Cape Coral Weekend Breeze

If approved after public hearings in April, the city of Cape Coral would not accept applications for, or issue permits for, any new self-storage or car wash facility within any zoning district in Cape Coral for the duration of the moratorium

B y M E G H A N B R A D B U RY n e w s @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m O r d i n a n c e s t h a t w o u l d p l a c e a m o r at o r i u m o n n e w c a r w a s h e s a n d s e l f - s t o ra g e b u i l d i n g s i n C a p e C o r a l m o v e d f o rw a r d W e d n e s d a y C a p e C o r a l C i t y C o u n c i l u n a n i m o u s l y a d v a n c e d e a c h t o t h e f i r s t p u b l i c h e a r i n g s t a g e , s e t t i n g t h e h e a r i n g f o r e a c h o n A p r i l 3 T h e r e w a s n o d i s c u s s i o n a m o n g t h e e l e c t e d b o a r d a n d o n l y o n e r e s i d e n t c o mm e n t e d , s a y i n g a m o r a t o r i u m w o u l d b e i n a p p r o p r i a t e . J a y H i g g i n s , t h e r e s i d e n t , b e l i e v e d t h a t t h e m o r e t h e m e r r i e r , a l t h o u g h h e a l s o s a i d c a r w a s h e s c a n b e n o i s y a n d d o t a k e w a t e r t o r u n H e s u g g e s t e d a l l o w i n g s u c h b u s i n e s se s i n h i g h t r a f f i c l o c a t i o n s a w a y f r o m h o m e s

Saturday’s concert features Richard Elliot

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

Oneof the city’s premiere concert events takes place this Saturday to continue its third decade of entertainment.

The 33rd annual Sounds of Jazz and Blues, put on by the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, brings some of the best musical talents in the genre to the Cape for an evening of good tunes, food, and fun

“This is a great, big event, and we’re now in our second year at Coral Oaks Golf Course,” said city Special Events Coordinator Todd King “We’ve enhanced the venue with some additional room, and this event is growing into it better and better ”

Gates open at 4:30 p m with the first musical act, RV Jazz, taking the stage from 5 to 5:45 The evening’s slate continues with Betty Fox from 6 to 7, and Richard Elliot from 7:30 to 9

“We’ve got great acts,” King said “Richard Elliot played in 2015 at this event, and we’re glad to have him back Just a phe-

See CONCERT, page 38

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Thomas Roy Stein

CRA explores electric charging stations for the South Cape

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Although adding electric vehicle chargers to the South Cape was discussed as a need, Cape Redevelopment Agency commissioners were uncertain as to how many and what kind of charger would be the best fit

Cape Coral City Council, sitting as the CRA governing board, first got an update on the devices Wednesday

Michael Fischer, of Electron Charger, LCC , said they have been in the charger business for about four years now, distributing and installing 550 units across the United States between Indianapolis and Cape Coral from multi-family residential to parking garages downtown

“In the charger world, there are three levels,” Fischer said.

Level one is a charger an individual receives when purchasing a car, which charges a car in a day Level two is 208 to 220 volts and can charge a car from four to six hours Level three is the fastest charger with charging as fast as 20 minutes

“You go up levels, you go up in prices,” Fischer said, adding that in most cases for city type uses, they look somewhere in the level two range “At level two it is much more economical to bring in electrical service at 208, or 240 volts ”

Level twos come in a variety of different packages, mounting stands and cable management

The city or CRA could purchase the chargers outright, purchasing with installation, or have a lease type of situation. With leasing the equipment, the manufacture would be responsible for maintenance.

“(There are) options to keep neat, clean, and operational (cables) and keeping the maintenance down,” Fischer said

The mounts can be back-to-back chargers, side-by-side, or individual chargers

“It depends on where your vision is for what areas, who is using and how long using for,” Fischer said

The city or CRA could purchase the chargers outright, purchasing with installation, or have a lease type of situation With leasing the equipment, the manufacture would be responsible for maintenance

“When we are talking about chargers and cost wise 80% is going to be installation of electrical and 20% hardware,” Fischer said

Level two with a stand, could cost from $1,500 to $2,500 with a stand compared to a level three at $12,000 to $18,000 per unit

Commissioner Robert Welsh, who has first-hand knowledge with electric vehicles, as he has owned one for almost four years, said he would suggest moving forward with a level three

“I wouldn’t use a level two charger aside from being at my house Level two overnight charge, or my car is almost dead and need to get a quick 10 miles,” he said, adding that he would recommend a private-public partnership on level three chargers

Commissioner Dan Sheppard said the lifestyle is different when you have an electric vehicle

“You are actually planning because of where to charge The chargers are for the draw, draw travelers,” he said, adding

that people may make a pit stop in downtown Cape Coral because there is a charger there

There were many suggestions thrown out of possible locations, such as Founders Park, military museum and Clubs Square

“We have a limited amount of parking spaces in the CRA and I kind of like the executive director’s idea of picking a location of a couple different places,” Commissioner John Gunter said, suggesting Founders Park as one of those locations

Executive Director Michael Ilczyszyn, who also is Cape Coral’s city manager, told the commissioners when they are thinking about locations, try not to box into existing areas

“We have a lot of opportunity If you want to do this, we can find something that would fit without eliminating front door parking for businesses,” he said

Ilczyszyn said in all of the GO Bond parks they have put in sub panels off the main two parking spaces but have not put in any chargers yet

The commissioners also threw out ideas of starting off with two charging stations as a test run to see what kind of draw it may have, as well as looking into a P3

“I support this too Four would make sense,” Commissioner Jessica Cosden said. “I have no doubt it would be used Having it near fun stuff is important ”

Gunter suggested they find out how many electric vehicles are registered in the city to see how many chargers may be needed

City awards performance, managing contracts

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Cape Coral City Council awarded a number of contracts at its regular meeting Wednesday:

n A $165,000 contract was awarded with Newson Construction and Consulting, LLC to reduce and remove vegetative debris at Festival Park

The contract is to begin the preparation for construction, which is expected to begin in the spring of 2024 for Festival Park Council earlier awarded a construction bid for the park to Burke Construction Group in February Including contingency, the budget has been set at approximately $17 8 million

Development plans call for festival grounds able to accommodate large events as well as an outdoor concert venue with an amphitheater with grass berm for seating

Four multi-use sports fields with lighting are also to be constructed

n Florida and Sports Facilities Management will manage and operate Lake Kennedy Racquet Center

City Council approved a contract for the management and operation of the facility for a basic management fee of $222,000 payable in the monthly amount of $18,500 during Wednesday night’s meeting

The contract is for five years with an optional fiveyear renewal

The center is expected to be completed in June and is part of the $60 million GO Bond

The upgraded center at 400 Santa Barbara Blvd will have 12 tennis courts, 32 pickleball courts, a pro shop, concession, pavilion, and restrooms

Trends, tips & forecasting this year’s Cape Coral Catch the Vision fulfilled its promised look forward and more Cape Coral is set to see projects that will provide the type of business and economic growth that would have seemed to be more dream than vision as little as a decade or so ago Master planned, mixed-use projects that provide housing accessible to shopping and dining; both luxury and affordable multi-family complexes; additional health care infrastructure including office space, expansions and new facilities; new hotels and, yes, more retail and restaurants

Those who wish to “keep it in the Cape” will have a greater ability to do that, thanks to the billions of dollars yes, billions of dollars of private investment coming into our city

The 13th annual rendition of Catch the Vision, emceed by traditional hosts, former Cape Coral City Council member Gloria Tate and Bill Johnson, long a leader within the building and construction industry, offered updates on all the major and some of the smaller but nonetheless impactful development projects in the queue

Among the big ones?

Gulf Gateway Resort and Marina Village, a mixed-use project planned for the 48-acre Seven Islands property in the northwest Cape

According to information provided at Catch the Vision by Peter Baytarian, the “destination resort” project will feature a 240-room hotel, a lagoon pool, restaurants, retail, condos and 72 “fish houses,” along with public docks, a community center on the project’s public island and multiple amenities for families and residents

The resort and all of the islands will be open to the public, Mr Baytarian said

Conceptual plans, with “draft status” dated Jan 23, 2024, show a marked change from earlier renditions for the site sold by the city which had gone out for requests for proposal based on a Cape Coral City Council adopted concept

The revised plans reinstate the community center, deleted in an earlier rendition, on “Island 7,” one of the seven “hammerheads” connected to the roadway off Old Burnt Store Road

See EDITORIAL, page 13

r e h e r e , a n d w e a r e l i s t e n i n g . A s w e s t r i v e t o b a la n c e e q u a l l y i m p o r t a n t i n t e r e s t s , w e c o nt i n u e t o e n c o u r a g e o u r p a r t n e r s a n d s t a k eh o l d e r s t o m a k e t h e i r v o i c e s h e a r d W e b e g a n r e l e a s e s f r o m L a k e O k e e c h o b e e o n F e b 1 7 w h e n s e a s o n a l c o n d i t i o n s a r e n o r m a l l y d r y a n d w a t e r l e v e l s a r e e x p e c t e d t o r e c e d e T h e s e l a k e r e l e a s e s h e l p e d s t a r t t h e n o r m a l w i n t e r / s p r i n g t i m e r e c e s s i o n o n t h e l a k e W a t e r l e v e l s m u s t c o n t i n u e t o c o m e d o w n b e f o r e t h e b e g i n n i n g o f b o t h t h e w e t s e as o n a n d t h e A t l a n t i c h u r r i c a n e s e a s o n , g o o d f o r b o t h t h e e c o l o g y o f t h e L a k e a n d t h e s a f e t y o f t h e c i t i z e n s i n t h e c o m m u n it i e s a r o u n d t h e l a k e L o w e r l a k e w a t e r l e v e l s p r o v i d e f l o o d r i s k m a n a g e m e n t a s w e l l a s d e c r e a s e t h e p r o b a b i l i t y o f l a r g e r e l e a s e s o c c u rr i n g d u r i n g t h e s u m m e r , w h i c h i s a l s o t h e p e a k o f a l g a l b l o o m s e a s o n W e u n d e r s t a n d t h e c u r r e n t l a k e r e l e a s e s a r e s t r e s s f u l f o r t h e C a l o o s a h a t c h e e a n d S t L u c i e e s t u a r i e s a n d a d j a -

c e n t c o m m u n i t i e s W e k n o w f r o m o u r c o n s i s t e n t e n g a g e m e n t w i t h s t a k e h o l d e r s t h a t w a t e r q u a l i t y r e m a i n s o n e o f y o u r s i g n i f i c a n t c o n c e r n s A s s u c h , i t i s a l s o o n e o f t h e p r i n c i p a l c o n s i d e r a t i o n s i n t eg r a t e d i n t o o u r d e c i s i o n - m a k i n g a s w e s t r i v e t o b a l a n c e t h e m u l t i p l e p r o j e c t p u rp o s e s f o r L a k e O k e e c h o b e e w a t e r m a na g e m e n t W e u n d e r s t a n d t h e i m p a c t w a t e r c l a ri t y h a s o n r e c r e a t i o n a n d t o u r i s m L o o k i n g t o w a r d s t h e s u m m e r a n d p e a k a l g a l b l o o m m o n t h s , w e a r e c o m m i t t e d t o d o i n g e v e r y t h i n g w i t h i n o u r a u t h o r i t i e s t o h e l p t h e S t a t e o f F l o r i d a m a n a g e i t s w a t e r q u a l i t y c h a l l e n g e s W h e n p o s s i b l e , w e w i l l a v o i d r e l e a s e s w h e n t h e r i s k o f b l u e g r e e n a l g a l b l o o m s i s h i g h , t o m i t ig a t e p o t e n t i a l h e a l t h c o n c e r n s . W h i l e w e c a n n o t c o n t r o l M o t h e r N a t u r e , w e c o n t i n u e t o b e f o c u s e d o n m o v i n g w a t e r t h r o u g h t h i s i n t e r c o n n e c te d s y s t e m i n t h e m o s t b e n e f i c i a l w a y p r a c t i c a l i n c l u d i n g d e l i v e r i n g a r e c o r d a m o u n t o f w a t e r f r o m W a t e r C o n s e r v a t i o n A r e a ( W C A ) 3 - A t o E v e r g l a d e s N a t i o n a l

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Save Jaycee Park

T o t h e e d i t o r : T h e c i t y ’ s J a y c e e P a r k p r o j e c t i s n o t a b o u t i m p r o vi n g a p a r k I t ’ s a b o u t l e t t i n g a m y s t e r y i n v e s t o r b u i l d a b a r b y a p l a y g r o u n d I t ’ s a b o u t t a k i n g a w a y t h e o p e n f i e l d s f o r p l a y i n g g a m e s a n d h o l d i n g s p e c i a l e v e n t s a n d i n s t e a d , s c a t t e ri n g s e a t i n g t h r o u g h o u t I t ’ s a b o u t t a k i n g e v e r y t h i n g t h a t ’ s u s e d b y t h e p u b l i c a n d r e s h a p i n g i t i n t o w h a t a p r i v a t e c o m p a n y w a n t s I t ’ s a b o u t d o i n g i t a l l a t t a x p a y e r s ’ e x p e n s e o f a n o t he r $ 1 2 m i l l i o n , m i n i m u m I t ’ s a b o u t i g n o r i n g t h e r e s i d e n t s ’ o b j e c t i o n s , r e a s o na b l e c o n c e r n s , u n a n s w e r e d q u e s t i o n s , e x p e r t s ’ r e c o mm e n d a t i o n s a n d e v e n t h e c i t y ’ s o w n l o n g - t e r m p l a n s I t ’ s a b o u t d e n y i n g a v o i c e t o t a x p a y e r s w h o a r e n o t r e g i s t e r e d a s v o t e r s i n C a p e C o r a l e v e n t h o u g h t h e y o w n p r o p e r t y a d j a c e n t t o t h e p a r k a n d a r e a l r e a d y a d v e r s e l y a f f e c t e d b y t h e s e p l a n s M o r e t h a n 5 0 p r o p e rt i e s o n t h e B e a c h P a r k w a y p e n i n s u l a a r e f o r s a l e R e a l t o r s c a n n o l o n g e r t e l l p e r s p e c t i v e b u y e r s t h a t t h e y w i l l b e l i v i n g b y a p e a c e f u l n e i g h b o r h o o d p a r k , j u s t t w o m i l e s f r o m t h e c i t y ’ s r e s t a u r a n t a n d e n t e r t a i n m e n t h u b , b u t w i t h a q u i e t , n a t u r a l , r i v e r f r o n t g r e e n s p a c e I t ’ s a b o u t d e s t a b i l i z i n g o n e o f t h e o l d e s t a n d m o s t d e s i r e d r e s i d e n t i a l n e i g h b o r h o o d s i n C a p e C o r a l d u r i n g a n u n p r e c e d e n t e d i n s u r a n c e c r i s i s A l l t h i s p r o j e c t i s a b o u t , i s a n u n d i s c l o s e d p a r t y t e l l i n g t h e c i t y c o u n c i l w h a t i t w a n t s a n d t h e c i t y c o u nc i l d o i n g e v e r y t h i n g i t c a n t o m a k e i t h a p p e n H e a t h e r O ' C o n n e l l C a p e C o r a l

Animal shelter expansion should not be suppor ted with taxpayer money

To the editor:

Tur f protection in the Cape, by gover nment order

L o u W a l k e r C a p e C o r a l

To the editor: Y o u r s t o r y a b o u t t h e u p c o m i n g “ m o r a t o r i u m ” o n n e w c a r w a s h e s a n d n e w s e l f - s t o r a g e f a c i l i t i e s h e r e i n C a p e C o r a l i s v e r y d i s t u r b i n g ( B r e e z e , t o p o f f r o n t p a g e , M a r c h 2 0 . T h e p r o p o s e d o r d i n a n c e , n o w p e n d i n g b e f o r e t h e C i t y C o u n c i l , w o u l d f l a s h - f r e e z e a n y p r op o s e d c h a l l e n g e s t o e x i s t i n g f a c i l i t i e s I n o t h e r w o r d s , u n l e s s t h e c h a l l e n g e r s h a v e s o m e r e a l s t a y i n g p o w e r ( i e , l o t s o f m o n e y t h e y d o n ’ t m i n d b u r ni n g w h i l e w a i t i n g ) , t h e s e c h a l l e n g e r s a r e g o n n a w i t h e r a n d d i e o n t h e v i n e T h a t c o s t i s r e a l l y a p r e e m p t i v e p u n i t i v e s a n c t i o n o n l e g i t i m a t e n e w b u s i n e s s e s O n l y t h e o w n e r s o f t h e e x i s t i n g b u s i n e s s e s w o u l d b e n e f i t f r o m t h i s n a k e d p o l i t i c a l i n t e r f e r e n c e i n t h e F r e e M a r k e t I n o t h e r w o r d s , t u r f p r o t e c t i o n D o n C o r l e o n e h i m s e l f c o u l d n ’ t d o i t a n y b e t t e r T h e c i t y h a s n o l e g i t i m a t e i n t e r e s t i n i n t e r f e r i n g w i t h a t t e m p t s t o p r o v i d e c o m m e r c i a l s e r v i c e s

A s a t a x p a y e r , I b e l i e v e t h a t i t i s i m p o r t a n t f o r p u bl i c f u n d s t o b e u s e d i n a m a n n e r t h a t b e n e f i t s t h e w h o l e c o m m u n i t y T h e a n i m a l s h e l t e r e x p a n s i o n f o r c o n s t r u ct i o n r e l a t e d f e e s s h o u l d n o t b e f u n d e d b y t a x p a y e r d o ll a r s T h i s $ 6 4 , 7 0 0 c a n o f f s e t o t h e r c i t y e x p e n s e s e s p ec i a l l y w h e n t h e r e a r e o t h e r p r e s s i n g c i t y i s s u e s t h a t r e q u i r e f i n a n c i a l s u p p o r t , a n d w e j u s t h a d a t a x i n c r e a s e , a n d t h e c i t y c o u n c i l g a v e t h e m s e l v e s a l a r g e m o n t h l y s t i p e n d I u n d e r s t a n d t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f p r o v i d i n g c a r e a n d a s s i s t a n c e t o a n i m a l s i n n e e d , a n d I f u l l y s u p p o r t t h e e f f o r t s o f t h e a n i m a l s h e l t e r i n o u r c o m m u n i t y H o w e v e r , f u n d i n g f o r t h i s s h e l t e r s h o u l d c o m e f r o m a l t e r n a t i v e s o u r c e s s u c h a s d o n a t i o n s , g r a n t s , a n d p r iv a t e f u n d i n g , r a t h e r t h a n r e l y i n g o n t a x d o l l a r s a s i t w a s o r i g i n a l l y p r o p o s e d a s a s e l f - f u n d e d n o n p r o f i t w h e n c i t y l e a s e d t h e l a n d t o i t i n 2 0 1 7 f o r $ 1 a y e a r T a x p a y e r s a l r e a d y p a i d o v e r $ 7 1 , 0 0 0 f o r c o n s t r u c t i o n r e l a t e d f e e s f o r t h e b u i l d i n g F u n d i n g f o r a n i m a l s h e l t e r s s h o u l d b e s u p p l e m e n t e d b y c o n t r i b u t i o n s f r o m i n d i v i d u a l s w h o a r e p a s s i o n a t e a b o u t a n i m a l w e l f a r e B y e n c o u r a g i n g p r i v a t e d o n a t i o n s a n d s p o n s o r s h i p s , w e c a n e n s u r e t h a t t h e a n i m a l s h e l t e r h a s t h e n e c e s s a r y r e s o u r c e s t o c o n t i n u e t h e i r v a l u a b l e w o r k w i t h o u t b u r d e n i n g t a x p a y e r s I u r g e t h e m a y o r a n d c i t y c o u n c i l n o t t o c o n s i d e r t h e u s e o f t a x d o l l a r s t o f u n d t h e a n i m a l s h e l t e r a n d t o e x p l o r e a l t e r n a t i v e f u n d i n g o p t i o n s t h a t d o n o t p l a c e a n a d d i t i o n a l f i n a n c i a l s t r a i n o n t a x p a y e r s I b e l i e v e t h a t b y a d o p t i n g a m o r e s u s t a i n a b l e f u n d i n g m o d e l , w e c a n s u p p o r t t h e a n i m a l s h e l t e r w h i l e a l s o a d d r e s s i n g t h e d i v e r s e n e e d s o f o u r c o m m u n i t y W h a t w i l l b e n e x t , t h e c i t y t a k e n o v e r t h e w h o l e o p e r a t i o n o f t h e a n i m a l s h e lt e r o r s t a r t g i v i n g m o n e y t o a l l o t h e r t a x - e x e m p t n o np r o f i t s i n t h e c i t y ?

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From page 4

b u i l t i n c o m m e r c i a l z o n e s a n d w i l l p r o s p e r o r d i e t h e r e , d e p e n d i n g e n t i r e l y o n w h e t h e r t h e y s e r v e t h e n e e d s o f t h e p u b l i c I t i s n o t t h e C o u n c i l ’ s c a l l , b u t t h e p u b l i c ’ s I s u p p o s e t h a t b u i l d i n g s f o r s t o r a g e f a c i l i t i e s a n d c a r w a s h e s w i l l n e v e r b e c o n f u s e d w i t h a r c h i t e c t u r a l m a st e r p i e c e s , l i k e G o t h i c c a t h e d r a l s o r t h e E i f f e l T o w e r T h e y n e v e r c o u l d b e I f t h a t i s w h a t t h e C o u n c i l i s c o nc e r n e d a b o u t h e r e , t h e y a r e i n t h e w r o n g b u s i n e s s T h i s i s a c l a s s i c e x a m p l e o f g o v e r n m e n t a l o v e r r e a c h a t t h e l o c a l l e v e l . I t m u s t b e s t o p p e d . T h e u n d e r l y i n g a t t i t u d e b y t h e m e m b e r s o f t h e C o u n c i l i s , u m m m , “ p r o b l e m a t i c ” W e c a n d o b e t t e r L a r r y G i l l i s C a p e C o r a l

Many thanks

To the editor:

Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to all who made the 22nd A n n u a l B u r r o w i n g O w l F e s t i v a l , W i l d l i f e a n d Environmental Expo on Feb 24 a resounding success

The event celebrated the city’s official bird, the burrowing owl and other local wildlife that make the city of Cape Coral a unique and wonderful place to live and visit Almost 3,700 attendees enjoyed the celebration at Rotary Park! The weather cooperated perfectly allowing visitors to enjoy nature and butterfly tours, children’s activities, arts and crafts vendors, educational demonstrations on local wildlife and conservation, live animals including Adam’s Animal Adventures, a silent auction, food, music and more And Athene, our burrowing owl mascot, posed for photo ops with young and old alike!

First of all, thank you to the city of Cape Coral, the Parks and Recreation Department and the dedicated employees of Rotary Park who started working months ahead of the festival and were instrumental in putting the event together

Thank you to our sponsors whose generous donations offset the cost of running the festival!

Thank you to the more than 160 dedicated volunteers (including 37 local high school and college students) who worked from dawn to dusk ensuring the day was safe, educational and enjoyable for all

Thank you to the many vendors and wildlife organization who exhibited!

And lastly, thank you to the community members who attended, for taking the time to learn about and support Cape Coral’s burrowing owls and other local wildlife

Proceeds from the Burrowing Owl Festival will be used to promote CCFW’s mission to preserve and enhance the habitats of protected wildlife species and to educate the community about Cape Coral’s wildlife resources A special emphasis will be placed on acquisition of land in Cape Coral to be preserved for burrowing owl and gopher tortoise habitat

For more information on Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife, visit ccfriendsofwildlife org

With appreciation, Janet Windisch, Corresponding Secretary, Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife

Polls results laughable

T o t h e e d i t o r : I h a d t o

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

t h e r e s u l t s a r e n o t s c i e n t i f i c I t w a s p r o b a b l y o n e D e m o c r a t v o t i n g a b o u t 7 2 0 t i m e s f o r B i d e n i n o r d e r t o s k e w t h e r e s u l t s P a t h e t i c E v e n t h e p e r s o n a t t h e p a p e r w h o r e p o r t e d t h e s e r e s u l t s m u s t b e a D e m o c r a t b e c a u s e t h e y c o u l d n ’ t b e a r t o g i v e T r u m p 1 1 % , b u t i n s t e a d c a r r i e d t h e p e r c e n t a g e t o t w o d e c i m a l p l a c e s , u n l i k e t h e o t h e r r e s u l t s T h e y c o u l d n ’ t e v e n b e a r t o g i v e T r u m p 1 0 8 % A l s o , t h e t o t a l o f t h e 3 p e r c e n t a g e s i s o v e r 1 0 0 % , w i t h o u t t h e U n d e c i d e d s . T h e y s h o u l d a l w a y s r e c h e c k t h e i r w o r k .

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T o t h e e d i t o r :

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On the wrong path

T o t h e e d i t o r : D i s t u r b i n g e v e n t s b y b o t h t h e S c h o o l B o a r d a n d C i t y C o u n c i l h a v e u n f u r l e d i n B r e e z e a r t i c l e s T h e C i t y C o u n c i l h a s m a d e i t e v e n e a s i e r t o t h r o w o u t l a w - a b i d i n g c i t i z e n s w h o t r y t o e x e r c i s e t h e i r 3m i n u t e c i t i z e n s i n p u t t i m e T h e C o u n c i l d o e s n o t w a n t t o h e a r a d v e r s e o p i n i o n s T h e C o u n c i l h a d a c i t i z e n a r r e s t e d T h e s c h o o l b o a r d h a s a s i m i l a r p r o p o s a l o n d e c k M r . A n d o s i c a r e s i g n e d w h e n t h e S c h o o l D i s t r i c t p u t h i s l i b r a r y u n d e r “ a d m i n i s t r a t i v e l o c k u p ” T h e a p p e a l s c o u r t r u l e d a g a i n s t t h e s t a t e l a w t h a t M r A n d o s i c a r e s i g n e d o v e r T h e G o v e r n o r h a s s t a t e d t h i n g s h a v e g o n e t o o f a r T h e S c h o o l D i s t r i c t h a d a t e a c h e r ’ s b u l l e t i n b o a r d c o v e r e d u p f o r o n e f l a g T h e d i s t r i c t c o n s i s t e n t l y h a s r e f u s e d t o h a v e a s c h o o l h o l i d a y f o r V e t e r a n s D a y W h a t i s n e x t ? A d m i n i s t r a t i v e l o c k u p o f T h e B r e e z e , t h e F i r s t A m e n d m e n t o f o u r C o n s t i t u t i o n , b o o k b u r ni n g ?

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Freedom being spat upon T o t h e e d i t o r :

Senate candidate Mucarsel-Powell is the correct choice for Florida

T o t h e e d i t o r : D e b b i e M u c a r s e l - P o w e l l ’ s b a c k g r o u n d w i l l c o n n e c t w i t h m a n y F l o r i d i a n s , s i n c e t h e y h a v e b e e n i n h e r s h o e s i n s t r u g g l i n g w i t h h o m e a f f o r d a b i l i t y , w o r k i n g m i n im u m - w a g e j o b s o r c o m i n g f r o m a n o t h e r c o u n t r y a t a y o u n g a g e M u c a r s e l - P o w e l l i m m i g r a t e d f r o m E c u a d o r a t 1 4 y e a r s o l d A t 2 4 , s h e l o s t h e r f a t h e r t o g u n v i o l e n c e W e n o w h a v e s o m a n y f a m i l i e s l i v i n g i n t h e s t a t e o f F l o r i d a t h a t h a v e b e e n t o u c h e d b y t h e s e t r a g i c l o s s e s d u e t o g u n v i o l e n c e S e n S c o t t i s a b i l l i o n a i r e w h o c a n n o t r e l a t e t o s t r u gg l i n g F l o r i d i a n s H e h a s v o w e d t o c u t S o c i a l S e c u r i t y a n d M e d i c a r e H i s m a i n i n t e r e s t i s t o i n s t i t u t e a d d i t i o na l t a x c u t s f o r t h e v e r y w e a l t h y . S c o t t w a s c h a s t i s e d n a t i o n a l l y f o r h i s p r o p o s a l t o s u n s e t f e d e r a l p r o g r a m s e v e r y f i v e y e a r s , w h i c h r e q u i r e d h i m t o r e t r e a t b y e x e m p t i n g S o c i a l S e c u r i t y , M e d i c a r e , t h e V e t e r a n s A d m i n i s t r a t i o n a n d n a t i o n a l d e f e n s e s p e n d i n g f r o m h i s p r o p o s a l S e n S c o t t h a s p u s h e d f o r a n a t i o n w i d e a b o r t i o n b a n , w o r k i n g t o t a k e t h e r i g h t s a w a y f r o m w o m e n a n d t h e i r f a m i l i e s M u c a r s e l - P o w e l l h a s v o w e d t o f i g h t f o r S o c i a l S e c u r i t y a n d M e d i c a r e a n d w i l l a d d r e s s h o m e o w n e ri n s u r a n c e c o s t s , h o u s i n g a f f o r d a b i l i t y , g u n s a f e t y a n d a b o r t i o n r i g h t s S e r v i n g i n C o n g r e s s , D e b b i e f o u g h t t o e x p a n d o p p o r t u n i t y f o r e v e r y A m e r i c a n D e b b i e w r o t e t h e b i l l t o e x p a n d s e n i o r s ’ M e d i c a r e A d v a n t a g e c o v e r a g e , a n d s h e w o r k e d w i t h R e p u b l i c a n s t o p r o v i d e e c o n o m i c r e l i e f t o f a m i l i e s a n d s m a l l b u s i n e s s e s a n d s e c u r e d

a u b e F o r t M y e r s

A s w e r e a d a n d s e e t h e i l l e g a l i m m i g r a n t c r i s i s t h a t i s h a p p e n i n g t o t h e U n i t e d s t a t e s o n e h a s t o w o n d e r w h a t i s t h e s o l u t i o n . H i s t o r y t e l l s u s t h a t t h i s c o u n t r y w e l c o m e d p e o p l e f r o m a l l o v e r t h e w o r l d W e w e lc o m e d t h e m w i t h o p e n a r m s , t o o k c a r e o f t h e m , f e d t h e m a n d w e l c o m e d t h e m t o t h e i r n e i g h b o r h o o d s a n d l e t t h e y e n j o y t h e n e w l i f e t h e y s o u g h t N o w w e r e a d o f t h e s e n e w i m m i g r a n t s d i s r e s p e c t i n g t h e f r e e d o m t h e y s e e k O u r l a w s h a v e b e e n d i s r e s p e c te d w i t h a c t s o f r o b b e r y , r a p e , m u r d e r , a s s a u l t s , d r i v i n g w h i l e i n t o x i c a t e d , t o n a m e a f e w o f t h e c r i m e s b e i n g p e r p e t r a t e d b y s o m e o f t h e s e s a m e p e o p l e s e e k i n g f r e ed o m f r o m t h e c o u n t r i e s f r o m w h i c h t h e y f l e d I d o n ’ t k n o w w h a t a n y s o l u t i o n i s a v a i l a b l e t o c o rr e c t t h e c u r r e n t i m m i g r a t i o n p o l i c y e x c e p t t o c l o s e t h e b o r d e r s , b r i n g b a c k t h e o l d l a w s o f h a v i n g s o m e o n e s p o n s o r y o u r a d m i t t a n c e t o t h e U S l i k e b o t h m y p a r e n t s d i d w h e n t h e y i m m i g r a t e d t o t h i s c o u n t r y T h i s o p e n - d o o r p o l i c y i s n o t w o r k i n g ; i t s e e m s t h a t t h e c o u n t r i e s s o m e i m m i g r a n t s a r e f l e e i n g f r o m a r e w e lc o m i n g t h e i r d e p a r t u r e W h a t I s e e n o w i s , w i t h t h e d e s t r u c t i o n o f h i s t o r i c a l s t a t u e s a n d c h a n g e s i n h i s t o r y , i t ’ s t i m e t o d i s m a n t l e t h e S t a t u e o f L i b e r t y I t s e e m s t h o s e w h o c o m e h e r e a n d b r e a k o u r l a w s a r e n o t e m b r a c i n g h e r , t h e y a r e s p i t t i n g o n h e r G a r y B o n g e r s C a p e C o r a l

Guest Commentary: Progress being made for long-term solutions

From page 4

P a r k ( E N P ) i n t h e p a s t y e a r W e t h a n k o u r p a r t n e r s i n t h e S t a t e o f F l o r i d a f o r w o r k i n g w i t h u s t o a d v a n c e a n d i n v e s t i n l o n g - t e r m s o l u t i o n s w i t h e c o s y s t e m r e s t o r a t i o n p r o j e c t s t h a t a r e u n d e r w a y t o r e s t o r e t h e E v e r g l a d e s a n d l i m i t r e l e a s e s i n t o F l o r i d a ’ s o t h e r e s t u a r i e s T h i s y e a r a l o n e , w e a n t i c i p a t e a w a r d i n g $ 3 . 1 b i l l i o n i n n e w c o n s t r u c t i o n c o n t r a c t s t o k e e p t h e s e E v e r g l a d e s r e s t o r a t i o n p r o j e c t s m o v i n g f o r w a r d a n d t o e n s u r e t h e y a r e o p e r a t i o n a l a s s o o n a s p o s s i b l e , p r o v i d i n g a d d i t i o na l w a t e r s t o r a g e a n d i n c r e a s e d w a t e r f l o w s w h e r e n e e de d f o r r e s t o r a t i o n , a n d r e d u c e d a m a g i n g f l o w s t o t h e

C a l o o s a h a t c h e e a n d S t L u c i e R i v e r s

W e w i l l c o n t i n u e t o s e e k p u b l i c p a r t i c i p a t i o n a n d f e e d b a c k t o o u r o p e r a t i o n s a n d f u t u r e p l a n s , a n d w e w i l l c o n t i n u e t o d o o u r b e s t t o b a l a n c e t h e p r o j e c t p u r p o s e s o f L a k e O k e e c h o b e e u n d e r t h e c u r r e n t L a k e O k e e c h o b e e R e g u l a t i o n S c h e d u l e a n d t h e f u t u r e L a k e O k e e c h o b e e S y s t e m s O p e r a t i o n s M a n u a

Agree? Disagree? Weigh in!

Letters, guest opinions, comments welcome

The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper Opposing views are welcome Letters to the editor or guest columns may be e-mailed to vharring@breezenewspapers.com. All letters and guest opinions must be signed and must include a phone number for verification purposes. Readers are also invited to comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: capecoralbreeze.com.

‘Walk, Wiggle, Wag & Run’ to offer fundraising fun

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

In Cape Coral this weekend, you can walk, wiggle, or run with your pup, or even show off a talent, all in support of the city’s animal shelter

On March 24, the Cape Coral Animal Shelter will host “Walk, Wiggle, Wag & Run,” a timed 5K, fun walk, and family friendly event to benefit the animals As an added bonus, you can bring your dog

Now in its third year as of the shelter’s Signature Series events, Walk, Wiggle, Wag & Run is an event intended to raise funds to help the homeless, unwanted, and neglected animals that find themselves in care of CCAS The day begins with the timed 5K fun with dogs welcome Next will be a 1-mile dog friendly “strut” around the neighborhood and CCAS campus. Participants are asked to register to run and/or walk and also seek sponsors to raise money for the shelter Teams are encouraged and there will be prizes for the top fundraiser and the top fundraising team

“This is really a special event because it exemplifies the bond we have with our pets,” said CCAS Executive Director Liz McCauley “Our community is very lucky to have such wonderful owners who consider their pets family, and love to take them wherever they can ”

The day will also feature music, vendors, food trucks, and activities for the whole family The run starts at 8 a m , the “strut” starts at 10 a m Tours of the shelter will also be available

“It’s so great to see the pups run with their owners,” McCauley said “Sometimes the pups are faster and the twolegged runners can barely keep up! We have special awards

Cape

Coral BMX

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

Cape Coral BMX will hold a memorial race to benefit the family of one of its riders who lost a parent suddenly

On Tuesday, March 26, a benefit race i n m e m o r y o f J a m e s “ J i m ” P a t r i c k O’Brien will be held starting at 6 p m at the Cape Coral BMX Sports Complex O’Brien, father of long-time racer P J O’Brien, died unexpectedly in February

The father and son were tight-knit and enjoyed traveling the country participating in BMX races, and working on P J ’s bike

“P J has been racing BMX since he

to

If You Go

What: Walk, Wiggle, Wag & Run fundraiser

Who: Cape Coral Animal Shelter

When: Sunday, March

24; 5K starts at 8 a m

Where: Cape Coral Animal Shelter @ 325 SW 2nd Ave

Register: For the run, talent contest, or sponsorship, visit capecoralanimalshelter com Registration ends March 23 @ 8 a m

for the top ‘four-legged finishers ’

“We want everyone to enjoy our beautiful campus, no matter what level of fitness they have The 5k Run and Fun Walk is just one part of a fun morning at our shelter. Everyone is welcome ”

The after-run highlight will be a Pet Talent/Costume Contest starting at 11 a m where pets are encouraged to show off their talents and cuteness Dogs are welcome and must be on a standard leash (Retractable leashes are not allowed )

“The talent/costume show is my favorite, and we have seen some majorly talented dogs that can dance, do tricks, and give kisses on demand,” McCauley said “And the cos-

tumes we’ve seen so many great ones Last year, my favorite was the ‘taco ’ We have three special guest judges for this event animal lovers from WINK News, Hertz, and the Lee County Sheriff's Office It’s going to be a blast ” Pamela Aubuchon, chair of Walk, Wiggle, Wag & Run and CCAS Board vice president said: “CCAS brings hope to South Florida’s homeless dogs and cats by understanding their needs and bringing an increased level of awareness to the intolerance of animal abuse in our community This family-friendly, dog friendly event allows each of us to be part of our mission of making a difference for the animals of our community.”

The mission of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter is “to engage a special bond between people and animals by means of adoption services, medical care, education, and training for the prevention of cruelty and abandonment The shelter provides a safe place where animals can remain in their care until they are placed in qualified, forever homes ”

McCauley said fundraising for the shelter is more important than ever, especially with its upcoming expansion plans

“We are at full capacity all the time and our clinic is booked months in advance,” she said “The Cape needs our services, and we need to grow to meet the demands of our rapidly growing community. Every dollar raised from this event goes to the care of the hundreds of animals in our care so we can look toward the future ”

Those interested in participating in the run, talent contest, or sponsorship, can visit capecoralanimalshelter com to register

Cape Coral Animal Shelter is at 325 Southwest 2nd Ave

hold memorial race to benefit one of its own

was a young child, and his parents played a huge role,” said event organizer Layla Viernes “Jim was his traveling partner and made sure his son went to almost every race and practice he could get him to, as well as helping P.J. work on his bikes and help build them Not only did Jim play a huge role with his son, but also with the entire BMX community near and far ”

Race fees for the benefit race, which starts at 7:15 p m , are $10 The event includes a silent auction until 8 p m , and special Hawaiian food

“The O'Brien family is very wellknown throughout the entire BMX com-

munity, and Jim is truly missed by everyone,” Viernes said “We’d love to see the support of the BMX community and our city, to help us remember this wonderful father and husband Everything we raise at

the memorial race will be given to P J and wife Dina to carry on Jim's legacy ”

Cape Coral BMX Sports Complex is at 1410 Southwest 6th Place

BBQ, Bands & Brew to benefit Builder’s Care charitable endevors

Organization provides emergency construction services at no cost to needy and deserving elderly and/or disabled homeowners

B y C J H A D D A D c j h a d d a d @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m T h o s e l o o k i n g f o r a f u n S u n d a y a f t e r n o o n o u t f i l l e d w i t h g o o d e a t s , l i v e m u s i c , a n d a d u l t b e v e r a g e s , a l l w h i l e r a i s i n g m o n e y t o s u p p o r t t h o s e i n t h e c o m m u n it y , c a n f i n d i t a l l a n d m o r e a s p a r t o f a n a n n u a l e v e n t O n M a r c h 2 4 f r o m 1 1 a m t o 6 p m a t t h e C a l o o s a S o u n d C o n v e n t i o n C e n t e r , L e e B I A B u i l d e r s C a r e w i l l h o s t t h e 1 3 t h a n n u a l B B Q , B a n d s & B r e w f u n d r a i s i n g e v e n t i n d o w n t o w n F o r t M y e r s S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a ’ s t o p p i t m a s t e r s w i l l c o m p e t e f o r t h e t i t l e o f “ B e s t B B Q i n T o w n , ” a c c o m p a n i e d b y a l i n e u p o f l i v e p e r f o r m a n c e s , n u m e r o u s v e n d o r s a n d f u n - f i l l e d a c t i v i t i e s f o r a l l a g e s , i n c l u d i n g a l i v e l y c o r nh o l e t o u r n a m e n t a n d a c h i l d r e n ’ s p l a y a r e a w i t h f a c ep a i n t i n g , g a m e s a n d m o r e “ L e e B I A B u i l d e r s C a r e i s t h r i l l e d t o b e h o s t i n g o u r 1 3 t h a n n u a l B B Q , B a n d s & B r e w t h i s S u n d a y , ” s a i d L e e B I A B u i l d e r s C a r e E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r L e i g h C l o u d “ M o r e t h a n j u s t a n e v e n t , i t ’ s a c e l e b r a t i o n o f c o m m u n i t y s p i r i t a n d a t e s t a m e n t t o t h e i n c r e d i b l e s u pp o r t w e r e c e i v e y e a r a f t e r y e a r W e c a n ' t w a i t t o s e e f a m i l i a r f a c e s a n d w e l c o m e n e w f r i e n d s t o j o i n u s a s w e r a i s e f u n d s t h a t w i l l m a k e a d i f f e r e n c e i n t h e l i v e s o f o u r l o c a l n e i g h b o r s i n n e e d ” B i g S m o k e B B Q i s b a c k t o d e f e n d i t s t i t l e o f “ B e s t B B Q i n T o w n , ” v o t e d o n b y a t t e n d e e s o f l a s t y e a r ’ s e v e n t T h e y w i l l t a k e o n s o m e o f t h e a r e a ’ s b e s t w h e n i t c o m e s t o b a r b e c u e , i n c l u d i n g 5 P i g g i e s B a r - B - Q u e , F a m o u s D a v e ’ s B a r - B - Q u e , S L A B B B Q , a n d T h a t B B Q P l a c e O t h e r f o o d v e n d o r s o n s i t e w i l l i n c l u d e L o v e B o a t I c e C r e a m , T h e C r u n c h y B r u n c h , a n d T a t e r “ T h e d e d i c a t i o n a n d p a s s i o n o f t h e p i t m a s t e r s c o mp e t i n g a r e t r u l y r e m a r k a b l e , ” C l o u d s a i d “ T h e c o m p et i t i o n i s f i e r c e , b u t i t ’ s a l s o i n c r e d i b l y i n s p i r i n g t o w i tn e s s t h e c r e a t i v i t y a n d i n n o v a t i o n t h a t t h e s e p i t m a s t e r s b r i n g t o t h e t a b l e W e ’ r e e x c i t e d t o h a v e o u r 2 0 2 3 c h a m p r e t u r n i n g t o d e f e n d i t s t i t l e , a s w e l l a s s o m e n e w a n d f a m i l i a r f a c e s f o r o u r c o m p e t i t i o n W e h a v e a g r o u p o f l o c a l c e l e b r i t y j u d g e s w h o w i l l h e l p u s n a m e

If You Go

What: BBQ, Bands & Brew fundraiser

Who: Lee BIA Builders Care

When: Sunday, March 24; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

@ 2101 Edwards Drive in Fort Myers

w i n n e r s i n a v a r i e t y o f c a t e g o r i e s f r o m ‘ B e s t R i b s ’ t o ‘ B e s t D e s s e r t , ’ a n d e v e r y o n e w h o a t t e n d s t h e e v e n t c a n h e l p u s v o t e f o r t h e p e o p l e ’ s c h o i c e c a t e g o r y , w h i c h w i l l c r o w n t h e p r e s t i g i o u s t i t l e o f ‘ B e s t B B Q i n T o w n ’ ” B a n d s t a k i n g t o t h e s t a g e t h r o u g h o u t t h e d a y i n c l u di n g B l u e W a v e R o c k e r s a t 1 1 : 3 0 a m , R o c k e r a t 1 : 1 5 p m a n d h e a d l i n e r B e n A l l e n B a n d a t 3 p m “ B B Q , B a n d s & B r e w b r i n g s t o g e t h e r t h e b e s t o f b a r b e c u e , m u s i c a n d b e e r t o c r e a t e a d a y t h a t ’ s f u l l o f f u n , ” C l o u d s a i d “ W h e t h e r y o u ’ r e a b a r b e c u e c o n n o i ss e u r , a m u s i c l o v e r o r s i m p l y s o m e o n e w h o e n j o y s g o o d c o m p a n y a n d a g r e a t t i m e , t h e r e ’ s s o m e t h i n g f o r e v e r y o n e t o e n j o y ” P r o c e e d s f r o m t h e e v e n t s u p p o r t B u i l d e r s C a r e ’ s m i s s i o n t o p r o v i d e e m e r g e n c y c o n s t r u c t i o n s e r v i c e s a t n o c o s t t o n e e d y a n d d e s e r v i n g e l d e r l y a n d / o r d i s a b l e d h o m e o w n e r s , a n d t h e i r f a m i l i e s , w h o c a n n o t o b t a i n r e p a i r s t h r o u g h t r a d i t i o n a l m e a n s T o d a t e , L e e B I A B u i l d e r s C a r e h a s h e l p e d m o r e t h a n 5 0 0 L e e C o u n t y h o u s e h o l d s a n d p r o v i d e d o v e r $ 5 m i l l i o n i n e m e r g e n c y c o n s t r u c t i o n s e r v i c e s a n d m a t e r i a l s a t n o c o s t t o f a m il i e s a n d l o c a l h o m e o w n e r s i n n e e d S i n c e i t s i n c e p t i o n , t h e e v e n t h a s r a i s e d o v e r $ 7 8 4 , 0 0 0 i n s u p p o r t o f L e e B I A B u i l d e r s C a r e

Where: Caloosa Sound Amphitheater

Info: Tickets and more about remaining sponsorship opportunities, visit LeeBuildersCare com/BBQ or call 239-938-0056

“ T h i s i s o n e o f o u r b i g g e s t f u n d r a i s e r s o f t h e y e a r , a n d t h e i m p a c t e x t e n d s f a r b e y o n d t h i s d a y o f f a m i l y f u n , ” C l o u d s a i d “ P r o c e e d s d i r e c t l y s u p p o r t L e e B I A B u i l d e r s C a r e ’ s m i s s i o n t o p r o v i d e c r i t i c a l c o n s t r u c t i o n s e r v i c e s t o e l d e r l y a n d d i s a b l e d h o m e o w n e r s i n S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a w h o a r e i n u r g e n t n e e d o f a s s i s t a n c e T h e s e p r o c e e d s e n a b l e u s t o o f f e r e s s e n t i a l r e p a i r s a n d r e n o v a t i o n s a t n o c o s t t o t h o s e w h o w o u l d o t h e r w i s e b e u n a b l e t o a c c e s s o r a f f o r d t h e m T h e f u n d s r a i s e d t h r o u g h B B Q , B a n d s & B r e w m a k e a t a n g i b l e d i f f e re n c e i n t h e l i v e s o f o u r n e i g h b o r s r i g h t h e r e i n L e e C o u n t y , e n s u r i n g t h e y c a n l i v e s a f e l y a n d c o m f o r t a b l y i n t h e i r h o m e s ” T i c k e t s f o r a d u l t s a r e $ 1 0 i n a d v a n c e o n l i n e o r $ 1 5 a t t h e g a t e A d m i s s i o n i s f r e e f o r c h i l d r e n 1 2 a n d u n d e r C a l o o s a S o u n d A m p h i t h e a t e r i s a t 2 1 0 1 E d w a r d s D r i v e i n F o r t M y e r s T o p u r c h a s e t i c k e t s a n d l e a r n m o r e a b o u t r e m a i n i n g s p o n s o r s h i p o p p o r t u n i t i e s , v i s i t w w w L e e B u i l d e r s C a r e c o m / B B Q o r c a l l 2 3 9 - 9 3 80 0 5 6 . C

Museum of History fundraiser set for Saturday

14 breweries to take part in Brew Fest at Cultural Park; event to also feature Classic Car Fest

What: Brew Fest at Cultural Park fundraiser

Who: Cape Coral Museum of History

When: Saturday, March 23; 1 to 5 p m

B y C J H A D D A D c j h a d d a d @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m A n a n n u a l e v e n t f i l l e d w i t h l i v e e n t e r t a i n m e n t , g o o d e a t s , a n d a m y r i a d o f s e l e c t i o n s f r o m l o c a l b r e w e r i e s t a k e s p l a c e t h i s w e e k e n d i n C a p e C o r a l T h e s e c o n d a n n u a l B r e w F e s t a t C u l t u r a l P a r k i s s e t f o r M a r c h 2 3 f r o m 1 t o 5 p m , a n d i s p u t o n b y t h e C a p e C o r a l M u s e u m o f H i s t o r y A t t e n d e e s c a n s a m p l e b e e r s , s e l t z e r s , w i n e a n d m o r e f r o m p a r t i c i p a t i n g b r e we r i e s a s m a n y t i m e s a s t h e y w i s h , t a s t e t r e a t s f r o m v a ri o u s f o o d t r u c k s , s h o p l o c a l v e n d o r b o o t h s , a n d e n j o y l i v e m u s i c f r o m a r e a p e r f o r m e r s . “ P a r t o f o u r v i s i o n h e r e a t t h e m u s e u m i s t o c r e a t e a c o m m u n i t y g a t h e r i n g p l a c e , ” s a i d C a p e C o r a l M u s e u m o f H i s t o r y E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r J a n e l T r u l l “ B y h o s t i n g B r e w F e s t , w e a r e a b l e t o g e t i n f r o n t o f a d i f f e r e n t a u d i e n c e w h o m a y n o t b e f a m i l i a r w i t h t h e m u s e u m O u r h o p e i s t o c r e a t e a n e x p e r i e n c e t h a t c o n t i n u e s t o b r i n g p e o p l e b a c k t o t h e m u s e u m a s l i f e l o n g s u p p o r te r s T h e f i r s t e v e n t w a s v e r y w e l l r e c e i v e d l a s t y e a r a n d b a s e d o n t i c k e t s a l e s s o f a r t h i s y e a r , i t s e e m s t o b e j u s t a s w e l l r e c e i v e d W e a r e r e a l l y e x c i t e d t o s e e w h a t S a t u r d a y b r i n g s ” T h e r e w i l l b e 1 4 b r e w e r i e s p r e s e n t a t t h e e v e n t , w i t h 5 0 t o t a l b e v e r a g e s a v a i l a b l e f o r s a m p l i n g . F e a t u r e d b r e w e r i e s i n c l u d e : A b i t a B r e w i n g , B a r r i e h a u s B r e w i n g , C i g a r C i t y B r e w i n g , F o r t M y e r s B r e w i n g , H e i n e k e n , K e e l F a r m s , L e a v e n B r e w i n g , N e w B e l g i u m B r e w i n g , P a l m C i t y B r e w i n g , P o i n t Y b e l B r e w i n g , R e d S t r i p e , T a n k B r e w i n g , T h e B e a s t , a n d W h i t e C l a w T h e r e w i l l b e b e e r , c i d e r , w i n e a n d s e l t z e r s o p t i o n s A s a n a d d e d b o n u s t h i s y e a r , a t t e n d e e s w i l l h a v e t h e c h a n c e t o c h e c k o u t a p l e t h o r a o f c l a s s i c c a r s w h i l e t h e y s i p a n d s t r o l l “ I n O c t o b e r 2 0 2 3 w e b e g a n h o s t i n g a m o n t h l y C l a s s i c C a r F e s t w i t h t h e C a p e C o r a l C o b r a C l u b F o r M a r c h , r a t h e r t h a n d o i n g t w o e v e n t s , w e f i g u r e d c o mb i n i n g t h e e v e n t s w o u l d g i v e u s a n e v e n b i g g e r d r a w , ” T r u l l s a i d , “ W e a r e e v e n r u n n i n g a s p e c i a l t i c k e t o p t i o n f o r t h o s e w h o r e g i s t e r a c l a s s i c c a r a t t h e e v e n t E a c h r e g i s t e r e d c a r c a n p u r c h a s e a g e n e r a l a d m i s s i o n t i c k e t t o B r e w F e s t f o r $ 2 0 ” T h e m u s e u m h a s m o r e t h a n 4 0 m e r c h a n t s a n d b u s in e s s e s s i g n u p f o r b o o t h s p a c e a t B r e w F e s t , s e l l i n g e v e r y t h i n g f r o m h a n d m a d e j e w e l r y a n d c r o c h e t i t e m s t o f a i r y h a i r a n d p r i n t e d i t e m s T h e r e i s e v e n a k i d s e n t r ep r e n e u r i a l a r e a , w i t h k i d r u n b u s i n e s s b o o t h s . 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Where: Cultural Park @ 528 Cultural Park Blvd

Tickets: Visit capecoral museum org/brew-fest If You Go

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Cape Coral to issue final wave of GO bonds to fund city’s parks master plan

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Two dead in murder-suicide

CCPD:Man shoots woman in front of their children, then himself

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

Two Cape Coral parents died in a murder-suicide Wednesday morning

Shortly after 9:30 a m , the Cape Coral Police Department received multiple calls that a woman “in her thirties” had been shot and was lying in the street near the 1700 block of Southeast 12th Street, officials during a press conference Wednesday afternoon

Callers believed it was a domestic incident between a male and female, CCPD Public Affairs Officer Mercedes Phillips said

The two were exchanging their children, as they were no longer together, and that the female victim forgot something inside the house and went back inside

“She came back out and he shot her,”

Phillips said “From there he actually took off with the kids in the car He left after he shot her He went down the street ”

Phillips said the man dropped the children off with nearby firefighters, and stated on the phone he wanted to kill himself Police said he then drove down a nearby street and was confronted by a CCPD officer

“One of the officers tried to talk with him during that interaction,” Phillips said

The man dropped the children off with nearby firefighters, and stated on the phone he wanted to kill himself Police said he then drove down a nearby street where he was confronted by a CCPD officer who tried to talk with him The man then shot himself, officials said

“He shot himself His car rolled into the canal One of the officers tried to jump into the water, but at that time, he was already confirmed deceased ”

The female victim was rushed to the hospital where she was pronounced dead

The children are now in the care of the family, which had members living across the street, Phillips said

Police said the murder-suicide was an isolated domestic incident, and there is no threat to the community

A s t h e i n v e s t i g a t i o n i s c o n c l u d i n g , CCPD is still waiting on next of kin for both parties to be notified

As of press time, no names had been released

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the children,” Phillips said

Editorial: Much on Cape Coral’s horizon

From page 4

in the northwest Cape Island 7 is directly across from the city’s Tropicana Park, separated by a small inlet, the St Michel’s Canal, to the North Spreader Waterway

A public marina is also among the planned amenities.

The hotel, including the large resort-style lagoon, is planned for Island 6

According to the city’s Economic & Business Development Office’s first quarterly report for ’24, which was issued Feb 2, architects are under contract for all of the planned island structures Applications to the Army Corp of Engineers were submitted in January with an anticipated review window of 18-24 months

It’s an exciting project and the re-submitted concept plans address earlier concerns about the community center and marina

We look forward to additional details

Also among the larger-scale projects is Victory Park, a 138-acre master development adjacent to the VA Health Care Center, Hope Hospice and the Army Reserve Center that will include medical, office, specialty education and industrial space; two housing complexes and a hotel with “top amenities ”

The city has been awarded $4 million from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to increase access and infrastructure to the project which is planned to include supply and distribution; equipment rental; logistics center; veteran senior housing; multi-family of 402 units and 112 units; office tech; cyber security cluster; Al & robotics school; culinary arts school; nursing school; medical office; Mt Carmel Veteran Center; Wyndham Garden Hotel and retail, according to information release earlier by the city

The project is expected to generate 1,100 new jobs, 42% of which are projected to have a median wage of more than $80,000, which

is more than 50% greater than the Lee County average wage

Also among the major projects presented as part of Catch the Vision Monday night were the Gilbaine Development Company’s Project Pine Island Road West, which calls for a 120-room hotel, restaurant, 10,000 square feet of commercial space and 600 housing units; The Cove at 47th, a $103 million plan to construct 327 luxury apartments, 19,000 square feet of ground-floor retail or office space, and a 585-space parking garage; Bimini Square near Four Freedom’s Park offering 218 luxury apartments with multiple amenities, restaurants and health services in partnership with Lee Health; and Cape Coral Groves, a $920 million project to include 70 buildings; 350,000 square feet of commercial retail and dining space, 125,000 square feet of office space, a 125-room hotel, and 1,500 multifamily units

Why is the city attracting these types of projects and developments?

Growth and economic climate.

Cape Coral continues as one of the fastestgrowing communities not only in the state, but in the country

The city’s key economic indicators are good

Very good

According to that first quarter report by the city’s Economic & Business Development Office, vacancy rates for available retail, office and industrial space are low as are unemployment rates while developed and new leaseable space is booming

The takeaway from Catch the Vision: The city’s vision is focused on the future

For more details on what’s coming, we invite you to read more in our Catch the Vision story in today’s Breeze on page 19 or online at capecoralbreeze com

Breeze editorial

REAL ESTATE

Exercise caution before entering a real estate contract

(Editor’s note: The following column has been published previously in The Breeze )

Dear Mr Feichthaler,

I think I have found a great deal on a house, but there are questions regarding hurricane damage, insurance claims and other issues The seller says I need to sign today or he is going to sell to someone else With a $10,000 escrow deposit required, I am really worried about signing and finding major issues What can I do to protect myself?

Dear Todd,

All purchasers should exercise caution prior to entering a real estate contract regardless of the timing This is especially true today after Hurricane Ian caused such incredible damage to our city As always, the contract is key to protect your interests

Todd B

The standard Florida real estate contract has a provision for Inspection, or “Due Diligence ” The “As-Is” contract used by the majority of Realtors provides for a certain amount of time for you, as buyer, to determine whether the house meets your needs During that time, you can have a physical inspection ordered, check with the city to determine open permit or code issues and any other research you wish to ensure you have a good deal If you cancel the purchase during the inspection period, the escrow deposit should be returned to you You will not be required to present reports or other justification to cancel In fact, you can cancel for no reason at all

Real Estate Law

Solid sales in February, and big changes coming to real estate

The top story on the national real estate scene over the past week was the p r o p o s e d s e t t l e m e n t b y t h e N a t i o n a l Association of Realtors in a major lawsuit working its way through the courts about the way commissions are paid to Realtors This settlement, which is awaiting final approval from the court, is expected to formally go into effect in July of this year

Everybody is still sorting through the complexities of this proposed legal settlement, while trying to identify any potential unintended consequences of these sweeping changes Basically, this lawsuit addresses how buyers and sellers will pay for a variety of the services provided by Realtors in the purchase and sale of real estate As the details and the impact of the various items in this settlement are clarified, we will be providing more information to you in this column over the coming weeks

Homing In

We continue to have what we would define as a solid “season” for pending and closed home sales, but because of the continued march higher in the number of homes listed for sale, the vast majority of people trying to sell their homes are struggling to attract a buyer. As of Tuesday, March 19, there were 2,880 active listings for single-family homes in Cape Coral through the MLS at prices ranging from $249,900 to $10 9 million with a median list price of $499,000 Currently, there are 845 pending home sales in the pipeline at prices ranging from $179,900 to $2 8 million, with the median pending sales price at $420,000

On January 1 of this year, there were 2,442 active home listings through a Realtor in the Cape at prices ranging from $264,600 to $11 9 million, with a median list price of $500,000 At the beginning of this year, there were 427 pending home sales in the Cape at prices ranging from $215,000 to $3 5 million, and a median pending sales price of $414,990 One year ago on March 21,

With the above said, it is vital that you know what your rights are under the contract First, if the contract states you have “0” days for inspection, your deposit is typically nonrefundable immediately Also, there are other types of contracts used by Realtors, especially if they are based outside Lee County These different types of contracts greatly differ on how inspections work, and what rights you have under the agreement Before committing that kind of money, I would recommend having a real estate attorney look at the proposal. There may be additional protections that should be added based on your unique situation To conclude, an Inspection Period that provides sufficient time for review of the property you are buying is a great way to protect yourself

Eric P Feichthaler has lived in Cape Coral for over 35 years and graduated from Mariner High School in Cape Coral After completing law school at Georgetown University in Washington, D C , he returned to Cape Coral to practice law and raise a family He served as mayor of Cape Coral from 2005-2008, and continues his service to the community through the Cape Coral Caring Center, and Cape Coral Kiwanis. He has been married to his wife, Mary, for 22 years, and they have four children He earned his board certification in Real Estate Law from the Florida Bar, and primarily practices in real estate law and wills and trusts He is AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell for professional ethics and legal ability, and is a Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator He can be reached at eric@capecoralattorney com, or 239-542-4733

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

2023, there were 1,481 active home listings in the Cape at a median list price of $524,900 and there were 850 pending home sales in the pipeline

In the overall Cape Coral single-family home market, there were 381 closed home sales in February, which was 1 6% higher than the 375 closed sales in February 2023, and it was 38 5% above the 275 closed sales in January of this year In the first two months of 2024, there were a total of 656 closed sales in the Cape’s overall single-family home market, which was 6 4% lower than the 701 sales in the first two months of 2023

The median sales price in the overall Cape Coral single-family home market was $415,000 in February, or 1 2% lower than the $419,999 posted in February 2023, and 2 4% below the 425,000 in January of this year In the first two months of 2024, the overall median sales price for single-family homes in the Cape averaged $420,000 per month, which was 2 4% above the average of $410,000 per month in the first two months of 2023

Indirect gulf access canal homes

In the Cape Coral single-family indirect gulf access canal home segment (homes with bridges in the canal system), there were 38 closed home sales in February This was 2 7% higher than the 37 sales in February 2023, and 18 8% above the 32 closed sales in January of this year In the first two months of 2024, there were 70 closed sales in this segment, or 20 7% more than the 58 sales in January and February 2023

The median sales price in the Cape’s single-family indirect gulf access canal home segment was $853,750 in February, which topped the $835,000 in February 2023

See FEBRUARY, page 15

REAL ESTATE BRIEFS

Southwest Florida industrial sale makes histor y at $92.5 million

Adam Palmer, CCIM, SIOR and Mike Doyle, CCIM, of Florida-based LQ Commercial have orchestrated the largest industrial sale ever recorded in Southwest Florida

Commerce for $92,500,000, shattering county records. This leased, Class-A, dock high industrial park, located on Oriole Road in Fort Myers, was exclusively sold by LQ Commercial on behalf of CenterLinks Associates

According to reports, the previous top industrial sales record in Lee County was $67 8 million set in 2021

LQ Commercial, formerly LandQuest Commercial, is a Florida-based commercial real estate brokerage organization, providing comprehensive property management, tenant representation, leasing, sales, investments and consulting services For information, visit LQCRE com Riva Del Lago condo association hires Sheeley to oversee repairs, maintenance

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Condominium Association has hired Michael Sheeley, AIA, of MK Architecture to service as an architectural consultant for its Hurricane Ian repairs and ongoing maintenance program oversight Sheeley originally designed the twin-tower, 21-story condominium project overlooking Lakes Park that was completed in 2006 The building suffered some exterior screen and aluminum damage from the hurricane and is also in the midst of a long-term building maintenance program The work is anticipated to com-

mence immediately

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

Stevens Construction begins work on Kelly Brothers, Inc. project

Stevens Construction has started construction of Kelly Brothers, Inc located at 15775 Pine Ridge Road in Fort Myers, announced Dan Adams, executive vice president/partner, Stevens Construction Inc

Stevens Construction demolished the existing 14,240square-foot building damaged by Hurricane Ian and is constructing a 26,963-square-foot industrial building with a two-story office area, allowing Kelly Brothers to expand marine construction operations with 11 service bays, offices, conference room, reception, break area, storage mezzanine and shell space

Slated for completion in January 2025, Kelly Brothers specializes in marine construction, specifically artificial reefs, boardwalks, piers, boat ramps, bridges, docks, marinas and dredging For more, visit KellyBros net

With offices in Fort Myers and Orlando, Stevens Construction specializes in providing construction management, general contracting and consulting services to clients and design professionals Other services include site and design team selection, budgeting, project scheduling, permitting, cost and quality control and warranty service. The company builds healthcare, commercial and hospitality facilities For information, visit www stevensbuilds com or call 239-936-9006

Bob and Geri Quinn

Eric P. Feichthaler

Seagate Development Group employees raise walls on Habitat for Humanity home

A team of employees from Seagate Development Group recently volunteered with Habitat for Humanity Lee and Hendry Counties to raise the walls on a brand-new home in McNeill Village, Habitat’s newest HOA neighborhood in North Fort Myers

“We are proud to support Habitat and help our community,” said James A Nulf Jr , president of Seagate Development Group “It’s a rewarding experience to have a direct impact on providing a home for a family in need ”

The home was sponsored by Seagate Development Group Chairman William Price Jr. and his wife, Carol Ann Price, for Bree, a single mother of two kids who currently works in the medical field Bree’s p r e v i o u s h o m e w a s d a m a g e d d u r i n g Hurricane Ian

Habitat for Humanity’s McNeill Village neighborhood spans 10 acres and will have 36 single-family homes The three- and four-bedroom floorplans range from 1,300 t o 1 , 4 0 0 s q u a r e f e e t C o n s t r u c t i o n i s underway, with the first homes planned to be completed by this summer

For more information about Habitat for Humanity, visit habitat4humanity org Visit seagatedevelopmentgroup com for more information

February: Solid sales, with possible changes in home sale fees

From page 14

by 2 2%, and it was 10 5% higher than the $772,500 in January of this year In the first two months of this year, the median s a l e s p r i c e i n t h i s s e g m e n t a v e r a g e d $813,125 per month, or 1% above the average of $805,000 per month in January and February 2023

Direct sailboat access canal homes

In the Cape Coral single-family direct sailboat access canal home segment (no bridges in the canals to get out to open water), there were 35 closed sales in February This was 9 4% higher than the 32 closed sales in February 2023, and 29 6% above the 27 sales in January of this year In the first two months of 2024, there were 62 closed sales in this segment, or 10 1% less than the 69 sales in January and February 2023

The median sales price in the Cape’s single-family direct sailboat access canal home segment was $832,500 in February, o r 2 1 1 % a b o v e t h e a b n o r m a l l y l o w amount of $687,500 in February 2023 This was due to the continued “clearance

sales” of heavily storm damaged homes being sold at below market prices as our market was still regaining its footing following Hurricane Ian. However, median sales prices this February came in 0 9% below the $840,000 posted in January of this year In the first two months of 2024, the median sales price in this segment averaged $836,250 per month, which was 23 2% above the post Hurricane Ian distorted average of $678,750 per month in January and February 2023

Freshwater canal and lake homes

In the Cape Coral single-family freshwater canal and lake home segment, which consists of landlocked canals and lakes with no access to the river or the Gulf of Mexico by boat, there were 38 closed sales in February This was 7 3% lower than the 41 closed sales in February of 2023, but 1 5 2 % a b o v e t h e 3 3 c l o s e d s a l e s i n January of this year In the first two months of 2024, there were 71 closed sales in this segment, which was down 1 4% from 72 sales in January and February 2023

The median sales price in the Cape’s single-family freshwater canal and lake

home segment was $484,000 in February, or 13% below the $560,000 posted in February 2023, and 1 2% lower than the $490,000 in January of this year. In the first two months of 2024, the median sales price in this segment averaged $487,000 per month, or 5 4% less than the average of $ 5 1 5 , 0 0 0 p e r m o n t h i n J a n u a r y a n d February 2023

Dry lot homes

In the Cape Coral single-family dry lot (non-canal) home segment, there were 269 closed home sales in February, which was 1 9% higher than the 264 closed sales in February 2023, and 48 6% above the 181 closed sales in January of this year. In the first two months of 2024, there were 450 closed sales in this segment, which was down 9 8% from 499 sales in January and February of 2023

The median sales price for dry lot homes in the Cape was $380,000 in February, or 1 3% below the $384,995 posted in February 2023, and flat with the $380,000 in January of this year In the first two months of 2024, the median sales price for homes in this segment averaged

$380,000 per month, or 2 4% more than the average of $371,148 per month in January and February of 2023

The sales data for this article was o b t a i n e d f r o m t h e F l o r i d a R e a l t o r s Multiple Listing Service Matrix for Lee County, Fla , as of March 18, 2024, unless otherwise noted It was compiled by Bob and Geri Quinn and it includes information specifically for Cape Coral single-family homes, and does not include condominiums, short sales or foreclosures The data and statistics are believed to be reliable, h o w e v e r , t h e y c o u l d b e u p d a t e d a n d revised periodically, and are subject to change without notice. The Quinns are a husband and wife real estate team with the R E / M A X R e a l t y T e a m o f f i c e i n C a p e Coral They have lived in Cape Coral for over 44 years Geri has been a full-time Realtor since 2005, and Bob joined Geri as a full-time Realtor in 2014 Their real estate practice is mainly focused on Cape Coral residential property and vacant lots

Seagate Development Group employees recently volunteered with Habitat for Humanity to help build a new home for Bree, middle in green shirt.

C a p e C o r a l B r e e z e w w w . c a p e c o r a l b r e e z e . c o

CRA commission looks to address South Cape trash issues

Overflowing commercial receptacles said to be a problem, board looks at options

B y M E G H A N B R A D B U RY n e w s @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m T h e C a p e C o m m u n i t y R e d e v e l o p m e n t A g e n c y d i s c u s s e d t h i s w e e k d i f f e r e n t m e a s u r e s t h a t c o u l d b e t a k e n t o f u r t h e r e l i m i n a t e u n s i g h t l i n e s s a n d i l l e g a l d u m pi n g i n c o m m e r c i a l t r a s h r e c e p t a c l e s i n c i t y p a r k i n g l o t s t h e S o u t h C a p e S o l i d W a s t e M a n a g e r T e r r y S c h w e i t z e r s a i d t h e r e c e p t a c l e e n c l os u r e s a r e n ’ t k e p t c l e a n , w h i c h i s a t t r a c ti n g r a t s , m i c e , b i r d s a n d i n s e c t s a n d t h e w a s t e b a s k e t s a r e o f t e n o v e r l o a d e d T h e f r o n t - l o a d e d r e c e p t a c l e s a r e e m pt i e d t h r e e t i m e s a w e e k , w h i c h d o e s n o t n e e d a d d i t i o n a l e q u i p m e n t , o r c a p i t a l i n v o l v e d T h e f i r s t o p t i o n d i s c u s s e d w a s c o mp a c t o r s f o u r t o t a l , t w o i n C l u b S q u a r e a n d t w o i n B i g J o h n ’ s S c h w e i t z e r s a i d i t ’ s a l i t t l e b i t o f a b e t t e r o p t i o n a s i t i s s e l f - c o n t a i n e d a n d h a s a s i d e s h o o t H e s a i d b u s i n e s s e s w o u l d h a v e k e y s , l o c k , o r k e y p a d t o g a i n a c c e s s a n d t h r o w g a r b a g e i n t o t h e s h o o t t h a t w o u l d f e e d i n t o t h e c o m p a c t o r

T h e c o m p a c t o r w o u l d h o l d a w e e k ’ s w o r t h o f g a r b a g e , t h e r e f o r e h a v i n g l e s s f r e q u e n c y o f t r u c k s g o i n g i n a n d o u t o f t h e p a r k i n g l o t s S o m e o f t h e c o n s w o u l d b e t h e h i g h e r c a p i t a l c o s t a s a r o u g h e s t i m a t e i s $ 5 0 , 0 0 0 t o h a v e o n e u n i t T h e r e w o u l d a l s o b e p e r i o d i c a l m a i n t e n a n c e b e c a u s e o f t h e e l e c t r i c a l m o t o r s A n o t h e r o p t i o n i s a n u n d e r g r o u n d r e f u s e s y s t e m , w h i c h w o u l d h a v e a g a i n o f b e t t e r e s t h e t i c s a s t h e r e w o u l d n o t b e a t r a s h r e c e p t a c l e I t i s $ 3 5 , 0 0 0 f o r d u a l u s e – t r a s h a n d r e c y c l i n g . F o r t h e u n d e r g r o u n d u n i t , a t r u c k w o u l d h a v e t o p i c k i t a l l t h e w a y u p a n d h o o v e r i t o v e r t h e t o p o f t h e t r u c k w h e r e

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

T h e a b o v e g r o u n d i s a f a n c i e r t r a s h r e c e p t a c l e t h a t c o u l d b e w r a p p e d , r u nn i n g f r o m $ 3 , 7 0 0 t o $ 4 , 3 0 0 T h e r e w a s a l s o a b i g b e l l y o p t i o n , w h i c h i s v e r y s i m i l a r t o t h e u n d e r g r o u n d u n i t “ T h e y c a n b e w r a p p e d m u c h l i k e t h e p o w e r b o x e s a r o u n d t h e C R A , ” S c h w e i t z e r s a i d “ T h e s i d e p a n e l s a r e i n t e r c h a n g e a b l e a n d c a n g e n e r a t e s o m e v e n u e b y a d v e r t i s i n g ” T h e b i g b e l l i e s a r e a l s o s o l a r p o w e r e d w i t h a c o m p a c t o r I t i s $ 4 , 8 0 0 p e r u n i t w i t h a m o n i t o r i n g s y s t e m t h a t l e t s y o u k n o w w h e n i t i s f u l l C o m m i s s i o n e r R o b e r t W e l s h a s k e d i f t h e r e w a s a w a y t h e y c o u l d s u r v e y t h e c u r r e n t t r a s h c a n s a n d f i n d o u t w h i c h o n e s f i l l u p m o r e , o r o v e r f l o w A s t o t h e c o s t , W e l s h s a i d h e c o u l d d e f i n i t e l y s u p p o r t p u t t i n g a f e w i n b e f o r e c o m m i t t i n g t o p u t s o m e t h i n g l i k e t h a t a l l o v e r t h e d o w n t o w n T h e b i g b e l l i e s c o u l d b e m o v e d a r o u n d , a s w e l l a s u s e d a t s p e c i a l e v e n t s W i t h t h e c o m m i s s i o n e r d i s c u s s i o n , m a n y w e r e l e a n i n g t o w a r d s t h e c o mp a c t o r o p t i o n , a s w e l l a s b i g b e l l y T h e c o m p a c t o r o p t i o n , t h e c o m m i ss i o n e r s s a i d , s h o u l d i n c l u d e a s m a l l e r a c c e s s a r e a i n a d d i t i o n t o t h e l a r g e r a r e a f o r t h e t r u c k s t o p i c k u p t h e t r a s h “ D o w n t o w n i s a c l e a n s l a t e , a n d w e a r e p l a n n i n g t h e f u t u r e , ” C o m m i s s i o n e r D a n S h e p p a r d s a i d “ I w a n t u s t o p i c k t h e r i g h t s y s t e m t h a t w o r k s i n t h e w h o l e C R A ”

Ordinances: Public hearings scheduled for April 3; moratorium would last 12 months

From page 1

a g e f a c i l i t i e s c o n s u m i n g e s s e n t i a l c o m m e r c i a l p r o p e rt y , t o o f a s t , i n c l o s e p r o x i m i t y t o o n e a n o t h e r , i t i s n e ce s s a r y t o s t u d y t h e i s s u e t o d e t e r m i n e t h e n u m b e r s a n d l o c a t i o n s t h a t a r e a p p r o p r i a t e t o t h e c i t y ” A c c o r d i n g t o t h e o r d i n a n c e t h e r e i s a n e s t i m a t e d 1 , 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 s q u a r e f e e t o f e x i s t i n g s e l f - s t o r a g e s p a c e i n t h e C a p e w i t h a n a d d i t i o n a l 1 , 6 0 0 , 0 0 0 i n t h e p e r m i tt i n g p r o c e s s o r u n d e r c o n s t r u c t i o n f o r a t o t a l o f 3 , 1 0 0 , 0 0 0 s q u a r e f e e t o f s e l f - s t o r a g e s p a c e O r d i n a n c e 1 6 - 2 4 s t a t e s t h a t t h e r e a r e 1 6 s t a n d a l o n e c a r w a s h f a c i l i t i e s i n t h e c i t y w i t h a n o t h e r n i n e a c c e ss o r y c a r w a s h f a c i l i t i e s w h e r e f u e l i s a l s o a v a i l a b l e T h e r e a r e a n a d d i t i o n a l 1 2 s t a n d a l o n e c a r w a s h f a c i l it i e s i n p e r m i t t i n g , o r u n d e r c o n s t r u c t i o n i n t h e c i t y I f a p p r o v e d , t h e m o r a t o r i u m s w o u l d b e i n e f f e c t f o r 1 2 m o n t h s , “ t h e m i n i m u m r e a s o n a b l e t i m e ” f o r c i t y s t a f f t o c o n d u c t a s t u d y a n d d e t e r m i n e w h a t l a n d d e v e lo p m e n t c o d e s m i g h t b e n e c e s s a r i l y , a n d t o d r a f t “ r e m ed i a l l e g i s l a t i o n ” t o a d d r e s s t h e i s s u e

An Easter lily, a popular springtime plant

PHOTO PROVIDED

Spring Garden

(Editor’s note: The following column has been published previously in The Breeze )

By DEBORAH HAGGETT news@breezenewspapers com

Spring brings the blooming of many showy, ornamental flowers Two standouts are the Easter lily and the Barbados lily The Easter Lily, Lilium longiflorum, is native to the Ryukyu Islands in Japan Its large white, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers symbolize purity, rebirth and hope while announcing the arrival of spring and the Easter holiday The “Nellie White” cultivar is the most common lily found this time of the year Other cultivars are available if you would like to add yellow, cream or pink colors to your spring garden

For more striking, vivid colors, consider adding the B a r b a d o s l i l y , H i p p e a strum striatum, to your garden Although this native t o C e n t r a l a n d S o u t h A m e r i c a i s c o m m o n l y called a lily, it is not classified in the Liliaceae family Instead, it is part of the Amaryllis family The red striped showy flower is thought to symbolize the wish to love and be loved. It is often seen in stores grown in containers ready to bloom in the winter; however, when planted outside, it will bloom again in late spring

GARDEN CLUB OF CAPE CORAL

Both plants are striking perennials and can be featured accents to your garden or a beautiful border along your flower bed Both grow to about three feet tall from bulbs in rich, organic, well-drained soil Plant the Easter lily bulb about three inches deep and the Barbados lily bulb with half of the bulb buried in the soil and the rest of the upper bulb or “neck” rising above the surface Both prefer indirect light or sun-dappled shade, cool temperatures, and a period of rest before blooming.

The leaves of the Easter lily are green, lanceolateshaped and about six inches long Each stem has numerous, narrow leaves and produces two large blossoms growing three to seven inches long Each plant can yield multiple stems with 12 to 15 flowers providing a very lush and fragrant oasis in your garden

The Barbados lily has glossy, green, strap-shaped leaves growing 12 to 36 inches long Its stem also produces two or more funnel-shaped flowers with a larger span, measuring five to eight inches across These conspicuous flowers are known to bloom for three to four weeks adding vibrant color to your garden

Neither plant suffers from serious diseases or pests, but aphids or mealybugs may occasionally be found feeding on the plants Aphids and mealybugs can be hosed off with a strong spray of water On a cautionary note, all parts of the lilies and particularly the bulbs are toxic to humans and pets, especially cats, if large quantities are eaten

With care, the Easter and Barbados lilies add color and lush greenery to your emerging spring garden They are a welcome sign of renewal and hope Happy spring!

Deborah Haggett is a Lee County Master Gardener Volunteer and a member of the Garden Club of Cape Coral Visit us at gardenclubofcapecoral com

India Fest returning April 6

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The 34th annual India Fest will return this year to share the rich culture of India with the Southwest Florida community

“The daylong event will include an assortment of food, drink vendors, fashion shows, live dance performances, boutique shopping, a deejay rocking the riverfront stage and the grand finale – Holi Color Play,” India Association of Fort Myers President Renuka Devacaanthan said

She said the traditional celebration of spring’s onset in which attendees throw handfuls of colorful powder on each other will be held from 4-5 p m for the Holi Color Play Devacaanthan said the event will also introduce signature cocktails from India, live cooking stations for a front

row culinary experience and a showcase of traditional beauty and wellness techniques.

She said after a break of five years, the association looks forward to immersing the community in the rich cultural tapestry of India with an array of curated experiences

The event will be held from 11 a m to 5 p m , Saturday, April 6, at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater, 2101 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers Tickets are $10 and free for children 5 and younger They can be purchased at IAFtMyers

org/India-Fest

“India Fest is a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition, and we can’t wait to share the variety of festival favorites with Southwest Florida,” Devacaanthan said

The India Association of Fort Myers is a nonprofit organization that was established in 1987 to promote Indian heritage, culture and art in Southwest Florida

Diocese of Venice Eucharistic Conference

Bishop Frank J. Dewane opens the Diocese of Venice Eucharistic Conference with an early morning Mass at St. Cecilia Parish in Fort Myers, Saturday, March 16. More than 1,400 Catholics participated in the Eucharistic Conference. The event was part of a nationwide effort, called for by all the Catholic bishops of the United States, to revive belief in, and reverence for, the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Most Holy Eucharist.

RELIGION NOTES

Faith Presbyterian Church to hold special Easter ser vice

Faith Presbyterian Church and the Rev Dr Paul Kirbas invite the public to a special Easter service March 31, at 10:30 a m Those who can arrive early will be treated to a pre-service music program, including brass and vocal performances presented by our Music Director Dr. Wojtasiewicz.

After the service, families can visit with the Easter Bunny for photos and for children to receive an Easter goody bag All are welcome

Faith Presbyterian Church is at 4544 Coronado Parkway, Cape Coral Contact the church at 239-5422858

Diocese of Venice to celebrate sacred Chrism Mass Tuesday in Venice

The Most Rev Frank J Dewane, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Venice in Florida, will be joined by close to 200 priests and deacons from across the diocese for the annual Chrism Mass Tuesday, March 26, at 10:30 a m , at Epiphany Cathedral, 350 W Tampa Ave , Venice

The Chrism Mass, which takes place during Holy

Week every year, is one of the most solemn and important liturgies of the Catholic liturgical calendar It is also the largest annual gathering of the clergy and the faithful in the Diocese of Venice, with more than 1,000 faithful expected to attend, including students from Diocesan Catholic schools

At the Chrism Mass, priests renew promises made at their ordination as an expression of unity with their shepherd, the bishop of the Diocese In addition, Bishop Dewane will bless the holy oils, and consecrate the Chrism Oil, used in the administration of the Sacraments throughout the year at each Diocesan parish

Priests and deacons celebrating 25 and 50 years of ordination, as well as other milestone anniversaries, will be recognized at this Mass for their service to the church

Also in attendance at the Chrism Mass will be Diocesan seminarians, the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, the Sovereign Order of Malta, the Knights of Columbus and the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women All of the faithful of the Diocese of Venice are invited and welcome to attend this most sacred Holy Week Mass

For more information on the Diocese of Venice in Florida, visit the Diocese’s website at http://www dioceseofvenice org

EDUCATION

EDUCATION BRIEFS

Island Coast JROTC collects over 1,200 pounds of food for Harr y Chapin Food Bank

Harry Chapin Food Bank, the largest hunger relief organization in Southwest Florida, this week announced that the Island Coast High School JROTC collected 1,268 pounds of food during its recent food drive

Held each February, the food drive is part of the Island Coast High School JROTC’s ongoing community outreach efforts

According to Feeding America, more than 135,250 people in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties faced food insecurity in 2021. More than 30,000 of those are children

The food collected during the Island Coast High School JROTC food drive is enough to provide 1,521 meals to families throughout the five-county region

Now in its 40th year, Harry Chapin Food Bank feeds more than 250,000 people each month through a variety of food distribution programs To host a food drive, make a donation or learn more about the food bank, please visit www harrychapinfoodbank org

Haitian-American Community Coalition accepting scholarship applications

T h e H a i t i a n - A m e r i c a n C o m m u n i t y C o a l i t i o n o f Southwest Florida is offering four $1,500 scholarship awards to graduating seniors of Haitian heritage who are enrolled at a Lee County School

HACC academic scholarship eligibility requirements and procedures include:

n Student must be of Haitian-American heritage

n Student must be a graduating senior at a Lee County high school, who is enrolled in or will be enrolled in a degree or certification program at a technical college, state college, or university by Sept 1, 2024

n Student must complete the attached application form. In addition include two letters of recommendation from a teacher, coach, administrator, or school counselor, and school transcript that includes grades through the fall 2023 semester

n A 300 to 500-word personal essay that includes a response to these questions: What are your short and long term educational and career goals? How have your goals for your future been shaped by your life experiences? All essays must be typed Please double space essay using a standard print font

n Mail scholarship applications by April 1 to HaitianAmerican Community Coalition of Southwest Florida, 3949 Evans Avenue, Suite 304, Fort Myers, Florida 33901 Applications must be postmarked by April 3

n The scholarship recipients will be selected by the HACC Scholarship Committee

n T h e n a m e s o f s c h o l a r s h i p r e c i p i e n t s w i l l b e announced on or before May 1

n Scholarship money will be disbursed to the student's school with proof of registration at an accredited institution of higher learning

If you have any questions, please e-mail HACC Scholarship Chair Betsy Vaughn at esv460@gmail com

Neal Communities commits $25,000 for FGCU construction program scholarship

Neal Communities, a Southwest Florida private homebuilder, is donating $25,000 to Florida Gulf Coast University to fund a scholarship to the U A Whitaker College of Engineering Construction Management program The donation will be given in increments of $5,000 per year for the next five years, and it will endow a $1,000 per year scholarship in perpetuity

There are currently more than 300 students in the program, which began five years ago and offers a bachelor of science in construction management, emphasizing the application of new technology, innovation and industryproven tools and procedures.

The Stock Development Department of Construction Management is within the U A Whitaker College of Engineering at FGCU

For additional information about FGCU, please visit https://www fgcu edu/eng/ For more information about Neal Communities, visit NealCommunities com

‘Mar y Poppins’ at Bishop Verot

Bishop Verot Catholic High School's spring musical, "Mary Poppins," opened Thursday and continues through the weekend with performances Friday and Saturday at 7 p m and Sunday at 2 p.m. The production features the “practically perfect in every way” nanny sprinkling a little magic on the Banks household while teaching the children some valuable lessons. The cast is under t h e

a t https://gofan.co/app/school/FL16963. Bishop Verot is at 5598 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers.

Local Carson Scholars recognized

The Carson Scholars Fund has announced the awarding of 570 new scholars and 936 recognized scholars during its series of six regional banquets across the country this spring The Annual Lee County Carson Scholars Awards Ceremony will be held Saturday, May 11, at the Luminary Hotel

Fifty new students will be honored in Lee County and 101 recognized Carson Scholars will be acknowledged for their continued accomplishments

Award-winning music legend Tony Orlando will be honored with the Generous Heart Award at the banquet for his leadership in his profession and for demonstrating generosity in giving back to the community

Each year the CSF honors an elite group of students from grades 4-11 who not only demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, maintaining at least a 3 75 GPA, but also embody significant humanitarian qualities These scholars are awarded a $1,000 college scholarship, an Olympic-sized medal and a certificate

The Carson Scholars Fund, Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that was founded in 1994 by now retired Johns Hopkins pediatric neurosurgeon, Dr. Benjamin Carson and his wife, Candy The Carson Scholars Fund recognizes and rewards students in grades 4 -11 who strive for academic excellence (3 75 GPA or higher) and demonstrate a strong commitment to their community

Among the local 2024 Carson Scholars are:

n Matthew Weeks, 5th grade, Bayshore Elementary School, North Fort Myers

n Maria Roa, 11th grade, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Fort Myers

n Abigail Cudnik, 11th grade, Cape Coral High School, Cape Coral

n Brooklyn Kerrigan, 5th grade, Diplomat Elementary School, Cape Coral

n Isabella Ruiz-Castro, 5th grade, Dr Carrie D Robinson Littleton Elementary School, North Fort Myers

n Grayson Gorski, 5th grade, Gulf Elementary School, Cape Coral

n D e s h

Elementary School, North Fort Myers

n

Academy for the Arts, North Fort Myers

n Landon McCarthy, 11th grade, North Fort Myers High School,North Fort Myers

n Emmaline Beaumont, 5th grade, Oasis Charter Elementary School, Cape Coral

n Sophie Garcia, 11th grade, Oasis High School, Cape Coral

n Faith Tilley, 8th grade, Oasis Middle School, Cape

Coral

n Ava Bartz, 5th grade, Pine Island Elementary School, Bokeelia

n Gavin Wilson, 5th grade, Skyline Elementary School, Cape Coral

n Olivia O'Block, 5th grade, Tropic Isles Elementary School, North Fort Myers

2024 Recognized Carson Scholars include:

n Kayla Venable-Collins, 12th grade, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Fort

n Ambrielle Calixte, 10th grade, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Fort Myers

n Delainey Fearn, 12th grade, Cape Coral Christian School, Cape Coral

n Ella Bernard, 12th grade, Cape Coral High School, Cape Coral

n Jexton Taveras, 6th grade, Challenger Middle School, Cape Coral

n Abigail Waters, 6th grade, Diplomat Middle School, Cape Coral

n Jade Gomez, 6th grade, Diplomat Middle School, Cape Coral

n Solaris Monzon, 6th grade, Diplomat Middle School, Cape Coral

n L e s l i e N i c l e s , 8 t h g r a d e , D i p l o m a t M i d d l e School,Cape Coral

n Destiny Thompson, 10th grade, Ida S Baker High School, Cape Coral

n Alexis Klutsarits, 11th grade, Ida S Baker High School, Cape Coral

n Nedra Ritch, 12th grade, Mariner High School, Cape Coral

n Madilyn Montgomery, 7th grade, Mariner Middle School, Cape Coral

n Delaney Beougher, 8th grade, North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts, North Fort Myers

n Tyler Reis, 6th grade, North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts North Fort Myers

n Eann Myers, 8th grade, North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts, North Fort Myers

n Sidney McConnell, 7th grade, North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts, North Fort Myers

n S o p h i e C h a o u i , 7 t h g r a d e , N o r t h F o r t M y e r s Academy for the Arts, North Fort

n Kristian Wydysh, 11th grade, North Fort Myers High School, North Fort Myers

n Macey Hodges, 9th grade, North Fort Myers High School, North Fort Myers

PHOTO PROVIDED

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

‘Catch The Vision’ provides updates on projects under way

By JOHNATHAN MINEHAN news@breezenewspapers com

The 13th annual Cape Coral Catch the Vision provided updates on a plethora of projects under way in the Cape

The event held at Cape Christian Church on Monday included a showcase of the ongoing development projects and provided an opportunity for small businesses to showcase with the community

Masters of ceremony Gloria Tate and Bill Johnson Jr. led the showcase with witty banter and an introduction to the projects in the works within the community

“For the first time in 13 years, we have developers in the room tonight, and I’m so excited about that,” said Tate “It’s an amazing thing having all of our developers here because we will be highlighting a lot of really great projects that are coming to our city and some that are already in the works ”

“We have many projects moving forward We are a fast-growing city, and I think tonight you'll understand exactly why we had that designation,” Johnson said

Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter addressed the audience, speaking about the developments and the mission the city has been working to achieve in the next several years

“Thank you for coming out tonight,” Gunter said “I’d like to thank Cape Christian for providing the venue, Gloria Tate and Bill Johnson, who’ve been doing this for many years, and all the volunteers behind the scenes ”

Cape Christian Pastor Corey Demel went on to give some insight about the church and the sense of community in SWFL The church has big plans to expand its courtyard, and Demel gave information about the services the church has been providing to help those in need

“We here at Cape Christian are a microcosm of what’s happening at Cape Coral in that we have growth problems We are growing faster than we know what to do Hopefully, the trade show in the tent wasn’t too much of an inconvenience, but I just want to maybe throw this out there for you We have to remind our team often that we are grateful for the problems that we have,” said Demel “We have great city leadership, and we’re in an amazing place As a Christian and a pastor here in our city, it is our privilege to serve our city ”

Projects in the works:

Cape Christian Church Expansion

Cape Christian is planning to expand its church with the addition of a bigger courtyard and more seating within the church The church is planning to completely expand within the building and is offering opportunities for students

“Our current facilities will be used for what we call Christian leadership college And then really exciting is that we’re going to be repurposing the splash pad, renovating the whole thing, as well as adding pickleball courts All that should be done by the time summer break hits for the students this year,” said Demel Paraiso at North Cape

The Perettis have been working to develop Paraiso North Cape, a commercial plaza in an underdeveloped area of north Cape Coral Paraiso offers executive offices, retail stores, and restaurants with a deck overlooking the water The development has been in the works for the past several years and is planned to be finished by 2025

“Passing by that area, we noticed that there was a lot of residential housing and not that many plazas The area could have been used for much more,” said Dario Peretti, representing Paraiso at North Cape “This is a familyfriendly environment something modern and luxurious We’re trying to make this paradise in that area of the North Cape

Victory Park

Victory Park is a 138-acre master development located adjacent to the VA Health Care Center, Hope Hospice and the Army Reserves The development will include a medical office building that will be offered to help the community with their needs

“Phase one will be about 25% of the park and will be

permanent very shortly What that will do is feed our hotel, which is going to be on-site as well as in medical office buildings The hotel is a Wyndham Garden Hotel, with some of the top amenities that can be offered to our community,” said Frank Nader, developer of the park “The VA did a report in March of 2022 where they identified needs and areas of opportunity that they want to address With this medical office and these medical office buildings, we have the opportunity to address that issue and bring clinical and nonclinical services to our community

Civitas

The development of affordable housing is progressing. Three residential buildings with 96 units are complete, and the project is expected to be finished by late June or early July The project has received government assistance and a lot of support from Lee County

The Shops of Del Sol and Shops of Del Mar

The Shops of Del Mar and The Shops of Del Sol are set to bring much-needed retail and modern amenities to the community Developers aim to add character and modern finishes to the road corridor, with a mix of retail, medical, and restaurant spaces

“We have two projects, Shops at Del Mar and Shops at Del Sol They’re both on the north side of Pine Island Road. Del Sol is a little bit larger with about 70,000 square feet of retail space, Del Mar has about 30,000 We expect to have a multi-use shopping plaza with modern finishes, which is what we're here for,” said Gaston Lulinski, representing the projects

Cape Coral Animal Shelter

The non-profit, no-kill shelter’s demand for services has increased, with 4000 adoptions and 6,000 clients served at its affordable clinic near the William B Austin Youth Center

The numbers keep increasing, as many animals are unable to get the services they need The shelter plans to massively increase its space while taking part in “Fix It Florida” a plan to help spay and neuter animals, said JoAnn Elardo, shelter board president

An new building will cost about $8 million expansion in the works They plan to convert the existing 8,400square-foot building into a low-cost veterinary clinic and build a 19,000-square-foot two-story building

Meanwhile, Executive Director Liz McCauley and her team going out and taking care of others, Elardo said.

Cape Coral Groves

The Groves is planned as a combination of restaurants, fitness centers, and entertainment for Southwest Florida

The 130-acre mixed use project to be located along Southwest Pine Island Road is still under development as they work to prepare the water and utilities for the establishments

The proposal is intended as an outdoor town center with open spaces, residences, retail and offices as well as a hotel

Gilbaine Development Company

Project Pine Island Rd W

The Gilbaine Development Company project features a 1 2 0 - r o o m h o t e l , f r e e s t a n d i n g r e s t a u r a n t , 1 0 , 0 0 0 square feet of commercial space, and two phases of multifamily apartments that will bring 600 new units to the market

“We’ve been designing the project for a year already It’s at the southwest corner of Pine Island Road and Veterans Parkway,” said Daniela Rodriguez “The first phase will start construction towards the middle of this year The first phase will include the commercial component, the hotel, the restaurant, and the retail space, so we hope that the project can create dozens of high-paying jobs

Lake Shadroe Marina and Resort

Lake Shadroe Marina and Resort are developing 48 airbnbs and creating waterfront dining, coffee shops, and tourist attractions for visitors

“There, we’re going to have a waterfront restaurant with a really large tiki bar going out into the water We’re looking forward to having live music up there in the northwest,” said Robert Knight, representing the project “We’re looking to have a gourmet coffee shop We’re looking to have maybe even a cigar bar up there So, we are looking to create a whole bunch of amenities that are going to add value to that ”

BaRunch and Hooked Island Restaurants

After Hurricane Ian damaged their previous location, Hooked Island offers a variety of seafood, steaks, burg-

JOHNATHAN MINEHAN

Kicking off the start of Catch the Vision Monday evening, masters of ceremony Bill Johnson Jr , left, and Gloria Tate introduce the community to the developers of the projects in the city

April programs scheduled at Cape Coral Lee County Public Library

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

Adult Programs

English Café

6 p.m., Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

10 a.m., Fridays, April 5, 12, 19

Free, informal conversation sessions for adult ESOL/ESL students

Book Discussion: “Lightning Strike” by

William Kent Kreuger

11 a m , Wednesday, April 3

The beautifully told story of a small town in the 1960s rocked by a mysterious death and culture clashes and a boy's coming of age

Total Eclipse Viewing Party

Noon, Monday, April 8

Observe the solar eclipse travel across the country at our NASA livestreaming watch party. A solar eclipse craft will be available for children on the provided tables for this exciting celestial event

Dementia Sensitivity

10 a m , Wednesday, April 10

Join us for a special program on dementia, presented by Lee Health Participants will gain a better understanding of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, including common symptoms, causes and progressive stages The presenter will help attendees increase awareness of behavioral symptoms associated with dementia, equip others to communicate effectively with pers o n s w i t h d e m e n t i a , a n d d i s c u s s l o c a l resources available to assist those with dementia, their families and caregivers

Spanish Conversation Club

2 p.m., Wednesday, April 10

Improve your Spanish fluency by chat-

ting with other adults Join us as we practice speaking with others on a variety of topics, including current events and everyday situations Intermediate to advanced Spanishspeaking skills are recommended in order to get the most out of the session Registration is required

Crafts at Cape: Alcohol Inks

10 a.m., Thursday, April 11

10 a.m., Saturday, April 27

Explore abstract art using alcohol inks Alcohol inks will stain so please dress accordingly Registration is required Each c l a s s h a s a m a x i m u m s e a t i n g o f 2 0

Participants may only register for one class in the series Registration is guaranteed until the start of the program

Download Drop-In

11 a.m., Thursdays, April 11, 25

Receive personalized help downloading e-books, movies, music and more from Overdrive/Libby and Hoopla, two of Lee County Library System’s largest online content providers Bring your fully charged digital device for this hands-on help session Note: Please bring any passwords you may need for downloading apps Kindle users will also need an Amazon account and their password for accessing it

Children’s Programs

Preschool Storytime

10:30 a.m., Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

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

Baby Rhyme Time

10:30 a.m., Wednesdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24

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

Family Storytime

10:30 a.m., Thursdays, April 4, 11, 18, 25

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

Family Build It

4 p.m., Thursday, April 4

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

Kids Read Down Fines

1-2 p.m., Saturday, April 6

5:15-6:15 p m , Wednesday, April 17

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

Total Eclipse Viewing Party

Noon, Monday, April 8

Observe the solar eclipse travel across the country at our NASA livestreaming watch party. A solar eclipse craft will be available for children on the provided tables for this exciting celestial event No registration required

STEAM Club

4 p.m., Thursday, April 11

Come ready to participate in fun experi-

ments and projects as we explore the world o f S T E A M ( S c i e n c e , T e c h n o l o g y , E ngineering, Art and Math) Dress for a mess Registration is required and is guaranteed until the start of the program All materials provided For ages 5-11

Celebrate Earth Storytime

10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 13

Join us for nature-friendly stories, music and movement Please dress for a low mess Earth Day activity For children through age 5 with a caregiver Space is limited; please arrive early and pick up a ticket at the Youth Services desk

Tales & Tails: Read to a Dog

3 p.m., Monday, April 15

This is a drop-in program for kids to practice reading to a paws-itively furry friend in an encouraging environment No registration is required, but space is limited

Teen Programs

Family Build It

4 p m , Thursday, April 4

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

Kids Read Down Fines

1-2 p.m., Saturday, April 6

5:15-6:15 p.m., Wednesday, April 17

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

Total Eclipse Viewing Party Noon, Monday, April 8

Observe the solar eclipse travel across

See APRIL PROGRAMS, page 21

Cape Charity Car Show donation

The Cape Coral Charity Car Show was held Feb 24 at M a r i n e r H i g h S c h o o l a n d $70,000 was raised with 100% of the proceeds benefiting t h e C a p e C o r a l C a r i n g Center, an emergency food pantry helping people in the community with a number of emergency needs. The show b e g a n i n 2 0 1 7 , w i t h P h i l Deems and Cape Coral First Methodist Church. Car Show chair Deems, left, made the donation to Julie Ferguson, center, the executive director of the Caring Center, with Terri Smith, co-chair of the Car Show

PHOTO PROVIDED

Friends of Cape Coral Library to meet Saturday

All are invited to the Friends of the Cape Coral Library general meeting Saturday, March 23 The morning begins at 9:30 with light refreshments The business portion of the meeting starts at 10 a m , and will include the program about the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife CROW, located on Sanibel-Captiva Road on Sanibel, is a teaching hospital and education center dedicated to saving wildlife through state-ofthe-art veterinary care, research, education, and conservation medicine

Friends' general meetings take place in the large meeting room of the Cape Coral Library at 921 S W 39th Terrace and are free and open to the public

For more information on Friends of the Cape Coral Library, please visit www capefriends org and follow us on Facebook

April programs: Schedule of activities and more at Cape Library

From page 20

the country at our NASA livestreaming watch party A solar eclipse craft will be available for children on the provided tables for this exciting celestial event

Tales & Tails: Read to a Dog

3 p m , Monday, April 15

This is a drop-in program for kids to practice reading to a paws-itively furry friend in an encouraging environment No registration is required, but space is limited

Teen Thursdays

4 p m , Thursday, April 18

Hangout, tinker around, and geek out with something new each month This month, we will be playing blacklight bingo All supplies and snacks provided while they last This program is intended for ages 1118 to attend independently Please speak with staff if caregiver assistance is needed

Teens Create 4 p.m., Thursday, April 25

Get those creative juices flowing with a new project each month This month, we will get our glow on by tie-dying glow-inthe-dark t-shirts No registration required All supplies and snacks are provided while they last This program is intended for

attendees ages 11-18 to attend independently Please speak with staff if caregiver assistance is needed

The Cape Coral Lee County Public Library is located at 921 S W 39th Terrace in Cape Coral For more information about a program or to register, please call the library at 239-533-4500 Check the Lee C o u n t y L i b r a r y S y s t e m ’ s w e b s i t e a t www leelibrary net to find out about programs at other locations Call the host library, or Telephone Reference at 239479-INFO (4636), for more information about a specific program

In accordance with the Americans with

Disabilities Act, Lee County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in its services, programs or activities To request an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or a r e a s o n a b l e m o d i f i c a t i o n t o p a r t i c i p a t e , contact Joan LaGuardia, 239-533-2314, Florida Relay Service 711, or jlaguardia@ leegov com Accommodation will be provided at no cost to the requestor Requests should be made at least five business days in advance

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

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Catch the Vision: Updates on projects for the city of Cape Coral

From page 19

ers, and appetizers BaRunch is a new adaptation to Cape Coral, a new brunch s p o t t h a t s e r v e s b r e a k f a s t , l u n c h , a n d brunch items, including specialty mimosas

“Everything we do is kind of different We do lots of seafood We do steaks, we do burgers We do lots of different kinds of appetizers from all over the country,” said K y l e S h e r m a n o f H o o k e d I s l a n d Restaurants “We are planning to open up at the beginning of March If everything g o e s c o r r e c t l y , t h e r e ’ s a l w a y s h i c c u p s there

“We have brunch, breakfast, lunch all day, every day What that means for you is you can come in and try some of our specialty mimosas,” said Shelly Gentry of the restaurant at 1327 Cape Coral Parkway “We are so happy to be a part of the community here in Cape Coral ”

Lee Health and Bimini Place

Cape Coral Hospital is expanding its emergency department, adding observation beds, and increasing the intensive care unit Bimini Place will help people get the care they need without worrying about overcrowding

“We’ve just completed an expansion of the emergency department at Cape Coral Hospital, adding Fast Track rooms so that patients with minor illnesses can get to the ER and get out more quickly We’ve added observation beds there,” said Dr Larry Antonucci, CEO of Lee Health. “We’ve added and expanded our intensive care units ” He said the Hospital now has up to 34 beds in the intensive care unit “We’re very excited that we’ve expanded our dialysis program in the hospital One of the issues that we're grappling with not only

here locally but around the country is a shortage of providers

Bimini Place is part of the $120 million p r o j e c t i n t h e S o u t h C a p e t h a t b r o k e ground in October

Located on Cape Coral Parkway, just w e s t o f F o u r F r e e d o m s P a r k , B i m i n i Square will be home to luxury apartments, a Deep Lagoon waterfront restaurant, a Lee Health medical facility and a variety of retail shops

Cape Coral Bridge

The process of adding two additional lanes to the Cape Coral Bridge is expected to be a long one The plans involve preparing the permits, and construction is predicted to be completed by 2026

“The process is a very long process I know that’s not what people want to hear We have to go through a planning design and environmental study to be cured The monies necessary to build a bridge The studies will be done in 2024, and we will s t a r t c o n s t r u c t i o n s i m u l t a n e o u s l y i n 2026,” said Lee County Commissioner Kevin Ruane “From that process, it takes two years, unfortunately, to go through the building and procurement of this process, securing the funds going out to RFP to make sure it’s fair and transparent and giving people the opportunity to do exactly what they can bid for it

The Cove at 47th

The Cove at 47th is a $103 million plan

square feet of ground-floor retail or office space, and a 585-space parking

The walkable complex, at 870 S.E. 47th Terrace in the South Cape, includes plans for restaurants and eateries with Aqua Seafood and Steaks announced in December at the anchor tenant

“We are excited to welcome our first residents in late summer of 2024 ” said Katie Lepert, property manager

7 Islands-Gulf Gateway Resort and Marina Village

The 7 Islands-Gulf Gateway Resort and Marina Village is a massive project that got its start 13 years ago when the city bought the northwest Cape site as part of a massive foreclosure land buy

The project now coming forth from a private developer features a 240-room hotel, a lagoon pool, restaurants, retail, condos and 72 fish houses, along with uncluttered public docks, a Community Center, a public island and tons of amenities for families and residents

“We’ve been working with four different architectural groups developing each of the different components, and we’re making sure the project is going to be an amazing project for everybody in the area, for the public, and all the people that come to visit the resort destination,” said Peter B a y t a r i a n , r e p r e s e n t i n g 7 I s l a n d s - G u l f Gateway Resort and Marina Village The resort is open to everyone All the islands are open to the public They’re open to visitors you can come by golf cart, by car, walk by paddleboard, or by boat, we have transient slips, we have slips at all the restaurants, and we're encouraging everyone to come and visit all the islands ”

JOHNATHAN MINEHAN

The nearly full-house crowd on hand for the Catch the Vision presentation earlier this week at Cape Christian Church.

BUSINESS

Achieva Credit Union’s dog food donation drive ends Saturday

There is still time to donate to Achieva Credit Union’s dog food donation drive called Paws for-a-Purpose The drive ends on National Puppy Day, Sat March 23

Each Achieva branch is accepting dog-friendly donations, including any brand of unopened dog food (dry and canned), blankets, towels and sheets and pet safe cleaning supplies

The Achieva Credit Union offices in Cape Coral are at 2127 Del Prado Blvd., S. (239-574-4707) and 3031 S.W. Pine Island Road (239-471-3564)

Anyone dropping off donations on National Puppy Day, Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 9 a m to 1 p m , at an Achieva branch will receive a puppy water bottle and a dog treat, while supplies last

BUSINESS BRIEFS

LCEC honors employees with more than 500 volunteer hours

The LCEC Pay It Forward Program began in 2016 to encourage volunteerism and support the efforts of employees to give to their favorite qualifying non-profit organization With this program, employees who volunteer and track volunteer hours can earn Pay It Forward donation dollars to be awarded to a 501 (c)(3) charity of choice LCEC employees who volunteer between 50100 hours in the community can designate a not-forprofit organization to receive up to a $100 donation

Each year, LCEC celebrates employees who volunteer 500+ hours in a year LCEC employees gathered today to celebrate Don, Jenell, Nancy, and Nicky on reaching this milestone in 2023 Each of these impressive employees was entered into a drawing for $500 to the charity of their choice! Nancy was the lucky winner of the raffle and opted to divide the $500 between the charities of choice for each 500 Club recipient! These charities include the Cape Charter School Foundation, Visuality, Inc , Cape American Baseball Koza/Saladino Field, Guns n Hoses Pipes n Drums of SW FL, and the Calendar Girls

LCEC officials thank and applaud all of its employees whose passion for philanthropy results in thousands of volunteer hours each and every year

For additional information about LCEC, please visit https://www lcec net/

Gulfcoast Coin & Jewelr y celebrates 50 years in business in Southwest Florida

Gulfcoast Coin & Jewelry recently celebrated its 50 years in business in Southwest Florida The company is one of the few family-owned precious metals companies in the country that have been involved in every gold and silver boom since the mid 1970s

In 1974, Gulfcoast Coin Brokers opened its doors in downtown Tampa. In 1975, Gulfcoast moved to its flagship store downtown Fort Myers, owning and operating coin and jewelry stores from St Petersburg to Naples, Florida

Gulfcoast Coin & Jewelry is a national market maker in all popularly traded precious metals products Its numismatists and precious metals traders have 50 years experience of daily buying and selling

Gulfcoast Coin & Jewelry brings the “educated consumer” of rare coins, diamonds, estate jewelry, paper money, fine art, stamps, old documents, sterling silver, china and all types of high-end collectables, and personal property together. Their auctions are viewed in over 50 countries by affluent motivated consumers Auctions are utilized by banks, attorneys, insurance companies and families

Gulfcoast Coin & Jewelry also has one of the largest jewelry, rare coin, precious metals and collectibles showrooms, at 10,000 square feet, in the state Owner, Mike Joyce is a nationally known numismatist with an extensive list of credentials

Gulfcoast Coin & Jewelry is at 14181 S Tamiami

In addition, Achieva will match community donations up to 500 pounds

Achieva’s Colonial Boulevard branch has also partnered with Gulf Coast Humane Society to help shelter dogs and animals to find their forever homes

“The goal is to raise awareness among our members and encourage them to consider adopting a pet through this initiative,” said Achieva Branch Development Manager Floriana Haddaway “By helping shelter animals find loving homes, we can make a lasting difference in their lives, like Lucy, and bring joy to our members as well ”

about the impact of animals without enough food, especially the dogs in local shelters ”

Donations from Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties will be distributed to local pet shelters including Gulf Coast Humane Society, Cape Coral Animal Shelter, Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue, Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County and others

About Achieva Credit Union

Achieva Credit Union welcomes dogs in the workplace and employees are encouraged to bring in their furry friends

“We are proud to be a dog-friendly workplace and look forward to a successful donation drive because of our generous employees, our members and community friends,” said Achieva’s Market President, Susan Lacey. “While hunger in America is an ongoing issue, we don’t often think

Tommy’s

Achieva Credit Union was founded in 1937 in Pinellas County Today, it is rated a Superior 5-Star credit union by Bauer Financial and has more than $2 8 billion in assets and over 25 branches serving more than 194,630 members Anyone who lives or works in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas and Sarasota counties, or whose family member has an Achieva Credit Union account can bank with Achieva. For additional information, please visit www achievacu com

Express offering free car washes at new Cape location on Del Prado Boulevard

Tommy’s Express has announced that its newest location in Cape Coral will be washing cars for free starting

Saturday, March 23, through the end of business day

Sunday, March 31

Guests stopping by the Cape Coral location at 42 Del Prado Blvd , N , will receive the Tommy's Express' best wash free (a $26 value)

This is the national franchise’s 22nd location in Florida

Tommy’s Express locations focus on customer experience, convenience and wash quality The signature wash tunnels are designed to be striking, with a rounded transparent roof, prominent branding and full-size windows running down the length of the wash tunnel

Cape Coral area customers should expect quick service even at peak hours, three-minute travel down the car wash tunnel, and an menu of products and services with free floor mat washers and vacuum stations located onsite Guests can join the TommyClub unlimited wash membership and receive their first month free by downloading the Tommy’s Express app Joining the club allows member vehicles to automatically be admitted to the wash via a proprietary license plate reader system Unlimited Club members can wash as often as they wish at any location for as little as $23 99 per month Download the app and receive your first month free h t t p s : / / t o m m y s - e x p r e s s c o m / ? u t m s o u r c e = P r e s s &utm medium=TXCommunications&utm campaign=

Nominations being accepted for 2024 SWFL INCredible Awards to be presented May 29

Award applications for the 2024 SWFL INCredible Awards are now open The winners will be recognized at the May 29 awards ceremony hosted by SWFL Inc. at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa from 11:30 a m to 1 p m

“If you're wondering what makes Southwest Florida INCredible, the answer from SWFL Inc would be the people and the businesses We recognize the impact our business leaders have on the Southwest Florida region, resulting in a strong community,” said Tiffany Esposito, president and CEO of SWFL Inc “Now, you have a chance to say, ‘thank you’ to the organizations that had influence in your life this year ”

Nominations are being accepted until Monday, April 8, at https://www swflinc com/2024-incredible-awards- Go online now to apply for your own business or nominate as many organizations as you’d like for the awards described below If you’d like to nominate a business and don’t have enough information to complete the application, just email the organization name and a brief note about why you think it deserves to win an award to Katy@SWFLinc com, and a representative from SWFL Inc will reach out to the owner to complete the application

The 2023 Small Business of the Year Award will celebrate a Lee, Collier or Charlotte county for-profit, with 100 or fewer employees, which serves the community in an exceptional way This prestigious award has been presented by the organization since 2001

The Nonprofit of the Year Award is given annually to a 501(c)3 organization that is seen as a leader in its industry

and as an invaluable organization in Southwest Florida The nonprofit can be based in Lee, Collier or Charlotte county.

The Innovation Award is presented to a business that creates unique and forward-thinking solutions to address the needs of its clients The SWFL Citizen of the Year honors an individual who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the betterment of Southwest Florida over the past 12 months The INCredible Award recognizes a graduate of Leadership SWFL who exemplifies the values of the program by demonstrating leadership, community stewardship and a desire to continue learning and growing professionally

Lastly, the Veteran-Owned Business of the Year Award recognizes a veteran-owned organization that has demonstrated strong business performance and exemplifies significant contributions in Lee, Collier or Charlotte county All finalists for the award will be recognized at the INCredible Awards Wednesday, May 29 Tickets are available at swflinc com/2024-incredible-awards-

About SWFL Inc.

SWFL Inc is the region's only Five-Star Accredited Chamber of Commerce, serving businesses in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties Its services are tailored to help the Southwest Florida business community connect through networking, advertising opportunities, and educational workshops Contact https://www swflinc com/contact-us/ to sign up for a free membership

C a p e C o r a l B r e e z e w w w . c a p e c o r a l b r e e z e . c o m M a r c h 2 2 , 2 0 2 4 n

Community Cooperative’s annual Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive begins April 1

r a t i v e ’ s a n n u a l

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t o g i v e f a m i l i e s n u t r i e n t s w h e n c o o k i n g a f u l l m e a l i s n ’ t p o s s i b l e ” T h e P B & J D r i v e w i l l r u n f r o m A p r i l

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T h e c o m m u n i t y i s i n v i t e d t o g a t h e r f r i e n d s , f a m i l y c o m m u n i t y t o s e e i f y o u c a n w i n t h e i r a w a r d f o r “ M o s t L o v e C o l l e c t e d ” T h e r e a r e t h r e e c a t e g o r i e s : S c h o o l s / c h u r c h e s , o r g a n i z a t i o n s , a n d c o m m u n i t i e s ( b y d o o r c o u n t ) I t e m s t o d o n a t e i n c l u d e P e a n u t b u t t e r , A l m o n d o r a l t e r n a t i v e n u t b u t t e r , J e l l y , a n d o r j a m ( R e q u e s t i n g p l a s t i c c o n t a i n e r s ) D o n a t i o n s c a n b e d r o p p e d o f f a t C o m m u n i t y C o o p e r a t i v e o n M o n d a y , A p r i l 2 9 , 2 - 4 p m , a t 3 4 2 9 D r M a r t i n L u t h e r K i n g J r B l v d F o r t M y e r s T h e r e w i l l b e a n o f f i c i a l w e i g h - i n ! F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t C o m m u n i t y C o o p e r a t i v e c o m o r c o n t a c t J a d e B i r d a t J a d e @ C o m m u n i t y C o o p e r a t i v e c o m

Shooting: Investigation continuing; additional arrests expected in Cape teen’s death

From page 1

CCPD asks that anyone with information regarding the shooting, anyone who has any surveillance videos that may help detectives, or who saw what happened, to call the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-3223, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477).

To donate to the GoFundMe set up for Kala’s family, visit www gofundme com/f/kayla-rincon-miller

m e d i c a l p e r s o n n e l , i n c l u d i n g t h e a p p l i c a t i o n a m i l i t a r yg r a d e c o m p r e s s , s h e d i e d a f t e r b e i n g t r a u m a - a l e r t e d t o t h e h o s p i t a l “ O u r o f f i c e r s r e s p o n d e d w i t h i n m i n u t e s , a n d b e g a n l i f e s a v i n g e f f o r t s o n t h e g u n s h o t v i c t i m , e v e n a p p l y i n g a c h e s t p a c k t h a t ’ s c o m m o n l y u s e d i n c o m b a t , ” C a p e C o r a l P o l i c e C h i e f A n t h o n y S i z e m o r e s a i d M o n d a y T h e g i r l s w e r e w a l k i n g t o M c D o n a l d ’ s a t 1 7 1 5 D e l P r a d o B l v d S a f t e r h a v i n g j u s t s e e n a m o v i e a t t h e C o r a l w o o d 1 0 t h e a t e r “ W e d o k n o w t h e r e a r e o t h e r s i n v o l v e d i n t h i s h o m ic i d e , ” s a i d C C P D P u b l i c A f f a i r s O f f i c e r L i s a G r e e n b e r g d u r i n g t h e p r e s s c o n f e r e n c e W e d n e s d a y “ T h e r e i s s t i l l m o r e w o r k t o b e d o n e O u r d e t e c t i v e s ’ d i l i g e n t w o r k a r o u n d t h e c l o c k c o n t i n u e s t o d a y t o c o nt i n u e t o n a r r o w t h i s i n v e s t i g a t i o n ” G r e e n b e r g s a i d b a s e d o n e v i d e n c e , C C P D b e l i e v e s t h e i n c i d e n t w a s n o t a r a n d o m a c t o f v i o l e n c e S h e a d d e d t h e v e h i c l e u s e d i n t h e r o b b e r y / s h o o t i n g h a s b e e n i d e n t i f i e d a s a s i l v e r N i s s a n P a t h f i n d e r , w h i c h w a s r e n t e d b y S t e i n ’ s m o t h e r “ O u r d e t e c t i v e s ’ s w i f t a c t i o n s i n t h e h o u r s s i n c e t h e s h o o t i n g , a n d t h e h e l p o f t h e L e e C o u n t y S h e r i f f ' s O f f i c e , l e d t o l a s t n i g h t ’ s s u c c e s s f u l a r r e s t o f o u r s u sp e c t , ” G r e e n b e r g s a i d P o l i c e s a y t h e y h a v e b e e n i n c l o s e c o n t a c t w i t h R i n c o n - M i l l e r ’ s f a m i l y , a n d t h a t t h e y h a v e b e e n m a d e a w a r e o f t h e a r r e s t a n d f i n d i n g s R e c o r d s s h o w S t e i n w a s t r a n s p o r t e d t o L e e C o u n t y J a i l , a n d t h e n m o v e d t o t h e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a R e g i o n a l J u v e n i l e D e t e n t i o n C e n t e r M e m b e r s o f K a y l a ’ s f a m i l y h a v e s t a r t e d a G o F u n d M e t o h e l p w i t h m e d i c a l a n d f u n e r a l e x p e n s e s A s o f T h u r s d a y a f t e r n o o n , t h e o n l i n e f u n d r a i s e r h a d r a i s e d n e a r l y $ 1 3 , 5 0 0 o f a $ 3 0 , 0 0 0 g o a l T o d o n a t e , v i s i t w w w g o f u n d m e c o m / f / k a y l a - r i nc o n - m i l l e r C C P D a s k s t h a t a n y o n e w i t h i n f o r m a t i o n r e g a r d i n g t h e s h o o t i n g , a n y o n e w h o h a s a n y s u r v e i l l a n c e v i d e o s t h a t m a y h e l p d e t e c t i v e s , o r w h o s a w w h a t h a p p e n e d , t o c a l l t h e C a p e C o r a l P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t a t 2 3 9 - 5 7 43 2 2 3 , o r C r i m e S t o p p e r s a t 1 - 8 0 0 - 7 8 0 - T I P S ( 8 4 7 7 )

Kayla

Rincon-Miller

‘Pinwheels in the Park’ to raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month

A p r i l i s C h i l d A b u s e P r e v e n t i o n Month, a time to recognize the importance of protecting children from abuse and neglect

The Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida, the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office are teaming up for the third annual Pinwheels in the Park event on Saturday, April 6, to promote awareness of the services provided by the CAC.

The Mighty Mussels game will take place at Hammond Stadium against the Tampa Tarpons on April 6; first pitch is 6 p m The stadium will host a family-fun children’s Easter egg hunt one hour before the game. Custom Pinwheel jerseys will be worn by the Mighty Mussels, with select pieces available for purchase through an online auction

In 2008, Prevent Child Abuse America named the pinwheel the national symbol for child abuse prevention The pinwheel represents playfulness and joy, a physical reminder of the great childhoods we want for all children

The Mighty Mussels game will take place at Hammond Stadium against the Tampa Tarpons on April 6; first pitch is 6 p m The stadium will host a family-fun children’s Easter egg hunt one hour before the game Custom Pinwheel jerseys will be

worn by the Mighty Mussels, with select pieces available for purchase through an online auction after the game

In addition to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office as the title sponsor, other sponsors for the event include Commercial Air M a n a g e m e n t ; E d i s o n N a t i o n a l B a n k ; Emily Hunter; Entech; Florida Panther

Loading Service; Hats by Hawes; Iron Ridge Insurance–HiLB Group; Karla Y Campos-Andersen Esq ; Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company; Merrill Lynch; Nor-Tech Hi-Performance Boats; P r i o r i t y B u s i n e s s S o l u t i o n s ; S a n i b e l C a p t i v a C o m m u n i t y B a n k a n d S t o r m Smart

Tickets to the April 6 game are $15 and c a n b e p u r c h a s e d a t f e v oenterprise.com/event/CAC24, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the CAC To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Jessica Walker at jwalker@Markham-Norton com

Concert: Stellar lineup, top-notch food trucks to be offered at Sounds of Jazz and Blues event

From page 1

nomenal jazz performer, and we’re excited to have him as our headliner ”

A Scotland native who moved to Los Angeles as a young child, Elliot took an early inclination into the realm of music, especially with rhythm and blues The saxophonist worked with many “big-time” acts such as Smokey Robinson and the Temptations, but gained notoriety with “Tower of Power ”

By the late ’80s, Elliot was signed to Blue Note Records and embarked on a solo career He has since released more than 20 albums, including four No 1 records

Elliot, 64, is a Grammy-nominated artist, and was known for his zebra-striped sax

Fox was named a 2021 Blues Music Award Nominee for “Best New Artist Album,” and was a mainstay on the blues charts in recent years

The Tampa-based Fox can be described as a soulful s i n g e r - s o n g w r i t e r w i t h a n e x t e n s i v e b a c k g r o u n d i n gospel Her most recent album, “Peace in Pieces” released in early 2020 and was heralded by critics

“She just brings some great energy for the blues side of

If You Go

What: Sounds of Jazz and Blues

When: Saturday, March 23; Gates open @ 4:30 p m

Where: Coral Oaks Golf Course @ 1800 Northwest 28th Ave

Tickets: $25 in advance and $30 day-of; Visit capeconcerts.com or at the door

things,” said King, adding Fox reminds him of Ella Fitzgerald “People love this event, so we’re ready to go ”

The evening also will feature many top-notch food

trucks and fun, as the city celebrates the passion of jazz and blues music in the area

“All of our residents and individuals in the area that love this style come out in droves,” King said “They just love the fact we’re able to broaden to this genre here in the Cape, not just one style We have the ability to extend our scope to jazz and those that love the artists we have here ”

With usual venue Tarpon Point still dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, King said the city’s golf course has been a great alternative

“It provides an amazing element, and we always try to match where we’ve been,” King said “We’re excited to have it there again ”

Tickets ($25 in advance and $30 day-of) can be purchased online and at the door the day of the event

Children 5 or younger do not require a ticket The event is rain or shine. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for seating Coolers and pets are not allowed

For tickets and for more information, visit capeconcerts com

Coral Oaks Golf Course is at 1800 Northwest 28th Ave

Applicants sought for Advanced Hurricane Technology’s second annual Hero Giveaway

Advanced Hurricane Technology has announced the return of its annual Hero Giveaway for the second consecutive year From its foundation in Fort Myers, AHT, a pioneering company in hurricane protection solutions across Southwest Florida, commits to honoring the valor of the community's guardians

This initiative aims to award one deserving veteran, first responder, active military member or their immediate family residing in Lee or Collier county with a complimentary installation of hurricane rolldowns, accordions or

screens, ensuring the safety of their home against the tumult of nature

Reflecting on the inaugural 2023 Hero Giveaway, the initiative has already proven its worth by significantly impacting the lives of Thomas Ruth from Cape Coral, who were the fortunate recipients of AHT's patented 55mm rolldown hurricane shutters

Eligibility for the 2024 giveaway requires candidates to be first responders, active military members or military veterans residing in Lee or Collier County Additionally,

they must own a home within these areas and be available for interviews, fostering a connection between their service stories and the community they protect

Applications are now being accepted at https://ahtworldwide com/2024-aht-giveaway/ The installation will be planned to ensure completion before the onset of hurricane season, offering peace of mind and security to the chosen hero

For more information, visit https://www advancedhurricanetech com/

Waste Pro adds 13 new contracts to list of service areas

During the first quarter of 2024, Waste Pro was awarded 13 new exclusive long-term municipal contracts totaling over $41 million during their initial contract terms These municipal agreements add more than 150,000 residential and commercial customers to the company’s footprint Contract terms vary from one to 10 years and provide for further long-term extensions equating to more than $740 million over the total contract terms

The new exclusive service contracts are in Florida,

https://www

From page 35

Taylor named new chief of police for Lee County Por t Authority

Robert Taylor has been promoted to Chief of the Lee County Port Authority Airport Police Department As

Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina and Mississippi Some of the more significant new service areas include Sarasota County, Florida; the city of Kenner, Louisiana; and the city of Southaven, Mississippi Those three areas represent over 128,000 new residential customers

The city of Tampa is a new franchise contract starting in April 2024, adding 2,500 commercial customers Each of these partnerships represents multi-year agreements

BUSINESS BRIEFS

chief, he is responsible for public safety and security at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and Page Field (FMY) in Fort Myers, including the enforcement of laws and security regulations; traffic operations; airport security compliance and support; and the overall leadership and administration of airport law enforcement functions

Taylor served as the acting chief of the LCPA Police Department for the last year, and prior to that, in 2021, he was promoted to deputy chief Taylor joined LCPA in 2007 and served in several roles including firearms

with additional years available during renewals.

Waste Pro, established in 2001, has grown from two trucks with five employees to become the Southeast’s largest privately held solid waste and waste and recycling collection company, currently operating over 3,200 collection vehicles and employing over 4,600 Waste Pros with overall revenues projected to exceed $1 3 billion in 2023 For more information about Waste Pro, please visit https://www wasteprousa com/

instructor, training coordinator, field training officer and as a member of the Hazardous Device (bomb) Squad for more than 10 years Taylor started his career in law enforcement training police dogs After becoming a certified law enforcement officer, he served as a reserve officer with the Punta Gorda Police Department

The Lee County Port Authority operates Southwest Florida International Airport and Page Field in Fort Myers No ad valorem (property) taxes are used for the operation or improvement of either airport For more information, please visit flylcpa com

C a p e C o r a l B r e e z e w w w . c a p e c o r a l b r e e z e . c o m M a r c

Florida Atlantic University seeks participants for harmful algal blooms study in Cape Coral

Florida Atlantic University researchers are asking residents of Cape Coral and surrounding communities to consider participating in a study to help evaluate the potential impacts of exposure to harmful algal blooms (HABs) Southwest Florida has experienced HABs such as red tide (karenia brevis) in prior years, which is most abundant during the summer and early fall months

Researchers will recruit volunteers on Tuesday, March 26, from noon to 4:30 p m , and Wednesday, March 27, from 8 a m t o n o o n , a t t h e P u b l i c W o r k s Department, 815 Nicholas Parkway, East, Cape Coral Appointments are available and walk-ins are welcome Study participants will be asked to fill out a questionnaire and provide urine and blood samples as well as a nasal swab

Human exposure to HABs comes from ingestion, direct skin contact or inhalation, and can lead to a variety of symptoms ranging from respiratory irritation to skin rashe s a n d i n s e v e r e c a s e s l i v e r d a m a g e Despite numerous occurrences of red tide and blue green algae in Florida waters, our u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f t h e l o n g - t e r m h e a l t h

e f f e c t s o f e x p o s u r e t o t h e s e b l o o m s remains limited

With grant funding from the Florida Department of Health, researchers from F A U ’ s C h r i s t i n e E L y n n C o l l e g e o f Nursing and Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute are continuing this first-of-itskind evaluation of both the short-term and potential long-term health effects among Florida residents The “Long-term Effects of Exposure to Harmful Algal Blooms” s t u d y u s e s a c o l l a b o r a t i v e , m u l t i s i t e approach which also includes researchers from Florida Gulf Coast University

This latest study expands upon prior studies conducted in 2016 and 2018, and previous FDOH studies from 2019 to 2020 and 2021 to 2022

“We have little data on health outcomes related to human exposure, despite the prevalence and intensity of harmful algal b l o o m s i n S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a , ” said Rebecca S Koszalinski, Ph D , principal investigator and an associate professor i n t h e C h r i s t i n e E L y n n C o l l e g e o f Nursing. “Understanding short- and longterm health impacts and outcomes is crucial to protecting the health of Floridians

By developing tools to measure concentrations of harmful algal blooms toxins in the environment and multiple human tissues, we will gain a better understanding of health-related outcomes and health care needs in Florida and elsewhere ”

The study also is the first to evaluate the potential effect of exposure to COVID-19 Researchers are exploring if there is a relationship between a history of being infected with COVID-19 and susceptibility to the effects of harmful algal blooms exposure

The latest study involves a survey to identify the potential routes, duration and types of exposure to blooms through recrea t i o n a l a n d o c c u p a t i o n a l a c t i v i t i e s R e s e a r c h e r s a l s o w i l l a s s e s s p o t e n t i a l effects on individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma and chronic gastrointestinal disorders Bloodwork including liver enzymes and renal markers also will be included in this study

Algal toxin concentrations including microcystin and brevotoxin will be measured in blood, urine and nasal mucosa. The toxin levels also will be used to understand the dose-response relationships with self-

reported respiratory, dermal and gastrointestinal symptoms Urine and blood analyses will be conducted in collaboration with the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which is developing methodology to detect emerging algal toxins in human tissues

The study includes conducting environmental sampling of water and air to measure potential sources of exposure

R e s e a r c h e r s h a v e d e v e l o p e d a b i orepository and participant registry to store the data and samples in collaboration with FAU’s Clinical Research Unit within the FAU Division of Research The purpose is to build an ongoing infrastructure to support the team’s long-term studies on the health effects of exposure to current and emerging harmful algal blooms toxins and serve as a resource for researchers around the state

For more information or to participate in the study, call or text 561-297-4631, or e m a i l R e b e c c a K o s z a l i n s k i , P h D , at NurHAB@health fau edu Community participants will receive up to $25 in gift cards as an incentive for participating in data collection activities each year

American Cancer Society Relay for Life Saturday at NeoGenomics in Fort Myers

In 2024, roughly 2 million new cancer cases and 609,820 deaths from cancer are expected to occur in the United States, with more than 110,000 expected to occur here in Florida Cancer continues to be the second most common cause of death among Americans, after heart disease To help end cancer as we know it for everyone, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Greater Lee will be held Saturday, March 23, at 4 p m , at NeoGenomics at 9490 Neo-Genomics Way, Fort Myers

Founded by Dr. Gordy Klatt in Tacoma, Washington, in 1985, Relay

For Life unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have been touched by cancer, remember loved ones lost and take action for lifesaving change

Since 1985, Relay For Life has raised $6 8 billion to help save lives from cancer

Relay For Life of Greater Lee aims to raise $200,000 this year to support the American Cancer Society’s mission Survivors that attend this year’s Relay For

Life will have the opportunity to walk through the lab at NeoGenomics and meet the scientists that are transforming care for cancer patients Survivors can register by visiting relayforlife org/greaterleefl

Dollars raised each year by more than 250,000 Relay participants across the country help support the American Cancer Society’s mission in countless ways, including funding and conducting breakthrough research, providing education and advocating for the needs of cancer patients

and their families, and providing essential services throughout their cancer journey There are many ways to get involved in Relay For Life, including:

Sponsor: Your support fuels the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer Visit relayforlife org/greaterleefl to

learn about sponsorship opportunities

Join: Join a relay community to connect with survivors, caregivers, and others impacted by cancer in your local community

Visit relayforlife org/greaterleefl to sign up for Relay and join your community in the fight against cancer

C a p e C o r a l B r e e z e w w w . c a p e c o r a l b r e e z e . c o m M a r c h 2 2 , 2 0 2 4 n P a

Cape Coral Art League announces upcoming shows, events and classes

T h e C a p e C o r a l A r t L e a g u e h a s announced its shows, events and classes for March and April Future programs have also been noted

All of the programs and more will be held at the Art League at 516 Cultural Park Blvd , Cape Coral For more information, call the Art League at 239-772-5657

Open Painting

Wednesdays, September through July, from 1-4 p m Open to the public

Student Sundays

Sundays, October through June, from 14 p m Ages 6-14 $20 cash or check only Open to the public, pre-registration not required, just come 15 minutes before class starts

Gift Shop

Open Monday through Thursday, from 11 a m to 4 p m

March shows and events

Let’s Go Green -- Through March 28, 1 1 a m t o 4 p m , M o n d a y t h r o u g h Thursday

Class Act Student’s Art -- Through March 27, 11 a m to 4 p m , Monday through Thursday

Workshop

Story Board Creative Painting -- March 15 & 16, 9 a m to 4 p m , Friday and Saturday Free parking and entry

April shows and events

Celebrating Color -- April 1 through May 2, 11 a m to 4 p m , Monday through Thursday Wine and Cheese Reception, Thursday, April 4, 5-6:30 p m

Free parking and entry

Workshop

Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve Kayaking and Lunch -- Friday, April 19, 9 a m to 2 p m

Classes

(See CapeCoralArtLeague org for details and to register)

n Beginning Acrylics – Mondays, 10 a m to 12 p m

n Acrylic Painting for Students with Some Experience – Mondays, 12:30-3:30 p m

n Creative Watercolor for the Beginner and Above – Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

n Learn to Draw – Tuesdays, 9 a m to 12 p m

n Fundamentals of Oil and Acrylic P a i n t i n g f o r I n t e r m e d i a t e L e v e l –Tuesdays, 12:30-3:30 p m

n The Art of Zentangle – Tuesdays, 1-3 p m

n O i l P a i n t i n g f o r A l l L e v e l s –Wednesdays, 9 a m to 12 p m

n Digital Photography and Graphics –Wednesdays, 3-5 p m

n Hooked on Watercolor, Intermediate – Thursdays, 9 a m to 12 p m

n A d v e n t u r e s i n C o l o r U s i n g S o f t Pastels – Thursdays, 9 a m to 12 p m

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Songs of the Sea Concer t this Sunday at South For t Myers High School

The Southwest Florida Concert Band will perform Songs of the Sea Concert, w i t h f e a t u r e v o c a l i s t S t e v e B r a d l e y , Sunday March 24, at 2 p m , at South Fort Myers High School, 14020 Plantation Road, Fort Myers

The 40-member community band will perform a concert to celebrate the music of t h e s e a T h e c o n c e r t w i l l s t a r t w i t h “ A m e r i c a n R i v e r S o n g s ” b y P i e r r e LaPlante Guest vocalist Steve Bradley will sing “Some Enchanted Evening” from South Pacific, “Moon River” and the sea chanty “The Wellerman ”

There will be a fun medley of music from Pirates of the Caribbean ARG! The band will play Ralph Vaughn William’s “English Folk Songs” and some nautical music in “Sea Medley ” The group will also throw in the tuba solo “Cobbler’s B e n c h ” a n d t h e m u s i c f r o m “ M i s s i o n Impossible ”

There will of course the Sousa march “Hands Across the Sea” and the show will conclude with an impressive and dramatic arrangement of music from the movie "Titanic "

All concerts are free with donations accepted Information on the group, its scholarship program and other performances can be found on band's website at www SouthwestFloridaConcertBand org

Second annual SWFL Mural Fest 2024 April 5

After the great success of the inaugural SWFL Mural Fest held in downtown Fort

Underground is again producing SWFL Mural Fest in 2024

Artsemble has chosen five teams with some of the best artists of SWFL in the art community to lead the project They will create the murals at 2220 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd , Fort Myers, FL 33901, this year on permanent walls and we are going big!

The theme “The Elements” has been selected for this year’s challenge: air, water, fire and earth, plus a 5th element, b a l a n c e F i v e t e a m l e a d e r s h a v e b e e n selected and each has chosen their own team The teams were randomly assigned an element Each element combined will r e p r e s e n t o u r l o v e f o r e a r t h , a r t , a n d mankind through these teams of amazing artists from our community

SWFL Mural Fest, 2024, will be held Friday, April 5 There will be music, food trucks and a chance to meet the artists

The outdoor festival is free and open to the public

The event will be held in conjunction with downtown Fort Myers Art Walk

Lee County Band to Present April in Paradise on April 7

at Mariner High School

The Lee County Community Band will conclude its season on April 7 with April in Paradise at 3 p.m. at Mariner High School, Cape Coral

Under the direction of Gil Peltola, the band will perform “Midway March” by

From page 42

John Williams; “Twentiana,” a montage of songs of the 1920s; “Malagueña,” featuring clarinetist Frances Pace; and “Belle of the Ball,” plus vocals featuring Fred Lamb and Jan Fenn

The band performs six concerts between November and April; all are taking place this season at Mariner High School, 701 Chiquita Blvd , N , beginning at 3 p m The programs are free (donations welcome) and open to the public

The band will begin its 2024-25 season in midNovember; rehearsals will resume in mid-October

The 62-member band is comprised of musicians from all walks of life The original concert band of Lee County, the band and has been entertaining Southwest Florida audiences since 1885 Persons interested in joining may phone

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

239-600-9052

For additional information, pleases visit www leecount y b a n d o r g “ L i k e ” t h e b a n d o n F a c e b o o k a t F a c ebook com/LeeCountyCommunityBand

HACC to hold Haitian Heritage Family Fun Day May 11 at For t Myers church

The Haitian-American Community Coalition of SW Florida is commemorating Haitian Heritage Month by hosting a Haitian Heritage Family Fun Day Saturday, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at The Eglise De Dieu la Foi Chretienne (Church of God Christian Faith), 2841 Fowler St , Fort Myers

The mission of HACC is to promote social justice and human rights for Haitian Americans and to give a voice to this “indivisible demographic ” To learn more about us,

please visit our website: https://www haitiancoalition com/

There are currently more than 20 vendors scheduled to participate If you would like to be a vendor, please complete the attached vendor registration form There is a $100 vendor registration fee Please make checks payable to the Haitian American Community Coalition of SW Florida The mailing address is 3949 Evans Avenue, Suite 304, Fort Myers, FL 33901

In addition, the coalition welcomes sponsorship and door-prized donations to help cover the cost of the event All sponsors will be recognized throughout the event

The coalition anticipates about 500 to 750 people will be in attendance

For additional information, call Beatrice Jacquet-Castor at 239-878-5898, Ilomise Alexandre at 239-297-8839, Guerline Chery at 423-615-2019 or Jessica Victorin Antelo at 239-308-6638

C a p e C o r a l B r e e z e w w w . c a p e c o r a l b r e e z e . c o m M a r c

Be on the lookout for fish suffering from ‘the spins’

There’s something bad happening in the waters and to the fish in the Florida Keys and marine biologists from the FWC and other organizations can’t figure out why From Key West up to Miami, reports of spinning, eventually dying fish, having been coming in since last November and the reports are increasing Fish simply spin and jerk in random patterns sometimes for hours till exhausted then die

From tarpon, snapper, r a y s , g r o u p e r d o w n t o pinfish, as many as 27 species so far are reporte d h a v i n g p r o b l e m s S l o w g r o w i n g s a w f i s h , a n a l r e a d y e n d a n g e r e d s p e c i e s , a r e e s p e c i a l l y h a r d h i t w i t h s e v e r a l deaths already recorded S a w f i s h a r e t h e f i r s t m a r i n e f i s h t o r e c e i v e federal protection under t h e e n d a n g e r e d s p e c i e s act of 2003

Capt. George Tunison

So far biologists have ruled out red tide poisons, parasite issues and other common fish diseases with the current closest educated guess being a form of microalgae called gambierdisous, a naturally occurring toxin related to another toxin, ciguatera, which affects humans that consume certain fish species such as barracuda

One thing for sure, scientists are scrambling to identify the problem, which, besides the great environmental impact has the potential to severely impact the Keys economy and beyond, as well depending on how far north it spreads With our own marine environment under attack from Lake O discharges to our own local pollution issues, “the spins” is the last thing we need

For now, if you’ve been wade fishing and start spinning, feel the urge to spin or if you see any fish spinning or acting erratically - large or small - please call the FWC Fish Kill Hotline ASAP at 800-636-0511 and report it Jot down the species, time and location details as well This is very important Please participate

Any sawfish sightings, deaths or other sawfish issues, contact the FWC at 844-472-9374 or sawfish@myfwc com with details and possible photos

See ‘THE SPINS,’ page 46

Cape Coral Power and Sail Squadron adding April Boating Safety Course

Due to high demand for America’s Boating Course, the Cape Coral Power and Sail Squadron, America’s Bating Club Cape Coral, has added an April session The response to the classes held in January and March filled the club classroom as boaters new to local waters came to learn more about how to boat safely in Southwest Florida

With over 50,000 registered vessels on area waters, boaters new to Lee County find boating in one of Florida’s largest estuaries not like anything they experienced “back home ” The importance of learning the rules and regulations governing vessel operation is one key to becoming a safe boater in coastal cities

T h e U n i t e d S t a t e s P o w e r S q u a d r o n ’ s A m e r i c a ’ s Boating Course helps boaters become safer on the water Covered in the course are federal, state and local regulations, along with boating basics and what to do during an emergency. The instructors also work help students apply this information to situations that can arise in our local waters

The April course starts on the Monday, April 8, at 7 p m , and meets for six evenings, April 8, 10, 15, 22, and wraps up on the 24 with a test and graduation party

Classes fill up quickly so be sure to register early If you are unable to attend in April, this course will also be offered again starting May 6

America’s Boating Course is not the only course the

Cape Coral Power and Sail Squadron offers Some of our other offering include, Introduction to Charting which is designed to help new boaters learn how to read and use paper and electronic charts Weather for Boaters is designed to help you understand how to predict changes in the weather Boat Handling is tailored to graduates of America’s Boating Course and digs deeper into six key topics that are touched on in America’s Boating Course

Coming up in May will be the annual hurricane and boats seminar This seminar is designed to help you understand the many things you need to do to prepare for and protect your boat during our next hurricane

All currently offered courses and seminars are listed online at ccsaps org where registration can be completed Students may also stop by the offices located at 917 S E 47th Terrace, Cape Coral, which are open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, from 9 a m to noon The club's volunteers can provide information about course offerings and there is also other valuable boating information along with some items for sale, like local charts and books including, “Safe Boating in Southwest Florida, Your Guide to the Many Channels on our Waterways” written by one of the local club members

Mighty Mussels to open 2024 baseball season with a bang

Fireworks, giveaways highlight Opening Weekend festivities

The Fort Myers Mighty Mussels plan to open the 2024 baseball season with a bang – lots of bangs, in fact

Opening Night on Friday, April 5, will feature the first of 13 postgame fireworks shows at Hammond Stadium this season, along with other promotions and giveaways for Mighty Mussels fans

“The gameday experience for fans at a Mighty Mussels game is nothing like I’ve experienced in all my years of watching baseball,” said Managing Partner John Martin “We have created an environment that prioritizes affordable family fun, and you’ll see that mindset reflected in our promotional schedule throughout the season, especially during Opening Weekend ”

The three-game homestand against the Tampa Tarpons features free tickets for children, an Easter Egg Hunt and opportunities to run the bases and play catch on the field There are plenty of promotions for adults, too, including 2for-1 drink specials, swag giveaways and yoga on the field Even dogs have their day at Hammond Stadium for Bark

Wednesday Baseball

Miami 3, North Fort Myers 2: Matthew Blasena homered and Nick Tobin drove in the Red Knights' other run All three Miami runs were unearned

Bishop Verot 10, Community School of Naples 1: The Vikings remained unbeaten at 11-0 Joey Lawson was 2-for-4 with a double, driving in three runs Jason Bello went 2-for-3 with a walk, two RBI and two runs scored Blake Lavenia and Maddix Simpson combined to hold CSN to a single run

Tuesday Baseball

in the Park

In 2023, the Mighty Mussels amassed a 67-64 record and averaged 1,675 fans per game, a 6% increase over the prior season With a total attendance of 108,879, the Mighty Mussels had the second-highest total attendance in the 10-member Florida State League

“The Twins organization historically does a tremendous job drafting and developing young talent, and we’ve seen quite a few rising stars begin their professional careers right here in Fort Myers,” said Mighty Mussels President Chris Peters “We’ve finished with a winning record in nine of our last 10 seasons and will start this season with some of the top prospects in Minor League Baseball on our roster ”

Mighty Mussels tickets start at $10 and are available at MightyMussels com

Upcoming gameday promotions include:

Friday, April 5 (first pitch at 7:05 p m )

n Pregame Happy Hour: Purchase 2-for-1 Bacardi drinks at Rusty’s Bar from 6-7 p m

See BASEBALL SEASON, page 46

Hernandez walked three times and scored both runs for the Tritons (4-8)

Braden River 6, Island Coast 5 (10 innings): Mason Blackburn, Jordi Guerrero and Jacob Fowler drove in a run each for the Gators (7-5) Island Coast scored twice in the top of the seventh to force extra innings. The Pirates got the game-winning run in the bottom of the 10th

Softball

Bishop Verot 10, Old Forge (Pa ) 0 (5 innings): The Vikings got three RBI from Alexalys Torres and home runs from Gianni Torres and McKenna Robbins Payton Breadmore allowed one hit over four scoreless innings, and Paige Betterman struck out the side in an inning of relief

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Breeze Athlete of the Week on one-week hiatus due to local schools’ Spring Break

Breeze Staf f Repor t news@breezenewspapers com

While high school student-athletes enjoy Spring Break, our Athlete of the Week program is taking a week to recharge as well

Despite that, here are some of the top performances from student-athletes in our area from the week before! Or Athlete of the Week program will resume next Friday

Baseball

Island Coast 16, Lehigh 2: (5 innings): J o r d i Guerrero doubled, tripled and drove in four runs for the

Gators

North Fort Myers 12, Cape Coral 2 (5 innings):

Jakob Wagner hit two home runs on a 3-for-3 night, scoring four times and collecting four RBI Mariner 13, South Fort Myers 2 (5 innings): PJ Marino went 2-for-3 with a home run, double, two runs scored and three RBI

Softball

Island Coast 17, South Fort Myers 2 (3 innings):

Taylor Sheene had a home run and six RBI to lead the Gators (12-4). She had two hits and scored three times. Sheene allowed one earned run in three innings pitched

Girls tennis

Oasis 7, Bishop Verot 1: Sophia Abreu and Sophia Pollard won their singles matches and then teamed for a doubles win for the Sharks. Emily Feichthaler won a third set tiebreaker in singles and then teamed with Cecilia Menendez to win at No 2 doubles

Flag football

Ida Baker 12, Island Coast 0: Liliana Porcelli was 10-of-15 passing for 110 yards and two touchdowns as the Bulldogs won their fourth game in a row

Baseball season: Mussels to kick of 2024 with a bang on April 5

From page 45

n Postgame Fireworks: Pyrotechnics will light up the sky above right field after the final out

n Magnet Schedule Giveaway: The first 1,000 fans will receive a 2024 magnet schedule

n Kids Club Friday: Children who join the Mussel Sprouts Kids Club receive a Tshirt, free tickets to all Friday home games and access to VIP events.

Saturday, April 6 (first pitch at 6:05 p m )

n Pinwheels in the Park: Players will wear custom pinwheel jerseys that will be auctioned to support Children’s Advocacy

Center during Child Abuse Prevention Month

n Easter Egg Hunt: Children are invited to an Easter Egg hunt on the field at 5 p m

n Tank Top Giveaway: The first 500 fans 21 and older will receive a Mighty Mussels tank top.

n Bark in the Park: Leashed dogs are welcome at Hammond Stadium

n Cancer Sucks Night: The Mighty Mussels are partnering with area organizations to raise awareness and support for cancer research

Sunday, April 7 (first pitch at 12:05 p m )

n Yoga Day: Yogis can participate in yoga on the field prior to the game Pre-

registration is required

n Free Kids’ Tickets: All children 12 and under can receive free tickets to every Sunday home game during the 2024 season

n Sunday Brunch: Enjoy an all-you-caneat ballpark brunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for just $15

n Kids Catch on the Field: Children can play catch from 11 to 11:30 a m

n Kids Run the Bases: Children can run bases after the game

About the Mighty Mussels

The Fort Myers Mighty Mussels are the Single-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins and have played home games at Hammond

Stadium since 1992 The franchise, which offers affordable family fun for all ages, plays in the Florida State League’s highly competitive West Division The Mighty Mussels are led off the field by Majority Partner John Martin and President Chris Peters, and on the field by Manager Brian Meyer Notable alumni include MLB AllStars Joe Mauer, David Ortiz, Jose Berrios, Byron Buxton, Miguel Sano and Torii Hunter For more information or to purchase individual, group or season tickets, please visit MightyMussels com or call 2 3 9 - 7 6 8 - 4 2 1 0 F o l l o w t h e M i g h t y Mussels on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat

‘The spins:’ Source sought for strange fish kills in the Florida Keys

From page 45

Keep in mind sawfish are on the endangered species and are not to be fished for, harassed or touched

On the local scene, we still have lots of small snook and rat red catches with more slot and some over-slot exceptions being caught For the reds, use their keen sense of smell against them and present smelly

CAPE CORAL ANIMAL SHELTER

Looking for a loving home

Precious and Sophia are super seniors at 12+ years young. They are a bonded pair of senior ladies on the lookout for our forever home They have been inseparable their entire lives and bring a quiet, sweet energy to any room Their petite frames and fluffy fur make them extra adorable!

Figgy is an 8-11 years young female She is a social butterfly with a luxurious coat that will stop everyone in their tracks once they see her She is at the age where kitten antics are totally last summer and the pampered life is what she seeks The

“retired” life is what she enjoys, so naps on the sofa and watching daytime TV shows are the key to her heart

If you are interested in meeting any of the animals available for adoption at The Cape Coral Animal Shelter, please visit its website at www capecoralanimalshelter com for additional information

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

baits as far back under docks and mangrove shorelines as possible Live or dead shrimp and cut pinfish are always good choices as well as my GULP-soaked, hot dog chunks, which with a good side arm skip cast get far back and under the mangroves to a lurking big 'un.

Whitebait isn’t abundant yet but its snook candy when available, so if your live well is empty try smaller, suspending plugs like MirrOdines that can be fished slowly and erratically like an easy meal baitfish You can add a split ring to increase action but using a reliable, rear facing tag end, loop knot is a better choice In all cases, the less hardware the better The water is warming but fast summer retrieves or lure styles is still a bit away Concentrate on making your lure look alive and struggling to survive to get the interest of a big, but still chilly, snook

Lots of small trout are being taken on shrimp under corks and plastic paddle tails on jigs If you’re on a school of small

trout, the only way to find bigger ones is to stay on the move looking for larger fish in different schools By all means, if you’re targeting trout, bend down your hook barbs to reduce tissue damage to juvenile fish

One of my lite tackle, shallow water favorites, the razor toothed bluefish, are still around along with pompano and a decreasing number of sheepshead

Cobia are being caught in and offshore as well as super-strong amberjack looking to stretch your back Kingfish should be showing soon Eighty to a hundred-plus feet for continued red grouper and assorted bottom catches with closer in GPS numbers producing many of the same bottom fish species

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

Carson Scholars: Local students

From page 18

n Reagan Wood, 10th grade, North Fort

Myers High School, North Fort Myers

n Aiden Estrada, 11th grade, North Fort

Myers High School, North Fort Myers

n Aubrey Beougher, 11th grade, North

Fort Myers High School, North Fort Myers

n Hunter Bailey, 11th grade, North Fort

Myers High School, North Fort Myers

n Bailey Flanagan, 12th grade, North

Fort Myers High School, North Fort Myers

n Jayni Patel, 12th grade, North Fort

Myers High School, North Fort Myers

n Katie Blackwell, 12th grade, North

Fort Myers High School, North Fort Myers

n Kylee Lange, 12th grade, North Fort

Myers High School, North Fort Myers

n Gemma Liebal, 9th grade, Oasis High School, Cape Coral

n Tyler Feichthaler, 12th grade, Oasis High School, Cape Coral

n Skylar Muncy, 11th grade, Oasis High School, Cape Coral

n Anna Moreau, 11th grade, Oasis High School, Cape Coral

n Jay Lu, 6th grade, Oasis Middle School, Cape Coral

n Sophia Blusiewicz, 6th grade, Oasis

Middle School, Cape Coral

n Lachlan Feichthaler, 7th grade, Oasis

Middle School, Cape Coral

n Patrick Kunkel, 7th grade, Oasis

Middle School, Cape Coral

n Brody Meyer, 8th grade, Trafalgar

Middle School, Cape Coral

Figgy

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Wanted To Buy

Garage Sales

SavonaNeighborhood Semi-AnnualGarageSale (offDelPrado)

Friday3/22-Sunday3/24 ManyFamiliesParticipating ForUpdatescall239-841-4664 orfollowusonFacebook: SponsoredbytheColeTeam RemaxNauticalRealty

TV, Stereo & Video

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Musical Instruments

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