052125 Fort Myers Beach Observer/The Beach Bulletin
RESIDENCE OR RENTAL-YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL. Live in your residence or do short term vacation rentals. Located on a waterfront peninsula on the south-end of Estero Island. Santa Maria allows owners to reside full-time in their unit or to rent it at their discretion, even nightly. Updated 2BD/2BA unit overlooks pool & waterways w/full-sized W/D inside unit, kitchen & baths w/granite countertops & plantation shutters. Direct Gulf access. Large swimming pool, hot-tub. New BBQ Tiki hut, seawall & walkways. Convenient mainland access via Bonita Beach Rd. $459,000
NEWPRICE!
MASSIVE CORNER RESIDENCE in Fort Myers’ River District! 3BD/2.5BA/DEN Furnished residence offers breathtaking Sunrise/Sunset views from your wraparound balcony overlooking the Caloosahatchee River. A kitchen that is sure to please the chef w/Bosch & GE SS appliances, granite countertops & European style cabinetry. Split bedroom layout, primary suite w/balcony access. Spa inspired bath, walk-in shower & whirlpool tub. Newly painted, new HVAC 2023. Pool, spa, sauna, fitness center, tennis courts, billiards. $299,000
IMMEDIATE GULF ACCESS, BAYVIEWS, & STEPS TO THE BEACH from this large lot on the North end zoned weekly rental. 80’ Of waterfront on the widest, deepest canal, perfect for larger vessels. Permitted tie off pilings are in place. Closest deep-water canal to the Federal channel & Gulf. Approx 80’ x 130’, per survey. Views of Bay & canal. Little to no traffic at this ideal location, even during season. Lot size means fewer, if any, permitting, setback, water retention or grandfathering issues when planning to build. Walk to Times Square & Bowditch Point Park. $1,575,000
EXPANSIVE BALCONY overlooks Estero Bay with its everchanging panorama of marine life & boating activity. Includes membership in the EBIA, a 57 acre preserve w/ walking paths, ball courts, putting greens & deeded beach access. Tile flooring in living area. Primary BD has balcony sliders. Updated kitchen, baths. Under building parking next to entry & storage. Convenient to CVS, Santini Plaza & Fish Tale Marina. $499,000
LIVING THE DREAM at the Pink Shell Resort & Marina on 12 acres of white sand w/amenities galore. 1BD/1BA Beachfront condos allow you to enjoy our world-famous sunset in the privacy of your own surroundings. Owners can reside in their unit for 28 days/year + use amenities yearround. Octopool, adult pool, restaurants, spa, business center, boutique, beach chairs, etc. Kayaking & dolphin tours by reservation at marina. Onsite rental service provides income when not in residence. $314,000 - $369,900
UNIQUE GULFSIDE LOT NEAR NORTH END Is perfectly situated to capture our world-famous island sunset w/views of the Gulf & beach. This unique property has it all, near the north end of island and zoned for weekly vacation rentals. Get your toes in the sand just steps from your door! Includes valuable drawings/renderings for a custom designed home. Choose a builder/design & take advantage of this opportunity to create a Gulf-side dream home on one of the very few Gulfside lots at a fraction of the cost of a Gulf front lot! $997,000
Chris Loffreno Allie Henry Charlie Smith
Tracey Gore
Ronald Coveleski
Rita M. Oben Summer Stockton
VOLUME 41, NUMBER 21
Persaud withdraws Times Square hotel plans
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Terry Persaud has withdrawn his application for a hotel and restaurant at Times Square after a negative reaction to the plans by the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council. Councilmembers suggested Persaud bring scaled-back plans for further review by the Local Planning Agency. The Local Planning Agency had previously rejected the original plans.
The plans for the half-acre lot required deviations from town code for density, intensity, height and parking.
Members of the Local Planning Agency had raised concerns about the height of the building and its impact on the view from the Matanzas Pass Bridge though town council members were not as focused on that aspect of the plans.
Persaud had scaled down the size of the project at the site of the former Sunset
Beach Tropical Grill and The Playmore Tiki Bar ahead of Monday’s Town Council meeting following the rejection of his plans by the Local Panning Agency.
The new plans lower the number of hotel rooms to 31 rooms from the original proposal of 50, reduced the height by 10 feet to 60 feet and eliminated one of the floors to make the hotel three floors. Local Planning Agency Chair Anita Cereceda had said she would be willing to consider
Town announces June 30 target date, southern segment completed
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
For the fourth time in the past three months, the Town of Fort Myers Beach has announced its beach renourishment project has been delayed again, pushing the project deeper into shorebird nesting season as well as sea turtle nesting season. The new expected completion date
is June 30, more than six months after it was supposed to finish.
The good news is that the southern segment of the project, in the town’s most environmentally sensitive areas where the majority of the shorebird nesting takes place in the summer, has been completed.
Fort Myers Beach Environmental
Project Manager Chadd Chustz declared to the Town Council on Monday that the project on the southern end has been finished.
The project, which was supposed to be completed in January, has faced multiple delays in part due to equipment failures and leaks from its sand dredg-
See RENOURISHMENT, page 16
three stories instead of the four stories initially proposed by Persaud.
On Monday, Persaud’s representatives faced a number of skeptical questions from Mayor Dan Allers regarding the plans as well as questions from Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt despite the changes. Atterholt questioned why another restaurant couldn’t be constructed without the hotel use. Representatives of Persaud
Atterholt sounds alarm on Beach Elementary
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Alarmed by a lack of action from the Lee County School District on the Fort Myers Beach Elementary School and a consultant’s report being drawn up on the future viability of the school, Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt said the town should prepare for a “nuclear option” to respond to a potentially negative consultant’s report.
School District officials have presented to an ad-hoc committee of Fort Myers Beach community members five options for the rebuilding or repairing of the school. Those options are expected to be voted on by the Lee County School Board at their next meeting on June 3. At the same time, the board is expected to hear from a consultant hired by the district to issue a report on the future of the school.
A Sunshine Law request sent to the Lee County School District more than one week ago by the Fort Myers Beach Observer for a copy of the consultant’s contract had still not been complied with as of Tuesday.
The hiring of the consultant and delays in the School District going out to bid for a second building that was supposed to be constructed for a cafeteria and auditorium for students as part of an interlocal agreement between the School District and town, has further ratcheted up the anxiety of those involved in weekly meetings with School District officials.
“It’s a little difficult to know the scope of that consultant’s work because it has been unclear,” Atterholt said. He said that to have the consultant hired is “against the spirit of the interlocal agreement.”
Atterholt said that he believes the consultant is looking into the future viability of the school is something that was already codified by the interlocal agreement, which sets parameters for the future of the school, including future con-
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OPINIONS
Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
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Web Poll
Arches Bayfront hotel and commercial center at Moss Marina, and providing height and parking deviations from town code?
∫
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
∫ No, do not recall either councilmember ∫ No opinion/unsure
fortmyersbeachtalk.com
Why are our government officials afraid of ‘We, the People?’
On Friday, May 2, Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida demonstrated again, that he, along with many of our Floridian legislators, continue to be terrified of the power of “We, the People.” How this time? By approving the most stringent restrictions on our ability to introduce citizen initiatives for amendments to our Constitution.
Right in our Constitution (Article 11, Section 3) it says: “The power to propose the revision or amendment of any portion or portions of this constitution by initiative is reserved to the people.” That’s a clear statement. It says “we the people” have the right reserved to us, the people, to amend the constitution. And as a group, we citizens have done a pretty good job, introducing things like the Sunshine Law (1976), Universal Pre-K (2002) and Fair Districts (2010). However, our governors didn’t like the fact that we had this power, and over the years (since 1976), the state has applied tougher and tougher requirements to get citizen initiatives on to the ballot. Probably because we got Minimum Wage implemented (2004 and 2020), Medical Cannabis legalized (2016) and Voter Rights Restored (2018), and worst of all, almost
got all Marijuana Legalized (2024) and a Woman’s Right to Healthcare Privacy (2024) approved.
The last are particularly interesting, as it now seems that there was likely (though yet to be proven) some questionable funding for attack ads against the legalization of marijuana, and certainly, the governor and his cabinet were not shy about threatening the press over the abortion rights campaign. If true, these are hardly the act of a governor who wants to hear the will of the people.
So now we have approval of CB/HB 1205, approved on May 2 and which becomes law immediately. This bill requires that by taking that right that “is reserved to the people,” We the People must now:
∫ Give up our personally identifiable information, including driver’s license or last 4 digits of our Social Security number if we want to sign a petition.
∫ Petition gathers may only gather up to 25 petitions, or be subject to a felony. We can be petition circulators and gather more, but only if we go through rigorous training, and also be subject to egregious fines as well as potential felonies.
to the Editor
∫ Petitions can be gratuitously challenged, and the signer or gather subject to fines.
∫ Each petition must have the state certified Financial Impact (FI) on them, and if the FI changes, all previously signed petitions are now invalid, and signature gathering must start again. Given that over 900,000 approved signatures are needed to get on a ballot, this requirement seems almost insurmountable, given Amendment 4’s experience with ad-hoc changes being made to the Financial Impact by the state throughout the life of the petition.
There’s more -- but I encourage you to read the bill for yourself, or the AP interpretation at https://apnews.com/article/florida-citizens-ballot-initiative-constitutional-amendment-desantis-50a5ac0048825c0756c7b850d4b81fed
What can you do on this? Talk to your neighbors. Make sure that they know about the state actively taking away our rights as defined by our state Constitution. Help organizations in the process of putting together citizen’s initiatives like the Florida Right to Clean Water. Keep your eyes on the look out for legal activity, as we, the people of this date, take action to protect our right to amend OUR constitution.
Cathie Kozik is president of the League of Women Voters of Sanibel.
Vision for a restored Matlacha
To the editor:
On May 1 a team from the University of Florida Institute for Built Environmental Resistance (FIBER), led by Associate Professor Jeff Carney, presented a remarkable vision of a Restored Matlacha to a group of island civic association leaders.
Working with the Fort Myers Collaboratory, the University team of architects and urban designers walked its audience through a 64-slide rendition of ways to deal with the public space challenges of Matlacha in the aftermath of three major hurricanes. In attendance were Lee County Planner Dirk Danley, Jr., and Florida Department of Transportation Project Manager Steven Andrews.
The first part of the project focused on transportation and parking challenges in Matlacha in the context of the FDOT Shared Path Feasibility Study which has been on hold since the hurricanes. The FIBER team presented charts and maps showing its analysis of parking availability and parking needs for all three island “blocks” which make up Matlacha. Next, the study proposed flood adaptation strategies for Matlacha, focusing on public space, parking, landscaping, and land redevelopment.
Drawing from coastal flooding data, the
study set out four options for future development and resilience. The first labeled “Tactical Urbanism” proposed immediate interventions without major modifications to Pine Island Road to provide quick, low-cost improvements adaptable to short-term needs. Utilizing colorful asphalt art, landscaping, and a variety of traffic and pedestrian controls, this approach focused on common areas and unconventional parking ideas.
The second option called Big Deck Tidal Flooding Resilience proposed large shared deck platforms hosting mobile structures (e.g., tiny homes, containers).
These platforms include stationary uses such as seating and shop display.
This plan includes no setbacks; development reaches the parcel edge along Pine Island Road. Shared parking is located on the back side of the parcels. This plan includes stormwater management and shoreline restoration with native landscaping.
Options three and four focus on restoration to FEMA base flood elevations and aggressive shoreline restoration and flood management. These options conceive of a Matlacha with permanent structures elevated to current elevation requirements and permanent protection against the FEMA 100-year flood event by state-of-the-art seawalls with
nature based shoreline enhancements.
The ingenuity and professionalism of this plan is a real breakthrough for the restoration of Matlacha, and builds on the renderings I circulated after Hurricane Ian of a permanently raised “block one” where we look to the re-opening of Bert’s Bar and other Matlacha icons. I look forward to circulating the FIBER plan in the community.
I am also excited that Mr. Danley of Lee County and Mr. Andrews of FDOT were at the meeting. Already numerous property owners are raising their homes or building new homes to FEMA standards. Many are hoping for assistance from Elevate Florida: Florida Department of Emergency M anagement Residential Mitigation Program. J. Michael Hannon Matlacha
Maintained mailboxes help ensure mail delivery
To the editor:
Each year, the U.S. Postal Service sets aside the third week of May as Mailbox Improvement Week, a time when we encourage customers to inspect and repair their mailboxes to ensure reliable mail delivery.
Cathie Kozik
Guest Commentary
Trish Kelly (941) 916-4079
9810 Leeward Ct, 3 /2 Amy Velyvis (239) 287-3932
BUSINESS
Smokin’ Oyster Brewery celebrating with grand reopening
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The owners of Smokin’ Oyster Brewery, better known as SOB’s, were so busy trying to get the restaurant opened a week before last Christmas that they never had time to properly hold a reopening ceremony with the Fort Myers Beach public.
On Friday, they made up for it with a grand reopening ceremony at the Old San Carlos Boulevard restaurant and bar that has been somewhat of a downtown institution. Though it flooded and suffered a lot of damage from Hurricane Ian, which required extensive remodeling, the structure survived intact.
A new ownership group headed by Ohio farmer turned restauranteur Hank Leitnaker oversaw the renovations and has been leading the restaurant’s resurgence. Leitnaker, who has a culinary background, relocated from Ohio to restart the iconic, wood-framed business. “I moved here from Ohio to pursue the dream,” Leitnaker said.
A lot of work was required to get the SOB’s looking like the old SOB’s.
“All of the interior is new,” Leitnaker said. “We tried to bring it back with the same look as possible because people wanted the old SOB’s back.”
Leitnaker had considered a food truck business before getting connected with Peter Ennis and Nick Ruland, who operate Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant and Wahoo Willie’s down the street. Together, they reopened Smokin’ Oyster Brewery, taking over from the Freeman family.
They have brought back the classic menu, which focuses on seafood, including the popular fire-roasted oysters, baywalk scallops, screaming aoli shrimp, clams and jerked black grouper. The menu also features New York strip steak, fried chicken and smash burgers.
“We wanted to keep it like it was,” Leitnaker said. Half of the menu is old favorites while half of the menu includes new additions introduced by Leitnaker such as the shrimp BLT wrap and steak sandwich.
Leitnaker said the kitchen staff includes Smokin’ Oyster Brewery veterans who know the old recipes. “The staff is really good. They love what they do. They are really talented,” he said.
After a ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of a packed house Friday morning, the real work began as the bar was filled by 10:30 a.m. and the food was served to hungry diners.
Ennis was giving out gift baskets to lucky raffle winners.
In the middle of the restaurant Dave and Donna Klingler sat quietly at their table as they were served bowls of fresh pink Gulf shrimp cocktail. The Sycamore, Illinois, couple have been heading to Fort Myers Beach for the past 54 years since their honeymoon.
At another end of the restaurant were Paul and Cheryl Coplen of Indiana, who won the grand prize gift basket in a raffle that brought them shirts from SOB’s, beer, beach
See REOPENING, page 19
Former Pete’s Time Out property at
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
Nearly a year after a Dania Beachbased limited liability company scooped up the former Plaka on the Beach restaurant property at Times Square, they have now acquired its neighbor, the former Pete’s Time Out lot.
County property records show the sale closed for $1.5 million on April 30 to 1001 FMB LLC. That figure represented a profit for the Indiana-based company which bought the vacant lot for $1.135 million in 2022 from the Lallo family, two months
after Hurricane Ian.
Shlomo Melloul, a Dania Beach-based partner in the limited liability company, confirmed the sale. Melloul intends to construct a building at the Times Square property which is located at the corner of Times Square facing the Gulf and Lynn Hall Memorial Park. Melloul has previously considered building a rooftop restaurant to replace the former restaurant. He said on Monday he may construct a retail building on the property by combining the two lots.
“We will just make it a bigger, better site. It is a very small (property),” Melloul said.
Melloul and FMB 1001 LLC purchased the vacant lot next door where Plaka on the Beach stood before Hurricane Ian, for $3.65 million in July of 2024. He said he intends to combine the two lots in order to construct a larger building.
Melloul said the purchase of the Plaka on the Beach was his first business deal on Fort Myers Beach and he chose it for its “prime location.”
The business move was made during a time of uncertainty for Times Square, which was largely leveled by Hurricane Ian. Developer Terry Persaud withdrew
hotel and restaurant plans for Times Square on Monday after a negative reaction from the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council. He also owns the vacant lot across from the Plaka on the Beach and Pete’s Time Out properties which formerly housed the PierSide Grill and Famous Blowfish Bar, Dairy Queen and Pier Peddler. No new plans have been proposed for those parcels. Those properties front the Fort Myers Beach Pier, which is currently being designed for a rebuild that isn’t expected to be completed until 2027.
NATHAN MAYBERG
Smokin’ Oyster Brewery on Old San Carlos Boulevard will be holding food and drink specials over the next week to celebrate its grand reopening.
Peter Ennis (left), part of the new ownership group at Smokin’ Oyster Brewery, with operating partners Hank Leitnaker (center) and Angie Leitnaker (right).
BEACH LIVING
Council moves Lighthouse Resort expansion to second hearing
Proposal would add 55 rooms, additional story and building
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council voted Monday to move the expansion plans of the Lighthouse Resort, including a Commercial Planned Development rezoning, forward to a second hearing.
The resort, located on Fifth Street across from the Margaritaville Beach Resort and the first resort visible as visitors to the island cross the Matanzas Pass Bridge. Under the rezoning plan, the Lighthouse Resort will be allowed to add rooms on property that was purchased nearby at 1061 Third Street.
The Lighthouse Resort requires 11 deviations from the town’s Land Development Code including an increase in the number of hotel rooms from 75 to 130 units, to increase the height to four stories and a 58% reduction in parking. They are currently limited to three stories.
The rezoning is for two parcels totaling 1.78 acres and includes the construction of a new building according to the master concept plan.
Town planner Judith Frankel compared the request by the Lighthouse Resort to Margaritaville Beach Resort, with a greater density than Margaritaville though a lower equivalency factor. She said town planning staff supported the zoning request.
Frankel said that town planning staff found the deviations requested were consistent with the town’s comprehensive plan though staff expressed concern regarding the parking requests.
The Lighthouse Resort has limited parking on site available.
“Staff recommends the Town Council consider whether that request is appropriate,” Frankel said.
“Staff suggested that 130 parking spaces, one space per room, to accommodate guests and employees would be more appropriate,” Frankel said.
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
RENDERINGS PROVIDED
Patrick Vanasse, representing The Neighborhood Company as the planner for the project, explained that the developers wanted to increase the height of one building from 37 feet to 40.5 feet and another story to one of the buildings. Vanasse said there will be cottages constructed as well. The master concept plan also shows the construction of one new building.
Vanasse’s presentation was short on some of the specifics regarding the construction plans. Vanasse did not respond to questions sent from the Fort Myers Beach Observer regarding the project.
Before Monday’s hearing, four town council members acknowledged they had met privately with both Vanasse’s company and the owner of the resort. Councilmembers Scott Safford and Karen Woodson said they had multiple private meetings with the planners and owner.
Mayor Dan Allers recused himself from voting due to a business conflict with the Lighthouse Resort.
Council members had few questions or comments regarding the plans at Monday’s meeting.
The approval of the Town Council will allow an existing Commercial Planned Development approved in 2018 to be amended. The Lighthouse Resort was also represented on Monday by attorney and State Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka.
The next hearing on the Lighthouse Resort will be
Mound House Calendar
held June 16.
The owners of the Lighthouse Resort do not expect to begin construction for three years.
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.
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.
Lee County fertilizer ordinance starts June 1
Lee County deployed an email survey to gauge public awareness of the annual Lee County fertilizer ordinance, which goes into effect on June 1.
Each year, the county embarks on a campaign to educate new and existing unincorporated Lee County residents and landscapers about the fertilizer ordinance and the importance of halting the use of fertilizers that contain nitrogen or phosphorus during the rainy summer months. The brief 13-question survey focuses on topics such as how often homeowners fer-
tilize their lawns and whether homeowners are aware of guidelines and impacts associated with fertilizers.
The results of the survey allow the county to measure the community’s understanding of the ordinance, and evaluate methods used to reach and inform residents.
For more information on how to fertilize and the ordinance, visit FertilizeSmart. com. On the landing page, a pop-up window will offer residents the opportunity to take the survey.
School district seeks funds for safety upgrades
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
The School District of Lee County is seeking federal dollars through Community Project Funding for hardening school facilities and enhancing safety and security.
The two requests from the district include enhancing safety and security by upgrading the district’s outdated intercom systems and hardening school facilities through secure entry vestibules, “enclosed spaces between exterior and interior doorways.”
The upgraded intercom systems will address technical challenges at 57 schools,
district Government Relations Director Krissy Houlihan said, adding the upgrade will protect approximately 57,000 students and 11,400 staff members across the district.
The district is requesting $7 million, 14% of the total project.
The second request for 65 secure entry vestibules is for $10,050,000 in Community Project Funding for phase one. The total projected cost is $23.4 million.
According to back up material, “these transformative security enhancements will establish a robust defense system that actively prevents unauthorized building
Town Council accepts $47K donation from Seagate for fireworks
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council voted Monday to accept a donation of $47,000 from Seagate Development Group to cover the estimated cost of Fourth of July fireworks.
Seagate Development Group CEO Matt Price said he reached out to Mayor Dan Allers to express an interest in assisting with the cost of fireworks after hearing that the town might not be able to afford the fireworks.
Allers put Price in touch with Manager Andy Hyatt in order to arrange the donation, Price said.
“This contribution aligns with Seagate’s ongoing commitment to our community,” Price said.
He said the donation was the latest in its efforts to support the Fort Myers Beach community, such as funding a sensory walking path at Fort Myers Beach Elementary School and other assistance to local nonprofits.
Price said that Seagate is also working on the rebuild of the Cottage Beach
access, providing immediate protection while creating buffer zones that can save precious minutes during crisis situations when every second counts.”
Representatives from Ballard Partners, a lobbying firm that the district hired to represent its interests at the federal level, walked the board through the process at its meeting on May 6.
Partner Tracie Pough said the district
Bar.
Last year, the Town of Fort Myers Beach Council voted to approve a controversial 17-story multi-building condo development proposed by Seagate Development Group. That approval is currently the subject of litigation initiated by Protect FMB, a citizen’s group formed to stop the project from going forward.
Last year, town officials disclosed that an anonymous donation that was expected for last year’s Fourth of July fireworks never came through. The name of the anonymous donor was never released though the town said the donor covered the cost of the town’s fireworks show in 2023 for New Year’s Eve.
The town was left in an approximately $80,000 hole due to not being able to cover the cost of both fireworks shows.
The town’s special events budget for the whole year is between $30,000 and $35,000.
has really strong projects with both of them falling under the Department of Homeland Security, not the Department of Education.
“We are in a time when having federal representation could not be more critical because of all the varied changes that are taking place with this administration,” she said, adding that she believes that the firm
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.
Body of headless, tailless alligator found in Cape Coral canal
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
A deceased adult alligator missing a head and tail was found floating in a Cape Coral canal on Thursday.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to the report of the lifeless alligator, which was apparently the victim of either an illegal poaching or an illegal harvesting.
In Florida, it is illegal to hunt, harvest or possess an alligator outside of hunting season (which requires a permit and which runs from Aug. 15 to Nov. 1). It is also illegal to dispose of the body of an alligator in a canal.
FWC spokesperson Bradley Johnson confirmed that the FWC found the alligator in a Cape Coral canal on Thursday.
“An FWC officer responded to the scene to investigate the incident. This is currently still an active investigation and we do not have any leads at this time. It is worth noting that it is illegal to harvest or possess an alligator outside of alligator hunting season,” Johnson said.
The alligator was initially reported in the Bimini Basin area near Four Freedoms Park Wednesday afternoon, Johnson said. The FWC responded to the scene at approximately 3:30 p.m.
“While our officer was on scene the alligator carcass had drifted out of the area and we were unable to locate it,” Johnson said. “The next day we were given information that the carcass had drifted down the canal near Coronado Parkway and we sent an officer to remove
in a meet and greet with the public this Thursday at the DiamondHead Beach Resort from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Meet the new Town Manager
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com
The Town of Fort Myers Beach announced a meet-and-greet event with new Fort Myers Beach Manager Will McKannay this Thursday at the DiamondHead Beach Resort.
The event, which is being organized with the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, will give the opportunity to meet the town’s new manager.
The meet-and-greet will run from 5-6:30 p.m. and will include light hors d’oeuvres.
McKannay officially began working for the town on Monday at an annual
salary of $200,000.
McKannay is a retired garrison commander of the U.S. Army who will join the town after a 30-year career in the military and most recently as an emergency management consultant.
During a 30-year career in the military, he served in the U.S. wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and traveled to Honduras and Haiti to assist in humanitarian efforts after natural disasters there. He served as garrison commander in Fort Riley, Kansas.
The DiamondHead Beach Resort is located at 2000 Estero Blvd., on Fort Myers Beach.
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 award 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.
the carcass from the populated area and dispose of it properly.”
Johnson said officers are continuing to check in with residences and business in the area to see if anyone has any information that can aid in the investigation.
“We do not have any leads at this time,” Johnson said.
Intentionally killing, injuring, possessing or capturing an alligator outside of an alligator hunting season in Florida is a third degree felony in the state of Florida.
The FWC encourages the public to report any wildlife violations by downloading the FWC Wildlife Alert app, calling the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888404-FWCC(888-404-3922) or submitting a tip online at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.
Lee County schools hosting Coffee & Careers day May 30
The School District of Lee County is hosting Coffee & Careers on Friday, May 30, from 9 to 11 a.m. to provide insight on career opportunities within the District.
The informational event will allow participants to speak with the talent acquisition team and learn more about open positions within the District for the upcoming academic year. Attendees will also be able to walk through becoming certified to teach in Florida. The event will take place at Panera Bread, located at 5037 S. Cleveland Ave. in Fort Myers. To register, visit LeeSchools.net/Careers.
The School District of Lee County is among the largest school districts in Florida with more than 100,000 stu -
dents and 116 schools. New hires will receive support and necessary resources that will enable them to succeed upon entering the field of education. The District offers a competitive and comprehensive compensation plan for its employees, and additional benefits and earning opportunities are also available via advanced degree supplement, summer school, athletic coaching and more. Upon hire, a personal benefits selection process will be made available to eligible employees. For support or additional questions, email careers@leeschools.net or call 239-337-8676. To learn more about available career opportunities, visit LeeSchools.net/Careers.
FILE PHOTO
Town of Fort Myers Beach Manager Will McKannay (left) will be taking part
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Army Corps of Engineers reduces releases from Lake Okeechobee
By NATHAN MAYBERG
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Jacksonville District announced a further reduction in releases from Lake Okeechobee through the S-79 W.P Franklin Lock into the Caloosahatchee River Estuary beginning May 3.
The reductions were on top of previous reductions announced a month earlier.
Jacksonville District will reduce Lake Okeechobee releases through the S-79 into the Caloosahatchee River Estuary from a pulse of 650 cubic feet per second (cos) to a steady 500 cubic feet per second to maintain favorable salinity levels in the estuary and begin to conserve water. Releases to the south will be made as determined by the South Florida Water Management District’s for water supply.
The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation has been critical of the release schedule by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
“We ask that S-79 be managed to ensure actual and projected flows are aligning, as actual flows have
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:
been consistently lower than the constant 500 cfs flow schedule,” the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) said in a statement. The foundation said the decreased flows are “creating damaging salinity levels.”
The SCCF believes the current flow target at S-79 is below the optimum flow envelope. “Salinities are continuing to rise quickly in the Caloosahatchee estuary, threatening the health of indicator species like oysters and tape grass. Damages to these populations take decades to recover from, including oysters which are currently in a critical spawning period,” the SCCF found. The estuary “is in a vulnerable position and cannot withstand flows being dropped any lower. We ask that flows at S-79 be within the optimum envelope of 750-2,100 cfs to preserve the health of the estuary and all species inhabiting it,” the SCCF said,
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a statement saying the :goal of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is to lower Lake Okeechobee water levels before the onset of the wet season to allow for recovery of the lake ecology, specifically submerged aquatic vegetation
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. 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
(SAV). The operational strategy for these operations slowly brings water levels down by making moderate, non-harmful releases to the estuaries, while also sending flow south to the Everglades.”
Lake Okeechobee has been at or below 12 feet since Apr. 15 and at or below 11.5 feet since Apr. 26. “Current projections show conditions are favorable for successfully reaching recovery success metrics if dry conditions continue,” the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said.
“The lake is coming down nicely,” said Col. Brandon Bowman, Jacksonville district commander. “The conditions are very dry, and reducing outflows is consistent with our strategy as we approach our goals to achieve lower stages during the summer.”
Lowering water levels allows light to penetrate to the bottom and allow SAV to regerminate and regrow during the Spring and summer. Regrowth of SAV in Lake Okeechobee will reduce water turbidity and nutrient concentrations. Recovery Operations conclude with the start of the wet season.
bottles are highly recommended. Space is limited; advance ticket purchase required. To purchase tickets, visit crewtrust. eventbrite.com
Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month by enjoying a peaceful evening of painting where Patty Chiappo, local artist and devoted CREW Trust Volunteer, will
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CIRCLE AWARD
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.
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May marks National Water Safety Month
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
With temperatures heating up around Southwest Florida, bodies of water — from beachside to poolside — will see much more activity in the coming months.
With more people in the water comes a greater chance of accidental drownings and other water-related incidents.
May serves as National Water Safety Month, with a history of highlighting water awareness and swim safety starting in 2003, when the World Waterpark Association launched its National Water Safety Week.
The coalition is made up of organizations such as the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, American Red Cross, National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA), National Recreation and Park Association and World Waterpark Association.
According to the NDPA, there are more than 4,500 unintentional drowning deaths each year in the United States. It added that drowning is fast, silent and can happen in as little as 20 to 60 seconds. Even a good swimmer can drown.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the single leading cause of death for children ages 1-4. No other single cause of death kills more toddlers and young children than drowning. Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death in children ages 5-14 following motor vehicle crashes.
NDPA officials state that drowning does not always result in death. It can cause hypoxic brain injury, with moderate to severe impacts on quality of life and health outcomes.
The NDPA recommends “5 layers of protection” to help prevent drownings:
∫ Barriers and alarms: It is important to use four-sided fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates, pool safety covers and alarm systems to help prevent children and unauthorized adults from accessing water unsupervised.
∫ Supervision: Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings with close, constant and capable adult supervision from a designated water watcher or lifeguard anytime children are in or around water.
∫ Water competency: Every child and adult should be equipped with the skills to protect themselves in water by learning and enhancing their basic water safety skills to
reduce the risk of drowning and aquatic-related injuries.
∫ Life jackets: When used appropriately, life jackets protect you when you are not expecting to be in the water, especially around open water. Ensure your life jackets are tested and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
∫ Emergency preparation: Knowing how to prepare for an emergency with CPR training with rescue breaths and basic water rescue skills can make the difference between life and death. Have a phone available and ready to call 911.
According to the Florida Department of Health (FDOH), children ages 1-4 are more likely to drown in a home swimming pool than children ages 5-19, who are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water.
The FDOH offers the following water safety tips:
∫ Always keep your eyes on children in and around water, including pools and open bodies of water. Actively supervising and giving children your undivided attention when they are in or around water can help prevent drownings.
∫ Never leave a child alone around water
∫ If your child is missing, check other pools or surrounding bodies of water
∫ Use barriers around water, including fences, self-closing/self-latching gates, and secure doors with alarms. Barriers help prevent young children from wandering into bodies of water, including lakes, pools, ponds and more.
∫ Have a phone nearby in case you need to call 911 in an emergency
∫ Open cuts or wounds should not be immersed in water; if there is bacteria in the water, it can enter the body through a cut or wound.
∫ If a cut or wound happens when in the water, it should be washed with clean, running water and soap and covered with a clean, dry waterproof bandage.
For more information about National Water Safety Month, visit https://nwsm.phta.org/.
Students decry elimination of ‘Latinos in America’ offering
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
An email sent to families last month regarding the School District of Lee County’s elimination of the “I Learn America” and Latinos in Action cur riculums drew numerous stu dents to the school board’s meeting on May 6.
“At the School District of Lee County, we are committed to supporting every student’s growth as a leader, scholar, and en gaged community member. As part of our regular cur riculum review, we are making some changes to be in alignment with updated guidance from the Federal Department of Education,” the email stated.
Many students shared that Latinos in America helped them find their confidence and taught them responsibility and leadership, as well as helped decrease any bad behavior.
“This program isn’t just a class, it’s a home,” one Diplomat Middle School student said.
Another student said their voices were silenced when Latinos in Action was taken away. A petition with more than 200 signatures had been collected as of the meeting.
“It welcomes students of all backgrounds — Latino, white, black, Asian and more. It thrives on diversity. It doesn’t focus on hobbies and academics, but rather identity, leadership and unity. It gives students
School district
has its finger on the pulse of the changes and influences.
Pough said that with a new administration — Trump’s administration — things are a little bit slower than they normally would be with the president submitting his budget to Congress.
“Once that budget is submitted the process formally begins. The appropriations committee then has the opportunity to set
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the budget limits for each of the 12 appropriation bills,” she said.
Pough said there is mandatory spending, predetermined spending, which makes up about 72% of federal spending, and 24% is discretionary spending — community project funding.
“Once the appropriations committee sets the funding numbers for those 12 bills, the process begins,” she said.
Pough said the community project
a reason to be proud of who they are while uplifting others in the process,” a Diplomat Middle School student said.
The “I Learn America,” as well as the Latinos in Action curriculum, will no longer be used in middle or high schools, according to the district.
“In its place, we will be offering parts of the IGCSE English as a Second Language course associated with the Cambridge/ AICE Curriculum. This new curriculum will serve as a pilot and aligns with our ongoing efforts to provide rigorous and globally recognized academic content,” the email stated.
In addition, both the “I Learn America” showcase that was slated for April 22 at Lehigh Senior High School and a trip to the Latinos in Action Conference in Tampa have been canceled.
“We are currently exploring school-
funding has guidelines set by the appropriations committee giving each member the opportunity to file in the House and the Senate.
Partner Dan McFaul said the House has set a target of Memorial Day to get the reconciliation process completed, with the Senate being a little further behind.
The Senate, less of a fiscal impact and fewer cuts through the process go into July.
“This takes up valuable time in the
based or regional alternatives to support our student’s preparation and efforts,” the email states. “Additionally, clubs associated with Latinos in America will continue with a renewed focus on service-based or tutoring-centered opportunities, ensuring students can get involved, give back, and grow as leaders in their schools and communities.”
The email ends by stating that the district’s “decision is guided by updated federal expectations and is focused on ensuring consistent and high-quality learning experience for all students. Our commitment remains the same: to provide every student with opportunities to grow, achieve, and feel supported in a positive and engaging school environment.”
House and Senate,” he said. “It slows down the appropriations process. The time on the floor to pass the bills is getting limited.”
McFaul said he anticipates a December timeline for the full appropriations package to pass in the House and Senate.
“We will have some indications along the way as the House and Senate pass individual bills,” he said. “Until signed by the president, it is not law.”
Caution tape surrounds the exposed sand dredging pipe at Lynn Hall Memorial Park which is part of the Fort Myers Beach sand renourishment project. The town announced that the project has been delayed again by contractors. The new expected completion date is June 30.
Renourishment
ing pipe that crosses several miles of the beach.
The town last received approvals from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to complete its work by May 15, the third extension the DEP gave the town to continue its work into the shorebird nesting season. It was not clear on Tuesday whether the state had approved allowing the town to go further into the shorebird nesting season into June.
In response to questions about the project, Chustz cited the April letter giving the town the extension to May 15. Chustz did not respond to questions as to whether the DEP has approved the town continuing its work further into the shorebird nesting season, as the town announced will continue through June 30.
Officials with the DEP did not respond immediately to questions regarding the town’s latest delays.
The work began last summer.
The pipe stretches for miles up the beach and a lot of the work in the last few months was focused around Leonardo Arms, which faced the worst erosion on the island but was not prioritized in the planning of the project.
Chustz said the sand is still “very squishy” on the southern section of the project between the Estero Beach and Tennis Club and Leonardo Arms. Contractors were putting the finishing touches on the sand and emergency berm
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on Friday, Chustz said.
Chustz said those with mobility challenges should be careful when walking across the newly graded sand, which is deep. Those walking across the deeper parts of the beach where the new sand has been placed between Leonardo Arms and Crescente Condominium Association, will find that the sand can come up to the knees.
“Watch your step,” Chustz said.
On Friday, Chustz said the project would now turn its focus to the area on the beach in the vicinity of the Red Coconut (Seagate) property, Lanark Street, the old Junkanoo property and Newton Beach Park mid-island.
Speaking to the Town Council on Monday, Chustz said the renourishment work on the southern end of the island was now completed.
Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt commended the work that was completed at Leonardo Arms - a property once facing the worst erosion challenges on the island.
“To look at Leonardo Arms today versus 2 1/2 years ago, it is truly transformative,” Atterholt said. “It is spectacular.”
Not everybody thinks the work is done though.
Fort Myers Beach Councilmember John King asked about whether more sand could be dumped on the southern end due to what he believed were impacts from Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton
to last year’s sand haul project.
“Being at the extreme south end of the island, we are looking forward to accretion because that’s how we got our beach to begin with. You had mentioned funding for more sand,” King said. “You had talked about I thought funding for Helene and Milton issues.”
Chustz said he is awaiting the state legislature to act to provide funding for more sand. “We do have hot spot maintenance in our beach renourishment project permit,” Chustz said. He said the sand haul project last year at Big Carlos Beach on the southern end was a “one-time placement” landward of the mean-high water line though he said the town could apply for an emergency permit to potentially place more sand in the area.
The town received its third extension from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in April to extend the project through May 15 in the south beach segment. The permit extension specifies that there be no construction-related activities within the marked boundaries of the Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area (LEICWA) between April 1 and Aug. 31.
While the mid-island segment of the project is less environmentally sensitive in terms of shorebird nesting, the exposed pipe can still intimidate sea turtles from nesting. The sea turtles typically turn around when they encounter the piping, which is currently exposed at Lynn Hall
Park.
Turtle Time will be working on relocating sea turtle nests that are located within the project’s scope.
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 activity takes place.
When the Town of Fort Myers Beach bid out the project and awarded the $21.7 million contract to Ahtna in May, the project was supposed to be completed in 180 days - with an allowance to 195 days. The project has now far exceeded that timeframe by more than five months. The contractors face penalties of $750 per each day they exceed the contracted timeline.
The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council awarded the bid to Ahtna Marine and Construction Company last year despite a bid protest from Callan Marine. Callan Marine alleged that the bid by Ahtna, which was more $15 million below the bid of Callan Marine, was not responsive to the bid specifications as it could not be completed on time based on the equip-
Memorial Park and other areas of the island south to the area around Newton Beach
NATHAN MAYBERG
James Steele, former town manager, dies at 83
STAFF REPORT
James Steele, who twice served as the interim manager for the Town of Fort Myers Beach, died this past week at the age of 83. Steele had last served briefly as town manager following the election of a new town council in November of 2022, during the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.
Born in Anderson, Indiana, he grew up working for his dad, at Steele’s Glass & Auto Parts. Jim attended Purdue University where he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and graduated with a degree in Industrial Engineering. It was at Purdue Jim acquired the nickname “Stainless,” according to an obituary provided by his nephew Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor
Renourishment
ment Ahtna would have on hand based on its bid response.
Shorebird nesting season started Feb. 15, which includes nesting for several threatened bird species that nest on the island including American oystercatchers, black skimmers, least terns and snowy plovers.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation continues to monitor Fort Myers Beach for shorebird nesting activity. As of April 30, the FWC had documented 54 threatened least tern nests and six Wilson’s plovers nests.
There have been no documented snowy plover nests, a potentially troubling development one year after the island also saw a major drop in snowy plover nests.
Jim Atterholt. Steele served in the Army Reserves as a Supply Clerk operating primarily out of Fort McCoy, WI. He started his career working for Anderson Banking Company.
A long career in public service followed as he was the Controller of the City of Anderson under Mayor Tom McMahan. He went on to serve as the Executive Director of the Indiana Bond Bank. Jim served under both Mayor Bill Hudnut and Steve Goldsmith as the Controller of the City of Indianapolis. He later served as the CFO for the Indianapolis City-County Council. Jim was awarded the State of Indiana’s highest award for service—the Sagamore of the Wabash.
Upon retirement, Jim moved to the Town of Fort Myers Beach (FMB), Florida where he continued his
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public service as a volunteer on the Local Planning Agency, the Audit Committee and the Board of the Friends of the Mound House. He also enjoyed serving as commissioner of his Fort Myers Beach Sunday morning golf league.
He was predeceased by his older sister Kathleen Atterholt and is survived by his twin sister Jeanne Jones (Larry) and his nieces and nephews Elizabeth (John) Connor, Andrew (Dara) Jones, Sarah (Brian) Logsdon, Jennifer (Michael) Papai, Perry (Becky) Atterholt and Jim (Brenda) Atterholt as well as his longtime companion Jackie Bredeson. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of the Mound House in Fort Myers Beach.
Beachgoers at Lynn Hall Memorial Park, where a dredging pipe is running underneath the sand to deliver sand several miles uptown. The project has been extended by another month by contractors working for the Town of Fort Myers Beach.
NATHAN MAYBERG
said the project wouldn’t be financially viable without the hotel. Allers said he wanted to see more concrete numbers that showed the restaurant couldn’t be financially viable if it was rebuilt without a hotel.
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 Local Planning Agency is only a recommendation to the Town Council. The Town Council could potentially still approve the project. The plans need to receive 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 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.
Persaud had expected a more favorable response from the Town Council given its first set of approvals this month for the Arches Bayfront hotel, a project with even more rooms than Margaritaville which also requires a rezoning. Earlier in the meeting, the council approved an expansion for the Lighthouse Resort.
While the height had been a major issue for the Local Planning Agency, Fort Myers Beach Councilmember Scott Safford said he didn’t view the height to be as much of an issue. “He is getting closer,” Safford said. “The height, we just approved Lighthouse and it’s across the street and that height isn’t that much different.”
Councilmember Karen Woodson said the emails she was receiving called Times Square “sacred ground.” She said the project should go back to the LPA.
Representatives for Persuad initially tried on Monday to pull back their application once it was clear there was not enough support on the council to approve the project in its current form.
Allers said he believed it was too late. “The option was
Atterholt
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struction, based on enrollment numbers in 2026 and 2027.
Atterholt said nobody on the ad-hoc committee has been contacted by the consultant, nor has anybody from the town or community.
The ad-hoc committee will be meeting with Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin on Thursday and Atterholt said he expects the committee will receive a copy of the consultant’s report on Thursday.
“If the consultant report comes out with a negative report with respect to a recommendation for keeping the Beach
RENDERING PROVIDED
given to the applicant to do that already and they chose not to take it. And now we just spent hours on this and all of the sudden they want to back to the LPA,” Allers said. Allers moved to deny the project though Persaud’s
“If the consultant report comes out with a negative report with respect to a recommendation for keeping the Beach School, that’s when quite frankly we have to hit the nuclear option because clearly someone is not dealing in good faith.”
—Fort Myers Beach Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt
School, that’s when quite frankly we have to hit the nuclear option because clearly someone is not dealing in good faith,”
Atterholt said. “If they come out against
the Beach School it’s against the interlocal agreement, it’s against the spirit, all the promises that have been made.”
Atterholt said that while the school board will be voting June 3 on the future of the school, he thinks the decision could be made earlier than that. He urged the community to reach out to the Lee County School Board to support for the school if the report issued this week has a negative determination or recommendation for the future of the Beach Elementary School.
The school board, Atterholt said, “can save us” if the consultant report is negative. “They can help save the Beach School.”
Atterholt said the School District “took a lot of time to address” the school
after it was closed due to flooding from Hurricane Milton and Ian. Officials cited floorboard damage from flooding and termites that were found. Instead of bidding out repairs immediately, the School District has delayed repairs while mulling options, awaiting a consultant’s report while officials meet weekly with community members.
“I sure hope that this consultant is not being used as a straw man to give them cover to close the Beach School. I don’t think it’s the interests of our elected school board members, I hope it’s not the direction of our newly elected superintendent who has voiced support for our school in the past,” Atterholt said.
“It’s such a big deal to keep this school on so many levels,” Atterholt said.
Fort Myers Beach Attorney Nancy Stuparich said she was reviewing the interlocal agreement and suggested the town file its own Sunshine Law request for a copy of the consultant’s contract. Stuparich said the town would have multiple legal options in the scenario that an attempt to break the interlocal agreement was made.
representatives asked to withdraw the application rather than receive a denial from the town council.
Persaud can still go back to the Local Planning Agency to review new plans.
Reopening
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blankets and other goodies. The Coplens, of Fort Wayne, were in town for the engagement of their son. They decided to hang around and visit some Fort Myers Beach spots and check out the area.
Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce President Jacki Liszak took out a couple of her co-workers to celebrate the grand reopening and order up some food.
“We have been waiting for this and are thrilled that SOB’s is back,” Liszak said. “The ownership group is top-notch. The staff goes above and beyond. The food they are putting on in the kitchen is
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Mailboxes, like any other part of your home, need routine care. We encourage homeowners to take a few minutes this month to check for common wear and tear: tighten loose hinges, repaint rusted surfaces, remount leaning posts, and re-
amazing and they are good community partners.”
Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers attended the ceremony. A fan of the restaurant, he said his favorite dish was the crabcakes.
“We’re excited that SOB’s is back,” Allers said. “It’s one of the most iconic restaurants on Old San Carlos Boulevard.”
In addition to the good food, Allers said he enjoys the “open-air, old Florida welcoming vibe” of the SOB’s. “It’s just a great place,” he said.
When SOB’s opened last December, its ownership was rushing to get its liquor
license in place in time for the holiday.
The property had been acquired by the Freeland family of Moss Marina after Hurricane Ian. Leitnaker and the ownership group are leasing the restaurant’s space from the Freelands.
Before relocating to Lee County from Ohio, Leitnaker was a seventh-generation farmer who raised angus cattle and soybeans. He is currently leasing out his farm operations since taking over SOB’s. “It’s a big investment,” he said.
Leitnaker said the season this year went better than expected though business has slowed since the tourist season ended
Letters
place missing house numbers. These small actions help ensure your mail is delivered efficiently and securely.
A well-maintained mailbox also helps to prevent mail theft. Securing your mailbox and promptly picking up your mail are simple but powerful steps to prevent mail theft and keep our community safe.
Additionally, the Postal Service is expanding the reach and impact of your mailbox through Informed Delivery, a free service that lets you preview your incoming mail and packages via email, adding an extra layer of awareness and peace of mind.
We appreciate your support in helping
after Easter.
“We wanted to do (the ceremony) now when it’s less busy after the tourist season,” he said.
Leitnaker said the restaurant will be holding food and drink specials as part of the grand reopening over the next week.
On Friday, the food specials included deals on oysters, calamari, fried grouper bites, shrimp cerviche, fried chicken, shrimp bisque, New York strip steak and jerked black grouper.
“We are really thankful for the local community,” Leitnaker said. “It’s really a dream come true.”
standard of service. Thank you for doing your part during Mailbox Improvement Week—and every week!
NATHAN MAYBERG
LEFT: Smokin’ Oyster Brewery server Addison Lipa serves Fort Myers Beach Chamber membership services director Sherry Oakes (left), Chamber President Jacki Liszak (center) and Florida Gulf Coast University intern Chloe Engh. RIGHT: Fort Myers Beach Chamber membership services director Sherry Oakes (left), Chamber President Jacki Liszak (center) and the chamber’s Florida Gulf Coast University intern Chloe Engh sit down for lunch at the grand reopening ceremony for Smokin’ Oyster Brewery on Friday.
Dave and Donna Klingler, of Illinois, have been visiting Fort Myers Beach since their honeymoon 54 years ago.
Barbara and Robert Jakowenko, of Fort Myers, enjoy a gift basket at the grand reopening ceremony for SOB’s.
Doc Ford’s celebrating National Yucatan Shrimp Day
7K race, restaurant giveaways to be held Saturday
STAFF REPORT
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille will be celebrating National Yucatán Shrimp Day this May 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:
∫ Wednesday, May 21, at the Doc Ford’s on Sanibel, 2500 Island Inn Road
∫ Thursday, May 22, at the Doc Ford’s on Fort Myers Beach, 708 Fisherman’s Wharf
∫ 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
‘Parks, Points & Perks’ shines light on Lee’s must-visits
By CJ HADDAD cjhahhad@breezenewspapers.com
This summer, there’s a perk in heading to parks around Lee County.
The Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau in conjunction with Lee County Parks & Recreation is offering local residents and visitors new ways to experience summer fun and win great prizes.
“The goal of Parks, Points & Perks is to encourage both residents and visitors to explore Lee County’s incredible range of parks, preserves, recreation centers and outdoor spaces, many of which may be new to even longtime locals. The initiative encourages people to get outdoors, discover new places and stay active, all while earning rewards. The county recognized this as a great way to foster a deeper connection to the community’s natural assets, support wellness and build awareness of lesser-known gems that make Lee County so special.”
“Parks, Points & Perks” is a new program to encourage exploration of area parks, beaches, preserves, recreation centers, events and much more throughout our islands, beaches and neighborhoods. Running now through May 2026, the free pass makes it easy to get outdoors and visit favorite spots or discover new adventures.
“The goal of Parks, Points & Perks is to encourage both residents and visitors to explore Lee County’s incredible range of parks, preserves, recreation centers and outdoor spaces, many of which may be new to even longtime locals,” said Lee County Parks & Recreation Director Mack Young. “The initiative encourages people to get outdoors, discover new places and stay active, all while earning rewards. The county recognized this as a great way to foster a deeper connection to the community’s natural assets, support wellness and build awareness of lesser-known gems that make Lee County so special.”
Participants have a range of family-friendly locations to visit that include Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and Lakes Park in Fort Myers; Dog Beach in Bonita
— Mack Young, Lee County Parks & Recreation director
Springs; Phillips Park in Bokeelia and Bowditch Point Park in Fort Myers Beach. In addition to parks, the pass also includes the Lehigh Acres Senior Center, Matlacha Boat Ramp and North Fort Myers Recreation Center.
To participate, visit any location in the pass and earn 20 points after check in.
Special monthly events give participants the chance to add up even more points. Earn rewards like a drawstring backpack, and unlock choices for memberships, parking passes or recreation center access.
Check in at 20 locations on the pass, and be entered for a chance to win a grand prize: a two-night stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops and a Family Fun Day at Lakes Park with train tickets and gift cards for bikes, boat rentals and concessions.
“Our parks and natural resources are the gems of Lee County,” stated Lee Board of County Commissioners Chairman Kevin Ruane, who also chairs the Tourist Development Council. “We are fortunate to live in an area with access to so many choices to enjoy the outdoors. It’s why visitors keep coming back to our worldclass destination and residents continue to explore where we live.”
While Lee County is certainly a popular tourist destination, officials said it’s important for locals to discover hidden gems and explore parks and areas around the county oftentimes residents don’t know about.
“While visitors travel from all over the world to enjoy our beaches, there are still many spots that locals
Breakfast with the U.S.
Coast
Guard to be held May 22
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 dis-
cover ways to get involved.
“Whether you’re curious about our search-and-rescue operations, boating safety programs, or volunteer opportunities, this is a great chance to engage directly with the people behind the uniform,” said Robert Guenthner, Flotilla Commander of Coast Guard Auxiliary 91, Fort Myers Beach.
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/
haven’t discovered or explored,” Young said. “Parks, Points & Perks is designed in part to change that. From smaller neighborhood parks like Judd Park in North Fort Myers to lesser-known preserves like Pine Lake Preserve in Bonita Springs, the program highlights more than 30 diverse locations. It’s a great reminder that adventure, relaxation and fun are often just around the corner.”
Young said the county is proud to tout its parks, as well as the Conservation 20/20 program that keeps many of these areas protected.
“Lee County is extremely proud of its parks and the long-standing commitment to conservation through programs like Conservation 20/20,” Young said. “These protected lands are not just important for environmental preservation, they’re also central to our quality of life. Initiatives like PPP give us a chance to celebrate these spaces and reaffirm our investment in protecting them for future generations, while encouraging the community to enjoy them responsibly today.”
Conservation 20/20 lands in Cape Coral include: Charlotte Harbor Buffer Preserve (4751 Burnt Store Road N), Yellow Fever Creek Preserve (2801 Del Prado Blvd), and Yucca Pens Preserve (3941 Burnt Store Road N).
To sign up for Parks, Points & Perks, visit www. visitfortmyers.com/ParksPass. A pass will be instantly delivered via text and email. Participants jut need to select their location, plan a visit and have fun.
PET PALS
Microchip your pet
By ISABELLE WELLS Co-founder
of the Find a Home, Give a Home pet rescue organization of Fort Myers Beach
Please microchip your pet. Too many pets do get lost and end up in shelters. Without identification they will be euthanized. If they arrive there with any physical issues some shelters will decide not to wait for an owner to claim their pets.
I am because my little dog knows me
— Gertrude Stein
Charlie
How could we describe Charlie: Perfect, Perfect and Perfect. No issue with cats, people and dogs! He is 6 months old. We do believe he is around 22 pounds right now and think he is a mix between a Jack and a Beagle. Cute mix. He is neutered and up to date on all his shots. Call or text Isabelle at 239-281-0739.
Ren
Ren is a great dog and unfortunately we can’t find a home for her. She has been in boarding for the past few weeks and it has been expensive for us and not a great place for her. If you can help please contact us. She was a shelter dog and was abandoned there only to be euthanized. Great with other dogs, she loves to play! Ren is 2 years old and 45 pounds call or text Isabelle at 239-281-0739.
Please go to our website at https://www. SaveOurStraysFMB.org to donate kitten food, adult food, litter. Currently need kitten food. Out next Fundraiser is Friday, May 30, at Babcock
By Jo Knobloch
Kitchen & Bar Gift from 5 to 8 pm. LOTS OF ITEMS TO BID ON GIFT BASKETS AND RESTAURANT CERTIFICATES, 50/50 Tickets will be sold also.
Jinx is a lovely 11 week old black male kitten. He is very playful and affectionate. Jinx enjoys playing with his 6 other litter mates.
Holly is an 11 week old sweet gray/ white & black tabby kitten. She is affectionate and loving. Holly loves to run and play and she loves her toys. Available for adoption once they are spayed and neutered.
Lakeside Dining, live music starts at 6 p.m. Baskets are needed for our next fundraiser and restaurant Gift Certificates for the Silent Auction.
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
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Kappa Kappa Iota to hold prospective member luncheon June 2
Kappa Kappa Iota, a professional organization for teachers will hold a “prospective member” luncheon Monday, June 2, at 11:30 a.m. at Doc Ford’s restaurant on the beach. All teachers, retired teachers, school administrators, school personnel are invited to attend and learn about our scholarships for future teachers and philanthropic projects. Please RSVP to Mary Jane Robling, 239-877-7134.
Feisty
and Hilarious ‘Sister’ Returns to Florida Rep for “’Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism 3” June 11-July 3
Florida Repertory Theatre will present “‘Til Death Do Us Part: Late Nite Catechism 3,” an interactive comedy by Maripat Donovan, in the ArtStage Studio Theatre June 11 through July 3. Tickets are $67 and may be purchased online at www.floridarep.org or by calling the box office at 239332-4488 or toll-free at 877-787-8053.
Time Capsule exhibit on display at Sanibel Historical Museum and Village
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village reported that the city of Sanibel’s Time Capsule is on display from now through July 31 in the Shore Haven Welcome Center on Sanibel.
Previously located at City Hall, the time capsule was opened on Nov. 5 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sanibel’s incorporation. It was sealed and buried in 1984 on about 10th anniversary of incorporation as the city’s leaders wanted to acknowledge their decade of achievements and
advise citizens, as well as to congratulate and encourage the future city administration and community.
The village noted that many letters and photographs from island clubs and nonprofit entities were placed in the capsule. A selection of the items is included in the exhibit at the welcome center.
To view a PowerPoint presentation of the capsule’s contents, visit mysanibel.com.
For more information, visit www.sanibelmuseum.org.
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is at 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.
City of Sanibel’s Time Capsule on display at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village until July
31
The City of Sanibel’s Time Capsule is now on display at Shore Haven Welcome Center at the Village until July 31. The time capsule located at the Sanibel City Hall was opened on November 5, 2024, to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Sanibel’s incorporation.
The capsule was sealed and buried in 1984 on the approximate 10th anniversary of incorporation as our young city’s leaders wanted to acknowledge their decade of achievements, advise citizens, as well as to congratulate and encourage the future city administration and community. Many letters and photographs from clubs and non-profit entities were placed in the capsule. A selection of these items is included in the exhibit.
A Power Point presentation of the capsule’s contents is available for viewing on the City of Sanibel website.
The Village is located on Sanibel Island at 950 Dunlop Road (next to Big Arts) and parking is free.
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
All services now inside the sanctuary.
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
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