By By PAULETTE LeBLANC / pleblanc@breezenewspapers.com
Island community mourns Leoma Lovegrove
Pine Island Fishing Tournament & Derby scheduled for May 18
Once again, the Matlacha Hookers will be hosting the 24th Annual Pine Island Fishing Tournament & Derby at Jug Creek Marina on Sunday, May 18. This long held tradition is open to anyone, even those who may have elementary school aged children who would like to fish, although it is open to the whole family and it’s also free of charge. Former Matlacha Hookers’ Madame Donna Jo Ruscik said this event still has room for sponsors and that it is especially good for Pine Islanders who are more than ready for the Annual Fishing Derby, since the previous hurricane season pushed the event forward from November 2024 to this coming May. “The Fishing Tournament is on Saturday. The ...
Forecast: ‘Above average’ hurricane season predicted
Commission enacts burn ban for all of Lee County
Lee County has enacted a burn ban for unincorporated Lee County and municipalities effective immediately due to increasingly dry conditions throughout Southwest Florida. The county’s ordinance bans “outdoor burning ignition sources,” including campfires, bonfires and trash burning. Grills for food are not included. Officials ask all county residents to be mindful of dry conditions and to use good judgment to mitigate potential for significant wildfires. The Florida Forest Service offers residents information and tips at: • Be Wildfire Ready: www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Wildland-Fire/Fire-Prevention/Be-Wildfire-Ready • Ready, Set, Go! ...
MCA to host free Butterflies and Band event on May 4
The Matlacha Civic Association invites the community to a free event, Butterflies and a Band event, Sunday May 4, starting at 4 p.m., at the RE/MAX parking lot, 4574 Pine Island Road in Matlacha. The island artists hand-painted butterflies will be displayed while the crowd-pleaser, Fractal Brothers, perform live. Islander Jessica Norman will sing “Love is like a Butterfly.” The Island Angel Awards will be presented to outstanding community members for their leadership and support. This magical event will also be in remembrance of Marylou Sharp, who will forever be in our hearts. Ending the event, over 300 LED butterflies will be illuminated. Come and enjoy this ...
GPIWA issues notice of water rate increase on the islands
Due to the unprecedented inflation over the last five years caused by COVID-19 lockdowns, supply chain disturbances and insurance increases due to Hurricanes Ian, Helen, and Milton, the Greater Pine Island Water Association board of directors, after reviewing the 2024 GPIWA rate study, voted to support a 15% rate increase for the calendar year 2025, as advertised on the front page of The Pine Island Eagle on 11/27/2025. This 15% rate increase will take effect starting May 1, 2025. According to a press release from Mikes Maillakakis, PE, general manager for the GPIWA, the real dollar cost of the 15% rate increase is dependent on how much water is used. As an example, a ...
‘Springtime Delights - A Family Friendly High Tea’ May 3 at Fishers of Men Lutheran Church
Fishers of Men Lutheran Church invites the public to a springtime Saturday of fellowship and refreshments at its Church High Tea, featuring exquisite teas, delectable treats and mimosas. Islanders and visitors are urged to take a break from their busy schedule and enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable afternoon at Springtime Delights - A Family Friendly High Tea in May Saturday, May 3, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fishers of Men Lutheran Church is at 10360 Stringfellow Road, St. James City. Please call the church office at, 239-283-1170 for reservations on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings, between 8 a.m. and noon. Suggested donation is $15 per person.
