Celebrating Pine Islanders: Jay Sanderson
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Island Tactical owner and Greater Pine Island Alliance co-founder Jay Sanderson said first and foremost he loves Pine Island. His father-in-law, Ted Festa, is a fourth generation Pine Islander and Sanderson said his own parents bought a house in Bokeelia in 2008.
“I am a happy member of the Pine Island community. The island has done so much for me. What I do for the island pales in comparison to what the people of the island do for us and our business. It’s really inspiring to me, to see how great the community is together. That’s my inspiration,” Sanderson said.
He went on to say that in his estimation, anything he can do to help the Pine Island community is worth his time.
Having been a teacher in the Florida Keys, Sanderson is no stranger to island-type living. Shortly after his parents moved here, he said he got a job at Ida Baker High School in Cape Coral as an economics teacher and head basketball coach. He said the first time he came to visit his parents in Bokeelia, he realized just how special Pine Island is.
“They had a catamaran out in front of their house and my brother and I were laying on it
Squires receives Pine Island Chamber’s Alan Mills Award
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Bobby Holloway Foundation and annual fishing tournament founder Ernestine Holloway Squires found herself completely surprised when she received the call about the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce 2025 Alan Mills Award, honoring those with outstanding dedication to the Pine Island Community. Squires was told by a member of her board that there was going to be a recognition given to the Bobby Holloway Foundation. She later learned this was just told to her in order to keep secret the fact that she’d won the Alan Mills Award, which was presented on Monday, Feb. 10. What turned out to be admittedly
one of the highlights of her life was a mystery until the last moment.
“I didn’t think much about it. I had no clue. I was so shocked,” Squires said, admitting that she understood the desire for secrecy completely.
Receiving the award itself, Squires said, was a sur-
See SQUIRES, page 15
Ernestine Squires, above, with Steve Hook, left, of the Bobby Holloway Fishing Tournament and David Conner, president of the Chamber of Commerce.
and I remember thinking to myself, ‘This is life.’ My parents had just moved to the coolest place ever,” Sanderson said.
As far as Sanderson’s love, sweat and tears for Pine Island, he admits that what the GPIA was able to achieve during the aftermath of Hurricane Ian says a great deal about his and the whole organization’s love for Pine Island.
“What a lot of people don’t know is that we brought out thousands of gallons of diesel fuel to Pine Island Water so they could run their generators to keep their pumps going,” Sanderson said.
In addition to helping to keep the island fueled after the storm, Sanderson said they were making boat trips with supplies and grocery runs every day. At the time, he said, most
Bi-lingual case worker has worn many hats at island organization
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Many Spanish-speaking folks who have shown up at the Beacon of Hope in need of help have found themselves in front of Guadalupe Herrera. Fortunate to have someone who can communicate with clients who don’t know English, the Beacon of Hope hired Herrera approximately 12 years ago, she said. To date, she is the only bi-lingual case worker that she is aware of.
The Beacon has tried to lighten her load by hiring others who are bi-lingual, but by her own estimation, it’s likely difficult to find others on Pine Island who are both competent and willing to do what she does. As of now, Herrera said there are many people on the island in need who can only speak Spanish.
“Many people who come in live at The Palms. There are people from Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala and Cuba,” Herrera said.
Her work at the Beacon gets pretty hectic, she said, with appointments filling up for children and families. In addition to her position as a case manager, Herrera is also officially a notary public, which comes in handy whenever a client has a document which needs to be notarized.
“I’ve also done bookkeeping here, and driving, I’ve even worked at reception — you name it and I’ve done it,” Herrera said.
Often her work day finds her helping families find
Guadalupe Herrera
Jay Sanderson
Castellanos & Tramonte Architects awarded design for new fire station on Pine Island
Castellanos & Tramonte Architects has been awarded the design contract for the new Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Station #2, a state-of-the-art facility built to withstand extreme weather conditions in this critical barrier island location.
The new station, located at 5051 Stringfellow Road in St. James City, will replace the existing structure, which has endured multiple hurricanes over the years.
Scheduled for completion by summer 2026, the 8,500-square-foot facility will feature FEMA-compliant storage and a hurricane-resilient design, ensuring first responders have a safe and fully equipped space to serve the community effectively.
“This project is a crucial step in strengthening Pine Island’s emergency response infrastructure,” said Art Castellanos, president of the design firm. “Our goal is to design a station that not only meets the highest safety standards but also enhances operational
efficiency for firefighters and emergency personnel.”
Castellanos & Tramonte Architects is providing comprehensive architectural and engineering services, including concept development, schematic design, construction documentation, permitting and construction administration through final project closeout.
With a projected construction budget of $5 million, this new fire station will play a vital role in safeguarding Pine Island residents and improving emergency preparedness for years to come.
Castellanos & Tramonte Architects is a full-service, multi-discipline architectural firm based in Southwest Florida, specializing in commercial, governmental, and institutional projects. Founded in 1992 by Jason P. Tramonte, AIA, and later joined by Art Castellanos, AIA, in 2016, the firm brings decades of expertise in innovative and sustainable design. For more about the firm, visit https://castellanostramonte.com/
Matlacha Hookers ‘Island Luau’ March 2 at St. James City Civic Center
The Matlacha Hookers 13th Annual “Island Luau” Event will be held Sunday, March 2, from 1-5 p.m. at the St. James City Civic Center on Lemon Street in St James City. Over the past 12 events, the Hookers have raised over $125,000, with last year’s donations totaling over $22,000 for the Beacon of Hope and the St James City Civic Center.
Proceeds distribution:
n Beacon of Hope: A 501(c)(3) non-profit supporting
the Greater Pine Island community through programs like Beacon Bites, transportation, financial assistance, home repair services and more.
n St. James City Civic Center: Promotes community engagement by hosting events and activities. The facility underwent significant repairs due to damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Event highlights:
n Live island music by Mark Dupuy’s calypso island rock band featuring steel drums, trumpet, flute, keyboard and guitar.
n Performances by the Hula Connections dancers.
n Island Luau Costume Contest for Ladies, Men, Couples and Groups.
See ‘ISLAND LUAU,’ page 15
GRAPHIC PROVIDED
An artist’s rendering of the new M/PIFCD Station #2.
OPINIONS
10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60 Bokeelia, FL 33922
Phone: (239) 283-2022
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Previous Web Poll Question:
Did you make any New Year’s resolutions?
n Yes. 14%
n No. 58%
n I do sometimes, but not this year 14%
n Never. 14%
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Have you gotten a flu shot?
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Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com
Still spreading fear and fake news
To the editor:
There you go again Mr. S. It seems like they just can’t help themselves. The left is always prepared to throw something out there that hasn’t happened yet and may never happen, but they want you to fear the possibility of it happening and make sure you put them in charge of stopping whatever has not happened and probably never will.
I’m referring to the fearmongering contribution in the Eagle titled “Kids should not fear school attendance” and it goes on to express concern about the “possibility that ICE will be allowed into our schools to remove, “certain students.”
First of all, ICE has never gone into any school to remove any students, even those “certain” ones that the author is too shy or “politically correct” to name. Secondly, there was a false report about ICE agents entering a school in a Chicago suburb to remove a student. That was a totally bogus post as was reported in the N.Y. Times on Jan. 24, (Reports of Immigration Agents at Chicago School Set Off Fear, but Are Proved False).
The U.S. Secret Service visited the school to investigate a threat “made against an unspecified government official” and “Chicago public school officials mistakenly claimed that U.S. Immigration and Customs agents had come to the building.”
Yes, of course, when you spread false information to support an agenda of hatred and fear, the news spreads like wildfire - exactly what they are hoping for. It’s a shame that “educators” in the Chicago School System jumped to a wrong conclusion and now we have local “educators” spreading the same “possibility” of the same thing that didn’t happen anywhere.
Don’t worry, our kids do not fear school attendance in spite of your efforts to encourage and stoke that irrational “concern.”
What
is clean water and why don’t we have it?
To the editor:
Letters to the Editor
seem harmless at first but it out competes healthy aquatic vegetation. The result is no seagrass, starving manatees and dying fish as the oxygen in the water is depleted.
As aquatic creatures die, they decompose, using up even more oxygen, perpetuating the cycle of death. Yes, water can look great and still be very polluted. Clean water has great visibility, high levels of oxygen, low levels of nitrogen and phosphates and minimum algae growth. This allows for healthy beds of seagrass, an incredible amount of aquatic life and even healthier people.
We don’t have clean water because we have not held our elected officials accountable for enforcing laws that are currently in place. Instead, they issue permits granting exceptions to the laws.
YOU can stop this pollution getting the right to clean water on the ballot as an amendment to the Florida constitution. Please go to Floridarighttocleanwater.org, download the petition, sign it and mail it back.
Dan Carney Cape Coral
Check your voter status
To the editor:
Your voice matters! Are you one of the many voters removed from the Lee county voter list? Are you one of the Lee County voters that must re-register to vote by mail?
To make sure, call the Lee Elections office at 239-533-8683 or go to www.Lee.vote.
The 2024 Florida Statutes, Title X, Section 101.62, written by the legislature have written guidelines on how to the vote by mail.
Multiple sections cover key points:
n Requests
n Deadlines to receive a mail ballot for an upcoming elections
n Ballots issuance and returns
n The issuance of ballots requests
Gov. Ron DeSantis knows that the citizen initiative process to amend the state constitution is the people’s way to do what needs to be done when the legislature won’t do it. Past initiatives dealt with minimum wage and conservation of land and water, and more recently with abortion and marijuana.
Voters would overwhelmingly vote for a constitutional amendment granting all Floridians a fundamental right to clean and healthy rivers, springs, lakes, bays, aquifers, and wetlands once it qualifies for the state ballot.
But DeSantis invents accusations of fraud. He wants to impose greater restrictions on voters by having them deal directly with Supervisor of Elections offices in person or by mail to get and submit a signed petition. He wants to give more authority to the Secretary of State to decertify petitions, and he wants to require the Attorney General to write a disclosure of the legal effects of the Amendment opening up the process to political bias. Desperation!
Petitions are sought because the state does not take care of the business of the people. Gatherers of the petition for the right to clean and healthy waters are definitely not paid! These Ambassadors are citizens attempting to fulfill the deep desire to save the waters of Florida for the future progress of commerce and health. DeSantis wants to put success for initiatives like ours out of reach.
Kitty Kern Fort Myers
Change the song & dance
To the editor:
News reports once again highlighting the effects of Red Tide on Southwest Florida as a tourist destination. Our Southwest Florida coastline is turning into a year-around giant flourishing Petri dish that is severely tarnishing the area’s reputation.
Max Christian, St.
n How to return ballots and when to mail ballots back so that the ballots can be counted
James City
I was recently on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River observing the moving water. A stranger walked up next to me and made the observation that the water looked very clean. Looks can be deceiving! Unknown to him recent water testing had revealed a high level of fecal indicator bacteria. The river also carries a very high nutrient load of excess nitrogen and phosphates. As the days grow longer, and the water gets warmer these excess nutrients will be consumed by various forms of algae. The algae
n Guidelines on how to complete the ballot and how to return the ballots.
Your voice matters.
We the people matter.
Democracy depends on all of us.
If you are a Democrat, Republican or Independent, call and make sure you are still on the voter rolls.
Democracy depends on YOU!
Kathleen Callard, RNBS North Fort Myers
The right to clean and healthy water
To the editor:
Look at all the desperate attempts to deny the wishes of the people of Florida!
We Want Your Opinion
The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Opposing views are welcome. Letters to the Editor or guest columns may be mailed to: Pine Island Eagle, 10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60, Bokeelia, FL 33922; e-mailed to pineisland@ breezenewspapers.com; posted to our Virtual Newsroom at www.breezenewspapers.com or faxed to 283-0232. All letters and guest columns must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes. You also can comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: pineisland-eagle.com
And this has been happening for several years now. Yet our elected officials are steamrolling ahead approving mega projects.
While I’m not against growth, uncontrolled growth without regards to end results is NOT OK. Our elected officials show up during crises, make statements on how terrible it is and needs to be fixed, but then keep approving deals.
A UCF study found $1.27B loss to SWFL’s economy from just one red tide season in 2018. Health care costs from hospital and doctor visits, beach clean-up activities following fish kills, and losses in tourism revenues are some of the costs associated with these blooms (Florida Department of Health.)
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is reporting that the state of Florida has spent $8 billion since 2019 to restore America’s Everglades and improve the quality of the state’s water resources (FDEP News Release Feb. 3, 2025). Why are algae blooms and red tide not getting better?
Florida Right to Clean Water is a nonpartisan citizen initiative for enforceable right to clean and healthy waters on the 2026 ballot. Go to FloridaRighttoCleanWater.org to explore the many ways to help as an individual, as a group, as a nonprofit, as a business, or even as a local government entity.
Dave Bortell North Fort Myers
Department of Health in Lee Couty issues red tide health alert for a number of locations
The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOHLee) has issued a health alert for the presence of red tide near the following locations:
n Boca Grande Pass
n Buck Key (1.9 miles northeast of Pine Island Sound)
n Captiva Pass
n Captiva Rocks (southwest of Pine Island Sound)
n Cork Island (west of Pine Island Sound)
n Hemp Key (south of Pine Island Sound)
n Redfish Pass (1.8 miles east of Pine Island Sound)
n Redfish Pass (Pine Island Sound)
n Regla Island (west of Pine Island Sound)
This is in response to water samples taken Monday, Feb. 10. The public should exercise caution in and around these areas.
Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions if near affected area:
n Look for informational signage posted at most public beaches and/or check current water quality status at Protecting Florida Together (https://protectingfloridatogether.gov/).
n Do not wade or swim in or around red tide. Red tide can cause skin irritation, rashes, and burning/sore eyes.
n Wash your skin and clothing with soap and fresh water if you have had recent contact with red tide, especially if your skin is easily irritated.
n Remain cautious and stay away from this location, especially if you have chronic respiratory conditions.
n Residents living in beach areas are advised to close windows and run the air conditioner. Make sure the air conditioner filter is maintained according to manufacturer’s specifications.
n Do not harvest or eat molluscan shellfish or distressed or dead fish from this location. If caught alive and healthy, finfish are safe to eat as long as they are filleted, and the guts are discarded. Rinse fillets with tap or bottled water.
n Red tide can cause illness and death of other animals,
such as pets and livestock. Keep animals away and out of the water and sea life and away from dead marine life. If your pet swims in waters with red tide, wash them with soap and water as soon as possible.
What is red tide?
Red tide is caused by high concentrations of a toxin-producing dinoflagellate called Karenia brevis (K. brevis), a type of microscopic algae found in the Gulf of Mexico. Red tide typically forms naturally offshore, commonly in late summer or early fall, and is carried into coastal waters by winds and currents.
At high enough concentrations, K. brevis can discolor water and give it a red or brown hue. To learn more about the appearance of red tide, visit Protecting Florida Together. Is red tide harmful?
K. brevis produces potent neurotoxins (brevotoxins) that can be harmful to the humans, pets, fish, and wildlife. Wind and wave action can break open K. brevis cells and release toxins into the air. This is why you should monitor conditions and use caution when visiting affected water bodies. People can experience varying degrees of eye, skin, and respiratory irritation from red tide. Sensitive individuals (e.g., children, the elderly, those who are immunocompromised, and those who have chronic respiratory conditions) may be at risk of experiencing more severe symptoms.
For additional information on potential health effects of algae blooms, visit the Florida Department of Health’s harmful algae blooms webpage at https://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/aquatic-toxins/harmful-algae-blooms/index.html.
Where can I find current water status information?
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission routinely collects and analyzes red tide samples from around the state. Current information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications for harmful algae blooms and beach conditions is available at Protecting Florida Together. You can subscribe to receive notifications
when water quality changes in your area.
To hear a recording about red tide conditions throughout the state, call the toll-free hotline at 866-300-9399.
For local licensed shellfish harvesting status, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/ Aquaculture/Shellfish-Harvesting-Area-Classification/ Shellfish-Harvesting-Area-Information.
Where can I report issues related to red tide?
n Human Health: Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algae bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center by calling 800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist.
n Animal Health: Contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet has become ill after consuming or having contact with red tide contaminated water.
n Fish Kills: Dead, diseased, or abnormally behaving fish or wildlife should be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission online or at 800-6360511.
If you have other health questions or concerns about red tide blooms, please call DOH-Lee at 239-252-8200.
22nd Annual Garden Club Gala Saturday
The Pine Island Garden Club, founded in 1975, is empowered with over 100 active members, who follow the mission of the promotion, protection and conservation of Pine Island’s natural beauty. Its annual fundraiser, the Pine Island Garden Gala, is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 22, beginning at 9 a.m. and continuing until 3 p.m., at the St James City Civic Association located off Lemon Street between 4th and 5th Avenues.
Due to limited parking on site, the First Baptist Church of St. James City, located at the intersection of Oleander
Special to the Eagle
St. John’s Episcopal Church will celebrate Shrove Tuesday with a free pancake supper Tuesday, March 4, at 5 p.m. All Pine Islanders are welcome.
What is Shrove Tuesday?
Also known as Fat Tuesday as well as Pancake Day, Shrove Tuesday is the feast day before the Lenten season begins on Ash Wednesday. The word “shrove” comes from the term “to shrive,” meaning to confess, a way to prepare our hearts for the beginning of Lent.
But why pancakes?
Dating back to the Middle Ages, traditionally before Lent could begin, all of the foods people would not be
Street and 8th Avenue, has graciously allowed the use of its parking lot to operate a shuttle service to and from the event.
This fun-filled family day will encompass over 70 vendors promoting plants, art and related products, 50/50 and raffle drawings, a silent auction, the spinning lucky wheel (with neat stuff donated by local businesses), a yummy homemade bake sale plus your favorite sandwiches offered by Salty Girl restaurant.
The proceeds from the gala are utilized by the club to
support its island efforts to maintain the grounds at the Garden Park, Museum of the Islands, Bokeelia Post Office and the Pine Island Elementary School’s butterfly garden. The club also provides financial support to several benevolent island organizations such as the Calusa Land Trust, Pine Island Elementary School, Pine Island Food Pantry, CROW, Kiwanis Children’s Park and the Beacon of Hope. For more information, please contact Marty Kendall at 239-283-8175 or martykendall@gmail.com
Who are we?
able to eat while fasting during Lent needed to be used up. It was customary in many cultures to eat pancakes or other foods made with fats, eggs, sugar, flour and milk that would be given up during Lent.
What’s in a name?
In many regions influenced by French culture, Shrove Tuesday is celebrated as Mardi Gras, which translated means, Fat Tuesday. But whatever you decide to call March 4th, the day before Lent begins, please come and join us as we use a lot of fats, eggs, sugar, flour and milk, as well as breakfast meats, to serve a delicious pancake dinner.
At St. John’s, our purpose is to “Love God, Follow Christ and Serve Others.” Sunday services are at 10 a.m. with a coffee fellowship hour immediately following. The church’s Ash Wednesday service is March 5 at 5 p.m. All are welcome. There are several services and activities coming up during Lent and Easter Holy Week to serve the congregation and Pine Island Community.
St. John’s Episcopal Church is located at 7771 Stringfellow Road in St. James City. For additional information about the church and its services and programs, please visit its website at www.StJohnspineisland.com, or call 239-273-1930.
Why do we eat pancakes on Shrove Tuesday SJCCA Update Guest Column
The St. James City Civic Association has announced the following upcoming events and activities:
Thursday, Feb. 20
n Ping Pong, 9-11 a.m. It’s a fun way to meet the neighbors and play ping pong
n Mahjongg, 1-4 p.m. This is a great place to learn to play mahjongg! Contact Carolyn at 239-233-7682.
n Cribbage, 6-8 p.m. All are welcome for weekly cribbage fun and competition. Contact John Hennessy at 908-801-2034 for additional information
Friday, Feb. 21
n Shuffle Board, 9-11 a.m. All equipment provided. Beginners welcome.
n YOGA with Carole, 9-10 a.m. Come join in on yin yoga. Also for those who would like to participate in chair yoga. All are welcome.
Saturday, Feb. 22
n Garage Sale, 8-11 a.m. We have received a lot of new things, so stop by and shop! Accepting donations.
Tuesday, Feb. 25
n Shuffle Board, 9-11 a.m.
n Ping Pong, 9-11 a.m.
n Golden Brush, 1-4 p.m. Don’t be shy! Explore your artistic muse with SJCCA’S painting group. The Order of the Golden Brush, founded over 45 years ago by Gladys Stroud, provides a supportive atmosphere for individuals wishing to play with paints and pencils. Newcomers, current members, novices, and established artists are all welcome. Need more information? Please call Linda Selleck at 239-313-1212
n Dominoes, 6-8 p.m. Dominoes is a game that everyone can play: kids, adults, and even the old. It is that simple,
Wednesday, Feb. 26
n YOGA with Carole, 9-10 a.m.
n PI Learners Nature Group, 10-11:30 a.m. Fun activities for the island’s children hosted weekly
n Meditation w/ Christine, 4:15-5:15 p.m. This 30-minute meditation class will be a guided meditation offering techniques to focus on the present moment with non-judgmental awareness
All activities are held at the St James City Civic Association, located at 3300 Fourth Ave., St James City. More details, contacts and ticket sales are available on the SJCCA website at SJCCAPI.ORG
rate of enhance
March GPICA meeting to feature FDOT presentation
Bridge reconstruction one topic of discussion
The next meeting of the Greater Pine Island Civic Association will feature a representative from the Florida Department of Transportation. The FDOT representatives will provide an update on the bridge reconstruction and answer questions from the
community.
The meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 4, at First Baptist Church of Pine Island, 5363 Avenue D, Bokeelia, located next to Pine Island Elementary School.
GPICA meetings are open to members as well as non-members and residents are encouraged to attend.
Please also mark your calendars for the April 8 GPICA meeting, which will feature Tessa LeSage, chief impact officer of The Collaboratory, which is working with the county to use a $19 million grant from the
EPA to strengthen the county’s disaster preparedness by creating resiliency hubs at the Collaboratory, Franklin Park Elementary, the IMAG History and Science Center and Pine Manor Community Center. GPICA’s focus will be on what future opportunities there could be for supporting resiliency on Pine Island.
Kiwanis Club’s Supermarket Sweep fundraiser set for March 3
Due to last year’s storms, Kiwanis Supermarket Sweep has been moved to Monday, March 3, 20025. Tickets are
$10, and the winning ticket will be drawn on Wednesday, Feb 26. The winner will have 10 minutes to run through the grocery
GPIWA’s annual meeting March 4
The Greater Pine Island Water Association’s annual meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 4, at 5281 Pine Island Road, in the tank building, starting 10 a.m. This meeting is open to all GPIWA members.
Parking is available on the north and east side of the building.
The draft agenda for the meeting is posted on https://pineislandwater.com/ agenda
store, grabbing up to $1,000 in groceries. All proceeds help kids on Pine Island with scholarships, pool parties, Junior Olympics, Bike Rodeos and much more. In the past, winners have donated some or all of the groceries to Pine Island Food Pantry.
Tickets may be purchased at Century 21
by Frozen Flip Flop, or from any Kiwanis member.
Kiwanis meets every Wednesday at 7:30 am at the VFW on Stringfellow Rd. Come out and see all the wonderful things Kiwanis does for children. Any questions: call Cindy 954-249-5512
Cribbage Corner
for cribbage for Feb. 6:
Cribbage is played at St James City Civic Center at Fourth Avenue and Lemon Street in St. James City every Thursday from 6:30-9 p.m.
For more information, contact John Hennessy at 908-801-2034.
Mahjongg Scores
On Thursday, Feb. 13, there were 15 playersfor mahjongg at the St. James City Civic Center.
Welcome to Cheri and Michelle who joined us.
The top scorers were Sandy Rootham with 210 points, Mitch Gould with 130 and Renee Simmons with 90.
We play mahjongg every Thursday from 1-4 p.m. at the SJCCA, located at the corner of Lemon Street and Fourth Avenue in St. James City.
Everyone is welcome to join the fun. For additional information, please call Carolyn at 248-233-7682.
Scores
Dennis Gettys
Judy Schuitema
John Hennessy
Joel Schuitema
Lamb of the Week: Pam Placek
Drive on for school zone cameras across county
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Motorists who speed through a school zone could soon be paying fines to Lee County without even being pulled over by a police officer to face a ticket and court summons.
The Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted this past week to authorize the Lee County Department of Transportation to pursue speed zone cameras that could start sending violators fines in the mail as soon as the beginning of the next school year.
The measure was introduced by Lee County District 2
Commissioner Cecil Pendergrass, who said he has been actively working with county officials on the issue. Asked by Commissioner Brian Hamman if he had a vendor in mind or if there would be a request for proposals, Pendergrass deferred to Lee County Department of Transportation Director Robert Price. Price said staff has already begun looking into it and could either join in on a contract that a municipality has for the cameras or go out to bid.
Lee County Attorney Richard Wesch said a county ordinance would need to be enacted by the county com-
missioners for the new enforcement to take effect. A public hearing would need to take place before the ordinance can be adopted as law.
Pendergrass said the new speed zone cameras would be placed in school speed zones in the county’s unincorporated area where the speed limit is currently 15 miles per hour during certain times of the day. Pendergrass said the cameras would only be activated in a “30- to 45-minute timeline” during weekdays and not on weekends or in the summer when school is out.
Pendergrass framed the new enforcement mechanism as a way to protect the safety of pedestrians by installing traffic cameras throughout the county near schools.
“We are all concerned about pedestrian safety,” Pendergrass said. “They (motorists) do not slow down,” he said. “There is too much for law enforcement to physically observe.”
Pendergrass said cameras would be placed in more than a dozen school zones in unincorporated Lee County through automatic video enforcement.
“I think there is 14 (school zones) in unincorporated Lee County,” Pendergrass said.
Cape Coral is in the process of installing cameras and implementing a similar system within the city limits.
Pendergrass said the excess revenue generated from the cameras could be used for sidewalks and signage in the school zones.
“I’ve never been a supporter of red light cameras or anything like this but I think based upon the safety of the children, it’s a 30-minute to 45-minute time zone there,” Pendergrass said. “Every driver should respect the law and follow the law. People aren’t paying attention. They are driving through school zones at 50 miles per hour and it’s 15. Kids are present. It’s hopeful we will get people’s attention and slow down through the school zones.”
Commissioners unanimously adopted the motion by Pendergrass.
Pendergrass did not immediately respond to a query about how enforcement would work, how violations would be issued and what level of fines were under consideration.
School District to hold Social Lee: Coffee & Careers Feb. 28
The School District of Lee County is hosting Coffee & Careers on Friday, Feb. 28, from 9-11 a.m., to provide insight on career opportunities within the district.
The informational event will allow participants to speak with the talent acquisition team and learn more about open positions within the district for the 2024-25 academic year. Attendees will also be able to walk through becoming certified to teach in Florida. The event will take place at Panera Bread, located at 5037 S. Cleveland Ave. in Fort Myers. To
register, visit LeeSchools.net/Careers.
The School District of Lee County is among the largest school districts in Florida and the United States with a growing enrollment of more than 99,000 students and 116 schools.
New hires will receive support and necessary resources that will enable them to succeed upon entering the field of education. The district offers a competitive and comprehensive compensation plan for its employees, and addi-
Bridge Beat
Bridge is played at 12:30 p.m. every Wednesday at the Fishers of Men Lutheran Church, located at 10360 Stringfellow Road, St. James City. Anyone wishing to play is welcome and does not need a partner. It costs $3 to play,
some of which goes back to winners of the game.
Last weeks’ winners were first place, Ellie Fenyohazi; second place, George Fenyohazi; and third place, Mary Tobias. Come on over and keep your brain alive.
tional benefits and earning opportunities are also available via advanced degree supplement, summer school, athletic coaching and more. Upon hire, a personal benefits selection process will be made available to eligible employees.
Additional hiring incentives are also available with Critical Shortage Area Bonuses that include a $3,000 hiring bonus for Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teachers and a $5,000 hiring bonus for speech-language pathologists and school psychologists. A $3,000 Relocation Bonus is also available to new hires who are relocating to the area from outside of Lee County to teach in a Critical Shortage Area.
For support or additional questions, email careers@leeschools.net or call 239-337-8676.
To learn more about available career opportunities, visit LeeSchools.net/Careers.
Harry Chapin Food Bank sees spike in food distribution
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddadg@breezenewspapers.com
Recent data released by Southwest Florida’s largest food bank showed a substantial increase in distributions in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Harry Chapin Food Bank’s 2024 Impact Report detailed a 10.6% increase in pounds of food distributed from 2023 to 2024, totaling 39.5 million last year. That equates to an additional 3 million means served to neighbors across the region.
HCFB, in conjunction with its 175 agency partners, distributes meals throughout Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee Counties.
From ‘23 to ‘24, Lee County saw a 16% increase in pounds of food distribution -- from 15.9 million to 18.4 million. Hendry County saw the largest increase at 25%, with Glades and Collier at 5%, and Charlotte at 2%.
“(The report) says to me that hunger is still a significant issue in Southwest Florida, despite all of our affluence,” said Richard LeBer, president and CEO of Harry Chapin Food Bank. “This is an expensive place for a lot of people to live, and many working families struggle with finding a way to make ends meet. In particular in the last year or two, I think the issues have been related to inflation; inflation in rents, inflation in healthcare costs, inflation in insurance, inflation in transportation expenses. There’s lots of bread and butter issues that are hitting people in the pocketbook.”
LeBer said HCFB sees large pockets of need in Lee County, which saw the second-highest increase in food distribution across the five counties HCFB serves.
“I think there are plenty of working communities, bedroom communities where folks are working probably in the service industry,” he said. “That would certainly include Cape Coral, Lehigh, and some other areas. We see a concentration of need in those areas, and we’re working hard to make sure we are distributing enough food in Lee County in the communities where people are experiencing the most hunger.”
Two food distribution programs focused on children saw large year-over-year spikes. Harry’s Helpings, which provides supplemental food kits for families through education providers, agency partners, community events and community centers, distributed 261,000 pounds of food in 2024, a 31.2% increase over the prior year. The In-School Pantry Program, which supplies shelf-stable foods to families through school pantries, distributed 741,000 pounds of food last year, a 28.2% year-over-year increase.
“Both of those programs are areas of focus for us,” LeBer said. “There’s a lot of folks that we serve that are young families with growing children. It’s particularly distressing to hear about children not having enough food. That has not only an immediate effect on their ability to learn in school and have a good quality of life and grow up the way they’re meant to, but also can have a permanent impact on their physical and mental development. We’re really making an investment in those kinds of programs to make sure that families with children that are experiencing hunger, that there’s plenty of opportunities for them to find food to take care of themselves and their kids.”
The 2024 Community Impact Report also includes the following highlights:
to assist all around Southwest Florida who needs it.
“I don’t think we’ll ever end hunger in a sense that no one will ever wake up on a Wednesday and realize they don’t have any money and they don’t have any food in the pantry,” he said. “I do think we can end hunger in the sense of always making sure that food is available for people who need it. That’s really what we’re working on. I think we are doing a decent job of reaching most folks, but there continues to be opportunities to make sure we have enough food in the right place and the right time to make sure it’s accessible to people who need it.”
While there are many contributing factors as to why there was a sharp increase in food insecurity throughout the region, such as hurricanes, LeBer feels the increased costs of basic living expenses and the economy play the most significant role.
“The inflation that we’re seeing is a hard thing for a lot of people to cope with,” LeBer said. “I don’t think we’ve seen the end of it. As long as that continues to be an issue where people’s rent is being raised enormously, or the cost of healthcare is going up, or the cost of insurance, then people are going to continue to struggle with meeting their budgets and keeping food on the table.”
HCFB works collaboratively with more than 175 partners across all five counties that receive food from the food bank free of cost, to distribute to their local community. Having these partnerships is critically important to be able to get food to as many people that need it.
n 5,900 volunteers provided 79,000 hours of time, the equivalent of $2.5 million through in-kind service.
n Harry Chapin Food Bank provided 511 health and nutrition educational courses.
n 96% of support funded programs and services; just 4% of revenue was directed toward administrative costs.
n Fresh produce accounted for 10.5 million of the 39.5 million pounds of food distributed in 2024.
With a mission to halt hunger in Southwest Florida, LeBer said each year is an ongoing battle, and that HCFB does its best
“There’s no way that the food bank on its own could have several hundred locations around our five counties where people can get access to food in their local neighborhood if it wasn’t for the support of all of our partner organizations in the network that help us do that,” LeBer said. “The significant majority of our food goes out to the community in that way — indirectly through other organizations that are boots-on-the-ground in Cape Coral or wherever that might be.”
HCFB sources the majority of its food from local retailers, with trucks picking up at every major grocery store in Southwest Florida on a daily basis. HCFB also receives donations of fresh produce from farms.
In terms of what 2025 holds, LeBer said no matter what the trend may be, HCFB will be there to serve the community.
“It all depends on how the economy does,” he said. “In particular, it all depends on how the economy does for working families. How the economy does in terms of providing economical access to housing, and food, and healthcare, and insurance. And if the policies of the new administration have a positive impact on those things, then hopefully we’ll see hunger decline. In the meantime, the food bank is going to do everything we can to make sure that we are geared up to take care of all the folks in Southwest Florida that need our help.
“None of this would be possible without the generosity of the community of Southwest Florida, and we are endlessly grateful for that.”
For more information, visit HarryChapinFoodBank. org.
Flow and Roll Yoga Class with Michelle begins Feb. 24
Flow and Roll Yoga Class with Michelle will be held at the St. James Civic Center Mondays from 9:15-10:15 a.m. for six weeks, Feb. 24 to March 31. This class is half Vinyasa yoga and half myofascial release. Learn how to feel better in your body.
The SJCCA is at the corner of Lemon Street and 4th Avenue in St. James City.
It was another warm week of fishing across Southwest Florida
Early in the week w i nds were light allowing for comfortable offshore fishing, then it picked up mid-week and into the weekend. Weather remained warm with water temperature climbing into the upper 70s.
Boats are returning with limits of red grouper bottom fishing depths from 90-115 feet in gulf waters west of Sanibel. A mix of snapper, including mangrove, vermilion and yellowtail, also went in the fish box.
On the Water
A few African pompano were hooked dropping over wrecks in the same depths, plus hard-fighting amberjack and goliath grouper.
Some anglers are catching good sized sheepshead and others aren’t. From what I have seen, they are not in numbers as previous years. The best reports came fishing around structure along the outer islands from Punta Rassa to Captiva. Deeper creeks around St. James City and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge gave up some as well.
Redfish on occasion were mixed with sheepshead, plus they were hooked fishing sand bottom along island points over the incoming tides in mid- to south Pine Island Sound.
Like sheepshead, seatrout is hit or miss. Plenty of 14-inch fish, and if you’re lucky enough to hit the right spots, larger fish to 20 inches. Over the low tides fish were caught around
sand holes throughout Pine Island Sound and along bar edges in Charlotte Harbor. Over the higher water, trout were caught over grass flats in 3 to 5-foot depths. A few pompano and permit were caught in the northern Sound and Charlotte Harbor. One fish around here that there is no shortage of is ladyfish. Not much to eat, but a lot of fun to catch. Large schools were common in north Matlacha Pass into Charlotte Harbor, and throughout the Sound, and around the gulf passes. Several mackerel were caught around the ladyfish, and a few tarpon were sighted rolling in Charlotte Harbor.
After a stretch of above normal temperatures, it looks like we may get some cooler weather. While the warmer days are great, water temperatures were rising too fast too early. A little drop in temperature may be a good thing.
If you have a fishing report or for charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service -call or text 239-410-8576; website at www.fishpine island.com; or email gcl2fish@live.com
Have a safe week and good fishin’
As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt. Bill Russell has spent his life fishing and learning
PHOTO PROVIDED
Randy Dalton and friends fished a nice warm morning with good success. They were fishing in Matlacha Pass with Capt. Bill Russell.
Capt. Bill Russell
PHOTO PROVIDED
From left are Jay Sanderson, his wife Taryn Sanderson their child Reagan Sanderson.
Sanderson
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requests coming in were for diesel fuel, recalling the heavy job of supplying the fuel for the water pumps. He said he still remembers very clearly that the GPIA was able to get people bringing in fuel from all over the state.
“We brought it from Miami, from Naples, from Punta Gorda — we had boats full of diesel fuel coming out here,” Sanderson said.
He likened the previous Island Tactical location to a convenience store, as they tried to keep locals stocked with everything they could to combat the Hurricane Ian aftershock.
He said, if there was one request for which he could demand an answer, it would be the completion of the work on the Little Pine Island Bridge.
“I just want things to be back to old Pine Island -- more than anything, I want things to be back to normal. I think that’s what we’re all working for— just to get back to where we were,” Sanderson said.
FDOT provides update on Little Pine Island Bridge
The Florida Department of Transportation has provided the following update on the progress of the Little Pine Island Bridge reconstruction project.
Phase 1 Update
FDOT aims to complete Phase 1 by spring 2025 and make significant progress on both the east and west sides of the bridge.
East Side Work
Construction crews completed the installation of the bulkhead pipe pile wall. Driving the bulkhead pipe pile wall is a critical step for stabilizing the foundation and ensuring the structural integrity of the bridge as it progresses.
If the tide permits, crews will continue preparations and begin placing large rocks (rip rap) to help protect the bridge and mitigate erosion. This included bringing in extra equipment such as another crane and checking the
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their way through piles of paperwork for food stamps, Medicaid or Medicare, and also she helps those with disabilities, she said.
“There are just so many things that are covered. I have yearly certifications from DCF and also other entities. I also give advice on Medicare Savings Plans that are through health insurance,” Herrera said.
Although the line of folks who need help seems to be endless, she said she absolutely loves her job and that it has brought much joy into her life.
“I enjoy coming in every day to work with clients. My satisfaction is when I’m able to conquer their needs and they’re so grateful about it. I love that I’m able to help them with whatever comes their way,” Herrera said.
Going forward, Herrera said it’s her greatest hope to be known by those who’ve needed her, as one who was able to help them overcome every obstacle they may encounter.
The Beacon of Hope is at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle in St. James City. For additional information, call 239283-5123.
levels of underground water.
Slab beam placements will begin next week. Concrete slab beams are utilized to efficiently support vehicular loads over short to medium spans.
West Side Work
Another crew is on-site and will place large rocks (rip rap) on the west side while work continues on the east side. This work depends on the level of the tide. By working on both sides at the same time, progress will stay on track without delays.
Stay tuned for future updates as we make progress on this critical project.
To sign up for updates and access the weekly Road Watch, please visit the project website at 451937-2 Pine Island Causeway and Bridge Reconstruction Project. To access the bridge traffic cameras go to https://www.leegov.com/dot/traffic.
Guadalupe Herrera outside the Beacon of Hope Office on Pine Island.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NANCY COTE
Herrera
Herrera
Squires
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prise and an honor, describing it as prestigious. The chamber managed to keep a tight lid on the recipient, as always, as she said, she had no idea.
Squires said she does what she does and it’s like breathing, as there is hardly any effort she has to put forth to want to serve other people.
“I never think about the things I do for an award or for thanks or anything like that,” Squires said.
Not having been prepared for anything like this award left Squires without a speech of any kind, she said, with a laugh. She was prepared, however, to talk about the upcoming event, she affectionately refers to as ‘The Bobby.’ With the 2025 Bobby Holloway Fishing Tournament coming up on April 5, Squires said, although she knows it’s been a difficult
‘Island Luau’
season, she’s praying the community supports The Bobby, the way they always do with sponsorship and donations.
“The more that we get, the more we can give. I just want to give everything. It becomes addictive and, after a while, you just want to help and help,” Squires said.
Years of raising funds and meeting needs has caused an almost mandatory reflex for Squires, as she comes back time after time, hoping to provide a fishing expedition for both island and mainland kids who may have never been fishing on a boat or in a tournament before. This past year, she said $63,000 was raised and given in scholarships.
“I’m very proud of that. It’s a huge number. I’m also very proud to support our Little League, our Pine Island Elementary School and all the individual
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n Silent Auction, Raffles, Mystery Wines, Chic Jewelry Boutique and Matlacha Hooker Merchandise Shopping.
n Appetizers, BBQ island-inspired Lunch, CW Fudge desserts and two Tropical beverages included with your ticket.
n Welcoming Leis and Hula Dancers.
Additional Information:
Tickets are $45 in advance as none will be sold at the event. The event has sold out in the last four years, so please purchase your tickets by ordering online:
Use your QR app on this barcode below, and click on the website or go to directly to https://events.humanitix.com/13th-annu-
al-island-luau and the tickets will be emailed to you.
If you cannot deal with technology, call Tracy at 317-501-9930 or email her at tracychapple365@gmail.com so she can order them.
For more information, see the Hookers website at www.matlachahookers.org
The Matlacha Hookers is a 501(c)(3) women’s charitable non-profit organization. The organization has over 200 members from Matlacha and the Greater Pine Island area, Cape Coral, North Fort Myers, and Fort Myers. For more information, visit www.matlachahookes.org
CCB0000858.crtr - Page 1 - Composite
requests that we have, whether it be for food or medical,” Squires said.
The Bobby Holloway Foundation also adopts kids at Christmastime, she said, reiterating how proud she is of the work she has been able to accomplish in her son’s name. While Squires admits the reason she started the Bobby Holloway Foundation and Fishing Tournament is awful, she said she can’t help but be thankful to her son, who would likely be content with all she has been able to undertake through the tragedy of his death. Because of him, she said many lives have been touched and it all helps heal her heart.
“One thing about the tournament is that we have our ‘Little Bobbers’ division. I’m very proud of how much that has grown.
Our youth get to go out and have a great day on the water with our local guides and they are treated like little fishermen that are chartering a boat or something,” Squires said.
People who have gone out as kids have grown up to see their own kids become a part of this tradition, she said, admitting having been able to accomplish this kind of progressive leadership has been a blessing all of its own. Squires gives a great deal of credit for all she’s been able to achieve to her board and volunteers, saying none of it would be possible without them.
“I have to say thank you to Bobby. Because of him, I get to bless other people and I am blessed,” Squires said.
Cat of the Week
Macho
A tisket, a tasket, Macho is the orange boy in the basket. Not only is he photogenic, this 3-year-old is great at eating, playing, cuddling and finding treats. He loves when people visit the shelter and he can con them into petting him for 20 minutes. Call Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary at 239-283-9100 for more information. If you’d rather just donate, our address is 10060 Mallory Parkway E, Unit D, St. James City, or there’s always our website www. helpingpawsanimalsanctuary.com.
PHOTO PROVIDED
REDBARN FabulousEstateSale
SatFeb22nd&SunFeb23rd 8amto3pm 1904SE44thSt (OffDelPradoatOrchid)
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TrinityLutheranChurch AnnualYard,Plant& BakeSale SatFeb22nd,8am-1pm 706SW6thAve,CapeCoral (OffNicholas) GreatBargains SomethingForEveryone
DVD’s, VHS, & Much More!
