Celebrating Pine Islanders: Ronnie Lolly
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Lifetime islander Ronnie Lolly said he would describe himself as a commercial fisherman, who was grandfathered into his trade.
“My family goes back over 600-700 years — before Columbus ever thought he found the place. I’ve got grandparents and great grandparents buried over on Cayo Costa,” Lolly said.
His paternal grandfather was a Portuguese sponge diver and his paternal grandmother was a Blackfoot Indian, he said.
When his mother went into labor with him, he said, his parents were on Cayo Costa and a helicopter picked his mother up and took her to Lee Memorial Hospital,
where he was born. After his birth, the family lived on Cayo Costa until he was 5 years old.
“We moved back over here to Pine Island and my father bought a big plot of land with mango trees and we lived in a two-story house — it was a barn house,” Lolly said.
His father died at 99 years old and his father’s mother was 107 when she died, Lolly said.
CLT: Re-pining of Pine Island a big success
Since last fall, over 250 baby native pine trees acquired from the Florida Forestry Service have been under the babysitting care of members of the Calusa Land Trust and the Pine Island Garden Club. With the return of the rainy season, some 40 volunteers on June 21 grabbed their shovels for their planting at four CLT preserves. Also assisting with the effort were Matlacha/Pine Island firefighters demonstrating their water-dousing talents.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
“She was out chopping wood with a hoe the last time I saw her and she was 103. I was just a little squirt. I laid up in the back of a ’56 Chevy — in the window — I had 3 brothers and a sister. Me and the dog rode in the back window,” Lolly said.
The fact that he was born and raised on Pine Island has made it unique enough for him. He said he knows every inch of the water bottom, which is hardly something anyone can say.
“If you asked me where you went today — out in the harbor — I could tell you what the bottom was underneath your boat. I know almost every oyster bar that’s risen out here around the harbor from Punta Gorda to
Pine Island kids have summer fun with Lee County Parks and Rec program
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
In light of the damages done by Hurricane Ian, the summer program provided by the Lee County Parks and Recreation on Pine Island has been moved from Matlacha Park to Pine Island Elementary. According to Grayce Smith, who works with the kids in the program, this has worked fine for the summer campers.
“We’ve been renting out the school’s cafeteria space. We get to use the playground, we get to go to the pool two times a week. Tuesdays and Thursdays are our pool days and because it’s so close from the pool to the school, we walk the kids to the pool and then walk back. That kind of takes up our whole day, but as counselors we get a week before to pre-plan, so we’ve been planning lots and lots of things to do,” Smith said.
A plan has already been made for a field trip and lunch at Lakes Park, she said.
She explained as she understands it, the county gets a budget as well as fundraising and also collecting contributions from some of the Pine Island organizations that contribute towards anything that might be needed.
“This is my second year. It’s been a blast. It’s just a really fun time,” Smith said.
They get new kids every week, she said. Because every week is different, they sign up new kids each week. They are only allowed approximately 30 kids so it fills up pretty fast, she said.
Kids at this camp are accepted from first grade to sixth grade.
For additional information about the Lee County Parks and Recreation Department’s year-round programs, please visit https://www.leegov.com/parks/programs/summer
See RONNIE LOLLY, page 9
Ronnie Lolly
‘What Does Patriotism Mean to Me?’
The Greater Pine Island Elks Lodge recently held its Americanism Essay Contest for 2025. The topic was “What Does Patriotism Mean to Me” and the contest was open to all of the 5th graders at Pine Island Elementary School.
Elks Lodge officials thanked and congratulated all of the students for their essays, saying they “were very inspiring.”
Featured here are the award-winners’ essays from PIE’s 5th graders.
By Justin Kane Ralston
What does patriotism mean to you? To me it stands for bravery, kindness and being a hero. Wikipedia says Patriotism is the feeling of love, devotion, to a country or state.
“Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.” John F Kennedy. I know a friend who serves in the military and he is brave for risking his life for our country, for our freedom. Veteran’s Day is to show appreciation to friends, family or anyone that serves for our military. The 4th of July celebrates the making of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.
Every time you go and vote, that is patriotism by using our rights to vote. You may not notice, but following everyday laws is patriotism. Saying the pledge of elegance every day is patriotism.
Being a patriot means all this and more. We live in the United States of America which is the best country in the world. We can have any career we choose, we can travel anywhere we want and live wherever we desire. This is why we need to be patriotic because we are truly free.
By Connor Martin
Patriotism is the feeling of loving your country more than others and being proud of it. To me, patriotism is respecting your country and having pride in your country. Soldiers fought for our freedom and we should honor
them. In my school we have a day to honor our veterans. We sing patriotic songs to show our love for the country and them.
We have freedom and rights as citizens such as voting and freedom of speech. I can show my pride in my country by respecting others and voting when I get old enough. Voting gives you a choice in electing our leaders.
Every morning at my school we have a WPIE news where we respect the flag by standing up, placing our right hand over our hearts, and saying the Pledge of Allegiance. It’s our way to pay respect to the flag and the people who fought for our freedom.
As Harry S, Truman once said, “America was not built on fear. America was built on courage. On imagination and unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.” As Americans, we show our love for the country because living in the United States, one of the best countries in the world, is a privilege.
By Alexander Rubio Vergara
What does patriotism mean to me? Patriotism means to have citizenship in the U.S.A. Citizenship gives you the right to vote. Voting is important because you have a say to who your president is.
Patriotism is showing respect to the American flag. We show respect by hanging the flag outside our house, businesses, and schools. We pledge to the flag every morning.
Patriotism also means to show respect to the veterans that serve our country and have died for it. There is a special day to represent the people that died in the war for our freedom. The day was called Memorial Day.
Barack Obama once said, “We, the People, recognize that we have responsibilities as well as rights; that our destinies are bound together; that a freedom without commitment to others, a freedom without love or charity or duty or patriotism, is unworthy of our founding ideals, and those who died in their defense.” We have responsibilities to keep the US a good place for people
PHOTO PROVIDED Pine Island Elementary 5th grade students, from left, Connor Martin, Justin Kane Barton and Alexander Rubio Vergara are the winners in Greater Pine Island Elks Lodge’s Americanism Essay Contest for 2025. Presenting their awards is Exalted Ruler John Hotzfield. The theme for this year’s essay was “What Does Patriotism Mean to Me.”
OPINIONS
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Previous Web Poll Question:
What worries you most about a hurricane?
n Wind and rain. 0%
n Tornadoes. 18%
n Storm surge. 41%
n Loss of power. 10%
n Phone service loss. 23%
n All of the above. 8%
Current Web Poll Question:
Do you support the county decision to ban smoking and vaping in parks?
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Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com
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
Matlacha Hookers say thank you!
To the editor:
Thank you and thank you again! The results of hurricanes Helene and Milton last fall resulted in the loss of two Bokeelia landmarks and local icons: Capt Con’s Restaurant and the Bokeelia Fishing Pier. These were the locations of the 2024 November Pine Island Elementary Fishing Tournament & Derby.
Luckily, Jug Creek Marina greeted us with open arms and we were able to host a
Guest Commentary
a teacher’s base salary.
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 stu-
Letters to the Editor
make-up event the weekend of May 16-18. As always, we cannot do what we do without the continued support of the Greater Pine Island Community. We are humbled and grateful.
Congratulations to the winners of the PIE Fishing Tournament and the kids that fished in the Derby that won awards for their fish; winning trophies, bicycles in the drawing, gifts in the Hook-A-Basket for items selected just for them and the Pie in Face Drawing for a staff member of Pine Island Elementary.
We Want Your Opinion
The views expressed on the Opinions pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Opposing views are welcome. Letters to the Editor or guest columns may be mailed to: Pine Island Eagle, 10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60, Bokeelia, FL 33922; e-mailed to pineisland@ breezenewspapers.com; posted to our Virtual Newsroom at www.breezenewspapers.com or faxed to 283-0232. All letters and guest columns must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes. You also can comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: pineisland-eagle.com
dent success. It’s important to emphasize that this initiative is statutorily separate from collective bargaining.
While we remain committed to goodfaith 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 Lee County School Board chair and Denise M. Carlin, Ed.D., is superintendent of Lee County Schools
It was a beautiful day with clear skies and plenty of activities for all.
But, once again, we cannot complete any of our effort without support from all of you. So, it’s time to say thank you for the donations of the Jug Creek Marina for a location and allowing us to literally invade their space; Kickstands for hosting the Captains Meeting Dinner, all of the auction items, Hook-A-Basket items for kids and adults, GPIA for cooking and serving lunch for the Derby kids, activities and so many more.
The American Legion; American Legion Auxiliary, Legion Rides, Sons of the Legion, Bobby Holloway, VFW Auxiliary, Moose Lodge, Elks Lodge, and Kiwanis organizations.
The businesses that supported our efforts this year were Miceli’s, Traders Hitching Post, Matlacha Tropical Jewelry, CW Fudge Factory, Perfect Cup, Blue Dog Bar, Barnhill Seafood Market, Matlacha Menagerie, Island Flair, Yucatan, Christine Karow Hair and Massage, Lazy Flamingo, Yogaz LLC, Street Eatz & Ale, Tarpon Lodge, Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon, Centennial Bank,
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 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.
to reflect a world in which propaganda spreads in real time across Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube, Congress continues to rely on policies designed for analog media warfare.
First, we need a generational shift in 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.
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
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.
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
Jack Lombardi Guest Commentary
Mangrove recovery Lavender’s Landing boat ramp in Bokeelia to close temporarily for renovations and parking improvements
As I cruise through Matlacha Pass on my back bay and sunset tours, as well as Pine Island Sound on my dolphin and nature tours, it is heartbreaking to see the damage Hurricanes Ian, Helene and Milton have brought to our mangrove islands. It looks more like fall in my home state of the upper peninsula of Michigan than summer in Southwest Florida. My family has been in Matlacha since 1978 and I’ve never seen anything like this on the water. It seems mangroves have always thrived.
Dolphin Tales
Mangroves are essential in stabilizing our local coastlines. Not to mention they are a vital home to birds and other wildlife. The vitality of our ecosystem relies heavily on healthy mangroves.
Mangroves are important to people and the ecosystem of Southwest Florida because they help reduce erosion by absorbing storm surge impacts, thus providing a natural infrastructure to protect nearby populated areas. But extreme weather events have left our mangroves in distress.
It has been over 2 years since Hurricane Ian and almost a year since Hurricane Milton. Our mangroves are showing slow signs of recovery, but full restoration is an ongoing process and is very complex.
Areas that are shallow are more likely to sprout new growth because the rainwater helps to dilute the saltwater concentration. Our heavy rains in the last few weeks may cause un-
wanted flooding, but are beneficial to the regrowth of our mangrove forests.
In my community of Matlacha, I have witnessed the removal of dead vegetation which makes way for new growth. This is happening throughout Southwest Florida. Organizations like the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation and Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife are engaged in planting mangrove trees but restoration efforts are expensive and labor intensive.
Studies show that water flow and elevation are crucial for mangrove recovery. The impact of both Ian and Milton has been significant. Full recovery could take 10-15 years and that is if we do not get another major storm surge. Thankfully, mangroves possess a remarkable capacity to recover!
In retrospect, Hurricane Milton was the most intense Atlantic hurricane ever recorded over the Gulf of Mexico, tying with Hurricane Rita in 2005. Hurricane Ian was worse in terms of overall damage and impact. Ian was a Cat 4 when it made landfall. Milton was a Cat 3 when it made landfall.
Captain Cathy Eagle has spent over 45 years boating on our local waters. As a professional charter captain, she specializes in dolphin and nature tours. Visit CaptainCathy.com or call /text 239 994-2572. Welcome aboard!
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, N.W., Matlacha n Pine Island Commercial Marina, 6001 Maria Drive, St. James City (available weekends and Lee County-recognized 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
For more information about Lee County Parks & Recreation locations, volunteer opportunities, amenities or special events, visit www.leeparks.org, call 239-5337275, or email leeparks@leegov.com. Follow Lee County Parks & Recreation on Facebook and Instagram.
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.
FDOT Little Pine Island Bridge update
The Florida Department of Transportation has issued the following update on the Little Pine Island Bridge replacement project.
Pine Island Road Causeway and Bridge Permanent Repairs: Construction project: Phase 2 of construction has begun on the Little Pine Island Bridge. All traffic has shifted onto the newly constructed westbound side of the bridge, allowing two-lane traffic on the new bridge. Safety remains the top priority, so FDOT reminds everyone:
n This 4th of July, FDOT asks that residents and visitors please refrain from using the bridge for any holiday festivities, as this is still an active construction zone. Motorists and boaters are asked to use caution in the area.
n Motorists are asked to exercise caution and reduce their speed while driving through the work zone.
n Pedestrian access to the bridge is not allowed during construction, this includes fishing, and all other recreational use.
n Motorists are reminded not to block driveways or entrances and to follow all posted signage throughout the construction zone.
n Noise from construction equipment in the area is to be expected.
n Since the start of construction with the Little Pine Island Bridge, boaters are asked to be aware of construction equipment and erosion control measures that are in place.
Check FDOT’s traffic app at www. FL511.com for real-time updates.
Capt. Cathy Eagle
American Legion Post 136 on Pine Island will host a parade and fireworks show Friday, July 4
Staging for the parade is at 9 a.m. at Winn-Dixie, 9864 Stringfellow Road, St.
James City.
The parade starts at 10 a.m. in the Winn-Dixie parking lot and travels north on Pine Island Road to the Elks Club at 5630 Pine Island Rd, Bokeelia. Food and
beverages will be available for the public to purchase.
The fireworks show, to be held at the Legion at 4106 Stringfellow Road, St. James City, will begin around sunset.
Islanders and visitors are invited to come early to reserve your spot to view.
For more about Legion Post 136, please visit https://www.post136fl.org/ contact-us
Legion to host islands’ July 4 parade, fireworks Independence Day events abound around Lee County
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 5-8 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.
See INDEPENDENCE DAY, page 14
Ronnie Lolly
From page 1
Naples. I quit school at 15 and went down to Marathon to go fishing down there on big boats— miracle boats, king fish boats, crawfish boats,” Lolly said.
Lolly recalled conversations he’d had with his father and explained that his father was a point machine-gunner in the Army in World War II, where he became a prisoner of war.
“He got shot in the forehead — in his helmet — the bullet ran around his helmet and came out the back, but it knocked him out. When he woke up, they’d put him in a German prison camp. He saw a rabbit in there and he’d lost so much weight — he was only about 90 pounds — he said he saw a rabbit in the pen — there was about 3 feet of snow so he jumped on it and grabbed it. There was a bunch of other guys, too, so they helped him and they just ripped it apart and started eating it. He said, ‘I got to thinking, that rabbit got in, I can get out,’ and that’s what he did. He snuck out one night — went and got the closest platoon around him and told them about the prison camp and they came back and rescued the rest of the guys.
“He ended up getting the Purple Heart out of it, but he ended up with frozen feet because they took his boots — they didn’t think anybody would escape in that snow and ice with no shoes on. He ended up making it back over here and marrying my mom,” Lolly said.
Lolly described his childhood as “good ole days,” as he explained a bit about growing up, saying when he and his siblings went out in the boat with their mother, she would tie a rope around them in the event that any of them had gone over-board, she could pull them back into the boat.
His greatest wish for Pine Island, he said, would be for commercial fishermen going back to doing what they used to do.
“All we did was we tried to feed people something fresh right out of the water. Just like these farmers — they go out there and they grow fruit, vegetables and they want to give it to you fresh, but now everything is fresh-frozen. The people who were born and raised in it need to be the ones to go back to fishing,” Lolly said.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY RONNIE LOLLY
From left are, Ronnie Lolly and his wife Sandy, his cousin Searia, his eldest daughter Ruby and his granddaughter Ellie.
announces results of recent FIB samplings
Calusa Waterkeeper’s trained volunteers conduct Fecal Indicator Bacteria water sampling at up to 32 sites in Southwest Florida each month. The results are published to keep the public informed on potential risks. Enterococci bacteria found in water can cause gastrointestinal illness, infections, and rashes.
Key takeaways from the sampling on June 21:
n Only 19% of sites tested under 70 MPN.
n 33% of sampled sites achieved this threshold in our May results.
Results over 70 MPN would trigger an advisory from the Florida Department of Health if these sites were classified as “public bathing places.” There are, however, still places that the public regularly interacts with the water in recreational activities. The maximum allowable threshold set by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is 130 MPN
See FIB SAMPLINGS, page 11
Calusa Waterkeeper to host Pollution and Pragmatism: The Caloosahatchee Watershed at July State of Our Water event
The Caloosahatchee is facing similar pressures to many other watersheds in south Florida. Rampant development, pollution, wetlands loss and degraded ecosystems are common throughout the state, but the Caloosahatchee also has the unique status of being part of a much larger, built environment that is intrinsically tied to water management, flood control and Everglades restoration.
Calusa Waterkeeper has invited Matt DePaolis of Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation to be its guest speaker at its quarterly State of Our Water event to explore some of the physical and legal threats impeding local waters, as well as potential tools and solutions available. The event will be held on Saturday, July 12, at 9:30 a.m., at the Iona House at
Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium.
DePaolis, SCCF Environmental Policy Director, trained as a field biologist working across Florida, the Bahamas and Guyana before pursuing his master’s in marine biology and a juris doctorate with a focus on ocean and coastal law from the University of Oregon. There he worked on diverse issues such as climate litigation and fisheries policy issues, regulations to protect water quality in streams for bull trout and worked as a fellow at the Ocean and Coastal Law Center, recommending solutions to marine plastic pollution. DePaolis first partnered with SCCF while working as the Coastal Policy Analyst Fellow at the University of Florida’s Center for Coastal Solutions and leapt at the chance to join the organization as their
FIB samplings From page 10
(TPTV).
For more information and historical data on our FIB program, please visit http://calusawaterkeeper.org/issues/
bacteria-monitoring/
Note that water conditions are dynamic and change daily if not hourly, especially when under tidal influence.
Environmental Policy director. Calusa Waterkeeper Inc. will publicly introduce the new Calusa Waterkeeper, Joe Cavanaugh, working to protect and restore the Caloosahatchee River from Lake Okeechobee to the Coastal Waters of Lee County. Cavanaugh brings decades of experience in marine science, water quality monitoring, and community engagement to the role. With a long-standing commitment to the Caloosahatchee River and surrounding ecosystems, he has worked extensively at the local and federal levels to promote clean water policies and protect critical habitats.
Cavanaugh holds a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and a master’s in marine science from Boston University’s Marine Program in Woods Hole.
Additionally, the CWK Ranger Zone Leaders will deliver the State of the Water Address, providing an update on the health of local waterways and the ongoing efforts to protect Florida’s coastal environments.
To reserve a seat or for more informa-
tion, visit https://lp.constantcontactpages. com/ev/reg/t5tqkgu. If you make a tax-deductible donation of $50 or more, you will become an annual member of Calusa Waterkeeper and can attend this and all quarterly State of Our Water events at no charge. To join, visit calusawaterkeeper. org/membership, email info@calusawaterkeeper.org or call 239-899-1440.
About Calusa Waterkeeper: Founded in 1995 as the Caloosahatchee River Citizens Association, Calusa Waterkeeper Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection, conservation, and restoration of the Caloosahatchee River and its watershed. CWK’s jurisdiction covers four counties in Southwest Florida and encompasses 1,000 square miles of water. Through advocacy, education, community engagement, legislation, and science-based programs and research, Calusa Waterkeeper strives to ensure clean water for current and future generations that is drinkable, fishable, and swimmable. For more information, visit calusawaterkeeper.org.
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 was 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.
How lighting is used to study
At Lee County Electric Cooperative, lighting is tracked through a third-party service for analysis.
“We run analysis on how lightning impacts power delivery, either by causing brief momentary outages, or longer outages,” said LCEC spokesperson, Karen Ryan. “LCEC also uses the service to monitor the weather, including lightning, allowing us to make adjustments through the use of smart technology like protective devices to be more responsive to strikes. LCEC is also able to schedule crews on standby to respond if outages occur.”
Florida Power and Light has developed what it calls a “Lightning Lab”, which uses high voltage to simulate lightning strikes, and these “strikes” help the company see if its utility grid and equipment can withstand the next bolt from the sky.
“Finding even the smallest issues here in the Lightning Lab make a big difference toward the reliability of our electric grid,” stated FPL spokesperson Jack Eble. “This testing helps ensure that we’re investing in high-quality products that can hold up in Florida’s unique environment.”
SJCCA Update
Wednesday, July 2
n Little Learners Nature Group, 10 a.m. to noon. Open to all childrenweekly meetup to learn and play in nature.
n Teen Craft Activity: We have a new monthly activity for the youth of the island! For this month’s class, bring your 11 to 15-year-old on June 25 to learn the basics of hand sewing with Michele! RSVP required (at SJCCAPI.ORG). $5 attendance fee.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of the facilities’ amenities during class, including Wi-Fi, exercise equipment at the park, outdoor seating, and a free library.
Coffee, drinks, and snacks are available for purchase.
Thursday, July 3
n Mahjongg, 1-4 p.m. This is a great place to learn to play mahjongg! Contact Terry at 239-233-2766.
All activities are held at St James City Civic Association, 3300 Fourth Ave., St James City. More details, contacts and ticket sales are available at SJCCAPI.ORG
Upcoming event? Have it at the St. James City Civic Association! We have multiple rental options to meet your needs. The center is perfect for small gatherings to weddings, baby showers and quinceañeras! See the SJCCA website for pricing.
FILE PHOTO
St. James City Civic Association has announced the following upcoming events and activities:
Fishing inshore and offshore in July
As we progress into the heat of summer, fishing both inshore and offshore can still be good, just prepare for hot days and keep an eye on the weather. Many anglers prefer to get an early start and off the water ahead of the mid-day heat and afternoon storms.
Inshore, the mangrove snapper bite will continue to heat up. A variety of baits including shrimp, pilchards, herring, small pinfish and cut bait will entice fish around docks, piers, bridges, under deeper mangrove shorelines, oyster bars, sand potholes and rock ledges in and near the Passes. Mangrove snapper is one of our tastier fish and fights hard for their size. They make a great summer target. They are leader and hook shy, if the water is clear, it’s often necessary to lighten the tackle. Inshore, I go with 2 feet or more of 12 to 20-pound fluorocarbon leader and a 1/0 circle hook or smaller.
On the Water
ferred. A variety of baits is a good idea as well as an arsenal of rods rigged and ready for light to heavy action.
The best snook and redfish action will come on days with strong tides. They can often be caught together around docks, shorelines and structure around the gulf passes, as well as oyster bars and shoreline overhangs on the higher tides. Season for spotted seatrout and redfish is open, while snook season is closed.
As the water warms over summer months, some of the better action for trout will come from four to 8-foot depths in areas with a grassy or sand/ grass mottled bottom.
Calm summer mornings will give good opportunities to run offshore. To the best of my knowledge, American red snapper season is open for the month of July for those willing to make the long run offshore. Please don’t take my word and check regulations before venturing out. It looks like both red and gag grouper seasons are closed.
To get updated on grouper, snapper, redfish, snook, seatrout and all current fishing regulations go to www. myfwc.com. Or download the Fish Rules app onto your phone.
Closer to land, wrecks and reefs can be productive with everything from snapper to barracuda to giant goliath grouper. Anchoring up current of structure with a fresh chum bag is pre-
For fun and fast action offshore, look for bonito and Spanish mackerel harassing bait schools in depths from 30-80 feet. Silver spoons or Tuna Jets in various colors can bring instant hook-ups when trolled around feeding activity. Watch for birds and surface commotion to locate the fish. Also look around the artificial reefs. Spanish mackerel are also plentiful around the gulf passes and inshore around schooling bait fish. Sharks are another summertime favorite. Varieties of species both large and small are common catches both inshore and off. While they are a nuisance for some, many anglers target them for their fighting ability. Sharks play an important role in our ecosystem; please make every effort to quickly release them unharmed. Every kid loves to catch a shark of any size, now is a good time, just make sure and do it safely for both the angler and the shark.
Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at: www. myfwc.com. Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations with pictures to help identify fish. If you turn on your GPS
See FISHING, page 15
Summer brings calm seas and good times for anglers fishing gulf waters. This crew brought home a cooler full of tasty fish that included red snapper, grouper and others. They were fishing west of Captiva Pass with Capt. Scotty Darna of Salty Boy Charters.
Capt. Bill Russell
PHOTO
Senior Enrichment classes
Senior Enrichment classes at The Center of Excellence classroom, at the Beacon of Hope, 5090 Doug Taylor Circle. St. James City.
American Red Cross Hands Only CPR
July 7, 10 a.m. to noon Walk-in’s welcome but we strongly recommend calling in to reserve your spot.
Arthritis Foundation
Independence
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
Beacon of Hope
Exercise Program
Mondays & Fridays, 11-11:45 a.m.
Program Dates: Start: Monday, July 28
End: Friday, October. 3
No classes Sept. 12 and 15
GED, ESOL classes available
The GED and ESOL classes are happening now at the Beacon of Hope. Islanders may get their high school diploma with a GED or learn to speak
Day From page 8
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.
Fort Myers Mighty Mussels
The Fort Myers Mighty Mussels will host a three-day Independence Day cel-
English in the Beacon’s ESOL classes. Call the Beacon of Hope at 239-2835123 for more information or to register for class. You may also contact Mary Lou at mmartin@beaconofhopepineisland.com for the same information. If necessary, the Beacon of Hope will try to adjust its schedule to fit your schedule.
Student volunteers for summer High school students needing com-
ebration 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.
munity service hours for graduation requirements are encouraged to volunteer at The Beacon of Hope over the summer months. Help your community and give back all while earning the hours you need for graduation.
The Beacon is located at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle in St. James City Call 239-283-5123 or visit www. BeaconofHopePineIsland for additional information about the Beacon and its programs.
Bay Street Yard
Bay Street Yard is hosting 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 is pulling out all the patriotic stops with festive food and drink specials – including red, white and blue jello shots – 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 over 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.
Hammond Stadium at Lee Health Sports Complex is at 14100 6 Mile Cypress Parkway in Fort Myers.
Cape Coral Animal Shelter alumnus inspires heartwarming children’s book
Special to The Breeze news@breezenewspapers.com
Nick, now named Jax, is the lead character in “The Real Life Adventures of Jack-A-Bee Jax,” written by his adopter and forever mom, Regina Lee Roth.
The book chronicles Jax’s incredible journey from the desolate Redlands area of South Florida to his joyful new life in Cape Coral.
“Once a neglected and sick stray suffering from mange, Jax was rescued thanks to the tireless efforts of our rescue partners working in the Redlands—a region known for its heartbreaking number of dumped and abandoned animals. These dedicated rescuers brought Nick, now known as Jax, to the Cape Coral Animal Shelter, where he received lifesaving medical treatment, compassionate care, and a second chance at a wonderful life,” a release from the Cape Coral Animal Shelter states.
Healthy, happy, and full of personality, Jax was placed up for adoption and quickly stole the heart of Regina Lee Roth and her family. Inspired by his resilience and spirit, Regina wrote this children’s book that captures the story of hope, healing, and unconditional love. Through Jax’s eyes, young readers can follow his adventure from survival to finding a forever home, learn-
Fishing From page 13
location the Fish Rules app updates to your location. In my opinion, it is more accurate and up to date than FWC’s website.
If you have a fishing report or for charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service -- call or text 239-4108576; website at www. fishpine island.com; or email gcl2fish@live. com
Have a safe week and good fishin’
As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt. Bill Russell
ing important lessons about compassion, empathy, and the power of rescue along the way.
“For the past 30 years, I talked about wanting to write a children’s book,” said author Regina Lee Roth. “Our life with Jax has been so joyful and meaningful, and I realized that this was the perfect story for me to write about. My hope is that my book will inspire others to adopt, volunteer, donate, or foster to help animals and shelters all over the world.”
“We are beyond grateful for our rescue partners in the Redlands who work day in and day out in incredibly difficult conditions to save
animals like Jax,” said Liz McCauley, executive director of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter. “His story is a beautiful reminder of what can happen when compassionate people come together for animals in need.”
The book is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books a Million.
For more information about the Cape Coral Animal Shelter, how to adopt, or how to support animals in need, please visit www.capecoralanimalshelter.com.
has spent his life fishing and learning the waters around Pine Island and Southwest Florida, and as a professional fishing guide for over 20 years.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Regina Lee Roth and Jax, above, and the book’s cover, below.
State agency selects Avow to provide hospice care in Lee, Glades and Hendry counties
Avow has been notified 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
From page 4
The Bear’s Den Apothecary, Thrive by K, Honc Industries, Island Bikeworks, Mel Brinson, Jay Johnson, Uni-Scape Landscape and Design, WB Williamson Bros, Winn-Dixie, Publix, Sam’s Club, Capt Matthew Lee, Four Winds Marina, Pine Island Feed Store, Pine Island Family Hair, John Nichols Music DJ, the Staff and Teachers at Pine Island Elementary, Coach Frantz at PIE for being a good sport
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
and was the recipient of the pie in the face, Pine Island Pools, Winfield’s Machine Repair, Mangrove Republic, Spartan Plumbing, Boat Life Maintenance Co, Pine Island Bait & Tackle, Bobber’s Bait Shop, Coca Cola, Chuck’s Auto Repair, Colita Cuban Bakery, Costco, Eagles Nest, Land-N-Sea Distributors, Low Key Tiki, Matlacha Hookers Merchandise, Monroe Canal Marina, Phuzzy’s Boat Shack, St James City Automotive, Sweeney’s SOS,
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 work-
Waterfront Restaurant, SOS, Pine Island Auto, Premier Growers.
Thank you to all the members of our greater Pine Island community that sponsored kids, donated items and gave us tremendous support.
Finally, we thank our honorary sponsors and hard-working crew; Bert’s Bar, Capt’n Con’s Fish House and Bokeelia Fishing Pier, Matlacha Hookers members, tournament fisherman and Derby kids, our community attendees that are always ready for a great day of music, food and drink, raffles, Hook-A-Basket and auction. We do hope that we didn’t leave off any donors and please know that it was not intentional.
Because of your support we will once again be able to support education needs that are not provided at PIE. Heads up; remember that our May event was a make-up from the fall of 2024. In an effort to get back to our regular schedule, we will once again hosting the Pine Island Elementary Fishing Tournament & Derby on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, at Jug Creek Marina with a brand-new class of students. Keep your eyes on the Eagle for more information in the future.
Kelly LaMagna, DJ Ruscik and Madam Linda Bo Co-Chairs Matlacha Hookers
Half truths used to create fear and doubt
To the editor:
Why only present the half of the story that supports your agenda or critical point of view?
Case in point — recent contribution titled “Disagreement with Kennedy: Vaccines are the cornerstone of public
ing 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 239261-4404 or visit www.avowcares.org.
The author appears to be implying that the firing of the 17 members of the independent vaccine advisory panel for the CDC somehow indicates the end of vaccines, and then goes on to educate us on several vaccines that are currently in use. Those vaccines are still in use and no attempt has been made to restrict or eliminate them.
The author fails to mention the rest of the announcement which stated, “Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on Monday he is removing all 17 sitting members of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s vaccine advisory committee and replacing them with new members.”
“Replacing them with new members” is intentionally left out to create the illusion that this advisory council has been eliminated. This is false and the author must have known that, but chose to “misdirect” the reader in the hope of creating doubt and criticism toward RFK Jr.
Thirteen of these members were appointed by Biden (or whoever was actually running the country) in 2024. Kennedy further pointed out that, “Today we are prioritizing the restoration of public trust above any specific pro- or anti-vaccine agenda,” Kennedy said in a statement. “The public must know that unbiased science — evaluated through a transparent process and insulated from conflicts of interest — guides the recommendations of our health agencies.”
Once you see the whole story, not just a piece taken out of context to influence the thinking of the reader, one can now evaluate in earnest and as you can see, we’re not getting rid of vaccines.
Max Christian St. James City
Lee Health expands plans for new Fort Myers campus to meet growing community needs
In response to the rapid population growth and sustained demand for high-quality healthcare in Southwest Florida, Lee Health is expanding its plans for its new Fort Myers medical campus. Lee Health approved an additional $150.5 million investment to enhance the upcoming facility, including a new patient tower and an onsite childcare center.
The expansion will increase the hospital’s capacity by 92 beds, including 48 acute care beds, 20 skilled nursing unit beds, and shelled space for an additional 24 acute care beds.
This addition ensures the new Lee Health Fort Myers campus will support the growth of the community, where it serves as the healthcare system of choice for residents and visitors.
The $820 million capital investment also includes the development of an onsite child development center. The new facility will relocate the existing Lee Memorial Child Development Center to
the new campus, providing a vital resource for Lee Health team members and reinforcing the system’s dedication to supporting its workforce.
The campus is located at the intersection of Colonial Boulevard and JonesWalker Boulevard, spanning 53 acres. Lee Health Fort Myers campus will be constructed in phases and is expected to open in early 2028.
The plans now include:
n A hospital with a capacity of up to 260 beds, 236 beds completed at opening
n A Medical Office Building, home of the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute
n 18 operating rooms, a 44-bed emergency department, and up to 24 ICU beds
n An onsite child development center for team members
Lee Health supports every step of the health journey, from preventive care to advanced treatment for every member of our community. Learn more at www. LeeHealth.org.
Bridge Beat
Bridge is played at 12:30 p.m. every Wednesday at the Fishers of Men Lutheran Church, located at 10360 Stringfellow Road, St. James City. Anyone wishing to play is welcome and does not need a partner. It costs $3 to play, some of which goes back to win-
ners of the game. Come join us. The winners on June 25 were Mary Tobias, first place; Karen McWright, second place; and Barb Carrier, third place. It was a good afternoon for Mary. She was able to bid and make two small slams. Way to go Mary!
Kittens of the Week
‘Kitten Saturdays’
Every Saturday is “Kitten Saturday” at Helping Paws. We try to keep the little ones out of the shelter, because their young immune systems can’t handle the big cat germs. Our solution is to bring them in every Saturday for a few hours for you to meet. Here are a few of our newest available kittens. They range in ages from 8-12 weeks and as always they are adopt one get one free. Our adoption fee is $60, but considering that all the medical is included and we offer free boarding and nail trims for them, it is actually cheaper than any “free” kitten you could get on Craig’s List. Those kittens are rarely fixed, tested for leukemia or given shots, so by the time you factor in those costly expenses, they are far from “free.” If you would like to meet these adorable fur-babies, stop in any Saturday from 5-7 p.m. We have plenty of kittens to choose from and more coming in soon. Call Helping Paws Animal Sanctuary at 239-283-9100 if you have any questions. If you’d rather just donate, our address is 10060 Mallory Parkway E, Unit D, St. James City, or there’s always our website www.helpingpawsanimalsanctuary.com. Thank You!
Handyman
