Pine Island Eagle

Hafer now permanent pastor at Fishers of Men Lutheran Church

VolumE 47, NumbEr 22

M/PIFCD launches much-awaited ALS

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

Getting Advanced Life Support (ALS) capacity in the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District has been a plan long in the works, according to Pine Island Fire

Chief Ben Mickuleit and Assistant EMS

Chief Cody Allen

“As of Sept 22, 2023, our department is able to provide Advanced Life Support Services to the residents and visitors of the district,” Allen said E s s e n t i a l l y w h a t t h i s m e a n s , h e

MCA host Ian remembrance ceremony at RE/MAX Sunshine office

The Matlacha Civic Association held a well-attended, emotional Ian R e m e m b r a n c e c e r e m o n y a t t h e

RE/MAX Sunshine office Thursday, Sept 28 MCA board member Carol Scott described the event as a beautiful turnout

Organization for the event started back in May, said Scott, as the MCA wanted to carefully plan for anyone who cared to be present The list of invitees went from Honc Industries, to L e e C o u n t y C o m m i s s i o n e r K e v i n Ruane, to Gov Ron DeSantis, Scott said, adding that although the govern o r c o u l d n ’ t b e t h e r e d u e t o t h e R e p u b l i c a n p r e s i d e n t i a l p r i m a r y debate Wednesday night, his represen-

“Basically,

e x p l a i n e d , i s t h a t t h e d e p a r t m e n t h a s providers with higher levels of training in both the medications they carry and procedures they can perform during emergencies throughout the district Obtaining

the ALS credentials required many of the staff to attend school for education in paramedics (approximately 18 months), as well as training in necessary equipment and medications, to meet Department of

Health guidelines All the support equipment and medications will now be on the engines with the staff allowing firefighters to come to action on any house call emergency.

“Basically, when people call 9-1-1, just like before, our fire trucks and the ambulance are going to respond, wherever they’re located The difference is that now our crews are able to perform higher levels of care because of this new desig-

See ALS, page 10

GPIA holds benefit for islanders at Wicked Dolphin Distillery in Cape

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

The Greater Pine Island Alliance held a f u n d r a i s e r a t t h e W i c k e d D o l p h i n Distillery in Cape Coral Saturday to benefit islanders who have been -- and still are -- affected by Hurricane Ian L e e C o u n t y C o m m i s s i o n e r K e v i n Ruane, who is personally responsible for the financial aid of a Pine Island family displaced by Hurricane Ian, attended the event saying he’s always happy to help Greater Pine Island

“This organization has really done an awful lot to help the island recover, so anything I can do to support the cause and try to be here to support them, I’m happy to do,” Ruane said

GPIA Executive Director Erin LollarLambert said the amount of support for Pine Island from mainlanders never ceases to amaze her

“Just watching how Wicked Dolphin put this on for us, and the support of our external community means we have a much bigger extended family then we

See BENEFIT, page 18

when people call 9-1-1, just like before, our fire trucks and the ambulance are going to respond, wherever they’re located The difference is that now our crews are able to perform higher levels of care because of this new designation.”

Assistant EMS Chief Cody Allen

Luminaries fill the stairs at the RE/MAX Sunshine office in Matlacha for the Ian Remembrance Service Thursday.

PHOTO BY CAROL SCOTT

See IAN REMEMBRANCE, page 18

Hafer named permanent pastor at Fishers of Men Lutheran Church

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

Pastor Tom Hafer, who has acted as the interim pastor at Fishers of Men Lutheran Church on Pine Island, has been asked to stay on as the permanent minister

Hafer is not only a minister, but is also a physical therapist He said he wasn’t certain how these two occupations were going to combine, but has found the physical and spiritual worlds come together quite nicely

After a couple of decades as a therapist, he said he’d wanted to go back to the seminary, which he did, in Philadelphia, from 2003-2006 About a year ago, the Fishers of Men Lutheran Church was looking for fill-ins, he said, because the former minister left for the summer and the church found that it needed someone temporarily

“I filled in a few times and got addicted to this lovely congregation literally just got attached to these folks there’s something different about island folks It’s just very comfortable,” Hafer said

He said his connection to the people of the church was immediate, although after Hurricane Ian many members were scattered Things seem to have returned to being fairly steady a year later and he said he finds the best part of this particular job is being able to offer a voice of hope in a world that sometimes seems bleak.

“It’s refreshing to bring a message of hope that’s always been there The sun

has always been shining, we just occasionally have clouds,” Hafer said, adding that he finds real truth in the gospel

Islanders, he said, will always display t h e r e b e i n g m o r e h o p e t h a n d e s p a i r , although despair seems to get more attention Every week he comes back to see the light come alive in others, saying they come to show and remember that life is beautiful Having done work for national the organization Volunteers of America, Hafer said he obtained a very broad and eclectic view of people’s needs

“Whether it was inner city, Detroit or

Skid Row Los Angeles or Sioux Falls, South Dakota, or Indian Reservations

They were involved with all the places that nobody necessarily volunteers soup kitchens, drug addiction centers

They have mostly housing for homeless veterans and affordable housing for seniors around the country mainly big cities, inner cities, so for 12 years I got to travel and talk with each community one more wonderful than the next,” Hafer said

Having currently authored 11 books, he said his mission in life has been centered around faith and fitness and also teaching folks to care for themselves so they may better care for others Using Mother Theresa as an example, he quoted her, saying “I get to work with Jesus in all His distressing disguises every day ” He said, this has drawn a word portrait of what he feels has made up his experience since he graduated Lutheran seminary in 2006

“I kind of just follow where the Sprit leads and it’s been one wild adventure one long strange trip, as the Grateful Dead says, but every place has something to teach and Fishers of Men is no different It’s a beautiful place,” Hafer said

Something Hafer wants to let islanders know is that he believes they have something to teach the country, and that they should not be silent God wasn’t found in the storm, he said of Hurricane Ian, but in the island coming together to rebuild

“Island, don’t be silent Come and see It might not be your parents church. We are not a cathedral for saints, but a family table where everyone has a seat,” Hafer said

Fishers of Men Lutheran Church is at 10360 Stringfellow Road, St James City Sunday service is at 9 a m For more information, call 239-283-1170

FDOT continuing work in Pine Island Causeway area

As part of the Emergency Restoration of the Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge, crews will be working in the project boundaries along CR 78 Pine Island Road from west of Little Pine Island Bridge (Bridge No 120111) to West of Shoreview Drive

■ Crews have mobilized to the north side of the Pine Island Causeway to begin driving sheet piling The contractor is completing the concrete cap on the south side.

■ Motorists can expect occasional lane closures and traffic shifts with flagging operations for delivery/removal of materials, transfer of equipment to the north side of the causeway

■ Pedestrians and bicyclists are not permitted within the construction zone

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

■ Drivers are urged to please use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and exiting the roadway

■ Drivers are also asked to please be patient and plan for additional travel time as traffic in the area may be slower than usual in the area.

For additional information, visit the F D O T p r o j e c t w e b p a g e a t h t t p s : / / w w w s w f l r o a d s c o m / p r oject/451937-2 or email at PineIsland info@qcausa com

Church of God of Prophecy to hold next chicken dinner Oct. 14

The Church of God of Prophecy will be having another Chicken Dinner on Saturday, Oct 14

Dinner will be takeout only, no dine in The price is $10 per dinner fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn or g r e e n b e a n s , d i n n e r r o l l , and dessert

C h i c k e n i s f r i e d i n peanut oil Gluten free and b a k e d c h i c k e n a v a i l a b l e upon request

C a l l y o u r o r d e r i n t o 239-283-2128 as soon as possible, quantities limited M e a l p i c k - u p i s f r o m 12:30-3 p m

The church is at 15146 S t r i n g f e l l o w R o a d i n Bokeelia

PHOTO PROVIDED Pastor Tom Hafer at Fishers of Men Luthern Church on Pine Island

OPINIONS

In court, a helping hand for abused, neglected children left behind

Publisher Raymond M Eckenrode reckenrode@breezenewspapers com

Executive Editor Valarie Harring vharring@breezenewspapers com

Editor Paulette LeBlanc pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

Advertising Director Laurie Ragle lragle@ breezenewspapers com

Advertising Sales Charlene Russ cruss@breezenewspapers com

Design & Layout Chris Strine cstrine@breezenewspapers com

Obituaries Debbie Carletti obits@breezenewspapers com

Arriving in New York City for a new life, my 5-year-old mind raced with the possibilities: new friends, a new school, a new neighborhood (Brooklyn) and best of all, a reunion with the parents who had made the difficult but necessary decision to leave me back in Haiti with my grandparents while Mom and Dad built us a new life here in America

Fast-forward several decades That shy, Creole-speaking girl has grown into a college and law school graduate, a wife, mother, attorney, taxpayer and, for nearly 30 years, a U S citizen

Crucially, our family had the means and the support to navigate the immigration journey together, although only after a two-year delay while my parents got settled in their new home Of course, many others in such circumstances lack this kind of support a glaring need that largely shaped my own pers o n a l a n d p r o f e s s i o n a l p a t h a s a n e w American

After graduating from Ave Maria School of Law in Naples and then working in private practice, I joined the Lee County Legal Aid Society That’s where I now oversee an innovative outreach effort to assist immigrant children and teens, those who have been abandoned, entered the country alone or are victims of human trafficking

The three-year effort began late last year and is funded by a federal American Rescue

P l a n A c t ( A R P A ) g r a n t o f r o u g h l y $490,000, administered by the United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties

Working in cooperation with a host of community partners, including the aforement i o n e d U n i t e d W a y a s w e l l a s C a t h o l i c C h a r i t i e s f o r t h e D i o c e s e o f V e n i c e , Guardian ad Litem, 20th Judicial Circuit, Lee County Injury Prevention Coalition and more, we provide no-cost legal representation and critically, a path to legal citizenship for abused, neglected and abandoned youth under age 18 who, through no fault of their own, wind up in our community with no

Web Poll

Previous Web Poll Question:

Are you in favor of building height restriction changes for Pine Island and Matlacha?

■ Yes 56% ■ No 39%

■ I have no opinion 5%

■ Other 0%

Current Web Poll Question:

Are you concerned about development in Cape Coral along Pine Island Road and Burnt Store Road?

■ Yes, especially encroachment and increased traffic

■ No, it’s out of our hands

■ Why worry, local development is inevitable

■ Other

Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com

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The Friends of the Pine Island Public Library gets by with a LOT of help from our Friends!

Established in 1982, the Friends of Pine Island Library has raised money over the years to support programming for both adults and children We also provide Book Page

adults in their lives and with nowhere to turn

Some are in foster care but will soon age out of the syst e m , o r w e r e b r o u g h t h e r e against their will by human traffickers Rather than a punitive approach, this new effort provides these minors with the opportunity to earn a green card and legally live, work, study and pay taxes in the U S , strengthening our community while bolstering our economy and quality of life

W i t h h i s S I J S s t a t u s i n hand, Wilson is now working in the Fort Myers area, has secured housing and is a new father with the hopes now of providing a far better life for his own child in a safe, secure and healthy environment

Gedeon Linot

The pathway to legal citizenship begins with a petition b e f o r e L e e C o u n t y F a m i l y Court for Special Immigrant J u v e n i l e S t a t u s ( S I J S ) . T h e SIJS designation is a special visa category established by Congress in 1990 that permits immigrant children who are dependent on a juvenile court to “selfpetition” and obtain lawful permanent resident status

Guest Commentary

The juvenile court must first determine that family reunification is not a viable option, and that it is not in the child’s best interest to return to their home country

Once the dependency petition is approved, the case is sent to U S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for consideration of an adjustment of status to lawful permanent residency That classification then allows those clients to apply for a work permit and Social Security card

That was the path taken by our client Wilson, who came to this country on his own three years ago from Guatemala and was placed in foster care after running away from a F l o r i d a D e p a r t m e n t o f C h i l d r e n a n d Families facility (To protect the privacy of Wilson and other clients, we only refer to them here by their first names, or pseudonyms)

Letters to the Editor

every month for library patrons, as well as provide money for the Summer Reading Program and the Southwest Florida Reading Festival

But money isn’t the only thing the Friends contribute last year, members dedicated their time supporting programs and fundraising events, like the used book sales, author talks, music events and community outreach

We want your opinion

The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that opinions These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Opposing views are welcome. Letters to the Editor or guest columns may be mailed to: Pine Island Eagle, 10700

@ breezenewspapers com; posted to our Virtual Newsroom at www breezenewspapers com or faxed to 283-0232 All letters and guest columns must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes You also can comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: pineisland-eagle com

For most, their journeys to this point are beyond harrowi n g A n o t h e r c l i e n t , L o l a , came to us as a 14-year-old who ran away from home in Honduras to escape a drugand alcohol-addicted mother and a father who, once his child turned 12, insisted she either work full-time or get married.

Lola, now 16, is enrolled in Lee County schools and living here with an aunt She hopes to study nursing and dreams of one day becoming a surgeon

As a private, nonprofit organization, the Lee County Legal Aid Society has provided no-cost, civil legal aid to low-income residents of our community for more than a halfcentury Unlike in criminal law, there is no Constitutional right to an attorney in civil law, which includes landlord-tenant disputes, foreclosures, evictions, probate, debt collection, child custody cases, domestic violence orders of protection and more

We’re deeply appreciative of our community partners in this renewed effort to narrow the access to justice gap in civil cases – and stand ready to zealously advocate for those in need of assistance, including society’s most vulnerable

For more information, visit www leecounty legalaid org or call 239-334-6118

events

October 15-21, 2023, is the 18th annual National Friends of Libraries Week, and it’s the perfect opportunity for the Pine Island community to get to know the Friends! We are always looking for new members and volunteers We have fun while working to make our community better

Our first Membership Meeting of the season will be held at the library on Oct 17, at 2 p.m. We invite you to attend our meeting and get to know more about us You can pick up a Friends pamphlet at the library prior to the meeting

Did you know the Friends also has a website? Check us out at www friendsofthepineislandlibrary org

Joining the Friends of the Library is a terrific way to make new friends of your own, give back to our community, and make the library even better

Ida Cabral, president Friends of the Pine Island Public Library

Eunice Gedeon Linot is an immigration services and Florida family law attorney with the Lee County Legal Aid Society

Eunice

Southwest Florida mangrove coast

Florida has nearly 470,000 acres of mangrove forests These forests contribute to the overall health of our coastal waters Mangroves are the perfect habitat for our resident bottlenose dolphins as well as nursery habitats for a multitude of fish species along with sharks and crustaceans

Mangrove forests are a d i s t i n c t s a l t w a t e r w o o dland that thrives in tidal estuaries and low-energy coastal areas throughout Southwest Florida. There are three types of mangroves locally We have r e d m a n g r o v e s , b l a c k mangroves and white mang r o v e s E a c h m a n g r o v e s p e c i e s h a s a d i f f e r e n t l e v e l o f s a l t t o l e r a n c e , which in part determines its location in tidal zones

Fish live and thrive in the mangroves Eventually, juveniles leave the protection of the mangroves and become part of the food web in the estuaries and coastal waters of Southwest Florida

Dolphin Tales

In other words, they become lunch for bottlenose dolphins Watch for dolphins swimming in short bursts of speed and creating large wakes and splashes along the mangroves and seawalls You may even see a dolphin tossing a fish in the air

Mangrove branches also serve as rookeries for coastal birds such as brown pelicans, white ibis, frigatebirds, cormorants, anhinga and snowy egrets American alligators and American crocodiles are both residents of mangrove habitats

Mangrove forests also protect homeowners and boatowners from storm winds, waves and floods During hurricanes and tropical storms, mangroves absorb much of the wind and the surge

Captain Cathy Eagle has spent over 40 years boating in our local waters As a professional Charter Captain, she specializes in Dolphin and Nature tours Visit CaptainCathy com or call /text 239 994-2572 Welcome aboard!

Beacon activities for October

Samaritan Health and Wellness, a primary care clinic, is now open at the Beacon of Hope every other Wednesday from 8 a m to noon This clinic provides care for the uninsured and underinsured The cost is $50 and help is available if needed People of all ages are welcome Mental health services are also available Call 239-360-7520 to make an appointment.

■ Coffee Klatch – We have all been affected by Hurricane Ian in countless ways The Beacon of Hope wants islanders to know it is here to support you

The Beacon hopes islanders will join the gathering of conversation, coffee and support The Beacon is providing a safe space to share, be heard and connect with others to lift spirits and honor islanders' strength and resilience as everyone moves forward Join the group at 10 a m on Fridays Any questions? Call Ronda at 231383-1302

■ The Food Bank – Presently it is on hold The Emergency Pantry is available whenever we are open.

■ B l o o d p r e s s u r e s c r e e n i n g i s h e l d e v e r y Wednesday, from 1-2 p m , and every Saturday, from 10-11 a m

■ The Veteran’s Support group meets on the first Friday of every month from 9 a m to 12:30 p m Call 239-283-5123 to make an appointment

■ Beacon Bites (our meals on wheels) is available. Call if you need to sign up

■ Transportation to medical appointments and treatment is available to travel anywhere in Lee County Please call and reserve 48 hours before your appointment.

■ Strange Arrangement – Monday 6-7:30 p m Lessons given A musical experience

■ Spanish class – Tuesday evenings at 5 p m

■ Wellness Committee – Next meeting will be

Monday, Oct 9, at 10 a m

■ Fundraising meeting – Monday, Oct 16, at 9 a m

■ Grants Committee meeting – To be announced.

■ Homelessness Committee – To be announced

■ Pine Island Boy and Cub Scout Troops will be meeting Wednesday evenings at 6

■ Girl Scout Troop will meet on Friday nights at 6

■ GED classes are on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a m to 2 p m

■ ESOL classes are held every Monday at 7 p m at the Beacon and every Thursday from 6-8 pm

■ The Attic (Thrift Store) is open Monday through F r i d a y f r o m 9 a m t o 3 p m I t i s c l o s e d o n Wednesdays Saturday hours are 10 a m to 3 p m Donations are accepted until 2:30 p m unless they get overloaded. Every Tuesday is 50% off clothing, shoes, and similar items The 50% off “almost everything” sale will be held on Oct 5 and 31

The Beacon of Hope, located at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle, St James City, is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 9 a m to 5 p m Computers, fax and printer are available for use Case managers are available at these times Call and make an appointment The Beacon of Hope telephone number is 239-283-5123

Elks Charitable Trust Golf Tournament Saturday

The Annual Pine Island Elks Charitable Trust Golf Tournament will be held in conjunction with the Bonita Springs/Estero Elks Lodge at the Villages of Country Creek Golf Club Saturday, Oct 7

All of the sponsor money and profits collected from the tournament will go toward the charitable trust that provides funds for youth and youth activities on Greater Pine Island

The format is a scramble with all kinds of prizes, first and second and closest to the pin Check in is 7:30 a m and shotgun start is 8 a m The entry fee is $85 per player or $340 for a team and includes all fees, and lunch at the Bonita Springs/Estero

Elks Lodge with lots of drawings for door prizes, raffles and 50/50s

Registration forms are available by calling or emaili n g E x a l t e d R u l e r J u d y H o p k i n s at juhopkins@msn.com or 425-346-7226. People can register via mail at GPI Elks, 5630 Pine Island Road, Bokeelia, FL 33922, or registrations can be dropped off at Kramer’s Kutting Edge, 5507 Pine Island Road, Bokeelia, FL 33922 Make checks payable to GPI Charitable Trust

For more information on sponsoring or putting a team together, call Judy Hopkins at 425-346-7226

Capt Cathy Eagle

Additional therapy dogs needed for PIE PAWS for Reading Program

Pine Island Elementary is fortunate to have the PAWS for Reading Program on the school campus. This program allows trained therapy dogs and their owners the opportunity to visit PIE each week

During the visit, students spend time reading to trained therapy dogs in the media center Students feel comfortable reading to these special dogs in this safe environment Dogs are non-judgmental and their calm demeanor helps students feel open to reading aloud to them This helps build their confidence in reading and they develop a special bond with these furry friends.

PIE is looking for additional therapy dogs to join the program Dogs and their

owners who attend this program are memb e r s o f t h e A l l i a n c e o f T h e r a p y Dogs, which charges a nominal fee. To learn more about this organization, access t h e i r w e b s i t e a t h t t p s : / / w w w t h e r a p ydogs com/join-therapy-dogs/

Dogs need to have special training that includes health requirements, registration and observation sessions to join Also, dogs need to be at least one year old

Each volunteer will need to complete a School District of Lee County volunteer application

If you are interested in becoming a member of this unique program, please contact PIE at 239-283-0505 and ask for Melinda Nelson

Shell Factory to hold Nam Jam Oct. 15

The Shell Factory on U.S. 41 in North Fort Myers will host a Vietnam veterans at the annual Nam Jam to be held Sunday, Oct 15, from 11 a m to 5 p m

The event will feature special guest speaker Peter Busch, a Nam Jam food and drink menu, the Lee County Sheriff's Deputy Honor Guard, a 50/50 raffle, bag-

pipers and the Calendar Girls with SASE singing the National Anthem and “Gold Bless America ”

Chuck Peterson will be providing the entertainment throughout the day

Veterans can also enjoy a free round of mini golf and a free Nature Park admission!

Cat of the Week

Kendall

Hi my name is Kendall I'm a sweet and spunky girl with a playful side. My favorite pastime is playing in boxes. Oh don't worry about getting me a n y C h r i s t m a s p r e s e n t s just give me the boxes! I'll h a v e t h e w h o l e f a m i l y g i ggling with my antics I'm a curvy 2 year old who likes to snack but with the right routine for meals, we will easily r e v e r s e t h a t l i t t l e h a b i t . I ' d love to meet you, so grab a b o x a n d c o m e s e e m e i n action! (Objects in photo are larger than they appear ) Call H e l p i n g P a w s A n i m a l Sanctuary at 239-283-9100 for m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n . I f y o u ’ d r a t h e r j u s t d o n a t e , o u r a d d r e s s i s 1 0 0 6 0 M a l l o r y Parkway, E , Unit D, St James C i t y, F L , 3 3 9 5 6 , o r t h e r e ’s always our website www helpingpawsanimalsanctuary com

Island VFW Post 4353, Auxiliary accepting Voice of Democracy and Patriot Pen essay contest entries

The Veterans of Foreign War, VFW Post 4353 and VFW Post 4353 Auxiliary a r e s p o n s o r i n g a s c h o l a r s h i p p r o g r a m which is the Voice of Democracy essay contest and the Patriot Pen Essay Contest Voice of Democracy is a written and spoken essay on “America - “What are the

greatest attributes of our Democracy?”

This essay contest is open to students in 9th through 12th grades The finished material must be received no later than O c t 3 1 , a t V F W P o s t 4 3 5 3 , 8 1 5 0 Stringfellow Road, St James City, FL 33956

Patriot Pen is a written essay contest which asks, “How are you inspired by America?” for students 6th through 8th g

received

requirements can be found at VFW org, then under Community, look for Youth & Education, scholarship

If you have any questions you can contact VFW Auxiliary Post 4353's Joyce Lake at 616-283-7121 Please leave a message and she will get back to you

Cape Rowing Club to offer free ‘experience rowing’ event Oct. 14

The Cape Coral Rowing Club will be offering adults a free chance to try the sport of rowing with a brief lesson on the nomenclature of the sport and the technique of the stroke, followed by a chance to row a short distance Saturday, Oct 14, from 8-10 a m

No experience is necessary to attend and no registration is required

Rowing is a full-body, low impact workout that can be taken up late in life Rowers in the Cape club range in age from 13 to 80 Cape Coral, with its miles o f w a t e r w a y s a n d y e a r - r o u n d w a r m weather, has been recognized as one of the country's best places to row and retire

Those who enjoy the short introductory experience can register for the CCRC's Learn to Row class that begins the last weekend of October The six lessons run for two hours on Saturday and Sunday

mornings for three weeks staring Oct 28

The Cape Coral Rowing Club is located on one of the "seven islands" off Old B u r n t S t o r e R o a d , N , n e a r E m b e r s Parkway If you set your GPS to 206 Old Burnt Store Road, N , you should be able to follow the signs to the club boatyard

Participants are urged to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sox and water

The CCRC is a sweep rowing and sculling club, and is open to all residents of the community who are interested in rowing Navigate to www rowccrc org for additional information or call Len C a r d o n e a t 8 3 1 - 2 3 9 - 7 1 0 0 o r e m a i l ltr@rowccrc org

Members of the Cape Rowing Club enjoy some time on the water.

PHOTO PROVIDED

LCEC announces results for fishing and golf tournaments

LCEC held its annual fishing tournament and golf tournament within one week of each other and raised approximately $100,000 for the United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades

T h e 2 7 t h A n n u a l L C E C F i s h i n g

Tournament was held Sept 9, at D & D Matlacha Bait & Tackle on Matlacha

This popular community event brought in more than $65,000 The tourney had 180 anglers on 53 boats who took part in winning and bidding on nearly 150 raffle and

auction prizes

Fishing tournament winners included:

■ Grand Slam – Team Big Boys Bait & Tackle

■ Largest Trout – Team Big Boys Bait & Tackle

■ Largest Red Fish – Team Danella Companies

■ Mystery Fish

Team Southern Fab

The LCEC Golf Tournament was held Sept 16 at the Plantation Golf & Country Club in Fort Myers This fun-filled event brought in approximately $35,000 The tourney included 104 golfers which made up 26 teams Golf tournament winners included:

■ First place – EPR/GIR

■ Second place – Designated Drivers

■ Third Place – RE/MAX

■ Longest Drive – Skyler Cargo

■ Closest Pin – Cameron Nero

■ Best Team Name – Three Men and a Stranger

LCEC is extremely thankful to all tournament participants, sponsors and volunteers For photos of the 27th Annual LCEC Fishing Tournament, visit faceb o o k c o m / l c e c f i s h F o r p h o t o s o f t h e LCEC United Way Golf Tournament, visit facebook com/lcecgolf

Bloodmobile coming to Pine Island Moose Lodge Oct. 14

The Lee Health Bloodmobile will be visiting The Pine Island Moose Lodge at 8903 Stringfellow Road in St James City Saturday, Oct 14, from 8 a m - noon

All the blood collected r e m a i n s i n L e e H e a l t h , which includes the Golisano Children's Hospital o f S W F l o r i d a , t h e

R e g i o n a l C a n c e r C e n t e r and the only Trauma Center (which is located in the L e e M e m o r i a l H o s p i t a l ) within a 5-county radius The blood also supports Cape Coral Hospital and Gulf Coast Medical Center

One in three people will need blood in their lifetime You never know when you or someone you know or love will need blood So come out and "Give the Gift of Life!"

All donors will receive a free health checkup, cholesterol screening, and gift.

New studies show that donating blood improves your

What is the BRCA gene test and who should get it?

About 3% of breast and 10% of ovarian cancers result from inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer represents about 7,500 women who have inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes annually For ovarian cancers, this amounts to about 2,000 women per year

A genetic blood test called the BRCA gene test can help determine if a patient has an inherited mutation

When mutations in those genes develop, there’s an increased risk of breast, ovarian and other cancers BRCA stands for BReast CAncer gene

A positive or negative result can help determine a patient’s needs and health management The BRCA g e n e t e s t c a n a l s o h e l p patients better understand their health To learn more or to schedule an appointment with your physician, p l e a s e v i s i t w w w l e ehealth org

What is an Inherited

Gene Mutation?

S o m e p e o p l e h a v e changes in the blueprint of a gene, which are known as mutations. Some gene v a r i a n t s e x p l a i n d i f f e rences in people’s hair or eye color, while others can l e a d t o a d i s e a s e o r increase the risk of illness

An inherited gene mutation can be passed on to the next generation According to the CDC, all women have BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, but only some have mutations About one in every 500 women in the United States has a mutation in her BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene It’s also possible to have a mutation in both BRCA genes

It typically takes more than one gene mutation to become a cancer cell But when someone inherits an abnormal gene copy, their cells start out with one mutation This makes it easier for other mutations to happen, which can lead to a cell becoming a cancer cell

Your doctor might suggest testing using a multigene panel, which simultaneously looks for mutations in several genes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2

A positive result does not diagnose any disease; it tells you if you carry the gene mutation that increases your risk A negative BRCA test doesn't guarantee you will not get cancer It means your risk is likely the same as the general population.

Who Should Get a BRCA Gene Test?

Those with a family history of either breast, ovarian or both cancers are premier candidates for the gene test If you meet any of these specifications, it’s recommended to get a BRCA gene test:

■ A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before age 45

■ A personal history of triple-negative breast cancer diagnosed at 60 or younger

■ A personal history of two or more types of cancer

■ A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before 50 and second primary breast cancer, one or more relatives with breast cancer or an unknown or limited family medical history

■ A personal history of male breast cancer

■ A personal history of ovarian cancer

■ A personal history of breast cancer and one or more relatives with breast cancer diagnosed before age 50, two

Island Mahjongg

We had 8 players at the Moose on Sept 28, enjoying a great lunch Top scorers were Bonnie Kellen with 95 points, Clem Moors with 150 and Linda Yannick with 220

Give your brain cells a workout and join us for a fun game and good company. We play Thursdays from 14 p m Call Carolyn, 239-233-7682 for more details

or more relatives diagnosed with breast cancer at any age, one or more relatives with ovarian cancer, one or more relatives with male breast cancer or two or more relatives with prostate cancer or pancreatic cancer

■ A personal history of prostate cancer or pancreatic cancer with two or more relatives with BRCA-associated cancers

■ A history of breast cancer at a young age in two or more blood relatives, such as your parents, siblings or children

■ A personal history of breast cancer and Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jewish ancestry

■ A relative with a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation

■ One or more relatives with a history of cancer that would meet any of these criteria for gene testing

If you think you’re a candidate for the BRCA test or

want more information, make an appointment with your physician by visiting www leehealth org

What Can You Expect from a BRCA Gene Test?

The BRCA gene test is like any other blood test A lab analyzes the results, and a physician will review them

Many people who get the BRCA gene test also work with a genetic counselor Those who test positive may feel various emotions, including sadness, anxiety, or anger A genetic counselor can help you work through all of that

A genetic counselor is well-trained in helping patients deal with the results of a genetic test, offering options for management and ways to cope

Dr Mark Roh is chief physician executive of oncology services at Lee Health

Dr Mark Roh Lee Health

ALS

From page 1

nation,” Allen said

B e f o r e t h e A L S d e s i g n a t i o n , t h e M/PIFCD was only able to perform basic interventions, Allen said, where now they are able to perform more advanced interventions, similar to what an ambulance c a n p r o v i d e A l t h o u g h a n a m b u l a n c e allows for patient transportation, Allen said he is confident in the advanced level of care now available in record time, due to the locations of fire stations on the island

“Patients are able to get that higher level of advanced care a lot faster,” Allen said

He admits one of the primary reasons he was brought to this district as Assistant Chief of EMS was to get this program off t h e g r o u n d S u p p o r t f r o m t h e e n t i r e department, administration, board of commissioners and community was necessary in moving forward on the undertaking of this project, he said, adding that it would not have been possible without the support of these individuals

“This is a huge step forward for this agency something that has been in the

works for a number of years I know Chief Mickuleit and other administrators have had this goal for a long time and it’s really a blessing to be able to bring it to fruition,” Allen said Mickuleit stressed the importance of having ALS available on the island, saying if someone were to experience a cardio-related emergency, the district can provide electricity or necessary medications much faster than was possible previously This would be especially helpful, he said, if a call came in from Bokeelia, where the patient would have had to wait on an ambulance and now can be serviced by Station 3, which would be a much faster response time

“They saw the value that an advanced program like this would provide and supported us in our goals to pursue that and now they’re able to reap the benefits of receiving a higher level of emergency care when it’s needed,” Allen said of the community “ W e c a n n o t t h a n k t h e c o m m u n i t y enough and we are excited to provide a higher level of service,” Mickuleit said

Lee County Disaster Recovery & Resilience Procurement Workshop Friday

The U S Small Business Adminis-tration invites the public to the Lee County D i s a s t e r R e c o v e r y & R e s i l i e n c e Procurement Workshop Friday, Oct 6, from 9 a m to 1 p m , on the first floor of the Lee County Government Building at 2201 Second St , Fort Myers Parking is free

The workshop will offer information o n p a r t i c i p a t i n g i n d i s a s t e r r e c o v e r y efforts, including contracting opportuni-

t i e s w i t h s t a t e a n d f e d e r a l a g e n c i e s involved in recovery work and the essential steps to qualify local businesses with these opportunities

The workshop will feature representatives from the following agencies: APEX ( P T A C ) , F E M A , S B D C , V e t e r a n ' s B u s i n e s s C e n t e r , W o m e n ' s B u s i n e s s Center, SLED, state emergency management and local emergency management

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHIEF BEN MICKULEIT

From left are M/PIFCD firefighters Ronnie Hill, Justin Knight and Kyle Childers.

United Way seeking volunteers for VITA program

U n i t e d W a y o f L e e , H e n d r y a n d

G l a d e s i s s e e k i n g v o l u n t e e r s f o r i t s

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance prog r a m d u r i n g t h e 2 0 2 4 t a x s e a s o n

V o l u n t e e r t a x p r e p a r e r s , g r e e t e r s a n d b i l i n g u a l - S p a n i s h s p e a k i n g i n t e r p r e t e r s are needed to provide no-cost tax preparation services at over 20 locations through-

out Southwest Florida for individuals and families earning less than $66,000 per year

Volunteer tax preparers will receive c o m p r e h e n s i v e I R S c e r t i f i e d t r a i n i n g , equipping them with the skills to navigate basic tax returns, use online tax preparation software and understand tax credits

and deductions that benefit eligible taxpayers Individuals of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to volunteer Moreover, experienced professionals such as agents, certified financial planners, attorneys and non-credentialed tax return preparers can earn continuing education credits while giving back through the VITA program

Last season, United Way's VITA program generated federal refunds exceeding $7 9 million across Lee, Hendry, Glades and Charlotte counties. The dedication of the 177 certified volunteers enabled over 7,100 VITA clients to access vital tax assistance, saving them over $2 2 million in tax preparation fees that could then be allocated for essential needs such as food, medical care, housing, and more

The VITA program is run on volunteer power -- volunteers who enjoy working w i t h p e o p l e a n d w h o w a n t t o h e l p improve the quality of life for people in

our community. VITA serves people who often cannot afford to pay someone to file their tax returns and do not feel comfortable or inclined to file their own No experience is necessary -- just a willingness to help

Flexible hours are available January through April every tax season Online orientations and training classes for new volunteers begin in November Small, inperson classes will be available as well Simply register online at https://United WayLee.org/VITA-Volunteer/, or contact M a r y M e a d o r a t M a r y M @ U n i t e d WayLee org; 239 433 7206 for additional information

United Way’s Volunteer Center connects individuals and companies to volunteer opportunities throughout our community Contact the United Way Volunteer Center by calling 239-433-7567, or by v i s i t i n g U n i t e d W a y ’ s w e b s i t e a t UnitedWayLee org/Volunteer

October fishing in Southwest Florida

October is a refreshing month on the water After a long hot summer, we will finally get relief with cooler days and a noticeable drop in humidity This sets off good fishing opportunities as they are hungry, active and on the move

Fall is the time that schools of big redfish devour anything in their path across our inshore waters Often there may be several hundred or more working across the shallows on an eating mission If you’re lucky enough to cross paths with a school, it’s a memory not soon forgotten Fishing for big bull reds will peak in October as they begin their migration offshore once the first real cold fronts of the season begin to drop down from the north. Exactly when that will be only time will tell, if the weather remains mild the big fish can entertain us throughout the entire month Schools of big reds are not as abundant as years past, however crossing paths with a school of bruisers is a possibility

On the Water

Snook, large and small, are on the move as they transition from their summer homes around the Gulf beaches and nearby areas as many make their way closer to their winter haunts inshore Snook of any size are a fun challenge Live bait puts odds in your favor, but with cooling

With the water cooling down, many fish are on the move Including gag grouper. This nice gag was caught in less than 40 feet of water on a live pinfish west of Boca Grande Pass.

the rod holder with a live flatlined bait You never know when a big cobia, grouper, king mackerel or some other species might come into play

A s t h e w a t e r c o n t i n u e s t o c o o l , sheepshead numbers will increase towards the end of the month Early season fish are often mixed in with snapper around nearshore reefs and along the beaches or structure around the coast islands Sheepshead will not eat any type of fish Live or dead, shrimp is the go-to bait for most anglers As the water continues to cool, sheepshead numbers will continue to increase through years end

Many different options are on the table with the change of season You can either target specific species or just get in the mix of a feeding frenzy and see what’s there Often a host of different fish are ganged up on the same bait pod; it’s common to catch a half dozen or more species from one area Large schools of bait are moving down the coast all month; look for bait pods both inshore and off, watch for birds And always be prepared for the unexpected October is one of the best months of the year to fish around Southwest Florida There are plenty of days with great comfortable weather, hungry fish, plus the winter

crowds have not yet returned That makes for a great combination

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

If you have a fishing report or for charter information, contact Gulf Coast Guide Service at 239-410-8576 (call or text); on the web at www fishpine island com; or via email at gcl2fish@ live com

Have a safe week and good fishin’

As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt Bill Russell has spent his life fishing and learning the waters around Pine Island and Southwest Flori-da, and as a professional fishing guide for the past 23 years

water and fishing becoming more active, artificial baits can be a good choice There’s not much better than a snook blasting a top water lure, early and late day tips the odds in your favor

Good seatrout fishing is another benefit of cooler water They’re active and hungry, and at times feeding in schools under bait pods over the inshore grass flats Trout may run in size from little guys to fish well over twenty inches With a little effort, a fresh trout dinner is a good possibility

Gag grouper, another fish on the move, are making their way to shallower Gulf waters and many move inshore Catching gag grouper over a shallow water inshore wreck or reef is some of the most challenging fishing you will find They hit like a freight train and run straight to the safety of the structure Unlike offshore, where you fish them vertical or from straight above, inshore you are away from the structure and make a long cast They have the advantage, you break off more big ones than you land, but it’s exciting, and if you’re lucky enough to get a big one to the boat, season is open

Gag grouper numbers increase a short distance offshore Anglers trolling deep diving lures or dropping a live pinfish over ledges or structure in depths less than 50 feet are often rewarded with big gags

For tasty mangrove snapper, look for artificial reefs and ledges or hard bottom in depths from 20 to 50 feet Also, snapper should be holding in and around the Gulf passes; days with slower tides often present the best opportunity Live shrimp or small pilchards with light tackle is the best way to go, and if you are anchored, a chum block is a great idea Always have a heavier rig in

PHOTO PROVIDED

Capt Bill Russell

tative, Cherie Denham, was sent in his place

B e s i d e s m o m e n t s o f p o i g n a n c y brought about by the lighting of the lumi-

naries, one of the highlights, she said, was presenting the aptly named Island Angel Awards, given to those who were voted especially helpful through the aftermath

of Hurricane Ian.

“We selected people in our community who went above and beyond helping their neighbors and pitching in,” Scott said, recalling having seen one of the award winners, Lisa Dence, in an apron carrying trays of food to assist after the storm

R E / M A X S u n s h i n e b r o k e r / o w n e r Chardayne Seuffert described the night as an amazing, heartwarming tribute, insisting that all she offered to the event was necessary space

“It seemed like the whole town showed up There had to be at least 200 people possibly even 300, I just don’t know,” Seuffert said

Many tears were shed, to the backdrop of music from local bands, lending itself to the night of memories, she said, adding that Island Angel Award winner Kevin Russell and his wife Jennifer were the contact point for many during the storm, becoming a lifeline for islanders

“I think it gave people as much closure as they could get because the island is so small but has such a big heart," Seuffert said

Bloodmobile

left,

Lollar-Lambert,

From page 1

knew,” Lambert said Pine Island, she said, is very accustomed to being self-reliant, making efforts like this one a relief on the usual work load, which enables many more who were displaced, access back into their homes

“The road to recovery is long, but together, we are stronger than the surge,” Lambert said F o r q u e s t i o n s o n h o w t o d o n a t e : erin@gpialliance org

From page 8

overall cardiovascular health Regularly donating blood helps men in particular to reduce the amount of iron in the blood This can reduce the chance of heart attack

b y 8 8 % A d d i t i o n a l l y , r e g u l a r b l o o d donation can lower the risk of severe card i o v a s c u l a r e v e n t s s u c h a s s t r o k e b y

33% You also burn 650 calories! It's a win-win!

P l e a s e h e l p u s m a k e o u r g o a l of 20 units of blood

Requirements for donating blood:

Obituaries

■ Weigh at least 115 pounds

■ Be at least 16 years old (16 requires parental written consent)

■ Be relatively healthy

■ Provide photo ID

■ Have 56 days between donations

Eat a meal before donating blood and be sure to drink plenty of fluids before and after donation

Questions about donating? Call us at 343-2333

PHOTO BY CAROL SCOTT

PAULETTE LEBLANC

From

Erin

Kevin Ruane and Kristin Gustin at the GPIA fundraiser at the Wicked Dolphin Distillery in Cape Coral

e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , O c t o b e r 4 ,

3 b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s . c o m

i n e I s l a n d E a g l e

www.marinedocks.net Call(239)561-8074

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