Pine Island Eagle

Celebrating Pine Islanders: William Tidball

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

CW Fudge Factory owner William Tidball first came to Pine Island when his parents were visiting, although he said his grandparents were snowbirds even earlier

“For many years, we drove from Pittsburgh down to Southwest Florida, to see my grandparents They stayed until I was about in the 7th grade and then they moved back up to be closer to family in their senior years,” Tidball said

While living in Orlando, where he worked for Walt Disney World, Sea World and Universal Studios, Tidball bought his parents a place on Pine Island and said he and business partner Carlos Gomez fell in love with the island vibe He said they found themselves using any excuse they could to leave Orlando on a Friday night and

Artists of Matlacha sprucing up the island neighborhood

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

A c c o r d i n g t o M a t l a c h a C i v i c Association President Carol Scott, an informal group known as the Artists of Matlacha decided they’d wanted to spruce up the neighborhood with a bit of a makeover so they gave a proposal to the MCA for the job of painting the pilings on Pine Island Road in Matlacha

“I went over to the MCA and asked if they would sponsor us for some paint and they said absolutely That was part of our gala the fundraising that we did to raise money for a little bit of restoration a n d o u r e n v i r o n m e n t a l p r o g r a m s here on Matlacha,” Scott said

After receiving a budget from the MCA, the artists bought some brightly colored paints and then primed the poles Currently, there are approximately nine artists growing to around 15 in season, within the Artists of Matlacha group, she said

head south so they could wake up Saturday morning on Pine Island

“One day when we were going across the bridge, we s a i d , ' w h y a r e w e g o i n g back to Orlando when we love it down here?'” Tidball said

I t w a s n ’ t l o n g b e f o r e they decided to develop a b u s i n e s s a p p r o p r i a t e f o r Pine Island and move their entire life here In no time, he said they were getting to know the locals and build-

ing mutual friendships all over the island. In the 20 years he lived in Orlando, Tidball said he never felt the sense of community he felt immediately here, saying he never called Orlando home

“It wasn’t until I was here on the island that I felt like I was part of a community,” Tidball said

He went on to explain that a big part of any community is each person doing their part to support it and help it thrive in even the smallest things Overall, he said, he hopes Pine Island has benefitted from his being here, not in business only, but as a loving member of this community

“I would hope that Pine Island has benefitted from my being a part of it I would never boast that I’m unique or

Bobby Holloway Memorial Fund now accepting applications for ‘23-24 scholarships

Deadline for submissions May 10

Special to The Eagle news@breezenewspapers com

The Bobby Holloway Memorial Fund is now accepting applications for its 2023-2024 scholarships

The Holloway Fund gives away nearly $30,000 per year that is raised through its annual fishing tournament, which occurred on Saturday, April 6, at Jug Creek Marina in Bokeelia.

This year will kick off a special opportunity for students pursuing vocational or trade school with scholars h i p s a v a i l a b l e t h r o u g h a s p e c i a l d o n a t i o n T h e Holloway Fund helps students who are pursuing higher education whether it be through college, trade school, academies or vocational training

To be eligible to receive a scholarship, students must fill out the application along with two letters of recommendation and an essay on why they feel they should receive the scholarship

In addition, applicants must be residents of Pine Island or attended Pine Island Elementary. Applications can be picked up from school counselors, the Pine Island Library or Centennial Bank on Pine Island

All applications, letters and essays should be sent together in one packet to:

BHMF-Scholarship PO Box 712

St James City, FL 33956

Applications must be submitted by Friday, May 10, and must include the essay and both letters of recommendation to be considered

The Holloway Fund is a nonprofit organization “providing enrichment for virtually every local youth activity ” For additional information about the organization, email bobbyhollowaytourney@gmail com or on Facebook, visit https://www facebook com/bobbyhollowayfund/

Cindy Walton paints one of the poles in Matlacha

William Tidball

Matlacha Hookers 12th Annual Island

Luau raises $4,000 for senior programs and $18,000 for Civic Center repairs

Special to The Eagle news@breezenewspapers com

The Matlacha Hookers have announced that the Island Luau, held Sunday, Feb 25, at the St James City Civic Center, was sold out again. The response from the Pine Island Community is always amazing

Funds collected during the event were given to Nancy Buthman, director of The Beacon of Hope’s Senior Programs, and Cena Hamby, president of the St James City Civic Association, on Monday, April 8, at the Matlacha Hookers General Meeting at the American Legion Post 136 in St James City. Both are non-profit organizations dedicated to helping the needs of the Greater Pine Island community

The Hookers offer a big "thank you" to all the volunteers who helped make this event run smoothly and also to more than 150 Pine Island area businesses and families that donated items to the Silent Auction and money to offset the costs of running the event It takes an island to run this event

Please mark your calendars for the 13th Annual Island Luau Event, which will be held again Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the St James City Civic Center

Here is the list of the sponsors, businesses and individuals in alphabetical order:

$500 - Orchid Sponsors - Artesian Pool Construction, Fabri-Tech, Honc Industries, Pine Island Bait and Tackle, Pineshine Farms, and W Yachts York Road Marine

$ 2 5 0 - H i b i s c u s S p o n s o r s – L e i g h & E u g e n i e Andrews, Barkley Pet Services and Mobile Grooming, Beattie Development Corp, Theodore Bluey, Bo & Linda

Bohacek, Tom & Joyce Boyer, Carmen’s Kayaks, Davis Wellness, Freedom Roofing, Marian Horgan, Matlacha Menagerie, Matlacha on Shoreview, Pine Island Pools, Brady & Christy Rau and Stearns Custom Builders

$100 - Plumeria Sponsors – Bluewater Realty of Pine Island Inc , Chuck’s Auto Repair Service LLC, Florida

Complete Realty, Four Winds Marina Inc , Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce, Kinetic Touch Massage and Wellness LLC, Lumiere Cosmetic and Vein Center, Marker 3 Coastal Cantina, Pelletier Rickert Physical Therapy, Pine Island Animal Clinic, LLC, Pine Island

K a y a k s , P i n e I s l a n d T a x A c c o u n t i n g C o , P u b l i x , R e p u b l i c a n R e m o d e l i n g a n d H o m e R e p a i r , J a m i e Richard, Spyrnal Associates Inc, Street Eatz & Ale, and Yogaz – Barb Pelton

Silent Auction Donors – Angles Hair Salon, Anglers Inn, Backcountry Fishing Adventures, Iveta Horvath Bell, Bert’s Gallery, Blue Day Spa, Blue Dog Bar & Grill, Monika Bobowik, Bo & Linda Bohacek, Bokeelia

Art Gallery, Bones Coffee Company, Bonefish Grill, Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon, Jill Caldwell, Calusa Bug Spray, Capt’n Con’s Restaurant, Captain Cathy Eagle Boat Tours, Cason Photography, Beba Contreres, Coral Oaks Golf Course, Cutco, Cutting Ties Hair Salon, CW Fudge Factory, Davie Shoring, Escape The Cape Adventures, Fabri –Tech, Farmer Joes, Firestone Auto Care, Fishin – Dips, Five Guys, Florida Blue Medicare, Florida Everblades, Freedom Roofing, Froggy’s Bar & Grill, Get Perk’d Coffee & Breakfast, Juli Gibson, Gnome Sweet Gnome, Gulf Coast Kayaks, Claudia Gundersen, DL Havlin, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Island Bike Works, Island

Following the fatal accident in Matlacha, makeshift memorials, above and below, have been created near the scene of the incident

Matlacha woman dies after vehicle crashes into patrons at The BBQ Place

Breeze staf f repor t news@breezenewspapers.com

An 80-year-old Matlacha woman who was sitting with friends at a table outside The BBQ Place in Matlacha was killed and four others injured when a vehicle went off the road and crashed into their table late Saturday afternoon.

Tactical Gun Shop, Jason’s Deli, Christine Karow Salon, Key West Express, Lazy Flamingo, Live Love Laugh

S a l o n B o u t i q u e , L o w K e y T i k i , M a r k e r 3 C o a s t a l Cantina, Phyllis Martin, Matlacha Hookers, Matlacha Menagerie, Matlacha Shirt Company, Pam McCarty LMT, Linda McQuinn, Monroe Canal Marina, Seri

M o n t a l b a n o , N a t a l i e ’ s S k i n S o l u t i o n s , N i c k B ’ s Chimichurri, Off The Charts Inn, Onofrio D Oro Fine J e w e l r y , O u t b a c k S t e a k H o u s e , V i c k i P i a t t , S a n d y Peculis, Phuzzy’s Boat Shack , Pine Island Auto Care, Pine Island Family Hair, Pine Island Pizza, Pine Island Pool Supply, Pine Island Tropicals, Premier Growers, P r o m i s e d L a n d M a n g o s , R a n d a l R e s e a r c h C e n t e r , P

See MATLACHA HOOKERS, page 18

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a sedan that was traveling east on Pine Island Road struck five patrons seated at outside restaurant tables at The BBQ Place, and then hit an unoccupied motorcycle and a westbound pickup truck

O n e o f t h e r e s t a u r a n t p a t r o n s , a n 8 0 - y e a r - o l d Matlacha woman, later identified by family and friends in published reports as May Lou Sharp, was pronounced dead at the scene The four other restaurant patrons were transported to an area hospital with injuries They ranged in age from 55 to 77

Two are from Matlacha and two are from Sanibel.

According to Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District Chief Ben Mickuleit, at 5:50 p m Saturday, a number of island crews, along with four ambulances and two EMS supervisors, responded to the report of multiple people being struck by a vehicle at a restaurant in Matlacha

Mickuleit said one victim was found to be deceased at the scene and three victims were trauma alert transported to the hospital by ground ambulance, and one victim was transported by helicopter

See FATAL ACCIDENT, page 14

PAULETTE LEBLANC

OPINIONS

As we embark on this last quarter I want to welcome Dr Ken Savage back to the role of superintendent He served this district well during the last transitionary period and I am confident he will provide our students and staff stability in the months ahead while laying the groundwork for an elected superintendent in November

We also have so many wonderful things to reflect upon this school year New school projects are already under way We have so much excitement surrounding our spring sports Not to mention the amazing educators that have been presented the Golden Apple Award for excellence in their profession.

As many board members have previously stated, we have seen exponential growth within our district To accommodate the approximately 12,000 new seats needed we have several projects in our near future Many of these schools needed are in our East Zone I would like to congratulate our newest schools, Amanecer Elementary and Lemuel Teal Middle, as they wrap up their inaugural year Under amazing leadership, t h e s t u d e n t s i n t h e s e t w o s c h o o l s h a v e soared.

This year we made history by adding

Economic impact of dir ty water

To the editor:

One million acres of Florida’s estuaries are polluted; 9,000 miles of our recreational waters are polluted; 80% of our natural springs are polluted Every year we have toxic red tide that causes people to have severe allergies, coughing, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms

Additionally, the marine life our community and state rely on so heavily for tourism revenue suffers from blue green algae growth that shades their habitat and prevents them from flourishing during warmer months

A c c o r d i n g t o a s t u d y p e r f o r m e d b y Greene Economics LLC and published Dec 20, 2023, if Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties experience another harmful algae bloom of a scale similar to that of 2005/06 and 2018, our area would lose over $460 million in commercial and recreational fishing, over 43,000 jobs, $5 2 billion in economic output, $17 8 billion in property values and a resulting $60 million in tax revenue, and $8 1 billion in value from outdoor recreation

The economic health of our community is at risk! We must act now by taking immediate action!

Please go to this website to make a dona-

G i r l ’ s F l a g F o o t b a l l t o t h e spring schedule This sport has taken off and I am proud to s a y m a n y o f t h e s e y o u n g women have never been a part of team sport until now A

h u g e c o n g r a t u l a t i o n s t o t h e schools that won their District title in our winter sports programs and I am confident we will have several more banners hanging in our gyms and on our field come the end of spring High School Winter Sports District Champions include:

■ Boys Basketball: Gateway and Mariner

■ Girls Basketball: Gateway High School

■ B o y s S o c c e r : M a r i n e r and Fort Myers

■ Girls Soccer: Mariner and Fort Myers

■ Girls Weightlifting: Fort Myers in both Olympic and Traditional L a s t b u t c e r t a i n l y n o t l e a s t , Congratulations to all of our Golden Apple Finalists. All of these men and women have shown tremendous strength and passion for

tion and or obtain a petition, sign it and mail it in: https://www floridarighttocleanwater

o r g / d o n a t e T h e F l o r i d a R i g h t t o C l e a n Waters is seeking to hold those contributing to the pollution accountable for cleaning it up so taxpayers don’t end up footing the bill We can no longer afford to ignore this issue!

Whitney Taylor Cape Coral

Don’t leave your pet in the car

To the editor:

While most Floridians are excited to see t e m p e r a t u r e s i n t h e 8 0 s , w a r m w e a t h e r means that we must be more vigilant about watching for dogs left in hot cars Recently, I heard yelping and whining in a store parking lot and followed the sound to discover a black dog left alone in an SUV I found the o w n e r , w h o s a i d t h a t h i s d o g w a s f i n e because the windows were cracked and he had only been gone a few minutes but his mistake could’ve been deadly for his dog

O n a 7 0 - d eg r ee d ay , th e temp er atu r e inside a parked car can soar to 99 degrees in j u s t 2 0 m i n u t e s . L e a v i n g t h e w i n d o w s cracked or parking in the shade makes almost no difference It takes only a few minutes for dogs to sustain brain damage or even die

what they do inside our classroom walls Congratulations to our Golden Apple winners!

■ S a r a h T h o r n b u r gCypress Lake High School District of Lee County

■ J e s s i c a L i s iTanglewood Elementary

■ C h r i s t i e B a r t z - P i n e Island Elementary

■ Jil Klausing - Dunbar High School

■ Michelle Smith - Lehigh Senior High

■ Sara Kizzire - Lehigh Senior High

B e f o r e c l o s i n g , I w o u l d like to say thank you to all of o u r e d u c a t o r s , b u s d r i v e r s , s u p p o r t p r o f e s s i o n a l s a n d administrators What you do each day is appreciated and you are valued

Keep an eye out next month It’s my favorite month in the world of Education Teacher

Appreciation week is right around the corner Hug a Teacher!

J a d a L a n g f o r d F l e m i n g r e p r e s e n t s District 6 on the Lee County School Board

from heatstroke Some dogs have turned off the car’s air conditioning or locked their guardians out It just isn’t worth the risk

If you see a dog left in a car, have the owner paged at the nearest stores, and call authorities if they don’t return Keep watch over the dog for signs of heatstroke, including heavy panting, heavy salivation, difficult y b r e a t h i n g , l e t h a r g y , a n d v o m i t i n g I f authorities are slow to respond and the dog appears to be in danger, Florida has a “Good Samaritan” law that protects any citizen who breaks a car window to save an animal’s life

Michelle Reynolds North Port

A senior writer for the PETA Foundation

Gov. DeSantis said no

To the editor:

Many Floridians are still recovering and trying to rebuild after Hurricane Ian The Inflation Reduction Act had allotted $346 million to Florida in rebates for energy efficient improvements and appliance improvements, Gov DeSantis rejected this funding and he also rejected $24 million to update rural waste water systems

The Department of Energy will give these funds to other states to help their people if the money if not allocated by Florida by August Why would our governor make a seemingly irrational decision?

Electrical wiring, heat pumps, solar windows and energy saving appliances could all qualify rebates issued to their buyers

Wake up, fellow Floridians! Why are we are not making this a big deal about Gov DeSantis turning away funding supported by President Biden and Congress?

Other state governors are welcoming this funding but not Florida

SCCF concerned about Lake Okeechobee discharges

By MATT DEPAOLIS & ALLIE PECENKA Environmental Policy Director & Associate Sanibel-Captiva Conser vation Foundation

Spring is a time of change, as birds b e g i n t h e i r m i g r a t i o n s a n d e s t u a r i n e s p e c i e s s t a r t t h e i r s p a w n I m p o r t a n t c h a n g e s a l s o h a p p e n i n t h e C a l o o s a h a t c h e e R i v e r a n d E s t u a r y a s waters begin to warm and the wet season looms on the horizon

In Southwest Florida, seasonal water quality is strongly tied to the health and management of Lake Okeechobee, which was artificially connected to the Caloosahatchee River and Estuary in the 1800s

W h e n L a k e O g e t s t o o h i g h , t h e Caloosahatchee (and the St Lucie Estuary to the east) often receives water from the lake, which can have various impacts on t h e e c o s y s t e m T h i s y e a r , m u c h o f February and March included high-volume, damaging water releases from Lake O to the Caloosahatchee, and the U S A r m y C o r p s o f E n g i n e e r s r e c e n t l y announced that a reduced flow volume of 2,000 cubic feet per second (weekly average) will be sent west through the end of the dry season, barring significant changes in conditions

Why the coasts receive water from Lake O

Lake Okeechobee is a highly managed system Its height is controlled by the U S A r m y C o r p s o f E n g i n e e r s u s i n g t h e Herbert Hoover Dike and a system of locks, canals, and dams The lake serves as a storage reservoir for the agriculture interests south of the lake, guaranteeing the industrial sugar production has as much w a t e r a s i t w a n t s . T o e n s u r e t h e r e ’ s enough water in even the driest years, it’s necessary to keep the water in the lake much higher than it ever was naturally

But an overly full lake during rainy season quickly turns into a flood risk for surrounding communities Additionally, high lake levels prevent light from reaching the submerged aquatic vegetation in the lake, hindering their growth and preventing essential filtration to the ecosystem

So when the lake is deemed too high, the Corps releases water out of the lake,

Guest Commentary

primarily to the east and west coasts via the St Lucie and Caloosahatchee estuaries

This lake water is polluted with nitrogen and phosphorous and can contribute to harmful algal blooms in the estuaries sometimes directly, DePaolis said At certain volumes, the influx of freshwater into brackish (partly salty) water can also lower salinity levels in the estuaries, which can negatively impact oysters, tapegrass, and other organisms

Deciding when, where and how much water from Lake Okeechobee to release is a nuanced decision-making process that involving input from diverse stakeholders

The SCCF and other members of the Southwest Florida community offer analysis and feedback during the Corps’ stakeholder-engagement process, including science-based recommendations for conditions under which the Caloosahatchee estuary would remain healthiest ”

Hurricane Ian begins trend of overly full lake

Following Hurricanes Ian and Nicole in fall 2022, Lake Okeechobee quickly filled much of the capacity of the lake, and levels remained high for much of 2023 When a strong El Nino event was forecast for 2023-24 which often means a wett e r - t h a n - n o r m a l d r y s e a s o n S C C F began advocating for the Corps to continue lowering the lake in anticipation of it

rising further

“From June through October, frequent rains and watershed runoff can compound Lake Okeechobee releases, introducing an abundance of excess nutrients into the Caloosahatchee and Gulf of Mexico and harming our wildlife, our communities, and our economies,” Pecenka said “This is why SCCF begins asking the Corps to send releases during the dry season, when our estuary is less vulnerable to impacts from receiving flows ”

As predicted, high levels of precipitation during the dry season this year further increased the height of Lake Okeechobee and the Corps’ requirement to lower it

2024 Releases and Current Status In mid-February 2024, the Corps decided to start lowering the lake before the wet season by releasing water to both coasts The Caloosahatchee has received flows of

varying measures from the lake since Feb 17, with a few brief pauses aimed to allow salinities in the estuaries to recover and reduce the stress on oyster populations prior to spawning

Local oyster communities are particularly vulnerable during spawning season in the spring, and the impacts to a disrupted spawning season can span generationally for this highly important species SCCF’s policy department, informed by data from o u r M a r i n e L a b o r a t o r y , c o n t i n u a l l y engages with the Corps and other stakeholders to express the organization’s concerns for the health of local ecosystems in the event the Caloosahatchee receives large, long-duration releases On April 6, the Corps resumed minimal releases to the Caloosahatchee (an average of 650 cubic feet per second) to reduce stagnant condit i o n s c o n d u c i v e t o b l u e - g r e e n a l g a l blooms Beginning April 13, the releases will increase to a weekly average of 2,000 cubic feet per second through the rest of the dry season

While SCCF is supportive of the current release schedule, we remain concerned with the high lake stage, the efficacy of the dry season strategy to reduce lake levels, and the potential for high-volume releases this summer and fall We ask the Corps to remain reactive to changing conditions and adjust flows as needed to support the ecological health of this system

M a t t D e P a o l i s & A l l i e P e c e n k a , E n v i r o n m e n t a l P o l i c y D i r e c t o r & Associate, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

Anything the current administration proposes regardless of how much his opposition harms Florida residents It’s

pretty clear that our governor is looking out primarily for himself

Kathleen Callard, RNBS North Fort Myers

Lake Okeechobee.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pine Island Elementary among 11 district schools designated as Schools of Excellence

The School District of Lee County recently announced 11 schools have been designated as Schools of Excellence for the 2022-2023 school year by the Florida State Board of Education Schools are designated as a school as a School of Excellence if the school’s percentage of possible points earned in its school grade calculation is in the 80th percentile or higher for schools comprised of the same grade group

The 11 schools earning this distinction are:

■ Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School

■ Fort Myers Beach Elementary

■ Pine Island Elementary

■ Pinewoods Elementary

■ Rayma C. Page Elementary

■ Three Oaks Elementary

■ Cypress Lake Middle School

■ Gulf Middle School

“The staff and students of Pine Island Elementary School are thrilled that PIE has been named a Florida Department of Education School of Excellence. I want to recognize all of the hard work and dedication of our committed faculty and incredible students We are honored to achieve this recognition ”

PIE Principal

Michael Galbreath

■ Trafalgar Middle School

■ The Sanibel School

■ Fort Myers High School

“The staff and students of Pine Island Elementary School are thrilled that PIE has been named a Florida Department of Education School of Excellence," said PIE Principal Michael Galbreath "I want to recognize all of the hard work and dedi c a t i o n o f o u r c o m m i t t e d f a c u l t y a n d

incredible students We are honored to achieve this recognition ” "I am deeply grateful for the state's r e c o g n i t i o n o f t h e s e s c h o o l s , ” s a i d Superintendent Dr Kenneth Savage “It's a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire educational community Every school within our district shares in this honor, and it reflects the collective excellence of our principals, teachers, and students "

The Schools of Excellence program was created by the Florida Legislature in 2017 Schools that initially qualify for the designation retain their designation as a School of Excellence for up to three years, at the end of which they may renew the designation

Five charter schools also earned the School of Excellence designation: The Island School, Oasis Charter ElementaryNorth, Oasis Charter Elementary-South, O a s i s C h a r t e r M i d d l e a n d F l o r i d a Southwestern Collegiate High School

In 2022-23, 783 schools were designated as a School of Excellence Of these schools, 658 maintained their designation from 2021-22, 37 renewed their designation, and 88 were newly designated in 2022-23 by meeting the requirements for the first time

Kindergarten registration continues at PIE Step Up Day for incoming students scheduled for May 18

Pine Island Elementary School is registering all upcoming Kindergarten students for the 2024-2025 school year If your child will be 5 years old by Sept 1, 2024, t h e y a r e r e a d y t o s t a r t s c h o o l P I E encourages all new Kindergarteners to be registered by April 30

When registering your child for school,

bring the child’s birth certificate, proof of residence, your driver’s license, and current physical with Florida immunization records to Pine Island Elementary

A L e e C o u n t y S c h o o l R e g i s t r a t i o n Form will also need to be completed This f o r m i s l o c a t e d o n l i n e a t p i e l e eschools net or parents can get one at the school office

P I E will also be hosting Step Up Day on May 28 from 9 to 9:45 a m on the school’s campus

S t e p U p D a y o f f e r s i n c o m i n g Kindergarten students an opportunity to visit the school campus and classrooms to learn more about what to expect next year

A welcome packet will be given to each child who attends Parents are required to attend with their child Call the school to let organizers know if you plan to attend If you have any questions about school registration or Step Up Day, please contact Rosie Perez at 239-283-0505 Pine Island Elementary is at 5360 Ridgewood Drive in Bokeelia

American Legion Auxiliary Post 136 blood drive

T h e a n n u a l A m e r i c a n L e g i o n Auxiliary Post 136 blood drive will be held Monday, April, 29 from 10 a m until 3 p m

As a thank you, OneBlood will provide a $20 eGift Card and an insulated

tote bag All donors will also receive a wellness check that includes blood pressure, temperature, iron count, pulse and cholesterol screening

L o o k f o r t h e B i g R e d B u s T h e American Legion is located at 4106

Stringfellow Road in St James City

Arrive early or stay after your donation

The Legion serves lunch on weekdays from 11:30 a m until 2 p m and lunch is open to the public

Let’s work together to get 2024 off to

April 29

a great start by saving lives Remember that every donor can save up to three others Appointments are encouraged Please visit www oneblood org/donate-now

For more information, please contact DJ at 239-910-2829

Pine Island Public Library programs, activities for May

Next month’s roster of activities at the Pine Island Public Library offers topics for all ages The following programs are free to the public

Adult Programs

Download Drop-In

3:30 p m , Wednesday, May 1, 8, 15, 22

R e c e i v e p e r s o n a l i z e d h e l p d o w n l o a d i n g e - b o o k s , movies, music and more from Overdrive/Libby and Hoopla, two of Lee County Library System’s largest online content providers Bring your fully charged digital device for this hands-on help session. Note: Please bring any passwords you may need for downloading apps Kindle users will also need an Amazon account and their password for accessing it

Movie Date with Mom

1 p.m., Saturday, May 11

Celebrate Mother's Day Bring your mom or favorite gal to a family-friendly matinee movie Mother's Day crafts and a light snack will be provided

Children’s Programs

Family Storytime

10:30 a m , Thursday, May 2, 9

For children through age 5 years and caregivers

Families with young children enjoy a variety of stories, songs, rhymes and movement

Movie Date with Mom

1 p.m., Saturday, May 11

Celebrate Mother's Day Bring your mom or favorite gal to a family-friendly matinee movie Mother's Day crafts and a light snack will be provided

Help Me Grow - Books, Balls and Blocks

10:30 a m , Thursday, May 16

For families with children through age 5 years

Children will participate in games and activities while

FDOT provides update for Pine Island Road work

BARTOW, Fla – This weekly report is prepared by the Florida Department of Transportation to inform the public about upcoming road work in Southwest Florida Below are the work schedule and lane closure locations for major state road projects

Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge Permanent Repairs

Construction project: As part of the Emergency Restoration of the Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge, crews will be working in the project boundaries along CR 78 Pine Island Road from west of Little Pine I s l a n d B r i d g e ( B r i d g e N o 1 2 0 1 1 1 ) t o W e s t o f Shoreview Drive

Motorists can expect traffic shifts and flagging operations as crews continue installing utilities throughout the causeway

Please be alerted to construction equipment in the construction zone To maintain safety, motorists should find alternate parking areas

Motorists can expect occasional delays due to flagging operations for delivery/removal of materials, transfer of equipment

Crews are maintaining two-lane traffic on causeway

■ Pedestrians and bicyclists are not permitted within the construction zone

■ Please use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and exiting the roadway

■ Noise from construction equipment in the area is to be expected

■ Please be patient and plan for additional travel time as it may be slower than usual in the area

For additional information, please visit the FDOT project web page at https://www.swflroads.com/proj e c t / 4 5 1 9 3 7 - 2 o r e m a i l S h a n a O v e r h u l s e r a t shana overhulser@dot state fl us

Follow FDOT on social media at https://www faceb o o k c o m / M y F D O T S W F L , h t t p s : / / x c o m / m y f d o t swfl, and https://instagram com/myfdot swfl

parents complete a screening to ensure that their children are developmentally on track Parents will also be provided with resources for activities they can do at home with their children In partnership with Healthy Start of SWFL/Help Me Grow

Teen Programs

Movie Date with Mom

1 p m , Saturday, May 11

Celebrate Mother's Day Bring your mom or favorite gal to a family-friendly matinee movie Mother's Day crafts and a light snack will be provided.

The Pine Island Public Library is located at 10701 Russell Road in Bokeelia For more information about a program or to register, please call the library at 239533-4350 Check the Lee County Library System’s web-

site at www leelibrary net to find out about programs at other locations Call the host library, or Telephone Reference at 239-479-INFO (4636), for more information about a specific program

To receive updates from Lee County Government, you can sign up for the newsletter at www.leegov.com/ resources/newsletters

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Lee County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in its services, programs or activities To request an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or a reasonable modification to participate, contact Joan LaGuardia, 239-533-2314, Florida Relay Service 711, or jlaguardia@leegov com

Accommodation will be provided at no cost to the requestor Requests should be made at least five business days in advance

Lee County’s collaborative efforts with FEMA result in 30-day extension on deadline

Lee County has announced that its collaborative efforts with FEMA in recent weeks have resulted in a 30-day extension for submitting documents that will reflect the actions taken in the Special Flood Hazard Area after Hurricane Ian, demonstrating full compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

In a letter from FEMA received Friday, the county learned that June 10 is the new deadline for document submittal The previous deadline was May 9

The letter is posted on the county’s landing page dedicated to the issue at www leegov com/femacrs

The deadline extension also applies to the impacted municipalities – City of Bonita Springs, City of Cape Coral, the Village of Estero and the Town of Fort Myers Beach

Lee County appreciates its partnership with FEMA as both parties work to retain the county’s and four municipalities’ Community Rating System (CRS) classifications

The Lee Board of County Commissioners is committed to retaining the CRS rating of 5 to maintain the discount available to residents with NFIP policies

FEMA also acknowledged in its letter today that the letter sent last week by Lee County and the municipalities matches the expectations of necessary documentation That letter also is posted on the landing page

The county has met with the FEMA administrator and is continuously working with the FEMA Region 4 administrator and FEMA staff

FEMA has now embedded staff in the county and the municipalities

County staff members are working diligently to provide specific documentation that will reflect the actions taken post-Ian, which made landfall Sept 28, 2022, and was the largest hurricane to make landfall in Lee County and is ranked as the third costliest tropical system to make landfall in the United States

The documentation will reflect the county’s records of site work review, including but not limited to: violations for unpermitted work, stop work orders, complaint code cases, processed renovation permits, documents demonstrating work was not substantial damage, documents proving work was substantial damage and demolition per-

mits

Additional information and documents related to this issue can be found at www leegov com/femacrs

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

American Legion Post 136 accepting scholarship applications

If you attended Pine Island Elementary School, reside on Greater Pine Island or have an immediate family member who is a member of the American Legion Post 136, SAL member at Post 136, or AUX member at 136, you qualify to apply for scholarships offered by the American Legion Post 136

The scholarship committee is interested in students

attending accredited programs, colleges, and some programs for nursing, boat mechanics, technical, trade schools, welding, and construction and others

You can get your applications downloaded from www post136fl org

Applications need to be post marked no later than May 16

Application deadline May 17 for Hookers scholarships

The Matlacha Hookers have announced that the organization is continuing its tradition of awarding scholarship grants to deserving and potential students, not only for college, but for trade schools, as well as technical schools, and for continuing education Since 2003, over $200,000 has been awarded to deserving students by the Matlacha Hookers

The required qualifications to apply for a scholarship include a high school diploma or equivalent and one of the following:

1 Former student of the Pine Island Elementary School

2 Currently a Matlacha Hooker for at least one year

3 Immediate family member is currently a Matlacha

Hooker for at least one year

4 Resident of Greater Pine Island for at least one year

5 E l i g i b l e a n d a p p l y i n g f o r t h e 2 0 2 4 F i r s t Responders Scholarship

Applications are available online at matlachahooke r s o r g S i m p l y c l i c k o n “ H o o k e d o n E d u c a t i o n Scholarship Application”, print, complete application and submit to address on application; must be postmarked by May 17, 2024

Application hard copies are also available at the Pine Island Library

If you or your business are interested in donating funds for the 2025 Hooked on Education scholarship

FEMA reimbursement funds available; applications being accepted

The Federal Emergency Management Agency hereby gives notice to the public of its intent to reimburse eligible applicants for eligible costs to repair or replace facilities serviced under its authority and jurisdiction damaged as a result of:

■ Hurricane Ian, incident period of Sept 23 to Nov 04, 2022, and under the major disaster declaration FEMA-4673-DR-FL, signed by the President on Sept 29, 2022;

■ Hurricane Nicole, incident period of Nov 07-30, 2022, and under the major disaster declaration FEMA4680-DR-FL, signed by the President on Dec 13, 2022;

■ Florida Severe Storms, Tornadoes and Flooding, incident period of April 12-14, 2023, and under the major disaster declaration FEMA-4709-DR-FL, signed by the President on April 27, 2023;

■ Hurricane Idalia, incident period of Aug. 27-Sept. 24, 2023, and under the major disaster declaration FEMA-4734-DR-FL, signed by the President on August 31, 2023

An initial disaster-wide Public Notice was published on Oct 18, 2022, for DR-4673 Hurricane Ian; on Dec 27, 2022, for DR-4680 Hurricane Nicole; on May 18, 2023, for DR-4709 Florida Severe Storms; and on Oct 3, 2023, for DR-4680 Hurricane Idalia Comments and other information received were considered by FEMA along with evaluation of social, economic, environmental, and safety considerations

Under the National Environmental Policy Act, federal actions must be reviewed and evaluated for feasible alternatives and for social, economic, historic, environmental, legal and safety considerations Under Executive Order (EO) 11988 and EO 11990, FEMA is required to consider alternatives, and to provide a public notice of any proposed actions in or affecting floodplains or wetlands EO 12898 also requires FEMA to provide the opportunity for public participation in the planning process and to consider potential impacts to minority and low-income populations This notice may also fulfill requirements under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

This notice serves as a cumulative final notice for FEMA’s funding actions located within the floodplain and wetlands This notice applies to the Public Assistance (PA) program implemented under the authority of the R o b e r t T . S t a f f o r d D i s a s t e r R e l i e f a n d E m e r g e n c y Assistance Act, 42 U S C §§ 5121-5207 This notice is to inform the public of FEMA’s intent to allocate grant funds to State, local, and tribal governments, as well as non-profit organizations for the repair or replacement of facilities within designated areas susceptible to flooding These flood zones include A-Zones, which are areas susceptible to a 1% annual chance of flooding up to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE); V-Zones, which are the areas susceptible to a 1% annual chance of flooding with high velocity wave-action; and regulatory floodways, which are areas regulated to provide for the discharge of the base flood. Shaded X-Zones, which are areas susceptible to 0 2% annual chance of flooding, are considered with respect to critical actions (actions for which even the slightest chance of flooding is too great) In all cases, FEMA has evaluated the funding actions in accordance with the process described in 44 CFR § 9 to determine the overall effect of actions within these areas and this notice shall only pertain to those projects which were determined to be practicable

For Special Flood Hazard Areas (A-Zones), this notice represents those actions which require evaluation of all processes as set forth by 44 CFR § 9 and in which the function is not otherwise served by a more practicable alternative For these types of projects, relocation or abandonment of the facilities would cause adverse social and economic impacts to the local community Flood risk will be minimized by all practicable means and projects would not adversely affect the floodplain or wetlands

For Coastal High Hazard Areas (V-Zones) and regulatory floodways, this notice represents projects that meet the same criteria above In addition, these projects must also be functionally dependent on their location within the Coastal High Hazard Area or floodway or facilitate open-space use. Functionally dependent, in this context,

means that a facility cannot fulfill its function unless it is located within the floodplain Open-space use, in this context, means a facility is designated for recreation and is not used for residential, commercial, or other functions.

To ensure compliance with the requirements of FEMA Policy 104-22-0003: Partial Implantation of the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard for Public Assistance (Interim), this notice does not apply to projects that have a substantial damage determination, require a substantial improvement, or involve new construction The notice also does not apply to critical actions located in the AZone, V-Zone, or regulatory floodway

For such projects described above, this cumulative public notice hereby fulfills the requirements of Executive Orders 11988 and 11990 as regulated by 44 CFR Part 9.12. Pursuant to Executive Orders 11988, 11990 and 44 CFR Part 9 12, final notice is hereby given of FEMA’s intent to provide funding for these projects under the Public Assistance Program

Funding for the proposed projects will be conditional upon compliance with all applicable federal, tribal, state, and local laws, regulations, floodplain standards, permit requirements and conditions This action complies with the National Flood Insurance Program requirements

For those projects where the above criteria are not met, a project-specific final public notice will be published, allowing the public 15 days, as prescribed in 44 CFR 9.12, to comment upon proposed projects in the floodplain or wetlands

This will serve as the final public notice regarding the above-described actions funded by the FEMA PA program Interested persons may submit comments, questions, or request a map of this specific project by writing to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region 4, 3005 Chamblee-Tucker Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30341 or by emailing FEMA-R4EHPflorida@fema dhs gov Comments should be sent in writing with the subject line “FL-4673-4680-4709-4734 Cumulative Final Public Notice” at the above address within 15 days of the date of this notice.

Hurricane Ian Housing Recovery Program application deadline May 15

The online application portal and submission of new applications online or inperson for the LeeCares Hurricane Ian Housing Recovery Program will conclude at 5 p m , Wednesday, May 15

Lee County currently is processing more than 1,300 applications requesting assistance for repairing, reconstructing, e l e v a t i n g o r p u r c h a s i n g a h o m e L e e County and its partners directly contacted more than 62,000 Lee County residents to provide LeeCares program information

Funding for the LeeCares housing program comes from the U S Department of H o u s i n g a n d U r b a n D e v e l o p m e n t ’ s Community Development Block Grant –D i s a s t e r R e c o v e r y a l l o c a t i o n t o L e e County to address the disaster recovery needs of residents affected by the hurricane Programs for which individuals now can apply:

■ T h e H o u s i n g R e h a b i l i t a t i o n , Reconstruction and Elevation program may assist income-eligible property owners to repair, replace and/or elevate property that suffered hurricane damage

■ The Home Purchase Assistance may assist income-eligible home buyers to pur-

chase a qualifying primary residence outside of the flood zone in Lee County

To view a full list of eligibility requirements and documents needed to apply, visit www leeflcares com

Q u e s t i o n s c a n b e e m a i l e d to leecares@leegov com Individuals also can call 239-382-5453

Once an application is submitted, individuals will be assigned a designated L e e C a r e s c a s e m a n a g e r t o p r o v i d e updates If an application is approved, the funding is a grant – not a loan – and does not need to be repaid if applicants comply with the terms of the grant

Comprehensive and detailed informat i o n a b o u t L e e C o u n t y ’ s C o m m u n i t y D e v e l o p m e n t B l o c k G r a n t – D i s a s t e r Recovery (CDBG-DR) Action Plan, program allocations, activities and expenditures are provided on the county’s website at https://cdbgdr leegov com

To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter here: www leegov com/resources/newslet ters Follow Lee County Government on F a c e b o o k , w w w f a c e b o o k c o m / l e e c o u ntyflbocc LeeCares

SJCCA Schedule

Saturday, April 27

■ Garage Sale, 9 a m to noon Come by and see our items for sale Lamps, dishes and artwork -- too much to list, and new donations come in often

Tuesday, April 30

■ Shuffleboard, 9-11 a m

■ Ping Pong, 9 a m to 12:30 p m

m Cribbage is a card game, traditionally for two players, that involves playing and grouping cards in combinations which gain points It can be adapted for three or four players

Friday, April 26

■ Shuffleboard, 9-11 a m Come on over and play shuffleboard with us - no experience necessary

■ Golden Brush, 1-4 p.m.Come enjoy and share your love of painting

■ Dominos, 6-8 p m Dominoes is a game everyone can play -- kids, adults and even the old

More details, contacts, and ticket sales are available at SJCCAPI ORG

All activities are held at St James City Civic Association, 3300 Fourth Ave , at the corner of Lemon Street, in St James City

It was a great week of weather

ally! A complete week of good, consistent weather

Fishing wasn’t always the best, but the weather was great

On the Water

Morning hours with flat, calm water allowed tarpon hunters to search inshore, the passes and off the beaches

Pods of rolling tarpon were reported off the beach from Knapp’s Point up to Blind P a s s , i n a n d a r o u n d B o c a Grande Pass and throughout

P i n e I s l a n d S o u n d a n d

Charlotte Harbor Often, they were stubborn to take baits and various times the bite was hot Baits included small c r a b s , l i v e p i n f i s h , t h r e a d herring and various cut baits, and flies

S h a r k s w e r e c o m m o n hook-ups in areas were tarpon were present and areas with Spanish mackerel and ladyfish Offshore, most artificial reefs are holding sharks If you want to fight a shark, large or small, now is a good time

With calm seas, boats comfortably made the run offshore for grouper and snapper It wasn’t always a hot bite, however most filled the box with red grouper, snapper, porgy and a few African pompano, fishing depths from 80 to 120 feet A few mahi-mahis and one report of a sailfish came from those depths as well

Wrecks and reefs from 50 to 90 feet are holding a number of large amberjacks, barracuda and sharks Good sized mangrove and yellowtail snapper were caught from this depth, however it was hard to get one to the boat whole

Inshore, seatrout up to 22 inches took a variety of live and artificial baits over grass flats and around oyster bars in Pine Island Sound, and around oyster bars in Matlacha Pass on higher water

Spanish mackerel were taking small spoons, shrimp and pilchards outside the Sanibel C a u s e w a y a n d o f f t h e l i g h thouse, plus around any of the gulf passes Large ladyfish, and a few bluefish, were often running with the macks

Snook fishing was hit and miss for many anglers If you located some and they haven’t

already been caught and released earlier that day, they generally took baits Many anglers have noted that there just isn’t the normal amount of snook around Redfish up to 31 inches were caught and released fishing structure inside the gulf passes and slot-size reds came from mid-Pine Island Sound and the Buzzard Bay area of Matlacha Pass Around the passes, falling tide worked best, and the later stages of the high tide around island points and depressions worked best inshore

It felt good to have a week of consistent spring weather, but boy was it crowded over the weekend. If you are serious about fishing, especially inshore, and you can

choose days, fish during the week It’s a lot more enjoyable! Let’s hope the good weather continues

S t a y u p t o d a t e w i t h f i s h i n g r e g u l a t i o n s b y visiting www myfwc com Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone It has current regulations and seasons with pictures to help identify fish

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 Flori-da, and as a professional fishing guide for the past 23 years.

Greater Pine Island Civic Association May meeting cancelled

The May meeting of the Greater Pine Island Civic Association has been canceled due to a conflict with a Florida Department of Transportation meeting The FDOT meeting will focus on the share-use path along Pine Island Road and the GPICA board urges its members and other Pine Islanders to attend that meeting, which is taking place at the United Methodist Church of Pine Island

Please mark your calendar:

The June 4 GPICA meeting’s main speaker will be James Evans, CEO of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, who will provide an update on the lab, along with the latest news from the Protect Captiva coalition, which was established in June 2023 by concerned citizens and organizations in opposition to increasing building height and density and opening the door for hundreds of new hotel rooms on Captiva Island The coalition includes more than 13,000 residents, organizations and other individuals who are opposed to this shortsighted plan that will forever change the character and safety of Captiva

On July 2, GPICA expects to host a zoning officer f r o m t h e L e e C o u n t y D e p a r t m e n t o f C o m m u n i t y Development

GPICA meetings take place at 6:30 p m on the first Tuesday of every month at the First Baptist Church of Pine Island, 5363 Avenue D, Bokeelia, FL 33922

Members and non-members are welcome

Fatal accident

From page 2

The driver, whose name was not released, is a 24-yearold man from Cape Coral, officials said The man was not injured, according to the FHP report

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the sedan was traveling east on Pine Island Road NW, south of Island Avenue when it when off the roadway and entered the north gravel shoulder at about 5:50 p m The car then collided with a no-parking sign and wooden decorative post and traveled into the outside seating area of an eatery at 4590 Pine Island Road

The vehicle struck the building as well as a motorcycle parked at the restaurant, mailboxes and garbage cans, re-entered the roadway and struck a pickup truck, according to FHP

The crash remains under investigation Charges are pending, according to FHP

Capt Bill Russell

PHOTO PROVIDED

Bob, with the Brooks Fishing Club, is all smiles after battling this 30-inch snook out of the mangroves Bob caught and released it fishing in Matlacha Pass with Captain Bill Russell

Obituaries

Cat of the Week

Valencia

This adorable little girl never got the chance to be a kitten and enjoy life. She's barely a year old and has already had a litter of kittens and found herself at our shelter. Now that her kittens have been a d o p t e d a n d s h e ' s f i x e d , s h e ' s ready for a home where she will have the chance to be someone's baby Valencia is beautiful, curious, affectionate and well mannered If you are looking for a young kitty, this is the girl for you!

C a l l H e l p i n g P a w s A n i m a l

S a n c t u a r y a t 2 3 9 - 2 8 3 - 9 1 0 0 f o r more information. If you’d rather just donate, our address is 10060 Mallory Parkway E, Unit D, Saint James City 33956 or there’s always our website www helpingpawsanimalsanctuary com

The Greater Pine Island Elks #2781 will once again be sponsoring area children ages 9 through 13 to attend the F l o r i d a E l k s Y o u t h C a m p i n s c e n i c , Umatilla, Florida All children are welcome

The island lodge has 10 scholarships for children to enjoy a week of housing in the modern, air-conditioned cabins, meals, s w i m m i n g , c a n o e i n g , a q u a t i c c e n t e r , campfires, arts and crafts, a rope course and lots of fun, exercise and fresh air

To register a child, simply utilize the online application at feyc org A Greater Pine Island Elk will supply their name and member number as the child’s sponsor

The stated weekly cost per child is $220 Those who can afford this fee are urged to pay; those who cannot will be a f f o r d e d t h e s a m e o p p o r t u n i t y I t i s through the generosity of the Florida Elks Association, the Greater Pine Island Elks #2781, and donations from its members that tuition-free scholarships are made possible for campers

The Florida Elks Youth Camp is dedicated to enriching the lives of children from the state of Florida The mission is to mold the current generation of youth into adults The camp’s motto is to “inspire, connect and expand ”

Kids are inspired through the quality of t h e f a c i l i t y , s t a f f a n d p r o g r a m m i n g Without electronics, they help kids build

connections between themselves and their peers, counselors and nature Through all this, the campers have the opportunity to expand their compassion for others, their own self-confidence and their ability and desire to make an impact on the world around them

The camp staff presents a safe camp e x p e r i e n c e t h a t c o n t r i b u t e s t o e a c h c a m p e r ’ s m e n t a l , p h y s i c a l a n d s o c i a l growth

The Florida Elks Youth Camp, a project of the Florida State Elks Association, is located on 405 acres of rolling hills, forests, lakes and open space in Marion County, Florida It is a unique camping experience for seven weeks, during the summer Camp sessions last from Sunday afternoon to Saturday morning and provide c a m p e r s w i t h h o u s i n g , f o o d a n d , o f course, tons of fun

The Florida Elks Clubs are proud that the camp is accredited by the American Camping Association and is re-certified every three years to insure compliance and a safe camping environment for children

Wish to take a virtual tour of the camp? Further information, videos and pictures can be found at www feyc org

For additional information about the camp, please contact Judy Hopkins, the i s l a n d E l k s e x a l t e d r u l e r , a t j u h o pkins@msn com

Bridge Beat

Matlacha Hookers From page 2

Christy Rau, Real Tours, Sandy Reynolds, Andrea Ross, Randy Ross Caterers, Saint James City Automotive, Saint James Fish House, Salon Alvarez, Salty Girls Island

Café, Sam’s Club, Salty Girls Grab & Go, Spots Ice Cream, Crepes & Sauce, Laura S u r i a , S w e e n e y ’ s S O S , T a m p a B a y Buccaneers, Tarpon Lodge, The Eagle’s

Nest Restaurant, Total Wine and More, Trader’s Hitching Post, Umbrella Mafia, Uni-scape Landscaping & Design, Kristin

V a r a l y , W a t e r f r o n t R e s t a u r a n t , D a v i d

W a t s o n , W i c k e d D o l p h i n , W i l d f l y

C h a r t e r s , Y e l l o w R i v e r G a r d e n s a n d

Yogaz

The Hookers also offer huge thanks to CW Fudge for its numerous years of support and delicious desserts that always make the group's events so special And to Randy Ross Caterers for an excellent lunch

The Matlacha Hookers Luau Team, which organized and ran this year ’s successful fundraising event for the island club.

If you would like to participate in the Hookers Recycle Program, please consider donating a silent auction basket for next year's event Simply drop it off at Traders Hitching Post in Matlacha

The Matlacha Hookers is a 501 (3) women’s charitable non-profit organization The organization has over 200 members from Matlacha and the Greater Pine Island area, Cape Coral, North Fort Myers and Fort Myers For more information, see the Hookers website at www matlachahookers org

they have for the past 40-plus years

To qualify, each student t meet the following criteria: B resident of Pine Island or have a t t e n d e d P i n e I s l a n d Elementary School

T h e a p p l i c a n t m u s

The Beacon of Hope Attic Thrift Store will have new hours for the summer season starting Monday, May 6

T h e s t o r e w i l l b e o p e

School Board of Lee County provides legislative update

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

T h e S c h o o l B o a r d o f L e e C o u n t y accomplished many of its priorities during the 2024 Legislative Session

At the top of the list?

Needed funds

“This year under your direction and the superintendent, we asked for $6 1 (million) for appropriation project funding As of right now we are waiting for governor’s approval in funding for $5 6 million,” C h i e f C o m m u n i c a t i o n & G o v e r n m e n t Relations Officer Angel Gomez said at l a s t w e e k ' s B o a r d s e s s i o n “ A g r e a t achievement I can’t thank you enough ”

Other successes included Cape Coral Technical College Phase II - $2 1 million, which has been funded and is awaiting the governor's action, as well as Fort Myers Technical College - East Annex Phase 1, pre-construction, of $2 5 million, both of which have been funded and awaiting the governor's action

G r a y - R o b i n s o n S e n i o r G o v e r n m e n t

Affairs Advisor Dr Kim McDougal credited the board for its willingness to go to Tallahassee

“Great job and thank you I can’t say thank you enough,” she said recently

Gomez went over the School District of Lee County’s 2024 legislative priorities and the areas that moved forward

Some of the highlights included two Senate Bills 7002 and 7004 for deregulation of public schools requests for all public schools to have the same statutory flexibility

The presentation went into detail of both of the bills, which ranged from flexibility to set salaries for instructional personnel to enhancing the ability of school boards to plan for and manage their facilities for SB 7002

The other deregulation of public school bill, SB 7004 includes revising elementary school student progression planning to identify students in kindergarten through second grade with substantial deficiency in reading and math to greater

flexibility in offering Voluntary Pre-K summer programs

Gomez said another student achievement priority was support for increase of per student funding by at least 5%

“The total funds per student increase was 2 75%,” he said

Safety was a crucial priority as well, Gomez said

T h e r e q u e s t w a s s u p p o r t f o r a n increase in the Safe Schools’ Allocation i n t h e F l o r i d a E d u c a t i o n F i n a n c e Program He said that resulted in a $40 million overall increase statewide for a total of $290 million funded

There was another success for safety and security enhancements and a mobile disaster response vehicle appropriation project of $1 million

Another success occurred under the district’s teacher certification and retention priority House Bill 151 This bill permits retired classroom teachers and administrators to return to the classroom after six months

M c D o u g a l w e n t t h r o u g h n u m e r o u s other bills of interest, some of which were approved by the governor and others have yet to be sent to the governor

One of the highlights, HB 537 - a twoyear music-based Supplemental Content to Accelerate Learner Engagement and S u c c e s s P i l o t P r o g r a m w i t h t h e Department of Education She said it’s a pilot program that will use music to get students interested in STEM programs

Another education bill, SB 7032, is the creation of the Graduation Alternative to Traditional Education (GATE) Program, G A T E S c h o l a r s h i p P r o g r a m , G A T E S t a r t u p G r a n t P r o g r a m a n d G A T E Program Performance Fund

McDougal said this bill was driven by the Senate and has not yet been sent to the governor The program reengages students who have withdrawn from high school by providing opportunities to earn career education credentials while also completing a standard high school diploma, or equivalent credential

Owen-Ames-Kimball completes second phase of Lee Health’s Outpatient Center at Surfside

Owen-Ames-Kimball Company, a general contractor with a longstanding presence in Southwest Florida, has completed t h e s e c o n d p h a s e o f L e e H e a l t h ’ s Outpatient Center at Surfside, situated at the intersection of Veterans Parkway and Surfside Boulevard in Cape Coral

Phase two of the project marks an expansion of the two-story complex, which initially opened its doors in 2015 Located at 2441 Surfside Blvd , this outpatient facility provides Pine Island and Cape Coral residents convenient access to a wide range of healthcare services under one roof

The newly constructed two-story build-

William Tidball

special, but if you ask me to do something, it’s more than likely that I’m going to do it,” Tidball said

Through every event and in whatever he touches, Tidball tries to bring a spirit of c o o p e r a t i o n , a n d a c c o r d i n g t o J u l i e Kester, a vendor, on the occasion of last year’s Beacon of Hope Holiday House fundraiser, his generosity caused laughter f r o m a n o n l o o k i n g c r o w d , a s a b o y ,

ing seamlessly integrates with the existing facility, enhancing its capacity and offeri n g s S p a n n i n g a p p r o x i m a t e l y 1 5 , 3 2 1 square feet, the expansion includes finished medical offices, exam rooms, treatment b a y s a n d p o i n t - o f - c a r e t e s t i n g a r e a s

Additionally, the project involved the demolition and reconstruction of connection points with the existing facility and the expansion and reconfiguration of the site plan, resulting in the addition of sixty-six parking spaces

O-A-K oversaw the implementation of new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection systems, site utilities, and a robust, rigid insulation roofing system,

From page 1

approximately aged 5 or 6 entered the area assigned to CW Fudge Factory retail and took a piece of candy made by CW Fudge Kester explained that the boy asked how much for the candy in his hand, and Tidball held up five fingers, indicating that the candy was priced at $5

The little boy assumed Tidball was waving and waved back, before running off with the candy

ensuring longevity and efficiency.

"We take immense pride in our collaboration with Lee Health on the second phase of the Outpatient Center at Surfside, which will significantly enhance access to primary and specialized services for residents a n d v i s i t o r s a l i k e , " r e m a r k e d M a t t h e w Zwack, president of O A-K Florida

Kevin James was the project manager, and Kristen Raposa was the project engineer Jordan Fike and John Bojczuk prov i d e d l e a d e r s h i p a s s u p e r i n t e n d e n t s Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP was the architect for the project.

O-A-K offers commercial construction services to clients in Michigan, Florida, a n d C o l o r a d o . O w e n - A m e s - K i m b a l l Company has provided general contracting, design-build, and construction management services in Southwest Florida since 1982 An employee-owned company, O-A-K Florida, Inc 's board of directors comprises members from the company's Florida operations

Kester said everyone in the area was laughing wildly, until a minute later when the boy returned to Tidball and handed him the candy, because he could not get the package opened Without hesitation, Tidball proceeded to open the candy and handed it back to the child, who ran off again, without notice of the crowd who had now broken up into hysterics from the display Tidball said he feels that being part of any community means taking your part seriously and watching out for one

O-A-K's Florida operation is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan The Florida operation has offices in Collier and Lee counties Its Lee County office is at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. Learn more about O-A-K at w w w o w e n - a m e s - k i m b a l l c o m o r c a l l 239-561-4141

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“In the end, even someone you may not like needs help sometimes and we just help them anyway,” Tidball said

After more than 10 years of being here, T i d b a l l s a i d h e a n d G o m e z a r e s t i l l amazed by the way they were welcomed and made to feel at home by islanders

“I can’t imagine ever being anywhere else ultimately we’ll retire but we’ll always be connected here,” Tidball said

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