Erin expected to become first hurricane
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
While the Atlantic hurricane season started back in June, forecasters are expecting the first major hurricane of the year to form this weekend.
Tropical Storm Erin, as of Thursday, was located 890 miles east of the Northern Leeward Islands, with maximum sustained
Pages 8 & 9
winds of 60 mph according to the National Weather Service.
“A turn toward the west-northwest is expected tonight, with this motion expected to continue into the weekend,” wrote NOAA Senior Hurricane Specialist
Jack Beven. “On the forecast track, the center of Erin is likely to move near or just north of the northern Leeward Islands over
the weekend.”
According to AccuWeather meteorologists, Erin is “expected to strengthen into a powerful hurricane and could bring heavy rain, damaging winds and dangerous surf” to the Leeward Islands, as well as Puerto Rico this weekend.
“Erin is expected to strengthen and become a hurricane by Friday,” AccuWeather
Cape Coral Animal Shelter’s Virtual Auction opens Monday
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
Get your bids ready — an annual online auction benefiting the local animal shelter is set to go live.
The Cape Coral Animal Shelter’s fourth annual Virtual Auction kicks off starting Aug. 18 at 8 a.m., where tons of items will be up for grabs, all going to support the shelter’s efforts.
‘Mobility
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
“This online auction is CCAS’s biggest fundraiser of the year and a lifeline for our daily operations,” said CCAS Executive Director Liz McCauley. “With rising costs of medical care for over one hundred animals in our care—and a growing number of surrenders and abandon-
See AUCTION, page 20
Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said in a Wednesday post. “Atmospheric and oceanic conditions northeast of the Lesser Antilles will favor additional and rapid strengthening, with Erin to become a major Category 3 hurricane on Saturday.”
AccuWeather experts added that there
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
The owners of annual rentals in Cape Coral may see their registration fee with the city go from a one-time $35 to an annual levy, while those who rent their properties short-term may pay 10 times as much.
Cape Coral City Council supported leaving the $35 registration fee for annual rentals at the current rate but collecting it each year. Council also supported a $350 annual registration fee for short-term rentals at its Wednesday workshop.
Also supported were penalty fees for those who do not register at $500 for annual rentals and $1,000 for short-term rentals.
Consensus votes at Council workshops give staff direction but are not binding.
Councilmember Jennifer NelsonLastra, who put together a stakeholder’s group, said $350 was a little difficult for her to swallow, as the group’s recommendation was $100 per year. She said she would feel better if the number came down to around $250.
Council initially discussed having a tiered approach for registration fees — different fees for annual, seasonal and vacation rentals — but a majority said it would be too cumbersome to enforce.
“Our police department right now
to mitigate the traffic impact of growth.
The city plan consists of four separate components – roadways and intersections, multimodal plan, transit plan and potential for future water tax services.
‘Jimmy On The Rocks’
An original comedy just finished shooting its pilot episode in Cape Coral where The Dixie Roadhouse was among the locations.
SerIeS Hopeful
City of Cape Coral is working to revamp commercial parking regulations and enforcement
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
The city of Cape Coral is looking to regulate parking on city rights-of-way by commercial vehicles and to ramp up enforce those codes.
The question remains how.
Cape Coral City Council on Wednesday did not fully support a staff-prepared ordinance, saying the voluminous draft had too many exemptions.
“We have to be fair and consistent,” Mayor John Gunter said at the workshop meeting.“You have to lead by example. We have to apply it equally across the board.”
Councilmember Jennifer Nelson-Lastra agreed that consistency needed to be had.
“I think we need to lead by example and flesh that out a little bit more,” she said. “We could remove exclusions. If we are not leading by example and asking businesses to
“We have to be fair and consistent. You have to lead by example. We have to apply it equally across the board.”
— Mayor John Gunter
comply, it is not fair.”
City Attorney Aleksandr Boksner said the goal is to unify enforcement codes with parking and parking enforcement to be conducted by Cape Coral Police Department and parking enforcement specialists.
City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn said the city has a funded code enforcement section under the police department in the 2026 budget.
He added that he does expect some citizen backlash.
“When you all pass this, and when I put those people in the field, you will be bombarded with people who get tickets because we will, for the first time, be enforcing all of these examples you just said,” he said. “When you deploy it there will be push back from the community. I have a staff of people and sergeant in the budget to enforce this.”
The 34-page document includes pages one through 17 with strike-through language.
“We have created a citywide regulatory process,” Boksner said.
The language includes definitions for commercial lettering, commercial vehicle, park, stand, stop, and trailer.
“It’s all brand-new language. It is meant to address all commercial vehicles,” Boksner said.
Brand new language to the ordinance included the creation of enforcement penalties and towing. Boksner said code enforcement would be replaced with a parking enforcement specialist.
Multiple council members had problems with the exemptions portion of the draft ordinance.
Exemptions included unimproved or vacant property that must be zoned for commercial use and must be immediately adjacent to the business premises, a bona fide lease, and that parking be limited to only patrons of the adjacent business and only during hours of operation.
Councilmember Keith Long said he did not know if he could strike the exemptions.
Gunter said one thing to consider is the possibility is bringing back a permit process for some type of shortterm parking.
“Maybe they have to apply for a permit and there is a listed criteria you have to meet to get the permit,” Gunter said.
Back-toSchool Sales Tax Holiday continues
School may be back in session but Florida’s annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday continues until the end of the month.
The “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.
For more information and to view lists of qualifying items, visit www. FloridaRevenue.com/ BackToSchool.
OpiniOns
CApe COrAl Breeze
RAYMOND M. ECKENRODE, Publisher
VALARIE HARRING, Executive Editor
CHRIS STRINE, Editor
2510 Del Prado Blvd. • Cape Coral, FL, 33904
• Phone 239-574-1110 – Fax 239-574-5693
Member Florida Press Association
Animal lover?
Make a difference
Cape Coral Animal Shelter will hold one of its largest — and most popular — fundraisers next week.
The fourth annual Virtual Auction opens Monday and runs through Friday, offering an abundance of opportunities to bid on some very nice items — everything from ‘handcrafted artwork and pampering spa days to a Taylor Swift-themed Airbnb in Nashville, airline tickets, and luxury getaways at Margaritaville and The Westin Cape Coral.”
We thank all of the businesses and individuals who have donated auction items, and we urge you to check it out at capecoralanimalshelter.com/online-auction/. You might just win a bargain and help the shelter with its mission of “bringing new hope to homeless animals” to boot.
The auction, which raised a whopping $46,000 last year with hopes to “smash that record with your help this year!,” is not the only way to help, though.
A drive is underway to raise the money needed to triple shelter space by adding a new 19,000-square-foot shelter building and expanding its low-cost clinic.
For those looking to make a major impact, CCAS is offering “naming opportunities” to help pay for components of the new facility.
For those of us with less to spare, one-time donations — or regular giving through the shelter’s monthly Constant Companion program — can also make a big difference. Ten dollars will microchip two shelter pets; $25 will feed all shelter pets for a day; $50 will provide vaccines and an exam for new intakes and $75 and $100 will cover lab work and emergency services respectively.
Donations of supplies are also welcome (the shelter has a list of needed items on its website) as are volunteers, fosters and, of course, adoptive pet parents.
With Lee County’s Domestic Animal Services shelter overflowing, and other shelters burdened as well, even making space for one more dog or cat can make what literally can be a lifesaving difference.
If you can help, please do.
Visit capecoralanimalshelter.com or call 239-5732002.
— Breeze editorial
This week’s poll question:
How would you grade the city of Cape Coral on transparency?
∫ A - Very transparent.
∫ B - Transparent.
∫ C - Meh. Average.
∫ D - Not very transparent.
∫ F - Not transparent at all. Vote at capecoralbreeze.com.
Previous poll question:
Should city of Cape Coral impose a transportation mobility fee — a charge on new construction — to help fund road-related infrastructure?
∫ Yes. 83.8%
∫ No. 16.2%
∫ I’m not sure. 0
* Total votes at press time: 37 votes. Percentages are “rounded.”Poll results are not scientific and represent only the opinions of Internet users who have chosen to participate.
August 15, 2025
Midwest Food Bank Florida: The region’s ‘best-kept secret’
When most people think about food assistance in Southwest Florida, well-known organizations often come to mind first. But there’s another organization quietly working behind the scenes to meet the growing challenges of food insecurity: Midwest Food Bank Florida.
Often described as the region’s “best-kept secret,” Midwest Food Bank turns every $1 donated into $34 worth of food, stretching resources further than almost any other nonprofit in the area. Through a network of local partner agencies, faith communities, and dedicated volunteers, we provide millions of meals annually to families, seniors, and children in need.
I’m Dennis Hall, and I’m honored to serve as the new executive director of Midwest Food Bank Florida. I bring experience in nonprofit service and community engagement and am committed to building on the incredible work of our staff, volunteers, and partners. What drew me here was the organization’s mission-driven approach and the measurable difference it makes every day in the lives of our neighbors.
Midwest Food Bank Florida’s story is one of innovation and collaboration. Founded in 2003 on a family farm in Illinois, Midwest Food Bank has grown into a national network, and our Fort Myers branch, which opened in 2014, has become a critical hub for hunger relief in Southwest Florida. We partner with more than 200 local agencies, including churches, shelters, schools, and community organizations. We leverage the strengths of our partner agencies to distribute food directly to those in need, ensuring that resources reach families efficiently and effectively. Each week, partner agencies participate in scheduled pickups at our Fort Myers warehouse, with the assistance of dedicated volunteers, and each month, we host a distribution in Immokolee, where agencies can collect their orders for delivery to the communities they serve.
Our programs are diverse and impactful. We support senior feeding initiatives, provide nutritious meals through our partner agencies, and ensure that our partners are fully equipped to meet the needs of their neighborhoods. Each program is designed to maximize both the nutritional value and volume of food delivered, ensuring we combat hunger effectively while stewarding donations responsibly.
In addition to our regular hunger relief efforts, Midwest Food Bank Florida plays a critical role in disaster response. When hurricanes, floods, or other emergencies strike, we mobilize quickly to provide food, water, and essential supplies to affected families and communities, working alongside local agencies and first responders. These efforts ensure that during the most challenging times, our neighbors have access to the resources they need to recover and rebuild.
Volunteers are the heartbeat of our organization. Every week, individuals and groups assist with organizing, packing, and facilitating agency pickups at our Fort Myers warehouse. Their dedication amplifies the impact of every donation, and their generosity reflects the spirit of community that makes Southwest Florida such a special place.
While others may receive the headlines, Midwest Food Bank’s efficiency, compassion, and innovation set us apart as a cornerstone of hunger relief and disaster response in our region. We measure success not in awards or recognition, but in the number of meals delivered and the lives touched.
I invite you to learn more about our programs, explore ways to get involved, and discover how Midwest Food Bank is changing lives quietly but powerfully —one meal at a time— by visiting our website at midwestfoodbank.org to see how you can support our mission.
— Dennis Hall is the executive director Midwest Food Bank Florida
Letters to the editor
Friends of Wildlife needs your help
To the editor:
With 85 lots in our care, Cape Coral Wildlife Trust is working tirelessly to help protect Cape Coral’s most vulnerable residents, but we can’t do it alone. We need YOUR HELP to protect and maintain these lands so that burrowing owls and gopher tortoises have a safe place to live here in our city.
Have you ever wanted a hands-on opportunity to help protect some of Florida’s most important native animals? Volunteering with CCWT is an amazing way to become an active member in wildlife conservation.
While we have many wonderful seasonal volunteers we are very short handed in the summer months when the grasses grow the fastest.
Our feathered and shelled friends can’t live on these lands when the foliage gets too dense.
Your work will help ensure these Florida icons can thrive in their natural habitats!
All volunteers will get the opportunity to be trained on proper lot maintenance to ensure they are creating a happy home for the wildlife who live there.
For more information on how you can support wildlife, contact us at: (239) 980-2593 or ccwildlifetrust@gmail. com.”
Albert M. Ferraro III
Public relations & community liaison coordinator with Cape Coral Wildlife Trust
Community engagement is vital for good schools
To the editor:
I have a passion and a small insight into the current state of education in Lee County. I focus on academic achievement and community engagement and this is vital
for fostering the education environment.
The school district maintains a B rating in the school rankings and is ninth in the ranking of the largest school districts in Florida.
Lee County grades are on a bell curve and do not use the national standards. If Florida did use them, they would have to meet higher standards.
Lee County redirects struggling students into a virtual school before graduation, so that public school graduation rates are more successful.
In Lee County, from U.S, News & World Report:
Oasis Charter School — ranked No. 278, has a 98% graduation rate .
Bonita Springs High — ranked No. 457, has a 96% graduation rate.
Estero High School — ranked No. 1 468, has a 96% graduation rate.
Lehigh High School — ranked No. 489 with a 91% graduation rate.
Fort Myers High School— ranked No. 2 on the list of Lee County’s best public high schools.
I’m asking for teacher input. I have questions! Could there be vibrant events that invite students, parents, educators and community members to participate in workshops, showcasing different schools?
Could there be a showcase of the school’s work, engaging booths focusing on local mentorships and scholarships.
Or could Lee County create a collaborative mural that represents the community support for education and showcase student success.
I support schools in Lee County.
Kathleen Callard RNBS North Fort Myers
Dennis Hall Guest Commentary
Turning summer into a season of connection
When most families think of summer, they picture pool days, vacations and kids playing outside in the sun. But for many families across the country this year, summer did not feel like a break — it felt like a breakdown.
For parents, school offers muchneeded structure. It helps children stay on a routine, get enough sleep, finish their homework and still have time to play. For some, it is the one place their child receives a consistent meal. All of that stability disappeared the moment the last school bell rang.
Support during the summer was especially hard to come by for single mothers, struggling parents and families already in crisis. What should have been a season of joy turned into a time of overwhelming need and deep isolation.
As the CEO of Better Together, I see this reality every day in the families we serve. Moms working multiple jobs still cannot meet their children’s basic needs. Grandparents are stepping in to raise grandchildren. Fathers feel ashamed to ask for help. I have four children of my own, but over the years, our family has opened our home to host 25 children while their parents worked to get back on their feet.
We were never meant to do life alone. As humans, we’re wired for community, not isolation. If you’ve been blessed with strong relationships and a supportive village, we encourage you to consider widening your family circle. There are parents out there who have no one. You can be the safety net — a steady, healthy lifeline — for moms and dads who are on the verge of losing hope.
Megan Rose Guest Commentary
It’s easy to feel empathy for what others are going through, but what our community truly needs is action driven by compassion. Strong families build strong communities, and we can’t have strong families when parents are isolated and lack the relationships and tools they need to thrive. Parents are the change agents. If we can help them help themselves, everyone wins.
Thanks to the generosity of volunteers who said yes and chose to live with purpose, we’ve helped strengthen the lives of over 12,000 children. Ninety-eight percent of those families remain together,
From page 4
Greater hiring transparency, please
To the editor:
Lee County School Administration continues to face criticism for not adequately representing its community, particularly concerning the promotion of qualified candidates of color. There are concerns that the current Superintendent changed hiring protocols, which appeared fair, until it became apparent that she did so to seemingly appoint individuals to assistant superintendent positions who lack sufficient qualifications.
Reports suggest that her decisions were based on vague and subjective criteria, rather than on proven experience and performance. For instance, a recent hire as an assistant superintendent had only one year of experience as a principal, which raises questions about adherence to the guideline of requiring at least 10 years of administrative experience. Furthermore, there are implications that the selection process may not be as transparent or fair as it is claimed to be, with allegations of favoritism linked to campaign donations.
The public should review campaign donation records to investigate any potential conflicts or patterns related to these past and future appointments at https://www. lee.vote/Campaign-Reports/Search-Campaign-FinanceReports
Teachers and students deserve better.
Karyn Edison Fort Myers
Time for our leaders to step up
To the editor:
I’ve recently come back from Ukraine where I witnessed Russia’s destruction and strikes in the cities where I spent most of my time, in Kyiv and in the Odessa region. And now that I’m back, in light of the upcoming meeting between Trump and Putin, I have a few questions.
without the state stepping in. Because of people like you, children were spared the trauma of separation, families stayed intact and our community is stronger because of it.
You might be reading this and wondering how you can help. Whether you are a snowbird, retired, single or a busy parent, there is a role for everyone, big or small.
You can prepare a meal or take just an hour out of your week to drop off essential items for children entering temporary care, many of whom arrive with very little. You can help someone find a job or mentor a parent who simply needs a coach. You can even open your home to host children for a short time, serving together as a family and teaching your own children empathy and compassion while giving parents the gift of time to get back on their feet.
These are parents who may be homeless, living in their cars, working hard to save money and secure stable housing. Some need medical treatment but cannot seek it without a safe place for their
Letters to the editor
Why has not one Southwest Florida CD-19 Congressional candidate taken any position on Ukraine or Russia? More importantly, why is Trump letting land invader Putin come to Alaska to negotiate territories of Ukraine this week at USAF-US Army base, Base Elmendorf–Richardson?
Aside from the violation of international law and territorial integrity, and full blown genocide of Ukrainian AND Russian people, let’s quickly debrief a recent history on Putin’s false sense of entitlement to this American state....
In 2022 Russia disrespected U.S. national borders, threatening to take back Alaska from the US.
In 2024 Russia alongside China then proceeded to patrol America’s Alaskan island with nuclear warships, threatening our military power in the region.
Alaska borders Russia, just as Ukraine borders Russia…. If Trump is willing to negotiate Ukraine’s borders, what is next?
Putin, Trump, and all consenting American politicians should heavily reconsider allowing war criminal Vladimir Putin to step foot into the States. They should know, and the world should know, exactly how much America hates the Nazi Russian regime.
If more American politicians took actions against terrorists, imagine how much peace in the world there would be.
The current Southwest Florida Congressional candidates who failed to denounce Russia the very week Putin came to the States are not serious about national security, democracy, nor the American public for that matter. All they care about is personal enrichment, popularity, attention, or whatever serves this seemingly malign interest to choke out the real American public who I’ve come to know, and who stands with me vehemently against the terrorist Russian state.
Where are the leaders who’ve got the backbone to stand up when it counts? Where are the leaders who will
children. Others just need a day for job interviews to build a better future for their families.
Sometimes it is just one day. Sometimes it is 41, which is our average. That is all it takes to set a family on a stronger path. If you are reading this and feeling isolated or overwhelmed, know this: You are not alone. Reach out. Ask for help. We are here to walk alongside you, connect you with a caring volunteer family and guide you to the resources you need to move forward.
Better Together exists to strengthen families, not to judge, but to help them flourish with the support of a community that cares.
To learn more about Better Together and how you can get involved or receive support, visit BetterTogetherUS.org or call 239-470-2733.
— Megan Rose is the CEO of Better Together, a nonprofit organization that helps parents in crisis address the root causes of their struggle, find work, and keep their children out of foster care. To learn more about Better Together, visit BetterTogetherUS.org.
think for themselves instead of let their puppet master think for them?
I implore President Trump against making deals with terrorists.... what we need is force. And I implore him to refuse entry to war criminal Vladimir Putin to the US. Stay off our land.
To read about my experiences in wartime Ukraine, please follow my new publication at www.kyivfreepress. com. I look forward to sharing more directly with my community in the near future.
Alexandra Zakhvatayev Fort Myers
Public insight: Public records requests
Have you requested public records from the city of Cape Coral? The Breeze is interested in hearing about your experience. Email us at vharring@breezenewspapers. com. Please include the date the request was made to the city, the date the record was received and the cost, if any. If the request was denied, please include the reason provided by the city.
Agree? Disagree? Weigh in! Letters, guest opinions, comments welcome
The views expressed on The Breeze Opinions pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Opposing views are welcome. Letters to the editor or guest columns may be e-mailed to vharring@breezenewspapers.com. All letters and guest opinions must be signed and must include a phone number for verification purposes. Readers are also invited to comment on any letter or editorial opinion online at: capecoralbreeze.com.
Census: Burrowing owls thriving in the Cape
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
The burrowing owl is Cape Coral’s official city bird, and that proclamation was only bolstered following the results of a recent owl census.
The results are in from the 2025 Cape Coral Burrowing Owl Census, and the numbers are nothing short of remarkable, as 7,008 owls were counted during the weekend of May 17. Organized by the Cape Coral Friends of wildlife, this year’s tally marks a significant increase from the approximately 5,200 owls recorded in 2024 and continues an encouraging upward trend in population growth since 2017.
“CCFW is very excited to see that the owl population in Cape Coral is thriving,” said CCFW spokesperson Janet Windisch.
More than 100 volunteers from CCFW, local bird enthusiasts and students came out on a hot weekend to count the species, with organizers saying they are so appreciative of the volunteers who persevered in the heat to get an accurate number.
CCFW officials state this success story is a testament to the collaborative efforts among the city of Cape Coral, the community, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and CCFW. Together, they’ve created an environment in which this threatened species can not only survive—but thrive.
City staff has played a key role by actively enforcing regulations to protect the owls and meticulously recording every reported burrow on an interactive online map. In 2024, the city began acquiring land for wildlife habitat, made possible
through a grant from FWC.
“It’s so gratifying to have the community, FWC and the city pulling in the same direction as CCFW,” Windisch said. “That’s part of the reason the owl population is doing well. As an example, the number of lots purchased by the city as owl habitat using the grant from FWC is now totaled at 10.”
CCFW officials said Cape Coral residents continue to embrace their feathered neighbors, as hundreds of citizens contacted CCFW via its hotline (239980-2593) and through its website, reporting new burrows or raising concerns. More and more homeowners are installing
starter burrows in their yards, inviting owl families to share their green space.
Recreation Program Supervisor for the City of Cape Coral, Honey Phillips, has studied the owls for nearly a decade. She notes that burrowing owls are particularly well-adapted to Cape Coral’s unique urban landscape. “The open, low-mowed lots create a prairie-like habitat,” she explains, “and the abundance of artificial lighting attracts insects—providing a rich food source for owls.”
Additionally, owls often use porches and building eaves as daytime shelters. Weather patterns may also have played a role in this year’s population increase. The
recent drought reduced instances of burrow flooding, a hazard during chick-rearing season.
While these are promising results locally, burrowing owls as a species are state-listed as threatened by the FWC and conservation efforts are of critical importance.
“We need to continue our conservation efforts because the threats to the burrowing owls continue,” Windisch said. “There are some indications that the owl population could peak and decline in the future. Also, while the owls are doing well in Cape Coral, that is not the case in rural areas and other parts of the state.
“The increased number of owls means a higher work load for our volunteers. We have more new burrows to mark and more to trim. But this is the kind of work we love and are dedicated to.”
FWC Avian Conservation Coordinator
Nick Jennings notes that, “while some urban populations are showing encouraging trends, others may be more vulnerable, and we still have much to learn about populations and trends of burrowing owls living outside of urban areas. Although they can thrive in urban environments, studies show their success may decline when areas reach a certain development threshold. That’s why urban conservation efforts are so critical.”
On Wednesday, FWC approved revisions to the Florida Burrowing Owl Species Conservation Measures and Permitting Guidelines at its August Commission meeting.
FWC officials in a release state, “the
See OWLS, page 23
ROBERT K. BRINLEY
A trio of burrowing owls peer from their nest in Cape Coral
South Seas Bring back
Let’s bring back jobs.
South Seas has been one of Lee County’s largest employers, providing steady, meaningful work for hundreds of families in our community. Rebuilding South Seas will bring those jobs back and create even more. Once redevelopment is complete:
813
1,918 PERMANENT RESORT JOBS WILL BE CREATED PERMANENT JOBS WILL BE SUPPORTED
1,667 JOBS WILL BE CREATED ANNUALLY OVER THE 6-YEAR CONSTRUCTION PERIOD
This means more paychecks, more stability, and more opportunities for families who call our community home. These are real, lasting jobs across multiple industries, ranging from hospitality to supporting local businesses. These are jobs that fuel our economy and help people thrive.
Rebuilding South Seas is more than a construction project — the rebuilt resort will restore livelihoods, bring back jobs to Lee County and provide a much-needed jolt to our region’s economy.
Ready for prime time: ‘Jimmy On The Rocks’ pilot filmed in Cape Coral with hope for series
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
It was lights, camera, action in Cape Coral recently, as an original comedy developed by Southwest Florida natives filmed its pilot episode.
Freyguy Entertainment LLC, a veteran-owned production company, in partnership with fiscal sponsor New Light Foundation, Inc., recently announced the completion of the filming for “Jimmy On The Rocks.” The pilot episode is now in post-production.
Filmed at Cape Coral’s Dixie Roadhouse and other Southwest Florida landmarks, the series spotlights regional talent, businesses, and landscapes -- positioning the region as an emerging hub for film and television production.
Founder and President of Freyguy Entertainment Jeff Frey said the project started during the pandemic.
“I was having a writers block and I started writing this. Next thing I know, there’s six episodes written,” he said.
The synopsis for “Jimmy on the Rocks” as told by Frey is: “Soon after Jimmy loses his job and finalizes his divorce, he learns he has inherited a rundown bar in Southwest Florida from a father who abandoned him at birth. As the obstacles of selling a bar pile up, he slowly gets to know the father that was never there through the bar’s dysfunctional staff. And slowly finds out the life he really never thought of, was the one he needed the most.”
Frey said he and his team began scouting locations all across Southwest Florida nearly two years ago, and discovered Dixie Roadhouse.
“It was just perfect for what we wanted,” he said.
Assistant Director/Writer Marilu Garbi said the process from Frey’s original idea to what was shot in the pilot took some time, as table reads and revisions-a-plenty were needed. She added that the actors really started to “own” their characters as shooting began.
Filming began this past April, with locations in Punta Gorda, Bokeelia, Naples and Bonita Springs being used
An original comedy, “Jimmy on the Rocks,” just finished shooting its pilot episode in Cape Coral and other areas of Southwest Florida. The sitcom, developed by Freyguy Entertainment, LLC, is now in post production with trailers coming soon. Above, the cast and crew at Dixie Roadhouse.
along with the main scenes in Cape Coral.
Frey has lived in Southwest Florida for six years after relocating from Ohio. He, as well as Garbi, a Venezuela native, belong to the United Film and Television Artists group in Fort Myers. Various members of the group are part of the team that is working on the project, as well as
actors from the Tampa area.
“It’s just been a blast creating stuff with them,” Frey said.
Jimmy on the Rocks sees pieces of Frey’s life put on-
In collaboration with the National Theatre for Children and the LCEC Zap Free Zone high-voltage demonstration, we help educate local students about
Membership Matters
PHOTO PROVIDED
‘Jimmy On The Rocks:’ Series hopes to portray life in S.W. Florida
From page 8
screen, blending reality and fantasy together.
“I’ve always loved sitcoms ever since I was a kid,” Frey said. “I love making people laugh. I think we’ve developed a amazing first season.”
The main character, like Frey, relocates to Florida from the Midwest. Also like Frey, Jimmy is lacking a father figure in his life.
“Just bits and pieces of people throughout my life, I’ve incorporated into the characters,” he said. “And the actors and actresses, with their backgrounds, really made them the characters I was looking for. It was organic.”
Garbi said, “The actors add a lot to it. They took it to another level.”
Frey said his team is still cataloging all of the footage, and is hoping to have a teaser trailer come out in a few weeks, with a full trailer shortly after. He said he’s weighing the options of taking it to a film festival, or shopping the project around, or even continuing to do it themselves and get the community involved even more.
Garbi said another goal of the project was to fill the void of filming done in Southwest Florida.
“Filmmaking in Florida is concentrated in Miami, Tampa, and Orlando,” she said. “This whole area (sees very little filming). We’re trying to change that to bring light to this area.
“Filmmaking is so complex. It requires so many specialties. By bringing films here, you’re activating catering, locations, camera crew, sound crew, actors, and it goes on and on.”
Frey added, “It’s not just about the
An original comedy, “Jimmy on the Rocks,” just wrapped up the shooting of its pilot episode in Cape Coral and other areas of Southwest Florida. Above, a scene at Dixie Roadhouse, its primary location shoot.
show… it’s about building a film community here. We want people to come film here.”
The project also aims to be a representative for the Southwest Florida region, which is seldom portrayed on television or in movies. For instance, instead of a dog or a cat as a pet, one character has a reptile.
“I want people who watch the show to laugh,” Frey said. “I want to take them away from the daily stresses of life, especially with things that are going on right now in the world. To think of all the difference sceneries of the Florida region and how people and small businesses
can struggle, especially with things like hurricanes. People go through stuff, and sometimes we just have to laugh.”
Garbi added, “Florida is a little bit quirky. We do things a little different. It’s nice to show and laugh about those things. Everybody knows the weather and mosquitoes, etc. There is a Floridian way of life that is not usually portrayed in sitcoms because sitcoms are usually in big cities. It’s kind of a self reflection to show and be proud of.”
While Jimmy on the Rocks is a sitcom, it does touch on more serious topics as well, such as the sometimes unfortunate
realities of life, and living with struggle.
“It’s very human,” Garbi said. “You can see yourself in some of the characters.”
Frey said, “We want people to know others go through the same things.”
Naturally, filming just one episode, never mind a full season, can be quite costly.
With the pilot in post-production and five additional episodes planned for season one, “Jimmy On The Rocks” is inviting Southwest Florida businesses to explore (tax deductible) sponsorship opportunities. Partners will gain:
n Integrated Brand Exposure: Custom product placement and authentic business features within episodes.
n Digital Amplification: Dedicated promotional segments for sponsors distributed across the show’s social channels.
n Community Impact: Direct support for homegrown artistic talent and economic development.
n Regional & National Reach: Association with a series designed for local syndication with aspirations for broader distribution.
Frey said ideally, the project could find a permanent shooting location where they could build a set, and continue to support the local community.
Freyguy Entertainment was created by Frey in 2017 when he was in Ohio, where he created a full screenplay “A Summer to Remember” which can be streamed on Tubi.
Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact Frey by emailing freyguyentertainment@gmail.com.
To stay up-to-date with the project, search “Jimmy on the Rocks” on Facebook.
PHOTO PROVIDED
City manager wants to go big for U.S. anniversary
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
Cape Coral may soon be the home of the largest flagpole in the state of Florida.
The city intends for the record-size patriotic gesture to pair with the Cape Coral Veterans Memorial Monument which it proposes to move to Bernice Braden Park after the construction of the new Cape Coral Bridge.
The discussion of the flag followed an overview of the historic monument and the need to find a new home for it once Lee County completes its construction of the bridge that runs over the Caloosahatchee, connecting Cape Coral Parkway and College Boulevard.
City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn said there was another project that he had in the program modifications that did not make it into the budget — something monumental for the city that would not only put it on the map, but generate some attraction.
“Part of that vision is to install the largest flagpole in the State of Florida, and the location will be next to where the monument lands,” he said.
The effort will be part of the country’s 250th birthday/ anniversary celebration.
Ilczyszyn said the flag would bring attention to the military, the U.S. flag, and freedom we have in the United States of America.
“The idea came from a flag I saw when I was in the military when I was 18 years old in the Caribbean passing along the coast of Mexico — a giant flag that made an impression on me,” he said. “When I understood that I was going to be the city manager when we celebrate our 250th birthday, my immediate thought — we need to celebrate, and we need to celebrate grand. It immediately brought me back to the flag.”
Ilczyszyn said any passenger on the north side of a plane when taking the turn to RSW (Southwest Florida International Airport) would see the largest flag in the state of Florida — “an impression that is unforgettable.”
There is a cost, but the long-term effect goes far be-
The historic Cape Coral Veterans Memorial Monument in the South Cape on Cape Coral Parkway. The memorial was rededicated on Veterans Day in 2000 after the lights and fountain were added.
yond, he added.
When Cape Coral City Council asked what price tag that would entail, Ilczyszyn said he will contact the Texas
company to find out.
Councilmember Bill Steinke asked if the placement of the flag would survive the construction of the new Cape Coral Parkway bridge.
Ilczyszyn said the county had no objection and they would find a place for the flag.
There also was discussion about doing a fundraiser with the citizens to raise money for the flag.
ACRA Electric Co-Founder Robert Greco provided an overview of the history of the monument, which began in the 1960s. He said in 1999 when he was at a Rotary Club meeting he was asked to donate the lighting for the monument.
In 1967 many of Cape Coral’s “pioneers” were veterans. Greco said in 1967 they were in the middle of the Vietnam War, which ignited a desire to recognize the war.
“They got together and put together groups, which was inspired at a Rotary meeting in 1967. They picked four people to explore the idea of a monument,” he said of the original memorial arch.
There was a fundraising committee, design committee, location committee and construction committee. A letter was sent out to the residents in early 1968, as they were trying to raise $6,000 for the monument. The idea was to have the monument not be the property of any specific organization, but of the people of the community.
The result was a 55-foot tower of four 10,000 pound prestressed concrete pylons with four heavy gauge gold anodized chevrons on each side -- which represent the branches of the military -- as well as a gold anodized aluminum top cap
A groundbreaking was held, and the dedication was set on May 3, 1969, Loyalty Day.
Since then, work has been done to the monument, and a rededication was held in November 2000 with its 16 medallions being replaced and upgraded.
“This monument has become a symbol of Cape Coral.
See BIG, page 13
FILE PHOTO
After a major citizen-led fundraising drive for a Memorial Arch, the Cape Coral Veterans Memorial Monument was dedicated on May 3, 1969, “Loyalty Day.”
The monument is on Cape Coral parkway in the South Cape.
Big: City monument to be moved
From page 12
This is our Empire State building, Statue of Liberty. This is it and this is what’s left,” Greco said.
With the construction of the new bridge, as well as enhancements to Cape Coral Parkway, the monument needs to be moved to a new location. Greco said moving it to Bernice Braden Park would be a great location, as Braden was a veteran from World War II.
“Our job as citizens is to make sure it is treated with respect. I am a little concerned. I want to make sure when the monument is placed there is room around it for people to gather,” Greco said.
Once the monument is moved, the city is requesting that the fountain feature not be put back, as there is potential for increased vandalism, saltwater intrusion and increase maintenance cost. The pump for the fountain is in disrepair and since 2013 about $52,000 has gone into the fountain to maintain it.
Council agree they will do what is needed to preserve the monument and
place it somewhere the citizens can enjoy. It may be moved further west than what the renderings currently show.
Ilczyszyn said they could move it to the west along the sidewalk to provide more room and opportunity.
“What we can do is request the county, as part of their placement of design, where to go to be closer to the river and the sidewalk,” he said.
What they cannot do is place anything from a visibility corridor from the existing billboard.
“If you all do that you open us to lawsuits for obstructing the entrance feature that was agreed to and built by Lemar,”
Ilczyszyn said of the 20-year agreement with 10-year automatic renewal. “We cannot move that monument into visibility corridor. What we can do is move it to a place that is wider and has more accessibility. Maybe even put a walkway or a promenade of pavers around it to get that physical touch and closeness to the monument. It’s something we can work out with the county. We cannot move it south with visibility corridor.”
‘Braver Angels’ hope to heal the political divide
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
The formal launch of a local alliance – Braver Angels – will take place next week to create an opportunity to bridge political divides and strengthen civic connection.
“We are trying to transform how people interact with and respect each other,” said Alex Berg, co-chair of Braver Angeles SWFL Alliance. “Braver Angels is a national, nonpartisan volunteer-led movement. We are dedicated to depolarizing America. We want to bring conservatives, and liberals, and everyone in between, together. It’s not about changing people’s minds on issues – it’s how do we preserve and relate to others as human beings.”
Braver Angels SWFL Alliance will launch its efforts at South Cape Community Center, 4544 Coronado Pkwy., from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 19.
The launch will include background information about Braver Angels, its mission, a 5-minute video sharing an over-
view of the circumstances that led to the formation of Braver Angels, as well as the various programs offered through the organization.
“Then we want to plan next steps and future events,” Berg said.
He hopes to recruit a co-chair and a leadership team. Berg said all alliances require a conservative and liberal partnering, so all political persuasions feel it is a safe space.
“Ultimately our goal is simply to help people communicate in a more meaningful and constructive way and that happens one person at a time,” he said. “The ground game is really important.”
Berg said people have way more in common than they care to admit, but because everyone is so polarized, they do not have the opportunity to talk about it, which is the core challenge.
Berg became frustrated because he has friends across the political spectrum with fewer on the opposite side because everyone puts up walls based on their political beliefs. He said he felt he needed
to do something about it, which turned into launching a consulting practice that he was planning to leverage with a coaching platform, Positive Intelligence, which navigates how to intercept negative emotions and shift to a positive outlook based on empathy and curiosity.
When Berg used artificial intelligence to write a business plan, he was connected with Braver Angels about six weeks ago.
“It was perfectly aligned with my personal mission,” he said.
After reaching out to Braver Angels he learned that they have alliances but very few in Florida and none in Southwest Florida.
“I decided to start an alliance here in Southwest Florida, starting in Cape Coral because obviously we have a diversity of opinion here and I have seen how differences of opinions have impacted relationships, business activity,” Berg said.
“It’s having a negative impact on us personally, professionally, and a community as a whole.”
Each alliance is locally and community
driven. He said each alliance sets its own objectives of what the local leadership would like to do and what the people feel as most important.
“That will drive the direction of local alliance,” Berg said.
Braver Angels began in South Lebanon, Ohio in December 2016 after 21 residents came together – 11 who voted for President Bill Clinton and 10 who voted for President Donald Trump – for a weekend to talk with one another. There was a realization that “lightning in a bottle” was captured, so a grassroots organization began to bring that type of experience to people throughout the United States.
The mission is to “Bring Americans together to bridge the partisan divide and strengthen our democratic republic.”
For more information, email Berg at aberg@braverangels.org, or visit www. braverangels.org.
Registration: Failure to register rentals in city will result in fines
From page 1
doesn’t track complaints based on rental and short-term rentals. If we can get some direction and try to track some of these bad players, we can get true cost of what enforcement is costing us,” Nelson-Lastra said. “We need to determine fines because we need to incentivize and
make sure all rentals are registering.”
Council members all agreed the city needs to have a communication campaign before implementation, which they agreed would be Jan. 1.
Councilmember Bill Steinke, who sits on the Tourism Development Council, shed some light on the difference of a long-term rental, six months and a day, which de-
termines whether sales tax is collected and whether the county’s “bed tax” is collected.
“It’s important for us as a city to know that these rentals are happening and whether they are six months or greater rentals,” he said, adding that “job one is to make sure those rental properties are registered. If not registered, you are fined.”
Lee School District reports good first day
Drop-off, pick-up traffic to be expected, officials say; reminder that RedSpeed camera enforcement effort continues
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
Although the car lines were very bumper-to-bumper for the first day of school for the School District of Lee County, it was what school officials have come to expect.
“Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin gives the first day of school an ‘A.’ One of the major reasons is having a certified teacher in every classroom. We have not been able to say that since the pandemic. It is critically important for students’ achievement that they have a qualified educator leading instruction every day,” District Spokesperson Rob Spicker said.
He said they had a solid first day of introductions, expectations, and procedures in the classroom on Monday.
“However, outside, we had very crowded drop-off and pick-up lines as parents walked their students to the classroom and come back in the afternoon to pick them up. The extra cars, along with some weather delays, created congestion at many campuses. We recognize that at the beginning of the year the process is slower than it will be once the procedures become routine and simply ask for some patience during the transition,” Spicker said.
This year marked the roll out of the new three-tiered approach for busing — the Safe Start Initiative — which has most elementary school days from 8:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m., middle school from 9:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and high school bell time from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Skyline Elementary School and Hector A. Cafferata Jr. Elementary School bell schedule is from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., as well as North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts, The Alva School, Bayshore School, The Sanibel School and Veterans Park Academy for the Arts.
“For our schools, the implementation was smooth. They have been preparing for the change since January and we expanded our before- and after-school care programs to accommodate family’s needs,” he said.
The move from a four-tiered system to a three-tiered busing schedule focuses on improving routes, addressing driver shortages, and improving on-time arrivals for
School Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin, pictured in green dress, helps students navigate the line outside of Trafalgar Elementary School Monday, the first d´´ay of the new school year.
students. The spacing of start times of an hour will allow bus drivers to finish their first tier before moving to the next tier.
In most cases, the buses were on time on the first day of school, Spicker said.
“The effectiveness of the Safe Start Initiative will take weeks, if not several months to determine, but we will be following the data closely and make changes to achieve the desired effect,” he said.
Bus riders should regularly check their bus stop times and bus numbers due the constant enrollment of new students daily and adding them to routes, which could cause some changes.
Spicker encourages students to establish good study habits now with a designated time and place for homework, projects, and test preparations before the workload gets heavier.
“We will continue to make some adjustments with teachers and classrooms into the third week of school,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Cape Coral Police Department reminds drivers that its RedSpeed camera initiative is continuing.
Speeding in an active school zone can result in a $100 civil violation if a driver exceeds the posted speed limit by more than 10 mph.
RedSpeed cameras have been permitted at: Ida S. Baker High School, Challenger Middle School, Diplomat Middle School, Mariner Middle School, Trafalgar Middle School, Cape Elementary School, Diplomat Elementary School, Gulf Elementary School, Oasis Charter Elementary School (North), Patriot Elementary School, Pelican Elementary School, Skyline Elementary School, Trafalgar Elementary School, Heritage Charter Academy, St. Andrew Catholic School, Nicaea Academy, and Cape Coral Christian School.
Cameras operate on school days and are active 30 minutes before school starts, during school hours, and 30 minutes after school ends.
When school zone lights are flashing, the reduced speed limit is enforced. When lights are not flashing during school hours, the regular posted speed limit applies.
In both cases, drivers who exceed the applicable limit by more than 10 mph will receive a violation.
The cameras are not active on weekends, holidays and non-instructional days.
The program started in April, and since then, more than 12,000 infractions have been mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle.
CASEY BRADLEY GENT
Weekly B reeze Recap
Lee schools welcome students
By CASEY BRADLEY GENT news@breezenewspapers.com
Monday morning, as most Lee County schools kicked off the 2025-26 school year, a line of eager students and parents snaked around Trafalgar Elementary School at 1850 S.W. 20th Ave. Older brothers held the hands of younger sisters, and cousins greeted one another enthusiastically as -- one by one -- students made their way through a single metal detector and onto campus.
Aliyah Dominguez, who was attending her first day of kindergarten, held hands with her cousin, Mia Aguillar, an incoming first grader. Aliyah’s mom, Ana, said she was excited for her daughter, and a little nervous.
“My daughter is so ready for kindergarten,” she said. “Just look at her grin.”
Aliyah couldn’t help but giggle, as she grinned and waited patiently for her turn to enter campus.
Lee County School Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin was on hand at Trafalgar Elementary for the first day of school. She helped usher several students through the entrance line.
“My boys are grown,” she said, “finished with college and law school. But I remember this day well. Lots of nerves and excitement for everybody.”
As students trickled into their new classrooms, Carlin spotted Trafalgar Elementary School Principal Lisa Murphy. The two administrators hugged before Carlin congratulated Murphy by presenting her with a certificate celebrating the reality that Murphy’s school opened on Aug. 11, 2025, with zero vacancies for classroom teachers. Filling available positions in Lee County schools has been a priority for the district. The employment website, Indeed, showed 292 School jobs available in Lee County as of Aug. 11.
“The greatest asset we have is our teachers,” Carlin said.
She said that the first day of school is about getting students a couple of good meals and allowing them to begin building relationships.
According to the Lee County School District website, the Community Eligibility Program provides both breakfast and lunch -- free of charge -- to all students in its 82 traditional schools, four charter schools and four special centers. There is no need for families or students to fill out an application to participate in the free meals program.
More information is available at http://www.leeschools.net.
Outside of Trafalgar Elementary, Joline Valles began her third year as a school crossing guard. Valles said she continues helping parents and kids cross bustling Southwest 20th Street, because she loves children.
“Society doesn’t accommodate kids very much,” she said. “I want to protect these little people who will one day be the leaders of our society.”
Monday, at 8:15 a.m., the line of traffic along Valles’ stretch of road numbered more than 20 cars in each direction. Still, Valles smiled. “Have a wonderful day!” she called, her positivity contagious.
Whether students skipped, tiptoed or galloped onto campus, the overall mood for the first day of school was positive.
Outside Trafalgar Elementary School, crossing guard Joline Valles smiles as she helps students and parents navigate traffic on Southeast 20th Avenue.
CASEY BRADLEY GENT
Blood drive Sunday at Scoops and Treats
Scoops and Treats in Cape Coral will hold a community blood drive this Sunday, Aug. 17, from 1-7 p.m., in partnership with OneBlood.
The Big Red Bus will be on-site for donations, and donors will receive free rewards along with a complimentary ice cream as a thank-you for giving the gift of life.
For the event, Scoops and Treats also welcomes “Wynn,” a star K-9 Unit with Crisis Canine Care, who will be in attendance to meet and greet guests.
Now under new management, Scoops and Treats is proud to continue serving the community while bringing fresh events and new energy to its 1950s retro ice cream parlor.
The public invited to come out, make a difference by donating blood and enjoy a sweet treat on us!
Scoops and Treats is at 229 Del Prado Blvd., N., #6. For additional information about the drive or Scoops and Treats, call (239) 470-2670.
Cape Museum of History to host open house this Saturday
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
The holder of all things involving the city of Cape Coral’s history is inviting the public to join in on a milestone celebration this weekend.
The Cape Coral Museum of History will host a free open house this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in honor of the 55th anniversary of the city’s incorporation.
The day will include free admission to the museum, and Master Gardeners will be on-site for garden tours.
The city of Cape Coral saw incorporation papers signed on Aug. 18, 1970.
“The museum’s main goal is to educate, so over the past few years we have begun hosting free museum open houses in celebration of milestones for the museum and the city, allowing the public to come into the museum without the burden of cost,” said Cape Coral Museum of History Executive Director Janel Trull. “We chose the closest Saturday to the date of incorporation and will open the museum to the public for free. Our population is constantly increasing and these open houses allow us to engage with both residents and visitors alike, to educate the public on the history of our area, and to continue to create awareness for the museum and its year round activities.”
There will be various community partners joining in this weekend, including a fire truck from the Cape Coral Fire Department from 10 to 11 a.m., a Cape Coral Police Department vehicle on-site all day, garden tours with Master Gardeners and booths from organizations like Kiwanis, Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral, Cape Coral Sun, Lee County Master Gardeners, Raso Realty, Wintrust, and more.
Trull said the museum, which has been in the city since 1987, takes great pride in preserving the history of a unique, constantly growing city.
“While the collection and the campus have continued to grow over these past 38 years, we are still finding our way as a community hub,” she said. “Our goal is to create a center where all residents and visitors to the area can engage with our history, to learn about our past and to dream with us about our future.”
The museum harbors information on most aspects of life in the Cape, from the early attractions and businesses, to the history of municipal institutions like the CCFD, CCFD and the hospital. Each exhibit touches on a small part of the Cape with detailed information, photographs, artifacts and more.
The Cape Coral Museum of History is the only museum in the area that focuses on the history of Cape Coral. Collections include information, photographs and artifacts on all aspects of the area from the Calusa to today.
In October the museum will be opening an exhibit on the 85-year history of Lee County Electric Cooperative and its contributions to the Cape. From Homer Wells’ handshake with the Rosen brothers in 1957 that guaranteed power to their new development, to reconstruction after hurricanes, LCEC has been here since the beginning of Cape Coral.
“Knowing our history helps us better understand where we live, why things are the way they are, and more,” Trull said. “The history of Cape Coral as a community is very short in comparison to many other areas in the country and the world. We are lucky to have many of the original community leaders still around as resources for first-hand information. By looking at our past through a critical thinking lens, we can help build a strong future for the community.”
For more information on the Cape Coral Museum of History, and to RSVP to the free event, visit “http://capecoralmuseum.org/events/.
The Cape Coral Museum of History is at 544 Cultural Park Blvd.
Community
Managing your trees during hurricane season
By CATHY DUNN news@breezenewspapers.com
As much as we dread thinking about it, we are entering the busiest time of hurricane season; storms typically peak in August and September. According to NOAA, the 2025 Hurricane Season is forecast to have above normal activity, with a likely range of 13-19 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), including 6-10 hurricanes and 3-5 major hurricanes. Hurricane-force winds can be extremely damaging to trees and can pose significant risks to property and personal safety.
Garden Club of Cape Coral
It is important that Florida residents understand the risks associated with named storms and hurricanes because unfortunately these events are part of our tropical environment. The University of Florida has studied the effects of major hurricanes for more than 30 years, starting with Hurricane Andrew in 1992, and their work provides excellent guidance for Florida homeowners for managing trees during hurricane season.
Some tree species resist wind better than others. In Southwest Florida, palm species survive hurricanes better than broadleaf or conifer trees. Other trees that have exhibited high wind resistance include sand live oaks, laurel oaks, dogwood, holly and crape myrtle. Trees that exhibit low wind resistance include golden shower, jacaranda, floss silk and pines/conifers. Native tree species also survive better in hurricanes and tend to lose less branches than exotic species such as melaleuca, Australian pine and queen palm. Older trees are also more likely to fail in hurricanes because they are more susceptible to insects and diseases that weaken branches. Trees with poor structure, such as two or more trunks of equal size, are also more vulnerable to wind damage. Unhealthy trees with decayed root systems, trunk decay or large dead branches are also more susceptible to wind damage.
What steps can you take to protect your trees (and your property) before a hurricane? When you plant new trees, choose tree species that have proven to be more wind resistant. Stake young or newly planted trees now – you may not have time to do this when a storm is approaching. Monitor your mature trees for signs of decline and disease which could cause poor survival in hurricanes, and remove dead or overhanging branches. Good structural pruning will ensure that your trees are less likely to suffer wind damage. Make sure that your trees have sufficient aerial space under power lines and
August 15, 2025
Cape Coral American Legion Auxiliary elects new officers
The American Legion Auxiliary unit, Post 90, in Cape Coral, has elected its new board of officers for the 2025-2026 year. They are President Sherry Baker, 1st Vice President Nita Keeling, 2nd Vice President Karen Diebold-Horner, Secretary Susan Littlejohn-Jones, Treasurer Patti Kelton, Chaplain Sheila Ference, Sgt. at Arms Carol Berres and Historian Judy Lindhorst.
The members are the male and female spouses, grandmothers, mothers, sisters and direct and adopted female descendants of members of The
American Legion. Some members are veterans themselves.
The mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of veterans, military, and their families.
The American Legion, located at 1401 S.E. 47th St., in Cape Coral, is growing rapidly along with the city of Cape Coral. All the new auxiliary officers pledged to continue and expand their programs of veteran support and community engagement.
Post Commander Lisa Arnold urged all Cape Coral spouses and descendants of veterans to join Post 90 Auxiliary.
For further information or to become an auxiliary family member of the post, please get in touch with Baker at (239) 270-0751, or 1st Vice Commander Bruce Bohlander on (317) 979-7061, or visit the website at www.post90swf.org or call (239) 540-8128. You can also visit Post 90 on Facebook.
Post 90 is open every day at 11 a.m.
Three Gulf Coast Writers Association members earn awards
The Gulf Coast Writers Association recently announced three of its members are award-winning authors.
The Florida Authors and Publishers Association announced its 2025 President’s Book Award Winners at a celebration in Orlando, Fla., where Patti Walsh took home Gold in the middle-grade fiction category for her book “Hounded.”
Ginger Wakem received Silver in the Mystery/Suspense category, author of “Trust No One, Promise Nothing.”
The third award-winning GCWA member is Ed DeJesus, who won both a Literary Titan Book Award as well as a PenCraft Summer’s Best Book Award (Thriller – General) for “The Vulnerable.”
“We are incredibly proud of Patti, Ginger and Ed for their well-deserved recognition as award-win-
ning authors,” said Mary Charles, GCWA president. “Celebrating our members’ hard work, dedication to the craft of writing, along with their successes, are the cornerstones of our writers’ association. These authors are an inspiration to us all. ”
The Florida Authors and Publishers Association is an organization for authors, publishers, illustrators, editors, printers and other professionals involved in the publishing industry.
About GCWA
Now in its 30th year, the Gulf Coast Writers Association Inc. provides a forum for fellowship, education and information for writers, editors, and associates. GCWA’s book, “Storm Stories–Hurricane Ian,” is available on Amazon and at local outlets.
Based in Fort Myers, GCWA
attracts members from throughout Southwest Florida. The association offers prominent speakers and dynamic workshops at monthly meetings (in-person or via Zoom), sharing expert advice on writing techniques, publishing, and marketing. The literary genres run the gamut from poetry, adult fiction, and nonfiction to children’s and young adult, historical fiction, romance, mystery/thriller, memoir, essay, and screenplay.
Members include new and established writers, corporate professionals, teachers, and business owners, working or retired.
To join GCWA, sign up at https:// gulfwriters.org/member-application-form/. GCWA’s website is www.GulfWriters.Org. Follow the association @GCWA on Twitter/X, Linkedin, Meetup, and on Facebook.
UF/IFAS PHOTO
Palm trees damaged by a hurricane.
PHOTO PROVIDED
The new American Legion Auxiliary officers are, from left, Sherry Baker, Nita Keeling, Karen Horner, Shelia Ference, Judy Lindhorst and Carol Berres.
Mobility fee: New city levy to
From page 1
At one point of the meeting, Mayor John Gunter and council members Keith Long and Laurie Lehmann were in favor of the linear path methodology.
City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn said if Councilmember Rachel Kaduk, who was not present for the meeting, chose the linear path the board would be deadlocked, meaning there would be no consensus for staff to follow.
Kaduk shared that she was for the linear path, which changed the minds of council members Dr. Derrick Donnell and Jennifer Nelson-Lastra.
With the council wanting to use the county’s residential fee of $9,996, Ilczyszyn pointed out that the rate has been $9,996 since 2018.
“They offer a discount to get to their rate now. Our number for all four years is going
to be the end number, which the industry calls the base rate,” he said. “We are going to offer discounts in each of those years to graduate our path towards the end number, but we will be adopting that number for all four years on top of that discount. We have an end point, starting point, straight line of whatever that number is divided by four. The exponential has deeper discounts in the first two years.”
At the last meeting Council decided where the end point would be for the mobility fee.
“Now we have a policy decision of how fast to get there,” Ilczyszyn said. “We have done all the necessary work to properly implement a mobility fee.”
He said they have capacity improvements in the plan — a mobility, 20-year plan.
“We are not out of funds in road impact fees, but we are going to spend down the
fund,” Ilczyszyn said, adding that the fund will be depleted.
The mobility fee will start accruing funds and be placed into a new fund account with its own restrictions.
Ilczyszyn gave an example of the market average at the 50th percentile with the direction at the end of four years to be just above market average targeting 51st percentile.
“But today we are zero,” he said. “I know where the end point and starting point is. What I would do is a deep discount from that number in year one, small increases from this year – 1-3% over where we are at, next year 5-10% (of the new fee) then 60-70% and then 100. We are keeping the fees low for commercial to incentivize business owners to make decisions quickly.”
There were a few other examples given of the progression over four years. The first
was for a single-family residential with an existing impact fee of $3,347 and an adopted mobility fee of $9,997. The first year would have a 49.89% discount of the adopted fee of $9,997. A new home built in the second year of the phase-in would get a 33.26% discount, the third year a 16.63% discount and zero for the last year.
Another example was for a free-standing retail which would bring the existing fee of $5,709 to $12,912.
The first year discount would be 45.78%, second year 33.51% and third year 18.46% discount.
A disadvantage of discounting was noted.
“We are already setting our starting line behind the starting line for today’s cost,” Councilmember Keith Long said. “We are setting ourselves back seven years to start and building in another four years.”
Weather: More rains are expected throughout Southwest Florida
From page 1
is a window of opportunity for Erin to rapidly intensify into a Category 4 hurricane this weekend or early next week.
According to major weather outlet models, Erin shows it will continue west-northwest and steer clear of Florida.
“This weekend into early next week is when this system will begin to turn more to the north between a developing break in high pressure,” wrote The Weather Channel’s Jennifer Gray and Jonathan Belles on Wednesday. “Where that turn
occurs between the area of high pressure over the eastern U.S. and another one east of Bermuda is still uncertain and will determine what, if any, land areas might see impacts next week.
“The probability of a landfall from Erin along the U.S. East Coast is low at this time. However, interests along the East Coast should continue to monitor this system for possible changes. Erin will generate high surf and dangerous rip currents along the U.S. East Coast next week, no matter where it tracks.”
Here in Southwest Florida, it’s been a
wet few weeks, with more rain forecasted to arrive early next week.
According to data provided by Lee County, various areas across the region have seen high rain totals just two weeks into August.
At the Agualinda Water Plant in Cape Coral, 5.53 inches of rain has been recorded thus far this month. Bowman’s Beach in Sanibel has seen a staggering 14.44 inches this month, with nearly 10 inches coming down over the last five days.
St. James city has received 11.34 inches of rain in August, the second-highest total
MUSEUM
HOUSE
throughout Lee County.
Many places throughout the area are nearing or have surpassed the average totals for August when looking back, as the mean monthly rainfall for August in Lee County since 1992 is 9.69 inches.
On Wednesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis wrote in a post on “X,” “Models for Hurricane Erin currently have it turning north and staying far away from Florida. We continue to monitor for any shifts.”
Auction: Numerous items up for bids including luxury staycations
From page 1
ments—every dollar raised directly sustains our ability to rescue, heal, and re-home animals in need.”
From handcrafted artwork and pampering spa days to a Taylor Swift-themed Airbnb in Nashville, airline tickets, and luxury getaways at Margaritaville and The Westin Cape Coral, this auction is packed with unforgettable experiences and one-of-a-kind treasures. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and supporters, organizers said this year’s auction lineup is better than ever.
“This year’s auction features our most exciting lineup yet—unique experiences, one-of-a-kind treasures, beautiful art, gift cards, and items you won’t find anywhere else,” McCauley said. “Every winning bid not only gets you something special, but also directly helps animals in need.”
The auction wraps up at 4 p.m. on Aug. 22. Organizers say whether you’re in your pajamas at home or on the go, you can join the action from anywhere and help make a difference in the lives of hundreds of homeless pets. Last year, the auction raised $46,000 for the shelter.
“With even more incredible auction items this year and overwhelming community support, we’re aiming to surpass last year’s mark,” McCauley said. “Because CCAS receives no government funding, every dollar is critical—not only to sustain our lifesaving work, but also to fuel our upcoming expansion, making this fundraiser more vital than ever.”
Ground was broken in February for the shelters 19,000-square-foot expansion, which will be located right next door to its current location at 325 S.W. 2nd Ave.
The expanded shelter will significantly increase capacity, allowing CCAS to care for more abandoned and unwanted animals and find them loving homes. Along with the larger shelter, the existing building will be revamped into a more extensive, low-cost community veterinary clinic, enhancing services with additional
Auction Items
From handcrafted artwork and pampering spa days to a Taylor Swiftthemed Airbnb in Nashville, airline tickets, and luxury getaways at Margaritaville and The Westin Cape Coral, this auction is packed with unforgettable experiences and one-ofa-kind treasures. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and supporters, organizers said this year’s auction lineup is better than ever.
exam rooms, surgical suites, and recovery areas to serve residents in need of affordable pet care.
“Our expansion is moving forward with incredible momentum, and we couldn’t be more excited,” McCauley said. “The additional space is desperately needed to care for more animals, provide better medical facilities, and meet the growing demand in our community. We’re on track for completion in fall of 2026, and every step brings us closer to saving more lives.”
CCAS has performed thousands of spay/neuter operations in its facility, many being free of charge thanks to grant funding. They also assist Lee County Domestic Animal Services, as well as other rescues across Florida, in taking in dogs and cats.
Since opening its doors in March 2020, Cape Coral Animal Shelter has helped more than 5,500 animals find loving homes and serves over 7,000 clients annually through its affordable veterinary clinic.
“We operate at full capacity every single day,” McCauley said. “We take in animals with serious medical issues, senior pets, and heartworm-positive dogs—cases that require intensive care and support. This auction is a fun and powerful way the community can be part of our mission.”
McCauley said this year’s auction is powered by the generosity of local businesses, artisans, and animal-loving individuals who give from the heart. Items up for auction come from local business such as Zak’s Jewelry, The Westin, Margaritaville, Wicked Dolphin Distillery, and Florida Pure. There are tons of gift cards from restaurants throughout the area and many items for pet lovers.
“The support from our community means everything—it fuels our mission, strengthens our community, and changes countless animal lives,” she said.
To view and bid on items up for auction, visit www. capecoralanimalshelter.com/online-auction/.
Closure of SWFL Military Museum announced on social media
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
A long-standing harborer of veteran memorabilia, history, and more with ties to Cape Coral recently announced it has officially closed its doors.
In a social media post, the Southwest Florida Military Museum, formerly located in the South Cape and most recently in the Edison Mall in Fort Myers, announced it would be closing for good.
“It is with deep gratitude and a heavy heart that we announce the closing of the SWFL Military Museum, formerly located in the Edison Mall,” read the post. “For the past 15 years, we have been honored and blessed to serve this incredible community
with our mission to Honor, Preserve, and Educate about the rich and vital history of the American military.”
Museum officials stated the despite their best efforts, the current location proved unsustainable, and they have not been able to secure a new venue that would allow them to continue offering the immersive and educational experience they said its visitors deserve.
“While our physical doors are closing, our mission lives on,” the post continued to state. “Many of our cherished exhibits have found new homes in museums, schools, and community facilities where they will continue to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans. Others are in the process
of being donated, ensuring that their stories will continue to inspire future generations.”
The team at the museum extended its deepest thanks to supporters, volunteers, and visitors. “Your generosity of time, resources, and spirit made our 15 years of service possible,” they said. “We are especially grateful to our founders, Ralph (Santillo) and Nick Napolitano, whose vision and unwavering commitment laid the foundation for everything we accomplished.”
There were countless comments on the post of people telling heartfelt stories of their experience, of loved one’s experience at the museum over the years.
A comment from the Military Heritage
Museum in Punta Gorda stated, “It’s always sad to see a chapter close. We’ve enjoyed a meaningful friendship with the Southwest Florida Military Museum over the years—sharing stories, artifacts, and a common mission to honor those who served. Thank you for your 15 years of dedication to veterans, history, and community in Southwest Florida. Your legacy will not be forgotten, and your impact will be felt for years to come.”
While the museum stated many exhibits have found new homes, some are hoping items that were housed there can be returned to the families that donated them.
The Breeze did not receive a response from museum organizers as of press time.
Volante of Fort Myers is now Salterra at Fort Myers — proudly managed by Leisure Care.
We’re excited to bring the Leisure Care difference to Fort Myers, where award-winning hospitality-driven care and life-enhancing amenities bring living well and well-being to life.
At Salterra at Fort Myers, residents enjoy person-centered assisted living and memory care tailored to their needs, preferences, and pace.
Backed by nearly 50 years of experience, Leisure Care communities are designed to inspire confidence, comfort, and joy – for residents and their families alike. Leisure Care has repeatedly earned accolades from U.S. News & World Report, is a Great Place to Work® Certified company, and was named among FORTUNE Best Workplaces in Aging Services.
August 15, 2025
Education BriEfs
Nebel, Winger among spring 2025 University of Arkansas graduates
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The University of Arkansas honored its most recent graduating class with a series of spring commencement ceremonies at Bud Walton Arena and Barnhill Arena, and the School of Law’s ceremony at the Fayetteville Town Center.
educAtion Verblaaux named new principal at the Thrive Academy in Cape
Local students joined more than 5,500 graduates earning a degree and their names on Senior Walk, including:
n Marissa Nebel of Cape Coral, master of Athletic Training
n Mackenzie Winger of Cape Coral, bachelor of science
Founded in 1871, the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville provides an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs, more than 100 major fields of undergraduate study, over 90 master’s programs and more than 50 doctoral programs. For additional information, please visit https://www. uark.edu/
Biondi awarded degree from Miami University
OXFORD, Ohio — Emily Biondi of Cape Coral was among nearly 4,800 students from Miami University who received degrees during the spring commencement held on May 17, 2025.
Biondi graduated with a B.S. in business degree, majoring in Human Capital Management & Leadership.
Established in 1809, Miami University is a public university located in Oxford, Ohio, with regional campuses in Hamilton and Middletown, a learning center in West Chester and a European study center in Luxembourg. Miami serves more than 22,600 undergraduates across more than 100 areas of study, and more than 2,200 graduate students through 78 master’s and doctoral degree programs.
Miami is an NCAA Division I school, serving more than 500 student-athletes across 19 varsity sports. For more information, visit MiamiOH.edu.
FSW to kick off start of fall classes with the Buc Block Party on Aug. 29
Florida SouthWestern State College will celebrate the start of fall classes with a Buc Block Party Friday, Aug. 29, 3:30-7 p.m., at the FSW Suncoast Credit Union Arena, 13351 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. The public is invited to an evening filled with fun, food and festivities. Support your local FSW campus and discover the valuable resources available to you.
The Buc Block Party will feature food, FSW giveaways, games and activities, and a special performance by FSW President Jeff Allbritten and the Salty Dogs band.
The Suncoast Credit Union Arena has enhanced security measures for all arena events including walk-through metal detectors and bag restrictions.
Guests are encouraged not to bring bags into the arena. This includes backpacks, purses, briefcases, duffel bags or coolers. Guests that choose to bring a bag will be able to bring in the following:
n Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12 inches x 6 inches x 12 inches.
n One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
n Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the Arena with one of the clear plastic bags. Small bags must not exceed 4.5 inches x 6.5 inches.
n An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection.
Guests will be asked to return non-approved bags or other prohibited items to their vehicle prior to arena entry. There is no check-in location for prohibited bags or items at the arena. For a full list of prohibited items, visit https://www.fsw.edu/arena/plan/policies.
For more information about the Buc Block Party, visit https://fsw.presence.io/event/buc-block-party-featuring-the-salty-dogs.
For more information about the college, please visit www.FSW.edu
Family Initiative recently announced the appointment of Kim Verblaauw as the new principal of Thrive Academy, a private school supporting K–12 students with autism spectrum disorder.
At Thrive, students receive a personalized, supportive education that builds confidence, develops real-world skills, and working towards earning a diploma—preparing for life beyond the classroom.
Verblaauw brings more than 25 years of experience in education, including roles in special education, classroom instruction, curriculum design and school leadership. She is widely respected for her commitment to neurodiverse learners and her ability to foster inclusive, high-growth academic environments.
“Kim brings both heart and strategy to the role,” said David Brown, president and co-founder of Family Initiative. “Her experience, leadership, and compassion make her the perfect person to lead Thrive Academy as we continue expanding opportunities for our students and families.”
As part of Family Initiative’s education model, Thrive Academy integrates academics with therapeutic supports, including behavioral and occupational therapy.
The school emphasizes core instruction in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and
Science, while also focusing on building resiliency skills, workforce development, and independent living skills.
“It’s a privilege to join a school where every student is seen, supported, and given the tools to succeed,” said Verblaauw. “Thrive Academy’s mission aligns perfectly with my passion for specialized education, and I’m honored to lead this incredible team of educators and students.”
For more about Thrive Academy, which is located at 907 S.E. 5th Ave in Cape Coral, please visit www. ThriveAcademyFL.org or call (239) 257-1286.
Cape Coral High School Class of 2005 to hold 20th reunion Sept. 5-6
It has been 20 years since the Class of 2005 graduated from Cape Coral High School, and the time has come to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate. Alumni are invited to attend “Back to the Cape,” a weekend of events taking place Friday, Sept. 5 and Saturday, Sept. 6.
The reunion weekend will feature casual gatherings, family-friendly fun and a special evening party designed to bring classmates together and celebrate two decades of shared memories.
Reunion schedule
Purchase tickets at the gate on game night.
n Saturday, Sept. 6 -- Morning Family Picnic at 10 a.m. at Saratoga Park, 170 S.E. 4th Terrace, Cape Coral. This all-ages gathering offers a relaxed opportunity to reconnect with classmates and their families.
n Saturday, Sept. 6 -Evening Alumni Party at 6 p.m. at Nice Guys Pizza, 1334 Cape Coral Parkway, East.
high-school-class-reunion/items
Hotel accommodations
A special group rate is available at The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village for attendees who wish to stay overnight. Booking Link: https://book.passkey. com/e/51087631
Inviting Classes of 2002-2008
In the spirit of community and connection, alumni from the Classes of 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2008 are also invited to attend the reunion events.
n Friday, Sept. 5 –- CCHS Football Game at 7:30 p.m.
Kick off the weekend at the Cape Coral High School football stadium and show your school spirit as the Seahawks take the field.
This adults-only celebration includes unlimited pizza and garlic knots, access to arcade games and a signature reunion cocktail. A curated photo slideshow and nostalgic playlist will complete the evening.
Tickets are required and are available at https://my.cheddarup.com/c/
The weekend is designed to bring together a broader Seahawk family and celebrate the lasting bonds formed during high school.
For additional details and updates on the reunion plans and activities, please visit the official event page at https://www.facebook.com/ events/612987985147968
FGCU facility to be built in Babcock Ranch
Florida Gulf Coast University and Babcock Ranch have announced the recently approved Florida state budget includes $21.7 million in phase one funding to support their shared vision of creating a learning, research and outreach facility in Charlotte County.
This announcement builds on the formal partnership signed in 2023 between FGCU and Babcock Ranch, which outlined a shared commitment to advancing education, research and sustainable development.
The funding will support the construction of FGCU’s 11th academic building -- a state-of-the-art, 125,000-square-foot facility that will house a new institute focused on sustainability and resiliency. Located in Babcock Ranch’s MidTown, the academic center will offer an immersive experience for both students and researchers. As a nationally recognized
model for sustainable development and resilient design, Babcock Ranch is an ideal setting for the study of renewable energy, water management, mobility systems and sustainable building practices.
In addition to the donation of land for the facilities, Kitson & Partners will donate $3 million towards related initiatives in partnership with FGCU.
Creating educational and research facilities has always been part of the broader vision for Babcock Ranch, the nation’s first solar-powered town.
“From our earliest plans, we envisioned a community where lifelong learning would be embedded into everyday life as evidenced by Babcock Schools,” said Syd Kitson, Chairman and CEO of Kitson & Partners. “The arrival of a higher education institution like FGCU brings that vision full circle, offering world-class academic
opportunities right here at Babcock Ranch and helping us fulfill our commitment to fostering a community built on knowledge, innovation and purpose.”
The facility will offer learners a full slate of educational opportunities from undergraduate and graduate courses to micro-credential opportunities. It will expand access to dual enrollment for local high school students, offer lifelong learning and cultural programs through FGCU Academy, and support workforce development.
Among FGCU’s schools and colleges tied to this endeavor are: n Water and environmental research through The Water School n Agri-tech advancement through the Lutgert College of Business n Advanced technology and artifi-
See FGCU, page 31
Principal Kim Verblaaux
Owl: Friends of Wildlife to launch new Facebook group page
From page 6
goal of the update is to maximize conservation value of permitting actions, improve regulatory certainty, and streamline the permit review process for stakeholders and FWC staff. Key revisions include standardizing mitigation for projects involving significant habitat modification, expanding options for long-term permitting, and clarifying specific concepts, definitions and requirements. Guidelines are designed to be a tool for landowners, consultants, agency partners and other interested parties on how to conserve Statedesignated Threatened species.
“Recommended conservation measures and survey methods are included to promote actions that benefit these species. These guidelines also include options for avoidance of take and options for permitting that minimize and mitigate unavoidable harm or harassment.”
CCFW officials say habitat loss, automobile strikes, and secondary poisoning from rat poison remain ongoing threats for burrowing owls.
Windisch added, “We want our children and future generations to be able to enjoy these animals. They benefit our the ecosystem by consuming insects and rodents. Their burrows are occupied by many other species. So if the owls disappear many other species will be impacted.”
Members of the community can support the burrowing owl by:
n Avoid using rat poison, which can harm owls through secondary poisoning.
n Reduce or eliminate the use of pesticides.
n Install a starter burrow in your yard.
n Volunteer or donate to support conservation efforts through Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife.
Windisch said CCFW will continue its work of marking new burrows, trimming vegetation on conservation lots, installing starter burrows, educating the community, and responding to phone call about concerns.
“And, very importantly, we are continuing our efforts to raise funds to acquire land for wildlife habitat,” she said. “In partnership with Cape Coral Wildlife Trust, 87 lots in Cape Coral have been preserved forever as habitat for the owls and other species like gopher tortoises. We need to go full speed ahead acquiring habitat as many open lots in Cape Coral are being developed.”
CCFW will soon be launching a brand new Facebook group designed to give Cape Coral residents a place to share wildlife sightings, connect, learn, and get involved in protecting the creatures we live alongside — from burrowing owls to gopher tortoises and more.
“This group will serve as a space for everyone who cares about Cape Coral’s wildlife to connect, share, and engage,” Windisch said. “Our goal is to build a stronger sense of
Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife
Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the habitats of protected wildlife species in Cape Coral. Founded in 2001, CCFW focuses on educating the community about local wildlife resources and advocating for conservation efforts.
Any individual interested in donating land or making a financial contribution for wildlife habitat or CCFW’s mission can contact CCFW at ccfriendsofwildlife. org or call at 239-980-2593.
community among supporters and provide more opportunities for interaction and involvement.”
Part of the launch will be the “Burrowing Owl Strut” — an original song and dance challenge designed to bring the community together, raise awareness, and celebrate the owls that are a symbol of Cape Coral. The song was written locally, and CCFW is encouraging families, schools, first responders, and local businesses to join the challenge by posting their own “strut” online and tagging the group after
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the habitats of protected wildlife species in Cape Coral. Founded in 2001, CCFW focuses on educating the community about local wildlife resources and advocating for conservation efforts.
Any individual interested in donating land or making a financial contribution for wildlife habitat or CCFW’s mission can contact CCFW at ccfriendsofwildlife. org or call at 239980-2593.
The City of Cape Coral Charter School Authority Governing Board will hold their Regularly Scheduled Meeting on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 5:00P.M., in the Cape Coral Council Chambers, 1015 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33990
the launch.
Higher escrow can protect sellers
Mr. Feichthaler – My wife and I recently contracted to sell our house to buyers from Michigan. They paid a $5,000 escrow deposit, which was held by the law firm handling the closing. The property passed inspection, the loan was approved, and we signed all the closing documents to transfer our house to the purchasers. The buyers were supposed to come to sign the documents this week and they never showed! The next day we received a letter from their lawyer saying we never had a contract to begin with, the loan wasn’t approved, and that we didn’t sign the deed on time. The buyers are demanding all of their escrow money back or they say we will have to go to court. Should we give it back?
- Sharon R.
Dear Sharon: The answer to your question will depend on the specific facts in this transaction. Generally, if you met all of your obligations in the contract as Seller, and there are no contingencies that would allow the buyer to keep their deposit, you should receive it. The law firm holding the escrow deposit will not disburse these funds, however, until you and the buyers reach agreement and sign a Cancellation and Release. Considering the loan was approved by the buyer’s bank and they did not object to inspections, it is likely there are no contingencies that would allow the buyer to back out of the contract. If an agreement on the deposit still cannot be reached, these cases generally go to mediation first, which gives the parties the opportunity to meet face to face and attempt to resolve the dispute. In mediation, there is no judge, and no requirement that agreement be reached. The next step would be to go to court. In most real estate contracts, attorney’s fees and costs are payable to the prevailing party, but judges have discretion in how much in fees are reimbursed.
Hopefully you can reach agreement on how the $5,000 will be distributed. If you cannot, seek professional assistance from an attorney to represent your interests. In the meantime, good advice to all sellers like you is to obtain a larger escrow deposit from the buyer that will motivate to complete the purchase of the property, rather than potentially lose their deposit on default.
school at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., he returned to Cape Coral to practice law and raise a family. He served as mayor of Cape Coral from 2005-2008, and continues his service to the community through the Cape Coral Caring Center, and Cape Coral Kiwanis where he serves as president.
PROPERTY TRANSFERS
Source: Lee County Property Appraiser
$1,050,000
JOHN STEVEN & SHERI LEE GELLER JOSEPH & 2118 SW 28TH TER 7/25/2025 $531,000 GELNOVATCH GEORGE V & HOLDEN AMANDA & CHESTER 1606 SW 27TH TER 7/25/2025 $290,000 GONZALEZ AMY L & LUIS CESAR MCH SFR PROPERTY OWNER 3 LLC
HOLLERAN YOLANDA & ROBERT STURGEON SHAWNA &
BRIAN P + CONROW SARA LOU TR
SW 1ST AVE 7/28/2025
SANCHEZ EDGAR JUNIOR MALDONADO RAMIREZ ERIKA
&
SANDRA & NARANJO RODOLFO OLIVA
NIEVES PEDRO J PARSELIUNAS LAIMIS
ANDREW & CHUMLEY DEBRA LEA +
JOSEPH & SUSAN NICKO JASON & AMANDA
Affordability, mortgage rates and price trends
Affordability issues remain the biggest problem in the real estate market for buyers, and therefore, for sellers. This is a growing problem throughout much of the country, as home prices are still too high for a lot of buyers based on their incomes. Add in rising property taxes and high insurance costs, along with the current level of mortgage rates hovering in the 6.5% to 6.7% range, and a lot of people have simply been priced out of the market. It seems that most of the people working in various capacities of the real estate business choose to ignore this inconvenient fact about the problems with income to mortgage debt ratios that a lot of potential buyers are stuck trying to deal with. At the same time, for the better part of the past two years the real estate industry has been anxiously holding out hope for a big drop in mortgage rates, best exemplified by the chief economist at the National Association of Realtors, Lawrence Yun, who was wildly wrong when he predicted that mortgage rates would drop to 5.25% in 2024. Even though current mortgage rates have eased a bit recently, they are still too high for a lot of buyers. Here is some recent analysis about home affordability.
First, we will turn to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and their data and various reports. We will provide a brief outline based on their market information, and if you like digging into housing market numbers, we would recommend going to their easy-to-use website. In a July 24, 2025, report, the NAHB noted that nationally, new construction single-family home inventory continued to rise in June, with the number of new homes on the market at a level that was 8.5% higher than a year ago. This report noted that, “based on the current sales pace, the months’ supply for new homes remained elevated at 9.8 compared to 8.4 a year ago.” They also pointed out that despite various builder incentives, “demand (for new homes) remains tepid.”
The NAHB also has interesting affordability data estimating the number of households that are “priced out of the market” for new construction homes. For the Cape Coral-Fort Myers Metro Area, they show the median new home price at $379,246 and the income needed to qualify for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage with a 10% down payment at $117,036. Based on their numbers, they indicate that 68.6% of the households in our metro area would be unable to afford a median priced new home priced at $379,246.
When it comes to the decline in mortgage rates that would be required to make an average home in the U.S. affordable, a July 30, 2025, article in Fortune written by Sydney Lake, notes that it is unlikely rates will get low enough any time soon. As we have been noting in this column, the problem with home affordability for a lot of buyers goes well beyond mortgage rates. In general the bigger problem is the fact that incomes have not kept pace with the higher home prices and the higher prices over the past four years for just about everything else, including all of the additional expenses and costs of home ownership.
One other concerning trend about home values in the Cape is the fact that the average home sales price also reached a new low for this year at $439,094 in July. The peak average sales price in the Cape so far this year was $495,791 in March, and the all-time record high average sales price in the overall Cape Coral single-family home market was $586,109 in April 2022. The last time we had a monthly average sales price number come in below $440,000 was in August 2021 at $432,903. The lower average monthly sales price number is a reflection of the market shifting towards fewer high priced homes being sold and more lower priced homes being sold.
Current active listings and pending home sales
As of Tuesday, Aug. 12, there were 2,729 active listings in the MLS for Cape Coral single-family at list prices ranging from $180,000 to $8.9 million, and the median list price came in at $465,000. One year ago on Aug. 12, 2024, there were 2,577 homes listed for sale in the Cape at prices ranging from $199,900 to $5.98 million, and the median list price was $489,900. Two years ago on Aug. 15, 2023, there were 1,802 active home listings in the Cape, and three years ago on Aug. 9, 2022, there were 1,397 active listings with a median list price of $524,900. Based on our then weekly market snapshots, back on April 19, 2022, there were 547 active single-family homes listed for sale in the MLS and the median list price hit its peak of $610,000. So our median list prices have declined by $145,000 or by 23.8% since their peak in April 2022.
Moving over to pending home sales, as of Tuesday, Aug. 12, there were 582 Cape Coral single-family homes under contract with buyers at prices ranging from $169,900 for a partially built home to $1.999 million, with the median pending sales price at $375,000. One of the more notable things about this pending home sales data is the fact that the median pending home sales price is $90,000 or 19.4% below the median list price. This helps illustrate the continued weakness in home sales prices. Another item that caught our attention about home prices is the fact that the recently highest priced pending home sale in the Cape that was in the pipeline at $3.6 million, closed on Aug. 1 for $3 million. On a positive note, this home was listed for sale at $3.6 million on March 19, and it attracted a buyer without needing any price reductions, going under contract on June 9 at $3.6 million. However, the final sales price ended up being 16.7% below the list price. With this sale completed, our highest priced pending sale is now at $1.999 million. A year ago on Aug. 12, 2024, there were 662 pending home sales in the pipeline with a median pending sales price of $395,000. Back on Aug. 15, 2023, there were 768 pending sales.
Lake notes in her article that, “Since the pandemic, U.S. mortgage rates have risen dramatically. This surge, combined with historically high home prices, has tanked housing affordability, with first-time homebuyer rates falling to half the historical average. Even a substantial drop in mortgage rates would not restore housing affordability for most Americans.” An economic analyst with Zillow, Anushna Prakash, added that, “In order for a typical home to be affordable to a buyer, mortgage rates would need to drop to 4.43%.” If that is the case, we have a long way to go.
Preliminary July sales numbers for Cape Coral homes
Looking at the preliminary numbers for the overall Cape Coral single-family home market in the month of July, right now there are 426 closed home sales and the median sales price for this July is sitting at $365,000. These numbers could still be adjusted a bit before they are finalized, but at this point the 426 closed sales are 11.4% lower than the 481 sales from July 2024, and 9.2% below the 469 sales in June of this year. However, the closed sales number this July is up slightly from the 421 sales posted in July 2023, and we need to go back to the 418 sales in July 2017 to find a weaker July sales number.
The somewhat more troubling number is the median sales price of $365,000 this July, which is 6.4% lower than the $390,000 posted in July 2024, and 2.7% below the $374,997 in June of this year. Unless we get some upward adjustments, the $365,000 this July is the lowest monthly amount so far this year, breaking below the previous low of $370,450 in May. This keeps the current downtrend in home sales prices in place, meaning our market is still searching for its sales price bottom. The last time the overall median sales price in the Cape Coral singlefamily home market was below this amount for a single month was in August 2021 at $360,000.
The sales data for this article was obtained from the Florida Realtors Multiple Listing Service Matrix for Lee County, Fla., as of Aug. 12, 2025, unless otherwise noted. It was compiled by Bob and Geri Quinn and it includes information specifically for Cape Coral single-family homes, and does not include condominiums, short sales or foreclosures. The data and statistics are believed to be reliable, however, they could be updated and revised periodically, and are subject to change without notice. The Quinns are a husband and wife real estate team with the RE/MAX Realty Team office in Cape Coral. They have lived in Cape Coral for over 45 years. Geri has been a full-time Realtor since 2005, and Bob joined with Geri as a full-time Realtor in 2014. Their real estate practice is mainly focused on Cape Coral residential property and vacant lots.
Day(s) Date Hours Address
Price Agent Brokerage
Friday 8/15/2025 10am-1pm 160 SW 52nd Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33914
$2,995,000
Jacob Stoutenburgh Royal Shell Real Estate - Fort Myers
Friday 8/15/2025 11am-2pm 1303 SE 20th Ct, Cape Coral, FL 33990
$740,000 Claudia Hart CENTURY 21 Selling Paradise
Friday 8/15/2025 11am-2pm 610 SW 47th Ter Apt 2, Cape Coral, FL 33914
$173,000 Ryan Benner Sellstate Priority Realty
Friday 8/15/2025 3pm-6pm 3220 NW 21st St, Cape Coral, FL 33993
$1,299,900 Toni Toto Toto Realty Group LLC
Friday 8/15/2025 5pm-7pm 1516 NW 38th Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33993
$475,000 Leslie Dukek Miloff Aubuchon Realty Group
Saturday 8/16/2025 10am-12pm 5305 Darby Ct, Cape Coral, FL 33904
$599,000 Heather Porrett Miloff Aubuchon Realty Group
Saturday 8/16/2025 11am-3pm 4407 SE 11th Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33904
$679,000
Joe Murphy III, PA ROG MVP Lee County LLC
Saturday 8/16/2025 10am-2pm 2226 NE 34th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33909
$300,000
Sharolyn Puchacz RE MAX Anchor Realty
Saturday 8/16/2025 11am-3pm 109 SW 15th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33991
$550,000
Justin Goss CENTURY 21 Selling Paradise
Saturday 8/16/2025 1pm-4pm 160 SW 52nd Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33914
$2,995,000
Jacob Stoutenburgh Royal Shell Real Estate - Fort Myers
Saturday 8/16/2025 11am-2pm 9 NW 14th Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33993
$429,990
Alexandra Pagliaroli Ace Realty & Associates, LLC
Saturday 8/16/2025 11am-3pm 1040 NW 35th Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33993
$569,000
Ammy Suarez Maks Realty Inc
Saturday 8/16/2025 11am-2pm 4333 SW 16th Pl, Cape Coral, FL 33914
$724,900
Sandra Aguilar Rent 1 Sale 1 Realty
Saturday 8/16/2025 11am - 1pm 5216 SW 27th Pl, Cape Coral
$800,000
Connie Dang Coldwell Banker Realty
Sunday 8/17/2025 12pm - 2pm 3517 SE 18th Ave, Cape Coral
$969,000 Krystal House Coldwell Banker Realty
Sunday 8/17/2025 11am-3pm 109 SW 15th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33991
$550,000 Justin Goss CENTURY 21 Selling Paradise
Sunday 8/17/2025 1pm-4pm 160 SW 52nd Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33914
$2,995,000
Jacob Stoutenburgh Royal Shell Real Estate - Fort Myers
Sunday 8/17/2025 9am-1pm 2213 SE 15th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33990
$388,900 Rachel Rogriguez Builders Land Associates
Sunday 8/17/2025 11am - 1pm 5216 SW 27th Pl, Cape Coral
$800,000 Connie Dang Coldwell Banker Realty
August 15, 2025
Trigger happy
Although red grouper season is open all year in state waters with a two per angler limit and a 20-inch minimum harvest size, offshore crews will have to wait out this month to again go after red snapper which reopens on Sept. 1.
Fans of gag grouper will also have to wait till the beginning of September to catch and harvest these fish. Unlike red snapper, which will thankfully stay open on fall weekends, gag grouper season is quite short closing for the remainder of the year on the 14th of the month.
The IGFA list world records for nearly 70 species of grouper. Back in 1993 angler Bill Smith got an October surprise catching the all-tackle world and Florida gag grouper record out of Destin. This tank weighed in at 80 pounds, 6 ounce.
Trolling big plugs over and around structure for gags is a blast. Having a selection of Mann’s Stretch Series plugs is always a good choice for these hard-striking fish. Two per person are allowed with a 24-inch minimum length to harvest. Gags often come in close to the coast in fall so inshore anglers are often surprised when an “offshore” gag intercepts their redfish spoon along mangrove shorelines and starts stripping line.
Now that August is here I’m a happy camper as this is grey trigger fish harvest time with the season remaining open till Dec. 31. I like eating snapper and grouper but to me trigger fish are a full step above in taste with a unique firm meat texture and an outstanding crab-like flavor. Delicious cooked in a variety of ways and one of the few fish I enjoy raw.
Unfortunately, Gulf of America anglers are only allowed one per day while our Atlantic counterparts can harvest 10 per day with a 12-inch fork limit. Gulf anglers must respect the longer 15-inch fork length rule. Make sure you measure properly and don’t include the two streamers or lobes extending rearward from the tail fin.
If you haven’t seen one of these fish you should consult the FWC website illustrations to understand how to properly measure your fish before putting it in the box to keep yourself out of trouble.
Like sheepshead, these small-mouthed, toughskinned and very intelligent fish with chisel-like teeth are notorious bait stealers, so smaller hooks and baits are required. A classic bait rig setup would be a 2-inchthin strip of tough squid hooked on a 2/0 - 3/0 chem-
Tide CharT
Champions in Motion holding low-cost classes for youth at Lake Kennedy Center
Cheerleading and martial arts sessions available
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
A non-profit organization that offers low-cost classes for youth in the realm of martial arts and cheerleading is beginning its fall session this week in Cape Coral.
Champions in Motion, which offers youth-oriented programs across five states, will host classes at the Lake Kennedy Center each week now through December. Youngsters can take each 45-minute class, whether for cheerleading or karate, for $12 each session.
“We provide affordable, high-quality cheerleading and tumbling programs for youth in our community — many of whom would not otherwise have the opportunity to participate due to financial barriers,” said Champions in Motion Lead Martial Arts Instructor Aaron Fulwood. “Our mission is to make the sport accessible and empowering for all children, no matter their background.”
Champions in Motion offers programs in more than 50 cities across five states. All Champions in Motion Instructors/coaches are hired locally within the community where the classes are being held. All instructors/coaches are screened for extensive background and reference checks. They then attend in-house training sessions to learn Champions
in Motion safety procedures, rules and regulations, teaching techniques and curriculum.
Classes for both karate and cheerleading are broken into three sessions, with karate being based on skill level, and cheerleading based on age.
Those in the cheer program participate in competitions on top of being part of classes, and those taking martial arts can work up the ranks and earn higher belt levels, with plans for participating in competitions in the works.
Fulwood, who is a second-degree black belt and sensei, said working with the youth is rewarding.
“I feel like these kids keep me coming back every week,” Fulwood said. “You do it for them. It’s nice to see what they pick up on. They’re so smart. We’re learning more and adding to the curriculum each week.”
Champions in Motion officials state they take pride in offering the highest quality youth programs at the lowest possible cost while giving back to the communities they serve.
On providing low-cost classes, Fulwood said, “It’s important. There are a lot of activities that are not accessible to everyone in the community. There’s a lot more people that
would get their kids into activities if they were a little bit more affordable.”
Fulwood said the skill of martial arts is something especially important for youth.
“I focus on self defense a lot,” Fulwood said. “It’s really important for these kids to know how to defend themselves. We talk about the situation of a bad guy trying to take (them) away. That’s the worst thing I can imagine. It’s really my main focus that if somebody were to ever try to harm one of these kids that they would be able to defend themselves.”
Fulwood said the class also stresses the importance of using martial arts in the appropriate settings.
“I make it very clear this is not to rough house with your siblings or to pick a fight with someone at school,” Fulwood said. “This is for self defense only. For the most part, the kids do a really wonderful job, and are what keeps me going and what keeps the classes going.
“It’s nice to see them grow and see what they can do. We just tested, and I was really impressed with what they did with the material.
“Through our program, students
See CLASSES, page 31
Museum of the Islands featuring golf exhibit
The Museum of the Islands on Pine Island has a new exhibit that displays golf artifacts, including antique “Plus fours” (golf knickers) and original vintage postcards of Useppa Island, Boca Grande and Havana Country Club golf courses.
Also on display are 100-yearold antique signature golf clubs from Useppa Island golf professionals, including Bill Mehlhorn, Andy Campbell and Earl Dean. Earl Dean was mentored by Walter Fovargue, golf professional at Skokie Country Club in Chicago. On display are two old Fovargue clubs: a smooth face iron and an anti-shank iron. In the early 1900s, when Dean was the golf pro on Useppa, Fovargue clubs were sold on the island.
Other clubs include those from Harry Cowie, Boca Grande golf pro from 1913 through the 1920s. Cowie led construction at the Boca Grande Gulf Shore Golf Club between 1913 and 1915 and was then retained as professional, clubmaker and instructor.
Also featured is a club from Charlie Boyle. He was an excellent amateur player in Carnoustie, Scotland at the start of the 20th century, regularly winning local competitions and featuring in the Scottish Amateur Championship. He eventually became the Havana Country Club golf pro from 1916 to 1945.
There is also an autographed photo of Gene Sarazen, Golf Grand Slam winner, longtime Sanibel and Marco Island resident.
The exhibit includes a binder of articles dating back to the early 1900s that feature early American golf on the islands of Southwest Florida.
The Museum of the Islands is at 5728 Sesame Drive, Bokeelia -- just north of The Center by the Pine Island Library. For information, call (239) 283-1525
Capt. George Tunison
PHOTO PROVIDED
Some of the golf artifacts currently on display at the Museum of the Islands on Pine Island.
Registration underway for Pelican Baseball program in Cape
Pelican Baseball, part of the city of Cape Coral Parks & Recreation Youth Baseball program, is now recruiting players, boys and girls ages 4-13.
All skill levels are welcome — from
beginners to future all-stars. League play begins in October.
Volunteer coaches are also welcome.
The Pelican Baseball Complex is at 4128 Pelican Blvd., Cape Coral.
Registration began Aug. 1 and runs until Sept. 1. Visit CapeParks.com and click “Register Online,” then select ‘ATHLETICS,” and scroll down to Pelican Baseball.
If you have any questions, please call the city Parks & Recreation Department at (239) 242-3489 or email athletics@ capecoral.gov.
IncredibleBank to break ground for second branch in Cape Coral
IncredibleBank this week announced the groundbreaking for its new Liberty Park branch, marking the bank’s second location in Cape Coral. The ceremony will take place Wednesday, Aug. 27, at 2524 Liberty Park Drive, right next to the existing branch just east of the intersection of Pine Island Road and Northeast 24th Avenue.
The ceremony will run from 8:30-10 a.m.
“Breaking ground on our Liberty Park branch marks another exciting chapter in our journey to serve the Cape Coral community,” said Todd Nagel, president & CEO of
IncredibleBank. “This event is more than just the start of construction—it’s a celebration of the relationships we’ve built and the future we’re investing in. We’re proud to grow with this vibrant city and look forward to welcoming even more customers into the IncredibleBank family.”
The new branch is a testament to IncredibleBank’s commitment to the Cape Coral community. It will provide enhanced services and a welcoming environment for customers.
“The Liberty Park branch is a powerful symbol of
our growth alongside the Cape Coral community,” stated Sergio Nascimento, market president of IncredibleBank. “From the beginning, this city has welcomed us with open arms, and this new location reflects our deepening roots and long-term commitment. We’re excited to continue expanding our services and building lasting relationships with the people who make this community so special.”
For more information about IncredibleBank, visit incrediblebank.com or contact their Customer Experience Center at 888-842-0221.
Classes: Youth martial arts, cheerleading programs at Lake Kennedy
From page 30
don’t just learn skills — they build confidence, friendships and compete in events ranging from local showcases to national championships.”
The fall sessions for cheer and karate run from August to December, and then after a holiday break, resume with another session. Champions in Motion runs classes for both disciplines year-round. There is a one-time membership fee of $15, which
runs for a six-month term.
For more information and to register for classes, visit www.championsinmotion. com and click on the “classes & events” tab.
Lake Kennedy Center is at 400 Santa
FGCU: State funding to help university build facility in Babcock Ranch
From page 22
cial intelligence (AI) via Dendritic: A Human Centered AI and Data Sciences Institute
n Support for aging populations through the Shady Rest Institute on Positive Aging
n Expanded teacher training and student engagement through the College of Education and its work with Babcock Schools
“This investment underscores the strong partnership between FGCU and Babcock Ranch and our shared commitment to sustainability, education and meaningful community impact,” said FGCU President Aysegul Timur, Ph.D. “By expanding access to higher education in rural and fast-growing areas, we are helping to shape a stronger, more resilient Southwest Florida while addressing challenges that resonate far beyond our region.”
The new facility will also function as a global hub for collaboration by hosting events and conferences focused on sustainability and resilient community planning. It will also highlight the power of public-private partnerships, creating a platform for bold ideas that can be replicated and scaled beyond Southwest Florida.
“Donating the land to form this partnership with FGCU is one of the most meaningful investments we’ve made, not
just in our community, but in the future of Southwest Florida,” said Kitson. “We’re proud to work alongside FGCU to create a hub for learning, innovation and discovery that will benefit our region for generations to come.”
For more about FGCU, visit https:// www.fgcu.edu/
More information about Babcock Ranch can be found on its website at https://babcockranch.com/
Trigger happy: Season is open until Dec. 31 to catch this tasty treat
From page 30
ically-sharpened but stout hook using 40-50 pound test fluorocarbon as leader material. Two hook “chicken rigs” are always popular when triggering backed up by at least 50-pound braid main line. Small pieces of shrimp and clam can also work well as well as commercial products like GULP Shrimp or Fishbites. Schooling trigger fish are found in the same locations
where you find your red snapper which isn’t a bad by-catch problem.
Triggers have a tough hide and like sheepshead, have a reputation as being tough to fillet. That’s really not the case if you know how to do it properly. There is more than one way to easily skin or fillet a trigger but I suggest you consult YouTube which has lots of detailed instruction saving yourself frustration and less wasted high quality meat.
You may run into two other trigger species while you’re fishing — the ocean trigger and the beautiful queen trigger. Like the grey, these two are also very tasty but the queen is off limits to harvest while the ocean trigger is unregulated.
The all-tackle world record grey trigger weighed in at 13 pounds, 9 ounces and was caught in 1989 off South Carolina.
If you’ve ever considered housing a saltwater species, the many varieties of
triggers make fascinating and fun aquarium guests. Be warned, not all triggers are friendly to their neighbors so make sure you do your tank compatibility research first.
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.
Managing trees: Getting your property ready for hurricane season
From page 18
near structures. Do not damage root systems during construction as compromised root systems make trees more vulnerable to wind damage. Consider removing damaged trees before hurricanes; a certified arborist can help determine which trees should be evaluated for removal. Please note that ‘“hurricane trimming” for palms is NOT recommended; palms are naturally able to survive high winds and removing fronds can actually be harmful to the palms. You should also be aware that under Florida’s “no-fault” tree law, if limbs from your neighbor’s tree encroach onto your property, you have the right to trim branches and roots up to the property line. If your neighbor’s tree falls on your property during a storm, YOU are generally responsible for any damage incurred unless your neighbor was negligent in maintaining the tree (i.e. the tree was dead). Unfortunately, I learned this lesson the hard way when a neighbor’s tree landed on my pool cage during Ian!
What can you expect after a hurricane? Pine trees may not show immediate
damage but may decline over a period of 6 months to 2 years after windstorms. Carefully monitor pines as damage can be hidden; check closely for signs of stress such as insects, disease or sudden yellowing needles. Some trees may also lose all or some of their leaves, but they are not necessarily dead. Leaf loss is a strategy that trees employ to help them survive high winds. Over time the tree may leaf out again; trees such as live oak and gumbo limbo readily lose leaves and small branches and will leaf out again in a few months or in the spring of the following year. Palms may also lose all their fronds and still survive; the best species for wind resistance are sabal palms, Canary Island date palms and manila palms. Queen and Washington palms have exhibited lower survival rates during hurricanes in Southwest Florida. Allow at least 6 months after a hurricane for palms to put out new fronds, and check for hidden root, stem or bud damage.
Hopefully we won’t experience a major hurricane this season, but you should be prepared for wind events and any accompanying damage to your trees and landscape. The University of Florida provides excel-
lent resources for all aspects of hurricane preparation and recovery at: https://hort. ifas.ufl.edu/treesandhurricanes/selecting_ southern.shtml
Cathy Dunn is a Lee County Master
Gardener Volunteer, Garden Club of Cape Coral member and president of the James E. Hendry Hibiscus Chapter. Visit www. gardenclubofcapecoral.com. Like us on our Facebook page.
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
MEETING TIME CHANGE: THE CITY OF CAPE CORAL AUDIT COMMITTEE WILL CONDUCT THEIR REGULAR MEETING ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2025, BEGINNING AT 11:00 A.M. IN CITY AUDITOR’S CONFERENCE ROOM, 815 NICHOLAS PARKWAY, CAPE CORAL, FLORIDA.
To view a copy of the agenda when available, please go to: http://www.capecoral.gov/department/clerk/agendas_and_videos.php
Note: Time updated from 2:00 p.m.
Kimberly Bruns, CMC City Clerk
Barbara Blvd. The parking lot at Lake Kennedy Center is currently being redone, parking can be found at the Special Populations Center at 410 Santa Barbara Blvd.
Religious
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
O Jesus, who filled Blessed Faustina with profound veneration for Your boundless Mercy, deign, if it be your Holy will, to grant me, through her intercession, the grace for which I fervently pray (mention your request here)
My sins render me unworthy of Your Mercy, but be mindful of Sister Faustina’s spirit of sacrifice and selfdenial, and reward her virtue by granting the petition which, with childlike trust, I present to You through her intercession.
Concluding
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Cape to updates codes for its charter schools
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
The city of Cape Coral is looking to update and revise the city code that established its municipal charter school system.
Cape Coral City Council directed staff on Wednesday to work with the Charter School Authority Governing Board to look at Chapter 26 in its entirety.
Mayor John Gunter said they need to relook at the entire chapter and make appropriate changes as the code was adopted many years ago and he did not favor a “piece-meal approach” for any changes to the governing document for the Oasis Charter School system.
“We’ve been kicking this can down the road for many years,” Gunter said.
He asked for a second to work on it with the city attorney, city manager, and school superintendent to come up with a revision for the chapter.
City Manager Mike Ilczyszyn said he will sit down with Superintendent Jackie Collins and his staff that assists in a support role to come up with any changes between
Changes include memorializing the guaranteed matriculation — student acceptance — through graduation from Oasis High School. Cape Coral City Council also identified some preferences for those who apply to attend the schools. In addition to being guaranteed a seat through the system, preference will be given to children of active military and veterans, children of a member of the board or of an employee of the authority, siblings of students already enrolled, students enrolled in the Cambridge Advance International Certificate of Education Program.
the two administrations and bring it back to the council.
“We can work together with her and present a joint list of things that may be tweaked,” he said.
Assistant City Manager and charter school liaison Mark Mason brought forth the few sections that have been discussed. He said about four or five months ago, discussions began about the policy for guaranteed matriculation through the system from elementary to middle to high school.
“What we noticed was that information
Death Notices
Cape Coral
Milly Lou Jernnings, 91, of Cape Coral, Floria passed away August 6, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Services. www.fullermetz. com
Raquel Dieguez, 69, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away August 9, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Lee County Cremation Services -Cape Coral.
Ellen Anne Luning, 70 of Cape Coral, passed away on August 6, 2025. Arrangements are by Coral Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery and Cremation Services, Cape Coral. Please visit www.coralridgefuneralhome.com for additional information.
Rafael A. Nunez, 87, of Cape Coral, FL passed away on August 4, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Service. www.fullermetz. com
Virginia L. Keown, 88, passed away on August 9, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Service. www.fullermetz.com
Mayre Elizabeth Veite, 89, of Cape Coral, FL passed away on August 7, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Service. www.fullermetz.com
Difficulty: GOLD
was not in an ordinance. (There were) some changes and that information went to the charter school board on June 14, as well as a previous meeting in May. They approved a resolution for city council to enact these changes,” he said.
Those changes include memorializing the guaranteed matriculation — student acceptance — through graduation from Oasis High School. The board also identified some preferences for those who apply to attend the schools. In addition to being guaranteed a seat through the sys-
SUDOKU
tem, preference will be given to children of active military and veterans, children of a member of the board or of an employee of the authority, siblings of students already enrolled, students enrolled in the Cambridge Advance International Certificate of Education Program.
“Identified current students enrolled do not need to reapply to the system. If you do apply and are not selected in a year on the list, then you would need to apply the next year to get back on the list,” Mason said.
Another section of Chapter 26 deals with terms of board members. He said they standardized the terms of all board members for two-year terms, and serving only for two consecutive terms.
The last section deals with the adoption of resolutions. Mason said resolutions will be numbered the same as the city’s resolutions – “consecutive numbered for each calendar year with the last two digits of the calendar appearing first followed by a hyphen with the number of the resolution following.”
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