LEE HEALTH EXPANDS PLANS FOR NEW FORT MYERS CAMPUS TO MEET GROWING COMMUNITY NEEDS JULY 2025
SAVING CITRUS – ONE TREE AT A TIME
32 YEARS AND COUNTING: UNITED WAY SURPASSES ANNUAL FUNDRAISING GOAL
Gulf Harbour Book Club Review
JOAN KAPLAN
THE END OF YOUR LIFE BOOK CLUB
The Gulf Harbour Book Club met on May 5 to discuss The End of Your Life Book Club. Including Zoom, there were 31 attendees.
Joan Kaplan did the author review of Willam Schwalbe. Will was a guest last year for his book We Should Not Be Friends. We thought he was so delightful that we invited him back for his bestselling book The End of Your Life Book Club. What a great decision.
Born in New York in 1962; he grew up in Cambridge, Mass.; went to boarding school in New Hampshire; and to Yale in New Haven, Conn.
He worked most of his life in publishing: at William Morrow, and then at Hyperion, where I was Editor in Chief. In January 2008, he left Hyperion to found a startup called Cookstr.com and ran that for six years. It’s now part of Macmillan Publishers, where he has worked since 2014.
“Books have been the constant in my life. From those my mother read me when I was too young to
read, to those fathers read us when we could read but still liked to be read to. From books I read under the covers, long after I was supposed to be asleep—including every single thriller by the magnificent Alistair Maclean—to books that I found in my teens that helped me imagine all different kinds of lives and see the world through others’ eyes.
I’ve written four books. The first— Send: Why People Email So Badly and How to Do it Better —was written with my friend David Shipley. The second, The End of Your Life Book Club , is about the books I read with my mother when she was dying. The third is Books For Living , about the role books can play in our lives and how they can show us how to live each day more fully and with more meaning. And the fourth is We Should Not Be Friends , which is about the power of friendships, especially unlikely ones, to change our lives.”
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers’ Favorite Memoir & Autobiography (2012)
An Entertainment Weekly and BookPage Best Book of the Year
During her treatment for cancer, Mary Anne Schwalbe and her son Will spent many hours sitting in waiting rooms together. To pass the time, they would talk about the books they were reading. Once, by chance, they read the same book at the same time—and an informal book club of two was born. Through their wide-ranging reading, Will and Mary Anne—and we, their fellow readers—are reminded how books can be comforting, astonishing, and illuminating, changing the way that we feel about and interact with the world around us. A profoundly moving memoir of caregiving, mourning, and love— The End of Your Life
Book Club is also about the joy of reading, and the ways that joy is multiplied when we share it with others.
One of Schwalbe’s favorite outcomes of writing this book so far is that early copies have inspired people to start reading with their family. He got an email recently from a woman who has started a book club with her grandson, a teen who is reading The Hunger Games to her.
“That made me so happy,” he says. It’s a fitting tribute to a woman who died at 75 but left an enduring legacy.
“There are a lot of extraordinary people in this country and most don’t get an obituary in The New York Times ,” Schwalbe says. “Mom was not somebody who was in The New York Times . She was one of those extraordinary, ordinary people.”
Will spoke with the same compassion he demonstrated with his mother. His kindness and patience were available for all of us to share and hopefully to share with our loved ones. I know I took his advice with my great nieces and nephews as well as my sisters-in-law. Somehow talking about books relieves any tension you may feel in a familiar relationship. We hope you can persuade your friends and relatives to communicate through books. It’s a heartwarming experience.
The Gulf Harbour Book Club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Fitness Center. If you want to join the book club email joankaplan@mac.com. Zoom is available for members if the author allows it. Zoom is available for members during the off season. We had nine authors lined up for the 2025/26 season. The August book is The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict. She will not be on Zoom. We have the following authors on Zoom. September is Kristin Harmel for The Stolen Life of Collette Marceau, The Lotus Shoes with Jane Lang, Abi Dare with The Girl with the Louding Voice and its sequel And So I Roar, Not Yours to Keep by Zelly Ruskin, Bernhardt Schline for The Granddaughter, March is Sandi Altner for Rupert’s Landing, April is Chris Torockio for The Soul Hunters and May is Stephanie Dray for A Founding Mother.
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Thank you for your blood donations!
Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club Saturday, May 17, 2025
William Atkin
Tim Baldwin
Debbie Barnes
Mark Bender
Randy Biffert
Charles Bruning
Ronna Cline
Gary Delanois
David Durante
Gregory Engelmeyer
William Hardin
Gary Jeub
Julie Johnson
Kris Kluge
William Mccaffrey
Walter Otey
Charles Robertson
Joyce Saparnis
Nancy Sheppard
Cornelius Smith
Mary Wilson
Thank you for “giving the gift of life.” We were able to collect 18 units of blood.
Montage Women’s Club
The Montage Women’s Club is a social and philanthropic club open to all women residing in Lee County. We normally meet on the fourth Thursday of each month. Our April meeting took place at the Hilton Garden Inn (Captiva Ballroom), 12600 University Drive, Fort Myers, corner of College Parkway at the Summerlin Road overpass. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. with a short social period followed by lunch at noon followed by an informative speaker program and a short business meeting. Within the organization are various interest groups for members’ participation. Membership is open to both year-round and seasonal residents. We welcome you to visit Montage for a luncheon.
Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, July 24. Our speaker will be Mike Corradino. who operated the Florida Monkey Sanctuary for 20 years where he and his staff cared for over 600 monkeys from 67 different species with as many as 160 animals at one time. In addition to being the country’s first “official” monkey catcher, Mike served as the official gorilla consultant for Ringling Brothers Circus in 1968. Many zoos have adopted his techniques as well as having had published articles in several scientific journals. Mike was set to speak to our group in April, but due to unforeseen circumstances had to reschedule to July.
Luncheon fee will be $30 per person, and you always have a choice of either a regular menu entree (July is chicken marsala with mashed potato and vegetable) and/or a vegan plant-based entree (July is roasted cauliflower tacos with rice).
If you would like to attend a Montage meeting, need further information, or would like to make a reservation, please call Rita Artwohl at (239) 7037787. Reservations cutoff to attend this meeting is noon, Thursday, July 17.
Lee Health Expands Plans For New Fort Myers Campus To Meet Growing Community Needs
In response to the rapid population growth and sustained demand for high-quality healthcare in Southwest Florida, Lee Health is expanding its plans for its new Fort Myers medical campus. Lee Health approved an additional $150.5 million investment to enhance the upcoming facility, including a new patient tower and an onsite childcare center.
The expansion will increase the hospital’s capacity by 92 beds, including 48 acute
care beds, 20 skilled nursing unit beds, and shelled space for an additional 24 acute care beds. This addition ensures the new Lee Health Fort Myers campus will support the growth of the community, where it serves as the healthcare system of choice for residents and visitors.
“Lee Health is growing alongside our community,” said Dr. Larry Antonucci, president and CEO of Lee Health. “With this additional investment, we are reaffirming our commitment to being Southwest Florida’s leading healthcare provider by ensuring
we have the infrastructure, technology, and compassionate care teams in place to meet the increasing healthcare needs of our residents and visitors. This health campus offers a centralized location for wellness in our community.”
The $820 million capital investment also includes the development of an on-site child development center. The new facility will relocate the existing Lee Memorial Child Development Center to the new campus, providing a vital resource for Lee Health team members and reinforcing the system’s dedication to supporting its workforce.
The campus is located at the intersection of Colonial and Jones-Walker Boulevards, spanning 53 acres. Lee Health Fort Myers campus will be constructed in phases and is expected to open in early 2028. The plans now include:
• A hospital with a capacity of up to 260 beds, 236 beds completed at opening
• A medical office building, home of the Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute
• 18 operating rooms, a 44-bed emergency department, and up to 24 ICU beds
• An onsite child development center for team members
As one of the fastest-growing regions in the nation, Lee County’s healthcare needs are
evolving rapidly. Lee Health’s expanded plans demonstrate its commitment to remaining the trusted healthcare leader in the region. The new campus will offer increased access, toptier care, and modern amenities to meet the demands of future generations.
About Lee Health
Lee Health has been a cornerstone of health care in Southwest Florida since opening its first hospital in 1916. As a nonprofit, integrated health system, Lee Health is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. With a strong commitment to community health and wellness, Lee Health commits to evolving with the growing and changing needs of the region. The system offers comprehensive services through four acute care hospitals, Golisano Children’s Hospital, three skilled nursing locations, outpatient facilities, urgent care centers, and a wide network of primary care and specialty practices. Lee Health supports every step of the health journey, from preventive care to advanced treatment for every member of our community. Learn more at www.LeeHealth.org.
Harry Chapin Food Bank Launches New ‘Food Finder’ Platform
ONLINE PLATFORM HELPS RESIDENTS LOCATE FOOD PANTRIES, DISTRIBUTION SITES
Harry Chapin Food Bank has launched a new Food Finder platform that allows neighbors experiencing hunger to pinpoint the nearest food pantries and distribution sites.
The interactive web page is a modern digital tool that allows anyone with Internet access or cell service to quickly connect with Harry Chapin Food Bank’s 175-plus agency partners that serve their neighborhood. Users can find food by following three steps.
• Visit HarryChapinFoodBank.org/foodlocator
• Type in an address or ZIP code
• Click the search button
Search results are proximity based and include the names, addresses and telephone numbers of agency partners, as well as program details and operating hours. The platform offers information about larger agency partners like Community
Cooperative and Salvation Army, as well as local churches, senior centers, civic organizations, schools, community centers and housing developments where families with children, seniors, veterans and other individuals can receive food.
“Southwest Florida spans more than 5,000 square miles across five counties, and it can be difficult for individuals experiencing hunger – especially those new to our community –to know where to find food,” said Richard LeBer, president and CEO of Harry Chapin Food Bank. “The Food Finder provides instant answers so families don’t have to drive across town to provide for their families. The nearest distribution point might be just down the street.”
The Food Locator platform is supported by Vivery Technology and the Thierer Family Foundation.
ABOUT THE HARRY CHAPIN FOOD BANK
Harry Chapin Food Bank, a Feeding America partner food bank, is the largest hunger-relief organization in Southwest Florida and serves 250,000 neighbors monthly through its Feeding Network of 175 agency partners. In 2024, the nonprofit distributed 39.5 million pounds of food, the equivalent of 32 million meals, at food banks and mobile pantries across Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee counties.
Harry Chapin Food Bank is an agency partner of United Way and a blueprint partner of the Naples Children & Education Foundation, rated as a fourstar charity by Charity Navigator and platinum-rated by Candid’s GuideStar. For more information, please visit HarryChapinFoodBank.org or call (239) 334-7007.
Saving Citrus – One Tree At A Time
KAREN M. MAXWELL, HORTICULTURE PROGRAMS COORDINATOR AND HORTICULTURE SPECIALIST
Recently, a team from the University of Florida/ Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/ IFAS) in Immokalee visited Edison and Ford Winter Estates to discuss the work they are doing on behalf of the estates to save the Henry Ford citrus grove that was planted in 2019. Over the years, the historic citrus has all but disappeared from our site; however, with the help of UF, this important chapter of our garden’s history is being restored.
Through the years, the fragrance of citrus blooms would have been a strong element of the estates as far back as 1892. When Henry Ford originally purchased his Fort Myers property in 1916, the seller and Edison neighbor, Robert Smith of New York City, boasted that his property included “100 grapefruit trees, 50 orange trees, mangos, lemons, and limes.”
Earlier records indicate that upon purchasing his property, citrus was among the first trees Edison had planted. By 1917, it was recorded that nearly 300 fruit trees grew on both lots, meaning the east and west sides of McGregor Boulevard. Inventories of the time show 98 grapefruit trees, 59 orange trees, 10 tangerines, assorted lemons and limes and in 1929, kumquats were added. A review of old planting maps reveals an extensive network of citrus surrounding the caretaker cottage and Edison home. The Edisons frequently had Fort Myers caretakers ship boxes of fruit to their New Jersey residence, as well as to friends such as the Fords in Michigan.
The Edisons had issues with citrus, such as hurricanes and freezing temperatures that devastated fruit crops. Mina Edison championed her
citrus trees and always included “fertilizing the citrus” on caretaker work orders, while Thomas insured plenty of trench irrigation to keep trees supplied with water.
A total of 50 trees, predominantly Valencia oranges with a few lemon trees mixed in were planted in the new grove in 2019. The trees were grafted on citrus rootstock selected for vigor and perhaps resistance to citrus greening. A large graft is visible about eight inches above the ground on original trees. Below the graft is the rootstock and above the graft is called the scion. Grafting enables the trees to become fruit bearers in less than two years, where a seed grown citrus may take more
A CITRUS TREE ON THE FORD PROPERTY AT THE ESTATES WITH LAST YEAR’S FRUIT.
than 12 years to produce fruit (this was a technique also employed by Edison).
Of the new grove, about 20 percent have been replaced or removed. At installation, the young trees were bagged with a white net that served as a prophylactic to protect the trees from the Asian citrus psyllid – a tiny bug that carries the bacteria responsible for citrus greening or huanglongbing (HLB). As the trees increased in size, larger bags were installed to allow the trees to grow a trunk large enough to support the drilling required for the injection site.
Origins of the disease trace back to China in the late 1920s, with the disease first documented in Florida in 2005. It is possible that the disease was present earlier, because one of its symptoms – the
DR. FRITZ ROKA (LEFT), DIRECTOR OF THE CENTER FOR AGRIBUSINESS AT THE LUTGERT COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AT FGCU, WAS ORIGINALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR BRINGING THE UF TEAM TOGETHER WITH THE ESTATES’ CEO, MICHAEL FLANDERS, TO ENABLE THE INOCULATION PROJECT AT NO COST TO THE ESTATES. ROKA SHARED THAT UNTIL THE TREES REGAIN THEIR ECONOMIC VIABILITY WITH STABLE PRODUCTION OF FRUIT, FARMERS WILL BE HESITANT TO REPLANT THEIR ACREAGE WITH CITRUS. OBSERVING THE PROGRESS OF THE TREES AT THE ESTATES, ALONG WITH ROKA WAS RON HAMEL (RIGHT), EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER (RET.) OF THE GULF CITRUS GROWERS.
THE PROCESS OF INJECTING ANTIBIOTICS INTO THE CITRUS TREES.
discoloration of leaves – may have been mistaken for nutrient deficiency while concurrently, officials were busy attempting to unsuccessfully eradicate trees infected with the deadly citrus canker. Once the scientists realized that the discoloration was not evenly distributed on either side of the major vein on leaves, the random discoloration was named “blotchy mottle” and the disease was identified.
According to UF/IFAS, the popular and common periwinkle flower is easily infected with HLBcausing bacteria. Armed with this information, the readily grown plant was put through many trials of different treatments in efforts to find a cure. It turns out they responded very well to treatment with antibiotics.
As of today, there is no cure for citrus greening. Between the disease, the rapid value increase of farmlands for development and destructive hurricanes, Florida citrus production has fallen 90 percent from its highest production levels in the early 2000s.
SCIENTISTS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT,
DR. CAROLINE TARDIO, GABRIEL PUGINA (PH.D. CANDIDATE) AND DR. UTE ALBRECHT VISIT THE ESTATES.
While the disease has spread around the world, there are pockets that seem to have evaded the deadly insect. California, Europe and Chile have not yet reported the existence of the disease. Why did it hit Florida so hard? Probably because once it arrived, it was able to move without hindrance from grove to grove to grove. There are no large mountain ranges to interrupt its travel as in the areas just listed. Additionally, local weather is particularly hospitable to the Asian citrus psyllid, which prefers consistently warm temperatures and hurricane winds.
The application of antibiotics to stave off disease in trees has been used in Florida for nearly 70 years. In 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved foliar application of oxytetracycline (OTC) and streptomycin for citrus trees in commercial applications. It
DR. TARDIO AND GABRIEL PUGINA EXPLAIN
TWO INJECTORS ARE INSERTED INTO EACH TREE, NEAR THE GRAFT SITE.
THE CURRENT CITRUS GROVE ON THE HENRY FORD ESTATE PROPERTY IS PRODUCING CITRUS.
was later discovered that the absorption rates of antibiotics were limited through the leaves due to their thick waxy coatings. Finally, in 2022, the idea of injecting directly into the stems of the trees proved much more effective and the antibiotics were taken up through the tree via its xylem – the botanical component of a tree that takes up water and minerals.
Farmers have concocted their own cost-effective method for building injectors to apply the treatment. Pictured, Ph.D. candidate Gabe Pugina applies dual injectors to distribute the OTC more quickly. Each application takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the thirst of the tree. It may sound counterintuitive, but if the trees are well watered, they take
LEAVES ON CITRUS TREES SHOW PSYLLID (THE INSECT THAT SPREADS CITRUS GREENING) ACTIVITY.
up the drug much more quickly. Today, it costs farmers approximately $1.50 per tree, perhaps twice a year to administer the antibiotics. As opposed to losing their trees, it has been decided that this is a worthwhile expense – 10 trained farm hands can treat approximately 10,000 trees per grove in a day. Inoculations take place immediately after flowering and any old fruit is removed from the trees. There is a six-month waiting period following injections before new fruit is considered safe for human consumption.
To date, there is no do-it-yourself kit for the homeowner because procurement of agricultural antibiotics requires a pesticide license due to obvious concerns about the potential consequences of improper use or misapplication of antibiotics.
Two of the biggest fans of the work being undertaken by UF/IFAS/Immokalee recently
visited the estates to observe the progress. Dr. Fritz Roka, director of the Center for Agribusiness at the Lutgert College of Business at FGCU, was originally responsible for bringing the UF team together with the estates’ CEO, Michael Flanders, to enable the inoculation project at no cost to the estates. Dr. Roka shared that until the trees regain their economic viability with stable production of fruit, farmers will be hesitant to replant their acreage with citrus. Observing the progress of the trees at the estates, along with Roka was Ron Hamel, executive vice president
PH.D. CANDIDATE, GABE PUGINA, PREPARES AND INJECTS CITRUS AT THE ESTATES WITH ANTIBIOTICS TO HELP FIGHT CITRUS GREENING.
and general manager (ret.) of the Gulf Citrus Growers. Their dedication to the industry is obvious and it was wonderful to observe their satisfaction with the progress and growth exhibited within the Henry Ford Citrus Grove.
For anyone interested in the citrus research programs, IFAS/Immokalee is extending an invitation to their Citrus Open House to be held on Wednesday, November 19, where guests can meet the scientists and learn more about their research.
The Transformative Benefits of Consistent Massage Therapy
WHY ROUTINE BODYWORK IS MORE THAN A LUXURY—IT’S A LIFESTYLE
In today’s high-stress, always-on world, many of us are seeking effective, sustainable ways to care for our bodies and minds. While the occasional massage may offer momentary relief, consistent massage therapy brings long-lasting, transformative benefits. Here’s how incorporating massage into your regular wellness routine can make a powerful difference:
�� 1. Chronic Pain Relief & Management
Regular massage therapy can ease conditions like back pain, arthritis, sciatica, and fibromyalgia. Techniques such as deep tissue and trigger point massage help reduce inflammation, loosen tight muscles, and improve mobility—offering a natural, non-invasive solution for pain.
�� 2. Improved Circulation & Detoxification
Massage stimulates blood flow and encourages lymphatic drainage, which helps deliver nutrients more efficiently and remove metabolic waste. This not only speeds recovery from injury but also supports your immune and cardiovascular systems.
�� 3. Stress & Anxiety Reduction
Massage significantly reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone) while increasing feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Over time, this leads to a more balanced mood and greater emotional resilience.
쏘♂ 4. Enhanced Flexibility & Range of Motion
By reducing tension and increasing joint fluidity, massage can boost flexibility and help prevent injuries. Whether you’re an athlete or simply want to stay mobile, regular bodywork keeps you limber and strong.
�� 5. Better Sleep Quality
Struggling with sleep? Massage helps shift the body into a parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) state, promoting deeper, more restorative sleep. It’s especially helpful for those suffering from insomnia or sleep disturbances related to pain or stress.
�� 6. A Stronger Immune System
Reduced stress levels and improved lymphatic function mean your immune system can do its job more effectively. Consistent massage supports the body’s natural defense mechanisms—especially important during cold and flu season.
�� 7. Sharper Focus & Mental Clarity
Better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved circulation all contribute to improved cognitive function. Regular massage helps you feel more grounded, focused, and ready to tackle your day with a clear mind.
�� Make It a Habit, Not a Treat
True wellness comes with consistency. Whether it’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly, setting up a regular massage schedule helps your body and mind adapt and improve over time. Thankfully, there are businesses out there like Massage Envy that make your new routine both convenient and affordable! Massage therapy is not just about relaxation—it’s about restoration, resilience, and long-term health. Take the time to care for yourself consistently, and your body will thank you for years to come.
To book your next session or learn more about our discounted wellness packages, visit MassageEnvy.com or stop into one of our 6 Southwest Florida Massage Envy Locations.
This article is a paid advertisement. The content was provided by the sponsor and does not necessarily reflect the views of this community or Seabreeze Communications.
Katie’s Kitchen Creations
KATIE HEYSTEK
Who wants to heat up the kitchen in July? Not I! Summer is here! It’s time for cookouts, barbecues, pool parties and picnics! Happy eating!
This recipe is popular with kids and adults and can be altered many ways. It makes terrific leftovers too!
6 to 8 hours to make • Serves 6 to 8 (or more)
INGREDIENTS
1 2- to 5-pound pork butt/pork shoulder roast (with excess fat cap trimmed)
Salt, pepper, garlic powder and your favorite all-purpose seasoning or barbecue rub
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
Approximately 12 ounces liquid (apple juice, Dr. Pepper or other soda, beer, broth, etc.)
3/4 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce (more to taste and to top) (I use Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey.)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
VARIATIONS
KATIE’S
SLOW COOKER
PULLED PORK (BBQ)
DIRECTIONS
1. Layer onions in bottom of slow cooker.
2. Place meat on top of onions. If necessary, cut in half to fit.
3. Season meat with salt, pepper, garlic and seasoning. (You can use any seasonings or spices you like.)
4. Add your liquid of choice and vinegar.
5. Cover and cook 8 to 10 hours on low or 6 hours on high.
6. Transfer meat to a cutting board or large bowl and pull apart into shreds using two forks or meat claws. (If there is a lot of liquid in the slow cooker, I drain most of it but save the onions.)
7. Return meat to the slow cooker.
8. Stir barbecue sauce gently into the shredded pork and onions.
9. Spoon meat on to buns with a slotted spoon or tongs.
10. Serve on your favorite rolls or Texas Toast and top with coleslaw of your choice, if desired.
• In place of pork butt/shoulder you can use pork chops or southern-style spare ribs, boneless chicken (breast, thigh or both), beef (roast or cheaper steak cuts) as well.
• You can add the barbecue sauce after it’s on the buns instead, so leftovers may be used for other things.
• For tacos or nachos you can use peppers (fresh or jarred) and no barbecue sauce. (Add cumin or packaged taco/fajita seasoning.)
• Experiment and adjust your seasonings, sauces and liquids to change flavors for tacos, fajitas, hoagies, Phillys, etc.
Catch The Action
CAPT. BILL RUSSELL
JULY ON THE WATER
As we progress into the heat of summer, fishing both inshore and offshore can still be good, just prepare for hot days and keep an eye on the weather. Many anglers prefer to get an early start and off the water ahead of the midday heat and afternoon storms.
Inshore, the mangrove snapper bite will continue to heat up. A variety of baits including shrimp, pilchards, herring, small pinfish, and cut bait will entice fish around docks, piers, bridges, under deeper mangrove shorelines, oyster bars, sand potholes, and rock ledges in and near the passes. Mangrove snapper is one of our tastier fish and fights hard for their size. They make a great summer target. They are leader and hook shy, if the water is clear, it’s often necessary to lighten the tackle. Inshore, I go with 2 feet or more of 12- to 20-pound fluorocarbon leader and a 1/0 circle hook or smaller.
The best snook and redfish action will come on days with strong tides. They can often be caught together around docks, shorelines, and structure around the gulf passes, as well as oyster bars and shoreline overhangs on the higher tides. Season for spotted sea trout and redfish is open, while snook season is closed. As the water warms
over summer months, some of the better action for trout will come from 4- to 8-foot depths in areas with a grassy or sand/grass mottled bottom.
Calm summer mornings will give good opportunities to run offshore. To the best of my knowledge, American red snapper season is open for the month of July for those willing to make the long run offshore. Please don’t take my word and check regulations before venturing out. It looks like both red and gag grouper seasons are closed.
To get updated on grouper, snapper, redfish, snook, sea trout and all current fishing regulations go to www.myfwc. com . Or download the Fish Rules app onto your phone.
Closer to land, wrecks and reefs can be productive with everything from snapper to barracuda to giant goliath grouper. Anchoring up current of structure with a fresh chum bag is preferred. A variety of baits is a good idea as well as an arsenal of rods rigged and ready for light to heavy action.
For fun and fast action offshore, look for bonito and Spanish mackerel harassing bait schools in depths from 30 to 80 feet. Silver spoons or Tuna Jets in various colors can bring instant hookups when trolled around feeding activity. Watch for birds and surface commotion to locate the fish. Also look around the artificial reefs. Spanish mackerel are also plentiful around the gulf passes and inshore around schooling baitfish.
Sharks are another summertime favorite. Varieties of species both large and small are common catches both inshore and off. While they are a nuisance for some, many anglers target them for their fighting ability. Sharks play an important role in our ecosystem; please make every effort to quickly release them unharmed. Every kid loves to catch a shark of any size, now is a good time, just make sure and do it safely for both the angler and the shark.
For charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service and “Catch the Action” with Capt. Bill Russell, call or text (239) 410-8576, website: www.fishpineisland.com , email: gcl2fish@live.com .
Capt. Bill Russell is a native and lifelong resident of Pine Island who has spent his entire life fishing the waters surrounding Pine Island and Southwest Florida. For the past 29 years, Bill has been a professional fishing guide who takes pride in customizing each trip to ensure everyone on board has a great time and will return again. Come join us and “Catch the Action.”
From The Desk Of Sheriff Carmine Marceno...
SEXTORTION AND OUR CHILDREN
It often begins in a friendly manner. Your child/teen meets someone online and the conversation begins. The meeting can occur in a messaging platform, through online video games, a text … virtually anywhere.
The child believes that she/he is communicating with a peer, perhaps someone interested in developing a relationship, and begins to develop a bond with this individual.
To many adults, the concept of “bonding” or establishing a relationship with a person that we have never met, and have only exchanged text with, is nearly inconceivable. To a child or a teen, it is commonplace.
Law enforcement, across the nation, has seen a significant increase in cases of “sextortion;” a crime in which individuals convince children to send inappropriate, explicit photos and then threaten to post them on social media sites, email them to family members, share with classmates, etc.
These criminals demand money, sexual favors and/or additional sexually inappropriate videos/photos.
In addition to threats to share these sensitive photos, these criminals have indicated that
they know where the victim resides, where family members work, what school they attend … and threaten harm.
Imagine the fear experienced by a young child or teenager caught in this position.
They feel unable to approach their parents or guardians having shared inappropriate photos. They are horrified to think about classmates seeing these explicit pictures. They are fearful that harm will come to them, to family members, pets, loved ones, etc.
As a result, they believe that fulfilling the demands made upon them is their only option. The demands are horrific.
It is highly recommended that parents and guardians discuss this crime with their children as soon as possible. Victims can be virtually any age; waiting until they’re “older” might not be prudent.
In reality, this is a technologically advanced version of the “don’t talk to strangers” conversation that we have all received as children.
“I recently read a story about a child who mistakenly sent inappropriate pictures to someone online. It must have been awful for that child.”
Continental Women’s Club
The Continental Women’s Club will hold its monthly luncheon meeting on Thursday, August 7 at 11:30 a.m. Our program will feature Miriam Ortiz, the founder of the Gladiolus Food Pantry, located in Harlem Heights. The mission of the Gladiolus Food Pantry is to reduce hunger by providing healthy, nutritious food while treating everyone with dignity and respect. In 2024 the pantry provided 8,263 households with over 1,000,000 pounds of food.
The meetings are being held at The Hideaway Country Club, 5670 Trailwinds Drive, Fort Myers 33907. The cost to attend the luncheon is $26. Please call Liz Paul at (239) 691-7561 by the deadline of Tuesday, July 22 for meal selection and to make a reservation.
Continental Women’s Club is a social, cultural, and philanthropic organization established in 1975, with membership open to women living in Lee County. We have many special events and interest groups within our club that you can participate in for social and educational purposes throughout the month and the year. In addition, we contribute to many local charities and award two scholarships each year to senior high school girls who plan on furthering their education.
“Hey, has anyone that you know ever sent an embarrassing picture to someone only to have it shared at school?”
While the conversation is indeed a difficult one, find a way to open the door to this discussion. Ask your child if they realize how sharing sexually explicit material online can lead to a serious predicament. Ask them if they can imagine how another individual could use that photo/video to harm them.
Assure them that should they know of “anyone” in such a dilemma, they should always feel comfortable sharing that
information with you. Children need to understand that they are not alone and that you are there to help.
Parents should immediately reach out to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (800-CALL-FBI) when learning about incidents involving sextortion.
32 Years And Counting: United Way Surpasses Annual Fundraising Goal
CAMPAIGN’S MESSAGE OF “UNITED WE’RE STRONGER” STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY
United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades met its $11.3 million annual campaign goal, marking the 32nd consecutive year that supporters have rallied to support United Way and its partner agencies.
United Way President and CEO Jeannine Joy, along with Campaign Cochairs Dr. Scott Nygaard, community volunteer, and Dan O’Berski of Trinity Commercial Group, were able to make the exciting announcement on May 13 at the annual Volunteer Appreciation event. This year’s campaign – United We’re Stronger – raised $11.3 million through pledges from employees of local pacesetter companies, businesses, and generous individuals.
“Our annual fundraising goal reflects the increasing needs of our partner agencies, which grow almost
every year,” Joy said. “To continue reaching or exceeding this target annually, especially during tough economic times, is nothing short of phenomenal. We are incredibly fortunate to live in a community where those who have the means to help are ready and willing to lend a hand to those who need our support.”
All money raised through the campaign stays in the local community to support the United Way human service network of partner agencies, which include Harry Chapin Food Bank, Community Cooperative, Abuse Counseling
UNITED WAY CEO AND PRESIDENT JEANNINE JOY SPEAKING AT THE VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION BREAKFAST
and Treatment, Children’s Advocacy Center, Literacy Council Gulf Coast, Boys & Girls Clubs, FISH of SanCap and dozens of additional organizations that serve a diverse range of needs in the community.
Throughout the campaign the “United We’re Stronger” theme was everpresent with O’Berski and Nygaard portraying the iconic Saturday Night Live characters Hans and Franz. And like Hans and Franz the campaign cochairs “pumped” the community up to help it reach another record.
“It’s always encouraging to see the community reach that number,” said O’Berski. “It’s a big number and it keeps on growing. Our community keeps on growing, so we know that the need keeps on growing. We keep asking and the community steps up and makes it happen.”
Nearly 52 percent of donations during the 2024/25 campaign originated through United Way Pacesetters, which consisted of 154 businesses and organizations that launched internal fundraising campaigns last fall.
This year, United Way recognized 180 individuals as Alexis de Tocqueville Society members, a designation awarded to supporters whose philanthropic gifts make the biggest impact on local nonprofits. Tocqueville Society members
LCEC ACCEPTING AN AWARD AT THE UNITED WAY VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION BREAKFAST
contribute a minimum of $10,000 to United Way during the campaign.
About United Way
In addition to raising funds for human service organizations in our community, United Way promotes partnerships and collaborations among agencies, helping them to work together focusing on issues that continue to improve lives. United Way’s mission as a volunteer-driven organization is dedication to improving the quality of life for all people in our community. United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades was established in 1957 and over $243 million has been raised and distributed since that time. For more information, please call (239) 4332000 or visit UnitedWayLee.org .
RESOURCE HUB
ASSOCIATION PRESIDENTS
Admiral’s Isle ................................ Jeff McGinty
Bellavista George Hemsey
Coronado Geoff Smith
Courtyard Homes ...................... Tiffany Gaede
Crescent Cove ......................... Sam Schiphorst
Crooked Pond
Carol Tsilimos
Edgewater Mike Sklorenko
Grande Cay ....................................... David Lein
Gulf Harbour Master Chris Cope
Gulf Harbour Marina Dana Snyder
Harbour Landings I Megan Martin
Harbour Landings II ............. Thomas Broadie
Harbour Links
Long Pond
Joe Pierce
Millie Johnson
Mariposa ....................................... Steve Perseo
Mill Pond ................................ Maureen Herold
Osprey Landing William Crouch
Osprey Point Jay Ducharme
Palmas Del Sol ........................... Steve Hancox
Rivers Edge Ron Harrington
Sagamore George Sorensen
Seaside Estates Richard Edelman
Tamarind Cay ........................... Harvey Gordon
The Shores I Gene Marshall
The Shores II Mark Anderson
The Shores III ............................... Dave Reimer
The Shores IV ................................ John Albano
GULF
HARBOUR COUNTRY CLUB
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
William Lambert President
Kim Bauman Vice President
Jack Bourget Treasurer
Patti Buckingham ............................... Secretary
Scott Bassett Governor
Bruce Jasurda Governor
George Johnson ................................. Governor
Reymond Sargenti ............................. Governor
Michael Sklorenko Governor
GULF
HARBOUR MARINA
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President Doug Duncan
Vice President Stephen Patterson
Secretary Mike Needler
Treasurer ....................................... Craig Anderson
Marina Appearance Committee David Kelley
GULF HARBOUR
MASTER ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President Chris Cope
Vice President ............................. Sam Schiphorst
Treasurer/Secretary ............................ Carl Pecko
Director Carol Gillespie
Director
Rip Riordon
Director ................................................ Geoff Smith
Director John Wilson
COMMUNITY NEWS
Bellavista
Coronado
Courtyard Homes
Crooked Pond
Edgewater
Grande Cay
Harbour Landings I
Harbour Landings II
Harbour Links
Long Pond
Marblehead Manor
Mariposa
Mill Pond
Osprey Landing
Osprey Point
Palmas Del Sol
Paramount
Rivers Edge
Sagamore
Seaside Estates
Tamarind Cay
The Shores I
The Shores II
The Shores III
If you want your community news included here, please send articles and pictures to GulfHarbourReport@gmail.com by the 4th of each month.
GULF HARBOUR WEBSITES
GULF HARBOUR MASTER ASSOCIATION
BOARD
MEETINGS
will now be routinely held at Suitor Middleton Cox & Associates offices, 15751 San Carlos Blvd #8, Fort Myers, FL 33908. Meeting date and times will continue to be posted on the signs at the north and south entrances.
ATTENTION ASSOCIATION BOARD
MEMBERS
When your officers change, be sure to notify us so that we can keep both www.GulfHarbour33908.com and the Soundings updated.
GULF HARBOUR MASTER ASSOCIATION • www.GulfHarbour33908.com
GRANDE CAY • www.grandecay.com
HARBOUR LANDINGS I • www.harbourlandings.org
HARBOUR LINKS • www.harbourlinks.net
MARIPOSA • http://detaliassociates.com/secure/login.aspx
PALMAS DEL SOL • www.palmasdelsol.net
PARAMOUNT • http://www.athomenet.com/theparamount
TAMARIND CAY • https://smca.cincwebaxis.com/cinc/home/
GULF HARBOUR COUNTRY CLUB • www.gulfharbour.com
MARINA • www.gulfharbourmarina.com
YACHT CLUB • www.gulfharbouryachtclub.org
RESOURCE HUB
NUMBERS
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SEEKING SOUNDINGS WRITERS
Do you have an interesting story to share?
The Soundings is always looking for new and talented writers to submit articles on events, the social scene, restaurants, movies, family matters, village life, etc…
Now is your chance to share your interests with the community. You can contribute each month, just once, or once in a while.
• Are you involved in any particular activities in Gulf Harbour or around town?
• Can you share your knowledge about a specific topic or hobby?
• Do you have (or did you retire from) an interesting career?
• Are you the person who always knows what to do/where to go in our area?
• Do you like to take pictures or draw cartoons?
• Can you pass along a favorite recipe?
If you answered yes to any of the above or have an idea of your own, you can submit your articles (and photos) at GulfHarbourReport@gmail.com.
GOLF CART RULES REMINDER
Gulf Harbour has had several incidents and issues involving golf carts. Reports have included underage driving, wrongway driving, driving on pedestrian and bike paths, and driving under the influence.
Some excerpts from our Rules and Regulations:
Any member, family member, or guest may operate a motorized vehicle (i.e. cars, trucks, golf carts, motorized scooters, etc.) on Master Association property as long as the driver is at least 16 years of age, has a valid driver’s license, and has proof of vehicle insurance.
All golfers with golf carts should refrain from using pedestrian and bicycle pathways, if at all possible, especially if a golf cart path is available in that area and the golf cart driver is playing golf at the time. When use of a Gulf Harbour road is necessary, ATVs, and golf carts utilized for other than golf activities should be driven in the same direction as vehicle traffic and comply with all rules that apply to vehicles.
All Florida rules of the road must be followed when driving motor vehicles within Gulf Harbour.
Please consider the above when driving your golf cart at Gulf Harbour.
RULES & REGULATIONS REMINDER
Lakes: No boating, fishing or swimming in any lake within Gulf Harbour.
RESOURCE HUB
Eagle Perch Island: No fishing.
Marina: No recreational swimming or fishing in the marina. No fish or other marine life of any kind shall be cleaned, prepared or processed in any manner on the property.
Regulations are fully supported by: Gulf Harbour Master Association Inc., Gulf Harbour Golf and Country Club Inc., Gulf Harbour Marina Condominium Association Inc.
DISCLAIMER
REMINDER
All Dogs MUST be leashed at ALL times in and on Gulf Harbour Properties.
The Soundings is a newsletter published for the benefit of the residents of Gulf Harbour. Seabreeze Communications Group assists in providing publishing, printing and advertising services. The content is that of the authors which should not be construed to be representations, opinions or views of the Gulf Harbour Master Association Inc., or its management, officers or directors or Seabreeze Communications Group. Additionally, the paid advertising in the Soundings should not be construed as an endorsement of any advertised product or service. Finally, none of the content of the Soundings may be reproduced for any purpose nor can the name GHY&CC Homeowner’s Association or similar modification be used in any way without the express prior written consent of the GH Master Association Inc Board of Directors.