Chamber thanks islanders for supporting event; contest winners announced
Celebrating Pine Islanders: Cody Allen
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District Assistant Chief of EMS Cody Allen said he would describe himself as someone whose life is both dedicated to his family and his job.
“I took this position (2021) to provide a high level of care to a large number of people,” Allen said.
Once upon a time he found himself an EMT in the ER, he said, as this was where he’d begun. He explained that he knew early on that he wanted to impact more people on a larger scale — something he’s able to achieve each day when he reports to Fire Station 1 in Pine Island Center.
His goals to help bring about the utilization of
Advanced life Support to the crews of M/PIFCD shows that his career covers much more than meets the eye. Adding Allen to the roster allowed the department to expand the medical capabilities, which is something that had been explored for the past several years.
“The goal for the department was to bring in somebody that could build a paramedic program that
Islander called to Florida Emergency Operations Center to consult for FEMA in Texas flood disaster
By PAULETTE LeBLANC
pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District Fire
Commissioner Joe Hernandez is also a medical coordinator on FEMA Florida Task Force Team 2, still serving on the incident report team. This week, he has been asked for his expert knowledge on the Texas food disaster.
He explained some details on the order of a state’s involvement in the event of a disaster as first contacting the state, which then gets the Emergency Management Division the help needed.
“The state has the responsibility to put together an Incident Support Team (IST) of individuals tasked with
the various disciplines within a response organization,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez views his role with FEMA these days as someone who helps put missing pieces together, saying he’s older now, and not likely to be counted on to get dirty but more than likely to assess the situation, to a certain degree.
As agencies begin sending resources, he said, the
See TEXAS FLOOD, page 10
Cody Gould, a manufacture’s rep, with a handheld sonar underwater camera used in rescue operations.
would allow the district to provide paramedic care to the island,” Allen said.
Pine Island has the small-town feel that Allen said he was looking for when he was considering where he’d wanted to be.
“I like the small department feel, in that, I know everybody by name. I feel like I have an opportunity to get to know the people that I work with on a much more personal level and I like to be able to talk to the community. It’s such a small island that I get to have a personal relationship with a lot of different people. Being able to have those relationships is really the biggest draw for me and this position offered me that ability,” Allen said.
See CODY ALLEN, page 11
Local community rallies to aid flood victims in Texas
Cape Council member, Collaboratory spearheading ‘The SWFL Hearts for Hill Country Fund’ relief effort
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
A Cape Coral City Council member is spearheading an effort in conjunction with a local community foundation to assist financially with the recent floods in Texas. District 4 Councilmember Jennifer Nelson-Lastra, has established The SWFL Hearts for Hill Country Fund at Collaboratory in Fort Myers.
The fund supports relief and rebuilding efforts in Kerr County, Texas, following the devastating floods on July 4. Nelson-Lastra knows many people from Kerr County — and in Southwest Florida — who lost loved ones on that tragic day.
On July 4, while Nelson-Lastra was attending Red White & BOOM! in Cape Coral, her friends from the Hill Country area in Texas were texting her to let me know that they were OK.
“I wasn’t sure what they were meaning because I’d been at the event all day and hadn’t seen the news,” Nelson-Lastra said. “But when I got home, I realized that the Guadalupe River had flooded, and the water rose 26 feet. My heart sank, because I attended a camp along that river as a child, and I know there were many other camps like Camp Mystic located much closer to the river than my childhood camp.”
The next day, Nelson-Lastra’s friend and her husband, who live in Kerrville, Texas, in Kerr County, reached out to her to ask how they could help and mobilize help locally.
“They asked me because they know my background is in non-profits recovery efforts from my years with Goodwill,” she said. “I recommended they find their local Salvation Army, and reach out to the leadership there as Salvation Army’s mission is emergency care. I told them to offer their assistance to mobilize volunteers,
Cody Allen
PHOTO PROVIDED BY JOE HERNANDEZ
New Matlacha Park sign installed
On Thursday, July 10, Lee County Parks & Rec installed a much needed new sign for Matlacha Park. The wood for the new sign came from a 90-year-old, Hurricane Milton-damaged pine tree. Workers from Pine Island milled the wood and routed the letters.
Matlacha Hookers Back to School Supply Drive ends Saturday
The Matlacha Hookers’ Pine Island Elementary Back to School Supply Drive is underway and runs through this Saturday, July 26.
The teachers’ and staff’s “Wish List” includes copy paper, notebook paper, spiral notebooks, headphones and earbuds, #2 pencils, erasers (large pink rectangle and cap), electric pencil sharpeners, Expo dry erase markers, glue sticks, red ink pens (for peer and self-correction),
White-Out correction tape, pocket folders with brads/ prongs (green, yellow, blue, red, purple), Crayola markers (washable), Crayola crayons, Crayola colored pencils, scotch tape, highlighters, staples, scissors (student and teacher sizes), 9V and AA batteries (for microphones and computer accessories), facial tissue with aloe/lotion,
See SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE, page 13
Bloodmobile to collect donations Aug. 2 at Pine Island Moose Lodge
The Lee Health Bloodmobile will be visiting the Pine Island Moose Lodge at 8903 Stringfellow Road in S. James City Saturday, Aug. 2, from 8 a.m. to noon.
All the blood collected remains in Lee Health, which includes the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, the Regional Cancer Center and the only Trauma Center (which is located in the Lee Memorial Hospital) within a 5-county radius. The blood also supports Cape Coral Hospital and Gulf Coast Medical Center.
One in three people will need blood in their lifetime. You never know when you or someone you know or love will need blood. So come out and Give the Gift of Life!
All donors will receive a free health checkup, cholesterol screening, and gift.
New studies show that donating blood improves your overall cardiovascular health. Regularly donating blood helps men in particular to reduce the amount of iron in the blood. This can reduce the chance of heart attack by 88%. Additionally, regular blood donation can lower the risk of severe cardiovascular events such as stroke by 33%. You also burn 650 calories! It’s a win-win!
The goal for the drive is 12+ units of blood.
Requirements for donating blood:
n Weigh at least 115 pounds
n Be at least 16 years old (16 requires parental written consent)
n Be relatively healthy
n Provide photo ID
n Have 56 days between donations
Eat a meal before donating blood and be sure to drink plenty of fluids before and after donation.
Questions about donating? Please call all Lee Health Blood Center at 343-2333
PHOTO SUBMITTED BY MCA BOARD PRESIDENT CAROL SCOTT
OPINIONS
10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60 Bokeelia, FL 33922
Phone: (239) 283-2022
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Web Poll
Previous Web Poll Question:
Do you support the county decision to ban smoking and vaping in parks?
n Yes. 57%
n No. 14%
n It seems a bit extreme. 14%
n I have no opinion. 14%
Current Web Poll Question:
Do you approve or disapprove of “Alligator Alcatraz”?
n Approve.
n Disapprove.
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n I have no opinion on it. Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com
Protect your property, sign up for Lee Clerk’s free Property Fraud Alert service
Protecting your property is one of my top priorities. And I hope it is one of yours, too.
It’s a sad reality, but unfortunately thieves are stealing properties – and it’s even happening in our community. Property fraud occurs when someone uses a forged deed to sell or transfer property that does not belong to them. Under current Florida law, our office must accept a deed if it meets the statutory requirements – even if we suspect it may be fraudulent. That is why I am doing everything I can to help you protect your property. Criminals shouldn’t be able to steal your home.
Earlier this year, a Fort Myers man was arrested for attempting to steal a property by filing a fake deed in the Lee Clerk’s Official Records Department. Shortly after that, a woman was convicted in a 2023 case involving her trying to file multiple false deeds at the Clerk’s office to steal properties from the homeowners. Just last month, a Marion County woman was sentenced to five years in state prison for filing a false document to try and steal a home.
These recent incidents and others across the state show the importance of the Lee Clerk’s Property Fraud Alert.
Regulations are needed for short-term rentals on Pine Island
To the editor:
As a resident of Pine Island, I feel fortunate to live in a community that offers peace, natural beauty and a strong sense of neighborliness. These are qualities that make our island a truly special place to live and raise a family. However, I am increasingly concerned about the growing number of shortterm rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb, and the potential impact they may have on our community if left entirely unregulated.
Unlike neighboring communities such as Fort Myers Beach, Cape Coral, Sanibel Island and Bonita Springs, Pine Island currently has no restrictions on short-term vacation rentals, including no minimum stay requirements. This regulatory gap allows homes in our residential neighborhoods to operate like transient lodging, with guests arriving and departing on a nightly basis.
Even more concerning, this lack of restrictions is beginning to attract investor groups from outside the area, who are purchasing properties not with the intent to join or contribute to our community, but simply to profit from it. These absentee owners often have
I really encourage you to take a few minutes and register for our Property Fraud Alert, if you haven’t already. It is a free service that helps protect your home, land or business from property fraud by letting you know within 24 hours if someone has filed a deed under your name. That quick notification allows you to act fast, so you can immediately alert law enforcement.
Signing up for Property Fraud Alert is extremely easy. It takes less than two minutes and can even be done on your phone. You just need to enter your name and email address. That’s it. If you would like to include your property’s parcel number for additional alerts, you can do that too. To sign up, please visit www.leeclerk.org/fraudalert. You can register personal names, business names, trusts, and individual parcels to receive alert notifications. Even if your personal or commercial property is held in a trust, it can still be registered for Property Fraud Alerts. Just follow the step-by-step instructions on the
Letters to the Editor
little to no connection to Pine Island and no stake in maintaining the character, safety or livability of our neighborhoods.
While I fully support the rights of individual property owners — many of whom are local — to responsibly rent their homes, we need to strike a fair and reasonable balance.
One practical step is to implement a 7-day minimum stay requirement for all short-term rentals. This policy would help preserve the integrity and stability of our neighborhoods without eliminating rental income for those who rely on it.
A 7-day minimum stay would:
n Reduce traffic and disruption caused by frequent turnover of guests.
n Support community safety, as fewer short-term renters means fewer unfamiliar faces rotating through residential areas.
n Preserve our island’s charm, making it more likely that vacationers will treat the area with the same respect as longer-term visitors tend to do.
n Discourage impersonal investor-driven rentals, while still allowing homeowners to share their properties in a responsible manner.
n Bring Pine Island in line with more thoughtful policies already adopted in nearby
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
website.
While there are companies out there that charge for this service, it is important for you to know that our office offers it for free. I highly discourage you from paying for this kind of service from a company you may see advertised on TV or online. These are for-profit entities that sometimes make guarantees they cannot fulfill.
The Lee Clerk’s office launched the Property Fraud Alert service in 2019, and more than 70,000 Lee County property owners have registered. There are approximately 550,000 parcels of land in Lee County, and my goal is for every Lee County property owner to be registered. You can learn more about this ongoing problem and how our office is working to prevent it at www.leeclerk.org/fraudalert.
Kevin Karnes is the Lee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller.
communities.
Let me be clear: I am not opposed to vacation rentals. Many people have invested in them in good faith, and they should be allowed to benefit from their use. But without reasonable, community-focused guidelines, we risk losing the very qualities that make Pine Island such a special place to call home.
Let’s take proactive steps now to protect what we all value about this island — while still welcoming visitors in a way that respects the residents who live here year-round.
Ed Anderson, Fulltime resident of St. James City
Removal of Temporary Protection Status sure to hit home
To the editor:
The 2020 Census in Florida published a melting pot of immigrants in Lee County. Cubans, South Americans, Mexicans, Dominicans and Haitians reside in Lee County. There are 6,540 Haitians who live in Lee County.
Soon the Haitians will be the next target for changes in their immigration status by the government. The Department of Homeland Security has determined that Haiti’s condition no longer meets requirements of TPS as the country’s homeland and living conditions have improved.
The temporary protection status was given because the country was facing temporary but unsafe conditions that prevented their citizens a safe return. It was specifically established to protect individuals from countries experiencing armed conflicts, environmental disasters or extraordinary or temporary conditions that make living unsafe .
This summer the changes will happen on
Kevin Karnes Guest Commentary
Thank you to everyone who came out to our 29th annual MangoMania. The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce is grateful to all for supporting our island businesses and the festival.
2025 MangoMania contest winners
Chamber thanks all for success of this year’s MangoMania Guest Commentary
Thanks to our 85 island businesses who were sponsors and vendors showcasing what our island has to offer. Thanks to the 40 volunteers who braved the heat and made the day possible.
Special thanks also to the Pine Island Kiwanis for Mr. MangoHead fun and Chef Craig of Tarpon Lodge and Chef Reid of Street Eatz & Ale for judging the food contests.
We are happy to report that attendance was the highest it has been since we brought the festival back onto the island
From page 4
Aug. 3 and the designation of the current status expires, then termination will take place on Sept. 2. (Driving privileges will end, too.)
According to the leader of the Haitian community coalition, SWFL president Beatrice Jacquet-Castor says that the year has been hard on Haitian people and the Haitian community and the Haitians encountered multiple attacks from many fronts.
You may call their office at 239-202 -9855 or 239-878-5898. The office is currently reviewing cases every day to try and help. Call the office for more information.
How is this going to affect Lee County? Many Haitians are healthcare workers,
and we thank everyone who braved the heat, our businesses appreciate you even more than usual after the tough season we had last winter. Thanks to the generous donations at the entrance we will be able to donate to some of our island non-profit organizations to help them continue the terrific services they offer.
Stay tuned for details of “Adopt a Pelican” wall art auction on Oct. 12, Island Market starting on Oct. 25 and StoneCrab Fest on Nov. 9
Biggest Mango Contest 1st place, 5.4 lbs., Jim Lotz 2nd place, 4.75 lbs., Maurice Rocha
Mango Food Contests
Mango Jam 1st place, Leah Phillips 2nd place, Donna Schneider
Mango Salsa 1st place, Donna Schneider
Working together we can make an impact. We encourage more of our island businesses to join us as we get ready for
Letters to the Editor
construction workers or entrepreneurs.
Kathleen Callard,RNBS North Fort Myers
School Choice ... who chooses and what is chosen?
To the editor:
Advocates of school choice often say that competition is the solution to improving standards. Do proponents of “choice” understand that schools do more of the choosing than parents? Do American parents and employers understand that the USA is already in competition with European and Asian schools that provide FREE education through college? Do Lee County parents realize that reporting and marketing are skewing the reality?
The recent 2023-24 school district
grades reveal Lee County gets a B rating or a score of 57%-63%. When most of us were in school, 57-63% earned a grade of F or at best a D! Given Florida’s track record on reporting issues of public concern, I suspect the report puts a positive spin on a bad situation. If we want our kids to compete at a global or even a national level, they must meet global/ national standards, not ones set by the Florida Dept. of Ed.
Our schools were graded using measurements including public and charter school achievement in English language arts, math, science, and social studies, graduation rates, acceleration success for middle and high school students, and maintaining a focus on students who need the most support. Test scores in math,
Mango bread 1st place, Linda Overbaugh 2nd Susan Smith
Mango Condiments 1st place, Melissa Aszman 2nd place, Witches Brew Mango Desserts 1st place, Kerri Doncom 2nd place, Rachel, the Jolly Roger food truck
the winter season. -- Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce
sciences, social studies, English language arts, other exams and graduation rates.
The graduation rates are skewed because they do not account for students who have been moved into alternative certificate programs and subsequently forgotten. We need a more effective superintendent and school board. The school board used to be a check on the superintendent. Now, board decisions are consistently made 6 to 1 in compliance with the superintendent and Tallahassee’s fears. These elected officials are making self-serving political decisions, not educational choices for Lee County students. Let’s start looking at the new school board candidates.
Karyn Edison Fort Myers
August programs set at Pine Island Public Library
Next month’s roster of activities at the Pine Island Public Library offers topics for all ages.
The following programs are free to the public.
Adult
Programs
All Hazards Preparedness with Lee County Emergency Management
2 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 7
Join Lee County Emergency Management for an informative session on All Hazards Preparedness. Learn critical tips and strategies to protect your home, family and community when disaster strikes. From creating survival kits, to understanding evacuation routes, this program will equip you with the knowledge you need to face the season with confidence.
Decoupage Seashell Craft Dish
2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 9
10 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 27
Shell-ebrate your creativity by making a one-of-a-kind decoupage seashell trinket dish. It is the perfect craft to have as a decorative piece or jewelry holder. Participants may only register for one class in the series. Registration is guaranteed until the start of the program on Aug. 9.
Parent’s Back-to-School Bash
2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 23
The kids are back to school and now it is your time for a break. Join us for a relaxing craft, fun games and refreshments. Learn about library resources that can help support your children this school year and beyond.
Children’s Programs
Lego Club: End of Summer Bash
2:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 1
Join us for a short story and creative brick-building activities. Lego bricks are provided for use during this program.
Preschool Water Safety Storytime
10:30 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 7
Join us for this special storytime. Our lifeguard friends from the Pine Island Community Pool are stopping by to share important water safety tips. A story, songs, games and crafts will be provided at this fun-filled summer activity.
Healthy Start of SWFL: Storytime at the Library
10:30 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 14
Join us for a special storytime. Ms. Heather from Healthy Start will share a story, songs and lots of fun activities and giveaways.
Teen Programs
Game On- Teen Edition
2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 30
Now’s the time to settle the score. Join in the fun and challenge your friends to
SJCCA Update
St. James City Civic Association has announced the following upcoming events and activities:
Wednesday, July 23
n Little Learners Nature Group: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Open to all childrenweekly meetup to learn and play in nature
Thursday, July 24
n Mahjongg: 1 - 4 p.m. This is a great place to learn to play mahjongg! Please contact Terry at 239-233-2766 for additional information
Friday, July 25
n Craft Class - Vinyl Weeding and Canvas Application. Join us for an exciting crafting workshop led by local artisan Seri Montalbano with Craft Something Now. This engaging event will take place on July 18, from 6-7:30 p.m. Open to all ages. Learn the basics of vinyl weeding in this fun evening class. Apply your creation to canvas and then finish it off with paint or markers. Drinks and snacks are
available for purchase, or you can bring your own. Register at craftsomethingnow@gmail.com $20 per person. Or $30 if you sign up with a friend.
Wednesday, July 30
n Little Learners Nature Group: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Open to all childrenweekly meetup to learn and play in nature
a variety of board games and/or video games. Light snacks will also be available.
The Pine Island Public Library is located at 10701 Russell Road in Bokeelia. For more information about a program or to register, please call the library at 239-533-4350. Check the Lee County Library System’s website at www.leelibrary.net to find out about programs at other locations. Call the host library, or Telephone Reference at 239-479-INFO (4636), for more information about a specific program.
To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www.leegov.com/resources/newsletters.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Lee County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in its services, programs or activities. To request an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or a reasonable modification to participate, contact Ranice E. Monroe, ADA Coordinator, 239-533-0255, Florida Relay Service 711, or ADArequests@ leegov.com. Accommodation will be provided at no cost to the requester. Requests should be made at least five business days in advance.
Civic
Planning an event? Host it at the St. James City Civic Association! With a variety of rental options available, the SJCCA venue is ideal for everything from intimate gatherings to weddings, baby showers and quinceañeras. Please visit the SJCCA website (SJCCAPI.ORG.) for additional details and pricing!
All activities are held at St James City
Association, 3300 Fourth Ave., St James City. More details, contacts and ticket sales are available at SJCCAPI. ORG
Lee County Spirit of ’45 World War II veterans event Aug. 10 at The Club at Pelican Preserve
The Lee County Spirit of ’45 event will take place Sunday, Aug. 10, with dinner at 4:15 p.m.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the
16th year that the nationwide Spirit of ’45 initiative has been in effect. While the number of World War II veterans is dwindling, it is imperative that everyone is proactive in keeping this generation’s
FDOT update in bridge project
The Florida Department of Transportation issued the following report this week concerning the ongoing repair/ replacement of the Little Pine Island Bridge in Matlacha.
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 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, which includes fishing and all other recreational uses.
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.
To stay informed, motorists are encouraged to check FDOT’s traffic app at www.FL511.com for real-time updates. Live bridge camera feeds can be accessed at https://www.leegov.com/dot/ traffic. To sign up for updates and access the weekly Road Watch, please visit the project website at 451937-2 Pine Island Causeway and Bridge Reconstruction Project.
For further inquiries, please contact the FDOT Communications Team at 239-800-6391 or email pineislandinfo@exp.com.
legacy alive.
This event cannot continue without financial backing, as this event runs solely on sponsorship. Please consider sponsoring, either as a corporate sponsor, or, sponsor-a-vet, which would be $45 to pay for each World War II veteran’s meal. (Please note that there are many additional underlying costs to hold this event).
The sponsor’s name or the name of a World War II veteran would be listed in the program. Business sponsorships range from $50 to $1,500+ depending on the level chosen and will provide advertising in the program and free tickets to the dinner/ceremony.
The event is an elegant sit-down dinner at The Club at Pelican Preserve in Fort Myers, followed by a well-rounded vet-
erans ceremony. The ceremony includes Honor Guard, singing of the National Anthem, guest speakers, pipes and drums band and “Taps” at the end.
This is just a small summary of all which will go on that day. Additionally, organizers are asking that anyone who knows a World War II veteran, who is willing and able to attend, please call or email.
Reservations are required. The last day for reservations is Aug. 3. Payment must be received by Aug. 6. World War II veterans and members of the World War II generation are free. For all others, the cost will be $45 per person.
Please call Eryka Aptaker at 917-6074385, or email ejaNYYgirl@comcast.net for additional information.
Sight fishing snook in clear shallows
From bluegills to bonefish, in my angling world nothing beats sight fishing. At the end of my seawall there are several vacant lots ending in sandy natural shorelines. During low tide phases it’s not unusual to see snook sunning themselves in the clear shallows and why I planted a large bush at the end of my seawall to hide behind and observe without being seen.
Earlier in the week I slowly parted the leaves to look and there it was, belly to the sand 30 yards away enjoying the warmth of the afternoon sun in the crystal clear water. Casting around the tree without exposing myself, I let the soft plastic settle 10 yards beyond the fish. After waiting for a long minute I slow hopped the bait five yards away going past the fish. Instantly it woke from its nap, and quickly turned, fins now fully extended in attack mode and in a flash darted out and inhaled the bait. Looking down in the clear shallow water from my seawall height advantage I clearly watched every move of the fight including several jumps and runs.
I would like to report this 45-inch monster almost spooled my ultra-lite outfit, but in reality this slightly less than 30inch warrior put on a great show and to be able to clearly observe the strike and fight was a beautiful thing. Nothing beats sight fishing in clear shallow water.
Not all snook are at the beach doing their summer spawn as I caught this fish from my home’s lot at the top of the spreader canal, but thousands of his brothers and sisters certainly are coastal. Over the years I’ve observed many large female snook at the top of the spreader canal during summer. Did these big females simply choose not to go to the beach? Had they already been, done their thing and swam all the way up into the Northwest Cape to recuperate which doesn’t seem likely? Maybe too old to spawn? I can’t tell you and the fish aren’t talking.
A 40-inch Southwest Florida snook is approximately 10 years old. A little research shows that not all snook spawn every summer while others may spawn several times during the warm water period and, according to our FWC, sometimes “every other day” releasing millions of eggs.
It’s interesting to note that a 10-yearold, 40-inch long east coast snook will weigh somewhere between 25 to 30 pounds while the same age and length fish will average about 22 pounds here in Southwest Florida.
With most fish at the beach, sight casters wait for east winds to pursue their favorite sport. East winds means a quieter surf zone making spotting fish much easier as anglers and fish move along the
beach. With a bright blue sky above, is it necessary to dress all in light blue to blend and help camouflage yourself from prying eyes in the clear Gulf waters? Some think so, others not so much. I’m from the not so much group choosing instead to not move around but simply stand, waiting and watching for a 10 to 15-minute period before relocating further down the shoreline.
Hot lures for surf zone snook include silver spoons and white bucktails or Z-Man white soft plastic jigs on 1/4 to 3/8-ounce jig heads. MirrOlure twitch baits and at times natural color DOA Shrimp can do the trick when slowly floated along nat-
urally with the current. It’s no secret that snook love topwater plugs so firing one down the beach in the very early morning before sight fishing is possible can pay off with an explosive strike.
Many snook purists refuse to harass these fish during the spawn and I can’t argue with that. Guess I’m not in this group but I do take great pains to make non-handling, in-the-water-only releases a priority.
Capt. George Tunison is a Cape Coral resident fishing guide. You can contact him at 239-579-0461 or via email at captgeorget3@aol.com.
Lee County ranked third among Florida counties for recycling rate
Community participation pushes the county’s rate to 78%
Lee County Solid Waste has been ranked third among the state’s 67 counties by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). The amount of material Lee County residents and businesses recycled in 2024 would be enough to fill 310 football fields 10 feet high.
Lee County received credit for recycling more than 1.9 million tons of the 3 million total tons of waste generated locally in 2024, according to numbers that FDEP recently released. This brings the county’s recycling rate to an adjusted rate of 78%.
Strong participation by both residents and businesses has enabled Lee County to meet and exceed the state’s 75% recycling goal.
Lee County earns FDEP recycling credits for items such as curbside recycling by residents as well as business recycling of materials such as cardboard, yard waste, scrap metal and construction and demolition debris.
Lee County also receives recycling credit for energy produced from garbage processed at the Waste-to-Energy plant in Buckingham.
Please visit www.leegov.com/solidwaste for more information. To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www.leegov.com/resources/newsletters.
Southwest Florida residents and visitors can also follow the Lee County Government on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/leecountyflbocc.
Capt. George Tunison
FWC FILE PHOTO
A young angler with a snook.
Relief effort
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set up a triage area, and be able to provide hot meals for the workers and rescue recovery teams. At that moment, I decided I needed to do something locally to help my friends and former community who were affected.”
Nelson-Lastra reached out to Dr. Dawn Belamarich , the CEO of Collaboratory, and asked her if they could set up a fund locally so that the people of Southwest Florida – who had been reaching out to her on how they could help – had a secure way to donate money. On July 6, Nelson-Lastra reached out to the Hill Country Community Foundation CEO and set up a call between him and Belamarich.
“The funds will be directly transferred to that community foundation where the money will go directly to help the families and victims of this tragedy,” Nelson-Lastra said.
Belamarich added, “Though based in Florida, our hearts are with the Hill Country community during this time of crisis. Your generosity helps provide critical support to those affected.”
Other local businesses have also reached out to Nelson-Lastra to lend their assistance. Genevieve Bruno from Bruno’s Of Brooklyn restaurant in Fort Myers, reached out via Facebook and immediately set up a supply drop off area at their restaurant.
“I was able to get them a list of what was needed, including baby items, diapers, formula, first aid kit items, and cleaning supplies,” Nelson-Lastra said. “She has been collecting for over a week, and we have about one large box truck full of items. A marine company in Port Charlotte reached out to me last week as well, and they are also collecting and will drive the items to Texas.”
According to the Associated Press, at a news conference Monday, Texas state officials said 101 people remain missing, including 97 in the Kerrville area. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Urban Search and Rescue teams fully resumed operations on Monday, said Obed Frometa, FEMA Blue Incident Support Team information officer. According to officials, 132 have died as a result of the flood.
“Supplies and money are still needed to help those
“The funds will be directly transferred to that community foundation where the money will go directly to help the families and victims of this tragedy.”
—Cape Coral City Councilmembrer
Jennifer Nelson-Lastra
victims,” Nelson-Lastra said. “As well as the emergency recovery workers who were still trying to locate hundreds of missing people.”
Being from the Lone Star State, this tragedy has hit close to home for Nelson-Lastra.
“Sadly, my best friend from college lost her nanny and nanny‘s child in the floods,” she said. “Also, our federal lobbyist, who helps us at the city of Cape Coral, lost her 8-year-old twin nieces as their cabin was swept away at Camp Mystic.”
Nelson-Lastra attended the University of Texas in Austin in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, and lived in the Hill Country for 12 years after she graduated. She said she spent many summers floating the Guadalupe River and the Comal River with friends and family.
“That area is very near and dear to my heart because many of us from Austin would vacation there just to get away and experience the peaceful calm of the rivers in that area,” Nelson-Lastra said.
“The recovery efforts in the Texas Hill Country are going to be long and take a while, as we know from our own experience dealing with Hurricane Ian three years ago. Anyone who can help support these families and this community that was so severely affected I would encourage and pray that you do.”
Nelson-Lastra has put out a request for donations to the fund via social media for her upcoming birthday on July 25. She said she plans to collect funds through the end of the month, as well as supplies, and then send a truck as well as the funds to Texas.
Florida Sen. Rick Scott and his wife Anne, are also
Membership Matters
native Texans. Their office has donated many supplies and have advertised the fund set up through Southwest Florida on their social media outlets to encourage Floridians to donate.
“I wear a silhouette charm of my home state around my neck proudly in support of my former community,” Nelson-Lastra said.
To donate to the fund, visit www.collaboratory.org.
At LCEC, membership is everything. That’s why concern for our members and community are at the root of everything we do.
LCEC sponsors theatrical performances and interactive demonstrations to educate local students about electricity and the importance of electrical safety.
In partnership with the United Way, Power to Share by Rounding Up allows members to round their monthly electric bill to the nearest dollar to help a neighbor in need.
LCEC employees volunteer their time and talents to support those in need and strengthen the communities we serve.
LCEC offers a free app that gives members access to exclusive savings on local and national deals from participating businesses.
FWC completes revegetation efforts on Lake Okeechobee
This spring, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission completed a revegetation effort on Lake Okeechobee, enhancing the habitat in Fisheating Bay, Moore Haven Marsh and the Fisheating Bay islands. These revegetation efforts are in part guided by the Lake Okeechobee Fish, Wildlife and Habitat Management Plan, developed in 2022 to help more aquatic species meet management goals.
Lake Okeechobee’s aquatic plants have struggled due to prolonged high-water levels, impacts resulting from both natural and human disturbances. Strong winds and heavy rainfall associated with tropical events can uproot plants and
Texas flood
lead to these prolonged high lake stages. Extended periods of high water can increase turbidity, reducing light penetration for submerged plants and changing the aquatic plant community, preventing germination and spread of aquatic plants. Loss of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) can severely impact an ecosystem, as SAV provides vital breeding grounds, shelter and food for many species of fish and wildlife.
To combat this, the FWC partnered with the South Florida Water Management District to plant 40,000 individual eelgrass (tapegrass), paspaladium (Kissimmee grass), and bulrush plants resulting in 8.25 acres of improved habi-
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cost can become astronomical. He said it’s also important to remember that there cannot reasonably or realistically be expectations from any responder in the Kerr County area because they are more than likely going to be trying to gear up for what’s happened to them.
“Those coming from around there are not likely to be able to provide exactly what’s needed. For a short period of time,
they tried and it quickly escalated to the need for help,” Hernandez said.
Utilizing technology for events just like this one is a goal, he said, referring to it as “disruptive technology.’” In the 2021 Surfside Building collapse in Miami Hernandez was called to, he said there had been much concrete and delayering to drill through and work around in order to have a better look.
tat. The grasses were planted in less than 1 foot of water to allow for the rise of the lake stage through summer.
These native aquatic plants will provide habitat for several native fish and wildlife species, including the endangered Everglade snail kite.
Wildlife habitat in the Moore Haven marsh was enhanced by planting 27,558 individual sawgrass plants across 6 acres. Sawgrass has been in decline due to encroachment from cattail and willow, along with high water, which suppresses the prescribed fire that sawgrass relies on.
Sawgrass provides shelter for the threatened Eastern black rail and nesting habitat for alligators. The seeds are a high-quality
“We were able to do that here, with debris using what we call, those search cameras, where you can see 360 around an area, but it’s very limited because the debris was so compact — there wasn’t a lot of voids in that,” Hernandez said.
food source for waterfowl.
To enhance wading bird rookeries on the Fisheating Bay Islands, the FWC also planted 100 each of pond apple, pop ash and bald cypress, and 80 cocoplums spread over seven islands.
The low lake stages in 2025 have led to increased water clarity, which will allow the new plantings to flourish in these areas, bolstering the coverage of these historically important grasses for the benefit of fish, wildlife, anglers, hunters and wildlife viewers.
If you have any questions regarding the restoration on Lake Okeechobee, visit MyFWC.com/AquaticHabitats or email AquaticHabitat@MyFWC.com.
Another technology he’s very interested in for work in the area of rescue is a hand held sonar underwater camera, which employs the use of AI technology as well.
Hernandez also said, while many people own or have access to drones or drone technology they need to be aware of what is legal and what is not, as folks may well impact radio communications and could impede rescue operations with illegal use of personal drones over a disaster area.
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Seeing his job as one of service to the island has become a great deal of his vocation, Allen said, adding that this is nothing to be taken lightly. Being able to formulate relationships with those who may need him is of the utmost importance, he said.
“All of our jobs here at the department are about serving and getting to know the people you serve gives you even more pride in your job,” Allen said.
In his opinion, his greatest contribution to Pine Island, he said, is his passion for medicine. Not so much in dosing or procedures performed, he said, but in building rapport with patients and their families. He describes his role as a unique responsibility, one in which he is often called to go into people’s homes, sometimes on the worst days of their lives. A big part of serving the Pine Island community is an effort to take some of the sting out of any calamity for which he’s called.
“I think we have an obligation to the
community to always put our best foot forward and recognize that we’re going to be there when there’s no one else to call. In a field where you never know what you’re responding to minute by minute, I like to emphasize to my providers and to everybody that I work with that their ability to treat a patient is important, ” Allen said.
According to Allen, the ability to treat people with dignity and respect is one of the most important lessons attached to his job. It also comes with an enormous amount of responsibility, he said. People will always remember how you made them feel for a much longer period of time than anything that was prescribed or what procedures were followed.
“They’re going to remember that the person who took care of them, asked their name and maybe explained something to a child who didn’t know what was happening. That’s my biggest push for this department, to always have our providers
Beacon of Hope to hold Senior Enrichment classes
Senior Enrichment classes will be held in The Center of Excellence classroom, at the Beacon of Hope, 5090 Doug Taylor Circle. St. James City. Arthritis Foundation
Exercise Program
Mondays & Fridays, 11-11:45 a.m.
Program: starts Monday, July 28, and ends Friday, Oct. 3
No classes Sept. 12 and 15
building that rapport with the public,” Allen said.
Describing the island to a stranger, he said it would be best summed up with the words, tight-knit and resilient.
His greatest wish for Pine Island, he
said, is that any growth trying to enter the island is met with a deserving respect for its many unique qualities.
“I hope that as the inevitability of progress continues, we stay true to everything that is uniquely Pine Island,” Allen said.
Sister rallies to help younger sibling, plans fundraiser
By CHUCK BALLARO news@breezenewspapers.com
Some times a family has to reach out. For a pair of sisters, this is one of those times. North Fort Myers resident Kit Mann’s sister, Luann Barber, has been re-diagnosed with cancer and needs to get back to Illinois for treatment.
Money is a problem.
Barber is a breast cancer survivor whose cancer has reappeared as her husband is dealing with prostate cancer and in the wake of the death of two sons from disease, including one last year.
Mann has put together a fundraiser for Luann to be held Sunday, Aug. 3, from 1-5 p.m., at Shea’s West in North Fort Myers.
“She needs the gas to get to Illinois and back, hotel stays going there and back. If she needs to stay in the hospital up there, he has to come back down for work,” Mann said. “She has good friends up there.”
This is Barber’s second battle with breast cancer. She underwent treatment eight years ago and become cancer free five years ago.
Barber, who turns 70 this fall, found a lump two months ago and went to the emergency room at Lee Memorial. There, a doctor found another mass on her left breast the size of a softball, as well as nodules on her lungs, the family said.
“I’ve been quite ill. I don’t act it or feel it, but my innards are telling me I am,” Barber said. “We have money from Social Security to pay our bills, but not for anything out of the ordinary.”
Barber has doctors here in Florida but needs to get back to Chicago where her primary oncologist practices.
Meanwhile, it cost all she and her husband had to bury their son who died last year. The other son had passed in 1996 at age 21.
“We had him cremated and had a short service and it
still cost $9,000. We got help for that and put in what we had and now my husband is keeping us afloat here,” Barber said, adding he is working construction as he deals with his own cancer diagnosis.
While temporary housing will be paid for by the American Cancer Society while in Illinois, Mann said her sister needs a helping hand just to get there.
The fundraiser — which will include a 50/50 raffle and prize drawings as well as music from Feast or Famine, tarot readings and dancing by the Calendar Girls will help ease the financial burden, she said.
Mann is grateful to the venue. She said she went to many businesses and venues for help but, since this is not a non-profit organization sponsored fund raiser, they were turned down.
Shea’s West stepped up, and since Mann is good friends with the Calendar Girls, they were also quick to help. Several local businesses have also donated prizes for auction and raffle.
Barber said her sister is a great fundraiser, and although she asked her not to, big sister Kit wouldn’t hear of it.
“She told me to get off my high horse. She’s got a mouth on her and that’s what she said. She’s raised over $1,000 for stuff to raffle off,” Barber said. “She said she was going to make sure we could go. She’s always helping people. She’s an angel, and everybody knows I appreciate it.”
Shea’s West is at 1232 N. Tamiami Trail in North Fort Myers.
Bridge Beat
Bridge is played at 12:30 p.m. every Wednesday at 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. Sharpen your brain!
Winners on July 16: Barb Carrier, first place; Karen McWright, second place; and Kathy Brown, third place.
If there is anyone out there who is a bridge player and would like a cool place to spend a Wednesday afternoon, please join us. Your participation is always welcome.
Kittens of the Week
Kitten Saturdays continue
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!
School supply drive
stickers, Post-It notes, bandages (large and small), disinfectant wipes, paper towels and hand sanitizer.
School supplies may be dropped off at the following participating businesses through July 26: in Matlacha at the Post Office, The Perfect Cup, Blue Dog Restaurant, Trader’s Hitching Post, Island Flair, CW Fudge Factory, Yucatan Waterfront Bar & Grill, and Miceli’s Restaurant; at The Center, bring supplies to Ace Hardware, Island Bikeworks, Street Eatz & Ale, Pine Island First Baptist Church and Pine Island United Methodist Church; in Bokeelia, donate items at Salty Girls Island Cafe, Spots Ice Cream and Crepes, Cosita’s and Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church; and in St. James City, donation bins can be found at the Moose Lodge, Winn-Dixie, Centennial Bank, Fishers of Men Lutheran Church, Century 21, Dollar General, Beacon of Hope, Saint James General Store, Pine Island Community Church, Pine Island Auto Care, and First Baptist Church of St. James City.
The Hookers are again counting on the generosity of the island residents since there are many families on Pine Island still struggling to make ends meet.
The 2025-2026 school year across Lee County starts Aug. 1 for teachers and on Aug. 11 for students.
This Matlacha Hookers program helps ensure Pine Island Elementary teachers don’t have to use their own money for these items.
Both the contributed products and monetary donations are welcome and will be passed on directly to Pine Island Elementary.
Monetary donations can be made by cash or check, mailed to Matlacha Hookers, PO Box 111, Matlacha, FL 33993. Be sure to write “school supplies” into the memo area. Donations can also be made online at www.matlachahookers. org/ Click the “Donate Now” button and select “School Supplies” in the drop-down box. Donations can also be made at Spots Ice Cream and Crepes by choosing to “round up” your total through July and August.
If you have any questions, please contact the Matlacha Hookers School Supply Drive Co-Chairs Christy Rau at 513-7037433, Lorie Tidwell at 202-294-490, and Joyce Boyer at 314-401-9354 or email matlachahookers@matlachahookers.org.
PINE ISLAND TIDE CHART JULY 2025
Gulf Coast Tide Tables
