North Fort Myers Living by BreezeNewspapers

Golden Apple Honoree

Danielle Hopkins, Hancock Creek Elementary

Gathering for a cause: Car Show for Veterans

Event is a fundraiser for veterans housing; public invited to enter a vehicle or come & enjoy

Story by Meghan Bradbury

The upcoming Car Show for Veterans is a gathering for a cause — to help end veteran homelessness in Southwest Florida .

“This isn’t just another car show — it’s a movement,” Hearts & Homes for Veterans CEO Dale Spain said. “Every car, every donation, every supporter brings us one step closer to giving veterans the stability and support they deserve.”

The Car Show for Veterans will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 22, at the German American Social Club.

The event is free to attend. There is a $30 fee for those who would like to participate in the show.

“We used to hold smaller events, nothing to this scale,” Spain said.

The car show will feature vintage, muscle, and specialty vehicles.

The event started off as a car show to let the community know they are here and took off from there as they invited veteran-owned businesses.

“Then we found a band — Deb and the Dynamics – and invited them to come out to support the veterans,” Spain said.

The VA will be attendance, as well as Mission BBQ, Realtors and contractors. There will also be food trucks with the German American Social Club providing beer and food.

Spain said the organization started around 13 years ago when Founder Don Payton had a friend who he served with who became homeless and committed suicide.

“He started it and bought a building,” he said. The organization helps homeless and lowincome veterans. They provide monthly food, hygiene products, cleaning products, housing with coordinated entry and furniture to furnish homes. They also help with transportation and provide a laundry and bathroom facility at their Fort Myers location.

Spain said veterans who are homeless are put

If You Go:

What: Car Show for Veterans

When:

Saturday, March 22, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m

Where: German American Social Club, 2101 SW Pine Island Rd.

More information:

For more information or to take part as a car show participant, sponsor, food vendor or non-food vendor, visit www.hhveterans.com

into a hotel, or shelter for a few nights until they are registered and a house is found for them.

The organization mainly helps veterans in Lee County.

He said since Hurricane Ian, they have seen an influx of veterans who need assistance due to rent tripling and inflation.

“Lee County is our main concern. Most of our donors come from Lee County,” he said.

Spain said there are 52 veterans that are homeless in Lee County among 800 homeless individuals.

The hope is to raise $25,000 during the event to help with the organization’s future project of owning their own home. Ninety-six percent of the donations go right back to the veterans.

“The house will allow me to start housing

‘Knock on Wood’ exhibit to feature artist Gayle Smock

North Fort Myers Arts Association and Gulf Coast Village have again teamed up for an art exhibit, this one featuring artist Gayle Smock

“Knock on Wood,” the newest installation of the rotating art exhibit collaboration, will be open daily to the public through April 23 at Gulf Coast Village, 1333 Santa Barbara Blvd. in Cape Coral.

The exhibit also will feature the works of the North Fort Myers Arts Association’s artists and Gulf Coast Village’s resident artists.

This exhibit is a unique collaboration between Gulf Coast Village and the North Fort Myers Arts Association. It’s the third installment in the “Gulf Coast Gallery” art exhibition series.

The event will feature sculptures, paintings, jewelry and more. Most of the artwork on display

will be available for purchase.

The event’s featured artist is Smock, an active member of the North Fort Myers Arts Association.

Smock is a full-time professional artist who has had a lifelong involvement with art, music and photography.

She received her education at the American Academy of Art, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Illinois Institute of Technology and Design. Smock was an advertising artist for the NewsPress for nearly 30 years.

“To me, art means sharing with people the beauty they might otherwise overlook,” said Smock.

One of her most treasured pieces, “ELEPHANTE,” a large illustration of an elephant painted on a royal palm frond, will be on display. For more information calling 239-510-8712.

veterans without the delay of coordinated entry, delay of the government. I can put them in that house – rapid rehousing,” he said.

The organization is looking for options such as duplexes with multiple rooms, apartment complexes with one bedroom and one bath –something they can remodel to cut down on the time frame.

The German American Social Club is at 2101 SW Pine Island Rd.

For more information or to take part as a car show participant, sponsor, food vendor or non-food vendor, visit www.hhveterans.com.

Lighthouse for Blindness & Vision Loss

Thanks to the generous donation of tickets from Naples Community Orchestra, Lighthouse clients will attend their Pops Concert, Broadway Baby! On March 22. NCO is a group of professional and community-based musicians who have been providing more than 30 years of high-quality classical music concerts. They share a community partnership with Artis-Naples and the Naples Philharmonic to bring phenomenal performances to our community. As part of its services to its clients, Lighthouse for Blindness & Vision Loss provides opportunities for them to experience arts, music and cultural events.

“LOC is grateful to NCO for providing our clients with the opportunity to engage in community events in ways that make it accessible to them. Our clients give rave reviews of the performances and enjoy the lovely outdoor reception after the concert where they meet the musicians and socialize with others,” LOC officials said.

ELEPHANTE by Gayle Smock

Hancock Creek Elementary’s Danielle Hopkins is one of six teachers to receive this year’s Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Award.

Hello and Happy Easter

I personally am happy with the time change. Got to love Daylight Savings Time.

So much more family time in the evening

Getting us in the beach and pool mode. Speaking of pool mode the North Fort Myers Civic Association is again this summer sponsoring the Summer Splash Saturdays for the students of all our North Fort Myers schools pre-K through 12th grade. The exact dates will be posted next month. This year we are going to also pay admission and serve a light lunch to our seniors of North Fort Myers.

With our big event, the SWFL Ag Expo, over, all our regular summer and fall events is what’s on our mind.

We are all suggesting not only our regular

events, but we’re trying to come up with some new exciting things to do for this year.

So don’t be shy if there’s something you’d like to see us do or if you have any suggestions, please email us at nfmcivic@gmail.com.

We again will be sponsoring our Spring Back to School Shoe give back in July. Stay tuned to our website and our Facebook page for more information, and a few other summer give backs that we’re going to be offering with some online specials.

Next up is our EGGSTRAVAGANZA!

Check your yards on Easter morning look for your big red egg. Inside that egg will be a ticket. Match that ticket number with the ticket numbers that will be posted online Easter morning, and you

could be a prize winner.

As always, we invite you to attend our meetings. We meet the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center, which is located behind the North Fort Myers library.

Toni Hill, President NFMCA

Summer VPK registration is now open

As we march forward into the spring, I am filled with pride for the amazing work we continue to do in our district. As we find ourselves in the middle of the second half of the school year, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible dedication and hard work of our students, teachers, staff, and families. The challenges we have faced this year have only made us stronger, and I continue to be impressed by the resilience and determination of our community.

We have accomplished so much together, and I look forward to all the great things still to come as we continue working toward our shared goals.

VPK Registration Now Open

Families who wish to enroll their children in summer Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) classes can do so now. To qualify, students must be 5 years old by Sept. 1 and have not have already accessed a VPK program.

The summer VPK program aids in helping children and families transition smoothly to kindergarten. VPK provides children with access to high-quality early learning experiences and makes learning fun! Teachers will introduce children to language, literature, and social skills in a play-

based environment.

The summer program for incoming kindergartners is taught by certified teachers with a focus on school readiness and social and emotional well-being. Classes are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. June 9 through July 31 at:

• Early Childhood Learning Center 3650 Michigan Ave. Fort Myers, FL 33916

• G. Weaver Hipps Early Learning Center 1200 Homestead Rd. N. Lehigh Acres, FL 33936

Limited transportation is provided to some students.

To register, families must first apply for a VPK Voucher through the Early Learning Coalition online at www.elcofswfl.org or in person by appointment only at 2675 Winkler Ave. in Fort Myers. Then families need to bring the voucher, receipt of enrollment in kindergarten, child’s birth certificate, and proof of address to the Early Learning Childhood Center at 3650 Michigan Ave. in Fort Myers.

Summer VPK seats are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Town Halls – Members of the School Board and the Superintendent have been hosting Town Halls this spring. I had the opportunity to host one for my District in February at the North Fort Myers Recreation and Park Center. Thank you to those that attended. Be sure to be on the look-out for future Town Hall opportunities. More information is available on our website.

Thank You for Your Support - As always, thank you for your ongoing support of our schools and community. Together, we are creating a brighter future for all our students.

Wishing you all a wonderful month of March, full of growth and opportunity!

Debbie Jordan represents District 4, which includes North Fort Myers, on the Lee County School Board

NFM Chamber has a new location

Story by Chuck Ballaro

When the Shell Factory closed in September, it left the North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce scrambling to find a new home.

In February, the Chamber welcomed people to its new home at the Paradise Vintage Market (the former Hope Chest) at 13821 N. Cleveland Ave. with an open house to let the community know they’re there and ready to help local businesses.

Visitors and members alike streamed in and out throughout the afternoon, with several arriving before the 2 p.m. start.

The event was deemed a great success.

Wendy Murray, executive director of the Chamber, said the move is a win/win for the antique market and the chamber.

“This is becoming the biggest tourist attraction in North Fort Myers, which is very important for us,” Murray said. “There’s something for everyone here.”

The owners at the market offered the Chamber a space in front of the building and a soft opening went very well, Murray said.

So much that they quickly had to restock some brochures and other items.

“The other day we had 30 calls regarding the new location because it is the height of season,” Murray said.

PHOTOS BY CHUCK BALLARO

Wendy Murray, executive director of the North Fort Myers Chamber of commerce, in her new office at Paradise Vintage Market at 13821 N. Cleveland Ave. during an open house held Feb. 18.

The market is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and has 32,000 square feet of space for not only the sellers, but also to hold special events such as breakfasts.

Paradise Vintage Market, which was located in Fort Myers, opened in its new location after Hurricane Ian in May 2023. It took a few months to get the building squared away after being damaged by the storm.

Beth Meyer, one of the managing partners at the market, said the Chamber needed a new location after the Shell Factory closed for good.

They have already seen an impact.

“They considered quite a few area businesses, but we’re one of the largest and we’re open seven days a week in a high traffic area,” Meyer said. “We have plenty of parking on Highway 41 and our hours can generate tourism. It’s a great place for the Chamber to set up.”

Brian Copeland, another partner, said the Chamber relocation is a great opportunity for a company that has done much for the community in its short time here.

“We’ve had people come here and go to their area. It’s already working. The hours are good and we’re in a high traffic area. The weekend market brings in a lot of people, too,” Copeland said. “The two recent hurricanes (Helene and Milton) and last summer’s bridge closure hurt us somewhat, but came back alright.”

For more, go to paradisevintagemarket. com or nfmchamber.org.

—NFMNL Left, Beth Meyer, managing partner of Paradise Vintage Market, with Lilly Mazon and Scott Koenig as they read brochures during the Feb. 18 open house for the new North Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce office at Paradise Vintage Market at 13821 N. Cleveland Ave.

Mast Capital, in partnership with BLG Capitals Advisors, is constructing a 320-unit “garden-style” luxury apartment community at

Cleveland Avenue. The multi-million dollar redevelopment project replaces a long-vacant shopping center. The community will feature an array of amenities including a gym, pool with a sun deck and lounge cabanas, a workspace area for residents and a lounge and kitchen, according to the project website.

New ‘rooftops’ drive commercial boom

Story by Meghan Bradbury

North Fort Myers has become a go-to community for residents and businesses alike.

Gary Tasman, CEO & principal broker for Cushman & Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida, said residential rooftops get developed in areas where land is available.

“North Fort Myers is that area right now. I think what you are seeing is the convergence of all the rooftops being developed is creating demand for commercial real estate activity,” Tasman said. “The Pine Island Road corridor from Del Prado to I-75 –that is what is driving that growth. That is where the land is available.”

People buy in communities with vacant land, which will develop the market, he said.

“The key is Lee County — our Board of County Commissioners will make sure that we are supplying the right infrastructure to keep up with the growth. The way that happens is through impact fees and development,” he said. “I don’t think it is unreasonable to expect to see that growth and it is going to be planned and developed in a sustainable way.”

He said you would expect that rooftops, and all the other economic activity that follows population growth, will also grow.

“Everything follows population growth — in North Fort Myers that is happening. It is going on beyond that going to Charlotte County. This region from Naples to Tampa will be completely filled in.”

In 2024, Florida grew another 2%, nearing 23.4 million residents. In Southwest Florida, since 2010, the area grew by more than 400,000 people – nearly a 37% growth rate. Lee County made up more than half of that with 251,000 new residents.

“You are seeing people move because you get a lot further with your money down here. The rent – the housing was a lot cheaper than where

they were living. That is why we saw that robust migration,” said Eric Messer, Cushman Wakefield Senior Research manager. “The advantage — southwest region between Sarasota and Lee County — more developable land. You guys have

developable land with technology advancements for building codes, environmental friendly codes — opportunities to take advantage of that combination to create sections, towns, and areas that people want to move to.”

The driver for Florida’s economy is tourism with nearly 132 million visitors and more than $127 billion spent in 2024.

The main activity is at Victory Park and the development around the VA hospital and Lee Health, Tasman said, adding health care, education, and multifamily apartment complex is going to drive more retail centers and grocery stores.

“North Fort Myers will ultimately have an interchange around Slater Road that will provide further access into Cape Coral,” Tasman said. “All that land available will become more desirable around that interchange.”

BOOM continued on page 16

The Alary at Merchant’s Crossing is now leasing studio, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments. The luxury complex is “Where Elegance Meets Excitement,” its website states. Amenities include a resort-style pool, fire pit and a Business Center with work-from-home pods.

PHOTOS BY VAL HARRING

13370 N.

Gary Tasman Eric Messer

Hancock Creek Elementary teacher Danielle Hopkins has the golden touch

Story by Meghan Bradbury

Hancock Creek Elementary’s Danielle Hopkins is one of six teachers who received the Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Award earlier this month.

“I was overwhelmed and overjoyed,” Hopkins said about being named a Golden Apple recipient. “Happy tears were flowing, and my heart was full.”

The other 2025 Golden Apple Teacher recipients were Janet Bernard from Harns Marsh Middle School, Paul Chilson from Pinewoods Elementary School, Brittany Owen from Trafalgar Elementary School, Jamie Miller from Harns Marsh Middle School and Kelsey Olsen from Edison Park Creative & Expressive Arts School.

“I am the proudest when I see my students learning a new art-making process, or technique and being excited about what we are doing. When I hear them talking about their artwork outside of the room or telling me they replicated a project outside of school, I know I’ve done a great job.”

—Danielle Hopkins, Hancock Creek Elementary Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Award winner

Being named a recipient means her community supports and believes in the importance of art education, Hopkins said.

She began teaching 13 years ago at Hancock Creek where she teaches art for kindergarten through fifth grade students.

“I am the proudest when I see my students learning a new art-making process, or technique and being excited about what we are doing,” she said. “When I hear them talking about their artwork outside of the room or telling me they replicated a project outside of school, I know I’ve done a great job.”

Hopkins keeps her students’ attention by creating videos of her lessons and she also gets her students up and moving.

“Everything is hands on. I try to make sure they are trying something new each time they come to art class,” she said.

Hopkins said she is proud to represent all the amazing art teachers in the district, as there are talented teachers in every school who deserve

recognition for their hard work.

“One of the most important attributes in defining the quality and success of any community is the education delivered in its public schools. The cornerstone of an economically strong community is a quality public education system. Teachers are the backbone of our school district and deserve the respect and admiration from our business community and the community at large. These six Golden Apple recipients are representative of all our great educators. Please join us in celebrating all

that they do for our community’s greatest asset, our students!” The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools President and CEO Marshall Bower said in a prepared statement.

These six recipients went through an extensive selection process, which began in August when the community nominated a teacher. The finalist were selected after completing a three-step process, which included a blind comprehensive application, classroom observation for their teaching style and skill and personal interviews with the Golden Apple Selection Committee.

The recipients will be honored at a black-tie affair at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center at the Luminary Hotel Friday April 25. Tickets are $200 per person and can be purchased by contacting the foundation’s office at 239-337-0433.

The banquet will be broadcast on May 3 at 8 p.m. on Gulf Coast NBC.

ABOVE: Hancock Creek Elementary’s Danielle Hopkins displays her Golden Apple, a recognition honor awarded to six top teachers annually by the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools.

RIGHT: Golden Apple Honoree Danielle Hopkins listens as Keith Banasiak, Foundation for Lee County Public Schools board member, completes the surprise presentation in her classroom.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE FOUNDATION FOR LEE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

—NFMNL

Student artists aid ‘Leave the Scene Clean’ effort

Winners of Keep Lee County Beautiful poster contest to be honored at reception

Story by Meghan Bradbury

Two West Zone students was among one of the art contest winners for the Keep Lee County Beautiful annual “Leave the Scene Clean” art contest.

Submissions were from public, private and homeschool students in Lee County who created illustrations regarding an environmentally responsible action through art. The submissions were evaluated on artistic execution, originality, and alignment with key environmental themes, including litter prevention, recycling, community cleanup and environmental protection.

There were four first-place winners – Daniela Rodriguz from Mirror Lakes Elementary grades K-3; Cathy Cheribin from Three Oaks Middle School grades 4-6; Alejandra Alfonso Sanchez from Mariner Middle School grades 7-9 and Mia De La Cruz Matos from North Fort Myers High School grades 10-12.

Alejandra , who began attending Mariner Middle last year, took lots of art classes in Cuba where she did a similar drawing and had guidance from her teacher. With what she learned, she adapted a new theme, which is centered around glass that symbolizes “us protecting it” – the environment.

The flashlight – the glass – illuminates the forest and protection of the environment.

The green heart over the hands represents the natural world.

Alejandra said this is the first time she won a contest, which she is very happy about, especially in another country.

The seventh grader enjoys dabbling in abstract art as she does not have to be perfect.

North Fort Myers High School Assistant Principal Joy Marks said Mia withdrew from North Fort Myers and the School District of Lee County on Jan 10 to attend school out of state.

The winners’ illustrations will be enlarged and placed on Lee County Waste Pro trucks, as well as printed on reusable bags. The bags will be released in the fall for a $5 donation at participating Lee County Schools. The schools will retain the proceeds collected and used for campus environmental projects.

The overall winning and honorable mention artwork will be on display during the month of

PROVIDED

April in honor of Earth month.

An award reception, hosted by Keep Lee County Beautiful, will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Riverside Community Center on March 31.

The winners will receive their awards during the reception.

The Honorable Mention winners and their schools are: Grades K-3:

• Sofia Mesa Aquilar – Mirror Lakes Elementary

• Amaya Batista Lara – Mirror Lakes Elementary

• Kamyla Serrano Marcheco – Mirror Lakes Elementary Grade 4-6:

• Isla Ranes – Tanglewood Elementary

• Emily Yang – Rayma C. Page Elementary

• Jade Lily Ferreyra-Kaminski – Mariner Middle School

Grades 7-9:

• Audrina Kantarze – North Fort Myers High School

• Kamora Wilson – Harns Marsh Middle School

• London Rose Maddison – Mariner Grades 10-12:

• Ana Petronijevic – North Fort Myers High School

• Simone Torres Luna – Cypress Lake High School

• Ellie Melton – Cypress Lake High School —NFMNL

Pioneer Club Picnic set for April 26

The Pioneer Club of Lee County is set to celebrate the 76th anniversary of its founding in 1949 by R. A. Henderson, Jr.

This year’s annual picnic will take place on Saturday, April 26, at the Lee County Civic Center –Tinsley Pavilion, in North Fort Myers.

The Pioneers Club was formed to honor those living persons who had been residents of old Lee County for 50 or more years with the initial meeting held in 1950 at the Lions Park on Cleveland Avenue in Fort Myers.

It is a social organization comprised of many of the old families of Lee County who get together annually to catch up on one another’s lives and to have lunch together. The Pioneer Picnic traditionally is held the last Saturday in April of each year.

Registration and visiting for this year’s gathering will begin at 10 a.m. Lunch will be served at noon followed by presentations and a raffle at 1 p.m.

The 2025 high school of recognition this year will be Dunbar High school. Also recognized at the picnic will be the eldest pioneer man and woman born in Lee County; the couple married the longest (both spouses need to be in attendance); pioneer who traveled the longest distance to the picnic; and the eldest person in attendance.

Approximately 1,500 invitations are mailed out for the picnic of which two-thirds are sent to residents and the remainder to those people who live out of the area. There are normally 600700 people in attendance. Barbecue chicken or pork, baked beans, coleslaw, rolls, chocolate chip

cookies and iced tea or lemonade is available to the members for $10 per plate thanks to the generosity of sponsors.

The eligibility requirement for membership is based on the person living in Lee County for at least 50 years. Those years do not have to be consecutive.

A new website, https://www. pioneerclubofleecounty.com/, went live on March 10. Those attending or interested in joining can now register or submit a membership form online, making it easier than ever to become a member. Those approved will be officially added to their list.

The new website also offers an opportunity to learn more about the club’s history and see photos of past picnics and activities.

continued on page 16

Seth Tshiams wins state wrestling crown

Story by Chuck Ballaro

Seth Tshiams has such a bright future ahead of him he should walk around wearing shades.

The North Fort Myers High School heavyweight wrestler made some history for his school at the FHSAA State Wrestling Championships held March 6-8 at Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, winning a state championship over a very familiar opponent.

Tshiams led a group of Red Knights, male and female, to an impressive showing. The boys team finished fifth in the state in Class 2A, polishing the best season in school history despite the tragic loss of their former head coach.

In wrestling, you earn a spot in states on the mat and not via computer rankings. Tshiams knew he did that and had a lot to prove.

“I’ve worked hard my whole high school career. In the championship match, I knew I wanted it as much as my opponent,” Tshiams said. “It just came down to how much work I put in.”

Despite being one of the smaller heavyweights at 245, Tshiams burned through the opposition on March 7, winning his first two matches by pin and a third

PHOTOS BY CHUCK BALLARO

North Fort Myers’ Seth Tshiams bangs heads with Charlotte’s Jaxon Newton during the heavyweight championship match at the Class 2A State Wrestling Championships in Kissimmee.

by technical fall over Ari Bentley of Tavares in the semifinals.

Tshiams earned a finals spot against Charlotte’s Jaxon Newton, in a battle between the state’s top two heavyweights, the Red Knight won for the third time this season.

After a scoreless first period, Newton chose the bottom position in the second and scored an escape to take a 1-0 lead.

That was all for Newton as Tshiams, who went 48-1 on the season, would score a takedown moments later for a 3-1 lead after two.

In the third period, Tshiams took the bottom and earned an escape before securing the crown with another takedown for an 8-1 win.

Tshiams became the first state wrestling champion since 2019, when Adolphus Taylor won as a heavyweight.

After the win, he held up a shirt as a tribute to his former coach Kris Heyward, who passed away during the season.

“Something he always used to say was whatever you put in, you’ll get out. That’s what really came alive tonight.” Tshiams said.

North coach Dusty Fellows said his state champ is a coach’s dream for what he does on and off the mat.

“I couldn’t have wanted it more for him. He works his butt off he’s a great student on and off the mat and a great leader,” Fellows said. “He’s not the biggest kid. Most heavyweights are bulky. Seth is fast and strong and quick like a lightweight.”

Tshiams’ character earned him an award that might be more impressive than any state title. The Russ Molner Award is given to a wrestler for character and sportsmanship, with coaches statewide nominating wrestlers.

—NFMNL

North Fort Myers’ Seth Tshiams celebrates his victory after his heavyweight championship match at the Class 2A State Wrestling Championships in Kissimmee.

Another huge weekend at PRCA rodeo Story by Chuck Ballaro

When Margo and Casey Crowther decided to start the PRCA Fort Myers Rodeo in 2012, they couldn’t have imagined it would grow to the point it now has.

From what was a two-day, two-performance Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event that happened in March has not only found its niche at the end of February, but has turned into one of the biggest rodeos in the region, bringing in the top cowboys and cowgirls from all over the world to compete.

This year’s event, held Feb. 21-23, was no exception.

For the first time, the rodeo added a fourth performance after selling out the previous two years which featured three. While there was not quite a sellout for the Saturday matinee, the other three were at capacity crowds.

Even better, some of the marquis names in the sport came to compete, including several former world champions and others who look ready to compete in the National Finals Rodeo at the end of the year.

This thanks to added prize money that would pay out more than $77,000 for the weekend, which comes to several thousand for each event winner.

Margo Crowther said the now-major rodeo held at the Posse Arena in North Fort Myers came to be after they were approached by a rodeo friend about promoting a rodeo of their own.

“We wanted to bring back the rodeo lifestyle to Southwest Florida and the community. Besides Cracker Day, we hadn’t had a pro rodeo since 1985. We thought it was time for Fort Myers to have one,” Crowther said.

Crowther said the secret to the Fort Myers Rodeo’s success is that it’s a great family event that takes place at a special arena that gives you an up-close feel.

“The feel here is like none other. You’re eye level with the most incredible athletes and animals in the industry,” Crowther said. “Every year we have tried to build it better and added more money to bring in cowboys and cowgirls from all over the world.”

Among those who came to compete were seven-time NFR qualifier and 2014 world champion barrel racer Fallon Taylor, bareback bronc rider Taylor Broussard and famed bull rider Chase Outlaw.

PHOTOS BY CHUCK BALLARO

Stella Crowther holds the stars and stripes during the National Anthem at the PRCA Fort Myers Rodeo on Sunday at the Lee County Posse Arena.

seconds

There were also a few who were trying to make a name for themselves, such as bronc rider Dylan Young, a rookie on the circuit who came from Alberta, Canada.

He said rodeo life is hard, having to sleep in his car one night after earning no money at a previous rodeo.

“I try to keep my mind clear because it costs a lot of money. I’m happy to be here. I’m having fun and love every bit of it,” Young said. “When you’re

on an 1,800-pound horse and making the best of it, the crowd is cheering and there’s nothing quite like it. It doesn’t get any better. But when I get some money is when I get a hotel.”

The rodeo had Trey Windhorst as announcer once again, with a new clown this year in Cody Sosebee. Hi-Lo ProRodeo once again provided the stock.

The fans came to enjoy all the festivities. Michelle Bock came for the VIP treatment and to

see her daughter Autumn compete in junior barrel racing, which she would win.

“This is the greatest show on dirt. I have the best time at a great show and a great event. There are great vendors and performers. Everyone comes from all over,” Bock said. “It’s the greatest event ever. It’s really heart pounding.”

Bronc rider Dylan Young goes the full eight

during the saddle bronc riding at the PRCA Fort Myers Rodeo on Sunday at the Lee County Posse Arena.

That interchange is expected in the next 10 to 20 years.

There is an unidentified easement through the Conservation 20/20 land that is 25 acres north of Slater Road which is granted to the Department of Transportation for the placement of the interchange.

“This region is going to continue to grow because it is very desirable,” Tasman said. “What residents should demand is a responsible approach to that growth. You have a Board of County Commissioners that are 100% engaged in that.”

Messer said for all of Southwest Florida the majority of growth is on the commercial sector with multi-family development with a lot of re-imaging markets.

“We are seeing a lot of development that has a multi-facet component — a retail component — some office space component and some medical and retail,” Messer said. “Those kind of projects that promote live, work and play are really kind of dominating developments throughout the state.”

The trend is people want to either walk, and drive a short distance to go to work and shopping.

“The traditional large office buildings that are built in a business district — we are seeing older properties be bought up and redeveloped with the mixed component of the multifamily, retail, office. That is the winning combination,” Messer said. “People don’t want to spend a lot of time in traffic. These developments pop up and it promotes being caught in less congestion. I think that is going to be the continued trend within real estate for quite a while.”

He said there was a combination of construction cost increases from inflation in 2021-2022 and also the amount of development that came online in the region in 2022-2023.

“It’s a natural real estate cycle – a slowdown in growth – let things level off and trough and start to peak back upward,” Messer said, adding that

picnic from page 11

Through the generosity of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, free admission on that weekend is given to the members of the Pioneer Club by presenting their Pioneer membership card to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates (General

it’s a normal real estate cycle. “You will start to see growth tick back upward in 2026-2027.”

Messer said what they are seeing throughout the nation, including Southwest Florida and the Treasure Coast, is the outward sprawl from the key markets.

Messer said Florida is pro-business, and business friendly with an incentive to move their business to the Sunshine State.

Although North Fort Myers is being sought for commercial, the acreage properties for homes are also desirable.

As far as rooftops, Liz Williamson of Four Star Homes and Realty One Group MVP said acreage property is a draw of North Fort Myers. Such properties tend to be selling within three to four months if priced correctly.

Admission) on Friday, April 25, Saturday, April 26, and Sunday, April 27. An invitation has also been extended to the members of the Pioneer Club to visit The IMAG History & Science Center (General Admission) by also presenting their Pioneer

“I see that real estate in North Fort Myers with acreage as stable,” she said, adding there is more interest in acreage properties. “A lot has to do with all the subdivisions and all the communicates coming in – losing that country feel and that is what people are really gravitating towards. There is a lot of building taking place.”

She said everybody wants to spread out and enjoy the birds chirping, green land and the sense of peace that comes with property.

As of Feb. 24, for manufactured or a singlefamily home, there were 30 properties listed that had an acre or more. The price range is from $330,000 to $3.7 million for a 10-acre parcel with three bedrooms and two bath.)_

membership card on those same days. The Lee County Civic Center is at 11831 Bayshore Road.

—NFMNL

Mast Capital, in partnership with BLG Capitals Advisors, is constructing a 320-unit “garden-style” community at 13370 N. Cleveland Avenue. Additional residential “rooftops” will drive more redevelopment as well as needed commercial projects in North Fort Myers, industry leaders say.

Bohanon to hold Playmakers Tailgate Party

Story by Chuck Ballaro

The Tommy Bohanon Foundation is committed to helping area youth achieve their fullest potential, both on and off the playing field.

To do this, they need funding which is why the organization holds its one true fundraiser throughout the year.

It’s the Playmakers Tailgate Party, which will be held once again at the Ranch Concert Hall and Saloon in Fort Myers, this year on Friday, April 11, from 6 to 10 p.m. It will feature a night of music, comedy, food, raffles, auctions and fun in support of youth scholarships.

Bohanon said this event is the centerpiece of what his foundation does throughout the year, and does it in a way that is a little different than other more formal galas.

“This event funds all our scholarships and programs. And it’s a relaxed gala. It’s called the Tailgate Party for a reason,” Bohanon said. “You can come in your jeans and hat and have a good time. It’s a fun night for a great cause.”

The evening will kick off at 6 p.m. with a preparty featuring live music, followed by a comedy set from co-host and comedian R.C. Smith.

Afterward, scholarship awards will be presented. Guests can also take part in silent and live auctions, with some of the best prizes of any other event, with all proceeds supporting local youth athletes and school athletic programs.

“This year we will give roughly $80,000

in scholarships, with one being a recurring scholarship worth $40,000 for a high school senior here in Southwest Florida and several other $10,000 scholarships for one year,” Bohannon said. “We also give sports equipment grants for about $65,000 to area schools who otherwise wouldn’t have the equipment they need for safety and instruction.”

The foundation also hosts events.

Among them is a one-day football camp that brings up to 300 kids for a day of instruction by area coaches and former college and professional players.

The “Man Up” seminar is where business leaders come to teach kids how to tie a tie, conduct themselves in interviews, find scholarships and budget their money.

Sponsors for the Playmakers Tailgate Party thus far include Extreme Florida Roofing, Extreme Painting and Contracting, and Extreme Demolition and Land Clearing.

In addition to attendance, sponsorship offer an opportunity to lend a huge hand in a big way and get all the perks sponsorships bestow.

At press time, sponsorship opportunities were still available at the following levels:

• Hall of Fame Sponsor – $5,000

• Private table for eight

• Full-page ad

• VIP cocktail party

• Logo display at the event

Premier sponsor recognition for all 2024 TBF events

• Player of the Year Sponsor – $3,000

• Semi-private table for four

• Half-page ad

• Logo display at the event

Sponsorship recognition for all 2024 TBF events

• All Pro Sponsor – $1,500

• Tickets for two guests

• Quarter-page ad

• Corporate logo display at the Playmakers

Tailgate Party

All funds raised will help local youth athletes in Southwest Florida achieve their potential, both on and off the field. Proceeds from ticket sales, auctions, and raffles will provide essential resources for young athletes between the ages of 5 and 18.

Tickets are $125 and may be found at tommybohanonfoundation.org/playmakers/.

The Tommy Bohanon Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting young athletes reach their highest potential on and off the playing field.

NFL fullback Tommy Bohanon returned to his hometown in Southwest Florida to pursue his vision of ending generational poverty for at-risk youth.

For more information about the Tommy Bohanon Foundation or to make a donation, visit their website, TommyBohanonFoundation.org