VOLUME 41, NUMBER 20
Town Council to review Times Square hotel plans
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
On Monday, the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council will be taking up the plans of the Times Square hotel proposed by local businessman Terry Persaud after the town’s Local Planning Agency voted unanimously last month to recommend denial of the project.
The LPA found that the five deviations from the Land Development Code that were sought for the property that
housed the former Sunset Beach Tropical Grill and The Playmore Tiki Bar were inconsistent with the town’s comprehensive plan.
The board voted to reject the plans after members of the board expressed a number of reservations about the project, including its height and level of intensity at Times Square, the town’s main tourist destination.
The hotel plans required deviations from the town code including for height,
intensity and parking. At approximately 70-feet tall, or 52 feet above the flood elevation, the project has faced concerns from the public about its impact on view from the Matanzas Pass Bridge.
Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency Chair Anita Cereceda said the height, at four stories, was too tall.
Cereceda said she would be willing to consider hotel plans that were smaller at three stories potentially. Cereceda also expressed further reservations about the
Lee County district’s leadership leaving parents worried about building’s future
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
To say Fort Myers Beach Elementary School parent Monica Schmucker is concerned about the future of the building that has been empty of students since Hurricane Helene, would be a vast understatement.
Worry, outrage and anxiety over the future of a school she has worked so hard with other parents and community members to preserve since Hurricane
Ian are all feelings she is still processing after months of weekly ad-hoc committee meetings with district officials, school parents and other community members to reopen the school.
The school has sat for months with little remedial work done since two hurricanes struck last fall.
After Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, the school was closed due to flood damage. Weeks later, the school district disclosed that they had also
found termite damage and damage to the flooring. Since then, students from the school have been attending San Carlos Park Elementary School.
Months later, there has been no word from the school district on when the Fort Myers Beach Elementary School will reopen. Or if it will reopen at all.
That last part is the most troubling part for parents like Schmucker who banded the community together to work
location of the hotel and whether there would be a safety hazard with the additional parking that would be needed.
The roughly half-acre beachfront parcel sits on the southern edge of Time Square facing Estero Boulevard and Crescent Beach Family Park.
The vote by the LPA is only a recommendation to the town council. The town council could potentially still approve the project. The plans need to receive
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Salty Crab Bar & Grill, which was knocked down by Hurricane Ian in 2022, received unanimous approval from the Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency on Tuesday for their plans to rebuild. The project will still need approvals from the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council for a Commercial Planned Development rezoning.
The restaurant and bar, an iconic beachfront mainstay on the island, was located within just several feet of the Margaritaville Beach Resort on property adjacent to Crescent Beach Family Park.
The new restaurant will be built in the same location if approved by the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council. The Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency swiftly endorsed the plans. The owners are targeting late 2026 for the completion of construction.
The owners, Greg Powers and Clownfish Restaurant Holdings, requested a Commercial Planned Development rezoning to rebuild the restaurant with two floors along with a ground-level ice cream shop and outdoor seating.
The rebuild requires deviations from town zoning for an increase in floor area ratio from 1.2 to 1.96, a decrease in the street setback from 10 feet to 0 feet, a decrease in the side setback from 20 feet to 0 feet and a reduction in parking requirements from 58 spaces to no spaces. The property, which has been used a restaurant for decades, did not previously have any parking for customers though under the new zoning they are requesting they would technically need the additional parking.
The property, which dates back to the 1950s as a commercial restaurant use, had been grandfathered into the town’s zoning code.
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Secretary Rubio: ‘Words are not enough’
In advance of last weekend, which was victory day to be celebrated by Russia, I wanted to write this letter to Sec. Rubio who recently became National Security Advisor.
An Open Letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio:
In the wake of threats waged by warmonger despots such as Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Iran’s Sayyid Ali Khamenei, I am writing to offer my sincere intentions that you may guide our nation with courageous statesmanship.
Guest Commentary
Throughout your many years of publicly held office, you and I have intersected on a variety of political and official matters — most recently, with regard to U.S. aid to Ukraine’s military in whom hundreds of American soldiers have volunteered to serve in addition to the small U.S. military presence now coordinating support efforts within the war-torn country.
Long devoted to the study of law, politics, and war, I would love to uphold the ideal that global conflicts can be solved with negotiations… diplomacy… and “deals”... But I am also a realist, and the reality of the world is that international law cannot stand on its own as an enforcement mechanism. At war, pen and paper is as good as origami, when it fails, we need military force.
On May 1, 2025 you echoed this sentiment, urging our European allies that “words are not enough.”
Ukrainians and Americans, but the people of the many allied nations who support Ukraine and who now question, “Are Americans really our friends?” Under your leadership, Secretary, the U.S. admin enforced a quid pro quo on military aid to our Ukrainian soldiers, such as the U.S. admin’s pause in aid in March 2025, where under your leadership, cutting off Intelligence and defense aid, which directly caused loss in Ukrainian-held territory in Kursk, territory in which our Ukrainian brothers sacrificed their lives in order to gain leverage in any possible negotiations with enemy Russia (and by negotiations, I actually mean “force.”)
This tragic hypocrisy was a repeat of the same way we lost territory in Avdiivka in 2023, in which the Ukrainians, including some American and other freedom fighters with Chosen Company who sacrificed their lives to gain back territory held by Russia since 2014, but ultimately lost it again to Russia because they were down so bad on ammo they’d go days without shooting— all because of stalled aid in U.S. Congress.
the artillery we give Ukraine is not forced to creep closer to the frontlines, exposing valuable American-made weapons to electronic warfare powered by Russian fiber optic cables which cannot be stopped by “drone jammers,” such as the one my community sent to Commander Yuri Makhnovet’s unit with Ukraine’s Presidential Brigade in Luhansk. And though on May 7 Ukraine has striked for the second time Russia’s largest fiber optic cable station, thanks in part by efforts of Commander Ryan O’ Leary of Chosen Company, who my community also supports, we still need to lift the U.S. admin’s bans on strikes on Russian energy depots, close loopholes in U.S. sanctions which permit transaction with criminal institutes such as Russian Central Bank, and fool-proof the Senate-pending secondary sanctions to punish buyers of Russia’s dark fleet which illegally peddles blood oil across our “free” waters.
Do you support the Arches Bayfront hotel and commercial center at Moss Marina, and providing height and parking deviations from town code?
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Current Web Poll
Do you support the recall of Fort Myers Beach councilmembers John King and Karen Woodson in order for an early election to be held?
∫ Yes, recall both
∫ I support the recall of John King but not Karen Woodson
∫ I support the recall of Karen Woodson but not John King
∫ No, do not recall either councilmember
∫ No opinion/unsure
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Cape Coral Breeze, 2510 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral FL 33904. Visit fortmyersbeachtalk.com
But are the U.S. admin’s actions synonymous with such principles when financial enrichment is placed above the security interests of our people?
Although incentivizing economic ties with Ukraine is positive, the “Minerals Deal” was yet again another political brokering that used military aid as a pawn, it failed to authorize security guarantees, and it duped Americans into thinking this was a “peace deal.” The text — (still changeable as it has yet to be ratified by U.S. Congress and Ukraine’s Parliament) — opens by praising the monstrous ‘90s-era Ukraine nuclear arsenal transfer to Russia, a move which actually set the stage for the deadliest modern invasion of our world today. Is this metamorphosis of history how you want to be remembered, Secretary Rubio? A political cover up of the Clinton-era stain known as Budapest Memorandum?
And we will never forget how the “rare earth” negotiations were opened — with the infamous “Oval Office” meeting which strained relations not only between our politicians—but our people — not only the
Flash forward to March 2025, as soon as the admin’s knee-jerk reactive policy-making fell through, (yet again) I personally received intel passed to me from my comms with the Ukrainian military, as well as an American defense contractor who ships artillery to Ukraine, who confirmed to me, we’re back on.
America screwed up.
And now the only thing we can do is move forward on how to get ahead of our enemies in the arms race, how to strengthen our defense partnership with the Ukrainians, one of the most indispensable militaries on Earth… and Ukrainians are the only ones who can help our own military scale up our preparedness in modern warfare including drone technology innovations which would prevent needless waste, especially since the U.S. just blew almost $2 billion in heavy assets (Hornets, Reapers, etc.) during our recent six-week Red Sea war against Houthi terrorists proxied by Iran, Russia’s vassal state whose Shahed drones aka “Kamikazes” continue to rain over Ukraine and have most recently been laced with chemical agents, in spite of the U.S. admin’s so-called “ceasefires.”
We must move forward on U.S. policy-making which can contribute to our Ukraine’s success —we must lift strike bans on American-made long-range weapons, so
We need to move forward, but U.S. President Trump constantly stares backwards with the meaningless fantasy that this war would have never happened if he was elected in 2020, or his most recent claims that, “Millions are dying” because of the “foolish decision” to ban Russia from G8.” Honestly, I did not know that it was the U.S. President’s job to “Ukraine-splain” to us the “revised” version of our shared history, but nevertheless, I am willing to assist the President in a brief lesson on history as I am vigilantly writing it in real time... last time I checked my notes, our national security interests were not contingent on short-term financial gain, especially when inflation due to shipping costs directly correlates to war. Not sure about the Americans who need a “thank you,” but no G7 maneuvering, no minerals deal paint job can ever placate me when I know that countless evils could have been avoided if the U.S. had adequately equipped Ukraine’s military.
After all, was money ever really the issue, when U.S. military aid to Ukraine totals at about $67 billion since Russia’s invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, of which only $37 billion worth in actual weapons have been delivered to Ukraine... mostly near-expiring weapons which would have cost taxpayers to decommission, and in which the bulk remainder of aid went back into our own defense production?
You said it yourself, Secretary, when speaking to our European partners this week, that they must “step up with real resources and political will” if they hope to bring the war to an end.
But how can we expect to conjure the resources or political will of our alliance in Europe if we cannot even do so back home? Well, in any case, I’m here also to assist with the populace, at least, for all of those capable of thinking straight, or at the very
See WORDS, page 16
Alexandra Zakhvatayev
BUSINESS
HM Restaurant Group promotes Tatigian to culinary director for Doc Ford’s, Dixie Fish Company
HM Restaurant Group has promoted Chas Tatigian to culinary director. The newly created position is new to company, which owns and operates Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, Dixie Fish Company and the planned Bonita Fish Company.
Chas Tatigian
“During his time as our executive chef, Chas has demonstrated incredible leadership and a passion for exceptional food and customer service,” said Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group. “Since 2018, he’s been a driving force in elevating our kitchen operations and mentoring teams across the group. His commitment to excellence, innovation and consistency is matched by his appreciation for HM’s mission, vision and people-first culture.”
Tatigian, a 50-year culinary veteran, is a certified executive chef, certified culinary administrator and a member of the American Academy of Chefs. His humble beginnings date back to rolling hot dogs and working in a pastry shop at just 14 years old, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for food and hospitality.
“I’m honored by the trust HM Restaurant Group has placed in me and proud to call this company home,” said Tatigian. “I’m committed to continually shaping the culinary identity of HM’s restaurants with authenticity, care and expertise.”
During his tenure with HM Restaurant Group, Tatigian has overseen Doc Ford’s expansion to St. Petersburg with locations in Jungle Terrace and on the St. Petersburg Pier. As culinary director, Tatigian will oversee and collaborate with new Executive Chef Brian O’Brien, monitor team staffing, develop and maintain vendor relationships and lead purchasing at Doc Ford’s four locations, Dixie Fish Company and the new waterfront Bonita Fish Company, opening later this year.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille and Dixie Fish Company are open daily on Fort Myers Beach from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Inspired by the title character of Southwest Florida author Randy Wayne White’s novels, Doc Ford’s is known for mouth-watering sauces, spices and fresh seafood featuring Caribbean Rim flavors, including its signature Yucatan shrimp. A local favorite for residents and visitors alike, Doc Ford’s offers four locations, including Sanibel, Fort Myers Beach, Jungle Terrace and the St. Petersburg Pier.
Visit docfords.com for menus and locations.
Recognized as a 2023 Yelp Top 100 Florida Restaurant and ranked Tripadvisor’s No. 1 of 73 Fort Myers Beach restaurants, Dixie Fish Company is revered for delicious fresh fish in an ideal waterfront location complemented by a beach atmosphere, complete with live music and picturesque views overlooking scenic Matanzas Pass. An original Florida fishhouse, the restaurant’s origins date back to 1937 when it was primarily a fish market.
Visit dixiefishfmb.com for menus.
Doc Ford’s celebrates National Yucatán Shrimp Day with giveaways, 7-K race
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille will celebrate National Yucatán Shrimp Day this month with giveaways, a 7K race in Sanibel and the savory flavors of the house specialty.
Beginning May 1, customers who purchase a Yucatán menu item or a bottle of the restaurant’s proprietary Yucatán sauce at any of Doc Ford’s locations, including the Fishermans Wharf location on Fort Myers Beach, receive an entry to the grand-prize drawing and the chance to win a YETI cooler filled with restaurant swag, including T-shirts, koozies, a bottle of Yucatán sauce and a $100 gift card.
Each restaurant will draw a winner on May 24.
“National Yucatán Shrimp Day is our biggest holiday of the year and an opportunity to showcase the sauce,” said Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group, which owns and operates Doc Ford’s. “The dish has been featured in The New York Times ‘Cooking’ column and is our most popular entree.”
The national celebration originated in 2020 after Doc Ford’s applied to National Day Calendar as a unique way to recognize its Yucatán Shrimp entrée. The suggestion was selected from thousands of applications.
A mainstay on the restaurant’s menu for over 20 years, the iconic dish pairs steamed peel-and-eat shrimp with a savory spicy sauce made from butter, fresh Key lime juice, garlic, cilantro, Colombian chili pepper sambal, salt and pepper. It also appears in baked oysters, shrimp tacos, the bloody Mary and the new fried Yucatán chicken sandwich.
The sauce’s seven ingredients were the impetus for the Sanibel location’s May 24 7K race, a first-ever fun run benefiting the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s Sea School. The race starts at 7:30 a.m. and finishes at the restaurant and includes live music, food, drinks and a photo booth. The entry fee is $40. Kids, ages 10 and under, race free.
Race packet pickup is available from 3 to 7 p.m. on the following days:
n Wednesday, May 21, at the Doc Ford’s on Sanibel, 2500 Island Inn Road
n Thursday, May 22, at the Doc Ford’s on Fort Myers Beach, 708 Fisherman’s Wharf
n Friday, May 23 at Fleet Feet Fort Myers in Bell Tower Shops, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Suite 209.
Asteria Wellness, a Sambal Sponsor of the race, will have a nurse stationed at every location for packet pick-up and will be offering free B12 injections for all registered participants.
To guarantee a shirt in the preferred size, runners must be signed up for the race by Monday, May 5. Packets will also be available the morning of the race at 6 a.m. All participants are automatically entered for a chance to win a Doc Ford’s customized YETI cooler.
Awards will be presented to the top finishers in each age group and overall winners. Costumes are encouraged. The winner of the YETI giveaway will be announced at the end of the race.
“As season winds down, this race is a fun and festive way for the local community to reconnect and have a great time,” said Harrity.
For more information or to register for the run, visit runsignup.com/docfordsnationalyucatanshrimpday7k.
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
County’s eConnect permitting portal to be temporarily offline
The eConnect permit portal for the Lee County Department of Community Development (DCD), Department of Transportation (DOT), Natural Resources and Lee Utilities Department (LCU) will be offline from May 16 at 5 p.m. until May 19 at 7 a.m. for technical upgrades.
The services impacted during the outage period will include filing new submittals, downloading permits and plans, uploading documents and plans, making payments, viewing record details and status, and scheduling inspections. During the outage period, customers can use the phone line to schedule inspections and make payments. The VoicePermits Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system at 239-533-8997 will be available throughout the update.
The upgraded portal will enhance business operations to allow for an easier user experience that will streamline the plan-review process. It will also improve transparency and engagement through real-time updates and is expected to accelerate the permit-approval process.
Additionally, users may notice a refreshed look to the portal.
The portal’s web address (https:// aca.leegov.com) will remain the same.
Access the portal from the departmental landing page at www. leegov.com/dcd.
To ensure a smooth transition, the county will offer a free virtual training session on May 15 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. No advanced signup or registration is necessary. The training link is posted on DCD’s home page at www.leegov.com/dcd.
Contractors, engineers, architects and owner-builders who do work or live in unincorporated Lee County are encouraged to join the training. Customers who miss the training will be able to watch a training video that will be posted online; additional training sessions may be planned as needed.
If the dates for the upgrade are delayed, the county will reschedule the update for the last weekend of May, with the refreshed portal launching on June 2.
PHOTO PROVIDED
BEACH LIVING
Community Foundation awards more than $100K at annual banquet
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation awarded $107,820 to local organizations, boards, students, endowments and nonprofits at their annual banquet this past week.
The awards eclipsed last year’s distribution of $93,000 to 11 organizations and 11 scholarship applicants as well as monies to the Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation’s Passthrough Program and the Endowment fund through Florida SouthWestern State College.
This year, the Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation awarded $107,820 to 14 organizations, 14 scholarship applicants and funds to the Passthrough Program and Endowment fund, outgoing Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation President Julie Fite said. “It was a great evening at the Island Pancake House with over 50 people in attendance for dinner and awards,” Fite said.
Donations were given to the Fort Myers Beach Public Library, Estero Island Historic Society, Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force, Keep Lee County Beautiful, Friends of Lovers Key, Bay Oaks Recreation, Ostego Bay Summer Camps, FMB Strong, Friends of Matanzas Pass Preserve, Support for Sailing, The Mound House, Beach Kids Foundation, Estero Bay Buddies, Fort Myers Beach Art Association, Florida SouthWestern State College Passthrough and Florida SouthWestern State College Endowment.
The evening was topped off by the announcement of the foundation’s Star Award which went to Kelly Smith, outgoing Vice-President.
Jennifer Rusk accepted the foundation’s $4,000 award to the Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force to support the reprinting of the town’s children activity and educational books “Flippers and Feathers, Beach Friends Forever.”
Rusk, who spearheaded the publication the educational books that teach children and visitors about the local environment, said “I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation for their contribution.”
Rusk said she was “so touched and honored to accept this generous contribution” on behalf of the Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force. Rusk said she wanted to extender her “gratitude to (the Community Foundation) for all their efforts and the amazing work they do for our whole community. They make dreams come true.”
The foundation also honored its outgoing board members including Smith, Fite, Suzy Krajewski and Robin Nuccio.
See COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, page 11
The Fort
Beach Community Foundation awarded more than $107,000 in grants to local organizations, nonprofits, boards and for student scholarships at their annual banquet this past week.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
At left is outgoing Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation Vice President Kelly Smith, who received the organization’s star award for her service. At right is outgoing President Julie Fite.
Outgoing Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation President Julie Fite with Tim Ryan, of FMB Strong, one of the recipients of grant awards from the organization.
Myers
The Mound House is the oldest standing structure on Fort Myers Beach dating back to 1906, sitting on top of a 2,000-year-old shell mound that was constructed by the native Calusa tribe who lived throughout the region. The Mound House is on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Mound House is at 451 Connecticut St on Fort Myers Beach and features a museum, tours, gift shop and serves as a public park for picnics and fishing.
Park Hours daily 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Museum Hours- Wednesday-Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Calusa Tours
Wednesday-Saturday 11 - 11:30 a.m., 1 - 1:30 p.m.
Discover the incredible history of the Calusa, the original stewards of Southwest Florida, on this 30-minute guided outdoor tour at Mound House. Learn how this powerful and innovative Indigenous society thrived across the region for centuries, leaving an enduring legacy still visible today with their shell mounds. Explore how the Calusa shaped their environment and uncover the stories revealed by archaeologists through hands-on activities such as an atlatl demonstration. The price is free for Mound House Members and $15 for the public. Price includes museum admission. No reservations required.
Kayak Tours
Wednesday-Saturday
9 - 11 a.m.
Discover the natural beauty of Florida on a guided kayaking tour of Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve. Visit places only a kayaker can go as you glide over seagrass beds, and paddle through a timeless landscape of native flora and fauna. Kayak Tours included two hour guided experience, kayak, paddle, lifejacket, and museum admission. Secure footwear required, and bottled water strongly recommended. Mound House Members: $15, Public: $45. Register at MoundHouse.org.
Mound House Calendar
Sunset Kayak Tours
Fridays, two hours before sunset. Check MoundHouse.org for times and availability. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of a guided Sunset Kayak Tour. Paddle through a pristine landscape as golden hour transforms the Estero Bay into a picturesque wonderland. Your journey concludes at
the historic bayside Mound House, where the sun sets behind the museum, creating a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable evening. Kayak Tours included two hour guided experience, kayak, paddle, lifejacket, and museum admission. Secure footwear required, and bottled water strongly recommended. Mound House Members: $15, Public: $45. Register at MoundHouse.org.
Playing catch on the Beach
The Bishop family of Michigan plays catch on Fort Myers Beach near where a sand dredging pipeline for the town’s beach renourishment project is running mid-island.
Loggerhead Sea Turtle Nest Count
Community Foundation
The Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation announced its two new co-presidents will be Amy Gillette and Jane McCloskey. They will be joined on the new board of directors Joy Sullivan, Jan Falkum, Kathy Nash, Ellen Vaughn, Treasurer Annie Lump and Secretary Patti Coleman.
The Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation’s mission is to empower foundation members and the community by encouraging philanthropy to improve the overall quality of life on Fort Myers Beach. “We respond to the changing and emerging needs of our community by providing support for education, health and welfare, and the preservation of our natural environment,” Fite said.
NATHAN MAYBERG
Art Association opens new gallery
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The members of the Fort Myers Beach Art Association still have a dream to one day rebuild and reopen their gallery off Shell Mound Boulevard and Donora Boulevard that collapsed after being knocked down by Hurricane Ian.
The prohibitive cost has sidelined that hope for now and instead the group which dates back to the 1950s, has found a new home at a space at Cypress Lake Square off McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers.
The association opened up the doors of its new space this past week as its new “Spring Fling” show started May 1.The new gallery, located across from the Pawnbroker Restaurant, will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m.
“We are very excited about our new space,” Fort Myers Beach Art Association President Star Sherwood said. “It has brought the energy our artists needed to jump start their creativity and has given us a beautiful area to paint together.”
The new spot is located amongst shops and restaurants at the plaza that should give the Fort Myers Beach artists some extra visibility for their works.
“Over the past few years we have all been working so hard rebuilding our own homes and dealing with the changes in our own personal lives due to the hurricanes,” Sherwood said. “It is a good feeling to now be able to settle down and get back into our artwork.”
The “Spring Fling” features dozens of eye-catching works of art, including many oil paintings featuring distinctive Fort Myers Beach locations, wildlife and other scenic images.
The works include paintings by the association’s plein-air group, which focuses on outdoor paintings around Fort Myers Beach and beyond. Association member Susi Wingenroth, who joined the association last month, has been an active member of the plein-air group. One of the three works she has submitted for the “Spring Fling” features a painting of the shrimp docks at Erickson & Jensen on San Carlos Island.
Wingenroth said the plein air group has been a “huge game changer” for her artwork. The group meets twice a week and sometimes as many as three times a week to visit different locations to inspire their paintings. Wingenroth said the group can ran from half a dozen painters to as many as 20 sometimes.
A former elementary art teacher, Wingenroth said “it’s exciting to be around talented, longtime painters.”
The current show runs through May 30. The association is planning four shows to run through the summer.
In addition to displaying the paintings of its members, the gallery also provides a space for members to work on their art.
All of the artwork in the gallery is for sale.
Meanwhile, the Fort Myers Beach Art Association will be presenting “Ripples” the Summer Show at the Tribby Art Center at Shell Point in Fort Myers. An opening reception will be held Friday, May 16 from 3-5 p.m. with light refreshments, opportunities to meet the talented artists, and a chance to vote for the “People’s Choice” award. Admission is free and all are welcome.
Featuring works from many local artists, “Ripples” includes a diverse mix of styles and mediums—pastel, acrylic and oil painting, watercolor painting, mixed media, and more. This year’s theme, “Ripples”, encourages you to slow down, look closer, and feel the echoes—whether personal, environmental, or emotional—that shape our interconnected world. The show will be up through Saturday, July 19.
The art association expects to extend their hours for the gallery in October, when the gallery will be open six days a week. Art classes and workshops are expected to resume in October.
A more elaborate celebration for the new gallery and the Fort Myers Beach Art Association’s 75th anniversary will be held in October.
For more information about the Fort Myers Beach Art Association, visit www.fortmyersbeachart.com.
be one of the works of art on display at the
Association’s summer show at the Tribby Art Center at Shell Point starting Friday, May 16.
Art Association to open summer show at Shell Point
STAFF REPORT
In addition to their “Spring Fling” show at their new gallery, the Fort Myers Beach Art Association will also be presenting their summer show “Ripples” at the Tribby Art Center at Shell Point in Fort Myers. An opening reception will be held Friday, May 16 from 3-5 p.m. with light refreshments, opportunities to meet the talented artists, and a chance to vote for the “People’s Choice” award. Admission is free and all are welcome. Featuring works from many local artists, “Ripples”
The Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed Land & Water Trust has announced the upcoming program schedule for the month of May. The schedule includes a mindfulness hike and a painting in nature program in observance of May as Mental Health Awareness Month.
Please note the specific address and prices for each program. All programs take place outdoors, and participants should prepare accordingly. Space is limited; advance ticket purchase required.
To register, visit CREW Trust’s Eventbrite page: crewtrust. eventbrite.com
May 2025 Programs:
∫ Wednesday, May 14
6 – 8 p.m.
Mindfulness Hike
Location: CREW Marsh Trails, 4600 Corkscrew Road, Immokalee, FL 34142
Tickets: $5 per person
Join Education Coordinator
Piper Jones for a Mindfulness Hike on the CREW Marsh Trails. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and a mindfulness hike is a great way to unwind and reset.
includes a diverse mix of styles and mediums—pastel, acrylic and oil painting, watercolor painting, mixed media, and more. This year’s theme, “Ripples”, encourages you to slow down, look closer, and feel the echoes— whether personal, environmental, or emotional—that shape our interconnected world. The show will be up through Saturday, July 19.
For more information about the Fort Myers Beach Art Association, visit www.fortmyersbeachart. com.
CREW Calendar
Enjoy the tranquility of the trails as we practice ways to incorporate mindfulness into our daily routines. Closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, and water bottles are highly recommended. Space is limited; advance ticket purchase required. To purchase tickets, visit crewtrust. eventbrite.com
∫ Thursday, May 29 5 – 7 p.m.
Painting in Nature
Location: CREW Marsh Trails, 4600 Corkscrew Road, Immokalee, FL 34142
Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members
Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month by enjoying a peaceful evening of painting where Patty Chiappo, local artist and devoted CREW Trust Volunteer, will give a brief introduction to watercolor painting and then inspire you to paint your own creation while sitting beside the seasonal marsh right off the trail. We will provide all the supplies so just bring your creativity and appreciation for nature’s beauty! Whether you’re a seasoned artist or this is your first time using watercolors, you
will leave with beautiful, one-ofa-kind artwork. Closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, and water bottles are highly recommended. Space is limited; advance ticket purchase required. To purchase tickets, visit crewtrust.eventbrite. com
About CREW Trust
The CREW Trust is a tax-exempt, public, charitable organization established in 1989 to coordinate the land acquisition, land management, and public use of the 70,000-acre Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW). CREW provides aquifer recharge, natural flood protection, water purification, wildlife habitats, and opportunities for public recreation. Each year, more than 100,000 people visit CREW Trust’s four trail systems to explore more than forty miles of marked hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as our outdoor pavilions, primitive campsites, elevated boardwalks, and observation platforms. To learn more about CREW Trust, visit www.crewtrust.org or visit us on Facebook and Instagram.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Beach Terns by Helen Kinkin, will
Fort Myers Beach Art
Student artwork hits the streets on Waste Pro trucks through ‘Leave the Scene Clean Contest!’
Keep Lee County Beautiful, Inc. in partnership with Waste Pro showcases the winning artwork from the 36th annual “Leave The Scene Clean” student art contest. The top four outstanding student illustrations have been enlarged and appear on the side of a Lee County Waste Pro truck, turning the service vehicles into a mobile art gallery.
The official unveiling took place during a celebratory awards ceremony held at the Riverside Community Center. In honor of Earth Month, all student submissions are also on public display throughout April at the Northwest Regional Library.
2025 Overall First Place Winners:
∫Grades K–3: Daniela Rodriguez – Mirror Lakes Elementary
∫Grades 4–6: Cathy Cheribin – Three Oaks Middle School
∫Grades 7–9: Alejandra Sanchez – Mariner Middle School
∫Grades 10–12: Mia De La Cruz Matos – Cypress Lake High School
In addition to being featured on Waste Pro trucks, the winning artwork will also be printed on reusable tote bags, available this fall. These eco-friendly totes can be purchased for a $5 donation through participating Lee County schools, with all proceeds staying with the schools to projects on campus.
Over the years, the “Leave The Scene Clean” project has reached more than 84,000 students and 700 teachers from public, private, and home school settings, raising more than $283,000 in support of environmental education and awareness.
The success of this initiative is made possible through generous community sponsorships. KLCB extends special thanks to its 2025 supporters: Lee County Solid Waste, Northwest Regional Library, Reworld, WM, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, Surfing Evolutions & Preservation Foundation, Ron Jon Surf Shop, and Waste
Keep Lee County Beautiful is a private non-profit organization committed to promoting litter prevention and responsible waste management through education and community engagement. Proceeds from the tote bag sales directly benefit KLCB programs and local schools. For more information about the art contest or other KLCB educational initiatives, please visit klcb.org.
We encourage you to schedule an appointment today to tour our featured cottage, The Azalea, and learn how you can take advantage of our limited-time incentives today. Osprey Bay offers you the convenient coastal lifestyle you’ve been looking for.
Pro.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Daniela Rodriguez – Mirror Lakes Elementary
Cathy Cheribin – Three Oaks Middle School
Alejandra Sanchez – Mariner Middle School
SCCF: FWC monitoring crocodile nest on Sanibel
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that in 1998, Sanibel officially became an American crocodile refuge that endorses a breeding population. Yet, no nests have successfully hatched — or possibly even contained fertilized eggs on the island since then.
Several hurricanes and 27 years later, courting behavior was captured on camera in February and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is now monitoring the potential nesting of a female.
Prior to courting behavior photos recently being shared with the SCCF and city, wildlife officials thought there were only female crocodiles on the island. The photos do not confirm the presence of a male — only a physical exam could do that — but they do lead to speculation.
“The three significant storm surge events that occurred over the last two and a half years have transformed most waterbodies on Sanibel to a more crocodile-friendly habitat consisting of brackish water,” SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz said. “As a result, they move more freely around the island and use other water bodies. It’s also not implausible to have additional crocodiles begin using the island.”
The backstory
The SCCF reported that American crocodiles are one of two native crocodilians in the United States. As opposed to the American alligator that lives in freshwater, the American crocodile is primarily a brackish/saltwater species that lives in coastal areas.
Most of their range is in coastal Central America, as
Times Square
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two public hearings before they can be approved.
The LPA had offered Persaud a continuance to change his plans and return back for another meeting but he rejected the offer, electing to go straight to the town council with his current plans.
LPA members expressed reservations about giving approvals for what they considered to be the largest deviations from
Words From page 4
well as the northern coast of South America, west coast of Mexico and most of the Caribbean islands. However, the northern extent of their range is in the Florida Keys and coastal South Florida on the east and west coasts. They have been documented as far north as St. Petersburg on the west coast and near Melbourne on the east coast.
The city of Sanibel passed the crocodile refuge resolution about three years after “Wilma” was routinely
the town code in terms of intensity though Persaud and his legal representative compared the project to other developments that had previously been approved by the town such as the Myerside hotel and Margaritaville.
During a presentation to the public days before the meeting, Persaud had expressed optimism his project would be approved in light of the approval given
least, have a conscience. But as for the Americans who callously turn a blind eye to human suffering and who deceptively align with enemy interests as if bending to warmongers that threaten civilian life for their own scheming self aggrandizement
nesting in a yard adjacent to the J.N.
National Wildlife Refuge.
“That crocodile, known by locals as Wilma, would nest mostly in a resident’s yard each year, but the eggs never hatched, either because of no nearby male interactions and/or cooler temps than further south that prevented the eggs from hatching,” Lechowicz said.
by the LPA to the Arches Bayfront hotel rezoning and Comprehensive Plan amendment at Moss Marina — a larger project with 263 rooms compared to the 50 hotel rooms Persaud is seeking on his smaller parcel.
LPA member John McLean said the intensity deviation requested by Persaud for the half-acre lot would be “far beyond anything we have approved since I have
been on the LPA.”
LPA member Jane Plummer saw a bad precedent being set if Persaud’s plans were approved. “If we start here with four stories and a 2.5 floor area ratio, everybody is going to want the same,” Plummer said.
“You won’t see anything except this massive (hotel) when you come over (the bridge),” Plummer said.
Obituaries Death Notices
Paul L. Blickley Sr
Paul L. Blickley, Sr., 95, of Fort Myers Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
Originally from New Jersey, Paul retired from Mack Trucks in Bridgewater, where he proudly worked for many years. After relocating to Florida, he became a well-known and cherished member of the Fort Myers Beach community.
Paul was a long-time member of Fort Myers Beach Moose Lodge 964 and dedicated over 20 years of service to the Ft. Myers Beach Little League and local softball programs. He was also an avid beach volleyball player—still active into his 80s—and could often be found fishing along the shoreline or out on the water.
Paul is survived by his loving wife, Deborah; his sons, Paul Jr., Robert, William, Richard, and Pierce Capell; he was affectionately known as “PAPPAP” by his ten grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
Paul will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and deep devotion to his family and community. He leaves behind a legacy of service, sportsmanship, and joy that touched the lives of all who knew him.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Monday, May 5, 2025, at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 28300 Tamiami Trail South, Bonita Springs, FL 34134. Online condolences may be offered at www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com.
Arrangements are being handled by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home – Family Owned Since 1978.
was an actual path to “peace,” who in their comfort spreads lies and ignores the truth... it’s actually them (Tucker Carlson “and friends”) who are just as responsible for this war as Nazi Russia itself. They might as well join the mocking parades of “victory” that will take place this weekend by the Kremlin-paid organizers — the cowards who have finally crawled out of their closets after three years of war, who meanwhile hide behind their right-wing media puppets who prostitute themselves for a ruble or forint to infect the American public opinion.
Truly patriotic and authentic American voices would never bring such shame to our nation...
The American voices we should be listening to are those who understand the realities of war and speak in facts, figures, and truth.... the warriors, and we who stand by them, most notably, Ukraine’s American foreign fighters, our active U.S. military ramped up along NATO’s eastern front, our U.S. reserves, and our U.S .vet erans who publicly support our defense partnership with Ukraine. I am linked with many of them, in addition to the interna tional community of volunteers who have personally raised funds to send provisions
and equipment to Ukraine’s military as our government continues to fail to do so. I hope to return to Ukraine shortly to continue my civilian mission alongside the military to bring voice to this critical fight. Meantime, Secretary Rubio, now that we have abandoned peace talks with terrorist enemy Russia, I encourage you to go beyond what enemy interests might dictate in your pursuit of our own national security interests, and open a constructive dialogue with Ukraine’s leaders, especially the serving members of the military, so our country can understand and meet their critical needs with rational policy-making and weapons.
Lasting peace must be honorable, in preservation of dignity and justice for all people, this is the only peace Ukraine continues to fight for, as no triumph of pacifism is quite so great as the supreme triumphs of war. Let us never forget America was founded on such principles.
— Alexandra Zakhvatayev of Southwest Florida will soon return to Ukraine for a journalism project to bene-
Fort Myers Beach
“Ding” Darling
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Beach School
with the school district’s leadership and school board after Hurricane Ian in 2022 to see that the historic building was repaired. An agreement was made in which a second building would also be rebuilt once the school’s population grew again.
Yet the messaging from the school district office has been slower than parents expected since the last two hurricanes as to the timeline for repairs. Lee County School District Superintendent Denise Carlin denied an interview request from the Fort Myers Beach Observer. Carlin was elected in November to be the new superintendent of the district after Lee County voters approved a referendum making the position an elected, rather than an appointed one.
A report from a new consultant hired by Carlin to review the school’s future is expected soon as is expected action from the school board on June 3 when plans are further reviewed. That is the last day of the school year.
The ad-hoc committee has been reviewing five different plans for the school with rebuilding and repair costs that range from $1.3 million to $15.9 million.
Three of the repair plans would take seven to eight months and cost $1.3 million to $5.4 million. Taking into account the time needed to bid out the project, construction might not even be completed until the end of the next school year. That would mean another year of students being transported to San Carlos Park Elementary School.
If the work had started quickly after Hurricane Milton, it could have been completed potentially by the end of this summer.
A fourth repair plan, with more extensive work, would take eight to 10 months, while a fifth plan would entail the construction of a whole new building at an
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“I feel fatigued, I feel horrible for the kids and the families. We’ve been through enough. We worked so hard on that agreement and worked so hard to meet those terms. It’s such a blow. I am in complete shock and disbelief that we are where we are.”
—Fort Myers Beach Elementary School parent Monica Schmucker
“The lack of a sense of urgency from Lee County School District staff has many parents concerned. Given when Hurricane Milton occurred, I share their concern.”
—Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt
estimated cost of $15.9 million.
Schmucker is concerned that the school district’s future is being delayed and in part decided through the hiring of the consultant. Instead of repairing the building months ago, the district is awaiting the completion of the report to mull further action.
Schmucker said the district should be abiding by an agreement that was reached between the school and the town after Hurricane Ian which required the district to also build a second building that will house a cafeteria and auditorium for students. Schmucker said that second building was supposed to be built this year but hasn’t been put out to bid while the district considers its options.
A request for a copy of the consultant’s contract was not immediately provided by the school district. As of press time, the school district had not fulfilled a Sunshine Law request submitted by the Fort Myers Beach Observer for a copy of the contract. Lee County School District spokesman Rob Spicker did not respond to a question as to whether the school board had voted to approve the consultant.
In a letter to parents, school district officials notified the community of the hiring of the third-party planning consultant. “This consultant brings a wealth of
experience in school facilities planning and will help us analyze current and projected needs, assess rebuild options, and ensure that any recommended solutions align with both the values of our community and the long-term vision for the School District of Lee County. Their work will include data review, site visits, and direct input into the evaluation of rebuild options.” the letter stated.
“Now they say they have engaged an expert to study the viability of our school,” Schmucker said. She said parents haven’t been contacted by the consultant. Schmucker has a son who attends Beach Elementary School. Her daughter previously attended the school before and after Hurricane Ian.
There is concern, Schmucker said, that the district is looking to “backpedal” on the interlocal agreement the district has entered into with the town. Schmucker said recent weekly meetings with school district administrators have given her the impression the district is considering a way to “back out of the agreement.”
Schmucker said one of the options district officials said they were considering was putting up a referendum for voters countywide to decide the future of the school.
Part of the agreement deals with future growth at school. The number of students at the school was 72 before Hurricane Helene, Schmucker said. The current building is meant to house up to 80 students. A second phase of construction would house up to 150 students. Schmucker said the student population grew from about 50 students after Hurricane Ian to its present number. “They didn’t think we would get to 80 students,” Schmucker said.
Meanwhile, the district has cut costs at the school as students attend San Carlos Park Elementary School with fewer teachers and personnel. Schmucker is concerned that the new superintendent is more concerned with cutting costs than providing an elementary school close to home for students.
“Every parent wants to be back on the island,” Schmucker said.
Schmucker said parents have suggested other locations to reopen in the meantime like the Fort Myers Beach Public Library. The district has also looked into a former school building on San Carlos Island located on Lee County property.
Schmucker believes the district’s citing of termite damage at the school is “an excuse” to delay reopening. She does not believe the termite damage was caused by the hurricanes last fall. Termite damage can be found in many buildings in the region, Schmucker said. “They want to use Milton as an excuse,” she said. “The termites were not caused by Milton.”
Schmucker cited the school district’s quick actions in obtaining portable classrooms at Cypress Lake Elementary School after Hurricane Milton as an example of how the district could have acted on Fort
Myers Beach.
“When they want to find a solution, they do it and do it fast,” she said.
District officials had explored using the Town of Fort Myers Beach trailers located next to the elementary school that the town will be soon be vacating to move into a new town hall.
Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt told the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council last month that the district was considering using the trailers and received pushback from Town of Fort Myers Beach Community Service Director Jeff Hauge, who said the town is awaiting a $1 million matching grant it intends to use to construct a pickleball court and ballfield at the site.
Atterholt later said that he was informed that the manufacturer of the trailers “declared to our Town Attorney that the type of trailers the Town has cannot be used for a school purpose.”
Atterholt had been hopeful the trailers would be a temporary solution to letting students attend school on the island while repairs were made to the existing building. “We really tried to make the Town trailer option work. The reason given for the lack of viability was the company we lease the trailers from said the trailers were not designed for school use and they would not allow us to use them for that purpose,” Atterholt said.
School officials ultimately decided against using the trailers.
“Several key factors contributed to this decision, including the high cost of installation, the need to meet strict State Requirements for Educational Facilities (SREF), and the challenges of securing appropriate approvals for educational use on the site,” Spicker said in an email, which cited a letter that had been sent to parents last month.
The Fort Myers Beach Elementary School has been cited as one of the best performing elementary schools in the state over many years.
Lee County School District Board President Samuel Fisher did not respond to a voicemail seeking comment.
“We are in a holding pattern as the Lee County School District decides between one of five options to repair/rebuild the FMB Beach School,” Atterholt said in an email. “The lack of a sense of urgency from Lee County School District staff has many parents concerned. Given when Hurricane Milton occurred, I share their concern.”
Atterholt said he hopes the school board will take “positive action” at their next board meeting.
“We are like the forgotten stepchild,” Schmucker said. “It’s hard to believe we are this far out of Hurricane Milton and we are further away from a resolution than we were after Ian. My husband could have gone into that school and fixed it in a weekend.”
The future of Fort Myers Beach Elementary School is slated to be discussed at the next Lee County School District Board meeting on Tuesday, June 3. The board will hold a workshop from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at their Colonial Boulevard chambers. The official meeting where they can take action begins at 4 p.m.
“I feel fatigued, I feel horrible for the kids and the families. We’ve been through enough. We worked so hard on that agreement and worked so hard to meet those terms,” Schmucker said. “It’s such a blow. I am in complete shock and disbelief that we are where we are.”
FILE PHOTO
Fort Myers Beach Elementary School parent Monica Schmucker (left) speaks with State Senator John Martin (right) during the Hurricane Ian remembrance ceremony on Fort Myers Beach in 2023.
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
The public is invited to a special “Get to Know the U.S. Coast Guard and Auxiliary” Breakfast at the Sunflower Café, at 11410 Summerlin Square Drive, Fort Myers Beach, on Thursday, May 22, from 8 to 9 a.m.
This informal meet-and-greet event offers an opportunity for residents and visitors to connect with members of the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, learn about their vital missions, and
gain insight into how these dedicated teams help keep our waters safe.
Attendees will have the chance to ask questions, learn how the Coast Guard and Auxiliary serve the community, and discover ways to get involved.
“Whether you’re curious about our search-andrescue operations, boating safety programs, or volunteer opportunities, this is a great chance to engage directly with the people behind the uniform,” said
Guenthner,
Enjoy breakfast, meet local members, and discover how the Coast Guard and Auxiliary work every day to protect our coasts and waterways.
For more information, please contact Daniel Eaton at 239-425-7914 or online at https://www.aux91fmb. org/breakfast/
Robert
Flotilla Commander of Coast Guard Auxiliary 91, Fort Myers Beach.
Stay dry, learn smart: paddle sports safety demo set for May 17
Free family event to be hosted by U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Curious about kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in Lee County? Want to learn how to stay safe on the water—without getting wet? Join the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary for a Paddle Sports Safety Demonstration on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Fort Myers Aquatic Center, located in Sam Fleishman Regional Park (1750 Matthew Drive, Fort Myers).
This free, dry-land-friendly event features live safety demonstrations conducted by trained Coast Guard Auxiliary instructors in the pool—while you watch safely from poolside.
Attendees will learn:
∫ How to properly fit and wear a life jacket
∫ Safe launching and paddling techniques
∫ How to recognize hazards and avoid getting lost
∫ How to call for help in an emergency
∫ Basic self-rescue and re-entry techniques (demonstrated by instructors)
∫ How to follow local and federal paddlecraft regulations
“This event emphasizes the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s dedication to public safety and education,” said Flotilla 91, Fort Myers Beach Commander Robert Guenthner, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. “As paddle sports continue to grow in popularity, it’s essential to equip our community with the tools and knowledge to stay safe on the water.”
In-water demonstrations will be led by Donna Hornsby, Flotilla Commander of Flotilla 94 (Franklin Lock) and a certified instructor with the Coast Guard Auxiliary Paddlecraft Program (AUXPAD).
Visitors can chat with certified vessel safety examiners, take home free boating safety resources, and register their paddlecraft with the Auxiliary’s Paddlecraft ID Program—no paddling required.
Free admission – no registration necessary.
Open to all ages – children must be accompanied by an adult.
About the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed,
all-volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard. The Auxiliary was created by an Act of Congress in 1939, and has grown to over 32,000 members who daily support the Coast Guard in all its non-military, and non-law-en-
and
www.cgaux.org.
Ride of Silence returns to recognize cyclists, more
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
An annual event on Sanibel planned for next week will commemorate cyclists who have been injured and killed while riding a bike, as well as raise awareness about the importance of sharing the road.
Held since 2008 on the island, the Ride of Silence will take place on May 21 at 7 p.m. starting and ending at the Sanibel Community Park on Sanibel. Organized and hosted by the Sanibel Bicycle Club and Billy’s Bikes, the route will follow along the city’s Shared Use Path for approximately four miles.
“Florida now leads the country in bicycling fatalities with nearly 500 last year,” club President Jim Meyer said. “We hope that this awareness program will slow that fatality rate.”
“This is both for the motorists and the cyclists,” he added.
The first Ride of Silence was organized by Chris Phelan in 2003 in Dallas, Texas, after cyclist Larry Schwartz was hit by the mirror of a passing bus and killed. It drew 1,000 participating cyclists.
Today, events are held around the world on the third Wednesday in May at 7 p.m.
The Sanibel event is open to the community.
“We welcome the public,” Meyer said. “We welcome families and children.”
Those interested in taking part should arrive by 6:30 p.m.
“We’ll describe the process, the ride itself, and the fact that it is a silent ride as a tribute,” he said, referring to the event’s
If you go
What Annual Ride of Silence When May 21 at 7 p.m.; arrive by 6:30 p.m.
Where
Sanibel Community Park, 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Details Free and open to the public
history. “We’ll make sure that all nonclub members have signed the waiver.”
The route will head east on Periwinkle Way and then south on Casa Ybel Road, turning into West Gulf Drive. At Tarpon Bay Road, it will travel north to Periwinkle and then east again to return to the park.
“It’s a short ride, it’s slow,” Meyer said. “It’s a very simple ride.”
“And, again, it’s a tribute to the cycling community that we’ve lost,” he added.
The Sanibel Police Department will
assist with traffic control.
Participants are required to wear a helmet.
“The only requirement is a helmet,” Meyer said.
“We prefer no headsets because they’re distracting,” he added.
Billy’s Bikes will have water, some safety vests and a few spare helmets for those who need one.
There will also be information on the club.
“We will have information about joining,” Meyer said.
The island is invited to take part.
“We’re trying to improve the cycling and motorist and pedestrian environment on Sanibel,” he said. “This will help to do that.”
For more information, visit https:// sanibelbicycleclub.org/ or contact Meyer at 314-406-0904 or member and Ride Leader Kevin Connerty at 239-8872369.
The Sanibel Community Park is at 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
forcement missions. We have members and units in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa,
Guam. Learn more at
PET PALS
We are still in need of fosters
By ISABELLE WELLS Co-founder of the Find a Home, Give a Home pet rescue organization of Fort Myers Beach
Fostering is a wonderful way to help others. All expenses paid. You only have to give love. Call Isabelle at 239-281-0739. Maybe you are on the fence and not sure if you want to adopt, so the best way is to try it out and see if having a pet is for you. Foster and decide if you would like to keep the dog or cat. Either way you will learn a great amount and who knows you may fell in love. People always ask me: How do you do it? Well I am actually honored to have had so many pets in my life. Helping them has been such a joy.
I just concentrate on the new one who needs a hand when one leaves.
We generally do not take owner surrenders but this time we decided to help two pet parents who tried to do the right thing when adopting a dog. However, they realized it was not the right dog for their lifestyle and not the right time. Both persons truly want the best for their dogs and that is the reason we decided to step in and help. Thanks for supporting our rescue. We do it for the love of animals.
Bindi is a Labrador retriever under a year old. Beautiful and needs a home!! She was adopted from the Humane Society to a very nice lady who works long hours and keeps her in a crate for too long. She knows basic commands and will need to be in an active home. Loves the dog park and plays very well with all dogs. If you are interested in a beautiful girl please call or text Isabelle at 239-281-0739. Thanks
Cash is a sweetheart. Only 5 years old and who could lose a few pounds (loves her treats.) She is good with other dogs and kids. She was adopted from the Humane Society a couple years ago and, unfortunately, they could not take her back so the gentleman contacted us after he had to sell his house and could not take her with him. Cash loves car rides. Very affectionate. If you are willing to give her a chance and a home please call or text Isabelle at 239-281-0739
Fundraiser coming up end of May
By Jo Knobloch
On May 30 we are having a silent auction at the Lakeside Restaurant
Bar at Babcock Ranch in Punta Gorda from 4 to
at 6 p.m. We will also be
tickets. Lots of great items to bid on, restaurants, boating, baskets, etc. Come have dinner and join the fun!
Loki is a 10-week-old female black and white kitten. She is very playful and affectionate and has a great time with her 6 littermates.
Sasha is a 10-week-old female all black kitten and she too loves to run and play and very affectionate and loving as all black cats are.
Mochi is a light brown tabby 10-week-old female kitten who has beautiful markings and super playful.
If you would like to come see and play with the kittens (we have 11 currently, please call us to schedule a time. 239851-3485.
Waterfront Homes
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 Garage Sales
REDBARN
SatMay17th&SunMay18th 8amto3pm 206SE37thTer (offPalmTree) Lovelyestatefull ofimmaculatefurniture& decor,severallucuite pieces,awesomedining room,piano,winefridge, queenbedroomset,wicker lanaisetwithchaise, kitchenfull&garagefull, fantasticmiscellaneous. Donátmissthisone! Besuretoseethephotos! Pictures: facebook.com/RedBarnCapeCoral 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
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. Buyers Assistance Available. Call 412-657-2840, Owner $519,500.
Air Conditioning
Handyman
