‘The Essence of Water’
Renowned artist Jasmine shares her work
Five CEOs have served LCEC through the decades
Dennie Hamilton, CEO
2007 – 2019 and Denise
LCEC honors 85 years of service with historic CEO and trustee reunion
In honor of its 85th anniversary, LCEC hosted a CEO and Trustee Reunion at its headquarters, bringing together generations of leadership for a day of celebration, reflection, and connection.
The event was a meaningful tribute to the cooperative’s legacy, highlighting the people and values that have powered LCEC since its founding in 1940.
“This reunion celebrates more than a milestone, it honors a legacy of commitment, community, and teamwork that continues to light the way forward,” said CEO Denise Vidal, who shared recent updates on LCEC initiatives and future plans.
Marking an extraordinary moment in LCEC history, four of the five CEOs who have served in the cooperatives 85-years gathered, alongside past Trustees, current leadership, and employees.
• Homer T. Welch, CEO - 1940-1977
• Jim Sherfey, CEO - 1977 – 1994
• Pam May, CEO - 1994 – 2007
• Dennie Hamilton, CEO - 2007 – 2019
• Denise Vidal, CEO - 2019 - Present
“Their presence was a testament to the unwavering vision and strength that has carried LCEC through nearly nine decades of growth, innovation, and service to the community,” LCEC officials said.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
— Homer T. Welch, CEO - 1940-1977; Jim Sherfey, CEO - 1977 – 1994; Pam May, CEO - 1994 – 2007;
-
Vidal, CEO - 2019 - Present.
In honor of its 85th anniversary, LCEC hosted a CEO and Trustee Reunion at its headquarters
Brightwater Lagoon launches monthly themed Cigar Nights
Brightwater Lagoon will launch a new open-to-thepublic gathering evening this month.
The North Fort Myers attraction invites the community to sit back and relax with “an evening of fine cigars, delicious drinks and great company each month with the launch of Cigar Nights.”
“Hosted in partnership with Toast Cigar Bar, guests can enjoy cigars with live music, food, drinks and Brightwater’s tropical paradise vibe. Whether a seasoned connoisseur or new to the cigar world, guests can enjoy guidance from Toast Cigar Bar owners Gianni and Deidre Fasano, who will offer insights into flavor profiles, pairings and proper techniques<“ a release announcing the gatherings to be held monthly states.
Cigar Nights will take place through the end of the year, with events often featuring a special theme.
Upcoming events include:
• Friday, Aug. 29, a tropical-themed event featuring live music by Caribbean Pan
• Friday, Sept. 26
• Saturday, Nov. 1
• Friday, Nov. 28
• Friday, Dec. 26
Cigar Nights are held at Cabana Cove, Brightwater Lagoon’s private VIP area overlooking its six-acre lagoon.
Events are $5 for the public and free for Brightwater residents. Admission includes one cigar, but additional cigars may be purchased.
About Brightwater Lagoon
Brightwater Lagoon is one of four MetroLagoons locations in Florida and the first in Southwest Florida. Located at 8630 Sunny Page Lane in North Fort Myers, the lagoon features six acres of clear blue water surrounded by sandy
To make a Cigar Night reservation or to learn more about upcoming dates, times and themes, visit MetroLagoons. com/Cigar-Night.
beaches. Brightwater residents and guests can enjoy a resort-style swim-up bar, food trucks, live entertainment, a water slide, inflatable obstacle course and more. Guests can purchase an All Day Ticket to experience the lagoon and upgrade their day with shaded rental spaces and water activities to create unforgettable experiences in the sunshine. To learn more, visit MetroLagoons.com/Lagoon/ Brightwater or call 813-444-5221.
Toast Cigar Bar owner Gianni Fasano.
PHOTO PROVIDED
‘The Essence of Water’ explores beauty, intricacies of tides
Jasmine, owner of Jasmine’s Art n’ Designz Studio, an acclaimed artist of more than five decades, has her work now on exhibit at Gulf Coast Village in conjunction with the North Fort Myers Arts Association. A resident of North Fort Myers and an NFMAA member, Jasmine’s studio is in Cape Coral.
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6
NFMHS graduate among Valerie’s House scholarship recipients
8 Women’s Golf Leagues par for the course
7 Applications open for the Tommy Bohanon Foundation Sports Equipment Grant
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Best of North Fort Myers winners feted at annual awards presentation
Brightwater Lagoon to host Dunk Tank Battle to support Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida
Civic serves our community with purpose
Our Purpose:
Promote Charitable, educational, Art, Community, Civic and Cultural development in North Fort Myers, lessening the burdens of Government, lessening neighborhood tensions through promotion of community events and combatting community deterioration.
Another summer is about to wrap up soon. Goodbye to the lazy days of summer and hello to school days.
It’s always exciting to go back to school. Get back into the swing of things, reconnect with friends and getting to know new teachers and all the activities and programs.
The NFMCA had a great time this summer spending Saturday mornings at the North Fort Myers Community pool. Amy and her staff as always were great. We appreciate them letting us hang out.
We met so many great kids and their parents and some of the nicest senior citizens, along with the people who remembered us from last year. The NFMCA pays admission to all NFM kids and seniors to the first 75 people and bring pizza and drinks to boot! It’s wonderful to meet our residents and be able to fill them in on who we are and to hear their stories. We look forward to next year.
Again, this year NFMCA was able to distribute to the students in NFM shoe gift cards for Skechers. With help from the Amvets Post 50, donations
and our fundraising we were able to hand out 64 gift cards valued at $50 each, and again this year Skechers had a great sale going on to where most of the kids were able to more than one pair.
We were happy to donate to Nations Choice Church this year for their Backpack and More event, 264 kids received backpacks with supplies, a haircut, braid or manicure and a table with many other needed items to choose from.
The community has shown in every area and school district how giving we are.
They certainly deserve a thank you to all the organizations and churches who came out and helped our students and their families again this year.
We all want our children to go back to school with confidence. I am so happy to read that all Lee County schools are giving ALL student s breakfast and lunch.
I speak the truth in saying “a hungry child cannot learn.” Thank you to the Lee County School Board on this very important decision.
What’s coming up next? The Lee County Parks and Rec. North Fort Myers Rec Center Fall Festival. Always a good time with plenty of great costumes, treats, games and things to check out.
More information to come.
We are already planning our Veterans Angel tree that we set up in the lobby.
We set up a few weeks before Thanksgiving to
give plenty for time to either add a name or take a tag to buy a gift.
The residents of North Fort Myers have shown their respect for our local veterans and are looking forward to this year as much as we are.
If you are business in North Fort Myers and would like to be a sponsor please contact me.
Let me ask you, does any of this sound interesting to you?
I invite you to come to a meeting. We meet the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the NFM Recreation center. We are always looking to add to our membership and welcome applications to the Board of Directors. Or to volunteer at one of our many fun and fulfilling events. We welcome fresh ideas.
We are honored to be winners again in the North Fort Myers Neighbor’s “Best Of 2025.”
We certainly thank everyone who voted for us. Follow us on Facebook and our website www. nfmcivic.com
Toni Hill, President North Fort Myers Civic Association
Lee County Schools Kick Off 2025–2026 with strongest start in years
As the 2025–2026 school year begins, Lee County School District is celebrating one of the most successful openings in recent memory — marked by fully staffed classrooms, improved transportation, and new policies designed to enhance student learning and well-being.
Certified teachers in every classroom
This year, every classroom across the district will have a certified teacher — a major milestone for the district. As of July 31, the number of instructional vacancies stood at just 65, a dramatic improvement from the 235 vacancies recorded just one week before school began last year.
While teaching vacancies across the state are down 18%, Lee County has outpaced that significantly, achieving a 72% reduction in open positions.
• 53 K–12 schools have zero instructional openings
• 13 schools have only one vacancy
• 16 Schools have two or more vacancies
This staffing success allows teachers to focus solely on their own students, without the added burden of covering other classes — an important step in supporting both educators and academic outcomes.
Safe Start initiative enhances transportation
The district’s Safe Start Initiative and newly implemented school start times are already delivering results. These changes are designed to improve the efficiency and reliability of school transportation, and early signs are promising.
Students are now experiencing shorter wait times at bus stops and are arriving on time and ready to learn. As of Aug.4, Lee County Schools is fully staffed with bus drivers — a milestone the district hasn’t reached in several years.
New cell phone policy to support learning
Also beginning this year is a district-wide cell phone policy aimed at improving the classroom environment and student engagement. The policy is expected to:
• Promote stronger interpersonal relationships
• Improve focus on instruction
• Reduce behavioral issues
District leaders believe this will help create a more respectful, focused, and collaborative atmosphere in schools.
Fall sports are back
As academics ramp up, so does school spirit. Football teams across the district have been hard at work, practicing throughout the summer to prepare for the upcoming season. Students, coaches, and families are looking forward to a great year of competition, teamwork, and community pride under the Friday night lights.
Looking ahead
With strong staffing levels, operational improvements, and policies that put student learning first, Lee County Schools is wellpositioned for a successful school year. This is more than just a strong start — it’s a sign of what’s possible when we work together with a shared commitment to excellence.
— Debbie Jordan, represents District 4 on the School Board of Lee County. Her district includes North Fort Myers and parts of Cape Coral.
NFMHS graduate among Valerie’s House scholarship recipients
Story by Meghan Bradbury
Anonprofit organization that provides a beacon of hope in what may be a child’s darkest hours awarded more than $30,000 in scholarships this year.
Now in its fourth year, the nonprofit organization, Valerie’s House, awarded $37,000 in college scholarship for graduating seniors who have participated in Valerie’s House grief support program.
Recipients received awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. The scholarships can be renewed for up to three additional years based on the recipient’s academic performance.
“We believe it is important to empower our youth to strive for big things and to know that loss doesn’t have to limit their dreams,” Valerie’s House Founder and CEO Angela Melvin Churchill said. “We are very grateful to our donors who have made this scholarship program possible. Recipients have the ability to use the funds for classes, materials, among anything else they need during the school year.”
“The students, whose families are all a part of the Valerie’s House grief support program, are asked to check in with Valerie’s House each college semester and tell us
something that they worked through that was challenging during the semester, and something great that they believe they might have accomplished,” Melvin Churchill said.
Students who received a $2,500 scholarship include Haley McKinnon of Cape Coral; Emma Schulte of Cape Coral; Brooke Burg of Fort Myers; Emily Calderon of Fort Myers, Kealey Calderon of Fort Myers; Catherine “Kitty” Hughes of Fort Myers; Carter Koehler of Fort Myers; Jordan McKee of Fort Myers; Caleb “Cal” Rimes of Fort Myers.
“By receiving this scholarship, it shows that others believe in me accomplishing my goals and being able to exceed in my learning,” said McKinnon, a graduate from North Fort Myers High School. “This scholarship gives a relief on both my father, and I. I am now able to not so much focus on the expenses that come with me exceeding in school, but getting to completely focus on my classes, and completing my end goal of my nursing degree.”
Molly Flynn of Fort Myers received a $2,000 scholarship.
Students who received $1,000 scholarship include Smira Ali of North Fort Myers; Parker Eyre of Fort Myers; Alia Mercado-Lues of Fort Myers and Joesph Aaron Stenza of Naples.
McKinnon said she was asked to write on how the Valerie’s House community had affected and helped her.
“During every session at Valerie’s House we routinely participate in different activities that shows everyone a more fun and enjoyable way to express our emotions. It
continued on page 9
PHOTO PROVIDED
Valerie’s House Founder and CEO Angela Melvin Churchill, and scholarship recipient Haley McKinnon.
Applications open for the Tommy Bohanon Foundation Sports Equipment Grant
The Tommy Bohanon Foundation is accepting applications from Southwest Florida school-based athletic programs for its Sports Equipment Grant. These programs can receive funding or equipment for their athletes through the Foundation. Applications are available through Sept. 1.
To complete the application process, applicants must have the following information:
• Copy of the proposed program’s budget for the 2025-26 school year.
• A letter from the athletic director or a school administrator, on the school’s official letterhead, acknowledging that the program is requesting funding.
• Information about the coaches/staff who are involved with the athletic program. This should include years working at the school, experience, position and any special accolades they have received.
• Any additional information or documents pertinent for the proposed program to be selected as a Sports Equipment Grant Recipient.
“We are proud to support these athletic programs through the Sports Equipment Grant each year,” said Foundation President Tommy Bohanon. “The grant helps make it possible for the kids to be part of athletic programs which shape their lives as they become adults. We’re helping them dream big and reach their full potential.”
This initiative is part of the Foundation’s
ongoing efforts to empower youth through sports and ensure that every child can participate, regardless of financial constraints. More than $215,000 has been awarded to nearly a dozen schools since the grant’s inception in 2018.
To apply visit TommyBohanonFoundation.org/ Sports-Equipment-Grant/. Grant recipients will be notified by Monday, Sept. 9.
For more information about the Tommy Bohanon Foundation, call 239-671-0441 or visit TommyBohanonFoundation.org/.
About the Tommy Bohanon Foundation
The Tommy Bohanon Foundation is a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting young athletes reach their highest potential on and off the playing field. Former NFL fullback Tommy Bohanon returned to his hometown in Southwest Florida to pursue his vision of ending generational poverty for at-risk youth. The foundation funds annual scholarships, sports equipment grants to local high schools, youth football camps, seminars and programs, as well as funding for other local nonprofits. For more information about the Tommy Bohanon Foundation, visit TommyBohanonFoundation.org or call 239671-0441.
THE TOMMY BOHANON FOUNDATION
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Tommy Bohanon Foundation Sports Equipment Grant Awarded to Pathways to Opportunity Program in 2023.
Tommy Bohanon Foundation Sports Equipment Grant Awarded to Mariner High School in 2023.
Women’s Golf Leagues par for the course
Story by Meghan Bradbury
The women’s golfing leagues in North Fort Myers have garnered a great deal of interest over the years with two leagues beginning more than two decades ago at Herons Glen.
Nine-hole Ladies League President Valerie McCarter began playing golf about three years ago.
“I thought chasing a little white ball around the golf course is silly, and now I love it,” she said. “The group of ladies that are here are beyond nice. They are compassionate. They volunteer for everything, take care of everybody. It is a warm and inviting association.”
She began playing golf because she was looking for something to do with her fiancée.
“It morphed into playing for the 9-hole league and having fun,” McCarter said.
The 9-hole league has a cap of 70 members and is usually within the 60-member ballpark. The league began in 2000.
McCarter said the league is great because of the camaraderie.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Members of the women’s golfing leagues in North Fort Myers.
Gail Daros, JoAnn DeLuca, Margie Luttrell and Donna Barbara-Dunn at the Christmas scramble.
Nancy Gruezk, Trish Perry and Donna Barber-Dunn at the Pretty in Pink is a fundraiser for Partners with Breast Cancer Care.
“You are out there and meeting these women. Everybody is from different backgrounds and experiences,” she said. “It’s very heartwarming.”
There also is an 18-hole women’s league. Eighteen-hole Ladies League President Karen Lee Popp became a member about a decade ago to a league that has probably been in existence for 25 years.
“I think probably for me, it is meeting new people and golfing with ladies I wouldn’t normally golf with,” Popp said of what she enjoys about the league. “It expands my scope of friends. This way you have the opportunity to play with 114 other ladies. We get 10-12 new members each year.”
She said the league currently has 115 members. Both the members of the 9-hole and 18-hole
scholarships
From page 6
was asked of applicants to create an activity that could be done in future sessions,” McKinnon said.
In the fall, she will attend Florida Gulf Coast University where she has been accepted in the nursing program. She plans to become a registered nurse.
“I chose to apply for this degree after finding such a liking and gravitation to wanting to work in a hospital while having that ability to help others,” McKinnon said.
Her path led to Valerie’s House after she lost her mother to cancer. She said in June 2023 her mother woke up with severe discomfort in her stomach and passed it off as a stomachache that would pass.
“However, after a couple of hours, it seemed to worsen,” McKinnon said. “Tests revealed the heart-wrenching news that there was a mass on her gallbladder. I remember hearing this information and wanting to remain strong, hug my mom, and assure her I would be there for her. However, when seeing her face, all I could do was break down and cry.”
That did not stop her from having faith, as her mother was the strongest person she knew, and “cancer
league play Wednesday morning.
To become a member of either league, the individual must be a member of the Herons Glen Golf Course. Popp said they have resident, and nonresident members.
Popp said there is a game each week, as well as meetings and luncheons.
“During the year there are gifts and rewards that we give out,” she said, of those who have the lowest score – lowest round of the year, or win a particular tournament. “You are paid accordingly on what we are doing.”
The 9-hole league also has a luncheon once a month.
Both leagues work together to put on the Pretty in Pink event, a fundraiser for Partners in Breast
could not be the thing to take her away from me.”
Unfortunately, after more tests, it was discovered that her cancer was stage four, fast-growing with low survival statistics.
“Day after day, I could visibly see my mother go from a healthy, active woman to a weak, frail person, unable to walk, eat, and in great pain. I stayed by her side day and night. However, this never bothered me, as all I wanted was to be there for my mom as she endured this pain,” McKinnon said. “On Aug. 3, 2023, at 9:44 a.m., I lay there holding her hand as she took her very last breath. It seemed surreal that in less than two months, she went from a vibrant, loving mother, wife, and teacher to a delicate, lifeless figure, lying amongst bouquets of her favorite pink blossoms.”
The days following were difficult for her to find her future pathway, as she wrestled with the feeling of needing her mom to help her and answer her questions.
“I was always sheltered from how hard life truly can be. I was not ready to be without my best friend,” McKinnon said.
In
Cancer Care, a group that helps underinsured, or noninsured women and men with breast care. Popp said this year they raised about $28,000.
“Since I have been involved (we have raised) a quarter of a million dollars for them.
“It’s a community-wide event, although it starts with our league – it involves men and women golfers – and ends with a golf tournament and luncheon,” she said. “We are happy to support them. It’s always the third Wednesday of March.”
McCarter said the Pretty in Pink fundraiser is phenomenal.
“It’s such a neat emotionally challenging event. We have a lot of fun out there. It’s an amazing event,” she said.
The beacon of hope came in the form of Valerie’s House, as it provided a safe space where she could openly share her feelings and experiences with others who truly understood what she was going through.
“The support groups and activities have helped me develop coping strategies and build resilience. Most importantly, Valerie’s House has reminded me that I’m not alone in my grief journey, and that there is light and hope for the future,” she said.
Valerie’s House, which began in January 2016, has served more than 6,000 children and their families from Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Sarasota, and Escambia counties. There are currently peer support groups and other activities in Fort Myers, Naples, Punta Gorda, and Pensacola.
The organization is a United Way partner agency and is fully supported by community donations.
For more information, visit www.valerieshouse.org.
LCEC DELIVERS MORE THAN POWER
collaboration with the National Theatre for Children and the LCEC Zap Free Zone high-voltage demonstration, we help educate local students about electricity and the importance of electrical safety. This is one example of why…
Membership Matters
Best of North Fort Myers winners feted at annual awards presentation
Story
&
Photos by Chuck Ballaro
Numerous local businesses gathered at the Celebrations Ballroom at Del Tura Plaza recently for the annual Best of North Fort Myers hosted the North Fort Myers Neighbor Living magazine and the Breeze Newspapers.
Winners are selected by the community via on-line and paper ballot voting with residents and readers marking ballots for businesses they consider the best in a wealth of categories — everything from Best Company to Work For to the Best Ice Cream.
The 2025 “Best of” event again included businesses that have earned the recognition many times as well as first timers, from businesses that win multiple awards annually as those who won a singular award for their particular specialty.
Laurie Ragle, advertising director at the Breeze Newspapers, said “Best of” is a congratulatory event for those community-selected best businesses.
“It’s a big boost to the businesses that win. They can tell customers they were voted by the public as being the best in the area,” Ragle said. “They can use the award for the promotions they do through ads and marketing to let everyone know.”
Celebrations Ballroom, a venue for everything from corporate events to weddings and quinceaneras, won for Best Event Professional.
Owner Grisel Brewster said she was excited to hold the Best of gala at her business for the first time.
“I’ve been with the Chamber and am familiar with the paper. Someone referred us and we got together. It’s great to have collaborative events like this,” Brewster said. “I wanted to have a place that had flexible event space to host higher-end events at an affordable price point.”
Multi-recognition winners included Brooke’s Restaurant & Lounge and the Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut, each of which won nine awards.
All Superior Auto is among the regular winners, having won a Best of in each of the last four years.
This year the business won four awards, including best Auto Paint & Body. The whole family came out to pick up their awards, decked out and black and gold from head to toe.
“We thank the community for voting for us. We’re honest and trustworthy and always protecting our family and friends,” ChristyLee Iwanow said. “We like to build a long-term relationship with our customers.”
Matt Payton, owner of Pinch-A-Penny, said it was a team effort that allowed them to earn the Best of award for Swimming Pool Sales & Service.
“We’re going to keep winning and keep growing. We really feel great about this,” Payton said. “I’ve owned the place for 10 years and we’ve grown considerably. We really appreciate this.”
A Soul Awakening made its first trip to the awards worth it, winning in eight categories, including best Woman Owned Business. The business made itself know to the community quickly, being open a little more than a year.
a first-year business in the competition.
“There are great businesses and great people out there. To win is amazing,” Rollins said. “We’re always sold out for all our events so our store was doing really well.”
Winner’s List:
Auto
• Auto Diesel Repair - All Superior Auto Works
• Auto Paint & Body - All Superior Auto Works
• Auto Repair - Artic Auto Air & Auto Service
• Detailing Service - Noah’s Rain or Shine Detail, LLC
• Motorcycle Shop - JrockZ Customs
• Oil Change - .Artic Auto Air & Auto Service
• Tire Center - Yogi’s Tire Shop
• Tire Sales - All Superior Auto Works
• Towing Company - Hooked Up Towing
• Transmission Service - All Superior Auto Works
• Used Car Dealer - Paparazzi Motors
Bars & Beverages
• Beer Selection - Brookes Restaurant & Lounge
• Coffee - Starbucks
• Happy Hour - Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
• Margarita - Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
• Overall Bar - Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
• Place for Cocktails - Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
• Sports Bar - Brookes Restaurant & Lounge
• Wine Selection - Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
Body & Soul
• Barber Shop - HQ Barbershop NFM
• Body Piercing Shop - Str8line Tat2 & Body
Piercing
• Day Spa - Kerr’s Design and Spa
• Gym - Freedom Fitness
• Hair Salon - Full Circle Hair Salon
• Massage Therapy - Magic Hands Spa
• Medical Intuitive - Greyson Green at A Soul
Awakening
• Nail Salon - Nail Art
• Permanent Make-Up/Cosmetic Tatooing
- Klose Colors Tattoo Studio
• Psychic Medium - Joyce Rollins at A Soul
Awakening
• Reiki - Greyson Green at A Soul Awakening
• Tanning Services - Spray & Slay
• Tattoo Studio - Klose Colors Tattoo Studio
Community
• Company to Work for - Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
• Minority-Owned Business - Brookes Nugget Wagon
• Non-Profit - Tommy Bohanon Foundation
• Organization - North Fort Myers Civic
Association
• Place of Worship - Grace Baptist Temple
• Woman-Owned Business - A Soul Awakening
Entertainment & Travel
• Adult Arcade - Vegas Queens
• Bait & Tackle - The Bait Station
• Bingo - Pondella Bingo
• Family Entertainment - Bounce Houses of SWFL
• Golf Course - Magnolia Landing Golf & Country Club
• Local Band/Musician - Brooks and Gill (Robb Brooks and Tami Gill)
• Place to Take an Out-of-Town Guest - Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
Food & Dining
• Barbeque - Smoke’n Pit Bar B Que
• Breakfast - Go Go Diner
• Broasted/Fried Chicken - Steve’s Place
• Chinese Restaurant - China King
• Chinese Restaurant - Hua Garden
• Deli - Publix
• Family Dining - Brooke’s Restaurant & Lounge
• Fine Dining - Blossom & Brie
• Food Truck - Brookes Nugget Wagon
• Fries - Brooke’s Restaurant & Lounge
• Greek Restaurant - Athenian Restaurant
• Hamburger - Brooke’s Restaurant & Lounge
• Italian Restaurant - Fatto A Mano
• Japanese Restaurant - Hibachi of Japan
• Mexican Restaurant - Habaneros
• New Restaurant - Blossom & Brie
• Overall Restaurant - Brooke’s Restaurant & Lounge
• Philly Cheesesteak - Brooke’s Restaurant & Lounge
• Pizza - Grandma Penny’s Pizza
• Pizza - Pizza Connection
• Romantic Dining - Blossom & Brie
• Seafood Restaurant - Nauti Parrott Tiki Hut
• Steak Dinner - Brooke’s Restaurant & Lounge
• Submarine Sandwich - Southern Subs
• Sushi - King’s Crab Seafood and Sushi
• Thai - Pu Thai Restaurant
• Waterfront Restaurant - Nauti Parrot Tiki Hut
• Wings - Brooke’s Restaurant & Lounge
Home Services
• A/C & Heating Service & Repair- Bakers Heating and Air
• Carpet & Tile Cleaning - Trebing Tile
• Cleaning Company - Trifecta Home Solutions
• Disaster Restoration/Remediation Company
- Endy’s Cleaning & Restoration
• Electrician (Company) - Florida Sky Electric
• Exterminator/Pest Control - The Bug Blasters
• Fence Company - Quality Fencing of SWFL
• Home Improvement/Remodeling - Trifecta
Tommy Bohanon Foundation won best Nonprofit.
North Fort Myers Civic Association won best Organization. Blue Collar Bookkeeper won best bookkeeper.
All Superior Auto Works won best Auto Diesel Repair, Auto Paint & Body, Tire Sales and Transmission Service. Pizza Connection won best Pizza.
Artic Auto Air won best Auto Repair and Oil Change.
A Soul Awakening won best Medical Intuitive, Psychic Medium, Reiki , Woman-Owned Business, Gift Shop and Jewelry Store.
Advanced Landscaping Solutions won best Nursery & Landscaping.
Bassine Insurance won best InsuranceCommercial.
Florida Sky Electric won best Electrician (Company).
Hounds Town USA won best Doggie Day Care/ Boarding. HQ Barbershop won best Barber Shop.
best of north fort myers
Home Solutions
• Landscape Pavers - NativeScapes
• Landscaping Company - Gator Lawn & Irrigation LLC
• Mobile Home Supplies - Mobile Home Depot
• Nursery & Landscaping - Advanced Landscaping Solutions
• Painting Service - Gulf Coast Coating
• Plumbing Contractor - North Fort Myers Plumbing Inc
• Pool Service - Sink or Swim Pool Service
• Roofing - Roof EZ
• Septic Services - ABC Septic Services
• Swimming Pools Sales & Service - Pinch A Penny
• Tree Service - Joshua Tree Inc
• Windows/Doors/Siding Company - Backwoods Windows and Doors
Kids & Education
• Charter School - Northern Palms Charter High School
• Daycare - Deana’s Country Kids
• Preschool - Deana’s Country Kids
Medical Services
• Assisted Living/Memory Care - Volante Senior Living
• Chiropractor - Grace Medical & Chiropractic
• Dentist - Rasmussen Family Dental
• Dispensary - Trulieve
• Family Practitioner - MaxHealth
• Optometrist/Ophthalmologist - Tyson Eye
• Pharmacy - Walgreens
• Pharmacy - CVS
Trifecta Home Solutions won best Cleaning Company and Home Improvement/Remodeling.
From page 10
• Podiatrist - Associates in Medicine & Surgery
Pets
• Doggie Day Care/Boarding - Hounds Town
USA
• Pet Grooming - Hancock Animal Hospital
• Pet Supply Store. - CC Feed Store
• Veterinarian - North Shore Animal Hospital
Professional Services
• Bank - Regions Bank
• Boat Services - Don Bomba Mobile Fiberglass
• Bookkeeper - Blue Collar Bookkeeper
• Caterer/Events - Celebrations Ballroom
• Funeral/Cremation Service - Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society
• Insurance - Commercial - Bassine Insurance
• Insurance - Home & Auto - Lee County
Insurance Co
• Insurance-Health - Kaitlyn Reed with Rocket Health
• Laundromat - Bright N Clean Laundromat
• Laundry Service - Bright n Clean Laundromat
• Manufactured Home Park - Horizon Village Co-Op, Inc.
• Mortgage Services - Sean Carter - Movement Mortgage
• Printing & Signs - Sign & Design Depot
• Psychic Medium - Joyce Rollins at A Soul Awakening
• Real Estate Agency - Cre8tive Realty Inc
• Realtor - Elizabeth Williamson, PA
• RV Park - Swan Lake Village and RV Park
• Tarot Reader - Tarot with Sean at A Soul
Awakening
• Tax Preparation - JT Income Tax
Retail
• A/C & Heating Dealer - Ellsworth Heating & Cooling
• CBD Store - Sam’s Tobacco & Vapes
• Consignment Store - Ditto Consignment Boutique
• Flooring Carpet & Tile - Carrousel Carpets
• Florist - North Fort Myers Florist
• Furniture Store - Crazy Deals Home Superstore
• Gift Shop - A Soul Awakening
• Golf Cart Dealer - A Custom Carts
• Golf/Pro Shop - El Rio Golf Club
• Grocery Store - Publix
• Gun Shop - American Gold Miner
• Honey Farm - Walker Farms
• Jewelry Store - A Soul Awakening
• Liquor Store - Cheers Liquor and Wine
• Pawn Shop - American Gold Miner
• Resale - Sweet Pickins Décor Boutique
• Smoke Shop - The Treasure Chest
• Thrift Store - Habitat for Humanity
• Wigs - Lighthouse Wigs
Sweets & Treats
• Bakery - Publix
• Cookies - Publix
• Custom Cake Decorating - Mom of 3 Cakes
• Dessert - Wonderland Cookie Dough & Ice
Cream
• Donuts - Dunkin’
• Ice Cream - Daddy Dee’s Ice Cream
Klose Colors Tattoo Studio won best Permanent Make-Up/Cosmetic Tatooing and Tattoo Studio.
Noah’s Rain or Shine Detailing won best Detailing Service.
North Fort Myers Plumbing won best Plumbing Contractor.
Pinch A Penny won best Swimming Pools Sales & Service. Quality Fencing won best Fence Company.
FGCU and Babcock Ranch celebrate $21.7 million in state funding to advance institute on sustainability and resiliency
A joint project of Florida Gulf Coast University and Babcock Ranch will receive $21.7 million in state funding for the first phase of a planned “premier learning, research and outreach facility.”
“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,” officials said in a release announcing the governor’s approval of the legislature-approved funding.
The funds 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 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, real-world setting for the study of renewable energy, water management, mobility systems and sustainable building practices,” the release states. “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 town to employ large-scale solar power, officials said.
“From our earliest plans, we envisioned a community where lifelong learning would be
PROVIDED
embedded into everyday life as evidenced by Babcock Schools,” said Syd Kitson, chairman and CEO of Kitson & Partners, in a prepared statement.
“The arrival of a higher education institution like FGCU brings that vision full circle, offering worldclass 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.
“The collaboration reinforces Babcock Ranch’s founding mission to be a place where education,
environmental stewardship and innovation converge to serve both current and future generations,” the release states.
Among FGCU’s schools and colleges tied to this endeavor are:
• Water and environmental research through The Water School
• Agri-tech advancement through the Lutgert College of Business
• Advanced technology and artificial intelligence (AI) via Dendritic: A Human Centered AI and Data Sciences Institute
• Support for aging populations through the Shady Rest Institute on Positive Aging
• 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.”
Kitson and Timur also expressed appreciation for the strong support shown by Gov. Ron DeSantis and members of the Florida Legislature, including Senate President Ben Albritton, Speaker Daniel Perez and Rep. Tiffany Esposito, whose leadership
continued on page 15
Facility location in Babcock Ranch.
Brightwater Lagoon to host Dunk Tank Battle Aug. 24 to support Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida
Brightwater Lagoon is hoping to make a splash with a unique fundraiser to benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida.
Its Dunk Tank Battle will be held Sunday, Aug. 24, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the North Fort Myers water attraction.
Included in the cost of lagoon entry, all guests will have the opportunity to dunk one of several Brightwater Lagoon team members into a tank of water. Guests are encouraged to make a suggested donation of $5-$10 to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida to participate.
Team members up on the dunking block include Jimmy Cruz, general manager; Samantha Witalec, assistant general manager of food and beverage; Bryce Rohrbach, sun-bassador; and Cody Stoddard, assistant general manager of operations.
funding From page 13
was instrumental in securing this funding.
“We are incredibly grateful to Governor DeSantis and our legislative champions who recognized the importance of investing in higher education, cutting-edge technology and sustainable community development,” Timur said.
The new facility will also function as a global
Included in the cost of lagoon entry, all guests will have the opportunity to dunk one of several Brightwater Lagoon team members into a tank of water.
“We are so excited to partner with Children’s Advocacy Center for our first dunk tank battle at Brightwater Lagoon,” Cruz said in a prepared statement. “This is the perfect event to combine fun and a little friendly competition, all while supporting a good cause. Let’s make a splash for children!”
All donations from the event will support the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida, a child-focused, trauma-informed organization that
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
provides comprehensive services to children who have experienced abuse, neglect or other forms of trauma.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Brightwater Lagoon for turning a fun summer day into an opportunity to raise awareness and support for our most vulnerable children,” said Kaleigh Lawrence, chief development officer at the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida. “Community partnerships like this make it possible for us to provide healing services and a path forward for children and families who need us most.”
Supporters who can’t make it to the lagoon can still support their favorite team members by donating online. To learn more about the event or to donate, visit MetroLagoons.com/Dunk-Tank.
Brightwater Lagoon is at 8630 Sunny Page Lane. For more information visit MetroLagoons.com/ Lagoon/Brightwater
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.”
PHOTO PROVIDED
‘The Essence of Water’ explores beauty, intricacies of tides
Story by Sarah Richard
The calm ocean waves along the shore of our beloved Southwest Florida beaches are a sight that stirs the soul – it’s a reminder of the peace and tranquility that makes our region feel like home. It’s even apparent where the Caloosahatchee meets the Gulf, the two waterways connecting and forming an even greater world of life. Similar to life, the beloved river doesn’t just form a straight line – it spreads throughout neighborhoods, dipping into creeks and canals.
In a way, water is an art form. Take Southwest Florida, for example. Just like the Caloosahatchee, art flows through our region in so many ways, from murals depicting the area’s history, to weekly art walks in beautiful downtown Fort Myers. The art that surrounds us – and the virtuosos holding the paintbrushes – deserves a chance in the spotlight.
Art galleries are just one of many ways to celebrate and pay respect to the talented artists that flood Southwest Florida. Presented by Gulf Coast Village and the North Fort Myers Arts Association, the “Gulf Coast Gallery,” serves to connect artists and community members through rotating art exhibits.
Its new installation, “The Essence of Water,” celebrates water in all of its forms – calm, powerful and lifegiving. The exhibit launched on Aug. 13, and features Jasmine, owner of Jasmine’s Art n’ Designz Studio, an acclaimed artist of more than five decades.
Jasmine, a Quebec native, first picked up a paintbrush at the tender age of 6 and was an award-winning artist throughout her adolescent years. Her artwork could be found hanging in the halls of her primary school, a reflection of her hard work and artistic intelligence. Her love and motivation to continue creating has persevered over the last several decades, even when taking a decade-long hiatus to live in Haiti as a missionary, where she met and adopted her daughter. Her time in the Caribbean inspired her to dive deeper into her passion for art, but also to further explore her philanthropic side.
“I don’t want my art to just be some pretty pictures on a canvas,” said Jasmine.
With every purchase made through her studio, 5% of proceeds are donated directly to impoverished children through her connections
with missionaries across the world, including those in South America, the Middle East, Haiti and more. Wherever help is needed, Jasmine wants to provide it. And what better way than to connect her two passions?
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Jasmine, owner of Jasmine’s Art n’ Designz Studio, an acclaimed artist of more than five decades, will have an exhibit at Gulf Coast Village in August in conjunction with the North Fort Myers Arts Association. A resident of North Fort Myers and an NFMAA member, her studio is in Cape Coral.
Art is more than just a passion for Jasmine. It’s her life. For more than 30 years, she’s been a full-time artist who explores all mediums. She finds the most joy and fulfillment in the creative process, which speaks to her true love for the talent she recognizes as a gift. Her creative process is a journey. It’s detailed, but there’s a freedom to it that resembles life’s journeys. Jasmine writes poetry to go with each work of art – sometimes the poem is written before the art is created, or the art comes first. It all depends on where the process takes her. The same applies to the medium she chooses and the amount of time it takes her to complete a project.
Her varied process results in artwork that covers all aspects of life, from nature and water to portraits and real-life scenes. Jasmine describes her work as eclectic, soulful and emotional. Through each piece, she invites the viewer on a personal journey, one that she hopes will stir and spark a meaningful connection.
is that when they stand in front of my art, one of those pieces will stir a feeling inside of them and make them happy.”
Jasmine will be displaying several paintings at “The Essence of Water” this August, some of which will be available for purchase. The exhibit opened Aug. 13, at Gulf Coast Village,
at 1333 Santa Barbara Blvd. in Cape Coral. The exhibit will be available to view from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Sept. 28.
“I hope that people feel seen when they see my art,” shared Jasmine. “I want people to feel inspired. Everyone has different successes, different failures and different memories, and my deepest desire
To register for “The Essence of Water,” visit GulfCoastVillage. org/Event/Artist-Meet-and-GreetThe-Essence-of-Water-Art-Exhibit.
To view Jasmine’s artwork, visit JasminesArtNDesignz.com.
— Sarah Richard is the executive director of Gulf Coast Village.
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