Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

WEEK OF JANUARY 10, 2024

VOLUME 62, NUMBER 8

New state law requires more disclosure at the local level

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

Birding, environmental authors to headline lecture series Birds, wildlife hurricane survival, electronic screens, toxic waste and trash: What do they all have in common? They are the topics of six speakers who fill the free “Ding” Darling Lecture Series this season for the 19th year at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

Returning to the refuge for the first time since 2020, the lectures will take place on Jan. 18 through March 21 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on certain Thursdays James Currie throughout the season.

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge co-hosts the lectures with the refuge and through financial support from sponsors. During the pandemic, the

Richard Crossley

DDWS switched venues to The Community House on Sanibel to accommodate distancing. In 2023, Hurricane Ian leveled damage too severe to both venues and the island to host the series.

“We are so ecstatic to welcome home this long-loved refuge tradition,” DDWS Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman said. “We have scheduled an impressive line-up of speakers to herald the occasion.”

The complete schedule is listed below; some include book

A bill that went into effect on Jan. 1 requiring local officials to fill out the same financial disclosure form as other elected officials throughout the state has resulted in a scattering of resignations.

Sanibel City Councilmember Dr. Scott Crater tendered his resignation effective Dec. 28, citing the new Form 6. Town of Fort Myers Beach Councilmember Bill Veach resigned from his seat on Dec. 26.

After two years, the legislation which the Florida Commission of Ethics has had at the top of its priorities list for a decade, passed in the last legislative session with bipartisan support. It requires municipal council members and mayors to fill out Form 6, a financial disclosure that is much more detailed that the previous Form 1.

State Rep. Spencer Roach, who sponsored the legislation in the House, said it See NEW STATE LAW, page 18

IslanderInsIde

signings: ∫ Jan. 18: Dr. Sabine Grunwald, “Unplug to ReSee LECTURE SERIES, page 18

Sanibel council member resigns over new disclosure form

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

An elected city official recently resigned, citing a new state law regarding financial disclosures.

Sanibel City Councilmember Dr. Scott Crater tendered his resignation effective Dec. 28.

In an email to City Manager Dana Souza and the rest of the council, he explained that his resignation was due to Senate Bill 774, titled “Ethics

Dr. Scott Crater

Requirements for Public Officials,” which was passed by the Florida Legislature and signed

by Gov. Ron DeSantis last year. The law took effect starting on Jan. 1.

“The state now requires council members to fill out Form 6, a financial disclosure form that involves listing all assets valued over $1,000, stating the name and value of every

share of stock owned, stating the address and value of all real estate owned (even in other states), stating household income, and stating net worth, among other things,” Crater reported in a statement provided to the Island Reporter.

According to a press release from the city, SB774 amended sections of state Statutes, including who must file a Florida Financial Disclosure Statement or Form 6.

Certain local officers, mayors and elected members of the governing body of a municipality are required to annually file See DISCLOSURE, page 19

alsOInsIdetOday Guest Commentary........................4 Web Poll.........................................4 Captiva Current..........................6-7 Business......................................8 Preserving Paradise.....................12 Island Living................................14 Sports.........................................16 Classifieds 31

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Portion of Island Inn Road temporarily closed The city of Sanibel reported that Island Inn Road, from the eastern gate to the mid-road cul-de-sac, will be closed on Mondays Fridays to through motorists, pedestrians and cyclists until further notice.

The city is utilizing a portion of Island Inn as a staging area for trucks delivering sand for the Hurricane Ian Beach Recovery & Resilience Project. It reported that it is not safe to co-mingle personal vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians into the truck traffic beyond the marked gate. The trucks will be entering and leaving via Tarpon Bay. The city reported that once the staging area is no longer needed, the road will be reopened to pedestrians and cyclists, along with the limited access for motorists permitted prior to the closure.

For more information about the beach project, visit www.mysanibel.com.

CITY OF SANIBEL

Correction

Island Reporter

In the Jan. 3, 2024, issue of the Island Reporter, a letter to the editor was published about the South Seas redevelopment plan. The letter writer referenced a news article that quoted South Seas Ownership Group President Greg Spencer as saying “Huge change isn’t easy.” Spencer told the reporter, “You know change isn't easy.”

FDOT provides update on causeway project The Florida Department of Transportation reported that emergency restoration crews have moved traffic to the permanent lanes on the Sanibel Causeway. All travel lanes are open to traffic.

The causeway islands surrounding the temporary roadway are an active work zone and are currently closed for public access, including from the water. ∫ The westbound merge location is now 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 will remove debris and construction material throughout the project area over the week.

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. Please use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and leaving the roadway.

For more information about the project, visit www.swflroads.com/Sanibel Causeway.

For questions, contact Jennifer Dorning at Jennifer.Dorning@dot.state.fl.us or 239338-7723.

SCCF prepared for early start to legislative session The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that in Florida, election years mean an early start to the legislative session. This year's began on Jan. 9 and is scheduled to end on March 8.

The public can follow along with the SCCF's advocacy efforts during the session with the SCCF Legislative Tracker, which is updated daily as the session develops and as bills work their way through Tallahassee.

For those interested in watching the legislative conversation unfold, it will also provide live links to committee meetings, where legislators will discuss and vote on the SCCF's priority issues.

The SCCF reported that this year, it will

continue to strongly support water quality initiatives and funding for conservation land acquisition through the Florida Forever and Florida Rural Lands programs. It will also advocate for home rule and oppose legislation that threatens to preempt rights to challenge harmful land-use decisions.

“Thank you for all of your advocacy during previous sessions, and we look forward to hearing from you this year as the stakes to protect Florida's future are now more consequential than ever,” the SCCF reported.

To view the SCCF Legislative Tracker, visit https://sccf.org/blog/2023/10/18/sccfannounces-2024-legislative-priorities/.

Page 3 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

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Privilege to serve and grateful for trust On Dec. 28, 2023, I Local governments are so informed my fellow council close to the people they members and the city managserve, and councils thrive on er that I was resigning my the input they receive from position on the Sanibel City the community. We learn Council. The state now from the public comment requires council members to every time we meet, and we fill out Form 6, a financial learn from each other. The disclosure form that involves process is deliberate and listing all assets valued over transparent. I feel this coun$1,000, stating the name and cil has listened closely to all value of every share of stock sides on every issue and owned, stating the address spent a lot of time carefully and value of all real estate considering each decision. owned (even in other states), Sanibel council members Dr. Scott Crater stating household income, are unpaid, and unpaid posiand stating net worth, among tions should not be subject to other things. This law took these new requirements, effect on Jan. 1. which are an unnecessary On Sanibel Island, my invasion of privacy. These wife and I own our home and requirements will limit the the vacant lot next door. We do not have pool of those willing to serve as city counbusiness interests or rental property on the cil members, and this will weaken city island. We do not have any interest in any governments throughout the state. Already, businesses that do business with the city of council members in Naples and Fort Myers Sanibel. That should be sufficient disclo- Beach have resigned, and dozens of local sure, in my opinion. The previous Form 1 officials around the state have stepped financial disclosure form was more broad, down. and I have filed those several times.

This new legislation is frustrating, I have agonized over this decision dur- because the rules were changed in the miding the past few weeks. I have loved serv- dle of the current council members' terms. ing on council, and I have learned so much. Local officials should have been given the

Guest Commentary

Island Reporter

captivasanibel.com

Week WeekofofWednesday, Wednesday,January January10, 3, 2024 ■ Page 4

OPINIONS

opportunity to finish their term, and then decide to run again based on the new disclosure requirements.

I am very sad to resign before my term is up. Serving on council has been one of the most interesting and satisfying jobs I have ever had. It’s been my privilege to serve our small, close-knit community. My fellow council members have my deepest respect and admiration. City Manager Dana Souza, Chief Financial Officer Steve Chaipel, and their superb staff are doing an excellent job bringing Sanibel back after Hurricane Ian. We are very lucky as a community to have them working on our behalf. City employees worked night and day, seven days a week, in the months following the storm, no doubt inspired by the leadership at the top. Slowly but surely, Sanibel is recovering.

I am grateful for the trust the community placed in me when they chose me to serve. In a sometimes divided world, Sanibel has been a beacon of unity and civility during the process of hurricane recovery. Without this cooperation, we would not have made the progress that we have. The future is bright here in our island paradise.

Dr. Scott Crater was a Sanibel City Council member.

Letters to the Editor County voters should question, remember To the editor: Thank you for publishing Don Bacon's excellent and informative letters (Nov 29, 2023, and Jan 3, 2024, issues of the Island Reporter) concerning the “special law” granted by Lee County commissioners to only one developer — South Seas.

On so many levels the county commissioners' actions make clear their complete lack of regard not only for the environment but for human safety on Captiva, as well as on Sanibel (imagine hurricane

Web Poll Previous Web Poll Question Are you planning to make new Year's resolutions for 2024? ∫ Yes, 13% ∫ Maybe/undecided, 25% ∫ No, 62%

Current Web Poll Question Have you noticed improved traffic in recent weeks for the Sanibel Causeway? ∫ Yes. ∫ No. Share your opinion at captivasanibel.com

evacuation with the commissionapproved four- to five-fold increase in density).

County commissioners approved this special interest increase despite the opposition of 13,600 petitioners, the SanCap Chamber of Commerce, Sanibel City Council, 12 Captiva condominium associations and many other business and environmental organizations.

A four- or five-fold increase in density will far exceed the capacity of the current infrastructure, which is operating at capacity (namely sewer and water). When

that happens, the cost of increasing the infrastructure will fall on tax payers in Lee County.

What county residents, land owners and voters should question and remember is what provoked the county commissioners to approve this increased density, while ignoring public safety, the environment and overwhelming public disapproval?

Alida Hilton Memphis, Tennessee

Your views on the editorials, letters and the guest opinions that appear on The Reporter opinion pages can be shared on-line. Tell us what you think. Share your opinion at: captivasanibel.com.

We want your opinion The views expressed on the opinions pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of The island Reporter. opposing views are welcome. All letters must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes. Letters considered for publication must relate to subjects of public interest. Letters to the Editor may be e-mailed to Tiffany Repecki at trepecki@breezenewspapers.com; posted to the virtual newsroom at captivasanibel.com; or mailed to 2340 periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. Letters are due no later than noon Thursday. The island Reporter reserves the right to edit or reject any submission.

By NATHAN MAYBERG

throughout the state are able to learn as much about our history as possible,” Martin said when asked why the bill was a priority for his office.

The law creates an exception for construction projects that require the statues, monuments or memorials to be temporarily displaced though they would have to be restored to the original location. Failure by local governments to do so would not only jeopardize the positions of local officials, but would result in the officials facing civil penalties and reimbursement to the state for the cost of the replacement of the monuments. Governments unable to fund the replacement would have their state funding for the arts, cultural and historical preservation frozen.

While Confederate monuments and other symbols from the Confederacy have been the subject of heated debate for years, there has been a recent reaction in some cities against other monuments. Dozens of statues of Columbus have been removed in cities across the country due to a more critical view of the settler’s treatment of Native Americans, and statues of American presidents Thomas Jefferson and Teddy Roosevelt were removed from sites in New York City due to historical revisionist movements.

Among the other bills Martin has filed for the new state legislative session is a bill to create new penalties for illegal gambling houses, illegal slot machines and illegal lotteries.

Report your news to THE REPORTER:

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by civil rights groups.

Martin, whose district encompasses most of Lee County, including Sanibel and At a time when monuments to Captiva, said in response to questions that Confederate leaders and even American “American and Floridian history is imporpresidents have come under scrutiny in tant for everyone who lives in and visits some parts of the country, state Sen. our state.”

Jonathan Martin has sponsored a bill that “I join millions of people across the would prohibit local governments from state who disagree with all of the atrocities removing any historical monument, in our nation’s and state’s history. We must memorial, statue, flag, plaque or painting. remind ourselves what happened in the The bill threatens officials who break the past so that we can embrace the good and law with removal from office by the govershun the bad. In order to do that, we should nor. ensure that residents and visitors alike can Martin, R-33, said the impetus for the learn from our past (mistakes and successlegislation was not about Confederate State Sen. es alike) so that we can continue to make monuments, but a reaction to the removal Jonathan Martin Florida a better state,” he said in an of a statue of Christopher Columbus in St. Petersburg. He said the law is retroactive to 2020. While emailed statement.

The proposed law states that “an accurate and factual that event occurred in 2019, the law would be applicable to Fort Myers officials who removed a Robert E. Lee history belongs to all Floridians and future generations and the state has an obligation to protect and preserve monument in 2021.

The monument, with a bust of Confederate Gen. such history. Accordingly, the state preempts any local Robert E. Lee, has been the subject of an ongoing dispute governments elected officials who may be swayed by after it was removed by a group claiming ownership, and undue influence by groups who may feel offended or hurt the city subsequently removed the monument base. A by certain actions in the history of the state or the nation.”

“I am focused on making Lee County a great place to large painting of Lee that overlooks the chambers of the Lee County Board of County Commissioners, where the live, work, and raise a family. This bill is one of many commissioners sit, has previously been the subject of ire that will help ensure those who grow up here and travel nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

Page 5 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

State senator’s bill would prevent removal of monuments

captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

WEEK OF JANUARY 10, 2024

CCA to host program, wine tasting and social

By TIFFANY REPECKI

A Survivor’s Journey to Freedom

The Captiva Civic Association has a mix of community events planned for the coming week.

A Survivor's Journey to Freedom will be held on Jan. 12 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Captiva Civic Center on Captiva. On Jan. 15, the CCA will present a Perfectly Paired Wine Tasting event from 5 to 7 p.m. at the center. A

A Survivor's Journey to Freedom will be an educational program on human trafficking, presented by the One Purse Organization. One Purse works to empower survivors of sex trafficking to build healthy and sustainable lives through employment and education. Some of its programs and services include:

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

Captiva Dog Party will take place on Jan. 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. also at the center.

∫ Survivors are employed to run an ecommerce purse shop and revenues are reinvested into the program. ∫ One Purse provides scholarships for vocational training and institution to survivors throughout the country.

The community is encouraged to attend to learn about sex trafficking and human exploitation.

“They will provide some background See CCA, page 7

CCP to host seasonal cruise as fundraiser

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

LEE COUNTY

Captiva library, county system providing programs The Captiva Memorial Library will host an Open House today, Jan. 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event will offer year-round and seasonal residents the opportunity to meet the staff, tour the library, and hear about services and programs provided by the library. Refreshments will be provided.

Part of the Lee County Library System, it is also offering the following free programs:

The library is open on Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. It will be closed on Jan. 15 in recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. For more information about a program or to register, call 239-533-4890.

In addition, the library system is offering the following free virtual programming:

Tickets are on sale for the Captiva Community Panel's annual “Welcome Back” Sunset Cruise.

The 2024 seasonal event will take place on Jan. 22 aboard the Lady Chadwick, with Captiva Cruises. The boat will depart at 4:45 p.m. from McCarthy’s Marina on Captiva and will return at 6:45 p.m.

“The Captiva Community Panel's sunset cruise provides an opportunity to meeting your neighbors, renew friendships and share stories about our beloved island,” the CCP reported.

Attendees will enjoy cocktails and beverages compliments of Captiva Cruises, along with hors d'oeuvres provided by Cantina Captiva, The Green Flash, The Mucky Duck, RC Otter's Island Eats and the 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa. Tickets are a tax-deductible donation of $100 — or more — per person.

See CCP, page 7

Adult programs Adult programs ∫ Jan. 16: Coffee and Characters at 10:30 a.m.

Join us for an hour of coffee, books and conversation. We will host a book club where everyone is welcome to stop by to discuss their favorite books. Get recommendations from friends, neighbors and librarians on everything from recent releases to forgotten classics. Refreshments will be provided.

∫ Jan. 11: Online Spanish Conversation Club at 6 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. Advance registration required before Jan. 11 at 6 p.m.

Children programs ∫ Today, Jan. 10, to Jan. 12: Apple Core Magnet Craft (daily during operating hours) Make your own Apple Core Magnet, complete with a bookworm for your little reader.

Download books, stream video and other online content at www.leelibrary.net.

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

Captiva Public Meetings The following public meetings /hearings are scheduled: ∫ Jan. 11: Captiva Island Fire Control District meeting at 4 p.m. at the fire station, at 14981 Captiva Drive, Captiva. For more information or the agenda, visit captivafire.com.

Chadwick with stories about the history, people and culture of the Roosevelt Channel, Pine Island Sound and neighboring islands. For more information or to watch the presentation, visit on YouTube @captivaislandhistoricalsociety.

CCP From page 6

If you go What Annual “Welcome Back” Sunset Cruise When Jan. 22 from 4:45 to 6:45 p.m.

Where McCarthy’s Marina, 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva Details Tickets are $100 donation per person

Captiva Dog Party CAPTIVA CIVIC ASSOCIATION

CCA From page 6 education on the issue and share what their organization is all about, how they help and how others can help, too,” the CCA reported.

Attendees are invited to bring a “pre-loved” designer handbag with a resale value of $50 or more to donate, but it is not required. There will also be a chance to pick up a “purse shipping kit” at the event.

Light breakfast refreshments will be provided.

The event is free, but RSVPs are required.

To RSVP, visit https://ccacaptiva.org/ or the Captiva Civic Association on Eventbrite.

Perfectly Paired Wine Tasting Part of the CCA's Perfectly Paired Wine Tasting Series, the event is themed “Classics with a Twist.”

“Indulge in the refined charm of classic wines, artfully complemented by a surprise subtle twist,” the CCA reported. “Guests will enjoy wines that seamlessly blend tradition with a touch of modern sophistication, creating a delightful tasting experience that stands the test of time.”

The tasting will be led by Calli Johnson, wine steward for Bailey's General Store on Sanibel and The Island Store on Captiva. Chef Karl Hamme will craft food pairings to go with the wine selections.

The sponsor for this year's series is The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company.

Tickets are $55 for non-members. CCA members were emailed a link to discounted tickets.

For tickets, visit https://ccacaptiva.org/ or the Captiva Civic Association on Eventbrite.

Sponsored by BringFido, the Captiva Dog Party will be a dog and owner social with cocktails.

It will feature “pooch punch, a barkcuterie board and passed y’appetizers,” along with a raffle with prizes, music and a bar. The event proceeds will benefit the Lee County Community Pet Pantry.

Attendees who purchase $20 or more in raffle tickets will receive a pawtographed copy of “Ruff Guide to the United States,” by BringFido founder and Chief Executive Officer Melissa Halliburton, along with a doggie bag full of goodies. They will also have the chance to win dinner at a local dog-friendly restaurant, a dog-friendly boat tour or a dogfriendly weekend in Key West.

BringFido is a pet travel website and lifestyle brand.

Dogs are free, and tickets for their two-legged friends are $25 each.

Tickets are limited to provide space for puppy play.

Dogs must be leashed at all times.

For tickets, visit https://ccacaptiva.org/ or the Captiva Civic Association on Eventbrite.

For more information, visit the CCA website or contact 239-472-2111 or info@ccacaptiva.org.

The Captiva Civic Center is at 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

Captiva Current

Seating availability will be based on receipt of donation.

For more information or to reserve a ticket, visit https://captivacommunitypanel.com/fundraisingevents/. People can also mail a check payable to the Captiva Community Panel to P.O. Box 72, Captiva, FL 33924; write “2024 Welcome Back cruise” in the memo line so the check is allocated correctly.

For questions, contact the CCP at captivacommunitypanel@gmail.com.

McCarthy’s Marina is at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.

breezenewspapers.com

CAPTIVA ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Captiva Island Historical Society Director and Capt. Brian Holaway was the presenter for “On the Water with Captain Brian” on Nov. 8.

The Captiva Island Historical Society reported that a video of a season event, “On the Water with Captain Brian,” is available to view on its YouTube channel. On Nov. 8, CIHS Director and Capt. Brian Holaway regaled attendees aboard the Lady

Page 7 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

CIHS presentation available for streaming

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 8 captivasanibel.com

BUSINESS Business Notes SCBWA to hold monthly luncheon The Sanibel Captiva Business Women's Association will hold its monthly luncheon on Jan. 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market is at 703 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.

The guest speaker will be Charitable Foundation of the Islands Executive Director Dolly Farrell.

Dolly Farrell She will speak about the CFI and how the women of the SCBWA can become involved.

Registration is required on Eventbrite.

For more information, contact Taylor Osborne at taylor@irisprintdesigns.com.

For SCBWA updates, visit https://www.facebook.com/SanCapBWA or on Eventbrite.

Island Reporter

Coastline Cottage Home Watch earns accreditation Coastline Cottage Home Watch recently earned accreditation from the National Home Watch Association for the seventh year.

The association was formed in 2009 in order to establish and maintain the highest industry standards for Home Watch and absentee homeowner services throughout the United States and Canada.

Karen Curtin Coastline Cottage Home Watch owner Karen Curtin has earned the designation of Certified Home Watch Professional, and she is a graduate of the association's Home Watch Boot Camp.

Coastline Cottage Home Watch serves Sanibel and Fort Myers.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/cchomewatcher or contact Curtin at 239-771-3125 or at cchomewatcher@gmail.com.

Benson elected as chairman Ryan Benson has been appointed chairman of the Florida Housing Finance Corporation's Board of Directors.

Originally appointed

by Gov. DeSantis in 2019, he previously served as vice chairman.

Benson is co-owner of A. Vernon Allen Ryan Benson Builder, a custom home builder on Sanibel and in Naples.

He also serves as first vice president/presidentelect for the Florida Home Builders Association.

See BUSINESS NOTES, page 10

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CFI announces next Leadership Sanibel-Captiva class for year The Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Planning Committee recently presented the Class of 2024.

The Charitable Foundation of the Islands created the program to prepare and encourage the next generation of leaders and volunteers. The inaugural 2022 Class was a success, but Hurricane Ian caused a oneyear delay for the second class.

The 2024 Class features 13 individuals committed to improving the quality of life in the community. The members include Marvell Bradley, Kyle DeCicco, Nancy Elting, Paula Friedman, Melissa Halliburton, Bailie Johnson, Dudley Malone, Sarah McClure, Brian Rist, John Rosen, Audrey Stewart, Rachel Tritaik and Ken Washuta.

“The program aims to equip interested residents with indepth knowledge about the community, preparing them for

leadership roles as current leaders retire,” committee Chair Jane Majeski, of the Class of 2022, said. “They will gain in-depth knowledge of how the island functions, including briefings on government, environment, arts and culture, business, health and wellness.”

Members of the inaugural class served on the committee and helped select the 2024 participants.

The program will begin on Jan. 18 with an opening session and reception led by Porter Goss regarding the Sanibel Plan. It will run through March 14, culminating with a “graduation” celebration dinner and class feedback session at the Captiva Island Yacht Club on Captiva.

For more about the program and the bios for the Class of 2024 members, visit www.charitablefoundationoftheislands.org/leadership-sanibel-captiva.

Sundial opens reservations for August stays The Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel will open its doors for stays beginning on Aug. 3.

Reservations are now available for weeklong bookings in the two- and three-bedroom unit types.

“We’re thrilled to share this long-awaited news,” General Manager Becky Miller said. “Our guests and the local community have been so supportive in following our journey to recovery for the past 15 months, and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone back to Sundial.”

All resort amenities and activities will be available upon the opening date in August.

In addition, Sundial has added bocce ball and four new pickleball courts for a total of 16 plexi-cushion courts. It has also added a new restaurant, Beach Bites, and it will expand on the Shima Japanese Steakhouse, which will feature additional seating and a sushi bar overlooking the pool area.

Initially, the resort will offer Saturday to Saturday stays. As more units are completed, the resort will add studios and one-bedroom units to its offerings and will adapt the length of stay requirements.

For more information or reservations, visit sundialresort.com or call 866-565-5093.

The Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is at 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel.

Shell club to hold monthly meeting

Dr. Edie Widder

The Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club will meet on Jan. 14 at 2 p.m. at the Sanibel Recreation Center, at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel. The guest speaker will be Dr. Edie Widder, chief executive officer and senior scientist with the Ocean Research & Conservation Association. She will talk about “Here Be Monsters: Exploring the Edge of the Map.” Widder's deep-sea exploration career has brought acclaim: in 2012, she captured the first video of the giant squid Architeuthis in the

deep sea using a camera of her own design.

In 2019, Widder repeated the feat, filming a giant squid in the Gulf of Mexico. Her research has been featured on BBC, PBS, the Discovery Channel and National Geographic. Her book, “Below the Edge of Darkness” will be available for purchase.

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 information, visit http://sanibelshellclub.com.

Pfeifer Realty Group presents top producers for month Pfeifer Realty Group recently named its top producers for the month of December.

Bryan Hall was the top volume sales consultant and top listing agent.

Relocating with his family to Southwest Florida in 2020, he has been in real estate for 12 years. Hall has extensive knowledge and background in residential real estate. He is a five starrated agent with positive testimonials from his clients.

Realtor with over three decades of real estate expertise. Demaras was the 2018 Sanibel Captiva “Rookie of the Year” and earned his Best-of-Zillow designation in 2020. He is board president of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors.

For more information, call 239-472-0004 or visit www.mysanibelreal estate.com.

The Pfeifer Realty Bryan Hall Greg Demaras Group is at 1630 Greg Demaras was the top sellPeriwinkle Way, Sanibel. ing agent. He is a state-licensed

Page 9 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 10 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

Tragedy, triumph in the SWFL eagle nest for new mates

By CHUCK BALLARO

news@breezenewspapers.com

What a year 2023 was for the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam. It started with the disappearance of Harriet and the remarkable raising of the eaglets by M15 and ended with the first clutch of eggs from his new mate, F23, in the nest off of Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers.

Unfortunately, the first clutch produced by the cam’s new international stars will result in only one eaglet being raised.

M15 and F23 saw the hatching of eaglet E23 on Dec. 31 at about 7 a.m. However, the second egg, which was badly damaged, will likely not hatch, cam organizers said.

Ginnie Pritchett-McSpadden, co-founder of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, said that since this was the first clutch by the pair, the result is not that surprising.

“We assumed this was the first attempt for F23 laying and incubating. She was a rookie all-around so our expectations were low. We didn’t know what to expect,” she said. “She incubated the eggs and feels more comfortable being the matriarch.”

The pip from the first egg, created by the eaglet with the “egg tooth” on its beak, was spotted on Dec. 29 at 8:54 p.m. However, before that there was a large crack spotted in the second egg.

Many at first thought it was just a different pip from all the others, and the chick was seen and heard from inside.

Over the course of the next 24 hours, the condition of the egg worsened, with a spot of blood visible. By the morning of Dec. 31, the egg was cracked and crumbled.

“That second egg doesn’t seem to be developing or hatching any further. We have to assume that egg is no longer viable,” Pritchett-McSpadden said.

The Southwest Florida Eagle Cam was evaluating what exactly happened to the second egg. It is the first time this has happened on the live 24/7 multi-camera eagle cam, which was founded in 2012. While there have been eggs that were not viable — it has happened twice — never has an egg cracked in the nest in this manner.

“We’ll be speaking with wildlife experts. We’re watching and waiting to see what unfolds like everyone else,” she said. “This isn’t the first time we’ve had an egg not hatch. It’s not that uncommon.”

People on social media were hoping for the best, but expecting the worst. As it was just Day 34 for the second

Newly hatched E-23 with the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam. egg, the eaglet inside would have been premature.

F23 laid her first egg on Nov. 24 at about 5:47 p.m., with the second egg coming on Nov. 27 at about 1:45 p.m., with the first view at 2:28 p.m. All seemed normal for the new mates, with the first egg beginning the hatching process pretty much on schedule.

As always, the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam provided viewers with all the action in the nest. This is the 12th season the cam will show the goings on in and around the nest at the Pritchett Farm.

Pritchett-McSpadden said that it is better that the eagles have one hatchling to celebrate than to mourn the other egg that did not make it.

“It’s big because it’s the first attempt ever for this couple. To successfully hatch one egg, let alone any, is a huge story,” she said. “Four months ago we didn’t think we would be looking at any eggs. It’s an amazing blessing to have one to watch and hopefully grow.”

The Southwest Florida Eagle Cam may be viewed at https://dickpritchettrealestate.com/.

SCCF to host environmental orientation for new islanders The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation will offer two day-long workshops for newcomers to Sanibel and Captiva, introducing residents, business owners, and employees to the coastal ecosystems.

Set for Jan. 22 and March 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the educational field trips will journey to: ∫ SCCF's Bailey Homestead Preserve and Native Landscapes & Garden Center to learn about early settlers to the islands and the basic ecology. ∫ SCCF's Marine Laboratory and other properties to hear from SCCF researchers about wildlife, habitat and water quality. ∫ Captiva Cruises for an informative boat ride exploring the Pine Island Sound, its ocean creatures and some of the SCCF's mangrove restoration work.

Only 28 spots are available for

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

each session.

For more information or to regis-

ter, visit sccf.org/newcomer-orientation.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA EAGLE CAM

Business Notes From page 8

San Cap Bank promotes Jefferson and Ricevuto Sanibel Captiva Community Bank announced the promotions of Diane Jefferson to office manager of the College Branch in Fort Myers and Erin Ricevuto to retail banking training coordinator.

Jefferson previously served as the assistant office manager at the branch.

She will continue to oversee staff, work with Diane Jefferson customers and lead the retail team in strategizing how to cultivate branch success.

Jefferson joined the bank in 2016 as a teller and also served as a customer service representative. In 2020, she was part of the retail team who opened the new Bridge Branch in Fort Myers.

In her new role, Ricevuto is responsible Erin Ricevuto for training retail banking personnel, including tellers and customer service representatives.

She will collaborate with retail staff and other departments to develop and deliver training programs that provide tools to help strengthen knowledge, productivity and performance at the branches.

Ricevuto joined the bank in 2020 as a teller and customer service representative at the Winkler Branch in Fort Myers. In the last year, she has served as a floating teller and customer service representative across all bank locations.

A Southwest Florida native, Ricevuto has previous experience in the real estate, mortgage lending and customer service industries.

The America's Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva will offer its annual Boat Handling (“Seamanship”) course starting on Jan. 23 from 10 a.m. to noon at The Harbour House at the St. Charles Yacht Club, at 15900 St. Charles Harbour Blvd., Fort Myers.

The class entails six sessions and participants are encouraged to attend them all; however, they can choose only specific ones. Conducted on the water, each session will focus on a specific boating skill.

For the course, the classroom instructors will hone participants' skills in the following areas: ∫ Nautical Rules of the Road — A Practical Approach ∫ Confidence in Docking and Undocking — Slow Speed Maneuvering ∫ Boating with Confidence — Handling Your Boat

The SanCap Chamber has a list available of businesses back in operation after Hurricane Ian on Wander: Maps & Navigation. The GPS-enabled interactive map also pinpoints beach accesses that have opened, bike parking areas and the user's relative location. 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.

captivasanibel.com

Interactive guide to open island businesses

Underway ∫ Anchoring with Assurance — Don’t Get Carried

Away ∫ Emergencies on Board — Preparation for Handling Common Problems ∫ Knots and Line Handling — The Knots You Need to Know Under the guidance of an instructor, participants will operate a vessel in a variety of scenarios.

The class is taught by lead instructor Carl Schultz, a licensed U.S. Coast Guard captain and retired emergency room physician.

The registration fee is $80 for club members and $120 for non-members for the full course or $25 for club members and $40 for non-members for each session.

To register, visit www.sancapboating.club and click on the “Education” tab.

For more information, call 720-260-0225.

Page 11 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

America’s Boating Club to offer boating class

SANCAP CHAMBER

Island Reporter

FGUA on Captiva among projects to receive state funds On Jan. 5, Gov. Ron DeSantis awarded more than $30 million in state funding to support six water quality projects in the Caloosahatchee River Watershed. The projects will help address excess nutrients, which are known to contribute to increased algal blooms, by investing in wastewater and stormwater infrastructure.

“We have had remarkable success improving water quality in the Caloosahatchee River and Estuary over the past five years,” he said. “These projects will continue our momentum and further our commitment to preserving the important role Florida’s environment plays in our economy.”

The health of the Caloosahatchee River and Estuary is integral to sustaining the overall way of life and economy of Southwest Florida. The Office of the Governor reported that DeSantis has been working with local, state and federal agencies to improve water quality in and better manage the timing and quantity of water flows from Lake Okeechobee, which serves as the entrance point for the St. Lucie River and the C-44 canal to the east and the Caloosahatchee River and C-43 canal to the southwest.

“The Caloosahatchee River and Estuary, along with other key waterbodies, is vital to the environment and

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 12

PRESERVING PARADISE

Island Reporter

“The Spanish Rahahę·tih Webb

Seminole,”

Weeds ‘n’ Seeds plant walk planned

REFUGE/DDWS

by

David

Spanish Seminole presentation coming to refuge As a descendant of the Spanish Seminoles who once populated Sanibel and an eighth-generation island native, David Rahahę· tih Webb will speak about his book, “The Spanish Seminole: The Untold History of the Spanish Indians as Told by a Descendant,” at a special presentation on Jan. 22 at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

In the 1700s, as Florida's Indigenous tribes were displaced, the forebears of the Miccosukee and descended David Rahahę·tih Webb Seminole along the southwestern Gulf coast. They soon began working with HispanicLatino and Indigenous fishermen from various Spanish colonies, who had seasonal operations along the barrier islands, including Sanibel.

Eventually, the seasonal operations became prolific year-round fisheries and communities, incorporating the fishing practices handed down from the 6,000-year-old Calusa culture. Their productive estuarine fisheries were called ranchos.

Author and artist Webb will add to the understanding of the ranchos from the perspective of a descendant. His direct ancestors, Juan and Mary Montes de Oca and family, belonged to the Sanibel Island Spanish Seminole rancho community. His family included the first documented births on the island and See PRESENTATION, page 18

way of life for Southwest Florida,” Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Shawn Hamilton said. “With funding from the governor and Florida Legislature, these priority water quality improvement projects are being implemented and progress is being realized.”

The project awarded include: ∫ Lehigh Acres Municipal Services Improvement District and Lee County ($15,500,000): Frank Mann Preserve Water Quality Improvement Project ∫ Florida Governmental Utility Authority ($7,000,000): Wastewater Treatment Nutrient Reduction and Effluent Disposal Project on Captiva ∫ Florida Governmental Utility Authority ($2,764,706): Lehigh Acres Advanced Wastewater Treatment Project ∫ Lee County ($2,500,000): Bob Janes Preserve Nutrient Reduction Project ∫ Lee County ($1,500,000): Palm Creek Water Quality Filter Marsh ∫ Glades County ($1,250,000): Northeast Service Area Septic-to-Sewer Project

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation will host a Weeds 'n' Seeds plant walk on Jan. 15 at 9 a.m. at Frannie's Preserve on Sanibel. It will last about two hours. No reservations or fees are required. Participants have three parking options: Park at the beach parking on Tarpon Bay Road with a city of Sanibel A pass; pay $5 per hour for beach parking on Tarpon Bay Road; or carpool for free at 8:45 a.m. at SCCF's headquarters building, at 3333 Sanibel-Captiva SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION Road, Sanibel. For more information, visit https://sccf.org/.

Refuge announces upcoming Roving Ranger debut As the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel embarks upon a new year of conservation and education, its community outreach team prepares to unveil its latest tool — the Roving Ranger — by mid-February.

“Building on the success of our WoW (Wildlife on Wheels) mobile classroom, we discovered a need for a smaller community-outreach vehicle,” Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland said. “Organizations and events are always asking the refuge to attend festivals and educational days, but we needed a smaller, more accessible vehicle to make this happen. Thus, the idea of the Roving Ranger was born — a refuge-onwheels the size of a food truck.”

Similar to what a few national parks have done in the past, it will be the first such vehicle in the national refuge system, which is comprised of nearly 600 refuges. Compact and easy to set up, the Roving Ranger will visit libraries, churches, parks and events throughout Lee and Collier counties to share information about the refuge and educate the pubSee ROVING RANGER, page 19

REFUGE/DDWS

The back-end of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Roving Ranger will double as a selfie station.

Page 13 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 14 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

Island lIvIng

Report your news to CAPTIvASAnIBEL.COM

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

SPD releases weekly blotter As Sanibel continues to recover from Hurricane Ian, the Sanibel Police Department is committed to keeping the community safe and secure. To support that effort, a weekly police blotter will be issued on Tuesday that will include real time information about law enforcement response to criminal activity.

Other enforcement actions ∫ On Dec. 27, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed. The driver was issued a notice to appear for the excessive speed (60 mph in a 20 mph zone). ∫ On Jan. 1, officers responded in reference to an unauthorized vehicle on the beach. A black SUV was observed stuck on the beach. A records check revealed one of the vehicle’s occupants had a nonarrestable warrant for DUI from the Lee County Sheriff's Office. The occupant was issued a notice to appear for the warrant and two violation of city ordinance citations.

Enforcement operations statistics From Dec. 26 to Jan. 1: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 2 ∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 8 ∫ Traffic crashes: 2 ∫ Radar details: 43 ∫ Traffic stops: 53 — Citations issued: 17 — Written warnings issued: 0 — Verbal warnings issued: 37 ∫ Residential area checks: 502 ∫ Business area checks: 191 ∫ Total area checks: 1,055 ∫ Reported burglaries: 1 ∫ Reported thefts: 0 ∫ Total CAD calls: 1,298 December 2023: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 24 ∫ Non-emergency calls: 31 ∫ Traffic crashes: 6 ∫ Radar details: 174 ∫ Traffic stops: 225 — Citations issued: 80 — Written warnings issued: 21 — Verbal warnings issued: 131 ∫ Residential area checks: 2,263 ∫ Business area checks: 784 ∫ Total area checks: 4,472 ∫ Reported burglaries: 2 ∫ Reported thefts: 5 ∫ Total CAD calls: 5,596

Important reminders The city of Sanibel's 2021 and 2022 Hurricane Re-entry Passes are still valid. If you have one, you do not need to re-apply for a new pass.

See BLOTTER, page 15

The Sanibel Public Library provides a variety of programming for adults and children.

Partnering with the Sanibel Public Library Foundation, it has connected readers to award-winning authors for over a decade by bringing in high-caliber writers for an intimate evening, followed by a champagne reception. The next speaker in the Author Series will be Marie Benedict on Feb. 7.

Benedict is a lawyer who writes historical novels, including “The Other Einstein,” “Carnegie’s Maid,” “The Only Woman in The Room,” “Lady Clementine,” “The Mystery of Mrs. Christie,” “The Personal Librarian” and “The First Ladies.” A lottery for event tickets will run from now through Jan. 13.

Names of those requesting tickets will be placed in the lottery and selected at random, with those selected notified by email. Requests made before or after that time will not be honored. The tickets are distributed at no charge to library cardholders. It is one card per person and two tickets per card.

People can request tickets on the library’s homepage at https://sanlib.org/, by calling the library at 239-4722483 or coming into the library. A current library card will be required in order to request tickets.

Major funding for the series is provided by the foundation and its donors.

Additionally, the library has scheduled upcoming programs.

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Sanibel Public Library will host Marie Benedict on Feb. 7 as part of its Author Series.

On Jan. 11, a Teen Study Session will take place from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Come to the library after school for study hall. Snacks will be provided and attendees can receive volunteer hours for participating.

Executive Director Duane Shaffer will present “The Attack on Pearl Harbor” on Jan. 12 from 10 to 11 a.m.

On Dec. 7, 1941, six Japanese aircraft carriers unleashed a massive aerial attack on the American Pacific fleet that was anchored in Oahu, Hawaii. Planned by Admiral Yamamoto, was the attack an act of pure evil or part of a calculated strategy? Shaffer will review the strategy and tactics of the battle. He holds two degrees in history and was co-founder of the Civil War Roundtable of New Hampshire and a past secretary of the New Hampshire Civil War Monuments and Memorials Commission.

Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held on Jan. 12 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. with Megan Willis. Literacy is a family bonding experience with stories read aloud, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, develop motor skills and increase creativity. The program Duane Shaffer will present “The Attack on Pearl Harbor” on Jan. 12 at the Sanibel Public Library.

See LIBRARY, page 15

Sanibel fire district to offer CPR/AED course The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District is taking registrations for its next CPR/AED class.

It will be held on Feb. 10 beginning at 9 a.m. at Station 171, at 2351 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel.

The American Heart

Association's Heartsaver CPR/AED (automated external defibrillators) class is taught by certified AHA instructors from the fire district. The course will provide training and certification in adult, child and infant CPR, with the use of an

AED. Participants will also learn the steps for how to help an individual who may be choking.

A basic First Aid instructional class is also available to add to the course.

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Deputy Chief John DiMaria at 239-472-5525.

City reminds of holiday decorations regulations The city of Sanibel recently reminded homeowners and businesses that holiday decorations, lighting and displays which are clearly incidental, customary and commonly associated with

any national, local or religious holiday were only permitted through Jan. 9, per the city's ordinances. As of today, Jan. 10, all holiday decorations, lighting and displays which are clearly inciden-

tal, customary and commonly associated with any national, local or religious holiday are not permitted. For more information, contact Code Enforcement at 239-472-4136.

Sanibel Public Meetings The following public meetings/hearings are scheduled: ∫ Today, Jan. 10: Sanibel Fire and Rescue District meeting at 9 a.m. at Station 171, at 2351 Palm Ridge

Road, Sanibel. For more information or the agenda, visit www.sanibelfire.com. ∫ Jan. 16: Sanibel City Council meeting at 9 a.m. at BIG ARTS, at

900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, and via Facebook Live. For more information or the agenda, visit www.mysanibel.com.

Stop by the Sanibel Public Library in January to see a collection of World War II models.

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Updated information on the Sanibel Boat Ramp: ∫ The boat ramp is open to permit holders on weekdays, weekends and holidays. ∫ The boat ramp is open to the public (non-permit holders) on weekdays that are not holidays for a $40 daily fee. ∫ Commercial use of the boat ramp is prohibited. ∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $250.

Roadside parking on Sanibel is not allowed except in the case of special events requiring a permit. It is enforced and can result in a $150 fine.

Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel. Please share any photos of solicitation hang tags to or use police@mysanibel.com Tip411.

Page 15 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Blotter From page 14

Reporting suspicious activity

will include an art/craft center.

Youth programs are designed for children and accompanying adults.

For the most up-to-date information, visit the calendar at https://sanlib.org/.

Stop by the library in January to see a collection of World War II models creat-

ed by Shaffer.

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 Sanibel Public Library is open 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 239-4722483 or visit https://sanlib.org/.

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.

captivasanibel.com

Library From page 14

Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411: ∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411. ∫ Web tips can be submitted at https://www.tip411.com/tips/new?aler t_group_id=22450. ∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device.

The SPD's non-emergency line is 239-472-3111.

Find the SPD on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SanibelPol ice.

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 16 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

SPORTS

Report your news to CaPTivaSaNibEl.CoM

DDWS reports on refuge Recreation center provides update programming and more on activities, events The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Sanibel The Recreation Center reported on the following upcoming programming.

T h r o u g h o u t January, Wild Card Wednesday will be offered on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

Access an array of card and board games.

Available to all ages.

Free for members; nonmembers must purchase a pass.

Stop by for pick-up basketball and shoot some hoops on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 2 to 4 p.m.

Participants can bring their own ball or use the limited supply CITY OF SANIBEL available.

The outdoor court As colder tempera- project at the Sanibel tures approach Recreation Center is Southwest Florida, the projected to be comcenter may have to pleted at the end of cancel some outdoor January. fitness classes from time to time. Its policy states that “Air temperature must be at least 60 degrees for cardio-based programming such as shallow or deep water aerobics.”

Stay updated on the weather via Thorguard, the center's lightning prediction system, at https://360.thormobile.net/mysanibel/tv/.

Refuge provided the following updates for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel: ∫ The refuge is offering Free Winter Programs daily from now through March 30. The schedule includes eight weekly programs. Attendance is limited to 20 and registration opens prior to each week. ∫ Wellness in Nature @ “Ding” will take place at the refuge and beyond on Jan. 18-21. ∫ A free Estate Planning Seminar will be held on Jan. 30. ∫ The Go Wild for “Ding” — Into the Night fundraiser is slated for Feb. 7. ∫ The refuge will host a unique Solar Eclipse Viewing on April 8. ∫ The “Ding” Darling Day Conservation Carnival will be held on April 20 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers. ∫ The 12th annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford's Tarpon Tournament will take place on May 10. ∫ Photographer-artist Niki Butcher “Daydreaming” exhibition kickoff has been postponed until the late fall.

REFUGE/DDWS

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel is offering two birding tours each week as part of its Free Winter Programs, which will run daily from now through March 30.

Ballfield, outdoor court update The center reported that the projected completion for the outdoor court project is at the end of January.

It includes a new foundation, courts, net posts and fencing. The courts will be lined for tennis and pickleball play.

The ballfield restoration work continues with grading, irrigation replacement, installation of new sod and clay, fencing repair/replacement, a new ballfield lighting system, repair of dugouts, and The ballfield restoration See REC work continues at the CENTER, Sanibel Recreation Center. page 18

Refuge reports on Bailey Tract closure The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge reported that the Smith Pond entrance of the Bailey Tract, located off of Island Inn Road, is closed until further notice effective Jan. 4. The area is being utilized by the city of Sanibel. The refuge will provide an update when it reopens to the public.

REFUGE/DDWS

San-Cap Audubon to host bird walk The Sanibel-Captiva Audubon Society will hold a bird walk on Jan. 13 at Bunche Beach, at 18201 John

Morris Road, Fort Myers. A $2 per hour parking fee is required, which is paid using a smart phone. Wear

shoes that can get wet. For more information, visit https://sancapaudubon.org/.

Page 17 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 18 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

Lecture series From page 1 Connect: How Less Time on Screens Makes You a Happier Person” ∫ Jan. 25: Author/artist Richard Crossley, “The Power of Birding”* (co-sponsors Gresham family and Hightower Fort Myers) ∫ Feb. 1: Author James Currie, “When Eagles Roar: The

Amazing Journey of an African Wildlife Adventurer”* (co-sponsors Jacqueline Aleandri, Hightower Fort Myers and Haley Ward) ∫ March 7: Author/environmentalist Diane Wilson, “One Woman's Fight to Save Our Waters from Microplastic Pollution” (co-sponsors LMP Conservation Fund for Girls and friend of “Ding” Darling) ∫ March 14: Author/Sanibel islander Charles Sobczak, “Surviving the Storms — Hurricanes, Humans, and Wildlife”* (co-sponsors Cliff and Susan Beittel and friend of “Ding” Darling) ∫ March 21: Recycling expert Stephanie Kissinger, “Talking Trash: Post-Hurricane Clean-Up

and Recycling” (co-sponsor friend of “Ding” Darling) *Book signing to follow 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 about sponsorship opportunities, contact April Boehnen at AprilB@dingdarlingsociety.org.

The refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel.

New state law From page 1 was a very organically driven bill that began two years ago at a Lee County Delegation meeting. He said he remembers the day well when Dr. Steve Maxwell stood up at the session and said he was aware that local officials do not have to file full financial disclosures.

Roach, R-76, said he did not think he ever realized that local officials were not held to the same requirements as other public officials. He said he and Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, R-28, locked eyes after that statement and expressed it was a good idea to hold all elected officials in the state to the same requirements.

Roach said this was neither his brainchild, nor Maxwell’s, but rather a proposal of the nine-member bipartisan Florida Commission on Ethics.

“Every year they introduce their legislative priorities to the legislature,” he said, adding that one of their top priorities for the past decade was holding all public officials to the same standards with Form 6. “You have this bipartisan body, ethical oversight to the elective officials to the state of Florida. This is at the top of their list. It’s good government.”

The bill had a 98% pass rate with the House of Representatives and an 89% pass rate in the Senate. Roach said only three people in the House voted against the bill and five within the Senate.

“We have very few bills that get that level of support. The public is with us on this. It wasn’t a partisan issue,” Roach said.

Florida Commission on Ethics Executive Director Kerrie Stillman said in an email that the form change — from Form 1 to Form 6 — for elected city commissioners and mayors was a recommendation made by the commission to the Legislature for the past several years.

“Filing a Form 6 by these municipal officials will serve to increase transparency and bolster the public’s trust in its gov-

ernment. These officials hold positions of public trust similar to other officials such as county commissioners and school board members who have been required to file the Form 6 for many years,” Stillman said.

Roach said it is government of the sunshine — transparency.

“I was very proud to get it across the finish line. It is now the law of the land. It took two years,” he said.

Roach said the bill is truly trying to target people who are making procurement decisions for taxpayers, as city officials are paying out millions and billions of dollars in contracts.

“The public needs to know if they have a financial interest. It is something the public should know,” he said.

The Ethics Requirements for Public Officials was approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis on May 11, after being filed in the Senate on Feb. 14. As of Jan. 1, mayors and elected members of municipalities governing boards must “comply with the financial disclosure requirements.”

Maxwell said he went in year in and year out submitting a proposal, which only came to fruition after Roach saw the value. He said it is about “conforming uniformity” for all public officials, including municipality council members and mayors.

“I think it is good for the public. The public interest here is really the bullseye of this bill,” Maxwell said. “There should not be two different standards between a city council person and a county commissioner or state representative. They are all spending taxpayers’ dollars and charged of being guardians of taxpayers’ dollars.”

Maxwell said the council members and mayors knew the terrain when they got into running for office — financial disclosure. He said they now have to comply and fill out Form 6.

“It’s a victory for the citizens. If you

are going to serve, you serve,” Maxwell said. “I think it is good to enhance public trust. The confidence in our public officials has hit an all-time low.”

Stillman said city commissioners and mayors who have questions about their filing requirement can access the tips information available on the commiswebsite at sion’s https://www.ethics.state.fl.us/ and should contact the commission with any questions.

“The commission's staff is committed to helping these officials with the transition to the Form 6 and electronic filing,” Stillman said.

Florida Commission on Ethics spokesperson Lynn Blais said Form 6 has been in existence since 1977. She said the only difference is now city commissioners and mayors have brought into the group, which includes virtually every other elected official in the state from the governor on down.

Form 6 provides more information with dollar amounts listed. For Form 1, which city council members and mayors previously filled out, they still had to report income, liability and intangible personal property.

“Instead of reporting dollar amount (they were) only required to report if exceeds a certain threshold. They just report that source, not the actual dollar amount associated,” Blais said. “Form 6 requires net worth, which is not something on the Form 1.”

She said the filing requirements have not changed, adding that it is still due on July 1.

“They would have until July 1 of this year to complete that Form 6,” Blais said.

If a city council member or mayor is qualifying to return or run for an office, the form would be submitted with paperwork during the qualifying period.

According to the form, net worth,

assets, liabilities in excess of $1,000, income, interests in specified businesses and training are among the items to be listed.

As far as assets are concerned, “household goods and personal effects may be reported in lump sum if their aggregate value exceeds $1,000. This category includes any of the following, if not held for investment purposes: jewelry, collections of stamps, guns, and numismatic items; art objects; household equipment and furnishings; clothing; other household items and vehicles for personal use, whether owned or leased,” the form states.

Roach said he has seen reports sporadically around the state that a few elected officials have chosen to resign or threatened to resign.

“I really think that a lot of them don’t really understand what these requirements are. There’s a lot of exaggeration. It’s not that bad. I have been doing it for six years,” he said, adding that it does shine a spotlight on personal finances.

Roach said it might be intrusive and an invasion of privacy, but when serving the public, they are expected to be held to a higher level of transparency.

“I don’t enjoy having people know how little money I make or my assets.

You are exposed to an additional layer of scrutiny and transparency,” he said.

Roach said maybe those who are resigning are not ready to be exposed and that is something to think about.

He said members of the Legislature have had to fill the form out since 1977, which is also required of county commissioners, school board members and constitutional officers. Local mayors and council members have dodged this level of transparency.

“If it’s good for the goose, it’s good for the gander,” Roach said.

Webb then worked at the refuge 1996-97 with Americorps, helping with wildlife monitoring and giving talks on various topics.

Webb's “The Spanish Seminole” presents a detailed account of the Spanish Indians of Sanibel and beyond — their

history, culture, and legacy — using newly uncovered documents, primary sources, and oral histories. His presentation will include images, artifacts, and his own artwork.

The refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel.

It will be closed on Jan. 15 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. For more information, visit https://www.mysanibel.com/govern-

ment/recreation2.

The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.

Presentation From page 12 in southern Florida.

Webb’s Sanibel pedigree dates to pioneer families including the Stokes, Bucks and Gibsons. His involvement with the refuge goes back four generations to his great-grandfather, Jake Stokes, its first employee. He lived part-time with his

grandmother, Edythe Stokes, who worked at the refuge for 33 years before retiring and was honored by the naming of the administrative building for her. Webb’s mother worked at the refuge and for the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge, and David Rahahę· tih

Rec center From page 16 new shade structures and bleachers. The projected reopening date is April.

The center is open on Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.,

Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available.

Florida orange ginger shrimp.

Banana leaf grouper-wrapped entree.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Chicken taquitos.

Chimichurri grouper tacos.

Disclosure From page 1 businesses that do business with the city.

That should be sufficient disclosure, in my opinion,” he shared, adding that he has filed Form 1 several times.

“Sanibel council members are unpaid, and unpaid positions should not be subject to these new requirements, which are an unnecessary invasion of privacy. These requirements will limit the pool of those willing to serve as city council members, and this will weaken city governments throughout the state,” Crater continued, pointing out that council members in Naples and Fort Myers Beach have also resigned and dozens of local officials around Florida have stepped down as a result of the law.

“This new legislation is frustrating, because the rules were changed in the middle of the current council members' terms,” he added. “Local officials should have been given the opportunity to finish their term, and then decide to run again based on the new disclosure requirements.”

Crater also spoke to his time on the

council, explaining that he “agonized over this decision.”

“I have loved serving on council, and I have learned so much,” he shared. “Local governments are so close to the people they serve, and councils thrive on the input they receive from the community.

We learn from the public comment every time we meet, and we learn from each other. The process is deliberate and transparent.”

“I am very sad to resign before my term is up. Serving on council has been one of the most interesting and satisfying jobs I have ever had. It’s been my privilege to serve our small, close-knit community,” Crater continued, adding that the rest of the council has his respect and admiration and praising the job done by Souza, Deputy City Manager and Finance Director Steve Chaipel, and all city staff.

He concluded by voicing gratefulness for the community's trust in allowing him to serve.

“In a sometimes divided world, Sanibel has been a beacon of unity and

civility during the process of hurricane recovery. Without this cooperation, we would not have made the progress that we have,” Crater shared. “The future is bright here in our island paradise.”

Mayor Richard Johnson responded to Scott's resignation in the city release.

“Dr. Scott Crater has served the citizens of Sanibel with honor and distinction during his time on the city council. His leadership and collegiality displayed, especially in the days and months following Hurricane Ian, was vital to Sanibel's response and recovery efforts,” he reported. “I know this was a difficult decision for Scott, and his presence will surely be missed on the city council.”

The council will discuss the process to appoint someone to temporarily fill Crater's vacated seat at its meeting on Jan. 16. It will also discuss holding the required special election to permanently fill it.

Crater was elected in March of 2021 to serve a four-year term.

“We have already begun scheduling the Roving Ranger.”

“We are so grateful to our generous donors for bringing the refuge’s dream of a Roving Ranger to fruition,” “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman, which funds and supports the project, said.

“We see it kicking off an exciting and suc-

cessful year of the refuge’s full comeback and fulfillment of its mission to spread the conservation ethic beyond refuge and island boundaries into the greater community.”

For more information about supporting the Roving Ranger and its programs, contact Wildman at 239-789-8991 or wildman@dingdarlingsociety.org.

Roving Ranger From page 12 lic about conservation issues.

The Roving Ranger’s colorfully wrapped, nature-themed exterior will attract attention, and outdoor activities will engage visitors of all ages. Refuge educators will greet visitors through a window on the side of the truck and at informational tables and exhibits outside of the vehicle. It will serve as a starting point for tours and other activi-

ties. A selfie station on the back side of the Roving Ranger will showcase a framework of refuge creatures, including a manatee, a roseate spoonbill and other birds.

“Our goal is to introduce the importance of our natural world and the wonders that can be found at the refuge and locally, and to create stewards for our wildlife and the land and water they need to survive,” she said.

Island Reporter

Fig flatbread.

a Form 6 full and public disclosure of financial interest's statement with the Florida Commission on Ethics under the new law.

“Form 6 requires filers to report their net worth, assets, and liabilities,” the city reported. “The filer must identify and report the specific value of each asset which exceeds $1,000 in value and provide the name and address of any creditor for each liability which exceeds $1,000 and must submit a statement of the value of the reporting person’s net worth as of Dec. 31 of the preceding year or a more current date.”

It added that council members were previously required to file a Form 1, “which is a less detailed disclosure of financial interests.”

In his statement, Crater outlined his concerns with and arguments against the new law.

“My wife and I own our home and the vacant lot next door. We do not have business interests or rental property on the island. We do not have any interest in any

captivasanibel.com

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, along with the Dixie Fish Company on Fort Myers Beach, are ringing in 2024 with fresh-from-Florida flavors for the new year. Citrus and seafood shine in oldfashioned shrimp and grits, banana leaf grouper and other new menu items at the restaurants.

“A new year is a great time for exploring new experiences, and our culinary team really wanted to highlight the tastes of the Sunshine State,” HM Restaurant Group partner Joe Harrity, parent company of the restaurants, said. “These new dishes showcase the best of Florida while also introducing other mouthwatering flavor combinations our winter visitors and regular customers will love.”

Diners will enjoy new appetizer and entree selections at Doc Ford’s locations.

Florida grouper is the star ingredient of the new banana leaf grouper and chimichurri grouper tacos. The leaf-wrapped entree features roasted pepper cilantro lime pesto and fresh corn salsa and is served with black beans and rice. For the tacos, sauteed blackened grouper and lime cilantro cabbage slaw are stuffed into two toasted flour tortillas and complemented by a savory chimichurri aioli drizzle and topped with queso fresco and avocado slices.

A half pound of jumbo shrimp is roasted with a melange of orange juice, ginger, mild peppers and spices for the new Florida orange ginger shrimp. Coconut jasmine rice tossed with red bell pepper and buttered green beans accompany the entree. Chicken taquitos feature slow-cooked shredded chicken breast tossed in sweet and spicy barbacoa sauce, hand-rolled into corn tortillas, fried golden brown and served with cilantro lime aioli dipping sauce.

Fig flatbread, pairing house-made fig jam with red onion rings, blue cheese crumbles, crispy prosciutto, arugula and jalape o vinaigrette, joins the appetizer menu.

For more information, including menus and locations, visit docfords.com.

Page 19 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Doc Ford’s introduces new menu items for 2024

Island Reporter

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 20

WEEK OF JANUARY 10, 2024

The Community House to hold anniversary gala

Page

22

aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday Shell Shocked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Island Worship . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Island Beat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 In the Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Recipe of the Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Santiva Islanders Calendar . . . . . . . . 26 CROW Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Community House Calendar . . . . 25 Poetic License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 22 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

The old year gives advice to the new year Old man 2023 is on the way out and little, newborn 2024 is exercising its vast lung capacity in advance to get a beat on the New Year. The little feller is hungry for advice and won’t leave the side of the now ancient 2023.

“What can I learn from you, old timer?” asked the new year of the old one. “And why do we years need to start by wearing a diaper and ending with one also?”

“Whoa, little feller,” said 2023 while trying to catch his breath. “I’ll tell you everything I know Art Stevens but let me sit down first.

I’m just one year old and already I feel so ancient.

I’m old and tired, but yet content and satisfied. A lot of time passed under my watch. And yet it’s only one year. Why are you so full of energy and excitement while I can now only look back and ponder?”

The little feller, 2024, was indeed excited. He was going to make his grand entrance onto the world stage in no time at all. He sat by the old guy’s knee hoping to learn from his trials and errors, his successes and mistakes and his expectations and surprises.

2023 sighed and said, “The first responsibility you have is to make sure the world stays reasonably intact under your watch. We have an unofficial pact with Mother Nature not to do any crazy things these next 365 days. If she does you will be old before your time.

“Be nice to Mother Nature and she’ll be nice to you. She’s very unpredictable, as you will learn, so don’t aggravate her. Let’s avoid natural disasters under your watch, okay? No tsunamis, hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, tornados, mudslides, forest fires — well, you get it.

“And it would be great if you had more success with the world economy than I had. My year, 2023, will be remembered for terrorism, floods, earthquakes, Taylor Swift, George Santos and Donald Trump. But you have to remember, when I was your age, at the beginning of January, I also sat by the knee of old man 2022 and he told me the same thing.

Things didn’t get better under my watch so there’s much room for improvement.”

2023 sighed deeply at the thought while 2024 was taking furious notes. He glanced at the little one and remembered how much energy he had when he was a baby back at the beginning of last January. He knew that he didn’t control events that evolved during his twelve months. All he could do was to make sure that the passage of time flowed smoothly and that after every sunset came night, and that after night came sunrise and another day.

2023’s job was to make sure that there were twelve months and twenty-four hours a day. Was it his fault that as early as March he felt so old and wondered if he could make it to the end of December? But these were his thoughts and he didn’t say them aloud to the eager and very young 2024.

But he did say, “Your job is to create hope and enthusiasm for your year, little one. Get them going in the right direction. Build their dreams and their hopes early on. On January 1, when I have breathed my last and am already part of ancient history, you must make them think that there’s nothing they can’t do if they really want something. The slate of last year is wiped clean and you will preside over a new and mighty year. Let your youth prevail and sweep them up with optimism of historic proportions.”

Shell Shocked

See OLD YEAR, page 23

THE COMMUNITY HOUSE

Following Hurricane Ian in September of 2022, The Community House on Sanibel celebrated its reopening with a SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting on Oct. 26.

Tickets available for TCH’s annual anniversary gala

By STAFF REPORT

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

An upcoming celebration will mark the anniversary of The Community House on Sanibel.

TCH will hold its 97th Anniversary Gala on Jan. 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the facility.

“Originally built in 1927, long before the founding of the city of Sanibel, The Community House has been in continuous operation, serving as the central gathering place for the island's civic, social and cultural activities,” officials shared, adding that the gathering will celebrate the community and those who paved the way.

The evening will begin with a social hour. Dinner will follow, featuring four courses of fine dining created by local island chefs. The celebration will also entail music, dancing and a live auction.

“2022 was a monumental year for Southwest Florida, specifically Sanibel and Captiva, as Hurricane Ian made its mark. The devastation it brought tested even the strongest of character,” officials said. “The Community House survived that test — islander hearts remained strong, we persevered and we are overcoming what has been, for some, the challenge of a lifetime.”

TCH has been considered “The Heart of the Island” for the last 97 years.

“In 1926, the Great Miami hurricane would forever change the lives of the existing Sanibel and Captiva residents, destroying homes, farms and the livelihood of the islanders. As the community began to rebuild, several island residents thought that we needed a place for islanders to meet and to be together as a community,” officials shared. “The

The newly constructed Community House on Sanibel in 1927.

If you go What 97th Anniversary Gala When Jan. 23 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Where The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Details Tickets are $175 per person Community House became the home-away-from-home for early residents, the scene of community socials, pot luck dinners, dances, parties, weddings and town meetings.”

“Over the years, The Community House has been expanded and renovated several times, with our most recent post-hurricane renovation completed just this year,” officials added. “Through the decades, it has continued to serve as a centerpiece for island community activities.”

Gala tickets are $175 per person, with tables also available.

Attendees are encouraged to wear casual attire that is white and/or black.

Throughout its 97 years, TCH has operated without taxpayer support as a nonprofit. Managed by the Sanibel Community Association, it operates with funds raised through membership fees, rental fees and business sponsorships, along with generous donations from residents and friends.

“We invite you to join us to celebrate this milestone,” officials said. “Help us by being a part of the next 97 years of community.”

For more information or tickets, visit sanibelcommunityhouse.net or call 237-472-2155.

Sponsorship opportunities for the event are available. For more information, contact TCH Executive Director Teresa Riska-Hall at 239-472-2155 or teresa@sanibelcommunityhouse.net.

The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

but a very important one. Time does go quickly, Heck, I’m only a year old but feel so ancient. Yes, they call me Father Time, but I wasn’t aware twelve months ago that Father Time could have arthritis in all his joints. You are now Father Time, even though you’re a baby.

“But as humans know, time passes all too quickly. Humans greet us every New Year’s day and love us as they love their own children. For on that first day of the year, we’re children, too. So let’s not disappoint. Remember this sobering thought.

At the end of March, you will already have lived 25% of your life.”

2024 stopped pacing. “Does it really go that quickly? In three months I will go from newborn to 25% of my life?”

“Yes,” said 2023, “You will go from New Year baby to Uncle Time and finally to Father Time. By September, you will be old and wise and will become a lame duck year by November. By December, the arthritis will set in, you will no longer shave your long beard, your hair will be fully white and you will be coming to the end.

“Tell them not to waste what you and I have given them. Tell them to love each other, help each other and stay connected.

If you do that then maybe, just maybe, the world will be a better place.”

With that old man 2023 heaved another deep sigh, handed the baton to the little guy and began to trudge off.

Art Stevens is a long-time columnist for the Sanibel-Captiva Islander. His tonguein-cheek humor is always offered with a smile.

Historical village seeking volunteers The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village will host a Volunteer Training Session on Jan. 15 from 9 to 11 a.m. in the Shore Haven building on the grounds, at 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.

It is for those interested in becoming a volunteer guide or learning more about getting involved. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is recommended.

For more information or to register, contact 239-472-4648 or Info@SanibelMuseum.org.

captivasanibel.com

The newborn year had so much energy that he couldn’t sit still. He began to pace quickly in wild anticipation of his actual birthday on January 1 while old 2023 merely watched him in amusement. He thought to himself that’s what I also did twelve months ago. He was amazed at how old he got in only 365 days — and no leap year day to boot in 2023. He thought of how lucky the 2024 baby will be because of that extra day that year.

2023 began to think about his legacy.

How would he be remembered? Did he leave a strong impression or was 2023 just a so so year? He decided to leave that question to historians and focused instead on joining the spirits of past years in their great calendar in the sky to debate the merits of events during their watch.

2024 gazed at the elder year and tried to bring him out of his reverie. “But if I have no control over events or even Mother Nature then what is my greatest contribution? When I look back at the end of 2024 what should I be focusing on to learn if my year is a great one or a poor one?”

So it’s wisdom the little guy is seeking, thought 2023. Well, I’ll give him some.

Heck, I asked the same questions of 2022 when I was sitting at his knee.

“Yes, you don’t control events or Mother Nature. But you can get people to understand the importance of time — how to use it and value it. You’re a custodian not an implementer. All you can do is give them twenty-four hours a day for twelve months and it’s up to them what they do with it. Remember, that’s your only job

Page 23 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Old year From page 22

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

ISLAND HOME

Report your news to CAPTIVASANIBEL.COM

F.I.S.H. announces updates for two programs F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva reported on changes for its food pantry and a mental health service.

Effective Jan. 8, the food pantry will have extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m to 7:30 p.m. It will continue to be open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

In addition, Mental Health Wednesdays with

SalusCare will no longer take place at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church. It will meet in the church's library, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. For an individual session, email erika@fishofsancap.org.

For more information, visit https://www.fishofsancap.org/ or call 239-472-4775.

F.I.S.H. is at 2430 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 24

islander

Sanibel Captiva

PHOTO PROVIDED

Hong Kong orchid

Hong Kong orchid is showy centerpiece Hong Kong orchid, besides being fun to say, brings to mind an exotic location and beautiful flowers. That is exactly what you get with Bauhinia blakeana (also an exotic sounding name).

A large flowering tree with a rounded spreading canopy, growing 20-40 feet in height, the Hong Kong orchid tree is composed of large, 6-inch to 8-inch in diameter gray-green leaves. But it is the beautiful display of orchid-like blooms that make the tree so desirable for the landscape. The blooms are large and showy, about 6 inches in diameter, in beautiful shades of purple, rose and pink during the summer, fall and early winter. There is also a variety where the blooms start as white and turn to pink in few days.

Since young trees can be irregularly shaped, pruning during the first several years after propagation is often needed to develop a more uniform shape. The tree is great as a specimen flowering tree in the landscape. Because it is fairly drought tolerant, it is often a flowering tree of choice for urban landscapes and roadways. The flowers are sterile and will not set seed, so the plant will not drop long pods as other orchid trees tend to do.

With the right placement, selective pruning in the early years and proper care, the Hong Kong orchid will be a showy centerpiece in your yard.

In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local garden center, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.

For more information, contact 239-395-5859 or visit www.facebook.com/rswalshinthegarden.

HIRDIE GIRDIE ART GALLERY

Hirdie Girdie to host anniversary reception The Hirdie Girdie Art Gallery will hold a 30th Anniversary Reception on Jan. 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. at 2490 Library Way, Sanibel. Open to the community, it will celebrate the gallery's 30-year history on the island, along with January guest artist

Janine Primus and new member photographer Quinn Sedam. There will be wine and light bites, with live music provided by Bob Housler.

Formed as a co-op gallery for local artists, there are currently 16 members. It exhibits a variety of artwork,

including paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture, ceramics, glass, wood work and jewelry. The gallery also hosts a monthly guest artist. For more information, visit https://hirdiegirdiegallery.com/ or call 239-395-0027.

Kingfisher to hold animal adoption event Kingfisher Real Estate and Vacation Rentals will host the first annual Matchmaker Adoption Event on Feb. 16 from 4 to 7 p.m. at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. The fundraiser will benefit misplaced and abandoned animals from Hurricane Ian. There will be animals available for adoption, along with a silent auction and door prizes.

Bailey's General Store and Island Store sommelier Calli Johnson will serve up wines, with hors d'oeuvre created by Sweet Melissa's Cafe. Tickets are $50 in advance or $65 at the door; those under age 18 are free. For more information or tickets, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/matchmakeradoption-event-tickets-781521209977.

Balsamic reduction: 1 1/2 cups balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup brown sugar 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, crushed

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI There are two ways to smoke salmon: cold-smoking and hot-smoking. Each technique imparts a very different flavor. Cold-smoked salmon is cured in seasoned salt in the refrigerator for 24 hours and smoked at 75°F. Hotsmoked salmon is cured for six to 12 hours and smoked at 180-200°F giving it a flaky texture. Both are delicious and very easy and affordable to make it at home. Serves eight. (Chef tip: Use a stove top or standing smoker or create your own smoker on the grill. I like to use fresh herbs and orange zest, but any ingredients and a little imagination will do.)

1/4 cup kosher salt 1/4 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon Old Bay 1 teaspoon orange zest 1/2 cup dry white wine 2 cups cold water 2 pounds fresh skinless salmon fillets 1/4 cup fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, chives) 1 cup smoking chips

Loretta Paganini

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. Admission to the center is currently free. Admittance includes the above daily presentations, and no reservations are required to attend.

In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Wednesdays through Fridays after the daily presentation. 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 239472-3644 ext.

229 or reservations@crowclinic.org.

For more information, visit http://www.crowclinic.org/ or call 239472-3644.

BIG ARTS Calendar BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, will present the following:

Workshop Glass Fusing with Petra Kaiser will be held today, Jan. 10, and Jan. 17, 24 and 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cost is $135 for donors and $168 for non-donors.

Workshop

Brought Physicists and Theologians Together as Partners in Discovery with Dr. Randall H. Niehoff will be held on Jan. 12, 19 and 26 from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Cost is $80 for donors and $100 for nondonors.

Workshop Pastel Painting with Mary Klunk will be held on Jan. 15-16 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $172 for donors and $215 for non-donors.

Fluid Art with Tammy DeCaro will be held today, Jan. 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $39 for donors and $48 for non-donors.

Film Series

FORUM

“Benediction” (2021) will be shown on Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12.

The FORUM will be held today, Jan. 10, at 7:30 p.m., with a livestream option available. Commissioner William Bratton will speak on “The Fundamentals, Practicalities, and Realities of Good Policing in America.” Tickets are $55 for adults and students are free.

Workshop Zentangle Drawing with Donna Lee Cole will be held on Jan. 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $39 for donors and $48 for non-donors.

FORUM

Workshop Watercolor Fundamentals with Sunny Krchmar will be held on Jan. 11, 18 and 25 from 9 a.m. to noon. Cost is $119 for donors and $149 for non-donors.

Workshop The Convergence of Science & Spirituality in the 21st Century: Some Stunning/Puzzling Mysteries That Have

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. For Zoom links, email 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 Sundays 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 www.chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida.org Classes and discussion on Thursday at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Torah Talk on the third Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Friday Shabbat service at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Len Minsky Current Events discussion on Saturday at 11 a.m. via Zoom.

An informal “schmooze” session on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. 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 SCC Sanctuary. Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel on Monday. ∫ 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 Fellowship Hall. ∫ 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. Weekend Masses on Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday 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 a coffee hour to follow each.

The Community House Calendar

The Community House, at 2173 The FORUM will be held on Jan. 17 at Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, will present the 7:30 p.m., with a livestream option availfollowing: able. Michael Steele will speak on “Current Political Landscape in America.” Tickets Painting with Friends are $55 for adults and students are free.

Painting with Friends will be held Registration is required for workshops today, Jan. 10, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Bring you own supplies. Cost is a $10 by calling 239-395-0900.

For more information or tickets, visit donation at the door. For more information, contact Jane Hudson at janehudsonwww.bigarts.org. painter@yahoo.com.

Line Dancing Valorie Wolf will teach Line Dancing on Jan. 12 from 1 to 2 p.m. Cost is $8 at the door.

Arts & Crafts Fair An Arts & Crafts Fair will take place on Jan. 14 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will feature handmade and homemade arts, See THE COMMUNITY HOUSE CALENDAR, page 26

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following: ∫ Today, Jan. 10 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. ∫ Thursday, Jan. 11 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. ∫ Friday, Jan. 12 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. ∫ Wednesday, Jan. 17 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

captivasanibel.com

CROW Calendar

In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, brown sugar, rosemary and garlic. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes to thicken and reduce sauce by half. Strain sauce and reserve.

To make curing mixture, combine kosher salt, sugar, orange zest and Old Bay. Mix to evenly distribute ingredients. Rinse salmon fillets under cold water and place in a large baking dish so it can hold them flat. Rub curing mixture all over the salmon fillets. Pour wine over them and the two cups of cold water. Allow to stand for 30 minutes or up to two hours in the refrigerator. Remove fillets from the curing liquid and rinse well under cold running water. Gently dry the fillets with paper towels. Let salmon fillets air dry for 30 minutes.

To hot-smoke salmon, place smoking chips in a commercially manufactured smoking box or a homemade smoking apparatus. Heat smoking box over medium-high heat until chips begin to emit smoke. Place salmon on an oiled wire rack, top with fresh herbs and place in smoking box above chips. Cover box and smoke salmon at 180200°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F, about 20 minutes or so depending upon thickness of fillets.

Page 25 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Recipe of the Week: Hot Smoked Salmon

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 26 captivasanibel.com

islandBEAT islander Sanibel Captiva

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Cielo, 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

SLIMTRONIC5000 5 to 8:30 p.m.

YARD DOG CHARLIE 5 to 8:30 p.m.

PRESTON HAMILTON 5 to 8:30 p.m.

BRIAN BEARDEN 5 to 8:30 p.m.

ROY SCHNEIDER 5 to 8:30 p.m.

J.D. INGALLS 5 to 8:30 p.m.

ANTHONY PICONE 5 to 8:30 p.m.

RC Otter's Island Eats, 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

ROYCE ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m.

FRANK THOMSON 5:30 to 10 p.m.

SAMUEL FELKER noon to 4:30 p.m.

PAT McCUNE 5:30 to 10 p.m.

ARON SEYFFERTH noon to 4:30 p.m.

FRANK THOMSON 5:30 to 10 p.m.

ROYCE ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m.

FACE2FACE RENITA AND PAUL 5:30 to 10 p.m.

SAMUEL FELKER noon to 4:30 p.m.

GEO RODERICK 5:30 to 10 p.m.

ROYCE ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m.

PAT McCUNE 5:30 to 10 p.m.

ROYCE ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m.

GEO RODERICK 5:30 to 10 p.m.

JOHN McLANE 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

DANNY MORGAN 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Rosalita's Cantina, 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

MARIACHI VILLA DE GUADALUPE 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

PETER REDPATH 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

DANNY MORGAN AND JOHN McLANE DUO 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

CHRIS WORKMAN 6 to 9 p.m.

JENNY VE 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

DANNY MORGAN 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

PETER REDPATH 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

JOSH ROWLAND AND DANI LIGHTNER 6:30 p.m.

KARAOKE 8 to 10 p.m.

MICHAEL DAVID 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

LAST CALL TRIVIA 7 to 9 p.m.

Santiva Islanders Calendar The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Coffee & Conversation Sanibel-Captiva Islander

FRIDAY

Coffee & Conversation will be held today, Jan. 10, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, sign up for activities and more.

Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength today, Jan. 10, from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will involve light to moderate aerobics, strength and balance exercises, and stretching. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $40 per month for members or $10 per class and $80 per month for non-members.

Leisure Lunch A Leisure Lunch will be held on Jan. 11 from noon to 1 p.m. at Rosalita's Cantina, at 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel.

Attendees will order and pay individually.

For questions, contact Deborah Butler at deborahpbutler@comcast.net.

Mahjong Mahjong will be held on Jan. 11 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. For more information, contact Robin Christian at fwrobin01@att.net.

Bridge Bridge will be held on Jan. 11 from 1

to 3:30 p.m. in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Chicago scoring will be used, and pairs will rotate tables every four or six hands. For more information, contact Bryant Korn at bryantekorn@gmail.com.

Coffee & Conversation Coffee & Conversation will be held on Jan. 12 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, sign up for activities and more.

Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will involve light to moderate aerobics, strength and balance exercises, and stretching. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required.

Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $40 per month for members or $10 per class and $80 per month for non-members.

Happy Hour at MudBugs Happy Hour at MudBugs will be held on Jan. 15 from 4 to 6 p.m. at MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, at 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials. Participants will order and pay individually.

Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Jan. 12 from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will involve light to moderate aerobics, strength and balance exercises, and stretching. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required.

Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $40 per month for members or $10 per class and $80 per month for non-members.

Coffee & Conversation Coffee & Conversation will be held on Jan. 15 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, sign up for activities and more.

Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Jan. 15 from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All

Keep Sanibel beautiful...

Please recycle!

Coffee & Conversation Coffee & Conversation will be held on Jan. 17 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new

members, sign up for activities and more.

Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Jan. 17 from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will involve light to moderate aerobics, strength and balance exercises, and stretching. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required.

Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $40 per month for members or $10 per class and $80 per month for non-members.

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.

For more information, visit https://santivaislanders.org/ or contact santivaislanders@gmail.com.

The Community House Calendar From page 25 crafts and treasures by local artisans, with an eclectic array of art in diverse mediums on display. Free admission and parking.

Shellcrafters The Shellcrafters will meet on Jan. 15 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 $5-10. Items will be available for sale. All sales benefit the operations of TCH.

Painting with Friends Painting with Friends will be held on Jan. 17 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Bring you own supplies. Cost is a $10 donation at the door. For more information,

contact Jane Hudson at janehudsonpainter @yahoo.com.

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 239-4722155.

TCH is accepting art vendors for the 87th Sanibel Historical Annual Shell Festival on March 7-9. Reservations are available for 8-foot tables for $150 and include all three days.

TCH office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information, visit www.sanibelcommunityhouse.net or contact 239-472-2155 or office@sanibelcommunityhouse.net.

“No hableh ingléh en Viequeh,” (Do not speak English in Vieques) I still remember my mother’s words a few days before Christmas and after we had just completed a five-day steamship voyage to Puerto Rico and a long drive in a público to Fajardo where we were waiting for “La lancha” to brave the choppy straits for two hours and land us on my mother’s home island, Vieques, an island off the eastern shore of Puerto Rico, itself an island in the West Indies.

Everyone watched my reaction in a careful silence until my devastation was relieved Joe Pacheco by my uncle’s revelation that there were Tres Reyes, Gaspar, Melchor and Baltasar who delivered presents not on Christmas Day but on January 6 because the camels on which they traveled were much slower than reindeer.

They would be tired and hungry and if I left some straw for them in a shoebox, the next morning I might find presents.

‘Three Santa’s! Three times more presents!’

I remember thinking in English, ‘and they don’t even have a list of who’s naughty and nice.’

Poetic License

There were parties every night, and three of my uncles were the island’s musicians and my cousins and I would accompany them on parrandas to people’s houses where they played while everyone sang aguinaldos and danced and ate and drank and partied on to the next house with many of us being carried sleepily and piled on beds and hammocks at each stop.

On New Year’s Day, I wept with my cousins who were heartbroken over the slaughter of their pet suckling pig, Cucharón, but that same evening we fought over the rights to his cuerito — roasted crinkled skin, that tasted better than candy.

Barefoot and happy the entire time, I spent my second remembered Christmas with coconut palms instead of pine trees, sand instead of snow, sleeping in open shacks without doors, rocking softly in hammocks canopied with mosquito nets, with Three Kings and camels and straw and hand-made gifts in shoeboxes, and family singing and dancing every evening — the rhythmic joy and faith of the aguinaldos shining through their poverty, illuminating and deepening the memory and celebration of all my Christmases to come.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

I obeyed and did not speak English in Vieques except on those performance occasions and that one time when my Uncle Braulio tripled the ante to three pennies to hear me say the “f” word but the Spanish I spoke was an equal source of delight — larded with English words and syntax

hybrid utterances such as me comí five bananas and no me gustan anyway were preserved in family lore for decades.

I didn’t realize then: I was one of the pioneer speakers of Spanglish.

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And I still remember that when half the island came to greet my mother and see the first americano born in the family and hear him speak English and kept demanding “Habla ingléh, habla ingléh.” that I held out for as long as I could, repeating after each request my mother’s admonition, “No hableh ingléh en Viequeh.” but the bribes of bananas, oranges, sugar cane and pennies were too great for four year old me to resist and I succumbed by reciting the first stanza of the Star Spangled Banner that my brother had taught me before I left New York and even though I was not too sure of the meaning and pronunciation of many of the words, a shower of applause and pennies rewarded my first adventure into performance poetry.

A few days later I wowed the crowd even more at my uncle Agustin’s house when I remembered it was Christmas and added to my repertoire “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” but when I asked, “¿cuándo viene Santa Claus?”

I was given the bad news: Vieques was one town Santa (San Nicolás) didn’t go to.

Page 27 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

‘A Nuyorican Child’s Christmas In Vieques’

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 28 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Deadline nearing for photo contest for high schoolers The deadline for the 11th annual “Ding” Darling-Theodore 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 Adobe photography software and an annual pass to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

Cross, who lived part-time on Sanibel, marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; advised the Johnson and Nixon administrations on anti-poverty 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 J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel, and a number of the images in his book reflect his love for it. Cross published “Waterbirds” in 2009 at age 85; he passed away shortly after that in 2010.

The contest is possible thanks to a grant to the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge from the Theodore Cross Family Charitable Foundation.

Digital image entries can be shot from any outdoor venue in Florida. A writing component to the contest requires entrants

CHASE QUROLLO

Chase Qurollo, of Cape Coral High School, won first place in last year's contest with “Nature's Bandit.” 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 format to ddhsphotocontest@gmail.com. Submit your full name, high school, grade and an original 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

format and must have a size of at least 2000-by-1500 pixels or resolution of 2 megabytes. ∫ 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 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 person, professional photographer and resident of the five-county region. ∫ Judging criteria: technical excellence (sharpness, lighting, composition, exposure); creativity; and explanation of photograph (minimum of 100 words). ∫ 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 a t www.dingdarlingsociety.org/articles/phot o-contests.

For more information, contact the DDWS at 239-292-0566.

TOWER GALLERY

Refuge’s WoW keeping up the momentum

Saint Michael and All Angels to host gathering

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church will host its next Messy Church on Jan. 14 from 4 to 6 p.m. at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Held on the second Sunday of each month, it is a free event for families. Attendees can take part in themed activity stations and crafts, along with activities, games and a community meal. For more information, visit https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/.

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The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that in 2023, the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels reached 11 Title I schools and 8,450 students.

Since October, the mobile outreach classroom has visited four schools for the 202324 school year. The team will stop by six more schools before the end of the school year, which started on Jan. 8 when it pulled into G. Weaver Hipps Elementary in Lehigh Acres for 10 days.

To donate to support the upkeep and programming for the WoW efforts, visit https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.as REFUGE/DDWS The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels px?name=E54182&id=12. ended 2023 at Varsity Lakes Middle School from Nov. 29 to Dec. 21.

Page 29 ■ Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Auction to benefit CROW The Tower Gallery is hosting an online silent auction from now through Jan. 11 at 7 p.m., with all proceeds to benefit the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel. It will conclude with a live celebration on Jan. 11 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the gallery, at 751 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel. To view the items or place a bid, visit https://e.givesmart.com/events/ApK/.

Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 30 captivasanibel.com

ERIC ORKIN

Art exhibit on display at TCH The Community House is hosting “Photography ReImagined,” by local photographer and digital artist Eric Orkin, from now through Jan. 28 at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Showcasing his approach to transforming traditional photographic images into

visual poems, the exhibit features a collection of his works printed on materials, including metals, canvas, tapestry, and even wood. The public can view the pieces on Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 239-472-2155.

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Week of Wednesday, January 10, 2024 ■ Page 32