WEEk of DEcEmbEr 6, 2023 FLIER INSIDE
Helping islanders Greater Pine Island Chamber makes donations to F.I.S.H., Food Pantry — INSIDE pINEISlaND-EaglE.com
VolumE 47, NumbEr 31
MCA discusses hurricane cleanup and holiday gatherings By PAULETTE LeBLANC
pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
The Matlacha Civic Association discussed board nominations, as well as ideas for hurricane cleanup and more, at its meeting Nov. 27. MCA President Mike Hannon was unable to attend the meeting, which was run, instead, by Kathleen Walsh, who is the board’s secretary and Hannon’s wife. Hannon was in court that day to oppose the removal of the Chiquita Lock by the city of Cape Coral.“The town of Cape Coral — as you know — we beat them 2 or 3 years ago. We kept them from removing the lock, which would send pollutants into Matlacha Pass — more than they have already. They now have gone back for a second bite of that apple — they’re trying to remove it again, which
would again send pollutants into our water and Mike is fighting that,” Walsh said. Board member Carol Scott reported on some of the derelict homes and homes in need of repair in Matlacha. The MCA has reached out to Lee County Board Commissioner Kevin Ruane, she said. “Unincorporated Lee County had 138 debris trucks and crews out here, working 7 days a week, picking up debris, at a record-setting pace. By Feb. 28, they had picked up more than 6.3 million cubic yards. The bridge — as you know — is in progress working with the crews, that are now working 7 days a week, driving the sheet pilings down,” Scott said. On Nov. 17, the MCA began an investigation on the status of seemingly abandoned buildings in Matlacha, in
an attempt to find out what plans, if any, owners have. The MCA has partnered with Lee County directly, via Ruane as well as the director of code enforcement, regarding neglected structures, she said. “These properties are in such disrepair, they’re crippling our community, our commerce and our businesses,” Scott said. Barring anything unforeseen, a full report will be made available to MCA members by the January meeting, she said. Scott urged anyone who sees a seemingly neglected Matlacha structure to contact the MCA. The Matlacha Christmas Tree Lighting will be Dec. 7, at 6 p.m., on Island Avenue and Pine Island Road. The See MCA, page 12
Greater Pine Island Chamber seeking nominations for two board seats
Pine Island moms go to bat against School District Proximity Plan By PAULETTE LeBLANC
pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
fter much consternation on the part of Pine Island parents over the Lee County School District’s decision to roll its busses from Pine Island only to Challenger and Mariner Middle schools, leaving Trafalgar Middle School out of the mix, it seems a new decision may have been reached. Thanks to the willingness of Pine Island resident moms, like Lisa Soffe, who attended the Nov. 29 School District Advisory Board meeting, and Lori Liano and Christie Rao, who also attended the meeting after speaking at the Nov. 21 School Board briefing, regarding keeping children’s busses heading toward Trafalgar Middle School, the board will be doing exactly that. The decision, which could become official after the School Board meeting scheduled for Dec. 5, is a relief to all Pine Island parents and students who have established relationships with teachers and other students of Trafalgar Middle School. This was something Liano
A
wanted to make clear to the School Board in her public comments at the Nov. 21 School Board briefing. “I have two children at Trafalgar Middle School. I’m urging you to consider that Trafalgar has always been the feeder school for Pine Island…they’ve formed friendships and relationships, they enjoy the teaching staff, the administration, they’re doing really well — now do I have to take them out of that school…or drive them — it’s really not feasible for every parent on Pine Island, considering most of us are fisherman or farmers and they can’t — they don’t the ability to drive them — to continue to Trafalgar, so I really would like you to please reconsider perhaps swapping Trafalgar for Challenger…I know most Pine Island children attend Trafalgar. So I’d appreciate if you’d take that into conSee PINE ISLAND MOMS, page 12 The graphic above is the School District’s proposed map for its new Proximity Plan. GRAPHIC PROVIDED
The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce is looking for potential candidates for its open Board of Directors positions. The chamber is seeking nominations for the three-year term of 2024- 2026. There are two seats on the board to be filled. The nomination period will be open until Dec. 22, 2023 Serving on the chamber’s Board of Directors is an excellent way to become more engaged with the operations of the chamber and the local business community. Board member requirements: ■ Attendance at monthly Board of Directors meetings, held the third Monday of each month ■ Attendance at quarterly Network at Night business gatherings ■ Engagement on issues concerning chamber operations ■ Active participation in as many chamber functions as feasible ■ Continue to be a member in good standing Elections will take place during the annual dinner in January 2024. Please contact the chamber at info@PineIsland Chamber.org or call 239-283-0888 if you are interested in being considered.
St. James City Civic Association to meet, hold elections Dec. 13 The St. James City Civic Association will hold its general meeting and elections Wednesday, Dec. 13, from 6-7 p.m., at the SJCCA, 3300 Fourth Ave., St James City. All members are urged to attend this meeting to elect a new board and hear about the history of SJCCA. Details of hurricane repairs and upcoming events will also be discussed. Light refreshments will be served. Any questions, call Cindy 954-249-5512.
Athlete of the Week.........16 Island Mahjongg...............7 Obituary......................12 insidetoday Cat of the Week...............13 Letters to the Editor..........4 On the Water......................8
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Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 n Page 2 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Elks Lodge presents Beacon, Spotlight grants The Greater Pine Island Elks Lodge has kicked off its grant season, providing the community with essential support and aid. Thanks largely to the Elks National Foundation and dedicated volunteers, this year’s grants have significantly impacted the lives of those who need it the most. The Greater Pine Island Elks Lodge #2781 recently presented two grants to assist with the Pine Island Food Pantry’s efforts in the community. The Elks presented a $4,000 Beacon Grant and a $2,000 Spotlight Grant to the food pantry along with canned goods donated by members of the lodge. Beacon Grants are awarded to projects that are on-going, active and involve Elks Lodge members. Spotlight Grants are for ready-made, off-the shelf projects to implement the community. Areas addressed by Spotlight Grants include early childhood literacy, veteran homelessness and hunger. This grant money represents community donations that the lodge obtained after submitting grant applications to the Elks National Foundation, a charity that was established by the Elks in 1928. The mission of the ENF is to help the Elks build stronger communities. For the fifth year in a row, the Pine Island Elks have secured a Beacon Grant/ Spotlight Grant to benefit Pine Island Food Pantry Holiday program. This year’s $5,500
donation brings the past five years of cash contributions to $22,000 for the program. The grants, funded by the National Elks Foundation, must be used for local charitable activities that actively serve the community. The Kellogg Elks promise to continue serving their community in new and meaningful ways while serving a population in need. Greater Pine Island Lodge 2781 has been a part of the Pine Island community for 30 years. It was granted a charter by the national organization in November 1993. The lodge purchased the present building in 1999 from the Greater Pine Island Civic Association and lost it to Hurricane Ian in 2022. The lodge is in the process of obtaining a building permit to rebuild on the original site. “Elks lodges bring so much more to their communities than just a building,” Exalted Ruler Judy Hopkins said. “They are places where neighbors come together, families share meals and children grow up. Elks invest in their communities through programs that help children grow up healthy and drug-free, meet the needs of today’s veterans and improve the quality of life.” If you would like to know more about the Greater Pine Island Elks or the programs it supports on the island, contact Hopkins at juhopkins@msn.com
PHOTO PROVIDED
Elks donation to Food Pantry The Greater Pine Island Elks recently presented a donation to the Pine Island Food Pantry. On hand for the check presentation were, front row, Bonnie Potter, Marcella Betterly, Judy Hopkins, Cheryl Combs, and Denise Selby; and back row, Bob Hoogstra, John Hotzfield and Darlene Wienefski.
Pine Island Potters’ Guild show Saturday at Koucky Studios The Pine Island Potters’ Guild will be holding its holiday show and sale in the courtyard at Koucky Studios Saturday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This outdoor venue hosts local artisans showing handmade crafts and pottery in a variety of mediums. The Guild Show features an ever-growing selection of handmade works created by local artisans in many mediums — perfect for everyone on your gift-giving list or as a treat for yourself. Stop by and explore artworks by Guild artisans featuring pottery, jewelry, handmade cigar-box style guitars and ukuleles, holiday-themed
gifts, tropical home décor, woodworking, jams and honey, ready-to-wear art and paintings. Fresh baked goods will be available for a delicious snack or to take home as a special addition to any meal. At 11 a.m, Chuck Koucky and some of his pottery students will demonstrate the art of horsehair raku. Horsehair creates random patterns and lines on the pot’s surface shortly after it has been pulled, red-hot, from the kiln. If you are interested in Pottery Classes from beginners to advanced, talk with Chuck Koucky about his
class schedule and plan to take a self-guided tour of the remodeled pottery studio. Classes are now being held year-round. The Guild shows are held monthly on the second Saturday from November through April. For more information about the Potters’ Guild and December’s Holiday Show and Sale, please call Nancy Koucky at 239-233-3003. Koucky Studios is at 5971 Bay Point Road, Bokeelia.
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Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 ■ Page 4 pineisland-eagle.com
OPINIONS
A guide to flu vaccines and staying healthy during the holidays 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: What improvement should be made to the Pine Island Road/Stringfellow intersection? ■ A stoplight. 7% ■ A roundabout. 71% ■ Nothing. 19% ■ Other. 3%
The holidays spent with friends and loved ones are a special time of year for many people. Unfortunately, the winter months are also when annual influenza cases tend to spike. One of the best ways to avoid getting sick during the holidays and having to potentially forgo some of your special holiday traditions and gatherings, is to make sure you’re vaccinated against the flu. In addition to the vaccine, consider other wellness tips as well like ensuring you get enough rest, eating well and washing your hands frequently. Use warm and soapy water and wash hands for 20 seconds or more. If you haven’t already received a flu shot, now may be the time to consider it. What should I know if I’m planning to get a flu shot? Getting a flu shot helps to make the illness less severe and keep you out of the hospital if you become sick. Studies also suggest that receiving a vaccine will help reduce community transmission. This is important if you’re planning on attending large gatherings this holiday season, especially if elderly or immunocompromised guests are present. Flu season lasts from fall to winter and the shot is effective for the duration of the season. However, its effectiveness tends to wane as we get closer to spring. Keep in mind that after receiving the vaccine, the body needs at least two weeks after getting the shot to ramp up its defenses against the virus. You can visit a Lee Health provider to receive your flu shot or visit www.leehealth.org for more information. What is the flu shot’s success rate? Studies show that the vaccine is 40-60% effective. However, it’s important to note that
it doesn’t offer a blanket proevent. If you’re experiencing tection against the flu. If congestion, sore throat, fatigue, someone receives the vaccine muscle pain, headache or any and comes down with the illother flu-like symptoms, it’s ness, the vaccine will often best to stay home. make the flu less severe and When gathering with loved keep that person out of the ones, be sure to wash hands emergency department. often, wipe down surfaces in Why is a new flu vaccine high-traffic areas, stay up-torecommended each year? date on vaccinations, stay A new vaccine is offered hydrated, keep a positive mindeach year because the flu virus set and make time for self-care mutates at a rapid pace and to help reduce stress. When evolves and adapts each year, we’re stressed, it’s harder for Dr. Mary Beth making the shot from last seaour bodies to fight off illnesses. Saunders son less effective against the These tips should be considcurrent season’s strain. It’s ered year-round; however, it’s important each year to boost especially important to practice the immune system with a new staying healthy during the holidose of the shot so it has the day season when large gatherbest possible chance of fightings and illnesses like the flu ing the illness. are more common. The CDC recommends a flu shot for all If you’re starting to feel flu-like sympchildren who are six months and older. The toms, please visit a convenient care location, very first time they receive a flu vaccine, they your primary care provider or make an should get two doses four weeks apart. After appointment with Lee TeleHealth, which prothat, they should get one flu vaccine a year. vides e-Visits to message with a provider, on The CDC also says that there are three pre- demand video visits and scheduled video visferred flu vaccines for people 65 years and its. older: Fluzone High-Dose Quadriva-lent flu The emergency department is strongly vaccine, Flublok Quadrivalent recombi- encouraged if you’re experiencing severe nant flu vaccine and Fluad Quadrivalent symptoms. adjuvanted inactivated flu vaccine. To receive your flu shot, make an appointThere is no preferred recommendation for ment with your primary care provider, or visit 18 to 65 year olds. www.leehealth.org for more information. Staying healthy this holiday season When considering if you’re well enough to Dr. Mary Beth Saunders is Lee Health’s attend a celebration this holiday season, con- System Medical Director of Epidemiology sider how you’re feeling on the day of the
Guest Commentary
Letters to the Editor Coal in their stockings? To the editor: Subject: Christmas is coming, but will Santa give the GPICA Board members coal in their stockings for promoting more fairy tales about incorporation? No one likes to be given the same old information that has been debunked over and over about incorporation to save Pine Island from Cape Coral and the developers. First off, the state folks overlooking all new planned cities for the legislature looked at the so-called GPICA study. Out of 22 requirements to become a city, only one requirement was met by the study. The folks overlooking the study stated a city cannot be within 2 miles of a new city. The density of people per acre wasn’t even close. The person who wrote the study stated his greatest concern was that it was not economically feasible. The state said that
there was no way to hire the sheriff to do work for a city, So who is going to police our city? The GPICA study on city-lite wasn’t going to have a permitting department and relied, you guessed it, on the county and its staff. So much for being in control of the permitting. I guess I could hit on the flood insurance. Lee County gets a huge discount for Pine Island and Matlacha from the FEMA, due to that fact that Lee County, taken as a whole, does better than areas such as ours. If you think your flood insurance is expensive now, just wait until you get a city. That is if you can get flood insurance. If the new city doesn’t enforce flood codes, FEMA may not sell flood insurance to us. You might also want to figure out who will pay for the next hurricane clean-up. We won’t have the county to help us. I’m thinking maybe Santa is looking for
Current Web Poll Question: Have you noticed an increase in seasonal traffic on the islands or around the area? ■ Yes, everywhere. ■ Off the islands, yes. ■ Not on the islands. ■ Nowhere, yet, but soon I’m sure. Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com
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
some coal, as I write. Leo Amos Matlacha
‘Steady at the helm’ To the editor: Prices are coming down and things are quietly getting better. The tone set by the current president is “steady at the helm.” When the country and the world most requires these qualities, the current leader and statesman bring experience, wisdom and courage. Even prices are finally coming down, due to patient edging of the country’s booming economy into the hoped-for soft landing. Gas is down 5.3%; used cars and trucks, 7.1%; airline fares, -13.2%; and televisions, 9.4%. “Inflation once again lessened its grip on households in October, extending a year-long trend…strong economic growth, unemployment at longtime lows, wages finally outpacing inflation, all leaving Americans with more money in their bank accounts than they have had in years.” Washington Post 11/13/23 Although there is more work to be done, thoughtful people who examine the actual accomplishments of the past three years will see a highly successful administration that keeps us safe in a time of threatened chaos. ML Sheehan, St. James City
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Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 ■ Page 6 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Beacon of Hope activities, programs set for December The Beacon of Hope has scheduled the following activities and events for the month of December ■ The Beacon will be delivering Christmas dinners and stockings for children on Sunday, Dec. 24. The Beacon needs people to cook, put together the meals and to deliver. Call 239-283-5123 to sign up for any of these things. Also, call to sign up for the dinners and the stockings for your children. ■ Samaritan Health and Wellness, a primary care clinic, is now open at the Beacon every other Wednesday from 8 a.m. to noon. This clinic provides care for the uninsured and underinsured. The cost is $50 and assistance is available if needed. People of all ages are welcome. Mental health services are also available. Call 239-360-7520 to make an appointment. ■ The Food Bank is presently on hold. The Emergency Pantry is available whenever the Beacon are open.
■ Blood pressure screening is held every 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 treatments to anywhere in Lee County is available. Please call and reserve 48 hours before your appointment. ■ Strange Arrangement – Monday, 6-7:30 pm. Lessons given. A musical experience. ■ Wellness Committee – Next meeting Monday, Dec. 11, at 10 a.m. ■ Fundraising meeting – Monday, Jan. 15, at 10 a.m. ■ Homelessness Committee – To be announced. ■ Pine Island Boy and Cub Scout Troop will be meeting Wednesday evenings at 6 .
■ Girl Scout Troop will meet on Friday evenings at 6. ■ GED classes are on Tuesday and Thursday from 9
a.m. to 2 p.m. ■ ESOL classes are held every Monday from 7 p.m. at the Beacon and every Thursday from 6-8 p.m. ■ The Attic (Thrift Store) is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations are accepted until 2:30 p.m. unless (occasionally) they get overloaded. Every Tuesday is 50% off clothing, shoes, and similar items. A 50% off “almost everything” sale will be on Dec. 21, and Jan. 2 and 25. 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.
Winners of 20th Annual Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament announced Eighty-six kayak anglers from all over the country participated in this year’s 20th Annual Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament, which took place Saturday, Nov. 11. The Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament is a premier paddle sport fishing tournament that takes place in Southwest Florida and highlights the waterways of The Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail in Lee County. Using only the catch, photo and release method for scoring this slam tournament, kayak anglers must begin their fishing no earlier than first light (6:30 a.m.) and check in for "weigh in" no later than 3 p.m. This year's mandatory Captain's Meeting and Weigh-In were held at Scotty's Bierwerks in Cape Coral. Thanks, in great part, to all the participants, volunteers and sponsors such as FFI Contracting Services , Coastal Angler Magazine Ft. Myers, Honc Marine Contracting, Ascend Technologies Group, Vanhunks USA and Surf 9, ust under $12,000 was raised through a combination of tournament entries, sponsorships, raffles and silent auction items. $8,400 was donated directly to Candlelighters of Southwest Florida, whose mission is to provide sup-
port, educate and assist families of children with cancer and blood disorders. The winners of the 2023 Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament include: ■ 1st place and winner of $1,000: Patrick Rickert with 77.50 total inches (trout, snook and redfish). He generously donated back half his winnings ($500) to the Candlelighters ■ 2nd place and winner of $500: David McCleaf, 77.00 total inches ((trout, snook and redfish). ■ 3rd: Place & Winner of $250 in: Mark Peterson, 72.00 total inches ((trout, snook and redfish). ■ Longest redfish and winner of $100: Patrick Rickert, 31 inches. ■ Longest snook and winner of $100: Annalisa Xioutas, 28 inches. ■ Longest trout and winner of $100: David McCleaf , 25 inches. ■ Wildcard redfish and winner of a Pen Battle III Rod & Reel Combo courtesy of Lehr's Economy Tackle & Soft Plastics courtesy of Egret Baits, Joe Henary ■ Wildcard trout and winner of a Nautica Adventure ISUP courtesy of Surf 9 Chris Choo, Diana Stockbridge.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Tournament winner Patrick Rickert.
Pine Island Sketchers meet on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon at different venues on Pine Island from November through April. Just bring your art supplies
PHOTO PROVIDED
Chamber makes donation to Food Pantry
Moose Lodge to host Children’s Christmas Party next Wednesday The Pine Island Moose Lodge 1954 Children’s Christmas Party will be held Saturday, Dec. 16, from 10 a.m. till noon. This is for the children of Pine Island aged 1 through 10. Each child will need to be registered with full name and age. Children must be present to receive their gift from Santa. The lodge will be serving the kids lunch. If anyone would like to sign your children in, please call Chairperson Ann Bokros at 239-283-4245. The Pine Island Moose Lodge 1954 is at 8903
Island Mahjongg There were 12 mahjongg players this last day of November. Top scorers were Sue Rasmussen with 180 points, Mary Ann Harms with 165 and Judy Burchianti with 110. Your weekly reporter brought up the rear with a negative number! Whether you are an experienced player or have never
across from Tarpon Lodge. N Dec. 19: Catholic Church, Our Lady of Miraculous Medal, 12175 Stringfellow Road, Bokeelia. N Dec. 26, 2023: Fritts Park, a Calusa Land Trust Preserve on Beach Daisy Lane in Bokeelia. From Pine Island Center, go north 4.9 miles on Stringfellow Road. Go slow past the firehouse to turn left onto Beach Daisy Lane. Park at the end of the driveway.
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The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce recently made a donation to the Pine Island Food Pantry, made possible by the generosity of the StoneCrab Fest 2023. From left are, Larry Solinger, president GPICC; Nancy Ruedi, VP of the Food Pantry; Bonnie Potter, president of the Food Pantry; Diane Gleason, treasurer of the Food Pantry; and Dave Conner, VP of the GPICC.
and a lawn chair. There is no charge to participate and beginners are most welcome. N Dec. 12: Calusa Heritage Trail at Randell Research Center, (RCC), 13810 Waterfront Drive, Pineland. From Pine Island Center, go five miles north on Stringfellow Road. Turn left onto Pineland Road and follow Waterfront Drive. Park at the RCC parking lot,
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Pine Island Sketchers announce schedule for December
played before, we are happy to welcome you. We meet every Thursday at 11 a.m. at the Moose Lodge on Stringfellow Road, St. James City. If you would like to hear more about joining our group, call Carolyn on 239233-7682
Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 ■ Page 8 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Fishing is good when the weather allows The week started off cool and windy as a Redfish and Captiva passes. cold front dropped into Southwest Florida Anglers continue to hook into good disrupting fishing for a few days. By midnumbers of small or rat reds. Most are runweek, the sun was out with winds laying ning under 18 inches but still a lot of fun. down, allowing anglers to get back to fishThey were found all around the Sound and ing. Matlacha Pass while fishing creeks, holes Over the incoming tides, schooling mackalong shorelines and around oyster bars. If erel was located just outside Captiva and it’s low tide, fish these areas while looking Boca Grande passes, and between the for the deeper water. Freelined shrimp, Sanibel Causeway and lighthouse. At times shrimp under a float, shrimp tipped jigs, macks were seen rocketing from the water small gold spoons, and shrimp pattern soft under feeding birds. Mackerel were hooked plastics were favored baits. Black drum casting small spoons and white jigs with a and small snook were mixed with the fast retrieve. reds. Capt. Bill Russell Depths from 30 to 55 feet offshore yieldUndersize seatrout were caught with ed a mix of mangrove and lane snapper, consistency in Pine Island Sound over grunts, small grouper and a few sheepshead. grass flats in 3 to 6-foot depths. KeeperMost fish were caught on shrimp or squid. size trout were mixed with the smaller Sheepshead are just beginning to show up fish, but more consistent catches of larger around offshore structure and will continue trout were found working deeper sand to get better after each cold front. A few cobia and keep- holes of the shallower grass flats. Live shrimp, small live er-size tripletail were also reported west of Sanibel. Lane pilchards and soft plastic jerk baits produced best. snapper has a closed season that began on Dec. 2 and Pompano were caught in Pine Island Sound, Charlotte runs through the end of the month. Harbor and Matlacha Pass fishing live shrimp on a jig Sheepshead reports are slowly improving across head, slow bouncing shrimp-tipped nylon jigs and pominshore areas as the water cools down. From shore, the pano jigs, and fishing live shrimp under a popping cork. Bokeelia Fishing Pier and Matlacha Drawbridge yielded The best action came over the incoming tide in 4 to 8several while fishing near pilings with live or cut shrimp. foot depths along shallower drop-offs between bars and Kayak anglers hooked into sheepshead plus small black channel edges. Pompano are usually in schools, if you drum and redfish fishing oyster creeks in the “Ding” hook one, odds are good you will hook more. Ladyfish, Darling Wildlife Refuge. Around the gulf passes from Spanish mackerel, seatrout, puffer’s, lizard fish, small Blind Pass to Captiva, sheepshead and black drum, plus sharks and grouper, and of course, catfish, were also redfish, were hooked around structure, including pilings, caught. rocks,and tree snags. Cool fronts are becoming more frequent and water Snook season ended at the end of the month. Snook, temperature will continue to decline. This will push with a few over 30 inches were caught from the Bokeelia migratory fish down our coast from the northern gulf and Fishing Pier during the day and the Matlacha Drawbridge give a jump start to our annual sheepshead run moving at night. From boat, snook were hooked in mid-Pine forward. Island Sound on the eastern side and around Blind, Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at: www. myfwc.com. Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations with pictures to help identify fish. If you have a fishing report or for charter information, contact Gulf Coast Guide Service at 239-410-8576 (call or text); on the web at
On the Water
PHOTO PROVIDED
Bob Schulenberg and friends scored with a good catch of pompano and seatrout. They were fishing with shrimp, live and under popping corks near Bokeelia with Capt. Bill Russell. www.fishpine island.com; or via email at gcl2fish@ live.com. Holiday gift certificate are available. Have a safe week and good fishin’. As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt. Bill Russell has spent his life fishing and learning the waters around Pine Island and Southwest Florida, and as a professional fishing guide for the past 23 years.
Yoga Flow and Roll Class with Michelle has returned Yoga Flow and Roll Classes with Michelle are back at the SJCCA on Monday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. This five-week session started Nov. 20 and continues through Dec. 18. There will be a two-week break for the holidays, with classes resuming Jan. 8. Participants are asked to please bring your own yoga mat, two yoga blocks and your Yoga Tune Up balls; balls will be provided to use as well. All levels of yoga are welcome in this class and drop- Ins are welcome but subject to availability. Walk-ins are $12.00 per class for members and $14 for non-members. For questions email: mjordahl5@gmail.com. For more info: restore.offeringtree.com
Chamber donation to F.I.S.H. The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce recently presented a donation to Jim Wentz, president of F.I.S.H. The donation was made possible by the generosity of visitors to the StoneCrab Fest 2023. From left are Char Seuffert, Larry Solinger, Wentz and Dave Conner. PHOTO PROVIDED
The Greater Pine Island Elks 2781 is excited to host the Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 16, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the VFW Post 4353 , at 8150 Stringfellow Road, St. James City. Before he crisscrosses the globe on his annual giftgiving flight, Santa Claus will be making a special jaunt down from the North Pole to Greater Pine Island to visit with all the good boys and girls. This is a free event thanks to the sponsors Greater Pine Island Elks, VFW Post 4353 and the Pine Island Food Pantry. Children 10 years and younger, as well as their parents, are invited to enjoy a free pancake and sausage breakfast served by members of the Greater Pine Island
Elks, VFW Post 4353 and the Pine Island Food Pantry. The Elks Lodge partnered with Walgreens Toy drive and the Elks National Drug Awareness Program to give away toys to kids during this first annual event. Children will be able to tell St. Nick their Christmas wishes and parents will be able to snap pictures for their holiday greeting cards. Santa will also be bringing Mrs. Claus to share in the breakfast. Pictures with Santa Claus and his wife will be available during the entire event; parents are encouraged to bring their cameras. For additional information, contact Exalted Ruler Judy Hopkins at juhopkins@msn.com.
Page 9 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023
Greater Pine Island Elks to hold Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 16
breezenewspapers.com Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 ■ Page 10 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Christmas tree lighting Thursday in Matlacha Matlacha's holiday tradition will continue this year with the Lighting of the Christmas Tree Thursday, Dec. 7 Santa and Mrs.Claus will make their magical appearance while residents enjoy mingling, snacking on homemade cookies and "rock around the Christmas trees.” Don't forget to wear your Ugly Christmas Sweater or T-shirt. This year, A. Gonzalez Nursery and Landscaping of Pine Island will provide a 25-foot royal palm which local elves have decorated. The event is fun for everyone to celebrate the season. Come and enjoy the festivities at George Williamson's lot, at the corner of Pine Island Road and Island Avenue in Matlacha.
Advent service, sing-along Dec. 13 at Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Church Islanders and visitors are encouraged to join an ecumenical Advent service and sing-along with the collaborative voices from the choirs of Pine Island United Methodist Church, St. John’s Episcopal Church, Fishers of Men Lutheran Church and Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church, accompanied by Rev. Dr. Lorna Lee “Rocket” Curtis on the organ and piano. The special event will be held Wednesday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.,m., at Our
Lady of Miraculous Medal Church. Refreshments will be available in the Parish Life Center after the service. Please bring a plate of cookies or treats to the Life Center before the service to share with all. Please bring a non-perishable food item in support of the Pine Island Food Pantry so no one will go hungry this Christmas season. Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Church is at 12175 Stringfellow Road, Bokeelia.
M/PIFCD to hold Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 15 The Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District has announced its annual Christmas Tree Lighting event scheduled for Friday, Dec. 15, from 6-8 p.m., at Station #1, at 5700 Pine Island Road. The event is free and open to the public. This festive event will kick off with carols sung by the Pine Island Elementary student chorus. Following the performance, firefighters will light the tree and Santa Claus will arrive to greet the children and pose for photos. Throughout the event, there will be
plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy including: ■ Refreshments and snacks ■ Hot cocoa and cookies ■ Face painting ■ Whoville ■ Crafts and activities for children ■ A visit from Santa Claus The Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District is excited to once again host this cherished tradition and bring the community together for a night of holiday cheer. The firefighters hope to see you there!
Page 11 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 ■ Page 12 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Lee Health Bloodmobile to visit Moose Lodge Saturday The Lee Health Bloodmobile will be visiting The Pine Island Moose Lodge at 8903 Stringfellow Road in St. James City Saturday, Dec. 9, from 8 a.m. - noon. All the blood collected remains in Lee Health, which includes the Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest
Legion Auxiliary to host Pancakes with Santa Dec. 16 American Legion Auxiliary will host it’s 4th Annual Pancakes with Santa Saturday , Dec. 16, from 9-11 a.m., at the American Legion Post 136, 4106 Stringfellow Road, St. James City. Please register your child from 0-12 with Teresa at 239-738-5008 before Thursday, Dec. 7.
Florida, the Regional Cancer Center and the only Trauma Center (which is located in the Lee Memorial Hospital) 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 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 by 88%.
Additionally, regular blood donation can lower the risk of severe cardiovascular events such as stroke by 33%. You also burn 650 calories! It's a win-win! Please help us make our goal of 20 units of blood. Requirements for donating blood: ■ 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
Pine Island moms From page 1 sideration,” Liano said. Rao, who has a child at Pine Island Elementary School as well as a child at Trafalgar Middle School, told the School Board how concerned she was about the change, in that it was important enough for her to contest the decision by speaking to the board directly. “Doctor Malloy mentioned community schools. I guess everyone should probably know that Pine Island Elementary is definitely a community school. What you might not realize is that Trafalgar Middle School is our community middle school for Pine Island...it’s quite different to expect a parent from Pine Island to drive on and off of an island to get their kids to school,” Rao said. Soffe’s son, Aaron Thorpe, a Pine Island Elementary School graduate, is currently enrolled in the sixth grade at Trafalgar Middle School. Thorpe is in the Nautilus program, a gifted program only offered at two schools in the whole of Lee County. Soffe finds herself wondering what it might mean if her son cannot continue in his gifted program. “The meeting (on Nov. 29) was an Advisory Board meeting, where we were able to ask questions and be
heard. We were. It was no secret that many Pine Island residents and parents were logged in and they knew it…We were informed, Pine Island was forgotten. After an apology on their behalf, the board member then stated, due to a historical fact and actual mileage from Pine Island to Trafalgar, the relationship between Pine Island Elementary and Trafalgar would remain what they refer to as a ‘k-8’ situation. Pine Island Elementary students would automatically be at Trafalgar Middle regardless of capacity and provided transportation. This is what we fought for. We will not be forgotten,” Soffe said. Although grappling a considerably demanding schedule, District 1 representative Sam Fisher took the time to personally reach out to Pine Island parents, and officially had this to say on the matter, "Pending board approval, the School District of Lee County is actively working on a plan to maintain Trafalgar Middle School as a proximity option for Pine Island students. This will be discussed at the board briefing meeting scheduled for Dec. 5. As we discuss this item, it’s important as always to consider and acknowledge feedback from our community," said Fisher. Liano could not agree more, and expressed a desire to encourage everyone who is able to, to attend the Dec. 5 Board meeting, as she said becoming involved in this case made a huge difference to her and her family. “I urge all parents to be involved in their children's '4)> &5+ 2'4*+7 $+/7 */+* :4+=6+)9+*2> 54 education. Being present at 5;+3(+7 <./2+ 8+99/4- :6 '4 +;+49 ,57 9.+ '2:8' the School Board briefing '4* "7:89 54 /4+ 82'4* !.+ <'8 (574 54 '> on Nov. 21 to oppose the 9.+ 9./7* *':-.9+7 5, '23+7 '4* &52' :79/8 proximity plan change to 2'4*+7 +7 +'72> 8).552 >+'78 <+7+ 86+49 /4 !'4 7'4)/8)5 Pine Islanders made a dif'4* 8.+ -7'*:'9+* ,753 $55*75< $/2854 /-. !).552 /4 ference. I am proud that I set a positive example for 54- +'). /4 !.+ <'8 ' 8'/257 '4* )533+7)/'2 ,/8.+76+7854 /4 !'49' my girls. I was pleased that '7('7' '8 <+22 '8 54+ 5, 9.+ ,/789 )7+'9578 5, ' .+'29. ,55* Dr. Malloy and Mr. Fisher 7+89':7'49 /4 /4 9.+ 8 !.+ 25;+* 9.+ !'4/(+2 (+'). heard our concerns and both personally followed /4 257/*' '4* .+26+* (:/2* .+7 5<4 .53+ 54 '>5 589' '4)> <'8 (574 </9. ' 8<++9 '4* 25;/4- 86/7/9 9.'9 <54 .+7 ,7/+4*8 9.75:-.5:9 2/,+ up with me. Use your voice '4* 359/;'9+* .+7 95 .+26 59.+78 ;52:49++7/4- .+7 9/3+ 95<'7*8 )':8+8 8.+ (+2/+;+* /4 to be heard,” Liano said. +7 6'88/548 54 /4+ 82'4* <+7+ <571/4- </9. 9.+ '2:8' '4* "7:89 !9 5.4B8 6/8)56'2 .:7). '4* 5548./4+ )7+8 578+ '73 !.+ 25;+* .578+8 8/4)+ 8.+ <'8 ' From page 1 )./2* '4* <'8 .'66> -7553/4- '4* 7/*/4- 9.+3 !.+ 8.'7+* .+7 25;+ 5, .578+8 </9. .+7 8+)54* .:8('4* +22> $+/7 '4* 9.+> 86+49 8+;+7'2 >+'78 97'/4/4- .578+8 /4 +=/4-954 % (+,57+ 35;/4- 95 257/*' ".+> '285 upcoming gala will be on 8.'7+* ' 25;+ 5, 9.+ 5)+'4 '4* (+/4- 54 9.+ <'9+7 9.+> +405>+* ' (+':9/,:2 ;5>'-+ 95 March 17, the proceeds of !'4/(+2 </9. ,'3/2> 0:89 9<5 *'>8 (+,57+ 8.+ */+* +22> '4* '4)> 5<4+* ' .5:8+ which go to the MCA envi)2+'4/4- (:8/4+88 54 /4+ 82'4* ronmental fund. There is '4)>B8 25;+2> 86/7/9 5, 1/4*4+88 '4* 7+-'7* ,57 59.+78 .+7 ':9.+49/)/9> 897'/-.9 also an island cleanup ,57<'7*4+88 '4* 25;+ 5, 4'9:7+ +4*+'7+* .+7 95 .+7 3'4> ,7/+4*8 '4* ,'3/2> 8 54+ planned tentatively for the ,7/+4* 8'/* @!.+ .'* 8:). ' 2/-.9 A $+ .56+ 95 )549/4:+ 95 )'77> 9.'9 2/-.9 /4 5:7 .+'798 beginning of the year. /4 .+7 3+357> There will be more infor!.+ <'8 67+*+)+'8+* (> .+7 (+25;+* *':-.9+7 $+2)53+ ').+2 ) '3'7' <.5 mation on this to come. 8:,,+7+* ,753 8)./?5',,+)9/;+ */857*+7 '4)> *+*/)'9+* .+78+2, 95 ').+2B8 <+2,'7+ '4* Playground equipment <571+* 9/7+2+882> 95 /3675;+ 9./4-8 ,57 ').+2 '4* 59.+78 </9. 3+49'2 /224+88 '4)> /8 8:7;/;+* (> .+7 .:8('4* +22> $+/7 5, /4+ 82'4* .+7 8/89+78 /'4' for Matlacha Park is sup '33+7 #'2+7/+ :+(4+7 2'4 '71+79 '4* !:8'4 2'4*+7 +22>B8 *':-.9+7 7/89> posed to arrive approxi 4*> +:9+7 '4* 9.+/7 *':-.9+78 /; '4* 22/+ +22>B8 854 "+77> 8.2+> ')1 '4* mately Jan. 12, said 9.+/7 )./2*7+4 **/854 '/82+> ';/8 '4* '(+ +22>B8 (759.+7 /).'+2 !'7'. $+/7 Walsh. The Next MCA meeting '4* 4/+)+8 '4* 4+6.+<8 5/) '4* 58.:' :3(+79 +2+89+ 7'8. '72 :+(4+7 8+4/' !/*575;' 2'4 :+(4+7 2>88' '33+7 /54 '23+7 '4* *':-.9+7 /-/ will Dec. 18. For more information, email Matlacha '22/+ '33+7 /)1 !':28 '4* '83/4+ '4* "+;'/ :3(+79 4 2/+: 5, ,25<+78 )5497/(:9/548 3'> (+ 3'*+ /4 '4)>B8 4'3+ 95 9.+ '2:8' '4* civic@gmail.com or visit Matlchacivic.org "7:89 <<< )'2:8'2'4*97:89 57- 589 ,,/)+ 5= 51++2/'
Obituaries
MCA
Pine Island Community Christmas Boat Parade Saturday in St. James City The Pine Island Community Christmas Boat Parade will be held this Saturday, Dec. 9, in St. James City starting at 6 p.m. All community members, boat clubs, organizations and businesses are invited to participate. Please note, you must register to participate. Organizers report boats are needed to participate this year -- a lot of boats were lost to hurricane Ian. The 2023 parade will use same route as 2021. Due to Hurricane Ian, there was no parade in 2022. The parade will stage and start north of the Waterfront Restaurant and Marina on the Henley Canal. The parade will proceed up Cherry Estates Canal and into the canal that runs east and west between North Royal Palm Drive and Trailer Park Drive, but will not pass north of this canal. The parade will continue down the Monroe Canal
Harley
Pine Island Eagle
This adorable ball of fluff is full of energy. Her two favorite pastimes are eating and playing. She does make time for pets and, of course, snacking on treats. Harley is a very unique looking 4-year-old Siamese mix. She has medium-length fluffy fur and cute little curls on the tips of her ears. We aren't sure how she got them but suspect she had hematomas as a kitten. She hasn't reached the lap cat stage yet, however I think it will happen quickly in a home with someone she trusts. Don't miss your chance to meet this one of a kind cutie!Call Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary at 239-283-9100 for more info. If you’d rather just donate, our address is 10060 Mallory Parkway E., Unit D, St .James City, FL, 33956orthere’s always our websitewww.helpingpawsanimalsanctuary.c om
breezenewspapers.com
PHOTO PROVIDED
and end just before where the channel narrows north of the Low Key Tiki. Those who have historically viewed the parade from the Waterfront Restaurant and Marina need to arrive before the parade start at 6 p.m. The boat line up begins at 5 p.m. on the Henley Canal in the staging area north of the Waterfront Restaurant and Marina. Should the parade be cancelled due to weather or other circumstance, the parade will be rescheduled for Sunday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m. It is time to catch the Pine Island Christmas Spirit and enter a boat in the parade. To enter a boat in the parade or to obtain more information, please contact Peter Karas Karascon@AOL.com Please remember you must register to participate.
Page 13 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023
Cat of the Week
Pine Island Eagle
pineisland-eagle.com
Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 ■ Page 14
Page 15 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Eagle
Pine Island Eagle
Cape Coral
Breeze
Athletes of theWeek
(Selected by the Breeze Sports staff)
pineisland-eagle.com
Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 ■ Page 16
Page 17 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Eagle
Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023 ■ Page 18 pineisland-eagle.com Pine Island Eagle
Help Wanted
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Page 19 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 6, 2023
Contractors
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