WEEk of NoVEmbEr 8, 2023 FLIER INSIDE
Best of Pine Island winners announced — INSIDE pINEISlaND-EaglE.com
VolumE 47, NumbEr 27
Whitney wins first place in Junior Duck Stamp Contest By PAULETTE LEBLANC
pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Pam Whitney admits she had no idea what a big deal it was when her daughter Brianna won first place for the state of Florida in the Junior Duck Stamp art competition until she attended the ceremony. Put simply, in order to hunt waterfowl, you have to purchase a duck stamp. Every year, there is a contest to see who's drawing will be on the stamp that the hunters will need to purchase. The Junior Duck Stamp raises funds to educate and engage our nation’s youth in wildlife and wetlands conservation and outdoor recre-
Celebrating Pine Islanders: Winn-Dixie’s Dan Loughren By PAULETTE LEBLANC
pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Winn-Dixie store manager, Dan Loughren has been working for Winn-Dixie for 38 years. He has been at his Pine Island store for 19 years now and is certainly not shy about his desire to help anyone he can. He sees being the manager of his store as having been put in a unique position to be able to help people in any way possible and admits the corporation is always encouraging about him and his team being a useful and often thoughtful resource to Pine Island. “I’m in a great position, where the company supports me doing so much for the community—the food drives, the events—after Hurricane Charley and Hurricane Ian, we were giving away truckloads of food and ice and water—I just love being a part of that,” Loughren said. Some years ago, when Winn-Dixie acquired Sweet Bay, Loughren said he was moved from Pine Island for 7 months. Once he got the chance to come back, however, he jumped on it, saying there was no hesitation on his part. Although coming to Pine Island was not his first time working for the corporation, it simply felt like home to Loughren. The feeling had to have been mutual, as members of the community made calls to the corporate See LOUGHREN, page 20 PHOTO PROVIDED BY DAN LOUGHREN
Dan Loughren
Left to right: Tom Milligan Ding Darling Repriser, Brianna Whitney, Ranger Toni Westland and Anne Wildman Executive Director Ding Darling Wildlife Society. PHOTO PROVIDED BY PAM WHITNEY
ation. A panel of judges choose the entry, from among best-of-show entries. Students from all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and two U.S. Territories participated in the Federal Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program. “They have age groups, and this year, Brianna competed in the tenth through twelfth grade age group,” Whitney said, adding that Brianna recently turned 18. Although her daughter learned she’d won back in spring, the award ceremony was delayed until October, Whitney said. See WHITNEY, page 14
Stone Crab Fest 2023 to be held Nov. 12 By PAULETTE LEBLANC
pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Stone Crab Festival, Sunday, Nov. 12, at Calusa Cay Publix Plaza from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. According to Chamber board member Cynthia Welch, This event will be a fun filled day with food, live music, stone crabs, island businesses, crafters, local seafood, and adult beverages. There PHOTO PROVIDED BY will be live music CYNTHIA WELCH all day, she said, F OU O starting with Jumping Fences at What: 11 a.m. Matt Lee Stone Crab Festival Crew follows around 1 p.m. with When: Brother Love comSunday, Nov. 12 from 11 ing on stage at a.m. to 8 p.m. approximately 3 p.m. Headliner Where: band Deb & the Calusa Cay Shoppes Dynamics will hit Publix Plaza, the stage at 5 p.m. 5100 Pine Island Rd., “This is our secBokeelia, ond year holding it, since the hurricane came along and we couldn’t do it last year. It is bigger and better than the first one, which was a great event in 2021. This one is on a Sunday and it goes later—until after dark,” Welch said. Over 70 island businesses and organizations will be represented at the festival with a great range of crafts, arts, and business information, she said. There will be
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See STONE CRAB FEST, page 18
Athlete of the Week.........17 Island Mahjongg..............11 Local Tides......................20 insidetoday Editorial..........................4 Letters to the Editor..........4 On the Water......................7 Classifieds & Obituaries
Week of Wednesday, November 8, 2023 n Page 2 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Best of Pine Island winners announced Readers of the Pine Island Eagle have cast their votes and the winners of the Best of Pine Island poll are now official. The Eagle thanks those who voted as, between the back-to-back impacts of a global pandemic and Hurricane Ian, a round of applause is due to all of the island's business neighbors who persevered. The winners of the Eagles readers’ poll for the Best Of Pine Island 2023 are: ∫ Bar- Froggy's Bar ∫ Barbeque- Fine Swine Southern BBQ ∫ Bartender- Lecia Scott- Froggy's Bar ∫ Breakfast- The Perfect Cup ∫ Chef- Reed Freeman-Street Eatz & Ale ∫ Deli- Salty Girls Island Cafe ∫ Dinner- Blue Dog Bar & Grill ∫ Fish Sandwich- Lazy Flamingo Restaurant ∫ Hamburger- Street Eatz & Ale ∫ Happy Hour- Froggy's Bar ∫ Ice Cream- The Frozen Flip Flop ∫ Local Band- Pipe Dream ∫ Lunch- Salty Girls Island Cafe ∫ Pizza- Pine Island Pizza ∫ Seafood-Blue Dog Bar & Grill ∫ Waiter/Waitress- Nicole Dence- Salty Girls Island Cafe ∫ Waterfront Dining- Tarpon Lodge ∫ Art Gallery- Bokeelia Art Gallery ∫ Local Artist- Leoma Lovegrove ∫ Bait & Tackle- D & D Bait & Tackle ∫ Boat Dealer- Bob & Annie's Boatyard
∫ Gift Shop- CW Fudge Factory ∫ Seafood Market- Barnhill Seafood Market ∫ Air Conditioning/Heating- Target Air Conditioning ∫ Appliance Repair- Josh Baxter/Baxter Appliance Repair ∫ Cabinets- St John Carpentry Remodels & Repairs ∫ Electrician- Gault Electric South ∫ Flooring- Island Floors Interiors & Cabinetry ∫ Housewatch Service- Islander Homewatch Services, LLC ∫ Lawn/Landscaping- Uni-scape Waterfalls & Landscaping ∫ Marine Construction- Williamson Bros ∫ Painting Contractor-Duane Terry ∫ Paver Company- Next Level Paver Co.
Church of God of Prophecy taking orders for Thanksgiving dinner The Church of God of Prophecy will be having a Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner on Nov. 23. Dinner will be takeout only, no dine in. The price is $10 per dinner— Turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn or green beans, dinner roll, and dessert.
Call your order in to 239-283-2128 as soon as possible, quantities limited. Pickup 12:30-3 p.m. Turkey is fried in peanut oil. Gluten free and baked turkey available upon request. The church is at 15146 Stringfellow Road, Bokeelia.
∫ Pool Service-Pine Island Pool Supply ∫ Roofing- D.R. Martineau Roofing ∫ Plumbing Contractor- Pine Island Plumbing ∫ Chiropractor- Jeter Chiropractor ∫ Dentist- Riverdale Dental Associates ∫ Massage Therapist- Pam McCarty- Christine Karow Hair & Massage ∫ Accountant- Pine Island Tax & Accounting ∫ Attorney-Tim Bruehl, Waggoner & Bruhel, PA ∫ Automotive Repair- St James Automotive ∫ Bank- Centennial Bank ∫ Boat Lift Maintenance- Amberjack Marine Services ∫ Boat Repairs-On The Water Marine Services-Joey Patterson ∫ Charter Boats- Island Girl Charters ∫ Computer Services- Island Tech Computer Repair & Consulting ∫ Day Spa- Center of Attention Day Spa ∫ Financial Services- Spyrnal Financial Group ∫ Fishing Guide- Jesse Minoski ∫ Hair Salon/Barber Shop- Cutting Ties Salon ∫ Hair Stylist- Christine Karow- Christine Karow Hair & Massage ∫ Insurance Agency- Robertson Ryan & Associates ∫ Motel/Inn- Tarpon Lodge ∫ Marina- Monroe Canal Marina ∫ Real Estate Agency- John R. Wood Properties ∫ Real Estate Agent- Stephen Longest- John R. Wood Properties ∫ Service Organization/Club- Matlacha Hookers
Potters Guild show set for Nov. 11 The Pine Island Potters Guild is looking forward to a full season of monthly shows and sales in the courtyard of Koucky Studios. November’s show will be held on Saturday, the 11th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Now in its tenth year, this outdoor venue hosts local artisans showing hand-made pottery, crafts, and painting in various mediums. New artisans will attend, joining those who have been with the Guild Show for many years. Please plan to attend, say hello, enjoy the community spirit, and support our local artisans. The Guild shows will continue on the second Saturday of each month from this upcoming show through April 13. Some of this month's featured mediums are pottery, jewelry, woodworking, readyto-wear art, tropical-themed home décor, paintings and prints, notecards, books, locally made gourmet jams, hot sauces and honey, candles and scents, cookies and other snacks. If you are interested in Pottery Classes from beginners to advanced, talk with Chuck Koucky about his class schedule. Classes are now held year-round in the newly remodeled studio. Be sure to ask for a tour!
PHOTO PROVIDED
Soak up some Pine Island Spirit, relax in the island-style atmosphere of the courtyard at Koucky Studios, and enjoy talking with all the artisans about their beautiful and unique products. For more information on November's Show and Sale, please call Nancy Koucky at 239-233-3003. Koucky Studios is at 5971 Bay Point Rd., Bokeelia.
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Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, November 8, 2023 ■ Page 4 pineisland-eagle.com
OPINIONS
The right direction 10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60 Bokeelia, FL 33922 Phone: (239) 283-2022 Fax: (239) 283-0232 Web: pineisland-eagle.com 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 Subscriptions 1 Year $52 To Pay For Your Subscription P.O. Box 151306 Cape Coral, FL 33915 Circulation (239) 574-1936 Classified Advertising (239) 574-5644
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Web Poll Previous 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. 39% ■ No, it’s out of our hands. 2% ■ Why worry, local development is inevitable. 57% ■ Other. 2%
Current Web Poll Question: What improvement should be made to the Pine Island Road/Stringfellow intersection? ■ A stoplight. ■ A roundabout. ■ Nothing. ■ Other. Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com
Workforce Now has released its 11th annual Southwest Florida regional educational and workforce outcomes study. This year’s 121-page report compiled by researchers from Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida SouthWestern State College and the FutureMakers Coalition is another deep dive into “demographics, education, occupations, employments gaps and projected job growth” within Lee, Collier, Hendry, Glades and Charlotte counties. The goal of the coalition that now has 150 partners is to close the higher education gap and retain high-skilled jobs within the region.” “FutureMakers Coalition aims to transform Southwest Florida’s workforce by increasing the proportion of working-age adults with college degrees, workforce certificates, industry certifications and other high-quality credentials to 55 percent by 2025.” It hopes to do so across the five counties through “a collective impact initiative working along the cradle-to-career pathway to create a skilled and sustainable workforce pipeline” beginning with early childhood learning and ending with “post-high school credential attainment and career connections.” “The coalition focuses on systems change to connect untapped workforce with the education and training to fill in-demand jobs by removing attainment barriers and creating a culture of career exploration and aspiration from an early age.” At the beginning of the initiative in 2013, Southwest Florida was sitting at 39 percent, a gap of 89,518 skilled workers with a lower percentage of skilled workers in each county compared to the state. By 2021, the region, one of Florida’s
Eagle Editorial fastest-growing, was at 43.7 percent of the goal with Collier County’s skilled workforce sitting at 48.8 percent, less than a point from the state’s overall 49.7 percent, followed by Lee County at 43.5 percent, Charlotte at 40.9 percent, Hendry at 24 percent and Glades at 20.5 percent. So what does this year’s report tell us about where the jobs are, how much they pay and, perhaps most important, what industries are expected to add jobs in the near future? First, there are few surprises. Retail continues to reign king with 446,228 workers reported in 2022, making it Southwest Florida’s largest industry at 17 percent of all workers in the region. Next up? “Accommodation and food services was the next largest industry (14.1 percent), followed by construction (13.8 percent) and health care and social assistance (13.8 percent),” the 2023 report summation states. Retail, accommodations and food services jobs continue to be among the lowest-paying in the region, with average annual wages of $41,500 and $30,946 respectively in 2022. Some good news for workers? Wages are up slightly and there are more jobs, including those that pay more. The average annual wage for all industries in Southwest Florida was $56,735 in 2022, a 6.5 percent bump from 2021, the summation states, finding that construction jobs are “by far” the fastest growing industry with 10,000 new jobs since 2018. This job growth was followed professional and technical services, with 5,977 new jobs; health care and social assistance, with a 4,823 gain; administrative and waste services, at a 4,440 gain, and man-
ufacturing with a 2,627 employment increase. The report released on Oct. 23, recognizes, though, that in all five counties Southwest Florida continues to lag behind both its stated trained and educated workforce goal of 55 percent but also the state average of 49.7 percent. The coalition recognizes the challenges ahead, including education disparities, and is implementing a newly funded initiative to address it. “In 2023, Florida Gulf Coast University and FutureMakers were awarded a $23 million grant from the United States Department of Commerce to formalize and grow sector strategies by offer(ing) training to the untapped workforce. The four target industries for the Equitable Jobs Pipeline project are health care, manufacturing, PK-12 public education, and logistics. More than 1,700 local job seekers from underserved populations who face barriers to education, employment, and career advancement will be able to benefit from this program,” the report states. Given that the cost of housing, both in terms of price to buy and monthly rent, has escalated well past the overall 6.5 percent bump in overall average wage, adding more skilled-labor jobs is an admirable goal. Targeting the core factors of education and training to make them more accessible to a broader sector of our population is even more so. We do have a ways to go. But the Workforce Now report’s focus on education — and opportunity — points us in the right direction for the economically sustainable labor pool Southwest Florida needs.
Letters to the Editor Biden Administration totally out of control To the editor: If anybody born after Jimmy Carter was ousted from the White House by Ronald Reagan ever wondered what it would be like if we elected a totally incompetent lifelong politician as President, you don’t have to wait any longer to see the consequences of that action. Biden epitomizes the opposite of “Fansville,” and we now have a new word for what he has done to this country; “Loserville.”
We have endured the worst inflationary spiral in 50 years under Biden’s mismanagement and our dollar only buys a small fraction of what it used to buy BB (Before Biden) Runaway deficit spending has been put on steroids thanks to Biden and his stumblebum administration appointees. We’ve had a totally out of control border crisis since the “Big Guy” decided to let anyone who could walk or crawl into this country and put them on our welfare system and dispersed them into Joe’s sanctuary states as long as his goons could get a voters registration form signed first. We have, under Biden, watched our
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 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60, Bokeelia, FL 33922; e-mailed to pineisland@ 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
Foreign and Domestic security become unraveled due to his complete lack of communication skills with our allies or our enemies. Joe is AWOL and is about to start WW III. Tell me you feel safer now than you did almost three years ago and you will identify yourself as a Comrade in the Socialist Democratic Party of America that knows only how to bow to the commands of the totalitarian dictatorship your leaders are shaping for the future of this country. Biden is a crook, and we all know he is a crook and he’s not protecting his diabolical son out of “love.” He’s protecting him so he will not turn on his criminal father AKA “The Big Guy” and create the grandest impeachment spectacle this Nation has ever seen. The “if I go down, you go down” pact. This country is headed for a recession just in time for the run up to the 2024 Presidential election and the stock market is slowly coming to that realization. How about we elect a qualified person that loves this country and puts America and its’ citizens, not political correctness, as their first priorities and someone who is not a complete embarrassment on every single front in the representation of our country? Max Christian, Saint James City
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Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, November 8, 2023 ■ Page 6 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
The Beacon of Hope announces funding aid for individuals and small businesses due to Hurricane Ian The Beacon of Hope has received a grant through Volunteer Florida to provide financial support to individuals and small business in the Greater Pine Island area. The Beacon of Hope’s Mission is “to improve the lives of those who live in the Greater Pine Island area by fulfilling a need, giving a path upward, or by volunteering to help others.” Over the last year, Beacon of Hope has helped hundreds of people recovering from Hurricane Ian. This application is for Small Businesses in the Greater Pine Island area. Eligibility criteria: ∫ Businesses operating on Pine Island before Hurricane Ian. ∫ Businesses in current operation since Hurricane Ian ∫ Locally owned and operated small businesses in the Greater Pine Island area.
∫ Must provide a current SunBiz Annual report, Title, and business tax returns or profit/loss statements for the past two years. Criteria Questions: ∫ What type of assistance, if any, have you applied for thus far? (i.e., Small Business Association (SBA) Loan, other grants, etc...) ∫ How will your business use the money? ∫ How will this grant make a positive difference for your business to serve the Greater Pine Island area? (Other documentation such as estimates may be required later on an “as needed” basis) Required Information to Qualify: ∫ Criteria questions on the application must be completed in their entirety. ∫ Initial required documentation must be attached to the application.
If further documentation is warranted, the applicant will be notified if further documentation is needed. Grant Applications are on our website, www.beaconofhopepineisland.com. Completed applications and supporting documents can be mailed to or dropped off at the Beacon of Hope, 5090 Doug Taylor Circle, St James City, FL 33956. Applications can be dropped off during normal operating hours: Monday-Wednesday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you have questions about the grant process, please do not hesitate to contact Joanne Lembo at jlembo@beaconofhopepineisland.com. Please add in the subject line, “Business Grant Questions.” Decisions will be based on evidence of need. The Application Deadline is Nov. 30. Business grants may represent taxable income to you. It is solely your responsibility to determine whether a grant awarded under this program is taxable income to you.
Calusa Land Trust to hold Work/Fun Party Nov. 11 The Calusa Land Trust's monthly work/fun party will be held this Saturday, Nov. 11, at the Taylor/Willow Lake Preserve beginning at 9 a.m. This property contains mangroves, salt flats and a mature live oak/palmetto forest hosting an active bald eagle nest. In addition, several new looping nature trails have been pioneered and maintenance on these hurricane damaged pathways (and the entrance strip) will be this event's mission. The entry walkway to this 36-acre preserve is located off Alcorn Street (just south of the
Catholic Church). The Calusa Land Trust is an all-volunteer land conservancy and, thus, relies upon its members and guests like you to steward its preserved lands. It is recommended that participants provide themselves with work gloves/clothing, pruning tools and a happy spirit. Volunteers will be rewarded with cold beverages, a pizza lunch and a warm fuzzy feeling of accomplishment. For more information, one may contact Les Smith at 978-618-7447 or lesmanatee3355@gmail.com
First Baptist Church Outdoor Family Movie Night set for Nov. 10 November - March every 2nd Friday night First Baptist Church of St. James City will have a FREE Outdoor Family Movie Night. The first one of the year will be Nov. 10 at 6:30 p.m. They will be showing "Family Camp" and will have
popcorn & drinks. Everyone is Welcome...bring a friend and a chair... First Baptist Church is at 3417 8th Ave. St. James City.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Check presentation Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce, Adopt a Sea Turtle Auction committee is proud to present a check to the Calusa Land Trust.
On the Water
Lee County announces reopening of Pine Island Commercial Marina on weekends for recreational boaters Due to improvements, the parking area has changed. Boaters are reminded to follow all posted signage. Staff will be on-site to assist and answer questions. Boaters seeking other, nearby county ramps can go to Matlacha Park, 4577 Pine Island Road N.W., or Lavender’s Landing, 7290 Barrancas Ave. N.W., Bokeelia, seven days a week. For more information about Lee County Parks and Recreation locations, amenities, and other special events, visit www.leeparks.org, call 239-533-7275 or email leeparks @leegov.com.
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.
Animal Refuge Center’s 29th Annual Starlight Auction Nov. 25 The Animal Refuge Center will hold its 29th Annual Starlight Auction at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa Saturday, Nov. 25, at 6 p.m. This event promises to be an unforgettable evening of art and philanthropy, with Myra Robert’s original acrylic painting, Bailey’s, dedicated to supporting ARC's vital mission. Roberts has captivated art enthusiasts across the United States but also in Europe, earning her a place in the private collection of Robert Rauschenberg. Her signature style encompasses the nostalgia of retro bathing beauty art, as well as an extraordinary ability to capture the essence of animals, wildlife, and the natural beauty of Florida. In addition to the auction of this exclusive painting, Roberts will be offering limited-time pet portrait commissions, with a portion of the proceeds earmarked for ARC's fundraising efforts. For more information about ARC’s Starlight auction or to inquire about tickets, please visit www.Animalrefugecenter.com or contact Betty
Pine Island Eagle
Lee County’s Pine Island Commercial Marina, which has been closed since July 2022 for dredging, seawall replacement and ADA parking improvements that were delayed due to Hurricane Ian damage, will reopen for recreational boater use at 6:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11. The ramp at 6001 Maria Drive, Saint James City is open to the public on weekends and Lee County recognized holidays. There is a daily parking fee of $10. The Lee County Annual parking sticker is accepted.
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 239-4108576 (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’.
breezenewspapers.com
Enough with the wind already! With the tected shorelines. Areas around Bokeelia, exception of a few days, fishing conditions St. James City, Roosevelt Channel and were less than desirable as gusty winds Blind Pass offered comfort from the wind. dominated the week. Despite less than Artificial baits, shrimp and pilchards got the desirable conditions, anglers still got on the attention of snook, jack crevalle, snapper water and caught a few fish. and redfish from these areas. Seatrout fishing was hit or miss, at least Redfish and snook were often caught for keeper-size fish. Anglers caught schooltogether around keys and oyster bars on the size seatrout ranging from 13 to 18 inches eastern side of Pine Island Sound. Several while drifting grass and grass/sand mottled anglers fishing both live pilchards and live bottom in areas with clean water. This shrimp, found shrimp easily out fished the included Pine Island Sound from Rocky pilchards on the cooler days. Channel south to Galt Island and between With cooler weather, it’s getting that Cabbage Key and Cayo Costa State Park time to start looking for sheepshead as they Capt. Bill Russell south to Captiva Pass. Seatrout (most begin their winter run. Remember, fish is small) were mixed with schooling ladyfish not in their appetite. If you want to catch in north Matlacha Pass east of Marker 76. sheepshead, crustaceans and mollusks are In the Sound, anglers hooked into a mix the preferred bait. Most anglers fish shrimp of ladyfish, mackerel, bluefish and sharks with good results, while other baits such as while trout fishing. Several bull and blacksmall crabs, oysters and barnacles make a tip sharks up to 6 feet picked up cut ladyfish soaked on good choice. Sheepshead numbers will increase with bottom. each passing cold front and they are one of the few fish Over the super windy days, many anglers chose to fish that often bite better when it’s cold. in protected areas such as canals, creeks and deeper proKeep up to date with fishing rules and regulations by
Page 7 ■ Week of Wednesday, November 8, 2023
It was a windy week on the water
Week of Wednesday, November 8, 2023 ■ Page 8 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
FDOT provides update on Pine Island Road work Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge Permanent Repairs: Construction project: As part of the Emergency Restoration of the Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge, crews will be working in the project boundaries along CR 78 Pine Island Road from west of Little Pine Island Bridge (Bridge No. 120111) to West of Shoreview Drive. ∫ CONTINUED: Crews continue driving sheet piling and work on utilities on the north side of the causeway.
∫ Motorists can expect occasional delays due to flagging operations for delivery/removal of materials, transfer of equipment. Crews are maintaining two-lane traffic on causeway. ∫ Pedestrians and bicyclists are not permitted within the construction zone. ∫ Noise from construction equipment in the area is to be expected. ∫ Please use caution and watch for workers and con-
struction vehicles entering and exiting the roadway. ∫ Please be patient and plan for additional travel time as it may be slower than usual in the area. For additional information, visit the FDOT project web page at https://www.swflroads.com/project/451937-2 or email at shana.overhulser@dot.state.fl.us.
20th Annual Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament to be held Nov. 11 Candlelighters of Southwest Florida invites the community to participate and support the 20th Annual Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament to be held on Saturday, Nov. 11. Captain’s Meeting and registration
will be held at Scotty’s Bierwerks in Cape Coral from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 10. Brian Stockbridge owner of Gulf Coast Kayak will be on hand to explain the rules of this catch-and-release tournament while volunteers will distribute event T-shirts, goodie bags, sell raffle tickets etc. to registered anglers. The kayakers will launch from various locations within Lee County beginning at 6:30 a.m. Prizes will include: ∫ 1st Place Prize $1,000 ∫ 2nd Place Prize $500 ∫ 3rd Place Prize $250 ∫ Prizes for Longest Red, Snook & Trout ***Door Prizes, giveaways, raffles & silent auction items* Candlelighters of Southwest Florida, a 501c3 charity, established over 40 years ago to support chil-
dren with cancer and blood disorders throughout Southwest Florida will be the recipient of the proceeds from the event. “We are so grateful to once again have the opportunity to work with these ambitious anglers, have some fun and come together as a community to support the Candlelighters” said Klair Snellbaker, Candlelighters executive director. In conjunction with the Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament, there is an on line auction via RallyUp for the public to support the Candlelighters of Southwest Florida. You can view the items and place a bid at https://go.rallyup.com/candlelighters-kayak For more information on this year’s Kayak Fishing Tournament, please visit https://gulfcoastkayak.com/ kayak-fishing/fishing-tournament Friends can learn more about the Candlelighters at https://www.Candlelightersswfl.org “… Because Kids Can’t Fight Cancer Alone”
Matlacha Holiday Lighted Boat Parade set for Dec. 10 The Matlacha Holiday Lighted Boat Parade will be held Sunday Dec. 10. Boats shall gather on the south side of Matlacha Bridge at 5:30 p.m. The parade starts at 6 p.m. The parade will go north under the bridge along the shoreline of Matlacha. All boaters are welcome to participate in the parade. All participants should embrace the joy of the holidays. Please refrain from political signs or references. Best viewing is from the bridge or along the shoreline of Matlacha. For more information call Rick at 269-330-0274 with the Yacht Club of Matlacha
Pine Island Elementary invites all veterans to attend a Veterans Day Remembrance celebration Pine Island Elementary would like to invite all Veterans to attend a Veterans Day Remembrance celebration on Friday, Nov. 10, at Pine Island Elementary School. The event will begin at 8:45 a.m. with light refreshments in the cafeteria and the program will begin at 9:15 a.m. in the courtyard. The program includes a presentation of the colors, a welcome from the principal, guest speakers, and students singing patriotic songs. This annual event celebrates our local veterans, but also provides our students an opportunity to understand the sacrifices that were made by our veterans. Due to School District policies each attendee and/or visitor must clear a security check before entering the school—a Driver’s License is required. We look forward to seeing you at this event!
The School District of Lee County has topped 100,000 students for the first time in its history. Total enrollment reported by the Florida Department of Education for the 2023-2024 school year is 102,791 students in Pre-K through 12th grade. In just Districtoperated schools, the official enrollment number is 89,337. “The continued growth in enrollment speaks to the high quality of education we offer in the School District of Lee County,” said Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier. “We know families want to move to an area with good schools for their children, and our teachers, administrators and support staff have created educational environments that draw them in. We are
Beacon of Hope in need of part-time tutor
Cutest Pet contest runs through Nov. 11
Source: Lee County Schools
Pine Island Eagle
Who has the cutest pets on the Island? The Beacon of Hope is holding a Cutest Pet contest. There are three categories – Dog, Cat, and Other. Now through Friday, Nov. 17, you can bring a picture of your pet to the Beacon. It will cost $5 to register. They will also be available in front of Winn Dixie on Saturday, Nov. 11. The winners will be chosen on Nov. 20. They will receive a gold award medal, their pictures will be in the Eagle, and they will also have “bragging rights.” The money donated will be used for the Beacon’s Transportation Program which takes Islanders to medical appointments and treatments anywhere in Lee County for free. The money given on “Giving Tuesday,” which is Nov. 28, will also go to this tremendous program.
Middle School opened in 2021. Amanecer Elementary and Lemuel Teal Middle School opened in August 2023. The School Board of Lee County recently approved the Phase One pre-construction costs for a new middle school and new high school in Lehigh Acres. The Board also approved replacing Hector A. Cafferata Jr. Elementary with a K-8 to increase capacity in Cape Coral. More new schools are in the District’s 10-year capital plan. The construction projects are made possible by the half-cent sales tax approved by voters in November 2018 to help the School District meet its capital improvement needs. The 2023-2024 enrollment figures rank Lee County the eighth largest district in Florida and among the 30 largest school districts in the United States.
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The Beacon of Hope needs a part-time tutor for the ESOL class, available to teach when the regular teacher is out of town. You would not need experience, you would learn from the teacher running the class. This could be a fun and learning experience. ESOL stands for English for Speakers of Other Languages. English is the only language necessary for this position. If you are interested, call Mary Lou at 239-565-7012.
pleased to be such a central part of our community’s growth and stand ready to welcome even more students in the future.” In just one year, total enrollment has grown by 3,347 students. District operated schools have 2,604 more students than they did in October 2022, while charter schools have 833 more. Enrollment in District operated schools has increased by more than 6,000 students in the last five years and 9,000 students in the last eight. Compared to eight years ago, charter school enrollment is up 819 students. To match the growth, the District is currently in the midst of a building boom. 700 student stations were added to Lehigh Senior High School in 2019. Gateway High School and the new Lehigh Acres
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School District reaches historic enrollment numbers
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What are your thoughts? Our sign at Fire Station #4 has been displayed for almost a year now, welcoming our residents and visitors after hurricane Ian. The sign was designed to remind us all that we, as a community, are rebuilding together. The sign has seen better days and is ready to be replaced or be
Island Mahjongg We had fourteen players at Mahjongg, November 2nd. Starting at 11am seems to be a winner. We are happy to welcome Jackie Mallery, Sandy Rotz, Kathy D and Kathy S to our group. We had a three-way tie for first place today, Bonnie Potter, Peggy Finley and Paula Bruckner all scored 155 points. Stephanie LaHines scored 130, putting her in second place and Sandy Rotz and Jackie Mallery came in third, both with 95. The Mahjongg group meets every Thursday from 11 am at the Moose Lodge on Stringfellow Road, St. James City. New players are always welcome. For more information call Carolyn 239-2337682.
retired. What are your thoughts? Should the sign be replaced with a new one or should we leave it? Please follow the link to cast your vote. The survey will be available until Nov. 15. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MPIFCDsign
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PHOTO PROVIDED
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Whitney From page 1 No stranger to this painting contest, Brianna took second place in the 2022 competition, her mother said, admitting Hurricane Ian ruined the award ceremony, which takes place at Ding Darling Wildlife Preserve on Sanibel. “It was nice that they were able to do it this year. Ding Darling heads up the awards for all of the state of Florida,” Whitney said. Brianna won first place in the Junior Division for the state of Florida. Had she won Best-in-Show, she would have gone on to Nationals. She is quite an artist, her mother said, which is why she wanted to attend the North Fort Myers High School Arts Program. While she was still a student at Pine Island Elementary, Whitney said Brianna’s teacher had the class participate in the Duck Stamp Contest. “That was before she really got into art. It was around fifth grade when she really started drawing a lot and her abilities just kept increasing, and now, being in the Art Program at North, she’s very good. Her art teachers are amazing,” Whitney said. It was in high school when she began painting, and Whitney said, Brianna’s art teacher continuously encourages her to compete whenever possible, as these contests often result in cash prizes for winners. The Duck Stamp Competition, how-
Today the federal duck stamp program remains a vital component of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which keeps wildlife in the public domain while promoting ethical hunting and responsible science-based habitat management. The refuges established with duck stamp funds help form the world's greatest system of lands dedicated to the conservation of wildlife. These protected areas also provide a wide variety of recreational opportunities for hunters, anglers, hikers, birdwatchers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Source: Ducks.org ever, is about the prestige of having been chosen as the winner who created the stamp. “She grew up here, on the water, on the island, and likes wildlife. When she saw some of the past winners, it just inspired her. She’s always up for a challenge in
PHOTO PROVIDED BY PAM WHITNEY
Left to right: Ranger Toni Westland and Brianna Whitney.
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that way—she’s always up for improving. She handles constructive criticism really well—she’s really eager to grow in her
abilities and skills. Brianna really likes to share her art and make people happy with it,” Whitney said.
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Cape Coral Highs Tedhams voted Breeze Athlete of the Month for October The votes are in for the Cape Coral Breeze’s October Athlete of the Month, and the winner is Cape Coral High School's Hayden Tedhams. The sophomore took home four LCEC titles at FGCU during his nomination week. Tedhams placed first in the 500-meter freestyle, 200-meter freestyle, and was on two medley-winning teams. He also performed well the previous week at the Florida Swimming Pool Association meet. “In the past week I have felt my hard work has paid off and I’ve been feeling confident about my swims," Tedhams told the Breeze of his accomplishments. "My coaches, family, and teammates have helped me get to where I am this season. I hope to continue on this path to better myself and continue to pursue my season goal of medaling at state, while pushing others towards their goals.” Voting for November's Athlete of the Month will open toward the end of the month. Stay up to date on capecoralbreeze.com.
Cape Coral
Breeze Athletes of theWeek (Selected by the Breeze Sports staff)
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Cape Coral
Athletes of theWeek
(Selected by the Breeze Sports staff)
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Stone Crab Fest From page 1 plenty of food for everyone—of course, stone crabs are the main feature on the menu, with fresh claws, crab chowder, crab cakes, crab rangoons and crab rolls, just to name a few. It wouldn’t be a Pine Island festival without mullet dips, pulled pork, ribs and pizza. Busch Light and Modelo beers, rum punch, lemonade and ice cream. “We ask for a donation at the gate and part of the pro-
ceeds benefit Pine Island businesses and we are also supporting the Food Pantry, as well as F.I.S.H (fellow islanders sending help), so part of the donations will go to them and the other part will help to promote our members through the Chamber of Commerce,” Welch said. After a particularly rough summer, the most important thing about the event, she explained, is getting island
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CYNTHIA WELCH
Stone crabs are the main feature on the menu, with fresh claws, crab chowder, crab cakes, crab rangoons and crab rolls. businesses some exposure, so folks from all around know the island is open and our businesses are functioning and welcoming people to come out. “There’s something for everyone—there will be a lot of stone crab, but a lot of other food too and music all day. Bring your chair, come and sit and relax and spend the day with us,” Welch said. Calusa Cay Shoppes Publix Plaza is at 5100 Pine Island Rd,, Bokeelia.
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Loughren From page 1 office and got petitions together to bring him back, after his short stint away from Pine Island, he said. “It’s just been years and years of such great people on the island. The island is very kind, very generous and caring, with a spirit that never gives up. What I’ve tried to do over the years is just listen and be a part of whatever I could do to help. I just love helping people and I’m blessed to be in a position where I can do so much for the community,” Loughren said. Loughren names, in particular, the food drop box at his store, which was not always there and now, he says, it has become something folks count on regularly. “That thing gets stuffed every other day—it’s overflowing. When customers bring in stuff or we partner with our vendors. They donate product and we put product in there—that food box is a great resource for us to help. We’re not even really doing anything. People know there’s a drop box there and they bring food. Even the seasonal people—when they leave to go back up north, they’ll empty their pantry and bring stuff in,” Loughren said. An organization is never turned away from his store empty-handed, when they
come in asking for help, Loughren said. His love for the local community has taken root, as he promises he isn’t going anywhere and would resist, if ever again asked to leave the island for another store. “I go to work every day wanting to make somebody’s day—whether that be a customer or an employee. Sometimes, someone like an elderly woman comes in and you can just tell after a while—she doesn’t have anyone at home, so you spend some time and talk with her—when she’s checking out, maybe bring her some flowers—it may be making her day. I just think it’s the right thing to do and I feel good doing it,” Loughren said. The spirit of Pine Island, he said, is to never give up and admits not wanting to see that attitude diminish. In his observation through the years, Loughren said, Islanders overall are grateful for anything he can do for them, making it easy to help whenever he can. “I just never want to lose that smalltown feel. I want us to stay the way we are,” Loughren said. Left to right: Dan Loughren and Frank Virts. PHOTO PROVIDED BY DAN LOUGHREN
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