Cape Coral, FL August 2018

Cape Coral AUGUST 2018

CapeCoralLifestylePubs.com

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BLUE LINE BEARS

HIT THE TOWN WITH YOUR PET!

CAPE CORAL LOVES ANIMALS

WHAT ARE CLOSING COST? Many new first time home buyers don’t realize what kind of closing costs that can be associated with a mortgage. Whether they select a no closing cost mortgage or a more traditional mortgage option, all mortgages have the same closing costs. Here are some of those costs.

APPRAISAL OF THE PROPERTY A state licensed appraiser is required to examine the property being used as the collateral for the loan. They evaluate market conditions based solely on other properties that have sold with similar features, in similar neighborhoods in close proximity to the subject property. In a rapidly increasing market, appraised values can be on the low side because they are based on prior sales.

TITLE INSURANCE Title insurance covers that there is what is known as “clear” title at the time of purchase. Over time properties titles can become clouded by different liens that can be placed on them fro a verity of reasons. Things like unpaid water bills, contractors or taxes can cloud a property title and without the title search and title insurance, those debts could become the responsibility of the new owner.

PROCESSING & UNDERWRITING FEES Processing fees can include the purchasing all of the information for the underwriter to review.

Some of the verification include compliance review, flood verification, and life of loan guarantee, Property verification with the city, tax transcripts, and submission to Fannie or Freddie. The underwriter validates all the information associated with the loan and makes the decision on loan approval.

REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE Fees paid to the real estate professionals representing the buyer and seller.

ORIGINATION FEES This will vary depending on the loan program. This fee is to cover all the other costs associated with providing the loan. Origination fees are normally expressed as a percentage of the total loan amount.

Don’t let fees stand in the way of getting preapproved for your dream home.

As a lifelong Florida resident, I have spent almost thirty years helping all types of people become homeowners. The gratitude that my clients have shown me is my greatest reward. My background in mortgage processing, underwriting, servicing and construction allows me to focus on the important details to get your loan closed quickly without surprises.

FOR A FREE AND PRIVATE CONSULTATION, PLEASE CALL US AT 239-471-3696. mortgage1capecoral.com NMLS: #371904 | Company NMLS: #129386

TRACY VANLANDSCHOOT

THE TEAM IS HERE TO SERVE YOU. WE LOVE WHAT WE DO!

Our family tree was planted here over 40 years ago.

Since 1973, we’ve grown into one of the oldest and most experienced independent real estate companies in Cape Coral. So we are uniquely qualified to achieve the best results for our clients. Our team is ready to help you with your next Cape Coral home sale or purchase right here in Southwest Florida’s fastest growing city.

Results. Attitude. Service. Options. That’s Raso Realty.

4812 Cape Coral St., Cape Coral, FL 33904

Pat Eberle 612.384.6018 PatEberle.com pat@rasorealty.com

Buyers Representation | Sellers Representation | Property Management | Foreclosures | Waterfront Golf Course | Gated Communities | Vacation Rentals | New Construction | Commercial

LIFESTYLE LETTER

AUGUST 2018 PUBLISHER

Pat Eberle | Pat.Eberle@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Nicolette Martin | Nicolette.Martin@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sarah Keech, Nicolette Martin CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Celebrating Family

Colleen Kelly, Gregory Wagner Photography

WHEN YOU THINK OF FAMILY, WHAT COMES TO MIND? Maybe it’s the people you share your mornings with: the husband or wife who makes you breakfast, the toddler who wakes you up before sunrise or the drooling pup in the kitchen just itching for a full dish of food.

Maybe it’s the people you share your years with: the grandfather who tells you old war stories at the Thanksgiving table, the uncle who brings you souvenirs from his travels or the aunt who can almost perfectly replicate your grandmother’s best pie recipe.

Or maybe it’s the people you share your life with: the friends who have and always will be there for you, the parents who have always supported you and watched you grow or the kids who are watching and learning from you day after day.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CHIEF SALES OFFICER CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR EDITORIAL MANAGER EDITORIAL AD MANAGER AD COORDINATORS

This month here at Cape Coral Lifestyle, we’re celebrating our Kids + Pets issue.

But we’re also celebrating the overarching feel of family and you, the readers, who

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

always make us feel at home.

Thanks for sharing your family with us each month—we can’t wait to see you around!

LAUNCH COORDINATOR PUBLISHER SUPPORT EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPERS

Steven Schowengerdt Matthew Perry DeLand Shore Brad Broockerd Sara Minor Janeane Thompson Nicolette Martin Victoria Perry Kate Baxendale Chad Jensen Cyndi Harrington Alicia Huff Adella Wrisinger Jessica Soetaert Cyndi King Dana Rudolph Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek Carli DiMarco Melanie Carlisle Randa Makeen Michael O’Connell Annie Chan Harshith Potu

Pat Eberle , Publisher

ALABAMA | ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA GEORGIA | IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MICHIGAN | MINNESOTA MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA OREGON | SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | UTAH VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

CapeCoralLifestylePubs.com

514 W 26th St., Kansas City, MO Proverbs 3:5-6

ON THE COVER Megan O’Grady PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY WAGNER 4

Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

Cape Coral Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cape Coral areas’ most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cape Coral Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2018

FEATURES 14 Hit the Town with Your Pet! Local Pets Have So Many Reasons to Love Living Here

20 Cape Coral Loves Animals Meet Some of Our Furry—and Scaly— Residents and Their Owners

26 Blue Line Bears Cape Coral Student Megan O’Grady Starts Nonprofit to Honor Fallen

20 10

Police Officers

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DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Around Town

10 DIY 14

Hot Spot

26 Local Limelight 31

Realty Report

32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local’s Choice

WAGNER PHOTOGRAPHY L A N D S C A P E , W I L D L I F E , T R AV E L , C U S TO M I N T E R I O R D E CO R F E AT U R I N G S O U T H W E S T F LO R I DA & B E YO N D.

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AROUND TOWN

CHICO’S DEDICATES FOUR HABITAT HOMES IN TWO STATES

maintains compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Possessing a background rich in senior

Longtime community employer Chico’s FAS,

living experience, she has launched and stabilized

Inc. celebrated the dedication of its 43rd sponsored

several senior living communities in Florida and

Habitat home in Lee County. It was the company’s

California. With much of her career spent in senior

second home dedicated locally this spring.

living, Battey has held a variety of positions within

As a company, Chico’s believes there is no greater force than women coming together to support each other. It shares Habitat’s vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to call home and know that affordable housing is transformational for women, their families and communities.

prominent senior living communities.

For more information visit AmavidaLiving.com or call 239.237.0501.

ANTHONY’S ON THE BLVD CELEBRATES 11TH ANNIVERSARY

Inspired by its local partnership with Habitat

To celebrate Anthony’s on the BLVD’s 11th anni-

Lee and Hendry, Chico’s took its commitment

versary, customers will get 11 percent off their total

to empowering women and providing affordable

bill the entire month of August. (Note: This is not

housing national through Habitat International’s

valid with any other offers, coupons or discounts.)

Home is the Key Partnership. Chico’s celebrated

On Aug. 5, Dr. Robert Fahey returns to Anthony’s

the sponsorship of two Habitat home dedications

on the BLVD for a dinner and psychic event. Tickets

in Nashville in April and May.

are available for purchase at FaheyEvents.com.

Locally, Chico’s served as the title sponsor for

Anthony’s will host a Customer Appreciation

Women Build. Not only did the company contrib-

Pig Roast on Aug. 18 from noon to close. There

ute financially, but more than 150 of its associates

will be live entertainment, drink specials and door

volunteered more than 600 hours to help build a

prizes (including a cruise vacation). Tickets are

home. This house will provide a mother and her two

$15 per person and include a coupon for a free

daughters a safe place to begin their future.

Sunday breakfast buffet.

SEASONED SENIOR LIVING SPECIALISTS TO OVERSEE NEW RESORT-STYLE LIVING PROJECT

AnthonysOnTheBlvd.net.

For more information, call 239.772.5900 or visit

Quadrum Global is introducing its resort-style living platform with the development of Amavida, a 32.5-acre senior living community under construction in Fort Myers. The project will consist of 460 residences including cottages, residences, apartments and suites and offer alternatives for every stage of life including independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Colin Marshall, a seasoned senior living and healthcare veteran, oversees the development and active management of Quadrum’s senior living and long-term care division. A Florida International University graduate, Marshall has held a variety of

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roles in the healthcare and long-term care industry.

We are always accepting submissions for announce-

Heather Battey, a 17-year industry veteran,

ments you’d like to see included in our Around Town

oversees the overall leadership, management and

section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact

the day-to-day operations for Amavida, as well as

Us tab at CapeCoralLifestylePubs.com.

Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

WE RECOVERED ALL DAMAGES FOR 100% OF OUR CLIENTS FROM HURRICANE IRMA ARE YOU PREPARED FOR 2018 HURRICANE SEASON?

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t h e

DIY

WHAT YOU NEED TO CREATE UNIQUE PLAY AREAS PERFECT FOR YOUR KIDDOS’ UNIQUE INTERESTS ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

adventurer

CHEVRON KIDS TEEPEE PLAYHOUSE | Create a jungle hideaway with your favorite color A-frame tent. Pick yours at Wayfair.com.

PLUSH ANIMALS | Going on a safari? Plush animals make the perfect companions. Choose your company wisely from StuffedSafari.com.

KIDS FLOOR PILLOW | Keep kids comfy on their travels with a soft floor pillow. Try olive or forest green to match the theme. Find the perfect one at Hayneedle.com. NATURAL FIBER RUG | Mimic the feel of the wilderness. Find the perfect one at Hayneedle.com.

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

beach babe

LINEN PARADISE | Turn on the surfer music and your child will float away in this simple, handmade paradise. Drape a white sheet over a tripod of wood poles for the perfect island hideaway. Not feeling crafty? Find a similar tent at Wayfair.com. MARVELOUS MEMORIES | “Ohana means family and family means nobody gets left behind,” according to Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch.” Stock a cabinet with markers and paper and let your child pass the island time by creating hand-drawn works of art inspired by their favorite people. ISLAND ESSENTIALS | Bring out their artistic side and set the scene with sights and sounds of the island. Craft a ukulele, palm trees and maybe even some surfboards by drawing on cardboard and then carefully cutting around the edges.

bookworm CHEVRON PLAY TENT | Create a cozy reading nook with a fun and unique A-frame tent. Find a special one from the KidsTeepee shop on Etsy.

COMFY THROW PILLOWS | Keep their imaginations running for hours with a soft spot to dream. Find your unique style at PotteryBarnKids.com.

STORIES TO IMAGINE | Keep your book selection fresh with new books every month. BookCase Kids subscription boxes each include three new books. Visit KidsBookcase.Club for more information.

August 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

LUXURY REMODELING

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REFERENCES AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

www.oneilindustries.com Appointments @ 239-360-1000

HOT SPOT

ARTICLE SARAH KEECH | PHOTOGRAPHY GREGORY WAGNER

HIT THE TOWN WITH YOUR PET! CAPE CORAL RESIDENTS DEFINITELY ADORE THEIR PETS—AND LOCAL PETS HAVE SO MANY REASONS TO LOVE LIVING HERE

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

Destination Boat Clubs

Just get a boat and go, Simple!

WE ARE LUCKY TO LIVE IN A WONDERFUL PET-FRIENDLY CITY, AND THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS PETS AND THEIR PARENTS CAN DO TO GET OUT AND ENJOY THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER. For some exercise, there’s Waggin’ Tails Dog Park at Rotary Park, Pooch Park in nearby North Fort Myers and many other off-leash parks within local communities.

Hungry or thirsty? There are a plethora of restaurants and bars that offer petfriendly seating areas.

“The people in Cape Coral really treat their pets as family members,” says JoAnn Elardo, owner of Big Blue Brewery and Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery. “The relaxed way of life here in Southwest Florida encourages pet owners to include their pets in all sort of activities.”

There are also lots of locally owned pet stores, pet facilities and veterinarians, and Cape Coral residents are eager

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to support them.

“I really try to support local and family-owned businesses,” says Cape Coral resident Janet Snyder, who regularly takes her 11-year-old dog, Buddy, to get groomed at Patriot Pets. “The service they provide is fantastic, and Buddy absolutely loves his visits.”

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We visited some of the fun and unique pet-friendly spots in the Cape to see what they have to offer.

CONTINUED >

CA P E C O R A L I N A P L ES I K EY W ES T I ( 2 3 9 ) 9 4 5 -6 4 9 3 I D ES TIN ATIO N B O ATC LUBS .C OM

August 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

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HOT SPOT

(CON TI N U ED)

01

BIG BLUE BREWING

This fun and lively watering hole and

4721 SE 10th Place,

restaurant is great for pets. The spacious

Cape Coral, Florida

covered patio is perfect to dine with your

239.471.2777

doggies. The gastropub menu offers

BigBlueBrewing.com

everything from brunch to happy hour to dinner delights—and don’t forget to try one of the craft brews!

Owner JoAnn Elardo is also the president of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter, so she makes a conscious effort to ensure her establishment is pet-friendly.

During peak season, JoAnn’s other popular business, Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery, hosts parking lot parties that include food trucks, music and drinks— and she says it’s the perfect event to bring your pet.

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

02

This full-service family-owned pet shop is terrific for

PATRIOT PETS AND SUPPLIES

new pet owners or long-time pet lovers. Owned and

1242 Pine Island Road, Suite 47,

operated by a mother and son—Dianna and Shane

Cape Coral, Florida

Reinhardt—they cater to all types of pet owners.

239.242.7387

They offer supplies and products for

PetShopCapeCoral.com

almost any pet you can think of, including reptiles, birds, fish, dogs, cats, hedgehogs and even sugar gliders.

“We are so lucky to have a loyal customer base,” Shane says. “As an independent pet store, we’re so happy to have been able to serve the community for the last seven years. We really love our customers.”

As a patriotic military family, they named their store Patriot Pets. Shane served in the Marine Corps for eight years, and his father, who recently passed away, served in the Army.

CONTINUED >

August 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

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HOT SPOT

(CON TI N U ED)

03 MASTERPIECE MIXERS OF CAPE CORAL

Paint your pet’s portrait while you enjoy some wine and have some fun!

2708 Santa Barbara Blvd. S,

“The ‘Paint Your Pet’ class is defi-

Suite 149, Cape Coral, Florida,

nitely one of our most popular events,”

239.573.6990

says owner Nicole Askew. “Everyone

MasterpieceMixersCapeCoral.com

absolutely loves it, and it’s really so relaxing and fun!”

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

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$449,000

Best view in the Marina for the fireworks on New Year’s Eve!!!. The owners replaced the carpet in this beautiful unit with bamboo, wood floors in the living area and the bedrooms. Rarely do these units come available. The wet bar area has a wine cooler for entertaining. The large closet has often been used as a den in other units. What an amazing opportunity to walk to restaurants, live entertainment, shopping, and enjoy the best of Florida living!!! The pool is heated, plus the owners can use the the Cape Harbour facility with a club house, heated pool, work out room, tennis courts, basketball, playground, and a banquet room with full kitchen for private parties. This unit has an assigned parking spot below and a storage unit. What a great spot for getting away from the cold northern winters, or downsizing to a unit that offers views and comforts of a home without the hassle.

239-898-0484

LenoraMarshall.com 2012 THROUGH 2017 FIVE STAR AGENT August 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

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ARTICLE SARAH KEECH PHOTOGRAPHY GREGORY WAGNER

Cape Coral Loves Animals MEET SOME OF OUR FURRY—AND SCALY—RESIDENTS AND THEIR OWNERS PETS AND ANIMALS IN CAPE CORAL COME IN ALL DIFFERENT SHAPES AND SIZES. There are also the amazing people who love and care for them.

We set out to get several different stories about the pets and animals and their owners/handlers—and we certainly found some fantastic ones!

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

the k9 + his best friend K9 Nate is a 7-year-old sable German Shepherd. He’s the most senior of the seven K9s on the Cape Coral Police force. His handler, Officer Sean McCreary, has been his partner since Nate joined the department in 2012.

Originally from Holland, K9 Nate came to the Cape Coral Police Department as a gift from local residents Rick and Debra Burnfield. The Burnfields donated the funds to acquire Nate in honor of their late son, Nathan, a police officer who was killed in the line of duty in Pennsylvania in 2008. Officer Nathan Burnfield had always dreamt of being a K9 handler.

The K9s start their official police training when they are about a year old. All K9 police training for the department is done here in Cape Coral.

“These dogs work very hard, and it takes a lot out of them, but they are also carefully monitored and see the vet regularly,” Officer McCreary says.

Officer McCreary takes extra time off the clock to work with K9 Nate for advanced training.

“If we want him to perform above and beyond on the job, then we need to work with them outside of duty.

The more training the dog gets, the more valuable they are—and the more prepared they are,” he says.

While K9 Nate is not a pet, he seems to enjoy living with the McCreary family.

“Nate loves my daughter, who is 6 years old, and he keeps a special eye on her,” he says. “I can walk by his kennel at home, and he won’t even get up, but if my daughter is nearby he’s always watching out for her.”

A day in the life of K9 Nate and Officer McCreary is never a typical day.

“Nate and I get to the department about 6 o’clock in the evening during the week,” Officer McCreary says.

“We cover the entire city, and we assist the patrol officers. We can be called out for anything my dog can assist with—felony apprehension, robbery or a burglary or tracking a missing child or trying to track down a criminal that took off running. Nate is also used for narcotics detection, which is probably what we do the most.”

The Cape Coral K9s get put into dangerous situations almost daily, such as apprehending people who have committed serious crimes.

“The drug dealers don’t want to go to jail,” Officer McCreary says. “We go to the most dangerous calls because we use the dog as a tool so the officers are not as in as much risk.”

Officer McCreary says one of K9 Nate’s most important finds could have potentially saved the life of young children. During a call to a disturbance involving a firearm near Caloosa Elementary School in 2016, Nate was sent out to search for the weapon. He found the firearm, which was fully loaded, near the school’s basketball courts.

“If that gun had still been there during recess or P.E. during the school day, one of those kids could have found it in the bushes,” Officer McCreary says. “That was definitely one of Nate’s best finds.”

CONTINUED >

August 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

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CAPE CORAL LOVES ANIMALS

(CON TI N U ED)

pets + the spooner family You’ll probably recognize Lisa Spooner from television—she’s a news anchor for NBC2.

Not just an award-winning journalist, Lisa also happens to be a former Miss Texas, a wife, a mom and a life-long devoted pet owner.

“I grew up with lots of pets. We always had at least one dog,” Lisa says.

The Spooner family includes dad Ron and 6-year-old Alexa, who recently graduated from kindergarten.

The family also includes Taffy, a 1-yearold banana ball python, and Bradshaw— named for former professional football star Terry Bradshaw—who is a 13-year-old golden retriever mix.

“We were living in Texas, and we found Bradshaw when he popped out from under a dumpster,” Lisa says. “He had broken bones and was missing a lot of fur,” Ron says. “He wasn’t able to be rehomed because of his injuries, so we happily kept him. He’s an amazing dog. He’s very loyal and loving.”

While living in Texas, Lisa and Ron were able to rescue and rehome 16 dogs.

How Taffy entered their life is another story.

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

After the family rescued and rehomed an injured turtle they found locally, Alexa wanted a new pet. Ron and Alexa ended up at a pet store when Lisa wasn’t home.

“I was away at work one day—and Ron always had pet snakes growing up—so they definitely surprised me,” Lisa says.

“I had Alexa come in to Lisa and say, ‘Look what I found in the grass!’

Lisa screamed and ran outside,” Ron says. “We had to explain we bought the snake. I don’t think Lisa was too excited.”

Lisa has since grown to love Taffy.

The entire family is dedicated to pet ownership and caring for animals.

“We don’t consider our pets just pets. They are our family members,” Lisa says. “It’s also so valuable for kids to have some responsibility and know the love and appreciation of having pets in their life.”

Fun fact: Bradshaw loves hot dogs!

CONTINUED >

August 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

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CAPE CORAL LOVES ANIMALS

(CON TI N U ED)

The Volunteers: Demica + Liz Cape Coral resident Demica Mattia has been a volunteer at Gulf never had the time. This was the perfect opportunity.”

Coast Humane Society since 2013. She originally started volun-

Liz admits she’d never worked with rescue pets before com-

teering when a work friend suggested she come along to try it out. ing to volunteer at Gulf Coast Humane Society.

“Now I’m here at least three days a week,” Demica says.

“At first I was nervous to volunteer. I’d never been around so many

Demica has two dogs of her own: Winnie, a 6-year-old different types of dogs,” Liz says. “I just want to get the word out, shepherd mix; and Belle Rose, a 4-year-old pit bull mix. Winnie because the first day I volunteered really changed my life—I must was adopted from the Animal Refuge Center. Belle Rose was have walked 30 dogs! These pets are so loving and kind. Many of adopted from an event at PetSmart.

“I really love working with the pets here and helping out at the events. It’s really important to me to help pets in need.”

Demica’s favorite memory of her own pups was adopting them and making them part of her family.

them are already trained and just need to find the right home.”

Liz didn’t realize she’d love her volunteer work as much as she does now.

“A lot of people come and just look at the dogs through the cages,” she says. “But you really get to know their personalities

“Belle loves to cuddle, and Winnie is just perfect,” she says. “I when you walk them and interact with them.” don’t currently have children, so my pets are my children. They’ve changed my entire life. My life would be so dull without them.”

Liz Witherspoon, also a Cape resident, decided to volunteer at

Liz has a lot of praise for the organization and hopes other Cape Coral residents will consider volunteering.

“Helping these dogs is so rewarding, and it’s almost a form of

Gulf Coast Humane Society after losing her beloved golden retriever, meditation,” Liz says. “I don’t have a dog right now, so it’s really nice Cosmo, and she says it’s been one of the best decisions of her life.

“Where I work, Arthrex, really encourages us to volunteer. We

to come here and get to love these ones for a little bit each week.”

If you are interested in volunteering at Gulf Coast Humane

actually get paid for an eight-hour day to volunteer,” Liz says. “I Society, you can apply online at GulfCoastHumaneSociety.org always really wanted to volunteer at a humane society, but I just or call 239.332.0364.

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT

blue line bears MEGAN O'GRADY, A 16-YEAR-OLD STUDENT AT BISHOP VEROT HIGH SCHOOL, SAYS SHE BELIEVES IN LAW ENFORCEMENT. As the daughter of a police officer, Megan is keenly aware that many

CAPE CORAL STUDENT MEGAN O’GRADY STARTS NONPROFIT TO HONOR FALLEN POLICE OFFICERS

officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. To comfort the loved

ARTICLE SARAH KEECH

ones left behind, Megan started the nonprofit organization Blue Line

PHOTOGRAPHY GREGORY WAGNER

Bears, in which the uniform of the fallen police officer is sewn into a keepsake teddy bear complete with the officer's name, badge number and department patch.

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Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START BLUE LINE BEARS FOR FALLEN OFFICERS? When the attack on Dallas happened in the summer of 2016, that was the first time I ever realized that society has started to attack police officers and make them the bad guys. That was when I realized that every time I tell my dad goodbye he may not come home.

This was when I was going into high school, and every summer the school has to read one book. That year it was a book titled "This I Believe." It was a book consisting of essays written by celebrities and everyday people about things they believe in. The summer assignment was to write our own version of the essay. I wrote about how I believe in law enforcement.

Later that year, I was accepted into a club called Scholars Academy. It’s a purely academic club that requires everyone to finish a capstone project by the end of their senior year. I looked back at the essay—and back at the events in Dallas—and I decided it needed to be something that helped the families of the fallen.

There were so many things out there that helped families financially, but there was never really anything that gives the families something personal to hold and remember the fallen officer. That’s when I decided to make the teddy bears, so anyone at any age could hold the uniform of the fallen officer and it could continue to provide comfort for the family.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE EACH BEAR? It approximately takes two days per bear, but they are made in an assembly line, so two days may not be completely accurate.

HOW MANY REQUESTS DO YOU GET EACH MONTH? We get at least 10 requests every month.

HAVE YOU MET MANY OF THE FAMILIES YOU’VE SEWN BEARS FOR? WHAT DID THAT FEEL LIKE? I’ve met about 33 families from all over the country.

Some of them I personally delivered bears to, and others I met after I mailed the bears to them. It’s amazing meeting the families in person because they are all so amazing, and I get to see the change I’m making—even if it is just providing a small amount of peace after what has happened to them.

CONTINUED >

August 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

27

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

(CON TI N U ED)

I looked back at the essay—and back at the events in Dallas—and I decided it needed to be something that helped the families of the fallen.

28

Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE? I do intend to keep Blue Line Bears going. I’m not sure about anything else yet, but I have some time to decide.

WHERE CAN PEOPLE DONATE TO HELP YOU CONTINUE MAKING THE BEARS OR FIND OUT MORE ABOUT YOUR ORGANIZATION? People can go on any social media to find us.

• Facebook.com/BlueLineBears • Twitter: @BlueLineBears • Instagram: Blue_line_bears • BlueLineBears.org

Making Cape Coral Beautiful for 23 Years

SPECIALIZING IN MODERN COLORING TECHNIQUES AND COLOR CORRECTION CALL TO SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

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29

e l a rS

Fo

PAT E B E R L E , PA RESULTS | AT TITUDE | SERVICE | OPTIONS

612 . 3 8 4 . 6 018 | P A T E B E R L E . C O M

REALTY REPORT

CAPE CORAL

NEIGHBORHOOD

REALTY REPORT

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

SW Cape Coral

$364,500

$355,000

97.39%

2

3

2.5

SW Cape Coral

$459,900

$448,000

97.41%

24

3

2

SW Cape Coral

$535,000

$535,000

100.00%

2

3+Den

2.5

SW Cape Coral

$750,000

$725,000

96.67%

25

3+Den

3.5

SW Cape Coral

$899,000

$860,000

95.66%

0

3

3.5

Yacht Club Area

$324,900

$315,000

96.95%

2

3

2

Yacht Club Area

$350,000

$339,000

96.86%

49

3

2.5

Yacht Club Area

$399,900

$378,000

94.52%

30

4

2

Savona Neighborhood

$399,900

$390,000

97.52%

112

3

2

Savona Neighborhood

$510,000

$490,000

96.08%

79

4

2.5

Savona Neighborhood

$769,900

$750,000

97.42%

246

3+Den

3

Palaco Neighborhood

$299,999

$295,000

98.33%

4

3

2

Palaco Neighborhood

$549,900

$535,000

97.29%

93

4+Den

3.5

Sandoval

$255,000

$235,000

92.16%

31

3

2

Sandoval

$299,900

$299,900

100.00%

78

4

2.5

Sandoval

$329,200

$329,200

100.00%

88

4+Den

2.5

Sandoval

$364,900

$364,900

100.00%

32

4+Den

3.5

Cape Royal

$255,000

$245,000

96.08%

90

3

2

Cape Royal

$389,900

$370,000

94.90%

196

3

2

NW Cape Coral

$210,000

$205,000

97.62%

63

3

2

NW Cape Coral

$320,000

$320,000

100.00%

7

3

2

NW Cape Coral

$649,000

$630,000

97.07%

167

3+Den

3

MLS Data from June 2018 *DOM=Days on Market

K N OW YOUR

home value

Are You Thinking About Selling?

Get Your FREE Home Value Report Today! www.PatEberle.com R e s u lt s

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August 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

31

AUGUST

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

11 SATURDAY SLIDE NIGHT Sun Splash Family Waterpark

Splash and play in a different light when Sun Splash is open until 8:30

launching your boat. This class is free, but please RSVP. For more information, call Rotary Park at 239.549.4606.

16

27 PRESCHOOL CHILDREN'S FILM FESTIVAL Cape Coral Public Library

Dress up and come to the third in

p.m. There is a special admission

COLORING FOR GROWN-UPS

price after 5 p.m. This is the last Sat-

Cape Coral Public Library

and take in some of the best films of

urday Slide Night of the 2018 season!

Coloring books are no longer just for

children's picture books. Children will

SunSplashWaterpark.com

kids! In fact, adult coloring books are

watch five short picture-book films

all the rage right now. Researchers

and cast their ballots for the best film,

and art therapists alike have touted

leading up to Cape Coral Public Li-

the calming benefits for more than

brary's Inaugural Golden Book Award

a decade. Coloring has therapeutic

in December. Registration required.

potential to reduce anxiety, create

LeeGov.com/Library/Events

11 ASTRONOMY NIGHT Seahawk Park

focus and bring about more mind-

Join the Southwest Florida Astronom-

fulness. Participants may bring their

ical Society for a fun, free family night

own materials or use those provid-

of night sky observation at Seahawk

ed. LeeGov.com/Library/Events

the seven-part film festival series

28

Park! Experts from the society will

PERLER BEADING CLASS

have telescopes and viewing equip-

Cape Coral Public Library

ment set up and will be on hand to explain what can be seen. No flash-

18

Arrange peg beads into any pattern you'd like, then iron them togeth-

lights, please! For more informa-

JUST FOR FUN DOG SHOW

tion or to RSVP, call Rotary Park at

Rotary Park

This event is geared toward grades

239.549.4606.

Bring your dogs and join in the fun—

6-12. LeeGov.com/Library/Events

er to make keychains or magnets.

or just come to watch this entertain-

13 CIGAR BOX CRAFTING

ing event! Register in advance or on the day of the show beginning at 9 a.m. The show starts at 10 a.m. Event categories include Best Costume,

SKATEBOARD CONTEST

Cape Coral Public Library

Longest Ears, Bad Hair Day Dog,

Eagle Skate Park

Turn an old cigar box into a

Dog/Owner Look-Alike, Best Trick

Come out and show off your skate-

unique work of art, perfect for

and Favorite Rescue. To pre-register

board tricks and skills. Prizes will

your school supplies! This event

call Rotary Park at 239.549.4606.

be awarded. $10 per participant (in-

is geared toward grades 6-12.

LeeGov.com/Library/Events

14 FISHING IN A WATERFRONT WONDERLAND

cludes admission fee). For more in-

24

formation, call 239.574.0490.

HOLOCAUST MUSEUM TOUR Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida

Join the Rotino Center for an informa-

Rotary Park

tive and educational trip to the Holo-

Cape Coral canals are home to many

caust Museum of Southwest Florida

species of fish, both native and exot-

in Naples. The visit includes a private

We are always accepting submissions

ic. Learn about what you can catch

tour, lunch and a presentation from a

for events you'd like to see included

in the canals, discuss responsi-

Holocaust survivor. Reservations are

in our Calendar section. Submissions

ble angling practices and discover

required by Friday, Aug. 17. For more

are accepted via the Contact Us tab

which parks are good for fishing and

information, call 239.574.0807.

at CapeCoralLifestylePubs.com.

32

31

Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

The HeartFlow Analysis available exclusively at Radiology Regional Center WHAT IS HEARTFLOW ANALYSIS? The HeartFlow Analysis is an advanced test that assesses coronary artery disease. It shows how each blockage impacts blood flow to your heart.

• Greatly reduces unnecessary invasive testing • Effective at excluding false positive and false negative stress tests • Improves patient quality of life with more accurate diagnosis

“The HeartFlow Analysis showed me a picture of my arteries and blockage inside my arteries and made me realize this was an issue I needed to take care of. Without HeartFlow I’m not sure I’d be standing here today.”

– Stephen B.

Stephen jogged regularly and noticed it was becoming harder to catch his breath. Traditional non-invasive tests showed no significant coronary artery disease.

However, Stephen had a feeling something was not right. After learning about the HeartFlow Analysis, Stephen sought out the test hoping it would provide answers. He was right. Following the addition of HeartFlow Analysis to his CT Coronary Angiogram scan, his doctor received the answers needed to determine the next step in his treatment plan.

For more information: www.radiologyregional.com

239-931-6355

August 2018 | Cape Coral Lifestyle

33

LOCAL’S CHOICE

HOPPY + FRESH PHOTOGRAPHY COLLEEN KELLY

HOMEMADE HOPS-INFUSED DOG SHAMPOO Perfect for a fresh, deep clean scented with hops.

• 1 pint gentle natural dishwashing soap • 1 pint hop water • 1 pint apple cider vinegar • 3/4 cups hops • 4 ounces glycerin • 1 tablespoon baking soda 1. Infuse water and hops in a jar for at least an hour.

2. Mix all of the ingredients together and put in a bottle.

3. Grab your pup and suds up. Rinse thoroughly.

Voilà!

34

Cape Coral Lifestyle | August 2018

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