041625 Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin
PRIVATE GARAGE INCLUDED to keep your vehicle secure. 2nd Floor condo is located just 10 minutes from Ft. Myers, Ft. Myers Beach & Sanibel. Breakfast bar & dining nook. Floors are tiled & carpeted. Window shutters. 2BD/2 ensuite BAs. The open plan living & dining area is great for entertaining. Bonus den area. Gated community has clubhouse w/fitness room, resort style pool + hot tub. Furnished. $289,000
COMPLETELY UPDATED BEACH COTTAGE Along a direct Gulf access canal, between 2 beach accesses. This elevated waterfront property features 2BD/2 ensuite BAs, w/walk-in closets. Rentals allowed. 7000 LB boat lift + new dock , workshop, well & irrigation. New 200-amp service, generator & RV circuits. Mini split AC/heat, instant water heater. TURNKEY. $769,000
WINDWARD POINT OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY APRIL 19 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
BY THIS SATURDAY to see the 1- & 2-bedroom units that are on offer at Windward Point Condominium. All units have two baths. The large pool provides a panoramic view of the Bay as you swim. Located on the tranquil south end of the island, with convenient access to the mainland via Big Carlos Pass. #308 11:00-12PM; #408 NOON-1PM; #604 1-2PM. 400 Lenell Rd. $329,000 to $479,900 CORNER LOT ON ESTERO & CONNECTICUT - Prime homesite directly across from the beach! This spacious lot is across the street from a wide beach access & parking corridor, giving this property the advantage of more Gulf views. Captures views of the Gulf & beach from your elevated new dream home! Property can be rented weekly. $975,000
Chris Loffreno Allie Henry Charlie Smith
Tracey Gore
Ronald Coveleski
Rita M. Oben Summer Stockton
LPA recommends approval of Arches Bayfront hotel project
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency unanimously approved the Arches Bayfront hotel project at Moss Marina with a Comprehensive Plan amendment and Commercial Planned Development rezoning this past week.
It’s the first step in a review process that requires Town of Fort Myers Beach Council approval.
The project includes an 81-foot high,
Sand dredge pipe leak clears park as town announces beach renourishment project will run through May 31
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
As beachgoers were enjoying another day in paradise at Lynn Hall Memorial Park this past Thursday during spring break week on Fort Myers Beach, the serene atmosphere was abruptly upended when a sand dredge pipe burst open in the middle of the beach opening a large hole with quicksand and gushing water.
Though the leak was ultimately repaired, the town announced that its beach renourishment project will be further
delayed to May 31 as it works to pump sand to the southern section of the island. The town’s efforts have been concentrated lately around Leonardo Arms, which has been in need of renourishment around its depleted shoreline for years.
The new delays means that the town’s beach renourishment project, which was supposed to have been completed in January, will now extend into sea turtle nesting season.
The state’s sea turtle nesting season for Fort Myers Beach begins May 1 and could cause complications for threatened See SAND DREDGE, page 14
263-room hotel and other commercial uses that equates to a hotel that is taller than Margaritaville with more rooms. The project requires eight deviations from the town’s local development code, including deviations from the town’s height restrictions and for a parking reduction of 50%.
The project had been recommended for denial by town planning staff.
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council now must hold two public hearings on the
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council will interview the finalists for the Town Manager position on Friday.
The interviews will take place at the Town Council Chambers inside the town’s temporary Town Hall trailer at 2731 Oak Street next to the Bay Oaks Recreational Campus.
The five candidates will meet with the public from 9-9:30 a.m. After that, town councilmembers will meet individually with the candidates.
“This will give community members the opportunity to speak to candidates face to face prior to interviews with Council,” Fort Myers Beach spokesperson Nicole Berzin said.
At 1 p.m., the town councilmembers will return to an open session of the special town council meeting. Councilmembers will then interview candidates one at a time publicly.
Berzin said this will be the time where any questions submitted by the public ahead of time may be asked.
All questions can be submitted online at the town’s website at the request tracker link located at https://www.fortmyersbeachfl.gov/requesttracker.aspx.
Town of Fort Myers Beach Human Resources Director Talissa Oliveria “will go through the questions submitted and select the most relevant to ask,” Berzin said. “There is only a certain amount of time per candidate, so there may not be enough time for all questions submitted to be asked.
The finalists for the Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager position are:
∫ Michael Brillhart, interim manager of Crescent City, Florida
∫ William Lawrence, manager of the Town of Lady Lake, Florida
∫ William McKannay, an emergency management consultant based in Texas
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Web Poll
Web Poll Results
Do you support the lawsuit seeking to overturn the Fort Myers Beach Council’s approval of the Seagate project?
∫ Yes, 80%
∫ No, 12%
∫ Unsure/no opinion, 8%
Current Web Poll
Do you support the town starting a new television station?
∫ Yes, it will help with communications.
∫ No, it will take away staff from more important priorities.
∫ No opinion, unsure.
fortmyersbeachtalk.com
Local woman shares gratitude for quick recovery after breaking her ankle while playing pickleball
An evening of friendly competition pickleball with friends last summer sent me to the hospital and led to months of rehabilitation, giving me a new appreciation for my mobility.
The injury came when I tripped, dislocating my ankle and breaking it in three different places. The doctor called it a right closed displaced trimalleolar ankle fracture. When I heard my ankle pop and felt my bones break, I just knew it was going to be a long road to recovery.
Keegan Myers Lee Health Guest Column
Thankfully, my care team acted quickly. I had surgery the next morning and started physical therapy four weeks later. My surgeon told me patients can have limited mobility for as long as 16 weeks with this break. With a lot of rehabilitation and collaboration from my care team, I was cleared to walk again in just one month.
I was thankful to have my friends and family there for me. I also appreciated the timely and compassionate care I received from the doctors, nurses and physical therapists at the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute. They became like a family while I had surgery and pre-and post-operative care at Gulf Coast Medical Center. They provided a positive environment to start my rehabilitation journey, and I was grateful for their support.
Undergoing orthopedic surgery
The first thing my care team did when I got to Gulf Coast Medical Center’s Emer-gency Department was X-ray my ankle and stabilize it for the evening. Later that night, I was moved to the hospital’s sixth floor.
The next morning, I began pre-operative care for my Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) surgery where the surgeon placed
A shameful cover-up of public school failures
To the editor:
The Florida Senate is pushing legislation that masks the harsh reality of our public education system. Senate Bill 166, passed unanimously by the Senate Fiscal Policy Committee, eliminates the requirement for high school students to pass 10th-grade standardized tests in English and Algebra to graduate. At a time when 56% of Lee County seniors cannot pass a 10th-grade reading test and 63% fail math, this bill lowers expectations instead of addressing the crisis.
a surgical plate and screws onto both sides of my ankle to realign the bone fragments and hold them in place to heal.
Since my experience, I learned the ORIF is a common procedure used to repair fractured and broken bones. It is recommended for severe fractures that can’t be helped with non-surgical methods, like a splint or cast.
Thankful for support from the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute
Since surgery was needed for my injury, an orthopedic surgeon developed a personalized treatment plan, performed the procedure and collaborated with the care team to support my recovery.
I’m grateful for the team of orthopedic experts at the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute who provided advanced care and helped me regain mobility. Bone and joint conditions can affect people of all ages, often making the simplest daily activities like walking up stairs and moving around the house more challenging.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition or preparing for surgery, the expert care team at the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute will support you and cheer for you every step of the way, like they did for me.
Physical
therapy and being able to walk again
After two weeks of not putting weight on my ankle, my splint, stitches and staples were removed, and I began wearing a walking boot. I could finally start putting weight on my foot, and I appreciated even the small victories.
Lee County Schools proudly tout an 85.8% graduation rate for 2024, yet the numbers reveal a troubling truth: Many of those graduates cannot read their diplomas or perform basic math. Instead of reforming education and holding schools accountable, this bill lets students graduate without proving they’ve mastered essential skills. This is not reform—it’s a cover-up.
Adding insult to injury, this comes as public school employees were not satisfied with a fiveyear pension cash bonus and used their public
therapy.
At my four-week post-operative appointment, my boot was removed and I was cleared to begin walking again — another small victory.
The last piece of the journey to resuming normal activities was a little over a month of physical therapy appointments. Yet another thing to celebrate.
Lee Health has physical therapy options throughout Lee County. I was happy there was a location closest to where I live. That really helped make the process easier, allowing me to easily get to my appointments each week — I was thankful to have options.
The greatest victory during this process was the encouragement and steadfast support from my physical therapists. Physical therapy was the key to helping me regain my strength and feel comfortable walking again.
Not only did they help me physically, but they also helped me mentally. I felt accomplished every time I left and that positive support really helped me feel like I could accomplish my goals.
I noticed a positive change every time. I was always looking forward to my next appointment. While I may not be playing pickleball any time soon, I feel like I’m back to the mobility I had before the surgery. I was able to walk around Universal Studios with my family and I know the physical therapy team and everyone at the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute helped me get there.
What to do if you injure yourself playing pickleball
Sometimes, all it takes is one specific movement to hurt yourself, where you trip or lunge for a ball. That’s what happened to me.
If an injury does occur, the best thing someone can do is take a break. It’s also best to see a doctor if it hurts to put weight on the injury or if there is a lot of swelling. An X-ray can help determine the extent of the injury. For more information and to make an appointment with a physician, please visit www.leehealth.org.
positions to take a 60% increase in pension cash bonuses to eight years. (https://tripledippers. org/fl-lee-county-schools-cash-outs-q1-2025report/) We must demand accountability and advocate for real solutions:
∫ No student should receive a high school diploma without passing 10th-grade level tests.
∫ Students must repeat fourth grade until they can pass reading and math at the fourthgrade level. After all, you cannot learn if you cannot read.
∫ Introduce merit-based pay for teachers, rewarding those who achieve meaningful imSee LETTERS, page 18
Arrest made in crash that killed local high school student
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Florida Highway Patrol announced an arrest in the fatal car crash that killed Jaciey Hogan, a 17-year-old student at South Fort Myers High School student last month.
Isaac Giovani Sales, 19, of Fort Myers, was charged with vehicular homicide in the crash. Sales was the driver of the vehicle in which Hogan was a passenger. Sales is alleged to have driven through a red light, allegedly causing the crash that occurred while Hogan and Sales were on their way to school on March 12.
Sales was also charged with reckless driving involving serious injury and reckless driving involving property damage.
Hogan worked at Nervous Nellie’s on Fort Myers Beach and her mother, Trish Johnson, works as a server at the DiamondHead Beach Resort. The hotel recently held a fundraiser for Johnson.
The crash occurred when Sales was traveling east on Gladiolus Drive, on the center lane, approaching a red traffic signal at Maida Lane, according to FHP. A second vehicle was initially stopped on Gladiolus Drive, on the left turn lane. As the traffic signal changed to a green arrow, the second vehicle proceeded to turn left. The sedan driven by Sales allegedly failed to stop for the red traffic signal on Gladiolus Drive and entered the intersection. The front of the sedan collided with the right side of an SUV.
The SUV was redirected to the east and collided with a wastewater lift station. A properly parked vehicle at 7841
Gladiolus Drive was also damaged by crash debris. The 30-year-old Fort Myers driver of the sedan was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.
A GoFundMe page was set up to support Johnson at https://www.gofundme. com/f/in-memory-of-loving-jaciey.
The GoFundMe page, set up by Johnson’s friend Stacia Conyne, states that “Jaciey was beautiful, caring, loving, and the light of any life she touched. Trisha is a strong single mom who has done her best in raising a strong young woman like herself. I know Trisha has been there for all of us at some point in our lives. Now is the time for us to be there for her. Any donation of any size will help during this tragic time.”
The Lee County School District offered counseling services for both students and staff who may need emotional support.
According to an online obituary,
Jaciey Hogan (left), a South Fort Myers High School student who worked at Nervous Nellie’s on Fort Myers Beach, was killed in a crash on her way to school when the vehicle she was a passenger in allegedly ran through a red light and collided with an SUV last month. Hogan worked on Fort Myers Beach as does her mother Trish Johnson (right). The driver of the vehicle who allegedly caused the crash was recently arrested.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Hogan had an “adventurous and courageous nature. Her hard work and commitment were evident in all she undertook. Jaciey was a dedicated motocross racer, showcasing her daring spirit and unwavering determination. This reflected her larger personality: a fearless daredevil with a heart full of love. She was a true friend, always ready with a smile and a helping hand, cherishing the bonds she shared with those fortunate enough to call her friend.”
In addition to her mother Trisha Johnson, Hogan is survived by her father Jeremy Hogan and brother Leighton Hogan.
“As a cherished daughter and sister, Jaciey brought immeasurable joy to her family. She possessed a boundless capacity for love and had so much to give. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering optimism touched everyone she met,” the obituary reads.
DeSantis announces bonuses for police recruits
STAFF REPORT
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has announced that the state has awarded more than 7,800 recruitment bonuses to new law enforcement officers through the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program. The latest round of bonuses went to officers serving in Marion County, while an additional 660 bonuses have recently been distributed to recruits across the state.
Launched in 2022, the program provides a one-time $5,000 bonus—after taxes—to newly employed officers in the state.
Each of the 7,800 newly recruited officers has received a $5,000 bonus after taxes, with the program distributing more than $53 million to date.
To date, more than 1,700 law enforcement officers from 49 other states and two territories have relocated to Florida.
In addition to a $5,000 recruitment bonus, benefits of becoming a Florida law enforcement officer include financial stability, upward mobility, excellent health and retirement benefits, student loan forgiveness programs, home loan programs, and more.
BUSINESS
As Fresh Catch Bistro building goes, Persaud makes plans for Times Square
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
While Junkanoo and Fresh Catch Bistro couldn’t be saved after Hurricane Ian, owner Terry Persaud is shifting his eyes to his plans for a hotel on land he owns at Times Square. Persaud is scheduled to present his plans for a boutique hotel to the Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency at its April 29 meeting.
Last week, Persaud demolished the Fresch Catch Bistro building at 3400 Estero Boulevard, at the site where the Junkanoo and formerly the historic Pelican Hotel once stood. The Junkanoo and Fresh Catch Bistro buildings were both destroyed by Hurricane Ian. Only a portion of Fresh Catch Bistro was still standing until last week.
“It’s a great loss to the town,” Persaud said.
The land for both, totaling 3.49 acres, was sold to Persaud Properties FL Investments in October of 2014 for $8 million. The land had previously been the subject of plans for residential development by Persaud. Now he is looking to sell the lot.
Persaud said he had been close a couple times to selling the land after Hurricane Ian and has been in touch with a couple of developers regarding the parcel. “It has a range of possibilities,” Persaud said.
Persaud said the property is zoned for both commercial and residential. He had previously floated plans to build multi-million dollar homes on the property and had built two homes next to Junkanoo.
According to the Estero Island Historic Society, the Junkanoo building dated back to 1933. That would have made it one of the oldest commercial buildings standing on Fort Myers Beach at the time of Hurricane Ian.
After Hurricane Ian, Fresh Catch Bistro and Junkanoo operator Franco Russo relocated the businesses to Snook
Bright Marina. Persaud said the cost to rebuild at the site wouldn’t have made it worth it for him to continue operating there considering the investment he already had in
Organizers of a holiday poker run and toy drive gather in front of Junkanoo.
purchasing the land. “We hope that whoever will be able to build in there will consider building back a restaurant,” he said.
Times Square hotel
At Times Square, Persaud wants to build a “boutique hotel” with about 50 rooms where the Sunset Beach Tropical Grill once stood. According to renderings, the hotel will have a maximum height of 69 feet, eight inches above grade. Based on flood elevation purposes, the height is considered to be 52 feet above the flood elevation. The town code allows for 30 feet above flood elevation, so Persaud is seeking an additional 22 feet based on those calculations.
There would be a restaurant and bar on the bottom floor that would be similar to the Sunset Beach Tropical Grill. Persaud said he believes the new hurricane codes justify a taller building at the site.
Persaud envisions having some smaller retail vendors in front of the building. “We have that unique niche of
The late Fort Myers Beach Mayor Larry Kiker is pictured standing on the beachside property of the old Junkanoo building.
FILE PHOTOS
The Fresh Catch Bistro and Junkanoo building after Hurricane Ian.
BEACH LIVING
Art association to hold Spring Fling at new home gallery
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
While the Fort Myers Beach Art Association continues to work on fundraising to support rebuilding their decades-old gallery that stood at Donora and Shell Mound boulevard s before Hurricane Ian knocked it down, they are now the occupants of a new gallery just off island.
On Tuesday, April 22, they will celebrate with the opening of their “Spring Fling” art show, which runs through May 30 at the association’s new home at Cypress Square.
The association recently announced they signed a lease to rent out space at 13451 McGregor Blvd at Cypress Square in Fort Myers, just a couple miles from the town’s limits. Thew new gallery is next to Prawnbroker Restaurant & Fish Market.
A soft opening has been scheduled for the gallery on Thursday, May 1, from 4 to 6 p.m.
Fort Myers Beach Art Association President Star Sherwood said the organization has been “working very hard on the details of rebuilding on our property on the island. We have the architectural plans drawn up, we have met with builders, and we have been actively fundraising. However, none of this can happen until we have the capital needed to re-build. And, as you can imagine, it is not easy to raise the large amount of money we need before we can put shovels in the ground. Our dream is to have our own gallery space and we are not giving up on this dream, but it will take us awhile to get there. All funds raised for rebuilding are in a restricted fund.”
Sherwood said that while the association was “eternally grateful to all of the galleries, art leagues, and churches that have allowed us to use their facilities to hold our art shows, receptions, workshops and classes, we feel it is time to find our own space where we can focus on keeping our members together while we continue to be a vital part of the art community.”
Sherwood said the decision to rent out space “has not been an easy one, but after the Board of Directors and the majority of our members have all endorsed this option, we are moving forward.”
The association’s main focus was “to find an affordable prime location that would be convenient for our members and our customers as well,” Sherwood said. “We looked
Beach tram service to end April 23
Lee County’s LeeTran beach tram for Fort Myers Beach will end next Wednesday, April 23. The free tram runs from Bowditch Point Regional Park to the Fort Myers Beach Public Library daily from 8:30 in the morning, to 11:30 p.m. The transportation service runs each year from November to April during the island’s busy tourist season.
PHOTO PROVIDED
The Fort Myers Beach Art Association’s “Spring Fling” show will run from April 22 to May 30 at its new gallery at Cypress Square, at 13451 McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers. A soft opening will be held on May 1 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
for space on Fort Myers Beach and the surrounding area, however, there is not much available and we were concerned about the possibility of flooding during hurricane season. Our focus was to find a space that offers a high-traffic, reputable area that can enhance our visibility and increase our customer base.”
The association lost some members who relied on selling their artwork, Sherwood said.
“Our goal is to get back to our beloved Fort Myers Beach,” she said.
For more information on the Fort Myers Beach Art Association, visit www.fortmyersbeachart.com. To donate to the association’s efforts to rebuild, visit https://fortmyersbeachart.com/donations/.
The gallery is open Thursdays through Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m. Admission is free.
Progress on Fort Myers Beach fire station
NATHAN MAYBERG
FORT MYERS BEACH FIRE CONTROL DISTRICT FACEBOOK
The Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District released these photos this week of construction for its new fire station at the former Topps Supermarket lot near the former town hall along Estero Boulevard, The new station will replace the one off Donora Boulevard and Estero Boulevard that was destroyed by Hurricane Ian.
BeachJenny
Lee County Clerk to host class on small claims suits
Anyone who would like to learn how to file a small claims lawsuit themselves is invited to a free virtual class hosted by Lee County Clerk and Comptroller Kevin Karnes.
The class will be held today, April 16, from 2-3 p.m. through the online platform Zoom.
Small claims lawsuits are civil disputes involving money damages where the amount at issue does not exceed $8,000 excluding costs, interest and attorneys’ fees. Examples include contract disputes, property damage and debt collection.
During the session, attendees will learn the following:
∫ General information on small claims cases
∫ Form requirements
∫ Fees associated with filing a case
∫ How to file electronically
∫ Methods of collection post judgment
∫ Available contacts & resources
A representative from the Lee County Legal Aid Society will be available for a Q&A session immediately following the presentation. (Florida law prohibits the Clerk’s office from providing legal advice, and this seminar is solely for informational purposes. For legal inquiries, customers should speak with an attorney.)
Lakes Park boardwalk to close
STAFF REPORT
Sections of the boardwalk at Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Drive in Fort Myers, temporarily will be closed for maintenance beginning May 1 through mid-September.
The closure will include the boardwalk to the west of Whistle Stop Ice Cream and the marina area. However, the ice cream shop will remain open throughout the maintenance period.
The project is part of ongoing improvements to enhance safety and accessibility at Lakes Park.
The planned timeline, weather permitting, is:
∫ April 15-30 – Mobilization and staging of equipment and materials.
∫ May - June – Renovation of boardwalks
∫ July - August – Work on boardwalk and the concession area.
∫ September – Final wrap-up, with anticipated project completion by mid-September.
For safety and efficiency, the entire project area will remain closed throughout the construction period rather than reopening sections as they are completed.
This will allow crews to complete the work more quickly and with minimal disruption, county spokesperson Tim Engstrom said.
The class is free, but registration is required to receive the Zoom link. Participants can register at www. leeclerk.org/seminar.
This class is part of the “How-To” series provided by the Clerk’s office to educate the community about all of the resources available to them. Recorded tutorials of past “How-To” classes are available at www. leeclerk.org/howto.
Lions Club scholarship applications open
STAFF REPORT
The Fort Myers Beach Lions Foundation is now accepting applications for their 2025 ‘We Serve” scholarships, Fort Myers Beach Lions Foundation Scholarship Chair Darby Doerzbacher announced.
Scholarship awards for college or vocational educational assistance are given to local students who demonstrate ability, need, the desire to help others, and a solid record of community service, Doerzbacher said.
This year, the Lions will be awarding scholarships to 10 deserving applicants.
The form to apply can be found on the Fort Myers Beach Lions Club website at: www.fmblions.com.
All completed applications must be submitted no later than May 31. Questions can be addressed to: info@fmblions.com. Winners will be announced in June.
Kevin Karnes
Quick actions of emergency responders save man’s life on beach
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Teamwork between Town of Fort Myers Beach rangers, off-duty Collier County firefighters, Fort Myers Beach firefighters and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office helped saved an Indiana man’s life recently on the beach after he went into cardiac arrest.
The Town of Fort Myers Beach recently recognized the efforts of town rangers and Lee County Sheriff’s Office deputies for their heroic actions that involved CPR and the use of automated defibrillators.
The events unfolded on the beach near the Margaritaville Beach Resort, when a man collapsed face-first into the sand. Neighborhood Services Ranger Roxanne Tucci, who was on patrol in the area, came across the collapsed man who “appeared to be unconscious,” Fort Myers Beach Operations and Compliance Manager Tom Yozzo said.
After checking his pulse, Tucci radioed for help and for emergency responders to contact 911. After starting CPR on the patient, Tucci was assisted by two off-duty Collier County firefighters.
After about eight or nine minutes of CPR, Lee County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived with an automated external defibrillator. Lee County Sheriff’s Office Deputy David Goff and Deputy Francisco Generale responded to the call.
“We got a medical call for an adult male on the beach near Margaritaville and were told CPR was already in progress,” Generale said.
Goff utilized the automated extern defibrillator to shock the man, while Generale took over CPR. Goff said the defibrillator had to be used three times to revive the individual.
Generale estimated he performed chest compressions for several minutes before the man, a vacationer from Indiana, grasped the deputy’s hand and began breathing on his own.
He was transported to a local hospital where he recovered.
Generale said this was his second time saving somebody.
“In 2018, we had a guy who overdosed on fentanyl and we gave him CPR for 30 to 45 minutes before he was revived. I saw him on the streets a few weeks later and he was so thankful,” Generale said.
Tucci was assisted at the scene by Fort Myers Beach Neighborhood Services Ranger Bob Monohan, Neighborhood Services Ranger Mike Mahon and Code Enforcement Officer Tim Hoffman.
Fort Myers Beach Fire Chief Scott Wirth said the department’s firefighters arrived on the scene as the Sheriff’s Office was administering the automated defibrillators. “Our team continued advanced life support efforts and secured the patient for transport” after the patient was revived. The firefighters assisted in bring the patient to an ambulance.
Monohan said he thinks the patient would not have survived if not for Tucci’s quick reaction to the situation. Monahan said Tucci’s “initial actions to jump right in at the onset and start the CPR” saved his life. “Without a doubt in my mind, that man would not have walked off the beach if Roxanne was not there and did what she did.”
The town also recognized Neighborhood Services Coordinator Rileigh Baker and Neighborhood Services Ranger Jose Grisanty Luciano.
Yozzo said that while the town has several defibrillators at the town hall and Bay Oaks Recreational Campus, he wants rangers to be able to carry mobile defibrillators for these types of emergencies.
Yozzo said he just ordered two more defibrillators for the town and wants to order three mobile kits that rangers can carry. He estimated the cost for each full kit to be approximately $2,000.
Yozzo credited the rangers for doing what they were trained to do in this instance.
“They acted according to their training,” Yozzo said. “This is what they do.”
According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the patient has made a full recovery and is back home in Indiana.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Bob Monohan, Neighborhood Services Ranger, Tim Hoffman, Code Compliance Officer, Mike Mahon, Neighborhood Services Ranger Town Councilmembers (left to right): John King, Jim Atterholt, Dan Allers, Karen Woodson and Scott Safford, Fort Myers Beach Operations and Compliance Manager Tom Yozzo
Rileigh Baker, Neighborhood Services Coordinator, Roxanne Tucci, Neighborhood Services Ranger, Mike Mahon, Neighborhood Services Ranger, Tim Hoffman, Code Compliance Officer, Jose Grisanty Luciano, Neighborhood Services Ranger. Back row (left to right): Fort Myers Beach Operations and Compliance Manager Tom Yozzo, Operations and Compliance Director Frank Kropacek
Lee County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. John Armato (left to right) with Deputy Francisco Generale and Deputy David Goff.
Arches Bayfront
development, with the first hearing scheduled for Monday, May 5.
The approvals by the LPA occurred near the end of a nearly nine-hour meeting. The developers had previously proposed three hotel buildings with 400 rooms at the site before pulling back their plans last year. The new plans call for the tallest building to reach seven stories.
This was the first meeting by the LPA on the new plans and aside from concerns about the buffer between the hotel and local neighbors, and concerns about balconies that would overlook the properties of local neighbors, the project encountered little resistance from LPA members.
As part of the approvals, Chair Anita Cereceda asked that the developers bring forth new plans to provide more buffering from the project for several neighbors who had spoken up at the hearing to oppose the project.
“Your project is going to change things dramatically,” Cereceda said. “It’s going to change their neighborhood.”
Cereceda said that it was a difficult decision for her to arrive at, after initially opposing the original plans. Cereceda voted to approve the plans along with the rest of the board and said that while the project is “high, it’s dense,” but said “I think I am doing the right thing.”
The developers were represented by The Neighborhood Company, planning consultants headed by Patrick Vanasse, a former Local Planning Agency board member. A day earlier, the firm recently helped win approvals from the town council for a food truck park near the Pelican
Watch condo building.
Vanasse responded to concerns by Cereceda about creating more of a buffer between the development and neighbors by saying he would come back with plans for plantings.
Chris Mosteiro, a neighbor of the proposed development who said he lives about two dozen feet from Moss Marina, said there should be more public benefits. Mosteiro said storm drainage is a major problem in the area and expressed concerns about flooding issues. Mosteiro said the buildings would tower over his home. Mosteiro said the project would “drastically change our neighborhood.”
Mosteiro said the project’s buildings were even taller than originally proposed and wasn’t responsible for a neighborhood with limited access “and little thoughtfulness to the neighbors.”
Mosteiro said the new plans don’t address concerns residents had raised previously in the original plans about the size of the buildings, access and concerns about “balconies facing our homes.”
Mosteiro said an application by Moss Marina in the 1980s to expand was denied by Lee County due to a lack of access.
“The roads have not gotten any bigger,” Mosteiro said. “There is no good access for this size development today. What they are calling a linear park is laughable. It is a required buffer which is going to become a pedestrian highway in our backyards. What is currently a quiet, enclosed boat shed 25 feet from my house is going to be balconies and gathering
places.”
Mosteiro said the buffer should be at least 25 feet with a park with larger green space. “Where are the public benefits?”
Robin Atwood, another neighbor in close proximity to Moss Marina, said he was never contacted by the Freeland family proposing the development.
Atwood expects a large increase in vehicular traffic which she said would interfere with the local, downtown pedestrian traffic. Atwood complained of a lack of a buffer in the Arches Bayfront plans between her property and the site of the project.
Atwood also expressed concern about a proposed bar on site, which she said would turn into an ongoing party near her home.
“If there is a bar, and people are vacationing there is a loud party,” she said.
“My view is of a marina. For 30 years it’s been my view. Now it will be people looking back at us at our homes.” Atwood said the plans of Arches Bayfront has “balconies looking down on our homes.”
Dale Bonema, a neighbor of the property, said he believed the project would devalue his home and that the LPA did not follow the directives of the town’s professional planners that recommended denial of the project.
“It’s very disappointing. Having lived here through that whole Margaritaville battle which went on for years,” Bonema said. Bonema said he couldn’t understand how the Arches Bayfront project (which is approximately 30 feet taller) was allowed so much quicker, while closer to more res-
NESTLED IN THE HEART OF SW FLORIDA
idential properties. “It’s a different time. Build big. It will probably be nicer than Fort Lauderdale.”
Arches Bayfront will have its first hearing in front of the town council on Monday, May 5.
The meeting began with Councilmember Karen Woodson, local Realtor Paula Kiker and Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resource Task Force member Ed Rood questioning Cereceda’s decision to donate to the citizen group Protect FMB. The group is suing the town over the town council’s approval of the Seagate Development Group project. At a town council meeting the previous day, Woodson and Councilmember Scott Safford had questioned whether Cereceda could fairly oversee the meeting in light of her donation. Safford and Woodson were particularly concerned about the Arches Bayfront review. Safford questioned whether Arches Bayfront could “get a fair shake.”
Cereceda, a registered Republican, said that when she heard the comments it made her feel as though she was being treated like “a card-carrying Communist and that was very upsetting to me.”
Woodson had questioned whether Cereceda could still lead the LPA.
“I believe in all of my deepest heart that anybody who comes in front of this body will get a fair hearing and a just hearing and an impartial hearing,” Cereceda said. Cereceda was elected as the town’s first mayor and has served multiple terms as a town councilmember.
Contractors attend to a sand dredging pipe water leak that split open the piping at Lynn Hall Memorial Park and led to a large hole of quicksand forming in the middle of the beach. Part of the park was closed on Thursday until workers had the pipe fixed by the next day. The pipe is part of the Town of Fort Myers Beach renourishment project that is several months behind schedule.
Sand dredge
From page 1
sea turtles who will now have to navigate around large sand dredging pipes that are stretched along approximately four miles of the beach and pose safety risks to the turtles.
The town’s sand renourishment and sand dredging project has already interfered with the first two months of the shorebird nesting season for Southwest Florida. The town has four threatened shorebirds that nest on the island. Last year, the town’s sand haul project also interfered with shorebird nesting season. The town has received waivers from the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection to continue its project through the shorebird nesting season.
Officials with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection did not respond to questions about the latest delays and extension of the town’s project into sea turtle nesting season.
Town of Fort Myers Beach Environmental Projects Manager Chadd Chustz said the DEP just issued an extension and modification to the town’s beach renourishment permit.
Contractors from Ahtna Marine and Construction Company worked this past Thursday to fix the water leak at Lynn
Hall Memorial Park after a sand dredging pipe split early in the afternoon, causing water to shoot up from underneath the sand in a large swath of the town’s busiest section of beach at Lynn Hall Memorial Park.
Mike Case was on the beach with his family when the incident occurred.
“All the sudden it made a big hole,” Case said. “It was a terrible odor at first. People picked up their stuff and left. The beach was full,” he said.
“It started saucing up and down,” Case said. He advised people around the developing hole to get out of the way. “It
started gushing up. I told those people you need to clear out.”
Case said there was a lot of commotion, with people hollering, picking up their belongings to get out of the way and commenting on the smell.
“It looks like a volcano fixing to blow,” Case said while watching a sinkhole emerge in the middle of the beach after the pipe burst and quicksand quickly opened up in the hole as water gushed.
Chustz urged the public on Thursday to avoid the area until the repair was completed. “Wet sand looks like quicksand. Quicksand looks like wet sand. So you can sink pretty deep, pretty quick. You want to avoid that area while equipment is on the way to repair the pipe,” Chustz said.
Fort Myers Beach spokesperson Nicole Berzin said Saturday that the leak was fixed.
Fort Myers Beach Councilmember John King said Thursday he had been informed that the hole that developed was acting like quicksand.
A video taken of the sputtering water and hole by an onlooker showed the water circling and gushing out.
The smell from the sand-mixed seawater initially led some to wonder if what they were witnessing was something different though Chris Hill, a superintendent from Ahtna Marine and Construction Company, said he believed it was purely a water leak that was caused by sand wearing out the pipe. “It happens on every job,” Hill said.
“Over time, you have sand wearing out the pipes which caused a split in the pipe. Over time, sand slides over the pipe and the bottom half, which wears out the pipe and it splits. It came out with water.”
Contractors worked to dig out the pipe and make repairs which lasted to late afternoon and early evening as a section of the park was closed off to allow for the equipment from the contractors to be transported on the beach to make the repairs. The pipe was then buried again under the sand.
“If we see a wet spot in the dirt, we try to dig it out immediately,” Hill said. . Hill said this was the second time such a leak occurred in the project. The first
NATHAN MAYBERG
The Town of Fort Myers Beach announced that its beach renourishment project, which has previously been delayed into April, is now not expected to be completed until May 31.
Town Manager From page 1
∫ Scott Moye, former county manager of Ware County, Georgia
∫ Jeremy Shaffer, village administrator of Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio
Alternates:
∫ Patrick Jordan, Ionia County administrator in Michigan
∫ John Trew, general superintendent of Portage County Engineer’s Office in Ohio
Sand dredge
The final group was narrowed down by town staff from a list of 66 candidates to replace outgoing Town Manager Andy Hyatt. Hyatt announced he will be stepping down at the end of April. Hyatt was hired by the town in 2023 to replace the town’s interim managers Chris Holley and Keith Wilkins that were hired by a new town council in November of 2022 after the town council parted ways with longtime Town Manager Roger Hernstadt.
From page 14
time was near the beginning of the sand dredging project. Hill attributed it to the type of sand being used, which he said is “a real fine sand. It likes to float. It is a dusty, light sand,” he said. He said the sand has been blowing around due to the high winds in the area over the last several months, which included two hurricanes — Milton and Helene.
Hill said there is about four miles of pipe for the dredging and sand renourishment work. This is the longest dredging project he said he has worked on.
The work began last summer.
The pipe stretches for miles up the beach and is currently situated near Leonardo Arms, which has faced the largest erosion of its shoreline.
Instead of starting the beach renourishment project at Leonardo Arms last year after shorebird nesting season began, the town and its contractors started the project on the northern end of the island last summer. The contractors only began on the southern end of the project in January. The southern end of the island is where the bulk of the town’s shorebird nesting
The sand dredging pipe pumps water and sand for miles across Fort Myers Beach, as part of a renourishment project that was sheduled to be completed by January. The project has extended into shorebird nesting season and will now interrupt sea turtle nesting season.
The town council chose all of the finalists that were suggested by town staff though in their vote on the finalists, Councilmember Scott Safford did not endorse William Lawrence or John Trew. Councilmember Karen Woodson did not endorse Brillhart, Lawrence or Moye. The Town of Fort Myers Beach will cover the travel expenses for the manager candidates.
activity takes place.
The project has run several months past the expected completion time, which was in January. When the Town of Fort Myers Beach bid out the project and awarded the bid to Ahtna in May, the project was expected to be completed in 180 days, with an allowance to 195 days. The project has now far exceeded that timeframe by more than three months.
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council awarded the bid to Ahtna Marine and Construction Company last May with a bid protest from Callan Marine. Callan Marine alleged that the bid by Ahtna was more $15 million below the bid of Callan Marine as well as two other competitors who bid even higher, was not responsive to the bid specifications as it could not be completed on time based on the equipment Ahtna would have on hand based on its bid response.
On Thursday, Fort Myers Beach Environmental Project Manager Chadd Chustz said the project’s timeline has now been extended to May 31 after previously been extended to April 1 and then April
15. According to a source familiar with the workings of the project, the May 31 deadline announced by the town might not even be the actual timeframe for when the project is completed. There is a possibility the project could extend into June or July.
Shorebird nesting season started Feb. 15, which includes nesting for several threatened bird species that nest on the island. The sea turtle nesting season technically begins on May 1 though Turtle Time begins its work identifying nests and other sea turtle activity on the beach April 15.
Chustz said the town will work with Turtle Time to relocate any nests which need to be moved for safety reasons.
Chustz said Thursday a Wilson’s plover nest, an imperiled bird species in Florida, had been located with eggs on the island.
Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Andy Hyatt and Town of Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers did not return messages seeking comment.
The incident Thursday occurred during what is historically one of the town’s busiest weeks, spring break
RENDERINGS PROVIDED
Times Square From page 6
small vendors to create that beach vibe,” Persaud said.
The Sunset Beach Tropical Grill, like every other beachfront property at Times Square, was leveled to the ground by Hurricane Ian.
“It was a huge loss,” Persaud said. “We
lost everything there.” Persaud said he was denied his claim on his wind insurance policy and said the building had no flood insurance. He paid $3.15 million for the lot back in 2014.
“We spent quite a bit to rehab it,” Persaud said. “It was one of the nicest
spots in Times Square to go to.” Persaud was in a long, protracted legal battle with the town over alleged code violations. He earned a victory in court after challenging the amount of fines a former town magistrate had charged him.
“We were starting to hit our stride and then Ian took us out,” he said.
Persaud said he is looking to “find something that works” and to make a return on his investment.
“We’re committed to the town. We are committed to rebuilding,” he said. “We
See TIMES SQUARE, page 17
The renderings of a proposed 48-50 room boutique hotel at Times Square with a restaurant and bar proposed by Terry Persaud at the site of the former Sunset Beach Tropical Grill. The former restaurant and bar was destroyed by Hurricane Ian.
Times
Square From page 16
hope to be one of the first on Times Square to get rebuilt.” He believes he can complete construction on the hotel within 12-14 months once he gains approvals from the LPA and town council.
It wasn’t that long ago after Hurricane Ian that owners of property at Times Square were working together on new designs to redevelop Times Square and help replace the structures and businesses that were lost. While the businessowners were working on their plans, they were surprised to learn last year that the town had also been separately working on such plans. Then two of the owners of properties at Times Square died, which threw off the momentum of the project. “It got a little sticky,” Persaud said.
Persaud said that property owners at Times Square are now working individually on rebuilding plans but also together to help each other out on understanding codes and other issues with rebuilding after the town’s top tourist draw was decimated by Hurricane Ian. There has been little public discussion since last year regarding plans the town had been working on for Times Square.
Persuad also owns the property that was occupied by the PierSide Grill and Famous Blowfish Bar, The Pier Peddler and Dairy Queen right next to where the Fort Myers Beach Pier has laid in ruins for two and a half years. He bought the prime beachfront land for $6.4 million last year.
The pier, owned by Lee County, is not expected to be rebuilt until 2027 and restrooms nearby at Lynn Hall Memorial Park are not expected to be rebuilt until 2028. That hasn’t helped speed up Persaud’s timeline for rebuilding there.
There is one parcel between the PierSide Grill and Famous Blowfish Bar property and the former Sunset Beach Tropical Grill property, which Persaud does not own.
Persaud believes the recent approval of the plans for Arches Bayfront at Moss Marina by the LPA will help boost the likelihood his development will also be approved. The Arches Bayfront project is much larger and about as big in some respects as Margaritaville.
The hotel will need deviations from the land development code for parking and for added density.
“It’s up to the town to see what appetite they have for redeveloping the town and getting small businesses back on our feet,”
Persaud said. “The need exists for (the hotel) at Times Square.”
FILE PHOTOS
St. Peter’s reopens sanctuary in time for Easter
On Palm Sunday, April 13, St . Peter Lutheran Church at 3751 Estero Blvd. had its first service inside the Fort Myers Beach church since before Hurricane Ian. This was a surprise for the congregation who had been worshipping under a tent since early 2023.
St. Peter Lutheran Church President Dr. Jason Kurtz announced to the attendees the surprise news. Pastor Tom Frey led the congregation up the ramp and into the building to the sounds of the congregation’s new organ, played by organist, Arlene Burm.
When Hurricane Ian struck, both buildings of the church sustained extensive damage resulting in the lower building, Lau Hall, being demolished. The main sanctuary/office building was spared any structural damage, but had flooring ripped up, roofing blown off and doors and windows damaged. There was also extensive water damage to much of the interior, St. Peter Lutheran Church administrator Trudy Archer said.
The congregation had been in talks with Chapel by the Sea and Beach United Methodist Church about uniting, after Chapel by the Sea’s building was destroyed and the congregation of Beach United Methodist also suffered extensive damage at their church. A group from all three congregations was formed to find a way to worship together that would be meaningful for all, Archer said. After several meetings, “a more ecumenical service liturgy was agreed upon with something from all the churches included,” Archer said.
A tent was purchased, the portable sound system that St. Peter had used during the COVID pandemic was checked and the keyboard that was used occasionally got a new foot pedal. Some chairs were purchased and folks brought their beach chairs from home. Voila, there was church.
“We soon realized that we were once again an actual congregation and got larger and larger,” Archer said. “The members and friends of St. Peter Lutheran Church are thankful to the community of Fort Myers Beach for all they have done, whether by donation, prayer or emotional support. We have had folks from many different denominations visit us and want to make sure that folks
know they are welcome. Although we are now inside the building, the spirit and nature of worship has not changed.”
There will be services on Maundy Thursday at 9 a.m., Good Friday at 6 p.m. and Easter Sunday at 9 a.m. There will be a formal rededication service in the fall, Archer said.
St. Peter Lutheran Church is at 3751 Estero Blvd.
Letters
From page 4
provement in their students’ test scores. The future of our students, employers, and country depends on raising standards—not lowering them. Contact your Florida State Senator https://www. flsenate.gov/about/contact and State Representative https://www.flhouse.gov/ FindYourRepresentative https://tripledippers.org/fl-lee-county-schools-cashouts-q1-2025-report/
must register and complete training.
— More Voter Information Required: Petition forms must include a Florida driver’s license/state ID number or the last four digits of a Social Security number, replacing the current date-of-birth option.
— Legal Challenges to Amendments: SB allows voters to challenge an adopted amendment in court over eligibility.
— Hosts of fines, civil penalties, and crimes are added
Dave Jaye Bonita Springs
— Impact on Current Petitions: Both bills apply to petitions for the 2026 election.
The end of Florida Citizens initiatives?
To the editor:
Did you know that Citizen initiated Constitutional Amendments may become a thing of the past in the State of Florida? Here’s what is brewing in Tallahassee:
HB (House Bill) 1205 and SB (Senate Bill) 7016 add new challenges to the citizens initiatives process. (There are 15 pending citizen initiatives besides Florida Right to Clean Water) :
—$1 Million Bond: SB requires donations to first cover election office costs and then secure the bond.
— Stricter Rules for Petition Circulators: Anyone collecting petitions
— Timeline: The bills take effect immediately upon becoming law. A final compromise bill could be passed in April before the session ends on May 2. The roadblocks in these two bills will eliminate any possibility of citizen-based changes to be put on voting ballots. Contact your senator & representative to stop these efforts to end our voter participation in changing the future direction of the State of Florida.
Links to both bills are below.
https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/ Bill/2025/1205
https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/ Bill/2025/7016
David Bortell North Fort Myers
PHOTO PROVIDED
FORT MYERS
Community Thrift Store
15501 Old McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Fort Myers CVS
15550 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Gavin’s ACE Hardware
16025 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Gulf Point Square
15660 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Love Boat Ice Cream
16475 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
McGregor Bar & Grill
15675 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Pickles Pub
15455 Old McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Walgreen’s
15601 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
Walters Automotive
15135 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
FORT MYERS BEACH
Chamber of Commerce
100 Lovers Lane, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
CVS Store
7001 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Bonita Bill’s
702 Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Diamond Head (Lobby)
2000 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Doc Ford’s
708 Fisherman’s Wharf Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
FMB City Hall
2731 Oak St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Lahaina Realty
6035 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Lani Kai
1400 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Lighthouse Restaurant/Bar
1051 5th St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Loffreno Real Estate Inc, 7317 Estero Blvd. C1, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Matanzas Inn
414 Crescent St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Nervous Nellies
1131 1st St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Parrot Key
2500 Main St. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Pincher’s Crab Shack
18100 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Pink Shell Resort
275 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Post Office
200 Carolina Ave. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Santini (Marina) Plaza
7205 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Sea Gypsy
1698 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Snook Bight Marina/Junkanoo’s
4765 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Summerlin Café
11370 Summerlin Square Drive, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Sunflower Café
11410 Summerlin Square Drive, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Sunset Grill
1028 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
(News box out front)
Snug Harbor
645 San Old Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Parking Lot BOX
Tina’s Dive Bar
19051 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Wahoo Willie’s
645 San Old Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Wal-Mart
17105 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
7/11
7120 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
WHERE TO GO WHAT TO DO WHO TO SEE
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to hold event along Caloosahatchee River April 19
STAFF REPORT
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is inviting the public, including all boaters, kayakers, anglers, and outdoor lovers to join an impactful cleanup of the Caloosahatchee River on Earth Day, April 19.
On April 19, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be offering two ways for the public to participate:
Clean Up Your Way: Participate on your own schedule and from your favorite spot along the Caloosahatchee. Simply collect any litter you find while boating, kayaking, or walking the shoreline.
Weigh your trash with the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers: Meet up with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at the W.P. Franklin South boat ramp (1661 S. Franklin Lock Road, Alva) from 2 to 4 p.m. The debris will be weighed and properly disposed of.
“Earth Day’s theme this year, ‘Our Power, Our Planet,’ really resonates with this event,” said Megan Parsons, Natural Resources specialist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “It’s a fantastic chance for everyone to get outside, enjoy our incredible river, and directly contribute to its health. Plus, it’s a great way for students to earn those valuable volunteer hours.”
Here’s how to get involved, wherever you are:
n Grab a bucket or trash bag.
n Focus on litter in the water and along the banks.
n Stay safe. Be mindful of sharp objects and wear a life jacket when near or on the water.
Can’t make it to the boat ramp? No problem. Share your impact. Send photos of your collected debris and the total weight to Ranger Megan Parsons via email to publicmail.cesaj-cc@usace.army.mil or text at 863-8408598.
Rangers will also be out on patrol, doing their part to keep the Caloosahatchee pristine. Together, they will tally up the collective efforts of the cleanup.
Mighty Mussels to host Easter Egg Hunt April 19 at Hammond Stadium
Series also features Fish Fry, postgame fireworks to pop music soundtrack on April 18
The Fort Myers Mighty Mussels will host Southwest Florida’s largest Easter Egg Hunt featuring thousands of eggs scattered across the outfield grass inside Hammond Stadium at the Lee Health Sports Complex.
Gates will open at 4:50 p.m. on Saturday, April 19, to accommodate early arriving families. The annual holiday tradition begins promptly at 5:15 p.m. as children 12 and under line up along the foul lines before Mussel Man himself leads participants across the field.
“The Easter Bunny will be hiding several thousand eggs in the outfield grass at Hammond Stadium, covering nearly 3 acres with eggs,” said Managing Partner John Martin. “They say the Kentucky Derby is the most exciting two minutes in sports, but our Easter Egg Hunt is quite the spectacle and parents probably enjoy it as much as the kids.”
The Easter Egg Hunt highlights a six-game homestand against the Bradenton Marauders that includes the following gameday promotions:
Today, April 16 (First pitch: 7:05 p.m.)
∫ Baseball Bingo: All fans will receive a free bingo card upon stadium entry and can play along for chances to win prizes throughout the game.
∫ Silver Sluggers: Senior club members get free tickets and parking to all Wednesday home games.
Thursday, April 17 (First pitch: 7:05 p.m.)
∫ Mussel Up for the Community: Thursday home games in 2025 will spotlight a nonprofit or individual
that is championing a charitable cause. This game celebrates health care workers.
∫ Beer Special Thursdays: Fans 21+ can purchase two 16-ounce beers for $5.
∫ College Night: Students can purchase $5 tickets at the box office with a valid ID.
Friday, April 18 (First pitch: 7:05 p.m.)
∫ Firework Fridays: Pyrotechnics will light up the sky above right field after the final out. This week’s show will be accompanied by a pop music soundtrack.
∫ Fish Fry Friday: Concession stands will be serving battered fish with hushpuppies and coleslaw.
∫ Kids Club Fridays: Children who join the Mussel Sprouts Kids Club receive a T-shirt, free tickets to all Friday home games and access to VIP events.
Saturday, April 19 (First pitch: 6:05 p.m.)
∫ Easter Egg Hunt: Families with children are encouraged to arrive early for an on-field Easter Egg Hunt that begins at 5 p.m.
Collaboratory Showcases Not Forgotten Faces Exhibit
Adults with special needs inspire photos
Collaboratory will host a photo exhibit featuring campers who have attended Trailways Camp, which is dedicated to adults with special needs.
The exhibit, which runs through April 25, features more than two dozen portraits shot by photographer George Waters.
“It’s all about awareness,” said Sharon Miller, who established Trailways Camps Inc. in 2012 and has since run 40 camp sessions in LaBelle. She and her husband, Jerry Miller, created the camp to develop and provide unique experiences for adults with special needs and provide respite for their caregivers.
“We’re in our 80s now,” Sharon Miller said. “We want these people and their needs known. These adults live among us, but do you know that they live among us?”
Sharon and Jerry Miller understand the social isolation experienced by adults who have disabilities. Both of their sons, Robert and Benjamin Miller, who passed away due to the complications around their special needs, are also featured in the exhibit. The Millers estimate that about 1,000 young adults graduate from special education pro-
PHOTO PROVIDED
grams in Lee, Hendry, Glades, Charlotte and Collier counties each year, and most have few opportunities to participate in the community.
The traveling exhibit is free and open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It will run through April 25. For more information on Trailways Camp visit trailwayscamps.org.
∫ Children’s Advocacy Night: Players will wear custom pinwheel jerseys that will be auctioned to support Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month.
∫ Bark in the Park: Leashed dogs are welcome at Hammond Stadium.
Sunday, April 20 (First pitch: 12:05 p.m.)
∫ Kids Catch on the Field: Children can play catch from 11 to 11:30 a.m.
∫ Kids Run the Bases: Children can run bases after the game.
∫ Kids Free Ticket Sundays: All children 12 and under can receive free tickets to every Sunday home game during the 2025 season.
Mighty Mussels tickets start at $10 and are available at the Hammond Stadium box office or online at MightyMussels.com.
Florida Repertory
Education announces 2025 Summer Theatre
Camp programs for children Ages 5 - 18
This summer, young artists are invited to discover the world of theatre through musical-intensive and mini-star camps offered through Florida Rep’s education program. The sessions are open to students of all skill levels, ages 5 –18, and run daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The camp fees are $440 per child for two-week musical intensive programs and $325 for the mini-stars program. Payment plans, sibling discounts, and scholarships available. Program enrollment is limited. To register, call 239-219-1551 or visit FloridaRepEducation.Org.
The two-week musical theatre intensive camps are designed for children ages 8 – 18 and feature Broadway Junior and Youth Edition musical titles. Students work with theatre professionals to develop their acting, singing, and dance skills on a professional stage. The camps culminate with a public performance in the Historic Arcade Theatre - complete with costumes, sets, and lighting – on the last two days of each session. Camp offerings include:
∫ “Disney’s Frozen, Jr.,” June 9 - 13 and June 16 - 20
∫ “Annie, Jr.,” June 23 - 27 and June 30 – July 3
∫ “Wizard of Oz” – Youth Edition, July 7 – 11 and July 14 - 18
∫ “Peter Pan, Jr.,” July 21 – 25 and July 28 – Aug. 1
Camp mini-stars are designed for children ages 5 – 7 and include activities inspired by the complementing summer intensive titles. Participants play and explore through music, creative movement, theatre games, and arts and crafts projects, and end with a performance for families on the final day of camp.
∫ “Summer Wonderland” June 9 – 13 and June 16 – 20
∫ “Big City Lights” June 23 – 27 and June 30 – July 3
∫ “Nature is All Around Us,” July 7 –11 and July 14 – 18
∫ “Lost Boys, Brave Girls,” July 21 –25 and July 28 – Aug. 1
There are also volunteer opportunities for students ages fifteen to eighteen to serve as junior teaching assistants (JTAs) at the camps. These youth leaders assist head teaching artists during the two-week sessions. An application may be found at FloridaRepEducation.Org/summer-intensives
WHAT’S HAPPENING
The Fort Myers Film Festival’s 15th Year to kick off May 14
The Fort Myers Film Festival, to be held May 14-18, is celebrating its 15th year of indie film! This milestone event promises an exciting lineup of films, screenings, and engaging activities, including the highly anticipated Red Carpet Opening Night Party on May 14.
Tickets for the Fort Myers Film Festival are available for purchase through the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s website at www.sbdac.com. For full details on the festival schedule, ticketing, and sponsorship opportunities, visit the official FMFF website at fortmyersfilmfestival.com or contact Eric Raddatz at eric@fortmyersfilmfestival.com.
Etiquette Class offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates
On May 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host an etiquette class for children ages 6-12. The class is a two-hour session in good manners, where children will learn how to conduct a proper introduction, handshakes and dining etiquette during a three-course meal.
Suzanne Willis teaches the class at the Estates. She is a graduate of the Protocol School of Palm Beach and a Fort Myers native. Willis started the etiquette classes in honor of her grandmother, Florence “Mimi” Black, who was active in the community and served on the Estates’ advisory board for more than 30 years. Black met Thomas and Mina Edison when she was a young girl. Each student will receive a workbook and certificate of completion. The menu includes broccoli cheese soup served with dinner rolls and butter, chicken Française served with rice pilaf and mixed vegetables, and chocolate cake for dessert.
Registration is required at EdisonFord.org. The cost of the class is $85 for Estates’ members; $95 for non-members. Parents should plan to drop children off for the class.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.
The Dubin Center to host Backyard Game Day on May 18
The Dubin Center will host its Backyard Game Day event from 4 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 18, at Bay Street Yard in downtown Fort Myers. Proceeds from the event will support the center in providing services to local families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Backyard Game Day will have food, drinks, and a lively tournament featuring ping pong, cornhole and more in the heart of downtown Fort Myers’ River District.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit DubinCenter.com/backyard-game-day or call 239-4373007.
GCWA 2025 Annual Writing Contest accepting entries through June 30
The Gulf Coast Writers Association (GCWA) is pleased to announce the opening of its annual writing contest and accepting entries through June 30.
The challenge includes three genres, Fiction, Nonfiction, and Poetry, and caters to aspiring writers worldwide. Last year’s winners crossed the globe from Southwest Florida to Wales, U.K.
Each category offers first, second, and third-place prizes--$200, $75, and $50, respectively. Winners will be notified on or before Aug. 15, with a celebration scheduled at the GCWA September meeting on Sept. 20. To learn more, read previous prized stories, and
Religious Services
Services at Beach Baptist Church
Beach Baptist church at 130 Connecticut St., Fort Myers Beach Service at 10:30 every Sunday
All are welcome, we are pet friendly! 239-463-6452
https://beachbaptist.org
Services at St. Peter Lutheran Church
St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in America at 3751 Estero Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach
Outdoor Services under the tent
Every Sunday 9 a.m.
All are welcome, we are pet friendly 239-463-4251
stpeterfmb@gmail.com www.stpeterfmb.com
YouTube - St Peter Lutheran Church Fort Myers Beach FL
In cooperation with former Chapel by the Sea and Beach United Methodist Church.
Services at St. Raphael’s Episcopal Church
St. Raphael’s Episcopal Church welcomes the public each Sunday at 10 a.m. for services in its parish hall at 5601 Williams Drive in Fort Myers Beach.
For more information regarding services, contact 239-463-6057 or email office@straphaelschurch.org
submit yours, please visit the contest section of www. GulfWriters.org.
PET PALS
Foster needed!
Looking for a place to land (foster). Beautiful friendly Great Dane male who has been around other dogs. We are looking for a home for him. He is vaccinated. Help this beautiful big boy! You can fill out the application to adopt on our site www.findahomegiveahome.com. Owner surrender due to moving with five dogs to an apartment only allowing two.
For more information please contact Isabelle at 239-281-0739.
Adopt a little guy!
He has been living with four other dogs including the Great Dane!! He is a miniature Pinsher. Friendly and handsome. Only 11 months old. Please text or call Isabelle at 239-281-0739
We are almost at the end of season so if anyone has some extra time now that traffic will be hopefully easing so we can get on and off our island, please contact us at 239-851-3485 if you can assist at the rescue on south end of Fort Myers Beach with feeds, cleaning and organizing items. We need volunteers to also play with cats and kittens. School-age and college students are
for a
By Jo Knobloch
welcome to help, and may get credit from their schools and colleges. We are also in need of volunteers to help feed outside strays who are lost from the hurricanes. We can supply the food.
The Book Nook store in the Santini Plaza on south end of beach is a supporter and drop off point for food and other donations. Many books to choose from there.
Churro and Copper are male siblings 11 months old and need a home together as they are very bonded. They are very playful and affectionate. Copper is medium- to long-hair orange and white and has a beautiful white mane. Churro is a short-hair orange tabby. They are beautiful kittens and in need of a home together.
If any strays are seen on the beach please call us so they can be rescued at 239-851-3485.
Uncaring people are still leaving their beautiful cats behind when moving with no shelter, food or water. They should and can be arrested if we catch them in this act of abuse.
Silver is a female dark gray kitten. She loves to play and is full of energy. She is 10 months old and ready for a forever home and would be good with other cats or kittens.
Do you remember Ginger? She was in intensive care
night after eating metal. She was saved and is now adopted by Dave and Krisce. She now enjoys boating. What a life after being used to breed and kept in a trailer with many other little dogs also used.
Mango also found a home with Corinne and her parents. An other chance for a cute little Yorkie who was left outside in the heat without food or water.
Buffy is 3 months old and part of an all orange litter of five so we have many to choose from.
PERSONNEL ANALYST, for a Tuck Serv & Maint. Comp. Min. Educ: Bach. Deg. 12 M. exp in Bus. Adm. or HHRR. Mail Res: Wilkar Capital Inc. 2201 Rockfill Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33916
Skilled Trades
Kevin Bard Carpentry LLC. is hiring: Rough carpentry framer for trusses and sheathing. Call 239-464-8946
Wanted To Buy
I BUY Houses & Real Estate
Any Condition Probate - Foreclosure Vacant - As Is I Also Buy
Notes - Mortgages Settlements - Annunities
Ken 239-295-3820 KenBuysEverything.com
Recreation Vehicles
I BUY ALL RV’s I BUY ALL Boat’s
HH I PAY CASH HH
I will Come To You To See It Quick & Easy Sale. CASH ON THE SPOT! Vince~941-301-9946~Local
Power Boats
I BUY ALL RV’s
I BUY ALL Boat’s HH I PAY CASH HH
I will Come To You To See It Quick & Easy Sale. CASH ON THE SPOT! Vince~941-301-9946~Local Canoes & Paddle Craft
Hobie Odyssey tandem kayak, 14’, good condition, solo capable, 2 padded seats, storage hatches, rod holders. 2 paddles & transport cart. $400, Bokeelia, 570-877-0383
Waterfront Homes
Open House April 12, 2025 11 am-2 pm 538 SE 4th Street
Stucco
Plaster
Waterfront property, 2855 sqft under roof, 4 bedroom / 2 bath, assessments fully paid. Screen enclosure 26’x13’ inground saltwater South facing, autofill, overflow pool 2021. Many new mechanics...roof 2023, HVAC 2024. All LG kitchen appliances, dovetail drawers, Corian counter, disposal, cathedral ceilings, 5 1/2’ baseboard, tray ceiling in master suite, mstr bath equipped with 8” spread faucets, jetted tub. Extra storage racks in 20’x21’ garage, newly paved driveway 2022. Landscaping freshly finished with classy concrete edging. Firepit & side patio 15’X13’ (2024) to watch the sunset with a view down the canal that leads to Lake Saratoga and adjoining freshwater lakes. Sellers assist available. Call 412-657-2840, Owner $519,500. Reduced SE Cape Coral high/dry Sailboat access. Long view canals. No HOA, 3/2/2 pool home w/ 2185 sq ft. Open concept, spacious kitchen,
