041125 Cape Coral Weekend Breeze

Lee school board approves new ‘bell times’

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Students will have different bell times for the 2025-2026 school year.

The Lee County School Board unanimously agreed Tuesday to implement the changes next year as part of the district’s Safe Start Initiative.

The initiative transitions transportation to a three-tiered system. It focuses on improving bus routes, addressing driver shortages, and improving timely arrivals for students. According to the district, with the spacing of start times an hour apart will allow bus drivers with the opportunity to finish their first tier before moving onto the next.

According to past meetings, the district said the current transportation route system has an 82.75% average morning on-time rate, while the afternoon on time rate is at 59.5%.

Elementary school bell times will change to 8:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. With a few exceptions.

Popular Cape Coral event returns to the South Cape

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

See BIKE NIGHT, page 20 Change in campus hours next year will help alleviate transportation issues, officials say

Two elementary schools in Cape Coral will run from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Skyline Elementary School and Hector A. Cafferata Jr. Elementary School. This time also includes North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts; The Alva School; Bayshore School;

page 20

Boathouse

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Although the specifics of the “reimagined” Boathouse Tiki Bar & Grill are still in the works, the popular restaurant at the Yacht Club will return bigger and better while retaining the attributes that made it a destination.

It won’t be the first effort on the part of the Kearns Restaurant Group, which established one of Cape Coral’s most popular eateries at its most popular park, rebuilt it after Hurricane Ian took it out, and then will rebuild again following a devastating fire.

Owner Zak Kearns said he is excited to look to what comes next.

“We are eager and ready to rebuild. We are working together to get something new in its place,” Kearns said. “We have been terrific partners with the city for over a decade. Sometimes it takes a little bit longer.”

For the final time until the fall, Southwest Floridians can rev their engines and prepare for a rip-roaring good time, as a Cape Coral special event returns to the South Cape this weekend.

Cape Coral Bike Night returns to Southeast 47th Terrace Saturday night starting at 5 p.m. and running until 10.

Kearns Restaurant Group signed its concessionaire agreement with the city 10 years ago and reimagined KC’s Riverstop, a tiny structure of about 1,100 square feet into a much larger tiki-style restaurant overlooking the riverfront.

Bike parking has moved to a new location dubbed the “Thunder Zone.” Located off Southeast 46th Lane, this premier parking spot in Club Square is the central rally point where

“It was the perfect building, deck. We want to build off of that — build higher, stronger, and safer,” Kearns said.

To that end, they have been working with the city on a regular basis.

page 16

See BELL TIMES,

Council names Charter Review Commission appointees

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The Cape Coral City Council chose seven members and two alternatives for the Charter Review Commission during a special meeting Wednesday.

The seven members appointed are Edwin Estes, Vincent Cautero, Andrew Sund, Rendolyn Amaker, Donald Apking, Richard Leon, and Kevin McGrail. The two alternates, who are nonvoting members, are Liza King and Dewayne Moore.

Ten of 12 short-listed applicants were present during the meeting. They had two minutes to share information about themselves before the council.

Amaker, a native Floridian, is a retired educator of 35 years.

“You can’t make changes from the outside,” she said, adding that the city’s charter, which is the heart of the city, would be a great place to make a difference.

Apking, who has been a resident for eight years, sits on many different boards, as well as the president of the Friends of the Cape Coral Environment.

“Decisions need to be based on facts. I think I can do

The seven members appointed are Edwin Estes, Vincent Cautero, Andrew Sund, Rendolyn Amaker, Donald Apking, Richard Leon, and Kevin McGrail. The two alternates, who are nonvoting members, are Liza King and Dewayne Moore.

something for the city to better the quality of life,” he said.

Cautero, a 11-1/2 year resident, worked for the city for 10 years. He said he is a critical thinker who can have some impact on the city.

“I understand the role of the government and what the charter is comprised of for rules and regulations for city government,” he said.

Estes, who is recently retired, said he could perhaps bring a different perspective and ideas.

I want to “develop, improve our city charter for the good of everybody here,” he said.

Leon, a former Cape Coral City Council member, said his experience will help the commission.

“We forget what we need to do as a commission –fact finding, learning to get all the information,” he said.

“Hopefully as a board we can work together, deliver great amendments and see them pass in the 2026 election.”

McGrail, also a former Cape Coral council member, is a 36-year resident.

“This is my last home,” he said, adding that he wants to make it the best home.

Sund, a 27-year resident, moved to Cape Coral with his family when he was 2 years old. He said as a commission they are tasked with reviewing a legal document that outlines the structures and authorities.

“You come to the table with the wrong goal in mind, you may have a bad outcome,” he said.

Further discussion will be had regarding the commission at the next city workshop of when they will start and finish meetings and how often they will meet.

Cape man sentenced to 30 years for investment scam

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A Cape Coral man was given the maximum sentence after being convicted in a series of investment scams that bilked at least 20 victims of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Ludovic Laroche, 57, was sentenced last week to 30 years in prison and ordered to make full restitution after being convicted in a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations case dating back to 2020. Laroche was convicted in late January following a jury trial.

According to the State Attorney’s Office 20th Judicial Circuit, Laroche was sentenced as follows:

n RICO – Use of Proceeds to Acquire Title, Right or Equity in Real Property, First Degree Felony: 30 years in prison, maximum sentence

n RICO – Use of Proceeds to Operate Enterprise, First Degree Felony: 30 years in prison, maximum sentence, to run concurrent to the first count

n Fraud Related to Investment or Securities, Third Degree Felony – 11 counts - 5 years on each count, maximum sentence

n Sale or Offer of Unregistered Securities, Third Degree Felony – 11 counts - 5 years on each count, maximum sentence

n Second Degree Grand Theft - 5 counts – 15 years in prison on each count, maximum sentence

n Third Degree Grand Theft – 27 counts – 5 years in prison on each count, maximum sentence

According to the SAO, the investigation into Laroche began in 2020 when the Florida Department of Law Enforcement received a complaint about Laroche making presentations at churches in Southwest Florida, utilizing various schemes to scam people out of their money.

“The defendant developed multiple fraudulent storylines to steal money from people.

He targeted victims through the presentations in Haitian churches and on Creole radio,” SAO officials stated in a release.

The release states that Laroche got victims to give him money to invest in real estate by telling them he bought and flipped houses, and promising an annual return on their investment. The SAO said in another scheme, Laroche got victims to give him money he claimed was to invest in a taxi service.

Laroche was first arrested by Florida Department of Law Enforcement in 2022.

State Attorney’s Office Economic Crimes Unit Chief J.D. Miller prosecuted the case.

OpiniOns

CApe COrAl Breeze

RAYMOND M. ECKENRODE Publisher

VALARIE HARRING, Executive Editor

CHRIS STRINE, Editor

2510 Del Prado Blvd. • Cape Coral, FL, 33904

• Phone 239-574-1110 – Fax 239-574-5693

Member Florida Press Association

We, the people, are not lesser than

A bill opponents say would all but eliminate citizen-led initiatives drew protests across the state late last month with multiple civil rights organizations also coming out in opposition, decrying the measure as a bid to strip “everyday Floridians” of their ability to have a say in their government.

Nonetheless, HB1205, entitled Amendments to State Constitution and sponsored by Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka, R-District 78, a member of Lee County Delegation, easily passed 76-31 in the House on April 3.

On Tuesday, its companion bill passed the Senate’s Fiscal Policy Committee 14–5 en route to expected passage in the Senate.

Welcome to governance 2025, where “We, the Government” often bigfoots “We, the People” because, well, an election win is the new ticket to ride.

And ride this bill does over the rights of Floridians who have, since 1968, been able to directly appeal to fellow taxpayers and residents through a petition process that leads to the ballot box where we, the people, decide whether the initiative proposed should be approved.

That current process is not easy.

It currently takes nearly 1 million verified signatures to get a proposed citizen-led constitutional amendment on the ballot.

It takes 60% of those casting a ballot — a supermajority of qualified voters — for passage, a high hurdle that this past election nixed hot-button bids for enshrining abortion rights in the state constitution and legalizing recreational marijuana.

The right has not been abused.

In the 57 years that Floridians have exercised this right, there have been 42 such initiatives brought to ballot, 32 of which passed and became part of the constitution, according to League of Women Voters of Florida Co-President Debbie Chandler, who was among the speakers at a virtual press conference held by the SEE Alliance as part of last month’s speak-out.

See EDITORIAL, page 21

This week’s poll question:

Are you concerned about the change in school bell times?

∫ Yes.

∫ They will affect my family but I have no issue with the changes.

∫ No.

∫ I don’t have childen in the public school system. Vote at capecoralbreeze.com.

Previous poll question:

Are you concerned about the U.S. economy?

∫ Yes. 45.35%

∫ There may be short-term issues. I am confident our country is on the right track. 29%

∫ Too soon to tell. 4.65%

∫ No. 21 %

* Total votes at press time: 86 votes. Percentages are “rounded.”Poll results are not scientific and represent only the opinions of Internet users who have chosen to participate.

April 11, 2025

Lee Schools offers range of options

When it comes to choosing the right educational path for students, families often weigh the benefits of public versus private schools. The School District of Lee County stands out as an exceptional choice, offering a broad range of academic and career-focused programs designed to prepare all students for a successful future. Unlike private schools, which have selective admissions, The School District of Lee County accepts all students and is committed to ensuring they graduate ready for one of four career paths known as the four E’s:

n Enrollment — Such as attending a 4-year-college or trade school

n Enlistment — Joining the military

n Entrepreneurship — Starting your own business

n Employment — Entering the workforce right after high school

Advanced academic opportunities

The School District of Lee County provides rigorous academic programs that rival those offered by private schools. Students have access to Advanced Placement (AP), Cambridge AICE, and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, as well as the Florida Gulf Coast University Collegiate Program, all of which challenge students and prepare them for higher education.

Additionally, students can participate in Dual Enrollment at Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW), allowing them to earn college credits at no cost to their families. These opportunities ensure that students who aspire to attend college receive a strong academic foundation.

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

One major advantage the School District of Lee County has over private schools is the extensive Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Every high school in the district offers career and technical coursework, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and explore a variety of career paths. With 17 career clusters, students can pursue industry-recognized certifications in fields such as Agriculture, Architecture & Construction, Business, Information Technology, and Health Science, among others. These programs equip students with the skills needed to enter the workforce directly after graduation—a unique benefit that private schools do not offer at the same scale.

—Armor Persons represents District 5 on the Lee County School Board.

Letters to the editor

Questions from the Fortress Secured Agreement

To the editor:

Since I have had issues getting responses from the city of Cape Coral through its online record request program, I chose to go before the Council on April 2, provide each council member with a copy of my list of questions then proceeded to read each one so there would be no doubt that the city was unaware of the questions posed. They are in regard to the Developer of Jaycee Park.

1. What individual(s) in the City of Cape Coral are responsible to assure developer compliance with all requirements set forth in Resolution-209-24 “Comprehensive Development Agreement for the delivery of Jaycee Park Improvements”?

2. Were there any undocumented meetings with city employees with either Fortress Secured LLC or The Reef (more specifically involving The Reef) indicating that is was OK that they were unable to make their $1.4 million payment due in beginning of December would not be an issue as they were having difficulty procuring a loan? BE HONEST. They were approximately four months late and the city attorney did nothing until last week. WHY?

3. Has the Notice to Proceed been issued to Fortress Secured LLC and what date was it issued?

4. In Exhibit C, there is in line item #7, a $100,000.00 allowance for “RV Docking Stations.” Where on the approved plans are there RV Docking stations?

5. Copies of the Fortress Secured LLC Performance Bond AND Payment Bond per Section 703 Performance and Payment Bonds .

6. Fortress Secured LLC all logs of daily activities, ESPECIALLY paragraphs 705(a) through 705(c).

7. Any and all notices from Fortress Secured LLC submitted to the city of any and all Change Orders requested by Fortress Secured LLC and evidence of, dates of any meeting(s) and details of discussions and resolution(s) per Section 1502. Administration of Proposed Agreement Changes, including but not limited to Section 1502 (a) through Section 1502(c) of Resolution 209-24.

8. Total amount of funds distributed to Fortress Secured LLC to date and detailed copies of invoices Fortress Secured LLC has submitted including the following: #111824 dated 12/02/2024; #1-25500583 dated 01/09/2025; and #2-25500583 dated 02/13/2025. Please Send responses as indicated below. Respectfully Submitted 04/02/2025.

I am still waiting for a complete response as some questions were not answered or weren’t answered completely. When I receive any responses to these questions, I’ll submit them to Letters to the Editor in this publication when, if and as I receive them. Let’s see how well they do in getting me these answers shall we?

Marie Kavanaugh Cape Coral

Fact-based information appreciated

To the editor:

The March 28 edition of The Breeze was outstanding. It shed so much light on the failures of the current governments—federal, state and local—that it could be used in classrooms. From articles, editorial to opinion letters, fact-based information was provided to readers. It was a bracing antidote to the daily flood of gaslighting and sanewashing by conservative politicians who are trying to return to the 1950s (or earlier).

The space devoted to readers’ letters was particularly encouraging. Many writers were critical of the DOGE chainsaw approach to government reform by an inexperienced, ill-informed political contributor and his band of adolescent techies.

Fairness and balance dictated alternative views: one writer blamed our national debt on the “civil service,” characterizing it as a “DEI union-protected system… created by progressive Democrats.” Another writer who has often contributed in the past, including advice to transplants from blue states to keep their “progressive” ideas out of the “free state of Florida,” seemed to have become reasonable, asking for “meaningful and respectful” conversations in the Trump 2.0 era. He even used one of my favorite quotations: “You are entitled to your own opinion. But you are not entitled to your own facts.”

I thought that writer had an epiphany, like many former Trumpers who have buyer’s remorse, until I noticed, “… the viciousness, especially progressive[s]…” Apparently this writer has forgotten all the years of name calling and character assassination by Trump of anyone (including judges) who dares to disagree or criticize him, encouraging violence by his supporters.

Civil discourse would be more likely if it were modeled by the current leader of our country.

Sam Herman New York

See LETTERS, page 6

Armor Persons Guest Commentary

From page 4

A shameful cover-up of public school failures

To the editor:

The Florida Senate is pushing legislation that masks the harsh reality of our public education system. Senate Bill 166, passed unanimously by the Senate Fiscal Policy Committee, eliminates the requirement for high school students to pass 10th-grade standardized tests in English and Algebra to graduate. At a time when 56% of Lee County seniors cannot pass a 10th-grade reading test and 63% fail math, this bill lowers expectations instead of addressing the crisis. (https://thecapitolist.com/senate-panel-backsbill-ending-test-requirement-for-high-school-diplomas/)

Lee County Schools proudly tout an 85.8% graduation rate for 2024, yet the numbers reveal a troubling truth: Many of those graduates cannot read their diplomas or perform basic math. Instead of reforming education and holding schools accountable, this bill lets students graduate without proving they’ve mastered essential skills. This is not reform—it’s a cover-up.

Adding insult to injury, this comes as public school employees were not satisfied with a five-year pension cash bonus and used their public positions to take a 60% increase in pension cash bonuses to eight years. (https://tripledippers.org/fl-lee-county-schools-cash-outs-q1-2025report/) We must demand accountability and advocate for real solutions:

n No student should receive a high school diploma without passing 10th-grade level tests.

n Students must repeat fourth grade until they can pass reading and math at the fourth-grade level. After all, you cannot learn if you cannot read.

n Introduce merit-based pay for teachers, rewarding those who achieve meaningful improvement in their students’ test scores.

The future of our students, employers, and country depends on raising standards—not lowering them. Contact your Florida State Senator https://www.flsenate. gov/about/contact and State Representative https://www. flhouse.gov/FindYourRepresentative https://tripledippers.org/fl-lee-county-schools-cashouts-q1-2025-report/

Dave Jaye Bonita Springs

The end of Florida Citizens initiatives?

To the editor:

Did you know that Citizen initiated Constitutional Amendments may become a thing of the past in the State of Florida? Here’s what is brewing in Tallahassee:

HB (House Bill) 1205 and SB (Senate Bill) 7016 add new challenges to the citizens initiatives process. (There are 15 pending citizen initiatives besides Florida Right to Clean Water) :

—$1 Million Bond: SB requires donations to first cover election office costs and then secure the bond.

— Stricter Rules for Petition Circulators: Anyone collecting petitions must register and complete training.

— More Voter Information Required: Petition forms must include a Florida driver’s license/state ID number or the last four digits of a Social Security number, replacing the current date-of-birth option.

— Legal Challenges to Amendments: SB allows voters to challenge an adopted amendment in court over eligibility.

— Hosts of fines, civil penalties, and crimes are added

— Impact on Current Petitions: Both bills apply to petitions for the 2026 election.

— Timeline: The bills take effect immediately upon becoming law. A final compromise bill could be passed in April before the session ends on May 2.

The roadblocks in these two bills will eliminate any possibility of citizen-based changes to be put on voting ballots. Contact your senator & representative to stop these efforts to end our voter participation in changing the future direction of the State of Florida.

Links to both bills are below.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1205

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/7016

Letters to the editor

the party was a true party of fiscally conservative persons. However, the party has changed and not in a good way. Even the man I used to work for left the party and became an Independent so he could still vote his conscience. The GOP has lost all common sense in my opinion.

After Trump was elected in 2024 he weakened the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. This was an agency that was highly effective in addressing predatory loan companies and other issues impacting Americans including unfair fees, or even rising grocery prices. During the banking crisis the CFPB was able to intervene when some banks attempted to fraudulently claim Americans were not paying their mortgages and steal those homes. Anyone could go to the CFPB website and file a complaint and get their issue resolved. For example, if you took out a credit card and then found out that the company was charging you predatory amounts of interest or if you were charged exploitive and predatory medical fees.

The CFPB was able to return $21 billion in predatory fees and charges to American consumers. Now the rights of consumers are at risk.

The fox is guarding the hen house.

C.A.Hughes,

MSW Cape Coral

The ground-glass sandwich

To the editor:

As a committed and practicing Libertarian of some years, I see the incumbent President as being attractive and repellent at the same time, a veritable ground-glass sandwich. (Specifically, if you take a bite, you will get fed and shredded at the same time).

I mean, I enthuse about the attack on the sheer size of the federal government (however brutally), the repatriation of power to the States, and the volte-face in our foreign entanglements. What’s not to like?

At the same time, however, I see here a “man on horseback,” one who has a preposterously aggressive view of the role of the President. This is a man who actively seeks to utterly and ruthlessly dominate the limited-government menage a trois that is so clearly contemplated by our Constitution. He is supposed to see that the laws are faithfully executed, nothing more.

We Libertarians, much more than any other group, enthusiastically embrace constitutionally mandated power sharing, for the simple reason that it is so much better than anything else on offer. Governmental power -- to the extent that it is actually needed at all -- is best shared by three antagonistic entities.

Worse, this President is haunted by “enemies” and vindictively seeks to root them out. His financial assaults on major universities are a major threat to academic freedom. His deportations are a violation of fundamental human rights. His disregard of due process is profoundly dangerous. Worse, his tariffs will destroy free trade, impoverishing all of us. And trillion-dollar federal deficits don’t faze him at all.

Nah, we’ve got to appreciate that we are endangering ourselves by tolerating this man. He must be resisted across a thousand-mile front, by all lawful means. The effort is gonna make for some strange bedfellows, for sure, but I don’t think we have much choice here.

Larry Gillis, Cape Coral

Director-at-Large, Libertarian Party of Florida

Trump’s reckless tariffs are a severe threat to the U.S. economy

To the editor:

In 1930, President Herbert Hoover signed the SmootHawley Tariff Bill, which raised American tariffs (taxes) on imports by the second-highest amount in U.S. history. This bill had disastrous consequences, when retaliatory tariffs strongly contributed to the Great Depression of the 1930s.

The U.S. depression was long and grueling and only subsided because of President Franklin Roosevelt’s government jobs program, followed by rapid World War II economic build-up.

GOP

David Bortell North Fort Myers

no longer the Grand Old Party we once knew

To the editor:

I used to work for a Republican back in the days when

In Europe, the combination of retaliatory tariffs and World War I sanctions/reparations on Germany pushed the German people away from democracy, moving them to “Make Germany Great Again” under a dictator, Adolph Hitler, who named himself the savior of German recovery. Instead, Germany collapsed by the end of 1945.

Apparently, neither Trump nor his team have any historical perspective about why multiple large tariffs are not a sound tactic. No president since Hoover has been so incompetent as to put multiple large tariffs into practice.

Trump’s destructive tariff actions against our largest trading partners (Canada, Mexico, and Europe) have spooked the U.S. stock market, leading to a dramatic down-turn. A recession is very much on the horizon.

Trump recently told a news commentator that the United States could go into recession but it’s a price he’s willing to pay to do a “big thing.” The only big thing he is doing is creating enormous damage to the U.S. economy.

We all need to do our homework and stay connected with what’s happening. As Trump’s tariffs take effect, the cost of living is already beginning to increase. We will soon have to pay a lot more for basic products like food, housing, and transportation.

Please call your U.S. Congressperson and Senators now and demand their intervention to stop the dangerous implementation of Trump’s reckless tariffs that will only create higher U.S. prices and market instability.

Ken Peterson Punta Gorda

America needs to stop arming cartels

To the editor:

Here’s a startling fact that every American should be aware of: The vast majority of firearms used by cartels don’t come from secret smuggling operations — they are sourced directly from U.S. gun dealers. Each year, approximately 500,000 American guns are trafficked into Mexico, exacerbating cartel violence and worsening the fentanyl crisis. Shockingly, around 70% of firearms recovered at crime scenes in Mexico trace back to the United States.

So, how is this escalation in violence occurring? The answer lies in unclear gun laws and significant loopholes present in our system. Unlicensed dealers and straw purchasers can acquire weapons with little oversight, creating a perfect storm that cartels are exploiting to their advantage. Are we a nation of law and order, or only when it serves capitalism?

Congress now has a chance to disrupt this deadly pipeline with the Stop Arming Cartels Act (H.R. 923/S. 367). This proposed legislation aims to address these loopholes, strengthen regulations on illegal sales, and provide law enforcement with the necessary resources to tackle gun traffickers effectively before more lives are lost.

This is a crucial issue that should be straightforward for lawmakers to support. However, the reality is that without public pressure, the progress of this vital legislation could stall.

Karyn Edison Fort Myers

Tariffs are nothing new

To the editor:

Tariffs have been used by politicians for years. President Trump is doing it because of the unfair trade practices of other countries towards America.

America must not rely on foreign adversarial governments for our essential products. We should have learned difficult lessons from past experiences. Remember the time when Saudi Arabia and the oil cartels halted oil production, leading to not only long gas lines but also restrictions on purchasing fuel on specific days, which devastated many businesses? The United States is vulnerable when it comes to pharmaceuticals, automobiles, clothing, and a wide range of goods. If you believe that transitioning to a self-sufficient America is challenging, consider that failing to restore our manufacturing capabilities could have dire consequences. President Trump is the first leader with guts to challenge the established norms with courage. He is also the first President since World War II to grasp the interconnections of various economic factors. While President H.W. Bush was the most business-oriented leader in the White House since 1945, he lacked the backbone to implement significant changes. We currently have a President striving to navigate us away from economic decline without resorting to military conflict. His approach is rooted in business principles rather than political motivations. Without Trump’s intervention at this critical time, America is on a path to disaster, and it is uncertain who else could have redirected our course. President Trump has remained consistent in his approach since 1979, when he and tariffs were part of the Democratic platform. It is the Democrats who have shifted their stance, not Trump. It is important to remember that the government does not produce anything, yet it spends substantial amounts of money. Allow a free economy to utilize and manage its resources; it is far more capable of handling finances effectively.

Lou Walker Cape Coral

School district consolidates administrative positions

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The Lee County School Board adopted 12 job descriptions for academic services, business services, human resources and executive services division, which will support a consolidated organizational chart designed to put more money in classrooms.

“When I bring you recommendations, from all my heart, I truly believe this is the team and structure that is going to lead us to number one,” School District of Lee County Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin said at Tuesday’s meeting “Not only are you holding me accountable – I am holding myself accountable. If we don’t achieve our goals as a district, I will fire myself in four years. That is how serious I am about myself in this work.”

Carlin was elected to her office in November. She is the district’s first elected superintendent since the 1974 when voters made the position one appointed by the school board. Voters overturned that decades-old decision in the 2024 election.

The new organizational chart will help the district help children, Carlin said.

“I want you to know, all of you to know, any job I bring forward, I am holding myself accountable that each one of these people that goes into this job is able to do the job necessary. None of these job changes were brought about because anybody was doing anything wrong. I have nothing but respect for people currently in the jobs. This is about a structural change that is necessary to move the organization forward. I am passionate. I want the best for children. I want to see our district do better and we can.”

“I want you to know, all of you to know, any job I bring forward, I am holding myself accountable that each one of these people that goes into this job is able to do the job necessary. None of these job changes were brought about because anybody was doing anything wrong. I have nothing but respect for people currently in the jobs. This is about a structural change that is necessary to move the organization forward. I am passionate. I want the best for children. I want to see our district do better and we can.”

— Dr. Denise Carlin, superintendent of schools

The board approved the adoption of the following positions: Deputy Chief of Staff; Arts, Athletics, Activities and Administration director; Communications, Marketing and Public Relations director; Core Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment director; Physical and Mental Health Services director; Risk Management and Internal Compliance director; Strategic Planning and Portfolio Management director; Organizational Performance and Analytics executive director; School Transformation senior director; Physical Mental Health Services assistant director; Budget and Grants Director and Physical and Mental Health Services senior coordinator.

Board member Debbie Jordan was the sole board member that voted against the approval of the job descriptions. One of the issues she had was changing the chart to consolidate multiple directorships into one for Physical and Mental Health Services.

“We keep speaking about safety, kids’ needs, outcomes, student services, but when I look at this and see the units that we pulled out, they directly affect our students and they are specialized people in those

fields,” she said.

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ken Savage said the school counselors, school social workers, school psychologists and the nursing program are all part of the comprehensive model.

“The only thing that is changing is job titles,” he said.

Carlin said there will be a director, assistant director of physical and mental health and a senior coordinator.

“Those jobs will be filled with those folks that have the skills to supervise to do what is necessary,” she said. “Instead of three directors, we will have one director over all of that work. We are consolidating bodies of work, but supporting underneath.”

The restructuring of the organizational chart includes changes to 50 positions and job descriptions – all in the central office, which will save an estimated $1 million for the district.

The district’s central office departments also reviewed their independent budgets and implemented a 5% reduction, an analysis that saved $15.9 million.

“It’s the right-sized chart,” Carlin said.

She said the entire 13 months spent on the campaign trail, the community shared with her a strong desire for more dollars to go into the classrooms and retain high quality teachers.

“When we have surrounding counties that pay more to their teachers than we do, we continue to lose teachers to the south, the north, and now the east,” she said.

Over the last year, Carlin said they have saved $20 million.

“That is a significant savings. This is round one. We will continue to look at ways to reduce the bureaucracy in the district office. We embedded a succession plan, a natural succession plan,” she said. “Under the directors – under the hood –there are assistant directors, coordinators, senior coordinators. In many instances as we have consolidated work at the director level and above, we provided assistant directors under the hood.”

Carlin said an organizational structure is necessary to achieve goals, while holding her accountable.

The school board heard a presentation during its Tuesday afternoon workshop from Savage regarding the proposed organizational changes. He took the board through multiple data visuals from the 2009-2010 school year to present day to depict how the district has grown over the past 15 years. The comparison also shared the growth in administrative positions during that time frame.

Savage said the administrative unit never increased more than 1% despite the significant growth in students from 2010

See DISTRICT, page 24

City to seek requests for proposal for Bimini East

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

With the demolition component of Bimini East expected to wrap up by mid-June, plans to bring the project to potential investors are underway.

City staff presented the next steps for the Cape Coral City Council at a workshop session Wednesday.

“We are going to be holding developer meetings in early May,” interim Assistant City Manager Mark Mason said.

Those meetings will give developers an opportunity to come in and look at the property and have a discussion of what the city’s vision is for the “blighted” sites purchased for a total of a little more than $43 million for hoped-for redevelopment in the South Cape.

A Request for Proposals for purchase and development of the land assemblage will be issued in mid-May if not earlier.

Mason said the due date for the proposals will be late July, early August with discussions in August and September. Contract estimates are to be negotiated by year end.

Council also discussed the vacation of some roadways

throughout the project area.

“If we don’t vacate the road, we don’t get access to the land underneath it,” City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn said.

The city can vacate a road connection — small strip of road out, sod it and leave the demolition of the road for a later date.

The purchase timeline dates back to Aug. 7, 2024, when an interlocal agreement was made between the South Cape Redevelopment Agency and Cape Coral City Council, which also acts as the CRA governing board. Ilczyszyn said they closed on the target properties on Oct. 4 before purchasing an additional four properties with the last one purchased on Jan. 24.

The demolition timeline began when a contract was awarded to HONC Demolition on Dec. 4, 2024 to take down existing buildings, many of which were older residential units.

With contingency, the contract is $1.7 million.

“We have not used any of that contingency,” CRA Project Manager Zac Gogel said.

Four additional properties were added to the contract for $182,538.

The first demo took place at 4841 Atlantic Court on

Jan. 21, 2025. Gogel said they have a total of 47 sites to be demolished. As of Wednesday morning, 37 sites have been, and active sites remain at three. He said 46 out of the 47 sites will be demolished by mid-May.

There is still a tenant in one of the structures who will vacate by the end of April. Gogel said the demolition for this structure will bring the completion into the first week of June.

Ilczyszyn spoke about some of the properties within the project area.

“The properties that are cross hatched – northeast corner — George’s Auto — several people are working with him to look at acquisition of that,” he said.

Ilczyszyn said the property in the middle was purchased by an investor who is using it as leverage for a future RFP. There are also three properties along Triton Court East and Cape Coral Parkway East with owners who are willing to sell, but the price is not worth the city to acquire, he said.

“All of the ones remaining are all in play and willing to sell. It’s getting to the right price for the right property,” Ilczyszyn said.

Tickets on sale for Backyard Game Day to benefit Dubin Center

The Dubin Center will host its Backyard Game Day event from 4 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 18, at Bay Street Yard in downtown Fort Myers.

Proceeds from the event will support the center in providing services to local families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, and a lively tournament featuring ping pong, cornhole and more in the heart of downtown Fort Myers’ River District.

Founded in 1995, The Dubin Center supports individuals with dementia-related disorders and their caregivers by prioritizing comfort, dignity, compassionate care and education through resources, training and outreach specifically designed for family caregivers. The center provides

caregiver education, support groups and assistance with resource referrals.

Services are offered at no cost, made possible by the generous donations and fundraising efforts of the community.

The Presenting Sponsor of Backyard Game Day is Cypress at Home. Game Sponsorships ($2,500) and T-shirt Sponsorships ($250 to $500) are still available. Tickets are $75 each and include food, alcoholic beverages and entry to the tournament.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit DubinCenter.com/backyard-game-day or call 239-4373007.

About The Dubin Center

The Dubin Center was established in 1995 to provide assistance to families of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease. The Center is named after Alvin A. Dubin whose widow, Zelda Dubin, made a generous donation to ensure the viability of a resource center in Lee County. Throughout their lives, Alvin and Zelda Dubin used both their time and assets to help others. Their legacy will continue through the center’s work. The staff and volunteers at The Dubin Center provide local expertise with resource referrals, caregiver education and support groups. For more information about The Dubin Center please visit dubincenter.com.

Cape Coral eyes parking regs for rights of way

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Cape Coral City Council gave staff the OK to move forward with parking regulations for commercial vehicles in city rights of way.

City Attorney Aleksandr Boksner said the proposed regulations, which would prohibit the parking of commercial vehicle within rights of way citywide, stem from a discussion Mayor John Gunter brought forward.

“We don’t have anything on the books right now to target that kind of conduct,” he said.

Currently there are multiple definitions of commercial vehicles in the land development code, as well as certain regulations in different locations. Boksner said he created a potential uniform article that would repeal the existing parking regulations throughout the code.

As discussed at Council’s workshop, a brand-new article will be brought forth to address parking restrictions.

In addition, a Request for Proposals is currently being advertised for a parking vendor that would come in and do parking enforcement throughout the entire city. With the new article being drafted, Boksner

“Capture anyone or anything parking on a city right of way — any type of commercial lettering irrelevant of the size of the vehicle — in order to cast a broad net. The tractor trailers, the dump trucks, those are a given. This is not about commercial vehicles being parked in residential properties. It’s parking on the rights of way in the city as it stands right now. I want to make sure I capture all of that.”

— City Attorney Aleksandr Boksner, who is working by council consensus to prepare a uniform article for regulations to prohibit the parking of commercial vehicle within rights of way citywide.

said they would be able to issue a uniform parking violation.

As far as the definition of a commercial vehicle, he said he knows what he thinks it should be.

“Capture anyone or anything parking on a city right of way — any type of commercial lettering irrelevant of the size of the vehicle — in order to cast a broad net. The tractor trailers, the dump trucks, those are a given,” Boksner said. “This is not about commercial vehicles being parked in residential properties. It’s parking on the rights of way in the city as it stands right now. I want to make sure I capture all of that.”

If the goal is to eliminate this type of conduct, the elimination starts with casting a broad net, he said.

Enforcement would be ticketing and towing, as they cannot afford any more sitting for days.

Many of the council members showed support for the new article.

Councilmember Jennifer Nelson-Lastra said she was all in favor of having thirdparty parking enforcement folks to manage this.

“I love that. It makes perfect sense. Wow, that is brilliant,” she said. “It takes the pressure off.”

Councilmember Bill Steinke agreed with the nature and intent of the action, but had concerns about casting a wide net.

“When we cast a wide net in an effort to catch a fish, often times a sea turtle gets caught in the net,” he said. “Make every effort we can not to get the sea turtle in that net.”

An example he gave was a plumbing contractor owner who has a passenger vehicle with ABS Plumbing on the door.

“It’s definitely a passenger vehicle but happens to have their logo on it. I would not want to have that person attending a Memorial Day picnic where there is not enough room to park in the driveway and it’s parked on the street and ticketed and towed,” Steinke said. “I absolutely believe in pulling it out of the land development code. I love the idea of a separate entity. I will scrutinize about words matter.”

Other council members wanted to make sure the community understands the rights of ways.

Boksner said he will bring the final draft to another council workshop, so they can spend some time going through the legislation.

City of Cape Coral re-launches its interactive Open Finance Portal

The City of Cape Coral has re-launched its Open Finance Portal, an interactive tool that gives residents direct access to the City’s financial data.

“This user-friendly platform provides a clear view of how public funds are col-

lected and allocated, empowering residents with greater transparency and accountability,” city officials said in a release.

Key features include:

Daily Updates: Financial data is refreshed daily, displaying information from

the previous day.

Interactive Dashboards: Explore revenue, expenditures, and trends through intuitive charts and graphs.

Historical Data: Access financial records dating back to Fiscal Year 2020.

The portal simplifies complex financial information, making it easy for residents to track spending, explore budgets, and understand how their tax dollars work for them.

School district to take part in Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies program

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The Lee County School Board gave its nod of approval for the district to seek accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.

“Being the leader in this is awesome. Students aren’t learning if they are not feeling safe. Another piece that will allow us to explain to the community that we are serious about safety,” Board member Melisa Giovanneli said at Tuesday’s workshop meeting.

The School District of Lee County would be the first school district in the state of Florida to seek this accreditation, and the largest in the United States.

“I think this is amazing,” Board Chair Sam Fisher said. “I am on board with this.”

Taking this on shows the district’s commitment to safety for students, teachers, and staff, he added.

“This really shows that – a leader in the state and the country,” Fisher said.

Safety, Security and Fleet Operations Chief Dave Newlan shared information with the school board about the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement

Agencies program. The accreditation is for non-sworn security staff, which would include such areas as security specialist, safety team and guardians.

With the accreditation, Newlan said it would establish a comprehensive process for managing public safety agencies by institutionalizing best practices while ensuring involvement with partners and community.

The cost for the district, at the rate for 24-199 nonsworn full-time employees for the initial accreditation, is $7,565. There is a price tag for an annual continuation of $3,110.

It would take two years to be accredited on the basic, or advanced standard, Newlan said.

CALEA Program Manager Vince Dauro said the campus program is their newest program for nonsworn employees. He said it was established in 2010 with a lot of input from campuses.

“Being our newest, it is our smallest with 1,300 programs accredited through the country and four countries that we serve,” Dauro said.

There are several K-12 in the process with one that has been accredited for a while – Milton Hershey School, the

flagship campus.

“The response is it served their agency and governing body very well giving them a format for best operations in the security field,” Dauro said of the best practices for providing security services. “It doesn’t matter if kids are on campus or off campus. Security functions are the same.”

The basic accreditation is for core standards, something smaller agencies go after, while the advance accreditation goes into detail further with correlating tasks with functions.

“The accreditation process is always ongoing. They are constantly asking for things to make sure you are keeping up with requirements,” Newlan said. “You have two years to reach that – strive to get that done faster.”

He said everyone has to embrace the accreditation.

“Our top priority of the district is we want to increase student achievement. That cannot happen if students do not feel safe and secure. I look forward to the process. Thank you for your support,” Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin said.

Discussion on Right to Clean Water & citizen initiatives set for May 3

The League of Women Voters of Lee County, Florida Right to Clean Water, and the SWFL RESET Center invite members and the public for an action-oriented discussion of Fundamental Rights and Citizen Initiatives to be held May 3 from 9-11a.m. in person at Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson Street, Fort Myers and virtually via Zoom.

A Zoom link will be emailed to registrants.

“Because Florida’s waters are badly polluted, FloridaRightToCleanWater.org has launched a citizen initiative to amend the Florida Constitution with a fundamental right to clean and healthy waters for all Floridians.” a rlease from the LWVLee sates. “Proposed new laws may cripple the citizen initiative process.”

Fundamental Rights and Citizen Initiatives will focus on the proposed right to clean water amendment and the threat

these new laws pose to citizen initiatives and Floridians’ First Amendment Rights.

Register with this link: https://FLRighttoCleanWater. eventbrite.com or Email: lwvlee@lwvlee.org Or call 239278-1032.

Panelists:

n Joseph Bonasia, chair, Florida Rights of Nature Network and SWFL regional director, FloridaRightToCleanWater.org. Original organizing member of ProtectOurWetlandsinCapeCoral.org and for several years served as Citizen Climate Lobby’s volunteer legislative liaison to Senator Rick Scott’s office. He writes about constitutional environmental rights and climate change. See some of his articles at The Invading Sea.

n ACLU of Florida speaker on impacts of new legislation

on citizen initiatives and paths forward to address clean water and first amendment rights.

The League of Women Voters of Lee County, Inc.

The League of Women Voters of Lee County, Inc. is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy.

The League of Women Voters does not support or oppose candidates and/or political parties.

Information on the programs and issues of the League of Women Voters is available on the web at www.lwv.org, www.lwvfl.org, and www.lwvlee.org. Call 239-278-1032 or e-mail lwvlee@lwvlee.org

South Cape Business Easter Egg Hunt set for Saturday

Families invited to come out, collect goodies & get photos taken at the Easter Bunny

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

Peter Cottontail and an afternoon of free Easter fun throughout South Cape Coral takes place this weekend.

South Cape Hospitality & Entertainment Association is putting on the fifth annual South Cape Business Easter Egg Hunt this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., which includes a free Easter Bunny Photo Booth.

Parents can bring the kids for a funfilled day where they can hop around to participating businesses and fill their baskets with treats.

“It’s one of our favorite family events and we love seeing everyone come together to enjoy the community and support local businesses. Each year it gets bigger and better,” said SCHEA spokesperson Shannon Quinn. “This event is a win-win, as attendees get a fun adventure through the South Cape and often come upon businesses they’ve never visited before. For our local shops and restaurants, it’s an amazing way to introduce themselves to new customers, build existing relationships and leave a positive first impression. Plus, many families return later to support the businesses they discovered during the event.”

Participating locations will hand out Easter eggs packed with candy, trinkets, and even special surprises such as gift cards to favorite local establishments and businesses.

“This event offers the perfect opportunity for families to get out and explore South Cape in a fun, interactive way,”

Quinn said. “Kids get to enjoy the thrill of the Easter egg hunt, while parents discover new shops, restaurants and local spots they may not have known about. It’s a great way to spend quality time together while supporting the local economy.”

The event provides safe and easy travel, as a limo bus will be available to shuttle families safely across Cape Coral Parkway, running between Big John’s Plaza and Zak’s Jewelry.

Attendees can capture the moment by stopping by MM Brands (1322 Lafayette Street, Unit B) for a free photo with the Easter Bunny.

“We hope attendees walk away with lasting memories, full Easter baskets and a greater love for the South Cape,” Quinn said. “Whether it’s finding a new favorite store, trying a new restaurant or just enjoying the festive atmosphere, we want families to feel connected to the community and excited to return.”

Participating locations include: Diamond Dave’s Creative Jewelry, Family Traditions Home Decor & Furnishings, The

Greek Spot, HOTWORX, John Michael’s Diamond & Jewelry Studio, Just Lovelee Boutique, Karma & Coconuts, Lehne Burger, MM Brands, Noela Chocolate & Confections, Noe’s Jewelry, Penny’s Coffee, Perk & Brew, A Pooch’s Paradise Pet Grooming, RE/MAX Nautical Realty, Sidecar Treats, Simply Golden Boutique, South Cape Entertainment & Hospitality, Sweet Spot, Trebing Tile & Carpet, and Zak’s Jewelry. Additional participating locations may be added before Saturday.

“Our local businesses look forward to this event every year,” Quinn said. “It’s a fun and engaging way for them to connect with families, share in the holiday spirit

photo booth

and show what makes South Cape such a special place. Many go all out with decorations, costumes and treats. The event is something everyone can enjoy.”

Kids should bring their own baskets or bags to collect eggs. SCHEA will have some bags at the Easter Bunny photo booth, but they are not festive. SCHEA encourages families to bring their own to match the event festivities.

For more information and to see a map of participating locations, visit www. southcapeentertainment.com or visit the Eventbrite page.

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Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux to open first S.W. Florida location

Local restaurateur to bring Baton-Rouge based restaurant group concept to Cape Coral

By CJ HADDAD CJHADDAD@breezenewspapers.com

A new sports bar is set to open Monday in Cape Coral, bringing Louisiana flavors and hundreds of jobs to the city.

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux will welcome customers to its location along Southwest Pine Island Road starting Monday. The family-friendly establishment is known for its scratch-made menu and creating memorable experiences for guests.

“We’re looking forward to bringing the Game Day energy found at Walk-On’s to the Cape Coral community,” said Walk-On’s Cape Coral General Manager Steven Hall in a prepared statement. “We intend to brand Walk-On’s as the go-to place for families, game days, graduations, birthdays, and all things alike. Knowing the Walk-On’s brand stands for community involvement and owning sports, we are dedicated to bringing this same culture to the Cape Coral community.”

The 8,900-square-foot restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating for 200-plus guests, a state-of-the-art sports bar, more than 50 big-screen TVs, a large outdoor patio area, and a welcoming atmosphere that caters to both sports fans and families.

The new establishment will host its first patrons starting at 11 a.m., with the first 100 customers entered to win free Walk-On’s for one year.

Walk-On’s was celebrated as the No. 1 sports bar in the country by ESPN that brings together the love of food, sports, and community. Concepted on the back of a napkin by LSU walk-on basketball players Brandon Landry

“We’re looking forward to bringing the Game Day energy found at Walk-On’s to the Cape Coral community. We intend to brand WalkOn’s as the go-to place for families, game days, graduations, birthdays, and all things alike. Knowing the Walk-On’s brand stands for community involvement and owning sports, we are dedicated to bringing this same culture to the Cape Coral community.”

— Steven Hall, general manager for the new WalkOn’s Sports Bistreaux to open Monday at 1127 S.W. Pine Island Road in Cape Coral

and Jack Warner, Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux opened its doors in 2003 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The menu boasts scratch-made dishes paired with a wide selection of unique cocktails and beers, a release announcing the opening states.

Walk-On’s Southwest Florida Franchisee Len Lemmer is looking forward to bringing the new restaurant concept to Cape Coral and expanding his expertise and outreach.

“We’re confident it will become a lead dining spot for residents and area visitors alike, with more locations on the horizon,” Lemmer said.

A veteran restaurateur, Lemmer also owns Nervous Nellies and Cantina Laredo locally.

Walk-On’s Cape Coral will be a family-run business with son Tyler Lemmer as director of operations, sonin-law Steven Hall as general manager, daughter Erin Lemmer as administrative manager and daughter Kiera Lemmer as front-of-house manager.

Walk-On’s Cape Coral was built by Curran Young Construction.

“We love to build restaurants because they are places our team, friends and family can enjoy long after it’s been built,” said CEO of Curran Young Construction, Chris Curran, in a preaprted statement. “With the menu and family atmosphere of Walk-On’s, we are confident this is going to be wildly successful, and we are thrilled to be part of it.”

For more information about Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux and the new Cape Coral location, visit Walk-On’s.com or contact the Cape Coral location at capecoral@walkons. com.

Walk-On’s Cape Coral is at 1127 S.W. Pine Island Road.

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Weekly B reeze Recap

City Parks & Rec Summer Camps registrations underway

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

With summer right around the corner, the city of Cape Coral is now accepting registration for a myriad of camp offerings.

The city’s Parks and Recreation Department opened summer camp registration Monday, April 7, with spots expected to fill quickly.

This year’s summer camps cater to a wide variety of interests, including athletics, science, nature and the arts.

“Cape Coral Parks & Recreation is committed to offering a wide range of summer camps that provide local youth opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and fun,” said city spokesperson Kaitlyn Mullen. “The camps aim for children to build confidence, develop social connections, and engage in enriching activities that foster creativity, teamwork, and lifelong memories.”

To register, visit www.CapeParks. com, or call or visit the desired camp location during business hours. The city’s digital 2025 Summer Camp Guide provides camp details and links to online registration.

Camp locations and offerings include but are not limited to:

n Cape Coral Art Center: Creativity Camp

n Eagle Skate Park: Skate Park Camp

n Four Freedoms Park: Super Science Camp

n Lake Kennedy Center: Dance Camp

n Police Athletic League Camp

n Special Populations Summer Camp

“The Cape Coral Parks & Recreation Department offers an extensive selection of summer camps to suit diverse interests and age groups,” Mullen said. “With themes ranging from science experiments to artistic expression and outdoor adventures, there truly is something for every child.”

Camps start as early as June 9, with weekly sessions that run until early August. Weekly sessions start at $60 per week, with most camps in the $100-plus range, and Super Science Camp at $225.

An example of some camps and what they offer include:

n Four Freedoms Summer Camptacular -- Each week, campers will enjoy a culinary experience and a funfilled water day. Daily activities include themed arts and crafts, music, games and indoor/outdoor recreational activities.

n Lake Kennedy Dance Camp -Participants in this half-day camp will learn basic dance techniques and focus on skills such as team building, cre ativity, confidence and more. The camp will include a focus on lyrical jazz, bal let and acrobatic genres. Dance camp is open to all skill levels, with no dance experience necessary.

n Police Athletic League -- Campers will enjoy many different activities during the week including arts and crafts as well as recreational sports. There will be guest speakers and field trips.

- These weekly camps are offered for children of all abilities (ages 13 - 22). Each day has planned activities, including many fun trips throughout the week. Campers will work on recreational skills and develop social connections while building relationships and life experiences.

Mullen said partnerships play a crucial role in the success of these camps.

“Collaborations with organizations like the School District of Lee County -- which provides some meals -- and local community groups enhance the quality and accessibility of programs, including SMART, environmental, athletics, and arts,” she said. City officials said summer camp spots will likely fill quickly, and payments must be made during registration to reserve camp placement. No early registrations will be accepted.

EHL Fragile X Foundation’s Touch A Truck raises awareness

By JOHNATHAN MINEHAN news@breezenewspapers.com

EHL Fragile X Foundation’s Touch A Truck event gathered the community for a day of awareness and an abundance of vehicles to check out.

n Cape Coral Art Center -- Creativity Camp helps children between the ages of 7-13 find their inner artist in a safe, educational and fun environment. Weekly themed programs offer exciting techniques, guest speakers and hands-on demonstrations to inspire a child’s imagination. Children will experience pottery, mixed media, drawing, painting and gallery exhibition practices.

n Eco-Adventure Nature CampCampers can experience indoor and outdoor activities, such as hiking and exploring in the swamp, learning about the creatures that inhabit Rotary Park, and cooperative games, sports and crafts.

n Special Populations Summer Camp

As for why Cape Coral camps are a great option for parents this summer, Mullen said, “Parents are encouraged to enroll their children in these camps because they offer safe, affordable and engaging environments where kids can learn new skills, make friends and stay active during the summer. With diverse themes and activities tailored to various interests, children can explore their passions while building confidence and independence. Additionally, many camps include meals and extended hours for convenience.”

To register and view the city’s 2025 Summer Camp Guide, please visit www. capeparks.com and find the guide under the “I Want To” tab.

Legion Post 90 offering ‘Pin Patrol’ bowling party

Program for children of first responders from Cape Coral

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

American Legion Post 90 is offering a free trip to the lanes for children of Cape Coral first responders.

The first “Pin Patrol” bowling party takes place Saturday, April 26, from noon to 2 p.m., at Bowlero Midpoint, where children ages 6-12 can enjoy a few hours of bowling and some fun in the arcade courtesy of Post 90.

“With first responders doing what they do for the community and individuals, we wanted to thank them somehow,”

said American Legion Post 90 Children’s Youth Committee Co-Chair Tammy Gillhouse. “We thought we could start off by helping their children have some fun with a free day of bowling and pizza.”

The event will include team/cheer captains on each lane rooting on the bowlers. Post 90 will also provide coloring books and game tokens for the arcade.”

Children of personnel with the Cape Coral Police Department, Cape Coral Fire Department and those members of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office that live in Cape Coral are eligible.

American Legion Post 90 will have members and officers attend with a table of information to share and distribute for families that attend. Oftentimes officers and firefighters were once veterans themselves.

Overall, the afternoon is a show of gratitude to the families of those that put their lives on the line every day to protect the community.

“Our first responders do a lot, especially during hurricane season, and on a daily basis,” Gillhouse said. “A lot of people are not appreciative of their efforts

See ‘PIN PATROL,’ page 31

Big rigs, police vehicles and more trucks by the score could be seen lined up and down Lafayette Street between Del Prado Boulevard and Vincennes Street in Cape Coral last Saturday.

The event’s goal was to raise awareness about a genetic disorder, bring the community together and give children an opportunity to explore some of their favorite trucks. Cape Coral Fire Rescue’s fire truck, Lee County Emergency Medical’s ambulance and Cape Coral Police’s BMW motorcycles were just some of the vehicle attendees were able to view.

Steve and Fran Marsino, co-founders of the event, explained how Touch A Truck came to be.

Their grandson was diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome in 2013 and they decided to start Touch a Truck two years later, Steve Marsino said, adding they then founded the EHL Fragile X Foundation, incorporating their grandson’s initials.

“We wanted to start the foundation to raise awareness and help those with the syndrome,” he said.

One in every 4,000 kids has Fragile X syndrome, and the desire to raise awareness inspired the couple to host the free-admission event, which also is a fundraiser.

Saturday’s event in the South Cape featured live entertainment, safety exhibits and participants received a truck passport with destinations to visit for a chance to win a prize.

“In Clearwater, where our grandson lived, the fire department had one where they let all the kids climb into the cars,” said Fran Marsino. “So we suggested doing the touch-a-truck activity here where the kids could touch a truck and blow the whistles.”

Touch A Truck also featured food and beverages.

Steve Marsino shared the trucks that stuck out to him as he enjoyed seeing the community taking photos and videos.

“I am a redneck at heart but I’m a city boy,” he said. “I like the swamp buggy and the air bug. The firetrucks are always a hit with the kids, and a purple cement mixer is also at the event.”

The events doesn’t stop here for the couple — they also plan to hold an awareness dinner, which will be their third. Other efforts include a send-a-card program, in which they send cards made locally by children and adults who have intellectual disabilities to children looking to receive a card for their birthday.

The EHL Fragile X Foundation is always looking for volunteers and more involvement. To get involved, you can visit website, ehlfragilex.org.

Boathouse: Popular tiki eatery working to rebuild at the Yacht Club park

From, page 1

The meetings have been held at City Hall with the city manager, city attorney, and members of various departments. Kimley-Horne was also brought into the loop, to discuss future plans and what their space looks like and changes addressed during the rebuilding of the Yacht Club Park, which lost its pier, marina and other amenities with the city then opting to raze the historic Yacht Club ballroom building so as to start from scratch.

A new resort-style complex, complete with two-story community center with lagoon and kiddie pools, four-story parking garage, new piers, expanded beach and more, is in the works on the city’s end.

The vision of what the Boathouse can be is exciting, as there has always been conversations of “if we could,” which never transpired because of how tremendously busy the location always was before the hurricane and then the fire, Kearns said.

After Hurricane Ian devastated the building, Kearns said they put more than $1.5 million into the rebuild. But, now, with the fire happening shortly after the re-opening, Kearns said it’s “the only opportunity within our lifetime, and span of the lease, and what may be the new lease, of what we can imagine now.”

Some of the reimagining may include additional bathrooms, storage and refrigeration.

Kearns said they know what worked, and what could be done differently, as

“To me that is the most enjoyable part of it — creating a space that hopefully people will make memories at. We want to create experiences. The Boathouse did that for many people. It gives us the opportunity to come up with fun, creative ideas and focus on what that property offers. I don’t think there is a better waterfront location.”

— Zak Kearns, owner/partner, the Kearns Restaurant Group

they now have a decade of knowledge and experience they can reapply to the new space, “ground up space.”

That reimaged building, Kearns believes, has to include a tiki hut.

He said the details of that design are in his head and on the design boards and mood boards — but it will definitely include sprinklers, withstand hurricanes, flood and weather.

“To me that is the most enjoyable part of it — creating a space that hopefully people will make memories at. We want to create experiences. The Boathouse did that for many people,” he said. “It gives us the opportunity to come up with fun, creative ideas and focus on what that property offers. I don’t think there is a better waterfront location.”

The Kearns Restaurant Group is in the preliminary design stages with architects and engineers.

“The unfortunate thing to say is that we are at the mercy of time. That is the

downside of it,” he said.

After the fire, Kearns said they brought in a third-party inspector, which showed that the fuel tanks, fuel lines and fuel dispensers were operational and not damaged by the fire.

Through the frequent meetings with the city, discussions about an interim type of service the Kearns Restaurant Group can provide as the city’s large-scale rebuild project have been brought to the table.

Kearns said he is envisioning a pop-up scenario, not food trucks, but something modular that could be moved.

“A permanent feel, but modular set up,” he said. “We don’t know how long the process will take, but definitely want to continue to offer services and have people come enjoy and relax down there. As soon as we get our stuff organized and outlined, we are ready to rock and roll. I am really excited for what will be and I hope the community can stay rallied behind us. We are coming back, and we

can’t thank the city enough for the support and dedication for wanting us to be there as well. We want many more years to come.”

The new permanent facility will be built to accommodate the greater numbers the new park complex is projected to bring so they can keep up with the demand, Kearns said.

The Boathouse became a destination through the years, attracting anywhere from 20,000 to 25,000 people a week – upwards of 3,000 a day through breakfast, lunch, dinner and fuel services, also part of the concessionaire contract. It employed 128 individuals.

“With us having 10 years of experience and handling that volume, seeing that demand — you know how it all comes together and the magic of the space,” he said

The fire happened after closing on Oct. 18, the day after the Boathouse reopened following Hurricane Milton. Employees, who were still onsite, discovered the fire and called it in but wind and a heavy “fuel load,” including a fully-restocked bar, fed the fire which the Cape Coral Police Department aggressively fought both on land and by boat.

Unfortunately the process to rebuild is never as fast as you want it to be, Kearns said, adding that the process is underway.

“To have this unfortunate accident, it’s terrible,” Kearns said. “We will build something that will last forever, so to speak.”

The Breeze CommuniTy

April 11, 2025

A weed for all seasons

(Editor’s note: The following column was previously published in The Breeze.)

“Weeds are flowers too, once you get to know them.” -- A. A. Milne

By JANETTA FOX news@breezenewspapers.com

Like other perhaps more desirable vegetation, annual, biennial and perennial weeds have their growing seasons. Various weeds will take up residence in the landscape at different times, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for the home gardener throughout the year.

Garden Club of Cape Coral

Summer annuals such as spotted spurge (Euphorbia maculata), crabgrass (Digitaria spp.), Florida pusley (Richardia scabra), purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) and beggar’s-tick (Bidens alba) move through their life cycles in one growing season and will squeeze out other vegetation along the way. They disperse numerous seeds in their wake, some of which will sprout immediately. Others will demonstrate great patience by waiting a year, or two, or more to sprout. Germination is in the spring and plant growth and flowering lasts into autumn.

Picking up where summer annuals begin to leave off are winter annuals such as chickweed (Stellaria media). Germination begins in autumn, normally October, and blooms develop throughout the spring, followed by seed production.

Biennial weeds, such as the broadleaf bull thistle (Cirsium vulgari), establish themselves and focus on sturdy root development in their first year. Flowering and seed production occur in the second year, after which the plant dies.

Occupying the third season are perennial weeds, which will grow and flower for more than two years. Examples include dandelion (Taraxacum spp.) and plantain (Plantago major). Interestingly, while perennial weeds reproduce by seed, as do annuals and biennials, they can also reproduce through the spread of various plant parts. Depending on the weed, reproduction can occur through above ground stolens, or underground rhizomes, tubers or bulbs.

Whatever the season, one person’s weed can be the right plant in the right place for another person. Bidens alba is one such plant. It loves to spread and, yes, it will take over an area left to its own designs. However, when controlled, that is, by “weeding out” excess growth and spread or placing the plant in a controlled area, it can prove to be a nice addition to the garden. The plant’s tiny flowers attract butterflies, such as the Dainty Sulphur butterfly, or Nathalis iole, and other pollinators. The plant can also serve as an edible source with health benefits for us.

If you enjoy eating greens, the dandelion may fit the bill for you. This plant is not limited to growing in Florida. I have fond memories of accompanying my mother to an open field to gather young dandelion greens for salads when growing up in Pennsylvania. If you happen to have some in your lawn or elsewhere and would choose to harvest them, make certain the ground is free of pesticides to avoid the potential for ingesting unwanted chemicals. As with anything you may bring inside, wash thoroughly before consuming.

There are a variety of weeds that can be eaten. However, always do your homework to properly identify edible weeds before experimenting with them in the kitchen. You definitely would not want to mistake a non-edible for an edible. For assistance with identification, forward a picture of the weed in question to extgardener@lee gov. com. A Master Gardener volunteer will respond to your query. You can also take a sample to the UF/IFAS Lee County Extension Office in Fort Myers.

Janetta Fox is a Lee County Master Gardener volunteer and member of the Garden Club of Cape Coral.

Community Market On Demand

Community Cooperative launches personalized grocery shopping service

An entirely new group of people have found themselves in uncertain positions because they are unable to afford to feed their families. Due to inflation, the price of food has risen drastically, and many families are working hard to put food on the table.

In response to the high need and new client base, Community Cooperative has launched Community Market On Demand, a one-on-one private shopping service at the food pantry. It allows clients to avoid waiting in long lines and offers them the chance to make an appointment that fits around busy work or kids’ school schedules.

By scheduling an appointment in advance online, clients can peruse a selection of fresh produce, pantry staples and more in a private setting, ensuring that each item is intentionally chosen and will be used effectively. Rather than providing clients with a box filled with food items, Community Cooperative’s Market On Demand program strives to empower clients to make mindful and personalized choices that align with their preferences and available cooking methods to minimize food waste.

“According to the USDA’s 2025 Food Price Outlook, the prices of food are expected to increase 3.4% this year and were already 2.5% higher this January compared

to January 2024,” says Stefanie Ink Edwards, CEO of Community Cooperative. “It’s a real problem that affects real people in our community. Our Market On Demand program has quickly become a popular resource, and it served 808 unduplicated households in the first six months of the program launching.”

Market On Demand is the latest addition to Community Cooperative’s extensive list of innovative programs, including Sam’s Community Café & Kitchen, Meals on Wheels, mobile food pantries, Food Literacy in People and social and education resource centers.

Since 1984, Community Cooperative has worked to effectively eliminate hunger and homelessness in Southwest Florida while simultaneously inspiring and supporting sustained positive change in its clients by delivering innovative food, education, and social service programs. Through collaboration and ongoing education, Community Cooperative supports and strengthens those whose lives have been affected by hunger and homelessness, ensuring that they have access to the resources necessary to transform their lives with dignity. For information, visit CommunityCooperative.com.

Easter egg-citement at Faith Generation Church

Faith Generation Church will be hosting its Easter Service Sunday, April 20, at 10 a.m., followed by an Easter Egg Hunt for the kids.

Faith Generation meets at the William Austen Youth Center, at 315 S.W. 2nd Ave., Cape Coral.

Easter is the perfect Sunday to invite your friends and loved ones to hear an inspiring message to lead them closer to God! The Easter Egg Hunt is for children 0-12 years old. There will be lots of fun and prizes. The grand prize is a Sun Splash season pass!

To ensure a spot for the kids and a free gift, visit myfaithgeneration.com, then tap the “Plan Visit” link, and then “Let Us Know You’re Coming.”

This is a 100% free event and all are welcome… bring

the little ones and tell some friends – don’t miss a day of faith, fun and family memories! Enjoy the egg hunt, hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, prizes and a free gift for all first time guests!

“We’re excited to welcome families for a safe, fun, and meaningful Easter celebration,” said Lead Pastor John Solaroli. “It’s a great opportunity to enjoy time together as a family while celebrating the joy of Easter.”

Faith Generation is a new non-denominational church in Cape Coral with contemporary worship.

Faith Generation services are held on Sundays at 10 a.m. at the William Austen Youth Center and provides children’s ministry. The worship service is open to all.

For more information, contact Solaroli at 239-6873161 or e-mail info@myfaithgen.com

April, May shows, activities at Cape Coral Art League

The Cape Coral Art League has announced its April and May shows, events and classes. All are held at the Art League on Cultural Park Boulevard. For details, please see CapeCoralArtLeague.org or phone the Art League at 239-772-5657.

Open Painting

Wednesdays, September through July, from 1-4 p.m.

Members $3 / Non-members $6 Open to the public

Student Sundays

Sundays, October through June, from 1-4 p.m.

All materials provided Ages 6 - 14

$20 cash or check only

Open to the public, pre-registration not required, just come 15 minutes before class starts

April shows and events

Celebrating Color

April 10 through May 1, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday Free parking and entry

Season Highlights

April 10 through May 1, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday Free parking and entry

Workshop: Babcock Ranch Eco Tour Carmen Sprague

April 25, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free parking and entry

May shows and events Florida Life

May 8-21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday Opening reception and presentation of awards May 8, 5-6:30 p.m. Free parking and entry

Member’s Month

May 8-21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday Opening reception May 8, 5-6:30 p.m. Free parking and entry

April classes

(See CapeCoralArtLeague.org for details and to register)

n Beginning Acrylic – Mondays, 10 a.m. to noon

n Intermediate Acrylic Painting – Mondays, 12:303:30 p.m.

n Learn to Draw – Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to noon

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

n Pastel Painting for Beginners – Tuesdays, 12:303:30 p.m.

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

n Oil Painting for All Levels – Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to noon

n Digital Photography & Graphics (Adults 16+) –Wednesdays, 3-5:00 p.m.

Bike Night: City event ready to roll Saturday

From page 1

all the hottest rides will be showcased. Motorcycle parking will not be allowed along Southeast 47th Terrace between Southeast 9th Place and Vincennes Boulevard. Whether you’re showing off your bike or admiring others, the Thunder Zone will be a focal point of the event, in addition to a great lineup of live entertainment.

“Bike Night is a celebration of everything our community loves — great live music, exciting slow bike races, and a variety of fantastic vendors,” said Cape Coral Parks & Recreation Director Joe Petrella in a prepared statement. “It’s an event that brings people together for a night of fun and camaraderie. We encourage residents to come out and experience all the energy and excitement Bike Night has to offer as we wrap up the season with an unforgettable evening.”

The lineup Saturday night starts with “The Crank Ups” performing from 5 to 6 p.m., followed by “Deep Cover” from 6:30 to 8.

The headliner, “Shoot 2 Thrill,” takes the stage from 8:30 to 10.

Slow Bike races (signed waiver required) begin at 8 p.m. on Southeast 11th Place. The check-in tent to register is at Southeast 47th Terrace and Southeast 11th Place. Bike participants must enter the Slow Bike Race Arena off of Southeast 46th Lane.

This will be the second Bike Night with an updated

layout. Additional changes to go along with the Thunder Zone include an expanded vendor space to the Iguana Mia parking lot, which will see motorcycle-themed vendors, along with food trucks.

“The updated Bike Night layout was designed to prioritize safety by reducing motorcycle-pedestrian interactions and improving emergency access in collaboration with the Cape Coral Police Department,” Petrella said. “We’ve also listened to feedback from residents about lighting concerns in the Thunder Zone and made adjustments to ensure the area is well-lit for this Saturday’s event. These changes reflect our commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.”

Whether you own a bike, or just love live entertainment, Cape Coral Bike Night is for all of the above and in-between.

Organizers highly encourage the use of ride share services (Lyft/Uber/Taxi), for both responsible drinking and to assist guests in getting to the venue in the safest, most efficient way.

Four-wheeled vehicles can use the old military museum parking lot, as well as Big John’s Plaza.

Bike Night will return for a new season in October of 2025.

For more information, visit ccbikenight.com.

If You Go:

What: Cape Coral Bike Night

When: Saturday, April 12, from 5 to 10 p.m.

Where: Southeast 47th Terrace

More information:

For more information, visit ccbikenight.com.

Bell times: Late buses, student safety, efficiencies, drive changes in hours

From page 1

The Sanibel School and Veterans Park Academy for the Arts.

Middle school bell times will be from 9:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and high school bell times will be from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

With the high school change, classes will be extended to 49 minutes and a 30-minute lunch. This extra instruction will add 42 hours of class time during the 2025-2026

school year. At the elementary and middle school level there is an additional 15 minutes added to the day, which will provide a 30-minute lunch break

There are different times set for special centers:

n Cape Coral Technical College and Fort Myers Technical College from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

n Lee Virtual School from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

n Young Parent Education Program from 8:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.

n Early Childhood Learning Center – Head Start Schools hours from 8:55 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Infant and Toddler school hours from 7:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

n Royal Palm Exceptional Center, Buckingham Exceptional Student Center and Success Academy from 9:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

The fiscal impact of the approved bell times and any bell times adjusted by plus or minus 15 minutes will be included in transportations budget for fiscal year 2026.

Editorial: Citizen initiatives at risk

From page 4

Yet Rep. Persons-Mulicka and those supporting her bill want to make the process harder, so much harder, in fact, that read on its face, even President Trump could not collect nor handle petitions under HB1205.

Among the proposed conditions for those sponsoring or collection petitions: Requires petition sponsors to post a $1 million bond with the state Division of Election; imposes limits on petition sponsors to one amendment; limits the number of cycles a sponsor can remain active while collecting signatures; imposes new restrictions on who may gather petition signatures including new disclosures and state residency; requires specific training for those collecting petitions; cuts the time for the delivery of petition forms to local supervisors of election from 30 days to 10 and increases fines; requires supervisors of elections to notify voters when their signatures are verified and creates a revocation process for signatures; increases fines and criminal penalties for any violations, irregularities or fraud.

Among the proposed conditions for those of us signing petitions: A requirement to provide new identifying information — a current and valid Florida drivers

license number, Florida identification card number or the last four digits of our Social Security number.

Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka has been quoted as saying the measure is intended to “fix” a broken system.

We’re not seeing it.

What we see is a blatant attempt to make citizen-led initiatives more cumbersome, more costly and out-of-reach — except, of course, to those with lots of cash to burn because, heaven forbid, that any “fix” cuts out Big Money and its interests.

As HB 1205 works through the Senate as companion bill SB 7016, there is still time to get on the record as opposed and call this legislation what it is: An act to abridge the rights of Floridians to directly and equally propose amendments to our state’s bedrock governing document.

We, the people, are not lesser-than than the other three entities with the same right to bring measures to the ballot — the Florida Legislature and the two so-vested commissions, the Constitution Revision Commission and the Taxation and Budget Reform Commission.

Even if those we elect apparently think that we not only are, but that we, and our rights are not worthy of prioritization.

— Breeze editorial

Agree? Disagree? Weigh in! Letters, guest opinions, comments welcome

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

educATion

Education BriEfs

Peralta serves others during Spring Break

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — This spring break, 23 University of Alabama students, including Nicolas Peralta of Cape Coral, opted to spend their week of freedom at work. Beyond Bama, the UA alternative spring break program centered around community service, began in 1995 in the Center for Service and Leadership.

Students this year had the option of going to Memphis or Orange Beach. In Memphis, local organization Serve 901 planned the week’s agenda in cooperation with community partners like Girls, Inc., a mobile food bank and an urban farm. In Orange Beach, local partners included Gulf State Park, Feeding the Gulf Coast and Dauphin Island Sea Lab.

Learn more about their experience at https://news. ua.edu/2025/03/ua-students-go-beyond-bama-forspring-break-service-and-leadership/

The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state’s flagship university. UA provides over 200 degree programs. A leader in cutting-edge research, UA advances discovery, creative inquiry and knowledge through more than 30 research centers.

Mahr honored for academic excellence at Maryville College

MARYVILLE, Tenn.— Sydney Mahr of Fort Myers has been recognized with an award at the Maryville College Celebration of Student Achievement.

The event is held annually to recognize MC students who exemplify academic excellence, campus leadership, career potential and the Maryville College ideal of doing “good on the largest possible scale,” a tenant laid forth by the College’s founder, the Rev. Isaac Anderson.

A finance/accounting major, Mahr was the co-recipient of the Judson B. Murphy Endowed Business Award, which is presented annually to a senior who demonstrates outstanding work in business and organization management with outstanding character and well-rounded achievement and career promise.

Maryville College, a nationally-ranked institution of higher learning and one of America’s oldest colleges, offers nearly 1,200 students from around the world 70 majors, seven pre-professional programs and career preparation. For more, visit https://www.maryvillecollege.edu/

School District teacher recruitment far April 26

The School District of Lee County has opened registration for its Spring Teacher Recruitment Fair, to be held in person Saturday, April 26, from 9:30-11:30 a.m., at the Lee County Public Education Center, and virtually on Wednesday, April 30, from 5-7 p.m.

Interested candidates can register for the in-person and virtual events at LeeSchools.net/Careers.

During the Spring Teacher Recruitment Fair, district representatives will be available to connect with interested candidates to discuss classroom opportunities and open positions. School leaders will also be conducting on-the-spot interviews for a variety of positions across all grade levels and subjects. High-demand positions for instructional positions include English language arts, elementary education, science, math and special education.

The District offers a competitive and comprehensive compensation plan for its employees, and additional benefits and earning opportunities are also available via advanced degree supplement, summer school, athletic coaching and more. Additional hiring incentives are also available.

To be eligible for a full-time instructional position within the District, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a valid Florida teaching certificate or out-of-state teaching certificate that covers the appropriate area of responsibility. Candidates with only a bachelor’s degree will need to take and pass a subject area exam to be eligible for certification. Interested candidates can register for exams at fl.nesinc.com.

For support or additional questions, email careers@ leeschools.net or call 239-337-8676.

To learn more about available career opportunities, visit LeeSchools.net/Careers.

April 11, 2025

Students’ artwork hits the streets on Waste Pro trucks through ‘Leave the Scene Clean’ contest

Keep Lee County Beautiful Inc. continues its partnership with Waste Pro to showcase the winning artwork from the 36th annual “Leave The Scene Clean” student art contest. The top four outstanding student illustrations have been enlarged and appear on the side of a Lee County Waste Pro truck, turning the service vehicles into a mobile art gallery.

The official unveiling took place during a celebratory awards ceremony held at the Riverside Community Center. In honor of Earth Month, all student submissions are also on public display throughout April at the Northwest Regional Library.

2025 overall first place winners:

n Grades K–3: Daniela Rodriguez — Mirror Lakes Elementary

n Grades 4–6: Cathy Cheribin — Three Oaks Middle School

n Grades 7–9: Alejandra Sanchez — Mariner Middle School

n Grades 10–12: Mia De La Cruz Matos — Cypress Lake High School

In addition to being featured on Waste Pro trucks, the winning artwork will also be printed on reusable tote bags, available this fall. These eco-friendly totes can be purchased for a $5 donation through participating Lee County schools, with all proceeds staying with the schools to projects

on campus.

Over the years, the “Leave The Scene Clean” project has reached more than 84,000 students and 700 teachers from public, private, and home school settings, raising more than $283,000 in support of environmental education and awareness.

The success of this initiative is made possible through generous community sponsorships. KLCB extends special thanks to its 2025 supporters: Lee County Solid Waste, Northwest Regional Library, Reworld, WM, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, Surfing Evolutions & Preservation Foundation, Ron Jon Surf Shop, and Waste Pro.

Keep Lee County Beautiful is a private non-profit organization committed to promoting litter prevention and responsible waste management through education and community engagement. Proceeds from the tote bag sales directly benefit KLCB programs and local schools.

For more information about the art contest or other KLCB educational initiatives, please visit klcb.org.

Art contest winner Alejandra Sanchez from Mariner Middle.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Florida Rep Education Theatre Camp set

Young artists are invited to discover the world of theater through musical-intensive and mini-star camps offered through Florida Repertory Theatre’s education program.

The sessions are open to students of all skill levels, ages 5-18, and run daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

According to Florida Rep, the two-week musical theatre intensive camps feature Broadway Junior and Youth Edition musical titles.

The camps culminate with a public performance in the Arcade Theatre, complete with costumes, sets and lighting – on the last two days of each session.

Camp offerings include:

n “Disney’s Frozen, Jr.,” June 9 - 13 and June 16 - 20

n “Annie, Jr.,” June 23 - 27 and June 30 – July 3

n “Wizard of Oz” – Youth Edition, July 7 – 11 and July 14 - 18

n “Peter Pan, Jr.,” July 21 – 25 and July 28 – Aug. 1

Camp mini-stars are designed for children ages 5-7 and include activities inspired by the complementing summer

intensive titles.

Offerings include:

n “Summer Wonderland” June 9 – 13 and June 16 – 20

n “Big City Lights” June 23 – 27 and June 30 – July 3

n “Nature is All Around Us,” July 7 – 11 and July 14 – 18

n “Lost Boys, Brave Girls,” July 21 – 25 and July 28 – Aug. 1

There are also volunteer opportunities for students ages 15-18 to serve as junior teaching assistants at the camps. These youth leaders assist head teaching artists during the two-week sessions. Applications can be found at FloridaRepEducation.Org/summer-intensives.

Camp fees are $440 per child for two-week musical intensive programs and $325 for the mini-stars program. Payment plans, sibling discounts and scholarships are available. Program enrollment is limited.

To register, please call 239-219-1551 or visit FloridaRepEducation.Org.

Camp Invention coming to Oasis High School June 23-27

Camp Invention, a nationally recognized, nonprofit summer enrichment program, is coming to Oasis High School the week of June 23-27.

A program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame in partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Camp Invention challenges children in grades K–6 to tap into their natural curiosity and use their creativity to solve problems. Through hands-on activities, Camp Invention promotes STEM learning; builds confidence, leadership, perseverance and resourcefulness; and encourages entrepreneurship — all in a fun and engaging environment.

This year’s Discover program encourages children to be confident in their ideas and explore their innovativeness through hands-on activities including:

n In Control: Campers take control of their innovation journey as they head out on the ultimate road trip. From assembling a custom control panel with a transmitter and receiver, to creating a prototype of their own artificial intelligence-inspired bobblehead assistant, they invent their way around every bump and twist in the road.

n Illusion Workshop: Children discover the mesmerizing world of illusions, where things are not always as they appear. Through hands-on activities and experiments, they

go behind the scenes of the tech tricks used in theme parks, animated films and theater. Using design and electrical engineering skills, campers build an animation device to bring drawings to life.

n Claw Arcade: Campers use their creativity and engineering skills to construct a functional Claw Arcade out of cardboard. They explore physics in easy-to-reach ways as they make hands-on discoveries about the science behind claw machines.

n Penguin Launch: Children embark on an eco-expedition to investigate penguins and the ice and snow of Antarctica. Along the way, they discover the fascinating connections between the technology and training used to explore Antarctica and outer space. From flippers and flingers to exploring high-wingers, children are sure to have a blast as they propel Pengy, a research assistant penguin, across the South Pole and beyond!

All local Camp Invention programs are facilitated and taught by qualified educators who reside and teach in the community. Camp Invention serves 140,000 students every year and partners with more than 2,600 schools and districts across the nation.

For additional information or to register for the camp, please visit invent.org/camp.

District: Number of directors reduced

From page 7

to 2013. The first big jump in administrative positions occurred in 2016 with a 3.8% jump and then a 4.3% jump in 2018.

“In 2023, we had the single largest increase in administrative units we ever experienced, a double digit. What a story that tells when you see a massive increase in administrative units,” Savage said of the 14.3% increase.

From a performance standpoint, the district’s highest ranking was second place during the 2010-2011 school year, a ranking that has gradually decreased over time. That same school year, the district was an A district.

During the 2024-2025 school year, the district grade is a B and ranked ninth in the Big 10.

From the 2010-2011 school year to the 2024-2025 school year there has been a 33% increase in students, 23% increase in instructional positions, 1% increase in principal positions, 111% increase in district administrative coordinators and a 98% increase in district administrative directors and executive directors.

“Our school administrators, principals have hardly increase at all, but the central office more than doubled in terms of administration,” Savage said.

The desired state is the expectation to become an A district again and join the more than 22 other districts in the state, he said.

“That is our expectation, to be first. We would like our leadership and action drive us to that outcome,” Savage said. “We cannot live in our problems. Let’s get to solutions. Let’s get the problem solved.”

- Page 1 - Composite

He said the district still needs a great central office, but they have to take the

Dr. Denise Carlin

view of understanding to create accountability, which the organizational chart supports high performance and accountability.

“While this is a huge change in a lot of people, we didn’t create the central office size it is today. The net total in size of people is six people,” Savage said. “We had to let people know they have jobs to the end of the year – you may have to apply for a different job, a lower title.”

Many of the positions were consolidated – two areas that were related were brought together.

“You see a leaner top level organizational chart,” Savage said of 69 directors or above were brought to 50. “It should be aligned and unified, so they are truly putting students in the forefront.”

CCB0002133.crtr

Lee school district gets update on hurricane damage funds

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The School District of Lee County continues to collect funds for damages from hurricanes Ian and Milton and is nearing completion of the remaining service requests due to the storms.

Imperium Consulting Group Director Joseph Mascali said the impacts from Hurricane Ian, which hit Lee County on Sept. 28, 2022, were just shy of $284 million. Total funds committed is $166.88 million, an increase of 29.64% since last year, and the total funds received is $148.88 million.

Total funds received puts the district in a strong financial position in pursuit of finalizing repairs moving forward. “Currently we are showing a surplus of funds of $29 million,” he said.

The three avenues of funds come from insurance recovery, grant funding and FEMA recovery.

As far as insurance recovery, Mascali said they are close to the finish line by working with the insurance adjustor to finalize paperwork for final payments. The district has since resolved its National Flood Insurance Program claim with a total payment of $5.75 million.

With FEMA, recovery there have been 179 projects that have been submitted to FEMA for review out of 182 total projects. Mascali said the three remaining are content damages. FEMA is starting the validation process of which they submitted $187 million on permanent projects.

“FEMA is starting the review process — they reviewed and validated $110 million. The delta is a timing exercise,” Mascali said. “We have received some payments from FEMA. The majority of the funds have been advanced through the governor’s legislature program.”

The other grant funding is through a Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recover – Housing Urban Development grant – a $500,000 vulnerability assessment project for future resiliency capital planning.

“We received a conditional award for $8 million for resiliency capital projects – replacements of roofs for shelter campuses to hard structures,” Mascali said. “The final component of the HUD grant is a cost share offset for second funding opportunity for 404-Hazard Mitigation.”

The presentation also highlighted where the district stands in terms of service requests from Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Milton. More than 100 sites that received damages from Hurricane Ian, and 15 sites were impacted by Milton, according to David Griffith with Accenture.

Catastrophically damaged campuses were Hector A. Cafferata Jr. Elementary School, which is being rebuilt, and Fort Myers Beach Elementary School and The Sanibel School. Assessments are due back from Fort Myers Beach Elementary School this month, which was impacted by both Hurricane Ian and Milton, he said.

A consultant will perform a facility assessment including looking at a more detailed structural assessment and community impact, Griffith said, adding there is an aggressive schedule for the next two and a half weeks, followed by a fully vetted report by the end of the month.

In addition, an architectural and structural engineer will make sure there are details for all five options, as well as an updated cost on April 25.

The Sanibel School has reopened and students have

returned to the campus.

For Hurricane Ian there were more than 3,000 service requests, a tally which is now down to 70 requests that are still open. With Hurricane Milton there were 270 service

Difficulty: SILVER

requests, which is now down to 57 service requests still open. All open requests are anticipated to be completed by the end of the year.

SUDOKU SHEFFER CROSSWORD

Fill in the blank cells using numbers 1 to 9. Each number can appear only once in each row, column, and 3x3 block. Use logic and process of elimination to solve the puzzle. The difficulty level ranges from Bronze (easiest) to Silver to Gold (hardest). S U D O K U S O L U T I O N

CYRPTOQUIP

Cryptoquip Solution:

Awalk isn’t just good for your body; it’s a simple, powerful way to care for your mind and soul. Physical activity, like walking, reduces stress, boosts mood and promotes overall well-being. Yet physical activity levels in the United States continue to decline, a trend threatening both mental and physical health.

Less than half of adults and fewer than 1 in 5 children in the U.S. get the recommended amount of physical activity needed for heart health, according to the American Heart Association’s 2025 Heart & Stroke Statistical Update.

National recommendations call for children to get at least one hour of physical activity each day, but the latest statistics show less than 19% of children in the U.S. achieve that target. Meanwhile, less than half of adults get the recommended 150 minutes or more of weekly physical activity.

What’s more, according to data from a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1 in 4 U.S. adults sits for longer than eight hours each day, which can have negative consequences on physical and mental health.

For decades, the American Heart Association has championed the importance of physical activity in communities across the country. These tips and information can help you understand how a brisk walk can make a world of difference for heart health and mental clarity.

Benefits of Physical Activity

Staying active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy.

The physical health benefits may be obvious, but research suggests physical activity can also help bring more joy to your life. According to the 2019 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, people who get the recommended amount of physical activity are less likely to experience depression.

Regular physical activity enhances your mood, sharpens your mind, improves sleep and boosts overall well-being, all while reducing the risk of disease and depression and increasing both the quality and longevity of life.

How to Be More Physically Active

Exercise as simple as a brisk walk can put a major spring in your step. It can even energize you to finish other tasks at hand, whether

“For decades, the American Heart Association has championed the importance of physical activity.”

it’s cooking or running errands. Give your daily physical activity level a boost with these tips:

• Exercising outdoors is a great way to get moving. Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, promote a sense of belonging and improve mood. It’s even better if you can enjoy the sunshine outside, which can improve mood, boost your immunity and help you get some vitamin D.

• Invite a family member or friend along with you. It’s good for them, it’s good for you and it’s good company all around.

• Instead of wondering if you’ll move today, explore how you’ll move. A walk, a dance or a stretch all count.

Getting Pets Involved

Pets are part of your family, and they can help you get healthy together. Pets provide a fun reason to spend more time outside and get the exercise needed to reduce the risk of disease later in life.

Getting moving along with your pet adds more exercise to your routine, which means living longer, reducing risk of dying from heart attack or stroke, reducing risk of diabetes, reducing stress and even boosting your overall happiness and well-being.

Exercising with your pet can also mean enjoying more socializing. You may find yourself meeting other dog owners in your area on a walk or at the dog park.

Learn more about how simple habits like walking can support your overall health at heart.org/MoveMore.

SporTS

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.

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 hungry. 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

April 11, 2025

Tommy Bohanon Foundation receives $20,000 from Off Duty Fishing Series

Anglers from across Southwest Florida took to the coastal waters off Fort Myers Beach early last month to raise tens of thousands of dollars in the third annual Red Grouper Bash — of which $20,000 was donated to the Tommy Bohanon Foundation to support Lee County student-athletes.

Thirty-nine boats participated in the March 7-8 event at Moss Marina on Fort Myers Beach, as part of the Off Duty Fishing Series. The winner of the bash was Capt. Garrett Drogue of Team Banger Boys, with a combined two-grouper weight of 31.34 pounds and a $12,000 payout. Diamond Sponsors Marine Detail took the largest payout at $17,500, capturing both third place and the Big Boy grouper Calcutta auction. A total of $55,100 was paid out in cash prizes to the top three regular division winners and Calcutta winners.

The Off Duty Fishing Series was founded by Ryan Joyce, Alec Dilallo and Michael Werner as a way to give

back to the Fort Myers Beach community after the devastating effects of Hurricane Ian. Overall, $40,000 was raised at this year’s tournament.

“We are truly grateful for the support Ryan, Alec and Michael have provided over the past few years,” said Tommy Bohanon, the foundation’s co-founder and namesake. “Their generosity enables the foundation to make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless young people in our community.”

For more information about the Tommy Bohanon Foundation, please call 239-671-0441 or visit https:// tommybohanonfoundation.org/.

PreP rePorT

Wednesday Baseball

Battle of the Border at Terry Park, Fort Myers

Mariner 14, Gateway 3 (6 innings): Xavier Muentes and Jacob Gorra had three RBI each, with Gorra hitting a home run for Mariner (16-9). Morgan Waltz had two RBI, and Pablo Hernandez was 4-for-4 with two runs scored and one driven in.

Riverdale 17, Cape Coral 3: The Raiders scored 10 runs in the top of the seventh to pull away. Carter Heisler had an RBI for the Seahawks (5-18).

Other games

Oasis 10, Gateway Charter 3: Jayden Shrider was 3-for-4 with three RBI and three runs scored for the Sharks (7-12). Austin Stauffer had two hits and two RBI.

Flag Football

Mariner 26, Cypress Lake 0: The Tritons are 7-2.

Girls Lacrosse District 2A-12

Venice 8, Cape Coral 4: Bailey Bianchi scored three goals for the Seahawks, whose season ended at 6-6.

Track and Field

LCAC Championship GIRLS

Team:  1 Fort Myers 159, 2 North Fort Myers 128, Dunbar 60, Gate 58, Island Coast 54, Estero 47, Riverdale 47, Ida Baker 37, Lehigh 34.5, South Fort Myers 26.5, Cypress Lake 25, Bonita Springs 10, Mariner 3, Cape Coral 2. 100 meters: 1 Christela Daniel (R) 12.03. 2 Dariona Gary (D) 12.12. 3 Mi’Kayla Witter (NFM) 12.15. 4 Alana Louisme (D) 12.18. 5 Karmen Rich (NFM) 12.47. 200: 1 Christela Daniel (R) 25.38. 2 Alana Louisme (D) 25.39. 3 Dariona Gary (D) 25.56. 5 Mi’Kayla Witter (NFM 25.84. 5 Rianne Smith 9L) 25.88. 400: 1 Rianne Smith (L) 5741. 2 Brianna Campbell (IC) 57.99. 3 V’Darielle Johnson (G) 59.54. 4 Skyla Stevens (NFM) 1:00.22. 5 Maria Da Silva (SFM) 1:02.15.

800: 1 Maggie Pocklington (FM) 2:24.23. 2 Briana Watson (IC) 2:33.39. 3 Giana D’Altrui (FM) 2:34.55. 4 Jayden Mitchell (NFM) 2:35.28. 5 Gianna Lemons 9FM) 2:35.37. 1600: 1 Masha Dorofeev (FM) 5:14.90. 2 Maggie Pocklington (FM) 5:33.22. 3 Amery Sommers (E) 5:36.00. 4 Gianna D’Altrui (FM0 5:38.00. 5 Aurelia Sciandra (NFM) 5:53.40. 3200: 1 Marsha Dorofeev (FM) 11:22.91. 2 Avery Sommers (E) 12;16.15. 3 Aurelia Sciandra (NFM) 12:33.86. 4 Gianna Lemons (FM) 12:42.17. 5 Lyla Parker (FM) 12:42.17. 100 hurdles: 1 Joelle White (FM) 15.47. 2 Bria Brocklington (FM) 16.32. 3 Ivianna Ivy (IC) 16.62. 4 Samarrah Desir (IC) 18.02. 5 Natalia Asiatco (E) 18.08. 400 hurdles: 1 Joelle White (FM) 1:07.33. 2 Bria Brocklington (RM) 1:11.45. 3 Aubrey Tansey (IB) 1:13.31. 4 Natalia Asiatico (E) 1:13.42. 5 Sarabelle Dotson (FM) 1;15.91. 4x100 relay: 1 Dunbar 49.44. 2 Gateway 51.30. 3 South Fort Myers 51.34. 4 Riverdale 51.82. 5 Fort Myers 52.11. 4x400: 1 Fort Myers 4:06.75. 2 North Fort Myers (Kenlee Dominguez, Destyni Devine, Mia Viera, Skyla Stevens) 4:16.05. 3 South Fort Myers 4;18.53. 4 Dunbar 4:22.73. 5 Island Coast (Brianna Campbell, Kemari lacomme, Kayleen Rodgers, Briana Watson) 4;26.05. 4x800: 1 Fort Myers 10:32.32. 2 North Fort Myers (Skyla Stevens, Caelyn Lewis, Jayden Mitchell, Cay Stevens) 10;42.56. 3  Ida Baker (Aubrey Tansey,Aniela Harasimowicz, Kaliah Evans, Emily Wilson) 11:08.59. 4. Estero 11:11.21. 5 Riverdale 11:38.59. High jump: 1 V’Darielle Johnson (G) 1.62m. 2 Addison Kalbhenn (IB) 1.47m. 3 Samarah Desir (IC) 1.42m. 4 Mia Viera (NFM) 1.42m. 4 Damahria Robins (L) 1.37m. Pole vault: 1. Giovanna Molloy (NFM) 3.15m. 2 Haley McKinnon (NFM) 2.55m. 3 Ivianna Ivy (IC) 2.56m. 4 Anny Sanchez (E) 2.10m. 5 Abby Kennedy (IB) 2.10m.

Long jump: 1 Rianne Smith (L) 5.77m 2 Tillery Morrison (E) 5.06m. 3 V’Darielle Johnson 9G) 5.05m. 4 Madison White (NFM) 4.87m. 5 Destyni Devine 9NFM) 4.86m.  Triple jump: 1 Sarah Theard (R) 10.10m. 2 Destiny Davenport (D) 9.86m. 3 Breana Erskine (G) 9.34m.4 Brooke Hankinson (NFM) 9.19m. 5 Aaliyah Hill (R) 9.06m. Shot put: 1 Julia Lemmon (FM) 13.20m. 2 Brooke Hankinson (NFM) 10.63m. 3 Naomi Watkins (CL) 9.18m. 4 Keylin Lavariega (SFM) 9.02m. 5 Amariyah Mullings (L) 8.74m.

Discus: 1 Sarah Hopkins (S) 32.68m. 2 Naomi Watkins (CL) 31.93m. 3 Gir’Nya Battle (G) 28.56m. 4 Kalweli Tolmie (CL) 27.45m. 5 Emily Drum (NFM) 25.88m.

Javelin: 1 Catherine Daly (FM) 30.42m. 2 Giovanna Molloy (NFM) 29.40m. 3 Sarah Hernandez (FM) 28.97m. 4 Kennedy Seidl (NFM) 26.58m. 5 Emily Drum (NFM) 27.85m. BOYS

Team: Fort Myers 152, Dunbar 91.5, North Fort Myers 81.5, Ida Baker 69, Cape Coral 50, South Fort Myers 47, Island Coast 40, Lehigh 40, Cypress Lake 32, Gateway 26, Estero 25, Riverdale 25, Mariner 13, East Lee County 7, Bonita Springs 3.

100 meters: 1 Da’Marri Loggins (D) 10.86. 2 Madrid Tucker (FM) 10.86. 3 Fred Jackson (FM) 10.88. 4 Isaiah Bernadel (SFM) 10.94. 5 Kamarien Mckay (CL) 10.98. 200: 1 Isaiah Bernadel (SFM) 21.85. 2 Vinicius Coelno (CC) 22.13. 3 Charles Lombardo (NFM) 22.52. 4 Levi McKenzie (L) 22.52. 5 Fred Jackson (FM) 22.69. 400: 1 Levi McKenzie (L) 49.56. 2 Vinicius Coelno (CC) 49.66. 3 Daven Gray (G) 51.49. 4 Esdres Louis 51.56. 5 Leonel Latus (SFM) 51.68.

800: 1 Chancey Alexander (D) 1:59.31. 2 Troy Britton (FM) 2:00.17. 3 Nathaniel James (CL) 2:01.85. 4 Craig Allard (FM) 2:03.89. 5 Jaden White (D) 2:03.64. 1600: 1 Angel Cruz (M) 4:2863. 2 Craig Allard (FM) 4:28.91. 3 Nazayer Franco (CC) 4:33.95. 4 Troy Britton (FM) 4:40.27. 5 Ruben Viera De Lemos (CC) 4:41.47. 3200: 1 Ruben Viera De Lemos (CC) 10:13.85. 2 Evan Sims (D) 10:17.99. 3 Christoper Rode (NFM) 10:25.16. 4 Daniel Bautista (FM) 10:27.69. 5 Brock Jackson (FM) 10:34.73.

110 hurdles: 1 Kobe Johnson (D) 14;29. 2 Vaughn Lennon (FM) 15.25. 3 Jovahni Sanon (FM) 15.35. 4 Ja’Quann Anderson (L) 15.62. 5 Ryder Ward (IB) 16.20.

400 hurdles: 1 Vaughn Lennon (FM) 54.91. 2 Kobe Johnson (D) 56.71. 3 Jovahni Sanon (FM) 57.57. 4 Justin Jean (D) 5806. 5 Ryder Ward (IB) 1:00.10. 4x100 relay: 1 Fort Myers 42.38. 2 South Fort Myers 42.69. 3 Cape Coral (Almiran Thomas, Canon Ehler, Hezekiah Jones, Vinicius Coelno) 43.03. 4 Cypress Lake 43.67. 5 East Lee County 44.29.

4x400: 1 Fort Myers 3:38.55. 2 South Fort Myers 3:29.55. 3 Cypress Lake 3:29.07. 4 Dunbar 3:32.28. 5 Ida Baker (Jaiden Bayley, Osmani Zayas,Carter Long, Ivan Roman) 3;32.70.

4x800: 1 Fort Myers 8:09.39. 2 Dunbar 8:16.70. 3 Estero 8:31.63. 4 Island Coast (Landon Unger, Marcelo Proenza, Antonio Snyder, Derrick Watson) 8:35.79. 5 North Fort Myers (Michael Creus, Martin Garcia Bryce Napier, Brody Hilt) 8:40.46. High jump: 1 David Monteith (FM) 1.87m.2 Khalid Bourne (NFM) 1.87m. 3 West Powell (IB) 1.77. 4 Jadell Cater (SFM) 1.77m. 5 Anjay Boyd (G) 1.77m. Pole vault: 1 Brent Hall (E) 4.05m. 2 Yael Salazar-Maysonet (IB) 3.75m.3 Dylan Gourley (G) 3.60m. 4 Gerald Byrne (R) 3.45m. 5 Dane Sheppard (NFM) 3.45m. Long jump: 1 David Monteith (FM) 6.31m. 2 Carter Long (IB) 6.24m. 3 Mike Luma (IB) 6.20m. 4 Shaun Hall (E) 6.19m. 5 Dylan Bandale (CC) 6.17m. Triple jump: 1 Mike Luma (IB) 13.41m. 2 Ja’Quann Anderson (L) 13.25m. 3 Rick Bruno (IC) 12.23m. 4 Adrian Scott (NFM) 12.01m. 5 Michael Taylor (R) 11.94m. Shot put: 1 James Johnson (NFM) 15.79m. 2 Daryl Williams (D) 13.84m. 3 Jeremiah Bataille (R) 12.83m. 4 Andrew Leopold (G) 12.77m. 5 Lane Marks (NFM) 12.05m. Discus: 1 Xavier Alvarez (IC) 39.86m. 2 Jayveon Sherod (IC) 34.72m. 3 Lane Marks (NFM) 34.57m. 4 Gage Blanchard (IB) 34.44m. 5 Josiah Dorval (IC) 32.93m. Javelin: 1 Ezekiel Dube-Garrett (CL) 47.45m. 2 Owen Fite (NFM) 44.91m. 3 Gage Blanchard (IB) 41.43m. 4 Jasper Hartley (NFM) 40.05m. 5 Elias Vargas (IB) 38.58m.

Tuesday Baseball

Island Coast 6, Sarasota Riverview 5: Logan Hawkins went 2-for-4 with two RBI for the Gators (18-6) Hunter

See PREP REPORT, page 31

Capt. Bill Russell

Local woman shares gratitude for quick recovery after breaking her ankle while playing pickleball

An evening of friendly competition pickleball with friends last summer sent me to the hospital and led to months of rehabilitation, giving me a new appreciation for my mobility.

The injury came when I tripped, dislocating my ankle and breaking it in three different places. The doctor called it a right closed displaced trimalleolar ankle fracture. When I heard my ankle pop and felt my bones break, I just knew it was going to be a long road to recovery.

Thankfully, my care team acted quickly. I had surgery the next morning and started physical therapy four weeks later. My surgeon told me patients can have limited mobility for as long as 16 weeks with this break. With a lot of rehabilitation and collaboration from my care team, I was cleared to walk again in just one month.

I was thankful to have my friends and family there for me. I also appreciated the timely and compassionate care I received from the doctors, nurses and physical therapists at the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute. They became like a family while I had surgery and pre-and post-operative care at Gulf Coast Medical Center. They provided a positive environment to start my rehabilitation journey, and I was grateful for their support.

Undergoing orthopedic surgery

The first thing my care team did when I got to Gulf Coast Medical Center’s Emergency Department was X-ray my ankle and stabilize it for the evening. Later that night, I was moved to the hospital’s sixth floor.

From page 30

Fretwell, earning the pitching win in relief, struck out five batters in 2 2/3 innings.

Bishop Verot 15, Port Charlotte 0 (5 innings): The Vikings (22-1) had 18 hits and took advantage of five Pirates errors Battle of the Border at Terry Park, Fort Myers

Mariner 3, Riverdale 1: Tritons pitcher Xavier Muentes allowed one unearned run over seven innings for the win. Morgan Waltz and Jacob Gorra had RBI

The next morning, I began pre-operative care for my Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) surgery where the surgeon placed a surgical plate and screws onto both sides of my ankle to realign the bone fragments and hold them in place to heal.

Since my experience, I learned the ORIF is a common procedure used to repair fractured and broken bones. It is recommended for severe fractures that can’t be helped with non-surgical methods, like a splint or cast.

Thankful for support from the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute

Since surgery was needed for my injury, an orthopedic surgeon developed a personalized treatment plan, performed the procedure and collaborated with the care team to support my recovery.

I’m grateful for the team of orthopedic experts at the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute who provided advanced care and helped me regain mobility. Bone and joint conditions can affect people of all ages, often making the simplest daily activities like walking up stairs and moving around the house more challenging.

for Mariner (15-9).

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition or preparing for surgery, the expert care team at the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute will support you and cheer for you every step of the way, like they did for me.

Physical therapy and being able to walk again

After two weeks of not putting weight on my ankle, my splint, stitches and staples were removed, and I began wearing a walking boot. I could finally start putting weight on my foot, and I appreciated even the small victories.

Eleven days later, I was starting physical therapy.

At my four-week post-operative appointment, my boot was removed and I was cleared to begin walking again — another small victory.

The last piece of the journey to resuming normal activities was a little over a month of physical therapy appointments. Yet another thing to celebrate.

Lee Health has physical therapy options throughout Lee County. I was happy there was a location closest to where I live. That really helped make the process easier, allowing me to easily get to my appoint-

PreP rePort

North Fort Myers 16, Cape Coral 5: The Red Knights (13-9) pounded out 22 hits, scoring 12 runs in the final two innings. Collin Thess led the Seahawks (517) with two hits and two RBI.

Softball

Cape Coral 22, East Lee County 7 (3 innings): Mya Ramirez and Adriana Thornton hit solo home runs for the Seahawks (14-4). Gabriela Gonzalez had two RBI.

Bishop Verot 5, Charlotte 2: McKenna Robbins was 3-for-3 with a triple, two RBI and two runs scored for the Vikings (9-5). Crimson Lawrence struck out nine Tarpons batters.

DeSoto County 14, Ida Baker 13: DeSoto scored six runs in the last two innings to rally for the win, leaving Ida Baker 3-9.

ments each week — I was thankful to have options.

The greatest victory during this process was the encouragement and steadfast support from my physical therapists. Physical therapy was the key to helping me regain my strength and feel comfortable walking again.

Not only did they help me physically, but they also helped me mentally. I felt accomplished every time I left and that positive support really helped me feel like I could accomplish my goals.

I noticed a positive change every time. I was always looking forward to my next appointment. While I may not be playing pickleball any time soon, I feel like I’m back to the mobility I had before the surgery. I was able to walk around Universal Studios with my family and I know the physical therapy team and everyone at the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute helped me get there.

What to do if you injure yourself playing pickleball

Sometimes, all it takes is one specific movement to hurt yourself, where you trip or lunge for a ball. That’s what happened to me.

If an injury does occur, the best thing someone can do is take a break. It’s also best to see a doctor if it hurts to put weight on the injury or if there is a lot of swelling. An X-ray can help determine the extent of the injury. For more information and to make an appointment with a physician, please visit www.leehealth.org.

Mariner 14, Bonita Springs 3 (5 innings): Gabi Winters went 3-for-3, including a double and a triple, driving in six runs and scoring four times for the Tritons (13-4).

Parrish Community 5, North Fort Myers 2: An 18-2 Parrish Community squad dropped the Red Knights to 10-5. Bella Miceli and Kailyah Williams had RBI for North Fort Myers.

Late Monday Beach Volleyball

Mariner 3, Community School of Naples 2: The Tritons won the fifth and final pairing to take the victory, improving to 6-7.

Warm weather: Increasing temperatures brings better fishing in area

From page 30

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 -- please 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 the waters around Pine Island and Southwest Florida, and as a professional fishing guide for the past 23 years.

Cape Coral Art League: April and May shows and activities scheduled

From page 17

n Intermediate and Advanced Pastel Painting – 9 a.m. to noon

Gallery shows

n April - Celebrating Color

n May - Florida Life

The prospectus for an upcoming show can be found in the show description on

capecoralartleague.org.

The Cape Coral Art League at 516 Cultural Park Blvd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. It is an independent community

of local artists who support, encourage, and inspire each other through classes, workshops, exhibits, and open painting sessions. For additional information, call 239-772-5657.

‘Pin Patrol:’ American Legion Post 90 offers treat for Cape youngsters

From page 15

and dedication. I’ve seen firsthand how it’s a very thankless job. We just wanted to really thank them from veterans. A lot of fire and police departments are former military

-- so that’s another aspect of why we want to do something for them. Having the kids have a few hours of fun on us would be a great way to show our support.

“We’re so excited to meet a lot of first responders and help the kids hone in on

some of their bowling talents and have some fun.”

There are 25 spots open for youth, with spots filling up. A parent must attend the event with their child. Post 90 is hoping to continue this event in the future.

First responders looking to register their child can do so by sending Gillhouse an email at babbles66@verizon.net, or by calling 941-800-3913.

Bowlero Midpoint is at 1899 Del Prado Blvd., S., Cape Coral.

Keegan Myers Lee Health Guest Column

Announcements

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Should new Florida residents update estate planning paperwork?

Dear Mr. Feichthaler:

I have recently moved here from Ohio, and I had all of my estate planning done there about two years ago. This includes a will, power of attorney, and other documents. I want to make sure my wishes are met, including the distribution of my house to my daughter. My other kids, a son and daughter, are very successful and do not need the house. Do I need to redo all of my documents?

Sincerely,

Dear Lauren:

Real Estate Law

-Lauren H

Welcome to Cape Coral! I hope you are enjoying the community so far. Your question is asked by a lot of my clients. Many have been told by friends that wills and estate planning are only valid in the state where they were prepared and signed, and they ask me to prepare new documents here in Florida. The previous documents, generally speaking, will be valid, so long as they were prepared and signed based on the requirements of the state it was written. So, if your will provides that your one daughter gets the house, the will should be valid and upheld in Florida.

Regarding your advance directives, like the power of attorney, it may be a good idea to prepare new ones here. For instance, when I am asked to use an out-of-state power of attorney for a real estate transaction, I typi-

ing it is valid for the intended use. The cost of obtaining that letter may be more than signing new Florida advance directives. As a result, most clients do request new health care surrogate and power of attorney documents.

Note, if we are looking at an out of state will for real estate purposes, it means the property is likely going to probate court. The bequest in the will to your daughter does not make the transfer automatic — the property may be required to go through probate proceedings to be titled to your daughter. There are several options to avoid probate on real estate, like a revocable desire regarding the property. Planning costs are a small fraction of probate costs.

Eric P. Feichthaler has lived in Cape Coral for over 37 years and graduated from Mariner High School in Cape Coral. After completing law school at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., he returned to Cape Coral to practice law and raise a family. He served as mayor of Cape Coral from 2005-2008, and continues his service to the community through the Cape Coral Caring Center, and Cape Coral Kiwanis where he serves as president. He has been married to his wife, Mary, for 24

Law from the Florida Bar, and primarily practices in real estate law and wills and trusts. He is AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell for professional ethics and reached at eric@capecoralattorney .com, or 239-542-4733. This article is general in nature and not intended as legal advice to anyone. Individuals should seek legal counsel before acting on any matter of legal rights and obligations.

Renovations around the house require an investment of time and often considerable amounts of money. Findings from the 2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study show that home renovations are becoming more expensive. The median renovation spending for homeowners has gone up 60 percent since 2020. Angi, a home services website, reports the average renovation cost for homes between 1,250 and 1,600 square feet is scope of the project.

Homeowners who are conserving funds can rest assured that it is possible to make meaningful changes both inside and outside a home without breaking the bank. Here are some ways to renovate a home on a budget.

· Create a budget and don’t waver. Figure out exactly what you can afford for a renovation and then make that your maximum dollars spent. Research comparable projects in your area and be honest about whether you can afford the

Make sure to build in a cushion of around 15 to 20 percent for any unforeseen expenses that may arise once a renovation is underway.

Article continues on Page 3

Eric P. Feichthaler

This Old House suggests looking for ways to maximize your current layout before you invest in major renovations like an expansion. Bring in a designer with an eye for utilizing space. For example, see how you might be able to replace shelves with pull-out drawers in the kitchen.

You can save money by tackling

Rather than risk making costly mistakes and having to redo things, hire wellvetted professionals but ask if there’s any DIY work you can do to cut costs.

Shop discount stores for building materials to save money. For example, if a builder ordered too many cabinets,

improvement stores and donation centers. Checking the clearance and markdown sections of other stores may yield considerable savings on items needed for a renovation. Warehouse retailers like Costco or Sam’s Club also can be great

Certain stores may offer things like free consultations with designers who can show you what a renovation can look like. This is advantageous to the stores because once you see the potential you’re more likely to buy the products, even if it’s not mandatory.

Certain items can be made to look new with minimal effort. Paint is a relatively inexpensive tool that can transform walls instead of replaced as well.

Finding ways to perform home renovations on a budget may require some creative thinking, but it’s possible to get results at the right price point.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

Source: Lee County Property Appraiser

WELDON KIMBERLEE D SCIALABBA ANTHONY L JR &

CITY OF CAPE CORAL TCJBN L L C

FELIPE BETANCUR RODRIGO A ESPINOSA

YOENNIS CASTRO CAREY BEVERLY +

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

MICHAEL +

‘Canaries in the coal mine’ and Cape home values

Are we there yet? Or in other words, are Cape Coral home values and prices at or near a bottom yet? As we discussed in last week’s column, this is the million dollar question on the minds of just about everyone involved in our current real estate market. This week we will continue examining the ongoing housing market correction by looking at some of the potential “canaries in the coal mine” that might be foreshadowing more problems ahead.

every week. As we have been pointing out repeatedly in this column for at least the past two years through our weekly and monthly analysis of the Cape Coral market statistics and through our anecdotal observations and commentary, our real estate market has clearly been deteriorating. The number of homes being listed for sale has risen exponentially, while the median list prices have come down dramatically from a high of $610,000 back on April 19, 2022, to $489,000 on April 8 of this year. The number of homes going under contract with buyers as pending home sales have declined helping to create a glut of homes sitting on the market unsold. The once record high median home sales prices have softened considerably from a high of $470,000 in our overall single-family home market in April 2022, to a low so far in this market cycle of $375,000 in January of this year. The number of closed home sales in the Cape plunged 23% in a single month from 622 sales in June 2022, to 477 sales in July 2022, as the post-COVID market boom came to an abrupt end and our market eventually worked through a complete reset in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.

Today, when it comes to the lower number of closed home sales, we are operating at a level that looks more like something from back in 2019, prior to the post-COVID boom days. But as we pointed out last week, the argument can be made that home prices are still at least somewhat overvalued in that the median home sales price in the Cape is still about 58% higher than it was in 2019, and it is only down by about 19% from the 2022 high. The canary in the coal mine is, will home prices continue to come under downward pressure, and if so, by how much? That said, it is important and homes are still being sold at a relatively healthy clip. But they are almost always being sold for less than most sellers were hoping to receive. Getting your home sold in today’s market has simply come down to three basic things: price, price and price.

Another canary in the coal mine is the fact that we are seeing a growing number of negative articles, videos and media reports about the economy and the housing market. Most of these reports are questioning the viability of what many consider to be the still too high home values throughout Florida and Southwest Florida, as well as in many other parts of the country. In the last six months we have been seeing a growing number of “experts” who are calling for a housing market crash. It doesn’t mean it is going to happen, but it does seem that for every person who

Current active listings and pending home sales

As of Tuesday, April 8, there were 3,408 Cape Coral single-family damaged home to $6.985 million. The second lowest priced listing in the Cape was at $189,999 and a total of 26 homes are priced below $250,000. The current median list price has edged a bit higher to $489,000 from $485,000 one week ago on April 1, when the active listings dropped to 3,383 homes on the market due to the month end expiration of listing agreements. This season, based on our daily market surveys, the number of active listings in Cape Coral reached their peak of 3,520 homes on the market on Feb. 24. About one year ago on April 16, 2024, there were 2,827 homes listed for sale in the Cape through the MLS with list prices ranging from $225,000 to $10.9 million, and the median list price was at $499,900. Back then there were a total of 748 homes listed at $400,000 and under versus a total of 1,112 homes currently listed at $400,000 and under. At the other end of the price spectrum, we currently have 374 homes in the Cape listed at $1 million and above compared to 350 such homes one year ago.

Also as of Tuesday, April 8, there were 742 single-family homes under contract with buyers as pending sales in the Cape at prices ranging from $169,900 to $4.759 million, and the median pending home sales price came in at $379,000. The number of pending home sales has remained above the 700 homes under contract level since Feb. 20 of this year, topping out at 768 pending sales in the pipeline on March 25 and 26. On Jan. 1, we started this year out with 378 pending sales and a median pending home sales price of $475,000. So we have had a solid season, but we have continued to lag behind last year’s pending home sales numbers when one considers that there were 863 homes under contract last year on April 16, 2024. At that time the pending sales ranged in price from $225,000 to $3.799 million, and the median pending home sales price was at $407,170. We currently have 437 pending sales priced at $400,000 and under, compared to 424 homes at $400,000 and under one year ago. But the number of pending sales priced below $300,000 has surged to 113 homes this year versus only 49 homes one year ago. The complete opposite has occurred with Cape Coral homes priced at $1 million and above, as there were 61 million dollar-plus homes under contract a year ago compared to only 33 homes priced at one million dollars and above under contract as pending sales on April 8 of this year.

are waiting and watching on the sidelines, expecting a crash in home prices. And that was before the tumultuous arguments about the tariffs!

Along these lines, the stock prices of publicly traded home builders have struggled in their own bear market for an extended period of time as they have been stuck with an overabundance of unsold spec homes. This has led to them slashing prices and offering all kinds of incentives to potential buyers and Realtors. New headlines on this major sector of the economy are stating that tariffs on Canadian lumber are set to double in a surprise move that is sending homebuilder stocks plunging. The National Association of Home Builders has been sounding the alarm about the likely price increases to new construction homes because of the tariffs, while also noting the often overlooked fact that the cost of building materials were already up 34% since December 2020, far will be impacting new home prices, but it is also a function of the cumulative

One other potential looming canary in the coal mine that is out there comes from a March 14, 2025, Wall Street Journal article written by Nicole Friedman and Lauren Thomas headlined, “Buffett In Talks To Sell Realty Brokerage.” According to this article, Warren Buffett is in advanced talks to sell his Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices real estate brokerage, which he has owned since the year 2000, to Compass. The Journal noted that nothing sign of consolidation among real-estate brokerages during a prolonged period of lackluster home sales.” The article also pointed out that nationally, home sales in 2024 fell to their lowest level since 1995.

The sales data for this article was obtained from the Florida Realtors Multiple Listing Service Matrix for Lee County, Fla. as of April 8, 2025, unless otherwise noted. It was compiled by Bob and Geri Quinn and it includes informa-

not include condominiums, short sales or foreclosures. The data and statistics are believed to be reliable, however, they could be updated and revised periodically, and are subject to change without notice. The Quinns are a husband and wife real estate team

Cape Coral for over 45 years. Geri has been a full-time Realtor since 2005, and Bob joined Geri as a full-time Realtor in 2014. Their real estate practice is mainly focused on Cape Coral residential property and vacant lots.

Fri. 4/11/2025 10-1pm 4310 Sands Blvd, Cape Coral, FL 33914

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Sat. 4/12/2025 11-1pm 402 SE 42nd Ter Unit 8, Cape Coral, FL 33904

$1,890,000

$180,000 Larry Deberry Coldwell Banker Realty

$1,890,000

$469,000 Yanney Rojas Vega Best Deals Realty

$585,000 Fernando Gaitan Legacy Premier Realty

$495,000 German Vite Pro Management Realty

$1,179,900 Anthony Tiljak Cozza Realty Group

$445,000 Naftali Ordonez Ordonez Realty

$390,000 Michelle Linenko Priceless Realty

$475,000 Ricky Pitts SellState Excelsior Realty

$1,450,000 Karl Joerg Aschenbrenner Premier Cape Realty

$1,850,000 Dwell Right Dwell Right

$749,998 Elizabeth Flores Sun Gulf Realty

$439,000 Joann Houle Marshall Reddick Real Estate

$779,900 Anthony Tiljak Cozza Realty Group

$124,999 Shari Smith LPT Realty

Sat. 4/12/2025 12-2pm 2928 SW 10th Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33914 $419,500 Monika Simic Loyal Real Estate Services

Sat. 4/12/2025 12-3pm

Sat. 4/12/2025 12-3pm 1418 SW 1st Pl, Cape Coral

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Sun. 4/13/2025 10-12pm 1116 NW 31st Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33993

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