032825 Cape Coral Weekend Breeze

Redfish Pointe project hits bump

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A polarizing proposed development in Cape Coral that is seeking a land use change from the city may have hit a wall.

In a draft recommendation from the city regarding a change from natural/preservation to mixed-use where the proposed

The staff recommendation as drafted is part of the process, not a final determination, city officials emphasized: “It’s indeterminate what else will be needed. Drafting a staff recommendation is an involved process, and this document is just that —a draft.”

Redfish Pointe Development would be located, city staff is recommending denial of the amendment request. The conclusion of the draft states: “...

Food, music & beer: BIA fundraiser offers it

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

hose looking for a fun Sunday afternoon out filled with good eats, live music, and adult beverages, all while raising money to support those in the community, can find it all and more at an annual event returning this weekend.

On March 30 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center in downtown Fort Myers, Lee BIA Builders Care will host the 14th annual BBQ, Bands & Brew fundraiser. Southwest Florida’s top pitmasters will compete for the title of “Best BBQ in Town,” accompanied by a lineup of live performances, numer-

See FUNDRAISER, page 31

the applicant is requesting that 110-acres, consisting primarily of wetlands and surrounded by land designated as parkland, preservation land, and single-family residential, be amended to mixed-Use. The history of this site fails to show that the applicant had development rights to mixed-use

Property tax deadline is Monday

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

It’s that time of year once again: Property taxes in Lee County are due.

Residents have until Monday, March 31, to submit payment, and can do so online by visiting www.leetc.com.

All unpaid real estate property taxes become delinquent on April 1. At this time a 3% penalty and advertising fees are added to the gross amount due.

All unpaid tangible personal property taxes become delinquent on April 1. At this time a 1.5% penalty, collection fees, and advertising fees are added to the gross amount due.

“Any property owner who cannot pay their taxes before April 1 should contact the Lee County Tax Collector to explore their possible options,” Lee County Property Appraiser Matt Caldwell said.

How are property taxes determined?

“Property taxes are composed of two parts: ad valorem based on the value of the property and non-ad valorem assessments -- flat rate,” Caldwell said. “In the latter category, for example, every property owner pays a flat rate for Solid Waste. As for ad valorem taxes, those are based on the value of the property, which is developed using a mass appraisal model that takes all of the sale and lease data from the previous year(s) and boils it down to a Just

See DEADLINE, page 32

See REDFISH POINTE, page 32

School District awaits direction on order to eliminate federal DOE

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Local officials are awaiting more information as they ready to come into compliance with President Donald Trump’s March 20 executive order to eliminate the Department of Education and return authority to the states.

The order does not immediately close the department but sets that action, which would require congressional approval, in motion.

“The School District of Lee County is currently reviewing the executive orders issued by the President and awaiting further guidelines from the respective federal agencies to ensure our continued compliance. Our School Board policies adhere to federal and state laws and regulations. As federal agencies release specific guidelines related to these executive orders, we will assess and adjust our policies accordingly,” the School District of Lee County said in a prepared statement.

The order is part of the president’s plan to downsize the federal government while making its agencies, processes and programs more efficient.

The executive order states that, “the Secretary of Education shall, to the maximum extent appropriate and

permitted by law, take all the necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Department of education and return authority over education to the states and local communities while ensuring the effective and uninterrupted delivery of services, programs, and benefits which Americans rely,” the White House website states.

It further states that “consistent with the Department of Education’s authorities, the Secretary of Education shall ensure that the allocation of any Federal Department of Education funds is subject to rigorous compliance with federal law and administration policy, including the requirement that any program or activity receiving federal assistance terminate illegal discrimination o obscured under the label ‘diversity, equity, and inclusion’ or similar terms and programs promoting gender ideology.”

The executive order also expounds on the reasoning behind it, stating that “while the Department of Education does not educate anyone, it maintains a public relations office that includes over 80 staffers at a cost of more than $10 million per year.”

It further states that “today, American reading and math scores are near historical lows. This year’s National Assessment of Educational Progress showed that 70% of 8th graders were below proficient in reading and 72% were below proficient in math. The federal education bureaucracy is not working.”

In addition, “The Department of Education currently manages a student loan debt portfolio of more than $1.6 trillion. This means the federal student aid program is roughly the size of one of the nation’s largest banks, Wells Fargo.”

School District of Lee County spokesperson Rob Spicker said the district’s federal funding makes up .47% of its general budget, which supports its daily operating costs. He said feds do provide more funding in Special Revenue Fund – Federal and Special Revenue Fund –Food Services.

According to the district’s budget, the food services special revenue budget is $67.9 million, representing 2.33% of the budget. The federal sources was $61.5 million for the 2024-2025 budget, compared to the 20232024 budget of $53.8 million.

The revenue from food services is used to feed more

than 100,000 students, as well funds such things as upgrades to kitchens and equipment. The district uses the Community Eligibility Program, qualifying all students with free lunches, which is based on the percentage of students that qualify for other federal or state assistance.

The special revenue fund – federal totaled $88.2 million for 2024-2025, representing 3% of the total budget. This fund includes federal grants and entitlements that the district receives. The projects, to receive federal funding, have to be approved by both the school board and Department of Education, or other governing agency.

According to the budget, $20.3 million for the 20242025 budget was federal direct and $67.3 million was federal through state funding. The 2024-2025 budget had “three federal projects – Individual with Disabilities Act (IDEA) - $17.4 million, the Elementary and Secondary Act (Title 1) - $17.6 million and the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER) Cares Act - $24.4 million accounted for 67%, or $59.4 million of the total special revenue budget.

Spicker said ESSER funds have expired, resulting in no more revenue moving forward.

The executive order states that the White House will protect Title I and IDEA funding.

A statement was released from the Florida Institute CEO Sadaf Knight regarding the executive order, which touches upon the various federally funded programs.

“Dismantling the Department of Education, or DOE, could leave the fate of various federally funded and administered programs up in the air – specifically, those that serve Florida students with disabilities and those with limited means,” Knight said in the prepared statement. “Although state and local revenue funds the bulk of Florida’s education system, federal education funding provides critical resources to Florida students with disabilities through IDEA and 504 – over $800 million a year – and to students at schools with high concentrations of poverty through Title 1 funding – over $1 billion a year.”

Knight further states that “additionally, the DOE administers Pell Grants, which help students from under-resourced families attend college. The DOE also plays a crucial role in ensuring civil rights protections at schools that receive federal dollars.”

Bill to make citizen initiatives harder to get on the ballot draws statewide opposition

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Press conferences were held across Florida on Tuesday to defend citizen-led amendments in an effort to stop HB1205 and its companion legislation, SB2016.

HB1205 is sponsored by Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka, R-District 78, a member of the Lee County Legislative Delegation.

Key provisions include prohibiting sponsors from sponsoring more than one amendment at a time, requiring them to register as political committees, mandating a $1 million bond, and limiting the collection of signatures to one general election cycle.

SEE Alliance, a student-founded, student-led intergenerational organization, held a virtual press conference, which included numerous speakers, each against both bills.

“Our democracy is under attack. Florida lawmakers once again are trying to silence their constituents,” said SEE Alliance Political Director Julie Forestier as she opened the virtual press conference.

“Florida already has some of the strictest rules in the country for citizen-led ballot initiatives. Lawmakers want to make it even harder for everyday Floridians to have a say in their government. Instead of increasing access to democracy, they are working to take it away,” Forestier said. “That’s why SEE Alliance is work-

ing with incredible organizations like Voices of Florida Fund to mobilize a statewide coalition to stop this attack on direct democracy. Across Florida, organizations and advocates are uniting to protect our rights to petition and ensure that grassroots movements, not just politicians, can shape our future.”

SEE Alliance Executive Director Zander Moricz said communities across Florida – Miami, Sarasota, Tallahassee, Orlando, St. Petersburg, and Palm Beach — came together to sound the alarm.

“Six coordinated press conferences took place because Floridians everywhere are rising up to defend our democracy,” he said. “For decades the citizens amendment process has been how, we the people, pass policies when politicians refuse to act.”

Moricz said instead of the 30 days petition gatherers currently have to submit signed forms, they’d be required to turn them in within just 10 days.

“A completely unrealistic timeline that would crush grassroot efforts and silence community volunteers,” he said. “These bills also create massive fines, and the threat of felony charges, all designed to intimidate and shut down the civic process. These proposals are not about protecting the process of our constitution, they’re about concentrating power amongst politicians. A direct attempt to rig the rules, so only the wealthy, the

well-connected and those elected can put amendments on the ballot while everyday Floridians are shut out.”

The press conference included many organizations run by students, each sharing their opposition, saying the proposed legislation is an attack on young people’s ability to organize, speak out and participate fully in the political system.

League of Women Voters of Florida Co-President Debbie Chandler also spoke. She said the league has a 105-year history of fighting for voting rights for citizens. She said for the past 57 years, Floridians have used this tool to put 42 measures on the ballot, 32 of which passed and became part of the constitution.

“Almost immediately after 1968, the legislature began chipping away at this form of direct democracy,” Chandler said.

She went through a timeline from 1977 to current day of different rules that took place.

“We already face an uphill battle with citizen-led petition,” Chandler said making it harder to navigate. “There are huge financial burdens and strict legal requirements just to bring the issue to the ballot. Once it is on the ballot, it requires a super majority of 60% for passing.”

She said they are making it harder, which is not reform, but suppression.

Persons-Mulicka could not be reached for comment.

OpiniOns

cape cOral Breeze

RAYMOND

M. ECKENRODE Publisher

VALARIE HARRING, Executive Editor

CHRIS STRINE, Editor

2510 Del Prado Blvd. • Cape Coral, FL, 33904

• Phone 239-574-1110 – Fax 239-574-5693

Member Florida Press Association

Honor and defend

“[T] he liberties of none are safe unless the liberties of all are protected. But even if we should sense no danger to our own liberties, even if we feel secure because we belong to a group that is important and respected, we must recognize that our Bill of Rights is a code of fair play for the less fortunate that we in all honor and good conscience must observe.” — William O. Douglas, former Supreme Court Justice, A Living Bill of Rights

Among America’s litany of current controversies is one some may say is less consequential because it pertains to individuals who are not only not American citizens but who came to our country illegally.

There are certain elements pertaining to the deportation of nearly 300 Venezuelans to a prison in El Salvador that may arguably appear dim in light of the wave of changes promised and swiftly delivered.

The targeted group, alleged gang members?

That is not the issue.

Their country of origin and how these Venezuelans came to the United States?

That is not the issue.

Whether law enforcement has documented evidence of crimes committed personally by each of these individuals?

That is not the issue.

The destination of a “terrorism confinement center” in El Salvador to which these individuals were sent after Venezuela temporarily refused to accept the deportation of its nationals?

That is not the issue.

The money spent on this exercise, including $6 million to a foreign government to jail an approximate 261 individuals whose country of origin is now demanding them back?

As much as we, and as much as our country’s change agents like to point out, expenditures that lack a reasonable bang for the buck, that is not the issue.

The issue is not the who, the why, the how, the where, or the how much.

The issue is whether our laws — America’s founda-

See EDITORIAL, page 29

This week’s poll question: Is the deportation of alleged Venezuelans to a “terrorism confinement center” in El Salvador without legal review an issue that gives you cause for concern?

∫ Yes.

∫ No.

∫ No opinion.

Vote at capecoralbreeze.com. Previous poll question: Are you concerned about DOGE?

∫ Yes. 11.5%

∫ I agree with the premise, not the implementation. 1.3%

∫ No. 87%

∫ No opinion. <1%

* Total votes at press time: 1,153 votes. Percentages are “rounded.”Poll results are not scientific and represent only the opinions of Internet users who have chosen to participate.

March 28, 2025

A letter to the community

Dear Alliance Community,

My name is Neil Volz, and I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new executive director of the Alliance for the Arts — Monday, March 24, marked my first day in this role! It is an absolute honor to have the opportunity to serve this incredible organization and the community that surrounds it.

When I moved to Florida nearly 20 years ago, the Alliance was one of the first places that truly made me feel at home. I experienced firsthand how the arts bring people together, spark creativity, and foster a sense of belonging. That same passion for the Alliance’s mission — transforming lives and strengthening our community through the arts—continues to inspire me today.

Throughout the year, we are proudly celebrating 50 years of creativity, community, and connection. There’s no better time to engage with the Alliance than now! Whether you’re a creative, donor, or supporter, I encourage you to dive into all that we have to offer.

Guest Commentary

Take a class. See a show. Experience live music. Be part of the creative energy.

In the weeks and months ahead, I hope to meet and connect with as many of you as possible.

Join me at these exciting upcoming events at the

Alliance campus at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers: n April Gallery Openings & Executive Director Welcome Reception — April 4. Hope to see you in person!

n Feast for the Senses - An inventive and provocative dining experience on April 5

n F*ckup Nights — Unforgettable stories of resilience, and transformation from local leaders on March 27th n 6 Guitars by Chase Padgett — A two-act one-man show featuring music, comedy and more. April 25-27.

I recently learned that March is Membership Appreciation Month! I would have loved to join you at the Red Sox game, Storytelling Festival, and Southwest Florida Symphony. If you’re not a current member, now is the perfect time to join and enjoy exclusive benefits like discounts, early ticket access, and the joy of supporting the arts.

Thank you for being part of the Alliance family. I’m excited to grow, create, and shape the future with you.

Visit artinlee.org for more information on events, membership and more, including more information about me, opportunities to join me for events or to schedule a time to meet.

Letters to the editor

Eating our young is not a good idea

To the editor:

The Cape Coral Police crowed recently about the arrest of a 14-year-old and gleefully released his photograph. It was then reprinted in full color in the regional press. Maybe we could be honest about what we are doing here: We should simply cook these kids on a BBQ spit and eat them.

We really should have legislation requiring treating these kids as kids. Specifically, we should prohibit release of photographs and identifying information related to juveniles, unless and until a court of proper jurisdiction certifies them as “adults,” after a proper hearing and for cause shown.

With any decent luck, they could become grown-ups. (Like us).

Larry Gillis Director-at-Large, Libertarian Party of Florida Cape Coral

Hands off

To the editor;

Dear Donald/Elon and the selfish people in our United States Government,

Keep your selfish hands off my Social Security check and my personal information.

Keep your hands off of my local Social Security office. Keep your hands off my Medicare and the people on Medicaid.

Kathleen Callard RNBS North Fort Myers

‘DOGE Act’ is fool’s gold

To the editor:

I would like to take a moment to express my deep concern about HR 2006, often referred to as the “DOGE Act.” This bill is not just misguided—it poses a real threat to our communities by exacerbating issues of waste, inefficiency, and insularity. Instead of uplifting American families, it suggests cuts to vital programs that countless individuals depend on for support. We deserve better than this!

It is important to note that the U.S. federal government employs approximately 3 million civilian workers, which represents less than 2% of the country’s total workforce

and less than 1% of our total population. This streamlined government can operate more efficiently, resulting in quicker decision-making and the implementation of policies. When the government is at its current size, it fosters direct accountability, effective resource allocation, and greater flexibility in responding to community needs. No one is disputing that there are areas for improvement. Nevertheless, this structure allows for the delivery of tailored services that better address the needs of diverse populations, fostering innovation and promoting citizen engagement.

The financial costs associated with crucial social programs are minimal compared to the substantial benefits they provide in areas such as social services, national security, public health, education, science, and the arts. The public’s growing awareness of these benefits is evident from the numerous calls and letters being sent to representatives in opposition to this bill.

As we witness communities thriving and individuals benefiting from these initiatives, it becomes clear that investing in these programs not only improves the quality of life but also fosters a more resilient and innovative society. Therefore, HR 2006 should not be advanced, as it undermines the very frameworks that support American families and communities.

While I acknowledge that deficits and debt are increasingly concerning, our primary focus should be on the billionaire class. For instance, Elon Musk has received $38 billion in taxpayer money for initiatives that do not meet the needs of everyday Americans. Additionally, more than $100 billion in taxpayer funds is allocated each year through contracts, loans, subsidies, and tax credits for billionaires, which is comparable to the vast amounts spent on our bloated military budget. The DOGE Act, in its current form, will only make our government less efficient while allowing the most significant waste and abuse to continue unchecked.

This situation calls for a critical examination of financial choices. The contrast between the resources directed toward billionaires and the neglect of essential services for ordinary citizens highlights a systemic issue. We must question whether our elected officials are prioritizing the needs of the people they were elected to serve or catering to the interests of a wealthy few.

In conclusion, we are reminded of a fundamental quesSee LETTERS, page 6

Neil Volz

It’s remarkable what we can accomplish when we come together

March 2025 is Women’s History Month, dedicated to recognizing the incredible contributions of women who have shaped the history of Florida and our nation. This year’s theme, “Women: Moving Forward Together,” is a reminder that progress is inevitable when we support one another and work toward shared goals.

Florida is home to many historical women figures across various areas, such as civil rights leaders and cultural icons. Examples include Zora Neale Hurston, a celebrated author and anthropologist who captured the stories of Florida’s Black communities, or Betty Mae Tiger Jumper, the first female tribal chair of the Seminole Tribe of Florida who fought tirelessly for Indigenous rights. Their influence continues to inspire generations today.

Despite the progress made in women’s rights, some challenges, including workplace discrimination and wage gaps, still exist today. The Florida Commission on Human

From page 4

tion that echoes from the Gilded Age: “Who do our politicians truly represent—the people or the rich?” I encourage readers to reflect on this crucial question as we engage in a dialogue that ultimately ensures our government serves the needs of everyone.

Jesse Weyer Cape Coral

Grant current United for Ukraine war refugees guest status in the U.S.

To the editor:

I have written the following letter to our Districty 19 Congressman Byron Donalds and copied Sen. Rick Scott, Sen. Ashley Moody, Sen. Dick Durbin, Sen. Lisa Murkowski, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Walz

To the Office of Congressman Byron Donalds:

I am writing to speak out against the senseless heavy-handedness of the U.S. government in its cruel machination against vulnerable refugees of war by threatening to dismantle the United for Ukraine (U4U) humanitarian parole program.

The current administration has zero rational legislative intent to rip the humanitarian parole status from already vulnerable people. Such act not only generates a huge fiscal wastage in the U.S. government by triggering USCIS to process hundreds of thousands of new TPS applications just for these parolees to attempt to switch status, but it also thrusts upon struggling war refugees the undue burden to hire a lawyer to navigate the TPS application process, which is nonsensical amid the U.S. admin’s suspension of any new applications. In other words, Ukraine’s war refugees not only will face sudden unauthorized status in the country, but they are now being advised by the government to pay costs to lawyers and the government to apply for a process that they have been barred from.

As a U4U sponsor to a young Ukrainian couple, I can speak for our people that the dissolution of humanitarian parole status is an absolutely needless and unjust move which only serves to spur waste, corruption, and the systemic predation of our people. In 2023, Congressman Byron Donalds’ office helped me file an urgent congressional inquiry on this couple’s behalf to prevent them from being separated as they traveled through refugee camps throughout Europe into America. I am very grateful to the Congressman.

But, if our friends are forced to return to Ukraine before hostilities cease, the military-aged man we helped to bring here will have to prepare to be mobilized to go to war. The suspension of U4U is a legitimate national security concern.

I implore my Congressmen to work together with the U.S. Cabinet to protect the current authorized status of vulnerable refugees of the war in Ukraine. One way you can do this is by supporting Senator Durbin’s bill that seeks to seeks to provide temporary guest status to Ukrainians who are already in the United States through the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program, enabling them to stay and work in the U.S. until the Secretary of State determines that hostilities in Ukraine have ceased and it is safe for them to return.

Our wounds are still fresh and our people’s suffering continues as Russia’s full-scale invasion in Ukraine rages

Relations enforces anti-discrimination in the areas of employment, housing, and public accommodations to ensure equal opportunities for all Floridians. For resources or to learn more about the Florida Commission on Human Relations, visit https://fchr.myflorida.com/ or call (850) 488-7082.

As Sheryl Sandberg once said, “We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic, reshape the conversation, to make sure women’s voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored.” As Women’s History Month closes, let’s honor those who paved the way, celebrate those breaking barriers today, and join forces to drive progress in every aspect of our society, moving forward together.

—Cheyanne Costilla is the executive director of the Florida Commission on Human Relations.

Letters to the editor

onto its third year. It is important that the U.S. government continues to stand with our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, both civilian and military. We need you now more than ever. Let us never burn a bridge that may alleviate the burden of war.

Alexandra Zakhvatayev Southwest Florida

Problem with this country

To the editor:

I want you to consider the current state of political discourse in our country. Like many, you must find yourself navigating the complexities of friendships and discussions in a country divided by opinions about our political landscape, particularly in relation to the Love Trump/Hate Trump relationship.

It is disturbing by two tendencies that seem to pervade both sides of our national conversation. The viciousness, especially the progressive, with which people attack those with opposing viewpoints is alarming and sad. It fosters an environment where respectful dialogue is overshadowed by hostility. The second is the consistent exaggeration and misrepresentation of facts — alongside a twisting of historical narratives —only seems to serve to justify positions while vilifying the other side. As past New York State Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan poignantly stated years ago, “You are entitled to your opinion. But you are not entitled to your own facts.” This rings true now more than ever in today society. The “us-versus-them” mentality predates Trump, yet it has reached unprecedented heights recently. This escalation poses a significant threat to our future as a country. If we cannot return to a place of civil discourse and mutual respect, we face troubling times ahead.

Hopefully we can find common ground and rekindle the ability to engage in meaningful conversations that respect differing opinions while sticking to the truth, working together and making this country greater than ever.

Lou Walker Cape Coral

Why pay the do-nothing Congress?

To the editor:

Now that the Republican Congress has passed the 2025 Continuing Resolution for the Federal Budget demanded by President Trump, it’s time to look at a new place to save tax dollars. As President Trump has taken over the job of the Congress, who for some reason has given up their power outlined in Article 1 of the Constitution, why not dismiss the House and Senate members?

The following is from the Congressional Salaries and Allowances: in Brief on Congress.gov published June 27, 2024. The yearly compensation of a regular congressperson is $174,000. The Speaker of the House receives $223,500. Senate Pro Tempore and majority/ minority leaders both House and Senate $193,400. All members receive a Member Representational Allowance or MRA, for staff, office expenses and travel, and mail services. In 2023, the MRA ranged from $1,849,149 — $2,088,4)59, with an average of $1,928,100.

There are 435 House of Representative members, plus six non-voting members, and 100 senators. The combined total salaries are $94,280,500. For MRA, 541 members X $1,928,100 = $1,043,102,100, or a little over $1 billion a year. The combined salaries and MRA totals $1,137,382,600. This does not count pensions, gym facilities, death gratuity payments to heirs (seriously!), health

and life insurance, and so much more.

Congress needs to do its job, as outlined in Article 1 of the Constitution. I say each member post in their state and district newspapers as well as their own social media (not X) five things they did each week to prove their productivity to their constituents.

Cindy Perouty Fort Myers

Politicians say NO to clean water To the editor:

The states legislative session is now open. This is the time when our local representatives and senators put forth bills that they hope will become law. These proposed bills become available to the public to review. They say all politics are local, so what have our locally elected officials proposed so far this year? Our very own Rep. Jenna Mulicka has proposed house bill 1205. This bill would totally change how citizen petitions would be qualified to be put on the ballot in future elections. This bill would make citizen-enacted amendments to the state constitution nearly impossible.

The requirement for a $1,000,000 bond poses a significant challenge for grassroots organizations to propose amendments on the ballot. There are also severe penalties if a petition is found invalid. This could be a wrong address, signature doesn’t match the voter registration, et. Things that petition collectors have NO control over. It takes away the power of the people to change our constitution. Only lawmakers will have the power to propose amendments to the state constitution. Any proposed amendment already requires more than 900,000 signed petitions to get considered for placement on the state ballot. The Florida Right to Clean Water ballot efforts would very likely be doomed. The sad truth is our own elected officials are fighting to kill any public effort to put an amendment on the ballot. My suggestion is that you go to www.floridarighttocleanwater.org. Request a petition and sign it while it’s still legal to do so. We all need the right to clean water but our opportunity as a citizen of the state of Florida to demand that right could soon go away.

Dan Carney Cape Coral

Make America Great Again?

To the editor:

I really don’t understand how President Trump thinks he’s “Making America Great Again” as just about everything he’s doing is costing the American public more. Listening to his extremely long Address to Congress, I could not believe hearing the President of the United States making so many false and misleading claims, and fabricating numbers. Even more depressing was watching the Republican puppets stand and cheer at each false statement.

Thank God for the “Fact-checkers” like BBC, NPR, NBC, CNN, Washington Post, NY Times, Politfact, just to name a few. They all had the same summary, identifying so much erroneous and misleading information that Trump presented.

The following are just a few examples of the misleading things Trump stated, and what the fact-checked true information is:

1. Trumped claimed that the DOGE identified government spending of “$8.3 million for making mice transgen-

See LETTERS, page 7

Cheyanne Costilla Guest Commentary

From page 6

der.” False.

a. The money was used in gender affirming health care, meant to figure out how treatments might affect the health of humans that take them. Trump twisted the statement to his own liking.

2. Trump is imposing tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, claiming that “we will take in trillions and trillions of dollars”

a. False, as tariffs are paid by the U.S. consumer when we purchase something made in Mexico, Canada, or China. Trump’s math is backwards.

b. Trump’s 25% tariff war with Canada, has resulted in Canada imposing a 25% tariff on electricity that is consumed by Michigan, New York, and Minnesota. That means that, 1.5 million American homes and businesses need to absorb a $400,000 per day price increase for the length of that tariff.

c. Lumber, steel, and aluminum coming from Canada will also now include a 25% tariff, which will again be paid by Americans in new homes, new cars and other products.

d. Much of the produce coming from Mexico that each American purchases every day could potentially cost 25% more, as the grocery stores will not absorb that increased cost, but instead pass it on to the U.S. consumer.

3. Trump has repeatedly stated that the U.S. has spent $350 billion on aid to Ukraine, and he says Europe has collectively only provided about $100 billion. Incorrect.

a. According to the Keil Institute for the World Economy, The EU has collectively committed about $138.7 billion in military, financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The U.S. has committed about $119.7 billion.

The U.S. Department of Defense has a slightly higher figure of $182.8 billion, but this is number is still half of what Trump says was spent. And, one should note that much of the $182.8 billion was spent here within the U.S. for war materials built here by U.S. citizens and then shipped to Ukraine.

b. Trump has done a “loan shark” like ploy, with Zelensky, telling him that the U.S. has spent $350 billion dollars (false) on Ukraine’s war, and that he wants Ukraine

Letters to the editor

to sign off on his $500 billion dollar agreement to their rare earth materials. This means Ukraine is not only giving the U.S. the original $182.8 billion back, but also and additional $317.2 billion, and without any assurance of security from further Russian persecution. I would say this is sort of a highway robbery deal.

i. Because Zelensky did not sign the deal after the argument with Trump and Vance, Trump being the bully, paused all current shipments of arms to Ukraine, as well as turned off U.S. intelligence to Ukraine, threatening the lives of all Ukrainians. This is not how the leader of the United States should ever act.

Trump’s infatuation of wanting Canada and Greenland to become part of the U.S., threatening to take over the Panama Canal, tariffs, and what he’s doing to Ukraine, is alienating the U.S. from all the free world countries. The U.S. is losing respect worldwide, and as an American, this hurts.

If the Democrats can’t stand up to this chaos, maybe the Stock Market’s vote of “no confidence” over the last two weeks will get Trump’s attention, as we see our retirement funds disappearing. The last thing we need is for the U.S. to slip into a recession, bringing the rest of the world into a recession because of Trump’s lack of true leadership.

Ronald Swan Cape Coral

How we got here

To the editor:

Taking emotion out of the corruption and fraud that got us into $36 trillion in debt, the theft was done by politicians that “we the people” elected. They are the culprits and recipients of the theft of wealth from Americans.

Yet the focus of wrath is the federal employees who are just performing functions established by their “position descriptions” that limits what they can do,which is endemic in a hierarchical, bureaucratic and civil service system that stifles innovation, “stepping outside the lines” and flexibility in human resource management

The morass that is the federal civil service is due to the system started by progressive globalist Woodrow Wilson

(Democrat) who also gave us the precursor to the globalist U.N.

The true killer is the DEI hiring and federal unions that protect the poor performers that almost can’t be fired because they are minority hires or, in many cases, veterans. Government is constitutionally chartered to perform “ enumerated powers” only

We have to look at the problem which is not all the people performing constitutional functions, it is the civil service system, DEI hiring and performing functions that are not inherently federal under enumerated powers

The fix is to do only what needs to be done (enumerated powers) by employees operating under the same rules as private-sector businesses with incentives and disincentives, including firing, to keep only the best

The old adage that government is employer of last resort and close enough for government work is the systemic problem. If the fundamentals aren’t fixed than the hydra will just reemerge if Democrats get back in power

Tony Cosenza Cape Coral

Agree?

Disagree? Weigh in! Letters, guest opinions, comments welcome

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 e-mailed to vharring@ breezenewspapers.com. All letters and guest opinions must be signed and must include a phone number for verification purposes. Readers are also invited to comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: capecoralbreeze.com.

Southwest Florida may see some ‘correction’ but market still performing ‘quite well,’ industry leaders say

By CRAIG GARRETT news@breezenewspapers.com

A view of the immediate future in Southwest Florida’s business world was akin to a cowboy easing back on the reins.

But there’s optimism that a guns blazing streak from 2010 onward will continue, albeit at a slower pace in some sectors, that a healthy business future is in the cards, experts at a Fort Myers forum agreed at The Next Big Thing: Market Trends of Southwest Florida.

The ticketed event held March 20 at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center in the downtown district, a summary and forecast of Southwest Florida’s marketplace, placed three experts before trade professionals and chamber executives seeking answers … and inspiration.

The 1,300 or so person turnout was a record for the sold-out event.

Justin Thibaut, president and CEO of LSI Companies covered new home sales and development, Denny Grimes, president of Denny Grimes & Team at Keller Williams Realty, shared his views on residential real estate and a possible movement in new housing, and Matt Simmons, managing partner of Maxwell, Hendry & Simmons, presented updates on commercial real estate. Each had 30 minutes to summarize 2024, to look at the possible risks and opportunities for this year.

Interest rates, the impact of hurricanes and rising insurance, COVID, tariffs and a slipping state population were among the themes.

But the bigger message was the region’s endurance, bridging uncertainty as new trends and deals unfolded, such as the record sale of a mineral mine in Lee County ($620 million) and other Lee County land purchased for an automated warehouse by the online giant Amazon for a reported $66 million, for instance.

There are infill developments along existing business districts, new and modern housing arising in communities such as Lehigh, possibly smaller homes with fewer

goodies such as garages, other land sales for tract housing, warehousing and medical offices that will drive Southwest Florida’s economy forward, experts at the Market Trends

See MARKET, page 9

Denny Grimes, president of Denny Grimes & Team at Keller Williams Realty, shares his views on residential real estate and a possible movement in new housing at The Next Big Thing: Market Trends of Southwest Florida 2025.

CRAIG GARRETT

Market:

event said.

Above, Justin Thibaut , president and CEO of LSI Companies, covers new home sales and development The Next Big

Market Trends of Southwest Florida 2025.

The Next Big Thing: Market Trends 2025 attracts full house

From page 8

Yet, even with talk of statewide property tax rollbacks and Florida’s forever sunshine optimism, there was some anxiety that higher interest rates and skyrocketing insurance will chill momentum.

“(A market) correction is the answer,” said Grimes, the longtime investor and real estate guru in previewing his remarks before taking the stage, which was backdropped by giant cinema screens in a zip-along format.

Presenters each spoke for about 30 minutes, laced their

talks with humor, facts and crisp visuals.

Thibaut and Simmons, both acknowledged in their fields, noted that some investors await the outcome of a fuzzy world economy and a full recovery from Hurricane Ian.

“We are tourism,” Thibaut said, commenting on the dispute over high-rise housing permits on Captiva Island, for example. “(Are we) holding on or letting go? There are billions of dollars on the sideline.”

Other highlights from the event included a push in light industrial and warehousing along Interstate 75 and U.S. 41, at Punta Gorda Airport and at Southwest Florida

International Airport, a surge in apartments from Collier to Sarasota counties, high occupancy in retail, medical and office buildings, Cape Coral’s ongoing growth in most sectors and many other pockets where entrepreneurs want land and people want to live.

“We’re performing quite well as a market, right now,” Simmons said. “The question is are you ready?”

The Next Big Thing: Market Trends 2025 was arranged by Priority Marketing. Sponsors and business chambers funded the event.

At left, Matt Simmons, managing partner of Maxwell, Hendry & Simmons, presents updates on commercial real estate at The Next Big Thing: Market Trends of Southwest Florida 2025.

Thing:

Cape Coral to Fort Myers Beach boat run is back

Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi returns as The Westin Cape Coral Resort amenity

CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A voyage out of Cape Coral that brings passengers to the beach is back.

The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village has announced the return of the Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi, which offers a round-trip ride between the resort at Tarpon Point Marina to Fort Myers Beach’s Snug Harbor Marina.

Resort guests can enjoy this complimentary amenity as part of their stay, while local residents can book passage for a nominal fee, creating a unique opportunity to explore Southwest Florida’s coastal waters.

The Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi was a popular guest amenity before Hurricane Ian, offering a scenic way to travel to Fort Myers Beach. Unfortunately, during the storm, the original Silver King was destroyed.

“As part of our commitment to waterfront well-being and effortless exploration, our Tarpon Point Marina team has worked tirelessly to have this brand-new custom build boat created, allowing guests and locals to enjoy the natural beauty of our coastal waters once again,” said Elyzabeth Spires, marketing manager at The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village.

As part of The Westin Cape Coral’s commitment to blue space wellness, the journey offers guests a connection to nature. Along the way, passengers can possibly catch a dolphin sighting and take in picturesque views before arriving to the shores of Fort Myers Beach.

“This 45-minute journey immerses passengers in the pristine waterways of Southwest Florida, where they can witness dolphins playing in their natural habitat, diverse birdlife soaring above the mangroves, and breathtaking coastal views,” Spires said. “It’s more than just transportation—it’s an experience that embodies our blue space wellness philosophy, where simply being on the water

enhances relaxation and well-being.”

The Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi runs on a set schedule, with multiple departures daily when at full operation (running once-per-day currently). The ride departs Westin Cape Coral Resort’s Tarpon Point Marina at 10 a.m. and leaves Sung Harbor Marina to return at 2:30 p.m.

The Silver King can comfortably accommodate 48

passengers per trip, which Spires said ensures a spacious and enjoyable ride for all guests.

As to why Fort Myers Beach is a great destination for guests and riders alike, and why the Silver King is a great way to get there, Spires said: “Fort Myers Beach offers beautiful white-sand beaches, waterfront dining, shopping,

See BOAT RUN, page 13

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WESTIN CAPE CORAL RESORT AT MARINA VILLAGE

The Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi will transport passengers back and forth from Tarpon Point Marina in Cape Coral to Fort Myers Beach’s Snug Harbor Marina.

The Westin Cape Coral Resort to host ribbon cutting & christening ceremony

The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, in partnership with Tarpon Point (Marina, Shops & Restaurants on the promenade) and the Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce, will hold a special ribbon-cutting and christening ceremony for the return of the Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi.

The event will take place on Wednesday, April 16 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m on the Westin Cape Coral Resort Lawn and lower promenade, overlooking the marina and waterway.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will commence at 9:30 a.m. officiated by the Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce, followed by a traditional boat christening ceremony.

The maritime tradition includes gathering friends, placing a branch with green leaves on board, and breaking or pouring a bottle of champagne over the bow, symbolizing good luck and safe travels.

Guests are invited to join the celebration and enjoy light refreshments, provided complimentary by The Westin Cape Coral Resort.

Boat run: Silver King Dolphin

from page 12

and a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. By traveling via water taxi, guests can avoid traffic and parking hassles while enjoying a scenic start and end to their day.”

To celebrate the return of the Silver King, The Westin Cape Coral Resort has launched the “Beach Within Reach!” package, available through April 20.

Th offer includes:

n $25 one-time per stay resort credit

n 15% off the retail rate

n Seamless access to the Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi

Guests can book their stay by visiting www.westincapecoral.247activities.com.

To commemorate the return of the water taxi, The Westin Cape Coral Resort will host an official christening event at Tarpon Point Marina on April 16.

For additional information about The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, please visit www.westincapecoral.

Attendees also will have the opportunity to win multiple giveaway prizes from the resort, shops and restaurants on the Tarpon Point promenade.

“This event highlights The Westin Cape Coral Resort’s commitment to enhancing the guest experience by offering convenient access to the resort’s premier dining, shopping, and wellness offerings. The Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi is included in the resort fee for guests, providing a unique and memorable way to explore the waterfront surroundings.”

Community members and local businesses are invited to the celebration. Partners on the Tarpon Point promenade of shops, dining and marina include Gather, Pinchers Crab Shack, Gulf Coast Fudge Shop, Next Door, High Tide Social House, Esterra Spa & Salon, Lorne’s Gallery, Eva by The Sea, The Looke Champagne Boutique, Southwest Florida Yachts & Yacht Chandler and Turquoise Boutique. The Silver King is owned and operated by Tarpon Point Marina.

& Beach Taxi makes trips to FMB

Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village is at 5951 Silver King Blvd.

The Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi can accommodate 48 passengers.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WESTIN CAPE CORAL RESORT AT MARINA VILLAGE

Owl advocate recognized for role in city’s grant effort

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A long-time advocate for Cape Coral wildlife has been recognized for his work in securing grant money that will help protect the city’s official bird.

Carl Veaux, former president and active member of the Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife, was presented with a certificate of recognition at City Hall last Friday as a “thank you” from the city for helping secure a $900,000 grant to help protect the burrowing owl by preserving habitat.

The city was awarded the grant, which was established by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida Foundation, in July 2023

Grant funds will be used to purchase properties for preservation.

Veaux went to FWC during the COVID19 pandemic, which he said was scary at the time, to advocate for the burrowing owl and grant dollars.

“I presented my case to the commission, and I told them our story,” Veaux said. “We later learned we received the grant. After that, it took almost three years and I was in contact with the foundation almost weekly for during that time. The city is now buying five lots in its initial purchase to protect the burrowing owl. It is not tax money.”

Funds will come from a mitigation pool into which developers pay for permitted filling in of burrows outside of the nesting season.

According to the city’s background documents, the grant money will be limited to property acquisition costs, “including

but not limited to, appraisals, surveys, title costs, and initial maintenance costs.”

The city, Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission and Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife will coordinate the maintenance, monitoring and reporting of each purchased site.

This grant is the first of its kind for local governments, as well as accredited land conservation trusts to receive state funding for projects of burrowing owl habitat preservation projects.

In late February, Cape Coral City Council approved the purchase of the first five lots under the Burrowing Owl Habitat Protection Grant Project.

The properties approved include:

n 503 N.E. 1st Ave. for a purchase price of $60,000, plus approximately $3,000 for closing costs, and $9,561 for the North 2 Utility Expansion Project assessment payoff for a total value of $72,561

n 613 N.W. 3rd Place for a purchase price of $60,000, plus approximately $3,000 for closing costs for a total value of $63,000

n 601 N.W. 4th Ave. for a purchase price of $55,000, plus approximately $3,000 for closing costs and $9,210 for the North 2 Utility Expansion Project assessment payoff for a total value of $67,210

n 606 N.W. 3rd Place for a purchase price of $65,000, plus approximately $3,000 for closing costs and $13,157 for the North 2 Utility Expansion Project assessment for a total value of $81,157

n 605 N.W. 4th Ave. for a purchase price of $60,000, plus approximately $3,000 for closing cost and $8,771 for the North 2 Utilities Expansion Project assess-

Carl Veaux, former president and active member of the Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife, was presented with a certificate of recognition at City Hall last Friday as a “thank you” from the city for helping secure a $900,000 grant to help protect the burrowing owl by preserving habitat./ CITY OF CAPE CORAL

ment project for a total value of $71,771

During that February meeting, City Manager Mike Ilczyszyn recognized Veaux who went to FWC on behalf of the community.

“It’s made history,” Veaux said of the grant. “The Friends of Wildlife has partnered with the city, surveying the burrows and finding the lots and providing the city with information for the people we find that are selling.”

An arm of the Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife, the Cape Coral Wildlife Trust has purchased 77 lots and is always looking to acquire additional properties for wildlife conservation.

To make a donation, visit www. ccfriendsofwildlife.org or capecoralwildlifetrust.org.

Four Cape youths facing charges in wake of car thefts, accidental gun discharge

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

Additional charges have been filed in an investigation dating back to mid-February that involved a pair of stolen cars and the accidental discharge of a gun that injured a 13-year-old boy.

The incident occurred on Feb. 13, when police received a call from an individual who said his friend had accidentally shot himself at 3030 Skyline Blvd.

When CCPD officers arrived, they found the-13-yearold in the front passenger’s seat of a silver Nissan Rogue with a gunshot wound to his back. Police said the other occupants of the car fled before they arrived.

The boy was transported to a hospital for treatment and has since been released.

CCPD’s Violent Crimes Unit investigation found that the person who called police, whom they say is a 12-yearold boy, accidentally shot his friend. The 12-year-old was subsequently arrested on several charges.

While investigating the shooting, police received a call from a vehicle owner who reported their Mitsubishi Outlander had been stolen, and that it contained two guns.

Police say they determined that the gunshot victim, who is now 14, stole the Outlander and went to pick up the 12-year-old juvenile.

“The two can be seen on video at a local 7-Eleven filling the car up with gas before driving it and getting it stuck in the sand,” a CCPD release states. “The vehicle was left abandoned and later recovered by officers.

“Violent Crimes Detectives discovered videos on a cell phone showing (the two juveniles) inside the Mitsubishi, handling the stolen firearms and committing reckless acts with them. The videos also captured the pair driving a stolen Nissan Rogue before picking up other juveniles.”

Police allege the pair picked up two other juvenile males, ages 15 and 14. CCPD’s investigation found that the 15-year-old was the driver of a knowingly stolen car when the individual was shot, officials said.

“Inside the stolen vehicle, there were two firearms belonging to the other victim,” CCPD’s release states. “(The 15 and 14-year-old) knew the guns and vehicle were stolen and had assisted in depriving the victim of their property. (The 15-year-old) has an active Risk Protection Order and is not to be in possession of firearms.”

The boy who was accidentally injured has been arrested and charged with armed burglary of a conveyance (1st degree felony), grand theft of a motor vehicle (3rd degree felony), two counts of grand theft of a firearm (3rd degree felony), minor in possession of a firearm (1st degree misdemeanor), and improper exhibition of a firearm (1st degree misdemeanor).

The 15-year-old, in custody at the Department of Juvenile Justice, has been charged with two counts of grand theft of a motor vehicle (3rd degree felony), and grand theft of a firearm (3rd degree felony).

The 14-year-old was arrested and charged with grand theft of a motor vehicle (3rd degree felony), and grand theft of a firearm (3rd degree felony).

In addition to previous charges (seven charges ranging from 1st to 3rd degree felonies), the 12-year-old, in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice, has been charged with armed burglary of a conveyance (2nd degree felony), and grand theft of a motor vehicle (3rd degree felony).

The investigation in still ongoing.

Weekly B reeze Recap

Jaycee Park concessionaire misses city payment deadline; submits contract modification proposal

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The funds due from the private party partner in the city of Cape Coral’s redevelopment of Jaycee Park were not received by Friday’s city-imposed deadline.

A contract modification is now proposed.

The Reef Cape Coral LLC did not meet the deadline due to a timing issue, said Stephen Soloway, with The Reef Cape Coral LLC, adding they have been in constant contact with the city and open dialogue has been had.

“The city has been great – pretty awesome to deal with. We sent the city a letter and explained to them what was going on, so it is on record,” he said.

Soloway said it boils down to a timing issue pertaining to financing for the project.

The Reef Cape Coral LLC is the city’s approved and contracted concessionaire for the commercial component of the redevelopment plan for the riverfront park at the end of Beach Parkway.

“We have a preapproval from a lender,

but they don’t want to release the funds until 30 days of opening. Since we are not going to own the building, they can’t give it to us as a construction loan because they can’t lien the building,” he said. “More than anything, it’s a timing issue.”

The response letter sent by Soloway and Michael Amato to the city attorney’s office highlights four reasons “several lenders and private equity firms who expressed great interest in the proposal have indicated the project is not currently financeable for several reasons.”

Those reasons include:

n The building will not be owned by The Reef Cape Coral LLC, which means lenders cannot claim the property in the event of default.

n The building is not being constructed by The Reef Cape Coral LLC, which means a construction loan cannot be procured.

n The project is projected to take nine months to complete, and lenders are unwilling to provide funds until la building is near completion.

n The timeline for opening is subject to

potential delays due to unforeseen circumstances, such as natural disasters.

“Quite simply, it is very difficult to get a business loan without a building for the business,” the letter states.

The city attorney’s office sent The Reef Cape Coral LLC a notice of default last week that asked for funds the city says are overdue, more than $1.4 million, to be paid last Friday by 5 p.m.

Cape Coral City Council is expected to have a discussion on the contract for the management and operation of the park’s concession area and food truck court at its Wednesday, April 2, meeting.

“We intend to go forward with the project,” Soloway said, adding that most of the people he has talked to are pretty excited. “It’s going to be the most family-friendly park you can ever imagine. Folks that know Mike and I – it’s all about family and community and doing the right thing.”

Solloway said the letter they wrote to the city offers to give them their deposit – the owner equity for the bank as an amendment to the contract.

According to the letter, “we are proposing the city accept a non-refundable earnest deposit in the minimum amount of $425,000. The deposit includes late fees and penalties we agreed to pay in return for the 90-day extension totaling $68,264.06 as of today, March 20. The remainder $356,735.94 will be credited to the total investment bringing the balance due down about 25% to $1,013,264.06. As part of the pay plan, we also would agree to pay interest costs on this outstanding balance as determined by the city. Once we close on the loan, the balance and interest will be paid to the city.”

“That is what they are going to decide on the second, accept that as new terms to the contract and amend the concessionaire agreement,” he said. “The council is going to have to make a decision on that deal.”

He said the bank is saying they know the building is not built – they cannot lien the building.

“The bank needs to feel good,” Soloway said.

Soloway said he intends to attend the City Council meeting next week.

Boston Red Sox, Foundation present scholarships to 16 students

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

For the 10th consecutive year, local high school students were bestowed scholarships by a Major League Baseball team that calls Lee County home each spring.

Sunday afternoon before the first pitch of a Spring Training game, 16 students looking to further their educational journey were honored and presented with $5,000 scholarships by the Boston Red Sox and Red Sox Foundation. Prior to the game, each recipient walked onto the field at JetBlue Park to meet Sox manager Alex Cora, received a personalized bat and got a rousing applause from the crowd on hand.

The 2025 recipients were:

n Amy Kollcinaku - Bonita Springs

n Haruna Mescallado - Cape Coral

n Danielle Barsheshet - Cypress Lake

n Jennifer Gonzalez - Dunbar

n Julian Gonzalez - East Lee County

n Meghan Lay - Estero

n Jaylinn Hinojosa - Fort Myers

n Jazmine Olivera-Morales - Gateway

n Alia Mercado-Lues - Ida Baker

n Alexandra Flores - Island Coast

n Anahy Gonzalez-Mata - Lehigh

Senior

n Adrielle Costa - Mariner

n Katrina Placencia - North Fort Myers

n Sean De Andrade - Riverdale

n Ilenys Cabrera Rego - South Fort Myers

n Brayan Morejon - Charter/ALS

“This is always one of our favorite games of the year because we get to celebrate these local students and their accomplishments on the field in front of all our Spring Training fans,” said Brennan Whitley, director, Florida Events and Operations for the Boston Red Sox. “These students have obviously worked incredibly hard and our Red Sox

Foundation members that review the applications each year say it’s not an easy process to pick just one recipient because so many are deserving. We are extremely proud to celebrate our 10th year of providing these scholarships and we look forward to many more.”

Once again this year, all Lee County charter and ALS schools were included, with one $5,000 scholarship also being awarded to a student from this category for a total of 16 scholarships worth a total of $80,000.

The scholarships are for academically talented students who have shown a commitment to community service and are pursuing a two- or four-year degree at any college or university.

The students plan to attend universities ranging from the University of Florida, University of Central Florida, Florida Gulf Coast University, Duke and more, and will major in subjects such as nursing, business and entrepreneurship, aero science and other fields.

Scholarship funds are raised annually from proceeds of the Red Sox annual Swings for the Sox Golf Tournament. To

date, the Swings for the Sox has raised more than $683,000 for local charities and specifically $598,000 for the scholarship program.

David Doran, principal of ReRoute Americas, was the title sponsor of the Swings For The Sox for the ninth consecutive year. Doran has donated more than $100,000 to the Red Sox scholarship program.

It’s been a trying year for Cape Coral High School’s Haruna Mescallado. Due to family struggles that involve homelessness, she’s been living with a friend until she heads off to Grinnell next year in Iowa.

For Mescallado, this scholarship is exactly what will help her further her educational journey where she plans to study psychology and other subjects, such as industrial engineering in the field of lines and queues, and how to make them more efficient.

“The past year has been rather rough,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting to win a scholarship as huge as this, and it means the world to me and is really going to help make a difference. It’s been rough, but

we’re getting through it. This scholarship has been huge and something to look forward to.”

Mescallado said she looks up to Bruce Laval, who created the Disney “FastPass.” “I want to go into processes that will optimize lines, while also making the customer experience better for everyone,” she said.

Mescallado said a popular YouTube channel that explores all things theme parks and their history piqued her interest. In her junior year, she had to write an extended essay and decided to write it on queues and how they impact the customer’s perceptions of products and services.

“I realized I could make a career out of this if I worked hard enough,” Mescallado said.

She was all smiles Sunday before the game.

“Today is so exciting,” Mescallado said. “This scholarship is so important. Every bit means so much, especially after losing my home.”

The No. 1 student in Lee County that boasts a 5.86 GPA was among the deserving scholarship recipients, that being Katrina Placencia of North Fort Myers High School.

“It’s such an honor,” she said. “This scholarship means a lot to me, especially with how expensive college is.”

With her mother recently going back to school to get her master’s, and her sister also in college, Placencia said being able to lift some of the financial burden that comes along with secondary education has been a weight off of her shoulders.

“It feels like a big accomplishment for me, especially as I’m very much a ‘go-getter’ and an achiever,” she said. “I love that

The scholarship recipients and representatives of the Red Sox team and foundation pose on the field at JetBlue Park Sunday. CJ HADDAD

Casino in the Cape to carry derby theme

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

Lady Luck could be on your side next Friday night, as the Leadership Cape Coral Class of 2024 hosts an annual Vegas-style event with some southern charm to benefit local non-profits.

The 14th annual Casino in the Cape takes place April 4 from 6 to 11 p.m. at Splendor Event Hall, where all proceeds and donations support the Lee BIA Builders Care, Thrive SWFL, and Guardian Angels for Special Populations.

Tickets are $85 to the event where popular table and casino games such as craps, roulette, and blackjack are offered with guests having the opportunity to win and bid on raffles and silent auctions.

This tradition, put on by the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral, has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities. The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral developed the Leadership Cape Coral program to educate local business leaders about the City’s infrastructure while encouraging community stewardship.

“Casino in the Cape is one of our favorite events each year,” said Donna Germain, president & CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral. “It’s planned entirely by our most recent graduates of the Leadership Cape Coral program as their community project. They take the lead on everything—from finding sponsors and food vendors to selling tickets. It’s the culmination of their Leadership experience and a meaningful way for them to give back by supporting local nonprofit organizations. We are so proud of the Class of 2024 and all their efforts to put this event on.”

Germain added that this year’s Kentucky Derby theme is sure to add even more excitement to the night.

“The Cape Coral Rotary Clubs run the casino tables, and guests play with ‘funny money’ to earn tickets for our Chance Auction,” she said. “It’s a lot of fun. There’s a diamond drop, silent auction, raffles, a photo booth, great food, and we will even have ‘horse racing’ this year.”

Since 2011, this event has raised more than $300,000, all of which has been donated back to various non-profit organizations over the years.

As for why this year’s local non-profits were chose, Germain said:

“The organizations are selected entirely by the class. Over the course of the 13-week Leadership Cape Coral program, participants explore various facets of our community through hands-on experiences and site visits. One day is specifically dedicated to community stewardship, where the class learns about the vital work local nonprofits do. At the end of the program, the group collectively decides, often by vote, which organizations will receive the proceeds from their community project.”

Each ticket purchased includes a meal, drinks, casino cash, with live music entertaining guests throughout the evening.

The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral created the Leadership Cape Coral program to inspire, educate, and cultivate the next generation of community-minded business leaders. This 13-week program offers an in-depth look at what makes Cape Coral thrive, covering everything from local history and government to healthcare, public safety, media,

If You Go:

What: 14th annual Casino in the Cape

When: Friday, April 4, from 6 to 11 p.m.

Where:

Splendor Event Hall, 360 Santa Barbara Blvd. S.

Tickets:

Tickets are $85 to the event where popular table and casino games such as craps, roulette, and blackjack are offered with guests having the opportunity to win and bid on raffles and silent auctions.

More information:

For more information on Leadership Cape Coral, visit www.capecoralchamber.com.

community stewardship, and beyond.

For Casino in the Cape tickets, including sponsorship opportunities, as well as more information about Leadership Cape Coral, visit www.capecoralchamber.com.

Splendor Event Hall is at 360 Santa Barbara Blvd. S.

coMMuniTy

Rosemary is an herb that can be grown in Southwest Florida.

Gardening with herbs

By CAROLE KERNS news@breezenewspapers.com

Herbs enhance the senses with vibrant flavors, scents, textures and colors. There are several key benefits in growing herbs in the home garden. First, plants can be selected based on personal preference. Gardeners may choose a plant to match a particular cuisine. Secondly, plants harvested from the garden are fresher and more flavorful than those purchased from a market. Finally, the gardener experiences a sense of accomplishment that comes from growing herbs successfully at home.

Garden Club of

Cape Coral

Most herbs are easy to grow. Success with herbs is often the result of trial and error. An example of this is my experience with rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). Although rosemary requires several hours of direct sun each day, the site that I had selected offered indirect sunlight. I kept the plant in its pot and set it in the chosen spot for two weeks. It began to grow and showed no ill effects from being placed in indirect sunlight. I planted it, and over time it grew to almost 3 feet tall and provided enough rosemary to share with neighbors.

The first step in planting herbs is to choose an appropriate location. A few herbs will grow in shaded areas, but most require a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day in soil that provides good drainage. Where drainage is a problem, a raised planting bed may be a solution.

Herbs can be started from seed, vegetatively propagated or purchased from nurseries or retailers. Herbs such as dill (Anethum graveolens), basil (Ocimum spp.), parsley (Petroselinum crispum) and oregano (Origanum spp.) are usually started from seed. Seed sown directly in the ground can be unreliable. A high percentage of newly sprouted plants cannot withstand the intense sun or might succumb to insect pests. To prevent these risks, try sprouting seeds in small containers indoors. When the plants reach a few inches in height, they can gradually be exposed to direct sunlight. Once they are accustomed to full sun, they can be planted into outdoor beds.

Some herbs require different watering needs. For example, sage (Salvia officinalis), rosemary and thyme (Thymus spp.) require soil on the drier side, while parsley, chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium), basil and mint (Mentha spp.) prefer more moisture. Using organic mulch conserves soil moisture by limiting evaporation and runoff. It adds nutrients to the soil and moderates the temperature of the top layer of soil. It also covers and protects the soil by reducing soil compaction and erosion.

Herbs should be harvested in dry, warm weather after

See GARDENING WITH HERBS, page 28

March 28, 2025

MacGregor cartoons to be displayed at Cape Coral Museum of History

The creative work of Doug MacGregor, a longtime cartoonist for the Fort Myers News-Press as well as a children’s book writer and illustrator, will be on display in a new exhibit titled “Suitable for Framing: A Collection of Cape Coral Cartoons by Doug MacGregor” from April 11 to June 14 at the Cape Coral Museum of History, 544 Cultural Park Blvd., in Cape Coral.

MacGregor stimulated thought and created conversation for over 20 years through his cartoons on the editorial pages of the News-Press. After gift ing many of his Cape Coral-based cartoons to the Cape Coral Museum of History archives a few years ago, the museum has created an exhibition that focuses on the profound influence humor can have over politics, culture and society, while also reminding us not to take ourselves too seriously.

The opening reception for “Suitable for Framing” will be held Thurs-day, April 10, from 5:30-7 p.m., with a ribbon-cutting to open the display at 6 p.m. The exhibition will be on display through June 14 during normal museum hours, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays.

After joining the Norwich Bulletin in 1980, drawing cartoons, he moved to Southwest Florida in 1988, joining the News-Press full time until June 2011. He also was Arts in Healthcare Coordinator for Lee Health from 2012 to October of 2023. He currently volunteers his time at Golisano Children’s Hospital drawing cartoons with young patients.

A 1979 graduate of Syracuse (N.Y.) University, MacGregor’s editorial cartoons are archived at Syracuse, Ohio State and Florida Gulf Coast University libraries, as well as the Cape Coral Museum of History.

MacGregor has self-published six children’s books and does illustrations for local non-profits and various community events. He also is an accomplished musician playing in local classic 60s and 70s rock band, the Rosada Project, He has also written his own music.

About the Cape Coral Museum of History

Additional programming includes a presentation by MacGregor with special guests former Cape Mayor Joe Mazurkiewicz, and former city council member Tom Hayden, who worked with MacGregor at the News-Press. Part of the Museum’s Speaker Series, the presentation takes place April 15 from 5:30-7 p.m., and RSVPs are required. Go to www.capecoralmuseum.org/events to save a seat.

MacGregor’s versatile career spans over 45 years.

Since its inception in 1987, the Cape Coral Museum of History has sought to discover, preserve and share the history of Cape Coral through its archives, museum exhibits and public programs. The museum is the official repository for the history of the community and serves as a public resource for all sectors of the local community, as well as international and U.S. tourists. Operated by the Cape Coral Historical Society, the museum exhibits artifacts, documents and photographs pertaining to the history of Cape Coral and Southwest Florida.

Located at 544 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral, the museum has three buildings and three garden areas to explore. Information on hours, ticket prices and events can be found at the museum’s website at www.capecoralmuseum.org.

ALTA Good Deeds Foundation awards grant to Ground Up Ministries in Cape

The American Land Title Association Good Deeds Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization founded by ALTA, the national trade association of the land title insurance industry, recently announced it has awarded $6,000 to Ground Up Ministries in Cape Coral. Jennifer Ferri at Title Junction LLC in Fort Meyers nominated the nonprofit to receive the grant.

Ground Up Ministries is one of 17 nonprofit organizations across the United States that received a grant this month from the ALTA Good Deeds Foundation. The foundation announced the recipients of this year’s first round of biannual grants during ALTA EDge, held March 19-21 in Louisville, Kentucky.

“In just a few years, the ALTA Good Deeds Foundation has transformed the generosity of title professionals into tangible community impact, awarding more than $1.2 million to 211 nonprofit organizations across the country,” said Foundation Board Chair Mary O’Donnell, president and CEO of Westcor Land Title Insurance Co. and past president of ALTA. “These grants empower local orga-

nizations to continue their critical work, strengthening neighborhoods and supporting those in need.”

“We are honored to be the recipient of this grant from the ALTA Good Deeds Foundation,” said Jeff Schumacher, executive director at From the Ground Up Ministries. “Our organization will use this grant to provide faith-based support and care for the redemption and restoration of teenage girls rescued from human trafficking.”

The ALTA Good Deeds Foundation was launched in 2020 to bolster the charitable efforts of ALTA members. Title insurance professionals can apply for grants on behalf of recognized 501(c)(3) organizations that they support financially or through volunteer efforts; preference is given to housing-related charities. To give to the foundation, visit altagooddeeds.org/donate or text GOODDEEDS to 44321.

Ground Up Ministries provides faith-based support and care for the redemption and restoration of teenage girls rescued from human trafficking. For additional information, visit https://www.groundupministries.org/ or call 239-406-1350.

FMLGC to present National Garden Club Standard Flower Show April 4-5

Members of the Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council will present a National Garden Club Standard Flower Show on Friday and Saturday, April 4-5, at the Garden Council in Fort Myers. The Garden Council building is located at 2166 Virginia Ave., adjacent to the Edison Ford Winter Estates. The show is open to the public from 1-4 p.m. on April 4 and from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on April 5; admission and parking are free.

The theme of the Flower Show is “Dreaming in an English Country Garden” and honors the outgoing FMLGC President, Sylvia Swartz, who is a native of England. The show will include horticulture exhibits of cut specimens

and container grown plants, floral designs and botanical arts/artistic crafts. The floral design sections reflect aspects of British culture, including London museums, British food, favorite British children’s books, and “All Things British” botanical arts.

The FMLGC was created in 1957 by nine local garden clubs and societies, and now consists of more than 20 garden clubs, six plant societies and three other organizations, totaling more than 1,700 members. The Garden Council houses the Mina Edison Botanical Library, hosts meetings and workshops for dozens of member clubs, and hosts flower shows and educational opportunities.

April programs, activities at Northwest Regional Library

Next month’s roster of activities at Northwest Regional Library offers topics for all ages. The following activities are free to the public:

Adult

Programs

Tech Tuesdays: One-on-One Help

2 p.m., Tuesday, April 1

Need help with a laptop, tablet, e-reader or other device? Are you looking to gain basic technology skills? We can help with a 15-minute, one-on-one technology help session. Registration is required.

Knit and Stitch

10 a.m., Wednesday, April 2, 16

A casual, self-guided group of knitters and crocheters that join to share projects, ideas and techniques. Participants are encouraged to bring their own projects and tools. Basic materials and supplies are available for newcomers.

Empowered Caregiver Series: Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors

2 p.m., Tuesday, April 8

An education program by the Alzheimer’s Association, covering topics including dementia’s effect on behavior, possible triggers and steps for managing behaviors. This program is part of The Empowered Caregiver education series that teaches caregivers how to navigate the responsibilities of caring for someone living with dementia. As part of the program, you will receive activities to apply person-centered care approaches to your own caregiving situation.

Chess at the Library

5:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 8

Enjoy chess at the library in a casual environment. Chess boards will be provided, but you may also bring your own. People of all ages and skill levels are invited.

Books and Bagels

10:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 9

Do you enjoy robust, engaging book discussions? Join us and share your latest reading recommendations. Bagels and coffee will be served.

Get Outdoors with Lee County Parks & Rec

11 a.m., Monday, April 14

Join us for an exciting presentation by Lee County Parks and Recreation, where you’ll learn about all the amazing services and amenities available to residents. From scenic parks and boat ramps to summer activities, walking trails and so much more, there’s something for everyone to explore. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with nature and your community. It’s time to get outside and play. Registration is required.

Tabletop Game Time

5 p.m., Tuesday, April 15

Meet up at the library for a monthly board game night featuring modern tabletop games. The library has a rotating collection of light to medium weight games or bring your own games to teach and share. New and experienced players welcome.

Plantstravaganza Partner Expo

5:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 15

Keep Lee County Beautiful, Lee County Solid Waste, a Lee County park ranger and more participants will be on-site to support Lee County’s plant people. Plant-related activities, toys and crafts will be available.

Plantstravaganza “Prop” Swap**

6 p.m., Tuesday, April 15

Share your favorite plants with others. Lee County’s plant people are invited to share their love of growing plants while browsing books on the subject. Bring your favorite plants, cuttings and water propagations to swap with fellow enthusiasts.

AI Poetry

5:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 22

April is National Poetry Month, and with the rise of AI software, the question becomes “Can an AI write poetry?” This event will compare and contrast AI generated poems and well-known poets works to show that maybe the machines aren’t as creative as we are led to believe. Participants will learn the limitations and potential use for AI in creating poetry. Whether you are new to poetry or a well versed in the form you are welcome to participate.

Children’s Programs

Toddler Tales

10:30 & 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

For ages 18-36 months and caregivers. Toddlers and caregivers move and groove during this interactive storytime. Space is limited to 14 tickets. Arrive early and visit the Youth Desk to check in. First come, first served.

Kids Read Down Fines

4:30 – 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 2, 9 11 a.m. – noon, Saturday, April 19

Children and teens can earn a $2 credit on overdue fines for every 15 minutes they read in the designated area for a total of $8 in one session. Please bring your library card.

Preschool Storytime

10:30 & 11:30 a.m., Thursday, April 3, 10, 17, 24

For ages 3 – 5 years. Children attend this program independently while parents and caregivers wait nearby. Space is limited to 14 tickets. Arrive early and visit the Youth Desk to check in. First come, first served.

Super Fun Saturday

10 a.m., Saturday, April 5

Come play with us at the library. Activities change monthly and vary from dancing, storytelling, art projects and more. Fun for the whole family.

Baby Rhyme Time

10:30 a.m., Monday, April 7, 14, 21, 28

For babies up to 18 months. Babies and caregivers wiggle and giggle in a supportive environment. Space is limited. Arrive early and visit the Youth Desk to check in.

Chess at the Library

5:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 8

Enjoy chess at the library in a casual environment. Chess boards will be provided, but you may also bring your own. People of all ages and skill levels are invited.

Life-size Games: Sorry!

6 p.m., Tuesday, April 8

A tactical game of jumps, slides and a lot of “Sorrys.”

See NORTHWEST REGIONAL LIBRARY, page 35

Tax options with 1031 exchange

Dear Mr. Feichthaler

Last month I sold a rental property in -

ary” to perform a 1031 exchange. I understood that, if I buy another rental with the money I receive, I will not have to pay any taxes on the

I decided to use the money to purchase a residence for my husband and I to move into. Will we need to pay taxes on our gains?

-Tracy H.

Dear Tracy,

Real Estate Law

1031 tax-deferred exchanges are a useful tool to use in a upward-moving real estate market, as our has been for the

ment property will be purchased by your QI. The deeds are actually held in your individual names, so the key is that you never have possession of the funds when sold, or when purchasing the new property. The IRS views this “like-kind exchange” as if you never changed your investment, even though the property has changed. The key is being the same type of investment. The IRS views many types of investment properties as “like-kind”, including rental single family homes, apartments, and vacant land. By purchasing a new property for at least the amount of money you sold the original property for, you can defer any taxes you would have made on the original sale. Those would not be collected until you sell the second property. If you engaged in a 1031 exchange on the sale of the second property, you still would pay no tax

real estate with the funds.

the IRS does not view a primary residence as an investment. Primary resitwo years. So, if you attempted to roll these funds into a primary residence, the IRS would likely view this as an improper 1031 exchange, and would tax

but you will need to seek a professional tax advisor or attorney to explain your options.

People considering buying or selling a home are facing for several years, and high interest rates have made it more

The Mortgage Bankers Association is projecting that buyers.

Make kitchen and bath improvements

The kitchen is the heart of many homes. Real estate to moderate kitchen upgrades like resurfacing cabinets, to give the room an overhaul. as smart investments that can improve home value.

Eric P. Feichthaler has lived in Cape Coral for over 37 years and graduated from Mariner High School in Cape Coral. After completing law school at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., he returned to Cape Coral to practice law and raise a family. He served as mayor of Cape Coral from 2005-2008, and continues his service to the community through the Cape Coral Caring Center, and Cape Coral Kiwanis where he serves as president. He has been married to his wife, Mary, for 24

Law from the Florida Bar, and primarily practices in real estate law and wills and trusts. He is AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell for professional ethics and reached at eric@capecoralattorney .com, or 239-542-4733. This article is general in nature and not intended as legal advice to anyone. Individuals should seek legal counsel before acting on any matter of legal rights and obligations.

Eric P. Feichthaler

characterizes kitchens and baths as “money rooms” that add the most value to a home.

Declutter the home

Homeowners should clean out items they no longer need. Decluttering can

When buyers walk through a prospective home, they want to envision themselves living there, something that is more easily done if the home isn’t overrun with the current homeowner’s belongings.

Get to painting

Painting a home is a cost-effective renovation with a lot of oomph. Freshly painted rooms appear clean and updated, says HGTV, and that can appeal to buyers. Homeowners should choose neutral colors to accommodate the widest array of potential buyers.

Improve the landscaping

property or look at a listing online. Homeowners should start by evaluating and enhancing the landscaping. Ensure the lawn is well-maintained and add plants that provide color without a lot of maintenance.

Expand usable space

basements or attics or even converting garages to rooms. Or it may involve adding a three-season room.

Homeowners can consider a number of improvements to increase the resale value of their properties.

Be prepared before the next power outage.

Source: Lee County Property Appraiser

The Cape condo market remains in a buyer’s market

condo listings and pending sales

The sales data for this article was obtained from the Florida Realtors Multiple Listing Service Matrix for Lee County, Fla., as of March 22, 2025, unless otherwise noted. It was compiled -

cally for Cape Coral condominiums, townhouses and villas, and it does not include any single-family homes, short sales or foreclosures. The data and statistics are believed to be reliable, however, they could be updated and revised periodically, and are subject to change without notice. The Quinns are

Cape Coral. They have lived in Cape Coral for over 45 years. Geri has been a full-time Realtor since 2005, and Bob joined Geri as a full-time Realtor in 2014. Their real estate practice is mainly focused on Cape Coral residential property and vacant lots.

Active

Closed condo sales and median sales prices

Gulf access canal condos

Direct sailboat access canal condos

Dry lot condos

Fri. 3/28/2025 10-4pm 1913 NW 3rd Ter Lot 74, Cape Coral, FL 33993 $75,000 Stacee R Foster Premiere Plus Realty

Fri. 3/28/2025 10-4pm 3718 SW 14th Pl Lot 6, Cape Coral, FL 33914 $199,000 Stacee R Foster Premiere Plus Realty

Fri. 3/28/2025 12-3pm 2926 SW 1st Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33914

Fri. 3/28/2025 10-4pm 1110 Lorraine Ct, Cape Coral, FL 33904

Fri. 3/28/2025 4-5pm 405 NE 23rd Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33909 $349,000 Juan Aguinaga Premiere Plus Realty

Fri. 3/28/2025 6:30-8:30pm 3008 SW 26th Ct, Cape Coral, FL 33914 $1,520,000 Jaroslaw Maras Premiere Plus Realty Fri. 3/28/2025 12-3pm 1815 SW 15th Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33991

Fri. 3/28/2025 11-6pm 1213 Chiquita Blvd N, Cape Coral, FL 33993

Fri. 3/28/2025 12-3pm 14811 Hole In One Circle #307 Fort Myers

3/29/2025 11-2pm 3416 SW 5th Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33914

3/29/2025 11-4pm 1110 Lorraine Ct, Cape Coral, FL 33904

3/29/2025 10:30-3pm 1838 NW 21st Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33993

Sat. 3/29/2025 11-3pm 1904 NW 1st St, Cape Coral, FL 33993

Sat. 3/29/2025 11-2pm 1505 S Gator Cir, Cape Coral, FL 33909

Sat. 3/29/2025 12-3pm 2623 SW 21st Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33914

3/29/2025 11-2pm

3/29/2025 11-2pm 610 Victoria Dr Unit 101C, Cape Coral, FL 33904

Kevin O’reilly Premiere Plus Realty

3/29/2025

March 28, 2025

Business Briefs

Tommy’s Express to celebrate grand opening of Kismet Parkway facility in Cape Coral

Tommy’s Express has announced the grand opening of its newest location in Cape Coral, at 1612 Kismet Parkway, E. In celebration, Tommy’s Express is committed to supporting local communities by partnering with area non-profits. On Saturday, March 29, 50% of all proceeds will be donated to the Golden Retriever Rescue of Southwest Florida, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a safe haven for golden retrievers in need of loving homes.

To kick off the festivities, guests can enjoy free car washes all day today, March 28. A ribbon-cutting ceremony, hosted by the Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce, will officially mark the opening. The DonutNV food truck will be on-site, and the B103.3 team will be broadcasting live from the event.

The celebrations will continue on Sunday, March 30, when Rita’s Mobile Ice Cream Dessert Truck will be available for guests to purchase sweet treats. Throughout the grand opening weekend, attendees will also have the opportunity to win exciting prizes.

For more details about the event, visit the Tommy’s Express Cape Coral Facebook page.

For more information about Tommy’s Express, visit www.tommys-express.com.

REIS April luncheon to feature presentation by Lee County Commission chairman Ruane

The Real Estate Investment Society’s luncheon Tuesday, April 8, will feature a discussion of the Lee County Board of County Commissioners’ 2025 priorities. The discussion will be led by Kevin Ruane, District 1 commissioner and chairman of the Lee County BOCC. The meeting is sponsored by Edison National Bank and will begin promptly at 11:45 a.m. in the Osprey Room at Pelican Preserve’s Clubhouse, on Treeline Avenue at Colonial Boulevard, one mile east of I-75 exit 136 in Fort Myers.

Admission is $30 for members and $45 for guests, which includes lunch. Reservations are required by 5 p.m., Friday, April 4.

Information on membership and meeting programs is available at www.reis-swfl.org. Inquiries can be directed to Karen Miller at info@reis-swfl.org.

Firestone Complete Auto Care celebrating grand opening of North Fort Myers location

Bridgestone Retail Operations, a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas Inc., will officially open the doors of its newest Firestone Complete Auto Care tire and automotive service center in North Fort Myers, with a grand opening weekend savings event starting today, March 28, through Sunday, March 30, welcoming all members of the community.

The new store, at 17091 N. Tamiami Trail at the intersection of N. Cleveland Avenue, is the first in the North Fort Myers area. The location features a newly designed in-store experience to better serve customers, including digital displays providing a more modern experience and new automotive technologies and equipment operated by ASE certified technicians for better and faster repairs.

Firestone Complete Auto Care will offer customers who visit the store during grand opening weekend special promotions including: 20% off any service purchase and nstant $70 off a set of four Bridgestone tires.

An official ribbon cutting event today at 11 a.m. will also include remarks from company leaders and a donation presentation to the Boys and Girls Club of Lee County as part of the Bridgestone Driving Great Futures initiative, which has raised more than $20 million to help kids and teens gain access to Boys & Girls Clubs resources across the U.S. since 2015. The donation will help the Boys & Girls Club of Lee County provide a safe, productive environment for area kids and teens during critical out-of-school hours.

For additional information, call the shop at 239-6030978 or visit the website at https://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/florida/n-ft-myers/17091-n-tamiamitrail/.

Hair FX celebrates 25 years of service in Cape community

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A Cape Coral business is celebrating its silver jubilee this year.

Hair FX Studio & Spa has served its clients and has been a staple in the community for 25 years now, providing top-notch services to clients and has also raised funds for charitable endeavors.

Owner Susan D. Murphy took her love for cutting hair, which started at the age of 11, and turned it into a successful career.

From using her grandmother’s sewing sheers (when she wasn’t supposed to) on dolls and friends, to opening a full-service studio and spa, to fighting cancer, Murphy has worked in the realm of hairdressing for more than four decades.

“It’s wonderful,” Murphy said of reaching the milestone. “It’s been a lot of wonderful years.”

Hair FX offers hair and nail services including corrective hair color, hair extensions, wigs, nails and waxing. Their views are progressive and traditional in their commitment to the client. Hair FX’s talented stylists are ready to work with all clients to discover what works best for each individual.

Murphy said her stylists have the intuition and the education to create the perfect look for each person, no matter the hair type.

Murphy, a Cape Coral High School graduate, acquired her cosmetology license at 16 and opened her first salon at 21. Twelve years later, she opened Hair FX in a spot off of Skyline Boulevard, and is now located along Chiquita Boulevard where it’s been for 10 years.

Murphy found her calling at a very young age living with her grandmother. She credits her career counselor at Cape Coral High School with getting her into cosmetology school while in her senior year.

“It was my main love, always,” Murphy said. “If you find something you love and that you’re passionate about -- and I loved helping people and making them look beautiful or handsome. When I went into cosmetology school, I knew this was my career. I never second guessed it. I was a natural. It was my God-given talent.”

Murphy and her staff have extensive experience in styling, wigs, extensions, color techniques, texture cutting and razor cuts.

She is a highly-skilled and creative hair-colorist and hair-stylist, and employs a staff of stylists with years of experience in the most cutting-edge parts of the beauty industry.

Murphy said getting to talk with her clients one-on-one and boosting their confidence, especially after or during a

The

hardship, is quite the rewarding feeling.

“Sometimes we get cancer patients, sometimes we get someone who just went through a divorce or went through a crisis in their life,” she said.

A major component of Hair FX is helping those with health conditions that result in hair loss with wigs.

Murphy is a wig, hair extension and hair loss specialist. She is a breast cancer survivor, which she battled in 2010.

“I’ve always done wigs, but then when you actually wear them, you learn a lot more,” she said. “So now I’m able to help people with trichotillomania, where they pull their hair out from anxiety. I can do hair extensions, hair replacement, wigs. Now, instead of just making them beautiful, I’m changing their lives. We can help anybody with hair loss.”

Hair FX would conduct “cut-a-thons” for breast cancer, and held bake sales to raise money for the cause.

While the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to those events, Murphy said the salon is going to resume fundraising events soon.

Hair FX has adapted and evolved with the ever-changing trends in the industry.

See HAIR FX, page 30

Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village

welcomes

Nokley as new general manager

The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village this week announced the appointment of Robert Nokley as the resort’s new general manager, effective March 17, 2025.

Nokley brings 18 years of hospitality experience to his new role, having served in leadership positions at renowned Marriott properties across the country. A Florida native, he began his Marriott journey in hotel operations at the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa before returning to his home state to hold division leadership roles at the Tampa Marriott Water Street, Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, and Orlando World Center Marriott.

His expertise in hotel operations and guest experience was further demonstrated in his role as director of front office for the opening team at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, where he played a pivotal role in recruiting and developing over 100 associates within the rooms division.

Robert’s leadership was instrumental during the pandemic, serving as opening director of operations for the Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection. Following

a successful launch, he was promoted to portfolio director of hotel openings and bench general manager, overseeing multiple award-winning hotel openings in Georgia and Tampa, including The Tribute Portfolio hotel, which won the “Hotel Opening of the Year” award in 2022.

In 2022, he officially assumed the role of general manager at the Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection. Under his leadership, the hotel achieved record-breaking financial success, increasing revenue by $3.5 million and house profit by $1.1 million in his first year. He spearheaded $4 million in capital projects, including the launch of a 320-seat food truck park, bar and entertainment venue, and dramatically reduced turnover by 62%. Following Hurricane Ian, his leadership was instrumental in the Luminary Hotel receiving The Alice S. Marriott Community Service Award.

He is a graduate of the University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Hospitality Management.

For more information, visit westincapecoral.com.

PHOTO PROVIDED Hair FX Studio & Spa owner Susan D. Murphy, right, and her daughter Shaina.

North Fort Myers High wins voter registration challenge

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

North Fort Myers High School took home the win for the 2024-2025 High School Voter Registration Challenge, an annual challenge put on by Lee County Elections Center to encourage eligible Lee County high school students to register to vote.

“It was a successful school year of voter registration drives and educational presentations,” Supervisor of Elections Tommy Doyle said in a prepared statement. “Our team could not have achieved this without the support of the schools. As a result of this partnership, many students are now prepared to vote for the first time in next year’s election cycle.”

The first place was earned by North Fort Myers High School with 18% of eligible students registered to vote. Mariner High School took second place with 14% and Cypress Lake High School earned third place with 10%.

North Fort Myers High School also won first place in 2020.

“Our Florida DOE is committed to preparing students to become civically engaged and knowledgeable adults who make positive contributions to their communities,” North Fort Myers High School Principal Debbie Diggs said. “Winning provides reinforcement that we are doing our part to support North students in meeting this goal.”

North had 213 new registrations and another 114 who updated their existing accounts.

AICE Geography and U.S. Government Honors teacher Danielle Correia said with the support of administration, they were able to have the Lee County Elections come into the school and explain the process of registering.

“Watching the students engage with the community members and increase their civics literacy at the same time was a great opportunity and ensures that they will become great assets to our community in the future,” she said.

Mariner High School Principal Dr. Thomas Michel said they participate for education on voting rights.

“It was a successful school year of voter registration drives and educational presentations. Our team could not have achieved this without the support of the schools. As a result of this partnership, many students are now prepared to vote for the first time in next year’s election cycle.”

— Tommy Doyle, Supervisor of Elections

“Participating in voter registration challenges provides an opportunity to educate MHS students about their rights, the importance of voting, and how the electoral process works. This knowledge is vital for informed citizenship,” he said.

There were 150 registered students at Mariner.

“All our schools that participated did a great job. By enabling our students to register and preregister to vote, we empower students to take control of their future and voice their opinions on issues that matter to them,” Michel said.

An awards ceremony will be held at the May 6 school board meeting for the first, second and third place winners.

The challenge began in 1999.

This year 12 high schools participated in the challenge from Aug. 21, 2024, through Feb. 28, 2025. Lehigh Senior High School and Estero High School did not participate. The Community Education Services Department registered 869 students who are 16 years old and older and helped 384 students update their existing voter registration records.

Last year the center began the Charter School Voter Registration Challenge, which will take place every other year. Oasis High School took first place.

“We are going to do it again for the 2026-2027 high school period,” Lee County Elections Center Community Education Services Director Juan Diez said.

He said they try to visit all the high schools every year to work with juniors and seniors.

“We send an invitation to the principals. They designate one teacher or assistant principal to organize this. We offer them cafeteria voter registration drive during lunch breaks, classroom orientation, or auditorium orientation,” he said. “They pick whatever is more convenient for them depending on their time.”

The challenge is important because it provides students with information about how elections work – the 101 on voting – in Florida with the rules, locations, and how primary and general elections work, Diez said.

“It’s basic information on voting, so when they turn 18 and can vote they know how it works and know what to do,” he said. “They can preregister, or register and don’t have to worry and (then) go to the polls to vote.”

Students who are 16 and 17 can preregister to vote in Florida. When they turn 18, the elections office mails the student their voter card. Students can then update any information, such as address, or party affiliation.

“We try to complement the high school challenge with an invitation to run their student government elections,” Diez said, which resulted in three high schools participating this year. “That way they can use the real equipment we use in elections, and they can see how elections work.”

Scholarships: Boston Red Sox and Foundation recognize 16 local students

From page 15

the principles for the scholarship is giving back to the community and really going for your academics, too. Being able to receive this scholarship, it’s like they see me and I’m doing what I need to do.”

Where she’ll be studying next year is still undecided, as she’s still waiting for some Ivy League responses, such as the University of Pennsylvania, and Vanderbilt. She is also thinking about attending Florida State University.

Placencia plans to major in either biology or exercise physiology with the goal to become an anesthesiologist.

“Most of my family is in the medical field, so seeing that and how I always want to give back,” Placencia said of why she wanted to pursue that path. “One of my gifts is math. As an anesthesiologist, you have to be really good at math, so that’s something I want to take with me into the medical field.”

Placencia, who will serve as North Fort Myers High’s valedictorian, said she plans on her GPA increasing to a 6 before the school year is over.

“That’s something I never thought I could achieve,” she said. “I want to make my parents proud. I decided to not take it easy my senior year, and to relax when I get to summer.”

Her advice to students still on their educational path?

“Just keep dreaming,” Placencia said. “Just keep pushing yourself. Don’t give up. Don’t feel like anything can hold you back, if anything, it will be yourself and your doubts. If you have a clear mind you can achieve your goals, so keep going.”

Alexandra Flores of Island Coast High

School said the day was an amazing way to have her first baseball game experience, one she won’t soon forget.

Flores is choosing between the University of Florida and Florida Gulf Coast University next year, where she plans to go into nursing and become a nurse practitioner. Being a nurse runs in the family.

“My mom’s a nurse,” Flores said. “She’s planning to become a nurse practitioner. And just growing up hearing her stories from the hospital and everything made me excited to help people. I’ve known I wanted to get into the medical field since I was little.”

Being a Bright Futures Scholarship recipient as well, Flores said this will help her cover housing.

“That was the biggest worry for my family, and now we won’t have to,” she said.

Flores advised underclassmen to “lock in” as they continue their way through high school. She is the Key Club president, and in National Honor Society, JROTC and Athletic Association Club.

“Always take that extra step to apply to that scholarship, do that extra community service event,” she said. “That’s what’s going to matter the most. I took that extra step to apply for this scholarship, put in all the paperwork, and now I’m here. Always take that extra step in school. Always go the extra mile. It’s a benefit to yourself just learning so many different things.”

Another local valedictorian, Adrielle Costa of Mariner High School, was one of the Sox Scholars. Costa is the JROTC brigade commander of a 650-cadet unit.

Costa is currently finishing her associate’s degree at Florida Southwestern State

Each of the scholarship recipients received a commemorative bat with their name on it.

University in general studies, and plans to soon transfer to Duke University to study biomedical engineering.

“I have a love for medicine...and I want to be behind the scenes dealing hands-on with medicine,” she said. “I’ve taken engineering classes before and fell in love with the concept and a different day-to-day life.”

Costa said she’ll use the scholarship money when she pursues her master’s and doctorate at Duke.

A North Carolina native, Costa said she’s excited to get back home, where she

enjoys being close to both the mountains and the beach.

Her advice to current high schoolers?

“Just stay committed to anything you do,” Costa said. “I realized my senior year that a lot of the things I accomplished was because I stayed committed through the hard times and struggles.”

Alia Mercado-Lues of Ida Baker High School, wearing a Red Sox jersey, said the day was extremely exciting.

“It takes the stress off,” Mercado-Lues said of the scholarship money. “It’s a big deal. I come from a single-parent household. She also helped my sister with college, too, so this scholarship is amazing.”

Mercado-Lues said she’ll be pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Southern Florida and hopefully transferring to the University of Florida where she’ll study nursing.

“I want to become an aesthetics injector -- so botox and filler,” she said. “I always like helping people out. I like innovative medicines. But it brings me joy seeing people confident in themselves, so I wanted to find a mix of that. A mix of nursing and helping people find their confidence.”

Mercado-Lues said it brings her confidence being one of more than 200 applicants to receive a scholarship.

“Everybody writes a personal statement in their essay, so it makes me feel heard,” she said. “And it’s rewarding.”

The Red Sox Foundation is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization and the official team charity of the Boston Red Sox. The foundation’s primary focus locally is in serving the health, education, recreation and social service needs of children and families across Southwest Florida.

CJ HADDAD

Williams receives graduate degree from Adams State University ALAMOSA, Colo. - Adams State University, Alamosa, Colo., awarded Erin Williams, Cape Coral, a master of arts in counseling: school counseling during the Fall 2024 Commencement Ceremony Saturday, Dec. 12, in Plachy Hall. Adams State awarded 111 undergraduate degrees including 28 associates; 45 Bachelor of Arts; 38 Bachelor of Science; and 29 post graduate degrees.

Adams State University is a public university founded in 1921, offering bachelor’s degrees in 16 different academic programs, with nearly 60 emphases, five teacher licensure programs, and 10 pre-professional programs, in addition to seven master’s degrees and one doctoral degree.

Students can also earn an associate of art or science degree at Adams State.

For additional information, visit https:// www.adams.edu/

Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship applications now available

Busey Bank is offering financial support toward continuing education endeavors to applicants of all ages and educational backgrounds through the Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship.

Through the Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship Fund, $25,000 in scholarships will be awarded annually. Available across the Busey footprint, funds will be disbursed through 10 scholarships of $2,500 each. Applicants must reside in one of the following counties within the following applicable states Arizona: Maricopa, Pima; Colorado: El Paso, Denver; Florida: Charlotte, Lee, Sarasota; Kansas: Johnson, Sedgwick; Illinois: Champaign, Clinton, Cook, DuPage, Grundy, Jersey, Lake, Macon, Madison, McLean, Peoria, Shelby, St. Clair, Tazewell, Will; Indiana: Hamilton, Marion; Missouri: Jackson, St. Charles, St. Louis, St. Louis City; New Mexico: Union, Harding; Oklahoma: Oklahoma, Tulsa; and

Texas: Dallas, Denton, Tarrant.

The scholarship funds can be used for tuition, fees, books or supplies for continuing education. Online applications are available at busey.com/scholarship. The application deadline is June 3, and selected recipients will be notified by July 8.

Applicants will be required to meet specific eligibility requirements. Complete details on the Busey Bank Bridge Scholarship’s eligibility criteria and application process can be found at busey.com/ scholarship.

Summer Camp Scholarships offer Florida youth outdoor adventure opportunities

The Florida Airboat Association and the Kissimmee River Valley Sportsman Association are giving Florida youth the chance to experience an unforgettable outdoor adventure through their Summer Camp Scholarships. This exciting opportunity will provide 10 children with a full

scholarship to attend a week-long residential summer camp at one of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s premier outdoor youth camps.

Through this sponsorship, five girls will be selected to attend the Everglades Youth Conservation Center in West Palm Beach, while another five girls or boys will have the opportunity to attend the Ocala Outdoor Adventure Camp in Ocala. Both camps focus on outdoor skills, conservation education and recreational activities such as fishing, wildlife viewing and safe firearm handling.

These scholarships are open to children ages 8 to 16, with recipients randomly chosen from submissions received at the following links to ensure fairness: n Application for the EYCC Scholarship n Application for the OOAC Scholarship

Recipients will receive a scholarship covering 100% of the registration fee for one summer camp session at either EYCC or OOAC. The deadline to apply for the Summer Camp Scholarships is April 30.

Gardening with herbs: Plants that are fun to grow, useful in the

From page 17

the morning dew has evaporated. Plants harvested during wet weather are susceptible to mold and mildew. Most herbs are best if used fresh, but some herbs, such as bay laurel (Laurus nobilis), are better dried before using. Herbs will usually remain fresh for three days to a week if stored in the refrigerator. Freezing is the best method for leafy herbs such as basil, parsley, mint, chives (Allium schoenoprasum), dill, thyme and sage. One method to freeze herbs is to chop the herbs finely

and place them in an ice cube tray. Fill the tray with water or olive oil and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the herb cubes to a freezer bag. Frozen herbs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 to 12 months. If planting a variety of herbs in one pot, be sure to choose plants with common irrigation and planting needs. Herbs that grow well together include thyme, sage, rosemary, oregano and lavender (Lavandula spp.). Because oregano and lavender should be planted in the fall in Southwest Florida, plan accordingly. Some herbs can get rather woody and large over

time and might need to be transplanted into the garden. Consider height and width when choosing herbs to grow together. Tall herbs, such as fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), may become too top heavy and cause the container to tip. Mint should be planted by itself, as mint tends to spread and take over an area. With careful planning, container gardening with herbs can add depth to your garden and food for your table.

To learn more about herbs, I recommend the book “Florida’s Best Herbs and Spices” by Charles R. Boning. The author alphabetically lists 92 herbs and spices

kitchen

suited for cultivation in Florida. A map is also included with each profile to indicate the areas adapted to cultivation for the specific plant.

Growing herbs can be fun, rewarding and delicious. The creativity does not stop in the garden but continues into the kitchen. With a few simple steps, you can expand your gardening skills and your culinary art.

Carole Kerns is a Lee County Master Gardener Volunteer and the assistant manager of the Berne Davis Botanical Gardens.

Editorial: Are we, as Americans, willing to defend fundamental rights?

From page 4

tional laws — have been followed or abridged. Due process — American due process — has its roots in our Constitution’s Bill of Rights and was further enshrined in the Fourteenth Amendment following the Civil War.

The government — our government — at neither the federal nor state level, may deprive any person of life, lib-

erty or property without not only informing those accused of the charges against them but guaranteeing their right to contest those allegations at a hearing or trial in a court of law.

The issue is, do we, as a country believe this fundamental right?

The issue is, are we, as Americans, willing to defend

this fundamental right?

The issue is, do we, as Americans, “recognize that our Bill of Rights is a code of fair play for the less fortunate that we in all honor and good conscience must observe.”

Breeze editorial

Agree? Disagree? Weigh in! Letters, guest opinions, comments welcome

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 e-mailed to vharring@breezenewspapers.com. All letters and guest opinions must be signed and must include a phone number for verification purposes. Readers are also invited to comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: capecoralbreeze.com.

Brightwater Lagoon in North Fort Myers looking to fill a variety of positions

Open spots include lifeguards, cooks, bartenders and cashiers

Brightwater Lagoon, a resort-style lagoon in the Brightwater community in North Fort Myers, is looking for outgoing, friendly and hospitality-driven people to join its team this spring.

As of Thursday, March 27, hiring managers are now available for interviews on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1-7 p.m., every week. Job seekers are invited to stop by the lagoon’s hiring office, located at 8630 Sunny Page Lane in North Fort Myers. Interested applicants may also apply online at MetroLagoons.com/Careers.

Brightwater Lagoon is filling a variety of hourly positions including lifeguards, cooks, bartenders, guest services,

cashiers and more. Those applying for a lifeguard position must attend an interview, pass a swimming test and complete on-site American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification training. Lifeguard compensation starts at $14 an hour.

Brightwater Lagoon is the first of its kind in Southwest Florida and the fourth MetroLagoons location in Florida, featuring six acres of clear blue water surrounded by sandy beaches and offering a resort-style swim-up bar, food trucks, a water obstacle course, paddleboard and kayak rentals and more. Brightwater Lagoon caters Florida family fun for everyone with amenities and activities for all ages.

For additional information and latest details, please visit MetroLagoons.com/ Lagoon/Brightwater.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Hair FX Studio & Spa is at 4706 Chiquita Blvd., S., Cape Coral,

Hair FX: 25 years in Cape Coral

From page 25

“At first, it was to do hair and make a living and to have my children close to the business,” Murphy said. “Then it became more of, ‘Who can I mentor? How can I give back to my community?’ Each person you mentor molds them for this community.”

Murphy said she and her stylists attend hair shows, keep up with the latest in styles online and take classes several times each year.

“It comes natural,” Murphy said. “I like all of the new stuff. I’m very passionate still about my industry. Going to classes and hair shows, it all comes back around. Styles are modified through the years, but you get re-energized and inspired again. You can always learn something new.”

So, what does Murphy think makes Hair FX so successful?

“Customer service,” she said. “And to stay in business...you have ups and downs and do have to know how to budget and have a safety net to get through hard times like the last four years. We’ve had COVID, we’ve had hurricanes and then there’s cancer, death...you have to know how to persevere.”

During COVID, Hair FX used dividers between each station to keep the business running when they weren’t mandated to shut down.

Murphy said her staff over the years has

APRIL

10, 2025 9 A.M. -12 P.M.

played a major role in the salon’s credibility.

“(They help me be able to) cater to cancer patients, people with hair loss and hair extension clients,” she said. “My daughter has especially helped take a lot of my responsibilities.

“Without my staff, I wouldn’t have made it 25 years.”

Hair FX also mentors youth, something Murphy said is one of her favorite parts of the job. The salon has an associate program where Murphy will train them for six weeks before they go onto the floor on their own. The mentorship usually lasts one year.

“I love that. I love watching young people grow,” she said. “Not just with doing hair, but you will see them straight out of school as a young man or lady...they start being more professional.”

It’s a family business, as Murphy’s daughter Shaina works at Hair FX, and her daughter-in-law is a senior stylist.

Murphy said she hopes the business will be taken over eventually by her daughter, daughter-in-law and son, who currently works in the real estate realm.

Hair FX is at 4706 Chiquita Blvd., S., Suite 108. Call 239-549-1139 or email hairfxstudio @yahoo.com to schedule an appointment or for a consultation.

Visit www.hairfxstudiospa.com for more information.

Get expert tips to help improve your overall financial wellness while learning how your tax dollars are managed, spent and invested.

Light refreshments will be provided. Space is limited and registration is required.

Register at www.leeclerk.org/events

Fundraiser: Food, music & beer

From page 1

ous vendors and fun-filled activities for all ages, including a bolstered children’s play area with face-painting, games and more.

“Everybody is just ecstatic,”said Lee BIA Builders Care Executive Director Leigh Cloud of the organization’s largest annual event. “We’ve put a lot of work and time into this. We have three fabulous bands playing this year. We’ve got some new barbecue truck vendors this year, so I think there’s going to be some fierce competition. We’re always excited about this... but at the end of the day, it’s for the community to know who we are and what our mission is, which is to provide emergency construction services to Lee County homeowners that are elderly or disabled.”

Proceeds from the event support Builders Care’s mission to provide emergency construction services at no cost to needy and deserving elderly and/or disabled homeowners, and their families, who cannot obtain repairs through traditional means. To date, Lee BIA Builders Care has helped more than 500 Lee County households and provided more than $5 million in emergency construction services and materials at no cost to families and local homeowners in need. Since its inception, BBQ, Bands & Brew has raised more than $880,000 in support of Lee BIA Builders Care.

“When we raise that money, and we see what it is and then we look at the applications from the people that need help and we’re able to go out and look at the home... and then take care of those folks, that’s what it’s all about,” Cloud said. “That’s why this is so exciting for us, because we know what we’re going to be able to do, and the people we’re going to help.”

The talented pitmasters will be accompanied by a lineup of live performances from Soapy Tuna, Riverside and headliner Ben Allen Band, as well as numerous vendors and fun-filled activities for all ages.

Riverside performs from 11:30 a.m. to 12:40 p.m., Soapy Tuna hits the stage from 1:15 to 2:30, and Ben Allen Band plays from 3 to 6.

The event will be emceed by Big Mama.

Participating food vendors include Big Smoke BBQ & Catering, Herb’s BBQ and Rubs, The Brunchy Bunch, Gator Creek BBQ Company, Love Boat Ice Cream, Not

If You Go:

What:

14th annual BBQ, Bands & Brew

When:

Sunday, March 30, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where:

Caloosa Sound Amphitheater, 2101 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers

Tickets:

BBQ, Bands & Brew tickets for adults are $15 at the gate. Admission is free for children 12 and under.

More information:

To purchase tickets and learn more about remaining sponsorship opportunities, visit www.leebuilderscare.com/bbq-bands-brew/

Your Mama’s Kitchen, Smokin’ Crow’s BBQ, Taterz, and That BBQ Place.

Cloud said the participating food vendors love getting to show their skills, as well as be part of a day that helps give back to the community.

“They love the idea that they are helping us raise money to put back into the county,” she said. “They also love the competition, and they want to win. They’re all pretty pumped about the competition this year.”

Food will be judged by local celebrities including Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson.

“The venue is absolutely spectacular,” Cloud said of the event that usually sees more than 3,000 attendees. “Our trucks are names some people have heard of before, so there’s going to be some great barbecue.”

Lee BIA Builders Care offers a full range of no-cost emergency construction services to improve the safety and

health for needy seniors and disabled individuals of all ages by enlisting the expertise and donated services and materials of contractors, sub-contractors and businesses. Builders Care is funded through financial donations, grants and donated services and materials to provide emergency construction services to qualified homeowners throughout the community. Lee BIA Builders Care is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization under the charitable arm of the Lee Building Industry Association.

“It’s going back to our neighbors and stays in the county,” Cloud said.

BBQ, Bands & Brew tickets for adults are $15 at the gate. Admission is free for children 12 and under.

Caloosa Sound Amphitheater is at 2101 Edwards Drive in Fort Myers. To purchase tickets and learn more about remaining sponsorship opportunities, visit www.leebuilderscare.com/bbq-bands-brew/.

Redfish Pointe: ‘Protect Our Wetlands’ call recommendation a win

development, or that a reasonable investment- backed expectation for mixed-use development exists. Development of the site, which presently lacks infrastructure, as a Mixed-Use development would result in impacts that intrude upon a well-established residential neighborhood, subject a hitherto undeveloped area to the impacts of storm surge and sea level rise, and have negative impacts on nearby wetlands and listed vulnerable species habitat. Staff recommends Denial of the proposed amendment request.”

The staff recommendation as drafted is part of the process, not a final determination, city officials emphasized, adding it is not appropriate for staff to comment at this time.

“It’s indeterminate what else will be needed. Drafting a staff recommendation is an involved process, and this document is just that —a draft. Also, staff does not generally comment on topics before they’re presented to City Council,” the city’s Communications Office said in response to a Breeze email.

The property owner’s consultant also stressed that the draft staff recommendation is part of the process.

A statement provided to The Breeze from the property owners provided by Joe Mazurkiewicz of BJM Consulting states: “The property owners and our group of professionals remain committed to working with city staff to ensure accurate information is at the forefront of discussions regarding our land use amendment proposal.

“While we acknowledge the city staff’s initial recommendation, we believe there are important clarifications to be made, and we are confident that our experts and consultants can address any concerns with well-supported data and industry expertise.

“Our team has worked alongside the city for many years, and we look forward to finding solutions that balance responsible growth with the needs of the community.”

Redfish Pointe, which sits just east of Tarpon Point totaling 350 acres, has more than 4,500 linear frontage along the Caloosahatchee River. The “Redfish Pointe Mixed Use Preserve District,” Future Land Use text amendment, was submitted to the city. The 110.21 acres for development improvement plans features a 90.37-acre mixed use site to include 800 multifamily units, resort hotel, restaurants, retail shops, office space, and parking garage.

According to the staff recommendation draft, the applicant (Zemel Trust) is requesting that 110 acres, consisting primarily of wetlands and surrounded by land designated as parkland, preservation land, and single-family residential, be amended to mixed-use.

A portion of the city draft states, “Presently, no public or private infrastructure exists within the property, and roadways would need to be extended several hundred feet (at a minimum) to access the developable portion of the site. One roadway access extending from existing right-of-way would require traffic accessing the site to utilize a local road through an existing residential neighborhood. A proposed access, from the north, would avoid most impacts to existing residential development, but would involve crossing through City-owned land (requiring City approval) and thousands of linear feet of wetlands to access the developable portion of the site. Utilities would need to be extended to the property, though they are present adjacent to the site.”

Protect Our Wetlands, a ground-roots organization made up of local residents, has conducted multiple protests of the development where organizers presented their case as to why they say the Redfish Pointe development south of Rotary Park would deplete wetlands and destroy a natural buffer against storms.

Of the draft recommendation, Paul Bonasia, a leading member of Protect Our Wetlands Cape Coral said: “We’ve been patiently waiting for these results, and are very pleased that the city planners have validated a lot of our concerns about the benefits of the wetlands and its ability to suppress storm surge and decrease flooding.

“These are recommendations from qualified people who were hired by the city to do this. I hope these are the facts they listen to when they have the planning and zoning meeting.”

Annette Barbaccia of Miloff Aubuchon Realty Group, has represented the owners since 2017 when they first approached her with the idea they wanted to sell. The property has been owned by the current landowners since the 1950s, and at that time, the family did have development rights until the ‘90s when the city rezoned it to preservation.

Barbaccia said there has been a lot of “misinformation” spread. She said environmental consultants were brought in to examine the property, and identified a section in the middle of the 350-acre site that contained many exotics and could be developed. She points out only one-third of the property will be marked for development, while the remainder will be preserved.

“The family took it to heart and hired a range of professionals and environmental

consultants... they really got a number of people involved to help them understand the property,” Barbaccia said in a March 4 interview with The Breeze, adding there is nothing in the proposal that will see the removal of mangroves.

A future developer would have to obtain approvals from the DEP and Army Corps of Engineers for any design and development of the property, as well as conduct other studies when it comes to flood impacts.

A portion of the city’s draft recommendation states, “Development of this area, particularly the roadway, could negatively impact the protections offered by the substantial wetlands in this area as well as place commercial and residential development proposed for this area in harm’s way.

“This greater likelihood of dangers to development such as flooding coupled with the large amount of wetlands located onsite, both within the amendment area and also that which is owned by the applicant (but not subject to the amendment), would indicate that the current Natural Resources/ Preservation future land use map classification that was placed on this property in 1989 was appropriate then and continues to be appropriate today.”

Regarding the city’s conservation and coastal management element, the draft recommendation states, “The placement of a mixed-use development in an isolated upland pocket surrounded by wetlands is wholly incompatible with the protection and conservation of nearby wetlands.”

The topic does not appear on the April 2 Planning and Zoning agenda.

The next Planning and Zoning meeting after that is May 7.

Deadline: Property taxes due Monday; IRS gives income tax filers a break

Value for each property.”

Caldwell said value is then modified by exemptions such as homestead, disability, widows, and other variables.

“Finally, the taxing authorities set their respective millage (tax rates) and those are multiplied against the taxable value of each property to arrive at the ad valorem taxes due,” he said. “Taxpayers are encouraged to visit www.leepa.org for more information on each of these issues, including informational videos about the most asked about topics.”

Discounts are given for early payment November through February. Residents can check the status of their property tax account online.

Taxes paid in November receive a 4% discount, December is a 3% discount, January is 2% and February is 1%.

According to the Property Appraiser’s

website, a property’s fair market value can be determined by one or more of three different methods.

The first is to compare similar properties that have recently sold, which are analyzed carefully to get the true picture.

The second is based on how much money it would take to replace an individual’s property with one just like it.

The final method is used in addition to the other two if an individual owns property which does, or could, provide an income, such as an apartment complex, retail store space, or office building. In that case, the Property Appraiser must consider such dollar figures as revenues, operating expenses, insurance, maintenance costs, degree of financial risk incurred by owning the property, and finally, the return most people would expect to receive on that kind of property.

If an individual believes their assessment does not represent the fair market value of the property, they may file a petition with the Clerk of Court for a hearing before the Value Adjustment Board (V.A.B.).

For more information, visit www.leetc. com, or www.leepa.org.

Extension for hurricane

According to the IRS, combined with earlier tax relief provided for taxpayers in counties affected by Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Helene, affected taxpayers in all of Florida now have until May 1 to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments, including 2024 individual and business returns normally due during March and April 2025 and 2023 individual and corporate returns with valid extensions and quarterly esti-

mated tax payments.

The May 1, 2025, filing deadline applies to:

n Any individual or business that has a 2024 return normally due during March or April 2025.

n Any individual, C corporation or tax-exempt organization that has a valid extension to file their calendar-year 2023 federal return. The IRS noted, however, that payments on these returns are not eligible for the extra time because they were due last spring before the hurricane occurred.

n 2024 quarterly estimated tax payments normally due on Jan. 15, 2025, and 2025 estimated tax payments normally due on April 15, 2025.

n Quarterly payroll and excise tax returns normally due on Oct. 31, 2024, Jan. 31, 2025, and April 30, 2025.

FDOT to hold public meeting next week on proposed SR 78 improvements in Cape

The Florida Department of Transportation is hosting a public information meeting for SR 78 safety improvements from east of Del Prado Boulevard to Hibiscus Drive in Cape Coral Wednesday, April 2 (virtual) and Thursday, April 3 (in-person)

The proposed project includes preparing final construction plans for the addition of safety improvements along Pine Island Road. The proposed improvements include an access modification which will include a median closure at the Lowe’s entrance along SR 78, the addition of a second eastbound left turn lane at Pondella Road, the introduction of traffic channelization islands at the Del Prado Boulevard intersection and the introduction of a directional median island at the Hibiscus Drive intersection. Lighting, signalization and pedestrian improvements are also being proposed at various locations within the project limits.

There are two ways to participate in the meeting:

Cape Computer Club to meet Wednesday

The Cape Coral Computer Club meets over Zoom the first and third Wednesday of each month, with the next meeting being from 2-4 p.m. on April 2, 2025. Meeting topic: “Turn a PowerPoint into a YouTube Video and Creating Google My Maps.” There will be time for questions and answers.

All skill levels are welcome. For more information, visit our website: https://www.capecoralcomputer.club/ Use the “CONTACT US” feature to register for a complimentary Zoom link. If you have any questions or need help with Zoom, call: 321-430-5959.

Club Zoom meetings are recorded. If you become a member and miss a meeting you have the opportunity to watch the presentation at a later date. The Zoom format works well because you don’t have to be in Florida to participate in and enjoy all of the benefits the club has to offer. Please see the website for additional information.

Sands to present ‘That’s Life’ concert

April 6 at Cape Cabaret

Tony Sands will present his production of Sinatra’s “That’s Life” Concert at 7 p.m., Sunday, April 6, at the Cape Cabaret.

Sands will be performing such hits as “That’s Life,” “Come Fly With Me,” “Luck Be A Lady,” “My Way,” “New York, New York” and many more. He will be accompanied by a live six piece band.

The Cape Cabaret, a South Cape restaurant offering dining, dancing and wide variety of live musical entertainment, is at 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral. For additional information, call 239-549-3000. Get your tickets now by visiting the Cape Cabaret Theater website at https://shorturl.at/chaqJ

Tea at Epiphany April 12

Epiphany Episcopal Church will hold a traditional English Tea Saturday, April 1Hair 2, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., serving a three-course luncheon with traditional English tea, music and silent auction.

Dressy attire encouraged.

The cost is $25 per person, seats are limited. Contact Lori Brown at 239-218-7556 or Arlene Steller at 239770-4468 for tickets

Epiphany Episcopal Church is at 2507 Del Prado Blvd., S., Cape Coral. Visit https://www.epiphanyepiscopalchurch.org/ for additional information about the church or its services and programs.

Gulf Coast Village to host April 16

Moving Made Easy workshop

Gulf Coast Village is hosting an information-packed workshop for retirees considering a move. Moving Made Easy – Unlocking the Doors to a Worry-Free Future will provide exclusive insights from industry experts on a variety of relevant topics.

Planned for Wednesday, April 16, at 2 p.m., at the Gulf Coast Village auditorium, attendees will learn about current real estate market trends, thanks to Rick Pitts and Shelley Gentry of Cape Coral-based Sellstate Excelsior Realty; Stress-Free Downsizing, by Donna Whitehead from senior move management company Tranquil Transitions; and Moving Made Easy, thanks to Gulf Coast Village’s move coordinator, Maureen Thatcher.

In addition to these informative and valuable presentations, residents at the independent, resort-style living community at Gulf Coast Village will share stories about their personal moving experiences.

n Virtual: Persons who do not wish to attend the public information meeting in person can join the meeting virtually at 6 p.m., April 2. To register for the Public Hearing, please use the following link https://attendee.gotowebinar. com/register/3948717236020462938. You will receive an email with a link to log in the day of the virtual meeting. If using a mobile device, the free “GoToWebinar” Application is required to attend. Please allow adequate log-in time to view the presentation in its entirety. Please review the materials on project webpage before attending the virtual event (https://www.swflroads.com/project/450723-1). Materials will be posted by April 1.

n In-Person: The public information meeting will be held at the Cape Coral Technical College, at 360 Santa Barbara Blvd., N., Cape Coral, April 3. The public information meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. as an open house format.

Community Calendar

RSVP by April 9 to secure a seat at the workshop by calling 239-510-8712 or visiting GulfCoastVillage.org/ Event/Moving-Made-Easy/.

Macaroni KID to host Spring Fest 2025 at Mercola Market in Cape Coral

Looking for a fun-filled day the whole family can enjoy? Macaroni KID is hosting its second annual Spring Fest on Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Mercola Market Cape Coral, at 125 S.W. 3rd Place.

This free event offers a day packed with exciting ac-

The public information meeting will include a viewing of the project video and a live question-and-answer component with the project team. The same information will be presented at both the virtual and in-person public information meeting, so attending both is not necessary.

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. Persons who require accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or persons who require translation services (free of charge) should make this request to the FDOT Project Manager at least seven days prior to the meeting.

If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Project Manager, David Agacinski, at 239225-1924, via email at david.agacinski@dot.state.fl.us, or visit the project website at https://www.swflroads.com/ project/450723-1.

tivities, including bounce houses, lawn games, character appearances, crafts and food from local food trucks. Attendees can also explore a variety of local vendors showcasing unique products and services.

A highlight of the event will be the Easter egg hunts happening throughout the day:

n First Easter Egg Hunt: 10 a.m.

n Second Easter Egg Hunt: 12 p.m.

n Special prize eggs will be hidden every hour for lucky winners to find. Visit mercolamarketcc.com for more information.

SUDOKU SHEFFER CROSSWORD

Difficulty: BRONZE

SporTS

Warming waters brings beginning of tarpon season

The move into April with water temperatures finally climbing into the low 70s signals the beginning of some of the best multi-species fishing of the year in Southwest Florida, from the shallow flats, nearshore structures, to far offshore into the newly named Gulf of America.

Capt. George Tunison

Tarpon are moving up from the Keys and 10,000 Islands and many locals have already reported rolling fish in various locations. Soon boats off of Sanibel Island’s Knapp’s Point will be hooking up with some of the toughest fighting, bright chrome tarpon of the year, as they make their way into our local waters, with most of the gang headed up to the big tarpon spring and summer jamboree at Boca Grande Pass. Resident gold tannin-stained fish will move out of their upriver and canal wintering spots as well to join their traveling or migrating cousins for the big bash.

After hitting Sanibel, the arriving tarpon will split up with many traveling northwards along the coast, staging early in Captiva Pass, then later on to Boca Grande. Others will round the Sanibel Lighthouse Point and enter lower Pine Island Sound where fishing between Woodrings Point on up to Chino Island can be early-season productive. Some tarpon will enter Matlacha Pass while others may choose to mingle with their resident, river tarpon cousins.

During the early migration, bottom fishing with mullet, mackerel, catfish hunks, ladyfish and, if you can get it, shad, will get the game started and put fish in the air.

Fly fishing, bottom baiting, night plug casting, deep day drifting Boca Grande, tossing crabs off the beach … how do you want this year’s tarpon? Best news for newbies is you’re in the right spot. Afterall, this is where serious tarpon angling got started.

If you’re lucky enough to catch a tarpon this year, do your best to insure a healthy release of these prize gamefish.

Another group of anglers also wait for the tarpon migration as moving tarpon means sharks. Soon we will be thick with sharks of many species and sizes looking to play and test your tackle. Want to tangle with a 1,000-pounder? Fish Boca this year for yours!

I look forward each season to chumming up small

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March 28, 2025

Voting for Breeze’s Athlete of the Month for March underway

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

The Breeze had countless top performances from student-athletes in its coverage area in March and now it’s up to readers to decide who will earn top honors for the month.

Nominees for March include:

n Grady Schwiezer, senior, Island Coast Gators: The senior tossed the Gators’ second-ever perfect game in a 2-0 win against South Fort Myers. Schwiezer faced the minimum 21 batters over 7 innings of work, striking out eight along the way and needing just 76 pitches.

n Maximus Brady, senior, Mariner Tritons: The Triton made history by becoming a four-time state champion. Brady stood atop the podium once again, this year in the FHSAA 2A, 138-pound class. He won his championship match in one minute, and went undefeated on the year.

n Seth Tshiams, senior, North Fort Myers Red Knights: The Red Knight captured a FHSAA State Championship in Class 2A, competing in the 275-pound division. The senior won via an 8-1 decision.

n Emma Brannan, sophomore, Cape Coral Seahawks: The sophomore helped the Seahawks to four wins during her nomination week, including a stellar 20-strikeout performance against Gateway where she allowed just two hits in a complete game shutout.

n Gabi Winters, sophomore, Mariner Tritons: The sophomore ace had an incredible week in the circle for the Tritons. Across three games, Winters tossed 18 innings of shutout ball, striking out 39 batters and allowed just two hits. She also threw a 5-inning no-hitter against Ida Baker.

n Jazlyn Forbes, junior, Oasis Sharks: Forbes finished first in the mile with a time of 4:59:03 at the Guy Thomas Memorial Classic in a stacked field of elite runners.

n Matthew Blasena, senior, North Fort Myers Red Knights: Blasena homered twice and drove in seven runs for the Red Knights (9-6) in a 12-1 win over North Port. He leads the team with a .468 batting average and 21 RBI. Athlete of the Month nominees are comprised of the Breeze’s staff-selected Athletes of the Week for that respective month. To vote, visit www.capecoralbreeze. com and click the “Vote Now” icon on the homepage.

PreP rePorT

Boys Weightlifting District 2A-14 At Fort Myers High School OLYMPIC LIFT

Team: Fort Myers 83, Bonita Springs 64, Dunbar 33, North Fort Myers 11, Estero 9, Cypress Lake 9. Individual competition:

119 pounds: 1 David Arthur (FM) 325. 2 Mohammad Kasem (FM) 220. 3 Barron Giammarco (BS) 185. 4 Logan Leonard (BS) 160.

129: 1 Brayden Charette (FM) 430. 2 Jayson Drouillard (FM) 320. 3 Hector Nava (BS) 300. 4 Kein Apker (E) 275.

139: 1 Nick Bloomston (FM) 445. 2 Zaiyonne Williams (D) 325. 3 Jon Davis (BS) 320. 4 Sam O’Brien (FM) 305.

154: 1 David Monteith (FM) 450. 2 Zach Prieto (BS) 430. 3 Brian Goi (FM) 415. 4 Ian Lopez-Gequelin (CL) 400.

169: 1 Ryan Malkani (FM) 460. 2 Arthur Mendes (FM) 420. 3 Elias Nicholas (BS) 365. 4 Aiden McCuthcan (BS) 350.

183: 1 D’Mauri Francois (D) 490. 2 Jeremiah Samuels (FM) 400 3 Keegan

O’Connell (BS) 375. 4 Jacob Meus (BS) 365. 199: 1 Carter Birkey (NFM) 520. 2 Owen Fite (NFM) 460. 3 Sandler Pierre (D) 445. 4 David Iglesias-Noriega (D) 410.

219: 1 Mickey Georges (FM) 445. 2 Sebastian Corporan (BS) 400 3 Christain Jiminez (BS) 390. 4 Jarias Jean (D) 385.

238: 1 Fredys Chavez-Gonzales (BS) 410. 2 Jose Garcia (BS) 300. 3 Audin Crockett (E) 270.

Unlimited: 1 Michael Edwards (D) 560. 2 Kendall Guervil (FM) 525. 3 Daryl Williams (D) 500. 4 Erick Dorelien (FM) 490. Top lifter Olympic: Brayden Charette (FM). TRADITIONAL LIFT

Team: Fort Myers 82, Bonita Springs 72, Dunbar 31, Estero 18, North Fort Myers 7, Cypress Lake 2. Individual competition:

119: 1 David Arthur (FM) 380. Mohammad Kasem (FM) 255. 3 Barron Giammarco (BS) 200. 4 Logan Lenard (BS) 190.

129: 1 Brayden Charette (FM) 490. 2 Hector Nava (BS) 360. 3 Jayson Drouillard (FM) 360. 4 Luc Martois (BS) 340. 139: 1 Nick Bloomston (FM) 480. 2 Jon Davis (BS) 410. 2 Sam O’Brien (FM) 395. 4 Zaiyonne Williams (D) 375.  154: 1 Zach Prieto (BS) 560. 2 David Monteith (FM) 495. 3 Brian Goi (FM) 490. 4 Jeffery Estes (BS) 380. Also: 7 Grayson Weatherbee (NFM) 310. 169: 1 Elias Nicholas (BS) 535. 2 Arthur Mendes (FM) 500. 3 Ryan Malkani (FM) 500. 4 Aiden McCuthcan (BS) 435. 183: 1 D’Mauri Francois (D) 565. 2 Jeremiah Samuels (FM) 515. 3 Keegan O’Connell (BS) 450. 4 Jaylin Etienne (FM) 435. 199: 1 Carter Birkey (NFM) 645. 2. Sandler Pierre (D) 560. 3 John Holcy (FM) 545. 4 Michael Magas (FM) 525. Also: 7 Julian Tojanci (NFM) 400. 219: 1 Christain Jiminez (BS) 520. 2 Micky Georges (FM) 510. 3 Sebastian Corporan (BS) 480. 4 Janas Jean (D) 430. 238: 1 Fredys Chavez-Gonzalez (BS) 495. 2 Jose Garcia (BS) 355. 3 Audin Crockett (E) 305.

Unlimited: 1 Michael Edwards (D) 645. 2 Kendall Guervil (FM) 605. 3 Daryl Williams (D) 590. 4 Erick Dorelien (FM) 555. Top lifter traditional: Brayden Charette (FM).

Softball

Oasis 13, Seacrest Country Day 4: Kyra Cavender’s six RBI led the Sharks (7-5). She had three hits, including a home run and a double. Cavender also struck out 11 batters in 4 1/3 innings. Emma Neujahr doubled in n run. Charlotte 3, Mariner 2 (8 innings): Sidney Kitto had three hits, and Morgan Tucker had two hits and an RBI.

Baseball

Mariner 3, Port Charlotte 2: The Tritons (12-5) got an RBI each from Trenton Taylor, Landon Diaz and Ryan Kotarski.

Bishop Verot 3, American Heritage 1: Bishop Verot, the top Class 3A team and second overall in the FHSAA ratings, defeated the second-ranked Class 4A team from Plantation.

Beach Volleyball

Estero 5, Mariner 0: The Tritons slipped to 4-6 on the season.

Bishop Verot 5, Aubrey Rogers 0: Wednesday’s sweep kept the Vikings undefeated at 8-0.

Boys Tennis

Bishop Verot 5, Oasis 2: Nate Orozco and Michael Abreu picked up singles wins for Oasis.

Tuesday

Baseball

North Fort Myers 17, Lehigh 0 (4 innings): Caedon Conn, Aiden Estrada and Junior Tome drove in three runs for the Red Knights (9-6). Nicholas Oliveros doubled three times. Tome and Caleb Mask combined for four no-hit innings.

Gulf Coast 8, Island Coast 2: Nate Jaquez and Archer Ellis drove in runs for the Gators (13-5).

Riverdale 6, Ida Baker 5: Robbie Hensley drove in two runs for the Bulldogs (7-9).

Aubrey Rogers 11, Cape Coral 0 (5 innings): Cape Coral is 5-11.

Softball

North Port 10, North Fort Myers 9: Kaliyah Williams and Liliana Hertzog drove in two runs each as North Fort Myers lost for the third time this season (7-3).

Riverdale 9, Ida Baker 5: The Bulldogs are 2-6. Cape Coral 6, Aubrey Rogers 2: Emma White drove in two runs for Cape Coral (10-3).

Bishop Verot 3, t. John Neumann 1: Crimson Lawrence homered, driving in two runs for the Vikings (74). Paige Bettermann struck out 13 batters in five innings.

Flag football

Mariner 26, Cape Coral 0: The Tritons improved to 4-1 on the season.

Gateway Charter 13, Bishop Verot 12: The Vikings (5-2) fell a point short against 6-1 Gateway Charter.

Girls Tennis

North Fort Myers 6, Ida Baker 1

Singles: Alexis Neumann (NFM) d. Maria Radford 6-0, 6-0. Alivia Neumann (NFM) d. Franchesca Vazquez 51, 6-0. Daniela Salgado (NFM) d. Julika Feix 6-0, 6-0. Sofia Uzcategui (IB) d. Zoey Sumo 6-0, 6-2. Berenice Sanchez (NFM) d. Corrie Morris 6-3, 6-0. Doubles: Neumann/

Mighty Mussels announce 2025 promotional schedule

The Fort Myers Mighty Mussels have announced their 2025 promotional schedule – highlighted by Grand Slam Saturdays, fireworks, post-game concerts, theme nights, and specialty jerseys.

The 2025 season opens on the road Friday, April 4, in Palm Beach, with the team’s home opener set for April 8 against the Tampa Tarpons at 7:05 p.m. Visit https://www.milb.com/fort-myers/tickets/ promotions for the Mussels full schedule of games and promotions.

The team will run weekly recurring promotions, with the Grand Slam Saturdays featuring a rotation of character appearances, premium giveaways and post-game concerts.

The weekly promotions are as follows:

Tuesday – “Turn 2’s Day” featuring 2-for-1 beers, hot dogs and sodas.

Wednesday – “Ballpark Bingo” featuring baseball themed bingo cards and prizes. Presented by Ambetter Health.

Thursday – “Mussel Up for the Community Night’s” will spotlight community focused industries throughout the season. The Mussels are running a nomination platform on their website where community members can nominate an individual or organization to be recognized before the game and receive a $500 donation from the Mussel Up For SWFL Foundation. Nomination portal found here.

Highlighted groups include:

First Responders, April 10

— Healthcare Workers, April 17

— Veterans, May 1

— Small Businesses, May 8

Non-Profits, May 29

— Agriculture, June 5

— Youth Sports, June 19

— Transportation, Aug. 7

— Educators, Aug. 21

— Environmental Groups, Sept. 4

Friday – Post-Game Fireworks every Friday home game.

Saturday – “Grand Slam Saturdays” a rotation of character appearances, postgame concerts or a premium giveaway. Grand Slam Saturdays kicks off with a Bluey and Bingo appearance on April 12. Other featured events include:

— April 19, Pre-Game Easter Egg Hunt.

— May 10, “A Man in the Mirror, the Ultimate Michael Jackson tribute band”.

— June 7, Nashville recording artist Kelsey Hickman returns for her second concert at Hammond Stadium.

— June 21, Blink 180-Deux (Blink

United Way, Mussels to team up for fundraiser

United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades and the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels are teaming up to hit a home run for United Way’s more than 90 partner agencies and over 260 programs.

United for a Cause will be held Saturday, May 10 at Hammond Stadium at the Lee Health Sports Complex in Fort Myers. Mighty Mussels players will wear custom jerseys that will be auctioned after the game to benefit United Way. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the first pitch is scheduled for 6:05

182 Cover Band) will perform a postgame concert.

— July 5, Mussels patriotic bucket hat to the first 500 fans presented by Frantz EyeCare.

— July 19, Walker Jenkins bobblehead giveaway presented by Conditioned Air.

— July 26, Miracle Night, where the Mussels will honor their heritage with throwback Miracle jerseys and special appearances by former Miracle players.

— Aug. 2, a Mussels 30oz Tumbler presented by Gerber Collision.

— Sept. 6, Mussels Tank Top giveaway

p.m.

Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased at https://bit.ly/UfaC_ MM25. For every ticket sold through the special link, $5 will be donated to United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades. Enjoy a great night of baseball under the lights with family and friends, all for a worthy cause.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for this family-friendly event. Please contact Marissa Crawford at 239-600-6994 or Marissa@ UnitedWayLee.org.

presented by Busch Light.

Sunday — Kids’ Day at the ballpark featuring free tickets for all kids 12 and under, pre-game catch on the field and post-game run the bases, presented by Forza Education.

The Mussels will also host three All You Can Eat Brunches on Sunday, April 13, May 11 and June 8.

Other dates on the schedule include Islands Night on May 7, the Oatmilkers Jersey night on June 5, Christmas in July on July 25 and Back to School Night on Aug. 1.

Tarpon season: Warming water temperatures will bring big fish back

From page 34

to medium-sized sharks in shallow water and challenging them on lite tackle using lures and flies. A 50-pounder on a heavy snook rod or a 10-weight fly rod is a highspeed-drag-burning hoot that will keep you coming back for more.

Rising water temps also mean bigger snook as the wintering females come out to play and prepare for their summer of love all along our beaches. Spring is a great time to intercept these hungry fish

From page 34

Neumann (NFM) d. Raford/Feix 8-0. Salgado/Sumo (NFM) Vazquez/Sienna Rodriguez 8-3.

as they slowly transition from their cool water spots out to the coast. Island points, docks near deep water channels, bridges, mangrove shorelines with current and later the passes all are potential intercept points along the way to their eventual coastal summer home, where they will stay till the cold winds once again blow.

Early spring isn’t the time to be burning your snook lure at summer retrieve speeds. The water is still cool from a snook’s perspective so shrimp-tipped jigs, suspending twitch baits, top-waters and chunky flies

PreP

Boys Tennis

Mariner 6, Island Coast 1

Singles: Andy Cajigan (IC) d. Ryan

Hunter 6-0, 6-0. Damien Gleason (M) d. Caleb Tran 6-0, 6-0. Carlos Gonzalez (M) d. Caleb Cruz 6-0, 6-1. Emanuel

are great early spring choices. For that trophy, fish big dead baits on the bottom in a choice location along the migration route and wait one out.

Moving nearshore, find the last of the sheepshead, along with drum, smaller but tasty mangrove snappers and wandering cobia. Remember any trash or float along the way could be a home for a delicious tripletail.

The deeper you go out in the Gulf usually means bigger grouper and snapper, African pompano, bigger cobia and gour-

rePort

Barros (M) d. Derick Bento 6-0, 6-0. Jason Berenguer (M) d. Bladimir Palomo-Castro 6-0, 6-0. Doubles: Hunter/Gleason (M) d. Cajigan/Tran 8-6. Josh Kata/Mason Earley (M) d. Bento/Cruz 8-1.

met-grade triggerfish. Back in sweet water, the largemouth bass spawn is still underway. Sight fishing a 10-pounder in Lake Okeechobee is a great start to spring.

Capt. George Tunison is a Cape Coral resident fishing guide. You can contact him at 239-579-0461 or via email at captgeorget3@aol.com.

Girls Lacrosse Gulf Coast 15, Bishop Verot 4: The Vikings are 3-6. Daphne O’Hara scored twice for Bishop Verot, with Liz Schlager and Caroline Ward adding a goal each. Lily Lockard made two assists.

Northwest Regional Library: Programs, activities for April scheduled

From page 18

Join us for a life-size version of this classic board game.

Plantstravaganza: Storytime

5:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 15

Join us for a plant themed storytime in honor of Earth Day. In the spirit of gardening, we will provide pots to decorate. All supplies provided, while supplies last.

Plantstravaganza Partner Expo

5:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 15

Keep Lee County Beautiful, Lee County Solid Waste, a Lee County park ranger and more participants will be on-site to support Lee County’s plant people. Plant-related activities, toys and crafts will be available.

Plantstravaganza: STEAM Meet-Up

6 p.m. ,Tuesday, April 15

Join us for a STEAM monthly meet-up. During this special edition we will be partnering with local vendors to learn all things earth, dirt and gardening. Come out for a night of learning and help us plant a

community herb garden. All supplies are provided.

Books and Blankets

6:15 p.m., Tuesday, April 22

Join us with your blankies and pajamas for this nighttime edition of storytime. Your whole family is invited to this enjoyable, all-ages storytime that encourages the development of pre-reading skills through songs, rhymes, fingerplays and stories.

LEGO Club

1 p.m., Saturday, April 26

Drop in for building challenges the whole family will enjoy. For all ages. All materials are provided.

Teen Programs

Kids Read Down Fines

4:30 – 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 2, 9

11 a.m. – noon, Saturday, April 19

Children and teens can earn a $2 credit on overdue fines for every 15 minutes they read in the designated area for a total of $8 in one session. Please bring your library card.

Chess at the Library

5:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 8

Enjoy chess at the library in a casual environment. Chess boards will be provided, but you may also bring your own. People of all ages and skill levels are invited.

Plantstravaganza Partner Expo

5:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 15

Keep Lee County Beautiful, Lee County Solid Waste, a Lee County park ranger and more participants will be on-site to support Lee County’s plant people. Plant-related activities, toys and crafts will be available.

Paint Like Pollock

2:30 & 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 29

Unleash your creativity in a way that’s as vibrant as it is messy. Inspired by the bold, chaotic strokes of Jackson Pollock, this action painting experience takes things to a whole new level under UV black lights. Dress for a mess.

The Northwest Regional Library is located at 519 Chiquita Blvd., N., in Cape Coral. For more information about a pro-

gram or to register, please call the library at 239-533-4700. Check the Lee County Library System’s website at www.leelibrary.net to find out about programs at other locations. Call the host library, or Telephone Reference at 239-479-INFO (4636), for more information about a specific program.

To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www.leegov.com/resources/newsletters. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Lee County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in its services, programs or activities. To request an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or a reasonable modification to participate, contact Raphaela Morais-Peroba, 239533-8782, Florida Relay Service 711, or rperoba@leegov.com. Accommodation will be provided at no cost to the requester. Requests should be made at least five business days in advance.

Forbes finished first in the mile with a time of 4:59:03 at the Guy Thomas Memorial Classic in a stacked field of elite runners.

“It is always great to win any race, especially against a talented field of athletes. I plan to continue working hard in every workout to accomplish my season goals.”

Blasena homered twice and drove in seven runs for the Red Knights (9-6) in a 12-1 win over North Port. He leads the team with a .468 batting average and 21 RBI.

“It was a day game, so I was feeling more relaxed up there and just focusing on my approach and trying to have some fun. I’ve been working every day to improve my game with my coaches and just buying in to what they’re telling me.”

Jazlyn Forbes Junior Track & Field

Matthew Blasena Senior Baseball

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Death Notices

Cape Coral Cape Coral

Alexandeur Milann Lawrence, 29, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away March 22, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

Carolyn Ann Kamptner, 79, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away March 22, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services- Fort Myers.

Isabel Cristina Pina Lopez, 67, of Cape Coral, FL passed away March 20, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

John S. Cruikshank, 70, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away March 19, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

James Tyler Warrington, 32, of Cape Coral, passed away Saturday, March 22, 2025. Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.

Marion Lisbeth Emer, 94, formerly of Cape Coral, FL passed away on March 15, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Service. www.fullermetz.com

Anna R. Valentin, 90, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away March 13, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

Deborah Jo Rennie, 71, of Cape Coral, FL passed away on March 21, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Mez Cremation and Funeral Service. www. fullermetz.com

Carmen H. Sierra, 84, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away March 16, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

Doris Anne Golembeski, 80, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away March 23, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

Richard Alan Keeney, 69, of Cape Coral, FL passed away on March 18, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Service. www.fullermetz.com

Fort Myers

Pura Reveron, 82, of Fort Myers, Florida passed away March 6, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

Marcia Eleanor Stokes, 85, of Fort Myers, Florida passed away March 25, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

Death Notices