052825 Pine Island Eagle by BreezeNewspapers

VOLUME 49, NUMBER 3

Seniors all across Southwest Florida close out their high school careers with ceremonies

Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District Station 1 lease discussed at Board of County Commissioners meeting

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com

At the Board of County Commissioners meeting last Tuesday, May 20, Public Safety Director Benjamin Abes told commissioners the lease for property near Station 1, located at the corner of Stringfellow Road and Pine Island Road in Pine Island Center, for which the county has been involved in negotiations, that a mutually agreeable reconciliation has not been reached.

“We’ve been in negotiations with the Fire Department for some time — those negotiations between their legal counsel now — the County Attorney’s office and County

“The district was not aware that there’s any intent of Lee County EMS moving out of Station 1, so it’s kind of a shock to us that we’re currently negotiating with the county and not being made aware of any intent of EMS moving out of the station.”

—M/PIFCD Chief Ben Mickuleit

Lands have continued — we continue to be, however, at a point where we’re not getting to mutually agreeable terms and conditions,” Abes said.

Group formed after Hurricane Ian still functioning, ready if needed

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com

The Greater Pine Island Emergency Task Force wants islanders to know that it is still functioning behind the scenes. Board chair Elsie Stearns said the group is currently operating under the umbrella of the Beacon of Hope and encourages anyone looking for information on the team to visit the Beacon website to keep up with what they’re doing.

“The purpose of the Task Force is to come out of the gates after a storm and be the front line of getting the island up and running and open again,” Stearns said.

She went on to explain that after Hurricane Ian, it occurred, not only to Stearns but other key Pine Island leaders, that although Pine Island is a part of unincorporated Lee County, it is vitally important due to its many functions, such as barges moving supplies through the island.

“When you put a stop to Pine Island, you’re also stopping Useppa, North Captiva, Cayo Costa and all of our barrier islands, since all of their resources come through barging ports on Pine Island. If we don’t have access to get to our barging sites, to take materials to these outer islands, we’re saying no to all of them, too. I started talking to individuals like Glen Green

“The purpose of the Task Force is to come out of the gates after a storm and be the front line of getting the island up and running and open again.”

— Board chair Elsie Stearns

of Dynamic South, my son (Derrick Stearns, Stearns Custom builders), Steve Honc — started having conversations about how we needed a task force — a team of people. We know Honc is gonna pull out with equipment, we know the Honc family brings equipment to Pine Island and stores it in their yard so that after a storm occurs they can come out and push things where they need to go,” Stearns said.

Based on past experience, she said, there are many occurrences folks have learned to take for granted, such as involvement from organizations like Honc, the Fire Department and the Water Association, however, after Hurricane Ian, some of the leaders of Pine Island started having conversations about how best to get organized. After the storm, the Fire Department became the epicenter, she said.

“They (the Fire Department) were keeping their See TASK FORCE, page 12

Because of this, he said, the concern is that there won’t be a place for the ambulance on Pine Island. In the past, he said, they have waited to be in a position to not have an ambulance in an area that needed emergency response, however in this case they find themselves trying to address the issue proactively. The lease amount on the property in consideration is very similar, he said, to the lease amount that the Fire Department is wishing to charge. In addition, the property has other benefits to consider.

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com

On Thursday, May 15, former island Fire Chief David Bradley Sr. passed away. He was 70 years old.

Bradley was born on June 14, 1954, at Barksdale Air Force Base, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He lived in Louisiana until 1978, when he moved to Pine Island. After 36 years he moved back, and called Welsh, Louisiana home.

A dedicated member of the island firefighting community for 36 years, he started as a volunteer for the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Department and retired as fire chief in 2014.

Bradley was preceded in death by his parents, Fredrick Richard Bradley and Dolores Ann Lawrence; stepfather, F.G. Lawrence; and brothers, Mike Bradley and Steve Bradley. Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife or 47 years, Gail Bradley; daughter, Amanda (Trent) Duplechin; son, David Paul Bradley Jr.; grandsons, Mason, Creedence and Lawson; brother, Kenny (Melissa) Lawrence; sisters, Ann Hebert and Angie (Lasson) Legros; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

According to current Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District Chief Ben Mickuleit, former Chief Bradley was an essential member of the local district, as Mickuleit recalls Bradley’s time and some of his major accomplishments.

“He was a pivotal part of the fire district’s growth and shaped the department for the future. During his time as chief, he accomplished significant milestones, such as opening Station 3 in Bokeelia and purchasing the land for our future Station #4 in Matlacha. His leadership was also crucial in guiding the department through challenging times, notably during Hurricane Charley, just to

See FIRE CHIEF BRADLEY, page 12

Former Fire Chief David Bradley Sr.

Cavanaugh named new Calusa Waterkeeper

Calusa Waterkeeper Inc. last week announced the appointment of Joe Cavanaugh as the new Calusa Waterkeeper, working to protect and restore the Caloosahatchee River from Lake Okeechobee to the coastal waters of Lee County.

Cavanaugh brings decades of experience in marine science, water quality monitoring and community engagement to the role. With a long-standing commitment to the Caloosahatchee River and surrounding ecosystems, he has worked extensively at the local and federal levels to promote clean water policies and protect critical habitats — most notably through his former role at NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), where he helped monitor and protect smalltooth sawfish critical habitat in the Caloosahatchee.

“Safeguarding our local waters has always been personal to me,” said Cavanaugh. “As the new Waterkeeper, I’m honored to stand up for clean water, healthy ecosystems, and the communities that depend on them every day. I’m ex-

cited to build on the incredible work that’s already been done and bring new energy to the fight to safeguard the Caloosahatchee River and its watershed. This is a critical time for our waterways, and I’m ready to be their strongest advocate.”

Cavanaugh holds a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and a master’s in marine science from Boston University’s Marine Program in Woods Hole. His deep knowledge of the region’s water challenges, collaborative spirit and hands-on approach position him to expand and build upon Calusa Waterkeeper’s mission-driven work.

Calusa’s competitive dance competitions.

Cavanaugh will be the third person to hold the title of Calusa Waterkeeper since the organization became a Waterkeeper affiliate in 2016, following John Cassani and Codty Pierce. Cavanaugh was selected following a competitive search and vetting process led by the organization’s Search Committee and Board of Directors. His first day on the job will be May 15, 2025.

Results of the Calusa Waterkeeper’s latest FIB water samplings on page 10 of today’s Pine Island Eagle

Outside of his professional work, he enjoys hiking with his dog Moose, diving and shark tooth hunting. He’s also an enthusiastic “prop dad” at his daughter

“Joe’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for our organization,” said Charles Avery, President of the Calusa Waterkeeper Board. “His experience, knowledge and passion for Southwest Florida’s waters will be invaluable as we work together to address pressing water quality issues and protect the health of the Caloosahatchee.”

About Calusa Waterkeeper Founded in 1995 as the Caloosahatchee River Citizens Association, Calusa Waterkeeper, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection, conservation and restoration of the Caloosahatchee River and its watershed. CWK’s jurisdiction covers four counties in Southwest Florida and encompasses 1,000 square miles of water. Through advocacy, education, community engagement, legislation and science-based programs and research, Calusa Waterkeeper strives to ensure clean water for current and future generations that is drinkable, fishable, and swimmable. For more information about Calusa Waterkeeper visit calusawaterkeeper.org.

Beacon Center for Excellence informational programs for seniors

Free sessions begin June 2

The Beacon of Hope’s Center of Excellence will host partner agencies every Monday in June to provide island seniors with vetted information on various services and topics.

Join the Beacon for these free and informative sessions.

n June 2, 12-1 p.m. Drug Free Lee —

Discover the safe and easy way to dispose of medications using a Deterra Bag.

n June 9, 10-11 a.m. United Healthcare — Medicare options explained.

n June 16, 10-11 a.m. The Dubin Center — Caregiver resources for those whose loved one has recently been diagnosed with dementia.

n June 23, 10-11 a.m. Choices in Living Adult Day Care/GUIDE program

— Options for senior care and the insight on the GUIDE program for senior care.

n June 30, 10-11 a.m. Harry Chapin Food Bank — Health and nutrition information and cooking class. Supplies provided.

If you have any questions, please email receptionist@beaconofhopepineisland.com or call 239-283-5123. Registration is not required but recom-

mend- call us to reserve your spot. The Beacon of Hope is located at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle in St. James City. Please call 239-283-5123 or visit www.BeaconofHopePineIsland.com for additional information, or on Facebook: Beacon of Hope Pine Island | Saint James City FL | Facebook

Joe Cavanaugh

OPINIONS

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Web Poll

Previous Web Poll Question:

Are you concerned that the new tariffs will increase costs too much here?

n Yes. 46%

n No. 51%

n Maybe. 3%

n I have no opinion. 0%

Current Web Poll Question: Hurricane season is almost here, are you prepared?

n Yes.

n No.

n Getting there.

n When a storm is headed our way, then I’ll get ready.

Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com

Support endangered species, habitats in Florida

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

The federal government is moving swiftly to remove protections for endangered species by redefining the word “harm” in the long-standing Endangered Species Act (ESA), the main law to protect and conserve at-risk species in the United States.

A proposed rule, issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, seeks to exclude the destruction of critical habitat from what is considered “harm” under the act. Currently, when interpreting whether a species will be harmed, the destruction of key habitat is taken into account. Instead, the rule calls for a narrower interpretation of “harm” to mean a species should only be protected from being intentionally maimed or killed.

The importance of a healthy and stable habitat is critical to the recovery of any species at risk. The biggest threats to endangered species are:

∫ Deforestation

∫ Urbanization

∫ Fragmented Habitats

All of these actions directly contribute to the rapid decline of most of the species currently listed under the ESA. Removing habitat protections from the ESA would only serve to make environmental destruction easier and the restoration of our imperiled species more difficult.

Endangered species are not the only organisms that rely on intact natural environments. The environments that house endangered species also provide humans with clean water, clean air, and protection from storms and flooding, and they carry out critical carbon sequestration processes, amongst other invaluable ecosystem services. Unimpaired habitats are also popular destinations for rec-

Supporting health care that actually works for seniors

To the editor:

After decades working in hospitals and clinics across Florida — supporting families through childbirth, managing complex cases, and mentoring new nurses — I’ve seen how essential early, coordinated care is to keeping people healthy, independent and out of crisis. That’s what Medicare Advantage offers. It’s part of the reason I recently traveled to Washington, DC, to meet with Rep. Byron

Guest Commentary

reation and tourism, fueling our economies.

Web: pineisland-eagle.com The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Opposing views are welcome. Letters to the Editor or guest columns may be mailed to: Pine Island Eagle, 10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60, Bokeelia, FL 33922; e-mailed to pineisland@ breezenewspapers.com; posted to our Virtual Newsroom at www.breezenewspapers.com or faxed to 283-0232. All letters and guest columns must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes. You also can comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: pineisland-eagle.com

While habitat loss is an issue across the country, Southwest Florida is in an especially precarious position. According to an updated GIS map from the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Lee County has lost 31% of its wetlands from 1993 to 2003, and rapid development in our region continues.

The value of protected ecosystems stretches far beyond the habitat benefits they provide, and the future of Florida relies on a strong balance between growth and conservation.

Please join the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) in letting our leaders know that healthy habi-

Letters to the Editor

Donalds and Sen. Ashley Moody, and why I urged them to continue supporting a program that more than half of American seniors now choose—including me.

As a member of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN), and as someone who has spent a career working to improve patient outcomes, I’ve long advocated for smarter, more sustainable models of care. Medicare Advantage exemplifies that. It’s built around value-based care — delivering better health

tats are critical for the survival of endangered species and necessary for our survival, as well. To take action, visit https:// www.regulations.gov/commenton/FWSHQ-ES-2025-0034-0001. You can use arguments from this guest commentary or craft your own comments by May 19.

Thank you for your support of our natural systems!

Founded in 1967, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s (SCCF) mission is to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems. For more information, visit www.sccf.org.

outcomes, emphasizing prevention and care coordination, and prioritizing the patient experience.

Compared to traditional Medicare, these plans often include services that many seniors rely on but would otherwise have to pay for out of pocket: dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drugs. Perhaps just as important, they offer protection through annual out-ofpocket caps.

The result is better chronic disease management, earlier intervention, and fewer preventable hospitalizations. When care is proactive rather than reactive, both patients and taxpayers benefit.

In Florida, nearly 3 million people rely on Medicare Advantage. As policymakers in Washington weigh decisions that will shape the future, I hope our delegation, including Rep. Donalds and Sen. Moody, protect access to the kind of care that works — for seniors, for providers, and for the system as a whole.

Nancy Travis Cape Coral

May is National Cancer Research Month: Understanding multi-cancer early detection tests

Millions of lives are impacted by cancer every year, and early cancer screening remains one of the most powerful tools we have in improving health outcomes and survival. With May being National Cancer Research Month, it is an opportune time to examine the advantages of cancer screening and consider future developments in the field.

An overview of traditional cancer screenings

Cancer screening tests are intended to detect cancer at its earliest stages – ideally before any symptoms arise – when treatment is typically most effective. These evidence-based, standard-of-care screenings are strongly supported by medical professionals and major health organizations.

Cancer screening methods generally fall into three primary categories:

n Imaging tests, which utilize advanced technology to visualize internal organs and tissues.

n Physical examinations, conducted by health care providers to identify physical signs of cancer, such as lumps or skin changes.

n Laboratory tests, which analyze bodily fluids or tissue samples for markers of cancer.

These screening tools are considered effective because they meet key criteria: they facilitate early detection, contribute to a reduction in cancer-related mortality when used consistently, and, overall, provide greater benefit than risk to patients.

Multi-cancer early detection tests

One exciting possible breakthrough in cancer screening is the potential of multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests. This new class of blood-based screening tools could complement and enhance existing standard cancer screening methods. But what exactly are MCED tests, and how do they fit into the bigger picture of cancer care?

While traditional, standard-of-care cancer screening tests are a vital part of your health care, they do have some limitations, such as only screening for a few types of cancer. This is where MCED tests could be a future solution. These tests analyze a single blood sample for biological signs, also known as biomarkers, that may indicate the presence of multiple types of cancer – even those for which there’s currently no approved screening.

Some MCED tests use liquid biopsy technology to look for fragments of DNA, RNA, or proteins released by cancer cells. The hope is that a simple blood draw could one day help detect dozens of cancers, including pancreatic, ovarian, kidney and liver, long before symptoms appear. Proceed with caution: MCED tests are a tool, not a replacement

MCED tests are a promising step forward in advancing cancer detection and care. However, it’s important to understand that MCED tests are not a replacement for recommended cancer screenings like mammograms, colonoscopies, or Pap smears. Instead, MCED tests may complement these traditional screenings as part of a broader early detection strategy.

While MCED tests are currently available to physicians and consumers, there are some key considerations:

1. They are not approved by experts. No MCED tests have been approved by the FDA, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, or any professional medical societies.

2. They are still in the early stages of

clinical use. While research is encouraging, MCED tests are not yet part of any standard medical guidelines.

3. They may produce false positives or negatives. Similar to any screening test, MCED tests are not perfect.

4. They don’t pinpoint a specific diagnosis. MCED tests can detect a cancer signal and may provide a likely tissue of origin, but they do not diagnose cancer.

5. The accessibility and cost may vary. These tests are not yet covered by most insurance plans and come with a high outof-pocket cost.

As science continues to evolve, MCED tests could one day become a standard part of early cancer detection. Until that day comes, they should be approached with hope and a healthy dose of caution – and a discussion with a trusted health care provider.

Kathy Tolentino is executive director of the Fort Myers-based Partners in Care Foundation. To learn more, visit yourpartnersincare.org.

Bridge Beat

Bridge is planed at 12:30 p.m. every Wednesday at the Fishers of Men Lutheran Church, located at 10360 Stringfellow Road, St. James City.

Anyone wishing to play is welcome and does not need a partner. It costs $3 to play, some of which goes back to winners of the game. Come join us. Sharpen your brain!

Winners on May 21 were Barb Carrier, first place; and Kathy Brown, second place.

Kathy Tolentino Guest Commentary

F.I.S.H. accepting registrations for Basket Brigade

Back to School Clothing Drive for island students

Registration forms for the F.I.S.H. Basket Brigade Back to School Clothing Drive have just been released to all students at Pine Island Elementary School. Responses are due back by May 30, 2025.

A new feature for this year is a QR code so that the form can be completed and returned using your smart phone or computer. Simply scan the barcode, fill in the information and return it to F.I.S.H.

The plan is to provide two new school outfits, including socks and underwear, along with a gift card for a new pair

of athletic shoes for PE to any student needing assistance. Eligible age ranges are kindergarten through age 17 and Pine Island/Matlacha residency will be verified. Dependency status will also be verified where necessary.

The distribution will be Saturday, Aug. 2, at Pine Island United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will also be a block party at the same time which will include free food, refreshments, activities and displays by contributing area organizations.

283–4442 or info@pineislandfish.org.

The partial list includes Matlacha Hookers, Pine Island Moose, Pine Island Elks, Pine Island United Methodist Church and other charitable and religious organizations.

For additional information about the drive, please contact Shelly Pine at 239–

A complete list of sponsoring donors will be available on June 30. Clothing sponsors are also available upon request.

F.I.S.H. will have more information available at MangoMania which will be presented by Pine Island Chamber of Commerce in the Winn-Dixie parking lot on July 12. F.I.S.H. will also have information at that time about its holiday gift presentation scheduled for Dec 13, including ways residents and/or organization can help to make a meaningful difference in the lives of island neighbors in 2025.

As always, volunteers are always needed and appreciated in this effort.

Pine Island Elks accepting applications for membership

Twice a year, the Greater Pine Island Elks Lodge offers a unique opportunity for new applicants to learn about the organization with a significantly reduced application fee. During the months of June and December, individuals interested in joining the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks can apply for just $1, instead of the standard $35 fee.

The local lodge, located at 5630 Pine Island Road, is currently undergoing reconstruction after being severely damaged by Hurricane Ian. The journey to recovery has been challenging, but the lodge’s membership remains dedicated to its mission of enhancing the quality of life in the Greater Pine Island community. Last year, the local lodge received $24,000 in grants from the Elks National Foundation, which

allowed it to support the Pine Island Food Pantry, Beacon of Hope, Beacon Bites, work with seniors through our Senior Housing Project and provide funds to Pine Island Elementary School, Matlacha Hookers and F.I.S.H.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks celebrated its 157th anniversary in February 2025, marking a significant milestone in its long-standing commitment to charity, patriotism and community service. Established in 1868, the organization has become a prominent force for good, uniting nearly 800,000 members across 1,857 lodges throughout the United States.

Over the years, the Elks have made a considerable impact on communities, contributing more than $12 billion in charita-

ble donations. In the past year alone, they donated an impressive $505 million to support local communities in need.

Key highlights from the last year include:

n $6 million awarded in scholarships to help students achieve their educational aspirations.

n $17 million invested through the Elks Community Investment Program, which focuses on enhancing neighborhoods and supporting vital local initiatives.

n $55 million allocated to veterans’ services, providing essential resources and support to military personnel.

As a symbol of goodwill, the Elks are committed to serving veterans, students and communities across the nation. Their influence extends beyond financial

contributions, as numerous volunteers invest countless hours in hands-on service projects to foster meaningful and lasting change.

The Greater Pine Island Elks encourages individuals aged 21 and older, who believe in God and value service and community involvement, to consider joining the organization. For more information or to become a member, please visit http:// www.elks.org or Join.Elks.Org.

As they commemorate this important anniversary, the Elks reflect on their enduring legacy and steadfast commitment to making a difference, one community, one family and one act of kindness at a time. To learn more or get an application, contact lodge secretary Donna Stone at pineislandelks@gmail.com.

FDOT: Work on Phase 2 of Little Pine Island Bridge project continues

The Florida Department of Transportation has issued the following update on the Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge Permanent Repairs project.

Construction project: Phase 2 of construction has begun on the Little Pine Island Bridge. All traffic has shifted onto

the newly constructed westbound side of the bridge, allowing twolane traffic on the new bridge. Safety remains the top priority, so FDOT reminds everyone:

n Motorists are asked to exercise caution and reduce their speed while driving through the work zone.

n Pedestrian access to the bridge is not allowed during construction, this includes fishing, and all other recreational use.

n Motorists are reminded not to block driveways or entrances and to follow all posted signage throughout the construction zone.

n Noise from construction equipment in the area is to be expected.

n Since the start of construction with the Little Pine Island Bridge, boaters are asked to be aware of construction equipment and erosion control measures that are in place.

Graduation 2025: Local seniors celebrate final high school milestone

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Seniors in the School District of Lee County closed their high school journeys with graduation ceremonies throughout

Lee County.

Graduations began on May 16, and concluded May 20 at various venues.

The 2024-2025 school year had 6,198 senior students among the district’s 15

LAURA HOWARD

Graduates from Mariner High School celebrate their special day Sunday afternoon at Alico Arena on the FGCU campus in Fort Myers.

Fishers of Men one-day Vacation Bible School June 7

Fishers of Men Lutheran church will offer Vacation Bible School on one Saturday morning, June 7, from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

VBS 2025 is for youngsters 3 years old to 5th graders. This year’s session is from Galatians 5:22-23, “The Fruit of the Spirit.”

This year we are offering a class for

St. James City Civic Association has announced the following upcoming events and activities:

Thursday, May 29

n Mahjongg, 1-4 p.m. This is a great place to learn to play mahjongg! Contact Terry at 239-233-2766.

Wednesday, June 4

n PI Learners Nature Group, 10-11:30 a.m. Fun activities for the island’s children hosted weekly

All activities are held at St James City Civic Association, 3300 Fourth Ave., St James City. More details, contacts and ticket sales are available at SJCCAPI.ORG

students with special needs up to high school age.

To register please call, Eileen Hafer, the director of VBS, at 239-246-7625 or register on the church website at fomlutheran.com.

Fishers of Men Lutheran Church is located at 10360 Stringfellow Road, just south of the Center, St. James City.

Upcoming event? Have it at the St. James City Civic Association!

We have multiple rental options to meet your needs. The center is perfect for small gatherings to weddings, baby showers and quinceañeras! See our website for pricing.

high schools with charter school grads boosting that tally.

District spokesperson Rob Spicker said they will not know the exact number of graduates until the end of the summer when the credit retrieval period closes for seniors.

Among of the more than 6,200 seniors, Cape Coral High School had 461 – 80 of whom were in IB; Ida Baker High School had 478, 20 of whom were in the Cambridge/AICE program; Island Coast High School had 331, 22 of whom in the Cambridge/AICE program; Mariner High School had 400, 43 of whom were in the Cambridge/AICE program and North Fort Myers High School had 443, 143 of whom were in the Cambridge/AICE

program.

Collectively, West Zone students earned an estimated 1,152 industry certifications. The certificates are not limited to just seniors and the tally is not complete as testing will continue through June.

“Many seniors may have earned their Cambridge diploma last year, while those who applied this year will know in August when test scores are released,” Spicker said. “IB seniors take their exams in May and June and scores are released in July. When students get their scores they will learn if they earned their IB diploma.”

The district will receive survey data from the high schools next week regarding how much seniors earned in scholarships this year.

Now’s the time to catch a tarpon

This is a time of year that delivers great weather, a host of fishing possibilities and much less traffic on the water than in previous months. However, tarpon is the king and main attraction on the water this time of year. If landing a tarpon is on your bucket list, now is the time to check it off. They invade the waters of Southwest Florida by the thousands as they gang up for annual pre-spawn activities.

What’s cool with tarpon fishing is you can make it as easy or difficult as you like. You can spend the day stalking them from the bow of a technical poling skiff, waiting for the opportunity to make a perfect cast and presentation with a fly, or you can kick back and soak cut bait. There really is no right or wrong, it’s all about what technique fits your skill level and desire. Tarpon are pretty much a scavenger — when hungry they’ll readily eat a variety of cut baits soaked on bottom, as well as live bait fish, shrimp and often their favorite food, small crabs.

Tarpon can also be extremely frustrating — for a large fish that we assume burns through a lot of calories they can be impossible to entice to eat at times. I believe the anglers fishing

cut bait are ahead of the game. They anchor up on an area where fish are sighted, fan the area with baits, sit back in the shade, drink a cool one and wait. When fishing cut or dead baits you often stay busy wrestling with sharks and big stingrays as well.

Circle hooks are the standard when fishing natural baits, generally a 6/0 or larger. With a tight drag, a rod placed in a rod holder will successfully hook more fish than in one’s hand. For leader, go with four feet or more of 60 to 80-pound fluorocarbon leader. If you want to land a shark, add a couple of feet of single strand wire ahead of the hook.

The thrill of a tarpon is the first couple minutes. As soon as they feel the sting of the hook, they erupt into the air with an explosive leap and violent gill rattling head shake. Then they hit the turbo and strip a hundred yards or more of line in a few seconds, often while air born. Then the real battle settles in, they are strong fish with a ton of stamina. If you do not put a lot of pressure on a big tarpon they will not tire out. For this reason, catching a tarpon is not for everybody. If you are unwilling or uncapable of digging in for a hard fight don’t try.

You can often expect a fight that may go on for several hours. This is not good for the angler or the tarpon.

To put the needed pressure to wear a tarpon down you need a rod and reel up to the task. Spinning or conventional, a medium to heavy rod from 6-8 feet is a good choice. The reel should have a smooth drag with a lot of line capacity. A big tarpon will expose the weak link in your tackle pretty quickly. Local tackle shops can set you up with the right gear if needed.

While they may be hooked anytime day or night, fishing at first light or last light is viewed as the time they are most likely to feed. However, for the next couple of months guides and anglers target them throughout the day, and plenty will be hooked. Tarpon are much easier to sight or locate on days with calm water and light wind. Look for fish rolling on the water’s surface and free jumping. Often on a sunny day, when they breach the surface, it looks like a mirror as the sun reflects off their big silver scales.

Once in an area of fish, you must shut down the boat motor so as not to spook them. You may drift with baits out, employ an electric trolling motor, pole a smaller skiff or anchor up. Often you will be fishing near other boats, if not sure, it’s a good idea to watch from a distance to get an idea of how the boats are fishing. If you aren’t doing it right and disrupt the fish, someone will let you know in a not so polite way. There is a learning curve — slow down, take your time and observe from a distance if you’re new to the game.

The best areas to locate tarpon are

This tarpon was caught near Boca Grande Pass fishing with Capt. Tony Price out of The Tarpon Lodge in Pineland.

numerous throughout the waters of Southwest Florida. A short distance off the coast or beaches, in and around the gulf passes, and inshore waters including San Carlos Bay, Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor are the most common areas. Of course, Boca Grande Pass is world renowned for tarpon as they are in the pass by the thousands over the next couple of months.

Every angler should experience the thrill of the Silver King at least once — and once is all it takes for some anglers to become obsessed for life. If your desire is to hook into one of the world’s most sought-after game fish, the time is now. Good luck!

Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at: www.myfwc. com. Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations with pictures to help identify fish. If you turn on your GPS location the Fish Rules app updates to your location. In my opinion, it is more accurate and up to date than FWC’s website.

If you have a fishing report or for charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service -- call or text 239-410-8576; website at www. fishpine island.com; or email gcl2fish@ live.com

Have a safe week and good fishin’

As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt. Bill Russell has spent his life fishing and learning the waters around Pine Island and Southwest Florida, and as a professional fishing guide for over 20 years.

Capt. Bill Russell On the Water

PHOTO PROVIDED

Waterkeeper report on May FIB water samplings

Key takeaways from the Calusa Waterkeeper’s area FIB water sampling Saturday, May 17:

n 33% of sites tested under 70 MPN.

n Just 16% of sampled sites achieved this threshold in our April results.

Mariner High softball pitcher Gabi Winters

About our FIB Sampling Program

n We urge local authorities to dedicate more resources to frequent testing to better understand seasonal changes and trends in these waterbodies, and help inform the public of the risks.

bacteria found in water can cause gastrointestinal illness, infections, and rashes.

Calusa Waterkeeper’s trained volunteers conduct FIB water sampling at up to 32 sites in Southwest Florida each month. We publish the results to keep the public informed on potential risks. Enterococci

Results over 70 MPN would trigger an advisory from the Florida Department of Health if these sites were classified as “public bathing places.” They are, however, still places that the public regularly interacts with the water in recreational activities. The maximum allowable threshold set by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is 130 MPN (TPTV).

For more information and historical data on our FIB program, please visit http://calusawaterkeeper.org/issues/ bacteria-monitoring/

Note that water conditions are dynamic and change daily if not hourly, especially when under tidal influence.

Winters voted Breeze Athlete

of the Month for May

The votes are in for the Cape Coral Breeze’s May Athlete of the Month, and the winner is Mariner High School’s Gabi Winters.

The sophomore pitcher tossed a no-hitter against North Port and faced just one more batter than the minimum, striking out 18. The Triton also went 2-for-3 at the plate with an RBI. At that time, she ranked 31st nationally in strikeouts this year according to MaxPreps with 287 (4th in Florida), to go along with a 1.67 ERA.

“Going into that game I was a little nervous since I knew they were a good team with some good hitters,” Winters told The Breeze during her nomination week. “But, after the second inning I started to gain lots of confidence in my spins since they were working really well that game and in the end, it paid off.”

Voting for the Reader’s Choice Athlete of the Year is underway. The winner will be announced at this week’s Breeze Breakfast of Champions to be held at Cape Vineyard in Cape Coral Saturday morning.

Stay up to date with Athlete of the Week selections at capecoralbreeze.com.

Pine Island Art Association holding Wednesday Summer Art Class Tritons’

The Pine Island Art Association has space for a few more students in its Wednesday Summer Art Class.

Come join the group for a relaxing start to the day at Pine Island United Methodist Church

Wednesday mornings, 9 a.m. to noon,

May through September. The class fee is $125 for the entire session, along with a membership fee of $30.

The Art Association has a rotation of teachers for the classes.

Please contact Sharon at smtraylo@ gmail.com if you are interested in joining.

Voting underway for Cape Coral Breeze

Reader’s Choice Athlete of the Year

Standout to be recognized at Breakfast of Champions May 31 at Cape Vineyard

Voting for the Cape Coral Breeze Reader’s Choice Athlete of the Year for the 2024/2025 school year is now open. There were countless top performances from student-athletes in the Breeze coverage area across all seasons, and now, it’s up to readers to decide who will earn top honors for the year.

Nominees include:

n Daniel Lynn, senior, Cape Coral Seahawks: Lynn became the first Seahawk bowler in school history to win a FHSAA State Championship, as he swept through a field of 16 to earn top honors in the state. He took down the No. 1 ranked bowler along the way, and won the final match 2-0, out-rolling his opponent 493 to 447.

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

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

n Justin Davis, senior, Bishop Verot Vikings: Davis was the state 183-pound Class 1A champion in both the traditional lift and the Olympic lift.

n Ryan Peterson, senior, Bishop Verot Vikings: Peterson took the state Class 2A title in the discus with a 52.48-meter effort, nearly a half-meter better than the second-place finisher.

n Hannah Busenbark, junior, North Fort Myers Red Knights: Busenbark set a Red Knights scoring record with 57 goals in 25 matches. She ranked ninth nationally in goals.

n Gabi Winters, sophomore, Mariner Tritons: The Triton ace ranked 31st nationally in strikeouts this year according to MaxPreps with 287 (4th in Florida), to go along with a 1.67 ERA. She totaled 16 wins and was a top 4 pitcher in all of Class 5A. She also batted .422 with 34 RBI.

n Jazlyn Forbes, junior, Oasis Sharks: Forbes took home a pair of 2A-3 Regional Championships. The Shark standout finished first in the 3200 meters with a time of 10:49.57, winning by almost 35 seconds. She was also tops in the 1600 with a time of 5:05.28.

n Frederick Harley Jr., senior, Oasis Sharks: The two-sport star in football and wrestling made his mark this season. The senior was tops in the 215-pound division in the District 1A-12 Championships, and also the Southwest 10 Conference champion. Harley Jr. was named Outstanding Wrestler at the Southeast 10 Conference event, voted on by coaches. He averaged 90 rushing yards per game and scored nine touchdowns.

Kittens of the Week

‘Kitten Saturday’

Every Saturday is “Kitten Saturday” at Helping Paws. We try to keep the little ones out of the shelter, because their young immune systems can’t handle the big cat germs. Our solution is to bring them in every Saturday for a few hours for you to meet. Here are a few of our newest available kittens. They range in ages from 8-12 weeks and as always they are adopt one get one free. Our adoption fee is $60, but considering that all the medical is included and we offer free boarding and nail trims for them, it is actually cheaper than any “free” kitten you could get on Craig’s List. Those kittens are rarely fixed, tested for leukemia or given shots, so by the time you factor in those costly expenses, they are far from “free.” If you would like to meet these adorable fur-babies, stop in any Saturday from 5-7 p.m. We have plenty of kittens to choose from and more coming in soon. Call Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary at 239-283-9100 if you have any questions. If you’d rather just donate, our address is 10060 Mallory Parkway E, Unit D, St. James City, or there’s always our website www.helpingpawsanimalsanctuary.com. Thank You!

n Gervaris Leaphart, senior, Island Coast Gators: Leaphart was must-watch every week out of the backfield for the Gators’ football team. Leaphart averaged 124 rushing yards per game and scored 18 touchdowns.

To vote, visit www.capecoralbreeze.

Tarpon Fly Fishing Invitational June 8-10 at Tarpon Lodge

Set against the backdrop of Pine Island Sound’s pristine waters and old Florida charm, the Tarpon Fly Fishing Invitational returns this June to Tarpon Lodge. The premier fly-fishing event provides support Calusa Waterkeeper’s mission to protect Southwest Florida’s waterways.

This year’s event will also be held in remembrance of Capt. Codty Pierce, the former Calusa Waterkeeper whose passion for the region’s waters and tireless advocacy helped shape the future of the organization. Known for his deep knowledge of the area and its estuaries, and for his unshakable commitment to protecting them, Pierce’s legacy will be honored throughout the event. Before becoming the Calusa Waterkeeper, he was a successful local fishing guide who became known for his expertise in catching redfish and sheepshead on the fly.

Adding to this year’s excitement, the tournament will feature 13-year-old fly casting phenom Elias, who will be fishing on Calusa Waterkeeper’s behalf. A rising star in the world of fly casting, Elias has already made a name for himself by winning the Sanibel Fly Fishers’ “Eight-Weight Game” with a 101-foot cast and securing top placements at the ACA Western Championships in Long Beach, California. His dedication to the sport and commitment to conservation make him a fitting participant in this year’s Invitational.

Now in its fourth year, the Tarpon Fly Fishing Invitational has become a signature event on Florida’s inshore fishing calendar and is slated for June 8-10. The two-day, catch-and-release tournament invites top anglers and guides to celebrate the thrill of targeting tarpon on fly, while raising critical funds to preserve the very ecosystems that make this fishery possible.

Proceeds from the tournament directly benefit Calusa Waterkeeper, a nonprofit organization dedicated to defending and restoring the Caloosahatchee River, Matlacha Pass, Estero Bay and the broader watershed that supports the region’s wildlife, water quality and way of life. The event also shines a spotlight on mangrove creeks and estuarine backwaters — vital juvenile tarpon habitats facing increased environmental pressures.

Various sponsors include respected names in the outdoor and marine industries such as Beavertail Skiffs, PowerPole, Costa Del Mar, Hatch Fly Reels and many more. Their support not only strengthens a shared commitment to conservation, but also connects their brands to an influential and engaged angling community.

For sponsorship opportunities or more information, visit https://www.tarponinvitational.com/

For more information about Calusa Waterkeeper visit calusawaterkeeper.org.

Mahjongg Scores

Mahjongg is played every Thursday from 1-4 p.m. at the SJCCA on Lemon Street and Fourth Avenue. Everyone is welcome to join us. For more information, call Terry at 239-233-2766.

On Thursday, May 15, we had 10 players for a great round of mahjongg! First place was a tie at 130 points by Tony Lindsay and Terry Wilbur. Clem Moors took second with 115.

Task Force

trucks parked at the Methodist Church parking lot because everything was — it was just chaotic,” Stearns said.

The idea, she said, was that those she was hoping might say yes to joining this team would be willing to be a group of people who would ban together and ultimately be responsible for seeing to Pine Island getting up and running again, should islanders ever go through

Station 1 lease

“This property would allow us dedicated space, so our crew of an EMT and paramedic would have the entire facility as dedicated space for their own use … our intention would be to lease a location near Pine Island Center for a period

the kind of storm and uncertainty brought by Hurricane Ian. Once Stearns had agreement from the major players, Including the Fire Department, and the Water Company, she went to work putting the Task Force together. The people that she chose to ask were people who are able to respond and communicate well, she said.

“We formed in April and started having meetings. We invited (Lee County

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of time and within the next two to three years, have a capital improvement project to have a fixed station at Pine Island Center, “Abes said.

Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District Chief Ben Mickuleit said the

Fire Chief Bradley

name a few of his accomplishments.

“Having had the honor of working for him, one main thing always stood out in my conversations with Chief Bradley: his unwavering belief that the community was the most important aspect of our work. His dedication to the residents we

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serve was evident in everything he did,” Mickuleit said.

M/PIFCD Fire Commissioner John Cammick said of all the things that stand out to him in his time serving as a volunteer fireman under Bradley, he most remembers Bradley’s sense of efficiency

Commissioner) Kevin Ruane so we could share our vision with him as far as what we wanted to do,” Stearns said. It was important to the group that they ask Ruane what they (the Task Force) could do in particular to help Lee County.

This opened the door, she said, to county officials granting the group’s ability to ascertain a liaison at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) who will coor-

district found the situation where they are negotiating the lease agreement with the county very upsetting.

“The district was not aware that there’s any intent of Lee County EMS moving out of Station 1, so it’s kind of a shock to us

and evenhandedness to all who served alongside him.

“When I was a volunteer fireman, he was always very fair to everybody and treated everyone equally,” Cammick said. Cremation has been entrusted to Miguez Funeral Home.

dinate with this Task Force group on Pine Island.

Some of those currently on the Task Force, she said, are the Lee County Sheriff’s Department, Lee County Parks and Recreation, Useppa Fire Department, LCEC and many others. The whole team can be accessed through the Beacon of Hope website https://beaconofhopepineisland.com/

that we’re currently negotiating with the county and not being made aware of any intent of EMS moving out of the station,” Mickuleit said.

A memorial gathering was held Saturday May 24, at Miguez Funeral Home in Jennings, Louisiana.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of David Bradley Sr., please visit https://www. miguezfuneralhome.com/

School District of Lee County to host Social Lee: Coffee & Careers Friday

The School District of Lee County is hosting Coffee & Careers on Friday, May 30, from 9 -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 and the United States with a growing enrollment of more than 100,000

students 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, sum-

mer 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 239337-8676. To learn more about available career opportunities, visit LeeSchools.net/ Careers.

Florida Fish and Wildlife launches new Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail website

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has announced the launch of the newly redesigned Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail website. To explore the new website and plan your next wildlife adventure, visit FloridaBirdingTrail.com.

The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail is a longstanding FWC program that connects people to over 500 birding and wildlife watching locations statewide. The redesigned website offers an enhanced, streamlined experience for both residents and visitors to explore Florida’s best birding and wildlife watching opportunities.

A major highlight of the new site is the innovative “Find a Site” map, an in-

teractive location finder that lets users easily discover destinations that match their interests by entering place names, addresses, or selecting desired activities and amenities. Want to find Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail sites within 25 miles of Orlando where you can go camping and spot a bald eagle? The “Find a Site” map makes it easy.

Additional features of the new website include:

n Updated Trail Location Pages: Access detailed information on over 500 premier wildlife watching destinations, including when to visit, what species to look for, detailed directions and habitat descriptions.

n Beginner Resources: Dedicated sections provide helpful guidance for those new to birding and wildlife watching.

n Florida’s Birds and

Wildlife High-lights: Discover Florida’s unique species and habitats through curated news, featured sites and educational content.

The new Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail website advances the Trail’s mission to foster conservation through deeper connections between people and nature, offering an exciting platform for exploration, education and stewardship.

The Trail is a program of the FWC, supported in part by the Florida Department of Transportation and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, and is possible thanks to dozens of federal, state and local government agencies, nongovernmental organizations and private landowners.

Harry Chapin Food Bank launches ‘Food Finder’ platform

Harry Chapin Food Bank has launched a new Food Finder platform that allows neighbors experiencing hunger to pinpoint the nearest food pantries and distribution sites.

The interactive webpage is a modern digital tool that allows anyone with internet access or cell service to quickly connect with Harry Chapin Food Bank’s 175-plus agency partners that serve their neighbor-

Obituaries

Pine Island

Rollin “Buz” Fender

Rollin “Buz” Fender, DDS was born November 5, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois. Buz also lived with his family in Detroit, MI, Marcellus, MI, and Paw Paw, MI. Buz graduated from Paw Paw High School in 1956 and from Kalamazoo College in 1960. After graduating from Kalamazoo College, Buz attended the University of Michigan Dental School where he graduated with a Dentistry Degree in 1964.

Buz entered the USA Army in 1965 and served one tour of duty in Vietnam in the 241st Medical Detachment from 1966 to 1967. Upon returning home, Buz opened a dental practice in Mount Pleasant, MI where he remained for nearly 30 years.

Buz retired at age 57 to Bokeelia, FL (Pine Island) where he pursued his passion for fly fishing the flats in the Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. He was an accomplished fly tyer and was asked to tie flies at several national conventions. Family members and great friends will be catching and releasing various fish species on Buz’s flies for many years to come. His passion for fishing and travel took him to many distant and beautiful places.

Buz was preceded in death by his wife of many years Karen Lee Fitting Fender in 2009. He is survived by his three sons Mark Fender, MD and wife Nicole and children Caroline and Susan, Mike Fender and his wife Paula and children Emily and Ryan, Matt Fender and his wife Heather and children Ashleigh and Andrew. Buz was immensely proud of all his grandchildren. He is also survived by his partner of the past 10 years Rosemary Bellino, MD

Sterling Richard “Dick” Gentry

Sterling Richard “Dick” Gentry, 92, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the Highlands of Wyomissing. Born in Carmel, IN, he was the son of the late Otha and Grace (Winfry) Gentry. Dick served his country in the Coast Guard and then went on to graduate from Ball State University in 1957.

While attending Ball State, Dick met the love of his life, Mardell Newquist. They were married in 1958 and enjoyed 44 years of marriage before Mardell passed in 2002. He remarried Diann (Bauman) Gentry, they were together for 21 years.

He had a strong work ethic and held numerous roles at corporations across the country before accepting a role at Carpenter Technology. Dick worked for Carpenter for over 24 years, retiring as Vice President in 1988.

He loved the outdoors and spent his free time fishing, golfing, and hunting. Dick was a lifelong volunteer who served on numerous charity boards.

He is survived by his four children: Bryan Gentry (Leigh) of Naples, FL; Gail Greaves (Stephen) of Sinking Spring; Dr. Andrew Gentry (Caroline) of Bozeman, MT; and Kirk Gentry of Wyomissing, 12 grandchildren: Melanie Murphy (Brian), Jason Gentry, William Gentry, Ashley Greaves, Kelly Gentry, Gavin Gentry, Jennifer Gentry, Duncan Gentry, Richard Gentry, Ian Gentry, Thomas Gentry and Lauren Gentry, two great grandchildren: Luke and Nolan Murphy, and one sister, Esther Stevens. He was predeceased by Mardell, five brothers and two sisters as well as his son, Oscar A. Gentry in 1962.

Funeral services were held on May 21st at Kuhn Funeral Home in West Reading, PA. Condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.

hood.

Users can find food by following three steps:

1. Visit HarryChapinFoodBank.org/ food-locator

2. Type in an address or ZIP code

3. Click the search button

Search results are proximity based and include the names, addresses and telephone numbers of agency partners, as well as program details and operating hours.

The platform offers information about larger agency partners like Community Cooperative and Salvation Army, as well as local churches, senior centers, civic organizations, schools, community centers and housing developments where families

with children, seniors, veterans and other individuals can receive food.

“Southwest Florida spans more than 5,000 square miles across five counties, and it can be difficult for individuals experiencing hunger — especially those new to our community — to know where to find food,” said Richard LeBer, president and CEO of Harry Chapin Food Bank. “The Food Finder provides instant answers so families don’t have to drive across town to provide for their families. The nearest distribution point might be just down the street.”

The Food Locator platform is supported by Vivery Technology and the Thierer Family Foundation.

ments

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.