Cape Coral resident fishing guide. You can contact him at 239-282-9434 or via email at captgeorget3@aol.com.

Page 47 ■ February 16, 2024 www.capecoralbreeze.com

The Tritons’ leading scorer helped Mariner to a District 5A-11 Championship, turning in 2 double-double games. He scored 25 points with 12 assists vs Island Coast, and followed up with 24 points and 11 rebounds in the win over Cypress Lake.

“We felt good as a team heading into the playoffs. The group we have this year is special and willing to go to war with anyone for each other. We are focusing on improving as a unit, so staying in the gym together and traveling while playing some tough competition this summer got us ready for these moments.

Cape Coral Breeze

Marcus Kelley Jr. Senior Basketball

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 48 www.capecoralbreeze.com

Religious

Help Wanted

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Beautiful Baskets 50/50 Raffles Baked Goods

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Homes For Rent

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RED BARN Fill in the blank cells using numbers 1 to 9. Each number can appear only once in each row, column, and 3x3 block. Use logic and process of elimination to solve the puzzle. The difficulty level ranges from Bronze (easiest) to Silver to Gold (hardest).

Demolition Sale Sat, Feb 17 - Sun, Feb 18 8am to 3pm

2214 SE 36th St (off Del Prado at Palaco Grande)

Cryptoquip Solution:

Cape Coral Breeze

Cemetery Cremation

Skilled Trades

Wanted To Buy

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Hurricane impact doors & windows.

Beautiful Cabinets, Stove, Microwave, Fridge & Dishwasher.

King & Queen Beds, Beautiful Leather Furniture, Washer & Dryer, Pool Heater, A/C, Fencing & Shrubs & So Much More.

Bring Your Tools Pictures: facebook.com/redbarnestate anddemolitionsale

$29.99

Air Conditioning

C o n c r e t e Fill & Dirt Grading Contractors .=:7?>17C =>58->1=

24óHOUR SERVICE NO OVERTIME CHARGES FAMILY OWNED/OPERATED Lic#CAC1817070

TOMáS CONCRETE, INC

(239) 573-2086

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Stucco - Landscape Curbing Spray Crete - Keystone

âNo Job Too Smallã BackHoe - Grading - Fill Top Soil - Rock - Bush Hogging Pond Digging - Land Clearing We fix Drainage Problems

Boat Lifts & Docks

239-543-3700

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Contractors

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HAWLEY CONSTRUCTION OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE ALL IN LEE COUNTY. FREE ESTIMATES www.marinedocks.net

Call (239) 561-8074 CBC026058

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FREE ESTIMATES

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Installation & Repair Licensed & Insured

New or Replace Soffit & Fascia

Custom Built Railings and Entryways

Call For Our Specials On: Pet Screen Solar Screen Super Screen

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COMPLETE RESCREENS

239-772-2242

Ceiling Fans - TV Brackets Garbage Disposals Light Fixtures - Grab Bars Above Range Microwaves Toilets & More

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New Installation & Reclaimed Water Hookups

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239-707-0654

Condo & Property Managers Welcome!

Voted Best of Cape Coral in 2022 & 2023!

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239-282-0558

Company in Southwest Florida!

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Call Today!

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Cape Coral Breeze

Free Estimates on Replacement Systems

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Hauling & Moving

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Check for Leaks Check Valves Unclog/ Adjust Heads Check for Broken Heads Set Timer to Code Check Solenoids Check & Clean Filter

Page 49 ■ February 16, 2024

Sprinkler Tune-Up Special

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 50 www.capecoralbreeze.com Cape Coral Breeze

Death Notices

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Page 51 ■ February 16, 2024 www.capecoralbreeze.com

Cape Coral Breeze

Cape Coral Breeze

www.capecoralbreeze.com

February 16, 2024 ■ Page 52

CC BREEZE 02/16/24

CC BREEZE 02/16/24