Collaboratory reps discuss EPA grant at GPICA meeting
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Tessa LeSage, chief impact officer of Collaboratory, and her partner, John Romaine, community resilience strategist for the foundation, were invited to the April 1 meeting of the Greater Pine Island Civic Association to share possible future opportunities there could be for supporting resiliency on Pine Island.
Collaboratory is working with Lee County to use a $19 million grant from the EPA to strengthen the county’s disaster preparedness by creating resiliency hubs at Collaboratory, Franklin Park Elementary, the IMAG History and Science Center and Pine Manor Community Center.
LeSage began by explaining Collaboratory’s role, which is helping the community give back to the com-
munity.
“We also do work with non-profit organizations to help build their capacity, to help apply for grants together, to find ways for us to work together, where problems require more than one organization to be able to actually make a difference,” LeSage said.
She went on to explain that, as a neutral, third-party organization, Collaboratory has the opportunity to bring organizations together who have problems they cannot solve on their own. Resilience, she said, is one of those issues which cannot be solved alone or easily.
“I would encourage you to look at Collaboratory, and if you are interested to learn more, we are happy to follow up with you,” LeSage said.
She then explained that the plan she was referencing began in February 2023, just a few months after
The rebuilding of Matlacha
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
According to Matlacha resident Michael Hannon, he and his wife, Kathleen Walsh, have not changed their views about Matlacha from their original mindset when they moved here in 2012.
“This is the Shangri-La, and while the unusual occurrence of three hurricanes back to back is discouraging, Shangri-La is worth rebuilding,” Hannon said.
He said he believes this time to be a transitional phase for many who may not have been able to stay after the last three hurricanes. He added that he sees Matlacha as a one-lane choke point as one enters Pine Island.
Bill Carey, owner of Carey Construction, said it is important to rebuild Matlacha above the flood plain.
“Great town. We’ve fallen in love with it. The
hurricanes, I think, have given it a little re-boot, or an opportunity to improve itself, which is wonderful,” Carey said.
He admits he’s excited about Matlacha being rebuilt so he can live here. He is currently collaborating with other local businesses, such as Stearns Custom Builders
Local Stearns Custom Builders owner Derrick Stearns said his company recently finished building a home in Matlacha, up to the flood plain elevation, which changed, he said, following Hurricane Ian.
“Even though it is a home that is at the lowest elevation that FEMA allows, we still had nearly 2 feet
See REBUILDING MATLACHA, page 11
A crew from Carey Construction building islander Mike Hannon’s house in Matlacha.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Hurricane Ian. The county, she said, wanted to work on developing a plan that would go above and beyond the HUD money that was coming in. This, she said, would allow for the seeking of additional funding on a much longer term.
“Because we’re a community foundation, we have that neutral, third-party convening power that a lot of organizations don’t have. We don’t really have a dog in the fight, except that we want our community and region to be a better place and we want to ensure that our communities are thriving,” LeSage said.
The plan can be accessed, she said, on ResilientLee. com. It was adopted by the Board of County Commissioners in March 2024, she said. Various munic-
Sold-out crowd attends annual Matlacha Civic Association
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
According to Matlacha Civic Association President Carol Scott, this year’s annual gala, which was held at Leoma Lovegrove’s studio Sunday March 30, was sold out as of Saturday, as far as tickets both online and physically, she said.
Scott approximated the total at more than 140 people present at the event. In addition to the usual fundraising efforts for the MCA, there was also a celebration of Matlacha now being 99 years old.
“In my welcoming speech to our guests, I reminded them that they were in a very special place, which was, of course, Leoma’s Gardens. We held a beautiful gala in a magical place,” Scott said.
The annual MCA gala, which is the only fundraiser for the year, funds many things throughout the year, she explained.
“The American flags up — one for each state up and down our little commerce area. It funds the Fourth of July picnic. It funds events like in May — we’re having butterflies and a band, where the artists all painted butterflies for our transformation into something new and beautiful. It funds the Christmas trees and our little Christmas village. This fundraiser meant a lot but it also meant we were celebrating 99 years in Matlacha,” Scott said.
There was also an auction, she said, where wooden fish were given to a number of the island artists. Scott told them to paint them on both sides and bring them back. The fish were then hung with crystals and turned into sun-catchers, she explained.
“They were beautifully painted and studded with little diamond or iridescent stones and glitter and some of them print-sketched the iconic bridge—there were dolphins and sunsets, sunrises. There were paintings of
Calusa Waterkeeper holds vertical oyster garden class
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
On Saturday, March 29, Calusa Waterkeeper ranger Sue Dahod ran a vertical oyster garden class-type learning experience at Carmen’s Kayaks for anyone interested in learning about oysters, which are capable of filtering up to 50 gallons of water per day.
“Everybody seemed to have fun. They asked a lot of good questions,” Dahod said.
She also said participants were given an instruction sheet regarding how to hang their vertical oyster reef on their dock. Calusa Waterkeeper is also planning to send out a periodic email with a request for an update on the health of the oyster gardens, she said.
“That’s a new thing that Calusa Waterkeeper is doing. We’re going to send out a survey, have them send us pictures with the height and width and tell us what kind of critters are on it. That kind of information gives us scientific information,” Dahod said.
Islanders who took the Calusa Waterkeeper’s class on the island with their vertical oyster garden.
This kind of engagement ultimately improves education within the community, she said. The CWK holds this kind of educational program once a quarter, she said. Generally, punching holes in the
shells would be done previously, for the participants, however, Dahod said, they seemed to enjoy doing this themselves with a metal punch tool and hammer.
“We provided a wooden block to punch them on. We did all that outdoors,” Dahod said.
There were six punching stations provided, for participants who were very enthusiastic, she said, with the entire program taking less than an hour and a half.
“They take out bacteria and are capable of making the water look much clearer. They eat all the bitty critters that are in the water,” Dahod said.
The whole purpose of an oyster garden is to attract baby oysters, Dahod said. The baby oysters will attach to something, she said.
“They tend to attach to another oyster, and that’s how you get oyster beds. Once they attach they grow. In addition to oysters you get all kinds of other things like barnacles and muscles and sponges and crabs and little fish. So the oyster garden really does become a garden of all kinds of creatures,” Dahod said.
Calusa Land Trust work/fun party Saturday at Wigert/Barron Preserve
The Calusa Land Trust’s monthly work/fun party will be held this Saturday, April 12, at the Wigert/Barron Preserve beginning at 9 a.m. This preserve is located in Bokeelia at the east end of Barrancas Avenue at its intersection with Aura Lane.
Efforts will be concentrated on invasive plant and more hurricane debris removal.
The 32-acre preserve boasts three distinctive habitats: a rare coastal scrub environment, transitional uplands and a mangrove forest abutting Jug Creek. The former contains a thriving gopher tortoise colony. The upland portion has undergone a major invasive plants removal project.
An informational kiosk, interpretative signs and trail markers have been added, which allow hikers to follow the “Nancy
Rogers Nature Trail” and loop through the various habitats and view Rubye’s Pond, the alligator slide and the Sara Schwandt bench along the way.
The Calusa Land Trust is an all volunteer land conservancy and relies upon motivated Pine Islanders to assist in the stewardship of its 2,400-plus acres of preserved lands.
Happy participants should include
work gloves/clothing and pruning tools and for their efforts will be rewarded with cold beverages, a pizza lunch, shared warm friendships and a sense of accomplishment.
For additional information about the work/party activity, please contact Robert Ballard at 239-770-0070 or mrobertballard64@gmail.com
PHOTO SUBMITTED BY SUE DAHOD
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Make Citrus Great Again, one tree at a time
Mark my words, Florida Citrus is not going down on my watch. This heritage industry is not only vital to our state’s economy, but it is truly a part of the DNA of Florida. Citrus has been a pillar of our state since the 1500s, serving as a key economic driver within our vital agricultural industry. In fact, Florida Citrus provides more than $6.9 billion in economic impact and employs tens of thousands of Floridians across the state. Citrus matters.
To those growers who are left in the business, hear me when I say, you are not forgotten, you are not alone, and the Florida Senate is running to this fight. I know the challenges you face all too well. As a 4th generation citrus grower, I face them myself. Greening, canker, hurricanes, and foreign competition have wreaked havoc on our industry; there is no hiding the fact Florida Citrus is on the verge of a full-scale catastrophe. We simply can’t let that happen to Florida’s signature crop.
Thoughtful investments in research and new technologies offer renewed hope for the future of citrus. Florida will lead the way in pursuing these opportunities. We will find innovative solutions to the problems that have plagued us for years. We will lead the revitalization of Florida’s citrus industry.
More enforcement needed to make Lee County roadways safer
To the editor:
When we decided to move to Southwest Florida five years ago to be closer to our grandkids, we were warned about Hurricanes and Gators (not the sports teams). Well, what we weren’t told was the real danger—Lee County roads! With an average of 123 deaths a year, there could be two Hurricane Ian’s (supposedly 50 deaths in Lee County), and it wouldn’t match the traffic carnage on our roads. Plus, if you figure in the 8,670 people hurt in accidents annually, it looks like over 1% of the population in Lee County are maimed or killed each year.* Wow —that beats all the murderers, terrorists, and alligator hassles put together! Florida prides itself in having more freedoms; hence, less ticketing, and while I agree conceptually, it comes with a deadly cost.
How can we fix this?
First and foremost, put more police on the road with radar and give out expensive citations for driving badly. Easy-peasy and a great revenue source! Secondly, install cameras on all busy intersections. At $100 for every car caught running a red light, you’d have the cameras paid for in one day! Plus, you could defer property taxes and use the income to fund local government activities.
*https://www.flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2023_ada.pd
Paul Dellva Cape Coral
Recent proposals to eliminate property taxes, what’s behind the push?
To the editor:
Recent proposals to remove property taxes
In fact, previous investments in research have already yielded significant results. Growers today have a better understanding of how to fight greening than five years ago, bringing hope to the entire industry. Groundbreaking research has led to treatments that mitigate the symptoms of greening, new studies have produced disease-tolerant and disease-resistant varieties, and innovative therapies are helping to prevent fruit drop and increase fruit size.
Guest Commentary
In the Senate’s proposed budget, we are investing $200 million in key funding for this iconic industry — including $190 million to help our growers put more trees in the ground and an additional $10 million to support the supply chain here in Florida. The industry needs support from all angles. Growers, packers, and distributors have all suffered as a result of the challenges we’ve faced in recent years.
We’re also investing in long-term solutions to issues such as greening and canker. By implementing large-scale field trials, we
Letters to the Editor
sounds like a good thing. No one wants to pay taxes, period. But money to run the government has to come from somewhere and without a scorecard to see how those funds would be generated the public is in the dark about how to respond to this legislation.
Peeling the onion, property tax relief would be good for all property owners but more relief would go to those that pay larger property tax bills. That would be corporations that own homes, banks, nonresident owners, and owners of large homes. Also benefiting would be commercial real estate, which would apply to owners of car washes, strip malls, storage units, hotels, and shopping centers. It could also assist large property speculators for housing development, where land would be bought up for future development but held tax free.
So how does Florida generate the revenue that will be required to run our government, fund schools and libraries, and pave roads? A huge reduction in government provided services could be expected. Or, consumption taxes would have to be raised as well as shifting and raising fees for services. The pool of property tax dollars does help offset the cost of these services for the lower income groups. Renters may see a reduction in the pass through of costs if the apartment owners are not paying property taxes but that is not a guarantee.
Recent projections show our consumption tax would go from 6% to 12%. Will the higher cost of goods and services be absorbed by tourists, or will it drive them away?
Floridians will be paying more for groceries, gas, clothing, and the necessities of life. Low-income earners would need a larger chunk of income to purchase the basics for subsistence by paying higher taxes.
will have a better understanding of the best practices for both the planting of new trees and the rehabilitation of exiting trees. We will leave no stone unturned. Grove design, planting preparation, pest management, disease management, pest and disease exclusion structures, and post planting production practices are all on the table. With the information gathered from these field trials, we will know how to deliver better outcomes for growers and save Florida’s signature crop.
We’re on the edge of something special. Florida Citrus is making a comeback, one tree at a time. I am running to the fight to save Florida Citrus, and I ask you to join me in that fight. Together, we’ll make citrus great again.
Sen. Ben Albritton represents Hardee, DeSoto, Charlotte, and portions of Polk County. He is a 6th generation Floridian and 4th generation citrus grower and is currently the President of the Florida Senate.
If a low-income earner owns a home and homesteads it, will the property tax savings offset the higher cost of necessities? The social construct of Florida would change by pushing out the lower- income population except those that are needed as service workers and field hands. These “servants” could be provided corporate housing and subsidies but essentially be tied to the company store. Think coal mining towns of the 1800s. Lower- to moderate-income retirees would move or shelter in place while reducing spending on commodities in order to survive. Transportation taxes on gas, vehicle registrations, insurance and tolls would have to go up. Dining out would be reduced as well with 12% tax on top of a 20% gratuity. This would reduce the need for service workers. Florida could change dramatically catering only to the rich and corporate entities. Without knowing more about how government revenue and offsets would be generated one has no clear idea of what the impacts will be. Rest assured that either government services are going to be reduced dramatically or the funding shift will come at a cost to favor some at the expense of others.
I am not a fan of taxes but we must fund our government. We need to do this in an equitable manner that does not destroy jobs or households.
This proposal needs to be under the microscope to see the how, why and what is driving this property tax removal. The scorecard needs to consider the real economic impacts to Floridians and tourists.
J. Caplin Cape Coral
Sen. Ben Albritton
The Eagle is published every Wednesday
Earth Day Celebration
April 20 at the SJCCA
Isaac Holeva and his band Pipe Dream are the headliners at an Earth Day Celebration Sunday, April 20, from noon to 5 p.m., at the St James City Civic Association located at 3300 Fourth Ave. in St James City. Tap your feet to the music, feast on food from Horse Eyed Jake’s yummies wagon, lick a frosty cone from Utterly Twisted Ice Cream, wander among numerous vendors peddling their wares and enjoy activities for kids and grownups.
The admission charge is only $5 (kids 12 and under free) and you are welcome to bring your own chosen beverages and chairs.
The net proceeds will be donated to the Calusa Land Trust to support its island land conservancy mission. Pine Island’s all-volunteer land trust is seeking revenue to restore its preserves blasted by recent hurricanes. In addition to membership donations, CLT has traditionally relied upon the monies raised at its annual major fundraiser, The Great Calusa Rubber Duck Race. This year’s race was canceled due to last fall’s back-to-back hurricane damage to its venue.
Come enjoy yourselves and play islander by casting your donations to an Earth Day beneficial cause.
Last Open Mic of season Friday
The last Open Mic of the season at the St. James City Civic Center will be held this Friday, April 11, from 1-4pm
Organizers are looking for local musicians to take the stage and folks to enjoy the music. Sound equipment will be provided. The event to be held rain or shine, inside the building.
Light refreshments will be available on site. Coolers are welcome.
All tips go directly to the St. James City Civic Association to rebuild and repair the center facility.
Contact Myra Watson at 717-817-1512 or Denise Huber at 208-290-2512 for more information.
The SJCCA is at 3300 4th Ave., St. James City.
From the Firehouse
Early in the morning on Friday, March 28, units E-151, E-152, E-153, E-154, Captain-150, PI-1, and PI-2 from the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District, along with Lee County EMS and the Lee County Sheriff’s Department, were dispatched to a residential structure fire off Kingfish Road in Bokeelia. Upon arrival, crews found the home fully engulfed in flames. According to Chief Ben Mickuleit, the islands’ dedicated teams acted swiftly to protect nearby structures, containing the fire and preventing it from spreading. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Great teamwork all around!
M/PIFCD to hold Easter Egg Hunt Saturday
In addition, the district will provide a free pancake breakfast, arts and crafts, games, photos with the Easter Bunny, and much more!
If you have any questions, please call 239-283-0030.
The Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 12, from 9-11 a.m. The event will be at Station 1, located at 5700 Pine Island Road. The Easter Egg Hunt will start at 9:15 a.m. Be there before 9:15 so you don’t miss the hunt! There will be approximately 12,000 eggs to collect. Please bring your own baskets and don’t forget to keep an eye out for the Easter Bunny!
PHOTO PROVIDED
Caribbean reef octopus
I am intrigued that the octopus can be found in our Southwest Florida waters. The most common variety found in our waters is the Caribbean reef octopus (Octopus briareus).
The octopus is a master of camouflage and difficult to spot. They are extremely intelligent invertebrates and are found on reefs and other shallow water habitats which makes Southwest Florida a perfect habitat. We do not have coral reefs inshore, but we have shallow grass flats and oyster beds for habitat.
The octopus has eight long arms. However, they are difficult to describe because they change color and texture to blend into their surroundings. They have specialized skin cells known as chromatophores that allow them to change from crimson to green, and bumpy to smooth. A typical Caribbean reef octopus weighs around 3.3 pounds.
Dolphin Tales
The Caribbean reef octopus feeds on crabs, shrimp, lobsters and a variety of fish. It is a nocturnal species which only hunts at night. They are ambush predators, using their webbed arms to create a “parachute” to envelop prey or to sneak up on them.
Octopuses have three hearts and blue blood. Two hearts pump blood to the gills for oxygen, and one circulates the oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. They live solitary lives, only interacting with others for mating purposes.
If faced with a predator, the Caribbean reef octopus, like most other octopuses, sucks up a volume of water then expels it quickly in the form of a jet to propel itself away. To further deter predators, it can eject ink to mask its escape. Octopus ink is a defense mechanism primarily composed of melanin.
Captain Cathy Eagle has spent over 40 years boating on our local waters. As a professional charter captain, she specializes in dolphin and nature tours. Visit CaptainCathy.com or call /text 239 994-2572. Welcome aboard!
Pine Island Potters’ Guild’s ‘Spring Cleaning’ Show and last show until November at Koucky Studios Saturday
Come to the Potter’s Guild end-of-season show this Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and enjoy the work of local artisans exhibiting in the courtyard of Koucky Studios. Saturday’s show is the last showing of the 2024-2025 season.
This end-of-the-season show also honors the age-old tradition of Spring Cleaning! Many of the artists and artisans will delve into the corners of their studios to find hidden treasures to offer at this event, along with their newest works.
This April tradition was passed on to the Guild by Chuck and Nancy Koucky, who have honored this ageold ritual — usually assigned to closets — since they opened their studio in 2001. They pull out previously unseen “seconds” pottery from their season of kiln firings. Many of the other craftsmen will be cleaning out their studios as well, making room for next season’s creations. The show will feature, in part, forgotten works brought out from the back of working studios and into the courtyard sunlight at Koucky’s, where visitors and shoppers will discover treasures.
The show will feature works in pottery, woodworking, jewelry, paintings, prints and sculpture, as well as island-themed décor, candles, perfume oils, children’s
books, T-shirts and hats, jams, jellies, local honey, freshbaked bread, cookies and other sweet treats. There will also be live music provided by the Fiddler and I from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
By popular demand, potter Chuck Koucky and some of his students will again demonstrate the art of firing horsehair and sager-fired pottery at 11 a.m. As the name implies, horsehair pottery incorporates hair from the tails and manes of horses into its design. The random lines and patterns, which are the signature of this style, are created when strands of hair are applied to the surface of a hot raku clay pot that has just been removed from the kiln.
The pottery studio will be open as well, should you wish to take a self-guided tour.
This small, inviting venue offers a welcoming environment where you can chat with local artists and artisans, inquire about their craft, and discover opportunities for classes and workshops in our area throughout the year. All works by participating artists and craftsmen will be available for purchase.
Koucky Studios is at 5971 Bay Point Road, Bokeelia For more information about the studios, visit https:// kouckystudios.com.
Pine Island Sketchers set schedule for April
Pine Island Sketchers meet every Tuesday during season from 10 a.m. to noon at a different location each week to draw and paint together outdoors. Bring a chair, art supplies and water.
Everyone is welcome and our sessions are free. Some people like to go out to lunch together afterwards and this is optional.
This month’s dates and locations are:
n Tuesday, April 8: Seagull Bay, beautiful gardens by Felicia Whelch at 8231 Main St., Bokeelia, with parking courtesy from Carol and Felicia. At the Pine Island Center’s 4-way stop and go toward Bokeelia on Stringfellow Road for about seven miles, and then the road becomes Main Street. The destination is a large home on Main Street which was once known as a Tarpon Inn. Turn left at the sign at Seagull Bay.
n Tuesday, April 15: Pine Island Cove. Starting from the Pine Island Center’s 4-way stop, take Stringfellow Road south toward St. James City (but not all the way
down.) Drive about 3.5 miles and go past the Flamingo Bay signs which are on the right. Keep going until you see the “Pine Island Cove” sign. Turn right into Gulfgate Lane. Continue on the right side and park on the far side of the boat ramp and parking area, which also will be on the right. The group will meet there.
n Tuesday, April 22: Waterfront Restaurant at 2131 Oleander St., St. James City. Starting from the Pine Island Center’s 4-way stop, drive on Stringfellow Road seven miles south to the end of Pine Island. The restaurant opens at 11 a.m. so bring a chair and art supplies for the outdoor hour starting 10 a.m.
n Tuesday, April 29: Tarpon Lodge, 13771 Waterfront Drive, has been booked on this date up to 14 people. From the Center of the 4-way stop, drive Stringfellow Road north (toward Bokeelia) for about 4.5 miles. Turn left on Pineland Road and follow Pineland all the way to Waterfront Drive. We are also allowed to park across the road for the Calusa Heritage Trail.
Capt. Cathy Eagle
SJCCA Update
St. James City Civic Association has announced the following upcoming events and activities:
Thursday, April 10
n Ping Pong, 9-11 a.m. It’s a fun way to meet the neighbors and play ping pong
n Mahjongg, 1-4 p.m. This is a great place to learn to play mahjongg! Contact Carolyn at 239-233-7682.
n Cribbage, 6-8 p.m. All are welcome for weekly cribbage fun and competition. Contact John Hennessy at 908-801-2034 for additional information
Friday, April 11
n Shuffleboard, 9-11 a.m. All equipment provided. Beginners welcome.
n Open Mic, 1–4 p.m. “Open Mic” is a public event where anyone can get on stage and perform, typically music, poetry or comedy, offering a platform for new or developing artists to showcase their talent in front of an audience. Contact Denise Huber at 208-290-2512 with questions
Saturday, April 12
n Garage Sale, 8-11 a.m. Cool stuff added daily.
Tuesday, April 15
n Shuffleboard, 9-11 a.m.
n Ping Pong, 9-11 a.m.
n Golden Brush, 1-4 p.m. Don’t be shy! Explore your artistic muse with SJCCA’S painting group. The Order of the Golden Brush, founded over 45 years ago by Gladys Stroud, provides a supportive atmosphere for individuals wishing to play with paints and pencils. Newcomers, current members, novices, and established artists are all welcome. Need more information? Please call Linda Selleck at 239-313-1212
n Dominoes, 6-8 p.m. Dominoes is a game that everyone can play: kids, adults, and even the old. It is that simple, 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 16
n PI Learners Nature Group, 10-11:30 a.m. Fun activities for the island’s children hosted weekly
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
Church of God of Prophecy chicken dinner
The Church of God of Prophecy will be having its next monthly chicken dinner this Saturday, April, 12, Dinner will be takeout only, no dine in. The price is $10. per dinner— chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn or green beans, dinner roll, and dessert. Call your order in to 239-283-2128 as soon as possible, quantities limited. Pick-up 12:30-3 p.m. Chicken is fried in peanut oil. Gluten free and baked chicken available upon request.
The church is located at 15146 Stringfellow Road, Bokeelia
A special birthday!
Fishing on her 91s birthday recently, Jeanette Bennett caught this 25 1/2-inch redfish in Pine Island Sound. She was fishing with her son, Frank Bennett, and used a white paddle tail artificial bait to land her prize. Despite the windy conditions that day, it was a successful trip and a forever memory for them both.
Fishers of Men Lutheran Church to host
‘Springtime
Delights - A Family Friendly High Tea in May’
Fishers of Men Lutheran Church invites the public to a springtime Saturday of fellowship and refreshments at its Church High Tea. The event is a wonderful opportunity to connect, relax and enjoy each other’s company at the elegant high tea, filled with exquisite teas, delectable treats and mimosas. Also, a program is planned, fostering fellowship and community, with dance and special music..
Islanders and visitors are urged to take a break from their busy schedule and enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable afternoon at “Springtime Delights - A Family Friendly High Tea in May” Saturday, May 3, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fishers of Men Lutheran Church is at 10360 Stringfellow Road, St .James City. Please call the church office at, 239-283-1170 for reservations on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings, between 8 a.m. and noon. Suggested donation is $15 per person.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Warm weather brings good fishing
The first week of April brought warm days that resulted in good fishing. Seas were calm a few days then winds picked up hampering offshore fishing. Despite the stiff breeze the inshore bite remained steady.
Capt. Bill Russell
On the Water
Anglers are hooking the largest trout of the year throughout the inshore waters. Also known as “gator trout,” there were reports of fish up to 26 inches. They were often caught in areas holding snook around oyster bars, island points and sand holes in Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor. They were hooked on top-water lures, small live baitfish and shrimp. Most of these big girls are full of eggs (the future), so it’s a good idea to enjoy the fight, snap a quick photo and give them a healthy release. The limit is one per boat over 19 inches if you decide to keep one.
Not all the trout are oversize, there are plenty that fall in the keeper slot between 15 and 19 inches and they are thick right now. These slot fish can be caught in the same areas previously mentioned plus grass flats in 3 to 7-foot depths, bar drop-offs and off the beaches or around the gulf passes.
With warmer weather, small bait fish are moving in and becoming a large part of trouts’ diet. Shrimp and shrimp-like artificials still catch fish, but it’s a good idea if tossing lures to also have some that mimic the bait fish.
With water in the mid to upper 70s, snook are hun-
gry. There are larger fish around, but smaller snook far outnumber the bigger ones. The best bet for success was fishing shorelines, bars and structure with the wind and tide working together moving water. Snook numbers are increasing around the gulf islands and passes.
Most redfish reports came from mid-Pine Island Sound fishing cut baits along shorelines on the rising water. Baits included cut mullet, ladyfish
and thread herring.
Spanish mackerel, at times mixed with ladyfish, went for spoons and mylar jigs both inside and outside the gulf passes and over grass flats near the channel in the Sound. Large schools of ladyfish and a few jack crevalle were harassing bait fish in north Matlacha Pass, Charlotte Harbor and between St. James and the Sanibel Causeway.
Although it is often difficult to locate and fish with the wind, tarpon numbers are increasing daily. Tarpon were jumped on cut bait and small live crabs in the Sound and Charlotte Harbor, plus numbers are increasing in Boca Grande Pass. Often this month brings the best tarpon fishing before the chaos that comes with May and June.
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
PHOTO PROVIDED
Team “Goliath Groupers” with a big 24-inch trout that helped them take home second place with 151 fish caught and released in the “Little Bobber’s” division of the annual Bobby Holloway Jr. Memorial Fishing Tournament. They were fishing with Capts. Bill Russell and Tanner Peer. Great Job boys and girls!
MCA Gala
Matlacha Pass, They were breathtaking and we called it Fish Wish—I wish I’d bought that fish,” Scott said.
Scott also said they did not anticipate raising the money that they did this year, much of it due to the auctioned handpainted fish. The room, she said, had much love and laughter with folks outbidding one another and having an amazing time.
There was also a program they call, Bubbles and Bling, that was done last year and brought back this year, she said. Participants purchase a glass of champagne and are given a number in return. At the end of the night, the winning number is drawn.
The MCA’s annual gala, is usually held in March, she said.
“We had a live auction, a silent auction, combined with bubbles and bling and I wish I’d bought that fish. It was an awesome moment—it really was. The band was great. Everybody danced. We have a very generous island,” Scott said.
Pictorial highlights, at right and below, of the recent Matlacha Civic Association’s Annual Gala at Leoma Lovegrove’s studio.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CAROL SCOTT
Lee County Community Band to present ‘Celebration of American Classics’ Sunday at Mariner High
The Lee County Community Band will present “Celebration of American Classics” Sunday, April 13, at 3 p.m., at Mariner High School in Cape Coral. Lee County Community Band Music Director Gil Peltola will lead the over 60-member band in the performance. Highlights of the performance include “Bobby Sox Saturday Night,” “Big Band Signatures,” “Embraceable You,” “Harlem Nocturne,” “Oracles of the Sirocco,” “Broadway’s Classics,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” with an encore, “Stars and Stripes Forever.”
The band’s featured vocalist is Fred Lamb, who has sung for more than 20 years with the U.S. Army Band Pershing’s Own in Washington, D.C., and will be singing “Embraceable You.”
The band performs six concerts between November and April; this season all at Mariner High School at 701 Chiquita Blvd., North, Cape Coral. This is the final concert of the season. The band will perform again in November. Those interested in joining or donating to offset the band’s expenses, can call 239-600-9052, visit us at www.LeeCountyBand.org, email us at LeeCountyCommunityBand@gmail. com, or follow us on Facebook and YouTube.
A legend in Southwest Florida, the more than 60-member adult band comprises both career and amateur musicians. The original concert band of Lee County has been entertaining Southwest Florida audiences since 1885.
every Thursday from 6:30–9 p.m. For more information, Contact John Hennessy at 908-801-2034.
Cribbage results from March 27 at the St. James City Civic Association: 1. Pam Placek 2. Rick Parrott 3. Randy Brooks 4. Dennis Gettys Lamb of the Week: Sue Mulder Cribbage is played at SJCCA
Rebuilding Matlacha
between the (hurricanes) Milton/Helene water levels and the finished floor of their home,” Stearns said, adding that it’s proof that the new FEMA flood maps are forward-thinking in flood prevention from storm surge.
Stearns contends that you don’t have to build a stilt or a raised home. He also said the rebuilding of Matlacha is a positive thing, for many different reasons, including its popularity for shopping, eating, building, visiting and buying homes.
“Matlacha is important for the commerce of all of Pine Island. It’s important to draw people into the shops, restaurants,
GPICA meeting
ipal governments adopted parts of the plan that were applicable to them. It was built together with all the elected bodies and represented in Lee County, she said. One of the things that makes this plan different from other plans is that it allows for other entities to take the lead on implementing strategies.
“Government cannot solve all of our problems and most of the time we don’t want government to solve all of our problems… some problems cannot be solved by a single entity,” LeSage said.
One of the most popular initiatives which arose from the plan, she said, is resilience hubs. She said this is not an idea invented by Collaboratory, but exists across the country.
“We’re taking on this idea of, how do we take resilience hubs and imbed them in the community in a more formalized way, but keeping it really grassroots and community based. The formal part comes with making sure they’re ready to be activated in a disaster event, but the informal part is how we get people to be using them on a regular basis,” LeSage said.
Resilience hubs, she said, are community serving facilities that are enhanced to support residents and to coordinate resource distribution and services before during and after a natural hazard event and maybe after a non-natural hazard event, she said.
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.
Winners for the week on April 2 were Ellie Fenyohazi, first place; Judy Nyhus, second place; Mary Tobias, third place. Only one slam was bid, but it was made, which probably enabled Mary Tobias and Judy Nyhus to score enough to win.
It’s such an interesting game, and we encourage anyone who has ever played it, to come back and play it again.
stores, the art studios — Matlacha sets the vibe for the island feel that Pine Island and Matlacha hold. It is the entry gate to paradise,” Stearns said.
Current Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce president Dave Conner explained that much of the importance of the rebuilding of Matlacha, for him, lies in all of its history in retail commerce, saying that will go a long way to getting the island back on track.
“Matlacha is extremely important. The retail sector needs to get back up and running again. It’s a big draw. It’s very hep — like a little mini-Keys — but, the old
From page 1
Key West,” Conner said.
Bert’s Bar and Grille owner Bernard Johnson says that although the wheels of preparation take time to turn, there are plans to bring back Bert’s or perhaps something resembling Bert’s.
“We’re still going through the permitting process. It takes a long time, but we’ve made some good strides, so I’m positive about that. This (Bert’s) is over water. It’s not as if we were down the street or anything like that, so, It’s just going to take some time,” Johnson said.
Once the permitting process is done, he said, it will be time to start getting bids
Coordinators, she said, will be needed to get the right things to the right places at the right times. They will have a direct connect to the community, with public safety staff to be ready to figure out how to report back what is needed and what is not needed and to be more efficient at getting those things out there, she said.
Romaine explained to the GPICA members that recovery belongs to the community and is not the government’s recov-
in for a rebuild. It takes so much planning and many regulations, he said, adding that there are several agencies involved in a project like this one.
“They’re cooperative, but they’ve been hit by a lot of applications from a lot of different people, so they’re just busy as bees,” Johnson said.
Johnson said he believes had several parts of Florida not been hit by Hurricanes Ian, Helene and Milton, things would look and, in fact, be, very different. Between the Army Corps of Engineers, and several state agencies, he said, there is much to go through.
ery. He talked about how Collaboratory talked about doing a pilot of resilience hubs including, Franklin Park Elementary School, IMAG and Pine Manor.
“The ultimate goal is—looking at Lee County—is that we build this network across the entire county,” Romaine said.
To watch this meeting in its entirety, visit the Greater Pine Island Civic Association Facebook page.
The map at left shows the proposed resilience hub locations across Lee County. Collaboratory representatives discussed the proposal at last week’s Greater Pine Island Civic Association meeting.
GRAPHIC PROVIDED
FDOT: Work on Little Pine Island Bridge to move into Phase 2
MATLACHA – The Florida Department of Transportation has provided another of its regular updates on the ongoing construction of the Pine Island Bridge and the steps being taken to accelerate the project. FDOT reports it is committed to delivering this critical infrastructure as
quickly as possible while ensuring quality and safety remain top priorities.
Hurricane Ian caused significant destruction in Pine Island and Matlacha. FDOT’s goal is to enhance safety, strengthen resilience and reduce economic impacts for the community.
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
PINE ISLAND TIDE CHART APRIL 2025
The new Little Pine Island Bridge is being built to withstand storm surges from a Hurricane Ian-level event, ensuring this critical roadway remains intact.
Once completed, the new bridge will strengthen infrastructure, enhance transportation safety, and promote long-term economic growth in the area.
Phase 1 Update
FDOT aimed to complete Phase 1 by Monday, April 7.
Construction crews have successfully poured the bridge deck and approaches.
Temporary barrier walls are being placed on the new bridge in preparation for the next phase.
All that’s left for this phase is paving and striping the roadway and bridge. Once completed, construction crews will transition to Interim Phase 2 which includes the opening of two lanes.
Interim Phase 2
Starting Monday, April 7, FDOT reported the eastbound lane on the old bridge will remain open, while a newly constructed westbound lane will be available on the new bridge, allowing two lanes of traffic to flow in both directions. This change is expected to reduce congestion; however, drivers should still anticipate possible delays.
Motorists are advised to remain in their designated lanes when approaching
the bridge, as westbound drivers will no longer need to cross over as they did previously.
Also, construction crews will begin utility work across the newly constructed bridge.
Phase 2
A few weeks after two lanes of traffic open to the public, Phase 2 will begin, redirecting all traffic onto the newly built bridge, where vehicles will travel in both directions.
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.
Friends of Library to host free craft session April 15
The Friends of Pine Island Library will be hosting a free craft session before its final membership meeting of the season Tuesday, April 15, at the library. Crafting begins at 2 p.m.
Attendees will create one fridge magnet for themselves and two others as a fundraiser to support library programs.
Birds, butterflies and fish will be crafted using templates provided by the Friends. Participants need only bring scissors for this project!!
Work space is limited, so registration is required. Please reserve your space by emailing membership@ friendsofpilibrary.org.
Crafters are welcome to stay for the membership meeting and learn more about friends activities!
We had 13 players for a very fun day on Thursday, April 3.
First place was Peggy Finley with 155, second was Tony Lindsay with 120 and third place was Joyce Bieber with 100. 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 about the weekly game, please call Terry at 239233-2766.
I
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SE Cape Coral high/dry Sailboat access. Long view canals. No HOA, 3/2/2 pool
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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
Open House
April 6, 2025 11 am-2 pm 538 SE 4th Street
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
