Summer camp
Lee County Parks & Rec thanks Bobby Holloway Jr. Memorial Fund for support — INSIDE
National Water Quality Month a call to action
Clean water advocates stress the importance of local waters to environment, economy
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
The lifeblood of the Sunshine State — water and water quality — should always be at the forefront of decision making and a priority in local communities, environmental experts say.
This year, Florida Governmental Utility Authority and water utilities around the nation are celebrating the 20th anniversary of National Water Quality Month, which was founded in 2005 by the Environmental Protection Agency and backed by the United Nations. The goal of this concerted annual campaign which occurs every August is to promote the value of this natural resource,
encouraging action at the household and community level to ensure access to safe, clean drinking water for generations to come.
Southwest Florida in particular relies on clean water to harbor endangered marine life, sustain local business, and bring in tourism dollars that greatly impact the economy.
One of the biggest advocates for clean water in the region, the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation, puts out a weekly water report that ties into water management decision, especially regarding Lake Okeechobee,
“We’re collecting all that data and talking with stakeholders and partners in the region, and packaging it into
Celebrating Pine Islanders: Joanna Anderson
By PAULETTE LeBLANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Pine Island Experience podcast host Joanna Anderson said she would describe herself as an optimist. She said she came to Pine Island with her husband Trygve (Trig) in 2015.
“We’d been coming here a lot. We’d been in Florida for 26 years, but we worked our way down here. We were spending our weekends on Fort Myers Beach and we decided we needed to get a weekend home here, so at first, we ended up coming to Pine Island from Thursdays to Sundays,” Anderson said.
An emotional attachment for the island came fairly quickly, she said, for the two of them, as she recalls a great feeling of love striking the moment they first drove over the Matlacha Bridge. Anderson recalls an author she was particularly fond of who lived across from the Tarpon Lodge in Bokeelia, who made her want to come out here to begin with. The author, she learned, was also a fishing guide and although she credits him with making the couple aware of the island, she credits Matlacha ultimately, for the love they found once they’d arrived.
Anderson said they were told, by their Realtor immediately that there were no beaches on Pine Island.
“We said, we don’t care. We have a fishing boat,” Anderson said.
Once they made the decision to be here full time, rather than just on long weekends, they ended up with the home were they still live. Something she said they found their way to immediately were volunteer positions.
“One of the first things we did was volunteer for the VFW. I’ve done things for churches in the past and fund drives. But coming here made us realize, this is a volunteer island. Everybody helps everyone. It was very rewarding to go to the VFW. They asked me to do their website and Trygve set up their cameras. We became lifetime members immediately,” Anderson said.
She admits being on Pine Island changes folks, just as it did her. She said she finds herself wanting to do more for the community.
Being the host of the Pine Island Experience podcast comes with certain limitations, she said, such as trying to interview everyone without offending a guest by having their competitors on the podcast as well. Although, as an optimist, she finds her rule of thumb is, ‘the more the merrier.’
In her explanation to a stranger for a description of Pine Island, she said she might begin by describing it as a Floridian island, the size of Manhattan, filled with artists and creative types that very few people seem to be aware of.
“People may be aware of Sanibel or Captiva, but we’re nothing like Sanibel or Captiva. Either you stum-
See ANDERSON, page 12
those reports that we then can give out to the general public and media, and concerned individuals who want it,” said SCCF Environmental Policy Director Matt DePaolis. “That also goes to water managers so that they understand what’s happening in our part of the system, and hopefully that weighs in when they’re making their decisions.”
As far as the current water quality levels in Southwest Florida go, despite a lack of releases from Lake Okeechobee, there are still high levels of nutrients in the water from other sources.
See WATER QUALITY
Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday underway
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
Getting prepared for the upcoming school year?
Throughout August Floridians can save at the checkout line, as Florida’s annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday runs from Aug. 1 through 31.
During the annual sales tax holiday period, tax is not due for the retail sale of:
n Clothing, footwear, wallets, bags, handbags, backpacks, fanny packs, and diaper bags with a sales price of $100 or less per item.
n Certain school supplies with a sales price of $50 or less per item.
n Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles with a sales price of $30 or less.
n Personal computers and certain computer-related accessories with a sales price of $1,500 or less, when purchased for noncommercial home or personal use.
“Proud to deliver additional sales tax holidays, including the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday that begins on Aug. 1,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis at a press conference in Panama City Beach on Monday. “With the new school year just around the corner, Florida families can save on back-to-school shopping during the tax holiday for the entire month of August. By cutting taxes, empowering parents, and growing our economy, we’re making it easier for people to live, work, and thrive in the Free State of Florida.”
There is no option for dealers to opt-out of the annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday.
No tax is due on the sale or purchase of any school supply item with a sales price of $50 or less per item. The exemption does not apply to sales of school supplies within a theme park or entertainment complex, public lodging establishment, or airport.
“School supplies” means pens, pencils, erasers, crayons, notebooks, notebook filler paper, legal pads, binders, lunch boxes, construction paper, markers, folders,
PHOTO PROVIDED
Trygve and Joanna Anderson.
Legion Auxiliary Unit 136 helps kids head back to school
The women of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 136 in St. James City are proud to support the F.I.S.H. Back to School Clothes Basket Brigade again this year. Through this heartwarming program, the students of Pine Island receive clothes for school to help them start off the school year with confidence.
“Our unit is honored to sponsor several children this year,” said Auxiliary President Carolyn Ryzanych. “As mothers, grandmothers and neighbors, we know how exciting (and expensive) the back-to-school season can be. It feels good to help lift a little of that burden for local families.”
The F.I.S.H Basket Brigade is just one way the auxiliary gives back to the community. Whether it’s supporting veterans, helping military families or lending a hand to local kids, the women of Unit 136 are always looking for ways to serve.
If you’d like to learn more about what the auxiliary membership is doing on Pine Island, stop by the post at 4106 Stringfellow Road.
Bemis completes paramedic training
Please join us in congratulating Firefighter Ryan Bemis, who has officially earned the title of becoming a credentialed paramedic within our department!
This achievement is no small feat — it represents months of intense training, countless study hours and a relentless drive to grow as a life-saving professional. Through every challenge, Firefighter Bemis showed unwavering commitment, deep compassion and a true passion for serving others.
We couldn’t be prouder to have him on our team. The future is bright, and our community is in great hands.
— Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District
Firefighter Ryan Bemis
City of Cape Coral celebrates removal of Chiquita Lock
By CASEY BRADLEY GENT news@breezenewspapers.com
The city of Cape Coral celebrated the removal of the Chiquita Lock last Friday with an “Unblock the Lock” block party and ribbon cutting.
The ceremony along the South Spreader canal at 5781 Cape Harbour Drive had been years — and a pair of environmental lawsuits — in the making.
Among those happy to see the waterway unobstructed was City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn, who began his career with the city in 2002 which began its efforts to remove the device in 2006.
The lock, part of a decades-old consent order related
to the un-permitted dredging of Cape canals, was originally intended to keep pollutants from stormwater runoff out of the Caloosahatchee estuary.
Although environmentalists, some residents including the “Three Fishermen” who sued the city, and environmental organizations including the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation opposed its removal for that reason, the city has long contended that the lock had outlived its usefulness and its removal would not harm the river.
Ilczyszyn gave a simple explanation of the mechanism and why the city worked so long to get it removed.
“A canal lock is a method of transferring vessels from
two elevations,” he said. “We had manatees, dolphins and fish, getting crushed inside of the lock. Removing the gates from this area was really just about common sense.” Ilczyszyn said.
To mitigate the potential of water quality impacts, city officials will now deploy oyster reef balls and plant thousands of additional mangroves.
“This waterway is ready for the city’s future,” Ilczyszyn said.
In attendance at the block party were both former and current city council members, environmental biologist Harry Phillips, Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter, Fred
See CHIQUITA LOCK, page 7
OPINIONS
10700 Stringfellow Road, Ste. 60
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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.
n Not sure.
n I have no opinion on it. Share your opinion at pineisland-eagle.com
World-class cancer care should be accessible and convenient
Cancer can strike anyone, anywhere. Your wealth, your job title, your genealogy, your geography… it doesn’t matter. No one is immune to being diagnosed with cancer.
The recent revelation of former President Joe Biden’s prostate cancer proves that even someone receiving the best medical care in the world cannot avoid a cancer diagnosis. What he has, though — and what everyone in America should have — is convenient access to world-class health care.
No one should have to travel across the state or the country for life-saving medical treatments. Hearing a cancer diagnosis is jarring enough. Hearing that the best expertise and treatment require that you leave your home to live in another location for weeks to months, depending on the type of cancer, is overwhelming and incomprehensible to many.
Patients and doctors struggle with the conversation about care that is unattainable in America without travel; it is a delicate and complicated conversation to tell patients, “This is the best treatment, but I’m sorry, we cannot deliver this treatment here.”
Over the past decade, Southwest Florida’s continuum of cancer care has rapidly advanced.
Lee Health is among those leading the charge.
The nationally recognized Lee Health Cancer Institute is the region’s only ac-
A heartfelt thank you to our island grocery heroes; recognizing the staffs of Publix & Winn-Dixie
To the editor:
In every strong community, there are everyday heroes who serve quietly and consistently. Here on our island, two groups continue to go above and beyond: the devoted staff at Publix and Winn-Dixie.
Whether it’s supporting our veterans’ events, assisting during memorial services or helping us prepare for community functions, their presence is always felt and deeply appreciated. Their generosity and reliability have made them true partners to American Legion Auxiliary Unit 136, not just in name, but in action.
During Hurricane Ian, Helene and Milton recovery, these teams showed up for our island in ways that words can’t fully express.
credited cancer center, offering life-changing technology, personalized treatment options and the latest advancements in clinical trials.
Golisano Children’s Hospital is a state-of-the-art medical center that provides vital, lifesaving care for children and their families in an environment that soothes anxiety and fear. Cutting-edge medical practices, such as Advocate Radiation Oncology, are combining stateof-the-art technology with experienced physicians who champion compassionate care.
Shannon MacDonald Guest Commentary
Still, local doctors are having to tell some cancer patients, “I’m sorry, but we cannot give you the care that we would like to deliver here.”
Radiation therapy remains one of the most common cancer treatment options, along with surgery and chemotherapy. Still, the best standard of care for some of the most serious types of cancer — brain, spine, breast, esophageal, head and neck, liver, lung, eye, pancreas, prostate, lymphomas, soft tissue sarcomas and pediatric cancers — is proton therapy.
Thousands of cancer treatment centers are located around the U.S., from small towns to big cities and everything in between.
Though the number of proton centers
Despite the personal losses many of them endured, they worked tirelessly to keep shelves stocked and doors open, providing comfort, normalcy and care to neighbors in need.
To show our appreciation, our unit recently delivered trays of goodies from CW Fudge to both stores as a sweet “thank you” for their ongoing contributions and support. It was a small gesture to reflect the immense gratitude we feel for all they do, not just during special events, but every single day.
From hurricane relief to heartfelt service, Publix and Winn-Dixie have proven themselves to be more than stores. They are part of the heart of this island and of our Legion family.
With love and thanks, Past President /Parliametarian Angee Romero & American Legion Auxiliary Unit 136
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
has increased from three to 46 over the years that I have practiced radiation oncology with proton radiation, regional access remains a primary barrier to receiving this treatment.
Most proton centers are in larger metropolitan areas and are affiliated with large hospital systems or major universities.
However, through competitive engineering and technological advancements, access to proton therapy is gradually increasing. Southwest Florida Proton in Estero is an excellent example of bringing the most sophisticated proton technology to a community.
In Florida, there are six proton centers: two in Miami, one in Delray Beach, one in Orlando and two in Jacksonville.
That means Southwest Floridians living in Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral or Port Charlotte are looking at a two- to three-hour drive, each way, to access a treatment that literally could save their lives or allow them to live without terrible side effects.
Despite a two- to three-hour trip being a shorter distance than for most patients in the U.S., it still requires a move away from the social support of family, staying in a hotel or
Weigh in on county budget, services
To the editor:
Lee County is facing a significant challenge with an $18 million deficit in its operating budget for the upcoming year, compounded by declining property values due to hurricane impacts.
The current decrease in revenue sources, alongside the potential for increase tolls and electric franchise fees, means residents may soon face higher costs. Additionally, there could be a 57% reduction in human services, natural resources, technology resources and public education.
Several critical projects are on hold, including the 10-mile canal, three public safety and EMS stations and various road improvements.
The county is utilizing part of the $25 million state loan relief fund following Hurricane Ian to manage the situation. The budget deadline is Sept. 14, and it’s crucial to stay informed and advocate for your local interests, which include 14 services like animal control, parks and recreation, engineering, natural resources and public education.
To protect these essential services and the ensure the county’s recovery and growth, all residents are encouraged to contact their community representatives at both local and state levels.
Together we can work forward towards safeguarding Lee County’s future.
Kathleen Callard, RNBS North Fort Myers
Lee County Parks & Recreation extends its sincere thanks to the Bobby Holloway Jr. Memorial Fund for its continued support of the Matlacha/Pine Island Summer Camp Program.
Thanks to the fund’s generous contribution, campers experienced a special outing to see “Annie” at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre — an opportunity that introduced many campers to live musical theater.
In addition, the donation provided five new fishing poles, allowing campers to enjoy hands-on outdoor learning and recreation as part of their summer programming.
The Bobby Holloway Jr. Memorial Fund was established to honor the memory of Pine Islander Bobby Holloway Jr. and supports youth programs and initiatives throughout the greater Pine Island area.
For more information about Lee County Parks and Recreation locations, amenities and special events, visit www.leeparks. org, call 239-533-7275, email leeparks@ leegov.com or visit leeparksandrecreation on Facebook and Instagram.
Residents and visitors can also explore more than 30 locations and earn rewards through Parks, Points & Perks, a free digital pass program available through May 2026. Learn more at www.visitfortmyers. com/ParksPass.
PHOTO PROVIDED
Participants in the island Summer Camp Program, provided by the Lee County Parks & Rec Department, at the Broadway Palm in Fort Myers to see a performance of “Annie.”
United HealthCare donation boosts Pine Island seniors, thanks to local advocate
The Beacon of Hope Pine Island extends heartfelt thanks to Todd VanOyen, local United HealthCare Medicare agent, for his instrumental role in securing a $3,000 corporate donation to support the island’s senior community.
Todd’s deep commitment to Pine Island and its residents led him to connect the Beacon of Hope with United HealthCare’s corporate giving program. Thanks to his advocacy, the generous donation will help fund essential services and programs for local seniors.
“This gift wouldn’t have been possible without Todd’s initiative and dedication,” said a Nancy Cote, executive director of the Beacon of Hope. “He truly went above and beyond to support our mission and the seniors we serve.”
The Beacon of Hope is grateful for this impactful partnership and for Todd’s continued efforts to uplift the Pine Island community.
The Beacon is at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle, St. James City. For more information, please call (239) 537–1670.
County Emergency Management to present hurricane preparedness seminar on Pine Island Thursday
Lee County Public Safety-Emergency Management would like to remind Pine Island residents that staff will present an annual hurricane preparedness seminar at 2 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 7, at the Pine Island Public Library, 10701 Russell Road, Bokeelia.
At the one-hour event, residents can receive guidance on how to:
n Prepare a Family Emergency Plan and an Emergency Supply Kit. A Family Emergency Plan should include where a family would evacuate – like a family member’s or friend’s home or a community outside the area.
n Know Your Zone – both for evacuations and flooding. It’s essential to know your Evacuation Zone so you will be ready to react when evacuations are ordered.
n Be ready when a storm is forecast to
impact our area. Your Family Emergency Plan should include securing loose items in your yard and ensuring your shutters are up. Take these steps before an Evacuation Order is issued. When officials issue an Evacuation Order, you should be ready to evacuate.
n Know your flood zone and your evacuation zone. They are not the same. Printed copies of Lee County’s’ All Hazards Guide will be available at the event; other hazards that residents may face also will be discussed. A digital version of The All Hazards Guide is available at https://www.leegov.com/publicsafety/ emergencymanagement/plan/ahg
To receive updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www.leegov.com/resources/newsletters.
SJCCA Update
St. James City Civic Association has announced the following upcoming events and activities:
Wednesday, Aug. 6
n Little Learners Nature Group: 10
a.m. – 12 p.m. Open to all children - weekly meetup to learn and play in nature.
Thursday, Aug. 7
n Mahjongg: 1 - 4 p.m. This is a great place to learn to play mahjongg Contact Terry at 239-233-2766 for additional information.
Wednesday, Aug. 13
n Little Learners Nature Group: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Open to all children - weekly meetup to learn and play in nature.
Planning an event? Host it at the St. James City Civic Association!
With a variety of rental options available, our venue is ideal for everything from intimate gatherings to weddings, baby showers, and quinceañeras. Visit our website (SJCCAPI.ORG.) for details and pricing!
SJCCA is looking for bands/musicians interested in earning money! Contact Natalie Klimek at Natalieandcrew@gmail.com or text 320815-2623 for information.
SJCCA photos wanted! Do you have photos from events or groups you would like to share for our album?
All activities are held at St James City Civic Association, 3300 Fourth Ave., St James City. More details, contacts and ticket sales are available at SJCCAPI. ORG
PHOTO PROVIDED
Nancy Cote and Todd VanOyen
Senior Enrichment classes continuing until Oct. 3
Senior Enrichment classes are now being held in The Center of Excellence classroom, at the Beacon of Hope, located at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle in St. James City.
Chiquita Lock
Beacon of Hope
The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program meets Mondays and Fridays, 11-11:45 a.m., now through Friday, Oct. 3. (No classes Sept. 12 and 15.)
For additional information, contact the Beacon of Hope at (239) 283-5123 or
From page 2
Edman, president of Wright Construction — the company charged with removing the Chiquita Lock — and more than 40 community supporters.
“There was a large amount of civilian support for this,” Gunter said.
He thanked Wright Construction for its efficiency in competing removal of the lock ahead of schedule.
Edman said his company, which employees more than 70 people, had a lot of support for this project.
“Some of our employees are volunteering next week, and coming out here to plant mangroves,” Edman added.
Ron Austin is a Cape Coral resident who, Ilczyszyn said, never gave up on his advocacy for removing the Chiquita Lock. Austin beamed as Gunter cut the ceremo-
nial red ribbon.
“The lock was aging,” Austin said. “We once saw a dead manatee cow lying in the shallow water. There was barbed wire and debris. It was just incredibly unsafe.”
Other residents agreed it was a day overdue.
Neighbors Anne McCormick and Kathy and Chris Scott brought lawn chairs, plastic wine flutes and a bottle of champagne to celebrate the removal of the water control structure that had been inoperable since Hurricane Ian. Following the official ribbon cutting, they raised their glasses in a hearty toast.
McCormick said she is a former chemist and believes the area will be more environmentally sound.
PINE ISLAND TIDE CHART AUGUST 2025
visit its website at https://beaconofhopepineisland.com/
Uplift project starts Aug. 22
Starting Friday, Aug. 22, the Beacon of Hope will be offering an uplift project for young islanders 21 and under looking for academic help, financial literacy, life skills, SAT/ACT tutoring, snacks and more.
“The three of us live on the water behind the former Chiquita Lock,” she said. “I know of eight manatees who were crushed. The lock was a real safety hazard, and the word I have today is grateful. We are just so grateful to former and current city council members who made the canal safe again.
The day’s festivities, which included a buffet by Mission BBQ, culminated with Phillips and Cape Coral environmental technicians taking a small watercraft
The Beacon is at 5090 Doug Taylor Circle in St. James City. For additional about the program information, call (239) 537–1670.
across the canal and planting mangroves along the waterway.
Meanwhile, throughout the morning, boats passed slowly through the open waterway.
Along with being environmentally important, Austin said the lock-free canal is now much easier to navigate in a boat. Austin speaks from the experience of captaining a 50-foot-long craft through the now unblocked lock.
August means fishing around the weather
On the water around Southwest Florida in August means dealing with steamy hot weather and the possibility of daily thunderstorms. Fishing can be good for the month If you don’t mind working around the weather.
Summer days give us flat calm seas over the morning hours, perfect for running offshore. Our coastline is dotted with man-made artificial reefs, many well within sight of land with GPS coordinates available to the public. If you are an inshore angler, it’s a nice change of pace to make a short run offshore, especially during the heat of summer when the inshore water temperatures are so high.
Capt. Bill Russell On the Water
Fishing around the reefs, you never know what you might hook into. Everything from tasty snapper to huge goliath grouper call the reefs their home. To get the most out of the day, you want an assortment of tackle that can manage the fish you target and any surprise guest. Obviously with snapper you do not need super heavy tackle, the lighter the better for the best action. But if you want to attempt to pull a big goliath grouper from his home, you will need an extra heavily rig, we are talking 200 to 400-pound line. And many times, that’s not heavy enough. Big goliaths are protected and must remain in the water and released unharmed.
In between snapper and goliaths is the possibility of Spanish and king mackerel, cobia, permit, barracuda, snook, grouper, sharks of all sizes, plus many other species. A common method is to anchor up, deploy a chum bag and fish several different line class rods and baits for a variety of fish.
Inshore seatrout fishing is good through the summer. Look for larger trout over areas of open water where shallow sand bars transition to deeper grass flats from 3-6 feet deep with good water movement. Schools of small bait fish concentrate in these areas. Trout, plus Spanish mackerel, bluefish, ladyfish and sharks, are located around the bait. Diving pelicans, terns and gulls often give up the location of schooling bait.
Mangrove snapper fishing is a good choice throughout the inshore and near shore waters. They gather around structure with good water movement; this could include any of the Gulf passes, docks and jetties, bridges, piers, and natural or man-made reefs. For bait, live shrimp, pilchards and small pinfish are the ticket, plus small pieces of cut bait. Snapper have excellent vision, a small circle hook with 3-4 feet of 10 to 20pound fluorocarbon leader will put the odds in your favor. Snapper are hard fighting for their size and are one of the
August is a great month to catch a mangrove snapper dinner fishing inshore, around the Gulf passes and nearshore.
absolute best tasting fish in our waters. If you have visitors over the summer, snapper can make a great target and reward you with a fine dinner.
Good numbers of snook are roaming the surf along the Gulf beaches throughout the summer and are a sight fishermen’s dream. Most snook are under 26 inches, but there are much bigger fish
mixed in. Pilchards, herring, small pinfish, one-eighth, or quarter ounce white bucktail jigs and a variety of small white flies are top baits. Look for the fish right off the edge of the beach in the surf or near any type of submerged structure. Remember snook are catch-and-release
See AUGUST, page 9
PHOTO PROVIDED
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!
From page 8
only, quickly return them to the water. Snook, like most fish, are most active early and late in the day over the summer months.
Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at: www. myfwc.com. Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations with pictures to help identify fish.
If you turn on your GPS location the Fish Rules app updates to your location. In my opinion, it is more accurate and up to date than FWC’s
website.
If you have a fishing report or for charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service -call or text 239-410-8576; website at www.fishpine island.com; or email gcl2fish@live.com
Have a safe week and good fishin’
As a lifetime resident of Matlacha and Pine Island, Capt. Bill Russell has spent his life fishing and learning the waters around Pine Island and Southwest Florida, and as a professional fishing guide for over 20 years.
AT LCEC, MEMBERSHIP MEANS EVERYTHING
In partnership with the United Way, Power to Share
Membership Matters
Water Quality Month
According to data from Protecting Florida Together, which is a consolidated source of information about Florida’s efforts to protect and improve water quality, tidal segments one, two, and three of the Caloosahatchee River are all designated “waters not attaining standards.”
In the Caloosahatchee area in Cape Coral, waters are “attaining standards.”
Protecting Florida Together is a partnership among the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Department of Health. It is the state’s commitment to keeping the public informed about statewide water quality and restoration efforts, as well as simple steps all Floridians can take to help prevent excessive nutrients from entering waterways.
On July 21, sampling for cyanobacteria by the Lee County Environmental Lab reported Microcystis and cyano filaments as “present” at the Alva Boat Ramp, appearing as “sparse, light streaks.”
Also on July 21, satellite imagery of Lake Okeechobee showed the presence of an algal bloom covering about 160 miles, or 34% of the lake.
DePaolis said there are a couple of
key components to water quality in the Caloosahatchee Estuary in our area.
First is the water management decisions on how release from the lake are happening.
“And those hopefully in the future just got a lot easier because we had the opening and ribbon cutting for the C-43 Reservoir,” DePaolis said. “What that is going to do is hold water, provide limited treatment of that water, and then when we’re in the drought conditions of the dry season when we need water, we’re not getting water from the lake, we’ll be able to put water into the river from that reservoir, and hold and establish that salinity gradient in the estuary without contending for water to other users in the system.”
Second is the general impairment of water from a more direct source.
“That’s something that we are constantly thinking about, and that has a huge impact on the grand scheme of things — how we’re being impacted by clean or not-so-clean water here in this area”
DePaolis said.
Having a water quality-focused month is a positive in DePaolis’ eyes, as he said getting people to pay attention to and understand water quality outside of when
there’s red tide or large harmful algae blooms can be a challenge.
“There are times like these when water looks good — it’s much harder to get people to understand we’re that we’re still being impacted by water pollution,” he said.
When waters are talked of being impaired in areas across Southwest Florida, DePaolis said most of that impairment is regarding nutrient pollution such as nitrogen and phosphorus that’s coming from watershed, agriculture, septic, stormwater, and home fertilizer and irrigation.
“I think the scope of the problem is large, and it is a little confounding because we have the Clean Water Act which requires labeling of these water bodies as impaired when they’re not meeting the standards needed for the uses of the water,” he said. “And if you look at our water bodies, a lot of them are impaired around here. That means the Federal Government acknowledges them as impaired, and they’re not as clean as they should be. State government acknowledges they’re not as clean as they should be.”
DePaolis said there are Basin Management Action Plans that are sup-
posed to provide tools to clean up the water.
“But what we’re seeing is there’s a lot of time being spent on BMAPs, there’s a lot of money, there’s a lot of talking about these problems, and it’s really odd because this is not an issue that has multiple sides,” DePaolis said. “There’s no one saying ‘I don’t want clean water.’ Everyone is on the side of clean water. But when it actually comes down to making our water cleaner, we’re not using metrics that result in cleaner water.
“We’re talking about it more, we’re spending more money, everyone is pulling for clean water, but the trends we’re seeing are continual degradation of our water sources.
“There’s this issue that we’re seeing that on paper, our water’s getting cleaner… but when you actually go out and measure and monitor the water and the pollution in the water, that’s not the trends we’re seeing on the ground. Clearly there’s a disconnect somewhere between the laws as written, the planning for enforcing those laws, and actual enforcement.”
DePaolis said there’s no “silver bullet”
See CALL TO ACTION, page 11
poster board, composition books, poster paper, scissors, cellophane tape, glue, paste, rulers, computer disks, staplers and staples (used to secure paper products), protractors, and compasses.
No tax is due on the sale or purchase of any learning aid or jigsaw puzzle with a sales price of $30 or less. The exemption does not apply to sales of learning aids or jigsaw puzzles within a theme park or entertainment
Anderson From page 1
ble across Pine Island, or someone has to take you here,” Anderson said.
Creativity on the island is something that never seems to stop, she said, explaining that the podcast has brought many folks to their door who seem to leave her and Trygve with the feeling that many Pine Islanders have a creative bent, or are themselves, writers, painters or musicians.
If she was allowed a wish for Pine Island, she said she hopes no matter what changes the future brings, at the heart of it, it will still be the same island.
“I can’t imagine this island changing — not the community and the love for each other. All these creatives. I just don’t ever want that to go away,” Anderson said.
complex, public lodging establishment, or airport.
“Learning aids” means flashcards or other learning cards, matching or other memory games, puzzle books and search-and-find books, interactive or electronic books and toys intended to teach reading or math skills, and stacking or nesting blocks or sets.
“Personal computers and certain computer-related accessories may qualify for the exemption,” states the Florida Department of Revenue.
The exemption applies to an eligible item with a sales price of $1,500 or less, when purchased for noncommercial home or personal use.
“This exemption does not apply to sales of personal computers or computer-related accessories for use in a trade or business, or to sales within a theme park or entertainment complex, public lodging establishment, or airport,” DOR officials said.
“Personal computers” includes electronic book readers, calculators, laptops, desktops, handheld devices, tablets, or tower computers. The term does not include
cellular telephones, video game consoles, digital media receivers, or devices that are not primarily designed to process data. “Personal computer-related accessories” includes keyboards, mice (mouse devices), personal digital assistants, monitors without a television tuner, other peripheral devices, modems, routers, and non-recreational software, regardless of whether the accessories are used in association with a personal computer base unit. Computer-related accessories do not include furniture or systems, devices, software, monitors with a television tuner, or peripherals that are designed or intended primarily for recreational use.
When it comes to clothing, tax exempt items are any article of wearing apparel, including all footwear (except skis, swim fins, roller blades, and skates), intended to be worn on or about the human body. Clothing does not include watches, watchbands, jewelry, umbrellas, or handkerchiefs.
For more information and to view lists of qualifying items, visit www.FloridaRevenue.com/BackToSchool.
Trygve and Joanna Anderson.
PHOTO PROVIDED
rented apartment, or spending the entire day traveling to and from treatment.
Traveling for health care disrupts lives during a period already filled with stress, anxiety and financial hardships.
Many patients may choose to forgo this treatment, or they may be unable to afford the travel costs.
I have had young adult patients tell me that they worried about spending money to travel and live in an area for treatment. They feared that if they died, they would leave their family with less money, and others who thought about choosing a treatment with more side effects because they could not emotionally cope without having their social support system present through cancer treatment.
Distance from a proton center should not determine whether someone has access. Unfortunately, geography still matters, and a recent JAMA article reveals that regional access is a primary barrier to accessing proton
therapy.
By the end of 2025, residents of Southwest Florida will have easy access to proton therapy.
Engineers at Southwest Florida Proton are currently installing the final components of the IBA ProteusONE, widely regarded as the most modern and sophisticated proton machine available anywhere in the world.
Testing and calibration will continue for the next few months.
Soon, doctors from Marco Island to North Port will be able to tell patients, “Yes, we can provide you with the best radiation treatment right here in Southwest Florida.”
Dr. Shannon MacDonald is the medical director of Southwest Florida Proton and a pioneer in the field of proton therapy. For more information, please visit SWFLproton.com.
Obituaries
Pine Island Pine Island
Kenneth David Cox
Kenneth David Cox, 79, died peacefully on July 7, 2025, after a battle with dementia and related complications. Ken was born in Fort Myers, Florida, and took pride in being a fourth-generation resident of Lee County, Florida. His great-grandparents ran the lighthouse on Sanibel Island before it was automated by the U.S. Coast Guard, and his great-uncle Clarence’s home, The Rutland House, can be toured in the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village. Ken was a devoted husband, a wonderful father and grandfather, and an enthusiastic and loving friend to many. He was quick with a story and filled every room with energy and laughter.
Ken attended Hargrave Military Academy and Wingate University. He began his career with Gilley and Tolley Oil Company. Later, he became a successful entrepreneur, owning and operating an HVAC business, and ultimately transitioned into a career as a successful realtor and broker in Southwest Florida. One of the great joys of his life was serving as Fire Commissioner for the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District, where he and many others worked tirelessly for years to secure the construction of a new fire station on Matlacha. Fire Station #4 opened in 2019, and he considered it one of his community’s finest accomplishments. He was an avid pilot and instructor at Smith Reynolds Airport in Winston-Salem for several years. Outside of work, Ken enjoyed spending time with his family, including his many, many four-legged furry friends. He also enjoyed spending time on the water in Southwest Florida and pursuing his love of cooking and food. Ken was a devout Christian who lived his faith every day. He enjoyed occasionally giving the sermon at his church in Pine Island, FL, and many of his closest friends, particularly later in life, were the result of his active work in the church.
Ken is survived by his wife, Judy; his three children, Michelle Larking (Ken) of Danville, VA, Beth Lucas (Charlie) of Charlotte, NC, and Trenton Cox (Allison) of Charleston, SC; eight grandchildren; and his stepsons, Josh and Chad Hundley. In addition, other family members include Ken’s first wife, Linda Gilley Cox; his sister, Sandra Stockberger; nieces Lynn Loudis (Ray) and Heather Bruner; nephew Trey Stockberger; and many great-nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Carol C. Crawford and David L. Cox.
His family and friends loved him dearly and will celebrate him forever.
Wm. Owen Stewart
Wm. Owen Stewart, born January 10, 1946, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, to his heavenly home on July 29, 2025. He is survived by his Christian, loving wife of 28 1/2 years Selena McNamara Stewart.
Born in Benson, North Carolina, moved to Fort Myers, Florida at 12 years old. Graduated from Fort Myers High School and chose a profession of commercial fisherman and aquaculture farmer on Pine Island, Florida. He is also survived by his sisters, Francis Dixon of Dunn, North Carolina, Darlene (Wayne) Royal of Elgin, South Carolina and Brother Howard (Barbara) Stewart of Benson North Carolina also survived by his children, Linda Gayle Sanchez, Tracey (Tiflo) Stewart and William Owen (Amy) Stewart Jr, with many grandchildren and great grandchildren; also survived by Selena’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Owen will be remembered as a deacon of the Saint James City Baptist Church, also church song leader. He told everyone he met about his Savior Jesus Christ, never meeting a stranger that didn’t become a friend.
Memorial services were held at the First Baptist Church in Saint James City on Saturday, August 2, 2025.
Robert E. Hylant, Jr. January 4, 1947 – July 20, 2025
Robert E. Hylant, Jr. (”Bob”) passed away unexpectedly on July 20, 2025, in Gulf Coast Hospital, Fort Myers, Florida. He was born in Toledo, Ohio on January 4, 1947 as the eldest of nine children to Jeanne and Robert E. Hylant, Sr.
Bob attended Gesu Catholic Grade School and St. Francis de Sales High School. After graduating from the University of Toledo, he married Janet Pavlica and began working in the construction industry with his father-in-law, spending time first in Florida and then Colorado.
In 1974, Bob married Vicki Acker and settled in Howell, Michigan, where they raised their two sons, Rob and David, along with Vicki’s sons, Michael and Von. Bob overcame his battle with alcoholism in 1983—a turning point that shaped the rest of his life. For 42 years, he led by example, showing others what recovery, resilience, and grace could look like.
With renewed focus, Bob built a successful career in the insurance industry, eventually working for Hylant, the family business. Along the way, he re-discovered the joy of golfing, fishing, telling stories, and what he fondly called “piddling”—a word that meant everything and nothing, depending on the day.
In 2006 Bob married Trudy Heck; retired shortly thereafter, and they relocated to Pine Island, Florida—”Florida’s only tropical island,” as Bob proudly (and frequently) noted. Even in “retirement,” Bob stayed active, working at a local fishing outfitter, Pine Island Bait & Tackle, where he dispensed advice, shared stories, and welcomed everyone with a smile. Bob was so good at this, when the store changed hands, the new owner only agreed to the deal if Bob stayed on.
Bob was a kind soul, endlessly generous, and a natural storyteller. Nicknamed “Britannica Bob” by those who knew him best, he could rattle off obscure facts—mostly useless, always entertaining. His true passion was fishing, whether it was Panfish, Bass, Redfish, or Tarpon – didn’t matter, just as long as he was with family & friends. Once you stepped into Bob’s boat, you weren’t just going fishing—you were in his living room! There was always more conversation than bait, more jokes than snacks, and more tall tales than fish—though Bob somehow always caught his fair share.
He was someone who didn’t need much: a tank of gas, a thermos of coffee, and good company were more than enough. He offered wisdom freely, and laughter without reservation. Bob was deeply loved, and he will be missed more than words can say.
Bob is survived by his wife, Trudy; sons Rob (Wendy) and David (Clare); grandchildren Zoe, Emerson, CJ, and David; stepsons Mike (Kathy) and Von (Kristine) Acker; siblings Pat (Ann), Dan (Carol), Steve (Karen), Sandra (Mark), Jeannie (Tom), Mike (Tina), and Richard (Clare); brother-in-law Geof Tracy; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Jeanne Hylant, and his sister, Polly Tracy.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Francis de Sales School Foundation in Toledo, in support of the Hylant Family Memorial Scholarship Fund to honor Bob’s legacy of strength, faith, and family.
Bokeelia
James H. Carter passed away on June 21, 2025 at Hampton Manor Assisted Living in Cape Coral, FL at the age of 90. Born on October 21, 1934, in Detroit, MI, James was one of 11 children. James was preceded in death by two sisters: Eleanor and Wanda and six brothers: Charlie, Ron, Ray, David, Wellington and George, and is survived by two sisters: Shirley and Leatha, and 34 nieces and nephews.
A proud Veteran, James served 14 years in the US Navy attaining the rank of MM3 Machinist Mate Petty Officer 3rd Class. He served on 4 Navy destroyer ships: USS Charles S. Sperry DD-697, USS Bearrs DD-654, USS Waldron DD-699 and USS James E. Kyes DD-787, and received 4 medals of honor: National Defense Service, Good Conduct, Armed Forces Expeditionary (Cuba) and Vietnam Service.
After returning home, he worked for Ford Motor Company in Detroit, MI.
In the early 1990’s, James relocated to Bokeelia, FL on Pine Island. He held memberships at: American Legion Post 136, VFW Post 4353 and Pine Island Moose Lodge 1954. He was a devout Florida Lottery Pick Four Player, always playing 1021 straight box. He always had a story to tell or a joke to relay. He was full of military and music knowledge. He will always be remembered as a Pine Island Legend.
A Military Service will be held at the American Legion Post 136, 4106 Stringfellow Rd, St James City, FL 33956 on August 30, 2025 at 11:00am.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Pine Island Moose Lodge 1954 at a later date.
James’s niece Betty will be handling the Veteran’s Burial at Alabama National Cemetary.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in James name to a veterans organization of your choice.
James H. Carter
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