Cape Coral Weekend Breeze

Yacht Club demolition could come as soon as September

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The demolition of the historic Yacht Club could come as early as September Director of Capital Improvements Paul Clinghan, during Wednesday night’s Cape Coral City Council meeting, again provided an update about the city-owned complex, heavily damaged by Hurricane Ian, which took out the pier and damaged the marina

A citizen effort is underway to have the Yacht Club centerpiece building declared historic and so prevent its demolition. Dubbed ‘the hub and heart’ of the community when the Cape’s founders opened it for the public in 1961, the club house should be preserved, according to the group, which has launched a Facebook page, Save the Cape Coral Yacht Club Their email, for those who want more information on their effort, is savetheccyachtclub@gmail com

Clinghan said they can use KimleyHorn to put a bid package together for the d e m o l i t i o n o f t h e Y a c h t C l u b f o r

September or October He said there are discussions being held with details being worked out to have a charity auction for

some of the ballroom materials before the demolition takes place.

The prospect of tearing down the historic main building that dates back to the first days of the community’s development, has drawn public protestation and a preservation effort B o b L a u s o n , a r e s i d e n t o f O r c h i d B o u l e v a r d , s p o k e d u r i n g p u b l i c i n p u t Wednesday to share concerns regarding the

See YACHT CLUB, page 24

Diplomat student is Safety Patroller of the Year

Fifth grader earns Florida and National AAA commendation

B y M E G H A N B R A D B U RY n e w s @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m

O p e n i n g c a r d o o r s i n t h e m o r n i n g i s j u s t o n e j o b a m o n g t h e m a n y t h a t f i f t h g r a d e S a f e t y P a t r o l s t a k e o n d u r i n g t h e s c h o o l d a y , a l l w h i l e b u i l d i n g r e l a t i o ns h i p s w i t h s t u d e n t s O n T h u r s d a y , D i p l o m a t E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l f i f t h g r a d e r E l i z a O d o m w a s r e co g n i z e d a s t h e F l o r i d a a n d

LCMCD uses a variety of control techniques to reduce mosquito population

B y C J H A D D A D c j h a d d a d @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m

As F l o r i d a ’ s r a i n y s e a s o n g e t s u n d e r w a y a n d a f t e r n o o n s h o w e r s a r e p a r t o f t h e a f t e r n o o n c o m m u t e , b r e e d i n g c o n d it i o n s f o r t h e p e s k y m o s q u i t o w i l l d r a s t i c a l l y i m p r o v e T h e L e e C o u n t y M o s q u i t o C o n t r o l D i s t r i c t w o r k s y e a r - r o u n d t o c u r b t h e i n s e c t t h a t c a n l e a v e y o u w i t h i t c h y b u m p s a n d c a n c a r r y d i se a s e

L C M C D u s e s a v a r i e t y o f b i o l o g i c a l , m e c h a n i c a l , a n d c h e m i c a l c o n t r o l t e c h n i q u e s t o r e d u c e m o s q u i t o p o p u l a t i o n s , w i t h a l l m a t er i a l s u s e d t h o r o u g h l y t e s t e d a s p a r t o f t h e U S

E n v i r o n m e n t a l P r o t e c t i o n A g e n c y r e g i s t r a t i o n p r o c e s s T h e m a t e r i a l s u s e d t o c o n t r o l m o s q u i t o l a r -

v a e a r e c a l l e d l a r v i c i d e s , a n d a r e a p p l i e d b y g r o u n d a n d a i r u s i n g a d v a n c e d t e c h n o l o g y i n c l u d i n g s a t e l l i t e n a v i g a t i o n a n d g l o b a l p o s it i o n i n g f o r p r e c i s i o n a p p l i c a t i o n t a r g e t i n g “ W e c o n t i n u e t o h a v e c r e w s o u t d a i l y c o mp l e t i n g i n s p e c t i o n s a n d t r e a t i n g a r e a s w h e n n e e d e d , ” s a i d L C M C D C o m m u n i t y E n g a g e m e n t C o o r d i n a t o r J a m i e F o w l e r " T r e a t m e n t s a r e b a s e d o f f o f s u r v e i l l a n c e a n d d a t a T h e d i s t r i c t u s e s d a t a f r o m d a i l y i n s p e ct i o n s a n d t r a p s i n o r d e r t o d e t e r m i n e a n d j u s t if y a t r e a t m e n t f o r t h e a r e a ” W h i l e a m o s q u i t o ’ s a d u l t l i f e s p a n l a s t s t y p -

i c a l l y t h r e e t o s i x w e e k s ( u p t o f i v e m o n t h s i n

f a v o r a b l e c o n d i t i o n ) a n d m a n y s e r v e a s f o o d f o r b i r d s , d r a g o n f l i e s , a n d s p i d e r s , t h e i r b i t e

c a n t r a n s m i t u n f a v o r a b l e v i r u s t o a n i m a l s a n d

See MOSQUITOES, page 26

N a t i o n a l A A A

S c h o o l S a f e t y P a t r o l l e r o f t h e Y e a r f o r t h e 2 0 2 2 -

2 0 2 3 s c h o o l y e a r

A A A r e c o g n i z e s o n e p a t r o l l e r f r o m e a c h s t a t e e v e r y y e a r F r o m t h a t s e l e c t i o n a s t u d e n t i s t h e n s e l e c t e d t o b e n a t i o n a l l y r e co g n i z e d a s t h e A A A S c h o o l S a f e t y P a t r o l l e r o f t h e Y e a r “ W e l l I a m r e a l l y h a p p y a b o u t i t , ” s h e s a i d o f r e c e i v i n g t h e a w a r d s “ I t h a s b e e n r e a l l y f u n t o d o S a f e t y P a t r o l , h e l p i n g t h e k i d s a n d m a k i n g t h e m f e e l b e t t e r ” E l i z a a s s i s t s E x c e p t i o n a l S t u d e n t E d u c a t i o n s t u d e n t s t o t h e b u s r a m p i n t h e a f t e r n o o n s S h e s a i d i n t h e m o r n i n g s h e

See DIPLOMAT, page 12

Eliza Odom

To d ay ’ s A d I n s e r t s*

Former city manager’s allegations of discrimination, retaliation,

unsubstantiated Attorney representing Rob Hernandez says lawsuit against the city will proceed

By VALARIE HARRING vharring@breezenewspapers com

An independent investigator hired by the city of Cape Coral to review workplace allegations made by the city’s former top administrator has concluded that the claims are unsubstantiated

Sacha Dyson, of GrayRobinson, concluded that the non-renewal of former city manager Rob Hernandez’s contract and his subsequent termination did not violate protections under state and federal law, nor did the city discriminate against any employee or retaliate through its actions

“As set forth in the, findings, based on the preponderance of the evidence, I conclude that the non-renewal and termination of Roberto Hernandez was not in violation of Title VII, the FCRA, or the FWA,” the report’s conclusion states “He did not engage in protected activity during his

employment with the City His contract was not renewed and he was terminated for legitimate, nondiscriminatory reasons, which Mr Hernandez has not rebutted nor do the statements of the twenty-five witnesses interviewed support that these reasons were false and that the real reason was discrimination or retaliation Mr Hernandez failed to build a relationship of trust and respect with the council members, he failed to communicate effectively, and he was not responsive to the needs of the council members His actions after the non-renewal decision, including those in the managers’ meeting and in his conversations with the EDO (city’s Economic Development Office), were inappropriate Accordingly, I find that there has been no violation of law or policy in the non-renewal and termination of Roberto Hernandez

“Based on my investigation and the preponderance of the evidence, I further find that no action has been taken or recommended to be taken against any employee because of his or her race or any other protected characteristic or protected activity I have not been able to substantiate that the work environment is in violation of any equal employment opportunity policy or based on a protected characteristic or any protected activity Instead, actions were taken for legitimate, nondiscriminatory, nonretaliatory reasons ”

According to the report, Hernandez was one of two of 27 individuals Dyson sought to interview who did not participate in the process, formally declining through his attorney due to pending litigation

“Therefore, I concluded my investigation based on the information available to me,” Dyson wrote in the report, which is dated May 12 and was sent to Deputy City Attorney Brian Bartos via email and U.S. mail.

Hernandez’s attorney, Benjamin H Yormak of Yormak Employment & Disability Law, said the findings were not unanticipated given that the city chose the investigative firm It also paid for the report He added it changes noth-

ing in terms of the lawsuit Hernandez will continue to pursue against the city

“I doubt any reader is surprised there’s no finding against the City given that the mayor and council handpicked an employment defense attorney to investigate claims made against them (like a defendant being allowed to select their own judge and jury),” he said via email in response to a Breeze request for comment “We look forward to presenting Mr Hernandez’s claims before an impartial jury of his peers ”

Mayor John Gunter released a short statement Monday afternoon saying that while the matter continues on other fronts, the findings are a vindication

“While this legal matter may not yet be over, I want to express my gratitude to the firm we hired for their thorough investigation into the claims made by former City Manager Roberto Hernandez,” Gunter said “As Mayor, I stand by the decision to terminate Mr Hernandez The outcome of the investigation clearly states that there is no evidence to support the allegations made by Hernandez regarding any improprieties by City Council The City of Cape Coral deserves to have someone exceptional in the role of City Manager because excellence must start at the top, and Hernandez just wasn’t that person ”

Cape Coral Council voted 5-3 on Feb 1 to not renew Hernandez’s rolling three-year contract with the city

Two weeks later, on Feb 14, Yormak sent the city a damages and settlement letter outlining the allegations that GrayRobinson subsequently was contracted to investigate Advising the city that the enumerated violations of various federal and state civil rights acts could result in damages in excess of $1,165,000, the letter asked for $550,000, a neutral job reference and a public apology for professionally disparaging remarks made by council members concerning Hernandez’s employment

Council then voted 5-3 to terminate Hernandez without cause

D y s o n w r o t e t h a t s h e identified each of the allegations in made in the Feb 14 letter to the city and interviewed 25 individuals over three days to reach her findi n g s S h e s a i d s h e a l s o reviewed a variety of documents including emails, performance evaluations, personnel files and documents, recordings of council meetings and other records

“I have made my factual f i n d i n g s a n d c o n c l u s i o n s based on the information available to me, including my review of documents and interviews of those individuals who agreed to participate in this investigat i o n , ” s h e w r o t e “ T h e s e findings are not based on r u m o r , g o s s i p , s u b j e c t i v e belief, collective thought, assumptions, presumptions, or conclusions based on secondhand information They are based on the preponderance of the evidence after consideration of the totality of the evidence, including the personal knowledge of the witnesses In assessing the evidence, I analyzed the documents and conducted witness interviews I used reasoning, common sense, my knowledge of the law, and my experience as an investigator to evaluate the evidence, make deductions, and reach the conclusions set forth in this report In determining the credibility

OPINIONS

CAPE CORAL BREE ZE

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

Spay, neuter & adopt, not shop

Every year, just when the weather in Southwest Florida turns perfect warm sunny days, cool breezy nights, we get the perennial press release from the county: “Kitten Season in full swing at Lee County Domestic Animal Services ”

For those of us who consider our four-legged furries family members, it’s a buzz kill worse than the start of mosquito season

Each spring, area shelters get inundated with guests that might be better called frightened and confused conscripts Many are cats and kittens and it is harder for shelters and rescues to find homes for them as compared to dogs and puppies

This year, the numbers are up

“Since January of this year, there has been a 12 6% increase in cats arriving at the shelter,” the Lee County Domestic Animal Services received last Friday states

The county agency has taken in 776 felines so far this year

What happens to them?

Most have what could be called a positive outcome. A handful are claimed by their owners Some are brought to the agency as trap-neuter-release strays and they are treated and released back to their colony location Many are transferred to various rescues Some are adopted into their “forever” home, a best-case scenario

In February, about 82 percent of cats taken in fell into one of those “live release” scenarios compared to about 92 percent of dogs

In March, about 76 percent of cats were a “live release” compared to about 86 percent of dogs

The rest were not

For those troubled by the numbers, let us emphasize that this is not a problem with Domestic Animal Services.

To quote Pogo:

“We have met the enemy and he is us ”

Those of us who do not spray or neuter

Those of us who think it’s OK for pets to free roam

Those of us who buy a pedigreed or trendy cross-breed only to discover that we should have done some research before paying plenty for a companion with traits that require lots of training or expensive care

But back to “kitten season ”

Lee County Domestic Animal Services is asking for the community to adopt, foster or donate

Here is how to help:

New families are needed for all those cats and kittens Now through Tuesday, May 30, all adoption fees on cats and kittens will be waived with an approved application

Not only will you get a fur-ever companion, but a bargain to boot adoption packages are valued at more than $600 as spay/neuter, age-appropriate vaccinations, county license, microchip, deworming and feline aids and leukemia test for cats, (heartworm tests for dogs 6 months and older) are all included

The adoption center hours of operation are 10:30 a m to 3:30 p m , Monday through Saturday Adoptable pets can be viewed online at LeeLostPets com and applications can be filled out in advance.

Call 239-533-7387 for more information

For those who can’t make a lifetime commitment, fosters are needed as well to provide essential care for kittens or puppies who are too young for adoption; for nursing mothers and their litter; and for other animals in need including those recov-

Pass the budget, support families with autism

Autism It’s a hard diagnosis to swallow

A lot of my hopes and dreams for my son, Kolby, changed after that diagnosis.

Without many programs for children or young adults with autism, it was a difficult journey until we found Family Initiative, which believes every child, young adult and family has the chance to thrive

The nonprofit Florida-based organization supports families like ours, providing social skills programs, clinical services and education with a very personalized focus on each individual child and family Family Initiative listens to the families they serve, and together, we are very strong advocates for children on the autism spectrum, and we have very clearly defined one of our greatest areas of need a private educational setting for young people on the spectrum Another moment of clarity came after Hurricane Ian Our region needs a special needs shelter that can adequately protect our children and families in the event of another natural disaster

Guest Commentary

Thrive Academy has been piloted as a micro school in the 2022 school year and will serve high school students with autism Currently, 10 children on the autism spectrum are enrolled, and we will be ready to enroll more students in the fall. Additionally, Thrive Academy will provide wraparound specialized education, vocational training and clinical support The funding will support the acquisition, renovation or construction, and operations for Thrive Academy

As we pursue our goal of creating Thrive Academy, we are thankful to Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, Florida House Rep Jenna Persons-Mulicka and Florida Sen Jonathan Martin for including funding for the Thrive Academy and special needs shelter in the proposed state budget Family Initiative parents and board members applaud these leaders for estab-

The true heroes

To the editor:

lishing a safer, brighter, more independent future for young people on the autism spectrum while also protecting families needing shelter from another big storm The budget, as recently agreed to by the House and Senate budget chairs, includes $5 million for the acquisition and construction of a school and special needs shelter in Southwest Florida

The Legislature authorized the planning and development of a school in the budget in 2022, with the idea that it would be fully developed later The next step is for lawmakers to approve the funding

The Thrive Academy and special needs shelter will give young people on the autism spectrum the opportunity to become more self-sufficient using their unique talents

These true public servants have embraced this project and strengthened it by including a special needs shelter designed specifically for families with special needs This project will build on what was started last session and will provide protection for families in an emergency We are immensely grateful, and we thank the delegation and Gov Ron DeSantis for empowering parents to make educational decisions impacting our children and for protecting us in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian

Thrive Academy will fill a huge gap in our education system, and as a result, our children will thrive. They deserve a chance to learn in a setting that’s best suited for their needs, and we are inspired for the launch of Thrive Academy They will learn so much, and so will we Kolby has certainly taught us a lot He has taught me to be more open, more patient and to advocate for what’s best for him

Jessica Van Hart is a board member with Family Initiative For more information, visit https://www fi-florida org/ or call 239-910-0712

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

starting to talk about cleaning up their septic tanks

Jim Jeskie VP/Treasurer SWCCAC

This past week, I had the privilege of attending the Everest Neighborhood Association meeting for an update of the Caloosahatchee Connect Project presented by Cape Coral’s project manager and the contractors president, Kaye Molnar For the past several months Everest Parkway, the main artery for the Everest neighborhood has been torn up laying underground pipe from the Caloosahatchee River to Cape Coral’s Everest water treatment plant The underground section of the project is now completed Phase 1 and 2 of the above ground pipe assembly was a n n o u n c e d T h e f u l l l e n g t h o f w e s t b o u n d E v e r e s t Parkway will be utilized to build and assemble the connecting pipe to be pushed through the hole now being drilled under the Caloosahatchee riverbed This pipe will connect Cape Coral to Fort Myers waste water system Westbound Everest Parkway will be closed to traffic; the cross-through intersections will be limited The pipe will be elevated over usable intersections for cars to pass under The total time for this project will be over one year.

During the hour-long update, followed by a questionand-answer period, not one complaint or harsh word was voiced by the residents of Everest Parkway against the project All questions were positive, asking how to work and live around this major inconvenience

The residents of the Everest Parkway neighborhood are the heroes in Cape Coral’s effort to a better environment, a pollution-free river, and a cleanup of the partially treated wastewater that Fort Myers has been dumping directly into the Caloosahatchee River

The city of Cape Coral and its homeowners have spent several million dollars expanding our waste water treatment system, eliminating septic tanks in the Spreader Canal water body area, and replacing storm water catch basins which drain to this waterway Compare this to our island neighbors Pine Island and Matlacha, who are just

South West Cape Coral Action Committee

How egotistical can our Cape Coral Council get?

To the editor:

Councilmember Dan Sheppard’s comments about city volunteer committees and boards being a waste of city time and resources shows a total lack of respect for citizen input Mr Sheppard believes that the eight elected officials should receive all city management input versus the public getting any data firsthand

One of the committees the council would like to eliminate is the Budget Review Committee (BRC) It was stated that the committee is becoming too knowledgeable about the operations of the city and was overstepping its bounds in its preparation for the upcoming 2024 budget review According to the council, this knowledge should be reserved for the council The qualifications for being selected (by the council) to the BRC requires extensive educational, financial, and budgeting experience

It is safe to say that most of the council members would not qualify to be BRC members based on these standards How do we expect this council, with half of them only having a high school education, no big business or big gove r n m e n t e x p e r i e n c e , p r o p e r l y r e v i e w a 3 3 0 - p a g e , $1,200,000,000 budget?

The BRC attends all retreats and workshops, takes the time to read the budget, prepare questions and takes eight days of discussion with the Finance Department to complete their review Many of our council members would not spend this amount of time or have the background or experience to ask the right questions

Furthermore, The Breeze editorial in the prior week’s edition spelled it out perfectly concerning how the city See LETTERS, page 7

Jessica Van Hart

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - THE CHIQUITA LOCK

Chiquita lock kills manatees; city’s ‘mitgation plan’ questionable

To the editor:

Mr Costello recently wrote that the city of Cape Coral and hundreds of residents would like the Chiquita Lock removed to save the manatees and are willing to make accommodations to “ensure” minimal environmental impact and maybe even benefit

I would like to respond, point by point, as a trained soil scientist, part-time boater and lifelong skeptic

1 Manatees are killed/crushed in the lock

Ten manatees killed in the lock in 23 years doesn’t seem like a huge number Manatees are also killed by boaters I witnessed a boat speeding through the back bay of Matlacha last year and it suddenly became airborne after colliding with an underwater object on the edge of the channel A manatee carcass was found a couple weeks later near the site

I would be interested in reading the necropsy reports before blaming the lock for the deaths

2 The answer is not a “Manatee Protection System ” This statement needs to be balanced against manatee density in the Glades County locks area. If the manatee population is 2-3 times higher than the Cape Coral area, the protection seems to be working at reducing mortality

3 Those who oppose taking out the lock say they are for the environment, but apparently don’t care about the manatee

The manatee is just one part of the marine environment S e a g r a s s i s a n i m p o r t a n t f o r a g e f o r t h e m a n a t e e Anecdotal evidence suggests the sea grass quality and quantity has been degraded in the Matlacha Pass since the removal of the Ceitus Lock Perhaps the manatees are using the locks to commit suicide because they are starving ??

Mr. Costello goes on to list the projects proposed by Cape Coral to ameliorate the predicted consequences of the lock removal

1 The replacement of storm water catch basins which drain to the waterway

How does replacing the catch basins change the course of the water leaving in pipes from the catch basin? The catch basins are 50 + years old, they are going to need replacing as a matter of course

2 The replacement of the storm water management system associated with the dog park at Rotary Park Really, What’s going on at the dog park? I’m told by friends, who use that park, that the owners pick up their dog’s poo No poo, no nutrients going into the water Besides, dog poo has organic matter that holds the nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) for a slower plant useable release, unlike the mineral fertilizer everyone likes to spread on their lawns along with the “bonus” weed or bug control

3 Contributions to the study of the endangered smalltooth sawfish

How much? Fifty dollars, maybe a C-note? How generous is Cape Coral with Ol’ Mother Nature and the people who want to protect her? Put it in writing!

4 Implementation of an aquatic vegetation removal program. Why? Maybe the manatees are eating that vegetation because they can’t get enough sea grass There’s the outside chance it would go away if y’all would convert to native plants in your yards instead of wasting water, chemicals and mineral fertilizer on non-native species which contributes to canal water pollution and subsequently marine life degradation

5 The planting of 3,000 mangrove seedlings and installing oyster reef balls So the city is going to plant seedlings in the water along the seawall? Are they going to tend them and replace what may sicken and die? Hurricane Ian took out a couple of oyster reefs in Matlacha Pass, is Cape Coral going to continuously maintain or replace their oyster reefs to fixed parameters? What outside agency is going to supervise these projects?

6 The city has negotiated with the city of Fort Myers on an inter-local agreement for the city to purchase and dispose of reclaimed water generated by Fort Myers (the Connect Project) This Connect Project will result in a substantial reduction of nutrients to the Caloosahatchee River

How’s Cape Coral going to use this water so it reduces the nutrient load in the Caloosahatchee and not raise it in Matlacha Pass? Just curious

7 A detailed public education program concerning endangered species, boater safety and water quality protection

How are you going to make people listen and learn? I love sitting on my dock on weekends and watching two or

three DA’s run up on the barely submerged oyster bars because they don’t read charts! These are the same people who go blasting through the channel in Matlacha Pass well above the posted speeds because they have more horsepower than IQ!

The letter writer states the lock has been open for seven months with no degradation of the mangroves Do you believe in acid rain? How about global warming? Neither of these phenomena began shortly after humans started burning high sulfur coal or aromatic hydrocarbons. The glaciers took thousands of years to form and subsequently recede Nature doesn’t act, or react, quickly

We have a 42-acre mangrove island behind our house which Ian tore to shreds It is just beginning to look more green than brown at the end of seven months Are you sure of the viability of the mangroves you’re referring to?

The Chiquita Lock has been around a long time Let’s make sure that good science has a say in what happens with it

Dan Herfurth Matlacha

Chiquita lock ser ves no purpose, has a heavy downside

To the editor:

I, like hundreds of other Cape Coral residents, would like to see the Chiquita Lock removed/permanently opened

With the current problematic environmental condition of the Caloosahatchee River, the lock serves no purpose

My wife and I live full-time on an interior gulf canal whose brine water goes through the Chiquita lock, and we can attest that our water is environmentally cleaner than that of the river

We have none of the algae growths or red tide blooms that have affected the canals along the Caloosahatchee River, and our canal has multiple manatees that apparently prefer to live and feed in our cleaner inland canal waters versus that of the river

In addition to the water being cleaner within the canals, manatees are being killed/crushed due to the lock Sixtyive manatees have died in Florida locks, since 2012, and four were killed in Chiquita lock in the last two years

We are also wasting a large amount of dollars on the lock itself, as follows:

Daily Operation - operator wages and benefits, electrical costs & inspections

Increasing monthly maintenance of the old, outdated lock

Damage costs due to the collision of boats when entering and while in the lock

That money has many better uses versus keeping up a locking system that has become outdated and no longer serves its original purpose

These wasted dollars could further support:

e p l a c e m e n t s o f s t o r m w a t e r c a t c h basins

Contributions to further study endangered small tooth sawfish

Planting over 3,000 mangrove seedlings along the waterway and installation of oyster reef balls along the seawalls

Funding more educational programs concerning endangered species and water quality protection

Since the Chiquita lock opened in 1984, the city of Cape Coral has continued to make positive impacts on the environment, including the following:

Installed public sewers, potable water and re-use irrigation water within areas draining to the South Spreader Waterway and adjacent fresh water canals

Installed a deep injection well at the SW Reverse Osmosis potable water treatment plant to eliminate RO filtrate from normal plant operations to Lake Finnister which is connected to the spreader waterway

Implemented a dual water system for irrigation with improvements at waste water treatment plants to eliminate treated wastewater effluent discharges to the Caloosahatchee River

Began an interlock agreement for the City to purchase and dispose of reclaimed water generated by Fort Myers, resulting in a substantial reduction of nutrients to the Caloosahatchee River

Do we continue down an outdated path to further waste dollars and the environment or do we stand up and do what is right for the environment?

Thank you for your consideration and commitment to resolve this issue

Gary Lane Cape Coral

New locks, Nor th Spreader cut-though, needed to protect waterquality

To the editor: M a y b e i t ’ s t i m e f o r t h e p r e s e n t l o c k t o s t a y i n p l a c e , o n e t o b e r e i n s t a l l e d , a n d a n o t h e r t o b e i n s t a l l e d a t t h e t o p o f t h e N S p r e a d e r C a n a l T h e p r o b l e m i s s i m p l e a n d i t ’ s c a l l e d p o o r w a t e r q u a l i t y w i t h a c o n s i d e r a b l e a n d e v e r - g r o w i n g a m o u n t o f p o l l u t a n t s o r i g i n a t i n g f r o m C a p e C o r a l s t o r m w a t e r r u n o f f w i t h t h e r e s u l t b e i n g t h e c o n t i n u e d l o s s o f p r e c i o u s u n d e r w a t e r h a b i t a t t h r o u g h o u t a r e a s o f M a t l a c h a P a s s a n d P i n e I s l a n d S o u n d I s t h e C a p e t h e o n l y s o u r c e o f t h e s e e n v i r o nm e n t a l p o i s o n s ? N o t a t a l l a s M a t l a c h a a n d P i n e I s l a n d c o n t r i b u t e s i t s s h a r e a l o n g w i t h s o u r c e s t o t h e n o r t h t h a t p o l l u t e t h e h a r b o r t h a t m i x e s w i t h o u r l o c a l w a t e r s F i n a l l y t h e s t e a d y s t r e a m o f a g r i c u l t u r e a n d a n i m a l f a r m i n g p o l l u t a n t s f r o m L a k e O k e e c h o b e e a d d s t o t h e l o c a l t o x i c s t e w “ S t o r m w a t e r r u n o f f i s o n e o f t h e l a r g e s t w a t e r p o ll u t i o n i s s u e s f a c i n g t h e U S t o d a y , ” s a y s L a r r y L e v i n e , a s e n i o r a t t o r n e y i n t h e N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e D e f e n s e C o u n c i l ’ s w a t e r p r o g r a m . D a i l y s u m m e r r a i n s w a s h p e s t i c i d e s , h e a v y m e t a l s , a n d p e t r o c h e m i c a l s f r o m C a p e l a w n s a n d r o a d s i n t o n o r t h w e s t C a p e c a n a l s t h e n i n t o t h e S p r e a d e r t h e n i n t o M a t l a c h a C i t i e s a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y a r e a d d r e s s i n g t h i s s t o r m w a t e r r u n o f f c o n t a m i n a t i o n i n a b i g w a y a n d w e n e e d t o g e t s e r i o u s a n d d o o u r p a r t a s a c i t y t o m i t i g a t e t h e d a m a g e w e c a u s e t o o u r s e l v e s a n d n e i g h b o r s O n d a i l y f i s h i n g t r i p s i n M a t l a c h a P a s s , h o r s e s h o e c r a b s , s e a h o r s e s , f i l e f i s h , s t a r f i s h , a n d o t h e r w a t e r q u a l i t y s e n s i t i v e m a r i n e l i f e w a s a l w a y s p r e s e n t , b u t n o w g o n e M y c a n a l u s e d t o b e f u l l o f b l u e c r a b s I r a r e l y s e e o n e n o w H u g e a r e a s o f v i t a l s e a g r a s s ’ s g o n e T h e s e a r e a l l o b v i o u s i n d i c a t o r s o f a m a r i n e s y s t e m i n r e a l t r o u b l e A n o t h e r h u g e e n v i r o n m e n t a l a n d l o g i s t i c a l p r o b l e m f o r M a t l a c h a a n d C a p e C o r a l i s o v e r s i z e c o m m e r c i a l g r o w t h o n t h e S p r e a d e r a l l u s i n g t i n y M a t l a c h a a s a p a s s a g e o u t t o t h e h a r b o r T h e l o g i s t i c a l p r o b l e m t h e p l a n n e d 7 I s l a n d s p r o j e c t i n c l u d e s a 3 0 0 s l i p m a r i n a I m a g i n e a S a t u r d a y m o r n i n g i n J a n u a r y w i t h m a y b e 2 0 0 o f t h e m a r i n a b o a t s p l u s a l l t h e n o r t h w e s t C a p e r e s i d e n t s ’ b o a t s t r yi n g t o n a v i g a t e t h e t i n y c a n a l b e h i n d M i c e l l e s R e s t a u r a n t o u t t o M a t l a c h a P a s s ? T h a t ’ s w i t h t h e o l d l o c k a l r e a d y r e m o v e d T h e e n v i r o n m e n t a l i s s u e U n f o r t u n a t e l y , m a n y b o a t s i n m a r i n a s , l i k e p a r k e d c a r s , l e a k o i l T h a t i s a f a c t L i k e a t h o u s a n d c a r s p a r k e d a t m a l l d a i l y l e a k i n g o i l o n t o a l r e a d y h e a v i l y s t a i n e d b l a c k t o p , b o a t s a n d m a r i n a s s u f f e r t h e s a m e i s s u e s I f a m a r i n a o p e r a t o r t e l l s y o u t h e i r o p e r a t i o n i s p o l l u t i o n f r e e I w o u l d a d v i s e y o u t o h a v e s e r i o u s d o u b t s W h e r e w o u l d t h i s m a r i n a o i l p o l l u t i o n e n d u p ? M a t l a c h a P a s s L a s t l y i s a c c e s s t o C h a r l o t t e H a r b o r a t t h e t o p o f t h e N o r t h S p r e a d e r S i n c e t h e n o r t h w e s t i s g o i n g t o b e a c o n s t r u c t i o n z o n e f o r t h e n e x t t e n - p l u s y e a r s a s f o l k s c o n t i n u e t o m o v e i n a n d w a n t i n g a c c e s s t o t h e w a t e r i t ’ s t i m e t o t h i n k a b o u t f i n a l l y o p e n i n g t h e e x i s t i n g c u t o n t h e N S p r e a d e r a l l t h e w a y o u t t o t h e h a r b o r a s o r i gi n a l l y s t a r t e d b u t s t o p p e d a f t e r t h e f i r s t 5 0 y a r d s o r s o S e e m s i f t h e C a p e w a n t e d t o r e a l l y g e t e n v i r o n m e nt a l l y s e r i o u s w e s h o u l d c o n t i n u e t o u p g r a d e o u r c i t y s t o r m w a t e r t r e a t m e n t K e e p t h e e x i s t i n g l o c k i n p l a c e , r e i n s t a l l t h e l o c k a t t h e s o u t h e n d o f t h e N o r t h S p r e a d e r C a n a l t h e n f i n i s h t h e o l d c h a n n e l o u t t o t h e h a r b o r a t t h e t o p o f t h e N o r t h S p r e a d e r a n d i n s t a l l a n e w l o c k a l l o w i n g a c c e s s t o t h e h a r b o r o n t h a t e n d , m i t i g a t i n g o u r p o l l u t i o n c u r r e n t l y g o i n g i n t o M a t l a c h a , t h e r i v e r , a n d t h e h a r b o r P o l l u t i o n , t h a t g r o w s a l o n g w i t h a n e v e r - g r o w i n g C a p e p o p u l a t i o n a n d d e v e l o p m e n t O n e p r o b l e m w i t h m a k i n g t h e N o r t h w e s t S p r e a d e r c a n a l m o r e e n v i r o f r i e n d l y u s i n g n o r t h a n d s o u t h l o c k s , a r e t h e e x i s t i n g b r e a c h e s a l r e a d y p r e s e n t a l o n g t h e N o r t h S p r e a d e r t h a t w o u l d n e e d t o b e a d d r e s s e d T h e o t h e r i s s u e i s m u c h b i g g e r a n d s e e m i n g l y u n s o l v a b l e I m a g i n e a t h o u s a n d n e w r e s i d e n t s b r i n g i n g o r b u y i n g b o a t s t o e n j o y l o c a l w a t e r s W h e r e w i l l i t s t o p ? N o o n e k n o w s , b u t t h e y ’ r e d e f i n i t e l y c o m i n g a n d i n t h e m e a n t i m e t h e u n d e r w a t e r e n v i r o n m e n t c o n t i n u e s t o s u f f e r I n t h e e n d m a y b e w e ’ l l a l l e n d u p h e r e s h o u ld e r t o s h o u l d e r s e a r c h i n g f o r t h e r e a s o n w e c a m e G e o r g e T u n n i s o n C a p e C o r a l

processes are broken The process of most projects, including the budget, go through city administrative channels with little or no involvement with the public or the council for that matter

The city administration will gleefully prepare ordinances to eliminate these volunteer committees Another big step backwards for an open and transparent government

Tom Shadrach Cape Coral

Eliminating advisor y committees and boards would be the wrong path

To the editor:

I was shocked by the arrogance of the Cape Coral City Council to eliminate volunteer committees and boards For Councilmember Sheppard to say that he was voted in by 200,000 citizens of Cape Coral along with the other seven elected officials to intake all the information from the city staff and then make decisions without these committee inputs is insulting

I heard that Mr Sheppard did not win his election by much and he lost in previous efforts Have we not learned from President Biden making executive decisions and ruining our country? Our city is now going down the same path

Having served my country as a Naval veteran and have achieved my master’s degree, I was considering getting involved in one of these volunteer committees I am now let down by the belief that my input would be ignored

Hayley Miller Cape Coral

Make your voice heard

To the editor:

There is a chunk of money ($1 121 billion in grants from the Biden Administration) that Lee County will get to spend There is a survey of citizens to provide input in how our leaders should best use that money This should stop being a surprise I suppose, but the county Resilience

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Survey to record that citizen input is so hard to locate that I had to Google it via nbc-2.com to be able to take the survey

The list of choices the survey offers for improvement suggestion do not include flood control, improved water quality except a vague “environment” box that can be ticked, nor does the obvious need for underground electricity, nor evacuation planning get a box in the survey

I would urge others who take this survey to check the “other” box on the choice of how the funds should be distributed, so you can write in topics that might actually make Lee County more resilient You do not have to restrict yourself to the dozen choices proffered, although you can But it is not too late for your input

If you have a special pet project you think would improve the city or Lee County, you can

Mayor John Gunter and Lee County Commissioner Kevin Ruane can be contacted directly for input at jgunter@capecoral gov, and for District 1 Commissioner Kevin Ruane at DIST1@leegov com They both sit on the committee for resilience

Friday, May 26 at 10 am there is a two hour meeting scheduled at 2031 Jackson St, Fort Myers if you are able to go

Ellen Starbird Cape Coral

The world’s policeman

To the editor:

As we prepare to commemorate Memorial Day once again, some of us will remember that old saw: “War never decides who is right, but only who is left ” I personally that is a rather frivolous sentiment, but it is out there and is a constant part of the conversation

I think we should openly acknowledge that our dead sons and daughters were admirable patriots, precisely because when their country called, they stepped forward In so doing, they voluntarily surrendered the most precious thing of all, their lives. They did it in our name.

I also think that we should openly acknowledge that the United States has paid its debt to the international community and that we have paid it in spades At a preposterous

Democracy’sdefense three times (World War I, World War II and the Cold War)

We should no longer do this: we have quite enough on our own plate here at home, we can no longer afford it, and other nations should attend to their own affairs

As my party (the Libertarian Party) said quite plainly in its 2020 national platform (Part 3 1, National Defense): “ We support the maintenance of a sufficient military to defend the United States against aggression The United States should both avoid entangling alliances and abandon its attempts to act as policeman for the world ”

I couldn’t have said it better myself

Larry Gillis, Cape Coral

This week’s poll question:

Should the city of Cape Coral be allowed to remove the Chiquita Lock?

∫ Yes, as proposed

∫ I’m not certain

∫ No

Previous poll question

What do you think of the verdict in the E. Jean Carroll civil suit?

∫ I agree with the verdict and the monetary compensation awarded 91% (404 votes)

∫ It changes nothing on the political scene 7%

∫ Does it matter? .7% (3 votes)

∫ Another anti-Trump witch hunt proving nothing 8% (35 votes)

∫ Other 0

* A s o f pre s s ti me

Poll results are not scientific and represent only the opinions of Internet users who have chosen to participate Vote at capecoralbreeze com

City says it will be ready for hearing on Chiquita Lock after Thanksgiving

From Breeze Staff Repor ts

news@breezenewspapers com

A hearing to determine whether the state should issue a permit allowing the city of Cape Coral to remove the Chiquita Lock could be held by the end of the year

In response to a challenge filed by the Matlacha Civic Association and other parties opposing the water detention device’s removal, the city has advised the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings that its counsel and witnesses are available for the final hearing between Nov 27 and Dec 15

The city asks that the hearing before an administrative law judge take place in Cape Coral and estimates it will not take more than seven days, according to a response letter dated May 16

The hearing will determine whether the Florida Department of Environmental Protection can move forward with its announced intent to issue the permit to allow

In response to a challenge filed by the Matlacha Civic Association and other parties opposing the water detention device’s removal, the city of Cape Coral has advised the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings that its counsel and witnesses are available for the final hearing between Nov. 27 and Dec. 15.

the removal of the lock based on a plan the city says will improve the quality of water that flows into the South Spreader canal.

The lock is a barrier across the South Spreader Ordered by the state in 1977 as part of a Clean Water Act enforcement action, it was designed to separate the canal waters of the southern end of the city from natural waterways including the Caloosahatchee

The lock is used by Cape boaters to gain Gulf access from Camelot Canal and the Southwest Spreader Waterway into the Intracoastal Coastal Waterway via the river

The city, which lost a previous challenge in 2019, resubmitted its permit request,

including, this round, a number of mitigation projects

The city’s proposed program put together by Brown and Caldwell includes two stormwater improvement projects; environmental monitoring for small tooth sawfish; enhancement to mangrove, upland, and subtidal habitats along the waterway, and removal of the Chiquita Boat Lock and the associated northern upland pad from the terminus of the waterway The city states these actions “will result in environmental improvements and increase the sustainability of the Waterway system and the adjacent natural areas ”

The city also contends the antiquated lock

has long outlived its purpose and is no longer needed as a water quality mitigation device

The Matlacha Civic Association, joined by the Sanibel-Conservation Foundation, Calusa Waterkeeper and individuals, says the city’s efforts are driven by its desire to let boaters to navigate the Spreader Waterway without having to wait for operation of the lock They contend no environmental purpose will be served by the removal of the lock which would cause “significant environmental damage ”

They point to the city being allowed to remove the Ceitus Boat Lift years ago and what they say is the subsequent harm

“As a result, Matlacha Pass is polluted and the mangroves along the North Spreader are dying,” President of the Matlacha Civic Association, Attorney Michael Hannon said in a previous interview “Evidence of the damage to the mangroves on the north presented at the 2019 hearing was dramatic ”

City, historical society, working to hammer out new lease

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

A new agreement for lease and management of the city-owned complex currently operated by the Cape Coral Historical Society, Inc was tabled Wednesday after a lengthy discussion was had by the Cape Coral City Council to flesh out more details

Mayor John Gunter had quite a few concerns regarding the lease, such as the lease only appears to be a land lease, and not structures of the property, as well as clarity

of the $5,000 maintenance cost

He also questioned the management plan approach

“If the repair is $4,999, is it the responsibility of the tennant, the Historic Society, to make those repairs?” he asked.

I n t e r i m C i t y M a n a g e r M i c h a e l Ilczyszyn provided a recommendation to l e t m e m b e r s o f h i s o f f i c e , P a r k s a n d R e c r e a t i o n a n d m e m b e r s o f t h e C i t y

Attorney’s Office to discuss financials, management arrangements and dealing with the property to develop a term sheet to present to Council during a workshop He

said they would take that term sheet and put it into an actual lease

“We are fundamentally changing how this is operating We don’t have to do anything They have an existing lease with nine years to go,” Ilczyszyn said, adding that they can also improve it and move it forward “We work together to define those parameters and come back to you all with considerations ”

In other business,Council set a public hearing for June 7 regarding an ordinance e s t a b l i s h i n g n e w s p r i n k l e r r e g u l a t i o n s Ordinance 46-23, which proponents say

will provide for water conservation, would apply to irrigation systems for new residential and commercial properties within the city

Council also awarded a contract for North 1 West Utilities Extension Project Construction Engineering and Inspection Services

Tetra Tech, Inc will provide CEI servi c e s a t a n a m o u n t n o t t o e x c e e d $11,988 520 with a 5 percent city controlled contingency of $599,426 with a total project cost of $12,587,946

Editorial: Shelters need our help

From page 4

ering from an injury

All new fosters are provided with all supplies needed as well as any necessary medical care

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will host a Friday Foster Friendzy from noon to 3 p m next Friday, May 26, at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers, to identify foster families who will care for animals not yet ready for adoption

To complete your foster or adoption application ahead of the event, visit leegov com/animalservices/adopt/adoptionapplication

A foster counselor will see what kind of pet may fit best with you and family

“At the event, prospective fosters will meet a few ideal candidates Anyone who finds a match will be able to take the foster home,” officials said

Anyone who is unable to attend the event but still wishes to foster a pet can visit leelostpets com and complete the application Animal Services will contact you after the application is processed.

Have questions? Email AAcevedo2@leegov com

Can’t adopt or foster but still want to help?

Donations are always welcome and there are some items especially needed during kitten season, officials said

Those items include baby blankets, water bowls, kitten nursing bottles, flat dishes, digital thermometers, cat beds, Dawn dish soap, cat nail trimmers and Royal Canin baby cat food

Items can be dropped off at Animal Services at the 5600 Banner Drive location during regular hours.

Online donations to the Animal Care Trust Fund are also appreciated and can be found at leegov com/animalservices/trustfund

“The Animal Care Trust Fund helps provide additional lifesaving services and community outreach,” officials said

Committed pet owner?

Please, please, please have your pet spayed or neutered The world is a harsh place for unwanted animals

The Lee County Domestic Animal Services web sites lists a handful of low-cost clinics at leegov com/animalservices/vetservices/spayneuter

The Cape Coral Animal Shelter also offers low-cost veterinary services, including spay and neuter

A list of services offered, including a cost schedule, may be found at capecoralanimalshelter com/services/veterinary-clinic/

The solution to “kitten season” lies with us Spay Neuter Adopt, don’t shop

Weigh in: Letters, guest opinions, comments welcome

The v i e w s e x pre

c o me . Le tte rs to the e di to r o r g ue s t c o l umns may be e - mai l e d to v harri ng @ bre e z e ne w s pape rs . c o m. A l l l e tte rs and g ue s t o pi ni o ns mus t be s i g ne d and mus t i nc l ude a pho ne numbe r f o r v e ri f i c ati o n purpo s e s Re ade rs are al s o i nv i te d to c o mme nt o nl i ne at: c ape c o ral bre e z e c o m

Advisory board appointees question Council decision to look at eliminating some of the citizen input panels

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

S o m e c i t y c o m m i t t e e m e m b e r s s h a r e d t h e i r c o n c e r n s W e d n e s d a y a b o u t C a p e C o r a l C i t y C o u n c i l ’ s p l a n s t o s u n s e t c e rt a i n a d v i s o r y p a n e l s s u c h a s t h e B u d g e t R e v i e w C o m m i t t e e T o m S h a d r a c h , a m e m b e r o f t h e B R C , s a i d t h e y w e r e a l i t t l e s h o c k e d t o h e a r t h a t C o u n c i l w a n t e d s u n s e t t h e c o m m i tt e e , t o d o a w a y w i t h c i t i z e n i n v o l v e m e n t H e s a i d t h e m o s t o f f e n s i v e i s s u e w a s s o m e c o u n c i l m e m b e r s s a y i n g t h e y d o n o t t a k e t h e i r r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s w h e n v o t i n g . “ A l o t o f o u r r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s h a v e b e e n t a k e n , ” S h a d r a c h s a i d , a d d i n g t h a t i f t h e y c h o o s e n o t t o t a k e t h e r e c o m m e nd a t i o n , t h e y m a y n o t a l w a y s b e d o i n g t h e r i g h t t h i n g T h e c o m m i t t e e p u t s g o o d f i n a n c i a l d e c i s i o n s f o r w a r d , a s w e l l a s s h i n e s l i g h t o n g o o d a c c o u n t i n g d e c i s i o n s t h a t m i g h t b e f l a w e d , h e s a i d “ O n e o f t h e p r o b l e m s w e s a w , t h e f i n a n c e d i r e c t o r e l i m i n a t e d t h e r e s e r v e s f r o m t h e b u d g e t t h i s y e a r , b u t d i d n ’ t s h o w y o u t h e c o m p a r i s o n f r o m l a s t y e a r ’ s b u d g e t w i t h o u t t h e r e s e r v e s , ” S h a d r a c h s a i d H e s a i d t h e r e w a s a $ 2 0 0 m i l l i o n i n c r e a s e d c o s t i n l a s t y e a r ’ s b u d g e t , n o t a $ 3 4 m i l l i o n r e d u c t i o n “ Y o u s p e n t $ 2 0 0 m i l l i o n m o r e t h a n t h e p r i o r y e a r , ” S h a d r a c h s a i d

T h e d i s c r e t i o n a r y b o a r d s i n c l u d e t h e B u d g e t R e v i e w C o m m i t t e e , C a p e C o m p e t e s , Yo u t h C o u n c i l , Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n A d v i s o r y C o m m i t t e e , G o l f C o u r s e A d v i s o r y C o m m i t t e e , H e a l t h F a c i l i t i e s A u t h o r i t y, N u i s a n c e A b a t e m e n t B o a r d , P a r k s a n d R e c r e a t i o n A d v i s o r y B o a r d a n d Wa t e r w a y A d v i s o r y B o a r d .

H e s a i d t h e c o m m i t t e e , w h i c h i s a p p o i n t e d b y C o u n c i l , p r o v i d e s a v a l ua b l e s e r v i c e t o t h e c i t y w i t h i t s t i m e a n d t a l e n t A n o t h e r B u d g e t R e v i e w C o m m i t t e e m e m b e r w h o s p o k e h a s v o l u n t e e r e d h i s t i m e f o r t h e p a s t s e v e n y e a r s “ I n 2 0 1 5 I a t t e n d e d a 1 3 - w e e k c o u r s e g i v e n b y t h e c i t y , ” G e o r g e S t a r n e r s a i d , a d d i n g t h a t i t w a s k n o w n a s t h e C i t i z e n ’ s A c a d e m y “ T h e p u r p o s e o f t h i s c l a s s w a s t o t e a c h o r d i n a r y c i t i z e n s a b o u t t h e i n n e r w o r k i n g s w i t h t h e c i t y a n d t o p r o m o t e v o l u n t e e r i s m I n 2 0 1 6 I v o l u n t e e r e d f o r a n d w a s a p p o i n t e d t o t h e B u d g e t R e v i e w C o m m i t t e e ” F o r t h e p a s t s e v e n y e a r s h e h a s a t t e n de d m o n t h l y m e e t i n g s t h r o u g h o u t t h e y e a r , a s w e l l a s g i v e n u p s e v e r a l w e e k s o f h i s s u m m e r t o p a r t i c i p a t e i n t h e b u d ge t p r o c e s s D u r i n g h i s t i m e h e h a s s e r v e d a s t h e c o m m i t t e e c h a i r , v i c e c h a i r a n d a m e m b e r o f t h e B R C “ A s f a r a s I c a n t e l l I h a v e s e r v e d o n t h e c o m m i t t e e l o n g e r t h a n a n y p r i o r , o r e x i s t i n g m e m b e r , ” S t a r n e r s a i d

O n e o f t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s w a s t h e i d e a t o p r o m o t e a p u b l i c / p r i v a t e p a r t n e rs h i p f o r t h e c i t y ’ s S u n S p l a s h F a m i l y W a t e r p a r k , h e s a i d , a d d i n g t h a t l e d t o a h a l f m i l l i o n d o l l a r s a v i n g s e a c h y e a r t h e a g r e e m e n t i s i n p l a c e

“The Cape Coral Police chief gave a presentation,” he said of the last meeting “Our council liaison said it was great, but it had nothing to do with the budget I would disagree His vision and plans for the future and what resources he would need to get there was important for us to know as we formulate our support for the 2024 budget cycle The same goes for all departments that meet with us ”

H e s a i d i f C o u n c i l d e c i d e s t o d o a w a y w i t h t h e c o m m i t t e e i t w i l l b e a s l a p i n t h e f a c e t o t h e v o l u n t e e r s , i n s t e a d o f a t h a n k y o u f o r t h e i r s e r v i c e “ ‘ S i t d o w n a n d s h u t u p W e d o n ' t n e e d , o r w a n t y o u r i n p u t , ’ ” S t a r n e r s a i d . H e s a i d t h e p r i m e c o n s i d e r a t i o n o f c o u n c i l w h e n s e l e c t i n g m e m b e r s s h o u l d b e t h e i r f i n a n c i a l b a c k g r o u n d , i n c l u d i n g e d u c a t i o n a n d p r e v i o u s e x p e r i e n c e i n a

b u d g e t a r y e n v i r o n m e n t “ W h e n y o u w e r e e l e c t e d i t w a s b e c a u s e y o u r p o p u l a r i t y , n o t y o u r b u d g e t e x p e r i e n c e a n d e x p e r t i s e , ” S t a r n e r s a i d “ I f i n d i t c u r i o u s t h a t t w o m o n t h s a f t e r t h e f o r m e r m a y o r c a n d i d a t e b e c a m e c h a i r m a n o f t h e B R C , t h e c u r r e n t m a y o r i s p r o p o s i n g t o e l i m i n a t e t h e B R C ” S h a d r a c h l o s t t o M a y o r J o h n G u n t e r P a t M e r c h a n t , a n o t h e r m e m b e r o f t h e c o m m i t t e e , w h o h a s s e r v e d f o r f o u r y e a r s , s a i d s h e d o e s n o t t h i n k t h e a v e r a g e c i t i z e n w h o c o m e s t o m e e t i n g s h a v e t h e k i n d o f b a c k g r o u n d t h a t i s r e q u i r e d o f c o m m i t t e e m e m b e r s C o u n c i l w e n t t h r o u g h a l i s t o f c o u nc i l - a p p o i n t e d b o a r d s a n d c o m m i t t e e s t o d e t e r m i n e w h i c h s h o u l d b e r e t a i n e d , a l l o w e d t o s u n s e t , o r t u r n e d i n t o a s t a k e h o l d e r g r o u p d u r i n g a p r e v i o u s m e e t i n g e a r l i e r t h i s m o n t h T h e d i s c r e t i o n a r y b o a r d s i n c l u d e t h e B u d g e t R e v i e w C o m m i t t e e , C a p e C o m p e t e s , Y o u t h C o u n c i l , T r a n s p o r t a t i o n A d v i s o r y C o m m i t t e e , G o l f C o u r s e A d v i s o r y C o m m i t t e e , H e a l t h F a c i l i t i e s A u t h o r i t y , N u i s a n c e A b a t e m e n t B o a r d , P a r k s a n d R e c r e a t i o n A d v i s o r y B o a r d a n d W a t e r w a y A d v i s o r y B o a r d A t W e d n e s d a y n i g h t ’ s m e e t i n g t h e d i s c r e t i o n a r y b o a r d s w a s a m o n g u n f i ni s h e d b u s i n e s s t o b e d i s c u s s e d , w h i c h w a s t a k e n o f f t h e a g e n d a a t t h e b e g i nn i n g o f t h e m e e t i n g

9 ,

M a y

Burrowing owl photo competition deadline approaching

Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife is looking for your best pix of the Cape’s best-loved bird

“ W e ’ v e g o t b a b y p i c t u r e s , w e ’ v e g o t a d u l t o w l p i ct u r e s , w e ’ v e f l y i n g o w l s , s i t t i n g o w l s , w e ’ v e g o t a l o t o f d i f f e r e n t p o s e s t h i s y e a r , ” A n d e r s o n s a i d J u d g i n g w i l l b e c o n d u c t e d b y a C C F W - a p p o i n t e d p a n e l t h a t i n c l u d e s e x p e r t p h o t o g r a p h e r s J u d g e s w i l l s c o r e e l i g i b l e p h o t o g r a p h s o n t e c h n i c a l q u a l i t y ( 3 0 % ) , o r i g i n a l i t y ( 3 0 % ) , a n d a r t i s t i c m e r i t ( 4 0 % )

A f i n a l g r o u p o f p i c t u r e s w i l l b e p a s s e d a l o n g t o t h e f i n a l j u d g e s w h o a r e C a p e C o r a l M a y o r J o h n G u n t e r ,

N B C 2 M e t e o r o l o g i s t R o b D u n s , a n d l a s t y e a r ’ s p h o t o c o n t e s t w i n n e r , C o n n i e H e s s l e r T h e r e w i l l b e f i r s t , s e c o n d , a n d t h i r d p l a c e p r i z e s g i v e n t o t h e h i g h e s t - s c o r i n g p h o t o g r a p h f r o m t h e a d u l t d i v i s i o n a n d y o u t h d i v i s i o n N o e n t r a n t m a y w i n m o r e t h a n o n e p r i z e “ I t ’ s s o m e t h i n g t h a t e v e r y b o d y c a n b e h a p p y a b o u t , ”

A n d e r s o n s a i d “ E n t r y i s i n t h e s p i r i t o f h a v i n g a g o o d t i m e g e t t i n g p i c t u r e s o f t h e o w l s ”

C C F W e n c o u r a g e s e v e r y p h o t o g r a p h e r t o p r a c t i c e r e s p o n s i b l e b i r d p h o t o g r a p h y P r i o r t o s u b m i t t i n g a n y p h o t o g r a p h , p a r t i c i p a n t s a r e s t r o n g l y e n c o u r a g e d t o r e a d A u d u b o n ’ s G u i d e t o E t h i c a l B i r d P h o t o g r a p h y a n d

V i d e o g r a p h y A p h o t o g r a p h t h a t a p p e a r s t o t h e s p o n s o r o r j u d g e s t o r e f l e c t a h a r m f u l s i t u a t i o n i s n o t e l i g i b l e f o r s u b m i s s i o n , a n d i f s u b m i t t e d , w i l l b e d i s q u a l i f i e d a t

C C F W ’ s s o l e d i s c r e t i o n

T h e C a p e C o r a l F r i e n d s o f Wi l d l i f e i s n o w accepting entries for its third annual Burrowing Owl Photo Contest Pictured is last year ’s winning photo by Connie Hessler Deadline to enter is May 22 The winner will be announced at Rotary Park after the Burrowing Owl Census completion on June 2 (photo provided)

From page 1

A A A F l o r i d a P u b l i c A f f a i r s

D i r e c t o r M i c h e l e H a r r i s s a i d i t ’s a n e x t r a s p e c i a l h o n o r, a s E l i z a O d o m w a s s e l e c t e d a s t h e F l o r i d a A A A S c h o o l S a f e t y P a t r o l l e r o f t h e Ye a r, a s w e l l a s b e i n g n a t i o n a l l y r e c o g n i z e d f o r t h e s a m e a w a r d A l l t h e A A A S a f e t y S c h o o l P r o g r a m s t h r o u g h o u t F l o r i d a w e r e i n v i t e d t o s e n d i n t h e i r n o m i n a t i o n s , w h i c h w e r e t a k e n t h r o u g h a j u d g i n g p r o c e s s t o s e l e c t t h e t o p s t u d e n t s .

D i p l o m a t E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l P r i n c i p a l C h a r l e s V i l a r d i s a i d t h e y j u s t s t a r t e d t h e S a f e t y P a t r o l p r o g r a m a t t h e i r s c h o o l t h r e e y e a r s a g o H e r e m e m b e r s b e i n g a S a f e t y P a t r o l a t P e l i c a n E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l a n d i t b e i n g a b i g h o n o r t o t a k e o n t h a t l e a d e r s h i p r o l e “ I t w a s a b i g d e a l w h e n I w a s i n s c h o o l I t b u i l d s t h e i r s e l f - c o n f i d e n c e a n d t h e y f e e l t h e y a r e a p a r t o f t h e l e a de r s h i p t e a m t o h e l p s t u d e n t s o u t , ” V i l a r d i s a i d H e s a i d h e i s e x t r e m e l y p r o u d o f t h e i r S a f e t y P a t r o l s E l i z a d o e s a n o u t s t a n d i n g j o b w i t h t h e i r s t u d e n t s w h o h a v e s p e c i a l n e e d s , i s a l w a y s k i n d a n d f r i e n d l y , a n d i t a t r u e r o l e m o d e l f o r o t h e r s , V i l a r d i s a i d , T h e S a f e t y P a t r o l s a r e t y p i c a l l y r e co m m e n d e d b y t h e i r f o u r t h g r a d e t e a c h e r s a s s t u d e n t s t h e y f e e l a r e r e s p o n s i b l e D i p l o m a t E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l h a s b e t w e e n 1 5 t o 2 0 S a f e t y P a t r o l s , a n d i f t h e y h a v e m o r e t h a n e n o u g h t h e y r o t a t e d u t i e s h a l f w a y t h r o u g h t h e y e a r

PHOTO PROVIDED Diplomat Elementary School fifth grader Eliza Odom has been recognized as the Florida and National AAA School Safety Patroller of the Year for the 2022-2023 school year

W i n n e r s w i l l b e a n n o u n c e d a t t h e B u r r o w i n g O w l C e n s u s o n S a t u r d a y , J u n e 3 , a t n o o n a t R o t a r y P a r k , a n d o n t h e C C F W w e b s i t e F o r f u l l c o n t e s t r u l e s , p r i z e d e t a i l s , m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o n C C F W , t o e n t e r t h e p h o t o c o n t e s t a n d s e e c u r r e n t e n t r i e s , v i s i t w w w c c f r i e n d s o f w i l d l i f e o r g T h o s e i n t e r e s t e d i n t a k i n g p a r t i n t h e B u r r o w i n g O w l C e n s u s c a n c o n t a c t H o n e y P h i l l i p s a t R o t a r y P a r k b y c a l l i n g 2 3 9 - 5 4 9 - 4 6 0 6 u s e d t o d o c a r l i n e s b y o p e n i n g d o o r s a n d m a k i n g s u r e s t u d e n t s g e t s a f e l y t o t h e i r c l a s s r o o m s E l i z a a l s o m e n t o r s y o u n g s t u d e n t s , r a i s e s f u n d s f o r c h a r i t a b l e c a u se s , p a r t i c i p a t e s i n v o l u n t e e r a c t i v i t i e s , w h i c h i n c l u d e d h e l p i n g a l o c a l f o o d d i st r i b u t i o n s i t e a f t e r H u r r i c a n e I a n “ B e i n g a s a f e t y p a t r o l h a s h e l p e d m e i n s o m a n y w a y s , ” E l i z a s a i d , a d d i n g t h a t s h e i s m o r e r e s p o n s i b l e , a b e t t e r r u l e f o ll o w e r a n d r o l e m o d e l “ W h e n I w a s y o u n g e r I w o u l d s e e o t h e r S a f e t y P a t r o l s I a l w a y s t h o u g h t t h a t w a s c o o l I w a n t e d t o b e a l e a d e r l i k e t h e m ” A A A F l o r i d a P u b l i c A f f a i r s D i r e c t o r M i c h e l e H a r r i s s a i d i t ’ s a n e x t r a s p e c i a l h o n o r , a s O d o m w a s s e l e c t e d a s t h e F l o r i d a A A A S c h o o l S a f e t y P a t r o l l e r o f t h e Y e a r , a s w e l l a s b e i n g n a t i o n a l l y r e co g n i z e d f o r t h e s a m e a w a r d S h e s a i d a l l t h e A A A S a f e t y S c h o o l P r o g r a m s t h r o u g h o u t F l o r i d a w e r e i n v i t e d t o s e n d i n t h e i r n o m i n a t i o n s , w h i c h w e r e t a k e n t h r o u g h a j u d g i n g p r o c e s s t o s e l e c t t h e t o p s t u d e n t s “ S h e d o e s a n o u t s t a n d i n g j o b , ” s h e s a i d “ I n h e r e s s a y s h e t a l k e d a b o u t w h a t s h e d o e s t h a t r e p r e s e n t s t h e p r o g r a m W h a t s h e d o e s a s a l e a d e r ( A n d s h e i s ) a g o o d c i t i z e n w i t h a l l t h e v o l u n t e e r i n g s h e d o e s ” G o o d g r a d e s a r e a l s o r e a l l y i m p o r t a n t , a s w e l l a s h a v i n g e x c e l l e n t p a r t i c i p a t i o n i n s c h o o l a n d s c h o o l a c t i v i t i e s H a r r i s s a i d i t i s a b o u t b e i n g g o o d s t e w a r d s i n s c h o o l A s a S a f e t y P a t r o l , s t u d e n t s l e a r n l i f el o n g l e s s o n s t h a t t h e y c a r r y w i t h t h e m t h r o u g h t h e r e s t o f t h e i r l i f e . “ T o b e t h a t g o o d r o l e m o d e l i s s o i m p o r t a n t , ” H a r r i s s a i d , e s p e c i a l l y i n t o d a y ’ s w o r l d “ K i d s a r e f a c i n g s o m a n y d i f f e r e n t p r e s s u r e s I t ’ s s u c h a g o o d w a y t o t e a c h a n d h e l p t o b e a l e a d e r i n t h e i r c o m m u n i t y ”

C a p e C o r a l B r e e z e w w w . c a p e c o r a l b r e e z e . c o m M a y 1 9 , 2 0 2 3 ■ P a g e 1 4

Protect yourself from wire fraud

Dear Mr Feichthaler,

I am planning on purchasing a property in Cape Coral soon I have read a lot about wire fraud and I have concerns about sending my money by wire to the law firm handling the title work Do I have anything to worry about?

Dear Linda,

In a word, YES! Wire fraud can potentially victimize any party to a real estate transaction The buyer, who is tasked with sending the most money for that purchase, must be particularly vigilant

Linda R

19, 2023 T

MAY

The Cape’s new equilibrium establishes a Goldilocks market

T h e s e c o n d l o w e s t p r i c e d h o m e i s l i s te d f o r $ 2 6 0 , 0 0 0 a n d t h e m e d i a n l i s t p r i c e i n t h e C a p e e d g e d u p t o

Eric P. Feichthaler

Real Estate Law

The main way scammers are working to take your money is to send a “phishing” email Typically, the email will appear to be from a trusted source, perhaps Microsoft or a company like Amazon, stating you must click the link for an important reason For instance, it may state your delivery won’t occur, your account will be frozen or other consequences that sound terrible Key number one is to not click on any link or attachment unless you are certain where it came from

If a scammer successfully hacks into your or your Realtor’s email, they will be able to read everything coming into it Notably, they may be able to access the wiring instructions sent to you by the closing agent If so, they may be able to intercept the official communication so you never received it They then alter the document to provide for different wiring instructions, then send it to you from what looks like a legitimate email address, but may have a slight misspelling or other sign of fraud

Nearly every Realtor uses standard email accounts like Google, Yahoo, AOL and others These email addresses can be targeted, with the fraudulent party knowing a Realtor’s email account can be fertile ground for sensitive information

There are many steps you can take to avoid being a victim of fraud, but I consider the following most important: Call and personally speak to the firm that will be handling your title work as soon as the contract is signed Obtain their contact information from your Realtor They should provide to you and confirm information on their wiring instructions so you can confirm them

N o t t o o h o t a n d n o t t o o c o l d A “ G o l d i e l o c k s ” m a r k e t a p t l y d e s c r i b e s t h e c u r r e n t c o n d i t i o n s i n o u r l o c a l r e a l e s t a t e m a r k e t w h i c h s e e m s t o b e p o s it i o n e d “ s o m e w h e r e i n - b e t w e e n ” F o r e x a m p l e , h o m e s a l e s a n d p r i c e s a r e “ s o m e w h e r e i n - b e t w e e n ” a s t h e y a r e d o w n f r o m t h e r e c o r d l e v e l s r e a c h e d f r o m a b o u t m i d - 2 0 2 0 t o m i d - 2 0 2 2 i n t h e p o s t - C O V I D l o c k d o w n r e a l e s t a t e m a r k e t s p r e e B u t t h e s e n u m b e r s a r e u p f r o m t h e h u r r i c a n e b a t t e r e d l e v e l s i n t h e f o u r t h q u a r t e r o f 2 0 2 2 , a n d s t i l l b e t t e r t h a n t h e p r e - C O V I D m a r k e t l e ve l s o f 2 0 1 9 T h e n u m b e r o f a c t i v e l i s ti n g s a r e w a y u p c o m p a r e d t o t h e l a s t s e v e r a l y e a r s , b u t w e k e e p h e a r i n g t h a t a l a c k o f s u p p l y i s s t i l l a n i s s u e A d d i t i o n a l l y , w e a r e s e e i n g w h a t s e e m s t o b e a g r o w i n g n u m b e r o f p e op l e a n d f r i e n d s w a n t i n g t o s e l l t h e i r h o m e s a n d m o v e a w a y f r o m t h e a r e a f o r a l o t o f d i f f e re n t r e a s o n s , w i t h t h e h u r r i c a n e b e c o m i n g t h e l a s t m o t iv a t i o n a l s t r a w i n f l u e n c i n g t h e i r d e c i s i o n A t t h e s a m e t i m e w e c o n t i n u e t o s e e a s t r o n g i n t e r e s t f r o m o u t - o ft o w n b u y e r s c o m i n g h e r e f r o m a l l o v e r t h e c o u n t r y t o m o s t l y g e t a w a y f r o m h i g h t a x e s a n d o t h e r i s s u e s T h r o u g h i t a l l w e a r e f i r m l y e n t r e n c h e d i n a r e s i l i e n t , n o t t o o h o t , n o t t o o c o l d m a r k e t H e r e i s a g e n e r a l o v e r v i e w o f t h e c u r r e n t m e t r i c s f o r t h e C a p e C o r a l s i n g l e - f a m i l y h o m e m a r k e t T h e n u m b e r o f a c t i v e l i s t i n g s c o n t i n u e s t o e d g e h i g h e r i n M a y a n d t h e y a r e u p 1 8 % f r o m t h e b e g i n n i n g o f t h i s y e a r , a n d 1 1 6 5 % h i g h e r t h a n t h e y w e r e o n e y e a r a g o T h e m e d ia n l i s t p r i c e i s u p 5 5 % s i n c e t h e b e g i n n i n g o f t h i s y e a r , b u t d o w n 6 4 % f r o m $ 5 7 5 , 0 0 0 a y e a r a g o T h e n u m b e r o f p e n d i n g h o m e s a l e s h a s m o v e d l o w e r a n d h a s l e v e l e d o u t i n t h e p a s t m o n t h , b u t h a s i n c r e a s e d b y 6 8 8 % s i n c e t h e b e g i n n i n g o f t h i s y e a r , w h i l e d e c l i n i n g b y 8 4 % v e rs u s a y e a r a g o o n M a y 1 7 , 2 0 2 2 D i g g i n g d e e p e r i n t o t h e n u m b e r o f a c t i v e l i s t i n g s f o r C a p e C o r a l s i n g l e - f a m i l y h o m e s l i s t e d f o r s a l e t h r o u g h a R e a l t o r i n t h e M L S a s o f M a y 1 6 , t h e y h a v e c l i m b e d t o 1 , 5 7 0 h o m e s o n t h e m a r k e t f r o m 1 , 5 3 6 l a s t w e e k C u r r e n t l i s t p r i c e s f o r h o m e s i n t h e C a p e a r e r a n g i n g f r o m a l o w o f $ 1 4 9 , 9 0 0 t o b u y a p a r t i a l l y b u i l t n e w c o n s t r u c t i o n h o m e t h a t w i l l n e e d a b o u t a n o t h e r $ 2 0 0 , 0 0 0 t o b r i n g i n a n e w b u i l d e r t o c o m p l e t e , t o a h i g h o f $ 3 9 9 5 m i l l i o n f o r a h o m e i n H a r b o u r P r e s e r v e

Bob and Geri Quinn

$ 5 3 8 , 0 0 0 f r o m $ 5 3 5 , 0 0 0 a w e e k a g o A b o u t 3 5 % , o r 5 5 3 , o f o u r a c t i v e l i s ti n g s a r e f o r h o m e s p r i c e d a t $ 4 5 0 , 0 0 0 a n d u n d e r , w i t h 1 6 o f t h e s e h o m e s p r i c e d b e l o w $ 3 0 0 , 0 0 0 A t t h e o t h e r e n d o f t h e s p e c t r u m , t h e r e a r e 2 2 4 C a p e C o r a l h o m e s l i s t e d a t $ 1 m i l l i o n a n d a b o v e , w h i c h i s u p f r o m t h e 1 5 1 h o m e s t h a t w e r e i n t h i s m i l l i o n d o l l a rp l u s p r i c e r a n g e a t t h e b e g i n n i n g o f t h i s y e a r B a s e d o n o u r w e e k l y m a r k e t s u r v e y f r o m M a y 1 6 , t h e n u m b e r o f p e n d i n g h o m e s a l e s i n t h e C a p e c a m e i n a t 8 8 1 , r e m a i n i n g i n a t i g h t r a n g e o f 8 8 1 t o 8 8 4 p e n d i n g s a l e s f o r t h e p a s t t h r e e w e e k s a f t e r d r o p p i n g f r o m 9 2 5 p e n di n g s a l e s b a c k o n A p r i l 1 8 P r i c e - w i s e , o u r c u r r e n t p e n d i n g s a l e s a r e r a n g i n g f r o m $ 2 1 5 , 0 0 0 t o $ 4 1 5 m i l l i o n , w i t h t h e s e c o n d l o w e s t p r i c e d p e n d i n g s a l e a t $ 2 3 5 , 0 0 0 T h e m e d i a n p e n d i n g s a l e s p r i c e e d g e d u p t o $ 4 0 5 , 0 0 0 o n M a y 1 6 f r o m $ 4 0 1 , 9 9 9 a w e e k a g o O n e y e a r a g o o n M a y 1 7 , 2 0 2 2 , a t o t a l o f 9 6 2 C a p e C o r a l s i n g l e - f a m i l y h o m e s w e r e u n d e r c o nt r a c t w i t h b u y e r s a s p e n d i n g s a l e s a t p r i c e s r a n g i n g f r o m $ 2 1 0 , 0 0 0 t o $ 4 4 9 5 m i l l i o n , w i t h t h e m e d i a n p e n d i n g s a l e s p r i c e a t $ 4 7 0 , 0 0 0 A l s o o n e y e a r a g o , t h e r e w e r e 5 8 p e n d i n g s a l e s i n t h e p i p e l i n e a t $ 1 m i ll i o n a n d a b o v e v e r s u s a c u r r e n t t o t a l o f 3 6 p e n d i n g h o m e s a l e s a t $ 1 m i l l i o n a n d a b o v e . A t t h e o t h e r e n d o f t h e s p e c t r u m , w e c u r r e n t l y h a v e 4 3 1 C a p e C o r a l h o m e s u n d e r c o n t r a c t a t $ 4 0 0 , 0 0 0 a n d u n d e r , w i t h 2 6 o f t h e s e h o m e s p e n d i n g f o r l e s s t h a n $ 3 0 0 , 0 0 0 O n e y e a r a g o t h e r e w e r e 3 5 5 h o m e s i n t h e C a p e u n d e r c o n t r a c t a t

$ 4 0 0 , 0 0 0 a n d u n d e r , i n c l u d i n g 3 5 h o m e s p r i c e d b e l o w

$ 3 0 0 , 0 0 0

L a s t w e e k o n e o f t h e m a r k e t m e t r i c s w e e x a m i n e d w a s t h e m e d i a n d a y s t o s e l l s t a t i s t i c f o r C a p e C o r a l s i ng l e - f a m i l y h o m e s , w h i c h m e a s u r e d t h e n u m b e r o f d a y s i t t o o k f o r h a l f o f t h e h o m e s o n t h e m a r k e t t o g o u n d e r c o n t r a c t a s a p e n d i n g s a l e i n f e w e r d a y s a n d h a l f i n m o r e d a y s I n A p r i l o f t h i s y e a r t h a t n u m b e r w a s 2 8 d a y s B y c o m p a r i s o n , t h e “ a v e r a g e ” n u m b e r o f d a y s i t t o o k f o r a h o m e i n t h e C a p e t o g o u n d e r c o n t r a c t w i t h a

See GOLDILOCKS MARKET, page 15

A closing agent will

NEVER change their account information mid-transaction The scammers, knowing you have received the proper instructions initially, will often send the “new” instructions with some sort of excuse why If names on wiring instructions change, either the bank or the name of the company, this is a clear sign you have false instructions

NEVER accept wiring instructions that have changed during a transaction.

When you do initiate the wire, you should CALL the closing agent to advise them it was sent They will advise you when they receive it By giving notice of the wire being sent, if the closing agent doesn’t receive it due to fraud there is the better chance of recovering the funds To be clear, the best protection from wire fraud is prevention

REIS to discuss legislative actions and state budget issues affecting Southwest Florida growth, development

Southwest Florida legislators will review the 2023 L e g i s l a t i v e S e s s i o n a n d i m p l i c a t i o n s f o r S o u t h w e s t

Florida’s real estate industry at the Real Estate Investment Society’s June 13 luncheon meeting

Senator Jonathan Martin and Representatives Spencer Roach, Adam Botana and Tiffany Esposito will discuss recent legislative action and budget allocations that will have far-reaching impacts on the local economy The discussion will be moderated by former state representative Matt Caldwell Following the presentations, the legislators will respond to questions of specific interest to the real estate and development industry

See WIRE FRAUD, page 16

Martin was elected to the Florida Senate in 2022 and serves on the Appropriations Committee and Special Resiliency Committee and formerly served as assistant state attorney Roach was elected in 2018 to serve District 76 and is chair of the Constitutional Rights, Rule of Law and Government Operations Subcommittee He also serves

on the Ways and Means Committee and the Select C o m m i t t e e o n H u r r i c a n e R e s i l i e n c y a n d R e c o v e r y Botana was elected in 2020 to represent District 80 and is v i c e c h a i r o f t h e S e l e c t C o m m i t t e e o n H u r r i c a n e Resiliency and Recovery and is also on the Infrastructure Strategies Committee Esposito was elected in 2022 to represent District 77 and also serves on the Select Committee on Hurricane Resiliency and Recovery, as well a s t h e I n f r a s t r u c t u r e a n d T o u r i s m A p p r o p r i a t i o n s Subcommittee Caldwell was a member of the Florida House of Representatives from 2010 to 2018 and elected Lee County Property Appraiser in 2020

The meeting is sponsored by Pavese Law Firm and will begin promptly at 11:45 a m , Tuesday, June 13, in the O s p r e y R o o m a t P e l i c a n P r e s e r v e ’ s C l u b h o u s e , o n Treeline Avenue at Colonial Boulevard, one mile east of I75 exit 136 in Fort Myers Admission is $30 for members and $45 for guests, which includes lunch Reservations are required by June 8th and may be made at the REIS web site: www.reis-swfl.org.

See REAL ESTATE BRIEFS, page 16

Homing In

Repainting: An essential post-hurricane repair

H u r r i c a n e I a n d a m a g e d t h o u s a n d s o f h o m e s a n d b u s i n e s s e s i n S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a , b u t t h e s t o r m ’ s i m p a c t w a s d i sp r o p o r t i o n a t e S o m e s t r u c t u r e s w e r e r e n d e r e d u n i nh a b i t a b l e o r r e q u i r e d s i g n i f i c a n t r e p a i r w o r k , w h i l e o t h e r s a p p e a r e d u n s c a t h e d I t ’ s t h o s e p r o p e r t y o w n e r s w h o m a y h a v e p r e m a t u r e l y b r e a t h e d a s i g h o f r e l i e f H o m e o w n e r s a n d p r o p e r t y m a n a g e r s o f t e n o v e r l o o k o n e p i e c e o f p o s t - s t o r m m a i n t e n a n c e – p a i n t . I a n ’ s f i e r c e w i n d s a n d r a i n h i t s t r u c t u r e s w i t h a f o r c e n e a rl y e q u i v a l e n t t o a p r e s s u r e w a s h e r p o we r f u l e n o u g h t o c h i p o r s t r i p p a i n t o f f e x t e r i o r w a l l s , f a s c i a b o a r d s a n d t r i m F o r a n y h o m e o r b u s i n e s s , p a i n t i s t h e f i r s t l i n e o f d e f e n s e a g a i n s t t h e e l em e n t s – r a i n , m o i s t u r e , s u n a n d i n s e c t s I n s u b t r o p i c a l c l i m a t e s , r a i n w a t e r c a n f o s t e r m o l d g r o w t h , r o t w o o d a n d c r e a t e s a f e t y h a z a r d s P a i n t h e l p s c r e a t e a w a t e r p r o o f b a r r i e r t h a t m a k e s i t m o r e d i f f i c u l t f o r w a t e r t o d a m a g e c o nc r e t e b l o c k s , s t u c c o o r w o o d s t r u c t u r e s , a s w e l l a s v i n y l s i d i n g S i n c e t h e h u r r i c a n e , i t ’ s b e e n r e l a t i v e l y d r y i n

S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a W i t h t h e r a i n y s e as o n s t a r t i n g , t h o u g h , s t r o n g U V r a y s , h e a t , r a i n a n d h u m i d i t y c a n e x p o s e a n y w a l l s , d o o r s , s h u t t e r s , t r i m s , p a t i o s a n d h a n d r a i l s t h a t h a v e b e e n c o m p r o m i s e d U n l i k e p a i n t i n g i n t e r i o r s p a c e s , w h e r e t h e e n v i r o n m e n t i s c l i m a t e c o nt r o l l e d , p a i n t i n g a s t r u c t u r e ’ s e x t e r i o r r e q u i r e s p l a n n i n g A l w a y s p r o f e s s i o n a ll y c l e a n s u r f a c e s b e f o r e p a i n t i n g ; t h i s e n s u r e s t h e p a i n t w i l l b o n d w e l l w i t h t h e e x t e r i o r A l s o , e x p e r t s r e c o m m e n d p a i n t i n g i n t h e m o r n i n g , w h e n t h e c h a n c e o f r a i n i s t y p i c a l l y l o w e r

T h e r e a r e t h r e e p r i m a r y c o n s i d e r at i o n s b e f o r e s t a r t i n g a n e x t e r i o r r e p a i n ti n g p r o j e c t :

∫ P a i n t c o l o r : B e i g e , t a n , w h i t e , l i g h t y e l l o w a n d l i g h t b l u e a r e p o p u l a r e x t e r io r c o l o r s i n S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a , b u t g r a y h a s e m e r g e d a s t h e t r e n d i e s t c o l o r f o r h o m e s L i g h t a n d m e d i u m g r a y s l o o k g r e a t w h e n p a i r e d w i t h e i t h e r w h i t e o r d a r k t r i m c o lo r s B e f o r e c h o o s i n g a c o l o r , c h e c k n e i g h b o r h o o d r e gu l a t i o n s ; h o m e o w n e r s a s s o c i a t i o n s o f t e n s p e c i f y a p a i n t c o l o r p a l e t t e w i t h i n t h e b y l a w s ∫ P a i n t f i n i s h : L o w l u s t e r a n d s a t i n f i n i s h e s a r e

g o o d o p t i o n s b e c a u s e t h e y o f f e r r e s i s t a n c e a g a i n s t d i r t a n d g r a s s c l i p p i n g s A p r e m i u m a c r y l i c l a t e x p a i n t i s w a t e r p r o o f , m o l d r e s i s t a n t , f a d e r e s i s t a n t a n d f l e x i b l e , a n i m p o r t a n t c h a r a c t e r i s t i c f o r a c l i m a t e w i t h r a p i d t e m p e r a t u r e c h a n g e s ∫ P a i n t m a n u f a c t u r e r : F o r s o m e p r o d u c t s , g e n e r i c o r s t o r e b r a n d s a r e e s s e n t i a l l y t h e s a m e a s n a m e b r a n d s U n f o r t u n a t e l y , p a i n t i s o f t e n n o t o n e o f t h o s e p r o d u c t s L o w - q u a l i t y p a i n t b r a n d s o f t e n r e q u i r e t w o c o a t s o f p a i n t o r f a d e q u i c k l y , e a t i n g a w a y a t a n y c o s t s a v i n g s B e n j a m i n M o o r e , C l a r k + K e n s i n g t o n , R o y a l a n d M a g n o l i a H o m e a r e a m o n g t h e m o s t r e s p e c t e d b r a n d s i n t h e i n d u s t r y . E v e r y h o m e i m p r o v e m e n t p r o j e c t o r p r o p e r t y e n h a n c e m e n t i s a n i n v e s t m e n t o f b o t h f i n a n c i a l r e s o u r c e s a n d t i m e T h e g o a l f o r e x t e r i o r p a i n t j o b s i n S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a i s e i g h t y e a r s – i f y o u c a n m a k e i t l a s t a d e c a d e w i t h o u t s h o w i n g w e a r a n d t e a r , f a d i n g , c h i p p i n g , c h a l k i n g o r c r a c k i n g , y o u i n v e s t e d w i s e l y i n t h e r i g h t p a i n t a n d t h e r i g h t p a i n t e r

Dan Miles is the commercial paint division manager for Sunshine Ace Hardware, which operates retail stores in Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Manatee and Pinellas count i e s F o r a d d i t i o n a l i n f o r m a t i o n , p l e a s e v i s i t

SunshineAce com

Goldilocks market: Not too hot and not too cold around Cape Coral

From page 14

b u y e r i n t h e m o n t h o f A p r i l w a s 5 2 d a y s T h e a v e r a g e d a y s t o s e l l i s m o r e h e a v i l y i n f l u e n c e d b y h o m e s t h a t s i t o n t h e m a r k e t u n s o l d f o r a l o n g p e r i o d o f t i m e T o p u t t h e s e t w o s t a t i s t i c s i n t o c o n t e x t , a s a s e l l e r i n A p r i l , i f y o u r h o m e d i d n o t g o u n d e r c o n t r a c t i n l e s s t h a n 2 8 d a y s , w h i c h i s t h e t i m e i t t o o k f o r h a l f o f t h e h o m e s o n t h e m a r k e t , i t w a s m o r e l i k e l y t h a t i t w o u l d t a k e s o m et h i n g c l o s e r t o t h e a v e r a g e o f 5 2 d a y s , o r l o n g e r , f o r a b u y e r t o e m e r g e a n d g o u n d e r c o n t r a c t o n y o u r h o m e O n e o f t h e o t h e r “ t e l l s ” f o r a s e l l e r r e g a r d i n g t h e l i k e l i h o o d t h a t t h e i r h o m e w i l l g o u n d e r c o n t r a c t q u i c kl y i s t i e d t o t h e n u m b e r o f s h o w i n g a p p o i n t m e n t s b e i n g s c h e d u l e d b y b u y e r ’ s a g e n t s I f a h o m e i s p r i c e d p r o pe r l y t o t h e c u r r e n t m a r k e t , a s e l l e r w i l l l i k e l y h a v e a h a n d f u l o f s h o w i n g a p p o i n t m e n t s s c h e d u l e d i n t h e f i r s t s e v e r a l w e e k s t h e h o m e i s o n t h e m a r k e t a n d t h e y w i l l p r o b a b l y r e c e i v e a n o f f e r f r o m o n e o f t h o s e b u y e r s T h e s h o w i n g a c t i v i t y i s l i k e l y t o b e m u c h h i g h e r o n l o w e r p r i c e d h o m e s , a n d l o w e r o n h i g h e r p r i c e d h o m e s I f a n e w l i s t i n g i s u n d e r p r i c e d t o t h e m a r k e t , t h e s h o w i n g a c t i v i t y w i l l b e b r i s k a n d a s e l l e r i s l i k e l y t o r e c e i v e m u l t i p l e o f f e r s a t f u l l p r i c e a n d a b o v e I f a n e w l i s t i n g i s p r i c e d p r o p e r l y t o t h e m a r k e t , a s e l l e r w i l l p r o b a b l y g e t o n e o r t w o o f f e r s w i t h i n t h e f i r s t s e v e r a l w e e k s t h a t t h e h o m e i s o n t h e m a r k e t r a n g i n g f r o m f u l l - p r i c e t o m a y b e 8 % b e l o w l i s t p r i c e I n g e n e r a l , m o s t b u y e r s a r e

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

A n o t h e r m a r k e t s t a t i s t i c t h a t m a y h e l p a s e l l e r g e t a f e e l f o r t h e t i m e f r a m e i t m a y t a k e t o g e t t h e s a l e o f t h e i r h o m e f i n a l i z e d i s t h e C u m u l a t i v e D a y s O n t h e M a r k e t ( C D O M ) T h i s i s t h e t o t a l n u m b e r o f d a y s i t t a k e s f r o m w h e n a h o m e i s f i r s t l i s t e d f o r s a l e u n t i l t h e s a l e o f f i c i a l l y g o e s i n t o t h e b o o k s a s a c l o s e d s a l e I n A p r i l , t h e m e d i a n C D O M w a s 8 4 d a y s , m e a n i n g h a l f o f t h e c l o s e d h o m e s a l e s t h a t w e r e r e c o r d e d i n A p r i l w e n t f r o m b e i n g l i s t e d t o p e n d i n g t o a c l o s e d s a l e i n l e s s t h a n 8 4 d a y s a n d h a l f t o o k m o r e t h a n 8 4 d a y s B y c o m p a r is o n , i n A p r i l 2 0 2 2 t h e m e d i a n C D O M i n t h e C a p e w a s 5 1 d a y s “ s o u p t o n u t s , ” a n d i n A p r i l 2 0 2 1 i t w a s 5 6 d a y s . L o o k i n g b a c k t o A p r i l 2 0 2 0 , t h e C D O M w a s 9 9 d a y s a n d i n A p r i l 2 0 1 9 i t w a s 1 0 0 d a y s S o o u r c u r r e n t m a r k e t i s s l o w e r t h a n t h e r e d h o t m a r k e t i n 2 0 2 1 a n d

2 0 2 2 , b u t s t i l l a b i t f a s t e r t h a n i n 2 0 1 9 a n d f o r t h e f i r s t e i g h t m o n t h s o f 2 0 2 0

T h e a v e r a g e C D O M f o r C a p e C o r a l s i n g l e - f a m i l y

h o m e s i n A p r i l w a s 1 2 5 d a y s , c o m p a r e d t o o n l y 7 8 d a y s i n A p r i l 2 0 2 2 a n d 9 1 d a y s i n A p r i l 2 0 2 1 B u t b a c k i n A p r i l 2 0 2 0 , t h e a v e r a g e C D O M w a s 1 4 4 d a y s a n d i n A p r i l 2 0 1 9 i t w a s 1 4 6 d a y s S o a g a i n , i f a s e l l e r g e t s d e c e n t s h o w i n g a c t i v i t y w h e n t h e i r h o m e f i r s t g o e s o n t h e m a r k e t , t h e r e i s a b e t t e r c h a n c e t h e y w i l l f a l l i n t o t h e h a l f t h a t g e t s a s a l e f i n a l i z e d i n l e s s t h a n t h e m e d ia n n u m b e r o f d a y s B u t i f t h e y h a v e t h e i r h o m e p r i c e d t o o h i g h t o t h e c u r r e n t m a r k e t , t h e i r t i m e f r a m e s a r e l i k e l y t o g e t e x t e n d e d o u t t o w a r d s t h e h i g h e r a v e r a g e n u m b e r o f d a y s a n d b e y o n d

The sales data for this article was obtained from the Florida Realtors Multiple Listing Service Matrix for Lee County, Fla , as of May 8, 2023, unless otherwise noted It was compiled by Bob and Geri Quinn and it includes information specifically for Cape Coral single-family homes, and does not include condominiums, short sales or foreclosures The data and statistics are believed to be reliable, 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 with the RE/MAX Realty Team office in Cape Coral. They have lived in Cape Coral for over 43 years Geri has been a full-time Realtor since 2005, and Bob joined with Geri as a full-time Realtor in 2014 Their real estate practice is mainly focused on Cape Coral residential property and vacant lots

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

a p e

o r a l B r e e z e

Dan Miles Guest Commentary

Wire fraud: Diligence is the key to protecting your money, passwords

From page 14

in their account long Put another way, there is minimal likelihood you will receive your money back Adding insult to injury, you would still be responsible to purchase the property you contracted for, which could lead to the loss of the initial escrow deposit you placed

With regard to protecting your email account in general, changing passwords and adding two-factor authentication is a great first step to protect your information If you often engage in financial or real estate transactions, it may be a good idea to contact a professional Information and Technology company to assist you in protecting your accounts

From page 14

Beattie Development receives 2023 Guildmaster with Highest Distinction Award

Beattie Development, an award-winning custom home builder and remodeler in Southwest Florida, has received a 2023 Guildmaster with Highest Distinction Award from GuildQuality for demonstrating exceptional customer service within the residential construction industry

Since 2005, GuildQuality, an Atlanta-based third-party customer satisfaction surveying company, has powered the Guildmaster Award to recognize and celebrate home building, remodeling and contracting professionals demonstrating the highest level of customer service within the U S and Canada

Out of nearly 2,000 eligible applicants, Beattie Development is one of 400+ businesses within the residential construction industry recognized by GuildQuality for consistently delivering superior customer care

In determining which businesses received the 2023 Guildmaster Award, GuildQuality reviewed thousands of survey responses submitted by customers of Guildmaster candidates and considered two primary metrics for each candidate: the percentage of customers stating they would recommend the business to a friend and the percentage of customers who responded

For more on the 2023 Guildmaster Award and qualifica-

Don’t be a victim Diligence is key to protecting your money and passwords in all situations, but particularly in real estate purchases Before sending that wire, you must be 100% sure the instructions are authentic

Eric P Feichthaler has lived in Cape Coral for over 35 years and graduated from Mariner High School in Cape C o r a l

University in Washington, D C , he returned to Southwest Florida 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, Cape Coral Museum of History, and Cape Coral

REAL ESTATE BRIEFS

tions, visit www guildquality com/guildmaster/

Founded by Paul Beattie in 2009, Beattie Development is the parent corporation of Beattie Realty, Beattie Home Services, Bergau Plumbing and Beattie Countertops Beattie Development specializes in building affordable, custom and luxury homes, offering all aspects of the project – from home design and permits to final decorating – under one roof Beattie Development’s corporate headquarters are located at 857 SE 47th St in Cape Coral For more information, please visit www beattiedev com or call 239-766-4150

EHC begins year with five new construction projects

EHC, a construction company specializing in pre-construction, earthwork and infrastructure development, has announced that construction is underway on five new projects in Lee, Collier and DeSoto counties, including development of a one-story four-bedroom Intake Building at Youth Haven, roadway widening on State Road No 93 (I-75), a multi-family complex in Cape Coral, SR 72 roadway improvements and an intersection improvement

Youth Haven Intake Cottage

Starting the first of the year, EHC is working with Youth Haven to develop the site for constructing a one-story fourbedroom Intake Building in Collier County The project includes clearing, earthwork, excavation, fill, grading, and

Kiwanis He has been married to his wife, Mary, for over 20 years, and they have four children together He earned his board certification in Real Estate Law from the Florida Bar He is AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell for professional ethics and legal ability, and is a Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator He can be reached at eric@capecoralattorney com, or 239-542-4733

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

compaction to create a safe and welcoming space for youth in need

SR 9 3

In January 2023, EHC and AJAX Paving began the roadway widening project on State Road No 93 (I-75) from Toll Booth to Collier Boulevard The project consists of drainage improvements, milling and resurfacing, and signing to improve the safety and efficiency of the roadway Springs at Coral Shores

EHC commenced work on the Springs at Coral Shores multi-family complex in January 2023 with Continental Properties The project is located at Pine Island Road and Burnt Store Road, Cape Coral, and aims to provide modern and comfortable living for residents in Cape Coral

SR 7 2

Preferred Materials contracted EHC for the SR72 roadway improvement project in DeSoto County EHC services are cross slope correction, milling and resurfacing, shoulder reconstruction, miscellaneous drainage and signing and pavement markings along SR 72 from the Sarasota County line to the bridge over Horse Creek in DeSoto County

In addition, EHC is improving the Corkscrew Road and Wildcat Drive intersection in Collier County which started in April 2023

For the latest happenings at EHC, visit www EHCconstruction com, contact 239-592-0828 or connect with EHC on LinkedIn.

COMMUNITY

GCHS to host Alumni Reunion for past shelter dog adopters May 28

Adding a forever friend through adoption is a special deed any family can do

For that reason, the Gulf Coast Humane Society is celebrating those forever families who have adopted their K9 from the shelter by hosting an Alumni Reunion Sunday, May 28, at Stevie Tomato's Sports Page, 4420 Colonial Blvd , in Fort Myers, from 4-8 p m

GCHS supporter Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Purtz and Rice P A is sponsoring the event

UF/IFAS PHOTO

Spanish moss draped from a tree. Despite what some might believe, Spanish moss is not harmful to trees or other plants.

Exploring garden myths

By CATHY DUNN news@breezenewspapers com

We’ve all heard anecdotes and advice throughout the years about every subject imaginable, and gardeners are among the best at passing along tips and tricks! There are many gardening myths that we may be guilty of repeating without realizing or understanding the science that can debunk many of these assumptions UF/IFAS has identified a number of these myths that you have no doubt heard, and maybe even repeated, yourself

I thought it would be fun to explore some of these familiar myths and provide you with the science behind the story so that you can help combat some of these common misunderstandings

GARDEN CLUB OF CAPE CORAL

M a n y n e w r e s i d e n t s who have moved to southern coastal areas from northern climates are convinced that Spanish moss can kill trees This is false; Spanish moss is an air plant, better known as an epiphyte, and is not parasitic The tree provides only support to the Spanish moss, and the roots do not penetrate the bark or derive any nutrients from the tree This myth probably originated when homeowners observed that dying trees often appear to have higher concentrations of Spanish moss than healthy trees As trees decline, they lose leaves, and this offers an opportunity for Spanish moss to receive additional light which is necessary for growth. While a heavy concentration of moss could possibly shade lower branches, most healthy trees will grow more quickly than the moss, t h u s e l i m i n a t i n g a n y d e t r i m e n t a l e f f e c t s f r o m increased shade Tree limbs may occasionally be weighed down by a heavy load of Spanish moss; if the excess weight concerns you the moss can be removed by hand Since Spanish moss provides shelter to insects and wildlife you should exercise caution when removing it, or better yet have a certified arborist remove the moss

Every year during the holidays we are reminded that poinsettias are poisonous; this is false. According to “Toxic Plants of North America,” “As a houseplant, the amount of plant material available for consumption is so small that the species is definitely overrated as a hazard ”

Some people are mildly allergic to the poinsettia’s white milky sap, but according to the experts you’d have to ingest a large quantity of poinsettia to receive a harmful dose The poinsettia’s colorful leaves are

See GARDEN MYTHS, page 25

Tickets for the event are $10 (open to everyone) and can be found at https://e givesmart com/events/wHY/ Tickets include one beer ticket (if over 21 years of age), a goody bag and an Alumni photo

There will be food and dessert trucks, vendors, dog pools, dog agility, raffles, a 50/50, dog accessories and alumni T-shirts

Gulf Coast Humane Society is a regional organization dedicated to helping companion pets find their forever homes, no matter how long it takes GCHS provides an adoption center, spay-neuter and veterinary clinic, as well as education and awareness to the public about the welfare of homeless pets

Gulf Coast Humane Society’s mission is to care for companion pets in need by offering safe refuge, providing medical care and facilitating adoptions GCHS promotes the concept the “Adopt, Don’t Shop” and helps educate the community about proper and responsible animal care, while providing quality, affordable veterinary care

Gulf Coast Humane Society's facilities include:

■ GCHS Veterinary Clinic: 2685 Swamp Cabbage Court, Fort Myers, 33901; Phone: 239-332-2719

■ GCHS Spay/Neuter Clinic: 2010 Arcadia St , Fort Myers, 33916; Phone: 239-332-1573

■ GCHS Adoption Center: 2010 Arcadia St , Fort Myers, 33916; Phone: 239-332-0364

To learn more about GCHS, visit its website at www.gulfcoasthumanesociety.org.

Meteorologist

Rhoades to lead Gulf Coast Village hurricane preparation Lunch and Learn

Meteorologist Nash Rhoades of WINK-TV will lead a hurricane preparation lunch and learn event being held at Gulf Coast Village at 11 a m on Wednesday, May 24

Following Hurricane Ian this past September, the need for hurricane planning has become even more clear, which is why the Gulf Coast Village lunch and learn event is focused on hurricane preparation Rhoades and the Gulf Coast Village team will discuss how to put a proper hurricane plan in place as we prepare to enter hurricane season and be available for questions

“We are very excited to be joined this year by Nash Rhoades as we help our senior community prepare for hurricane season,” said Greg Anderson, Gulf Coast Village executive director “We look forward to the opportunity to welcome new prospective residents to learn about what Gulf Coast Village has to offer while also be able to offer beneficial information for hurricane

planning ”

A complimentary lunch will be served at the event Registration is required for the hurricane preparation lunch and learn To register visit GulfCoastVillage org/ event/get-prepared-and-join-us-for-lunch-5-24/

Founded in 1989, Gulf Coast Village is a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Cape Coral Residents enjoy active living in a lifestyle of comfort and convenience with a rich array of services and amenities that are focused on living well The community also offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, specialized memory support, skilled nursing, home health, rehabilitation services and Senior Choice at Home, a continuing care at home program Gulf Coast Village is located at 1333 Santa Barbara Blvd , Cape Coral, FL 33991 For more information, call 239-7721333 or visit GulfCoastVillage org

Cape Social Club to hold dinner dance June 3

Shellebrate Dinner Dance Saturday, June 3, from 5:309:30 p m at the German American Social Club, 2101 S W Pine Island Road, Cape Coral

The general public is invited to the event, which will feature the music of 2nd Time Around, featuring Barbara B and Tony David, and a choice of one dinner entree pot roast or chicken cordon blue with bechemel sauce or stuffed portabella mushroom All will be served with pasta salad, rolls and butter, mashed potatoes and gravy, honey glazed carrots, angel food cake with fruit and decaf coffee, and soft drinks

A cash only bar will be available no BYOB!

Reservations and payment are required by Tuesday, May 30 The cost is $30 for members and $35 for guests -- add $1 per person if using PayPal or credit card

Payments will be accepted at the general meeting, Farmer Joe’s, Family Hardware on Southwest 47th Terrace, on the web at www.capecoralsocialclub.org or by contacting Judy at 239-699-0123 or Kathy at 239-2571803 Indicate entrée choice and table seating preference; singles’ table available

There will be no refunds for cancellations Checks are preferred

Question? Email CCSCreservations@gmail com

PHOTO PROVIDED Champ was adopted Feb 21, 2023

‘Ding’ Darling Wildlife Society - Friends of the Refuge announce winners of high school photography contest

Following judging on April 28, the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge announced the winners and honorable mentions for the 10th annual “Ding” Darling-Theodore Cross High School Photography Contest at the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel

Sponsored by the Theodore Cross Family Charitable Foundation, the competition invites high school students from Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties to compete for prizes that this year included a Canon digital SLR camera package, one-year subscription to Adobe photography software and one-year family pass to all Florida state parks

Cross, who lived part-time on Sanibel, marched with Dr Martin Luther King Jr ; advised the Johnson and Nixon administrations on anti-poverty programs; wrote the book “Black Capitalism,” among others; and created Birders United, a birding Web site that ranked legislators according to their record of bird protection support

Late in life, Cross decided to indulge his love for birds and photography and traveled the world to collect stunning portraits and stories to chronicle his adventures He photographed often at the Sanibel refuge, and a number of the images in his book reflect his love for it. Cross published “Waterbirds: Portraits and Anecdotes from Birding Adventures” in 2009 at age 85; he passed away shortly after that in 2010

Refuge Ranger Yvette Carrasco, Fort Myers News-Press photojournalist Andrew West and refuge supporter Nancy Adams judged this year's contest They reviewed 321 images taken by students from nine different schools

First place went to an image titled “Nature's Bandit” by Chase Qurollo of Cape Coral High School

“I love this photo because it's in black and white, and because the raccoon is looking directly at the camera,” Carrasco said. “Raccoons have such fun personalities, and they are very curious animals ”

In second place, Jakob Keyes of Cypress Lake High School created a closeup floral portrait titled “Purple Rain ”

“I chose the flower because of its great depth of field, color, and rule of thirds,” West said “Great use of macro lens, and it spoke to me artistically Also, great leading line in the yellow part of the flower ”

Third place winner “Into the Horizon” was submitted by Alessandra Sanchez of the Community School of Naples

“What spoke to me about this photo was the sense of appreciation as this snowy egret gazes across the gulf during sunset,” Adams said “It seems we humans are not the only ones to recognize beauty around us.”

The honorable mention winners are as follows in alphabetical order:

∫ Emma Best, of Cape Coral High School, “Dragonfly”

Sipe inducted into UA Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society and UA Mor tar Board Honor Society

TUSCALOOSA, AL -- The University of Alabama honored the achievement of numerous students, faculty and staff during the annual Tapping on the Mound ceremony April 7

Among those recognized were students inducted into the Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, including Sammy Sipe of Cape Coral

The purpose of Omicron Delta Kappa is to recognize those students who have attained high standards in collegiate activities, to inspire others to strive for similar attainments, and to bring together students in all areas of college life: scholarship; athletics; campus or community service; social and religious activities; campus government; journalism, speech and mass media; and creative and performing arts

In addition, Sipe was also inducted into the Mortar Board National Honor Society Mortar Board, a national honor society for men and

∫ Kyler Carter, of Cypress Lake High School, “Branches of Electricity”

∫ Adrian Cox, of Cypress Lake High School, “Watchful Eye”

∫ Mikael Hernandez, of Lehigh Senior High School, “Nestlings in the Nest”

∫ Despina Kik, of Island Coast High School, “Bee”

∫ Khaleb Nunez, of Lehigh Senior High School, “Blue”

∫ Zulai Perez, of Cypress Lake High School, “Beautiful Yellow Rose”

∫ Jillian Peska, of Cape Coral High School, “Wonder”

∫ Daysie Rogers, of Cypress Lake High School, “Free as a Bird”

∫ Leslie Velasco, of Lehigh Senior High School, “Drop of Water”

∫ Cole Wesener, of Cape Coral High School, “Robin” Judges and contest coordinators expressed difficulty in narrowing down the choices

EDUCATION NOTES

women, is based on leadership, scholarship and service It is one of the highest honors that can be granted to seniors Members must display outstanding dedication to service and leadership

The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, offers nearly 200 degree programs For additional information, visit https://www.ua.edu/

Huntingdon announces Class of 2023 bachelor’s degree graduates

Montgomery, Ala Huntingdon College awarded bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degree to 176 gradu a t e s d u r i n g 2 0 2 3 C o m m e n c e m e n t E x e r c i s e s , h e l d

Saturday, May 6, at Top Stage on the Huntingdon Green

Among the graduates was Katlyn Mackenzie Harrison of Cape Coral She graduated magna cum laude with a degree in exercise science

Huntingdon College, grounded in the Judeo-Christian tradition of the United Methodist Church, is committed to nurturing growth in faith, wisdom and service and to graduating individuals prepared to succeed in a rapidly chang-

“Amazing work by all,” West said “It was very hard to choose a winner ”

DDWS Executive Director Birgie Miller Gresham noted that Cross' family made the contest possible “It has become a solid success story,” she said “We couldn't be more thrilled the family wants its donations used in this way to reach an age group that often falls through the cracks of conservation education Thanks to the 'Ding' staff, high school teachers, and judges who made this all happen ”

“We are so happy to be supporting a contest in my father's name, a contest that will get our youth involved with nature by looking at it as my father so loved doing through a camera lens,” Amanda Cross said Students were able to submit up to two photographs

To view the winning images and for more information about contest, visit dingdarlingsociety org/articles/photocontests

ing world Founded in 1854, Huntingdon is a residential coeducational liberal arts college offering the bachelor of arts, bachelor of science and master of athletic training degrees

For additional information about the college, visit www huntingdon edu

Prejean par ticipates in

Lasell University RUNWAY shows

NEWTON, MA -- Ionna Prejean, a Lasell University student from Cape Coral, participated in the institution's annual RUNWAY shows last month

Prejean was a designer who presented original work at the RUNWAY undergraduate show

The annual fashion shows featured work from 89 student designers and more than 150 models and production staff members An undergraduate show on April 28 showcased work across 11 categories, including sweater knits, corsetry, athleisure, and non-textiles. On Saturday, senior

See EDUCATION NOTES, page 28

Cape Coral High School student Chase Qurollo’s “Nature's Bandit” won first place in the ‘Ding’ Darling photography contest.

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

CCPD steps up recruiting efforts

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

The Cape Coral Police Department has teamed up with a local public relations brand in hopes to recruit new officers for one of the country's fastest-growing cities

CCPD has contracted Spiro & Associates Advertising to be the marketing, advertising and branding agency for the department and its roughly 300 sworn officers and 93 professional staff

The new recruitment campaign titled, “Be Brave Be Best Be Cape” includes an “evolved” logo with updated photos featuring main units within the department

S p i r o & A s s o c i a t e s i s a l s o r e l a u n c h i n g www CapeCops com as part of a recruitment website, as well as contributing to CCPDs social media

“Our vision at the Cape Coral Police Department is to

become the premier law enforcement agency in Florida, striving to attain the highest level of safety for our community,” stated Cape Coral Police Capt Dana Coston, who is the Professional Standards Bureau commander, in a release “To achieve that vision, we must recruit and hire exceptional people and provide for their professional growth and development through ongoing world-class training We are excited to partner with Spiro & Associates to raise our profile in this highly competitive market so that the Cape Coral Police Department is topof-mind for those seeking an agency at which to build a fantastic career ”

The CCPD is recognized as one of the top law enforcement agencies in the state, taking in trained recruits from the public service academy as well as seasoned officers from other departments around the state and country, officials said

Officials added that the CCPD “features competitive pay, a strong pension, and the opportunity to advance quickly Also important to the department’s growth is the latest advancements in crime solving technology and emergency response services Community engagement also is embraced by its officers and command staff ”

Spiro & Associates COO Christopher Spiro said, “For us to partner with the Cape Coral Police Department on a campaign that continues to advance the great qualities that continue to make the city one of the safest in the state is truly an honor This is a project we are excited to see get off the ground ”

C C P D o f f i c i a l s s a i d t h e c o n t r a c t / c a m p a i g n i s

$30,000

For additional information about the Cap Coral Police Department, please visit www capecoral gov/department/police/index php

SCHEA blood drive Saturday in Club Square

SCHEA will host a Lee Health blood drive this Saturday, May 20, from 11 a m to 4 p m The bus will be parked in Club Square, behind the BackStreets Sports Bar on Southeast 47th Terrace.

According to health officials, type O+ and O- remain critically low, and supply levels for all other blood types are also below normal

Residents are asked to consider making a donation to help the local community

Donors will receive a punch card with complimentary offers from the following local businesses:

■ BackStreets, chips & bourbon chipotle queso

■ Cape Cleaners, 10% off laundry or dry cleaning services (excludes alterations)

■ The Dive, 10% off your next visit

City hosts ribbon-cutting to officially open section of SUN Trail Network

By FRAN THOMAS news@breezenewspapers com

Cape Coral City Councilmember Bill Steinke cut the symbolic ribbon to open Phase I of the SUN Trail, short for Shared Use Non-motorized Trail, today in north Cape Coral

The SUN Trail Network is a statewide system of paved trail corridors for bicyclists and pedestrians Phase I, which is 3 5 miles long, runs along Kismet Parkway from Nelson Road to El Dorado Boulevard, and connects with Van Buren Parkway and the Burnt Store Trail

The location for the trail was strategically selected, Steinke said

“A large percentage of our population does not drive This enables them to get around,” he said at the ribbon-cutting ceremony

In 2017 the Florida Department of Transportation awarded the city of Cape Coral a $1.8 million grant to design and engineer a 12-foot-wide, 6 5-mile-long SUN Trail segment A

Persides Zambrano, discussions of where to build the trail began in 2015 At the urging of Ron Gogoi,

Transportation Planning Administrator for the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization, she and her staff applied for the grant They got it on the first try

Phase I includes the only pedestrian bridge in Cape Coral

Gogoi said the city received a total of $40 million for all three phases; however, costs have gone up since then An additional $200,000 appropriation for SUN Trails under Senate Bill 106 was approved by Gov Ron DeSantis and is effective July 1, 2023

Phase II is anticipated to begin in 2025 and will include an additional 3 miles of the SUN Trail segment from Nelson Road to Del Prado Boulevard

The city will soon work to design a Phase III, which would connect Del Prado Boulevard to the city limit at Northeast 24th Avenue

Cape Coral City Councilmember Bill Steinke, center, surrounded by a number of officials, helps cut the ribbon to officially open the SUN Trail in north Cape Coral FRAN THOMAS

■ Dixie Roadhouse, no cover charge for 2 people before 11 p m (excludes special events)

■ DIY Yogurt, small cup of DIY

■ Eight-Foot Brewing, select draft

■ Fish Tale Grill, 10% off total check (cannot be combined with any other offer)

■ Genius Computer Repair & Service, $10 off any repair or service

■ Greek Spot, piece of baklava

■ Hair Artistry, blow out w/ purchase of a hair cut

■ Karma and Coconuts, pocket size crystal heart

■ Lehne Burger, pretzel bites app

■ Maria's Pizzeria, small one-topping pizza

■ Merrick Seafood Company, 10% off total check (cannot be combined with any other offer)

■ Nice Guys Pizza, order of regular or vegan garlic knots

■ Penny's Coffee Bar, small hot or iced coffee

■ Perk & Brew Coffee Shop Cafe, $5 off purchase of $15 or greater

■ Rack'em Spirits & Times, 1 hour of billiards (up to 5 people)

■ Rusty's Raw Bar & Grill, loaded tots

■ Tiki Hut, well drink, wine or domestic draft

■ Zak's Jewelry, watch battery replacement

All blood donated will stay local to Lee County, and appointments are available to eliminate wait times Please text Shannon at 239-900-4028 (Monday-Friday, 10 a m t o 4 p m ) o r e m a i l i n f o @ s o u t h c a p e e n t e r tainment com to secure your time slot

Stay tuned to everything SCHEA via Facebook and SCHEA's website at https://southcapeentertainment com/

Community Cooperative announces Soup-off competition winners from Empty Bowls fundraiser

Community Cooperative recently announced the Soupoff competition winners from its Empty Bowls fundraiser on April 29 The People's Choice winner was Seed & Bean Market with Roasted Garlic and Caramelized Onion Bisque The Judge’s Choice winner was East Lee County High School with Chicken and Wild Rice

Local restaurants and chefs brought their soup creations for attendees to sample and vote on

Participating restaurants and chefs were Seed & Bean Market, Community Cooperative’s Sam’s Community Café & Kitchen, Shrimp Shack, University Grill, PrawnBroker Restaurant and Fish Market, Nomiki Plakka Greek Restaurant, Young Parents Education Program and East Lee County High School

Official judges for the soup competition were Josh Robinson, also known as “Omgitswicks” on social media, Julia Jacobson from the Miss Universal Global Pageant and Cerena Rolle from the Florida Gulf Coast University Women’s Basketball team

“We’re so grateful for the generosity of our sponsors, student artists, judges, local restaurants, and attendees who

Seed & Bean Market was the People's Choice winner with its Roasted Garlic and Caramelized Onion Bisque.

PHOTO PROVIDED

made this event a success,” said Stefanie Edwards, CEO of Community Cooperative “While the event is fun and festive, it is also a reminder that many of our neighbors in Southwest Florida don’t always know where their next meal will come from and rely on our services when they are in need ”

Along with the soup-off competition, the event featured live performances by Lee County School District students, family friendly activities and local vendors One-of-a kind handcrafted ceramic bowls were available for attendees at the event which were made by students from Gateway Elementary, Franklin Park Elementary, Allen Park Elementary, North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts Middle, Estero High, Bonita Spring Middle Center for the Arts Middle, Hector A Cafferata Elementary, Gateway High, Orangewood Elementary and Patriot Elementary

The event raised $22,000 to support Community Cooperative's emergency food programs, which include Sam's Community Caf é & Kitchen, the Community Market, Meals on Wheels, and Mobile Food Pantries

About Community Cooperative

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 With a dedicated team of volunteers, board of directors and staff, Community Cooperative stays committed to its core responsibility to collect and distribute resources through a strong and viable network of community partners Community Cooperative is an exemplary steward of the resources entrusted to it and serves clients with compassion and integrity 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

PHOTO PROVIDED

Some of the “Empty Bowls” on display at the fundraiser

Yacht Club: City says historic building too damaged to repair, restore

From page 1

demolition of the Yacht Club community

historic buildings and that the Yacht Club was declared as an historic place in 1998

building

He said he has been told that the damage from Hurricane Ian is beyond repair due to its receiving 5 feet of water inside, that a tour was not possible as the structure has been deemed unsafe and that FEMA regulations require the building to be torn down

That changed a few days ago, when other information was found, he said

“My understanding now is there was no flood water in the main ballroom, that the roof didn’t leak, that the hurricane damage was limited to a broken window,” Lauson said

He said he also learned that FEMA offers exceptions to its 50 percent rule for

“So, it appears the hurricane and FEMA are being used as an excuse to clear the site for commercial development, to make it more attractive for a public/private partnership Could it be there is misinformation and a rush to demolish the building before residents find out it’s really not that badly damaged,” Lauson said

A citizen effort is under way to have the Yacht Club centerpiece building declared historic and so prevent its demolition Dubbed “the hub and heart” of the community when the Cape’s founders opened it for the public in 1961, the club house should be preserved, according to the group, which has launched a Facebook page, Save the Cape Coral Yacht Club

Their email, for those who want more information on their effort, is savetheccyachtclub@gmail com

As far as the Boat House, Clinghan said although there still is hope the privately operated restaurant will open by the end of May though it might be pushed back to June The vehicle parking and lighting is ready and the temporary fencing and signs are up

Public Works continues to look at the boat gas tanks and supplier lines to ensure they are ready Clinghan said the Boat House is responsible for the actual pumps

The boat ramp at the city park is still closed, as it is being used to remove abandoned boats To date, Clinghan said there have been 300 vessels from Lee County removed, with 89 from Cape Coral

“They still anticipate needing the boat ramp until Aug 31,” he said, adding city staff will check every month to see how things are going

The boat ramp is also being used by Lee County for navigation aides

The riverfront beach remains closed, as does the city-operated marina Clinghan said they are waiting for FEMA approval, as a beach inspection is needed to see if they are eligible for reimbursement

The city is still waiting on permits from the Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Environmental Protection for installation of sea walls, boat ramp, marina and culvert The scope for the postIan revised master plan will be brought before the council next month, he said

Report: Hernandez declined to be interviewed by city-hired investigator

From page 2

of witnesses, I considered several factors, including whether a witness’s account was corroborated by other evidence; whether the witness’s account was plausible and r e a s o n a b l e u n d e r t h e c i r c u m s t a n c e s ; whether the witness had the means and opportunity to know the facts; whether the witness made contradictory or inconsistent statements; the witness’s history for telling the truth; and possible bias or motive to tell the truth ”

Among the allegations Dyson found to be unsubstantiated were claims of racial bias or stereotyping or improper inquiries or actions based upon race on the part of members of Council Also unsubstantiated were allegations of intolerance of LGBT employees or community by members of

Council

and allegations of

discriminatory behavior towards city employees based on sexual orientation

She also found the allegations that Hernandez’s resistance to the discriminatory views of certain council members contributed to Council’s decision to not renew his contract to be unsubstantiated as well as the assertion that he was retaliated against in violation to various federal and state employee protections including Florida’s Private Whistleblower Act

“There was no obligation to renew Mr Hernandez’s contract He served at the pleasure of council On February 1, 2023, the City Council decided not to renew his contract There is no evidence that any council member requested or advocated for discriminating against any employee nor is

there any evidence that Mr Hernandez refused to engage in discrimination or otherwise complained of discrimination prior to his nonrenewal Moreover, as explained above, Mr Hernandez’s performance evaluation was for a different period of time and completed by a different council The individuals who voted not to renew Mr Hernandez’s contract did not provide a favorable performance evaluation The reasons articulated by the council members on February 1, 2023, for Mr Hernandez’s non-renewal were consistent with their evaluations of Mr Hernandez’s performance in August 2022 as well as their explanations during my investigation as to why they did not renew Mr Hernandez’s contract Therefore the allegations that ‘certain members of the City Council’ held dis-

criminatory views, that Mr Hernandez ‘resisted discriminatory views,’ and was terminated for his objection are wholly, u n s u p p o r t e d b y a n y e v i d e n c e M r Hernandez refused to participate in an interview to explain these allegations ”

Hernandez has also filed a complaint w i t h t h e U S E q u a l E m p l o y m e n t Opportunity Commission. It also alleges that Cape Coral City Council’s decision to not extend his employment contract with the municipality is due to his resistance to actions by some council members concerning minority and LGBT employees

In late March, the EEOC gave the city 30 days to respond to allegations of discrimination and retaliation

That complaint still pending

Garden myths: Exploring the science behind the stories about plants

From page 17

tempting for children and pets, so it is advisable to keep the plant out of reach Cats and dogs that eat poinsettia leaves may develop mild side effects such as diarrhea and drooling, which can be concerning but might not warrant a trip to the vet The sap actually contains latex, so anyone with sensitivity to latex should be cautious around the poinsettia

Other holiday plants such as lilies, holly and mistletoe are far more toxic than poinsettias, so please exercise caution with these plants during the holidays

You’ve probably heard that dish soap is a safe and natural alternative to pesti-

cides This is False Dish soap is not a true soap, but rather a detergent that is synthetically produced and designed to be a powerful cleaner Plant leaves are coated with a “cuticle” or waxy layer of lipids; this layer inhibits moisture loss and protects leaves from bacteria, fungi and pathogens Detergents are produced to strip oils from man-made surfaces and can actually damage this protective cuticle, resulting in dry, burned leaves Even soaps designed for hygienic use are formulated with sodium hydroxide, which is a powerful modern form of lye that can cause damage to plant tissues

Insecticidal soaps are produced exclusively for use on plants and are made with potassium hydroxide which will not

damage plant tissue These insecticidal soaps are usually only 1-2% soap by volume

Before using any products in the garden always remember that the rule for chemicals and pesticide is: “the label is the law ” If the soap or detergent label does not specify or include use in the garden or as a pesticide, then the product is not designed or approved for that purpose You can learn more about the pitfalls of using soaps in the garden by s e a r c h i n g f o r t h e U F / I F A S a r t i c l e “Soaps, Detergents and Pest Management ”

Next month we’ll explore some additional garden myths. If you have questions about any gardening techniques

you may have read about online or heard from a friend, the best solution is to G o o g l e t h a t t e c h n i q u e p r e c e d e d b y “UF/IFAS ” The University of Florida conducts extensive horticultural research that is readily available online You can also call your local Extension Office for help with your gardening questions; in Lee County you can reach the Extension Office at 239-533-4327

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

0

9 ,

M a y

Mosquitoes: Lee County Mosquito Control Division on patrol

From page 1

h u m a n s M o s q u i t o - b o r n e d i s e a s e s s u c h a s m a l a r i a , d e n g u e , f e v e r , y e l l o w f e v e r , W e s t N i l e v i r u s , Z i k a , a n d o t h e r s , c a n p o s e a r i s k t o h u m a n s T h e L C M C D , t h a n k s t o i t s o r g a n i z e d m e t h o d s o f c o n t r o l , h a s g r e a t l y r e d u c e d t h e i n c i d e n c e o f s u c h d i s e a s e s T h e d i s t r i c t m o n i t o r s f o r a r b o v i r u s t r a n s m i s s i o n u s i n g m o s q u i t o p o o l s f r o m t r a p c o l l e c t i o n s a n d b y u s i n g s e n t i n e l c h i c k e n f l o c k s d i s t r i bu t e d a r o u n d t h e c o u n t y “ I f a n y d i s e a s e s a r e d e t e c t e d , t h a t a r e a o f t h e c o u n t y i s t h o r o u g h l y i n s p e c t e d a n d t r e a t e d t o e l i m i n a t e m o sq u i t o a c t i v i t y , ” F o w l e r s a i d P e s t c o n t r o l p r o f e s s i o n a l s s a y o n e s p e c i f i c s p e c i e s , t h e A s i a n T i g e r M o s q u i t o , i s s p r e a d i n g r a p i d l y a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y T h i s i s t h e s m a l l , d a r k m o s q u i t o w i t h d i st i n c t i v e w h i t e s t r i p e s o n i t s l e g s a n d b o d y T h e r e a s o n t h i s s p e c i e s i s a c o n c e r n i s i t s a b i l i t y t o s e r v e a s a d i se a s e c a r r i e r a n d t r a n s m i t d e n g u e f e v e r , c h i k u n g u n y a , a n d Z i k a v i r u s

l a t i n g i n L e e C o u n t y . W h e n i m p o r t e d c a s e s a r e d e t e c te d , w e c o n d u c t s u r v e i l l a n c e t o s e e i f w e c a t c h ( t h i s s p e c i e s o r o t h e r m o s q u i t o s p e c i e s ) a n d w i l l t r e a t t h e a r e a i f w e n e e d t o W h i l e t h i s i s a n i n v a s i v e , e x o t i c m o s q u i t o t h a t h a s t h e p o t e n t i a l t o b e d a n g e r o u s d u e t o t h e d i s e a s e s i t c a n c a r r y , i t i s n o t n e w t o o u r a r e a a n d L C M C D h a s e x t e n s i v e e x p e r i e n c e i n w o r k i n g t o m a na g e t h i s s p e c i e s ” S o , w h a t a r e t h e b e s t w a y s t o s t a y p r o t e c t e d f r o m m o s q u i t o s ?

“ A v o i d b e i n g o u t s i d e w h e n p e a k m o s q u i t o a c t i v i t y o c c u r s , b e t w e e n d u s k a n d d a w n , ” F o w l e r s a i d “ W e a r l o n g - s l e e v e s h i r t s a n d p a n t s , a n d u s e m o s q u i t o r e p e ll a n t ” F o w l e r s a i d r e s i d e n t s a r e a l w a y s w e l c o m e t o c a l l t h e i r o f f i c e a t 2 3 9 - 6 9 4 - 2 1 7 4 o r v i s i t w w w l c m c d c o m t o s u b m i t a s e r v i c e r e q u e s t i f y o u n o t i c e a n i n c r e a s e i n m o s q u i t o a c t i v i t y “ T h i s i n f o r m a t i o n g o e s s t r a i g h t t o t h e o p e r a t i o n s d e p a r t m e n t O n c e i t i s a s s i g n e d , a n i n s p e c t o r w i l l c o m e a n d c h e c k t h e a r e a , ” F o w l e r s a i d L C M C D p o s t s a l l o f i t s n i g h t t i m e t r e a t m e n t s o n l i n e a t w w w l c m c d c o m / t r e a t m e n t - s c h e d u l e / a n d o n s o c i a l m e d i a @ L e e C o M o s q u i t o

PHOTO PROVIDED

Jeff Smith, aerial inspector, checking for mosquito larvae on a daily inspection

“ T h e m o s t e f f e c t i v e w a y t o g e t r i d o f t h e s e m o s q u i t o e s i s t o r e m o v e t h e l a r v a l h a b i t a t -d u m p a n d c o v e r w a t e r s o u r c e s - - h o w e v e r t h i s c a n b e d i f f i c u l t o n a l a r g e s c a l e We a r e a b l e t o u s e l a r v i c i d e s a n d a d u l t i c i d e s t o h e l p r e d u c e t h e p o p u l a t i o n w h e n s o u r c e r e d u ct i o n i s n ’ t a n o p t i o n . R a c h e l M o r r e a l e , L C M C D ' s A p p l i e d S c i e n c e a n d Te c h n o l o g i e s m a n a g e r o f t h e A s i a n Ti g e r M o s q u i t o , a p e s k y d a y - b i t e r

Twin Peaks Restaurant coming to Cape

KOVA Commercial Group recently announced that the former Golden Corral restaurant located in Cape Coral has been purchased by new owners who are dedicated to bringing a fresh and exciting dining experience to the community Over the coming months, the building will undergo a complete remodel, and it will be transformed into a Twin Peaks Restaurant

Twin Peaks Burger and Beer Twin Peaks is a popular chain of restaurants known for their Americana-style comfort food, cold beer and a fun atmosphere The new owners of the location at 410 Andalusia Blvd are committed to bringing the best of Twin Peaks to Cape Coral, with a menu that features burgers, sandwiches, and wings, along with an extensive beer selection

The remodel will include a complete overhaul of the interior, with a new design that captures the spirit of Twin Peaks Guests can expect a warm and inviting atmosphere, with comfortable seating, a full bar and plenty of TVs for sports viewing

For more information about commercial real estate in Southwest Florida, contact KOVA Commercial Group at 239-261-2627 or visit https://kovacg com

Home Watch Ser vices of Cape Coral ear ns accreditation with NHWA

Home Watch Services of Cape Coral has earned accreditation from the National Home Watch Association The NHWA was formed in 2009 in order to establish and maintain the highest industry standards for Home Watch and absentee homeowner services throughout the United S t a t e s a n d C a n a d a ( w w w n a t i o n a l h o m e w a t c h a s s o c i ation.org). Home Watch is a visual inspection of a home or property, looking for obvious issues, which means that it is a service that “keeps an eye on things” at your vacation or primary home while you are not in residence All principals of NHWA Accredited Member companies are background-checked, insured, and bonded

Owner Charles Ellis is originally from the Northeast and graduated with a business degree from the University of Hartford in Connecticut After graduation, he moved to San Diego and spent 12 years working in international

BUSINESS BRIEFS

transportation In 2019, he became a licensed Florida home inspector and has spent a considerable amount of time working on condo and single-family home inspections

Home Watch Services of Cape Coral serves Tarpon Point Marina in Southwest Cape Coral Contact Ellis at 239-336-4490 or at pmoted@gmail com

Learn more at his website, https://homewatchservicescc com

Southeaster n Grocers Inc. celebrating National Pet Month

Southeastern Grocers Inc , parent company and home of Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, is celebrating National Pet Month by raising awareness and support for nearly 400 animal welfare organizations in the Southeast and helping customers save on pet food and supplies all summer long

N o w t h r o u g h M a y 3 1 , F r e s c o y M á s , H a r v e y s Supermarket and Winn-Dixie customers can purchase a reusable Community Bag with a Giving Tag for $2 99 to help local animals in need while concurrently benefiting the environment by reducing the use of paper and plastic bags. With each purchase of a Community Bag with a Giving Tag, $1 will directly benefit each store’s local animal welfare organization partner

Additionally, SEG is donating a total of $15,000 in Whiskers & Tails pet food and supplies to support local a n i m a l s h e l t e r s a n d r e s c u e s ,

Humane Society, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League in West Palm Beach and Lee County Domestic Animal Services These organizations help provide vital pet aid to families in need and work to keep pets happy and at home

SEG’s Community Bag with a Giving Tag program has supported more than 8,000 nonprofit organizations and prevented the use of more than 13 5 million single-use plastic bags since 2019 The durable and bright reusable bags are made from recycled materials and can be found at the register or near the entrance of each Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie store

For more information on the program, visit seg 2givelocal com

For more information, visit www frescoymas com, www harveyssupermarkets com and www winndixie com

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank

hires Arias as loan ser vicing assistant

Community Bank as a loan servicing assistant at the bank’s Bridge Branch, located at 9311 College Parkway, Fort Myers He is responsible for processing loan payoffs, preparing loan verification requests, managing loan payoff quotes and assisting in document management

Arias has over five years of banking experience, as well as a background in the sales industry He attended Valencia Community College and Rasmusen College

Founded in 2003 and celebrating its 20th anniversary, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank has six open locations throughout Lee County The bank’s team members provide customized individual and business banking services and specialize in residential and commercial lending The bank offers free personal and business checking, deposit accounts with competitive interest rates, instant issue debit cards and a full array of digital banking products and services

To learn more, visit www SanCapBank com

Blum joins Spiro & Associates

Spiro & Associates Marketing, Advertising, Public Relations and Brand Architecture welcomes Stephanie Blum to its staff as a Junior Account Executive.

Born and raised in Fort Myers, Blum will graduate with her bachelor of science degree in marketing from Florida G u l f C o a s t U n i v e r s i t y t h i s s u m m e r A t S p i r o & Associates, she will work with a variety of clients, developing marketing plans that best align with their brands and strategies

Blum is a fourth generation Fort Myers resident She graduated from Riverdale High School in 2019

Spiro & Associates Marketing, Advertising, Public Relations and Brand Architecture is located at 2200 Broadway, Suite 200, Fort Myers

For additional information about Spiro & Associates, please call 239-481-5511.

From page 18

designers presented full collections

The senior class show on April 29 highlighted collections from 22 fashion design and production students from the fashion design and production Class of 2023 Each collection included seven looks developed over the course of the year with accompanying music and video content to convey the designer's vision

The RUNWAY shows closed out Lasell's end -of-year academic festivities, including the Connected Learning Symposium on Thursday, April 27.

School District’s Summer School options added to website

The School District of Lee County has announced a special webpage has been created to make searching for summer school options simpler Parents only need to log on to https://sites google com/leeschools net/lee-countysummer-camps/home to view and learn about the more than 30 camps and programs

Summer school options are available for PreK through 12th grade students Each camp is taught by a certified educator and offers rigorous and engaging curriculum. Some camps are by invitation only and invitations to those programs have already been sent out

The webpage offers easy to use links for students by grade level and programs, while also providing a link to transportation questions Summer school programs start as early as June 8th and end no later than July 20 Parents are encouraged to register quickly so as not to miss the deadlines

FSW Dental Hygiene program celebrates 100% pass rate

Even with the COVID pandemic and Hurricane Ian bookending their educational experience, all 17 of Florida SouthWestern State College’s Dental Hygiene program 2023 graduates have passed the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam

The Associate in Science degree in Dental Hygiene at FSW is fully accredited by the Commission on Dental

EDUCATION NOTES

Accreditation. Dental Hygiene students take the NBDHE in March while enrolled in their last academic semester at FSW

Approximately 94% of FSW’s Dental Hygiene program graduates remain in Southwest Florida and work in local dental offices and facilities following graduation

To learn more about FSW’s Associate in Science in Dental Hygiene program, visit www fsw edu/academics/ programs/asdentalhygiene

Florida SouthWestern State College annually serves nearly 22,000 students globally, offering a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests Visit www FSW edu for more information

School District of Lee County to host Vir tual Recruitment Fair Tuesday

The School District of Lee County is hosting its 2023 Virtual Recruitment Fair from 5-6:30 p m , Tuesday, May 23, to recruit for a range of positions for the 2023-24 school year

During the virtual event, principals and department hiring managers will be interviewing and hiring teachers, school counselors and instructional support professionals High-demand positions include English, elementary education, science, math and special education, as well as noni n s t r u c t i o n a l p o s i t i

LeeSchools net/Careers/Work In Lee

The School District of Lee County is among the largest school districts in Florida and the United States with a growing enrollment of more than 97,000 students and 118 schools To be considered for a teaching or school counselor position, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

■ Hold a valid standard teaching certificate (Florida or out-of-state) OR

■ Expected to graduate from a college of education by August 2023 OR

■ Hold a bachelor’s degree in an area where certifica-

tion can be obtained or any degree major and a passing score on a subject area exam AND

■ School counselors must hold a master’s degree in the proper area

The District’s efforts to put “The Right Talent in the Right Place” means that new hires will receive the support and necessary resources that will enable them to succeed upon entering the field of 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 Upon hire, a personal benefits selection process will be made available to eligible employees F

m a i l careers@leeschools net or call 239-337-8676

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

Cape Coral launching Business Roundtable Series

The city of Cape Coral is launching its inaugural Business & Industry Roundtable Series to provide an opportunity for open and honest conversations about how the city can help small business owners

The Roundtable Series aims to meet the following objectives:

■ Allow industry leaders to connect and discuss challenges specific to Cape Coral

■ Provide a forum for the economic outlook and opportunities for industries

■ Determine future initiatives and programs needed to retain businesses and industries to strengthen the local economy

The first Roundtable targets leaders in the Lending industry Attendance to all Roundtables in the series is by invitation only

Source: City of Cape Coral

By MICHELLE FITZGERALD Special to The Breeze

Stroke symptoms need emergency assessment, should not be ignored GUEST COMMENTARY

The prevalence of stroke occurrence in the United States continues to raise concerns In addition, ignoring stroke signs and symptoms is an area of growing concern

A c c o r d i n g t o a s c i e n t i f i c s t a t e m e n t released earlier this year by the American S t r o k e A s s o c i a t i o n / A m e r i c a n H e a r t Association (ASA/AHA), stroke symptoms that disappear in under an hour, known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), are often ignored, but need emergency assessment to help prevent a full-blown stroke

A TIA is a temporary blockage of blood

f l o w t o t h e b r a i n E a c h y e a r , a b o u t 240,000 people in the United States experience a TIA, although this estimate may be low because symptoms tend to go away within an hour and patients may not report them While the TIA itself doesn’t cause permanent damage, nearly one in five of patients who have a TIA will have a fullblown stroke within three months after the TIA, and almost half of those will happen within two days For this reason, a TIA is more accurately described as a warning stroke rather than a “mini-stroke,” as it’s often called

HEALTH NOTES

u m P h a r m a c y a n n o u n c e s t r a n s i t i o n t o i n d e p e n d e n t p h a r m a c y g ro u p

M i l l e n n i u m P h y s i c i a n G r o u p h a s announced it is transitioning its pharmacy service to a locally owned and independent pharmacy group, Medicine Shoppe Punta Gorda and Center Pharmacy Cape Coral, in order to best meet the pharmacy needs of its patients

“We are excited about this transition because it will provide our patients with enriched services and a wider range of o f f e r i n g s , ” s a i d M i l l e n n i u m P h y s i c i a n

Group CEO Kevin Kearns “Our priority has always been to provide our pharmacy patients with high-touch service, and we believe this transition will continue to honor and improve upon that promise ”

On May 12, all Millennium Pharmacy p r e s c r i p t i o n r e c o r d s w e r e t r a n s f e r r e d s e a m l e s s l y a n d s e c u r e l y t o M e d i c i n e S h o p p e P u n t a G o r d a a n d C e n t e r Pharmacy Cape Coral. These pharmacies will offer fast and friendly service, free delivery and convenient hours including Saturday

With two locations to serve patients in Punta Gorda and Cape Coral, Medicine Shoppe and Center Pharmacy will also offer blister packing/strip pill packaging, f u l l y a c c r e d i t e d D M E m e d i c a l s u p p l y s e r v i c e s , i m m u n i z a t i o n s e r v i c e s , a n d compounding services

T h e r e i s n o t h i n g M i l l e n n i u m Pharmacy patients need to do, and they can call the same telephone contact number (855-674-7600) if they have any questions

For patients who have already transferred their prescriptions to another pharm a c y b u t w o u l d l i k e t o r e t u r n t o Millennium Pharmacy, simply call the telephone number above and the pharmacy team will switch you back in no time

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n : C a p e C o r a l Location: www mycenterpharmacy com; Punta Gorda Location: www pgpharmacy com

F re e a u t i s m s c re e n i n g J u n e 2 a t P e d i a t r i c S p e c i a l i s t O ff i c e G o l i s a n o C h i l d r e n ’ s H o s p i t a l o f Southwest Florida, in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida, offers a free monthly autism spectrum disorder screening for toddlers 18 months to five years of age

The next screening will be held on

June 2, from 9 a m to 2 p m , at the Pediatric Specialist Office, 15901 Bass Road, Suite 102, Fort Myers

It is estimated that one in every 44 children is diagnosed with some form of A u t i s m S p e c t r u m D i s o r d e r , m a k i n g i t more common than childhood cancer, j u v e n i l e d i a b e t e s a n d p e d i a t r i c A I D S combined.

Medical consultants for the project stress that an early diagnosis can make a vast difference for toddlers and their families They say early intensive behavioral intervention can make an immense difference not just in the development of the child, but in their families as well

The ASD screening is conducted by t h e G o l i s a n o C h i l d r e n ’ s H o s p i t a l o f Southwest Florida The screenings are administered by an Advanced Practice R e g i s t e r e d N u r s e , w h o h a s e x t e n s i v e training and experience in typical child development and developmental disorders

A physician referral is not required To schedule a screening, please call 239343-6838

H o m e B a s e F l o r i d a t o o ff e r f re e v i r t u a l g r i e f t a l k i n h o n o r o f M e m o r i a l D a y Home Base Florida, a local non-profit founded by the Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital dedicated to supporting veterans and military families impacted by the invisible wounds of war, will host national PTSD expert Wes Sanders, PhD, for a free virtual presentation on grief Wednesday, May 24, 2023 from 12–1 p.m.

The grief talk is being held in recognition of Memorial Day celebrated annually in May

T h i s a n n u a l o b s e r v a n c e h o n o r s t h e millions of Americans who tragically lost their lives while serving this country Without the sacrifice of these men and women in uniform, America would not stand The ideals of freedom and democracy of the United States are only possible due to their service

One of the ways people can honor their memory, is to be there for those who serve when they return home and transition to civilian life – many who struggle with survivors’ guilt and invisible wounds including depression, PTSD, anxiety and

See HEALTH NOTES, page 39

Throughout the month of May, healthcare organizations across the country focus on public health messages aimed at educating individuals that stroke is largely preventable, treatable and beatable in alignm e n t w i t h A m e r i c a n S t r o k e M o n t h Anyone can be at risk for a stroke, and a TIA can serve as a warning of a future stroke or the opportunity to prevent one Managing your stress can help you stabilize your blood pressure and may reduce your risk for stroke. Practicing good health habits and staying active can also decrease your risk

TIA risk increases for those with:

High cholesterol: A TIA often results from a buildup of cholesterol-containing fatty deposits in an artery or one of its branches causing blockage of oxygen and nutrients to the brain Working to lower your cholesterol through diet changes, lifestyle changes and exercise can decrease your risk for a TIA and stroke significantly Diabetes: The likelihood of a stroke in those with diabetes is nearly double for patients who do not have diabetes Talk with your doctor about the safest way to treat diabetes to prevent a TIA or a stroke from occurring

A history of stroke: In the United States,

about one-fourth of the nearly 800,000 strokes that occur each year are recurrent events Individuals who have previously suffered a stroke are at a higher risk of experiencing a TIA

To reduce your risk for a TIA, know your blood pressure and take steps to keep it in a healthy range Learn how to properly measure your blood pressure at home and talk to your doctor about your numbers Learn how to spot a stroke F A S T

If you see Face drooping, Arm weakness or Speech difficulty, it’s Time to call 9-1-1 Talk to your doctor about ways to improve your well-being and help prevent stroke

Should a stroke affect you or a loved one, education is key in restoring function, hope and quality of life At Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Cape Coral, our rehabilitation teams provide the latest stroke programs, featuring state-ofthe-art technologies and experts who specialize in helping patients achieve individual rehabilitation goals required for them to return to the community The challenges of stroke are real But, together, we can help save lives by continuing to promote stroke education

M i c h e l l e F i t z g e r a l d , A H A / A S

Southwest Florida Board of Directors & Chief Executive Officer of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Cape Coral

Tarpon will take a wide variety of baits

Being an opportunity feeder or scavenger, tarpon can be taken on a large variety of dead and live baits For Keys anglers, mullet seems to be the live fish bait of choice but here locally, ladyfish get more hook time Hand-sized threadfins and pinfish free lined or under floats are always a good bet along with mojarra and shrimp

Generally tarpon aren’t too picky, like my largest live bait-caught tarpon taken on a live 12-inch sand trout, although during times of tarpon tunnel vision when they key on one food source like worms or tiny silversides, aren’t too picky goes out the window, often with general frustration taking its place

Probably the most frustrating tarpon to target are juvenile canal tarpon in the 5 to 2 5 - p o u n d r a n g e w h i c h , a t times, seem to never eat anything, ever Targeting local juvies on tiny jigs and flies takes time and patience but q u i t e r e w a r d i n g w h e n t h e magic happens

At certain times, maybe the best live bait of all is also one of the smallest like a 2 to 3-inch pass crab pinned to a 4/0 – 6/0 circle hook free lined or suspended two feet under a float when the tarpon are near or on the surface eating pass crabs on the moving higher tides

If you haven’t already tried it, take a tip from big game anglers and try bridling your larger live baits this season and see if it doesn’t up your tarpon catch-andrelease score A morticians or bridling needle (Bass Pro Shops) and rubber bands are all you need (check out You Tube for simple how-to instructions) to quickly rig a bait. Bridling allows the bait to live much longer, and swim and react to big predators much more naturally than being impaled on a large hook

Top dead baits choices would include river catfish, mullet, shrimp, crabs, ladyfish and mackerel, with shad maybe a top pick if you have a source

A wide variety of lures catch tarpon with soft plastic eels and swimbaits more popular than ever The almost 5-inch DOA Bait Buster has always been a personal favorite but the slightly larger HERCULEZ swimbait by Zman with its molded in head and 7/0 hook is getting more play on my boat A real sleeper is the old-time DOA Swimming Mullet which can be deadly, especially at night by simply casting it out then swimming it slowly back along the bottom with a simple, no frills, straight retrieve

In the larger soft bait category, the straight-tailed Zman 10-inch HEROZ eel and the same sized Hogy products in straight and big thumping paddle tail varieties get the nod Hogy products come equipped with Barbarian jig heads in a variety of sizes and can also be purchased separately These unique hooks are shaped differently to help lock in and hold reducing tarpon jump-offs

Larger 3-hook Rapala X-Raps and Bomber hard stick baits with split rings and trebles replaced with beefier rings and single hooks are go-to, time-tested choices in hard baits Smaller MirrOlures work well but even with trebles replaced with single hooks these lures can get pretty far down a throat and present an unnecessary danger to fish and angler alike looking for a quick and healthy release Time spent operating on a deeply hooked tarpon at boat side also increases the chance for

See TARPON, page 33

Red Knights advance to regional softball finals

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

North Fort Myers High School's softball team punched its ticket to a regional final showdown after coming out with a 10-6 win over familiar rival Fort Myers Tuesday night at home

The Red Knights (25-2) defeated the Green Wave (1514) for the third time this year with a balanced offense that scored at least one run in each of its turns to bat North senior and Wofford commit Kendall Wylie earned the win in the circle allowing 6 runs (3 earned) over 5 1 innings, striking out two Wylie also led the offense going 3-for-5 with a double and team-high three RBI

“We hit the ball, laid some bunts down, did some things offensively to create a little havoc for them defensively,” said North head coach Jeff Miner “(Fort Myers) didn't quit, they kept on coming back and they're a very good team ”

Defensive efforts were Jekyll and Hyde for both squads on the night, as they combined for 11 errors (six for North)

The top half of the first started with a beautiful piece of hitting and an even better defensive play when Fort Myers’ Julia Knowler, a Clemson commit, went the other way, lining a ball into the left-field corner North put together a beautiful relay that saw catcher Mia Lane get the tag down on a strong throw from shortstop Abby Hynes

“That was big,” Miner said “The relay was phenomenal One it gets in (Hynes’) hands, I know we're in pretty good shape And (Lane) does a great job hanging in there to make the tag and set the momentum for us ”

Wylie collected her first RBI in the top half of the first, scoring Hynes, who led off the inning with a triple Wylie later came home on an Azlynn Gomes sacrifice fly to left, making it 2-0 Red Knights after one inning.

Fort Myers cut the deficit in half in the top of the second when an Alexa Bent single up the middle brought home a run The Red Knights go the run back and more in the bottom of the frame, as Wylie ripped the first-pitch she saw up the middle for a two-RBI knock

“I was just looking for my pitch and trying to swing at first-pitch strikes,” Wylie said

Fort Myers started the third with three consecutive singles to put Wylie on her heels She battled back, though, retiring three straight batters and coming out of the inning having given up just one run, getting some solid defensive plays from third baseman Desirae Devine.

The Red Knights added two more in the third and another in the fourth to push its lead to 7-2 heading into the top half of the fifth Gomes laced a triple of her own to start the third and came around on a Kaliyah Williams double Williams later scored from third on a successful bunt from Bella Miceli Gomes again knocked in a run in the fourth with a liner to left that went in-and-out of the fielder's glove, bringing in Audrie Florenzano

A North error on the back-end of a double play attempt in the fifth pushed home a run, but the Red Knights plated a run of their own and then some in the bottom half via an error and Lane RBI double

The more nerve-wracking moments for North came in the top of the sixth as Bent led off the inning, coming all the

way around on a pair of errors by North A few batters later, Sage Rodmyre ripped a triple that scored a runner and later came around on a Kate Coakley single, making it 9-6 North's defense then came up strong to shut down the Green Wave rally, as Gomes made the catch on a soft liner to second and caught the Fort Myers runner at first too far off the bag and fired to the base for a double play

A Hynes’ double brought home a run in the bottom of the sixth and Williams, who had relieved Wylie with one out in that inning, steadily handled the Fort Myers offense, allowing no hits and no walks in her 1 2 innings of relief

“It felt good and I came in confident knowing my defense had my back and that they'd help me get through it,” Williams, a freshman, said “I love all of the players on the team and we all build each other up, it's just a really good environment to be in ”

Over 50 2 innings pitched this season, Williams has a 1 39 ERA She's also a big part on the lineup, hitting 408 with 23 RBI in 27 games

Of Williams, Wylie said, “As a freshman with that big crowd in the stands, it's really nerve-racking, so I was extremely proud of her, especially getting out of the (sixth) inning ”

Miner added, “She's got good velocity on her pitches She's still working on hitting her spots And she's a baller She wants the ball She's hitting the ball, too And at this level, you need to have a few pitchers. She's tough. She throws the ball well ”

Wylie, who carries a 1 28 ERA and 18 wins this year, said it's amazing to reach this point in the season

“It feels great Since I was a freshman, we never made it this far and we lost to (Fort Myers in this game) last year, so we wanted to come out to win this game,” she said “It means a lot ”

Next, North travels for the first time in these playoffs, taking on the No 1 seed in the region, Parrish Community (21-3), tonight at 7 p m

Capt George Tunison

CJ HADDAD

North Fort Myers HIgh’s Kendall Wylie fires a pitch agains Fort Myers Tuesday.

CJ HADDAD North's Azlynn Gomes lofts a run-scoring sacrifice fly in the Red Knights win Tuesday over Fort Myers.

Cape Coral Breeze Athletes of the Week

Cape Coral Breeze Athletes Week of the

(Selected by the Breeze Sports staff)

Sponsored by:

Voting begins for Breeze Athlete of the Month for May

Breeze Staf f Repor t news@breezenewspapers com

Voting for the Cape Coral Breeze Athlete of the Month for May is now open

There were a number of top performances from student-athletes in The Breeze coverage area and now it’s up to readers to decide who will earn top honors for the month

TIDES CHART

Nominees for May include:

■ Jake Mueller, Island Coast Gators, Senior: The Alabama commit went 7-for-12 over three games for the Gators, totaling seven RBI and four extra-base hits Against Evangelical Christian, Mueller blasted two home runs, the second being a walk-off, two-run shot in a 6-5 win

■ Crimson Lawrence, Mariner Tritons, Sophomore: Lawrence helped the Tritons to a 3-0 week in the circle and with the bat She went 6-for-11 at the plate over three contests, and tossed two complete games, including a 9inning shutout versus Fort Myers In three appearances, she pitched 19 2 innings and allowed two earned runs, six hits and struck out 27.

■ Cheyenne Waddell, Mariner Tritons, Senior: The senior was nearly perfect in the circle over five innings for a Triton team that took a 10-0 district semifinal win over

Cape Coral Waddell did not allow a hit, stuck out seven and hit one batter while going 2-for-3 at the plate with 2 RBI

■ M i a L a n e , N o r t h F o r t M y e r s R e d K n i g h t s , Sophomore: Lane helped lead the Red Knights to a firstround 5A regional championship tournament win over Ida Baker with a 4-RBI performance, including a bases-clearing triple

■ Alexalys Torres, Bishop Verot Vikings, Sophomore: Torres was a big contributor to the Vikings' 14-0 win over Clearwater Central Catholic in the opening round of the 3A state tournament, knocking in three runs and going 3for-3 with a double

Athlete of the Month nominees are comprised of the Breeze’s staff-selected Athletes of the Week for that respective month

To vote, visit www capecoralbreeze com

Tarpon: Variety of baits will lure the silver king

From page 32

Jaws to come calling during the procedure, especially at night

Hard to believe that Jim Holland's 202-pound, 8ounce silver king would be interested in a tiny 2-inch fly but fly rods catch tarpon, which is also one of anglings greatest thrills and accomplishments Back in 2001, angler Holland claimed the first-ever documented, over

200-pound tarpon, using a fly rod and 20-pound class tippet

There are too many tarpon fly patterns to discuss here but for colors, purple, brown and black are great starting points

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

Tuesday SOFTBALL

REGION 5A-3

Semifinals

North Fort Myers 16, Fort Myers 6: Red Knights down rival to move on in tournament, improving their record to 25-2

Parrish Community 12, Barron Collier 1: Parrish Community (21-3) will be the host team for the Region 5A-3 final as the top seed

Friday's championship

North Fort Myers at Parrish Community, 7 p m

REGION 3A-3

Region semifinals

Bishop Verot 1, Berkeley Prep 0: McKenna Robbins's sacrifice fly brought Madeline Knaak home for the game's only run in the fifth inning, and pitcher Victoria Ash made the lead stand up with a two-hit shutout She walked two and struck out three for Bishop Verot, which improved to 23-4 on the year

Calvary Christian 6, Academy of the Holy Names 0: The region final on Friday will be in Clearwater after the Calvary Christian (19-7) win

Friday's championship

Bishop Verot at Calvary Christian, 7 p m

TRACK AND FIELD

FHSAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

At the University of North Florida, Jacksonville

CLASS 2A

Thursday

Area qualifiers

(* automatic qualifier)

GIRLS

BIS HOP VEROT : Raven Gadson* (triple jump), Geraldine Herrera* (200 meters), Kylie Thomas (800 meters), Julie Reitz (1600 meters) Mackenzie De Lisle* (3200 meters),1600 meter (4x400) relay team (Herrera, McKinley Parker, Sofia Roman, Daphne Dalton, Reitz, Chyna Fain, Sophie Marcus, Anabella Garabay) 3200 meter (4x800) relay team* (Samantha Cuini, Erika Romero, Caroline Muddell, Hannah Manibo, Reitz, Kylie Roman, Daphne Dalton)

OAS IS : Alyssa Husain* (200 meters)

BOYS

BIS HOP VERO T: Christyan Fevrier^ (triple jump), Wyatt Whalen* (shot put), Ryan Peterson* (discus), Tyler Kelly* and Logan Schwar tz (javelin), Greg Caldwell* and Jadrien Carmo* (400 meters), Grayson Tubbs* (800 meters), Andrew Marino (3200 meters) 1600 meter (4x400) relay team* (Peyton Car ter, Dominic Torres, Carmo, Tubbs, Caldwell, Br yce Schell, Dominic Maxwell, Charles Watts) 3200 meter (4x800) relay team* (Stephen Prendiville, Anton Becher, Zachar y Zielke, Marino, Tubbs, Dennis Olsen, Zachar y Engel)

CLASS 3A

Friday Area qualifiers (* automatic qualifier)

BOYS

CA PE CORAL: Declan Ziomek* and William Canales (3200 meters); boys' 3200 meter (4x800) relay team (Canales, Nazayer Franco, Jake Jacoby, Ethan Lukow, Ryan Mitchell and Ziomek)

IDA BAKER: Kaiden Crossdale* (high jump)

IS LAND COAST : Ofil Ramos (javelin)

NORTH FORT MYERS: Dustin Castagna (pole vault) GIRLS

IS LAND COAST: Aver y Brincat (javelin)

NORT H FO RT MYER S: Giovanna Molloy (pole vault), Kennedy Seidl (javelin)

SPRING FOOTBALL

May 25

Jamboree: Cardinal Mooney and DeSoto County at Island Coast, 6 p m

MAY 26

North Miami Beach at Bishop Verot, 7 p m

Ida Baker at Gateway, 7 p m

Mariner at Dunbar, 7:30 p m

No game scheduled

Cape Coral, Oasis

HEALTH NOTES

From page 31

traumatic brain injury

The presentation is appropriate for military families and loved ones who have l o s t a v e t e r a n o r t h o s e w h o s u p p o r t Veterans The presentation includes an introduction to the function of grief, the d e v e l o p m e n t o f c o m p l i c a t e d g r i e f r e s p o n s e s , w a y s t o l o o k t o w a r d s t h e future, and self-care considerations for Memorial Day

Sanders, a United States Marine Corps Reserve Veteran, is a staff psychologist at Home Base and specializes in the treatment of PTSD and readjustment issues for veterans, including family and parenting difficulties He provides individual and group therapy services He is trained in prolonged exposure therapy and is a VA certified provider of cognitive processing therapy for the treatment of PTSD His research interests focus on supporting military/veteran families, particularly during transition to civilian life

To register for the free event, visit HomeBase.org/events, please call 2393 3 8 - 8 3 8 9 o r e m a i l h o m e b a s e f l @ p a r tners org

A l l f o u r L e e H e a l t h h o s p i t a l s e a r n ‘ s t r a i g h t A s ’ f o r s e c o n d s t r a i g h t re p o r t i n g p e r i o d

L a s t w e e k , t h e L e a p f r o g G r o u p released its Spring 2023 Hospital Safety Grades and all four Lee Health hospitals have earned top marks, continuing their “straight A” streak from last fall’s grading report

H e a l t h P a r k M e d i c a l C e n t e r , C a p e

C o r a l H o s p i t a l , G u l f C o a s t M e d i c a l

Center and Lee Memorial Hospital all received the highest honor of an “A” grade

This marks the 10th straight reporting period that all Lee Health Hospitals have received a grade of “B” or higher HealthPark Medical Center earned an “A” grade for the ninth straight reporting period, and Gulf Coast Medical Center earned an “A” for the third straight reporting period

Lee Memorial Hospital and Cape Coral Hospital retained their “A” grades after bringing them up from a “B” rating

The Safety Grade assigns letter grades of “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” and “F” to hospitals across the country based on their performance in preventing medical errors, infections and other harms Every Lee Health hospital earned a raw score over 3 0 on a 4 0 scale

Developed under the guidance of a n a t i o n a l e x p e r t p a n e l , t h e L e a p f r o g Hospital Safety Grade uses 22 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,700 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year The Leapfrog Group’s grading system is peerreviewed, fully transparent and free to the public

Children’s hospitals are not included in The Leapfrog Group’s Spring grades, but Golisano Children’s Hospital has been named as a Top Children’s Hospital by The Leapfrog Group five times

To learn more about Leapfrog’s Spring 2023 Hospital Safety Grades, please visit the program website at http://www hospitalsafetygrade org/

L e a r n m o r e a b o u t L e e H e a l t h a t www LeeHealth org

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