071625 North Fort Myers Living by BreezeNewspapers

‘In the Heights’ showcased young talent

Story by Meghan Bradbury

Talented youth took the stage at the Alliance for the Arts last month to tell the story of a changing neighborhood in New York City.

“There are certain shows that you should not do unless you know you have the right people to cast it. This is one of those shows,” said Carmen Crussard, Alliance for the Arts Youth Theater director and “In The Heights” producer said before the performance. “We had to really think about the talent that we know exists in the area and kind of hope they come out and audition. We are really fortunate that we had such a great turnout for it. There is truly such an amazing talent in Southwest Florida with our young people. We are excited to cast it so well.”

In 2020 she was in production with another theater for an adult cast for “In The Heights,” but COVID happened, and it shut the production down. After months of effort, they were never able to bring the show to life.

Last summer a conversation ignited with Miguel Cintron, who grew up in New York and speaks Spanish, regarding the different students they had been working with to that point. The two thought they had the right mix of kids to put on the show, and Cintron was brought on as the director.

“We have been working on it since March. We meet two, or three times a week,” Crussard said before the show, adding that they were going into rehearsals every day. “We assembled a cast of black and Hispanic kids that are just amazing. (We have) a great representation of students from across the district to tell this amazing story. They are fantastic. It has been a joy.”

In addition, Choreographer Kiana Cintron, and Vocal Director Lisa Clark were brought on from the different schools around the area.

The cast consisted of 20 performers ranging in age from 15 to 19 and representing more than 10 cultures and ethnicities. The cast represented

Cypress Lake High School Center for the Arts, North Fort Myers High School, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Ida S. Baker High School, Oasis High School and students from Florida State University, Florida Atlantic University and Florida SouthWestern State College.

The cast was comprised of freshman in high school to freshman in college.

“There are a few students home from college,

they came back to do the show,” Crussard said.

“In The Heights” shares a story about a Hispanic neighborhood in New York City, Washington Heights, where a community has grown up together.

This community is dealing with changes, as several of the businesses are having to relocate because they can no longer afford the rent. Throughout the production the community continues to define what is home, and who you call family.

“There are some romances, relationships that drives the majority of the storytelling, as well as everyone having a relationship with abuela,” – a woman who is not their abuela, but at the same time is, Crussard said. “She has been in the neighborhood for 40 years and has raised all of these kids that are young adults.”

She said the story spoke to her because she is a person of color and not many stories hit so close to home.

Since she is not Hispanic, she brought on Cintron as they “both are dedicated to telling diverse stories and bringing diverse communities into the art community while representing a diverse community.”

The performance also showcased a lot of dialogue and singing in Spanish.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Carmen Crussard, Alliance for the Arts Youth Theater director and “In The Heights” producer.

This gave students, who speak Spanish at home, an opportunity to represent their culture and their family.

“It’s a really good musical, a really good show. There is a hip hop element – we don’t see too much on theater stages,” she said. “It’s different, vibrant, and colorful. It’s really exciting – really good music, and a really good story.”

The show took place June 26- 29,at the Alliance for the Arts Foulds Theatre on McGregor Blvd.

Crussard is the theater director at Cypress Lake High School Center for the Arts. In 2012, she began working at the Alliance for the Arts where she launched the Youth Theater Program and has produced more than 40 shows.

Cintron is the theater director at Lehigh Senior High School.

The actors included:

North Fort Myers High School

• Jay Encalada plays Daniela, 12th grade

• Tyler Scott plays Benny, 12th grade

Oasis High School

• Constantine Belis plays Ensemble, 9th grade

• Zoe Belis plays Ensemble, 12th grade

Ida Baker High School

• Isabela Oren plays Abuela Claudia, 10th grade

Bishop Verot High School

• Hannah Cruz plays Nina Rosario, 12th grade

• Gabriel Cruz plays Sonny, 10th grade

Cypress Lake High School

• Mia Pimentel plays Camila Rosario, 10th grade

• Delilah Mendez plays Carla, 12th grade

• Oliver Anderson plays Ensemble, 10th grade

• Isabela Oren plays Abuela Claudia, 10th grade

• Cristian Varela plays Ensemble, 9th grade

• Jayla Lawyer Pairis plays Ensemble, 10th grade

• Hannah Shraiar plays Ensemble, 10th grade

Lehigh Senior High School

• Ilanize Carry plays Ensemble, 12th grade

• Victor Galarza plays Piragua Guy, 11th grade

• D’Adrean St. Louis plays Usnavi, 12th grade

Florida Southwestern State College

• Cayden Pacheco plays Kevin Rosario

Florida State University

• Jamime Woolam plays Ensemble

Florida Atlantic University

• Kerwin Cyriaque plays Grafitti Pete

Looking to say cool? Lee County and North Fort Myers businesses have you covered whether it’s a dip in the pool, a tasty frozen concoction, browsing for bargains or just chilling out with a good book in air-conditioned comfort.

Babcock Ranch garners Shine on Florida recognition with solar-powered streetlights

Civic presents scholarships, gift cards

The North Fort Myers Civic Association held its scholarship awards presentation at its July meeting. Five North Fort Myers seniors were awarded $1,000 each for expenses.

Congratulations to Aubrey Beougher, Boone Franklin Stewart, Dennis Olsen III, Kamryn Conn and Cole Cooke.

We also awarded 64 gift cards valued at $50 each for Skechers shoes. Congratulations to all our Sprint Back To School students.

We want to thank the Ladies Auxiliary of the Amvets Post 50 for coming through and

fundraising $391 to add to our show fund.

Also, there is still time to join us for Summer Splash Saturday at the North Fort Myers Community pool. Students and seniors get in free and pizza for lunch. You have until Aug. 9 to join us.

The North Fort Myers Civic Association meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center, 2000 N. Recreation Way.

You are invited to join us!

Safety & Security Tip: Operation Medicine Cabinet

Many are unaware of the fact that a significant percentage of individuals that are abusing prescription opiates obtain these drugs from their own homes, the homes of family members and/or the homes of friends.

In the United States, in 2023, approximately 8.6 million individuals reported misusing prescription opioids. Once again, that statistic only represents “reported” abuse.

“Drug Free Lee” is working diligently to educate residents of these dangers and to help secure and/ or dispose of these medications.

“Operation Medicine Cabinet is a program supported by the United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties,” stated Deb Comella, Executive Director Coalition for a Drug-Free Southwest Florida. “The program educates Lee County citizens on the importance of proper disposal of prescription medications, both to prevention diversion, and to keep our waterways clean and safe. Data indicates that 52% of those abusing prescription drugs for the first time get them from friends and relatives, and we want to get those medications locked up and disposed of properly when they are no longer needed.”

We remind residents to avoid flushing medications and/or disposing of them down bathroom/kitchen drains as this eventually winds up in our rivers, lakes and our drinking water. This also poses a tremendous risk to wildlife and can contribute to the development of antibioticresistant bacteria.

Local law enforcement agencies have specialized

lock-boxes that are used to receive discarded medications. We encourage residents wishing to safely discard medications to contact their nearest law enforcement location.

“The DEA and area Law Enforcement sponsor take back days twice each year, in April and in October. Drug Free Lee coordinates a Deterra Bag distribution event, which provides an in-home disposal system,” Comella shared.

Reasonably believing that our medications are safe to store in our medicine cabinets and drawers, we unintentionally provide access to those who are abusing these drugs. Additionally, this creates a serious hazard when young children have access to these locations.

Those storing prescription medications should consider the use of a medication lock-box. Priced from as low as $17, these boxes are an excellent way to prevent theft and/or accidental consumption of your medications.

For “Operation Medicine Cabinet” events, please visit www.drugfreelee.org.

Toni Hill, President North Fort Myers Civic Association

Carmine Marceno Lee County Sheriff

PROVIDED

Dennis Olsen lll

PROVIDED

Boone Franklin Stewart

Amvets Bob Hill, Toni Hill, Aux President Michelle Wells, Heather Novum, Sophia Gillis, Amy Buckley, Julia Sims and Commander Judy Ellis.

Babcock Ranch hosts Trails Day hike

Story by Chuck Ballaro

With Babcock Ranch’s concentration on environmental consciousness, it stands to reason that the town with countless walking trails to explore would be the perfect place to hold a National Trails Day hike.

Dozens of people came to the Dr. Bill Hammond Trail Head at the William & Mary Ann Smith Sports Complex on June 7 to take a two-mile hike and learn about nature and how we must continue to live in harmony with it or risk losing it.

The Nature Walk & Talk hike was led by the town’s Environmental Conservation Manager & Wildlife Biologist, Christina Kontos. She said our most precious resource is our environment.

“It about bringing people out to connect with nature and learn more about the habitat and wildlife here,” Kontos said. “Conservation begins with education and that’s when appreciation occurs.”

People got to see the native flora and fauna during the two-hour event in the hot June sun. Kontos was there along the way to answer questions, stopping along the way in a shaded area to share some anecdotes on numerous topics.

Kontos showed participating hikers the bat houses along the route, which are important for mosquito control, and said if one species is lost, it knocks the entire food chain and environment out of whack.

She also said that while many people are scared of species such as bears, panthers, hogs and gators, many of these animals are also afraid of us.

“Alligators are especially active this time of year. They are out looking for mates and fighting for territory,” Kontos said.

Kontos also discussed the town’s hog program, where they hunt for the animal in the preserves and typically capture more than 1,000 per year, which are released to a farm where the animals are eventually slaughtered and used for food.

Among the most important topics Kontos talked about was controlled burnings, which are essential to keeping species alive and to keeping the area from burning out of control due to lightning and human error.

“Controlled burns are well planned, months in advance, so that animals in the burn area can escape. Many animals rely on the burns for small vegetation and because they help increase the bug population,” Kontos said.

Kontos said conservation efforts are working. When she was a child there were about 30 panthers left in the wild. Thanks to genetic restoration and creating walkways for them across highways to reduce fatalities, there are now around 230, which also helps control the hog population.

Many of those along for the hike enjoyed it. Ali McGuire, who lives in Babcock Ranch, said it was very informative and that she will continue to use the trails here.

“I was going out and trying to get a walk in on a new trail. I hadn’t heard of this one, but now I’ll be coming back to it every other day,” McGuire said. “I learned a lot about the prescribed fires. You can smell them before you see them here. The guide was very knowledgeable.”

Marge MacLennan, who as one of the first 300 residents in Babcock Ranch could be considered a

pioneer, said it was a great walk.

“It was very informative. I thought I knew a lot, but I found out I didn’t know anything. I’ve been on parts of this trail, but not all of it,” MacLennan said. “I liked the information on the bats and how important they are to the ecosystem.”

Built in harmony with the environment with sustainability, preservation and restoration as key design features, Babcock Ranch has a trail network that will expand to more than 100 miles of greenways, recreational trails and walking paths.

The town is committed to maintaining a healthy ecosystem and coexisting with the land’s natural inhabitants, including the more than 30 indigenous species found in the area.

Babcock Ranch’s National Trails Day hike joins the American Hiking Society’s nationwide movement that encourages communities to get outdoors, celebrate a shared commitment to the environment, and become trail stewards on any trail, anywhere.

PHOTOS BY CHUCK BALLARO

Dr. Bill Hammond Trail in Babcock Ranch. welcomes you during National Trails Day.

Christina Kontos, Babcock Ranch’s Environmental Conservation Manager & Wildlife Biologist, speaks during National Trails Day on Saturday at the Dr. Bill Hammond Trail in Babcock Ranch.

Babcock Ranch garners Shine on Florida recognition with solar-powered streetlights

Story by Meghan

Bradbury

Babcock Ranch has added solar-powered streetlights to the community.

“At Babcock Ranch, our goal is to lead the way in sustainable development and key partners like Streetleaf, with their incredible expertise in solar street lighting, are an important part of making that possible,” Chairman and CEO of Kitson & Partners and Babcock Ranch developer Syd Kitson said in a prepared statement. “Streetleaf’s innovative approach aligns perfectly with our commitment to building a community that sets new standards for sustainability, innovation and resilience.”

Liam Ryan, CEO at Streetleaf, said they are a solar streetlight company based in Tampa that was born out of a development company needing streetlights, but running into problems with the installation of electric streetlights.

“We developed it ourselves for just one project,” he said of a development in Wesley Chapel.

What began in 2019 has now expanded to a little more than 10,000 systems, 8,900 of which are in Florida.

Each light is solar, and battery powered, rather than running on a conduit and wire.

“Each system is a stand-alone unit. When the power is down, the lights stay on,” Ryan said.

Babcock Ranch currently has 110 Streetleaf streetlights.

“We will see if we can expand that partnership from there,” Ryan said.

Those installments include illuminating the PKWY at Babcock Ranch, and six parks — Bluebird Park, Hillcrest Park, The Lagoon, Explorers Park, Bark Park,

The partnership will include four phases. The first phase was completed in the fall of 2024, while the other three are planned by the end of 2025. The installation, lighting, routine maintenance, and 24/7 monitoring is provided by Streetleaf.

There is also the ability to attach security cameras for safety, as well as banners to each pole.

With this addition, Babcock Ranch has been recognized as a Shine on Florida community. The statewide program is hosted by Streetleaf in an effort to encourage

C0-OP CONNECTIONS

local leaders and businesses to install the hurricane resilient streetlight for safety and light.

“We are bringing modern technology that has been neglected with streetlights for 50 years,” Ryan said, adding that LED lights are decades old. We want to “modernize streetlights and make them easy and useful for everyone.”

For more information about Streetleaf, visit www. streetleaf.com, or about Shine On Florida, visit www. streetleaf.com/shine-on-florida.

AT LCEC, MEMBERSHIP MEANS EVERYTHING

LCEC members can use the Co-op Connections App to access local and national deals offered by participating businesses. Members can save on health & wellness, travel, entertainment, dining, retail, groceries, insurance, and much more. This is an entirely free offering just for being a member and another example of why . . .

Membership Matters

and Palmetto Park.

SUN Trail expanding; input sought

Story by Meghan Bradbury

The Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization is conducting a study for a new shared-use path in Fort Myers and North Fort Myers to further the connection of the SUN Trail network.

The anticipated continuation on the northwest side is to link the Florida Department of Transportation SUN Trail network along Littleton Road that becomes Kismet Parkway in Cape Coral and the southeast side would connect with the John Yarbrough Linear Park Trail which is undergoing an extension to Hanson Street.

Transportation Planning Administrator Ron Gogoi said the study is being done because they want to realign — create a new alignment — in the portion of central Fort Myers, North Fort Myers, and Downtown Fort Myers to expand the SUN Trail network.

They received $600,000 in state funding to do the study.

“The existing alignment for the SUN Trail network in central Fort Myers, Downtown Fort Myers and North Fort Myers are not conducive, or friendly for bicycling or even for pedestrians. The portion that is close to downtown escapes and bypasses downtown the way it is right now,” he said. “We basically want to realign, create an alignment in the portion in central Fort Myers, North Fort Myers, and Downtown Fort

Myers – go to the Downtown River District and midtown and make use of the new sidewalk on the Caloosahatchee bridge connecting the rest of the SUN Trail network. That was what brought up the need for that particular study.”

The SUN Trail network is part of a statewide network where there are shared non-motorist pathways. A portion of the network that goes throughout Lee County is in the city of Fort Myers and North Fort Myers, with portions already in existence and others under construction, which are creating gaps.

Part of this project includes asking the community to participate in a survey regarding nonmotorized active planning – for bikes and pedestrian walkways around the route.

“Anything received from the public can be used for the nonmotorized active planning across Lee County,” Gogoi said.

The interactive survey, which can be found at, https://qualtricsxmn22whq9qz.qualtrics.com/ jfe/form/SV_e5konYudCo3bvhk, will be available until October. The reasoning behind the long survey time is

a project advisory committee will convene in October to discuss the results.

The time frame of the project is 18 months, just for the planning stages. Once the study is completed, they will look at what needs to be done as far as the construction design.

“We are going to be studying the routes and then we are going to identify the alignment running through downtown, as the area does not have space for a separate shared use path, but rather a mix of existing roadways and sidewalks.

Gogoi said it may come to breaking down the construction into two or three phases, as they will not have the funding for the entire project.

“You might have to come up with phases and then look at what kind of funding,” is available, he said.

The current SUN Trail network in Lee County is pretty extensive as it goes through the coastal areas and through Cape Coral.

“The SUN Trail route covers the whole state,” Gogoi said, adding that immediate neighbors to the north, and south are connected to the trail.

“We want to provide protected multiuse pathways, so people are safe and there are minimum conflict points with cars,” he said. “That is the main objective to keep people safe and provide another mode for people to commute. When everything is built along the SUN Trail network, they can use their bike to commute to work and shop. People will not be using their cars for small trips.”

Beat the Summer Heat

Staying cool in North Fort Myers

Story by Meghan Bradbury

There are many places to stay cool during the high summer temperatures in North Fort Myers, whether it be a dip in the pool, shopping, eating a tasty treat, or getting lost in a book.

North Fort Myers Community Pool Supervisor Amy

Pendarvis said the pool is open seven days a week during the summer, offering residents a great way to stay cool in the hot Florida sun.

The North Fort Myers Civic Association is offering free admission and a snack, or small lunch, every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Aug. 9 to the first 75 children and seniors who enter the pool. The free passes are given to children 17 years old and younger, and those 55 and older.

Pendarvis said those who are eligible will receive a free ticket — covering their fee for the day.

“We usually reach capacity on Saturday and Sunday for sure, unless there is poor weather,” she said, adding that several times throughout the weekdays they hit capacity.

The pool is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday,

Wednesday, and Friday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. Pendarvis said Monday through Friday they also have summer camps that visit the pool during operating hours.

The daily fee is $2 for children 17 and younger, and senior citizens and $3 for those 18 to 54 years old. There are also yearly passes, and a six-month pass that are affordable.

The pool also offers swimming lessons before open swim, as well as a junior lifeguard camp that is held in July.

The pool is at 5170 Orange Gove Blvd.

Ice cream!

Looking for a sweet treat that’s on the cool side?

A tried-and-true to stay cool this summer is pausing for an ice cream treat.

Wonderland Cookie Dough and Ice Cream, at 5781 Bayshore Road, Suite 1108, offers 44 flavors of ice cream and 12 flavors of edible cookie dough.

Owner Jeff Smith said they just franchised their first store on Treeline Avenue and Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.

“We sell Royal Scoop ice cream,” he said.

The edible cookie dough flavors include chocolate chip, brownie batter, celebration sugar cookie with sprinkles, mint chocolate chip, peanut butter cup and cookies and cream. There are also seasonal flavors, such as apple pie and pumpkin pie.

The shop is open from 1 to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 12:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, 12 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday.

“Stop in and get a cool, sweet treat,” Smith said.

Stop - and shop

Looking to get out of the sun?

Another option to stay cool this summer is to take a stroll in air-conditioned comfort.

Paradise Vintage Market — a 32,000 square foot space that offers 250 spaces — offers that option and a whole lot more.

“It has been open here since 2023 because we had to move from our old location after Hurricane Ian,” Paradise Vintage Market managing partner Beth Meyer said of the old Hope Chest location. “We have been really happy to be a part of the community here. It is larger, about a third larger. It is the largest antique mall, vintage market in Southwest Florida.”

Vendors rent space and shoppers pay at a central cashier at the antique mall. The market is currently at 90% capacity, as it is always transitioning as people move in and out, while others are only there during the season.

“We have just about everything you didn’t know you really

needed,” she said.

Items range from rocks, crystals, fossils, and seashells to vintage clothing, collectibles, glassware, and home décor.

“After the hurricane we had customers coming in and looking for a piece of China that may have been damaged, replaced lights, lamps, furniture and rugs and looking for vintage items similar to items they had before the hurricane,” Meyers said.

The market is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. From September through June there is also an outdoor market, more resembling a flea market from 5 a.m. until noon on Saturday mornings.

“We have a core group and then after 5:05 a.m., if we have any space available then they are welcome to set up if it is somebody new,” Meyer said. “We have a limited number of outdoor vendors. The merchandise is not the type of things we have indoors.”

The market also hosts a Vintage Road Show where they go into communities and clubs providing members with an opportunity to bring in an item they can identify and provide information about. She said they have done it all over Lee County.

“We are grateful to be a part of the North Fort Myers Community,” Meyer said.

Paradise Vintage Market is at 13821 North Cleveland Ave.

Don’t forget an old and favorite standby

Just want to kick back and enjoy a good book? Or opt the kids into a program that fun, educational or both?

North Fort Myers Public Library is also a great destination to beat the heat, as there are many programs offered for young and old alike, as well as a plethora of books to check out.

The library is at 2001 N. Tamiami Trail.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Beat the Summer Heat

Staying cool in North Fort Myers

Story by Meghan Bradbury

There are many places to stay cool during the high summer temperatures in North Fort Myers, whether it be a dip in the pool, shopping, eating a tasty treat, or getting lost in a book.

North Fort Myers Community Pool Supervisor Amy

Pendarvis said the pool is open seven days a week during the summer, offering residents a great way to stay cool in the hot Florida sun.

Pendarvis said those who are eligible will receive a free ticket — covering their fee for the day.

“We usually reach capacity on Saturday and Sunday for sure, unless there is poor weather,” she said, adding that several times throughout the weekdays they hit capacity.

The pool is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday,

The daily fee is $2 for children 17 and younger, and senior citizens and $3 for those 18 to 54 years old. There are also yearly passes, and a six-month pass that are affordable.

The pool also offers swimming lessons before open swim, as well as a junior lifeguard camp that is held in July.

The pool is at 5170 Orange Gove Blvd.

Ice cream!

Looking for a sweet treat that’s on the cool side?

A tried-and-true to stay cool this summer is pausing for an ice cream treat.

Wonderland Cookie Dough and Ice Cream, at 5781 Bayshore Road, Suite 1108, offers 44 flavors of ice cream and 12 flavors of edible cookie dough.

Owner Jeff Smith said they just franchised their first store on Treeline Avenue and Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.

“We sell Royal Scoop ice cream,” he said.

The shop is open from 1 to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 12:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, 12 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday.

“Stop in and get a cool, sweet treat,” Smith said.

Stop - and shop

Looking to get out of the sun?

Another option to stay cool this summer is to take a stroll in air-conditioned comfort.

Paradise Vintage Market — a 32,000 square foot space that offers 250 spaces — offers that option and a whole lot more.

“We have just about everything you didn’t know you really

needed,” she said.

Items range from rocks, crystals, fossils, and seashells to vintage clothing, collectibles, glassware, and home décor.

The market is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. From September through June there is also an outdoor market, more resembling a flea market from 5 a.m. until noon on Saturday mornings.

“We are grateful to be a part of the North Fort Myers Community,” Meyer said.

Paradise Vintage Market is at 13821 North Cleveland Ave.

Don’t forget an old and favorite standby

Just want to kick back and enjoy a good book? Or opt the kids into a program that fun, educational or both?

North Fort Myers Public Library is also a great destination to beat the heat, as there are many programs offered for young and old alike, as well as a plethora of books to check out.

The library is at 2001 N. Tamiami Trail.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Bohanon Foundation holds annual football clinic

Story by Chuck Ballaro

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 that a record number of kids came to North Fort Myers High School’s Moody Field on June 21 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 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

PHOTOS BY CHUCK BALLARO

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

Kristoffer Doura coaches up a group of players during the Tommy Bohanon Foundation’s ninth annual football clinic at North Fort Myers High School.

Sebastian Rivera, 14, pulls down a long reception during the recent Tommy Bohanon Foundation football clinic.

50 junior coaches made the camp another exciting event, an event that was the impetus of how the foundation got started.

At left, a player holds a blocking dummy and stands ready during the football clinic.

Jemma Velagarza, right, one of several girls working out, hits a tackling wheel during the Tommy Bohanon Foundation football clinic at North Fort Myers High School.

PHOTOS

CHUCK BALLARO

“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/

Tre Boston Foundation holds annual football camp

Story by Chuck Ballaro

Tre Boston is one of the greatest football players to ever play at North Fort Myers High School, parlaying it into a seven-year career in the NFL.

When his playing days were over, he didn’t rest on his laurels nor did he forget where he came from.

Today, he gives back to his community and local kids.

Boston does this through his Beyond Belief Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of young people and their communities. With a strong focus on education, mentorship and community engagement, the foundation aims to inspire and empower individuals to reach their full potential.

On June 28, at Evangelical Christian High School in Fort Myers, Boston hosted nearly 500 kids for his signature event, his sixth-annual football camp.

Boys and girls between fourth and 12th grades came for a day of training, drills and learning about the game of football. They also came to hear Boston’s story.

Boston said his foundation is about giving the kids a safe space and the ability to learn from college and pro coaches and players.

“It’s not only about getting the kids coached up and learning skills, but also getting mentored in the community,” Boston said. “It’s all love. These people see what I’ve done for the community and want to be a part of it.”

Several current and former pro players came to help coach. Jalen Watkins, Sean Jones and fellow North grad Fa’Najae Gotay were among the pros working with the kids along with Boston.

Many of them were friends who played with or against Boston in high school or college. Denzell Hagan and Andre Harris said it was about helping Tre and the kids.

“This is my first time coming to the event. I grew up with Tre and played football together,” Hagan said. “He reached out to me and I came this year. I feel obliged to give back to the community.”

“I’ve known Tre for a long time. I was working at the Boys & Girls Club six years ago when I

Danaya Brown, 12, runs a route in a passing drill during the sixth-annual Tre Boston Beyond Belief Foundation football camp at Evangelical Christian High School in Fort Myers on June 28.

volunteered to help out and I have ever since,” Harris said. “It’s always great to give back and work with the next group of athletes.”

Of course, the day was about the participants. Many of them hoped to play in high school and college, with an impressive number of girls working alongside the boys.

A.J. Ramirez, 13, who plays for the Cape Jr. Sharks in Pop Warner, said it was great to come to the camp.

“Everybody is here getting their work in nice facilities. It’s all good. Learning from the pros motivates me and lets me know I can go higher,” Ramirez said. “I’ve learned to work hard and you can do anything.”

Jemmie Lee, 13, said she was hoping to make a flag football team, so she came to the camp to learn more about the game.

“Not a lot of girls like to do sports. I’ve learned you have to

Tre Boston, right, gets things going during the sixth-annual Tre Boston Beyond Belief Foundation football camp. At left, Cullen Mason, 15, tries to make a one-handed catch during the sixth-annual Tre Boston Beyond Belief Foundation football camp.

work hard and have determination to get where you want to go,” Lee said. “I like this camp. You get to learn different things from these drills.”

For more information on the Tre Boston Beyond Belief Foundation, go to www. trebostonbeyondbelieffoundation.org.

—NFMNL

PHOTOS BY CHUCK BALLARO

Ham operators hold summer field day

Story by Chuck Ballaro

Gone are the days when ham radio operators operated out of their basement on old-time equipment that looked like it came from the 1930s.

Today, ham radio is state of the art. It uses computers and modern equipment to hear from people all over the world. This is a good thing, since during an emergency such as a hurricane when all the power and cell phone towers are out, it often can be the only way to communicate.

On Saturday, under the concession stand near the football field at North Fort Myers Community Park, dozens of radio operators gathered to test their skills in the event of an emergency.

The Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club hosted the American Radio Relay League Field Day, an annual nationwide emergency preparedness exercise and public outreach event demonstrating the critical role of amateur radio in post-disaster recovery.

A record number of operators came to participate in the event as numerous antennas were erected near the football field and portable generators gave power to the equipment.

Carmine Petrano, president of FMARC, said they wanted to exercise their equipment and speak with other operators to make sure they can reach everybody they need to reach.

“It’s preparation for an emergency and it’s also a contest. Lee County is blessed to have 1,500 operators,” Petrano said. “Not all of them are very active but we’re getting more activity from more ham operators, which would be very beneficial to the county.”

When traditional communication infrastructure fails, amateur radio

becomes an indispensable lifeline. This event highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of amateur radio operators and their ability to provide vital communication services during emergencies and disaster recovery efforts.

The 24-hour event showcased how amateur radio can function under emergency-like conditions, utilizing emergency power and deployable antennas. Visitors had the opportunity to observe operations, ask questions, and even get on the air under supervision.

FMARC, a volunteer group of licensed ham radio operators affiliated with the ARRL, the national association for amateur radio. Members of the Amateur Radio Emergency Service, who provide backup communication systems during emergencies, also participated.

Jeff Kennedy, spokesperson for Lee County AREAS, said they are independent of any other service. They can run on emergency power and can communicate anywhere.

“The reason Lee County likes having ham operators around is because we’re a great backup. Here, we have an outdoor location where we won’t get rained on,” Kennedy

said. “We have expensive equipment that all belongs to these individuals.”

The amateur operators simulated emergency conditions and worked remotely from a location in an attempt to reach fellow operators nationwide. The group is awarded points for each operator they reach in a certain area.

It also serves as an educational opportunity for the public to understand the importance of amateur radio preparedness.

Many of these operators have been deployed during emergencies. During Hurricane Ian, operators were located at emergency shelters and at Lee County Emergency Management, relaying important information after power and the cell towers went down.

Radio operators were also in their communities, relaying information to emergency crews in the event someone had a health condition and needed to get to the hospital.

Tom and Kathy Provenzano came to put their skills to the test. Kathy is a relative novice, having worked ham radios for a year. Tom had started ham radio in 1960 and stopped for a while before coming back to it.

“We went to the winter field day in January and nearly froze to death. We love getting out with our club and I’m new at this,” Kathy said. “I like that you can talk to people all over the world. I contacted China, Russia, Japan, Australia…”

“What I like about this event is it allows us to practice our emergency activation skills. We’ve activated two hurricane stations over the past several years at shelters,” Tom said. “When all else fails, ham radio will always be there.”

CHUCK BALLARO

Kathy and Tom Provenzano work their ham radios during the annual ARRL Field Day at North Fort Myers Community Park.

Tenants lining up for B Street at Babcock

Story by Meghan Bradbury

The new B Street at Babcock Ranch, which is currently on schedule, already has a list of tenants that will occupy the space once opened next year.

“We’re thrilled to bring Wholistic Motus Physical Therapy to the vibrant, wellness-minded community of Babcock Ranch. Our mission is to deliver whole-body, personalized care that empowers people to move better and live fully. We’re proud to grow with a community that shares our values,” said Dr. Jody Mohle Corr, founder & Doctor of Wholistic Motus Physical Therapy.

Tenant buildouts and interior work are expected to begin in January 2026, which will lead to a grand opening of the district in the first quarter of 2026. This new development includes 111,000 square feet – 68,000 square feet dedicated to retail space, 42,000 square feet of office space, as well as 1,000 parking spaces and 140 apartments with private amenities.

The retail space will spread across 10 buildings with two-story options and the residential will include two buildings.

B Street is Babcock Ranch’s newest mixed media use area in the WestTown area – directly across from Founder’s Square along Curry Preserve Drive at the corner of Lake Babcock Drive, behind Slater’s Goods & Provisions and the Hatchery. B Street currently includes a lineup of offices, wellness, retail experiences, and food and

beverage businesses within a walkable hub for the community.

“B Street reflects our vision for a vibrant, connected community that grows with purpose,” said Syd Kitson, chairman and CEO of Kitson & Partners. “It’s more than just construction, it’s our vision for residents, entrepreneurs, and visitors to experience the innovation, sustainability, and community spirit that define Babcock Ranch.”

Carondelet Drink Parlor owner Maria Thomas

said they are working diligently to bring an exciting new concept to the heart of Babcock Ranch.

“A space dedicated to all of you, featuring sips for everyone and bites for the adventurous,” she said.

The current tenants include BBQ King Smokehouse & Tavern – barbecue and tavern fare; Blush Nail Lounge – upscale nail salon; Carondelet Drink Parlor – craft cocktail bar; Flourish and Pops – artisanal popcorn, Italian sodas and boutique

gifts; Kitson & Partners – commercial leasing and property management headquarters; Kong Fu Ramen – traditional noodle bar; Mangiamo Italian Restaurant – Italian dining concept; NV Realty – full-service real estate firm; South Florida Title Insurers – title and escrow services; Sugaring LA – organic body sugaring studio; Way Better Insurance – insurance services and Wholistic Motus – specialized physical therapy

The founders of Flourish and Pops, Brad and Kylie Sevy, who are residents of Babcock Ranch,

wanted to create a cheerful, community-centered space.

“We’re excited to bring handcrafted popcorn, sparkling sodas, and boutique gifts to B Street, a place where neighbors can connect, celebrate, and feel right at home,” the Sevy’s said. “Flourish and Pops was born right here in Babcock Ranch, inspired by the idea that a small, joyful shop could bring people together. With handcrafted popcorn, sparkling sodas, and boutique gifts, we’re creating a space where neighbors and visitors can connect,

celebrate, and savor the little things. We couldn’t ask for a better place than B Street.”

The owner of Bush Nail Lounge said they are bringing a modern, upscale experience that blends luxury with sustainability.

“From natural nail care to soothing facials, we offer curated services designed to elevate self-care using eco-conscious products. We are excited to be part of the vibrant energy on B Street,” Ni Ho said.

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