Animal Refuge Center to host 10th annual Purses for Pooches Luncheon
Like puppies? Designer bags? ARC has a fundraiser for you.
The 10th annual Purses for Pooches to support the Animal Refuge Center is set from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 1. Once again, this funfilled afternoon will be held at the Fiddlesticks Country Club in Fort Myers.
Purses for Pooches features a fabulous lunch and desert, silent auction and then a live auction of new and gently used designer purses.
“Join us for an af ternoon food and fun, a glass of wine, and a chance to go home with beautiful previously loved designer purses at great prices,” said ARC Board Vice President Rob Spicker. “Or you can help the animals at ARC by cleaning out your closets and donating your previously loved designer purses, costume jewelry, and scarves. All the proceeds benefit the Animal Refuge Center in its efforts to provide shelter and medical care for needy cats and dogs until they find their forever homes.”
at https://animalrefugecenter.com/all-upcoming-events/purses-for-pooches
Fiddlesticks Country Club is at15391 Cannongate Drive.
About ARC
The Animal Refuge Center is a 501c3 NonProfit animal welfare society. It is a non-euthanasia organization dedicated to caring for all owner surrendered cats and dogs received into
As the largest no-kill shelter/sanctuary in Southwest Florida, ARC provides interim shelter and medical care to cats and dogs who were once pets, and through no fault of their own, found themselves homeless, injured, or abandoned. Its philosophy avows that once an animal is accepted into its care, it will not be destroyed to make room for another.
Lee County Parks & Recreation seeks public input on preserve amenities
Lee County Parks & Recreation is seeking public input on potential enhancements to four county preserves, including the addition of new trails and amenities.
Following an in-person meeting that was held Feb. 13, residents are now invited to comment online about the first round of recreational concept plans for Pine Lake Preserve, Oak Hammock Preserve, Four Mile Cove Preserve and West Marsh Preserve.
Lee County Parks & Recreation is collaborating with the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program to develop conceptual designs for these preserves. Community input will help shape future improvements.
The online commenting platform became available on Feb. 13 ad will remain open through March 14 at the Lee County Parks & Recreation website at www.leeparks.org and via social media.
Individual tickets are available for $45.
Sponsorships range from $1,500 to $250 and include various amounts of tickets and advertising at the event and the Animal Refuge Center’s website, animalrefugecenter.com. Donations are also always welcome.
Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased
ARC places approximately 300 dogs and cats per year into responsible, loving homes through direct and indirect adoptions.
ARC’s on-going mission is to provide community education as to the needs and care of animals, and public awareness regarding the importance of spaying and neutering their animal companions, with the ultimate result being the elimination of euthanasia.
Public participation is vital to ensuring Lee County’s preserves reflect the needs and preferences of the community. Residents who use these recreational areas are encouraged to provide feedback on desired amenities and improvements.
For more information about Lee County Parks & Recreation locations, amenities, and special events, visit www.leeparks.org<http://www.leeparks.org>, call 239-533-7275, email leeparks@leegov.com or follow @leeparksandrecreation on Facebook and Instagram.
Ham radio club holds winter field day
Story by Chuck Ballaro
Ham radio operators are expected to be able to perform in the event of an emergency. That usually involves serious weather.
At the start of the Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club’s annual Winter Field Day event held at the North Fort Myers Community Park on Jan. 2526, the radio operators faced exactly that.
It was sunny, but bitterly cold at the start. While they were under cover at the concession stand, it was still cold while they set up their remote equipment and got ready for the 11 a.m. start.
Things warmed up thankfully and the evening wasn’t nearly as cold as the previous one, making for a more tolerable experience.
During Field Day, ham radio operators set up temporary antennas and radio stations to simulate the conditions of an emergency response and demonstrate the ability to establish reliable communication in less-than-ideal situations.
Carmine Vetrano, president of the Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, said this event is nationwide to prepare for emergency services and also part contest.
“We want to show we still have communication from the field. We’re running without live power. We either have batteries or generators and we’re talking to people throughout the country,” Vetrano said.
Last year, these operators put in more than 1,100 hours of service to the Lee County Emergency Management services, mostly during Hurricane Milton.
“We staffed shelters with radio operators so lines of communications were available between the EOC and the shelters and also from the field,” Vetrano
said. “They gave situation reports on the roads to the EOC.”
Vetrano said in the gated community where he lives, ham radio was the only communication for medical calls.
The radio operators tried to communicate with as many people in as many different areas as possible over a 24-hour period (from 11 a.m. that Saturday through 11 a.m. that Sunday). Some did it through voice, text, and even Morse Code.
Among the areas operators reached were Mexico, the Bahamas and even Western Canada. In the past they have reached the International Space Station via satellite.
John Wells, former FMARC president, said Winter Field Day really felt like it, but that the summer field day in June is worse because of the lightning, though summer also has more participation.
He added that the bands were working well.
“The weather is better and there are no storms. Also, it involves the solar cycle, which really affects their ability to communicate,” Wells said. “They
Toni Sutton, left and John Wells work the 10-meter band to reach out to anyone out there during Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club’s annual Winter Field Day held Jan. 25 at North Fort Myers Community Center.
happen every 11 to 12 years when the propagation gets better because it activates the atmosphere. Sometimes we get solar storms and they affect cellular communications.”
Equipment ranges from simple handheld radios for $35 to larger setups for global communication. Many ham operators join clubs to share knowledge and participate in events.
Established in 1957, the Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, Inc. has been dedicated to fostering camaraderie among individuals with a shared passion for Amateur Radio.
Over the past several years, the club has seen its membership boom. From about 150 in 2021, the club has nearly tripled in size since then.
For more information about the Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club (FMARC), please visit www. fmarc.net, fieldday@fmarc.net, or Winter Field Day at winterfieldday.org.
NFMNL
CHUCK BALLARO
North Fort Myers
Southwest Florida Ag Expo
Entertainment, exhibits, food, rides and more at the Lee County Civic Center.
“An Ag-citing Adventure Awaits ” — Young participants from 4-H, PeeWees of SWFL and FFA exhibit projects months in the making.
8 10
6 Civic Association rewards community service Cracker Day Rodeo attracts three huge crowds Cottage Food Competition
12
13 Ag Expo gaining STEAM
Affordable housing complex for older adults breaks ground in North Fort Myers
15 Sunset Harbor Village offers visitors a beachy marina vibe in North Fort Myers 16
Visit Civic at the Southwest Florida Ag Expo
Hello North Fort Myers!!
Happy days are here again. Our great weather is back!
We hope everyone is making plans to visit the Southwest Florida Ag Expo; this year is not going to disappoint!
And while you are there don’t forget to stop and say hello to us in the Beer Garden and enjoy the music. This event is not only a big entertainment event for the community but the North Fort Myers Civic puts our dollars back into the community in multiple different events and give backs.
Our event roster for the year is filling up and should be out soon. We have had some requests for a Whiffle Ball tournament this spring a date has not been confirmed yet. If you are interested, please contact us. More information to follow.
Thank you to Rep. Spencer Roach, Commissioner Brian Hamman and Lee County Sheriff’s Office Commander David Lebid for speaking with our audience and award winners. Thank you to everyone who came out and supported this year’s Community Service Awards.
Remember we meet the second Tuesday of the
month at 6:30 pm at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center at 2000 N. Recreation Park West. Come check us out.
School buses and divided raodways
One of any law enforcement officer’s concerns… and likely the paramount concern… is the safety of our children.
Each morning, during the school year, more than 100,000 Lee County children begin their day by preparing for and traveling to school. Many of these children travel on district school buses.
We have repeatedly discussed operating at safe speeds in school zones, near school bus stops and when approaching a school bus.
Motorists are aware of the need to fully stop their vehicle when approaching a stopped school bus from either direction when there are no medians present on the roadway.
Some of our deputies have been questioned regarding motorist obligations on divided roadways containing some form of dividing barrier.
To provide clarity, please know that unraised barriers, such as grassy medians WITH A WIDTH OF LESS THAN FIVE (5) FEET, are NOT considered a divided roadway. In this situation, ALL vehicles on BOTH sides of the roadway, must come to a full and complete stop when school buses have their stopsigns operational.
Equally important is the manner in which we approach school buses, when traveling in the OPPOSITE direction, on roadways with raised, concrete barriers or grassy dividers that exceed five feet in width.
Motorists approaching a stopped school bus from the opposite direction, on divided roadways, with stop signs extended, are required to proceed with caution.
While these dividers DO NOT require the motorist to stop their vehicle, it is imperative that drivers recognize the potential tragedies that encompass the area.
Children usually reside on both sides of a given street and will need to cross the roadway both approaching the bus in the morning and departing
from it in the afternoon. Often, this is done in the darkened, early morning hours.
Additionally, children have a frightening habit of running out, into the roadway, from between parked cars. Many, if not most, are too small to be seen by oncoming traffic.
It is imperative that motorists recognize the risk that exists at and around stopped buses!
Cell phone use, or use of any electronic devices, by BOTH the motorists and the children, exponentially increase the risks.
Your choices may determine the future of a
child. It has been said that “Every child you encounter is a divine appointment.”
Please… operate your vehicle with this in mind.
Toni Hill, President NFMCA
Sheriff Carmine Marceno
Civic Association rewards community service
Story by Chuck Ballaro
The North Fort Myers Civic Association is devoted to serving the community. Yet, they realize they are not doing it alone. Countless people, often out of the limelight, help to make this area a great place to live, work and play.
Several of those people received recognition during the organization’s annual Community Service Awards held Jan. 21.
NFMCA president Toni Hill said events like this (which started in 2021) tells a lot about who they are and about those who serve the community.
“We’re just a proud group of people who like to volunteer and honor people who do the right thing. It’s all about volunteering, donations and events,” Hill said. “We fundraise so we can continue to get back into the community and do what we do.”
The Cape Coral High School color guard was there to present the colors. Also there was Lee County Commissioner Brian Hamman, Lee County Sheriff’s Office Commander David Lebid and former State Rep. Spencer Roach, each of whom spoke at the event.
The Ron Hoover Legends Award, given to an individual who has been instrumental for the community of North Fort Myers and its history, went to Kurt Donaldson, who has served as a Little League and Pop Warner football coach for more than 50 years, and has a baseball park named after him in Cape Coral.
Donaldson said to be named in the same breath as one of the legendary coaches in the area is truly and honor.
“I was about 20 years old when I started coaching baseball in college and I got hooked on it. It’s hard to believe how quick it went. It’s a scary thing,” Donaldson said.
The Woman of the Year award, given to a woman who has made a significant impact in the community, went to Wendy Murray. Murray is executive director of the North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, a member of the local Rotary and, among other things, helped found the North Fort Myers Neighbor newspaper.
Murray said she was surprised to be named for
such an honor.
“There are so many deserving women here, so it was an honor. It’s nice to be recognized for all the work we do,” Murray said. It’s a great honor, I’m excited and it puts some umph in your step to continue to do all it is you do.”
The Tom Cronin Community Service Award, given to someone who has demonstrated an active participation in the community, through giving and self-sacrifice, was Michael Westra of Lehrs’ Economy Tackle. Westra was unable to attend the event.
There were also nine Community Service Medals handed out. The recipients were: Anna Whitten, Peter Lance, Rudy Berndlair, Kayla Schwab, Kevin Butwill, Chrissie Glotta, Deputy Ciganek of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, George Iwanow, and North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts Principal Andrew Miller.
“The honorees show over and over again the commitment and compassion that drives them,” Hill said.
The public nominated those who they deemed deserving of the annual awards from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. The nomination committee of the NFMCA determined the winners from there.
North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Wendy Murray speaks after receiving the Woman of the Year Award by the North Fort Myers Civic Association during the Community Service Awards held at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center.
NFMNL
Kurt Donaldson speaks after receiving the Ron Hoover Legends Award by the North Fort Myers Civic Association during the Community Service Awards at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center.
The Cape Coral High School Color Guard presents the colors during the Community Service Awards ceremony held by North Fort Myers Civic Association at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center.
PHOTOS BY CHUCK BALLARO
George Iwanow, center, of All-Superior Auto, holds up his Community Service Medal during the Community Service Awards ceremony held by North Fort Myers Civic Association at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center. At left is former State Rep. Spencer Roach and County Commissioner Brian Hamman is to the right.
Cracker Day Rodeo attracts three huge crowds
Story by Chuck Ballaro
The 64th annual Cracker Day Rodeo is the biggest fundraiser for the Lee County Posse Arena.
And never were the funds they raised needed more than this year.
Hurricane Helene did a number on the grounds. It destroyed sections of bleachers and put the event in serious jeopardy.
But the posse board and organizers got temporary bleachers, did the other fixes and was able to put on the oldest event in North Fort Myers for three big performances on Jan. 24, 25 & 26.
And for the first night, it was cold. Maybe the coldest it’s been in years. It did warm up as the weekend progressed before Sunday’s matinee performance, which featured clear skies and 75-degree temperatures.
Bobbi Harrison, a Lee County Posse Arena board member and its spokesperson, said Helene brought a tornado and wreaked havoc on the grounds.
But, unlike in 2018, when Irma forced the rodeo to be cancelled, they were determined to get this one off.
“We were very concerned because we lost two sets of bleachers, the end of our pavilion and the entire speaker system and the electric,” Harrison said. “We’ve had a lot of work to do since September. We worked to the last minute and got a lot of support from local businesspeople and without them, we would not have pulled it off this year.”
The rodeo provides people like Whitney Taylor, 17, the Junior Posse Queen, a place to ride her horses in a safe environment. Taylor was in the youth rodeo on Saturday afternoon and rode barrels, poles and goat tying.
“Football players have games and playoffs. We have jackpots and small shows and this is our Super Bowl for the small town kids like me,” Taylor said. “I’ve grown up riding here my whole life. I was the little kid watching all the girls and now I’m one of the older girls.”
There was an NFR qualifier at Saturday’s performance, but it wasn’t Margo Crowther. It was a man named Barry Brown, who made it as a bull rider in 1974 after nearly being killed in a wreck four years earlier.
Brown was selling his autobiography “Bionic Bullrider,” and talking about his time on the rodeo circuit, which he said was much tougher back then.
“Cowboys today get rich by going to the NFR in Las Vegas. I used to compete here at the arena in the 1960s. The hardest part was going hungry. Broken bones heal. But if you’re hungry, you stay hungry,” Brown said.
Among the featured performers was rodeo clown Robbie Hodges, who has performed at the PRCA Rodeo here numerous times and said it’s one of his favorite stops.
“I love it down here. The folks are fun. They braved the cold last night. It was a good time,” Hodges said. “Florida cold is the coldest. But tonight, the weather was perfect.”
It is an event the whole family can enjoy. Even those who compete. In Dione Link’s case, it was his family from Brazil. Link was in the bull riding, where he, and all the other riders, got thrown off. Emanully Link, 13, watched her brother ride. She said she had a lot of fun at an American rodeo. Rodeo is a big deal in Brazil.
“It was a lot of fun. I liked the barrel racing with the girls. I love this country and I want to live here. It’s unbelievable here,” Link said.
Of course, the fans had a blast.
Ava Northescold, 12, and her family came for the fun. They were no strangers to rodeo, having gone to them in Minnesota. They now live in North Fort Myers.
“It was an incredible experience. I liked the barrel racing because it’s so intense. I like the speed and the strength the horses have,” Ava said. “I’ve always wanted to do it.”
Her mom, Mandy, had a different take.
“It was awesome. My favorite is the bull riding, but I also like bronc riding. Rodeos in Minnesota aren’t usually this cold, but they usually hold them in the summer, so we’re usually sweating.”
Miles Carver rides in the Mutton Bustin’ at the 64th Cracker Day Rodeo held Jan. 24, 25 & 26 at the Lee County Posse Arena./PHOTOS BY CHUCK BALLARO
A crowd of young participants take off at the start of the calf scramble at the 64th Cracker Day Rodeo which featured fun and competitions for all ages.
Angie Curkovic has her hands full in the barrel racing at the 64th Cracker Day Rodeo at the Lee County Posse Arena.
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James Earl Harris takes down a steer in the steer wrestling at the 64th Cracker Day Rodeo.
Klane Lewis takes a spill during the bull riding.
Terry and Aspen Jones compete in the Buddy Pick-up at the recent 64th Cracker Day Rodeo at the Lee County Posse Arena.
Keegan Pierce gets ready in the chute for his bull ride at the 64th Cracker Day Rodeo.
Clown Robbie Hodges performs a skit at the 64th Cracker Day Rodeo held at the Lee County Posse Arena off Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers.
The public is invited to attend the official ribbon cutting opening this year’s Southwest Florida Ag Expo.
The ribbon-cutting will take place at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, at the Lee County Civic Center Complex, 11831 Bayshore Road
Gates will open at 4 p.m. following the ceremony.
The ceremony will feature brief re marks by Lee County commissioners and other officials.
Ag Expo entertainers, including One Man Band, The Moogician, Pirate Man Dan and Agricadabra - Grayson Marchett, will be on hand to help celebrate the rib bon cutting.
“The Ag Expo celebrates the work and accomplishments of Southwest Florida youth active in 4-H, FFA and more while offer ing fun, food and rides for the entire commu nity,” Lee County officials said.
“Commissioners are committed to maintain ing the popular experience. Whether you go for the animal exhibitions, the steer auction, the midway thrills or the sweet and savory treats, Lee County invites one and all to the Ag Expo from Feb. 27 through March 9.”
The county invites ribbon-cutting ceremony attendees to plan to stay after the ceremony and celebrate opening day, which features $1 admission and $1 ride tickets as the promotion for Feb. 27.
Throughout the 11-day event, themed promotions are offered, such as Community Night, Senior Day, Sensory Friendly Night and Family Fiesta Day. Learn more about the promotional nights at www.swflagexpo.com. Tickets for promotional
nights are only offered at the gate. General Admission tickets can be pre-purchased online.
Also available for online purchase now is the $30 MEGAPASS. It includes gate admission and a wristband for unlimited mechanical rides on one day of your choice. Get your MEGAPASS early; sales end when the Ag Expo begins at 4 p.m. Feb. 27.
General gate admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4-11.
Children 3 and under are free. Retired and active military receive free gate admission all day, every day. Must present Military ID, service members only. Just like in 2024 – and to ensure safety – the Ag Expo will implement security measures, including walk-through metal detectors at entry gates.
Permitted bags include: Small purses, clutches, wallets or clear totes with maximum dimensions of 12 x 12 x 8
One-gallon plastic zip-top bags
Prohibited items include:
∫ Large totes, backpacks and cooler bags
Medically necessary bags and diaper bags containing only baby supplies will be permitted after inspection by security. The complete schedule of events, special promotions, ticketing and parking information is listed at www.swflagexpo. com, or visit Facebook for SWFL Ag Expo at www.facebook. com/swflagexpo. Please bookmark the website and follow the Facebook page, as event details and information will continue to be added.
TStory by Meghan Bradbury
he Southwest Florida Ag Expo will return for 11 days of “Agciting Adventure” beginning Thursday, Feb. 27, at the Lee County Civic Center Complex.
The Lee County-organized event will kick off with a ribbon cutting and $1 admission at 3:30 p.m. on the first day with various promotions to continue through Sunday, March 9, The expo, which rebranded the Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair last year, will again offer all the great food, rides, local entertainment and the animals featured in its launch.
Fun will also include the Creative Living competition, which features eight divisions – two of which are debuting – STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), and the Cottage Food divisions, Southwest Florida Ag Expo spokesperson Miriam Dotson said.
Reithoffer Shows will bring the fun this year with amusement rides and attractions featuring spectacular rides to loved kiddie rides.
At the heart of the festivities is Lee County’s agricultural roots, which still run deep.
“You’ll learn something if you go out. I find that more people are interested in the Ag portion of it – the educational aspect and it is still good fun,” she said, adding that they are keeping up with the people with what they want while keeping it interesting. “The younger generation is really interested in all of this. The environment is an important factor for young people. It adds the loyalty to our community – know that Southwest Florida is beaches and agriculture. It’s important that the young and old are all together in one place.”
Those who are interested in attending have the option of purchasing the MEGA PASS for $30 until the expo opens. The pass includes gate admission and a wrist band for unlimited rides for any day of their choice.
General gate admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 4 to 11, and free for children 3 and under. Retired and active military receive free gate admission every day, all day with a military ID. Months of preparation to culminate at the Southwest Florida Ag Expo.
Putting the “Ag” in the Expo
A highlight of the event is the efforts of young participants in 4-H, PeeWees of SWFL, and FFA who exhibit projects months in the making.
This year’s theme, “An Ag-citing Adventure Awaits,” highlights the excitement and dedication behind the event, where families can experience the best of agriculture, entertainment, and education in one place.
“For the youth livestock exhibitors, showcasing their animals at the Ag Expo is the culmination of weeks and months of dedication,” organizers said. “The highlight for many youth participants is the Market Animal Auction on the last Saturday of the Ag Expo. Countless hours have been spent feeding, honing their showmanship skills, conditioning and practicing grooming for this event. Raising market steer and swine teaches valuable life skills such as record keeping and animal husbandry, with the ultimate reward being the auction itself, where youth see the results of their hard work.”
Another popular event is the Small Animal Auction on the final Friday of the Ag Expo.
Visitors looking for high-quality poultry, rabbits, or cavies (guinea pigs) can bid on animals raised with great care by local youth. It’s also an opportunity for aspiring 4-H, PeeWees of SWFL, or FFA members to find their next project animal.
Beyond livestock exhibitions, the Ag Expo will feature Fun Show Nights, where families can enjoy events such as Goat Agility, the Horse Costume Contest, and the Feathers Costume Contest.
Livestock Show schedule:
∫ Thursday, Feb. 27
• 7 p.m. Goat Agility Contest
∫ Friday, Feb. 28
•6 p.m. Goat Costume Contest
•7:30 p.m. Feathers Fun Costume Contest
∫ Saturday, March 1
•11 a.m. Performance Horse Show
• Noon Goat Showmanship
• 2 p.m. Feather Showmanship
• 6 p.m. Beef Breeding Show and Showmanship
The highly anticipated 2025 Southwest Florida Ag Expo is just around the corner.
Lee County invites residents and visitors to save their date — or dates — of choice for an exciting lineup of entertainment, exhibits, food and rides for the event that will run from Thursday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 9, at the Lee County Civic Center Complex in North Fort Myers.
Enjoy an array of talented performers throughout the event. Here’s the current entertainment lineup:
∫ Deb & the Dynamics – 6-9 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 27
∫ The Rosada Project – 7-10 p.m., Friday, Feb. 28
∫ Thunder Beach – 2-5 p.m., Saturday, March 1
∫ Pure Country of SWFL – 7-10 p.m., Saturday, March 1
∫ The Eric Von Band – 2-5 p.m., Sunday, March 2
∫ Iconic The Band – 6-9 p.m., Sunday, March 2
∫ Billy Rice Band – 7-10 p.m., Monday, March 3
∫ Trop Rock Junkies – 7-10 p.m., Tuesday, March 4
∫ The Holy Rocka
The public is invited to attend the official ribbon cutting opening this year’s Southwest Florida Ag Expo.
The ribbon-cutting will take place at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, at the Lee County Civic Center Complex, 11831 Bayshore Road
Gates will open at 4 p.m. following the ceremony.
The ceremony will feature brief re marks by Lee County commissioners and other officials.
Ag Expo entertainers, including One Man Band, The Moogician, Pirate Man Dan and Agricadabra - Grayson Marchett, will be on hand to help celebrate the rib bon cutting.
“The Ag Expo celebrates the work and accomplishments of Southwest Florida youth active in 4-H, FFA and more while offer ing fun, food and rides for the entire commu nity,” Lee County officials said.
“Commissioners are committed to maintain ing the popular experience. Whether you go for the animal exhibitions, the steer auction, the midway thrills or the sweet and savory treats, Lee County invites one and all to the Ag Expo from Feb. 27 through March 9.”
The county invites ribbon-cutting ceremony attendees to plan to stay after the ceremony and celebrate opening day, which features $1 admission and $1 ride tickets as the promotion for Feb. 27.
Throughout the 11-day event, themed promotions are offered, such as Community Night, Senior Day, Sensory Friendly Night and Family Fiesta Day. Learn more about the promotional nights at www.swflagexpo.com. Tickets for promotional
nights are only offered at the gate. General Admission tickets can be pre-purchased online.
Also available for online purchase now is the $30 MEGAPASS. It includes gate admission and a wristband for unlimited mechanical rides on one day of your choice. Get your MEGAPASS early; sales end when the Ag Expo begins at 4 p.m. Feb. 27.
General gate admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4-11.
Children 3 and under are free. Retired and active military receive free gate admission all day, every day. Must present Military ID, service members only. Just like in 2024 – and to ensure safety – the Ag Expo will implement security measures, including walk-through metal detectors at entry gates.
Permitted bags include: Small purses, clutches, wallets or clear totes with maximum dimensions of 12 x 12 x 8
One-gallon plastic zip-top bags
Prohibited items include:
∫ Large totes, backpacks and cooler bags
Medically necessary bags and diaper bags containing only baby supplies will be permitted after inspection by security. The complete schedule of events, special promotions, ticketing and parking information is listed at www.swflagexpo. com, or visit Facebook for SWFL Ag Expo at www.facebook. com/swflagexpo. Please bookmark the website and follow the Facebook page, as event details and information will continue to be added.
TStory by Meghan Bradbury
he Southwest Florida Ag Expo will return for 11 days of “Agciting Adventure” beginning Thursday, Feb. 27, at the Lee County Civic Center Complex.
The Lee County-organized event will kick off with a ribbon cutting and $1 admission at 3:30 p.m. on the first day with various promotions to continue through Sunday, March 9, The expo, which rebranded the Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair last year, will again offer all the great food, rides, local entertainment and the animals featured in its launch.
Fun will also include the Creative Living competition, which features eight divisions – two of which are debuting – STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), and the Cottage Food divisions, Southwest Florida Ag Expo spokesperson Miriam Dotson said.
Reithoffer Shows will bring the fun this year with amusement rides and attractions featuring spectacular rides to loved kiddie rides.
At the heart of the festivities is Lee County’s agricultural roots, which still run deep.
“You’ll learn something if you go out. I find that more people are interested in the Ag portion of it – the educational aspect and it is still good fun,” she said, adding that they are keeping up with the people with what they want while keeping it interesting. “The younger generation is really interested in all of this. The environment is an important factor for young people. It adds the loyalty to our community – know that Southwest Florida is beaches and agriculture. It’s important that the young and old are all together in one place.”
Those who are interested in attending have the option of purchasing the MEGA PASS for $30 until the expo opens. The pass includes gate admission and a wrist band for unlimited rides for any day of their choice.
General gate admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 4 to 11, and free for children 3 and under. Retired and active military receive free gate admission every day, all day with a military ID. Months of preparation to culminate at the Southwest Florida Ag Expo.
Putting the “Ag” in the Expo
A highlight of the event is the efforts of young participants in 4-H, PeeWees of SWFL, and FFA who exhibit projects months in the making.
This year’s theme, “An Ag-citing Adventure Awaits,” highlights the excitement and dedication behind the event, where families can experience the best of agriculture, entertainment, and education in one place.
“For the youth livestock exhibitors, showcasing their animals at the Ag Expo is the culmination of weeks and months of dedication,” organizers said. “The highlight for many youth participants is the Market Animal Auction on the last Saturday of the Ag Expo. Countless hours have been spent feeding, honing their showmanship skills, conditioning and practicing grooming for this event. Raising market steer and swine teaches valuable life skills such as record keeping and animal husbandry, with the ultimate reward being the auction itself, where youth see the results of their hard work.”
Another popular event is the Small Animal Auction on the final Friday of the Ag Expo.
Visitors looking for high-quality poultry, rabbits, or cavies (guinea pigs) can bid on animals raised with great care by local youth. It’s also an opportunity for aspiring 4-H, PeeWees of SWFL, or FFA members to find their next project animal.
Beyond livestock exhibitions, the Ag Expo will feature Fun Show Nights, where families can enjoy events such as Goat Agility, the Horse Costume Contest, and the Feathers Costume Contest.
Livestock Show schedule:
∫ Thursday, Feb. 27
• 7 p.m. Goat Agility Contest
∫ Friday, Feb. 28
•6 p.m. Goat Costume Contest
•7:30 p.m. Feathers Fun Costume Contest
∫ Saturday, March 1
•11 a.m. Performance Horse Show
• Noon Goat Showmanship
• 2 p.m. Feather Showmanship
• 6 p.m. Beef Breeding Show and Showmanship
The highly anticipated 2025 Southwest Florida Ag Expo is just around the corner.
Lee County invites residents and visitors to save their date — or dates — of choice for an exciting lineup of entertainment, exhibits, food and rides for the event that will run from Thursday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 9, at the Lee County Civic Center Complex in North Fort Myers.
Enjoy an array of talented performers throughout the event. Here’s the current entertainment lineup:
∫ Deb & the Dynamics – 6-9 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 27
∫ The Rosada Project – 7-10 p.m., Friday, Feb. 28
∫ Thunder Beach – 2-5 p.m., Saturday, March 1
∫ Pure Country of SWFL – 7-10 p.m., Saturday, March 1
∫ The Eric Von Band – 2-5 p.m., Sunday, March 2
∫ Iconic The Band – 6-9 p.m., Sunday, March 2
∫ Billy Rice Band – 7-10 p.m., Monday, March 3
∫ Trop Rock Junkies – 7-10 p.m., Tuesday, March 4
∫ The Holy Rocka
Cottage Food competition a tasty addition to Ag Expo
Story by Meghan Bradbury
ACottage Food division – the first in the state – has been added to the Southwest Florida Ag Expo this year.
“The Cottage Food competition is the first in the state. That is the really cool piece – Cottage Food is new to the state as far as being part of an agricultural expo,” said Jennifer Hagen, University of Florida/ IFAS Extension Lee County Family & Consumer Sciences agent, adding she wants to “introduce people to some of the opportunities to improve their life.’”
Cottage Food was created in 2011 by the state as an agricultural enterprise for small farms to create other products to increase revenue.
“It came around as a way for small farms to be able to create value added products to help sustain them yearround above and beyond the crops they were growing,” Hagen said.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services does not require a license or permit for Cottage Food operations, as well as not being inspected by any state government entity. The gross sales for cottage food operations cannot exceed $250,000 annually.
Hagen said an exemption was created in state statute that production of certain types can be made in an individual’s home for sale to the general public.
“It’s an exemption to having to follow commercial safety regulations,” she said.
The product for cottage food may not be time or temperature controlled. According to Cottage Food
Operations “this means the final product may not be a food product that requires time/temperature control for safety to limit pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation; an animal food that is raw or heat-treated; a plant food that is heat-treated or consists of raw seed sprouts, cut melons, cut leafy greens, cut tomatoes or mixtures of cut tomatoes that are not modified in a way so that they are unable to support pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation; or garlic-in-oil mixtures that are not modified in a way so that they are unable to support pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation.”
The types of cottage food that can be produced include loaf breads, rolls and biscuits; cakes, pastries and cookies; candies and confections; honey; jams, jellies and preserves made from high acid-fruits only; fruit pies and dried fruits; dry herbs, seasonings and mixtures; homemade pasta; cereals, trail mixes and granola; coated or uncoated nuts; vinegar and flavored vinegars; popcorn and popcorn balls and nut butters including almond, peanut and cashew.
Hagen said it is items that do not have to be refrigerated or baked and has a shelf life.
“Cottage food does not require you to have any food safety education and training,” she said.
In the past, at traditional fairs there were some sorts of bake-off competition, or a section that has pickles, salsa, and canned foods. She said the products were submitted and judges tasted and sampled the products.
“I wanted to change it to be more of a food-related entrepreneurship program,” Hagen said.
Miriam Dotson, Southwest Florida Ag Expo spokesperson, said the Cottage Food division opens the door to learn about where food comes from.
“A lot of people over the years have shown this
desire to be healthier and learn about food,” she said.
Dotson is excited about the entrepreneurial element.
“This is going to help you. We want to see people succeed,” Dotson said about food safety and handling.
Hagen said she wanted Cottage Food to be a division providing an outlet for people who are interested in food entrepreneurship – food for sale and learning the ins and outs while receiving food safety training ahead of time.
Those who participate in the new Cottage Food division are required to take one virtual class before they submit a product at the expo.
“I want you to know the basics of food handling, washing your hands — it’s about a 30-minute class to go over the basic state program, Cottage Food,” Hagen said, adding that they will then be released.
She said they can cook such things as sugar cookies and enter them into the expo. From there, Hagen will look at the entry to make sure the cookies are packaged correctly, labeled with the name, address and the statement that shares “made in a cottage food operation that is not subject to Florida’s food safety regulations.”
“I want them to have food safety knowledge. They present their items, I tell them what they have done right, improve on and (provide) assistance. That is part of the judging,” she said. “Did they follow the right procedure to be able to sell the food to the general public and be successful.”
The Southwest Florida Ag Expo will be held from Feb. 27 through March 9 at the Lee County Civic Center complex, 11831 Bayshore Rd., North Fort Myers.
For more information, visit www.swflagexpo. com.
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Ag Expo gaining STEAM
Story by Meghan Bradbury
Anew division has been added to this year’s Creative Living Southwest Florida Ag Exp — STEAM.
University of Florida/IFAS Extension Lee County Family & Consumer Sciences Agent Jennifer Hagen said when the county took over the expo more than a year ago, they designated a couple of extension agents for the events. She said the Lee County Board of County Commissioners was interested in taking it over and making it more of an educational agricultural expo.
The introduction of STEAM this year — science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics — is being included to bring more of an educational focus to the expo. STEAM includes four focuses — robotics, LEGO structure, recycled, or reused material and reclaimed wood.
Miriam Dotson, Southwest Florida Ag Expo spokesperson, said it is engaging participation through more educational ways that people can have exhibits at the expo.
“This taps into creativity, technical skills. It can really be for all ages,” she said, adding that since the county took over, they are connecting activities back to traditional, prideful events. “‘My exhibit can be at the Ag Expo’— it creates more opportunities for them and a level of fun and a chance to put it on display.”
Dotson said it’s another outlet to learn more and the resources out there to help them.
For robotics, participants are welcome to submit any kind of robotics project, or kit they are doing to showcase at the expo. Participants can do a creative build and create something from scratch.
“There are very successful robotic teams and STEAM happening in K-12 schools. I wanted to offer a division to showcase that,” she said. “We are accepting original, or kit builds.”
The robotics class is any item that is motorized and used as a robotic device.
Another section is LEGO. This class must include display ready displays that are not more than 24 inches and weigh no more than 20 pounds and must all be glued or fixed in place.
“They can do any kind of LEGO structure,” Hagen said. “Last year, we had tons of people submitting LEGOs. They are considered almost an engineering type project. It involves all kinds of STEAM principals.”
Again, participants can build their LEGO structure from a kit, or they can be creative and come up with their own creation. She said last year they had a LEGO version of Downtown Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach and the Best in Show was a true reproduction of a typewriter.
“That is a creative build. They can submit that as an original creative build,” Hagen said.
With art being so important, it was important to add this component to STEAM — anything that is made of recycled, or reused material, she said.
The recycled, or reused material must be made from previously used materials and must be functional or usable.
“You can build whatever you want, or create whatever you want, but it has to be made completely from recycled materials,” Hagen said. “It doesn’t have to be plastic previously from a water bottle (it can be) egg cartons, recycled fabric that you are now creating a dress out of old T-shirts.”
The last class for STEAM is reclaimed wood. The pieces submitted must specify the type, origin and intended use of the wood.
“It’s a nod to ck in the day in agriculture,” Hagen said. “A lot of barns would create wood quilts —
quilts built out of wood and put above barn doors.”
She said these focus areas are showing innovation, cre ativity by leaning into the skills of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.
In the past, LEGOs, recy cled material and reclaimed wood fell under different divi sions.
“I wanted to highlight it for STEAM for homeschoolers, clubs and curriculum — another outlet to show off what they are doing,” she said. “I’m trying to pick and pluck different things going on around the state and nationally within county and regional fairs to intrigue, excite and invite more individuals that didn’t have any participation in fairs in the past.”
In addition, it will create a little gallery of who is doing neat stuff in town in one place.
“I wanted to go back to the roots — Ag Expo and Creative Living — go back to the roots of the life skills — woodworking, pioneering crafts — that is regionally appropriate that people would have done a 100 years ago here. I’m trying to include some of those options into the Expo and bringing new divisions as part of that.”
The Southwest Floria Ag Expo will be held from Feb. 27, through March 9, at the Lee County Civic Center complex, 11831 Bayshore Rd., North Fort Myers.
For more information, visit www.swflagexpo. com.
Affordable housing complex for seniors breaks ground in North Fort Myers
County officials say projects like Hermosa community are sorely needed
Story by Chuck Ballaro
The last time an affordable rental community was built in North Fort Myers, Bill Clinton was president and it had been 15 years since one was built anywhere in unincorporated Lee County.
On Feb. 5, a groundbreaking was held for the newest community to come to the area, one that will provide affordable housing for older adults.
All this while work was already starting on the project at 16341 N. Cleveland Ave. which is set to begin welcoming residents early next year.
“Two weeks ago, we celebrated the opening of Civitas in Cape Coral for the workforce. This one is focused on seniors. We’re not only looking for safe and affordable housing, but long-term sustainability. We have a lot of resilient features.”
— Michael Allan, president of ReVital, who said they are trying to address all demographics in need of affordable and resilient housing.
ABOVE: A groundbreaking ceremony was held Feb. 5 for the newest community to come to the area, one that will provide affordable housing for older adults. BELOW: Among those to speak at the groundbreaking was County Commissioner Brian Hamman.
ReVital Development Group, in collaboration with Birdsong Housing Partners and the Lee County Housing Authority, broke ground on Hermosa, Phase I & II — a project marking the first new construction affordable housing rental community in North Fort Myers in more than 30 years.
Hermosa, which had been in the works since around 2020, is in response to the desperate need for affordable housing in the area, which has also had to deal with Hurricane Ian in 2022 and hurricanes Helene and Milton this past year. The pandemic didn’t help matters either.
Michael Allan, president of ReVital, said they are trying to address all demographics in need of affordable and resilient housing.
“Two weeks ago, we celebrated the opening of Civitas in Cape Coral for the workforce. This one is focused on seniors,” Allan said. “We’re not only looking for safe and affordable housing, but long-term sustainability. We have a lot of resilient features.”
Civitas saw a line of hundreds of people for a pre-leasing event before the grand opening, he said.
“We had people who stayed overnight at the property. Team members worked to make sure everybody in line had an opportunity to talk to them and go through the application process,” Allan said. “The need is real and quite significant.”
Among those to speak was Lee County Brian Hamman, who represents North Fort Myers. He said Hermosa is a great opportunity for the area in
continued on page 16
Sunset Harbor Village offers visitors a beachy marina vibe in North Fort Myers
Story by Meghan Bradbury
Ahidden gem in North Fort Myers was recently revamped to offer a beachy marina atmosphere that is fun for the entire family to enjoy.
“We are very family oriented – you can have a good time, relax and enjoy the views,” Sunset Harbor Village property manager Kali Minor said.
She said they have been in North Fort Myers since 2021-2022. As with many other businesses in Lee County, the marina too was hit hard by Hurricane Ian.
“We basically revamped the whole marina – boat
slips, restaurants, small businesses, little café, clothing store,” she said. “Everything is new, beachy vibe, light colors, and fun. We wanted to make people aware we are there.”
The marina has 120 boat slips which are for rent with 12-month agreements. The slip rental includes access to the pool, captains lounge, a gym that will be open soon and onsite bathrooms.
“Everyone loves the pool. We do community events, which brings everyone together,” Minor said.
There were about 20 slips left to be rented at press time.
The property has four restaurants featuring all kinds of bar type foods – tacos, pizza, and burgers. The restaurants include The Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut, Sea-Craft Waterfront Tiki, Blackbeards Tavern and
afforadable housing from page 15
answer to its lack of affordable housing.
“This will be built to a very strong hurricane code, so it will be safe housing for seniors so they can retire and live here with dignity,” Hamman said. “We were able to use some of the Community Development Block Grant money we got after Ian to push this over the finish line.”
Hermosa is the first development in Lee County to utilize state and federal recovery funds associ-
ated with Hurricane Ian. It’s also the first to use benefits under Florida Senate Bill 102, commonly known as the Live Local Act.
Hermosa will feature a 160-unit affordable multifamily residential building designed with environmental sustainability in mind.
This community, exclusively for seniors aged 62 and older, includes a preference for veterans and provides essential affordable housing opportunities
the new addition Cheeks.
The property also has offices, many of which are still available to be rented. The suites include utilities and amenities, free WiFi, individually controlled HVAC, windowed offices, cleaning, conference rooms, coffee and tea, parking, kitchenette/ lounge, and business center.
The offices – a lot of them are waterfront and have the waterfront view,” she said.
The marina’s other amenities include personal watercraft, kayak and boat rentals, volleyball court, water taxi, mail service and parking.
Sunset Harbor Village is located at 3444 Marinatown Lane, North Fort Myers. For more information, visit sunsetharborvillage.com, hello@ sunsetharborvillage.com, or call (239) 997-7711.NFMNL
for residents earning 60 percent or less of the area median income.
Residents will benefit from a modern clubhouse with a fitness center, business center, and pool, along with free programs like an adult literacy program and assistance with light housekeeping, grocery shopping and laundry.
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Preserving Tradition, Building Community
The Vital Role of Lee County Archers Club at Nalle Grade Park
Nestled within the scenic expanse of Nalle Grade Park in North Fort Myers, the Lee County Archers Club has been a cornerstone of outdoor recreation, environmental appreciation, and skill-building for residents.
With a dedicated membership ranging from 250 to 300 archers, the club not only fosters a passion for the sport, but also contributes significantly to the cultural and recreational fabric of Lee County.
A Gateway to Outdoor Engagement
Archery has long been celebrated as a sport that combines physical discipline with mental focus, offering participants of all ages a unique way to engage with the natural environment. The Lee County Archers Club provides a safe, structured, and welcoming space for archers to practice and develop their skills while immersing themselves in the beauty of the park’s surroundings.
“Beyond personal skill development, archery fosters a deep connection with nature. Unlike high-impact sports, archery has a minimal environmental footprint—it requires no invasive field modifications, artificial surfaces, or excessive land clearing. The range blends seamlessly with the park’s natural landscape, promoting conservation and responsible land use,” club officials said.
Fostering Community Through Free Education
ag expo from page 10
∫ Sunday, March 2
• 11:30 a.m. Goat Show
∫ Tuesday, March 4
• 6 p.m. Fur Showmanship
∫ Wednesday, March 5
• 6 p.m. Swine Show and Showmanship
• 6 p.m. Fur Fun Costume Contest
One of the club’s most significant contributions to Lee County is its free, instructor-led “Introduction to Archery” training programs held every Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. These sessions provide an accessible entry point for beginners, encouraging individuals and families to step outside, learn a new skill, and enjoy an engaging and rewarding recreational activity.
Many participants in these training programs go on to become active club members, joining a vibrant community that includes state record-holding archers. The mentorship and camaraderie within the club create an environment where archers of all skill levels—whether first-time shooters or seasoned competitors — can thrive.
Enhancing Public Park Utilization
Public parks serve as valuable community assets, yet many struggle with underutilization or limited programming. The Lee County Archers Club ensures that Nalle Grade Park remains a dynamic and active space, attracting residents who may not otherwise visit. Families, seniors, youth groups, and recreational enthusiasts all find value in the archery range, making it a year-round attraction that diversifies park usage beyond traditional walking trails and playgrounds. The local 4H Club combines its monthly meeting with instructor-led archery training for 10 months each year.
Moreover, the club’s presence enhances safety and stewardship within the park. By maintaining the range, organizing events, and welcoming visi-
∫ Thursday, March 6
• 6 p.m. Steer Show and Showmanship
• 7:30 p.m. Horse Costume Contest
∫ Friday, March 7
• 4:30 p.m. Steer Grooming Show
• 6:30 p.m. Horse Speed Show
• 7 p.m. Small Animal Auction
tors, Lee County Archers contributes to a sense of community ownership over the space, reducing the likelihood of park neglect or misuse.
Economic and Social Benefits to Lee County
Recreational archery generates both direct and indirect economic benefits. The Lee County Archers Club supports local businesses by purchasing equipment, hosting tournaments, and community events. Members and visitors frequent nearby restaurants, sporting goods stores, and other establishments, boosting the local economy.
Additionally, archery is an inclusive and lifelong sport—accessible to people of all ages and abilities, including individuals with disabilities. By providing a cost-effective outdoor activity, the Lee County Archers Club ensures that financial barriers do not prevent participation, making archery a valuable resource for the entire community.
For residents of Lee County and surrounding communities who have yet to experience the thrill of archery, the invitation is open — call to schedule a free training session, witness the skill of seasoned archers, and become part of a community dedicated to history, sport, nature, and fellowship.
Lee County Archers Club is affiliated, certified, and in compliance with the Florida Archers Association (FAA), and the National Field Archers Association (NFAA.)
For more information visit www. LeeCountryArchers.com.
∫ Saturday, March 8
• 2 p.m. Market Animal Auction
• 6 p.m. Horse Fun Show
The Ag Expo, which will run from Feb. 27 through March 9, will be held at the Lee County Civic Center Complex,11831 Bayshore Road.
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