VOLUME 48, NUMBER 47
Pine Island Aquatics growing, seeks additional support
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Darsey Stearns Smith of Stearns Custom Builders said, so far, as far as the youth sports activities on Pine Island are concerned, there has really been only support for Little League.
Pine Island now has a swim team, called Pine Island Aquatics, which, she said, could really use some support from parents, friends and anyone who may be interested.
“They’re a competitive swim team, and they use the Pine Island Community Pool,” Smith said.
The younger kids practice Monday through Thursday in the afternoon and evenings and the older and more advanced level kids practice Monday through Friday, she said. There are one or two swim meets a month locally.
She said the meet locations go from FGCU all the way up to the Sarasota area.
Smith said getting the word out about this program is important.
“Our youngest swimmer is 4 and our oldest swimmer is 17, so there’s a large span in ages and there are a lot of island kids doing this,” Smith said.
The coaches have made this a group that’s sought after, she said, bringing in kids from nearby areas, due to their experience. If you know someone who may have interest,
Celebrating Pine Islanders: Katie Fischer
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Katie Fischer describes the many roles she plays in her life as an islander, including mother of two, Kai, 12 and Sailor, 7; and local business woman of two businesses, as she is a real estate agent and also co-owns the Island Seafood Market in Matlacha with her partner, Casey Streeter. Fischer also describes herself as a woman of faith.
Folks may remember her, however, she said, from her days managing the Perfect Cup, in the heart of Matlacha, because when you get people their first cup of coffee for the day, you get to know them, she explained. Although there was a time, not long ago, when she found her life busier than she could have imagined.
“Up until Kai was about 2 or 3, I was with the Matlacha Hookers and super active. I was vice madam for one term but then I just got too busy being a mom and running a business. For a long time I was a coach on Pine Island Little League — from when my son was 4 until he was 9,” Fischer said.
Although her affection for the island has become a part of her everyday routine, Fischer said coming to Pine Island was always previously on her mind as far as where she would settle eventually, as she had been coming here for years before she moved here.
“My family has been on the island since the late 1980s, but I didn’t move here until 2008. I grew up visiting my family here. I always knew I wanted to be here someday. I’m from Ohio and coming here was just a great island feeling.”
She’s already made major contributions to Pine Island by doing things such as having offered her time to children and families in the summer lunch program coupled with several financial donations — things she said she’s hoping she has the time to return to in the future. Having started a career in real estate in 2010 has left Fischer little time to do much else, when she considers her role at the Seafood Market and her family life.
“My love for Pine Island is honestly the people and the community. That’s the one thing I really miss about
Island Seafood Market — we have such a connection to the community. People come in and I don’t even know if they want to buy seafood, they just wanted to chat and then Ian came along and our life got turned upside down. Our house flooded and our business got destroyed. It was a very scary time in our life but we gave it up to God — from that, we did get the opportunity to clean the waterways. Everything south of Pine
See KATIE FISCHER, page 11
or if you are interested in information, you can email any questions to Pineislandaquatics23@gmail.com
So far, she said support for the Pine Island Aquatics group has come from the Bobby Holloway Foundation and also the Pine Island Kiwanis Club, which helped when the group first began.
“They helped us to get some equipment that we needed, which was greatly appreciated — we’re a non-profit, so donations are always welcome to support the kids, for gear that they may need. With that money we were even able to buy a portable diving block, and we wouldn’t have been able to do that without the support of the community.
“We want to thank the community for their support and if there is anyone out there who’d like to support the swim
Friedlander, Russell provide update on oral history project
Friend of the Pine Island Library and Library Board director Jim Friedlander and his colleague Steve Russell recently brought interested library patrons up to date on their work to preserve the history of Pine Island through oral histories of long-time residents. Their project has been underway for more than a year and just days before the meeting they traveled to the University of Florida in Gainesville for training in its Oral History Program.
Oral history is a form of public history that makes history accessible to a broad audience and connects scholars and departments of history to their local communities.
Friedlander and Russell plan to record interviews of long-time Pine Island residents on the topic of the local fishing industry. They will begin with a set of questions to start the interview but expect many subjects to tell stories in their own way, sometimes incorporating photos/mementos in their homes. These recordings will be first-person stories and often include those of spouses as well.
If you are someone who was involved in commercial fishing before the net ban, or know someone who was and might be interested in participating, please contact Friedlander at 860-608-1158
The University of Florida will keep up with technology changes and make the interviews available in the Cloud via YouTube. The Pine Island Library offers a number of computers that will be able to access these
PHOTO PROVIDED
Katie Fischer and Casey Streeter.
Jim Friedlander and Steve Russell
FDOT to hold public meeting on proposed SR 78 improvements in Cape
The Florida Department of Transportation is hosting a public information meeting for SR 78 safety improvements from east of Del Prado Boulevard to Hibiscus Drive in Cape Coral today, April 2 (virtual) and Thursday, April 3 (in-person)
The proposed project includes preparing final construction plans for the addition of safety improvements along Pine
Island Road. The proposed improvements include an access modification which will include a median closure at the Lowe’s entrance along SR 78, the addition of a second eastbound left turn lane at Pondella Road, the introduction of traffic channelization islands at the Del Prado Boulevard intersection and the introduction of a directional median island at the Hibiscus Drive intersection. Lighting, signalization
From the Firehouse
M/PIFCD utilizes emergency air medical transport
Our department utilizes air medical transport of critical patients to the hospital through our partners at Air Methods, Aeromed and Bayflight. In 2024 alone, we called upon the helicopter for 48 air medical evacuations. This year to date, we are already up to 25 air medical evacuations.
If you see a helicopter landing or taking off, please use caution to ensure the safety of you, the emergency crews, and other motorists.
Ben Mickuleit Fire Chief
and pedestrian improvements are also being proposed at various locations within the project limits.
There are two ways to participate in the meeting:
n Virtual: Persons who do not wish to attend the public information meeting in person can join the meeting virtually at 6 p.m., April 2. To register for the Public Hearing, please use the following link https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/ register/3948717236020462938. You will receive an email with a link to log in the day of the virtual meeting. If using a mobile device, the free “GoToWebinar” Application is required to attend. Please allow adequate log-in time to view the presentation in its entirety. Please review the materials on project webpage before attending the virtual event (https://www.swflroads.com/project/450723-1). Materials will be posted by April 1.
n In-Person: The public information meeting will be held at the Cape Coral Technical College, at 360 Santa Barbara Blvd., N., Cape Coral, April 3. The public information meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. as an open house format.
The public information meeting will include a viewing of the project video and a live question-and-answer component
with the project team.
The same information will be presented at both the virtual and in-person public information meeting, so attending both is not necessary.
Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. Persons who require accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or persons who require translation services (free of charge) should make this request to the FDOT Project Manager at least seven days prior to the meeting.
If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Project Manager, David Agacinski, at 239-225-1924, via email at david. agacinski@dot.state.fl.us, or visit the project website at https://www.swflroads. com/project/450723-1.
Cribbage Corner
Cribbage scores from March 20 at the St. James City Civic Association: 1. Rick Parrott
2. Ken Amid
3. Patty Smith
4. John Hennessy
Lamb of the Week: Mike Mulder Cribbage is played at SJCCA at Fourth Avenue and Lemon Street every Thursday from 6:30-9 p.m.
OPINIONS
10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60
Bokeelia, FL 33922
Phone: (239) 283-2022
Fax: (239) 283-0232
Web: pineisland-eagle.com
Publisher Raymond M. Eckenrode reckenrode@breezenewspapers.com
Executive Editor
Valarie Harring vharring@breezenewspapers.com
Editor Paulette LeBlanc pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Advertising Director Laurie Ragle lragle@.breezenewspapers.com
Advertising Sales
Charlene Russ cruss@breezenewspapers.com
Design & Layout
Chris Strine cstrine@breezenewspapers.com
Obituaries Debbie Carletti obits@breezenewspapers.com
Subscriptions
1 Year $52
To Pay For Your Subscription P.O. Box 151306
Cape Coral, FL 33915
Circulation (239) 574-1936
Classified Advertising (239) 574-5644
Display Advertising (239) 283-2022
The Eagle is published every Wednesday
Customer service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except major holidays.
Letters to the editor must be typed or handprinted. Your name and phone number must be affixed to the copy.
In the event of an advertising error, we are responsible only for the first incorrect insertion of the ad itself. We are not responsible for any credit or reimbursement after 30 days from publication.
Postal Information: Bulk rate postage paid at Fort Myers, FL Postmaster. Send address changes to the Pine Island Eagle. Permit # 521.
Web Poll
Previous Web Poll Question:
Do you approve of the Trump Administration’s cost saving/downsizing moves?
n Yes. 64%
n No. 30%
n Somewhat. 6%
n It depends on how far it goes. 0%
Current Web Poll Question:
Is the work to replace the Little Pine Island Bridge taking too long?
n Yes.
n No.
n Maybe -- projects like that take a long time
n I have no opinion
Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com
A letter to the community
Dear Alliance Community,
My name is Neil Volz, and I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new executive director of the Alliance for the Arts — Monday, March 24, marked my first day in this role! It is an absolute honor to have the opportunity to serve this incredible organization and the community that surrounds it.
When I moved to Florida nearly 20 years ago, the Alliance was one of the first places that truly made me feel at home. I experienced firsthand how the arts bring people together, spark creativity and foster a sense of belonging. That same passion for the Alliance’s mission — transforming lives and strengthening our community through the arts—continues to inspire me today.
Throughout the year, we are proudly celebrating 50 years of creativity, community, and connection. There’s no better time to engage with the Alliance than now!
Whether you’re a creative, donor or supporter, I encourage you to dive into all that
Are you proud of your party?
To the editor:
Common decency, compassion and parenthood took a distant backseat to their “Trump Derangement Syndrome” on the evening of March 4, 2025, when our president gave his address to the joint session of Congress. The seething vitriolic hatred from the Democratic Party was never more evident than when young D.J. Daniel proudly received his honorary membership in the Secret Service and the lockstep liberal and shameful Democrats sat mute for his thrill of a lifetime. He survived a severe form of brain cancer and was held up and honored as a survivor by the president. There were others that were recognized, some for achievements and some who had lost loved ones to their illegal immigrant murderers brought in by the last administration.
D.J. is not an illegal immigrant but in a few short years, God willing, he will register to vote and he’s old enough to remember what happened on that night and how disgracefully he was treated by about half the room. Do you think he or any other children watching those stone-faced politicians on that video while he was proudly receiving his “badge” and being recognized and applauded by the other half of the room will be registering as a Democrat or ever voting for one?
You must be very proud of your Dem party that has evolved into nothing more than a radical cult whose only agenda is to promote hatred towards Donald Trump. How could you possibly support or excuse that abhorrent behavior that we all witnessed?
we have to offer. Take a class. See a show. Experience live music. Be part of the creative energy.
In the weeks and months ahead, I hope to meet and connect with as many of you as possible.
Join me at these exciting upcoming events at the Alliance campus at 10091 McGregor Blvd. in Fort Myers:
n April Gallery Openings & Executive Director Welcome Reception — April 4. Hope to see you in person!
n Feast for the SensesAn inventive and provocative dining experience on April 5
25-27.
I recently learned that March is Membership Appreciation Month! I would have loved to join you at the Red Sox game, Storytelling Festival and Southwest Florida Symphony. If you’re not a current member, now is the perfect time to join and enjoy exclusive benefits like discounts, early ticket access, and the joy of supporting the arts.
Thank you for being part of the Alliance family. I’m excited to grow, create, and shape the future with you.
Commentary
n 6 Guitars by Chase Padgett — A two-act one-man show featuring music, comedy and much more. April
Letters to the Editor
Visit artinlee.org for more information on events, membership and more, including more information about me, opportunities to join me for events or to schedule a time to meet.
Islanders participate with Guns and Hoses Pipe and Drum Band in Ireland for St. Paddy’s Day
To the editor:
St Paddy’s Day was last week, but you may be interested to know that two local residents (us) went with our pipe and drum band to Dungarvan, County
Waterford, Ireland, to participate in the local festivities and parade.
The band is the Guns and Hoses Pipe and Drum Band of Southwest Florida, and plays for surrounding community events. We had a wonderful time and were well received by the local residents and officials. Art & Rosemary Arway St. James City
Politicians say NO to clean water
To the editor:
Max Christian St. James
City
The states legislative session is now open. This is the time when our local representatives and senators put forth bills that they hope will become law. These proposed bills become available to the public to review. They say all politics are local, so what have our locally elected officials proposed so far
this year? Our very own Rep. Jenna Mulicka has proposed house bill 1205. This bill would totally change how citizen petitions would be qualified to be put on the ballot in future elections. This bill would make citizen-enacted amendments to the state constitution nearly impossible.
The requirement for a $1,000,000 bond poses a significant challenge for grassroots organizations to propose amendments on the ballot. There are also severe penalties if a petition is found invalid. This could be a wrong address, signature doesn’t match the voter registration, et. Things that petition collectors have NO control over. It takes away the power of the people to change our constitution. Only lawmakers will have the power to
propose amendments to the state constitution. Any proposed amendment already requires more than 900,000 signed petitions to get considered for placement on the state ballot. The Florida Right to Clean Water ballot efforts would very likely be doomed. The sad truth is our own elected officials are fighting to kill any public effort to put an amendment on the ballot. My suggestion is that you go to www.floridarighttocleanwater.org. Request a petition and sign it while it’s still legal to do so. We all need the right to clean water but our opportunity as a citizen of the state of Florida to demand that right could soon go away.
Dan Carney Cape Coral
Neil Volz Guest
Lee Health Bloodmobile at Moose Lodge April 12
The Lee Health Bloodmobile will be visiting The Pine Island Moose Lodge at 8903 Stringfellow Road in St. James City Saturday, April 12, from 8 a.m. to noon. All the blood collected remains in Lee Health, which includes the Golisano Children’s Hospital of SW Florida, the Regional Cancer Center and the only Trauma Center (which is located in the Lee Memorial Hospital) within a 5-county radius. The blood also supports Cape Coral Hospital and Gulf Coast Medical Center. One in three people will need blood in their lifetime. You never know when you or someone you know or love will need blood. So come out and Give the Gift of Life!
All donors will receive a free health checkup, cholesterol screening, and gift.
New studies show that donating blood improves your overall cardiovascular health. Regularly donating blood helps men in particular to reduce the amount of iron in the blood. This can reduce the chance of heart attack by 88%. Additionally, regular blood donation can lower the risk of severe cardiovascular events such as stroke by 33%. You also burn 650 calories! It’s a win-win!
Please help us make our goal of 18+ units of blood.
Requirements for donating blood:
n Weigh at least 115 pounds
First Baptist Church of St. James City to hold Spaghetti Dinner Monday
First Baptist Church of St. James City will hold a Spaghetti Fundraiser Dinner Monday, April 7, from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. in the church’s Fellowship Hall
The cost is $15 for adults and $8 for kids 12 & under.
Participants will get spaghetti with garlic bread, salad, dessert and a drink; carry-outs available. All proceeds go to the cost of raising the church building. Contact the church at 239-283-0982.
n Be at least 16 years old (16 requires parental written consent)
n Be relatively healthy
n Provide photo ID
n Have 56 days between donations Eat a meal before donating blood and be sure to drink plenty of fluids before and after donation. Questions about donating? Call us at 343-2333
Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce donations
Thanks to the support of the island community at the StoneCrab Fest last January, the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce was proud to present donation checks to three great organizations on the island. Top left, Chamber President Dave Conner presents a check to Cheryl King, president of Calusa Land Trust. Above, Conner presents a check to Linda Bohacek, madam of Matlacha Hookers. At left, Conner presents a check to Pastor Michelle of the Pine Island Community Church.
Deadline Friday for ‘Hooked On Education’ Scholarships applications
The deadline for the Matlacha Hookers’ “Hooked On Education” scholarship applications is this Friday, April 4.
Since 2003, the organization has awarded more than $200,000 in scholarships to deserving students.
To qualify, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet at
least one of the following criteria:
n Former student of Pine Island Elementary School
n Current Matlacha Hooker member for at least one year
n Immediate family member of a Matlacha Hooker member for at least one year
Calusa Land Trust’s last paddling tour of season set for Sunday
The next “Peter Ordway” Paddling Tour will take place this Sunday, April 6, paddling along the Pine Island Sound shoreline up to the Big Jim Creek Preserve (325+ protected mangrove acres). Paddlers will meet at the public launch off Waterfront Drive in Pineland at 10 a.m. Participants may use their own watercraft or rent one from Carmen’s Kayaks (239-333-7332).
The guided tour will meander along the shoreline and through the preserve’s mangroves and share the day with the resident birds (including roseate spoonbills), dolphin and fish species. Including bottled water and bug spray in one’s knapsack is recommended. Afterwards the group will gather for
lunch at nearby Tarpon Lodge (with reservations needed).
This will be the last paddling tour for the season.
The Calusa Land Trust is Pine Island’s all-volunteer land conservancy, which sponsors events for public education and enjoyment. The paddling tours are held monthly in season. Since it is also a fundraising effort a donation of $20 per person/$10 for CLT member is requested. New/renewal membership forms will be available.
Please contact Jim Friedlander at 860-608-1158 or jimfri29@gmail. com for your reservation and to confirm whether you plan to attend the luncheon.
n Resident of Greater Pine Island for at least one year
n Applicant for the 2025 First Responders Scholarship Applications are available online at matlachahookers.org under the “Hooked on Education Scholarship Application” tab. Completed applications must be mailed to the address on the form and postmarked by April 4. Hard copies are also available at the Pine Island Library.
Businesses or individuals interested in supporting the 2026 Hooked on Education scholarship fund can contact the Matlacha Hookers at matlachahookers@matlachahookers.org to contribute.
FDOT update notes progress on Little Pine Island Bridge
MATLACHA, Fla. – The Florida Department of Transportation has issued its weekly update on the ongoing construction of the Pine Island Bridge and the steps being taken to accelerate the project. FDOT officials say they committed to delivering this critical infrastructure as quickly as possible while ensuring quality and safety remain top priorities.
The concrete pour for the Little Pine Island Bridge was tentatively scheduled for March 28. When work resumed, crews were set to pour over 300 yards of concrete for the deck slab, requiring approximately five hours to complete.
Uncertainty is always a factor when assessing the impact of construction on traffic flow. To stay informed, motorists are encouraged to check FDOT’s traffic app at www.FL511.com for real-time updates. Live bridge camera feeds can be accessed at https://www.leegov.com/dot/ traffic. To sign up for updates and access the weekly Road Watch, please visit the project website at 451937-2 Pine Island
Causeway and Bridge Reconstruction Project. For further inquiries, contact the Communications Team at (239)-8006391 or email pineislandinfo@exp.com.
Phase 1 Update
FDOT aims to complete Phase 1 by spring 2025 and make significant progress on both the east and west sides of the bridge.
Construction crews finished forming and tying the steel deck.
Construction crews have successfully finished pouring the east approach slab, with the concrete deck and the west approach slab to follow.
Upcoming activities will include paving operations and utility work.
FDOT is committed to constructing a bridge that is built to last, capable of withstanding extreme loads and environmental stresses. Once completed, this structure will embody resilience and sustainability, ensuring it stands strong against future storms and serves the community safely for generations to come.
The Del Prados in concert this Sunday at First Baptist Church of St. James City
The Del Prados will perform in concert this Sunday, April 6, at 3 p.m.. at the St. James City Civic Association, 3300 4th Ave. Doors open at 2 p.m.
Admission is $35 person (cash)
Tickets will be sold on Mondays, from 10 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays, from 1-4 p.m., at First Baptist Church of St.
James City at 3417 8th Ave. The event is alcohol-free and the SJCCA is a smoke-free facility. Food will be available for purchase.
For more information, please contact Sue Duffee at 614-595-5360.
Proceeds go to the cost of raising the church building.
St. James City Civic Association has announced the following upcoming events and activities:
Thursday, April 3
n Ping Pong, 9-11
a.m. It’s a fun way to meet the neighbors and play ping pong
n Mahjongg, 1-4 p.m. This is a great place to learn to play mahjongg! Contact
SJCCA Update
Carolyn at 239-233-7682.
n Cribbage, 6-8 p.m. All are welcome for weekly cribbage fun and competition. Contact John Hennessy at 908-801-2034 for additional information
Friday, April 4
n Shuffleboard, 9-11 a.m. All equipment provided. Beginners welcome.
n Change Your Luck BINGO, 5:30-8
Kiwanis Club accepting applications for scholarships, deadline May 1
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Pine Island is once again offering scholarships to local students pursuing higher education, continuing a tradition of community support that has lasted for over 40 years.
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria: They must either reside on Pine Island or have attended Pine Island Elementary School. Applicants must also be either high school seniors planning to enter a post-high school program or high school graduates already enrolled or preparing to enroll in one. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate a financial need.
p.m. Every first Friday will be bingo night! Doors open at 5:30 and we start playing at 6 p.m. 10 games (3-card pack is $30 and 2-card pack is $16). Progressive jackpot on Game 10.
Saturday, April 5
n Garage Sale, 8-11 a.m. Cool stuff added daily.
Tuesday, April 8
n Shuffleboard, 9-11 a.m.
n Ping Pong, 9-11 a.m.
n Dominoes, 6-8 p.m. Dominoes is a game that everyone can play: kids, adults, and even the old. It is that simple, and it does not matter a person’s skill type or level when it comes to gaming. Contact Vicki Janda 954.655.4252 for additional information.
Wednesday, April 9
n PI Learners Nature Group, 10-11:30 a.m. Fun activities for the island’s children hosted weekly
The deadline to submit applications is May 1. Completed applications may be dropped off at the Century 21 Office or mailed to the Scholarship Chairman at P.O. Box 111, St. James City, FL 33956. Mailed applications must be postmarked no later than May 1 to be considered.
For more information or any questions regarding the application process, contact Scholarship Committee Chairs Greg Brown at 305-216-0522 or Tonya Player at 239-203-4682.
Applications are available for pickup at two locations: Century 21 Office, located at 10191 Stringfellow Road in St. James City, or the Pine Island Public Library. Applications can also be downloaded from the Kiwanis Club’s website at www. PineIslandKiwanis.org.
Mahjongg Scores
We had 20 players at mahjongg Thursday, March 27, at the St. James City Civic Assertion. It was a good time for all! Toni Lindsay was in first place with 165 , Bonnie Kelleng in second place with 145, and Stephanie Lahines
was third with 105. Mahjongg is played every Thursday from 1-4 p.m. at SJCCA on Lemon Street and Fourth Avenue. Everyone is welcome to join us. For more information, call Terry at 239-233-2766.
n Golden Brush, 1-4 p.m. Don’t be shy! Explore your artistic muse with SJCCA’s painting group. The Order of the Golden Brush, founded over 45 years ago by Gladys Stroud, provides a supportive atmosphere for individuals wishing to play with paints and pencils. Newcomers, current members, novices, and established artists are all welcome. Need more information? Please call Linda Selleck at 239-313-1212
n Guided Meditation with Christine, 4:15-5:15 p.m. This 30-minute meditation class will be a guided meditation offering techniques to focus on the present moment with non-judgmental awareness.
All activities are held at St James City Civic Association, 3300 Fourth Ave., St James City. More details, contacts and ticket sales are available at SJCCAPI. ORG
April is a good time to be on the water
After a colder than average month of March, we move into a month that has a lot to offer anglers. April holds the potential for some of the best fishing of the year and great weather.
Spanish mackerel return to area waters both inshore and offshore. They are roaming in schools looking for food throughout inshore and nearshore waters. Look for birds working the water as mackerel push schooling bait to the water’s surface. Artificial reefs in the Gulf of Mexico may hold large numbers of Spanish, plus a few of their large cousins, king mackerel or king fish. Groups of birds dipping to the water is a dead giveaway. Spanish mackerel are fast, hard fighting and good on the table if prepared fresh.
On the Water
Reefs in the gulf within sight of land hold a variety of fish on any given day. Good-eating snapper, grunts, mackerel and the last run of spawning sheepshead, plus hard-fighting barracuda, sharks, goliath grouper and a big cobia or permit are all a good possibility fishing around the numerous public reefs.
Anglers can get a jump start on tarpon season and often locate schooling fish with little angling competition. May and June are the months that get most of the attention. Schools of tarpon are milling around waters off the gulf beaches ranging in depths from just off the
See APRIL, page 11
Capt. Bill Russell
PHOTO PROVIDED
With warmer weather, fish are getting hungry. Snook is a top target in April. This one took a live bait in Matlacha Pass fishing with Capt. Bill Russell.
Voting for Breeze Athlete of the Month for March underway
Voting for the Cape Coral Breeze Athlete of the Month for March is now open.
The Breeze had countless top performances from student-athletes in its coverage area in March and now it’s up to readers to decide who will earn top honors for the month.
Nominees for March include:
n Grady Schwiezer, senior, Island Coast Gators: The senior tossed the Gators’ second-ever perfect game in a 2-0 win against South Fort Myers. Schwiezer faced the minimum 21 batters over 7 innings of work, striking out eight along the way and needing just 76 pitches.
n Maximus Brady, senior, Mariner Tritons: The Triton made history by becoming a four-time state champion. Brady stood atop the podium once again, this year in the FHSAA 2A, 138-pound class. He won his championship match in one minute, and went undefeated on the year.
n Seth Tshiams, senior, North Fort Myers Red Knights: The Red Knight captured a FHSAA State Championship in Class 2A, competing in the 275-pound division. The senior won via an 8-1 decision.
n Emma Brannan, sophomore, Cape Coral Seahawks: The sophomore helped the Seahawks to four wins during her nomination week, including a stellar 20-strikeout performance against Gateway where she allowed just two hits in a complete game shutout.
n Gabi Winters, sophomore, Mariner Tritons: The sophomore ace had an incredible week in the circle for the Tritons. Across three games, Winters tossed 18 innings of shutout ball, striking out 39 batters and allowed just two hits. She also threw a 5-inning no-hitter against Ida Baker.
n Jazlyn Forbes, junior, Oasis Sharks: Forbes finished first in the mile with
Obituaries
Pine Island
Christopher Ian Dohme
Christopher Ian Dohme of Bokeelia, Florida, passed away March 15, 2025 at the age of 74. Chris grew up in Westport, Ct, attended Marquette University in Milwaukee, then made his way to Sarasota in 1973, where he worked for Siesta Key Utilities. It was in Sarasota that he met and married his wife, and his children were born. In 1990 he moved to Bokeelia, where he was general manager of Greater Pine Island Water until his retirement.
Chris was a devoted husband and father as well as a good friend to many. He was charismatic and fun to be around. He loved golf, grilling hamburgers, fireworks, and Marquette basketball. He generously gave of himself wherever he found need, volunteering in several schools and for many island events. He was most passionate about the Bobby Holloway Fishing Tournament where he spent over 20 years as a board member and sponsor, helping to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for island children.
Chris is survived by his loving wife Heather, children Ashley (Matt) Braselton and Ian Dohme, his brother Bill Dohme, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters Martha Dohme Donovan and Mary Ellen “Missy” Dohme.
A funeral will be held at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church, 12175 Stringfellow Rd, Bokeelia, FL 33922 on April 26 at 11:30 am.
Bokeelia
Donald E. Campbell
Donald E. Campbell, 89, recently of Clemson, SC, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marjorie (Corning) Campbell, who passed away in 2015 after 56 years of marriage.
Don spent his formative years in Ithaca, NY, and soon after the birth of their second child, moved to Lansing, NY. Cayuga Lake held a special place in his and his family’s life. In his later years, Don enjoyed the warm winters of St. James City, FL, where he spent his time basking in the sunshine and playing shuffleboard.
Don dedicated his life to serving his community. He volunteered for many years in various roles with the Lansing Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance Corps, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of his neighbors. His dedication extended to the water, where he devoted over 27 years to the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, holding numerous positions and contributing significantly to maritime safety. Professionally, Don retired after 32 years of dedicated service to NYS Electric & Gas.
Don was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his loving children: Betty Orgel, David Campbell, Barbara Campbell, Beverly Tesser, and Susan Galloway. He will be deeply missed by his seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.
A celebration of Don’s life is planned for the summer of 2025 in the Lansing, NY area. Details regarding the date, time, and location will be announced at a later date. To be informed of these plans, please email DonCampbellMemorial@gmail.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Don’s memory would be greatly appreciated by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary to:
Ithaca Flotilla 2-2, Inc. C/O Treasurer David Pierce 358 Midline Rd Freeville, NY 13068
a time of 4:59:03 at the Guy Thomas Memorial Classic in a stacked field of elite runners.
n Matthew Blasena, senior, North Fort Myers Red Knights: Blasena homered twice and drove in seven runs for the Red Knights (9-6) in a 12-1 win over North Port. He leads the team with a .468 bat-
ting average and 21 RBI.
Athlete of the Month nominees are comprised of the Breeze’s staff-selected Athletes of the Week for that respective month.
To vote, visit www.capecoralbreeze. com and click the “Vote Now” icon on the homepage.
American Legion Post 136 scholarships available
American Legion Post 136 is offering scholarships to students graduating from high school and attending college or university, accredited programs such as nursing school, technical or trade school an opportunity to continuing education.
Scholarship applications can be downloaded online or are available for pick-up at the Post for students who
Oral history
have attended Pine Island Elementary, is a member of the American Legion or have an immediate family member who is a member of the Legion.
All applications must be post marked by Friday, May 16.
Students can get their applications by going online at www.post136fl.org or contacting Ed Mitchell at 239-2467634.
From page 1
histories. In addition, there are a number of oral history books available either in print or e-copy through the library system. They cover a wide variety of topics and interests including the classic Studs Terkel books (e.g., The Good War, Hard Times and Working) which are available on Hoopla. Garrett Graff’s outstanding books on 9/11 and on D-Day are available in both hard and e-copy.
The Pine Island Library is open Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Please to https://www.leegov.com/library/branches/pi for more information of services available or stop by at 10701 Russell Road in Bokeelia (just north of the Center). The library staff is always welcoming and eager to help.
Cat of the Week
Jayne
This little torti is a total sweetheart. She lacks the “torti-tude” a lot of her kind have, which makes her super easy to get along with. Jayne is only a year and a half old and a little smarty pants. Come meet this adorable girl. Call Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary at 239-283-9100 for more information. If you’d rather just donate, our address is 10060 Mallory Parkway, E., Unit D, St. James City, or there’s always our website www. helpingpawsanimalsanctuary.com.
PHOTO PROVIDED
beach out to 30 or more feet. Tarpon are moving inshore as well, as they are on the move and could appear anytime and anywhere.
Warm water brings numerous sharks to our area on the hunt for their next meal and a great challenge for willing anglers. Blacktip and spinner sharks are some of the most challenging fish to catch. Not only do they possess a great fight, but they also make violent jumps and they’re extremely fast. Many of the big spinners explode into such a wild spinning leap it’s difficult to keep them from exploiting the weak link in your rigging. A large spinner or blacktip will rival a tarpon for sheer power and fight.
Also moving in with the tarpon are the hammerhead and bull sharks, the largest
of which are hanging around the tarpon schools awaiting a fish in distress for an easy meal.
About every kid or young adult that goes fishing wants to catch a shark. It’s not always possible, but it’s good if you can match the size of the shark you target to the kid’s age. You get a young kid hooked up to a big shark and it may be more fish than they can manage. There are plenty of sharks of various species ranging in size from 3-5 feet, this is a great size for most kids. For that matter, it’s a good size for most adults!
With water temperature in the mid70s and above, the snook bite can be very good. Snook may range in size from little guys barely a foot long to big girls pushing 40 inches or more. Snook are
Katie Fischer From page 1
Island Road was our area to clean after Ian. We ended up starting that business and we’ve done several storms since then,” Fischer said.
Although she said they have intentions to come back, she and Streeter will have to work through the timing of that partic-
ular project, she said, as it will have to be the right time. She said her greatest wish for Pine Island would be for it to stay the way it is, developmentally.
“I want us to recover, but I don’t want us to lose sight of what made Pine Island, Pine Island,” Fischer said.
Pine Island Aquatics From page 1
team, so we can continue to carry it on for these kids, that would be great as well,” Smith said.
The Pine Island Aquatics Team is currently open to swimmers and probationary periods are acceptable, she said.
“They can come and try it. They can give it a try for a couple of days and see if they like it and we can get them signed up. It’s a wonderful sport. It’s nice to have something on the island for the kids who have an interest outside of baseball,” Smith said.
on the move, as an ambush feeder look for them around areas with structure and good tidal flow.
Redfish also appreciate the warmer days and higher tides. A properly placed bait under the shade of a mangrove shoreline, dock or around an oyster bar may result in hard-fighting reds. More often than not, if you hook one redfish, more are nearby. Like snook, size can vary widely with the largest measuring over thirty inches.
Our largest seatrout of the year come this month as their spring spawn is in full swing. Trout over 20 inches are common with fish measuring 24 inches and above possible.
Look for trout throughout the inshore waters with a grassy bottom, around oyster bars, sand holes and transition areas. Often the largest trout are caught while snook fishing.
Keep your options open as this is a month with so many fishing opportunities that it’s easy to start the day with one species in mind and get sidetracked with another. April is a month with good
weather and the potential for great fishing, get on the water and take advantage of it!
Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at: www.myfwc. com. Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations with pictures to help identify fish. If you turn on your GPS location the Fish Rules app updates to your location. In my opinion, it is more accurate and up to date than FWC’s website.
If you have a fishing report or for charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service -- call or text 239-410-8576; website at www.fishpine island.com; or email gcl2fish@ live.com
Have a safe week and good fishin’
As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt. Bill Russell has spent his life fishing and learning
Bridge Beat
Bridge is played at 12:30 p.m. every Wednesday at the Fishers of Men Lutheran Church at 10360 Stringfellow Road, St. James City. Anyone wishing to play is welcome and does not need a partner. It costs $3 to play, some of which goes back to winners of the game.
Come join us. Sharpen your brain! Last week’s scores: Judy Nyhus, first place; Karen McWright, second place; and Audrey Gehrig, third place. It’s a good thing Judy and John Nyhus have been married so long, because when they were partners, they missed two slams. Bad bidding.
Forbes finished first in the mile with a time of 4:59:03 at the Guy Thomas Memorial Classic in a stacked field of elite runners.
“It is always great to win any race, especially against a talented field of athletes. I plan to continue working hard in every workout to accomplish my season goals.”
Blasena homered twice and drove in seven runs for the Red Knights (9-6) in a 12-1 win over North Port. He leads the team with a .468 batting average and 21 RBI.
“It was a day game, so I was feeling more relaxed up there and just focusing on my approach and trying to have some fun. I’ve been working every day to improve my game with my coaches and just buying in to what they’re telling me.”
Jazlyn Forbes Junior Track & Field
Matthew Blasena Senior Baseball
Garage Sales
REDBARN EstateSale
SatApr5th&SunApr6th 8amto3pm 5822WildfigLane (FtMyers,WhiskeyCreek) BelleekGalore,China, Silver,Crafts,Jewelry, Furnitute,ChinaCabinets, Lamps,Gardening, Clothing...TooMuchTo Mention! ItsWorththeDrive. Donátmissthisone! Besuretoseethephotos! Pictures: facebook.com/RedBarnCapeCoral
& Vans
2003 FORD RANGER GREAT CONDITION, 185000 MILES. RUNS GREAT,NEW TIRES. TAKEN GOOD CARE OF. $5000. 207-242-6821, ST JAMES CITY Recreation Vehicles
I BUY ALL RV’s I BUY ALL Boat’s
HH I PAY CASH HH
I will Come To You To See It Quick & Easy Sale. CASH ON THE SPOT! Vince~941-301-9946~Local
Power Boats
I BUY ALL RV’s I BUY ALL Boat’s HH I PAY CASH HH
I will Come To You To See It Quick & Easy Sale. CASH ON THE SPOT! Vince~941-301-9946~Local
2008 Pro-Line 20’ Center Console 40th Anniversary Edition with 150HP Honda 4-stroke. Like new, Not used for fishing. Only 472 hours. $16500. Call 734-788-8358
Annual Rentals
Lakewood Condo. UF 2/2 close to shopping,,, beaches etc. Gated complex. $1800/mo Sanibel UF 2/2. Stilt home. Nice, 1 block of property, privacy, updated, screened pool. Must See! $4500/mo Sanibel UF 2/2. Lg. Family room, 2 car gar., dockage, direct access. $6000/mo Gulf Beach Properties, Inc., Paul Zimmerman, Realtor. 239-472-6747. Serving the Islands for 50 years.
Waterfront Homes
SE Cape Coral high/dry Sailboat access. Long view canals. No HOA, 3/2/2 pool home w/ 2185 sq ft. Open concept, spacious kitchen, maple cabinets, granite countertop, Large master suite & bath. Boat lift. Manicured lawn w/ mature landscaping. Asking $849,900. Call 239-443-6856
Waterfront property, 2855 sqft under roof, 4 bedroom / 2 bath, assessments fully paid. Screen enclosure 26’x13’ inground saltwater South facing, autofill, overflow pool 2021. Many new mechanics...roof 2023, HVAC 2024. All LG kitchen appliances, dovetail drawers, Corian counter, disposal, cathedral ceilings, 5 1/2’ baseboard, tray ceiling in master suite, mstr bath equipped with 8” spread faucets, jetted tub. Extra storage racks in 20’x21’ garage, newly paved driveway 2022. Landscaping freshly finished with classy concrete edging. Firepit & side patio 15’X13’ (2024) to watch the sunset with a view down the canal that leads to Lake Saratoga and adjoining freshwater lakes. Sellers assist available. Call 412-657-2840, Owner $524,500
Features power recline with a power headrest and power lumbar adjustment with USBC charging ports. The console loveseat features a cooler with wireless charging and hidden cup holders. There are also hidden Blue Tooth speaker for the ultimate in surround sound technology.
