Raymond M. Eckenrode reckenrode@breezenewspapers.com
Ad director
Laurie Ragle lragle@breezenewspapers.com
executive editor
Valarie Harring vharring@breezenewspapers.com
Production MAnAger
Rhonda Odum rmarble@breezenewspapers.com
Project coordinAtor
Lyn McElhaney lmcelhaney@breezenewspapers.com
Photo editor
Lonnie MacPeek lmacpeek@breeenewspapers.com
lAyout And design
Jason Welebny jwelebny@breezenewspapers.com
cover design
Jason Welebny jwelebny@breezenewspapers.com
WORKING ROVERTIME
Special exhibit raises funds to support the arts
Broadway Palm and Collaboratory have partnered to honor Southwest Florida artist, Leoma Lovegrove to further her impact and legacy.
Patrons and guests at the Broadway Palm can do the same.
Lovegrove’s artwork will be on display at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre throughout the summer and fall of 2025. The exhibit will run through Nov. 15 with the completion of the show, “Pretty Women the Musical.”
Guests can purchase pieces from the collection. Lovegrove’s family will donate 10 percent of all sales to the Leoma Lovegrove Foundation Fund. The fund was established by her family at Collaboratory to support the arts.
“I think it’s a win-win for everyone,”
said Maureen Green-Prather, president of Broadway Palm. “People can buy her artwork, and a portion of the proceeds goes to her foundation. Her art bursts with happiness and that’s what we need right now.”
Lovegrove, who passed away in April, expressed her art and lived her life in full color. Lovegrove’s pieces often drew inspiration from the lush landscape and wildlife of Florida, where she established her artistic base on Matlacha Island.
Broadway Palm will feature about 20 pieces of her work at a price range of $95 to $800.
Leoma Lovegrove’s exhibit at Broadway Palm.
“We want people to support a legacy for her – to keep that spirit of her work alive any way we can,” said Dawn Belamarich, Collaboratory President and CEO.
Lovegrove’s artwork was featured in galleries and exhibitions worldwide. Her work attracted a devoted following of collectors and art enthusiasts who were drawn to her dynamic use of color and texture. She also collaborated with major brands, bringing her artistry to products in home decor, fashion and more.
Lovegrove left a vibrant mark on the art world, celebrated by her unmistakable spirit and indelible body of work.
To donate visit: www.collaboratory.org/LeomaLovegrove.
ABOUT COLLABORATORY
Collaboratory is a regional community foundation with an evolved mission committed to coordinating the solving of Southwest Florida’s major social problems by 2040. Not alone, but with everyone—the entire community working together across all five counties: Lee, Hendry, Glades, Charlotte and Collier.
Collaboratory provides community leadership, raises and coordinates funding, and disburses funds to organizations that are helping solve the problems our donors and the community have identified as priorities. Collaboratory also provides capacity building with training and resources for regional partners. Given the complexities of the social challenges in our region, Collaboratory ensures we are all working together and that every generous donor achieves the biggest impact with their funds. By using and sharing data to track progress, we ensure that donor dollars are best invested to move the needle on improving social issues.
Connection and collaboration are at the heart of our mission. Since 1976, we have made over $130 million in grants to individuals and organizations across the region to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations. It is upon that legacy of a commitment to community we will collectively achieve our 2040 goal. To learn more and get involved, call 239-274-5900 or visit www.collaboratory.org.
ABOUT BROADWAY PALM DINNER THEATRE
Broadway Palm has been entertaining over 170,000 guests annually for 30 years. The Fort Myers venue boasts a 382-seat dinner theatre, an 86-seat black box theatre, meeting rooms, a gift shop, lobby bar and art gallery. Each year, the theatre produces eight main stage Broadway musicals, five smaller-scale musical revues and comedies, four children’s productions, a concert series and more than 200 community functions, including business meetings, seminars, fundraisers and special events. For more information or to purchase tickets to an upcoming show visit www.BroadwayPalm.com.
NORM’S TASTING NOTES
by Norm Bentley • The North Georgia Wine Advisor
FEATURED WINE:
2022 F rancis F ord c oppola
The British, many centuries ago used the word Claret when speaking of fine French Bordeaux Chateau and Estates Wines, blending two or more of the red Bordeaux grapes to produce superior wines. The wines were either predominately Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot with other grapes added for finesse, which is the case with the Coppola Claret. The difference is that the Coppola is in the $20 range. But year after year it is a “winner”!
The complex array of flavors includes black cherry, blackberry, and black plum with mild notes of vanilla and cocoa, also mild tannins and a socko finish. The alcohol content is 13.5% and Norm’s score is 91.
Of course, The Chardonnay Queen and I enjoyed this Claret with a thick chunk of beef from the grill. but I would also recommend it for rack of lamb, or Osso Bucco.
“Now,
Wine Chart Score: 91
1st Place Team: Team Honc
Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens announces the success of its seventh annual Aiming for Ability Clay Shooting Tournament, held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Sarasota Trap Skeet & Clays in Nokomis.
This year’s event raised $47,000 in support of LARC’s mission to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Shooters from across the region gathered for a morning of friendly competition, community spirit, and purpose—all aimed at creating brighter futures for individuals served by LARC.
Shooters from across the region gathered for a morning of friendly competition.
“Aiming for Ability continues to grow in both impact and enthusiasm,” said Angela Katz, executive director of LARC. “We are so grateful to all our participants, sponsors, and volunteers. Every shot taken and every dollar raised helps individuals with disabilities gain independence, purpose, and confidence.”
The event featured 100 clay targets per participant, lunch, awards, and a lively auction. Proceeds go directly to LARC programs that support more than 300 individuals annually through life skills training, vocational support, residential services, and community inclusion.
To learn more about LARC or upcoming events, visit www.larcleecounty.org or call (239) 334-6285.
TOURNAMENT RESULTS:
1st Place Team: Team Honc
2nd Place Team: Team DeWalt
3rd Place Team: Team Grampy’s Charities
Top Female Shooter: Maddi Freeland
Overall Top Shooter: Dave O’Neil
“We are so grateful to all our participants, sponsors, and volunteers.”
Team DeWalt
Team Grampy’s Charities
Maddi Freeland
About LARC
Established in 1954, LARC is a training center for success for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. LARC serves more than 300 individuals annually, and participants range from 14 to 83.
LARC offers life skills vocational training, youth programs, community residential and employment services, and a vast array of other state-of-the-art community inclusion services on a full-time, year-round basis. LARC’s main campus is located at 2570 Hanson Street, Fort Myers. LARC also operates two Residential Group Homes.
Overall Top Shooter: Dave O’Neil
pic: PetCoral Resort & Veterinary
Your furry friend deserves all the finer things in life.
We are in the midst of what’s known as the “dog days” of summer. They fall from early July to mid-August, in the height of summer when temperatures are at their hottest. In Southwest Florida, though, it’s “dog days” year around as pet lovers abound and ways to pamper man’s best friend are both plentiful and a good way to beat the heat.
First some history: The phrase “dog days” comes from Sirius, the brightest star visible from any part of the planet. Sirius is part of the constellation Canis Major, also known as the Greater Dog.
In the summer, Sirius rises and sets with the sun and because the star is so bright, the ancient Romans referred to this time as the “Dog Days” of summer, when they felt like Sirius was actually making the temperature soar. Despite the heat – or because of it – you can treat your four-legged, tail-waggin’ family member to a fun day full of their favorite things. From dog resorts to high-end treats and products, your furry friend deserves all the finer things in life. And, to be told they’re a good boy as much as possible.
• Custom Cabinet and Drawer Installation
• High-Quality Countertops
• Tile and Backsplash Installation
• Custom Lighting
• Always Green
• No Maitenance
• Pet-friendly & Safe For Children
• Long-lasting & Weather-resistant
• Bug Free Outdoor Living
• Reduces Pool Maintenance
• Blocks UV Rays
• Increases Home Value
ATTENTION TO DETAIL TIMELY DELIVERY CLIENT-CENTRIC APPROACH
• Patios
• Pool Decks
• Driveways
• Walkways
• Garden Pathways
• Brick, Concrete and Natural Stone Pavers EXPERTISE AND EXPERIENCE
PetCoral Resort & Veterinary Cape Coral
PetCoral, at 924 Del Prado Blvd. S., offers 30,000 square feet of boarding, daycare, grooming, veterinary treatment, and a water park just for dogs.
Manager Gabriel Rapoport says the water park always busy.
“It stays busy for day care dogs that come for the day,” he said. “They go out twice a day.”
The water park can also be reserved throughout the week for 30 minutes or an hour for owners who’d like to treat their furry family member to something special, especially during the “dog days” of summer when a cool off for dogs – and humans –is always appreciated.
The daycare dogs go out twice a day unless the owner declines or if they’re not spayed, neutered or social.
“We
Coral, Rapoport said, who like doing doodle parties on Sundays when the water park is closed to the public.
Fido can also enjoy a birthday celebration at the water park, complete with a birthday cake, decorations, and birthday hats for dogs and dog owners.
After the dog owner reserves their spot online, they’ll sign a new member form, provide proof of vaccines and PetCoral will take it from there.
love pets and animals.”
“Even ones who can’t go, we take them out after other dogs have gone out,” Rapoport said. “At least once or twice a day so they can enjoy the amenities, too.”
There is a large doodle community in Cape
“We love pets and animals,” Rapoport said. “My mom grew up on a farm.”
“One cool thing is that we have everything in one here. If you want to leave your dog for the day, we have that. Or, if you want to bring your dog to stay a couple nights so you can go on vacation, we have that. Or if you want a haircut for your dog, we have that. We also offer boarding for cats. And we have a veterinarian there every day on staff and most places don’t have all that in one.”
“We accommodate all energy levels and play styles.”
Dogtopia, Fort Myers
Dogtopia offers half- and full-day day care options or wellness plans for pet owners to build a daycare routine for their dog.
General Manager Vicky Jaquith said the main focus during the dog’s care at Dogtopia is exercise and wellness.
“Everything is in a group-like setting,” she said. “We separate them by size and play style.”
They also work with recent rescues, older dogs, high energy dogs and dogs who need to work on their socialization skills.
“We accommodate all energy levels and play styles,” Jaquith said.
Dogtopia, at 4429 Cleveland Ave., also does themed parties for the dogs in their care.
“There are bubble parties. They’re a bacon and peanut butter flavor,” Jaquith said.” And a machine shoots them out.”
There’s been a prom-themed photo day.
“Dogs came in costumes and had a prom dinner plate.”
“There’s always something new each day,” Jaquith said.
Spa services are available to day care and boarding clients. These can include baths, nail trims, ear cleanings, teeth brushing, non-toxic nail colors, and blueberry facials.
The evaluation process for your pup at Dogtopia includes meet and greets along with a full tour of the front and back of house.
“That’s one of the things that sets us apart,” Jaquith said. “We’re very transparent and let owners see everywhere where that their dog is staying.”
Diggin’ for Treats, Cape Coral
For health-conscious pet parents who want to spoil their furry family member, Diggin’ for Treats is a locally based healthy dog treat option based in Cape Coral with treats available to order at digginfortreats.com/shop.
The all-natural, homemade treats are handcrafted with fresh human grade ingredients.
Owners Ryan Randall and Brittany Randall began researching the best possible natural ingredients for their fur babies after losing a beloved furry family member to cancer.
They began baking homemade, healthful treats, and after seeing how much their dog enjoyed gobbling them up, they began sharing them with family, friends and neighbors.
“We figured out the healthiest ingredients to make them feel happy and healthy,” Brittany Randall said.
When asked how it felt to give back, she said, “Seeing all the happy pups is a bonus.”
Ingredients and allergens are listed so pet owners can make sure to avoid anything that could be harmful to a dog with sensitivities.
Randall says the apple pie peanut butter biscuits are some of the most popular.
The pumpkin peanut butter biscuits and bites are also a great choice.
In addition to helping aid in digestion, they also help boost fur and skin health.
Randall also said that if a pup is allergic to oat, the oat flour could be changed out for another option.
“The dog health is the most important,” she said. “It’s important to know what you’re feeding them. Even if you don’t shop with us, always read ingredient labels.”
Touch of Class Pet Grooming Cape Coral and Fort Myers
“Regular grooming by a professional helps keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy.”
Touch of Class, located at 1207 Cape Coral Pkwy. E. in Cape Coral and 1923 Winkler Ave. in Fort Myers, offers full-service pet grooming tailored to each pet’s individual needs.
“With over 35 years in the community and grooming expertise passed down through two – and now three –generations, we bring not only skill, but a deep commitment to quality and care in every service we provide,” said pet stylist Whitney Hunter. “From breed-specific cuts and hand-scissoring to bathing, deshedding, and nail care, we treat every pet like family. What truly sets us apart is the personal connection we’ve built with our clients over the decades. Many families have trusted us with their pets for generations. Our groomers aren’t just experienced – they’re part of a legacy built on compassion, consistency, and a genuine love for animals. At Touch of Class, it’s more than grooming – it’s a tradition of excellence rooted in community and care.”
Professional groomers are trained to handle all types of dogs’ coats, temperaments, and are knowledgeable about breed-specific grooming standards as well as how to safely manage tools like clippers, scissors, and dryers to avoid injury or stress to your pet.
Professionals can also spot early signs of health issues, Hunter said, like skin irritations, lumps, ear infections, or parasites that pet owners might overlook.
“Regular grooming by a professional helps keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy, reduces shedding, and supports overall hygiene. Another big benefit is time and stress. Grooming at home can be messy and frustrating for both you and your dog,” Hunter said. “At Touch of Class, we create an efficient experience so your pet is safe, comfortable, and looking their best. With over 35 years in the business, we’ve seen just how much of a difference professional care makes in a dog’s health, appearance, and happiness.”
Dogs also get a chance to socialize and meet other dogs along with experienced, attentive staff, helping to build confidence and ease separation anxiety.
To ensure every dog has a positive and safe social experience, Touch of Class tailors day care and boarding to a dog’s size, temperament, and energy level.
They also focus on mental stimulation to help combat boredom and stress. This includes interactive activities, supervised exploration, and personalized attention to keep your dog engaged and happy.
“Whether it’s for the day or an extended stay, your pet becomes part of our extended family,” Hunter said. “You can expect a clean, secure environment, regular routines, and plenty of love – so you can have peace of mind knowing your dog is in caring, capable hands.”
Touch of Class carries trusted, premium pet product brands like Fromm and Stella & Chewy’s, known for their high-quality, nutrient-rich formulas that support everything from digestion to skin and coat health.
“Your pet becomes part of our extended family.”
“Whether you’re feeding kibble, freeze-dried raw, or a blend of both, we can help you find the right fit for your pet’s needs,” Hunter said. “In addition to top-tier food, we also offer natural treats and chews, including single-ingredient body parts like bully sticks, tendons, and ears.”
These are great for dental health and satisfying natural chewing instincts.
Touch of Class also carries goat’s milk, which is a helpful supplement for digestion, hydration, and immune support.
“Our goal is to support your pet’s health from the inside out, with products and advice you can trust,” Hunter said.
CANINE CARE
Whether you’re heading out of town and need to board your pet, are considering dog day care, want to treat him or her to a spa day, or they just deserve a healthy, delicious treat, here are a few more local options to consider in Fort Myers and Cape Coral:
Touch of Class
• Where: 1207 Cape Coral Pkwy. E., Cape Coral
• When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday; Closed, Sunday
• More info: 239-549-2211 and touchofclassgrooming.com
PetCoral Resort & Veterinary
• Where: 924 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral
• When: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday; Closed, Sunday
• More info: 239-673-8453 and www.petcoral.com
Dogtopia of Fort Myers- Daycare, Boarding, Spa
• Where: 4429 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers
• When: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday
• More info: 239-214-9400 and www.dogtopia.com/florida-fort-myers
The Barker Lounge
• Where: 12379 Crystal Commerce Loop, Fort Myers
• When: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
• More info: 239-215-8888 and http://www.thebarkerlounge.com
Little Paws Bakery
• Where: 12695 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
• When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday; Closed, Sunday and Monday
• More info: 239-267-9818 and www.facebook.com/p/Little-Paws-Bakery-100063658029247
Diggin’ for Treats
• Where: Online store at digginfortreats.com/shop
• Customer service hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday; Closed, Sunday
• Information: 239-688-7521
Cape Coral Animal Shelter Alumnus Inspires Heartwarming Children’s Book
“The Real Life Adventures of Jack-A-Bee Jax”
ACape Coral Animal Shelter adoptee is now the star of a newly released children’s book.
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.”
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, learning 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
BOOK REVIEW
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.
“I have witnessed the
•
The Dish: Cold Gulf Shrimp in the Shell, Clam Chowder.
The Place: Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant; Pineland; 239-283-2278; CabbageKey.com
The Details: First, the boat ride. You need one to reach Cabbage Key, a 112-acre island on Pine Island Sound off the coast of Fort Myers. The one my wife and I took was with Island Girl Charters, a half hour of sunny breeze and cool music.
Then we hit the Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant for delicious food and more music, this time live.
The performer was Tony David, who took his act from Colorado to Southwest Florida and plays at the Cabbage Key venue on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tony packs ’em in, whether at this island hot spot or Hooked Island Grill and Moose Lodge in and around Cape Coral. You can easily hear why. He plays oldies — rock and country — with a guitar flair and sonorous voice. Now for the food. The Cold Gulf Shrimp in
the Shell was about the most luscious I ever had. And the Clam Chowder had exactly the right taste to fit in with the water view.
Let’s face it. If you’re going to take the time to sail to an island feast, the fare better be deeeelish. And it is on Cabbage Key.
With so many people riding the waves to land at the hot spot, it can take plenty of time for your food to also arrive. The good news is that gives you a chance to roam the area. You can traipse up the tower. Check out the giant turtle. Pose in front of serious yachts.
Then you return for your Key food sans cabbage. And to dance to Tony David’s tunes. It all makes for a day you’ll never forget as you motor home on the Island Girl vessel.
The U.S. Air Force’s F-16 Viper Demo Team will showcase the abilities of the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
After taking a year off in 2024 due to hurricanes, the two-day event returns to the skies over the Punta Gorda Airport Nov. 1-2, with a show headlined by two high-performance jet teams: The Blue Angels and the F-16 Viper Demo Team.
Making their first appearance in Punta Gorda since 2012, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels are renowned all over the world not just for their precision maneuvers and formation flying, but for demonstrating American naval aviation excellence. The elite team of 140 active-duty Sailors and Marines represent more than 800,000 men and women serving in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
Originally set to appear at the 2024 show, the U.S. Air Force’s F-16 Viper Demo Team will showcase the abilities of the F-16 Fighting Falcon – one of the Air Force’s premier multi-role fighter jets.
Other performers include:
• Aaron Deliu – Aeronautic acrobatics from an Air Master Cup Series Champion, Sky Grand Prix Winner, and Australian Unlimited Aerobatics Champion.
• Warbird Thunder – That throaty roar you hear in the sky is “Ol Growler” – the North American SNJ Texan, a former World War II advanced training aircraft.
• Doug Litton – Performance flying, tight turns and gravity-defying maneuvers are signatures of his Extra 300-S aircraft.
• The Chuters Jump Team – This veteran-owned and operated parachute team promises a patriotic skydiving display.
• New to this year’s show are two family-friendly attractions:
• The Innovators STEM Pavilion - A hands-on zone to engage students and families with science, technology and aviation. On display are cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality goggles used for design, drones in schools, interactive medical diagnostic equipment, professional audio/ video technology, and agricultural robotics. Plus, you’ll get an up-close look at airplane structures, riveting, and more!
• The Family Aviation Experience – A fun, interactive area designed to inspire future aviators and entertain all ages.
“I’m thrilled to welcome back fans.”
“As president of the Florida International Air Show, I’m thrilled to welcome back fans for one of our most exciting shows yet,” said Denise Dull in a prepared statement. “We’re honored to once again be named to USA Today’s ‘10 Best Air Shows’ list and thank those who helped make that happen!”
Dull encourages thrill-seekers to buy their tickets early for the best prices and seats.
Tickets can be purchased online only at www.floridaairshow.com. These are the lowest prices available for the show; prices will increase at the gate. There is a discount for veterans and active military members.
For performer updates, as well as opportunities to be a sponsor, vendor, or exhibitor, visit www.floridaairshow.com or follow us on social media@florida_ air_show.
Staffed entirely by volunteers, the FIAS is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit corporation that has donated more than $3 million to Southwest Florida charities over its 43-year history.
