062725 Cape Coral Weekend Breeze

Heavy-traffic holiday ahead

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

It looks like 2025 will be a record-setting year for Floridians traveling for the Independence Day holiday according to top forecasters.

AAA – The Auto Club Group, projects

Cape all star team wins state championship

The Cape American 10U All Stars just brought home the state baseball title.

The boys went undefeated in districts, advanced to states and went undefeated in the Cal Ripken All Stars Tournament.

The team is now on its way to regionals in Virginia.

— Page 34

travelers will set new records both nationwide and in Florida this Fourth of July.

According to AAA, more than 72.2 million people around the country are expected to travel 50-plus miles away from home (up 2.4% from last year), with nearly 4.6 million being Floridians (up 3% from last year).

According to officials to better reflect holiday travel trends, AAA’s forecast now accounts for two weekends, capturing extended trips and varied departure schedules.

“Independence Day is one of the most

Largest July 4th celebration in

Southwest Florida

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

Here in Cape Coral, the Fourth can be celebrated to its fullest extent with beautiful weather, an abundance of events and, of course, fireworks.

The holiday brings the mind back to a youthful time, no matter what your age may be. Stirring memories of neighbor-

If You Go:

What: Red, White & BOOM!

When: Friday, July 4

Where: At the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge

popular times for travel, with Americans eager to take advantage of summer vacation opportunities,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of AAA Travel, in a release. “This year, we’re seeing strong demand

Homeschool, private school, students can enroll in some school district programs

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Homeschool and private school students now have the opportunity to take part in public school programs through the School District of Lee County’s Lee FlexEd program.

The initiative allows students to register for open programs in JROTC, the arts and career academies as of the first day of school in August.

“We believe we offer a great service to our students that would benefit students using the Florida Empowerment Scholarship by flexing their schedule to add classes that require specific expertise that may not be available through their home or private school curriculum. We also believe that with the limits of state funding, we must be creative in raising our own revenue. FES students have scholarship money for educational services, and by becoming a MyScholarshop/EMA vendor, we can offer our services to them,” district spokesperson Rob Spicker said. By opening Lee FlexEd, students can enroll at one of the district’s schools for available programs and academies through MyScholarshop marketplace.

One of the reasons the district chose

Vacation Rental Advisory Group opens citizen input process

addressed

see if we need to make changes and what those changes look like,” Nelson-Lastra said.

The two concerns highlighted by the public when the ordinances were brought to Council last month were the fee increase from a onetime $35 registration levy to $600 per year, as well as the police department and code compliance division being “authorized to remove all occupants from the residential rental property until such time that the residential rental property is registered with the city.”

Bring Lauren Dumolo Home: Search continues for missing Cape Coral woman

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

It’s been five years since a Cape Coral woman was reported missing and the search for her whereabouts is still on.

Lauren Brittany Dumolo was last seen on June 19, 2020 at her downtown Cape Coral home, which she shared with her boyfriend on Coronado Parkway. The last phone call she had was with her sister Cassie on June 18, 2020 around 6:30 p.m. She had also entered a convenience store to apply for a job.

The next day, Dumolo’s purse was found at Four Freedom’s Park off Cape Coral Parkway and her cell phone was still in her apartment.

Since then, she has been classified as an

endangered missing person.

Throughout the time that she has been missing, law enforcement, family members and even strangers with huge hearts have continued the search.

Dumolo, who was 29 at the time of her disappearance, stands 5-feet to five-foottwo-inches tall, weighs 110-120 pounds and has light brown hair (blonde with darker roots) and brown eyes.

She has several tattoos: “Namaste” on her right side, a symbol on her wrist, a “NY” symbol on her pelvis, and rosary beads on her ankle.

“Lauren’s case is still being investigated, and we continue to receive new leads and information,” Cape Coral Police Department officials told The Breeze via email Wednesday. “Our department is committed to bringing closure to Lauren’s family, and are exhausting all resources available. Anyone with information is asked to please call the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-0639.”

As the years have gone, various tactics have been used to try and locate Dumolo.

In October of 2021, Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers sent 3,000 postcards to residents and businesses located in the vicinity

of where Dumolo lived and spent her time in hope of developing new leads.

In June of 2022, a vigil was held at Four Freedoms Park, where Dumolo spent a lot of time, as it was a place for her to get close to nature and clear her mind.

The goal of the vigil, which was held despite rainy conditions, was to remind the community that Dumolo is still missing and the public’s help is needed to help find her, as well as anyone who may have information regarding her disappearance.

Dumolo’s case has been featured on national platforms and podcasts, with the hope of finding any kind of lead on where she might be. There is also a “Bring Lauren Dumolo Home” Facebook group with nearly 4,000 members.

Along with contacting CCPD in reference to case number 20-011323, those with information can contact SWFL Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-8477. Reward for information on Dumolo’s whereabouts up to $8,000.

Crime Stoppers is offering up to $3,000 in this case and a private donor from Marco Island pledged $5,000 to help bring her home.

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

No better celebration for July 4th holiday

There are few better ways to celebrate a holiday than with good food, cold beverages, great music and friends — in this case, lots and lots of them.

Add in the best fireworks show in Southwest Florida and its easy to see why Cape Coral’s annual Independence Day street party, Red, White & BOOM!, draws thousands to the bridge side of Cape Coral Parkway.

Featuring continuous live entertainment, a multitude of food and drink vendors and fireworks booming over the water, it is no wonder this hometown event attracts an estimated 40,000 attendees every year.

The festivities on July 4 will begin at 5 p.m. and continue until 10 p.m. on Cape Coral Parkway at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge.

Live music will be performed throughout the evening beginning at 5:15 p.m. with national headliner George Birge, a Nashville-based country songwriter, taking the stage at 8 p.m.

As always, general admission is free.

The American Fireworks Spectacular, set to synchronized music and kicked off this year with Mikalay Williams, a rising North Fort Myers High senior, singing the national anthem, is set for 9:30 p.m.

For those looking for shade and a little more relaxation, “Boom Passes” for priority seating are sold out however this year, there is a new nuance.

Slipway Food Truck Park & Marina at the foot of the bridge will host its inaugural Fourth of July Bash from 3 to 10 p.m. This VIP alternative offers food, drinks and live entertainment with a prime view of the city’s BOOM! entertainment and fireworks. General admission to the parallel party is $100 and includes two drink tickets and complementary food truck tasting selections from 5 to 8 p.m.

A portion of the proceeds will go to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

Looking to kickstart the holiday?

The Freedom 5K over the Cape Coral Bridge is the

∫ Approve.

∫ Disapprove.

∫ I’m not sure what to think.

Do you approve or disapprove of the No Kings “national day of defiance” effort?

∫ Approve. 47%

∫ Disapprove. 44%

∫ Don’t agree with the effort but support the right of protest for those who do. 8.5%

∫ No strong feelings either way. 1%

* Total votes at press time: 105 votes. Percentages are “rounded.”Poll results are not scientific and represent only the opinions of Internet users who have chosen to participate.

June 27, 2025

Teachers are the heartbeat of a great school system

At the heart of every thriving school is a great teacher. As the School District of Lee County prepares for the 2025–2026 academic year, we are proud to take the bold new step to honor and support the educators who are making the greatest impact on student achievement with the Honoring Our Educators: Teacher Incentive Initiative.

This initiative is not just another program — it is a strategic investment in the people who shape our future. Backed by the unanimous approval of the School Board of Lee County, this initiative establishes a new salary incentive structure designed to attract, retain, and reward high-quality teachers working in our most academically challenged schools and in subjects where their expertise is most urgently needed.

The goal is simple: to have high-quality teachers in every classroom on the first day of school in August.

Our students deserve nothing less.

Across Florida and the nation, school districts are struggling to staff classrooms with certified, experienced teachers, especially in lower achieving schools and high-demand subject areas. Lee County is taking action. By launching this initiative, we are leveraging our legal authority under Florida law to make targeted compensation decisions that meet the needs of our students.

Here’s how it works.

The initiative is built on an academic risk-based framework, identifying schools that face the highest academic and staffing challenges. Educators assigned to these schools with lower-achieving students will be eligible for school-level salary incentives. These incentives, up to $9,000, are on top of a teacher’s base salary.

Letters to the editor

Safety must come first in infrastructure planning

To the editor:

I am expressing significant concerns about safety and impacts of the Sands Boulevard Bridge closure in Cape Coral , particularly following the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. I see a rush for a decision to tear down the bridge vs repairing the bridge at the Cape Coral City Council meeting. Was adequate public notice, studies of potential reroutes through residential areas , and affected implications and changes in citizen’s daily lives studied?

Please, attend the council meetings and participate in the public forums to voice your concerns and advocate for citizens safety. Local media must be involved so that awareness about the issue and potentially prompt the city to reconsider its approach or provide more information to the residents.

I am prioritizing public safety in infrastructure planning. This area has 500 homes with citizens, who work, shop and live!

I am asking for more open forums for more discussions and concrete information public safety, before a decision is made this summer.

Kathleen Callard RNBS North Fort Myers

Gunter has accomplished much

To the editor:

I would like to echo Marilyn Stout’s letter to The Breeze in her support of Mayor Gunter. Mayor Gunter has been a mayor who has done many positive things for the city of Cape Coral. Personally, I don’t know how he and the council members can sit and take the personal attacks from the same group of people at council meetings.

These same people recently tried to get a petition to recall the mayor. The petition failed. The petition got 3,867 signatures out of 139,371 registered voters.

The petition organizer said the results were “pathetic.” But the organizer went further and did the typical let’sblame-everyone-else: “We didn’t expect the fear of retaliation from so many people. I can’t imagine there aren’t 7,000 angry people in this community. It was very disheartening but shows we have a bigger problem.”

Fear and retaliation – inflammatory words with no

proof.

The first statement of the petitioner’s grounds alleged that Gunter had violated Florida Statute 112.311 (6) because he “repeatedly voted against the people.”

The mayor and council’s votes are a matter of public record. Just because they voted against an issue or issues that these people support does not mean the mayor and council are against the people.

So, if the petition was not successful, then the people of Cape Coral must be stupid.

It is the same vitriolic language we see and hear every day from the party that is out of touch with the American people, and in this case with the people of Cape Coral.

The one issue, the stipend, is the issue the mayor and council got wrong. It wasn’t so much the what, but the how the issue was handled. However, if all governments are evaluated by one issue, then no government would survive. A better evaluation is judge for yourself in the link below on the city’s 2024 accomplishments.

I met Mayor Gunter and City Manager Ilczyszn when many of us were concerned about the Chiquita lock crushing and killing manatees. We formed a group – Cape Coral Friends of The Manatee and over 2,000 people signed a petition supporting the removal of the lock. The mayor and city manger were 100% behind removal of the lock, and continued to fight for its removal, which has been accomplished this past week within budget and on time. All of the alleged environmental complaints against the city were debunked in trial by leading environmental experts and the plaintiff’s offered zero scientific testimony to support their allegations. The judge admonished the so-called plaintiff experts.

The mayor, city council, and city manager work closely to continue improvements to the city. The list of accomplishments is too long to put here, I encourage you to view the accomplishments at https://www.capecoral. gov/government/city_government/city_manager/index. php

I’ve lived in Cape Coral for almost 24 years. It is not the same Cape Coral today that it was when we first moved here. Many of us would like to have the Cape Coral of days gone by, but that is not going to happen. The city is growing, people want to live here. To make Cape Coral one of the best places to live takes good gov-

Sam Fisher Dr. Denise M. Carlin

Congress stuck in the past and it’s hurting the future

We live in a world transformed by technology — artificial intelligence answers our questions, social media shapes elections, and our most personal data travels across servers in milliseconds. Yet the laws that govern this rapidly changing digital reality are often decades out of date. Even more alarming, many of the people responsible for writing and updating those laws are shockingly disconnected from the very tools and systems they’re tasked with regulating.

The United States Congress is one of the oldest in the nation’s history, with the average member being nearly 60 years old. This in itself is not the problem. Experience matters. But when some lawmakers have openly admitted they don’t use email or understand basic internet terminology, it becomes clear that there’s a growing gap between technological advancement and legislative competence. That gap is leaving millions of Americans vulnerable — creators, entrepreneurs, and even everyday internet users.

A case in point is the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976. This law was written when vinyl records and film reels dominated media consumption. It was designed to protect authors, musicians, and filmmakers from having their work copied or distributed without permission. But in 2025, with everything from TikTok videos to digital art NFTs blurring the lines between creation and distribution, the law is woefully inadequate. Worse, it’s being manipulated.

“Copyright trolls” — often shell companies or opportunistic law firms — exploit outdated provisions of the act to target individuals, small businesses, and

From page 4

content creators with frivolous lawsuits. These trolls threaten litigation for minor infractions, like using a song clip in a YouTube video or sharing a copyrighted image on social media. Faced with costly legal battles, many people simply settle, even if they’ve done nothing wrong. This perversion of copyright law isn’t about protecting creators — it’s about extracting money from the unprepared.

And copyright isn’t the only legal dinosaur still stomping through modern life.

Jack Lombardi Guest Commentary

Take the Communications Act of 1934, which prevents law enforcement from jamming cellphone signals — even in prisons. This means inmates can use contraband phones to coordinate drug deals or intimidate witnesses, and corrections officers are powerless to block the signals. The law was created in an era of party-line phones and switchboard operators, yet it still dictates the rules for 21st-Century wireless technology.

Then there’s the Smith-Mundt Act of 1948, a Cold War-era statute originally designed to regulate how the U.S. government communicates with foreign populations via radio and print. It was never meant to address the complexities of social media, global streaming platforms, or state-sponsored disinformation campaigns. But instead of updating the law to reflect a world in which propaganda spreads in real time across Twitter, TikTok, and

ernment. Mayor Gunter and City Manager Ilczyszn are good government. They can’t satisfy everyone, but the list of accomplishments is impressive.

Dennis Costello Cape Coral

‘War Powers Act’: Does it exist anymore?

To the editor: NBC Nightly News’ lead story tonight (June 19) says

YouTube, Congress continues to rely on policies designed for analog media warfare.

The result of this legislative lag is more than just bureaucratic inefficiency — it’s a direct threat to innovation, public safety, and individual freedom. Entrepreneurs navigate a legal minefield to launch new platforms or apps. Educators risk lawsuits for showing a movie clip in class. And Americans — especially young people — are governed by rules written for a world that no longer exists.

So why are these outdated laws still in place?

The simple answer: changing them is hard. Congressional reform requires time, coordination, and political will — resources that are often in short supply. It also requires an understanding of the issues at hand, something not all lawmakers possess. During a now-infamous 2018 hearing with Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, members of Congress struggled to ask coherent questions about how the internet works, confusing “email” with “messaging” and revealing just how out of touch many were. In 2025, that disconnect hasn’t improved enough.

But we can’t afford to wait for Congress to catch up on its own. Three key actions can help bridge this gap.

First, we need a generational shift in

Letters to the editor

that Trump will “decide” whether to attack Iran within the next two weeks.

If the situation is susceptible to that long a wait, then Congress certainly has a proper role to play in deciding whether we go to war with anyone. Please invoke the War Powers Act on this Bozo before he gets us into some volatile situation that he cannot possibly understand.

We are accountable, all of us, for what we do (or don’t do) right now.

(Remember how we slithered into Vietnam, before we crawled out?)

leadership. As voters, we should prioritize electing representatives who understand technology not just theoretically, but practically. Having digital natives in Congress isn’t a luxury — it’s a democratic necessity.

Second, lawmakers must be required to consult with experts when crafting or revising legislation. This means working with technologists, civil liberties advocates, cybersecurity specialists, and ethicists. Good policy doesn’t emerge from isolation; it comes from collaboration.

Third, we should create institutional mechanisms for regular legal review. Technology changes fast, and laws should have built-in sunset clauses or scheduled reviews to ensure they stay relevant. Congress could also establish a bipartisan “Technology and Law Commission” to continuously assess which statutes need to evolve or be retired.

Ultimately, this isn’t just a legal issue — it’s a cultural one. We need to shift the mindset in Washington from one of reaction to one of adaptation. Instead of letting outdated laws linger because they’re “good enough,” we should be constantly asking: Is this law serving the public in the world we live in now?

The U.S. has always prided itself on being a leader in innovation. But that leadership is at risk if we allow our legal foundation to crumble under the weight of obsolescence. The future doesn’t wait — and neither should Congress.

— Jack Lombardi is a tech entrepreneur and resides in Cape Coral

Addendum: PS: He went ahead and did it anyway. Maybe the War Powers Act is toothless. Maybe we learned nothing from the tragedy of Vietnam, even after 55,000 American lives were lost. Congress alone has the Constitutional power to declare war. Wars are easy to get into and difficult to get out of. Consensus is required. Our bases in Qatar were attacked ...

Larry Gillis Cape Coral Director-at-Large 2 Libertarian Party of Florida

Guest Commentary: Honoring educators with incentive initiative

From page 4

Additionally, the District has identified Critical and Complementary Subject Areas — specific courses and grade levels that are either directly tied to Florida’s statewide accountability model or have a cumulative, measurable effect on student academic outcomes. Teachers whose schedules include a significant proportion of these subjects will receive additional incentives. Whether it’s a high school Algebra teacher or a kindergarten teacher, we are intentionally investing where it counts.

Critical Subjects include courses like Grades 3 –10 English Language Arts, Algebra 1, Geometry, and Biology — subjects with mandatory state assessments and high vacancy rates. Complementary Subjects, such as early grade science or upper-level English, don’t carry the same testing burden but play a key role in long-term academic achievement.

This dual-pronged strategy supports both immediate staffing needs and long-term student success. It’s important to emphasize that this initiative is statutorily separate from collective bargaining.

While we remain committed to good-faith negotiations and value the work of our labor partners, this initiative stands alone under Florida law, allowing the School District to act swiftly and strategically in support of our educational mission.

Most importantly, this initiative sends a clear message: Lee County supports teachers taking on the critical challenge of prioritizing high student achievement for our entire community. We recognize that teacher quality is the most important in-school factor affecting student achievement. That is why we are not just filling vacancies—we’re creating a system that recognizes the varying challenges our educators face within the classroom and ensures that

every student has access to great instruction every day.

To our teachers: thank you. Whether you are closing learning gaps, guiding students through state standards, supporting students with disabilities, or nurturing curiosity in the earliest grades, your work matters more than ever. This initiative reflects our gratitude and our belief in the power of education.

This summer, take time to recharge and reflect on a year well spent. When school resumes in August, you will return to a District that is not only celebrating your success but investing in it.

Because in Lee County, we know that the future of education begins with you.

— Sam Fisher is the chair of the Lee County School Board. Denise M. Carlin, Ed.D., is the superintendent of the School District of Lee County.

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

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.

Sun Splash implements new chaperone policy

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

Sun Splash Family Waterpark put a new policy into effect this week that requires children under 16 to have parental or guardian supervision to be allowed in the park.

The new Sun Splash Chaperone Policy, which applies to all ticket and season pass holders, went into effect Thursday as the safety of guests is the park is the highest priority, waterpark officials said, adding the new policy will provide enhanced oversight.

“Our sacred mission is to keep our guests and team members safe and to provide a comfortable, family friendly environment for all. A rigorous and enforced chaperone policy has become a trend in many indoor and outdoor entertainment venues including other water parks and amusement parks in Florida,” Sun Splash officials

said in an email to The Breeze.

The policy, posted to the water park’s website, requires all guests 15 or younger to be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21. The chaperone must present a valid government-issued photo ID with date of birth to enter the park and one chaperone may accompany no more than eight guests 15 or younger per day.

The chaperone must also enter the park with their group and remain in the park and always be reachable by phone. If found inside the park without a chaperone present and reachable by phone unattended youths will be subject to ejection from the water park without a refund.

Guests who are 16 or older who are not accompanied by a chaperone must present a valid government-issued photo ID to verify their age. If proof cannot be verified, the guest may be denied entry to the water park.

The city of Cape Coral entered into a 30-year lease for the operation and maintenance of Sun Splash Family Waterpark in October 2021.

The public-private partnership, or P3, provides that the operator, ProParks, perform repairs and upgrades in addition to managing the park, which is the largest in Southwest Florida, featuring slides, the Main Stream River Tube ride, Pirate’s Cove for younger children, cabanas for relaxing and more.

The most recent addition is Paradise Cove, a 12,000-square-foot wave pool with adjustable waves set to open this summer.

Sun Splash is at 500 W. Lake Kennedy Drive.

For more information on admissions, including ticket prices, sunsplashwaterpark.com/.

Emily DeLuca earns Christa McAuliffe Character Award

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

A fifth-grade student, selected by her teacher at Oasis Elementary School North, recently was awarded the 2025 Christa McAuliffe Character Award during the school’s graduation ceremony.

“Emily DeLuca was chosen as the recipient of the 5th Grade Christa McAuliffe Character Award because she consistently demonstrates kindness, honesty, and respect in everything she does. Whether offering a helping hand to a classmate, or showing care and consideration to everyone around her, Emily leads by example. Her positive attitude and strong character help create a classroom environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Emily truly embodies the spirit of this award,” Oasis Elementary School North Principal Kevin Brown said.

The annual award is presented to a student who exemplifies determination, honesty, grit, kindness and has active school involvement. The Christa McAuliffe Character Award honors the legacy of Christa McAuliffe — an educator and astronaut.

Cheryl DeLuca, her mother, said they did not know the award existed. She said when they started listing off characteristics of the student, she instantly thought they resembled those of her daughter. When her teacher walked on stage, it was exciting when her daughter was recognized.

The award was given during the fifth grade graduation ceremony, which the majority of her family had attended.

“It was special because it was great to see a school recognize things outside of just grades. There are a lot of things that matter in making a well-rounded person,” Cheryl said, adding that everything for which her daughter was recognized at school, she exemplifies outside of the classroom as well.

When Emily was called up on stage in front of everyone, she said she was nervous because everyone was staring at her.

“It felt good. I received a really important award,” she said, of the surprise.

Emily said to receive the award you have to be kind and helpful, honest and a good friend. She accomplished some of these through holding the door for someone, or

telling a teacher when one of her classmates got hurt.

The soon-to-be sixth grader was also a safety patrol during her fifth-grade year, another opportunity to help. Responsibilities included opening and closing the car door in pick-up line and saying have a nice day, or walking the halls to make sure everyone was doing the right thing. Emily said she also helped students find a classroom on the first day of school.

To become a safety patrol, a teacher has to nominate a student and learn what the task entails at the end of their fourth-grade year.

Emily also helped her friends at school.

“My friend last year wasn’t that good at math, and I am really good at math, so I helped her with problems,” she said.

In addition to school, Emily also plays travel soccer, a sport she started five years ago. She said she enjoys the game because she makes new friends, and she enjoys playing the sport and traveling to such places as Alabama and Virgina to play.

Independence Day events abound

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

The Fourth of July holds special memories for most. Gathering in the backyard while the smell of what’s on the grill wafts through the air. Gazing into the night sky in awe, as colorful bursts illuminate above. Tossing the ball around and going for a swim.

Many of America’s favorite pastimes are rolled into one big shebang to celebrate the independence of our country.

All across Southwest Florida, communities and entities are planning on commemorating the Fourth in one way or another.

In addition to Cape Coral’s Red, White & BOOM! street party and fireworks, Independence Day activities include:

Freedom 5K

The Priority Business Solutions Freedom 5K Run/Scooter’s Lawn Care Kid’s Fun Run takes place the morning of Independence Day.

Each year, a portion of the proceeds raised from the event is donated back to two veteran organizations. This year’s recipients are The Brotherhood of Heroes Resource Center and Museum in Cape Coral and the Special Operations Communicators Association.

Veterans also will be honored during the awards presentation with a commemorative challenge coin presented by Coral Ridge Funeral Home and Cemetery.

Participants in the 5K will take their marks and head out at 7 a.m. along Cape Coral Parkway adjacent to the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral Welcome Center at 2051 Cape Coral Parkway East and travel over the Cape Coral Bridge. The kid’s fun run (for those 12 and under) will begin immediately following the completion of the 5K.

Awards for the 5K will be given in a multitude of categories determined by age and gender. Fun run participants will be given ribbons and T-shirts.

Registration is open and is $40. Veterans can register for the race for $20. Fun run registration is $15.

For more information and to register, visit runsignup.com.

Cape

Coral American Legion

The American Legion Cape Coral will celebrate July 4 at Post 90 at 1401 S.E. 47th St. in Cape Coral. There will also be a blood drive. The public is invited.

A flag retirement ceremony begins at 11 a.m. by the Post Honor Guard. Attendees are encouraged to bring old unserviceable flags to be properly disposed of. The blood drive will start at noon and continue to 4 p.m.

Free hamburgers and hot dogs will be served from noon to 7 p.m.

Slipway Food Truck Park & Marina

Slipway Food Truck Park & Marina along the Caloosahatchee waterfront is

hosting its inaugural Fourth of July Bash from 3 to 10 p.m. on July 4. Celebrating America’s birthday, this VIP experience offers food, drinks, and live entertainment with a prime view of the city of Cape Coral’s Red, White & Boom entertainment and fireworks display.

General Admission is $100 and includes two drink tickets and complementary food truck tasting selections from 5 to 8 p.m.

Festive, patriotic and red, white and blue casual attire is encouraged. The event will be hosted in an outdoor, open-air setting. Fans, shaded pavilions, and misters will be available for guests. Personal sun protective clothing, hats, sunscreen and bug repellent are encouraged. Shirt and shoes are required in dining areas.

A portion of the proceeds will go to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

For tickets, visit slipawaycape.com/july4bash/.

Slipaway Food Truck Park & Marina is at 1811 Cape Coral Parkway E.

Farmer Joe’s

Farmer Joe’s in Cape Coral will host its third annual 4th of July Customer Appreciation Event. This family-friendly celebration will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Farmer Joe’s store at 1401 S.W. Pine Island Road. The event is open to the public, with free admission.

Event attendees can expect fun, food, and festivities, including free hamburgers, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, local vendor booths, and fun for the whole family.

Downtown Fort Myers

Head to Downtown Fort Myers for the city’s annual 4th of July Celebration at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater from 6 to 10 p.m.

General admission for the event is free. Seating is not provided. Organizers ask attendees to bring a foldable lawn chair or blanket for comfort.

“Join us on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River for an unforgettable evening of music, food, and fireworks at Downtown Fort Myers’ signature Fourth of July celebration,” event organizers stated.

The festivities begin at 6 p.m., with local Tyler Shep leading a patriotic tribute as he sings the Star-Spangled Banner. Then, get ready to dance under the stars with a live performance by The Caloosa River Band, building up to a dazzling fireworks finale presented by the River District Alliance (weather permitting).

Bars will be onsite for beverages available for purchases.

VIP tickets include reserved seating in the front fenced section (first-come, firstserve), access to air-conditioned restroom trailers, chef-curated barbecue boxed dinner, raffle entry, and full cash bar.

Tickets are available by visiting www. vistingfortmyers.com. Caloosa Sound Amphitheater is at 2101 Edwards Drive.

See EVENTS, page 9

Events: From freedom runs & block parties to parades, food & fireworks

From page 8

Fort Myers Mighty Mussels

The Fort Myers Mighty Mussels will host a three-day Independence Day celebration that includes a Fourth of July Family Picnic Special, fireworks extravaganza and classic all-American eats.

The postgame fireworks extravaganza on July 4 will be the longest, largest and loudest pyrotechnics show of the 2025 baseball season at Hammond Stadium at the Lee Health Sports Complex. Gates open at 6 p.m. for the 7:05 p.m. game, and fireworks will begin immediately after the final out.

“Our Independence Day game has become a tradition for many Southwest Florida families because it’s a true all-American celebration — baseball, burgers, beer, fireworks and family,” said John Martin, managing partner of the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels, in a release. “Although we host fireworks shows after every Friday home game, the Fourth of July show is equivalent to one long grand finale. This year, we’re adding a patriotic soundtrack and family picnic ambiance to make this truly a memorable experience for fans.”

The Mighty Mussels are offering a Fourth of July Family Picnic Special for $87.76, including fees; only 100 packages are available. The Family Picnic Special includes:

n Four reserved game tickets (first or second level)

n Four concession vouchers worth $12.75 each

n A Mighty Mussels fleece picnic blanket

On July 5, there will be a patriotic bucket hat giveaway, as well as “Bark in the Park,” where leashed dogs are welcome at Hammond Stadium. On July 6, kids get in free, can play catch on the field from 11 to 11:30 a.m., and can run the bases after the game.

To purchase the Family Picnic Special, visit gofevo. com/event/July4th2025.

Hammond Stadium at Lee Health Sports Complex is at 14100 6 Mile Cypress Parkway in Fort Myers.

Bay Street Yard

Bay Street Yard will host its second annual Fourth of

July from 11 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. in the heart of downtown Fort Myers.

The outdoor entertainment venue will offer festive food and drink specials, live music and street-side grilling by Paradise Hospitality Group, who will be serving up hot dogs and burgers along Bay Street. Guests can also savor full menus from Bay Street Yard and Paradise Hospitality Group’s onsite food truck concepts: Bay Street Butcher and Rick’s Taco Cartel.

Live entertainment by Conyer Walker runs from 2 to 5 p.m., AVYA Live from 5 to 9 p.m. and DELIA from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The venue offers seating for more than 300 guests with two full-service bars and a variety of outdoor games such as cornhole, ping pong and more. The venue is just steps from the Caloosahatchee River for views of the annual downtown Fort Myers fireworks display.

General admission is free. VIP suites are available upstairs at The Loft for groups of 10-24 people with a $50 minimum food and beverage spend per person. Four-person tables adjacent to the stage can be reserved for $100 per-table for four hours. Bottle service is also available to VIP guests. To make a table reservation, email madison@bsyevents.com.

Bay Street Yard is at 2136 Bay Street in downtown Fort Myers. For more information, visit BayStreetYard. com/Specials-Events.

Fort Myers Beach

There will be a full day of festivities on Fort Myers Beach to honor the nation’s 249th birthday on Friday, July 4.

A parade down Estero Boulevard will kick off the ceremonies beginning at 10 a.m. from Bay Oaks Recreational Campus, followed by a concert at Bayside Veterans Park on Old San Carlos Boulevard from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with the band Guilty Pleasure.

Fireworks will start at 9 p.m. from near the Fort Myers Beach Pier and Lynn Hall Memorial Park.

Those crossing onto Fort Myers Beach from San Carlos Boulevard to attend the parade should get there early as the Matanzas Pass Bridge will be closed to oncoming traffic

from 9 a.m. to noon.

The Matanzas Pass Bridge will close again to incoming traffic from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. for the fireworks display.

Pine Island

American Legion 136 will host a parade and fireworks on the 4th of July.

Staging for the parade is at 9 a.m. at Winn Dixie. The parade starts at 10 in the Winn Dixie parking lot and travels north to the Elks Club on Pine Island Road. Food and beverages will be available for the public to purchase. The fireworks will begin around sunset. Come early to reserve your spot to view.

Winn Dixie is at 9864 Stringfellow Road in Saint James City.

American Legion is at 4106 Stringfellow Road in Saint James City.

Graduates hail technical college’s LPN-RN program

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The inaugural class of Fort Myers Technical College’s Professional Nursing (LPN-RN) Program will graduate June 30 after a yearlong program of 900 hours and a bond among classmates that will last a lifetime.

“We have become a family. We are not just classmates anymore, but truly a family. Honestly, it blows me away that we started with 12 people and we are graduating with 12 people. Everyone worked so hard. It’s making me emotional talking about it,” Cape Coral resident Kaitland Cabral said of her classmates who ranged in age from early 20s to 60s. “We are constantly teaching each other. We have truly learned so much from each other in just a year.”

The dozen students participated in the program where they completed more than 450 hours of coursework and 450 hours of clinical practice to become a registered nurse, all while balancing a full-time workload as a licensed practical nurse. The pinning ceremony will be held on Monday with keynote speaker Executive Director of the Florida Center for Nursing Dr. Rayna Latourneau. The graduates will be eligible to sit for their NCLEX-RN exam after graduation has been approved by the Florida Board of Nursing.

Cabral was among the inaugural class – an experience she said was “worth everything.”

PROVIDED A dozen licensed practical nurses taking part in the inaugural class of Fort Myers Technical College’s Professional Nursing (LPN-RN) Program will graduate June 30 after a year-long program of 900 hours.

“We have made a lot of sacrifices in the last year. It’s a program of 12 women,” she said. “This program is very doable for someone who still wants to work full-time as an LPN. We are not going into debt when we graduate. It’s a phenomenal opportunity.”

Cape Coral resident Jessica LernerSchwebel, a full-time mom, also worked

full-time during the program, which tested her a lot.

“If you really want something, no

matter how much you want it, you will make it happen,” Lerner-Schwebel said. “The support that us girls gave each other – I won’t find that with any other group of girls. I think because of the age difference and experience that we all brought; it made us work so beautifully as we all brought something to the table and grow with.”

Cabral became a nurse’s assistant in 2007, a position she began in Massachusetts. She moved to Florida in 2016 and participated in the practical nursing program at Cape Coral Technical College.

“We were attending it during the pandemic,” she said with their nursing instructor Mary Ann Enns. “I truly believe she was a really big part of the reason why all of us graduated and were so successful in the program. When she created this pathway program within a year, so many of us instantly thought this is where we want to go and who we want to learn from. We knew we would be just as successful doing this.”

Fort Myers Technical College introduced Florida’s first LPN to RN pathway program in the Spring of 2024 through Enns, who developed the program as part of her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Educational Leadership degree. This pathway program cuts the time in half of becoming a registered nurse while saving students more than $53,000.

“It is a miracle that the LPN-RN program for technical colleges even got started in the state of Florida,” Enns said. “Being able to author the curriculum framework for the Department of Education and see-

See PROGRAM, page 13

Program: Hard work pays off

From page 12

ing it played out in real life have been a victory and reward that I never expected. I have seen six other schools get approved by the Board of Nursing to run the Diploma/ Professional Nursing (LPN-RN) program in Florida this past year and more schools are likely to join in the near future.”

Lerner-Schwebel said she heard about the pathway program from someone she was working with. She said she of course wanted to join as she originally got her LPN license through Cape Coral Technical College five years ago. The experience of the program was absolutely amazing.

“There are no words for it. It was an honor to be the first cohort and honor to represent Fort Myers Technical College,” Lerner-Schwebel said and her instructor Enns. “I am extremely proud.”

Lehigh Acres resident Janine Walker was also a student of the LPN program when Enns was creating the program. She said she graduated in October 2023 and in April 2024 the new program was created.

“It’s been the perfect timing. A great refresher of what we learned in the LPN program. It was easy to work full-time and still do it,” Walker said of the program. “It’s helpful for someone like me in my 40s – flexibility of being able to work and obtain the RN license.”

She said the program worked because it was sort of self-directed, as one day a week there was either clinical – 12-hour shift, or class – 8-hour day.

The clinicals took place at doctor’s offices, Naples Community Hospital, Cypress Cove, a birth center, and some simulated clinicals in the classroom.

“For a lot of us that was the first time seeing a real live birth. An incredible opportunity. We loved the clinical experience we got,” Cabral said. “I personally got to see a C-section and a natural birth itself.”

She said the clinicals at the hospital were also an incredible experience.

“These nurses have been so kind and welcoming and encouraged so many of us to apply here when we are done,” she said.

Lerner-Schwebel agreed that the clinicals at Naples Community Hospital were a great experience, as she has only worked at Lee Health, now at Cape Coral Hospital. She said the Naples Community Hospital is also a teaching hospital – meaning the doctors were very involved with nurses and questions were constantly being asked, which really intrigued her.

“To see a different atmosphere and work in different departments has been eye opening for me,” she said, as she only knows the emergency room and now is con-

templating maybe leaving the ER.

Lerner-Schwebel said she enjoyed doing clinicals in the Intensive Care Unit due to seeing the progression from the ER to ICU.

She said since students had to be an established LPN, they already brought knowledge to the table.

“We all had experiences and that alone helped us to learn even more. It made the clinicals better because we jump started the experiences,” Lerner-Schwebel said, adding that she could then focus on the things she did not know how to do.

Cabral knew from early on in life that she always wanted to help people, a skill she also put into practice when she took care of both of her grandmothers when they became sick. She said she has always thought of how someone wants to be treated when taking care of them, as she looks at them like they are family.

“It’s so easy to provide compassionate and empathetic care. I can’t picture myself doing anything else,” Cabral said, adding she feels like she is right where she was meant to be.

Now that school is completed, she is not sure what direction she wants to take her career, as the “possibilities are endless.”

The calling to become a nurse took hold at a young age for Walker. Her grandmother was an RN and now her daughter is pursuing nursing school at FSW where she will graduate next year.

She began in the medical field in 1998 as a CNA, or certified nursing assistant, and then medical assistant when her daughter was young and in day care. Once Walker’s daughter graduated from high school in 2021 she started the program at Cape Coral Technical College.

“I probably wouldn’t have gone for my RN because I had no interest in starting over and taking prerequisites. When I knew this was a possibility – I can one up my LPN,” Walker said. “People that have families and small kids – if they have a supportive husband, or significant other – it is really easy to do and still work while you do it. I work for a wonderful company that was super accommodating to have every Tuesday off. It is really nice for people who don’t want to go that long route and take prerequisites for two years.”

With school done, the excitement has taken hold of what to do next. The question is does she want to stay at the job she’s had for 14 years or do something new. She knows she wants to do something in pediatrics.

“I have a lot to think about of how my future can go,” Walker said.

Red, White & Booze Pub Crawl set for Saturday

By CH HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

Looking to kick off your 4th of July festivities early?

This Saturday, the South Cape Hospitality and Entertainment Association’s inaugural Red, White & Booze Pub Crawl hits the South Cape where attendees can enjoy patriotic food and appetizer options at various local establishments.

The event runs from 7 to 11 p.m., and a wristband secures patrons a drink and appetizer sample at each location.

“The Red, White & Booze Pub Crawl is the perfect warmup to Fourth of July,” said SCHEA spokesperson Shannon Quinn. “It gives people a chance to celebrate with friends, support local bars and restaurants and show off their patriotic spirit. Why celebrate for just a day? We love kicking off the holiday a weekend prior.”

Pub-crawlers will be transported via limo buses to four designated areas, where you can then walk to multiple participating locations.

As always, attendees are encouraged to dress up and show off their patriotism. The “best dressed” who enter the photo booth contest will also score tickets to SCHEA’s upcoming BaconFest Trolley Event on Aug. 30.

“It’s one of the best parts,” Quinn said of attendees showing up in patriotic colors. “People really go all in on the themed pub crawl. From flag-themed outfits to face paint and more, it’s so fun seeing the creativity. It adds so much energy and excitement to the atmosphere and makes it feel like one big celebration from stop-to-stop.”

Participating locations and their samples include:

n BackStreets Sports Bar - Bomb Pop & Mini Corn Dogs

n Cruisers - Hawaiian Punch & Hotdogs

n The Dive - Strawberry Lemonade & Cheese Dip w/ Chips n Dixie Roadhouse - 4th of July Firecracker & Apple

Pie

n Hacienda Jalisco Bar & Grill- Blue BOOM Margarita & Red Star Nachos

If You Go:

What:

Red, White & Booze Pub Crawl

When: Saturday, June 28, from 7 to 11 p.m.

Where:

Regular check-in is from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Big John’s Plaza, 1215 Cape Coral Pkwy., E and Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., (under the entry awning). Late check-in is until 10 p.m. at Dolphin Key Resort.

Tickets:

For tickets and additional information, visit southcapeentertainment.com

n Hooked Island Grill - ‘Merica Shot & BBQ Pulled

Pork Meatballs

n Monkey Bar - Summer Monkey & Cheeseburger Bites

n Rack’em Spirits & Times - Patriotic Punch & Hotdog

BBQ Burnt Ends

n Ralph’s Place - Jell-O shots & BBQ lil Smokies

n Rusty’s Raw Bar & Grill - Red, White & Blue Pina

Colada & BBQ Ribs

n Sage on 47th - Summer Scorcher & BBQ Pulled Pork

n Tiki - Red Tea & Beef Slider

Quinn said it’s always fun to see the participating establishments create food and drink to fit a theme.

“Attendees can expect specialty drink samples, themed appetizers and of course, tons of red, white and blue,” she said. “It’s amazing to see our local bars and restaurants go all-out with decorations, patriotic colors and special offerings to help bring the community together in a fun and festive way.”

Quinn said it’s sure to be a great evening out on the town for all who attend, full of live music, dancing, games, karaoke, and good vibes from start to finish. Be sure to get your passport stamped at each location to enter into a drawing for the grand prize: a Yuengling-branded cooler and chair, sponsored by JJ Taylor.

Regular check-in is from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Big John’s Plaza (near Pinch-a-Penny) and Dolphin Key Resort (under the entry awning). Late check-in is until 10 p.m. at Dolphin Key Resort. The official photo booth is also located at Dolphin Key under the awning.

This is a 21-plus event. Valid ID at check-in will be required, per ticket. You cannot pick up wristbands for other people. Tickets are $25 in advance and $20 for designated driver tickets. Day-of tickets are $30 if available.

For tickets and additional information, visit southcapeentertainment.com.

Oasis Charter board approves budget, bonuses

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

The Oasis Charter School governing board approved the municipal school district’s 2026 budget Tuesday night, which was a 7.81% increase from the 2025 adopted budget.

The budget approved was $37,919,940, compared to last year’s budget of $35,171,500.

Budget Administrator Nicole Reitler said the increase is the result of the before- and after-care program moving from the city of Cape Coral to the charter school, and local capital improvement funding.

“One of the key factors that we want to highlight – each and every school is structurally balanced – revenue equals expenditures,” she said.

Staffing changes include adding 4.18 staff members, which equates to a total of 369.18 staff equivalents.

“There is a lot of movement between the schools,” Reitler said.

The 2026 budget includes adding two bus drivers, one English for Speakers of Other Languages coordinator, one food service worker, one contract junior counselor, one security guard and two teachers.

There were also reclassifications – such as an assistant principal to a teacher at Oasis High School and reclassification from a teacher to exceptional teacher at Oasis Middle School.

The governing board also approved an amendment to the 2025 budget.

Reitler said the budget amendment is the first and only for FY ’25.

The FI ’25 adopted budget was $35,171,500. The budget amendment approved was for $2,635,963, which brought the amended budget to $37,807,463.

The two highest adjustments were $1,458,500 for classification pay parity adjustment and $1,106,776 for the FY ’24 encumbrance carryforwards.

Reitler said there were staffing changes – addition of one bus driver, the reclassification of two teachers to exceptional teachers; reclass of one transportation dispatcher to transportation coordinator and the adjustment of .25 of

a full time equivalent from Oasis Middle School that was split with the high school.

The board also approved a longevity bonus for staffers that ranged from $500 to $2,500 depending on the number of years the employee has been with the system.

The amounts include:

n $500 for support staff

n $1,000 for one to nine years for teachers

n $1,500 for 10 to 14 years for teachers

n $2,000 for 15 to 19 years for teachers

n $2,500 for 20 plus years for teachers

Superintendent Jackie Collins said after they conducted

the classification and compensation study a discussion was had regarding what they can do with funds left over, which resulted in providing bonuses.

“Because we didn’t make pay increases retroactive from the beginning of the year, we had funds left over,” she said. “The feedback that we got from the classification study was teachers that have been in our system for one or two years who got a 1% increase weren’t as happy for those in the system longer.”

Teachers will receive the bonus in their June 27 check.

Chair Kristifer Jackson said he is very glad to see that support staff also received a bonus.

Weekly B reeze Recap

Tommy Bohanon Foundation holds annual youth football clinic

By CHUCK BALLARO news@breezenewspapers.com

In the nine years the Tommy Bohanon Foundation has held its annual football clinic, nothing has been able to stop it. Not rain or even a pandemic.

And so it was on Saturday that a record number of kids came to North Fort Myers High School’s Moody Field for a chance to train like a pro at the foundation’s signature event of the year.

Youths entering the first through eighth grades came to do agility drills, catch the football, hit blocking dummies and do the same things college and pro athletes do to get ready for action.

Bohanon said that the camp is a way for the kids to have fun and maybe learn a thing or two about the game.

“They get to come out and act like the pros. Every drill we do is done at every training camp. It’s a lot of fun and the kids get lunch and the sheriff’s office brings the ice cream,” Bohanon said. “It’s just a fun day.”

Bohanon brought a slew of coaches and volunteers to help out. Many were local coaches and friends who helped Bohanon as a player. Among them was Kristoffer Doura, who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins. He said he wanted to give back and help a fellow former pro.

“I’m here in the community and wanted to give back and show these kids we can help them get to the next level,” said Doura, who nearly died in training camp in 2011 before walking away from the sport. “I’m working with the offensive linemen on technique, hand placement, kick slides and things to make them angrier on the field.”

The kids came ready to work under the hot Florida

Tommy Bohanon barks out orders during the Tommy Bohanon Foundation’s ninth annual football clinic Saturday at North Fort Myers High School.

sun. Jesse Swann, 11, plays Pop Warner for the Red Knights. He said it was a great opportunity to learn the game from someone who played at the highest level.

“I want to be a defensive lineman and try to advance my football career,” said Swann, who was a first-time camper. “I think I’m going to get a lot of exercise and good training. Anything an average football player would need.”

Not much has changed regarding the clinic. One thing that has is that, unlike the beginning when you can count the number of girls on one hand, there were about 20 girls participating this year.

A lot of girls have begun playing flag football (with a few playing tackle) at the high school level as well as at the youth level.

Alexa Laurenti, 12, was there with her brothers with the intent on getting better at the sport.

“I want to start playing flag football. My older sister plays tackle football at Cape Youth. I want to learn tackling so I can play with my brothers and get better at the drills,” Laurenti said.

Katie Bohanon said the more than 250 kids and 50 junior coaches made the camp another exciting event, an event that was the impetus of how the foundation got started.

“This is how the foundation got started. We just wanted to do a free football camp for kids in the community,” Bohanon said. “Nobody was really doing it, so it was a way to bring people in from the community. We have never missed a year and are committed to help the kids in Southwest Florida.”

The Tommy Bohanon Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting young athletes reach their highest potential. The foundation funds annual scholarships, sports equipment grants to local high schools, seminars and programs, as well as funding for other local nonprofits. Since its inception in 2017 the foundation has raised over $1 million. For more information visit https://tommybohanonfoundation.org/

Petition organizers fail to collect enough signatures in Mayor Gunter recall effort

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

A recall effort to remove Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter ended this week after organizers did not gather enough signatures to move their effort forward.

The recall was organized by Kyle L’Hommedieu, of the Take Out the Trash Committee of Cape Coral.

In Florida, the recall process requires organizers to first collect signatures from 10% of the electorate to start the multi-step process for removal from office.

Organizers collected 3,867 votes from among the city’s the 139,371 registered voters, which L’Hommedieu said was a pathetic number.

“We didn’t expect the fear of retaliation from so many people. I can’t imagine there aren’t 7,000 angry people in this community. It was very disheartening but shows we have a bigger problem,” L’Hommedieu said.

Gunter, who is on vacation, could not be reached for comment.

He denied the petition’s grounds publicly at a Council meeting in May after the recall effort was announced.

He said that while not all of his votes have been popular, he has never done anything illegal or unethical in his government role.

“I know I have not done anything illegal in the seven and a half years I have sat here,” Gunter said.

Gunter encouraged anyone who thought he had done something illegal, or unethical, to go to the State Attorney’s Office or the State Commission on Ethics and file a complaint.

The recall petition had listed two allegations it claimed were grounds for recall.

The first statement of grounds alleged that Gunter had violated Florida Statute 112.311 (6) because he “repeatedly voted against the people.”

The second statement of grounds cited Florida Statue 286.011.

“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.’”

Grounds for recall are limited to those 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. Statute 100.361 also dictates the petition process.

Petitions 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.

CHUCK BALLARO

A young player holds a blocking dummy during a drill at the Bohanon Foundation football clinic Saturday.

CHUCK BALLARO

Mayor John Gunter

CommuniTy

By CAROLE KERNS news@breezenewspapers.com

Each morning, as I take my dog for a walk, I pass my neighbor’s cottage garden, which always seems alive with blooms. The vibrant colors catch my eye and lift my spirits. I asked her to reveal her secret, and she answered, “self-seeding plants.”

Self-seeding plants produce seeds which can be collected or allowed to fall on the ground for a new generation of plants. These plants, while genetically connected to the mother plant, often have distinctive features of their own.

Gardens that are filled with self-seeding plants tend to bloom again without the assistance of a gardener.

Many self-seeding plants require very little water and prefer full to partial sun during the day. These plants tend to do well in a variety of soil conditions from acidic to alkaline soils.

Pollination and germination of self-seeding plants typically occurs during the fall, winter and spring seasons. Unlike up north, Southwest Florida does not hold true to the maxim that many seeds need to store nutrients during cold weather to assist warm weather germination.

Plants that grow from seeds dropped by previous plants are called “volunteers.” We can expect them almost year-round, depending on the numbers and variety of plants that adorn your garden. Plants that flower early produce more seeds and give several generations per year. If the plants become too prolific, simply thin them out and move them to other spots in your yard.

Self-seeding plants are typically annuals, though some varieties of perennials have this quality. Perennials typically have a shorter blooming period compared to annuals, so gardeners may use a combination of both in their gardens.

As you select plants for your garden, consider your hardiness zone. A hardiness zone is a geographically defined area based on the average winter temperature. The hardiness zone for Cape Coral and Fort Myers is Zone 10A, so let’s look at some self-seeding plants which are suitable for this zone.

n The garden cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus) features

June 27, 2025

Avow selected to provide hospice care in Lee, Glades, and Hendry counties

Avow was notified this week that the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration intends to select the organization to provide hospice services in Lee, Glades and Hendry counties, following AHCA’s preliminary approval of Avow’s Certificate of Need application. This decision will expand Avow’s hospice care for residents throughout Southwest Florida.

The CON process ensures that new or expanded healthcare services are aligned with the needs of the community while upholding high standards of care. AHCA’s decision reflects Avow’s more than 40 years of high-quality ratings and caregiver and family satisfaction scores.

“As Southwest Florida has grown, Avow’s reach and impact have expanded to meet the needs of an evolving community. Now, we look forward to extending that reach even further—to ensure individuals and families in neighboring counties have access to the same level of hospice care that has defined Avow’s legacy,” said

Jaysen Roa, president and CEO of Avow. Charles Hoffman, chairman of the Avow board of directors, added, “This is an extraordinary moment for Avow. We are honored by the trust placed in us by the community and are ready to bring our mission of dignity, compassion and excellence to residents of Lee, Glades and Hendry counties who need hospice care.”

While a launch date for patient services has not yet been finalized, Avow is working to begin serving patients in the new regions as soon as possible.

Avow was founded in 1983 as Collier County’s original, nonprofit hospice. Today, Avow’s nonprofit companies provide palliative care consultations for individuals facing chronic or serious illness, hospice care, grief and loss support, and Medicare-certified home health care.

To learn more about the scope of services provided by Avow, please call 239-261-4404 or visit www.avowcares.org.

July programs set at Northwest Regional Library

Next month’s roster of activities at Northwest Regional Library offers topics for all ages. The following activities are free to the public:

Adult Programs

Knit and Stitch

10 a.m., Wednesday, July 2, 16

A casual, self-guided group of knitters and crocheters shares projects, ideas and techniques. Participants are encouraged to bring their own projects and tools. Basic materials and supplies are available for newcomers.

Tech Assistance at Your Library: One-on-One Help

2 p.m., Wednesday, July 2

Need help with a laptop, tablet, e-reader or other device? Are you looking to learn about accessing library e-resources? We can help with a 30-minute, one-on-one technology help session. Please have chargers and passwords for devices with you before the appointment. Registration is required.

Books and Bagels

10:30 a.m., Wednesday, July 9

Do you enjoy robust, engaging book discussions? Join us and share your latest reading recommendations. Bagels and coffee will be served.

Adult Crafternoon: Summer Canvas Painting

2 p.m., Thursday, July 17

2 p.m., Saturday, July 19

In this program you will be painting a summer themed

canvas using acrylic paints. Supplies are limited to the first 20 participants. Dress for mess.

Children’s Programs

Baby Rhyme Time

10:30 a.m., Monday, July 7, 14, 21

For babies through age 18 months. Babies and caregivers wiggle and giggle in a supportive environment. Space is limited. Arrive early and visit the Youth Desk to check in.

Create with Art Lab

6 p.m., Tuesday, July 8

Make creativity part of your family routine with the Alliance for the Arts Family Art Lab. Join us for a hands-on family project and explore various mediums, styles and artists all inspired by artworks on view in the Alliance for the Arts gallery. Dress for mess. For ages 6-11 years. Registration is required. One parent per registered child is welcome to assist. Please check in at the Youth Desk.

All Things Green: Little Racers

11 a.m. & noon, Thursday, July 10

Join us for a special green edition of Little Racers. Zip and zoom around the room with toy cars and handmade racetracks. For ages 2-5 years. Registration is required. Please check in at the Youth Desk.

Colors of Inspiration

6 p.m., Tuesday, July 15

IMAG joins the library to color your world with inspira-

See JULY PROGRAMS, page 35

Community Calendar

3rd Annual Epiphany Hurricane Preparedness Kit Give-away Saturday

The 3rd Annual Epiphany Hurricane Preparedness Kit Give-away will be held this Saturday, June 28, starting at 10 a.m., at Epiphany Episcopal Church of Cape Coral, 2507 Del Prado Blvd., S.

Contact the church at 239-574-3200 for additional information.

Groups

to present

Legislative Debrief Saturday

Friendship Baptist Church in partnership with Fort Myers Alumnae Chapter-Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc, Floridians For Democracy, League of Women Voters of Lee County and Equal Ground will host will host the 2025 Legislative Debrief in Lee County as part of the Equal Ground multi-city tour promoting legislative transparency and civic education at 12 p.m.

This session will break down what happened during Florida’s 2025 legislative session, what passed, what

didn’t, and how it affects our communities. We’ll also provide tools and insights to help you stay informed and engaged in shaping Florida’s future.

This event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Refreshments will be provided.

To register, visit https://www.mobilize.us/equalground/ event/783267/?followup_modal_context=organization_ newsletter_custom_recommendations

Friendship Baptist Church is at 2030 Palm Ave., Fort Myers.

Legion Post 90 to hold blood drive July 4

American Legion Post 90 will be holding a Lee Health Blood Drive Friday, July 4, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the post at 1401 S.E. 47th St., Cape Coral.

The Legion’s goal is 25 units of blood, and donors will receive a free burger and soda for anyone who attempts to donate.

Contact Michelle Moore at 954-461-4817 to schedule an appointment to donate.

CAROLE KERNS

A cottage garden with a variety of plants.

BOOM!: City of Cape Coral’s July 4th event area’s most popular

From page 1

hood parties, when everyone knew everyone — the smell of barbecue and smoke from the sparklers dancing past your nose. The first time your eyes looked to the sky and suddenly — boom! — it was pure magic.

The single biggest event the Cape puts on every year, Red, White & BOOM!, is the largest fireworks display in all of Southwest Florida.

Tens of thousands of people will come together at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge to watch the “American Fireworks Spectacular,” where the largest show to date will fill the night sky, replete with synchronized music.

“Cape Coral is absolutely thrilled to host its annual Red, White & Boom celebration,” said city spokesperson Lauren Kurkimilis. “This event has become an unmissable tradition for families, neighbors, and friends across Southwest Florida. Our Parks & Recreation team, city staff, and volunteers are working around the clock to make this year’s show bigger, brighter, and more memorable than ever.”

The free July 4th festivities will start at 5 p.m., kicking off with DJ Rifik at 5:15, Brendan Walter at 6:30, and national headliner George Birge at 8 p.m. Mikalay Williams, a North Fort Myers High School senior, will perform the national anthem at 9:25.

Birdge, Texas-born, Nashville-based songwriter, credits his Austin upbringing with his gift for writing relatable lyrics and melodies.

His hit song “Beer Beer, Truck Truck,” is an up-tempo sing-along that is about missing the one you love and wooing them to come back.

Now signed to Barry Weiss’s RECORDS Nashville label, Birge is gearing up to release his debut EP and build on the buzz.

“Our entertainment lineup is a true crowd-pleaser,” Kurkimilis said. “DJ Rifik kicks things off with high-en-

“Celebrating Independence Day is vital to our city’s spirit. Red, White & Boom brings generations together to honor the core American values of freedom and community. It provides a space for Cape Coral families and neighbors to unite, reflect, and appreciate our shared heritage. The concluding American Fireworks Spectacular, musically synchronised and over 4,000 shells strong, is a spectacular tribute to the nation’s birthday.”

— Lauren Kurkimilis, city spokesperson

ergy mixes to set a festive tone. Mixshow Director for 105.5 The Beat, Brendan Walter, brings his unique blend of radio-ready beats. George Birge, our national headliner, is an acclaimed country artist known for engaging performances that resonate with fans across generations. This exciting mixture guarantees something for everyone.”

The “American Fireworks Spectacular,” powered by LCEC, propels more than 4,000 shells into the sky starts at 9:30 and is a musically synchronized display. The music can be heard at the stage, on Cat Country 107.1 or on the free iHeartRadio app via Cat Country.

“Celebrating Independence Day is vital to our city’s spirit,” Kurkimilis said. “Red, White & Boom brings generations together to honor the core American values of freedom and community. It provides a space for Cape Coral families and neighbors to unite, reflect, and appreciate our shared heritage. The concluding American Fireworks Spectacular, musically synchronised and over 4,000 shells strong, is a spectacular tribute to the nation’s birthday.”

Parking and shuttles to Red, White & BOOM! are at the following locations:

n Club Square

n Iguana Mia

n Former Veterans Museum

n Big John’s Plaza

There will be a free “Boom Bus” with handicap accessibility picking up individuals at all downtown parking lots from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

The Lee County Department of Transportation reminds motorists the Cape Coral Bridge will be closed for the Red, White & Boom celebration from 3 a.m. Friday, July 4, through 3 a.m. Saturday, July 5. Cape Coral Parkway from Del Prado Boulevard to the bridge will also be closed at that time.

Motorists are encouraged to use the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge, the Caloosahatchee Bridge (U.S. 41) or the Edison Bridge (Business 41). Lee DOT will place message boards for motorists; they will remain in place through the holiday and the closing. Motorists should plan for an alternate route.

Coolers with non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. No pets are allowed.

Visit CapeBOOM.com for more information.

Windows & Doors and A/C. Interior renovations include flooring, cabinetry and appliances. Huge Screened Lanai. MLS# 224079957 $399,000

Officials warn of lightning risk, urge caution

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

With rain season upon Southwest Florida, often accompanying the usual afternoon and evening precipitation are strikes of lightning.

June 22 to the 28 is National Lighting Safety Awareness Week, started in 2001 to call attention to lighting being an underrated killer.

According to an AccuWeather release issued Wednesday, more than 30 individuals have been injured by lighting strikes over the past two weeks across the country, including 20 people who were hit by a single bolt of lightning at a lake in South Carolina.

Officials said lighting incidents, including fatal ones, involved people swimming, golfing, and taking shelter in unsafe areas.

“Lightning is a serious summertime safety risk that can injure or tragically kill people who are outdoors,” stated AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist

Jonathan Porter in the release. “Be aware of your surroundings and have a plan to get to a safe shelter if you hear thunder rumble in the distance. Don’t wait for the storm to approach or to hear more thunder, the first rumble is the time to get indoors, or to a vehicle if a building is not nearby.”

AccuWeather expert meteorologists are encouraging people to learn how to recognize the signs of developing thunderstorms and to download the free AccuWeather app to receive AccuWeather Lightning Alerts.

Accuweather experts state swimming and other beach activities are some of the “deadly dozen” activities for lightning-related deaths, ranking as the second-deadliest, only after fishing. Lightning has killed 32 people at beaches across the country since 2006.

According to the National Lighting Safety Council, since the inception of the initiative began, U.S. lightning fatalities has dropped from about 55 per year to fewer than 30.

“This reduction is lightning fatalities is largely due to the greater awareness of lightning danger and people seeking safety when thunderstorms threaten,” National Lighting Safety Council officials stated. “During Lightning Safety Awareness Week, we encourage you to learn more about lightning and lightning safety.”

NWS officials say the best way to protect one’s self from lightning is to avoid the threat.

“You simply don’t want to be caught outside in a storm,” officials state. “Have a lightning safety plan, and cancel or postpone activities early if thunderstorms are expected. Monitor weather conditions and get to a safe place before the weather becomes threatening. Substantial buildings and hard-topped vehicles are safe options. Rain shelters, small sheds, and open vehicles are not safe.”

If lightning is occurring but you’re inside, do not touch anything that is plugged into an electrical outlet, plumbing, and

corded phones. Cell phones and cordless phones are safe. Officials also recommend staying away from outside doors and windows and do not lie on a garage floor.

“Although most people get inside, some put themselves at risk by touching items that could become electrified by a nearby lightning strike,” officials state. “Finally, many people go outside too soon after the storm has seemingly passed, often only waiting for the rain to become lighter or end. It is all of these unsafe behaviors that put people at risk when thunderstorm are in the area.”

NLSC officials state that if someone is struck by lightning, they may need immediate medical attention. Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge and are safe to touch. Call 9-1-1 and monitor the victim. Start CPR or use an Automated External Defibrillator if needed.

For more information on lighting safety, visit www.lightningsafetycouncil.org.

Oasis Charter system board wants stadium design change

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com

A plan to include baseball fields in the design for a planned football stadium, drivers’ education and a grant to offer better food choices were among the issues discussed during the Oasis Charter Schools governing board meeting Tuesday.

Superintendent Jackie Collins said work is under way on a 30% design for the football field, which does not include the insertion of the baseball field.

The hope is to have both fields included in the design, so all permits are approved with construction commencing in May 2026 and the entire project be completed for the 2027-2028 school year.

“We want to make sure this happens before I retire, at least,” Collins told the board. “I have a great feeling about this and I think we are on track. We are excited about this so far.”

The second topic discussed was driver’s education and SB994. The Senate bill,

which Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed and goes into effect on July 1, requires any student who wants a learner’s permit to take certain courses.

Currently, the Florida Virtual School is offering the course as are a few Lee County high schools. Collins said they have to pay a certain fee if they enroll their students in Lee Virtual, or Florida Virtual School.

Although the bill does not apply to charter schools, she said it is in their best interest to do something for their students.

“If we do a class, it is about $375 a student,” Collins said, adding that a self-directed learning model is $276. “It’s $200,000 a year to offer that option for the number of students interested every year.”

The timing of the bill was not great, as they just finalized their budget, so they researched private options for families,

which is $25 to $30 per student.

Collins said they will spend the next year researching options they can provide the following year.

Also discussed was a grant the municipal school district is applying for that will help with their food choices for students –moving from ultra-processed food choices to more wholesome fresh varieties.

The grant includes testing baseline foods that they offer – such as hot dogs, corndogs, turkey and ham and salad and lettuce components.

Collins said the grant comes in six phases – baseline assessment, implementation fees to begin meal transitions and evaluate new meals, deploy a full menu rollout with new meals, make adjustments and finding and supplying the food.

“The goal is to develop a sustainable, healthy food plan,” she said. The system will find out in late July if they were awarded the grant. Collins said if awarded, the system can start in August.

“I am excited for this great. It’s a great opportunity to work with the National Institute of Health, submit research and see where it goes,” she said.

educaTion

Education BriEfs

Heritage Charter Academy to provide free breakfast, lunch and afterschool snack

Heritage Charter Academy has announced an amendment to its policy for serving meals to students under the NSLP’s Community Eligibility Provision for the 20252026 school year.

All students will be served breakfast, lunch and afterschool snack at no charge at Heritage Charter Academy, 2107 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral.

For additional information please contact Heritage Charter Academy, Attention: Ms. Flynn, Food Service Director at 239-829-5134 or sflynn@heritagecharteracademy.org

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Dougherty graduates from Mercer University

MACON/ATLANTA, Ga. — Mercer University conferred bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees to more than 2,600 students at four commencements held in May in Macon and Atlanta.

Among the graduates was Cape Coral resident Shannon Dougherty with a bachelor of Business Administration from the School of Business.

Founded in 1833, Mercer University enrolls more than 9,200 students in 12 schools and colleges – liberal arts and sciences, law, pharmacy, medicine, business, engineering, education, theology, music, nursing, health professions, and professional advancement – on major campuses in Macon and Atlanta, medical school sites in Macon, Savannah and Columbus, and at regional academic centers in Henry and Douglas counties. For more about Mercer, visit https://www.mercer.edu/

Angel makes the Dean’s List at Miami University

OXFORD, Ohio — Kassandra Angel of Cape Coral was named to the Dean’s list at Miami University for the 2025 spring semester.

Miami University students who are ranked in the top 20% of undergraduate students within their division for the 2025 spring semester have been named to the Dean’s list recognizing academic performance.

Miami University is a public university located in Oxford, Ohio, with regional campuses in Hamilton and Middletown, a learning center in West Chester and a European study center in Luxembourg. Established in 1809, Miami University has a student body of over 22,600 across more than 100 areas of study, and more than 2,200 graduate students through 78 master’s and doctoral degree programs. For more information, visit MiamiOH.edu.

Smaller among Loras College 2025 graduates

DUBUQUE, Iowa - Loras College has announced the names of students who earned a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in 2025. Among the graduates was Kiandre Smaller of Cape Coral.

Founded in 1839, Loras College is Iowa’s first institution of higher learning and the seventh oldest Catholic college or university in the United States offering a Catholic liberal arts education.

For more about the college, visit https://loras.edu/.

Houle named to University at Buffalo’s spring 2025 dean’s list

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Kathryn Houle of Cape Coral has been named to the University at Buffalo’s spring 2025 dean’s list.

Houle was among 5,667 students named to UB’s spring 2025 dean’s list.

To qualify for the dean’s list, full-time undergraduate students must demonstrate academic excellence by earning a grade point average of at least 3.600 while completing a minimum of 12 UB letter-graded (A-F) credit hours.

Founded in 1846, the University at Buffalo is a research-intensive public university and is New York’s flagship. UB’s more than 30,000 students pursue their academic interests through more than 500 undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs.

For more information, visit https://www.buffalo.edu/

June 27, 2025

Bobby Holloway Jr. Memorial Foundation awards more than $64,000 in scholarships

By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com

Last Monday, June 16, the Bobby Holloway Jr. Memorial Foundation handed out this year’s scholarship checks, totaling $64,650, to 30 recipients at Pine Island United Methodist Church on Pine Island Road.

Representing the foundation and distributing checks at the event were board member and former Pine Island Elementary School principal Steven Hook, and board member Monica Oakley.

Hook said he has been on the board since 2012 and that this year, in particular, he’s found the foundation has been a great benefit to him personally.

“The tournament and the scholarship programs have just gotten better and better every year. The board has great passion for what they do and it’s just so fulfilling to be a part of it,” Hook said.

This year was especially meaningful to Hook, he said, because some of the scholarship recipients were former students of his from when he was still the principal at Pine Island Elementary. He described the ability to watch his former students successfully pursue the next part of their journey as very satisfying.

“The scholarships we’ve been able to give out over the years has increased, so it’s been very exciting to be a part of it,” Hook said.

The board has often discussed its vision for the future, Hook said, and they have agreed that building a community center for the kids on Pine Island is something they would all like to see or help make happen eventually.

Oakley, who helped Hook distribute the scholarship checks, found herself taking great pride in the recipients, as they are finding their way to higher education.

Holloway scholarship recipients

Danika McCafferey

Elizabeth Vergara

Corin Scrudato

Grayce Smith

Judd Harre

Savanah Lynch

Rebecca Rose

Erika Romero

Anna G Moreau

Ronald Dorr

Lily Moreau

Leiana Boyd

Caliah Russell

Chase Barnhill

Waylon Squires

Annedora Paddock

Oscar Beltran

Meagan Kunkel

Melanie Garcia

Skyla Stevens

Brooke Schaal

Dominyka Romero

Ella Bernard

Armando Perez

Marlin Martin

Darien Brown

Sierra Nason

Brianna Whitney

Willow Williams

Gage Blanchard

“What a great night presenting our community with scholarships as they go on to their next adventure. Thirty scholarships were presented tonight at the Pine Island United Methodist Church. These community members are continuing their education at fire academy, welding school, as well as colleges and tech schools in Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina,” Oakley said.

She noted special congratulations to Willow Williams for being presented the Phil Rosenberg Memorial scholarship, Caliah Russell received the Rob Wells Sr. Memorial scholarship and Leiana Boyd for being awarded the Chris Dohme Memorial scholarship.

“We are so proud of this group and can’t wait to see what the year brings for them,” Oakley said.

The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools holds Collegium week for teachers on Captiva Island

The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, in collaboration with the School District of Lee County, hosted its annual Collegium professional development retreat recently on Captiva Island, bringing together a group of educators for an experience dedicated to growth, connection and appreciation.

A total of 23 educators, including the six 2025 Golden Apple Award recipients, and two administrators took part in this unique weekend designed to empower and recognize teachers who go above and beyond in their classrooms. Held at a serene beachfront resort, Collegium offered a blend of professional enrichment and well-earned relaxation in a supportive, inspiring environment.

Throughout the week, participants engaged in a series of workshops and collaborative sessions focused on innovative teaching strategies, student engagement, and educational leadership. Each attendee earned 40 hours of

service learning, contributing to their professional development goals.

“Spending time with this awesome group of teachers reminds me of how lucky we are as a community to have such dedicated, smart, fun and resourceful professionals working with our students,” said Marshall T. Bower, president & CEO of The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. “The time was well spent learning, sharing, networking and growing.”

In the evenings, teachers enjoyed beachside relaxation and social events, including dinners at local restaurants such as RC Otter’s Island Eats and Cantina Captiva, along with a memorable cruise to Cabbage Key.

The retreat concluded with a celebratory dinner that brought together current and former Golden Apple recipients, Foundation board members, business partners and sponsors.

The Bobby Holloway Jr. Memorial Foundation scholarship award winners and members of the foundation’s board of directors.

PAULETTE LEBLANC

Traffic: Many motorists expected to hit the highways for the holiday

From, page 1

for road trips, flights, and cruises, especially with the holiday falling on a Friday. This is allowing travelers to extend their getaways and make lasting memories with loved ones.”

AAA estimates 61.6 million Americans will drive — a 2.2% increase from last year and the highest number ever recorded. An estimated 1.3 million more road travelers are expected compared to 2024.

As for how Floridians will travel, AAA predicts 4 million to travel via car, 329,762 by air, and 203,629 via other means, such as bus, train, or cruise.

AAA officials state that gas prices are likely to fluctuate before Independence Day.

“Last week, oil prices surged in response to Israel’s strikes on Iran, increasing gasoline production costs,” officials stated in a release. “While analysts suggest this may be a short-term reaction, it’s too early to know whether prices will stabilize before the holiday.” According to AAA, Florida drivers as of June 20 are paying $3.15 per gallon on average. That’s almost 40 cents less than last year’s holiday.

AAA states that air travel is reaching record-breaking numbers nationwide, with 5.84 million people expected to fly, a 1.4% increase over last year’s previous high.

“This figure exclusively represents domestic leisure travel, counting complete round-trip itineraries as a single trip,” officials state in a release. “This differs from TSA data, which tracks each individual airport screening separately and includes both domestic and international travel.”

Travelers booking last-minute can find better deals by flying Tuesdays or Wednesdays, according to AAA officials.

So, when is are the best and worst times to hit the road?

According to INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, drivers should anticipate heavy road congestion on July 2 and July 6. The busiest times will be afternoons, while mornings offer the best escape from traffic.

On the water

One of the busiest time of the year for America’s recreational boat owners is hands down the Fourth of July holiday period. It also may be the longest time many boaters will spend the day on the water at anchor, enjoying fireworks shows, fishing holes and raft-ups.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provides safety tips for safe boating not just on the 4th, but year-round:

n Wear a life jacket – According to recent boating accident statistics, half of all boating deaths are due to drowning. This tragedy is preventable by always wearing a life jacket while boating. Learn more about choosing the right life jacket.

n Be aware of your surroundings – A significant percentage of boating accidents are due to collisions attributed to operator inattention or improper lookout. Pay attention and maintain 360-degree awareness while operating a boat.

n Designate a sober driver – About a quarter of all boating accidents are alcohol- or drug-related. Plus, operating a vessel while impaired is illegal and operators can face arrest if found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Celebrate after you’re done boating or make sure you have a designated driver.

n Take a Boating Safety Course – About three quarters of operators involved in fatal boating accidents have no formal boater education. An educated boater is a safer boater! All boat operators can benefit from taking a boating safety course, even those not required to complete one.

n Check your safety gear – In addition to all vessels

AAA urges drivers to make sure their vehicle is ready for the road, as AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls nation-

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

RE: CAPE CORAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING TIME CHANGES

The City of Cape Coral City Council will conduct their regular meetings beginning at 4:00 p.m. on the dates noted below. The meetings will be held in Council Chambers located at City Hall, 2nd Floor, 1015 Cultural Park Boulevard, Cape Coral, FL 33990. Additional meetings such as Committee of the Whole (COW) and Budget Workshops are also included in this list.

• Wednesday, July 16, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, July 23, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, July 30, 2025 COW at 9:30 a.m. following CRA meeting at 9:00 a.m.

• Tuesday, August 5, 2025 Budget Workshop at 2:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, August 6, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Tuesday, August 12, 2025 Budget Workshop at 2:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, August 13, 2025 COW – 9:00 a.m.

• Tuesday, August 19, 2025 Budget Workshop at 2:00 p.m. if needed

• Wednesday, August 20, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, August 27, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, September 3, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, September 10, 2025 COW at 9:30 a.m. following CRA meeting at 9:00 a.m.

• Wednesday, September 17, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, September 24, 2025 COW – 9:00 a.m.

• Wednesday, October 8, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, October 15, 2025 COW – 9:00 a.m.

• Wednesday, October 22, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, October 29, 2025 COW – 9:00 a.m.

• Wednesday, November 5, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, November 12, 2025 COW at 9:30 a.m. following CRA meeting at 9:00 a.m.

• Wednesday, November 19, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, December 3, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, December 10, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.

PLEASE NOTE: Meetings are subject to change. Agendas will be available on the City’s website. To see a copy of the agenda once posted, please go to: http://www.capecoral.gov/department/clerk/agendas_and_videos.php

Feel free to contact the City Clerk at 1-239-574-0417 should you require additional information.

Kimberly Bruns, CMC City Clerk

being equipped with life jackets, boaters are also required to have a whistle or horn. In addition, the FWC recommends buying, registering and having an emergency locator beacon onboard. Boats also may be required to have lights, fire extinguisher and flares. See boating safety equipment requirements.

n File a float plan – Let family and friends know where you are going and when you expect to return. The sooner rescuers can locate an overdue boater, the more likely the outcome will be positive. Download a float plan form.

n Know where you’re going - Familiarize yourself with local boating speed zones before setting out and always travel at a safe speed for environmental conditions.

n Watch the weather – Weather on the water can change rapidly. Always check the forecast before you go boating and keep an eye out for storms and rough seas.

n Consider an engine cut-off switch – Properly wearing a lanyard attached to an engine cut-off switch can shut the engine off if the operator falls overboard or is thrown from the proper operating position.

n Stay with the boat – If you find yourself in open water after an accident or your boat capsizes, do your best to stay with the boat even if it’s partially submerged. A vessel, even a small one, is more visible to rescuers so staying with the boat can increase your chances of being found.

n Report boating violations and dangerous or irresponsible vessel operation to the Wildlife Alert Program.

n Know and follow the rules. Learn more about regulations related to boaters, personal watercraft, skiers, divers, and snorkelers at MyFWC.com/Boating.

wide during last year’s holiday period for issues like dead batteries, flat tires, and empty gas tanks.

Editorial: Red, White & BOOM! a Cape Coral tradition for the 4th

From page 4

traditional Cape prelude to Red, White & BOOM!

Packet pickup and registration begins at 6 a.m.; the run begins at 7 a.m. on July 4 at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge.

There’s also a Kids Fun Run following the 5K with a post-race party following the event.

Proceeds from the Freedom 5K will benefit The Brotherhood of Heroes Resource Center and Museum and the Special Operations Communications Association.

Registration is open and is $40. Veterans can register for the race for $20. Fun Run registration is $15. The runs do include a small signup fee in addition to the

registration.

Community events such as these are made possible by the city, numerous businesses and hundreds of volunteers.

Red, White & BOOM! is organized by the city of Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department.

The business community significantly aids the effort by contributing funds to the effort.

LCEC is the sponsor of the American Fireworks Spectacular.

The Freedom 5K is title-sponsored this year by Priority Business Solutions while Scooter’s Lawn Care

will host the Kids Fun Run.

Numerous other businesses contribute as well. As we do every year, we thank all of these businesses for their generous donations, as well as our city’s Parks & Rec and public safety departments for their efforts.

Let us not forget all the volunteers.

Thank you, thank you!

It is events like BOOM! that make the Cape a wonderful place to live — and visit.

Have a very happy and safe hometown Fourth.

— Breeze editorial

Whenit comes to humans, gut health can be a great indicator of overall health. Often, when illnesses or conditions arise, symptoms are present in the gastrointestinal system. It makes sense that when you’re feeling bad or extra stressed, you can feel it in your stomach or your bowels – and the same is true for your pet.

“When my dogs are dealing with stomach issues, they’re not themselves – they just seem off,” said Kaley Cuoco, the well-known “Big Bang Theory” actress and co-founder of Oh Norman!, a pet wellness brand. “That’s why I became so obsessed with finding a way to boost their digestive health.”

Gut health involves several components of the gastrointestinal tract, including the microbiome (bacteria, viruses and fungi) and digestive system, which controls how the body breaks down and absorbs the nutritional components of food.

A healthy gut allows your pet to live comfortably with good overall wellness and a properly functioning immune system. Dogs with healthy guts have a moderate, consistent appetite and maintain a healthy weight. They have adequate energy and even look visibly healthy with a shiny coat. Their stools are firm and regular.

Conversely, dogs with gut health problems may be lethargic and have problems with excess or too little weight. They may experience pain, bad breath, poor skin condition and a variety of gastro symptoms like constipation, gas, vomiting or diarrhea.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s gut health, consider these tips from the animal-loving experts at Oh Norman!:

Consult with your veterinarian. Problems with gut health can have a dizzying number of sources, so if your dog exhibits signs of a gut health issue that seem severe or don’t go away within a day or two, it’s a good idea to talk with an expert. The advice you get will be tailored to your pet’s specific circumstances and needs so you can help your four-legged friend feel better fast.

Pay attention to your dog’s diet. A good gut-health eating plan is fiber-rich and balanced with protein, vegetables and healthy fats. Foods that contain probiotics support good bacteria while prebiotics help feed good bacteria. Food allergies or intolerances can also trigger gut health problems, so pay attention to ingredients that may be problematic for your pet.

Add supplements to boost the microbiome. If you’re concerned, and your veterinarian agrees, it may be useful to supplement your dog’s diet to support gut health. One option is Good Effing Gut, a functional soft chew from Oh Norman! formulated to support digestive and immune health in dogs. Suitable for dogs of all ages, these chews promote a balanced gut microbiome, support healthy digestion and immune functions and may aid weight management. Available in a natural pumpkin cinnamon flavor, the chews offer safe, effective ingredients including pumpkin and chicory root (prebiotics), Bacillus subtilis (probiotic) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (postbiotic), which work together to promote nutrient absorption, maintain healthy digestion, support skin and coat health and contribute to overall canine wellness.

Eliminate external factors. If your dog’s gut health issues aren’t driven by diet, some environmental adjustments can make a difference. For example, creating a more peaceful, secure living environment can help settle gut problems.

Practice good general care. Providing your pet with consistent loving care can also play a role in gut health. Dogs that feel safe, are well-disciplined, get regular exercise and remain well-hydrated tend to have stronger

health.

-Story and photo courtesy of Family Features • Source: Oh Norman!

Looking to buy a lot? Always verify zoning & land use

Dear Mr. Feichthaler:

I am considering purchasing a vacant property in Cape Coral in north Cape Coral. It is near the intersection of two four-lane highways, although there isn’t much activity in the area. Just a few houses in the neighborhood.

The property appraiser and tax office lists the property as residential. However, when I looked up the property on the Cape Coral GIS, it shows that the parcel is commercial! How can this be when there are houses in the block?

- Dana W.

Dear Dana,

Since my arrival to Cape Coral in 1987, the city has lamented its lack of commercial properties. The city has attempted to address this shortage by converting properties that have historically been residential into commercial properties. Specifically, many blocks in northern Cape Coral that are situated at intersections of two major parkways have been converted to commercial properties, even though homes may have already been built on some of the properties in these blocks.

The property appraiser may code this lot as residential for taxation purposes, but the city’s zoning is what will control what can be done with the property.

Although people with homes already on a block may have the ability to rebuild, those purchasing vacant lots should be aware the city will likely not issue a single family or multi-family permit on commercial property. Many lot owners have approached me over the years to assist them in a rezoning. My experience indicates the city is very unlikely to approve a change to commercial zoning unless nearly the entire block has already developed as residential properties. The houses already there may have been built prior to the zoning change.

It is vital for any purchaser of real estate, vacant or not, to do their due diligence in determining all important aspects of the property. Zoning and land use are a public record, so it may be difficult to accuse a seller of “hiding” the zoning issues that preclude residential development.

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.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

Source: Lee County Property Appraiser

Median sales prices for Cape condos down from 2024

The main takeaways in the Cape Coral condo market were that the number of closed sales in our overall condo market in the month of May were 28% higher than they were in May 2024, but during the first five months of this year the number of overall closed condo sales were 6% lower compared to the first five months of 2024. This decline in the first five months was driven by a drop in the number of dry lot condo sales. Another positive note was that the number of closed condo sales in our saltwater canal segments were higher than they were over the first five months of last year. But the big negative in the Cape’s condo market was that median condo sales prices were lower across the board this May when compared to May 2024.

We are also seeing the typical shift from our busier winter season to our slower summer months being reflected in the number of pending condo sales in the pipeline. Based on our daily market snapshots, we started this year with 39 pending condo sales on Jan. 1, before reaching our peak of 71 pending sales in mid-March, followed by our recent high of 62 pending sales on May 14. We have been below 50 pending condo sales in the pipeline since May 30, while remaining stuck in a range of 40 to 48 condos under contract since then.

One of the more interesting things we came across that helps illustrate the changes in our condo market over the past three years was the data underneath the surface of the second highest-priced current pending condo sale in the Cape. The seller purchased this direct gulf access canal condo with a deeded boat slip for $400,000 near the end of the post-COVID market boom in April 2022. At that time, this condo was initially listed for sale at $375,000 on Feb. 8, 2022, and it went under contract on Feb. 12. The prior owner who was selling in 2022, bought this condo for $213,900 on March 9, 2020. The current owner listed this unit for sale at $365,000 in May 2024, and took it off of the market in November of last year, before relisting it for $365,000 on April 2 of this year. This condo went under contract at $365,000 about two weeks ago, which is 8.8% below what the seller paid for it in 2022.

Current active condo listings and pending sales

As of June 24, there were 430 active listings in the MLS for Cape Coral condos at list prices ranging from $113,000 to $1,599,999. The current median condo list price is $254,950. Back on Jan. 1 of this year there were 422 condos listed for sale with the median list price at $266,000. Based on our daily market surveys our seasonal high for condos listed for sale in Cape Coral this year occurred on March 29 when we topped out with 506 active listings. Just under a year ago on July 8, 2024, there were 413 condos listed for sale in the MLS at prices ranging from $135,900 to $3.9 million, and the median list price was $289,900.

There were 48 pending condo sales in the pipeline as of June 24, at prices ranging from $93,000 to $449,000 with the median pending condo sales price in the Cape at $249,990. A total of 43 of the 48 pending sales are priced at $300,000 and under. At the beginning of this year there were 39 pending condo sales in the pipeline with a median pending sales price of $259,900. About one year ago on July 8, 2024, there were 44 pending condo sales at prices ranging $110,000 to $854,000 and the median pending sales price was $292,450.

Closed condo sales and median sales prices

The May median sales price came in at $249,900 for the Cape’s gulf access saltwater canal condo segment, which was 25.4% below the $335,000 posted in May 2024, but 2% higher than the $245,000 in April of this year. In the first five months of 2025, the median sales price in this segment averaged $265,820 per month, which was down 16.4% versus the average of $318,100 per month in the first five months of 2024.

Direct sailboat access canal condos

In the Cape Coral direct sailboat access canal condo segment, which is a subgroup of gulf access condos where boaters have no bridges to go under in the canal system, there were 16 closed sales in May. This was up 23.1% from 13 condos sold in May 2024, and 6.7% above the 15 units sold in April of this year. In the first five months of 2025, there were a total of 72 condos sold in this segment, up 33.33% from 54 sales in the first five months of 2024.

The May median sales price came in at $260,000 for the Cape’s direct sailboat access canal condo segment, which was 29.7% below the $370,000 posted in May 2024, but up 2% from $255,000 in April of this year. In the first five months of 2025, the median sales price in this segment averaged $320,850 per month, which was down 10.1% versus the average of $356,950 per month in the first five months of 2024.

Dry lot condos

In the Cape Coral dry lot (non-canal) condo segment, there were 27 closed sales in May, which was 28.6% higher than the 21 condos sold in May 2024, and 22.7% above the 22 sales in April of this year. In the first five months of 2025, there were a total of 106 dry lot condos sold in the Cape, which was 13.1% percent less than the 122 dry lot units sold in the first five months of 2024.

The May median sales price came in at $205,000 for the Cape’s dry lot condo segment, which was 6.8% below the $220,000 posted in May 2024, but 14.2% more than the $179,500 in April of this year. As a point of reference, two years ago the median sales price was $277,450 in the month of May 2023. In the first five months of 2025, the median sales price in this segment averaged $197,600 per month, or 10.6% less than the average of $221,000 per month in the first five months of 2024. Of note, during the first five months of 2023, the median sales price for dry lot condos averaged $248,790 per month.

The sales data for this article was obtained from the Florida Realtors Multiple Listing Service Matrix for Lee County, Fla., as of June 22, 2025, unless otherwise noted. It was compiled by Bob and Geri Quinn and it includes information specifically for Cape Coral condominiums, townhouses and villas, and it does not include any single-family homes, 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.

In the overall Cape Coral condo market, there were 54 closed sales in May, which was 28.6% higher than the 42 sales in May 2024, and 3.8% above the 52 sales in April of this year. In the first five months of 2025, there were a total of 236 condos sold overall in the Cape, which was 6% below the 251 sold in the first five months of 2024.

The May median sales price came in at $235,250 for the overall Cape Coral condo market, which was 9.9% below the $261,000 posted in May 2024, but it was 2.1% higher than the $230,500 in April of this year. In the first five months of 2025, the median sales price averaged $236,500 per month in our overall condo market, or 10.9% below the average of $265,400 per month in the first five months of 2024.

Gulf access canal condos

In the Cape Coral gulf access canal condo segment, which includes all “saltwater” canal condos, there were 21 closed sales in May. This was 40% more than the 15 condos sold in May 2024, but 8.7% below the 23 sales in April of this year. In the first five months of 2024, there were a total of 108 gulf access saltwater canal condos sold in the Cape, which was 16.1% above the 93 units sold in the first five months of 2024.

Fri. 6/27/2025 11-1pm 1005 SW 34th St, Cape Coral, FL 33914

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Jonathan Minerick HOMECOIN.COM

Larry Deberry Coldwell Banker Realty

Larry Deberry Coldwell Banker Realty

Rachel Rogriguez Builders Land Associates

Larry Deberry Coldwell Banker Realty

Trish Biehl Coldwell Banker Realty

Miskic EXP Realty

SporTS

Being able to adapt to changing conditions can bring fishing success

Consistently successful anglers have many things in common. Some of the most important traits are the ability to adapt to changing conditions be it tides, sunlight, moon phases, water quality, seasons, baitfish locations, weather and how different species of fish react to the constantly changing conditions as well.

A week or so ago fishing Boca Grande with crabs was really the only place to be for consistent hook-ups leaving coastal anglers searching for beach traveling fish. Nowadays there are still tarpon to challenge in the pass and they will be for months to come, but many have moved out along the coast giving staked-out or mobile coastal anglers their shot tossing crabs or threadfins in the path of moving schools or smaller pods of fish. Fish both free lined or using small floats.

This is where having the right tackle, as in the right rod, pays off. Trying to cast unweighted light baits like crabs or baitfish on 60-pound Power Pro and a leader requires a rod with some flex in the upper portion of the rod and tip but still with enough backbone to fight and release the fish in a reasonable amount of time before hot water or a following set of razor sharp teeth does damage preventing a healthy release. Using the right tool for the job increases your chance at success. Adapt!

If you are a purist and reject bait because “that’s cheating,” it’s time to break out the fly rod and get in on the coastal action. A well-presented fly has many advantages as it can be retrieved quickly, slowly, erratically and or made to die or sink into the fish’s range representing an easy meal. Another good choice for coastal tarpon are smaller Hogy-type eels on jig heads or fished without weight on the surface or unweighted and worked slowly sinking to the fish’s depth.

Modified MirrOlures with the treble hooks replaced by a single circle hook attached or “bridled” to the front line tie with light wire, rubber band material or dental floss at times can be a killer lure.

For many years the classic MirrOlure has been the secret weapon of many tarpon anglers and unfortunately

June 27, 2025

The players and coaches on the Cape American 10U baseball team pose with their state championship banner, trophy and medallions. The team is now headed to the regional tournament in Henrico, Virginia.

Cape American 10U baseball team wins city’s first state title, now headed to regional

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A Cape Coral youth baseball team has made history and is on its way to competing for a national championship.

The Cape American 10U team is 9-0 in tournament play, and most recently took home a state championship and is on the way to play top teams at the Cal Ripken Baseball Southeast Regionals.

To get there, though, the team is seeking the help of the community to help cover costs to travel to the tournament site in Henrico, Virginia, in mid-July for its roster of 13.

Team manager/head coach Trevor Mackellar said the core of the team has come up together since they were 8, and have won districts each of those years. While they had come up short in state tournaments in the past, this year was a different story. Cape American is looking for the opportunity to test its mettle against eight of the best teams around the Southeast United States.

“It’s a really great group of boys,” Mackellar said. “A really great group of parents, and my assistant coaches are incredible as well. It’s the only way, especially in youth sports, to have a successful team like this.”

The team’s “battle cry” is “we, not me.”

Mackellar, a Mariner High School grad, said he’s taken lessons from previous coaches and has implemented those beliefs into the youth he leads today.

“No one player is bigger than the team. We all play for each other,” he said. “There are no selfish at-bats. We have team at-bats and play team baseball. All those little things that will translate into these young men being successful adults. That’s our main philosophy. We coach the player, and we teach baseball.”

Naturally, the team has performed quite impressively to reach this stage. The squad has outscored its opponents 99-19 over the nine games, and is backed by a stout pitching staff. Since district play has begun, the team ERA is 0.771, with 74 combined strikeouts to just 21 walks in 70 innings.

“We have an incurable pitching staff,” Mackellar said. “Our pitching and our defense keeps us in every single game.”

Mackellar said the offensive output has started to match the level of the team’s pitching and defense.

“Our bats finally work up,” he said. “We have some really incredibly talented young players. They’re smart kids with high baseball IQs. We feel we do things the right way, and things are starting to pay off.”

The team is looking to raise $1,000 per-player to cover expenses such as travel, fuel, lodging, meals and tournament costs.

Cape American is hoping the community will rally around the team to help them finish what they started.

Mackellar said he hopes people can think back and remember how it felt for them to be part of something big or exciting as a child, whether that be playing baseball, other sports, or any other life event.

“What makes this extra special is we are the very first team in the city of Cape Coral to ever win a Cal Ripken or Little League state title in baseball,” he said. “We try to give back to the community ourselves through different events, including an MLB ‘Pitch, Hit, and Run’ contest later this summer.

“Just rally around these young guys. This is a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to be on a team on a roll like this, and to be able to take our group out of state and continue our run.”

Mackellar said he feels the team has a great shot to win the regional and move on to Cal Ripken Baseball World Series in Indiana.

The team is hosting a send-off party and fundraiser at its home field at Koza/Saladino Park, located at 301 S.W. 30th Terrace, Saturday, July 12, starting at 11 a.m.

The Cape American 10U roster is made up of Tyrus Mackellar, Hunter Morfis, Zayden Poklemba, Mason Goodison, Dariel Sam, Camden Lehman, Jacob Skocik, Brayden Macha, Jaks Wilkerson, Carter Giampi, Dominic Tuminello, Max Cardona and Amari Geary.

Assistant coaches include Cody Coffman, Ryan Poklemba and Aaron Geary.

There is a GoFundMe page set up for donations, which can be found by visiting www.gofundme.com/f/statechamps-on-a-mission-cape-10u-to-regionals.

Boat ramp in Bokeelia to close for renovations

Lavender’s Landing Boat Ramp, located at 7290 Barrancas Ave., N.W., in Bokeelia, will close temporarily beginning Monday, July 7, for parking improvements and renovations. The project, timed to begin after the July 4 holiday, is expected to be completed by Spring 2026, weather permitting.

The project includes expanding the parking lot to increase capacity and improve lighting, as well as renovating the first floor of the on-site office building.

During the closure, boaters in the Pine Island area are encouraged to use nearby county ramps at:

n Matlacha Park, 4577 Pine Island Road, Matlacha

n Pine Island Commercial Marina, 6001 Maria Drive, St. James City (Available weekends and Lee Countyrecognized holidays).

For additional Lee County boat ramp locations and updates on this project, visit www.leeparks.org/boats.

For Cape Coral boat ramps locations, visit https://www. capecoral.gov/department/parks_and_recreationhome/ yacht_club_community_center/click_here.php

Residents and visitors can also explore more than 30 locations and earn rewards through Parks, Points & Perks, a free digital pass program available through May 2026. Learn more at www.visitfortmyers.com/ParksPass.

Capt. George Tunison

PHOTO PROVIDED

Fishing success: Being able to adapt is very helpful out on the water

From page 34

many still use them straight out of the box with two to three small treble hooks attached. This is not a good plan for you or the fish.

Imagine trying to remove two or more treble hooks deeply in the throat of a boatside, thrashing, moving and unhappy large fish. This is a dangerous practice and a great way to get attached to a 100-pound fish looking for some payback. Ouch!

Also being small they are easily taken

too far down the fish’s throat often making a healthy release unsuccessful. Try the single circle hook method instead if you’re a MirrOlure fan.

This time of year with the afternoon thunderstorm and lightning machine turned fully on, getting out early and coming home safely is the only sane plan, especially when visiting your fishy friends out in the 150 zone looking for some bigger snapper and grouper specimens residing there.

Actually there is lots of nearshore action

happening right now with Spanish macs, snapper, smaller cobia and beautiful permit quite close to the coast providing fishing fun as well as a few other delicious dinner guests.

Morning or afternoon rains cool and juice up the water with increased oxygen levels turning shallow backwater fish on and making them more likely to want to play. Just make sure you keep a sharp eye on your favorite cell phone weather channel to avoid danger.

The west side of the harbor is hosting

good numbers of redfish and smaller snook under the bushes along with some trout. Various sized bull and bonnethead sharks are patrolling the edges and drop-offs as well.

The west wall and Bull and Turtle bays are all good choices for some inshore action.

Capt. George Tunison is a Cape Coral resident fishing guide. You can contact him at 239-579-0461 or via email at captgeorget3@aol.com.

July programs: Schedule of activities, classes at Northwest Library

From page 18

tion, the STEAM way. This exciting science demonstration puts the ART in STEAM and will show you how simple things can transform in surprising ways. For ages 6-11 years. Check in at the Youth Desk.

Under the Sea Party

11 a.m., Thursday, July 17

Dive in and explore different seathemed activities, games and crafts at this creative program. Please check in at the Youth Desk. While supplies last.

Glow Wild Dance Party

6 p.m., Tuesday, July 22

Join us for a glow-in-the-dark dance extravaganza filled with music, glowsticks,

photo opportunities and nonstop fun. Put on your brightest attire or wear white and dance the night away under black lights. With beats that’ll make you move, it’s guaranteed to be a glowing good time for everyone. For ages 6-11 years. Registration is required. Check in at the Youth Desk.

Enchanted Forest Ball

11 a.m., Thursday, July 24

Calling all fairies, trolls, dragons and unicorns. Join us in the Enchanted Forest for a magical ball of wonders. We’ll be celebrating the end of summer with a mythical dress-up party. Costumes are not required but are encouraged. Please check in at the Youth Desk.

Teen Programs

Let It Flow with a Glow,

Acrylic Pour Painting

4 p.m., Wednesday, July 9

Get ready to create glowing masterpieces with neon paint in a dimly lit room illuminated by blacklights. We recommend wearing white or neon colors to shine bright. For ages 12-18 years. Registration is required.

Beat the Heat:

Indoor Playground Games

4 p.m., Wednesday, July 16

Come inside to beat the heat and play some indoor playground games. For ages 12-18 years. Registration is required.

Comic Book Workshop

4 p.m., Wednesday, July 23

Dive into exciting worlds of comics and creativity. In this interactive and

highly engaging summer reading experience, participants will explore storytelling through drawing, music, juggling and other magical surprises. For ages 12-18 years. Registration is required. Check in at the Youth Desk.

The Northwest Regional Library is located at 519 Chiquita Blvd., N., in Cape Coral. For more information about a program or to register, please call the library at 239-533-4700. Check the Lee County Library System’s website at www.leelibrary. net to find out about programs at other locations. Call the host library, or Telephone Reference at 239-479-INFO (4636), for more information about a specific program. To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www.leegov.com/resources/newsletters.

Cottage garden: A variety of self-seeding plants are available to use

From page 18

daisy-like flowers atop tall stems with lacy foliage. They come in a variety of colors and grow best in a sunny spot, with welldrained soil and protection from wind.

n Pentas (Pentas lanceolata) are perennial plants, aptly named because of the five-pointed petals on the flowers. The plants come in a profusion of colors and attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Pentas are low maintenance plants, provided they get plenty of water and sunshine.

n Native milkweeds (Asclepias syriaca) are essential for monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) caterpillars and support a diversity of pollinators. It can grow in full to partial sun and thrives in well-drained soil. Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is one of the most available and popular native species of milkweed. It grows as a perennial and produces vibrant orange or yellow flowers.

n Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella), also known as blanket flower, is a perennial that blooms throughout the spring, summer and fall. It is a Florida-Friendly plant and is an excellent source for nectar and pollen.

The flowers are generally reddish purple or orange red with yellow tips, but can also be solid yellow, orange or red. Gaillardia tolerates extreme heat, sun, sandy soils and salt, making it a good choice for coastal areas.

n Coreopsis (Coreopsis leavenworthii), commonly known as tickseed, is Florida’s state wildflower. It is a native perennial and blooms in the spring and summer. Most are daisy-like with a ring of yellow petals surrounding a brown or yellow center. This Florida-Friendly plant needs a sunny spot and once established, is drought tolerant.

n Zinnias (Zinnia sp.) are annual flowers that come in a variety of colors. The most common zinnia is Zinnia elegans. They come in dwarf forms, only 6 inches tall, or tall forms, growing up to 3 feet. The flower types can vary. Zinnias are drought tolerant and need full sun. For longer flowering, remove the old blooms and pinch back the plant to encourage new growth.

Other self-seeding plants you may want to consider are ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum), black-eyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta), flat-topped goldenrod (Euthamia caroliniana), and borage (Borago officina-

Recall effort: Petition signatures

From page 17

The process also requires two petition drives.

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

If enough the signatures are gathered, they are submitted to the City Clerk’s Office and then certified by the Lee County Supervisor of Elections.

There is a window 30 days after the date on which the first signature is obtained on the petition.

According social media posts regarding the recall effort, organizers listed a June 17 date for return of its petitions.

The city confirmed Thursday that the City Clerk’s Office had not received any such documents.

L’Hommedieu said the group will remain an active watchdog and that, through the collection of signatures, a lot of things were uncovered, which they are actively looking into.

“It did bring a lot of information to life. We found out a lot of stuff. I submitted a bunch of public record requests today,”

L’Hommedieu said. “The team is not stopping – there is a lot more information to look into that has not been uncovered yet. We are going to continue to fight.”

lis). All of these plants thrive in full sun. Summer is officially here and with it comes heat and humidity. It is challenging to work in the garden when the humidity is high, and the heat rises above 90 degrees. But there is a solution. We can sit back,

relax, and let the “volunteers” take over.

Carole Kerns is a Lee County Master Gardener Volunteer and a volunteer at the Berne Davis Botanical Garden.

Cape Coral animal Shelter

Looking for a loving home

Jetson is a 6 months to 1 year-old male. He may be an older “puppy,” but no one gave his body the memo—he’s built like a linebacker. Jetson loves to run, bounce, and wrestle with other big dogs and sometimes he forgets that he’s not exactly lap-sized. (Spoiler: He’s still trying anyway.) His dream home has a big ol’ fenced yard—like, 6 feet tall, because apparently, he’s part kangaroo. But he’d also be happy in a home that keeps him active with walks, hikes or jogs.

Havana (Willow) is a 3 to 5-yearold female and she is just as sweet and just as stunning. She likes to take her time getting to know you, but once she does? She is all in. Think of her as the introvert who gives the best hugs.

The Cape Coral Animal Shelter is located at 325 S.W. 2nd Ave., Cape Coral, and hours of operation are Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 5 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Please call 239-573-2002 for additional information.

Jetson

Havana (Willow)

2025 Florida Python Challenge set for July 11-20

In just a few short weeks, the 2025 Florida Python Challenge kicks off, giving participants the opportunity to raise awareness about invasive species, help protect native wildlife and win their share of $25,000 in prizes by removing invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades ecosystem.

This year’s competition features the addition of Everglades National Park as one of eight official Florida Python Challenge locations.

The 10-day competition, running from July 11-20 and hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the South Florida Water Management District, features an Ultimate Grand Prize of $10,000 for the registered participant who removes the most pythons.

Competition participants also have the opportunity

to win other cash prizes for most and longest pythons removed in three different categories, including novice, professional and military categories.

Visit FLPythonChallenge.org to register for the competition and take the required online training, as well as learn more about Burmese pythons, the unique Everglades ecosystem, additional training options and resources for planning your trip to south Florida for this year’s Challenge.

In addition to year-round python removal opportunities on 32 Commission-managed lands, Burmese pythons may be humanely killed on private lands at any time with landowner permission no permit or hunting license required.

The FWC encourages people to remove and humanely

kill invasive pythons from private lands whenever possible.

About invasive Burmese pythons

Burmese pythons are not native to Florida and negatively impact native wildlife. This invasive species is found primarily in and around the Everglades ecosystem in south Florida where they prey on birds, mammals and other reptiles. A female Burmese python can lay 50 to over 100 eggs at a time.

Since 2000, more than 23,000 Burmese pythons have been reported to the FWC as removed from Florida’s environment.

For more information on Burmese pythons, visit MyFWC.com/Python.

Rentals: Residents, property owners, industry leaders tapped for input

From page 1

The city estimates the increased fee, based on 10,000 rental units, would raise $6 million annually with 20%, or $120 per unit, to be earmarked for enforcement and the rest channeled into a new tourist development fund for related infrastructure.

On Friday, various topics, concerns, were called out and jotted down. Areas of interest include cost recovery for compliance, tourist development fund creation, length of stay, accountability for the law, cooperation of the business community, consideration of adding annual rentals to the fee, improved communication between all parties, and the requirement of local property management.

Code Compliance Division Manager Todd Hoagland said the division has software that runs a report every night to reveal rentals that may be violating the rental ordinance for the city. He said one cause of frustration is weekly rentals.

“We cannot prevent someone from leaving after three days. The rule is seven-day rental. If they leave after a

four-day weekend and vacate the residence, we cannot compel someone to stay the entire week,” he said.

Hoagland said they recently had a case where they brought the rental home into compliance, resulting in a zero fine. He said when nobody was looking, they changed the days of stay back to three days.

Other code compliance issues are parking on the front lawn, litter, noise and putting trash cans out too early.

“Those types of issues are brought to light,” Hoagland said.

A challenge that City Manager Mike Ilczyszyn shared is the number of code enforcement officers they city has, which are not assigned solely to short-term rentals. He said if they use 9,000 short-term rentals that are spread over 120 square miles, with four square miles on average having 75 short-term rentals per square mile, each officer would manage 300 short-term rentals. This is on top of the other issues code enforcement is addressing.

Ilczyczn said since 2021, when the short-term rental registration was put into place, the city has had 6,522 property owners register their property.

“That is the one-time fee - $228,000 of revenue under the fee that was in place at that time,” he said.

Gloria Tate, a Realtor and former city council member and a member of the group, said it’s a wake-up call from property managers to better improve their process, communication with residents and ability to do vacation rentals.

“It comes down to how they are going to work as a team,” she said.

A resident, who said their house is sandwiched between two Airbnbs, was among the members of the public speaking.

“I have made my peace with Airbnb. It does change the nature of the community and neighborhoods. It’s an enormous amount of stress,” Frank Perry said. “We don’t know who comes in next to us.”

Another meeting will be held next month to continue the discussion of the group, which is expected to meet during city council’s annual summer hiatus.

Councilmember Rachel Kaduk to hold District 7 Town Hall June 28

Cape Coral District 7 Councilmember Rachel Kaduk will hold a Town Hall, “Coffee with Councilmember Kaduk” on Saturday, June 28, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Eagle Specialty Coffee, 1519 N,E, Pine Island Road, Suite 110.

Cape Coral District 5 Councilmember Joseph Kilraine will hold his next Town Hall on Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to noon at Cape Christian, 2110 Chiquita Blvd. S.

The prime focus will be the city’s continuous improve-

“This community-focused event allows neighbors to connect and engage directly with Council Member Kaduk,” a release from the city’s communications office states. “Residents are encouraged to share their concerns, ask questions, and discuss ideas for the future of District 7 and the City of Cape Coral.”

ment program introduced by the city manager with other topics welcome.

“Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, these are an opportunity to meet your neighbors and engage in meaningful conversations about the issues that matter most to you,” city officials said.

FlexEd: Fee structure still being finalized for available programs

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those three areas is it has room for students to be added to the classes, as well as what students can gain from taking the courses, Spicker said.

“Our JROTC program is one of the largest in the country, teaching leadership, teamwork, and planning skills that benefit students throughout their lives. Our arts programs are second to none, and our career academies teach valuable skills to start working right out of high school, open a business, or prepare for college. An FES student who wants leadership skills can take JROTC and then participate in Raiders or Marksmanship. If they play an instrument and want to be in marching band, then they can take a class and play on Friday nights. If they want to weld or repair HVAC systems, they can join our academies for those skills,” he said.

Although the majority of the opportunities are offered at the high school level, there will be some classes for middle school students.

Death Notices

Cape Coral

Roland Theodore, 80 of Cape Coral, passed away on June 17, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Francis Joseph Heaton, 81, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away June18, 20925. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services-Cape Coral.

Larry G. Bell, 89, of Cape Coral FL, passed away June 20, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Harvey Engelhardt Funeral Home.

Victoria Mae Cummings, 76 of Cape Coral, passed away on June 16, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome. com for additional information.

Randall Clayton Feinstein, 74 of Cape Coral, passed away on June 22, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome. com for additional information.

Joy Ellen Ursillo, 67 of Cape Coral, passed away on June 14, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

David Joseph Bauschke, 66 of Cape Coral, passed away on June 13, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome. com for additional information.

Jose Fernando Duenas Martinez, 27 of Cape Coral, passed away on June 18, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Nancy Marie Atwood, 62 of Cape Coral, passed away on June 22, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

Shirley Marie Brown, 93, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away June 18, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Services. www. fullermetz.com

Barbara Lynn Kelley, 77 of Cape Coral, passed away on June 12, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.

“Based on interest, we hope to expand in the future,” Spicker said.

Those interested in Lee FlexEd are asked to fill out a short survey at https://forms.gle/6UJgvSgoZ4TRkH3NA. A survey should be filled out for each student interested in the program.

The survey includes which arts programs the student would be interested in — such as dance, band plus instrument, band plus marching band, chorus, orchestra, visual arts, and theater.

There is also a section for career and technical education. Expected offering include outboard marine repair, automobile repair, welding, advanced manufacturing, principles of teaching, early childhood education, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, carpentry, ad well as Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) programs.

“It helps us determine what classes students are interested in so we can develop the final list of offerings. We will connect in a few weeks with the students who have

shown interest to provide them the classes, locations, and fees associated with them so they can begin the registration process,” he said. “Classes will start on the first day of school, Monday, Aug. 11, and enrolled students will have an opportunity to visit the school before the first day.”

The fee structure is still being finalized, and payment will be required to complete enrollment, Spicker said.

“As a vendor, FES students will be able to pay directly from their Education Savings Account,” he said.

Students who take part in Lee FlexEd will be required to follow the district’s rules and regulations, including the Code of Conduct, while on campus or participating in an extracurricular activity.

“Parents will also need to sign a parent agreement, outlining the benefits and limitations of the program. Since students and parents will be engaging in a contracted service, it will be important that guardians read the agreement carefully, as the fees will be non-transferable and non-refundable,” Spicker said.

SUDOKU SHEFFER CROSSWORD

Difficulty: SILVER

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

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