060625 Cape Coral Weekend Breeze

Growth spurs bump in Lee’s taxable valuation

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

The Lee County Property Appraiser this week delivered the 2025 Estimated Property Values to taxing authorities.

According to Property Appraiser Matt Caldwell, numbers have started to return to normal levels as the county continues to bounce back from recent hurricanes.

“As expected, the changes in taxable value were relatively modest as our market continues to recover from the effects of the recent hurricanes at the same time that overall demand has returned to more historically normal levels,” Caldwell said. The value estimates provide a starting point to taxing authorities for their annual budget and property tax rate process.”

In Lee County, the total just tax roll values estimated in 2025 come in at $211,301,866,000, which is a decrease of 3.72% from 2024. The total assessed tax roll value is up 4.85% throughout the county from last year, with the total taxable values seeing a 4.84% increase.

In Cape Coral, the total just tax roll values are estimated to be at $45,348,506,000, which is a 3.29% decease. The total assessed tax roll value is up 5.35% from 2024, with the total taxable values seeing a 4.98% increase.

“The big takeaway is taxable is up about 5% year over year,” Caldwell said. “That’s a retreat from the significant increases

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A Cape Coral charter school broke ground on a new facility that will allow it to expand the programs it provides, as well as prepare for larger enrollment as the city continues to grow.

Heritage Charter Academy has purchased land on Northeast 19th Avenue, where a $23 million campus, including a 43,000-square-foot school, will be built on 10 acres.

Chief Operating Officer of CHOICE Charter School Angela Combs said the state-of-the-art facility will bring a myriad of new opportunities to Heritage Charter students. CHOICE is the managing company for Heritage Charter. The building will have all-new technology for students and teachers alike.

“It’s very important to us,” she said. “We’re currently leasing...We don’t have a playground, and we don’t have a sports field. The new facility will have a playground, a covered area for lunches, and a soccer field so we can add sports.”

Heritage Charter educates children from K through 8th grade, and currently has 255 enrolled students. Combs said the new building will allow for the school to teach

Teacher incentives for ‘at-risk’ schools approved Union

calls plan a ‘pay cut for the many, disguised as help for the few’

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

School District of Lee County teachers will get more to teach at schools with greater challenges.

The Lee County School Board on Tuesday approved an incentive package for up to $9,000 for teachers who would like to teach at at-risk schools to help fill instructional vacancies.

Risk ratings are based on students coming in, lower socioeconomic status and students at level 1 in terms of student achievement on state test scores, which range from 1-5.

Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin said the teacher initiative underscores the district’s commitment to two critical strategic priorities – recruiting and retaining high-performing teachers and increasing student achievement.

“It reflects our fundamental belief that great teaching deserves to be recognized and supported in meaningful and sustainable ways,” she said. “It is important to clarify that while we deeply value the important work being done

at the bargaining table and we look forward to continuing those conversations as soon as possible, this initiative is statutorily distinct and separate from those negotiations. We appreciate the collaboration of our labor partners. This incentive program stands on its own as a key part of our broader district strategy to invest in our people and to support student achievement and ensure that we retain and uplift the incredible talent already working hard across our schools.”

The incentive includes compensation ranges for each risk level – ranging from four – the most at-risk — to one.

For risk level four the total incentive range is from $2,500 to $9,000 — $2,500 is for school level incentive, $6,500 for critical subject/courses and $2,500 for complementary subject/courses.

The risk level three incentive ranges from $2,000 to $6,500 - $2,000 for school level incentive, $4,500 for critical subject/courses and $1,500 for complementary subject/courses.

The risk level two incentive ranges from $1,000 to $3,500 - $1,000 for school level incentive, $2,500 for critical subject/courses and $500 for complementary subject/courses.

The risk one level incentive ranges from $0 to $1,000 - $1,000 for critical subject/courses.

“Whether our teachers are helping students to overcome learning gaps, guiding them towards success in critical academic areas, or inspiring confidence and curiosity, our students succeed because they lead the way,” Carlin said. “Our teachers are truly the heartbeat of Lee County schools, and this initiative is one more way we are investing in them.”

The Teachers Association of Lee County sent out a statement Thursday morning, stating that the school board adopted the resolution without engaging the collective bargaining and without notifying the union.

“Let’s be clear – this was not a collaborative effort,” TALC President Kevin Daly said. “TALC contributed to a

risk-rating tool months ago, but at no point did the district share or bargain over this new compensation structure. Most educators will receive nothing under this plan. That’s not equity — it’s exclusion.”

Although Florida law allows some discretion in urgent situations, TALC asserts that the district’s decision is a misuse of that authority. The union is “currently reviewing legal options and engaging members in organized response efforts.”

“This is a pay cut for the many, disguised as help for the few,” Daly said. “The district has sent a message that some educators are more deserving than others — and that the voices of teachers, parents, and community members can be ignored. We will not stand for that.”

As of May 29, the Lee County School District had 263.7 instructional vacancies, down from 575.3 total instructional vacancies on April 24.

The north region has 49 instruction vacancies, the east region has 111.5, the west region has 46.2, the south region has 40, and special centers have 17 instructional vacancies.

“Most of the teacher vacancies at at-risk (schools) is in the North and East regions. They are not forced transfers, but financial incentives for teachers based on education risk ratings and critical complementary subject courses,” Carlin said. “This sends a clear and powerful message –teacher incentives are a priority in all of us and united in our care and commitment to this noble profession.”

“In the East Zone there is a tremendous number of students that do not have a teacher. This incentivizes our teachers to work in our highest risk schools and support our students in these critical needs,” Carlin said. “We are still at the table and still bargaining and still working to improve overall compensation.”

Cape Coral and North Fort Myers are in the district’s West Zone.

Board member Armor Persons, whose district is mostly in the East Zone, thinks the incentive plan is really needed.

“It was the same thing last year, and the year before, and year before – all the openings are in the East Zone comparatively to the other zones. I definitely support this,” he said.

Carlin said teachers have an opportunity now to say they would like to be a teacher at one of these atrisk schools and be eligible to receive those incentives.

“That is why the timeliness is key. They have an opportunity in the transfer period to transfer,” she said.

Board member Melisa Giovannelli said the district is in a critical situation right now.

“We are trying to have teachers in those high-need schools and lots of those schools where the need is in the East Zone – it is very difficult, and it costs a lot in gas and time to get there. I don’t know how else we can get people there if we don’t compensate them,” she said. “Right now, we have to focus on our student’s needs and that is a critical situation. We don’t even know if this will be the answer, but the option that we have at the moment. Student achievement is only going to be the measurement of our success and if it doesn’t happen, we are in trouble.”

The Breeze OpiniOns

Cape COral Breeze

RAYMOND M. ECKENRODE Publisher

VALARIE HARRING, Executive Editor

CHRIS STRINE, Editor

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

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

Member Florida Press Association

How important is citizen input?

Cape Coral City Council imposed new procedures for citizen’s input Wednesday night.

After some debate as to whether it might better serve the public by keeping citizen’s comment near the start of the meeting before Council votes on its often resolution-crammed consent agenda, the elected board voted 6-2 to move the time alloted for open input to the tail end of its sessions.

Council members Jennifer Nelson-Lastra, who proposed a compromise — keep a shortened citizen’s input period prior to the consent agenda and move the current hour allotted to general topics to the end — and Dr. Derrick Donnell dissented.

We thank them.

The change makes things more time-consuming for those looking to get involved in their city government and that is not a good thing.

Nor is it practical if citizen’s input is to be an important part of the decision-making process.

The purported logic that those voicing opinions on Council actions after Council votes could prompt a revote with a different outcome fails the sniff test which is still tainted with stench of a little-noticed, no-discussion-by-council consent agenda item that gave the mayor and council members a Christmas present of a respective $5,000 and $3,300 hike in monthly renumeration in 2023.

It took voters ousting five incumbents in November 2024 — including one who had not even been on the board when the stipend was approved — to overturn the controversial increase that was a public input topic for months.

Let us point out that public comment after a vote isn’t public comment — it’s public protest.

As Council should have learned.

Two, we laud the concept of a responsive staff and Council and so have little issue with Council’s decision to implement speaker cards so that those speaking may — at least in theory — be contacted later with answers to questions that could not be addressed at the meeting.

We wonder, though, whether Council was actually lis-

See EDITORIAL, page 28

This week’s poll question:

Does Cape Coral need to step up code enforcement efforts?

∫ Yes, I see too many uncorrected violations.

∫ No, overall, I think the city is doing a good job.

Vote at capecoralbreeze.com.

Previous poll question:

Are you prepared for hurricane season?

∫ Yes. 45.7%

∫

∫ I don’t “prepare,” I evacuate. 5.7%

* Total votes at press time: 35 votes. Percentages are “rounded.”Poll results are not scientific and represent only the opinions of Internet users who have chosen to participate.

Jeannine

Joy leads United

June 6, 2025

Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades to new heights

For the past 30 years, the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades has evolved, shifted and responded to numerous hurricanes, economic ups and downs, a pandemic and other outside forces.

Three decades ago, the nonprofit had just five employees and an annual campaign goal of $2 million. Today, the organization has 80-plus employees whose work is augmented by more than 1,000 volunteers, and the annual campaign goal is a whopping $11.3 million.

The United Way of today looks nothing like it did in 1995.

There has been one constant, though –Jeannine Joy.

Matt

Guest Commentary President and CEO has been with organization for 30 years

Since joining the organization 30 years ago, Jeannine’s efforts to work with partners in the community to realize a shared vision for change and to build solutions that continue to improve lives has been second to none.

When Jeannine started at United Way, she was a campaign associate and served as vice president of resource development and marketing. In June 2019, she was

named president and CEO, giving her just nine months at the helm before COVID-19 presented her with an incredibly challenging task – improving the quality of life for everyone when our lives were turned upside down. And then there were hurricanes Ian, Helene and Milton.

She brings stability during times of turbulence. She leads successful fundraising initiatives that result in allocation of dollars and resources to 90 Partner Agencies and over 260 programs and initiatives.

Recognizing the impact of rising health care costs, Jeannine helped rescue the WeCare Program and brought it in-house, partnering with local providers to donate millions of dollars of specialty medical care and services to hundreds of local patients who could not otherwise afford treatments.

Jeannine’s beliefs are based on collaborations and partnerships with stakeholders and nonprofits to improve the quality of life for ALL people in the local community.

This philosophy was highly visible in perhaps one of

See GUEST COMMENTARY, page 6

Letters to the editor

City needs to regulate rentals

To the editor:

With regard to The Breeze story, “Rental registration fee hike spiked.”

This was one of the best ideas led by and presented by Councilmember Long.

We are all tired of unregulated vacation rentals. You do not have to live by them. I do. Three to be exact.

Not all register or use previous rental registration. In some cases, the rental is rented for less than a week or an extended period of time that goes beyond the concept of weekly vacation rentals. Code enforcement allows small signs to advertise these rentals. Why not allow big LED signs like the Holiday Inn?

I came to Cape Coral 55 years ago. I bought in R1 residential. Now we have business next door to my house.

These visitors come to have fun in the pool like the Hilton Hotel. Cleanliness is a joke in these rentals.

Upkeep to the property is lax at best. We have code violations which code enforcement ignores.

The founding fathers, the Rosens, billed the Cape as the biggest gated planned community in Florida. It even had an industrial park and Del Prado was zoned R-1 and R-3. Back then the land use plan was followed. Now the land use plan is like a slice of Swiss cheese with car washes and storage units etc. There were no trucks allowed unless garaged. Trucks are fine but now we have work trucks with ladders, vendor trucks on swales, people operating businesses from home. This is due to the failure of Code Enforcement and Public Works.

Our Cape Coral looks like it is suffering from a case of blight.

Councilmember Nelson-Lystra, the ball in now in your hands to serve up a plan for the residents who suffer from a failing system of self government.

Lou Navarra Cape Coral

City needs to enforce water restrictions

To the editor:

Unfortunately, even after writing a letter to the editor pointing out the failures by the city of Cape Coral and their Code enforcement agency to address the prohibitive irrigation use in the northeast and northwest, the same violations continue to repeat by many of the same violators.

In trying to address the excuses by many violators, who claim no knowledge, the city sent out cards to all residents

by mail, printed in both English and Spanish (which should not be necessary) of these restrictions. This should put to rest some excuses for non-compliance.

The sad thing is that even after documented calls to code enforcement, the violations continue. Turning a blind eye to enforcement does not correct these ills and the suffering those in those areas.

Truly a sad situation from the city’s non-enforcement to those residents continuing to violate this prohibitive irrigation use. Responsibility for these violations begin with the city leadership down to all involved.

Maybe after being warned once, hefty fines may get the attention of these violators. Code Enforcement bears a large part of this failed responsibility.

From the lyrics, “How many times must a man turn his head and pretend that he just doesn’t see.”

Jack Wagner Cape Coral

New Sorting & Delivery Center in Fort Myers will enhance Postal services

To the editor:

I am writing to share some exciting news from the U.S. Postal Service, which recently opened a new Sorting & Delivery Center (SDC) in Fort Myers. This new investment comes as part of our transformation and modernization strategies to invest more than $40 billion to revitalize the national postal network.

At the opening of the new SDC, postal employees were able to tour the facility and receive an update on how this investment will improve their work experience with USPS. Over the last several years, USPS has opened 95 SDCs nationwide, and the benefits are proving to be quite significant with employees and customers seeing just how transformational facilities can lower costs and improve employee satisfaction.

Through strategic local investments, the Postal Service continues to pledge to continue serving both our customers and employees here in Florida and across the nation. Through investments like the Fort Myers SDC as well as into its delivery vehicles and technology, USPS is showing its commitment to delivering fast, affordable and reliable service for the American public.

James Chambers Postmaster Fort Myers Post Office

Humphreys

Beyond a temporary fix: Housing Authority is building lasting solutions

The demand for affordable housing continues to rise across the region as countless families and individuals work to overcome barriers to accessing safe and secure housing.

However, people in need of affordable housing options don’t need a bandage to temporarily fix their problems, but rather a lasting affordable housing solution that empowers them to move beyond their circumstances and thrive.

Serving on the board of the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers for the past seven years, I’ve seen that the Housing Authority is committed to providing just that – a permanent foundation that offers residents stability and opportunities to prosper.

Throughout nearly four decades of notfor-profit work in Southwest Florida, I saw first-hand the need for affordable housing in our region and that there simply was not enough affordable housing in our area. Many of the individuals and families I served over the years barely met the living wage and had a difficult time with stability, especially if they had children. They needed a lot of additional resources and services besides just housing.

The Housing Authority leverages longtime connections with many local nonprofits and resource centers to gather and bring resources directly to residents without them having to leave their community. Throughout this process, the Housing Authority and its partners ensure residents have the resources they need to suc-

ceed while the Housing Authority provides and manages the housing component.

Additionally, the Housing Authority offers two programs to its residents including the Jobs Plus Initiative and the Family Self-Sufficiency program. Jobs Plus addresses employment needs among public housing residents by incentivizing and enabling employment and providing services designed to support job readiness and retention.

Meg Geltner Guest Commentary

Jobs Plus works one-onone with residents, guiding them through the employment process and providing continuous support as residents achieve their employment-related goals.

The Family Self-Sufficiency program is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development program designed to help public housing residents, Housing Choice Voucher participants and residents of multifamily assisted housing to increase their earnings and build assets and financial capability. Through the guidance of a case manager, residents receive help with job searches, an escrow savings account, credit counseling, budget preparation, homeownership counseling and much more. Both programs require residents to re-

main stable and committed until completion. To ensure this happens, the staff works with and regularly checks in with families and holds them accountable in maintaining that stability so the family can function and be successful.

I’ve learned throughout my career that you can have a wonderful nonprofit mission, but an organization cannot accomplish its mission without an impactful leader that can effectively run an organization and deliver true solutions. Drawn to the Housing Authority’s impactful mission and strong executive leadership, I have found my time with HACFM to be both a rewarding and eye-opening experience.

What I’ve seen through the Housing Authority is that it doesn’t just provide people with a bandage. It doesn’t take residents into its communities with the goal of housing them forever. Staff walk alongside residents to work through each unique situation and provide them with the resources they need to thrive.

Not every situation is the same and shouldn’t be treated as such. Some residents may end up staying in Housing Authority communities due to their age, potential disability, veteran status and other

factors that make them more vulnerable. However, the Housing Authority offers its residents paths to become homeowners or become more financially independent. Whatever journey the resident may end up taking, they’ll be provided with options and support to overcome their circumstances. That’s why I choose to champion the Housing Authority’s mission. I am proud to see how lives can be transformed through the power of a helping hand, and I hope to witness the change for generations to come.

— Meg Geltner has served on the board of commissioners for the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers for seven years. She has been a pioneer in the social work profession developing programs including residential and outpatient services for rehabilitation, affordable housing and a primary care clinic. Her advocacy work both statewide and locally has made lasting changes over the years to the health of the disadvantaged through advocacy, education, and research. The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers and its nonprofit development arm, the Southwest Florida Housing Foundation, serve as a catalyst for expanding access to safe, stable and sustainable housing throughout Southwest Florida. Together, the organizations support individuals, families and seniors across the region by connecting them with affordable housing solutions and associated programs tailored to their needs. For more information visit HACFM.org.

Guest Commentary: Exceptional leader has brought exceptional results

From page 4

her most exceptional efforts at United Way back in 2020. Jeannine was instrumental in bringing Lee County’s first United Way Community Partnership School to realization at Franklin Park Elementary through a collaboration between the University of Central Florida, Florida Gulf Coast University, Lee Health and The School District of Lee County. In fall 2021 a second United Way Community Partnership

From page 4

No government billboards, not at my expense

To the editor:

School was started at Fort Myers Middle Academy, followed by a third school in early 2023 at Colonial Elementary. These United Way Community Partnership Schools have been influential in helping children get the resources they need to further enhance their education.

Also in 2020, Jeannine and her team championed the United Way School Resource Center with The School District of Lee County to provide clothing, hygiene essentials and school supplies. The School

All right, let’s get something straight. I’m all for equality. Always have been. Libertarians were out there supporting gay rights before it became “the hip new thing” to support, adopted by leftists everywhere. As Libertarians, our principles of liberty and personal freedom mean that we don’t care who you love or how you live your life. That’s your prerogative.

The government should be as hands-off as possible, letting people make their own choices, free from interference. But here’s where we draw the line: using taxpayer dollars to push political ideology.

So, when I hear about government buildings being used to fly Pride flags, I’ve got to say: That’s just not how it should work. It’s not that I don’t support the cause; it’s that I don’t support government playing political cheerleader for any cause — no matter how noble.

Resource Center was significant in helping families during the pandemic in 2020 and after Hurricane Ian in 2022. Now five years later, the program is funded by the United Way Campaigns, generous sponsors and various grants. It has given out over 351,000 items worth more than $9.2 million.

Initiatives and programs such as these have made Jeannine a highly respected member of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades for the past 30 years. Her

Letters to the editor

What we have here is simple: Government buildings exist to keep people dry and to make sure the filing cabinets don’t rust. That’s it. They’re not meant to be billboards for any agenda, whether it’s LGBTQ, MAGA, or whatever else is the flavor of the day. If you want to wave your flag, good for you — go rent a billboard. Don’t try to hijack my tax dollars to fund your cause.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not about banning things. Libertarians don’t like banning stuff. We aren’t saying, “No, you can’t have your flags.” But let’s get real here — we shouldn’t be spending taxpayer money on identity politics in government buildings. There’s a difference between freedom of expression and shoving an agenda down everyone’s throats with our wallets.

It’s not about LGBTQ rights; it’s about the role of government. Government’s job is to serve the people, and that doesn’t mean promoting one cause over another. If you want to fly a Pride flag, or the “Don’t Tread on Me” flag, or the “Bring Back the ‘80s” flag — go for it, but not with my money. Want to rent some space on a billboard or splash your cause on social media? Have at it. But don’t use my tax dollars to paint the walls of government with

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

efforts have helped countless members of the Southwest Florida region, and for that, we are all thankful. Congratulations on 30 years of outstanding service to the community, Jeannine! We look forward to many more.

Matt Humphreys is Chair of the Board of Directors for United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades. For more information, please visit UnitedWayLee.org or call 239-4332000.

whatever political flavor of the week you’re trying to sell. Libertarians have always supported equal rights, but our support doesn’t mean we have to let government use our dollars for political theater. This isn’t about what’s right or wrong in terms of cause — it’s about the principle of government neutrality. Taxes are for basic services — not for propaganda.

So, yeah, if you’re looking for a platform for your values, rent a billboard or host a rally — don’t turn my government into a billboard. If we want to keep taxes low, let’s keep government out of identity politics and focus on the essentials: making sure the roads are paved, the lights stay on, and the office supplies don’t get stolen.

Don’t ask me to fund your cause. Don’t ask me to pay for your flag on the government’s wall. That’s not what I’m paying for.

Consider voting Libertarian in the next election — because we believe in freedom, not government-sponsored agendas.

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

The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Opposing views are welcome. Letters to the editor or guest columns may be e-mailed to vharring@breezenewspapers.com. All letters and guest opinions must be signed and must include a phone number for verification purposes. Readers are also invited to comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: capecoralbreeze.com.

If our commitment to the Cape as its community newspaper could be summed up in a single snap in time, it would be the end of the school year.

Graduations.

Scholarship presentations.

Award ceremonies for young people who have accomplished an always amazing array of achievements.

These are news stories that are important to our city, that are important to our readers, and, as Cape Coral Coral’s newspaper of record, the Cape Coral Breeze understands our role and our responsibility. “Coverage” is a given.

Community newspapers, though, are more than newsrooms, more than reporters and “beats,” more than stories on a page and online and certainly more than city council meetings, police news and the latest Cape controversy.

Community newspapers like The Breeze not only report community news, they take a role as active members of the communities they serve.

And here at The Breeze, we take pride — great pride — that a spotlight focus of that role is on our city’s youth.

Last Saturday, The Breeze presented our fourth annual Breakfast of Champions.

The breakfast, which honors student-athletes from West Zone schools, is the culmination of our Athlete of the Week feature, which recognizes a male and female athlete through the school year.

Associate Sports Editor CJ Haddad summed up the program well at the breakfast hosted by Vineyard Community Church, one of the event’s sponsors and so a community partner in the event:

“Sport is not only a battle of fierce competitors, or a test of will and spirit... it is a

Commitment to the Cape

tool that young men and women can harbor into a brighter future.

“Our mission each and every week as we reviewed each box score, compiled every stat, and made our selections, was to recognize the achievements of student-athletes that call this area home. And as we traveled all around the West Zone, including stops at Cape Coral High School, Mariner High School, Island Coast High School, North Fort Myers High School, Ida Baker High School, Oasis High School, and Bishop Verot High School, we wanted to make our readers and residents aware of the special moments and accomplishments that were taking place.

Guest Commentary

“From the gridiron, to the swimming pool, to the wrestling mat, basketball court, baseball and softball diamonds, bowling lanes, weight bench, and all other arenas of sport, we wanted to get to know the person behind the gaudy stat line as well.

“Each and every week from the beginning to end of the school year (minus a few holiday breaks), our sports staff, with the generous help of the coaches and athletic directors, were able to shine a light on the amazing feats happening on and in athletic fields and facilities in our readership area.

“The 2024-2025 season brought us five individual state champions, and state final-four appearances by teams, in wrestling, weightlifting, track & field, bowling, soccer, baseball and softball.

“As Cape Coral’s hometown newspaper, we really wanted to hone in on our athletes, in THEIR hometown publication.”

We congratulate all of the athletes recognized and we thank these youths for allowing us to be part of their lives.

We thank our community partners as well for making this program and recognition event possible — Title sponsor of The Breeze Athlete of the Week program Torched Bar & Grill and supporting sponsors Zak’s Jewelry, Gavin’s Hardware, Salad King, SP Designs and Cape Vineyard Church.

We thank, too, this year’s guest speaker, Jaylen Watkins, a Cape Coral High School graduate who was selected in the fourth round of the 2014 draft by the Philadelphia Eagles, played seven seasons in the NFL, and was part of the winning Super Bowl LII team with the Eagles.

Mr. Watkins, now a member of the Seahawks’ football program coaching staff, not only spoke about how sports is not just chasing the glory but having the will to overcome adversity to get there, he brought his Breeze Football Player of the Week award from 2008 to share with us.

He explained his mom kept it along with the news stories of his high school career.

The Breeze also is humbly proud to long be a part of two of Cape Coral’s largest student and educator recognition programs — the Cape Coral Chamber of

Commerce’s Excellence in Education program, sponsored by the Breeze Newspapers with other organizations and businesses, and the Mayor’s Scholarship program, of which we are one of many community sponsors.

The Excellence in Education program culminates in an evening gala at Broadway Palm where students and teachers from the West Zone’s elementary, middle, high schools are recognized for exemplary accomplishments in and out of the classroom. It also includes a number of scholarships. The annual effort, now in its 33rd year, is organized by the Chamber’s Education Committee.

Thank you to the Chamber for allowing us to be a small part of your stellar effort.

The Mayor’s Scholarship Fund Scholarship Awards Program is a 40-yearold program that has awarded more than $700,000 in scholarships benefiting more than 600 students through the years. The program is made possible through the dedicated efforts of Fund volunteers and local businesses and organizations.

Thank you to the Mayor’s Scholarship Fund for welcoming us as part of your community support.

Does our commitment to our city and its youth make us special?

It does not.

What is special is that we are not alone but are a part of a diverse range of volunteers, organizations and businesses that share a commitment to our community.

Thank you all.

— Valarie Harring is the executive editor for the Breeze Newspapers.

Valarie Harring

Cape mayor subject of recall petition

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

A effort is under way to recall Mayor John Gunter.

The petition drive is being organized by Kyle L’Hommedieu, of the “Take Out the Trash Committee of Cape Coral.”

As per state statute for such efforts, the petition outlines grounds alleged to meet state parameters for recall.

The first statement of grounds alleges that Gunter violated Florida Statute 112.311 (6).

“John Gunter has repeatedly voted against the people: approving a self-serving stipend adding to City Council salaries that would increase his personal pay without going to the voters for approval and approving destruction of the beloved Jaycee park on land acquired and intended for public open space park not a permanent food service and revenue generator and approving use of land acquired for conservation habitat and passive recreational trails at Yellow Fever Creek Preserve for a city water storage and pumping facility plant instead of conservation by amending the comprehensive plan.”

The second statement of grounds for recall alleges that Gunter attempted to violate Florida Statute 286.011, The Sunshine Law.

“On March 25, 2025, John Gunter intended to violate Florida’s Sunshine Law insisting members of the public were not welcome at a public meeting telling Councilmember (Rachel) Kaduk ‘this isn’t bring your friends to work day’ and Kaduk relayed that ‘the mayor doesn’t want you in our meeting.”

The meeting was a legislative visit to Tallahassee by some members of the Cape Coral City Council.

Kaduk had invited members of the Chamber of Commerce’s legislative delegation to sit in. Gunter requested that they leave.

Gunter, whose term of office does not expire until 2026, has denied the petition’s allegations and said while not all of his votes have been popular, he has never done anything illegal or unethical.

At a May City Council meeting, Gunter spoke after citizen’s input concluded stating that there is a Florida statute

“I know I have not done anything illegal in the 7-1/2 years I have sat here.”

— Mayor John Gunter, who has denied petition’s allegations, saying while not all of his votes have been popular, he has never done anything illegal or unethical.

that states exactly what the criteria is for a recall.

Sometimes begin unpopular does not meet any of the criteria, he said.

“We have a city manager form of government,” Gunter said. “He runs the day-to-day operations. He makes the decisions; he supervises 2,000 employees. The eight of us (on Council) discuss legislative matters collectively. We make decisions by a majority vote.”

Gunter said he is OK with all the focus and energy placed on him when people are unhappy.

“I have big shoulders,” he said. “I have no problems with that. The fact of the matter is this Council makes decisions collectively. I am one vote.”

Gunter said he has absolutely no other power than the rest of the council, except for two things – approving the weekly agenda and adding, or removing items, and a lineitem veto.

He said if someone thinks he has done something illegal, or unethical, there are two areas he encourages them to go. For something illegal, Gunter encourages them to go to the State Attorney’s Office and file a complaint.

“I know I have not done anything illegal in the 7-1/2 years I have sat here,” Gunter said.

He said people may not have agreed with some of his decisions, or the Council’s decisions, but he has never done anything unethical.

“We have an ethics commission board,” Gunter said. “There is a place for you to go, and I encourage you to go there.”

Grounds for recall as defined by state statute:

Grounds for recall.—The grounds for removal of elected municipal officials shall, for the purposes of this act, be limited to the following and must be contained in the petition:

1. Malfeasance;

2. Misfeasance;

3. Neglect of duty;

4. Drunkenness;

5. Incompetence;

6. Permanent inability to perform official duties; and

7. Conviction of a felony involving moral turpitude.

The petition must contain the name of the person sought to be recalled and a 200-word statement, maximum, as to the legal grounds for recall limited solely to those specified in the statute.

The first part of the recall process requires 10% of the city’s electorate to sign petitions, while the second part includes an opportunity for the subject of the recall — Gunter— to challenge the alleged grounds. A second round of petitions follows to collect signatures from 15% of the registered voters.

Once the signatures are certified by the Lee County Supervisor of Elections, the subject of the recall has five days to either resign or a recall election must be held within 60 days. Subjects can also potentially file lawsuits challenging the process or the allegations.

There are currently 139,371 registered voters in Cape Coral.

Summer meal programs designed to keep kids fed

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The community is coming together to feed children this summer through efforts underway by the School District of Lee County and BreakSpot, as well as Community Cooperative.

For the first time, the district and BreakSpot are teaming up to provide a seven-day meal kit for children 18 and younger offered once a week at nine locations.

The kits, which provide breakfast and lunch, are available from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Mondays between June 9 and July 28.

“It’s fantastic. We are very excited about rolling this out,” Food and Nutrition Field Manager Bonnie Ross said.

Families know what it is like going to the grocery store with rising food costs so they decided to be proactive and provide shelf-stable food items that will last for seven days.

“If they come back every Monday, they get another kit,” Ross said.

Parents are asked to bring a form of identification that proves they have a child(ren).

Locations include:

Pine Island

n Pine Island Elementary School, 5360 Ridgewood Dr., Bookelia

n Palms at Pine Island, 15061 Stringfellow Rd., Bokeelia

North Fort Myers

n Prairie Pines Preserve, 19400 North Tamiami Trail, N., North Fort Myers

Alva

n River Hall Elementary, 2800 River Hall Pkwy., Alva

n The Alva School, 21219 N. River Rd., Alva Fort Myers/Lehigh Acres

n Gateway High School, 13820 Griffin Dr., Fort Myers East Fort Myers/Buckingham

n Buckingham Community Church, 10960 Orange River Blvd., Fort Myers

n Buckingham Community Park, 9800 Buckingham Rd., Fort Myers

Free breakfasts and lunch

BreakSpot is available for children 18 and younger this summer at 100 sites throughout the district for free breakfast and lunch. The program runs every weekday June 9, through July 30.

This year the Cape Coral Parks & Recreation has expanded its locations to four:

n Del Prado Linear Park from 11:15 a.m. to 12 p.m.

n Four Freedoms Park from 12 to 1 p.m.

n Gator Trails Park from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

n Paul Sanborn Park from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

n Charleston Park Community Center, 2541 Charleston Park Dr., Alva

BreakSpot is also available for children 18 and younger this summer at 100 sites throughout the district for free breakfast and lunch. The program runs every weekday June 9, through July 30. No documentation is needed to participate. The child must be present to receive the meal, which must be consumed on site.

The full list of sites and times can be found at https:// www.summerbreakspot.org/find-location/. Parents are encouraged to check the list frequently as days, times and locations can change. Information can also be obtained by calling 2-1-1 or 850-617-7170.

This year the Cape Coral Parks & Recreation has expanded its locations to four. Those include:

n Del Prado Linear Park from 11:15 a.m. to 12 p.m.

n Four Freedoms Park from 12 to 1 p.m.

n Gator Trails Park from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

n Paul Sanborn Park from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, June 9, the Cape Coral Fun Mobile will be at Paul Sanborn Park offering free games and activities to help kick off the summer program. The Cape Coral Fun Mobile will make stops at different parks throughout the program.

Community Cooperative is also extending a helping hand this summer.

“We all know with school out, there are a lot of kids that don’t have access to food like they do when they are in school – many are eating breakfast and lunch,” Community Cooperative CEO Stefanie Ink Edwards said. “This is just our way of ensuring kids, who are home with a parent, some without, have the opportunity to have food that is easy to make.”

The community can make a monetary donation, or donate food items in decorated paper bags for Hungry Hungry Kiddo Kits.

“It’s a great opportunities for families, people at home, that are looking for summer activities,” Ink Edwards said. “You can go to the store, pick out kid-friendly items, put them in a paper bag and draw on the bags to make them a little more fun.”

The kits should include such items as grab and go snacks, fruit cups, granola, breakfast bars, cereal, oatmeal packets, peanut butter and jelly and shelf stable items. The bags and donated items can be dropped off at Community Cooperative Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We are in full distribution now with items going to mobile food pantries and being distributed at the community market,” she said, adding that nothing goes unused. “Every year, by mid-summer we are begging for more.”

Ink Edward said with the cost of food and inflation they have seen an uptick in their numbers; she is certain they will see a higher demand this year than what they are probably ready for.

“This project is supported 100% by philanthropy,” she said, adding that they are also looking for volunteers to make the bags and distribute the bags.

For more information, visit www.communitycooperative.com.

Council moves public comment, meeting times

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Residents looking to provide general input at Cape Coral City Council meetings will need to wait longer to be heard — citizen’s input has been from the beginning to the end of meetings.

After a lengthy discussion of possibly adding additional input times to the Council’s regular meeting agendas, as well as moving the consent agenda to the end of the meeting, council moved public comment to right before Council reports.

Councilmember Jennifer Nelson-Lastra proposed that Council add back the citizen’s participation prior to the consent agenda; therefore having two citizen’s input times, one at the beginning of the meeting — 30-minutes, and the other at the end of the meeting — 60-minutes.

The portion that was taken out was “prior to council addressing items on the consent agenda, citizens may address council only on items listed on the consent agenda.”

Many council members said that was the idea behind the comment cards — having an idea of what the citizen’s were going to discuss.

According to what was passed in a 6-2 vote, Nelson-Lastra and Councilmember Dr. Derrick Donnell dissenting, “Speakers wishing to address the mayor and City Council on matters pertinent to the city during Citizen’s Input time must submit a public comment card to the city clerk prior to the beginning of Citizen’s Input time.”

“That was the whole purpose of the cards, to capture what they are here to talk about,” Councilmember Rachel Kaduk said, adding that it also captures their information, so follow-up can be provided.”

The council also discussed also moving the consent agenda to the end of the meet-

ing, after the new Citizen’s Input time.

City Manager Mike Ilczyszyn said if that was the direction he would be making an important administrative change on his end.

“I will not be requiring my staff to stay here until 8 or 9 (p.m.),” he said. “I am not going to be having my entire staff and consultants related to every consent item be waiting until the end of the meeting every week.”

Gunter reiterated that if they kept the agenda structured as proposed, they could still have staff there at the beginning when the consent agenda is discussed.

“You have to make an informed decision. The reason we are here is to make an informed decision,” he said. “To pull the items at the end of the meeting and have a vacant council chambers — we will not get the answers we need.”

Ilczyszyn said the agenda comes out the week prior, giving Council time to go through all the items. He said Council may pull an item if the community brings up a question that might be interesting to answer.

“In most cases you are going to know all the information about the procurement item,” Ilczyszyn said. “I will be able to fully answer any questions about a procurement item. If something comes up that you didn’t think of, or something said at the podium, that would have to be delayed.”

The Council also approved new times for its meeting schedules. The first was to move workshops to 9:30 a.m. instead of 10:30 a.m., but only on days when it proceeds South Cape Redevelopment Agency meetings.

Beginning on July 16, when the Council returns from its summer hiatus, the regular meetings will start at 4 p.m., instead of 5 p.m.

Two Town Hall meetings set for this Saturday

Two members of the Cape Coral City Council will hold Town Hall meetings this Saturday.

Cape Coral District 2 Council Member Laurie Lehmann will hold a Town Hall meeting on June 7, from 10 a.m. to noon at Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road, at Pavilion 3.

The topic will be the Sands Boulevard Bridge, and staff will be present to answer residents’ questions. Pavilion 3, near the main building, will serve as the gathering spot for this event. Due to limited seating,

attendees are encouraged to bring their own beach or camping chairs.

Cape Coral District 4 Council Member Jennifer Nelson-Lastra also will hold a Town Hall meeting this Saturday, June 7, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Cape Coral - Lee County Public Library, 921 SW 39th Terrace.

The Town Hall will be held in the Library’s Meeting Room.

Residents are encouraged to share their concerns, ask questions, and discuss ideas for the future of the district at both events.

Half-penny sales tax has raised $643 million for schools

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The half cent penny sales tax has generated more than $643 million since it was approved by Lee County voters for school capital outlay seven years ago.

Lee County voters approved the half cent sales tax in 2018. It runs through December 2028.

Of the $643.08 million received, the district has expended $524.49 million, according to Independent Sales Surtax Oversight Committee Chair Christopher Simoneau.

The funds are used for construction - $204,516,183, 39%; maintenance - $154,275,620, 29%; technology - $105,078,860 – 20% and safety - $60,620,007, 12%.

The safety portion has been used for weapons detection, intrusion detection and security cameras, he said adding the district does not go into the detail of where the safety investments are made.

For new construction, schools built include Lehigh Acres Middle, Gateway High

Of the $643.08 million received, the district has expended $524.49 million, according to Independent Sales Surtax Oversight Committee Chair Christopher Simoneau. The funds have been used for construction - $204,516,183, 39%; maintenance - $154,275,620, 29%; technology$105,078,860 – 20% and safety - $60,620,007, 12%.

School and Amanecer Elementary School.

Renovations include Lehigh Senior High School, Lemuel Teal Middle School, and Franklin Park Elementary School.

Simoneau said the tax has added 6,800 new and/or renovated student stations.

Every school has been touched as far as maintenance, with more than 530 deferred maintenance projects. Those include air conditioning, flooring, roofs, stage curtains, windows, and doors.

The money also been used to purchase Chromebooks, Promethean interactive panels, access control and server upgrades.

“I am pleased to report that the utilization of sales tax has been compliant with

the referendum that was originally created,” Simoneau said.

He shared some of the concerns that came from the committee level during Tuesday’s workshop. Those include sustainability of the sales tax program, community awareness of impact, slowing revenues and economic uncertainty, investing in short term vs. long term projects and marketing and advocacy with 3.5 years remaining.

Simoneau said the sales tax program is generating a significant amount of money annually.

“We have three years left on the sales tax. What is the future plan if the sales tax

expires in 2028?” he said. “What happens to programs and technology, security and building that is supported by the sales tax?”

The slowing down of revenue also is a concern, Simoneau said, as there was a little bit of a decline in the revenue generated from the first quarter of this year.

Board member Armor Persons said they obviously have to keep building schools.

“Approximately 20% — the tourist are paying 20% of all of our capital outlay for all the projects we are doing,” he said.

Board member Debbie Jordan also shared concern about what will happen if in 2028.

“As far as sunsetting, I definitely believe we should not be doing that. It took a minute, a year, and a half to get it out there and get people to vote on it,” she said, adding that they should make a decision sooner rather than later on what that looks like.

Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin said there is plenty of time for the board to have the conversation about what decision should be made about the tax.

Southwest Florida’s awaited rainy season gets underway

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

As Mother Nature has shown this week, the Southwest Florida rainy season is officially upon us.

According to the National Weather Service, rainy season in Southwest Florida officially runs from May 15 to Oct.15. Being located in what is referred to as the Subtropics, during the late spring and summer months, the tropical climate shifts north. NWS officials state that when combined with the influence of surrounding oceans and daily sea breezes, thunderstorm season is about.

According to NWS officials, “The rainy season can begin abruptly in some years and the onset can take weeks to develop in other years. There are several factors that

need to come together for daily thunderstorms to occur. Therefore, the beginning of the rainy season is usually a transition period rather than a single date. Similar to hurricane season, the rainy season may occur before or after the aforementioned dates.”

NWS officials state that rainy season usually has three phases:

n Late May through June is the period when severe storms are most likely. Hail, damaging winds, and waterspouts are common, in addition to heavy rainfall and frequent lightning.

n July through early September is when rainy season peaks. While the overall threat for severe weather diminishes, heavy rainfall and seasonal river flooding remain

significant hazards, along with frequent lightning.

Rainy season is typically accompanied by an increase in humidity with persistent dew point values above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The location and timing favored for thunderstorm development on any given day changes based on the position and strength of the Bermuda High. Thunderstorm season is also most active when sea surface temperatures surpass 82 degrees offshore, and not just along the coast, and when moisture aloft increases. Officials state 55 to 70% of annual rainfall occurs during June through September.

n Mid-September through early October is the “wind down” phase and tends to have higher rainfall variability due to potential tropical systems and early-fall cold fronts.

Council upgrades CCPD’s request for patrol vessel

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

City Council had an answer to the Cape Coral Police Department’s request for a new patrol enforcement vessel: You’re gonna need a bigger boat.

The consent agenda item was pulled by Mayor John Gunter as the recommended Silver Ship AM700 patrol enforcement vessel from Silver Ships, Inc., which was 23-feet in length, was somewhat of a concern for him. He said the difference in responding to a call is comparing a “Volkswagen to a full-size SUV.”

Gunter said there is a difference of $23,213 between

the two boats. He said when you look at the impact of the size of the vessels, the $23,000 is dollars well spent to go to the 27-foot boat based on the information provided by the vendor.

Council unanimously approved an amendment to the resolution from the AM700 to AM800 patrol enforcement vessel, with a not to exceed amount changing to $325,000.

Before the vote was taken, Councilmember Dr. Derrick Donnell asked why the larger boat was not proposed by the CCPD.

Police Chief Anthony Sizemore said it was due to fiscal prudence, as it is not the only item he is buying.

“I can’t spend it all on one vessel,” he said. “Ultimately,

we would like the biggest and the best. I have a lot of chips to a lot of tables.”

Sizemore said there are two different funding components for the vessel. He said they have been a recipient of a grant for almost 20 years, which historically goes towards staff hours for the marine unit. Due to their past performance, the grant can go towards funding capital for the vessel.

“We are trying not to exceed that,” he said, adding that anything that exceeds that amount will come out of the State Forfeiture Funds, which is a renewable resource.

City to use contract employees to help fill short-term gaps

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The city of Cape Coral will use contract employees to fill some short-term needs.

Cape Coral City Council approved a contract with C.A.P. Government, Inc., a piggyback contract with the city of Fort Lauderdale Wednesday night.

Councilmember Rachel Kaduk, who pulled the consent agenda item for discussion, said it was important to explain Resolution 160-25 to the public.

City Manager Mike Ilczyszyn said rather than go out and over hire full-time employees, he has taken the approach of leaning on the private sector to fill a shortterm need.

“This started after Hurricane Ian. We knew we would have a huge runup in permits and inspections. Rather than hire hundreds of employees to fill a temporary nature, we leaned on outside service providers to fill that need,” he said.

Ilczyszyn said they are moving away

“This started after Hurricane Ian. We knew we would have a huge runup in permits and inspections. Rather than hire hundreds of employees to fill a temporary nature, we leaned on outside service providers to fill that need.”

— Mike Ilczyszyn, city manager

from those outside service providers as the inspections and planned reviews have calmed down from Hurricane Ian. He said it is important to have a plan B in the toolbox just in case there is a severe accident, someone moves, or an unfunded mandate.

“It serves as a temporary measure to fill that gap until we can evaluate what is the workload, what is required, and do we need a full-time employee,” he said.

The contract with C.A.P. Inc., in accordance with the City of Fort Lauderdale contract, is for an estimated annual amount of $500,000.

“This contract does not require any minimum hours of usage,” he said, adding that

it can sit there unutilized for the duration of the contract.

Ilczyszyn said they do have some reviewers for floodplain review.

“What is being requested from our staff for being reviewed is relatively new. We are not in a position to figure out the best staff person,” he said.

Councilmember Dr. Derrick Donnell said one of the things he and Ilczyszyn speak about is the theme of being proactive.

“It’s another tool to be proactive,” he said, adding oftentimes government waits for something to happen and then reacts. “I commend you for that.”

Mayor John Gunter agreed that the contract is definitely a great fallback, as if they do not use it, it does not cost the city anything.

“To be proactive and have this on the shelf ready to go is very important,” he said.

According to agenda documents, the Development Services Department building division currently uses C.A.P. Government Inc. to assist with building inspections and plan review requests to supplement city demand.

In September 2024, the city of Fort Lauderdale issued an invitation to bid for plan review and inspection services. That solicitation closed on Oct. 9, 2024 with responses from C.A.P. Government, Inc and Calvin Giordano & Associates, Inc and contracts were awarded to both. The initial agreement is from April 16, 2025, through May 15, 2028, with an optional two-year renewal.

Cape Council approves roundabout option for N.E. 24th Ave. & Diplomat

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

A roundabout will replace a four-way stop in northeast Cape Coral as part of the city’s Utility Expansion Project.

Cape Coral City Council approved the roundabout at Northeast 24th Avenue and Diplomat Parkway Wednesday as part of the North 1 East UEP roadway options.

Councilmember Rachel Kaduk said the four-way stop can get backed up during peak hours.

“A roundabout is best. Anyone can blow through a signal,” she said.

The presentation, which was originally scheduled to be discussed at Council’s workshop last week, was brought before them Wednesday as it is a critical component of the North 1 East UEP.

The two options given were the roundabout, with an estimated $3.6 million cost, and a traffic signal with an estimated $3.9 million cost.

The presentation, provided by Design and Construction Manager Bill Corbett highlighted the benefits of each.

From a safety perspective, he said roundabouts take conflict points from 32 to eight, which provides a significant safety benefit, as it reduces traffic accidents.

“One thing that I will say other than the safety benefit of a roundabout is the

“A roundabout is best. Anyone can blow through a signal.”

— Rachel Kaduk, city councilmember

resiliency component of a roundabout. A roundabout would remain operational as long as the road is clear and open,” Corbett said.

The two-lane roundabout would provide pedestrian movement and provide an operational capability of serving the intersection at adequate levels of service and the traffic volume will handle the intersection past their horizon year.

With the roundabout, Corbett said they will acquire land to facilitate the construction, as there is a small impact to the northeast corner and southern tip of Victory Park – a conservation impact that the city will have to mitigate.

Corbett said they have not started any dialogue with landowners.

Mayor John Gunter said he would have liked to see what it is going to cost for land acquisitions for three or four parcels on the northwest corner and southwest portion of the roundabout.

School District discusses hurricane plan

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

School District of Lee County staff discussed the Hurricane/Hazard Emergency Plan changes going into this storm season, including ways to assess schools and open them faster if a hurricane impacts the area.

Safety, Security and Fleet Operations Chief Dave Newlan said with hurricane season kicking off this week, they continue to look at how to improve.

One of those areas is from a shelter perspective – shelter managers, principals, and staff running the shelters. Staff has had discussions regarding the after action of what went well, what did not go well, and how to improve.

Shelter training is taking place right now. Individuals are going to the sites, walking the sites, and working with the team and county to learn more about the shelter.

Newlan said they have implemented certain things going into this hurricane season.

District responsibilities are spelled out in the new plan as far as what should be done before, during, and after an event.

Another new component – communication protocol, as certain communication is not available after a hurricane. The plan, he said, is the timing of how to communicate with one another and how to do that is in the policy.

The assessment of school site damage was also addressed. Newlan said the IT department is working with the operation developing an assessment tool, so the district can expedite that assessment of what is needed to get schools up and running.

“It will compile data faster, reopen our schools faster than we have had before,” he said.

Staffing volunteers is

also part of the plan to help with recovering efforts. Newlan said they will have a volunteer list available for those who have remained in the area during a storm.

The district also has links for up-to-date information for employees, so that information can be pulled easily in the case they need to be contacted.

“We are hoping this is going to be a really quiet hurricane season. If we should have a storm, our leadership team is ready and well prepared,” Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin said.

The presentation also touched upon the Lee County Emergency Operations Center Public Safety Center expansion, which was completed last month with a ribbon cutting. The expansion included technology upgrades to the situation room multi-screen system and High-Vis seamless technology. There were also telephone upgrades, new carpet, and new furniture.

The situation room was scheduled to be completed and reopened by June 1.

Newlan said the new addition, a break out area for more sleeping, offices, showers and locker rooms, is a big difference and change.

“When you have an event like this you are not leaving the EOC,” he said, as people are working 12-hour shifts before taking a break to get enough rest to continue emergency efforts.

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Cape Coral City Council amended the city’s contract with Pennoni Associates, Inc. for construction administration services for Jaycee Park on Wednesday.

Councilmember Bill Steinke, who pulled the consent agenda item for discussion, said it is not additional money, but an allocation of money that was already earmarked in the budget. He said it’s for additional responsibilities that

City Council amends contract for Jaycee Park School District continues effort to get parents involved

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The School District of Lee County is continuing its quest to engage more parents.

Chief Strategy Officer Dr. Jennifer Cupid-McCoy said Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin charged her cabinet with addressing district priorities with an emphasis on urgency in terms of the district getting better with the work they do. Out of this, a task force was established to gather community input in regards to family engagement and empowerment.

“Family engagement and empowerment is captured by annual surveys,” CupidMcCoy said.

Those surveys, though, are not reaching a lot of parents – the district got 4,197 responses last fall, out of 89,000.

“That is a very small percentage,” she said. The goal of our task force – how do we incrementally and systematically increase the number. When you have a task force that is comprised of community members and educators, it is important that

they are placing on Pennoni Associates Inc. and dollars allocated to produce that task.

Design and Construction Manager Bill Corbett said the amendment to the design contract for Jaycee Park is to incorporate construction and administration services and construction engineering and inspection (CEI) services. He said it is always done separate from the design contract.

Corbett said to have that the level of oversight by the Engineer of Record is ideal. They can address problems in

“We know that parent engagement is huge in the success of our students. I think that is important for the community and this board to remember that at the end of the day it is about our students – parent engagement is a huge part of that process.”

—Melisa Giovannelli, school board member

we have a disciplined approach to the work that we are attempting to accomplish. As a result of that, we worked through what we referred to as theory of action, guided the work of the task force.”

The task force identified three main barriers – time, language and communication, and technology or related access.

Cupid-McCoy said the potential solution for the time challenge is using shorter surveys with multiple choice answers that have a clear subject line that states the estimated time, topic, and purpose. Other po-

the field, and they have background on the project.

“This firm will be on board with the construction duration,” he said. “The initial contract was up to the biding; construction starts after that.”

The amendment is for $280,070, which brings the total project amount not to exceed $853,635.

On May 3, 2023, Resolution 93-23 authorized the final design services for the Jaycee Park project to Pennoni Associates, Inc with a contract amount of $573,565.

tential solutions include sending the survey at strategic times of the day and reducing and controlling the number of surveys sent annually.

As far as language, a potential solution is partnering with community organizations to increase awareness about surveys and encourage participation, as well as encouraging family participation through student and school-based incentives and using timely reminder notification to reach families.

Cupid-McCoy said for technology the

proposed solution is increased accessibility – availability through passing out paper surveys at the car loop, or schoolwide events, as well as multiple languages and formats.

“When we work together, work collaboratively with external partners, we are able to do so much more than if we attempt to do this on our own,” she said.

Carlin said she board members share the same sentiment – family engagement is extremely important.

“We know that parent engagement is huge in the success of our students. I think that is important for the community and this board to remember that at the end of the day it is about our students – parent engagement is a huge part of that process,” Board member Melisa Giovannelli said.

Cupid-McCoy said the task force will submit their final recommendations in July/ August. A robust online engagement and empowerment resource hub will be developed in October/November 2025.

Weekly B reeze Recap

Breeze Breakfast of Champions honors student-athletes

Team, coach and athletes of the year named at awards ceremony

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

The Breeze Newspapers celebrated student-athletes from all over Cape Coral and the West Zone on Saturday with its fourth annual Breakfast of Champions held at Cape Vineyard Community Church.

“We’re committed to growing our Athlete of the Week program in the future because we realize the thrill that competition brings to fans and communities and the important lifelong lessons that sports provide to young people willing to learn them,” said Breeze Newspapers Publisher Ray Eckenrode.

Cape Coral Breeze Editor Chris Strine added, “We had a great turnout for our fourth annual Breakfast of Champions Saturday. It was an honor and a privilege to recognize all of the student-athletes, coaches, teams, parents and supporters at the event. Our congratulations to all for their accomplishments during the 202425 school year.

“Our thanks, too, to Cape Vineyard for hosting the event and providing a great meal, and to all of the sponsors for our Athlete of the Week/Athlete of the Month program.”

This year’s guest speaker was former National Football League defensive specialist and Cape Coral High School graduate, Jaylen Watkins.

The now-member of the Seahawks’ football program coaching staff spoke to the student-athletes about his journey, hardships and the path he navigated throughout his collegiate and professional career.

Watkins even showed off his Athlete of the Week award bestowed to him by The Breeze back in 2008.

The Breeze Team of the Year was awarded to the North Fort Myers softball team, which made it to the state final four and posted a record of 20-8 this season. The team outscored their opponents in a big way, with a plus 127-run differential when all was said and done. They were also stellar at home, posting a 12-2 record defending their turf. The Red Knights set a school record for home runs in a single season, and had nine players hit over .300 this season, with four posting a

.400-plus batting average, and one player hitting .609 on the year -- a school record.

Coach of the Year was bestowed to a long-time coach who achieved the 500-win milestone this past year, all with the same school, Mariner High School boys soccer coach Martin Cardenas. He has won 15 district titles, including seven in a row. His teams were Regional finalists eight times and appeared in two state final fours including a state runner-up. He has also coached football, baseball, tennis, golf and bowling.

This year’s Male Athlete of the Year was Mariner’s senior wrestling state champ, Max Brady. The senior won four state championships, yes, four, in every year of competition at the high school level.

Most recently, Brady put together an undefeated season on the mat, and was the state championship wrestler at 138 pounds. He won his state title match in one minute. He ends his high school wrestling career with an incredible 185-5 record, and has committed to a school in his home state at Northern Iowa, to continue his work at a student-athlete.

It was North Fort Myers High School’s junior soccer standout Hannah Busenbark that was named Female Athlete of the Year. She set a school record for goals scored with a whopping 57 in 23 games played.

She was named to the Class 5A player of the year by the Florida Dairy Farmers, named to the United Soccer Coaches All-Regional Team, was her team’s Most Valuable Player, Team’s Offensive Player of the Year and ,of course, wore the captain’s armband. Busenbark’s 57 goals was ranked 9th in the nation, third in the state of Florida, and first in all of class 5A.

Mariner High School’s Gabi Winters was voted Reader’s Choice Athlete of the Year. This year’s vote

See BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS, page 35

Several athletes and coaches from Mariner High School at the Breakfast of Champions last Saturday at Cape Vineyard.

MARK CLIFFORD

Siesta Lakes holds ribbon-cutting; rental community is ‘move-in ready’

By CHUCK BALLARO news@breezenewspapers.com

Siesta Lakes, a new 412-unit, nine-building rental community in Cape Coral, is now move-in ready, 19 months after its groundbreaking off Pine Island Road. Shoreham Capital, a privately-held real estate firm, in partnership with Bridge Investment Group and Wynkoop Financial, announced the completion of the $120 million project at a ribbon-cutting Tuesday.

Siesta Lakes began accepting lease agreements five months ago. It already has nearly 70 tenants.

Doug Faron, managing partner of Shoreham Capital, the developer of Siesta Lakes along with Bridge Investment Group and Wynkoop Financial, said they are excited by how the project came out.

“We’ve been able to do something with the site that has sat here for a number of years and build something for the benefit of the community,” Faron said. “It’s a great community and its experienced a lot of growth and there’s a demand for more housing and more options.”

Chris Curran, CEO of Curran Young Construction, said this is a big day for the city and to all those involved.

“We’re ready for any residents to move in. It’s a big day for us and a huge project for any contractor. It’s one of the biggest block and plank jobs in the Cape,” Curran said. “It’s a huge milestone and changes the trajectory of our company.”

The development, which cost $120 million, not only provides multi-family housing, which Cape Coral has been badly in need of for years, it offers amenities many prospective tenants demand.

District 4 City Councilmember Jennifer Nelson-Lastra was on the Cape Coral City Council when it was decided new housing options were needed several years ago. She said it was wonderful that a large development with amenities is finally in her district.

“We are a city that desperately needs more amenities as the largest municipality in Lee County, we still lag behind in things we can offer,” Nelson-Lastra said. “This adds to our multi-family landscape. My hope is that it will attract individuals to come enjoy our city.

Situated on a 26-acre site at 186–264 Tierra De Paz Loop, Siesta Lakes is located within a qualified Opportunity Zone just off Pine Island Road, a short distance from shopping and restaurants.

The community offers a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans with open-concept interiors, private balconies, and direct views of a private central lagoon. Prices range from $1,450 per month for a one-bedroom to around $2,500 per month on a lease of a three-bedroom apartment.

The homes are above the floodplain and will be able to withstand the fiercest of storms, officials said.

On-site amenities include a resort-style pool, fitness center, dog park, outdoor grilling areas and walking trails, all designed to support an active, connected lifestyle.

Dave Sands, community manager of Siesta Lakes in charge of leasing, said Cape Coral is an up-and-coming city with many people coming here for Miami and Tampa to live here.

“Things are going pretty good. I foresee us being 50% occupied in between two and seven months,” Sands said. “Even though there are a lot of homes for sale here, we’re in a good position where people who can’t necessarily afford a home can come to a property and have a different experience here.”

For additional information, visit https://www.siestalakesapts.com/.

Breeze CommuniTy

June 6, 2025

plant.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Buttery blooms

By SHERIE BLEILER news@breezenewspapers.com

A few of my favorite sun-loving plants have cheerful butter yellow flowers, inviting both bees and butterflies. These plants appreciate our long, hot, subtropical days of summer!

Yellow alder (Turnera ulmifolia), which some call buttercup, flowers every day all summer. The five petals around the center make a perfect landing pad for larger butterflies. Flowers open for one day and close at night. New flowers open in the morning. It grows up to 3 feet tall; 2 feet wide. Native to the Caribbean and Mexico, it grows tall and full in plain sand as well as in richer soil. Full sun is best for dense growth, but yellow alder doesn’t seem to mind shade. Sometimes the stems barely branch, so pinching the tips will help it make more branches and help it fill out.

Garden Club of Cape Coral

This plant is readily available in nurseries all year long, but is especially useful as your winter annuals are fading with the summer heat and humidity. Often, there are several plants in one pot, which you may separate and get two or three for the price of one. They readily self-seed which can gift you with more plants or burden you with plants to weed out.

Melampodium divaricatum or butter daisy is a golden yellow daisy in the aster family. Being from Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean, this annual flower is perfectly suited for our hot, humid summers. Its drought tolerance also helps it thrive in the spring. They are striking in a mass planting. Space 10-15 inches apart for good air circulation to ward off mildew. Each inch-wide flower lasts for several weeks. You do not need to remove the flowers for them to keep blooming constantly as they are “self cleaning.” They branch freely, keeping themselves full without pinching.

These are annuals and bloom themselves out in about 4 months before they start to decline. Since they readily reseed themselves, you can have them growing year round with successive generations.

Melampodium comes in a variety of sizes. The common one attains a height of 2-3 feet. Dwarf varieties get just 10-12 inches. Choose the right size for your garden bed.

Coreopsis or Tickseed is another favorite summer bloomer. In 1991, Florida’s Legislature named it the State Wildflower due to the many roadside plantings and highway beautification programs. Although there are 14 species in Florida, the two that grow easily this far south are leavenworth and lanceleaf (lanceolata). However, leavenworth is better adapted to south Florida than lanceleaf.

Leavenworths are 18-36 inches tall when flowering. You will often see their yellow blooms in the swails around town, since they prefer moist locations. Lanceleaf is shorter, about 10-18 inches with the flower spike. They prefer average moisture.

See BUTTERY

Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife announce winners in Burrowing Owl Photo Contest

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

After delving through nearly 200 submissions, the Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife last weekend announced the winner of its annual Burrowing Owl Photo Contest.

This yearly contest highlights the talent of amateur photographers and celebrates Cape Coral’s dedication to wildlife conservation. The Grand Prize-winning photo is to be proudly featured on the official T-shirt for the 2026 Burrowing Owl Festival.

First place in the adult division was awarded to Conrad Peloquin, with the winning photograph in the youth category belonging to Adalynn Miller.

“CCFW was thrilled with the enthusiastic response to this year’s photo contest,” said CCFW spokesperson Janet Windisch. “So many talented amateur photographers were excited to share their work — the adorable owls really captured everyone’s imagination! It was a joy to present the awards and showcase the winning photos on the big screen at the awards ceremony.”

Second place in the adult category went to Damon Bell, with Robert K. Brinley taking third. Honorable mentions included Cindy Felice, Debbie Davis and Sam Troyer.

Second place in the youth category, which saw a record-high number of submissions, belonged to August Lambert, with Josh Pilon taking home third. Honorable mentions included Harper Bubley, Camde Dalziel, Laila Ellis, Olivia Garcia, Alexandria Krupa, Shawn Krzos, Stella Moran, Kristina Saavedra and Ryleigh Steeb-Howard.

The youth winner’s photograph will be used in next year’s Ground Owl Day event.

Windisch said CCFW is excited to showcase these amazing photographer’s work in the upcoming slate of events.

“We’re incredibly grateful to feature the stunning photos from our contest on next year’s Burrowing Owl Festival and Ground Owl Day T-shirts,” she said. “These submissions help us create unique, adorable designs that are always a hit! They may also be used in our brochures, posters and other promotions — all helping to raise awareness and support CCFW’s mission to protect and preserve local wildlife.”

Judges this year were Cape Coral City Manager Michael

Peloquin’s

Ilczyszyn, NBC2 Meteorologist Rob Duns and last year’s photo contest winner, Darlene Coughlin.

Participants were allowed to submit just one photo, and were permitted to crop; make minor adjustments to color, white balance, lighting levels and curves, shadows and highlight, saturation, contrast, sharpness; moderate dodging and burning; removal of dust sports and moderate reduction of image noise.

Judges scored eligible photographs on technical quality (30%), originality (30%), and artistic merit (40%).

Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing habitats for protected wildlife species while educating the community about Cape Coral’s unique wildlife resources.

All of the winning photos can be found by visiting CCFW’s website at www.ccfriendsofwildlife.org.

Tickets and sponsorships for ARC’s Casino Royale fundraiser now available

By CHUCK BALLARO news@breezenewspapers.com

Time for guys to pull out their tuxedos, women to select their favorite party dress and to note that martinis are shaken, not stirred.

The Animal Refuge Center will hold its 13th annual Casino Royale 007 fundraiser Saturday, June 21, from 7-11 p.m., at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Estero.

This James Bond-themed evening promises thrilling games of chance, exciting auction items including a trip to the Caribbean and a mission to give the pets they care for a forever home. As far as we know, there will be no evil villains seeking to rule the world.

Rob Spicker, ARC vice president, said it will be a night of fun, no matter what your interest is.

“This is our second largest fundraiser of the year. The tone is different from the Starlight Auction, which is more formal,” Spicker said. “This is more freewheeling, more fun. Something you can bring your friends to.”

Casino Royale usually raises between $25,000 and $40,000 for ARC. It costs around $1 million annually to keep ARC running through lodging, food, animal care and more.

As always, your favorite games of chance will be played such as blackjack, poker, roulette and craps. There will also be both a silent and live auction, as well as a few new attractions. There will also be a great selection of food

available, as well as a fully stocked cash bar.

Tickets are $75, which includes $2,000 in play money to enjoy games throughout the evening. Guests can purchase additional play money at the event.

Spicker said ticket sales have been strong. As far as sponsorships, Spicker said they are always looking for those right up to the day of the event.

“Sponsors are always a great way to get involved. You get tickets and advertising on our website,” Spicker said. “We’re hoping for more ticket sales. That people see it and buy a ticket. Dress in your finest or dress down.”

And, of course, no ARC fundraiser would be complete without a few beloved shelter residents making a special appearance — reminding everyone of the night’s true purpose.

This year’s Casino Royale is presented by Pet Dental Center of Estero.

The Animal Refuge Center is Southwest Florida’s largest no-kill shelter. Its mission is to shelter, adopt and educate . Its philosophy ensures that once an animal is accepted, it will not be euthanized to make room for another. Every dollar raised goes directly toward caring for animals in need, organizers said.

Spicker said it has been a great year regarding dog adoptions, which is up 60% as they have increased the training of the animals. Cat adoption numbers are also up.

For additional information, please go to www.animalrefugecenter.com.

Buttercup blossoms on a yellow adler

PHOTO PROVIDED Conrad

winning burrowing owl photo.

Shell Museum on Sanibel reopens first phase of Great Hall

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

Continuing with its phased reopening in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in 2022, the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel recently reopened its new Great Hall of Shells.

On May 24, Phase 1 of the exhibit space — the first of two phases — was unveiled.

The Great Hall of Shells has been the permanent exhibit space for shells since the museum first opened in 1995. Following significant damage from the storm, the museum embarked on a full redesign and reinstallation of its shell exhibits and the Great Hall.

“We want the Great Hall of Shells to endure as among the finest and most extensive public exhibitions of shells in the world,” Executive Director Sam Ankerson said. “Sanibel and Southwest Florida is the rightful home for an exhibit like this, and we welcome everyone to come experience this big first step in that direction.’’

The reopened exhibits feature extraordinary shells from all over the world, highlights selected from the museum’s collection of nearly 600,000 shells. The shells are exhibited for maximum visual appeal with custom cabinetry, lighting and mounts that present the specimens individually as gems and treasures of nature.

“Our goal is to convey to visitors the stunning beauty and diversity of shells, and important roles that the mollusks that make them play in biodiversity, natural history and our environment,” curator and Science Director Dr. José H. Leal said. “We are thrilled with the result and can’t wait for visitors to enjoy these exhibits.”

He noted that there are a lot of new items and they were talking about refreshing the space before Ian.

“The goal was to renew the exhibits anyway,” Leal said. “So that was one of the few positives or outcomes of the storm.”

The exhibit themes include global biodiversity, shapes and colors, and time and evolution.

“The idea that Sam had was to have as many shells

as possible,” he said, adding that they showcase what kind of mollusks make the shells, the evolution of mollusks and more. “So we could show to the public how diverse, how beautiful the shells are — and why species are different in different areas.”

There are special focuses on groups like cones, cowries, volutes, murexes, scallops and carriers.

“The choice was based on the uniqueness, the beauty of those particular groups,” Leal said. “Favorite or classic groups for collectors for great reason. Because of the shapes, the colors, the textures.”

The Phase 2 exhibits are under construction and will open later this summer. They will include exhibits of Southwest Florida shells, world record-sized shells, land snails and fossils, along with shells in human creativity and culture, the Calusa and conservation and environmental issues as they relate to mollusks.

“The second phase will be more involved than phase one,” he said. “We explore and we explain more.”

Some of the pre-hurricane exhibits will be recreated, including the favorite Sailor’s Valentines.

One of the new areas will include the section devoted to conservation and environmental education.

“We talk about invasive species and the loss of habitat and climate change,” Leal said. “All those things affect the lives of mollusks and shells.”

Once the Phase 2 exhibits are installed, the museum’s rebuilding from Ian will be complete.

The public is encouraged to swing by the only U.S. museum devoted solely to shells and mollusks.

“We have one of the best and well-known museums,” he said.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $18 for adults; $15 for seniors and veterans; $10 for ages 12-17, students and educators; $5 for ages 5-11; and free for ages under 5, museum members and active military.

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road on Sanibel. For more information, visit ShellMuseum.org or call 239-395-2233.

BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM & AQUARIUM

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel recently reopened the first phase of its new Great Hall of Shells and exhibits in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in 2022.

Heritage Charter: Academy expansion will allow for student growth

From page 1

750 students, which they expect to bring in year-over-year in a fast-growing community.

“It will be a slow growth over five years,” Combs said. “Next year, we’re trying to get to about 300 students before we move in, and add the following year. Cape Coral is growing, and that particular area — we’ve done a growth study. It’s a good location for a new school in that area.”

Combs said the school will hire new teachers and staff along the way.

The new school is being paid for via a bond loan with a total cost of the building and land being $23 million.

Heritage Charter works with more than 100 community partners, such as local nursing homes that read to students, Children’s Network, Cape Coral Police, and the Chamber of Commerce.

Combs said the new school will allow them to expand upon those partnerships, and allow entities such as the Boy Scouts and local cheer and sport groups to use the facility. The new school will also include an indoor basketball/volleyball court.

The concept at Heritage Charter is the “whole child” approach.

“We’re an experience-immersion type school,” Combs said. “We have a social worker that works with the students. We’re doing a technology program using 3-D printers for our middle school. Once we get to the new building, that will be its own technology lab in itself.”

Combs said the school’s approach is what sets it apart. Class sizes are under the state average, and that’s something Heritage Charter will continue to provide moving forward.

“Our theme is, ‘where school is fam-

“Our theme is, ‘where school is family. We want all students to have a sense of belonging. Our teachers and the way that we manage the student looks at all the needs of the child. We make sure all the basic needs of the child is met.”

— Angela Combs, chief operating officer of CHOICE Charter School

ily,’” she said. “We want all students to have a sense of belonging. Our teachers and the way that we manage the student looks at all the needs of the child. We make sure all the basic needs of the child is met.

“We have ongoing progress monitoring to make sure the students are achieving for state tests. This year academically, our students showed many (educational) gains.”

Other positive outcomes from the building include students having one building to traverse, instead of two at the current facility on Santa Barbara Boulevard, as well as being back off of the main road.

“Just the safety improvements are such a big thing,” Combs said

Combs said they are hopeful construction will be completed by December, with plans for moving in to be no later than spring break next year should any setbacks take place. LAI Construction are the builders on the project.

Heritage Charter is a free public charter school. The new building is at 1429 N.E. 15th Ave.

For more information, visit heritagecharteracademy.org.

Above, an artist rendering of the new $23 million campus provided by LAI design and construction team. Below, all smiles at the groundbreaking for the K-8 charter school to be built on 10 acres off Northeast 19th Avenue in Cape Coral.

The Breeze educaTion

June 6, 2025

Education BriEfs

Luban named to Spring 2025 Dean’s List at Cedarville University

CEDARVILLE, Ohio — Hannah Luban of Cape Coral was named to the Dean’s List at Cedarville University for Spring 2025. This recognition requires the student to obtain a 3.50 GPA or higher for the semester and carry a minimum of 12 credit hours.

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio’s largest private universities.

Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.

Smith earns place on Wallace State Community College’s Dean’s List for Spring

HANCEVILLE, Alabama — Wallace State Community College congratulates Ezakiah Smith of Cape Coral on being named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 semester.

Smith is one of 685 students who were named to the President’s List and Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 semester. To earn a spot on the Wallace State President’s List, students must maintain a perfect 4.0 GPA for the semester while taking a course load of 12 or more hours. Placement on the Dean’s List is awarded to students maintain at 3.5 GPA or higher while also taking a course load of at least 12 hours.

For more information about WSCC, please visit www. wallacestate.edu.

Till named to Albion College spring Dean’s List

ALBION, Mich. — Cape Coral student Rebecca Till was named to Albion College’s Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 semester.

Albion College’s Dean’s List recognizes students who achieve a 3.5 or better GPA while taking four graded courses.

Till is majoring in biology with a minor in biochemistry and is a member of the Prentiss M. Brown Honors Program. Till is a resident of Woodinville and is a graduate of Cedarcrest High School.

Albion College is a private liberal arts college of approximately 1,500 students and is nationally recognized for its academic excellence in the liberal arts tradition. For additional information, visit https://www.albion.edu/. Johnson earns Dean’s List recognition at Lee University

CLEVELAND, Tenn. — Lee University congratulates David Johnson of Cape Coral on earning Dean’s List honors during the Spring 2025 semester.

Dean’s List recognition is earned by full-time, undergraduate students with a semester grade point average between 3.7 and 4.00.

Lee University is a private, Christ-centered university located in Cleveland, Tennessee, in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. For more information, visit www.leeuniversity.edu.

Wilson makes Spring 2025 Dean’s List at Georgia Southwestern State University

AMERICUS, Ga.— Kira Wilson, a resident of Cape Coral, made the Spring 2025 Dean’s List at Georgia Southwestern State University and was among 885 students recognized for scholastic achievement.

To be eligible for the Dean’s List, a student must earn a semester GPA of 3.5 or better and take a minimum of 12 credit hours.

Georgia Southwestern State University is a public, four-year unit of the University System of Georgia with approximately 4,000 students. Founded in 1906, Georgia Southwestern offers accredited professional programs of study as well as degrees in the arts, humanities, sciences and graduate programs in business, computer science, education and nursing. Visit www.gsw.edu for more information.

FGCU FPRA members Stroud, Gonzalez earn Certificate in Principles of Public Relations

Mallory Stroud and Laurana Gonzalez, student members of the Florida Public Relations Association and standout Florida Gulf Coast University Eagles, recently earned the prestigious Certificate in Principles of Public Relations.

The certificate, administered by the Universal Accreditation Board, is awarded to students who pass a comprehensive examination demonstrating foundational knowledge of the public relations profession. Stroud and Gonzalez are the 14th and 15th FGCU students to earn the certificate, which helps aspiring professionals stand out in a competitive industry.

“I’m incredibly proud of Mallory and Laurana for earning this nationally recognized credential,” said Kara Winton, MS, APR, CPRC, public relations instructor in the Department of Communication and Philosophy at FGCU. “They’ve demonstrated both academic excellence and leadership in our program and beyond. This achievement is a testament to their drive and professionalism, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on our field.”

Stroud graduated summa cum laude in May 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in communication and a concentration in public relations. She recently accepted a position with Porsche Naples, where she’ll continue working locally in the industry. Notably, Stroud collaborated with the dealership during her senior Capstone course, helping to develop

a strategic campaign for the brand—an experience that sparked her professional path.

Gonzalez, who expects to graduate in December 2025, is pursuing a double major in sociology and communication with a concentration in public relations, as well as a minor in community planning and development.

A committed student leader, she served on the board of the student chapter of FPRA this spring and continues to build a strong foundation for a dynamic career in public relations.

To qualify for the Certificate in Principles of Public Relations examination, students must be within six months of graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in public relations or a related area of study. They must also be members of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) or another UAB-affiliated student organization, and complete a designated prep course.

FSW Dental Clinic offering low-cost dental cleanings, exams for children during June

Florida SouthWestern State College’s Dental Clinic will offer low-cost dental cleanings, exams and X-rays for children ages 3 to 18 throughout June. The cost is $30 per child. An additional $5 will be charged for sealants on permanent molars if requested. Adults may also receive cleanings for $50.

The clinic offers an affordable way for families to get ready for the upcoming academic year with professional dental cleanings.

“Kids need to have their teeth cleaned and be provided with good oral health information, such as how to brush and floss properly,” said Karen Molumby, program director, FSW Dental Hygiene program. “Many school-aged children do not have their teeth cleaned other than the designated kindergarten, 5th- and 8th- grade requirements for school. Offering an affordable option for preventative care may help families reduce costs while ensuring their chil-

dren receive essential oral health services and education.” Services are provided by FSW dental hygiene students under the supervision of faculty members. The clinic is located in Building A on FSW’s Lee Campus, 8099 College Parkway, in Fort Myers. It is open from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday - Friday.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, please call the FSW Dental Hygiene Clinic at 239-9858334.

Suncoast Credit Union Foundation provides nearly $25,000 to Learning for Life Program

Southwest Florida Council, Learning for Life announces a charitable gift of $24,750 from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to provide character education to over 12,000 Lee County schools students across all demographics. The Learning For Life program continues through the 2025-2026 school year and these funds will help reach those students in title one schools, ensuring that more youth learn about character traits through education and career-oriented Learning for Life programs.

“We are so grateful to Suncoast Credit Union for their partnership with such a worthwhile program as Learning For Life. Students being taught character education and life skills will benefit their academic, social, and emotional development, fostering resilience, ethical behavior, and preparing them for a successful future,” said Melisa Giovannelli, VP Chair, Learning For Life

“Character defines each of us to some degree as we navigate life and the many decisions along the way,” said Bob Hyde, Vice President of Impact for Suncoast Credit Union.“Being a part of a program that helps youth learn about character traits and how to develop a stronger toolkit in this important area of life is a good investment that benefits all of our community.”

Suncoast Credit Union, Florida’s largest credit union,

founded the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to promote the education, health and emotional well-being of children in the community. Each time a Suncoast member uses their debit or credit card; the credit union donates two cents to the Foundation to fund local initiatives. Since its inception in 1990, the Foundation has raised and donated over $45 million.

Incorporated in 1991 as a non-profit organization, Learning for Life is a character education program designed to support schools and community- based organizations in their efforts to prepare youth to successfully handle the complexities of our contemporary society. Our curriculum prepares students to enhance their self-confidence, motivation, and self-esteem. The program uses age-appropriate, grade-specific lesson plans to give youth skills and information that will help them make positive decisions for themselves, their families and their futures. It is the mission of Learning For Life to enable young people to become responsible individuals by teaching positive character traits, career development, leadership, and life skills so they can make ethical choices and achieve their life potential.

For more information, visit suncoast.com or follow us on social media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.

Flag Day: Lee GOP America First Club organizes boat parade

From page 1

Continental Congress on June 14, 1777. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson officially established June 14 as Flag Day, a tradition that continues to inspire pride and patriotism across the nation.

The city of Cape Coral invites residents and visitors to its 2025 Flag Day Celebration. City leaders will commemorate this patriotic occasion with a special ceremony.

The Cape hosted its inaugural Flag Day celebration in 2023, making this the third year the city has held a Flag Day ceremony.

“Recognizing Flag Day honors the enduring values of freedom, unity, and patriotism symbolized by the American flag,” said city spokesperson Kaitlyn Mullen. “The ceremony serves as a tribute to the principles our nation holds dear — liberty and unity — and acknowledges the dedication of service members who have preserved those values.”

The event will take place on Saturday, June 14, at 9 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Area in Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, at 2500 Southeast 24th Street.

“Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve is an ideal patriotic venue for the Flag Day ceremony because it features a dedicated Veterans Memorial Area that honors those who have served in the U.S. armed forces,” Mullen said. “The Veterans Memorial Area, with its memorials and yearround accessibility, underscores the city’s commitment to honoring military service and provides a meaningful backdrop for a ceremony centered on national pride and remembrance.”

As part of the ceremony, Cape Coral City Council Presiding Officer Jennifer Nelson-Lastra, accompanied by Marines from U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting Station Cape Coral, will respectfully retire the American flag currently posted at the park and raise a new one in its place.

“Flag Day is a powerful reminder of the values that unite us as a community and a nation—freedom, service, and resilience,” Nelson-Lastra said. “I’m honored to stand with the people of Cape Coral as we pay tribute to the symbol of our democracy and the brave individuals who

If You Go:

What:

Freedom Fleet – Sailing the Sovereign Seas

When: Saturday, June 14, at 10 a.m.

Where:

On the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers

Those who wish to take part are asked to gather near the Midpoint Bridge at 10 a.m.

More information:

For more information, contact the Lee County GOP Headquarters at (239) 936-8779 or visit www.leegop.org

have defended it.”

The flag will be properly retired in accordance with

Title 4, United States Code, Chapter 1. Residents wishing to properly retire an American Flag can do so at City Hall by submitting it to the flag collection box near the fountain. Mullen added, “Residents are encouraged to attend the Flag Day ceremony to join their community in honoring the American flag and the values it represents. The event offers an opportunity for collective reflection on the nation’s history, the sacrifices of veterans, and the importance of unity. By coming together at a venue like Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, residents can experience a sense of community pride and contribute to a respectful tribute to the nation’s symbols and ideals.”

Freedom Fleet

On June 14 at 10 a.m., The Lee GOP America First Club will celebrate patriotism in motion at “Freedom Fleet – Sailing the Sovereign Seas,” a red, white, and blue boat parade on the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers. Organizers state that this event may be “one of the best Flag Day events Lee County has seen in a long time.”

Organizers state the event will honor historic milestones, such as the adoption of the American flag, the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, and President Donald J. Trump’s birthday with a “Made in the U.S.A.” theme that “proudly celebrates American freedom, strength, spirit, and small business.”

“Our ‘Made in the U.S.A.’ theme, reflects our club’s commitment to uplifting American-made products, supporting small businesses, and honoring the hardworking people who fuel our economy and defend our freedom,” stated event organizers. “This is more than a celebration— it’s about preserving the America First agenda here, in Lee County and standing proudly for our shared values.”

Those who wish to take part are asked to gather near the Midpoint Bridge at 10 a.m.

For more information, contact the Lee County GOP Headquarters at (239) 936-8779 or visit www.leegop.org.

Editorial: Cape Coral City Council’s agenda puts public input last

tening to comment — in this case staff comment — made at Wednesday’s meeting.

Two things stood out.

One, City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn said he would not be keeping staff through public comment if it were moved to the end of the meetings. Waiting through what could be an hours-long meeting would not be a good use

Valuation:

Two, he addressed state statutes as they pertain to public records. It seems that residents sometimes submit questions as a public records request and get upset when they don’t get the response they are expecting.

Mr. Ilczyszyn is correct — the city has no statutory requirement to answer questions; public records are documents which Mr. Ilczyszyn said the city does produce.

Let us say from experience that the process can be …… cumbersome. And that’s being kind.

The question comes down to how important is citizen input.

The answer comes down to how it is prioritized.

In terms of Council’s agenda, it now comes last.

—Breeze editorial

we’ve seen the last few years after all the demand from COVID and inflation. (We’re) kind of getting back to a more normal paradigm.

“We’ve had to deal with the damage from the hurricane, so it’s been a real blended number, but at least for Cape Coral, they were spared the worst of it for (hurricanes) Helene and Milton, so recovery seems to be continuing along pretty steadily.”

New construction just tax roll values in 2025 in Cape Coral is estimated to be $1,549,715,731, which is down from $2,114,727,819 in 2024. The taxable value for new construction estimated in 2025 is $1,526,090,270 as compared to $1,621,436,698 in 2024.

“New construction is going to be a blend of actual true new construction, as well as homes that are coming back on the tax roll after having been damaged by the hurricane,” Caldwell said.

The property appraiser’s office will continue refining the values and will certify the official values on or before July 1.

“We’ll continue to evaluate the entire tax roll,” Caldwell said. “Make sure the parts and pieces agree with each other, and after that, then the taxpayer will be looking for their trim notice in the middle of August that will give them their specific value for their individual property.”

Skipping the survey could be an expensive mistake

Dear Mr. Feichthaler:

I have rented for a few years, due to prices for houses being so high. Now that prices are (somewhat) more affordable, I am in the market to buy my first home. Of course I want to spend as little money as possible, both in home costs and other expenses.

Many of my friends told me they bought their house without obtaining a survey. They say that, particularly in Cape Coral where the lots are all pretty standard and pre-platted, there is no risk of an issue on a description of the property, and you can see if there are any intrusions onto the property. Should I skip the survey?

- Brian S.

Dear Brian:

Congratulations on your decision to enter the world of home ownership! With the recent retreat in prices, you have a much better chance of uncovering a good deal.

In real estate, good deals can turn bad quickly without taking proper precautions. Due diligence that every buyer should engage in includes overall home inspection, particularly roof and air conditioning, confirming the land use and zoning actually allows a home to be built should a casualty occur in the future, and a check to see how much money may be owed for water and sewer expansion.

Many buyers overlook the importance of a survey. While true that most Cape Coral’s properties are “cookie cutter” standard lots, some are not. I have actually seen where the property appraiser had switched pictures and descriptions of property, so that a buyer thought he was buying a lot with a seawall, when he was actually buying the lot next door. While true there may be no encroachments to the naked eye, there could be easements granted to others to use some part of the property. Imagine if your deed required that a neighbor has perpetual use of your property for parking, or to access the canal behind your home? Surveys can play an important role in determining exactly what you are buying.

Due to a platting error by the city’s original developer, there are hundreds of canal-front properties that have a major defect. One would never know by looking at it, but these properties do not actually reach the canal! There can be three to five feet separating the property from the canal, due to “unexcavated right of way”. That is, they didn’t dig the canal out enough to reach the edge of the property. Can you imagine purchasing your dream waterfront property, only to be told that your property doesn’t actually border the water? This has resulted in many buyers not being able to obtain building permits, required to have smaller homes, and to engage in legal proceedings to obtain the right to border the water. A survey would have disclosed this to the buyer!

I always want my clients to save money whenever possible. Saving a few hundred dollars on skipping a survey, even in Cape Coral, could lead to a very expensive mistake.

Eric P. Feichthaler has lived in Cape Coral for over 37 years and graduated from Mariner High School in Cape Coral. After completing law school at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., he returned to Cape Coral to practice law and raise a family. He served as mayor of Cape Coral from 2005-2008, and continues his service to the community through the Cape Coral Caring Center, and Cape Coral Kiwanis where he serves as president. He has been married to his wife, Mary, for 24 years, and they have four children. He earned his board certification in Real Estate Law from the Florida Bar, and primarily practices in real estate law and wills and trusts. He is AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell for professional ethics and legal ability, and is a Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator. He can be reached at eric@capecoralattorney .com, or 239-542-4733. This article is general in nature and not intended as legal advice to anyone. Individuals should seek legal counsel before acting on any matter of legal rights and obligations.

Eric P. Feichthaler

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

Source: Lee County Property Appraiser

Pending home sales declining into summer slowdown

The end of May appears to have brought with it the end of our “season” and the beginning of our summer slowdown, as our seasonal streak of having more than 700 pending home sales in the pipeline everyday since Feb. 20 has been broken. We have been tracking the number of active listings and pending sales for Cape Coral single-family homes and condominiums on a daily basis since Jan. 1, by taking a “snapshot” of the market from a “live screen” in the MLS once per day. Since our data is off of a live screen we are simply capturing that moment in time, with the numbers changing throughout the day.

Two weeks ago on May 20, we noted that based on the number of pending home sales, buyers seemed to be extending our “season” as there were still 768 homes under contract with buyers at that time. This was within 3% of our seasonal peak of 789 pending home sales reached on April 17 of this year. The number of pending sales then dropped to 700 homes under contract on May 30, before dipping down to 680 pending sales on June 3. This 11.5% decline in pending sales since May 20 is due to the combination of the number of month-end closings and the beginning of the typical summer slowdown in home sales as we shift from “season” to “out of season.” Homes will still be sold in the summer months, but the pace of sales will slow in what has already been a slower year for closed sales than a year ago, with lower prices.

Based on the preliminary market results we are seeing for the month of May, the number of closed sales for Cape Coral single-family homes is above the 496 sales in April of this year, and may end up around the 536 sales in March by the time the final tally has been recorded. Last year, the best month for closed home sales was in the month of May with 573 sales, so we will be coming in below that total this May. At the time we pulled the data from the MLS, a total of 32.1% of the closed home sales in the Cape during the month of May were in the Southwest Cape; 27.1% were in the Northwest Cape; 22.4% were in the Southeast Cape; and 18.4% were in the Northeast Cape. There were 24 homes sold for $1 million and above in May, with 18 of these luxury homes being sold in the Southwest Cape, five in the Southeast Cape, and one in the Northwest Cape. The preliminary median home sales price for the month of May looks like it will post a new low for the year, which indicates sales prices may continue to soften into the foreseeable future, especially with mortgage rates remaining near 7%.

From our random market samplings, it would be fair to say that very few homes are being sold at their full initial list prices. We do stumble across a relatively small number of homes that sell for an amount that is above their initial list price, but it is likely due to a strategy where the home is underpriced to the market in an attempt to attract multiple offers and bid the price up with a “highest and best offer” deadline. As a seller, if you can get your home sold for within about 5% of your initial list price in the current market conditions, you are absolutely crushing it. That said, we continue to see a fairly large number of sellers start out overpriced and they end up having to make multiple price reductions, as they chase the market lower. Many of these homes either fail to get sold or they end up selling for a lot less than the seller ever imagined. In general, we have a large supply of homes listed for sale, and a much tighter supply of reasonably-priced, move-in ready homes that are attracting buyers and getting sold. In simple terms, when your home is priced correctly, it will be sold.

the home.

Another home, located on a dry lot in the Rose Gardens neighborhood, built in 2010 with 6,639 square feet of living area with 5 bedrooms (convertible into 9 bedrooms), 7 bathrooms, a pool, and a 10-car garage on just under 1 acre of land, was initially listed for $1.65 million in March of this year. After six price decreases down to $1.247 million on May 5, they went under contract with a buyer three days later before closing in a cash deal for $1 million on May 30. The final sales price was 19.8% below the most recently reduced list price, and 39.4% below the initial list price.

The highest-priced sale in May was for a home along the Southwest spreader canal in the Estates of Harbour Preserve. This home, built in 2012, was initially listed for $3 million on March 10 of this year, and it went under contract with a buyer after only 11 days on the market. The cash sale closed on May 28 for $2.7 million, or 10% below its initial list price.

Active listings and pending sales

As of Tuesday, June 3, there were 3,112 active listings in the MLS for Cape Coral single-family homes at list prices ranging from $180,000 to $6.985 million, with a median list price of $475,000. Back on Jan. 1 of this year there were 3,044 homes listed for sale in the Cape with a median list price of $475,000. Based on our daily market surveys, we reached a seasonal peak this year of 3,520 homes on the market on Feb. 24, with the median list price at $480,000 at that time. We currently have 1,423 homes listed for sale at $450,000 and under, including 157 homes priced below $300,000. There are 323 luxury homes in the Cape listed at $1 million and above, down from 336 homes listed at $1 million and above two weeks ago.

As of June 3, there were 680 single-family homes in the Cape under contract with buyers as pending sales at prices ranging from $180,000 for a partially built home to $2,998,000. The second lowest-priced pending home sale in the Cape was at $199,000 and the median pending home sales price ticked up slightly to $382,268 from $378,750 two weeks ago. A total of 477 of the 680 pending sales were priced at $450,000 and under, including 119 homes priced below $300,000. There are currently 23 Cape Coral homes under contract at $1 million and above, down from 32 such homes under contract on May 20. Back on Jan. 1, there were 378 pending home sales in the pipeline, and as noted in the opening paragraph, we reached our seasonal peak of 789 pending home sales on April 17.

The sales data for this article was obtained from the Florida Realtors Multiple Listing Service Matrix for Lee County, Fla., as of June 3, 2025, unless otherwise noted. It was compiled by Bob and Geri Quinn and it includes information specifically for Cape Coral single-family homes, and does not include condominiums, short sales or foreclosures. The data and statistics are believed to be reliable, however, they could be updated and revised periodically, and are subject to change without notice. The Quinns are a husband and wife real estate team with the RE/MAX Realty Team office in Cape Coral. They have lived in Cape Coral for over 45 years. Geri has been a full-time Realtor since 2005, and Bob joined Geri as a full-time Realtor in 2014. Their real estate practice is mainly focused on Cape Coral residential property and vacant lots.

Here are some snapshots about some of the local sales results from the month of May. The lowest-priced home sale was for a home in the Northeast Cape that was built in 1964. It was listed for $185,000 on March 8 of this year and it went under contract with a buyer in only 18 days, with the sale ultimately closing May 21, for $135,000 or 27% below the list price. The second lowest-priced home sale in the Cape during May was for a home in need of a major rehab due to fire damage. It was initially listed for $165,000 on Jan. 17, and the list price was reduced twice to get down to $159,900 on March 19. It went under contract with a buyer on April 14, with the sale closing at $159,900 on May 29, for just 3.1% below the initial list. The seller bought this home for $240,000 in June 2021, when it was in good condition. The third lowest-priced sale was listed for $219,900 on March 21, and it went under contract on April 5 with no price reductions, before selling for $176,000 on May 7.

Here is an example of a home that sold quickly for above list price. This home, located in the Southeast Cape, was built in 1989 with 1,425 square feet of living area. It was initially listed for sale at $289,000 on April 2, and it went under contract with a buyer in only two days, with the sale closing for $300,000 on May 2. However, the seller bought this home for $370,000 in August 2022, so they ended up taking 19% loss, not including the costs to sell

Fri. 6/6/2025 3-6pm 1127 NW 14th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33993

Fri. 6/6/2025 10-1pm 1900 SW 26th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33914

Fri. 6/6/2025 10-4pm 3206 SW 1st Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33914

$375,350 Timmy Byrd Adams Homes Realty

$599,900 Joseph C. Garretto Starlink Realty

$370,000 Dayana Nogueiras NextHome Advisors

Fri. 6/6/2025 11-4pm 2628 SW 53rd Ln, Cape Coral, FL 33914 $896,000 Ulrika Mansson Tudor Villas Realty

Fri. 6/6/2025 12-2pm 1108 NW 43rd Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33993

Fri. 6/6/2025 1-4pm 3614 SE 17th Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33904

$890,000 Adam Ackerman LPT Realty

$839,999 Kyle Sweeney Catching Coastal Realty

Fri. 6/6/2025 3-6pm 2492 Hopefield Ct, Cape Coral, FL 33991 $359,900 Susan Smith ERA Cape Realty

Fri. 6/6/2025 3-6pm 2457 Sutherland Ct, Cape Coral, FL 33991 $429,000 Shelley Lachmann EXP Realty

Fri. 6/6/2025 11-2pm 1236 NW 37th Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33993 $1,125,000 Jacob Meyer BB&C Realty

Fri. 6/6/2025 12-4pm 2846 NW Embers Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33993 $369,900 Terence Trombetti Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Fri. 6/6/2025 12-3pm 94 Poinsettia Dr. Fort Myers $165,000 Larry Deberry Coldwell Banker Realty

Fri. 6/6/2025 12-3pm 102 Poinsettia Dr. Fort Myers $180,000 Larry Deberry Coldwell Banker Realty

Sat. 6/7/2025 10-1pm 1900 SW 26th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33914 $599,900 Joseph C. Garretto Starlink Realty

Sat. 6/7/2025 10-12pm 3616 SE 8th Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33904

Sat. 6/7/2025 11-3pm 728 SW 8th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33991 $649,000 Izzy Perez Experience Real Estate Group

Sat. 6/7/2025 11-2pm 1825 NE 33rd Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33909 $799,999 Johanna Howland Parvey Real

Sat. 6/7/2025 11-2pm 4608 SW 25th Ct, Cape Coral, FL 33914

Sat. 6/7/2025 12-3pm 3914 Gulfstream Pkwy, Cape Coral, FL 33993 $539,000 Sage Stella Loyal Real Estate Services Sat. 6/7/2025 1-4pm 3286 Baravaldo Cir, Cape Coral, FL 33909 $489,000 Erica Kolinski Florida Future Realty

Sat. 6/7/2025 11-2pm

SporTS

June fishing - warm, sunny days with thunderstorms likely

Warm sunny days with calm seas followed by afternoon thunderstorms is our typical weather pattern for June as summer sets in. Although Southwest Florida is rapidly growing, you notice a big decline of boaters and anglers over the next several months.

As far as fishing goes, there will be good days and bad ones; strong tide days should give you the best opportunities. With the summer heat the bite is often better early and late in the day, however, be aware of thunderstorms in the afternoons.

If you have the opportunity, fishing after a late day thunderstorm is often good once the storms pass. However, we have very nasty and dangerous thunderstorms, do not put yourself or others at risk if lightning is in the area.

Tarpon fishing is in full swing throughout the month. Fishing around the full and new moon tides may give you the best shot at conquering the silver king. Warm water brings a lot of sharks to our coast, if you want to battle a big fish and avoid the tarpon crowds this may be for you. Anchoring up with fresh bait soaked on bottom or under a float while waiting in the shade with a cool beverage is relaxing and productive. Do not be surprised if you hook a tarpon though!

If you are looking to bring home dinner, snapper may be your best bet. Decent size mangrove snappers are moving inshore as well as the gulf passes. Large mangrove snapper, plus grunts and other bottom dwellers, are often plentiful in gulf waters within sight of land over hard bottom and reefs. Shrimp, squid and small pinfish or pilchards are candy to snapper, but you need to remember they have keen eyesight and easily become leader shy. If the water clarity is good, dropping down to 10 or 12-pound fluorocarbon leader may be necessary to fool the larger fish. A fresh block of chum also helps with the bite, especially offshore.

The best snook fishing through the summer months is in and near the gulf passes and islands. Snook may range in size from fish under 20 inches to big females over 40 inches. This is their mating season with large schools of fish found along the beaches and nearby

7

June 6, 2025

Coast Guard urges preparedness for 2025 Atlantic hurricane season

MIAMI — The Coast Guard reminds mariners and residents of South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to prepare for the 2025 hurricane season.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, with the peak occurring between mid-August and late October.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center anticipates an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season this year. Forecasters predict a 60% chance of an above-normal season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season, and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.

It is essential for mariners and the public to take proper measures before a storm arrives. Ensure you have proper equipment, have a hurricane mooring plan or a safe place to store your trailered boat, and monitor the weather and VHF-FM channel 16 prior to a voyage and while out on the water.

The Coast Guard recommends the following preparedness tips for this hurricane season:

n Know Your Hurricane Risk Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Find out how rain, wind, water and even tornadoes could happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall. Start preparing now.

n Make an Emergency Plan. Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plans. Include the office, kids’ day care, your boat, and anywhere else you frequent in your hurricane plans. Ensure your business has a continuity plan to continue operating when disaster strikes. If you have a boat, make sure it’s ready to move when Port Condition Yankee is announced to minimize drawbridge closure impacts.

n Know your Evacuation Zone. You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane if you live in an evacuation

zone. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay. Follow the instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.

n Recognize Warnings and Alerts Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Receive community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up.

Port condition changes in advance of storm systems and hurricanes will be available on the Coast Guard Navigation Center website and announced on official unit social media pages throughout the Seventh District. Check below for your local Coast Guard Sector page:

n U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston

n U.S. Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville

n U.S. Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg

n U.S. Coast Guard Sector Miami

n U.S. Coast Guard Sector Key West

n U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan

For more information about hurricanes and hurricane preparedness, visit NOAA’s and FEMA’s websites where you can find widgets that provide hurricane tracks and other updates. These can be found at www.ready. gov/hurricanes, www.nhc.noaa.gov, and www.fema.gov. Information is also available in Español, Français and K reyòl.

For breaking news, follow the Coast Guard on X. For additional information, follow the Coast Guard on Facebook and Instagram.

Explore, have fun and win prizes this summer with Parks, Points & Perks

The Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau and Lee County Parks & Recreation have partnered to give local residents and visitors new ways to kick off summer fun and win great prizes.

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.

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 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. For the complete list visit: www.visitfortmyers.com/ParksPass. More than 30 sites are included.

“Our parks and natural resources are the gems of Lee County,” said 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 world-class destination and residents continue to explore where we live.”

Easy sign up

Go to www.visitfortmyers.com/ParksPass and sign up. Pass will be instantly delivered to your phone via text and email.

Select your location, plan a visit and start having fun. How it works

Visit any location in the pass and earn 20 points when you check in.

Special monthly events give you 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 you’ll 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.

FMB Chamber’s ‘Swing Out of Summer’ at Topgolf Aug. 8

The Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce’s 6th Annual “Swing Out of Summer” Golf Tournament will be held Aug. 8. From 6-9 p.m., at Topgolf at 2021 Topgolf Way in South Fort Myers. Participants can sign up as an individual or a team of six players. There will be a raffle drawing along with a Beat the Pro competition and a HoleIn-One Contest.

The cost is $1,200 for a team of six with a drink package. $200 for an individual with a drink package, $150

for an individual player, $100 for a spectator with a drink package and $50 for a spectator.

All participants and spectators will also have access to TopGgolf’s Smokehouse BBQ Buffet, dessert trio, water, ice tea, sodas and coffee. The event is open to the public — you do not have to be a member of the Fort Myers Beach Chamber to participate.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more, visit www/fmbchamberevents.com

Capt. Bill Russell On the Water

The featured speaker at the Breeze Breakfast of Champions was former NFL standout and Super Bowl winner Jaylen Watkins, a Cape High School graduate and now coach. He is holding the Breeze Football Player of the Week certificate he was awarded in September 2008.

Breakfast of Champions: Awards

From page 17

came down to only three ballots separating first and second place.

A sophomore on the Tritons’ softball team, Winters posted a 1.67 ERA in 23 appearances over 142.2 innings. She struck out a staggering 287 batters and tossed a no hitter.

Her 287 Ks were 4th most in the state and 52nd nationally. She also batted .422 with 34 RBI and posted a .462 on base percentage.

Torched Bar & Grill is the title sponsor of the Breeze Athlete of the Week program. Supporting sponsors include Zak’s Jewelry, Gavin’s Hardware, Salad King, SP Designs and Cape Vineyard Church.

For more coverage, see related photo gallery, Athlete of the Week Year in Review, on this website.

MARK CLIFFORD

North Fort Myers High soccer standout Hannah Busenbark was selected as the Breeze Female Athlete of the Year. CJ Haddad, Breeze reporter and associate sports editor, presented her with the award last Saturday at the Breakfast of Champions at Cape Vineyard.

What every teen and parent should know about the ‘100 Deadliest Days’ of summer

For teenagers, summer often means time with friends, beach trips and a wellearned break from school. But it also brings increased risk. Automobile accidents remain one of the leading causes of death among teens in the United States—a tragedy that is often preventable through greater awareness and safer driving habits.

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, teens are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash during the summer months. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day has come to be known as the “100 Deadliest Days for Teens,” a critical time to emphasize increased awareness behind the wheel.

Increasing awareness on roadways for drivers and pedestrians

Research from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia highlights that 75% of serious crashes involving teen drivers result from just three critical errors:

Tracey Thornton Guest Column

1. Lack of scanning: Inexperienced drivers are slower to detect and react to potential hazards.

2. Speeding: Driving too fast for road or weather conditions is a common mistake.

3. Distractions: Teen drivers are often distracted by passengers, cell phones, or multitasking at the wheel.

Common crash scenarios for teens include left-hand turns, rear-end collisions and running off the road. Over 60% of pediatric spinal fractures in children aged 15–17 years old are from motor vehicle crashes, according to CHOP. Additionally, two-thirds of those injuries occurred when seat belts were not used.

In Florida, teen crash fatalities tend to peak in October, November and March—months that coincide with school events like homecoming, prom and holiday breaks.

While the 100 Deadliest Days are nationally recognized during summer, dangerous driving behavior persists throughout the year. It’s important to stay vigilant and aware throughout the year.

Crashes are predictable and preventable

Most of the following incidents can be prevented with better awareness and safety practices.

Here are some tried and true ways to protect yourself and those around you:

n Always wear your seat belt—every trip, every time.

n Limit the number of passengers in your car.

n Follow the speed limit and adjust for weather or road conditions.

n Keep your eyes on the road and scan ahead for hazards.

n Pay close attention to traffic signs and signals.

n Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

n Get enough rest to avoid drowsy driving.

n Stay focused—avoid using phones, eating or other distractions.

n Talk regularly with your teens about safe driving habits.

n Lead by example—practice the safe driving behaviors you want them to follow.

n Enroll your teenager in a defensive driving course to reinforce safe driving techniques.

The goal is for the 100 Deadliest Days not to live up to their name. With increased awareness, education, and proactive mentoring, we can work to reverse the trend and make the roads safer for our teens, not just during summer, but all year long.

With these tips and greater awareness across the Southwest Florida community, we can help ensure our teenagers enjoy the summer they’ve imagined—filled with safe travels, lasting friendships, and meaningful experiences.

For additional information, please visit the Lee Health website at www.leehealth.org.

Tracey Thornton is Injury Prevention Educator with the Lee Health Trauma Center. For more about the Trauma Center, visit https://www.leehealth.org/our-servicestrauma

June fishing: Sunny, warm and thunderstorms

From page 34

structure with strong tide movement. If they’re active and hungry they will pounce on a variety of baits (with live the top choice), if not, they can be difficult to entice.

With warm water and high tides, under the shade of mangrove shorelines and structures such as docks and piers are the place to hunt redfish. Live bait, cut bait and lures all work, just some better than others at different times. Many anglers prefer to soak a smelly cut bait on bottom and let the scent bring in the fish. It works great for redfish, and often snook and trout, just be prepared to unhook a number of catfish.

Seatrout, another tasty in-shore fish, is plentiful and found throughout the inshore waters. Most are caught over grass flats in 3-8 feet of water. Fishing over grass flats one can expect a mixed bag, including ladyfish, mackerel, jack crevalle, sharks, bluefish and other species. The best trout action occurs before the midday sun heats up the shallow water. It’s possible to hook seatrout on a variety of lures and live baits.

Inshore and nearshore, anglers can expect Spanish mackerel and cobia. In the gulf, fishing around reefs is the best bet. Inshore, near the gulf passes and deeper grass flats. Watch for birds as they are following bait schools as

are the cobia and mackerel.

If you’re making a day off it, as the midday heat sets in, it is the perfect time to head to one of our beautiful beaches for a swim and picnic lunch. This is also a great time to cool off while wetting a line and get into some good catch-and-release snook action as schools are working up and down the surf. If a picnic lunch is not your thing, you can drop in to one of the many great island restaurants accessible to boaters for a freshly prepared meal and beverages.

As we enter summer, many anglers, including me, prefer to get an early start and back to the dock before the midday heat sets in. If you fish all day or only a few hours, bring plenty of water and drink often to stay hydrated. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment on a hot day and before you realize it you are past the point of return.

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

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.

Buttery blooms: Plants with yellow flowers

From page 18

Both can grow in pure sand or unimproved soil. Seeds should be planted in winter where you can keep them watered, but are also available in nurseries now. Both are annuals and self-seed if there is bare ground. Mature plants can also be divided at the basal rosette.

After flowering, trim to 6 inches tall and they will rebloom. Tickseed is attractive to pollinators and bunnies, which enjoy munching the leaves. Mixed with other but-

terfly attracting plants, they make a beautiful meadow or butterfly garden.

This summer, why not try some of these buttery blooms in your garden!

Sherie Bleiler volunteers at the Cape Coral Library Butterfly Garden, Sands Park Butterfly Garden and is past president of the Garden Club of Cape Coral. Visit www. gardenclubofcapecoral.com. Like us on Facebook and Instagram.

MARK CLIFFORD

Steinke named to Realtors Political Action Committee Hall of Fame

William “Bill” Steinke, chair of the FR/NAR Advancement Committee and past president of the Royal Palm Coast Realtor Association, was inducted into the Realtors Political Action Committee Hall of Fame this week during the National Association of Realtors Legislative Meetings in Washington, D.C. He is also a lifetime RPAC contributor.

This prestigious honor recognizes Steinke’s significant, long-term commitment to RPAC, including contributions of at least $25,000. The RPAC Hall of Fame program installs new members at the annual Realtors Legislative Meetings in the year following their qualifications. Steinke’s name appears on the official 2024 Hall of Fame inductee list, reflecting his outstanding RPAC support and advocacy.

In addition to Steinke’s induction, RPCRA was recognized as one of the few local associations nationwide to achieve both NAR’s Local Triple Crown Award and the President’s Cup for 2024. The dual accolades highlight the board’s exceptional RPAC fundraising and member

participation. The Triple Crown Award requires meeting or exceeding one’s fundraising share of the state RPAC goal and participation target, while the President’s Cup reflects success in meeting combined legislative advocacy and RPAC goals. By earning these awards, RPCRA demonstrated strong member engagement in the Realtor Party.

“This is a proud moment for our association,” said RPCRA President Karen Borrelli. “Bill’s Hall of Fame induction and our board’s Triple Crown and President’s Cup honors emphasize the power of collective RPAC advocacy. Our members’ participation in RPAC fundraising directly translates into a stronger voice for property owners and homeownership.”

Florida continues to lead the nation in RPAC fundraising, reflecting the state’s deep Realtor commitment to supporting pro-housing policies. The Florida Realtors PAC again raised the most of any state, providing crucial resources to elect lawmakers who protect private property rights. As Florida Realtors note, RPAC major investors share the goal to promote homeownership for all and to protect Realtors from burdensome regulations. Their contributions act as vigilant advocates in Tallahassee for the real estate industry and homeownership.

Nationally, NAR emphasizes that RPAC is the key to protecting and promoting the real estate industry. In Southwest Florida and beyond, Steinke and RPCRA leaders stress that RPAC participation is essential for electing Realtor champions and defending property rights.

RPCRA urges all members to become engaged in RPAC and Realtor Party activities, ensuring that real estate professionals have a strong, unified voice in government on behalf of homeownership and private property. For more about the RPCRA, visit https://www.nar.realtor/rpac.

Florida Hometown Title celebrating 10th anniversary

Florida Hometown Title is celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of deeds — a milestone that reflects the company’s trusted service, community impact and nearly 11,000 closings across Southwest Florida. With offices in LaBelle, Cape Coral, Naples and Fort Myers, Florida Hometown Title has grown into one of the region’s top title agencies.

Since opening its doors in 2015 first in LaBelle and

Cape Coral, Florida Hometown Title has been recognized with over 18 awards by the industry’s top underwriters. Beyond the awards, the company has shown a strong commitment to community, supporting Habitat for Humanity in Lee and Hendry counties and Pace Center for Girls in Collier County.

“This milestone is a tribute to our incredible team and the communities we serve,” said Jacqueline Peregrin, Esq.,

principal of Florida Hometown Title. “For 10 years, we’ve made it our mission to bring peace of mind to every closing table. Your hometown is our hometown, too. We insure your most valuable asset with hometown expertise, secure technology and a personal touch — and we’re committed to serving with integrity and heart for decades to come.

Florida Hometown Title is backed by an expert team with more than 200 years of combined experience, including credentials such as Certified Land Closer, Certified Land-Searcher, and an in-house attorney, CPA and paralegals.

For more information, visit www.flhometowntitle.com The Cape Coral office is at 900 S.W. Pine Island Road, Suite 206. For information, call 239-673-6458.

Bread Pete Bakery & Café marking National Donut Day today with free donuts

Bread Pete Bakery & Café is sweetening up National Donut Day with a special offer for its loyal customers. Today, June 6, every guest will receive one free donut with any purchase—a small thank you from a local favorite that’s known for much more than donuts.

“National Donut Day is a fun way to celebrate with our customers and invite new guests to experience all that Bread Pete has to offer,” said Gerhard Wassink, owner of Bread Pete. “Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, grabbing lunch or picking up dessert, we want to make your visit a little sweeter.”

The free donut offer is valid with any purchase and limited to one donut per person, while supplies last.

Located at 4402 Del Prado Blvd., in Cape Coral, Bread Pete offers a wide selection of house-made pastries, cakes and hot food items. From authentic German cheesecake by the slice to fresh-baked bread, breakfast options and handcrafted sandwiches, there’s something for everyone on the menu.

For more about Bread Pete, visit https://www.breadpetebakerycafe.com/ or call 239-471-7420.

GMA Architects & Planners completes designs for Shops at Del Mar in Cape Coral

GMA Architects & Planners has completed the design and construction administrative services for Shops at Del Mar, a distinctive commercial center that brings a dynamic mix of potential retail and dining options to the Cape Coral community.

Located at the corner of Southwest 10th Place and Southwest Pine Island Road in Cape Coral, Shops at Del Mar features four buildings totaling 29,150 square feet. The design reflects contemporary architectural character, with large storefronts and extended covered walkways that enhance pedestrian access.

The plaza features three freestanding buildings that front Pine Island Road and a fourth, larger building that anchors the rear of the site.

For additional information, please call 239-275-0225 or visit www.GMAarchitect.com.

Bill Steinke

Cape Coral Cape Coral

Ana Mercedes Calzadilla, 88 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 27, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Jean Melito, 92, of Cape Coral, FL passed away on May 28, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Service. www.fullermetz.com

Gary Zepke, 75, of Cape Coral, passed away Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.

Jerome Leonard Albers Jr, 78 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 24, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Joseph Bernard Strother, 84, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away May 28, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

Robert Guy Apa, 73 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 30, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Susan Bugarin, 77 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 29, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Mark Joseph Sanbelmo, 57, of Cape Coral, passed away Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.

Cape Coral Death Notices

Betty Jean Pupillo, 92 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 29, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Gladys Ruth Persico, 97 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 25, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Sarah Margaret Watkins, 92, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away May 30, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

Louis Zelazny Jr, 82 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 24, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Stanley S. Kershaw, Jr., 95, of Cape Coral FL. passed away on June 2, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Service. www.fullermetz. com

Barbara Gladys Waters, 70, of Cape Coral, passed away Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.

Grace Ann Kreuser, 97 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 29, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Frank Morfis, Jr., 59, of Cape Coral, FL passed away on May 31, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Service. www.fullermetz.com

Doris May Underhill, 98 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 29, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Robert John Hewitt, 92 of Cape Coral, passed away on May 28, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

North Fort Myers

Mark Doyle Smith, 68, of North Fort Myers, passed away Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.

Fort Myers

Norma J. Greenberg, 96, of Fort Myers FL, passed away May 31, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Harvey Engelhardt Funeral Home.

Duane Allen Kaitfors, 76, of Fort Myers, Florida passed away May 28, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Fort Myers.

Religious

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Intro Prayer

O Jesus, who filled Blessed Faustina with profound veneration for Your boundless Mercy, deign, if it be your Holy will, to grant me, through her intercession, the grace for which I fervently pray (mention your request here)

My sins render me unworthy of Your Mercy, but be mindful of Sister Faustina’s spirit of sacrifice and selfdenial, and reward her virtue by granting the petition which, with childlike trust, I present to You through her intercession.

Concluding Prayer

Our Father Hail Mary Glory Be St Faustina pray for us! St Andrews Chapel has relic of St Faustina Help Wanted

Person knowledgeable on internet. Can work from home and / or personal assistant. Seniors welcome. 239-283-8920 or 239-478-4119

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Elderly man with well behaved dog looking for a place to live. Excellent references for me and my dog. Also able to do light jobs and/or security as needed. Call Bob 239-476-1547.

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literature & prints. Call 508-471-6518 or email judyhubbard@yahoo.com for appointment

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