Environmental authors, experts to headline lecture series
From bird brains to world renowned nature photographers, python hunting to Indigenous Floridians, the 20th annual “Ding” Darling Winter Lecture Series will cover diverse and fascinating topics from Jan 9 through March 20
The free lectures will take place in the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor & Education Center auditorium on Sanibel, with all but one to be held twice daily at 10 a m and 1 p m
The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge
(DDWS) co-hosts the lectures with the refuge and through financial support from sponsors “We are honored to welcome such an impressive roll call of See LeCTuRe SeRIeS, page 21
A presentation by Clyde and Niki Butcher on Jan. 9 will kick off the 20th annual “Ding” Darling Winter Lecture Series at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel. REFUGE/DDWS
Act of terrorism in New Orleans hits close
to home
Canterbury grads among injured in incident that left 15 dead
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com
What’s being called an “act of terrorism” in New Orleans during a New Year’s celebration turned deadly saw 15 killed and 35 injured, with two teens from Fort Myers among those harmed
Elle Eisele and Steele Idelson, both 19 and 2023 graduates of Canterbury School in Fort Myers, were in the French Quarter District early on New Year’s Day when the
See CLOSe TO HOMe, page 21
Matthias Hauswirth, of New Orleans, prays on the street near the scene where a vehicle drove into a crowd on New Orleans' Canal and Bourbon streets on Jan 1
AP PHOTO/GEORGE WALKER IV
Flu season off to an early s tart
By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers
com
Feeling under the weather?
You’re not alone
Lee County’s leading healthcare system is reporting an u p t i c k i n influenza and respiratory illness cases over the last few weeks, before the usual peak of flu season
Epidemiology Mary Beth Saunders said the system has seen an influx of individuals exhibiting flu-like symptoms
“For this flu season, we’re seeing a much higher spike than we have seen in years past, early in the year,” she said. “Just a lot of influenza in our community Though not necessarily a lot of people having to be hospitalized It is concerning when you see such high numbers ” From Dec 22-28, Lee Health reported
VOLuMe 63, NuMBeR 8
OPINIONS
Web Poll
Previous Question With recovery ongoing from the recent hurricanes, do you expect a normal snowbird/winter season?
∫ Yes, 7.14% (1)
∫ Maybe, 14 29% (2)
∫ No, 78.57% (11)
Current Question How did you celebrate Christmas this year?
∫ Home with family/friends
∫ Traveled/vacation
∫ Went to beach/out on boat.
∫ Worked/volunteered
∫ Other
Help make it a happy new year
Among the many hopes and promises for 2025 is a better tomorrow
The big things. Shelter
Food on the table
Services, programs, medical care for those who need them
The little things that we would not call luxuries:
Low-cost/no cost places to go
Support for the arts, for the environment, for educational opportunities, for the community around us
We can tell ourselves and truthfully, too that we pay plenty for “the government” to fix things and that it should
Or we can look at the needs around us and make a difference
Today and of our choice
Actually, we can do both hold politicians and bureaucrats accountable for promises made and money spent while also offering time or much-needed monetary support to organizations that have a direct impact on the lives of our neighbors and, yes, our own as well
Editorial
Over the past few weeks, numerous yearend pleas have been sent our way in hope of garnering donations
The requests run a full gamut every-
increased number of those who are homeless many as a result of Hurricane Ian and other storms and rent increases that followed to requests to help fill food bank shelves, provide medical care or save animals through adoption or habitat protection
homeless, feed those who are hungry, help those who are abused, those experiencing substance abuse disorder or any health crisis, those needing a hand up to go back to work or continue their education
There also are organizations that coordinate and/or supplement giving to all of the above and more
impacted quality-of-life programs
Numerous Southwest Florida organiza-
DeSantis’ unexpected veto of a statewide $32 million legislative appropriation for the arts Of that, $1 8 million was local, affecting the Barrier Island Group for the Arts (BIG ARTS), “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge, Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, and Shell Museum and Educational Foundation (Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium) on the islands alone.
There are a lot of organizations here doing a lot of very good things
For those wishing for a happier new year, we urge a little action, a donation, however small, to a cause of your choice
Collectively, we can make a difference
Collectively, we can not only build a better tomorrow, but a better today Island Reporter editorial
A better way to fund law enforcement
When I think about the role of government, I am reminded of a principle that President R e a g a n o f t e n c h a m p i
trust but verify We trust our institutions to work for the
ensure that they operate transparently and fairly It is with this in mind that I propose a new approach to funding law enforcement in our county:
County Sheriff’s Office
This isn’t just about dollars and cents it’s about trust, fairness, and giving voters the transparency they deserve
Why we
need a law enforcement MSTU
Our Sheriff’s Office provides an essential service: protecting our families and keeping our neighborhoods safe But over the years, funding for the Sheriff’s Office has grown so rapidly that it often consumes nearly all the n e w r e v e n u e g e n e r a t e d b y o u r c o u n t y ’ s growing tax base This forces us as commissioners to hold other departments flat or even make cuts, affecting everything from emergency services to parks and funding road projects through our Growth Increment Fund (GIF).
This isn’t about whether the Sheriff’s
Office deserves adequate funding it absolutely does It’s about creating a fair and transparent way to manage those funds so that every department in our county has a chance to thrive, not just survive
Transparency for taxpayers
One of the most common questions I hear as a commiss i o n e r i s : “ H o w
o u approve the Sheriff spending so much to put his name on all of those cars?” The truth is, we as commissioners don’t get to approve or even see expenses at that level of detail Once the Sheriff’s budget is approved, how those funds are spent is entirely at the discretion of the Sheriff C r e
M
U
o r l a w enforcement does not mean an increase in taxes It simply creates a new line item on your bill, so you have a clear picture of how
Sheriff’s Office And for the first time, voters could ask the Sheriff directly about specific expenses, from patrol car branding to equipment purchases, holding the office accountable in a meaningful way
Fair ness across the board
Vision rooted in accountability, trust
Ronald Reagan also reminded us that government’s first duty is to protect the people, not to run their lives This proposal does exactly that it protects taxpayers by giving them a direct line of sight into how their money is spent It protects fairness by balancing the needs of all county services And it protects our community by ensuring that law enforcement has the dedicated funding it needs to keep us safe
This is not about politics; it’s about good governance. It’s about creating a system where everyone taxpayers, commissioners, and the Sheriff’s Office can work together with clarity and accountability
L
change for the betterment of our county Together, we can build a future that is transparent, fair, and rooted in the principles of accountability and trust
Brian Hamman holds the District 4 seat o n t h e L e e C o u n t y B o a r d o f C o u n t y Commissioners.
Brian Hamman Guest Commentary
CEPD to hold final meeting on bayside project
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers co
T h e C a p t i v a E r o s i o
Prevention District will host its last public meeting on the Captiva Bayside Adaptation Plan this week, which will be run by the engineering firm selected for the project
The fourth meeting will t place on Jan 9 from 1 to 2:3 p
in the Wakefield Room at the 'Tween ters Island Resort & Spa on aptiva, as well as virtually via Zoom for those in the community unable to attend in-person
Adaptation Plan is a proactive trategy aimed at identifying
If you go
What
Captiva Bayside Adaptation Plan public outreach meeting
When Jan 9 from 1 to 2:30 p m
Where 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva, and virtually via Zoom
Details
Open to the community; no reservations required
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com
Th e C a p t i v a C i v i c A s s o c i a t i o n
(CCA) will kick off its second art exhibit of the season this week with an opening reception, plus host a fundraiser to benefit FISH of SanibelCaptiva's pet food pantry
“Wild Connections” will be on display from Jan 9 through Feb 13 at the CCA gallery inside of the Captiva Civic Center on Captiva It will feature pieces by local artists Rachel Pierce and Rena Martinson In addition, the 2nd Annual Captiva Dog Party will take place on Jan 11 from 2 to 5 p m
'Wild Connections'
An Art Opening and Reception for the exhibition will be held on Jan 9 from 5 to 7 p m The evening will feature live m u s i c , l i g h t f a r e a n d r e f r e s h m e n t s While the event is free, RSVPs are requested
T h e C C A r e p o r t e d t h a t a r t f o r
Martinson has always been a passion
“It's pulled at the inner core of who she is,” it shared “It's brought her out of dark places, filled the void of boredom, woken her early in the morning excited to put color onto canvas and kept her up all night in a storm of ideas ”
Martinson has been disabled with doubt for for a lot of her artistic career
“There have been low points and towels thrown in, but then she has an idea
If you go What Art Opening and Reception: “Wild Connections” When Jan 9 from 5 to 7 p m Where Captiva Civic Center, 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva Details Free to the public, but RSVPs requested
If you go What
2nd Annual Captiva Dog Party When Jan 11 from 2 to 5 p m Where Captiva Civic Center, 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva Tickets Free for dogs and $25 for their owners
and is pulled right back, stronger and more intensely than ever,” the CCA reported “She may not believe in calling herself an artist, but believes in those heart strings that pull her back to keep practicing over and over and hoping that at any moment she will feel the spark, the light, the talent ”
By STAFF REPORT
trepecki@breezenewspapers com
A coalition seeking to maintain the longtime building height and density limitations on Captiva provided updates on its legal actions.
On Jan 2, Protect Captiva reported t h
opposing oral arguments on the Motion
County and South Seas regarding the 2003 settlement agreement The county's attorney did not speak on Dec 18, leaving the resort's attorney to make the argument The Captiva Civic Association's (CCA) attorney responded to South Seas Both parties supplemented their arguments that were made in the motion papers
“At the close of the hearing, the judge said that he was initially inclined to decide the Lee County/South Seas motion from the bench, but chose to wait given the number and complexity of the issues,” the coalition shared “He said that he took nine pages of copious notes during the arguments ”
RENA MARTINSON
RACHEL PIERCE
County library system offering virtual programming
The Lee County Library System, which includes the Captiva Memorial Library, is offering the following free virtual programming: Adult programs
∫ Jan 9: Online Spanish Conversation Club from 6 to 7 p m
Are you ready to take your Spanish-speaking skills to the next level? Improve your fluency by chatting with adults Practice speaking Spanish with others on a variety of topics, including current events and everyday situations Intermediate to advanced Spanish-speaking skills are recommended in order to get the most out of the session Registration is required before Jan 9 at 6 p m
∫ Jan. 15: Online Author Event with TJ Klune from 7 to 8 p.m.
Come have a magical moment with New York Times bestselling author TJ Klune as he chats about his Cerulean Chronicles, with a special emphasis on his new book in the series, “Somewhere Beyond the S e a ” T
Registration is required
D
www leelibrary net
The Captiva Memorial Library remains closed post-storms
The library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva
CEPD
From page 6
and implementing nature-based solutions, infrastructure projects and policy measures to mitigate the impacts of e r o s i o n c a u s e d b y r e c u r r e n t f l o o d i n g , ” c o n s u l t a n t
APTIM reported
“This hybrid meeting offers an opportunity to discuss the Adaptation Plan, review project concepts and visuals, and engage with fellow community members,” it added “We look forward to your participation ”
The Zoom login details for the meeting are as follows:
CCA
From page 6
For Martinson, artwork is a process
But through the process, she hopes to create pieces that convey a sense of love, togetherness, interconnectedness, nature, beauty, whimsy, quirkiness and humility
“She wants the viewer to feel the humanness of each brushstroke, pen line, marker fade and color combination,” it shared
Pierce owns the Rachel Pierce Art Gallery on Sanibel
“Rachel Pierce paints bright, modern original art in oil and acrylic reflecting the n a t u r a
found only in tropical Southwest Florida,” the CCA reported
H e r a r t w o r k r a n g e s f r o m a b s t r a c t beachscapes to underwater tableaus.
“ R a c h e l ' s c o l o r f u l c o a s t a l c r e a t i o n s
Update
From page 6
The judge asked both parties to submit competing proposed orders on the motion by Dec 30
To view the CCA order, visit this article for free at http://www captivasanibel com/
“However, there was an interesting development,” Protect Captiva continued
“Given the unavailability of Lee County and South Seas attorneys, CCA's own
M o t i o n f o r S u m m a r y J u d g m
n t w a s scheduled to be heard on March 6 But the judge wanted to move the case on a much faster track ”
The judge reset the oral argument on the CCA's motion for Jan 10
“Shortly after Jan 10, we should know if the settlement agreement which provides that 'the total number of dwelling units on South Seas Resorts is limited to 912' and that 'no building permits may be issued that will cause that number to be exceeded at any time' is a valid and e
One tap mobile: +13052241968, 93057233453#, *769688# US
In addition, residents and stakeholders are invited to take an online survey
“To share your experiences and ideas related to flood-
feature swimming sea creatures, like loggerhead turtles, manatee, jellyfish, sharks, seahorses and octopi,” it shared “Soaring shorebirds and wading flamingos, technicolor palm trees and florals, gators, mollusks, mermaids and more.”
Pierce sells and exhibits her fine art originals at her gallery, as well as online
The CCA noted that she also produces collectible prints and notecards
Bank of the Islands is the 2024-25 Art Show Series sponsor
Captiva Dog Par ty
A dog and dog owner luau and social, it will feature live music from Steely Pan, along with Kalua pork sliders, fresh coconut water and tiki cocktails, as well as an unlimited “Poo Poo” platter for the pups
shared
Protect Captiva reported that the county and resort are arguing that the county never had the right to sign the agreement in 2003 and that the court does not have the authority to enforce it today
“CCA, a signatory on the 2003 settlement agreement, believes that agreement i s c l e a r o n i
enforced,” the coalition shared
Orders submitted in state case
Protect Captiva reported that the CCA and city of Sanibel have submitted their Joint Proposed Final Order to the judge
o
Administrative Hearings (DOAH) case
“The Lee Plan requires Lee County to '
maintain the historic low-density residential development pattern of Captiva, to 'continue' existing land use patterns, and to 'limit' development to that which is in keeping with the historic development
The 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa is at 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva
Proceeds from the event will help to restock FISH's pet supplies for the new year “ D i d y o u k n o w F I S H d i s t r i b u t e s
10,000 pounds of dog food to our islands' seniors, residents and employees each year? That's a lot of kibble,” the CCA reported
There will be donated prizes for dogs and their owners, including a steak dinner for two, mystery box of pet goodies, grooming products and a massage, portrait session, private cruise for five and more
Raffle tickets are available in advance and at the door
E v e n t s p o n s o r s i n c l u d e B a i l e y ' s General Store, BringFido and Pierce's Paw Paradise
pattern on Captiva,” the coalition shared “ C C A c l a i m s t h a t t h e L a n d Development Code amendments passed by Lee County to exempt South Seas and only South Seas from the density and height limits that apply to the rest of Captiva violate the Plan,” it continued
A decision in the DOAH case should be issued on or about Jan. 13.
To view the joint final order, visit this article for free at http://www captivasanibel com/
Resor t rezoning application
Protect Captiva reported that the new owners of 120 acres of the 304-acre South Seas applied to rezone the property to build 196 two- to four-bedroom condominiums and two hotels with 435 total rooms
“Currently, 272 units are permitted on the 120 acres now owned by Timbers Resorts, the Ronto Group and Wheelock Street Capital,” the coalition shared “The
Attendees are encouraged to put on their best muumuu dress, grass skirt or Hawaiian shirt
Dogs are free, and tickets are $25 for their two-legged friends
To purchase tickets for the Captiva Dog Party or make a reservation for the “Wild Connections” Art Opening and Reception, visit https://ccacaptiva org/ or Captiva Civic Association on Eventbrite
For more information, visit online or contact the CCA at 239-472-2111
Free and open to the public for viewing, the CCA gallery hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a m to 1 p m and Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 2 p m , unless otherwise posted
The Captiva Civic Center is at 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva
application seeks permission to build 631 new units increasing the total number of units on South Seas from the 912 allowable number of units to 1,271 ” The rezoning application will be heard by a Lee County Hearing Examiner starting on Feb 14 and continuing on Feb 2021 in the commission chambers in Fort Myers. The Hearing Examiner will take testimony from expert witnesses, plus from any members of the public who wish to speak about it
“After taking testimony, the Hearing Examiner will issue a recommended decision, which will be presented to the (Lee C o u n t y ) B o a r d o f C o u n t y Commissioners,” Protect Captiva reported
“Only members of the public who test i f y b e f o r e t h e H e a r i n g E x a m i n e r i
February will be able to speak to the board of county commissioners when the rec-
Examiner comes before the county commission for a final decision,” it added
I s l a n d R e p o r t e r c a p t i v a s a n i b e l . c o m W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , J a n u a r y 8 , 2 0 2 5 ■ P a g e 8
BUSINESS
Business Notes
South Seas hosting job fair
In partnership with Indeed, South Seas will host an interactive job fair today, Jan 8, from 11 a m to 1 p m and from 3:30 to 5:30 p m at The Ranch Concert Hall and Saloon, at 2158 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers
It will feature a live food and beverage action station, music and interactive stations designed to guide applicants through experiences and introduce them to the hiring teams and match them to available positions.
South Seas is hiring for a variety of positions, including restaurant manager, chef, bartenders and servers, recreation attendants, gate greeter, golf and retail attendants, front desk agent, owner relations manager, trolley drivers and more
In addition to a competitive salary, it offers benefits including low-cost medical, dental and vision care plans, paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability, an employee assistance program, transportation and toll programs, a 401K with company match, a referral bonus, paid time off, monthly and annual recognition and performance reviews, and commuter and companypaid toll programs
To register, visit https://tinyurl com/southseashiring Candidates will need to be present for the full two hours for each registered session
For more information, visit Southseas com/about/ careers/
Island fitness instructor promoted
Sanibel fitness instructor Tracy Cox was recently promoted to LaBlast Fitness Master Trainer for the Southwest Florida area
She brings 25 years of fitness teaching experience to the LaBlast brand and she looks forward to training other fitness enthusiasts to teach LaBlast
LaBlast is a dance-fitness program developed by three-time world ballroom champion and “Dancing with the Stars” pro Louis Van Amstel The format is partner-free, integrates strength training and includes music from all decades and genres
Cox teaches a regular LaBlast Fitness class at the Sanibel Recreation Center on Sanibel The center will host an open LaBlast class with Van Amstel on Jan 25 at 2 p m To register, contact 239-472-0345
In addition, Cox will host a LaBlast Fitness Instructor certification on Jan 12 from 10 a m to 6 p m at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, at 17260 Harbour Point Drive, Fort Myers
For more information, visit www lablastfitness com or call 240-308-9034
Trust Company to offer seminar
T h e S a n i b e l
C a p t i v a T r u s t Company will offer “Domicile Day”
a seminar series on Florida residency, domicile status and estate planning on Jan 16 at 11 a m at its offices at 2450 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and at 13525 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers
It will include a presentation and Q&A led by staff and local estate planning attorney Kenneth E Kemp, with Kemp & Mace
Seating is limited, and reservations are required
The seminar is designed for people with $2 million and higher in investable assets
To register, contact Frances Steger at 239-4728300 or 239-472-8300.
See BUSINESS NOTES, page 10
First responders update chamber on post-storm status
Sanibel and Captiva public safety agencies all suffered challenges and damage as a result of Hurricane Ian in 2022 and Helene and Milton in 2024, SanCap Chamber members learned at their monthly business meeting on Dec 11 at The Community House on Sanibel
Leaders of the Sanibel Police Department, Sanibel Fire and Rescue District and Captiva Island Fire Control District expressed optimism about returning to normalcy and appreciation for island businesses, partners and chamber
Lt. Shawn Kilgore stepped in for Fire Chief Jeff Pawul to report that Captiva suffered more from Milton than the other storms, but is recovering steadily and helping local businesses do the same “due to wonderful partnerships that we greatly appreciate ”
Sanibel Police Chief Bill Dalton showed a short video of the fierceness of the recent storms
“Our squad room has been flooded two or three times in the last year We’re getting back to normal, I guess you would say,” he said “We’re not normal yet ”
Dalton summarized beach and parking lot restoration still underway and introduced new Capt Patrick Harris
The biggest changes to public safety facilities are happening at the two Sanibel fire stations Ian had the strongest impact on operations, forcing all personnel to leave the island and putting the fire district out of commission for three months
“For two to three weeks, we didn’t know if we’d have a community,” Fire Chief Kevin Barbot “Then the question was, 'How do we sustain our operation, how do we provide the same level of service, the same equipment without being a burden to the community?'”
After Ian, the fire district began work on the new station at Bowman's Beach, a strategy that avoided flooding from Helene and Milton. Work is also underway to raise the living quarters at the station on Palm Ridge Road to provide housing immediately after future storms Barbot reported that funding for the projects came from state and federal grants and not local property taxes
“I think we all were encouraged to hear that safety has been restored to our islands so quickly, and our first responders are in a good position to help our business and residential communities thrive once more,” chamber
President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “We thank them all for their loyal service and forward thinking during difficult times ”
The luncheon was sponsored by The Community House and Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, which also catered the event.
Shell club to hold monthly meeting
T h e S a n i b e l -
C a p t i v a S h e l l C l u b will meet on Jan 12 at 2 p m at the Sanibel Recreation Center, at 3880 Sanibel-Captiva
The guest speaker will be shell expert Kevan Sunderland on “One H u n d r e d a n d F i f t y Years of Discovery ” It will look at malaco-
Kevan Sunderland
T
equip-
Sunderland grew up in t h
e became a shell collec-
t o r a t a n e a r l y a g e
E v e n t h r o u g h h i g h school, his collection and documentation of Keys shells was well recognized among his p e e r s S u n d e r l a n d ' s college years were spent in Key West, where he had shrimp boats, lobster boats and other commercial fisheries saving shells for him By the time he graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a degree in biology, he had amassed one of the l a r g e s t p r i v a t e c o l l e c t i o n s o f Caribbean shells Prior to the meeting, a silent auction will be held at 1:30 p m The meeting is free and open to the public For more inform a t i o n , v i s i t http://sanibelshellclub com
Historical village to host event
v
e l c o m e C e n t e r , a t 9 5 0
D u n l o p R o a d , S a n i b e l N e w E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r
P a m M i n e r h o l d s o v e r 3 0
y e a r s o f e x p e r i e n c e i n p u b l i c a n d a c a d e m i c h i s -
t o r y H e r a r e a o f i n t e r e s t i s v e r n a c u l a r a r c h i t e c t u r e , t y i n g i n l o c a l h i s t o r y a n d l i f e w a y s M i n e r ' s c u r a t o r ia l a n d m a n a g e r i a l e x p e r ie n c e i n c l u d e s r o l e s w i t h t h e E d i s o n & F o r d W i n t e r E s t a t e s , C o l l i e r C o u n t y M u s e u m s a n d A n d r e w
J a c k s o n ’ s H e r m i t a g e S h e a l s o c o - a u t h o r e d “ R i v e r & R o a d : F o r t M y e r s A r c h i t e c t u r e f r o m C r a f t s m a n t o M o d e r n , ” a r e c i p i e n t o f t h e G o l d M e d a l i n V i s u a l A r t s f r o m t h e F l o r i d a B o o k A w a r d s i n 2 0 1 7 T h e e v e n t i s f r e e t o a t t e n d F o r m o r e i n f o rm a t i o n , v i s i t h t t p s : / / s a n ib e l m u s e u m o r g /
SANCAP CHAMBER
Sanibel Fire and Rescue District Fire Chief Kevin Barbot talks about progress on facility improvements at the SanCap Chamber's business luncheon on Dec 11 on Sanibel
From page 8
Coastline Cottage Home Watch accredited C
n from the National Home Watch Association for the eighth year
The association was formed in 2009 in order to establish and maintain the highest industry
s
throughout the United States and Canada C
Karen Curtin
Home Watch owner Karen Curtin is a graduate of the association's Home Watch Boot Camp The company serves Sanibel and Fort Myers.
F o r m o
com/cchomewatcher or contact Curtin at 239-7713125 or at cchomewatcher@gmail com
SANIBEL & CAPTIVA ISLANDS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
From left, Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors Chief Executive Officer Bill Robinson, SanCap Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai and Bank of the Islands Vice President Greg Blurton
The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors (SCIAR)
Officer John Lai as its keynote speaker at its final membership
meeting of the year He shared insights into the evolving landscape of tourism on Sanibel and Captiva Lai emphasized the resilience and adaptability of local businesses as they continue to navigate island
challenges and opportunities within the growing industry In addition,
events and updates
PRESERVING PARADISE
Surveying sea life at Bunche Beach
“Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge intern Jake Kelly reported on a December shorebird survey at Bunche Beach in Fort Myers with J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge biological science technician Avery Renshaw
N a t u r e a n d w i l d l i f e a r e , a s e x p e c t e d , u n p r edictable, and the many different species of shorebirds we hoped to see pecking at the sand during low tide were scarce However, that does not mean the survey was a bust
We found plenty of interesting life stranded on shore after the tide receded The farther we walked, comb jellies began to appear all over the beach Comb jellies, also known as ctenophores, are much more than a clear blob in the sand They are one of the five major lineages to arise early in animal evolution A recent study published in Nature in 2023 provides evidence of comb jellies potentially being the oldest animals on earth, roaming the oceans close to 700 million years ago
Comb jellies are not jellyfish, who belong to the group cnidarians While jellyfish use their tentacles to catch and hold onto prey, comb jellies use eight rows of giant fused cilia, or combs, to propel themselves through the water When picking up the stranded jellies, we could see the cilia running down the body, which would reflect faint shimmering green lines in the light
There w ere als o many s and dollars s cattered around Some had dried up, while others, still alive, had pushed sand through luneles, the oval-shaped holes on their rigid skeleton called a test to bury themselves a few inches beneath the surface You can tell when a sand dollar is buried because there will be five holes in the surface sand, matching the luneles
Some of the usual suspects on Bunche Beach and my favorites are baby horseshoe crabs. Since many are the size of a dollar coin, you can follow their winding trails in the sand to discover their location Horseshoe crabs are some of the oldest living species on earth, surviving five mass extinctions in the past 4 7 5 m i
unchanged
We came across a few molts, as well, which can be identified by a split along the front rim where the horseshoe crab slipped out During molting, a whole new shell will grow under the old one before it no longer fits Juvenile horseshoe crabs molt 16 or 17, in the case of females times before they reach sexual maturity After that, their carapace is their forever home
Exploring the tidal flats on Bunche Beach is a great way to become familiar with the local shorebird populations and the many other organisms that play an important role in the ecosystem
Audubon Society to present lecture
Dr Eric Milbrandt
Par ticipants sought for mollusk count
Aquarium will hold a Live Mollusk Count on Jan 12 at 6:30 a m on Sanibel Participants will be assigned a section of beach to walk and will receive a shell guide to help identify species They will observe and document sightings of living mollusks The collected data will be used to help benchmark the health and prevalence of local species on Sanibel There is no cost to participate, but registration is required For more information or to register, contact Jorden Falker at jfalker@shellmuseum org or 239-347-5119
Volunteers take par t in anniversar y cleanup
In partnership with the city of Sanibel and in celebration of its anniversary, Coastal Watch organized the Sanibel 50th Anniversary Cleanup on Dec 14 on the island Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton left their mark earlier this year, with debris accumulating on key roadways and adjacent conservation lands Seventy-four volunteers tackled debris along the right-of-ways of roadways like Sanibel-Captiva Road, Tarpon Bay Road, Casa Ybel Road, Dixie Beach Boulevard and Bailey Road They worked in teams, covering sections ranging from 1/4 mile to 1 mile each, filling two dumpsters
“It's incredible to see our community come together like this Every piece of debris removed is a step toward healing our island and protecting the habitats that make Sanibel so special,” Coastal Watch Director Kealy Pfau said “The volunteers' dedication shows just how much we all care about preserving this place for future generations.”
Audubon Society to host bird walk
The Sanibel-Captiva Audubon Society will hold a bird walk on Jan 11 at 8 a m on Wildlife Drive at the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel It will last about one and a half to two hours Appropriate dress is recommended to accommodate for weather, terrain or insects No reservations are required; parking fees may apply A $5 donation is welcome and appreciated For more information, visit https://san-capaudubon org/ or contact san capaudubon@gmail com
COASTAL WATCH
Isl and lIvIng
SANIBEL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Sanibel police relocated an alligator on Dec 29 from the BIG ARTS facility
SPD releases weekly blotter
The Sanibel Police Department is committed to keeping the community safe and secure To support that effort, a weekly police blotter will be issued to include recent information about law enforcement response to criminal activity.
Arrests
∫ Mabel Lynn Beerman, 46, of 838 Rabbit Road, Sanibel, was charged on Dec 29 with one count each of burglary unoccupied structure unarmed and damage property criminal mischief $1,000 or more.
Other enforcement actions
∫ On Dec 25, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (65 mph in a 35 mph zone) and a citation for unknowingly driving with a suspended license The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver
∫ On Dec 26, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued and a citation for speeding The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver
∫ On Dec 27, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (78 mph in a 35 mph zone) and a citation was issued for not carrying a driver’s license The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver
∫ On Dec 28, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for passing another vehicle at excessive speed The driver was issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (68 mph in a 35 mph zone)
∫ On Dec 30, officers escorted an 8-foot alligator to the water area behind BIG ARTS to await the alligator trapper to remove the alligator
Enforcement operations statistics
From Dec 24-30:
∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 5
∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 20
∫ Traffic crashes: 2
Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics
The Sanibel Public Library provides a variety of programming for adults and children
With support from the Sanibel Public Library Foundation, the library has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders The next one will take place on Jan 15 at 7 p m with New York Times bestselling author TJ Klune He will chat about his Cerulean Chronicles, with a special emphasis on his new book in the series, “Somewhere Beyond the Sea ”
Klune is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling, Lambda Literary Award-winning author of “The House in the Cerulean Sea,” “The Extraordinaries” and more. Being queer himself, he believes it is important now more than ever to have accurate, positive queer representation in stories
A question-and-answer session with the author will follow
To register for the author talk, visit https://libraryc org/sanlib/upcoming
Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:
Footprints in The Sand: Memories of Ukraine will be held today, Jan 8, from 10 to 11 a m Participants will join Konstantin and Tatiana Tadenev as they look at the tragedy of the present war through the lens of their family. Today, Jan 8, Creative Writing Program will take place
from 1 to 2 p m Attendees can bring their work to share and get feedback on, workshop their ideas, and have some dedicated time to work on new writing prompts and projects The program is welcome to all ages, but caters towards an adult audience
Crafternoon will be held today, Jan 8, from 3 to 4:30 p m The project will be “Acrylic Bookmarks ” Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance See SANIBEL LIBRARY, page 15
Qualifying to open for city council candidates
T
reported that the cand date qualifying perio for the Sanibel City C
scheduled for March, will begin on Jan 13 at noon and end on Ja 17 at noon
hree seats are up for ection to serve four-year erms
Any elector wishing to become a certified
City Clerk Scotty Lynn elly to begin the process
Appointments are available prior to qualifying week
The Regular Election will be held on March 4 from 7
to 7 p
Precinct 116 and The Community House for Precinct 105
‘n’ Seeds plant walk planned
walk on Jan 13 at 9 a m at the Frannie's Preserve on Sanibel Participants will look for plants in bloom and some with special adaptations to tolerate the high levels of salt and sun It will last one to two hours; meet at the beach parking lot on Tarpon Bay Road Parking is free with the A and B stickers; others can pay at the kiosk No reservations or fees are required Participants are encouraged to wear proper footwear for walking through mud/water and vegetation; closed-toe shoes and a walking stick are recommended For more information, visit https://sccf org/eventsprograms/weeds-n-seeds/ SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Sanibel Public Meetings
SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on Jan 15 with TJ Klune
Sanibel library
From page 14
On Jan 9, Craft & Chat will take place from 10 to 11 a m The program is designed to introduce a range of crafters to each other. From scrap booking, to decoupage and even needle point stitching, all are encouraged to bring their own equipment and in-progress projects to work on Those who do not have a craft to work on will be able to complete a knitting project during the program Light refreshments and snacks will be provided
A Book Club Discussion will be held on Jan 9 from 2 to 3:30 p m Attendees will discuss “The Briar Club” by Kate Quinn Staffers will lead the discussion
On Jan 9, LEGO Club will take place from 3 to 4 p m
Participants can meet new friends, create a masterpiece, play and display their creation
Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held on Jan 10 from 10:30 to 11 a m Sing, read, question and move around during the stories, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, motor skills and creativity
Blotter
From page 14
∫ Radar details: 35
∫ Traffic stops: 60
Citations issued: 28
Written warnings issued: 2
Verbal warnings issued: 25
∫ Residential area checks: 393
∫ Business area checks: 241
∫ Total area checks: 1,029
∫ Reported burglaries: 0
∫ Reported thefts: 1
∫ Total CAD calls: 1,318
December to date:
∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 29
∫ Non-emergency calls: 64
∫ Traffic crashes: 11
∫ Radar details: 270
∫ Traffic stops: 227
Citations issued: 80
Written warnings issued: 8
The program will include an art/craft center
On Jan 13, Build Your Own Birdhouse Workshop will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. It is open to adults and ages 10 and older; children must be accompanied by an adult For beginners and woodworking enthusiasts, participants will use simple tools and techniques to craft a functional and decorative birdhouse All materials and tools will be provided
Baby & Toddler Storytime and Playdate will be held on Jan 14 from 10:30 to 11 a m Open to ages 4 and under, babies and their caregivers will take part in a short story time, sensory play, literacy activities and more
On Jan 15, Crafternoon will take place from 3 to 4:30 p m The project will be “No-Sew Felt Pillows ” Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art. A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance
For the most up-to-date information, visit the calendar at https://sanlib org/
Verbal warnings issued: 137
∫ Residential area checks: 1,762
∫ Business area checks: 902
∫ Total area checks: 4,116
∫ Reported burglaries: 1
∫ Reported thefts: 3
∫ Total CAD calls: 5,372
Impor tant reminders
Recreation Center and are valid through Nov 30 The 2024 permits have expired and will need to be renewed by purchasing a 2025 permit
Roadside parking is not allowed on Sanibel and is enforceable with a $150 fine
When leaving Sanibel, motorists are
From now through Jan 10 at 5 p m , the library will take registrations for its Author Series event with David Grann on Feb. 11. Utilizing a “lottery system” procedure, those selected to receive tickets will be notified with more information by the email provided during registration For more information or to register, visit www sanlib org or call 239472-2483
Library cards are available to residents of Sanibel and Lee County at no charge Visitor library cards are available for a $10 annual fee
The library is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a m to 8 p m and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a m to 5 p m
For more information, call 239-472-2483 or visit https://sanlib.org/.
The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel
encouraged to travel east on Periwinkle Way as that is the priority direction given to officers directing traffic
Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day
Parking and boat launching on weekends and holidays is with AC/BC permit only.
Parking fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500
Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel Please share any photos of solicitation hang tags to police@mysanibel com or use Tip411
Beach parking contact infor mation
∫ Assistance with paying for parking: 239-472-3111, option 3
∫ Police non-emergency questions: 239-472-3111
∫ Parking citation questions: parking@mysanibel com
Repor ting suspicious activity
Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411:
∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411
∫ W e b t i p s c a n b e s u b m i t t e d a t https://www tip411 com/tips/new?alert g roup id=22450.
∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device
https://www facebook com/SanibelPolice
catches by members of the
Island Fishing Club.
Sanibel Island Fishing Club to meet
The Sanibel Island Fishing Club will hold its monthly meeting on Jan 14 at 7 p m at The C o m m u n i t y H o u s e , a t 2 1 7 3 P e r i w i n k l e W a y , Sanibel, with a half-hour social gathering to begin at 6:30 p m
The guest speaker will be environmental biologist Dana Dettmar, with the city of Sanibel's Natural Resources Department. She will talk about the state of Sanibel's canals and how the public can help to protect, support and maintain the canals, including how to have structures that support the ecosystem Dettmar will provide a virtual tour above and below the water She will talk about the functions of mangroves and what might be found at the bottom of the canals Dettmar will also share the functions of oysters and other crustaceans living on seawalls, as well as discuss Best Management Practices to help improve and protect water quality
Part of the city department since 2015, she rose from conservation officer to one of two environmental biologists Dettmar is also known for the golf course report card program and for her work on the Sanibel Communities for Clean Water Program
The meeting is free and open to the public
Pizza and refreshments will be available for a nominal charge
For more information, visit www sanibelislandfishingclub com
Rec center provides update on activities, events
The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities
Backyard Games will be held on Jan 12 from 11 a m to 1 p m at the Sanibel Community Park, at 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Attendees can enjoy a variety of games, including volleyball, football, soccer, shuffleboard and cornhole All ages are welcome The activities will be weather permitting.
Lee County Elections will hold a Voter Registration Drive on Jan 15 from 8:30 a m to 12:30 p m People will be able to update their voter record, register as a new voter, request a Vote By Mail ballot and receive 2025 election information
Bingo will take place on Jan 15 from noon to 2 p m There will be prizes, fun and more Cost is $4 for members and $5 for non-members and includes one Bingo card; additional cards will be available for $3 each, with a limit of five cards Registration is required
In addition, Sanibel Beach Parking Permits for residents/property owners and non-residents/non-property owners are available for purchase at the center, along with Sanibel Dog Licenses
New and current members can call 239-472-0345 or stop by the front desk for help with setting up their CivicRec account A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available
The center is open on Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a m to
Saturdays from 8 a m to 5 p m
For more information about fitness classes and activities or to register, visit https://secure rec1 com/FL/sanibel-fl/catalog
For questions, call 239-472-0345
The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel
Sanibel FlyFishers to hold event
The Sanibel FlyFishers will hold a Beginner's Fly Tying Night today, Jan 8, from 6 to 8 p m at Sanibel Fly Outfitters, at 2240 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Attendees will receive instruction from master tiers For those just starting out, vises and materials will be provided Pizza and drinks will be available The event is open to the public Those planning to
Squibb at Psquibb61@gmail com F
https://www sanibelff org/
Guided beach walks with marine educators
The Sanibel Sea School's marine science educators host a guided beach walk on Wednesdays from 9 to 10:30 a m at the Island Inn, at 3111 W Gulf Drive, Sanibel, and on Fridays from 9 to 10:30 a m at the Sanibel Moorings, at 845 E Gulf Drive, Sanibel Participants will find and identify marine creatures and learn about shell biology. The cost is $20 for the public and free for resort guests For more information or register for the Wednesday walk, visit https://sanib
resort/ For more information or register for the Friday walk, call the resort office at 239-472-4119
Adult Co-Ed Softball League
The Adult Co-Ed Softball League reported the following scores from the Dec 18 games:
SANIBEL ISLAND FISHING CLUB
Summer
Sanibel
CITY OF SANIBEL
SANIBEL
SANIBEL FLYFISHERS
School district issues survey on later school starting times
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewsp
The School Dist Lee County sent ou email recently aski families to take th time to fill out a survey concerning later start times for m i d d l e a n d h i g h schools
T h e F l o r i d a Legislature in 202
p a s s e d H B 7 3 3 , law that requires l start times for seco students
“ U n d e r t h i s l schools must start no earlier than 8 a m and high schools no earlier than 8:30 a m By changing start times for high schools, earlier elementary start times
u l d
t h e survey states “To accommodate for these early start times, projected bus pick up times would be an hour to two hours before the start time ”
The school district is seeking to share with the
ementing any time anges at this time The survey asks parents what grade
about changing bus ick-up/start times, well as an opportuto write concerns school start times. ts also are asked
their child’s transportation needs, would a later start time improve or worsen child’s overall well-being, and how will the change in time will affect their daily routine
Parents and guardians can take the s u r v e y a t https://tejoin com/scroll/484708768
Changes must be implemented by July 1, 2026.
FDOT provides update on causeway project
Transportation reported that crews have moved traffic to the permanent lanes on the Sanibel Causeway The causeway islands surrounding the temporary roadway are an active work zone and closed to public access, including from the water Expect limited work activities over the holidays No new lane closures are scheduled
The following work activities above are scheduled to occur However, unforeseen underground conditions and weather may affect the schedule:
East from toll plaza
∫ Motorists should expect the lane closure for the outside eastbound McGregor Boulevard to be extended from the toll p l
Boulevard
∫ The shoulder on McGregor remains fully closed to access from the toll plaza to approximately 3/4 miles east The contractor is scheduled to stabilize the shoulder early this year
∫ Crews will restore the guardrail and a
McGregor Crews will work on the south side of the roadway
∫ Motorists can continue to expect
McGregor, both eastbound and westbound f
Rassa Road, for crews to move equipment and materials as necessary
West from toll plaza
∫ Crews will begin removing the barrier wall along the Causeway Islands in preparation for the final asphalt The Causeway Islands Park remains closed to public access.
∫ Lee County is installing a post and rope system to temporarily delineate pedestrian traffic on the Causeway Islands during the upcoming recreational facility reconstruction
∫ Motorists should expect traffic to be intermittently stopped at the staging area entrance as equipment crosses the road with materials for work on the south side of McGregor and on the south side of the toll plaza
∫ The westbound merge location is west of the toll plaza Motorists are urged to use caution and obey the 20 mph speed limit
Construction vehicles and equipment continue to enter/exit the staging area near the location
∫ Crews continue work in the area of the off-island U-turn under Span A
Many oversized vehicles are crossing the causeway to assist with recovery efforts on the island Please be patient as travel may be slower than usual Bicyclists are encouraged to utilize another mode of transportation to travel the causeway and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway Motorists are reminded to obey the posted speed limit of 20 mph throughout the work zone
For more information about the project, visit www swflroads com/SanibelCauseway
Lecture series
authors and experts in their nature-related field,” DDWS
Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman said “The series started in 2005 to bring more visitors to the refuge following Hurricane Charley in 2004 It is fitting we celebrate our lecture series’ 20th year as we continue to strengthen following Hurricane Ian in 2022 ”
The series will open with “Portraits of Real Florida,” with celebrity photographers Clyde and Niki Butcher, on Jan 9 at 1 p m only The Butchers will jointly speak about their highly admired photography and how it reflects the many facets of Florida from the wilderness of the Everglades to quaint but quirky small towns around the state
Known world over for his large-format, black-andwhite nature photos that take the craft to levels of artistry, Clyde Butcher captures the Everglades, coastal islands and other unspoiled areas with majesty Besides showcasing the beauty of the natural world, he champions conservation as he speaks and exhibits across the United States
His wife, Niki, specializes in hand-painted black-andwhite photography glorifying the wonders of Florida
Flu season From page 1
a total of 1,273 cases of influenza in acute care hospitals and ambulatory, the overwhelming majority being cases of influenza A The week prior, a total of 1,244 cases were reported
As for why the county is seeing such an increase of flu cases compared to previous years, Saunders said the answer is not black and white, and that the data available on the number of individuals who have received the flu vaccine is not yet available
“I think there may not have been as many folks taking influenza vaccine early in the year like they usually do, and it has kind of caught up with us,” she said
The typical peak of flu season in South Florida usually comes after the holidays, in t h e m o n t h s o f J a n u a r y a n d F e b r u a r y , Saunders said
“It does start to march up after the T h a n k s g i v i n g h o l i d a y , a n d t h e n i n t o Christmas we’ll see a slow incline,” she said “And then, really a lot in January and February as northern visitors are coming into our area We’ll see a higher spike at that time, but we’ve had a relatively high spike in December ”
incident occurred
According to local reports, both were transported to a hospital following the attack Eisele is currently a student at the University of Georgia, and Idelson a student at San Diego State University
The families of Eisele and Idelson shared a joint statement through Canterbury School
“The Eisele and Idelson families are deeply grateful for the outpouring of thoughts, prayers, and offers of support for our daughters following the tragic attack in New Orleans,” the statement reads “We are especially thankful for the exceptional care and compassion they are receiving at University Medical Center We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the first responders, whose swift actions may have saved our daughters’ lives To everyone who has reached out with love and support, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts ”
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation Press Office, at approximately 3:15 a m CST, an individual drove a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon street
“After hitting the crowd, he exited the vehicle and fired upon local law enforcement,” the FBI release states “Law enforcement returned fire, and the subject was pronounced deceased at the scene Two law
nature and history She has made a name for herself capturing the splendor and authenticity of special places and people, finding beauty not only in nature but also in the historical buildings and interesting people who inhabit the landscapes
The complete schedule is as follows:
∫ Jan 9: Photographers Clyde and Niki Butcher, “Portraits of Real Florida”* (sponsors Linda and Wayne Boyd)
∫
Aimee Copeland, “Wellness in Nature” (sponsors Jim and Linda Winn)
∫ Jan 30: Author/Indigenous native David Rahah·tih Webb, “The Spanish Seminole: The Untold History of the Spanish Indians as Shared by a Descendant”* (sponsor “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge)
∫ Feb 6: “Python Huntress” Amy Siewe, “Burmese Pythons in the Everglades”* (sponsors Susan and Cliff Beittel)
∫ Feb 20: Author Charles Sobczak, “The Great Florida Invasion From Pepper to Pythons”* (sponsor
Other contributing factors for the early rise in cases could be the holiday travel and gatherings many have experienced over the last few weeks
“When you have large groups of people coming together and have the greater ability to spread disease by respiratory droplets and things, you’re going to see more outbreaks,” Saunders said. “I would also say the fact that people are probably minimizing it If they’re having mild symptoms they think they have the common cold People are not apt to test for COVID as much now, so they may just say, ‘Oh, I have COVID ’ But in fact what we’re seeing is just this large number of influenza cases People are getting out and getting tested, that’s how we know it’s happening, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg ”
Many people often just put off their illness to make it through the holiday season.
“After the holidays come, they say, ‘OK, now it’s time to go to the hospital,” she said
Saunders said roughly 30% of Lee Health patients being tested for viral infections have contracted influenza, while the
enforcement officers were injured and transported to a local hospital ”
The individual who drove through the crowd was identified as Shamus-Din Jabbar, 42, a U S citizen from Texas The FBI stated the Ford pickup truck he was driving appears to be rented, and an ISIS flag was located inside the vehicle
“Weapons and a potential IED were located in the subject’s vehicle Other potential IEDs were also located in the French Quarter The FBI’s special agent bomb technicians are working with our law enforcement partners to determine if any of these devices are viable, and they will work to render those devices safe,” the release states
According to a secondary release, the FBI, in part, stated, “The FBI's Evidence Response Team continues to process the crime scene to meticulously gather all relevant evidence The FBI plans to turn over the Bourbon Street crime scene to local authorities by early (Thursday) morning Additional FBI resources, including victim specialists, are responding to assist victims and family members ”
Head of School at Canterbury, Rick Kirschner, also issued a statement regarding Eisele and Idelson
“Two Canterbury alumni were among those injured in this senseless attack,”
“Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge)
∫ Feb 27: Author/photographer Budd Titlow, “Bird Brains: Inside the Minds of our Feathered Friends” (sponsor A Friend of “Ding” Darling)
∫ March 13: Actor Joe Wiegand, “President Teddy R o o s e v e
O'Keefe)
*Books or other items will be sold following lecture
Seating is limited on a first-come basis Early arrivals can save their seat and one extra one with personal items, then can explore the Visitor & Education Center or Wildlife Drive and trails before the lecture starts Saved seats must be filled 15 minutes before lecture time or risk being reassigned
For more information, visit dingdarlingsociety.org/ lecture-series
For more information about sponsorship opportunities, contact April Boehnen at AprilB@dingdarlingsociety org or 440-452-9083
The refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel
COVID percent-positivity is about 5%
When it comes to influenza A and B, the system is seeing a majority of influenza A cases, and that when spring break travelers come to visit, that is usually the time where a rise in influenza B is prevalent Both types of influenza share similar traits, but are different strains
“In general, influenza B may be milder, but (both carry) the same symptoms runny nose, congestion, sneezing, cough, feeling achy and feverish,” she said
Saunders said the majority of flu test results are coming from outpatient facilities, meaning most individuals are not feeling sick enough to necessitate a trip to the emergency room
“As far as seeing a high number of folks in the hospital that are admitted with just influenza in particular, it’s not what we’re seeing,” she said. “People are coming in for the general things that they come in with anytime of the year ”
So, what are the best practices to prevent contracting the flu? First and foremost, Saunders said, is becoming vaccinated
Kirschner stated “Our thoughts are with them, their families, and all those impacted by this tragedy.
“We are committed to supporting these families and our entire community during this challenging time
“When we return to campus next week, our counseling staff will be available to any student who wishes to talk or process their feelings
“As a community, let us continue to keep these families in our thoughts and prayers, offering strength and compassion in the days ahead ”
Congressman for Florida’s 19th Congressional District, Byron Donaldson, also released a statement on the events and the two Southwest Florida teens
“Two members of our Southwest Florida community were injured during this morning’s terrorist attack in New Orleans,” Donalds said in a release issued on New Year’s Day “Both Elle Eisele and Steele Idelson are 2023 graduates of the Canterbury School in Fort Myers My office is actively tracking ongoing developments regarding this heinous terrorist attack. Erika and I pray for the health, strength, and speedy recovery of Elle, Steele, and the other injured victims of this evil ” Meanwhile, relief funds are being organ-
“It’s been readily available for many, many years, and is effective for decreasing your illness and also decreasing your risk for hospitalization,” she said “I do advocate for people to get the influenza vaccine We’ve seen more people kind of resistant to vaccine overall for the past several years, but this has been a tried-and-true tested vaccine.”
The next best way to be proactive is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand gel
“The other thing that we forget about is that we shouldn’t be touching our face, our nose, our eyes rubbing our eyes with our hands because that’s how we take little viral particles from inanimate objects, surfaces, and then contaminating ourselves,” Saunders added “So just avoid touching your face, nose, mouth and eyes if you can.”
She also said people should stay home if they are experiencing symptoms, as to not spread the virus
Read the full article for free by visiting it online at www captivasanibel com
ized
The Greater New Orleans Foundation, along with the city of New Orleans and various community partners, has launched the New Orleans New Year’s Day Tragedy Fund to assist victims and survivors
“The Fund will serve as a resource fund to help those affected by the incident,” the website states
For more information or to donate, visit 2014givenow kimbia com/nola-newyearsday-tragedy-fund
The “United for New Orleans Relief Fund” has been set up through United Way of Southeast Louisiana.
“Together, we can help our community heal In the wake of the devastating New Year’s Day attack, we launched the United for New Orleans Relief Fund to provide direct support to victims and their families Donations will help cover medical expenses, funeral costs, trauma counseling, and more 100% of donations go directly to those impacted Unite and show your love for our NOLA neighbors by donating below,” the website states
For more information or to donate, visit https://www unitedwaysela org/UnitedforN OLA
Repor t waterway debris to FWC
Lee County reported that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continues to accept reports a b o u t a b a n d o n e d , s t o r m - d a m a g e d v e s s e l s a n d o t h e r debris in local waterways For more information or to report waterway debris, visit https://floridadebriscleanup com/#!/submit
American Legion
American Legion Post 123 reported that it is open on Mondays and Fridays from 4 to 8 p m and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6 p m It serves burgers, hotdogs and other specials There
are TVs available for sports The Post is open to the public Membership applications are available Post 123 is at 4249 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel
Interactive guide to open businesses
The SanCap Chamber has a list of open businesses on Wander: Maps & Navigation The GPS-enabled interactive map also pinpoints beach accesses, bike parking areas and the user's relative loca-
tion. Points of interest can be filtered by seven categories Users can download the app from the Apple App Store and Google Play They can also access the map online at tinyurl com/sancapwandermap
SANCAP CHAMBER
DDWS reports on refuge programming and more
The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge provided the foll o w i n g u p d a t e s f o r t h e J N “ D i n g ”
Darling National Wildlife Refuge, at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel:
∫ The refuge's free Winter Programs will run from now through April 5 Daily guided activities include everything from birding walks to a nature photography workshop and beach walks
∫ T
Nature @ “Ding” is planned for Jan 2326
∫ Go Wild for “Ding” is set for Feb 12, with the theme “Dreaming of White Pelicans ” ∫ T h e “ D
Conservation Carnival is scheduled for April 26 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers
∫ The 13th annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament will take place on May 9
The
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's free Winter
will kick off on Jan. 9 with Early Morning Birding.
CROW announces seasonal Speaker Series
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel has kicked off its 2025 Speaker Series
The seasonal series hosts a variety of professionals from Lee County and beyond speaking about different conservation topics from now through April 29 The programs will be held on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. at CROW's Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, and via Zoom
“We're so excited to bring back our Speaker Series this season,” Executive Director Alison Charney Hussey said “Our education and outreach coordinator, Brittnay
Laster, has organized extremely interesting sessions and I know everyone will enjoy attending we hope in-person to visit CROW and the islands, but also virtually for those who can't.”
Monthly water sample results
The Calusa Waterkeeper recently released its monthly water sample results for fecal indicator bacteria on Dec 21 For more information, including historical data, visit https://calusawaterkeeper org/monitoring/
Management District invasive animal biologist Michael Kirkland, “Greater Than Ever Before: The New Great Hall of Shells at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum and Aquarium” on Jan 21 with museum curator and Science Director Dr. José H. Leal, and “The Effects on Terrestrial Wildlife from Tropical Storms with Major Storm Surge Events” on Jan 28 with SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz
Some programs will feature live animal encounters
Admission is $10 per person
Space is limited, so advanced registration is recommended
“Invasive Burmese
For more information or to register, visit crowclinic org
CALUSA WATERKEEPER
A tyrannosaurus is loose on Sanibel Tickets, tables still available for Wild About CROW fundraiser
Could it be? Can the impossible be happening to Sanibel? There continue to be new species of wildlife showing up on Sanibel A number of them are newcomers to Sanibel, including sizable Nile monitor lizards, coyotes and vampires A four-and-a-half foot Nile lizard was seen riding a bicycle the other day near Periwinkle Way but slithered away before certified lounge lizards were able to capture it
Is this the beginning of Sanibel's own version of Jurassic Park? Today 4-1/2 feet, tomorrow 40-1/2 feet
Sound the alarms Bring in the feds Bring in the biologists Something is going awry in our local ecology
Does this have anything to do with the secret experiments going on at CROW?
Have mad scientists infiltrated the ranks? Or is this a prank being devised by the SanCap Chamber to attract visitors who want to see real life dinosaurs? It's no secret that rare shells have occasionally been placed on our beaches so that elderly couples from Minnesota can find them, be photographed by our newspapers and return home to ticker tape parades
Why not capture ten-foot lizards and export them to Sanibel from Brooklyn so that tourists will get a thrill of a lifetime? For that matter, why not find a modern day 40-foot ape, call it King Kong and bring it to Sanibel? I think you get the drift of my meaning
Clearly, our present tourist attractions aren't enough We need to find ways to distinguish Sanibel from South Beach so that we can get lots of tourist dollars There's a raging battle going on between our chamber of commerce and theirs The battle plan to attract visitors away from South Beach is to go with our strengths: ecology, nature, wild life preserves, etc But are these enough in these most competitive times? No We've got to come up with bigger and better
A photo of a 4-1/2 foot Nile monitor lizard is merely step one Watch our newspapers in the coming weeks and you'll see the battle plan in action I've been told in confidence that in two weeks a photograph will appear of a 30-foot alligator sitting at the bar at Doc Ford's
After that a 20-foot egret will be found on the beach hitting golf balls. Then a 50-foot sea turtle, a 60-foot rabbit, a see-em no see-em, and a giant shrimp will be conveniently placed throughout Sanibel And all this is a prelude to what the CROW scientists are really working on a 100-foot tyrannosaurus and our own King Kong
While all this may be good for tourism are we letting nature run wild on Sanibel? The signers of the original Sanibel Plan to preserve and protect our fragile ecology surely never envisioned this possibility Will we now have to defer to King Kong in order to get into The Mucky Duck? Imagine coming home from a nice relaxing dinner and finding a tyrannosaurus in your swimming pool sipping a margarita? That could be unnerving
We have to stop these mad scientific experiments
The Sanibel City Council must pass a bill that prohibits the laboratory creation of monster animals All animals that exceed the natural size parameters for their species must be immediately relocated to Disney World to be paraded alongside Mickey Mouse and Goofy We must start with the 4-1/2 Nile monitor lizard and make an example of it
We must capture it at all costs and parade it up and down Periwinkle and show it who the boss is And we must find other ways to attract tourists to Sanibel. If our sea shells, restaurants, shops, theaters, beaches and wild life preserves aren't enough then we might consider hosting the Super Bowl
Art Stevens is a long-time columnist for the SanibelCaptiva Islander His tongue-in-cheek humor is always offered with a smile
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com
There is still time to reserve a seat at an annual “wild” fundraiser that benefits local wildlife
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) will host its Wild About CROW on Jan 17 from 6 to 9:30 p m at The Forest Country Club in Fort Myers The evening will feature live and silent auctions, dinner with an open bar, encounters with some Animal Ambassadors, fun activities and more
All of the funds raised will go toward CROW's mission of saving wildlife.
“Wild About CROW is really a fundraiser and a
Hussey said, explaining that 80% of the patients admitted at CROW arrive from the mainland
“It gives off-island folks the opportunity to support us,” she said
In light of the impacts from last season's storms, as well as the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Ian, this year's event will also focus on supporting island businesses through some of the auction items
The live auction will feature six or seven items
“Anything from a trip to Europe, to date nights for a year,” Hussey said “To attending the release of a patient at CROW to see the wonderful results of the hardworking hospital and rehabilitation team ”
As for the silent auction, bidders will find everything from a 70-inch big screen television and a five-night Mexico-Caribbean adventure for two, to cooking classes, spa treatments and baseball tickets “
Development Grace Murphy said
Online bidding will open on Jan 16 at noon and close on Jan 17 at 9 p m
Hussey noted that the format allows anyone to participate
“People can bid from far and wide if they can't attend the event,” she said
For those in attendance, there will also be Animal Ambassador visits and games with prizes
“We're thrilled that some of our Animal Ambassadors and team members will be able to join us that evening, so partygoers will be able to mix and mingle with the wildlife and team,” Hussey said
“The ever-popular heads or tails will make an appearance to win fabulous prizes,” she added
If you go What Wild About CROW
When Jan 17 from 6 to 9:30 p m
Where
The Forest Country Club, 6100 Club Blvd , Fort Myers
Details General admission tickets are $250 per person
The surf and turf dinner will feature an open bar
“Dessert will be provided by our Taste of the Islands winner, Cielo,” Hussey said
During the fundraiser, there will be a surprise reveal related to CROW's sea turtle complex
As in years past, attendees are encouraged to don wildlife or animal attire.
“This really gives people the opportunity to have fun with their own outfits,” she said, noting that CROW will also incorporate neon colors for this year's event “The brighter, the better ” E d i s o n N a t i o n a l B a n k / B a n k o f t h e
returned as the presenting Pelican Sponsor
General admission tickets are $250 each and include a sun shirt designed by a local artist and sponsored by the VCA Sanibel Animal Hospital Tickets, plus tables, were still available last week
The community is encouraged to reserve a seat
“The party is a great time it is fun, it is unexpected,” Hussey said, adding that it will support CROW and island businesses “Everyone leaves feeling good, not only about CROW, but about their part ”
For tickets, visit https://e givesmart com/events/DIt/ For more information, contact Murphy at 239-4723644, ext 232
The Forest Country Club is at 6100 Club Blvd , Fort Myers
Deadline nearing for photo contest for high schoolers
The deadline for the 12th annual “Ding” DarlingTheodore Cross High School Photography Contest is Jan. 15
The contest invites high school students in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties to compete for prizes that include a Canon digital SLR camera package, one-year subscription to photography software and an annual pass to the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel
Contest namesake Cross, who lived part-time on Sanibel, marched with Dr Martin Luther King Jr ; advised the Johnson and Nixon administrations on antipoverty programs; wrote the influential book “Black Capitalism,” among others; played a prominent role in President Barack Obama’s election; and created Birders United a birding website that ranked legislators according to their record of bird protection support
Late in life, Cross decided to indulge his love for birds and photography and traveled the world to collect stunning portraits and stories to chronicle his adventures He shot often at the refuge on Sanibel and a number of the images in his book, “Waterbirds,” reflect his love for the refuge Cross published the photographic book in 2009 at age 85; he passed away shortly after that in 2010
Digital image entries can be shot from any outdoor venue in Florida. A writing component to the contest requires entrants grades 9-12 to submit a 100-word description of the “moment” captured and how it reflects what nature and wildlife mean to the photographer
The entry rules and guidelines are as follows:
Entries and information must be submitted in digital
Submit your full name, high school, grade and an origi-
LUKE
Luke Guillette, of Estero High School, won first place last year with “Swamp Puppy ”
nal photograph that you took of nature and/or wildlife in the open outdoors Include a title for the photograph and a written description (minimum 100 words) of the “moment” captured and how it reflects what nature and wildlife mean to you You and your entry must comply with the following requirements:
∫ Students attending schools in Lee, Collier, Hendry, Glades and Charlotte (Florida) counties in grades 9 through 12 may enter the contest
∫ Only digital images are accepted and may be taken with any camera, including smartphones
∫ Images must be submitted in JPEG/JPG format and must have a size of at least 2000-by-1500 pixels or resolution of 2 megabytes
Art Stevens Shell Shocked
GUILLETTE
SANIBEL HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND VILLAGE
Historical village holds holiday event
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village held its Deck the Shore on Dec 6 at the Shore Haven Welcome Center on Sanibel Over 120 attendees experienced a blue-skied, late afternoon stroll around the village to view holiday decorations, as well as to enjoy light refreshments and meet the museum team Volunteers installed the festive decor and hosted those in attendance
Photo contest
∫ The photograph must be taken of nature and/or wildlife in the open outdoors in the state of Florida, which may include parks, refuges, backyards, and other open spaces
∫ Panoramic photos are not allowed
∫ Filters, cropping, enhancements and boarders are permitted However, adding any elements not existing in the original
From page 26
scene will not be allowed Judges, at their discretion, will disqualify any photos that appear to be manipulated beyond these guidelines
∫ Each participant may enter up to two photos but is eligible to win only one award
∫ Judging will be anonymous Please do not put your name or anything that will
identify you on your photograph
∫ There are three judges: a refuge staff
resident of the five-county region
∫ Judging criteria: technical excellence (sharpness, lighting, composition, exposure); creativity; and explanation of photograph (minimum of 100 words)
photo-contests
“Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) at 440-452-9083.
∫ All photos will become the property of the DDWS Photos may be used by the society in any way with appropriate credit Find guidelines and prize information
ISL AND HOME islander
IN THE GARDEN
Fiddle leaf fig
Fiddle leaf fig is striking for outdoors or indoors
“Fiddle leaf fig” sounds like music to my ears A fitting name for a plant whose leaves resemble the shape of violins, the fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrate) is b
n g i n any Southwest Florida l a n d s c a p e d u e t o i t s unique appearance The t r e e ’ s e a s y b e a u t y m a k e s m a i n t e n a n c e quite simple and, therefore, a welcome addition to many landscape situations Although the tree can reach heights of 3 0 - p l
p
i m m e d t o a more desirable height of 10-15 feet rather easily.
The versatile trees like partial shade or filtered sunlight conditions, and they can also adapt to sunnier locations If you would rather enjoy your fiddle leaf fig within your home, it makes one of the best indoor potted accent plants and is currently one of the favorite interior accent plants used by designers Because its leaves are so large, it makes a striking green statement in any room and it hardly ever loses a leaf
As far as caring for the plant, there are a few basic rules Consistent pruning and shaping is needed in the spring to maintain the tree to your desired size and shape Regular light watering is needed and if planted outside make sure it is not planted in overly wet soil Sunlight with partial shade is preferred; it likes our humid conditions as it originated in the rainforest, so it does very well in Florida If grown indoors, avoid placing your plant in an area that is drafty or directly under a fan as this might dry it out too quickly
With just a little care, the fiddle leaf fig could provide just the vibrant accent you need for your tropical landscape or interior design
In The Garden is provided by In The Garden, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel For more information, contact 239-395-5859 or visit www facebook com/rswalshinthegarden
FISH to host monthly luncheon with speaker
FISH of Sanibel-Captiva will hold its
Luncheon on Jan. 14 at 11 a.m. at the Sanibel Recreation Center on Sanibel, with a virtual option available
It will feature San Cap Pink Project
speaker Previously known as Let's Pink Out Sanibel & Captiva Islands, it began in 2012 as a small initiative to provide free mammograms to uninsured islanders Over the years, it has grown into a multifaceted organization that raises funds to assist uninsured and underinsured individuals
The mission of the San Cap Pink Project is empowering the island community through compassionate care and providing accessibility to mammograms and essential related support for Sanibel and Captiva residents and employees in need
“
addressing not just breast cancer screenings, but also a wide range of cancer-related needs,” Bondurant said “Our mission continues to thrive, ensuring that no one faces their journey alone ”
A breast cancer survivor, Bondurant has been an island resident for nearly 30 years She has made a significant impact in the community as an inspiring leader
and volunteer, dedicating her time and talents to numerous organizations and serving on many boards on Sanibel.
“We are deeply grateful to Mary for agreeing to share her story and insights that exemplify resilience, compassion and community spirit,” Senior Services Director Erika Arnowitz said
“We are excited to host our guests in 2025 with an incredible line up of speakers,” she added “In addition to socialization, our monthly luncheons provide an opportunity to connect with community members and learn from amazing speakers on various topics.”
Prepared by the Sanibel Deli, the lunch will be complimentary for those who attend in-person
The program will also include giveaways and interactive group games
Reservations and meal choices are required by Jan 10
For more information or to make a reservation, contact Arnowitz at 239-472-4775 or erika@fishofsancap org Zoom instructions will be provided to those attending virtually
The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel.
Island golf tourney to benefit United Way programs
The Sanibel Captiva United Way Committee will present the Inaugural Sanibel Captiva United Way Golf Tournament Scramble on Jan 26 at 7 a m at the Sanibel Island Golf Club on Sanibel
The proceeds will support United Way-funded programs through local and countywide agencies
“This golf tournament is going to be more than just a day of fun on the greens It's an opportunity for our community to come together and contribute to a cause that directly impacts families, seniors and individuals throughout our region,” committee Chair Tony Lapi said “Every dollar raised goes toward supporting agencies that provide essential serv-
health resources and education programs.”
Players will enjoy a day filled with camaraderie, friendly competition and a shared commitment to giving back The tourney will also feature a lineup of activities, including contests, raffles and prizes
In addition to the tournament, the committee hosts other events and initiatives throughout the year Every activity helps to underscore its commitment to fostering a culture of giving on the islands and in Lee County. The proceeds are distributed to a network of nonprofits that provide serv-
access, and support for underserved populations
“It's incredible to see the impact our community can make when we come together,” committee Member B i l
tournament, volunteering or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps us build a stronger, more resilient community ”
For more information about the tourney, or to make a donation, visit U
a or contact Fellows at 239-850-8948 or Fellows Bill@comcast net The Sanibel Island Golf Club is at 1100 Par View Drive, Sanibel
Decal
President David Lowden, winners John and Kelly Seaman, America's Boating
Sanibel-Captiva Cmdr Fay Carney, bank lead teller Heather Harrison and concierge Kelsey Hamilton
Mary Bondurant
Recipe of the Week: Shrimp Antipasto Martini
By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI
Impress your guests by serving them this delicious and colorful appetizer that is pleasing not only to the eye, but to the palate as well Easy to prepare and delicious, it will leave you wanting to make it again after only the first bite
I like to serve it in fancy martini glasses to all my family and friends, especially during the holiday season Serves eight (Chef tip: To cook shrimp, heat one cup of water in a small saucepan, add 1/4 cup of vinegar, one teaspoon each of salt and sugar, and one teaspoon of horseradish Cook the shrimp for five minutes or until the turn pink Remove and chill )
1 can (36 ounces) chopped tomatoes
2 cups tomato sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped
1/2 small carrot, peeled and finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/8 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
1 teaspoon of horseradish
1 cup tomato juice
1/4 cup gin
Loretta Paganini
1/4 cup dry vermouth
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
Garnish:
8 small skewers
16 large shrimp, peeled, deveined with tails left intact, cooked and chilled
16 cherry tomatoes
16 very small fresh mozzarella cigliegine
Heat the oil in a heavy, large soup pot over high heat Add the onion and saute until soft, about 10 minutes Add the celery, carrots and garlic and saute until the vegetable are soft, about five minutes Add the chopped tomatoes and saute five more minutes Add the tomato sauce, Tabasco, tomato juice, salt and basil Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer Simmer for 20 minutes
Taste and season the martini soup to taste Remove from the heat; allow the martini soup to cool slightly. Working in batches, if necessary, pour the martini soup into the bowl of a food processor or the jar of a blender fitted with a metal blade (or puree it directly in the pot with an immersion blender) until it is smooth Strain the soup through a medium-mesh sieve set over a clean pot Stir in gin and dry vermouth
For each martini soup cocktail, fill a martini glass with ice Add prepared soup Skewer one shrimp, one mozzarella and one tomato on a skewer or large toothpick and repeat it one more time for each skewer then add it to the drink Repeat to make seven more drinks Season the martini soup with additional salt to taste; sprinkle with basil and serve
CROW Calendar
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following:
∫ Today, Jan. 8
Program of the Week at 11 a m
T h e p r e s e n t a t i o n w i l l b e “ A b o u t
CROW ”
∫ Thursday, Jan 9
Program of the Week at 11 a m
T h e p r e s e n t a t i o n w i l l b e “ C l i m a t e
Change ”
∫ Friday, Jan. 1 0
Program of the Week at 11 a m
The presentation will be “If You Care, Leave it There ”
∫ Monday, Jan. 1 3
Program of the Week at 11 a m
The presentation will be “A Day In The Life ”
∫ Tuesday, Jan 1 4
Program of the Week at 11 a m
The presentation will be “One World One Health ” ∫ Wednesday, Jan. 1 5 Program of the Week at 11 a m T h e p r e s e n t a t i o n w i l l b e “ C l i m a t e Change ”
Admission is $12 for ages 13 and older, $7 for ages 4-12 and free for ages 3 and under
In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Mondays through F r i d a y s a f t e r t h e d a i l y p
Limited to 12 people; participants must be age 10 or older The cost is $25 per person; advanced registration and payment is required. To register, contact 239-4723644 ext 229 or reservations@crowclinic org
http://www crowclinic org/ or call 239472-3644
Santiva Islanders Calendar
The Santiva Islanders will present the following:
Walking Group
The Santiva Islanders Walking Group will gather today, Jan 8, from 9 to 10 a m t o e x p l o r e t h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a Conservation Foundation's Shipley and Pond Apple trails on Sanibel Meet in the front parking lot of the Bailey Homestead
P r e s e r v e , a t 1 3 0 0 P e r i w i n k l e W a y , Sanibel; free parking Afterward, participants can meet for breakfast and coffee at The Lighthouse Cafe, at 1020 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
Cardio & Strength
Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, Jan 8, from 10 to 11 a m at Sanibel Congregational United Church
o f C h r i s t , a t 2 0 5 0 P e r i w i n k l e W a y , Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat
i s r e q u i r e d L i g h t w e i g h t s m a y b e brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members
Breakfast Club
Breakfast Club will be held on Jan 9 from 9 to 10 a m at Jerry's Cafe, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Attendees will
order and pay individually For more information, contact Dan Hopta at 978239-4612
Social Bridge
Social Bridge will be held on Jan 9 from 1 to 3:30 p m at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, contact Bryant Korn at bryantekorn@gmail com
Social Mahjong
Social Mahjong will be held on Jan 9 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304
Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Cost is $5 For m
h Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail com
Cardio & Strength
Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Jan 10 from 10 to 11 a m at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel B r i n g w a t e r a n d a t o w e l ; n o m a t i s required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members
Island Worship
∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel (Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ), https://www batyam org/, https://www facebook com/batyamsanibel/ Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer
Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p m and via Zoom Torah (Bible) Study on
batyamsanibel@gmail com
∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea 11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva, 239-472-1646, https://www captivachapel com/, www facebook com/Captiva-Chapel-By-The-Sea
Rev Dr Doug Dortch
In-person service on Sunday at 11 a m through April Services will be videotaped and posted on the chapel's website and Facebook page Services from the past season can also be found online
∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida P O Box 722, Sanibel, www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org Shabbat service on Friday at 7:30 p m Torah Talk on Tuesday at 7:30 p m There are also speakers, discussions and informal “schmoozes.” For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail com
∫ Sanibel Community Church
1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2684, https://sanibelchurch com/, https://www facebook com/sanibelchurch/ Pastor Jeramie Rinne
Sunday service at 10 a m in the Sanctuary Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel
∫ Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-0497, https://www sanibelucc org/, https://www facebook com/sanibelucc/ Senior Minister Rev Dr Mark Boyea
Sunday service at 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary.
∫ Saint Isabel Catholic Church 3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2763, https://www saintisabel org/, https://www facebook com/stisabelcatholicchurch/ Father Edward Martin
Friday Mass at 9 a m Saturday Vigil Mass at 5 p m Sunday Mass at 10 a m
∫ Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2173, https://www saintmichaelssanibel org/, https://www facebook com/saintmichaelssanibel/ Rev William “Bill” Van Oss
Saturday service at 5 p m in the Sanctuary, with a social to follow Sunday services at 8 and 10:30 a m , with socials to follow; services are available via livestream and the link on the website.
Cardio & Strength
Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Jan 13 from 10 to 11 a m at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel B r i n g w a t e r a n d a t o w e l ; n o m a t i s required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members
Social Hour
Social Hour will be held on Jan 13
Sanibel Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials Attendees will order and pay individually
Mahjong Lessons
Mahjong Lessons for Beginners will be held on Jan 14-16 from 1 to 2:30 p m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All
MudBugs
Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
RC Otter's Island Eats, 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva
islandBEAT islander
The Community House Calendar
Community House, at
the following:
Painting With Friends
Painting With Friends will take place today, Jan 8, from 9 a m to noon New painters welcome Bring your own supplies Cost is $10 donation at the door
Chinese Calligraphy Class
Chinese Calligraphy Class will be held on Jan 9 from 11 a m to noon with Wang Lao-Shi No experience or knowledge of the Chinese language is needed Registration is required Cost is $10 for members and $20 for non-members; all materials will be provided
Line Dancing
Class
Line Dancing Class will take place on Jan 9 from 1 to 2 p m with Valorie Wolf Registration is required Cost is $10 for members and $20 for non-members
Sanibel Hear ts Club
The Sanibel Hearts Club will meet on Jan 10 from 1 to 3 p m Beginners to experts are welcome to participate and play the card game Suggested donation of $5
Ar ts & Crafts Fair
An Arts & Crafts Fair will take place on Jan 12 from 9 a m to 2 p m It will feature handmade arts, crafts and treasures created by local artists The array of art in diverse mediums will include paintings, shell crafts, jewelry, baskets, pottery, hand-sewn items such as placemats, housewares, glass art, baked goods and other culinary items, greeting cards, wearable art and more Free admission and parking
Shellcrafters
The Shellcrafters will meet on Jan 13 from 10 a m to 1 p m in the lobby A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a m ; it is free and supplies range from $510 Items will be available for sale All sales benefit the operations of TCH
Naturalpathic Lecture
Inflammation, Mental Health, Well Being” on Jan 13 from noon to 1 p m Registration is required Cost is $10 for non-members and free for members
Painting With Friends
Painting With Friends will take place on Jan 15 from 9 a m to noon New painters welcome Bring your own supplies Cost is $10 donation at the door
Shell Critter Kits are available for purchase in a variety of different options Cost is $5 per kit with all of the supplies included, except for glue Order them in-person at TCH or call 239-472-2155.
TCH office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a m to 3 p m
For more information, visit www sanibelcommunityhouse net or contact 239-472-2155 or info@sanibelcommunityhouse net
BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, will present the following:
Lecture Series
The FORUM will be held today, Jan 8, at 7:30 p m , with a livestream option available Akhil Reed Amar will speak on “The Words That Made Us Should the Constitution Be Amended for the 21st Century?” Tickets are $55 for adults and students are free
Ar ts Workshop
Silk Painting with Deborah Zwetsch will be held on Jan 15 from 10 a m to 1 p m Cost is $76 for donors and $105 for non-donors The deadline to register is today, Jan 8
Ar ts Workshop
Tape It Up: Mixed Media
will be held on Jan 15 from 10 a m to 1 p m Cost is $52 for donors and $65 for non-donors The deadline to register is today, Jan 8
Ar ts Workshop
Exploring Acrylic Painting with Sunny Krchmar will be held on Jan 16-17 from 9 a m to noon Cost is $92 for donors and $115 for non-donors The deadline to register is Jan 9
Ar ts Workshop
Zentangle For Beginners with Donna Lee Cole will be held on Jan 17 from 10 a m to 1 p m Cost is $39 for
Per for ming Ar ts
Chris Mann will perform “Bennett: From Gershwin to Gaga, Celebrating the Tony Bennett Songbook” on Jan 11 at 7:30 p m Tickets are $74
Film Series
“Full Time” (2021) will be shown on Jan. 13 at 7 p m Tickets are $12
Ar ts Workshop Playful Discoveries With Acrylics with
Santiva Islanders Calendar
Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Cost is $15 for three sessions; attendance is required at all three sessions For more information or to register, contact Beth Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail com
Page Tur ners Book Club
Page Turners Book Club will meet on Jan 14 from 1 to 2:30 p m via Zoom The book for discussion will be “The Dictionary of Lost Words” by Pip Williams For questions or to receive the Zoom login, contact santivaislanders@gmail com
Walking Group
The Santiva Islanders Walking Group will gather on
Jan 15 from 9 to 10 a m to explore the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Shipley and Pond Apple trails on Sanibel. Meet in the front parking lot of the Bailey Homestead Preserve, at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel; free parking Afterward, participants can meet for break-
Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
Cardio & Strength
Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Jan 15 from 10 to 11 a m at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members
Quar terly Book Review
Quarterly Book Review will be held on Jan 15 from 11:30 a m to 1 p m in the Madden Room at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel The book will be “The Frozen River” by Ariel Lawhon Margie Peters will moderate the discussion Attendees are invited to bring a sack lunch
The Santiva Islanders serve all adult islanders and visitors, regardless of age. The cost is $25 for an annual membership The Island Seniors raise funding to help defray the cost of the program activities
Sculpting with Jeff Ocasio
donors and $48 for non-donors The deadline to register is Jan 10
Sissi Janku will
The
2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, will present
Island community chorus signing up members
The BIG ARTS Community Chorus Band on Sanibel is welcoming new members
The chorus is a non-auditioned choral class open to singers of all ages and abilities The only requirement is a love of singing and a commitment to attending weekly rehearsals
It is led by Director Ellen Whitten.
The goals of the chorus are: to provide opportunities for musical growth and cre-
singing; to develop an appreciation of various musical styles; to refine choral skills
improving self-confidence in vocal production; and to have fun
The first rehearsal will take place on
Performance Hall at BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel The rehearsals will take place weekly through the month of March
The registration fee is $189 for donors and $235 for non-donors
Concert on April 4
For more information or to join, contact 239-395-0900 or info@bigarts org
BIG ARTS Calendar
be held on Jan 20-21 from 10 a m to 2 p m
Cost is $144 for donors and $180 for nondonors The deadline to register is Jan 13
Ar ts Workshop
C
Watermedia with Kathleen Conover will be held on Jan. 20-23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p m Cost is $700 for donors and $875 for non-donors The deadline to register is Jan 13
Ar ts Workshop
Pastel Mastery with Nancy Nowak will
be held on Jan 21 from 9 a m to 4 p m Cost is $172 for donors and $215 for nondonors. The deadline to register is Jan. 14.
Lecture Series
The FORUM will be held on Jan 15 at 7:30 p m , with a livestream option available Dr Michael S Roth will speak on “ W h a t ’ s T h e F u t u r e f o r
n Colleges?” Tickets are $55 for adults and students are free
Registration is required for workshops by calling 239-395-0900
For more information or tickets, visit www bigarts org or call 239-395-0900
Shell Find
Junonia found on Sanibel
Caroline Dillon, of Cape Coral, and her parents found a junonia on Dec 25 east of Beach Access 1 on Sanibel Her mother, Denise Dillon, reported that it was the family's third one found, but their first found on the island “This shell-ebrated find is as rare as spotting Rudolph on the beach,” she said “It's a reminder that on Sanibel, the best holiday gifts come from the sea ” To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers com
PHOTO PROVIDED
From page 30
Refuge's mobile classroom reached 10,000 last year
The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge reported that the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels (WoW) team deserves a pat on the back for its achievements in 2024 The mobile classroom reached 10,095 students and other visitors from January through December The WoW's main mission is to bring the refuge
experience and conservation message to
neighborhoods of Lee County In 2024, 9,440 students benefited from the team's influence on not only science learning, but across the board Following holiday break, WoW hit the road for a stint at G Weaver Hipps Elementary in Lehigh Acres from now through Jan 17
A
Pennsylvania, and her mother, Jennifer Baratta, of Chicago, Illinois, found a scotch bonnet on Dec 25 near the N
West Gulf Drive on Sanibel To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers com
