Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

Island entities, others partner on new regional solar co-op

By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers com

Nonprofit group Solar United Neighbors (SUN) recently announced the launch of the Southwest Florida 2023 Solar Co-op to provide residents and businesses in Lee and Collier counties with collective buying power to affordably convert to solar energy

SUN reported that the recent impacts of Hurricane Ian have highlighted the urgency to help homeowners rebuild a more resilient community Rooftop solar, when paired with battery storage, can help power homes and life-saving equip-

ment during power outages

A brief announcement about the launch was made on Jan 17 at the SWFL Climate & Community Summit at the Arthex One Conference Center in Naples SUN's Gulf Coast program associate was in attendance during the summit to answer questions about going solar and to share their experiences.

“The co-op will enable Southwest Florida homeowners and business owners to join the growing community of people saving money by harnessing solar power,” SUN Gulf Coast Program Associate Julia Herbst said “Together, we’re building a movement to transform

our electricity system into one that is cleaner, fairer and shares its benefits more broadly With the ever-present threat of hurricanes, there’s never been a

See SOLAR CO-OP, page 3

T h e “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g W i l d l i f e S o c i e t y - F r i e n d s o f t h e R e f u g e l a u n c h e d t h e s t a t e ’s f i r s t c o mm u n i t y s o l a r c o - o p i n 2 0 1 5 t o b e n e f i t t h e J . N . “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e R e f u g e ’s Vi s i t o r & E d u c a t i o n C e n t e r a n d m a i n t e n a n c e g a r a g e , p l u s a n u m b e r o f r e s i d e n t i a l a n d c o mm e r c i a l b u i l d i n g s t h r o u g h o u t t h e i s l a n d s R E F U G E / D DW S

School District of Lee County continues recovery efforts

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers

District of Lee County’s recovery efforts following the destruction left behind by Hurricane Ian with 35 p e r c e n t o

Dr Christopher Bernier said there are still long-term projects that need to be done, including roof and carpet replacem e n t . E x i s t i n g m a i n t e n a n c e c o n t r a c t s with local vendors are being used to address permanent repairs

In addition, a long-term project timeline for all schools is forthcoming He said

th di trict will have public scores in terms of when and hat repairs are to be expectd at schools

B e r n i e r a l s o t o u c h e d base on the Fort Myers Beach Elementary School, H e c t o r A C a f f e r a t a Elementary School and The anibel School R e m e d i a t i o n h a s b e e n leted at The Sanibel School with replacement of the damaged HVAC and electrical equipment underway He said it is on schedule to be completed by the end of the month The school will reopen once the safety criteria are met

A town hall for Fort Myers Beach Elementary was held Jan 13 at Skip One

Seafood Restaurant on Fort Myers Beach. A presentation and recommendation is expected to be given to the school board in February The meeting had been postponed for the month of January to give the beach community additional time to think about the plans that were provided

As far as the scope of work, remediation and stabilization for building 2 is underway with the expected completion of the end of January In addition, a waiver of the 50 percent rule has been requested from the State Historic Preservation Office

Hector A Cafferata Elementary School in Cape Coral welcomed students to a temporary campus on Dec 19 Bernier said long-term considerations are currently being finalized, with a board presentation being given on Jan 24

City

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The city of Sanibel shared the following during its Facebook Live update on Jan 10:

∫ City Manager Dana Souza repor that City Hall wil be operational starting on Jan 17. The city's Building and P l a n n i n Departments w continue to operate at 6200 Whiskey Creek in Fort Myers

Residents should plan to move any debris on their property to the right-of-way for collection by the city's debris management contractor The goal is to have all debris moved by the end of January

For assistance removing debris from a property, visit https://iandebriscleanup com/

City staff continues to work on the beach parks, with the goal of having a couple reopened in February

He reported that large debris has been removed from beach Volunteers have been cleaning the beach every week Those interested can sign up through the SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation

Residences that had pool cages knocked down due to the hurricane are required to have a temporary fence installed around the pool Souza explained that the barrier ensures the safety of the public

Isl anderInsIde

Hospitalizations hit historic high, Lee Health reports

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

Local health officials on Jan 11 detailed why hospital beds have become scarcer in recent weeks as an unprecedented number of patients are being treated

During a press conference at Gulf Coast Medical Center, Lee Health Chief Medical Officer Dr Iahn Gonsenhauser said hospitals are at “nearly 100% capacity ”

He said contributing factors include the usual rise in patients this time of year due to a seasonal influx of residents, a slew of viruses, and an increase of COVID-19 hospitalizations over the past few months

“Thankfully, the most recent spike (in COVID-19) has been trending down, but the overall increase, along with seasonal visitors, has brought additional challenges for us that have placed a strain on our hospital capacities and our health care resources,” Gonsenhauser said.

Health officials noted that of the roughly 1,700 beds currently in use, only 80 are for COVID-19 hospitalizations Prior to the pandemic, Lee Health had never had 1,500 patients being treated at one time At the height of the pandemic, that number climbed to 1,674 Two weeks age, Lee Health was treating 1,750 patients

“We are seeing an incredible volume of patients,” Lee Health Chief Officer of Hospital Operations Armando Llechu said “(Some) because they were delayed access to care while the pandemic was taking place This year, upper-respiratory issues flew, viruses (have seen) high numbers. We are experiencing a much greater surge of patients this year as we did last year We’re managing it better We learned a lot of lessons But the numbers are staggering ”

On Jan 10, he said Lee Health emergency depart-

ments saw more than 1,040 patients, and officials are hopeful that members of the community will look for the most practical place to seek medical help, including places other than the ER

“That’s been the trend over the past few weeks,” Gonsenhauser said “Every single patient who arrives at our facilities and emergency departments is treated as quickly as possible, but emergency departments can have long wait times for non-life-threatening conditions ”

Care teams triage patients based on how critical their needs are when they arrive, he said

“Patients with the most critical needs are going to be treated first,” Gonsenhauser added

Non-critical issues could see longer wait times

“Those patients with lower-acuity illnesses … may end up experiencing a longer wait,” he said “Triaging is incredibly important to assure that we get patients the right care, at the right time, in the right place, and we thank you all for bearing with that process ”

Those experiencing a life-threatening illness or injury, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, stroke-like symptoms, persistent vomiting or abdominal pain, should call 911 or seek immediate medical attention, health officials said

But not all medical needs require a trip to the ER

“Many emergency room visits can generally be avoided,” Gonsenhauser said. “We as a health system are

Inaugural High School Student Enrollment Showcase set

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

For the first time, the School District of Lee County will hold a High School Student Enrollment Showcase for eighthgrade students later this month

It will be held on Jan 21 at the Lee County Public Education Center, at 2855 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers Attendees are asked to enter through the main entrance a c r o s s f r o m C o l o n i a l B o u l e v a r d a n d McDonald's; they will be given a map to show where to go “ W e w a n t o u r i n c o m i n g h i g h s c h o o l s t u d e n t s t o c h o o s e a s c h o o l t h a t m e e t s t h e i r i n t e r e s t s , b u t r e c o g n i z e n o t e v e r y f a m i l y h a s t h e a b i l i t y t o a t t e n d e a c h s c h o o l ’ s o p e n h o u s e , ” S u p e r i n t e n d e n t D r C h r i s t o p h e r B e r n i e r s a i d i n a p r ep a r e d s t a t e m e n t “ B y h o l d i n g a s h o wc a s e , w i t h e v e r y s c h o o l a v a i l a b l e o n t h e s a m e d a y , w e a r e m a k i n g i t e a s i e r o n o u r f a m i l i e s t o c o m p a r e t h e h i g h s c h o o l s i n t h e i r z o n e A l l o f o u r h i g h s c h o o l s h a v e d o n e a g r e a t j o b c r e a t i n g u n i q u e o p p o r t u n i t i e s , s o t h a t e v e r y s t ud e n t c a n f i n d t h e i r p l a c e . ”

In addition to all 15 traditional high s c h o o l s , L e e V i r t u a l S c h o o l w i l l b e among the schools present

Rising eighth-grade students have from now through March 3 to submit their choices for the high school assignment lottery In addition, applications for IB, Cambridge, arts, FGCU and STEAM advanced programs are due by Jan 27

The schedule for the showcase is broken down into zones:

East Zone from 8 to 9 :3 0 a.m.

∫ Dunbar High School

∫ East Lee County High School

∫ Gateway High School

∫ Island Coast High School

∫ Lehigh Senior High School

∫ Riverdale High School

South Zone from 1 0 to 1 1 :3 0 a.m.

∫ Bonita Springs High School

∫ Cypress Lake High School

∫ Dunbar High School

∫ Estero High School

∫ Fort Myers High School

∫ South Fort Myers High School

West Zone from noon to 1 :3 0 p.m.

∫ Cape Coral High School

∫ Ida S Baker High School

∫ Island Coast High School

∫ Mariner High School

∫ North Fort Myers High School

S c h o o l D e v e l o p m e n t E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r C l a y t o n S i m m o n s s a i d a l t h o u g h t h e y w i l l s t i l l h a v e t h e r e g u l a r C h o i c e o p e n h o u s e s , t h e e v e n t w i l l p r ov i d e p a r e n t s w i t h t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o s e e a l l o f t h e s c h o o l s a t t h e s a m e t i m e a n d o b t a i n i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t t h e m H e s a i d i t a l s o a l l o w s p a r e n t s a n d s t u d e n t s t o s e e w h a t c a r e e r a n d t e c h n i c a l p r o g r a m s t h e s c h o o l s o f f e r

The showcase will feature a counselor table, student enrollment information, exceptional student education and athletics In addition, the schools will focus on their clubs, activities, special academic programs, academies and general student information

“A lot of times freshmen may not be thinking about career and technical academies,” Simmons said, adding that it might spark an interest and help in selecting a school “All of the high schools, no matter where you go, have an advanced curriculum IB, AICE, or Cambridge program There may be other factors that weigh into what parents may want It’s time for them to walk around and see what’s there ”

Open enrollment for middle, high school

T h e d i s t r i c t ' s O p e n E n r o l l m e n t p r o c e s s i s moving entirely online for the 2023-24 school year

To rank schools for the s t u d e n t a s s i g n m e n t l o tt e r y , f a m i l i e s m u s t u s e their FOCUS Parent Portal a c c o u n t S t u d e n t s w h o wish to change schools for the 2023-24 school year m u s t a l s o u s e t h e i r FOCUS Parent Portal to rank their choices for the lottery The online applic a t i o n p r o c e s s m a k e s i t unneces s ary for families o f s t u d e n t s e n r o l l e d t o stand in long lines outside t h e S t u d e n t E n r o l l m e n t Office

always trying to expand our offerings and resources to assure we have alternative sites of care when and where it makes sense ”

Llechu said national statistics show roughly four in every 10 patients who go to an emergency department should have and could have sought care at another facility

“At Lee Health, we are trying to be good stewards of our health system, our staff, but more importantly, of your time,” he said. “If we can get you to the right setting, for the right care, at the right time, it is what is in your best interest, and in the best interest of every patient that is seeking care in the ER ”

Options other than the emergency room include:

∫ Lee Convenient Care: LCC operates four locations throughout the county that are open seven days a week, require no appointment and offer extended hours

∫ Lee TeleHealth: The service is available 24/7 from your smartphone, computer or tablet Visits are $49 dollars, and patients can see a physician in minutes for any of the same ailments they would use a walk-in clinic for If needed, the physician can also make a referral or write a prescription

∫ DispatchHealth: Lee Health also offers a mobile h e a l t h c a r e s e r v i c e t o c o m m u n i t y m e m b e r s i n L e e County, provided through DispatchHealth, a national provider of in-home medical care Through the service, patients can be treated at home for many conditions that are commonly treated in urgent care settings

∫ Primary care physician: Patients can call their physician office to make an appointment if not experiencing an emergency

For more information on Lee Health, visit www leehealth.org.

DOH-Lee to host immunization clinic

The Florida Department of Health in Lee County is reminding parents of kindergartners, seventh-graders, and out-of-state, transfer and college students to make sure their children’s immunizations are up to date before the start of the new school year

The DOH-Lee will host a clinic to provide services only for back-to-school immunizations on Jan. 21 from 9 a m to 1 p m at the Florida Department of Health, at 3920 Michigan Ave , Fort Myers

All students are required to receive the Tdap booster before entering seventh grade Children may receive the Tdap booster as early as age 11

Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins will be accepted on a limited basis. For an appointment, contact 239-461-6100 Travel vaccinations will not be provided during the clinic

Bring the child’s shot record and insurance card People may also fax a copy to 239-332-9517 or e m a i l D O H L e e I m m u n i z a t i o n s @ f l h e a l t h . g o v . T h e parent or guardian bringing the child must provide his or her photo ID

The DOH-Lee's Immunization Program provides routine, childhood immunizations free of charge to children 18 and under

The Open Enrollment period for rising fifth- and eighth-graders is from now to March 3

O p e n E n r o l l m e n t f o r e l e m e n t a r y school is being delayed until a new proxi m i t y p l a n i s i m p l e m e n t e d t h a t w i l l shrink school zones to create neighborhood schools Elementary school parents can view the proposal presented to the Lee County School Board on Jan 5 at https://www youtube com/watch?v=YS8 GClSDM E

Parents without a FOCUS account can create one at https://www leeschools net /our schools/focus

Student assignment uses a lottery system, so a family who registers the first day of Open Enrollment has the same chance of getting a school as that of a family who registers the last day

Rising high school students interested in the IB, Cambridge, Arts, FGCU and STEAM Advanced Programs must submit t h e i r A d v a n c e d P r o g r a m a p p l i c a t i o n directly to the school of their choice by J a n 2 7 A C h o i c e A p p l i c a t i o n

Submission Receipt obtained through the FOCUS Parent Portal showing the desired school ranked first is required to be included with the Advanced Program application

Any student who is new to the district or transferring into the district from a charter school must still come to the S t u d e n t E n r o l l m e n t O f f i c e , a t 2 8 5 5 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers, to register and fill out the application More information about Open Enrollment is available at https://www.leeschools.net/.

New ‘proximity plan’ could impact transportation for students

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

A draft plan to place children at schools closer to home was recently presented to the Lee County School Board

While students could continue to attend their current school, the School District of Lee County proposes to address transportation issues with a “bold recommendation” to not provide transportation for elementary students whose current school is not within the new proximity boundaries

This aspect deals with grandfathering, which would be the ability for a student to stay at the current school if they are now residing outside of their new zone The proposal and approach would go into effect for incoming kindergarten students and elementary students new to the district

“All rising elementary students (would have the) option to continue at school, but transportation is not provided unless the current school is within the new proximity boundaries,” Superintendent’s Office Coordinator Dr Adam Molloy said, adding that those students who live outside of the attendance zone would participate in a lottery using proximity maps with school choice “Transportation will strictly be provided within the new proximity plan map ”

Molloy said if a student lives outside of the new zone, the parent would waive transportation and provide their own if they want to keep their child at the same school.

“It does honor a parent’s choice, it just reduces our responsibility to transport,” he said

Superintendent Dr Christopher Bernier said the district has to do something about the 2023-24 school year

“Part of the solution is to ensure they (students) are in place on time,” he said

Students are missing “vital instructional hours because minutes add up quickly,” Bernier said of the approximately 2,000 students who are late to school every day due to issues with busing

He said the district has to help the community understand

Solar co-op

they are at a crossroads

“The 2000-plus could be 4,000 to 6,000 students late every day We have to get them to school on time and maximize the instructional day that we have,” Bernier said Board Chair Armor Persons said the system they have now is not sustainable

“If we do nothing it will be total disaster I look forward to getting this to its fruition,” he said

The proximity plan presented addresses both transportation and grandfathering

Molloy said part of addressing transportation issues is reducing the size of the district’s attendance zones by using the GSI study areas, which compile group study areas to make an attendance zone One of the aspects the proximity maps deal with is the reduction of routes and size of zones

“We are trying to reduce the size and ease the responsibility of transportation for the school district,” he said.

Proximity map one, which was formerly map one, would reduce the number of elementary school choices from 12 to four and reduce the scale of transportation by more than 100 square miles on average

“It’s a large-scale system change as it relates to elementary schools,” Molloy said

In years two and three, middle school choices will be a goal, also aligned with proximity maps with the transportation moving to a three tier system He said there will be an ability to adjust high and middle school start and end times

Molloy said if the proximity draft proposal goes into effect it will take a large amount of monitoring year after year and quarter after quarter

“We have to stay on top of it because we are setting the table for our schools We are hopeful we can move the map and procedures forward for the upcoming year for elementary schools,” he said

Bernier said this will not impact ESE students and their parents The routes and abilities to have the services and

accommodations regarding IEP will stay in place

“We wanted to bring forth our best thinking, he said “Our best thinking is not a decision These are very tight discussion points ”

School board members all shared they are in favor of the plan, but had concerns about academies, as well as before and after school care for students Time a student spends on buses was also addressed

Bernier said transportation is currently set on a fourtiered system, with the first tier consisting of high school busing, followed by tier two and three being elementary busing and then the final tier addressing middle school What the proximity plan will do is shorten the elementary bus runs because buses would not have to go as far and wide as they are currently covering

By eliminating a tier, the district can look into changing the start time and end time of high school and middle school, he said, adding this aspect would help with the bus driver shortage but would not reduce the bus driver force needed

“There are more than enough routes to go to drivers that we already have,” Bernier said

Board Member Debbie Jordan said all parents do not have the same ability to transport their child to school, which forced her to address before and after school care She said it is vital that options are available, so they can continue to go about their workday

“We are looking at a larger system that provides before and after care for elementary and middle school students,” Bernier said, adding that it should be an affordable option. “Can I promise that for a 23-24 school system? I don’t think I can ”

With that said, he said many elementary schools do offer before and after school care and they will look into the affordable aspect

The plan will come before the board again in late January or the beginning of February

■ W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , J a n u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 2 3 b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s . c o m

From page 1

better time to strengthen the electricity grid

Island partners on the co-op include the city of Sanibel, Sanibel-Captiva Renewable Energy Working Group, Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce, Committee of the Islands, “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Bailey's General Store. Additional partners include the Lee County Chapter of The Climate Reality Project, Growing Climate Solutions, Engage Estero, League of Women Voters Collier County and All Faiths Unitarian Congregation

The return of a SUN co-op to the region is the result of a collaboration with the Sanibel-Captiva Renewable Energy Working Group, according to Co-chair Bob Moore The Sanibel-Captiva Renewable Energy Working Group is a coalition of organizations working to address energy resiliency and sustainability for the community

“Hurricane Ian is a strong reminder of how important energy resilience is to our region and state Rooftop solar can be a part of the solution,” he said “Plus, it can save money for homeowners, businesses,

From page 1

Residents and businesses are asked to take down their holiday decorations at this time

∫ Mayor Holly Smith reported that city officials are in communications with the United States Postal Service about the re-establishment of postal services They should have a plan in the coming days

O v e r t h e w e e k e n d , s h e s h a r e d a n update via social media Smith reported that mobile units from the USPS are expected on site by Jan 20, with projected operations running by the end of

cities and nonprofits, while keeping our air cleaner It’s a no brainer ”

The DDWS launched the state's first community solar co-op in 2015 to benefit the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor & Education Center and maintenance garage, plus a number of residential and commercial buildings onisland Executive Director Birgie Miller reported that based on the success of that SanCap Solar Connect campaign, it has faith in community solarization efforts

“Thanks to its success, we were able to convert the refuge Visitor & Education Center and maintenance garage to solar Hurricane Ian, however, blew away most of the solar panels Now we also are building the new The Roost outdoor learning pavilion in an earth-friendly way,” she said “It makes sense for us to join in the SUN efforts, and we urge all local business owners and homeowners to do the same ”

“We recognize and appreciate the leadership showed with the original SanCap co-op,” Herbst noted

SUN reported that as Floridians continue to rebuild and recover from hurricane season, rooftop solar is one way that consumers can rebuild more resilient communities and be prepared for the next storm

Solar panels can handle severe weather events and, if the homeowner has battery storage too, solar can keep critical appliances and medical devices up and running Systems installed in hurricane zones are designed to withstand hurricane force winds

The Southwest Florida 2023 Solar Coop is free to join Members will learn about solar energy and leverage their numbers to purchase individual solar systems at a competitive price and top quality

After a bidding process facilitated by SUN, which remains vendor neutral, members will select a solar company for installations Joining does not obligate members to purchase solar Instead, they have the option to individually purchase panels and electric vehicle chargers based on the company's group rate

“We are excited to support this solar co-op for Southwest Florida,” SCCF Chief Executive Officer James Evans, who also serves as co-chair for the Sanibel-Captiva Renewable Energy Working Group, said “Harnessing energy from the sun just makes good economic sense and should be embraced by everyone in the Sunshine State ”

Bailey's General Store first utilized the

solar co-op model in 2020

“We’re excited at the opportunity to increase our energy production beyond the 480 panels currently in operation Rooftop solar fits well with our environmental and financial business strategy for economic recovery in the next 24 months,” owner Richard Johnson said “ We’re fortunate a majority of our 480 panels survived the Category 5 winds during Ian As we make plans to rebuild, solar and other resilient energy technology will play an integral role in reopening our doors and returning to normal ”

SUN will host free, virtual informational sessions on the co-op and solar power: ∫ Jan 30 from 6 to 7:30 p m : “Florida Solar 101: Webinar”

To register, visit https://www solarunitedneighbors org/event/florida-solar-10123-01-30/

∫ Feb 28 from 6 to 7:30 p m :

“Florida Solar 101: Webinar”

To register, visit https://www solarunitedneighbors org/event/florida-solar-10123-02-28/

For more information about the co-op, visit solarunitedneighbors org/swfl

SUN has hosted 76 solar co-ops in Florida since 2015

January

∫ The city's storm debris management contractor, CrowderGulf, reported that they are close to completion on debris removal from the beach A final inspection will be required afterward

∫ Councilmember John Henshaw reported that the Community Housing and Resources Board of Directors held an emergency meeting on Jan 4 to discuss the restoration of the rental units

Twenty-nine units have been deemed habitable and passed the air quality tests

The residents of the units have been notified that they can return, however, a few residents shared they will not be returning He reported that the available units could be reassigned to other individuals displaced by the storm

Henshaw added that about 44 remaining units could potentially be occupied Ongoing challenges include fire sprinklers and alarms, air quality like moisture and mold, and roof replacement

He noted that 11 units likely cannot be restored and will require rebuilds from

scratch

∫ Building Department Director and Building Official Craig Mole' reported that inspections were scheduled for the Sanibel Lighthouse on Jan 11 The lighthouse was damaged in the hurricane

To view the presentation shared by the city and other officials at the Facebook live, visit https://files constantcontact com / 9 7 a f 9 7 e 6 0 0 1 / 9 6 d f 8 7 3 9 - 7 d b 7 - 4 e 4 5afce-e6a08c66f7be pdf

Governor signs ambitious water quality order

On Jan 10, Gov Ron DeSantis signed the sweeping Executive Order 23-06 in support of improving water quality within Florida The order directs the state to spend $3 5 billion over the next four years on Everglades restoration and water quality improvements

The order is an ambitious ask from the governor and seeks to improve our water quality around the state and our resiliency into the future As more funding is directed toward Everglades restoration we expect to see less damaging discharges to the Caloosahatchee and improved water quality

Guest Commentary

The order marks an increase of $1 billion from the executive order that was signed four years ago It also directs additional funding to work to restore the Indian River Lagoon with $100 million earmarked for the creation of a protection program with enhanced water quality monitoring

Beyond allocating funding, the order directs the agencies within Florida to continue their efforts to support water quality The order directs the South Florida Water Management District to expedite Everglades restoration proj-

ects and focus on sending more clean water south to the Everglades

It also directs the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to work with the Florida Legislature to expand the wastewater grant program to address impacts from nonpoint source pollution Nonpoint source pollutants originate from agriculture runoff, stormwater, leaky septic systems, and similar sources and are major drivers of the nutrient pollution in our waterways.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation is excited to work with our partners and the DEP to tackle the issues of non-point source pollution, algal blooms, and resiliency and improve Florida’s waters for everyone

Additionally, the order provides guidance to the DEP to work with the Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services to strengthen Basin Management Action Plans for our waterways and to improve best management practices for agriculture If enacted properly, this could result in less nutrient pollution entering our waters

The order also seeks to reduce harmful algal blooms within the state It creates grant funding to work on mitigating blue-green algal blooms Finally, the order seeks to increase resiliency around the state and will create a coral reef restoration and recovery initiative to help with coral growth and storm surge protections

The order is a good step on the path to

DeSantis’ commitment to Everglades, environment is historic

Since taking office, Florida Gov Ron DeSantis has made a name for himself as America’s Everglades Governor

During his first inaugural address in 2019, DeSantis said, “It now falls to me to build upon the foundation that has been laid, navigate the challenges economic, environmental, constitutional that lie ahead, and steer Florida to a stronger, cleaner and safer future ” He has done just that

In that same address, he said, “For Florida, the quality of our water and environmental surroundings are foundational to our prosperity as a state it doesn’t just drive tourism; it affects property values, anchors many local economies and is central to our quality of life The water is part and parcel of Florida’s DNA. Protecting it is the smart thing to do; it’s also the right thing to do ”

Two days later, DeSantis signed an executive order that would take immediate action to protect our environment and one of our most critical natural resources, that also sustains our thriving economy our water The order laid out numerous environmental policies and directives and pledged to: 1) secure $2 5 billion over four years for Everglades restoration and protection of water resources; 2) expedite critical Everglades restoration projects, including the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir; 3) establish a Blue-Green Algae

Task Force, charged with expediting progress toward reducing the adverse impacts of blue-green algae blooms; 4) appoint a Chief Science Officer; and 5) establish an Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection

He accomplished all of this and more This commitment was only the start of a first term that would include many extraordinary milestones and achievements for restoring the Everglades and protecting our natural resources, including signing into law Senate Bill 712, which included the most significant environmental reforms in decades and created the state’s Resilient Florida program with the state’s first Chief Resilience Officer Under DeSantis’ leadership, the South Florida Water Management District started, hit major milestones, or finished more than 50 Everglades-related project components

Guest Commentary

harmful discharges through a new Lake Okeechobee operations plan, and advance and expedite critical Everglades restoration projects.

With DeSantis’ overwhelming victory on Election Day, it showed that restoring America’s Everglades and protecting the environment is top of mind for Floridians and that the economics of the Everglades’ health and Florida’s waters continue to be a priority for voters and the businesses that drive Florida’s tourism-based economy.

A healthy environment is an essential ingredient to a flourishing economy, and Floridians who have been here for decades and even for those that have even just moved here recognize that important link DeSantis has understood that from the start that the economy and environment are tied together

This is why the Everglades Trust was proud to endorse DeSantis in his re-election for a second term as governor. When it comes to Everglades restoration, DeSantis fulfilled the promises to secure record funding, decrease

On Jan 3, when DeSantis gave his second inaugural address, he showed that the Everglades and the environment continue to remain a priority. He reiterated his commitment to Everglades restoration, saying

reflect the views of The Island Reporter Opposing views

a phone number for verification purposes Letters considered

interest Letters to the Editor may be e-mailed to Tiffany Repecki at trepec-

newsroom at captivasanibel com; or mailed to 2340 Periwinkle Way,

Thursday. The Island Reporter reserves the right to edit

Matt DePaolis

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Anna Upton

Repair work begins on refuge’s Wildlife Drive

The “Ding” Darling W i l d l i f e S o c i e t yFriends of the Refuge reported that U S Fish a n d W i l d l i f e S e r v i c e crews from up north inactivated by the cold recently began working on shoring up washouts and safety hazards caused by Hurricane Ian along the J N “Ding” D a r l i n g N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e R e f u g e ' s Wildlife Drive and trails a n d a t T a r p o n B a y E x p l o r e r s R e f u g e

Complex Project Leader Kevin Godsea hopes to see the drive open in February The DDWS gave a shout-out to the workers from the Crab O r c h a r d N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e R e f u g e i n Illinois for helping the Sanibel refuge with its comeback

Lee Health seeks blood donations to replenish supply levels

Lee Health is seeking blood donations to help replenish supply levels

Blood and blood products are not only used in the trauma center, but also to treat cancer patients, premature babies, anemia and a variety of other conditions Lee Health’s blood centers are the sole supplier of all products for the health system About 800 units of blood are needed per week, and the blood centers rely on life to saving donations from the community to maintain inventory levels

The Lee Health Blood Mobile will be at the following locations:

Water quality order

restoration and resiliency, and it will be important to monitor that funds are directed to projects that will have the largest impact

DeSantis

“Florida

From page 4

resources Our momentum is strong, and we will finish what we started we will leave Florida to God better than we found it!”

A week after his inauguration, on the anniversary of the momentous executive order he signed in his first term, DeSantis signed a new executive order laying out a blueprint that builds on the promises he fulfilled during his first term

∫ Today, Jan 18: Lee County Sheriff’s Office, at 14750 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers, from noon to 5 p m

∫ Jan. 19: Bonita Bay Community Association, at 3451 Bonita Bay Blvd , Bonita Springs, from 9 a m to 5 p m

∫ Jan 23: Waterman Broadcasting, at 3719 Central Ave , Fort Myers, from 1 to 4 p m

∫ Jan 25: North Fort Myers Park and Recreation Center, at 2000 N. Recreation Way, North Fort Myers, from 9 a m to noon

∫

Jan 22: Cape Christian Fellowship, at 2110 Chiquita Blvd S , Cape Coral, from 8 a m to 2 p m

∫ Jan 22: First Christian Church of Fort Myers, at 2061 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers, from 8 a m to noon

∫ Jan 23: AAA, at 2516 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers, from 8:30 a m to noon

From page 4

on the quality and quantity of our water Matt DePaolis is the environmental poli-

In detail, DeSantis increased his funding commitment to $3 5 billion over the next four years for Everglades restoration, water quality initiatives, and water supply protections for Floridians, businesses, and tourists alike. The executive order prioritizes investments to restore water quality in the Indian River Lagoon and seeks to protect the taxpayers’ investment in Everglades restoration It also continues to prioritize and expedite the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir; it fortifies

All blood donated at Lee Health stays within the system to care for patients in Southwest Florida If unable to attend a drive, donations can also be made at one of Lee Health’s blood centers

For more information on how and where to donate, visit https://www leehealth org/our-services/blood-centers

cy director for the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Founded in 1967, the SCCF's mission is to protect and

progress made on the new Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual; it re-establishes the Blue-Green Algae Task Force; and it strengthens basin management action plans and seeks to improve best management practices working in conjunction with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

There is no doubt DeSantis’ commitment to the Everglades in his first term was monumental, but the commitment he has made to the Everglades and the environ-

care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems For more information, visit www sccf org

ment in the newly signed executive order is unquestionably historic

Time and again, DeSantis makes promises, and he delivers on those promises If his first term is any indication of what he can accomplish, Floridians and the great state of Florida will see this historic commitment become a reality

Anna Upton is the chief executive officer of the Everglades Trust For more information, visit EvergladesTrust org

CCP selects its officers, OKs budget and more

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Captiva Community Panel elected its officers for the year and approved the annual budget at its recent meeting, as well as heard updates on ongoing panel projects and post-hurricane recovery

On Jan 10, Vice President David Mintz opened the discussion about the officer elections by recommending that the 2022 officers retain their titles He

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Captiva Island Historical Society will host a screening of two films for the community

The “Documentary Double Feature” will take place on Jan 21 at 5 p m at Captiva Civic Center on Captiva Historian, author and CIHS Board Member Betty Anholt will present the documentaries, “The Domain of the Calusa” and “Buck Key: Island of History and Mystery ” The event is free of charge.

“In the wake of Hurricane Ian, the CIHS remains inspired and energized by the resilience of our island community,” officials reported “Thanks to the determination and resourcefulness of our board's event committee and the cooperation of the CCA, the Captiva Island Historical Society is fortunate to be able to carry on our mission of sharing the history of the islands ”

Produced by the Florida Museum, “The Domain of the Calusa” is an award-winning film on South Florida's Calusa Indians: the native coastal Indians of Southwest Florida Filmed in 1995, it introduces a powerful, complex, and artistic Native American society, with which few Americans are familiar

Produced by the CIHS, “Buck Key: Island of History and

explained that in light of the continuing recovery efforts resulting from the storm and the responsibilities that they have taken on to include building relationships with outside agencies and officials, continuity is important at this time.

Mintz reported that he would like to renominate the three sitting officers to serve for another term, noting that the panel would have to nominate and elect a new secretary as the position is open

Several on the panel voiced support for the suggestion

“I agree with David,” Panel Member John Jensen said “You guys would be great moving forward ”

“I'm very supportive of the current officers,” Panel Member Linda Laird said “I also agree,” Panel Member Ann Brady said “If you're willing to serve again, it would make a more seamless

CEPD fills seat and approves vehicle funding

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

T h e C a p t i v a E r o s i o n P r e v e n t i o n District’s commission made an appointment to an open seat on the board during its recent meeti well as approv funds to replac t h e d i s t r i c t ' s beach vehicle

On Jan 9, E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r D a n i e l M u n reported that s h a d r e c e i v e d o n l y o n e a p p l i c a t i o n t o f i l l f o r m e r Commissioner Linda Laird’s seat, which was vacated in January, and she was the applicant

A motion to appoint Laird to the open seat on the commission was approved 30

Also at the meeting, the commissioners learned that the CEPD’s beach vehicle had not yet been replaced after sustaining damage in Hurricane Ian After some discussion among the board, a motion to a p p r o v e a n o t - t o - e x c e e d a m o u n t o f $20,000 to pay for a replacement vehicle was approved 5-0.

Mystery” is the surprising story of Buck Key, its Calusa occupants, and the early community and plantations that foreshadowed Captiva's settlement

There will be snacks available, plus a cash donation bar for beer and wine

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company is the presenting sponsor

While admission is free, reservations are required For more information or to register, www captivaislandhistoricalsociety.org.

The Captiva Civic Center is at 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva

County library system offering

T

which includes the Captiva Memorial Library, is offering the following free virtual programming:

Adult programs

Also during the meeting, CEPD attorney Ralf Brookes asked for the commission's support to resolve a lawsuit filed by former Administrator Carolyn Weaver over alleged payment due at her termination

A motion to authorize the district’s defense council to settle the case with a neutral recommendation and a payment of no more than $1,000 without coming back before the board was approved 4-1

sented in partnership with the School District of Lee County's Adult & Career Education Program Advance registration required before today, Jan 18, at 6 p m

entry into 2023 and all that is going on ”

A motion to renominate President Jay Brown, Mintz and Treasurer Tony Lapi to their positions was approved unanimously, along with a second motion for Bruce McDonald to serve as the secretary

A l s o d u r i n g t h e m e e t i n g , A d m i n i s t r a t o r K e n Gooderham presented the 2023 proposed budget He amended it from last month to include the adjusted administrative costs and support for projects

The panel approved the budget in an unanimous vote

Captiva Drive revegetation, bike lanes

The panel formed a committee last month to review the revegetation along Captiva Drive post-hurricane and possible expansion of the existing bicycle-pedestrian lanes Jensen reported that they discussed the safety of the bike path and expectation that property owners will replant along it

“We do have an ordinance that says no plantings within 2 feet of the pavement and that's for under 8 feet,” he said “It seems like we've always had a problem with vegetation growing over the pavement ”

Jensen noted that the situation should be OK if property owners adhere to the current regulation

“I think the goal would be to keep the vegetation as far away from the pavement as we can,” he said

Panel Member Margarethe Thye-Miville said overgrown plants and beach sand make it unusable

“Right now it is not user-friendly,” she said Brown suggested that the 2-foot buffer be graveled and then people could replant up to the buffer M c D o n a l d s h a r e d t h a t t h e b u f f e r n e e d s t o b e addressed for safety, plus the overhanging vegetation “We ought get out to the community that we do intend to strictly enforce the 2 feet rule, especially in cases where it's been problematic,” he said “So that people kind of know this is coming, so that it's not a shock ”

The panel agreed with enforcing the existing ordinance and for Jensen to follow up with Lee County officials about graveling the two-foot buffer and cutting back any overgrown vegetation monthly

CEPD

From page 6

Prior to the vote, Laird explained that she would be voting no because the allegations occurred before her tenure and she did not know the specifics, so she did not feel comfortable voting for the action

Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Analysis

Also at the meeting, Dr. Samantha Danchuk with CEPD consultant APTIM gave a presentation to the commissioners on the “Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Analysis” conducted by the engineering firm.

She explained that the study entailed:

∫ Background and data collection: F l o o d i n g c a u s e s a n d s c e n a r i o s f o r Captiva, and critical asset inventory and data collection

∫ Flood exposure analysis: Extent of potential inundation under various flood scenarios including sea level rise, tidal flooding, storm surge, and 100- and 500year flood events

∫ Critical asset sensitivity analysis: Impact of inundation for each inundation tipping point scenario

∫ Risk matrix: Risk determination for assets based on likelihood and impact

∫

Focus areas: Areas and assets most

Iguana control

Jensen reported that Alfredo Fermin, of AAA Wildlife Trapping and Removal Services, recently resumed his iguana eradication services on the island to help control the species' population

“Alfredo is back on track,” he said “This week is his second week ”

Jensen added that Fermin will provide the panel with a report at the end of the month, which will include where he is getting the iguanas. He also plans to outline alternatives to shooting them

“But I think this is the best way,” Jensen said of the current method

In other news

∫ L e e C o u n t y S o l i d W a s t e D i r e c t o r D o u g l a s s

Whitehead and Lee County Public Utilities Operations Manager Amanda Condomina provided the panel with an update on debris removal for the island

Condomina reported that 157,000 cubic yards of material had been collected as of Jan 10, with an estimated 16,000 cubic yards left People should continue to put their debris on the right-of-way

“We're going to continue having trucks out there until all of the debris is gone,” she said, adding that officials are assessing the amount of storm debris remaining for collection on a day-by-day basis

“We don't have any anticipated end day as of yet,” Condomina said of the collections

Whitehead reported that the trucks are collecting the debris daily

“We need people to get material to the street It really does need to get to the curb,” he said of moving it to the right-of-way “At some point in time, we will have to transfer to the normal waste haul ”

∫ Florida Department of Transportation resident construction engineer Kati Sherrard gave a presentation on the designs for the Sanibel Causeway It was the same information provided to the Sanibel City Council at its December meeting, with an update on the timelines for

at risk for inundation

Under the risk assessment, Danchuk highlighted that there are at risk assets across all scenarios, including all conservation lands, all marinas, the Captiva Civic Association, Captiva fire station, U S Postal Service, a heliport, and FGUA wastewater treatment plant at the South Seas Island Resort.

She added that there is an urgent tidal flooding potential in mangrove areas and a low elevation marina, and provided percentages for parcels, buildings and linear feet of roads at risk based on the scenarios

As for adaptation areas, the study sectioned off the island as Chadwick Bayou, Central Captiva, Roosevelt Channel and Blind Pass and outlined recommendations for each to reduce the risks

Danchuk concluded that higher frequency storm surge and mid-term sea level rise pose a low to medium risk level to the island's assets and resources Also, adapting coastal infrastructure to resist flood elevations of at least 3 5 feet would be prudent In addition, a new policy regarding tidal flood barriers along the shoreline and enhancing green infrastructure along the waterfront is suggested

She noted that adaption is primarily the

Captiva Public Meetings

T h e f o l l o w i n g p u b l i c m e e t i n g s / h e a r i n g s a r e scheduled:

∫ Jan 24: 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

the work

She reported that the FDOT is hoping to have the plans development finished by the end of January Officials are continuing to meet with local and permitting agencies The goal for finalizing the design and applying for permits is by the end of the first quarter, with permanent repairs to start in summer

“Our goal is began repairs within six month,” Sherrard said

The FDOT's anticipated completion date for the permanent repairs is late this year In addition, she explained that the permanent work is being designed to build on the temporary work it has done

Sherrard added that the FDOT is working with the county on the improvements that it had planned for the causeway before the storm It is looking to accommodate those plans into the permanent repairs

For information about her initial presentation to the city council last month, read the article for free at h t t p s : / / w w w c a p t i v a s a n i b e l c o m / 2 0 2 2 / 1 2 / 2 0 / c i t y - o t hers-provide-updates-on-hurricane-recovery/

∫ Lee County Sheriff's Office Lt Mike Sawicki reiterated that beach parks and accesses remained closed to the public as of the meeting. Because of the lack of parking, motorists have gotten creative in where they park Sawicki recommended that property owners put up “no parking” signs if possible

responsibility of private Captiva owners However, there are funding partnership opportunities that would likely assist in addressing some of the vulnerabilities

As part of the study, APTIM analyzed the scope of legal authority of the CEPD to implement a sea level rise infrastructure and resilience project and outlined possible funding sources for its adaptation.

Danchuk presented the board with a proposal from APTIM for a comprehensive beach and shore preservation program resiliency strategy and implementation that can be accomplished in six tasks

After some discussion, the commission agreed to set up a workshop to review the proposal

To view the presentation, visit this article online for free at http://www captivasanibel com/

Hurricane Ian Beach Damage Assessment and Update

Also during the meeting, Nicole Sharp with APTIM gave a presentation to the commission on the “Hurricane Ian Beach Damage Assessment and Update” completed by the engineering firm

S h e r e p o r t e d g e n e r a l o b s e r v a t i o n s found during the study included volume

loss, beach width loss, lowered beach elevation, sand bars, dune impacts, and more l o s s e s i n t h e m i d a n d s o u t h e n d o f Captiva The volume loss was about 51,700 cubic yards of sand and beach width loss was about 19 3 feet

Sharp noted that the CEPD's 2021 beach renourishment was effective in providing storm damage reduction benefits and that it was designed to absorb wave energy and protect upland infrastructure

The study outlined the next steps as coordinating with funding partners to replace the loss

She explained that the U S Army Corps of Engineers is currently developing a project worksheet to determine if the federal cost share partner would be it or t h e F e d e r a l E m e r g e n c y M a n a g e m e n t Agency for assistance due to Hurricane I a n . S h a r p e s t i m a t e d t h e a p p l i c a t i o n process could open in the spring

“They are moving through the steps, but it's going to be longer than the state process,” she said

“I think it's going to be a several month process,” Sharp added

To view the presentation, visit this article online for free at http://www captivasanibel com/

focused and meditating Advance registration required

For more information or to register, visit leelibrary librarymarket com

Questions can also be directed to 239479-INFO (4636)

Download books, stream video and

o t h e r o n l i n e c o n t e n t a t www leelibrary net

The Captiva Memorial Library is currently closed due to Hurricane Ian.

T h e C a p t i v a l i b r a r y i s a t 1 1 5 6 0 Chapin Lane, Captiva

BUsIness

Lee County MPO to hold public hearing

The Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization Board will hold a public hearing on Jan 20 at 9 a m in Room 118 at the Lee County Administration East Facility, at 2201 Second St., Fort Myers, to consider amendments to the 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP)

The proposed amendments being considered include the following:

∫ Amend the Lee County project list to add the two to four lanes widening of Corkscrew Road from east of Verdana Village to the new Kingston Ranch Road in the 2031-35 time frame to address the recently approved Kingston Ranch Development

∫ Amend the privately funded project list to add in the new four lane Kingston Ranch Road from Corkscrew Road north to SR 82 across from Eisenhower Blvd in Lehigh Acres The project is added to the 2026-30 time frame and is being funded by the developer

∫ Amend the Lee County project list to add in the widening of Corkscrew Road from four to six lanes from east of Fire House Lane to Alico Road in the 2036-45 time frame

∫ Amend the Lee County project list to add in the new two lane roadway extension of Sunshine Boulevard from 75th Street to SR 80 in the Cost Feasible Plan in the 2036-45 time frame

∫ Amend the state and federal funding project list to add in a project line for the Cape Coral Bridge Reconstruction Project to match the federal funding eligibility from potential discretionary funding sources (the funding for the project is shown under the Lee County project list)

∫ Amend the state and federal funding project list to add in a PD&E study for the I-75/Daniels Rest Area in the 2021-25 time frame that will be funded with carbon reduction funding The study will look at adding up to 150 truck parking spaces to the facility

∫ Amend the Cape Coral project list to add in a PD&E study for SR 78 from Burnt Store Road to 24th Avenue in the 2021-25 time frame to match the funding that they have included in their current year budget

∫ Add in language to the Cost Feasible Plan chapter to address the type of projects that can funded with the new carbon reduction funding that is included in the new federal transportation bill

The LRTP identifies the cost feasible projects for roads, transit and bicycle/pedestrian improvements through the year 2045 Information on the board meeting agenda can be found at www leempo com

Hard copies of the documents are available by contacting the MPO offices at 239-244-2220 Written comments may be submitted to dscott@leempo.com, faxed to 239-790-2695 or mailed to P O Box 150045 Cape Coral, FL 33915-0045 Written comments received by the end of the business day on Jan will be presented to the board members Public comments may also be made at the board meeting

Historical village provides update on old Bailey’s store, Burnap Cottage

Recently, the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village provided a post-hurricane update on two buildings the old Bailey's General Store and Burnap Cottage as well as their histories

Officials reported that the Bailey's store, originally called and still known as the Sanibel Packing Company, suffered roof damage in Hurricane Ian that necessitated tarping The shingle roof section will most likely need to be replaced

Inside, the storm surge came up about 2 feet or more, which required artifacts to be removed and disposed of Officials noted that the flood waterline mark is visible on the original Frank Bailey's desk The building required substantial drying and dehumidification Also, the floors were severely damaged and buckled in many places, and they are hoping the floors will resettle as they continue to dry out

Electrical outlets and wiring in the store are still being evaluated and may need to be replaced

Officials continued that the Burnap Cottage emerged from the storm with a damaged roof and water intrusion through the exterior clapboards Extensive drying and dehumidification was needed, and they suspect it may need selective demolition and stabilization In addition, it appears the building may now be “racked,” or tilted on its foundation They are awaiting further reports from a structural engineer

The Bailey’s store housed at the village is the second one The original store was located on a wharf in the San Carlos Bay and was destroyed by the 1926 hurricane. The second store was rebuilt farther inland, but still on the Pine Island Sound near the docks

Bailey’s was always the center of activity on the island It had telephone and telegraph links, and the steamer, ferry and mail boats stopped at its docks Islanders voted there, sent and received mail, and caught up on the news In 1963, the Baileys moved the store to its current Tarpon Bay Road location

Constructed in 1898, the Burnap Cottage was the oldest building at the village until the schoolhouse arrived It was built on Woodring Point on land homesteaded by Sam Woodring, where he lived with his wife, Esperanza, who was an expert fishing guide In the early 1900s, a minister named George Gatewood used the cottage to hold Sunday services

Upon Sam Woodring's death, Hiram Burnap purchased the cottage and used it as a fishing retreat in the winter Nellie and James Brewster bought the cottage and added a second story In 1998, the building was donated and moved to the village and restored to its original state O f f i c i a l s r e p o r t

The Sanibel Lighthouse lens that was in use from 1962-82 is housed in the Burnap Cottage. The building also houses artifacts and memorabilia from the lighthouse and The Algiers, the Mississippi river boat that was meant to become Sanibel's first “mega mansion ”

The Burnap Cottage at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village suffered a damaged roof and water intrusion due to Hurricane Ian, and the building may now be “racked,” or tilted on its foundation.

Business Notes

Kyle DeCicco as bank president and

executive officer, effective Jan 1 He has been a member of the executive management team since 2020 and was named president in January 2022

In his new role, DeCicco oversees all management and operations, while continuing to lead the commercial lending division Founder Craig Albert has served as president and chief

executive officer since the bank opened in 2003 Albert will continue to be involved, acting as chairman of the board DeCicco's transition is the final step in a transition and succession plan that it approved in 2021.

DeCicco joined the bank in 2016 as vice president and commercial loan officer, focusing on commercial real estate lending and relationship development with local businesses and investors In 2020 and 2021, he was instrumental in leading the efforts in administering the Small Business Administration Paycheck

Protection Program

With more than 16 years of banking experience, DeCicco has worked in commercial real estate and lending, credit analysis, performing and nonperforming loan portfolio management, and management of FDIC insured loss-share assets

He is a recent graduate of the American Bankers Association Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania DeCicco also grad-

DeCicco named bank president, CEO

Kyle DeCicco

SANIBEL HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND VILLAGE

The old Bailey General Store at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village sustained roof damage, storm surge and buckling floors as a result of Hurricane Ian

Chamber cuts ribbon at Blue Giraffe food truck

Commerce celebrated the debut of the Blue Giraffe restaurant's food truck at its Periwinkle Place Shops location with a ribbon cutting on Jan 5

Co-owner Bill Letrendre said the food truck, with its limited hours and menu, will serve loyal customers while his two brick-and-mortar restaurants undergo restoration.

“The Periwinkle Place location was totally destroyed and must be rebuilt from scratch,” he said “The Beachview Estates location was not destroyed and will require much less repair to re-open If all goes well the goal is to be ready by Christmas 2023 for both locations ”

First launched on Jan 2, the food truck has exceeded Letendre's expectations

“The Letendres do the islands a great service by providing a convenient, central location where customers can enjoy a degree of normalcy with some of Blue Giraffe’s most well-loved dishes,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “We commend them for their ability to pivot quickly to keep their business vital in these trying times ”

The food truck is open Monday through Saturday for breakfast from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and for lunch until 3 p m It is offering customers a choice of six breakfast items and 10 lunch dishes, including wraps, tacos, burritos, beer and wine A number of tables, with umbrellas,

(Editor's

Grocer y

∫

provide seating for diners

The Blue Giraffe first opened at Periwinkle Place in 2016 and at Beachview in 2020

The Periwinkle Place Shops is at 2075 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The Blue Giraffe is at 2075 Periwinkle Way, Suite 14, Sanibel

The Blue Giraffe 2 at Beachview Estates is at 1100 Par View Drive, Sanibel

Open For Business Post-Storm

∫ Jerry's Cafe, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, at 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Jerry's Food, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ Sanibel Spirits, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Suite 6 Sanibel

∫ The Island Store, at 11500 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

Restaurants

∫ Blue Giraffe food truck, at 2075 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ Cantina Captiva food truck, at 14970 Captiva Drive, Captiva

∫ Captiva Island Pizza, at 11513 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

∫ Cielo, at 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ Gramma Dot's food truck, at 634 N Yachtsman Drive, Sanibel

∫ Huxters Market & Deli food truck, at 1203 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ Island Pizza, at 1619 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ Old Captiva House, at 15951 Captiva Dr, Captiva ∫ Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory, at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel ∫ The Sanibel Grill, at 703 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel

∫ The Shack of Sanibel, at 1219 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ Traders, at 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel ∫ Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, at 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Retail

∫ Barracudas, at 14970 Captiva Drive, Captiva ∫ Beach Stuff, at 14900 Captiva Drive, Captiva ∫ Footloose H2O Outfitters, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Suite 4, Sanibel ∫ Jungle Drums Gallery, at 11532 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva ∫ Nanny's of Sanibel, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel ∫ Rachel Pierce Art Gallery, at 1571 Periwinkle

Business Notes

Way, Sanibel

∫ Sanibel Surf Shop, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Suite 10, Sanibel ∫ Sea Oats Day Spa, at 1149 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel ∫ Whitney's Bait and Tackle, at 1554 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel ∫ YOLO Watersports, at 11534 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

Ser vice

∫ Bank of the Islands, at 14812 Captiva Drive, Captiva ∫ Bank of the Islands, at 1699 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel ∫ Captiva Post Office, at 14812 Captiva Drive, Captiva ∫ SanCap Pak-N-Ship, at 2341 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel ∫ S a n i b e l C a p

From page 8

uated from the Florida Bankers Association Florida School of Banking, and he holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Florida Atlantic University

A Southwest Florida native, DeCicco serves as treasurer and board member of The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools and a member of the foundation’s Grant Selection Committee. He also serves on the Heights Elementary Student Advisory Committee and is a Captain-level Keel Club member of the United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades, among other volunteer efforts

SCCF staffer facilitates summit

The Southwest Florida C l i m a t e a n d C o m m u n i t y Summit took place on Jan 17 in Naples

S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n F o u n d a t i o n C o a s t a l R e s i l i e n c e M a n a g e r D r C a r r i e Schuman participated as a facilitator during the tablet o p d i s c u s s i o n s s e s s i o n . She and her co-facilitator,

R o o k e r y B a y R e s e r v e C o a s t a l T r a i n i

Originally delayed due to Hurricane Ian, the event represents a continuation of the SWFL Climate and Community Initiative's work to bring “together the collective voices of our community as we learn, develop, and enact solutions to protect our region ”

The lineup of speakers and facilitators included representatives from groups working on resilience and climate change in the area, including the Florida Department of E n v i r o n m e n t a l P r o t e c t i o n , S o u t h F l o r i d a W a t e r Management District, Lee County Chapter of The Climate Reality Project, Growing Climate Solutions, and Florida Gulf Coast University's Water School.

NOISE Inc. announces rebranding

Outlier Brands is the next generation corporate brand name and brand mark for NOISE Inc

Outlier Brands will continue the 36-year tradition and reputation of NOISE Inc as an internationally-awarded brand activation agency serving clients throughout the United States and Caribbean

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n g P r o g r a m Specialist Marissa Figueroa, led a group conversation about “improving the resilience of our coastal interface.”

Dr Carrie Schuman

SANIBEL & CAPTIVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce representatives were on hand to celebrate the Blue Giraffe food truck launch with a ribbon cutting on Jan. 5 on Sanibel.

PreserVInG ParadIse

Shell museum to host interactive walks to support new project

With the launch of Snail Search of Lee County its new citizen science project the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is hosting guided Snail Search and Biodiversity Walks

On a walk, an educator will take participants out into the field in Lee County and walk them through the steps of creating a free iNaturalist account a free citizen science app and how to use it

Participants will also have the opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna within the natural area.

SCCF staff responds to sea turtle strandings in 2022

In addition to sea turtle nest monitoring, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation holds the permit for responding to and documenting sea turtle strandings sick, injured or dead turtles on the island. Sick or injured turtles are quickly rescued and transported to a rehabilitation facility, where they can be appropriately evaluated and treated

The SCCF reported that in 2022, staff documented a total of 34 stranded turtles, including 30 dead and four live turtles Loggerhead sea turtles accounted for 18 strandings, followed by 11 green sea turtles, two Kemp's ridleys and three turtles that could not be identified due to decomposition

“Most of the stranded turtles (20) had no obvious acute injuries or abnormalities and could not be assigned a cause of death by an external examination alone,” sea turtle biologist Jack Brzoza said, adding that definitive vessel-strike injuries were found in 10 strandings

When fatal strandings are salvaged for necropsy or research purposes or live turtles are transported to a rehabilitation facility, they often need to be carried long distances along the beach before they can be loaded into a vehicle

“It is important that these transports are as safe as possible for both the turtle and response team,” he said “Our primary aims are to reduce stress on the animal, in the case of live strandings, and to decrease the chance of human injury when dealing with heavy carcasses ”

The SCCF recently acquired new equipment to aid in stranding response, thanks to a 2022 grant awarded by the Sea Turtle Grants Program, which is funded from proceeds from the sale of the Florida Sea Turtle Specialty License Plate It provided funds for a hand truck and sea turtle sling to help transport animals, as well as a chest freezer and operating table to aid in salvage and necropsy efforts

“These items were a huge help during our 2022 stranding response efforts, allowing SCCF staff to move deceased strandings in a manner that is safer for personnel and transport live strandings in a manner safe for both personnel and the animal,” Brzoza said

The SCCF collects data on all stranded turtles, including species, location, size and descriptions of wounds/injuries, and abnormalities, and reports it to t h e F l o r i d a F i s h a n d W i l d l i f e C o n s e r v a t i o n Commission The data can be used at the state and federal levels to monitor mortality, categorize stranding events and better inform management practices

If you encounter a stranded sea turtle, call the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663.

The purpose of Snail Search of Lee County is to help the Sanibel museum learn more about the availability and location of native and invasive land and tree snails in the area Research conducted on land and tree snails in the area is limited and outdated, and most studies contain no photographs

During the free interactive walks, participants will be given the tools to go out on their own and contribute to the project Walks are expected to last 45 minutes to 1 hour, weather depending

The following walks are scheduled:

∫ Jan 23 at 3 p m at the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, at 7751 Penzance Blvd , Fort Myers ($1 per vehicle parking fee)

∫ Feb 20 at 10 a m at the Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, at 2500 S E 24th St , Cape Coral

∫ March 13 at 1 p m at the Koreshan State Park, at 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero ($5 per vehicle parking fee)

∫ April 26 at 10 a m at the Estero Bay Preserve State Park, at 4940 Broadway West, Estero ($2 per vehicle parking fee)

∫ May 24 at 2 p m at the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, at 7751 Penzance Blvd , Fort Myers ($1 per vehicle parking fee)

To register, contact Jorden Falker at jfalker@shellmuseum org or 239-347-5119

For more information, visit https://www shellmuseum org/snail-search

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

SCCF: Long dry winter adds stress to freshwater species

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that Hurricane Ian, which caused record-breaking damage to personal property and infrastructure on Sanibel, occurred at a time when the summer rains were dying down, leading into the impending dry season

“This has placed increased stress on most wildlife species on the island due to the inundation of salt water into the freshwater areas,” Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz said “With substantial relief of frequent rains being approximately a half year away, many species will have it harder than others ”

Numerous local species can either store freshwater for long periods of time and/or absorb enough in the foods they eat to survive through a long dry period, such as gopher tortoises

However, aquatic species and even some semi-aquatic species are dependent upon mostly permanent sources of freshwater For instance, the freshwater game fish such as bluegill, largemouth bass and warmouth live exclusively in freshwater but have been known to thrive in salinities on Sanibel as high as 3 parts per thousand (ppt) The range is 0 ppt for freshwater to 35 ppt for sea water

Amphibians, such as frogs, have a very permeable skin that absorbs moisture upon contact They have a very lowtolerance for salt in the water Two native true frogs, the pig frog and southern leopard frog, spend a lot of time in freshwater bodies, as opposed to other species that may just use them to breed in or exist around those waterbodies

“These two amphibian Sanibel species are of the highest concern of the nine species on the island for this reason,” he said “These frogs still have not been documented existing post-hurricane ”

The SCCF reported that there have been many thoughts and ideas on what can be done to sustain wildlife over the long dry season with the extreme saltwater inundation that the islands have incurred Sanibel wildlife agencies have considered adding scattered, temporary freshwater pools in wildlife-rich areas or even pumping previously freshwater pools with now high salinity water out

Lechowicz recommended that residents place small freshwater basins such as low tubs or water bowls in their yards to give passerby species a source of freshwater and help wildlife survive the long dry winter Some residents have already done this One person with a plastic koi pond cleaned it out due to saltwater intrusion and it is now a freshwater oasis

“This natural event, although very unfortunate, is not a new phenomenon in our location,” he said “Many species on Sanibel are adapted to survive this type of event, but the possibility of some species being knocked way back or possibly extirpated is certainly feasible ”

The SCCF reported that its Marine Lab is testing lakes on Sanibel for salinity pre and post-Ian, measured in practical salinity units (PSU). For reference, the salt content of the Gulf of Mexico is 30-35 PSU Freshwater is considered to be 0-1 5 PSU

Veteran banded pelican obser ved on-island

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's shorebird team recently spotted a veteran brown pelican on Sanibel First banded as a chick in Breton Island, Louisiana, it is 13 years old and a survivor of the aftermath and cleanup of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010 To report a sighting of a banded bird, contact shorebirds@sccf org

SCCF

CECI to hold gathering, potluck for families

The Children's Education Center of the Islands on Sanibel will host a Family Gathering & Potluck on Jan 22 from 10 a m to 1 p m at the East Pavilion at Estero Community Park, at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero Island families are invited to bring smiles, hugs and their favorite dish for some food and fun Children will be able to enjoy the playground For more information, visit @The Children's Education Center of the Islands on Facebook or at www childrenseducationcenter com

City resumes program to remove iguanas post-storm

The city of Sanibel is resuming its iguana removal program following Hurricane Ian

The city reported that Sanibel is a sanctuary island that lives in harmony with native wildlife and landscapes By removing invasive green iguanas, the city is preserving native vegetation and protecting native wildlife from displacement

To authorize the trapper to access private property to lethally remove iguanas, complete the city's trapper request form at https://www.mysanibel.com/government/naturalresources/useful-links/wildlife-information/exotic-lizards

Be sure to indicate on the form the location (plant species, location on property) and time frame of day iguanas are frequently seen on the property to ensure that the city has the best information to increase success of any future trapping events Iguanas are creatures of habit and typically frequent the same preferred areas daily The city asked that people only submit a removal request form if they are the property owner of the address that needs iguana removal assistance

The city noted that it is not collecting information on sightings of iguanas at this time City staff monitors parks and rights-of-way for iguanas and those iguanas are removed accordingly

The city trapper works on the island one day a week The city contracted trapper does not respond immediately to requests for iguana removal The current turnaround time for a trapping event is approximately 1-2 weeks, which fluctuates throughout the year depending on the volume of reports

For questions about the program, contact Conservation Officer Veronica Runge at Veronica Runge@mysanibel com

How the city's program works

∫ The city's Natural Resources Department catalogues each iguana report using the information on the form submitted by the property owner, including location on the owner’s property, time of day the iguana is seen, and the activity observed (foraging, sunning, burrowing) The information is provided to the city trapper each week

∫ The trapper notifies the Sanibel Police Dispatcher of their location while working The contracted city trapper wears a lime green shirt, which identifies them with writing, “Sanibel Lizard Control Program ” The contracted city trap-

per’s vehicle has a magnetic sign that reads “Sanibel Lizard Control Program ”

∫ The trapper contacts the Sanibel police upon completion of each daily activity and reports their actions The report is reviewed by the Natural Resources Department and accounted in the city database, where staff track removal reports specific to each property

∫ The trapper typically visits the property once a week for two weeks If iguanas are still present, property owners are encouraged to file a new report.

Tips to effectively manage iguanas

∫ In accordance with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and state wildlife laws, property owners may also hire a nuisance wildlife trapper directly to address iguana issues beyond the scope of the city's program. For more information about licensed nuisance wildlife trappers on Sanibel, contact Runge at Veronica Runge@mysanibel com

∫ Iguanas generally are attracted to tropical plants from the islands and South America, where they are native Removing exotic plants, such as hibiscus, gardenia, bougainvillea, turf grass and invasive Brazilian pepper, and any tropical fruiting plants, such as mangos, can be an effective way to reduce iguana activity in one's yard permanently

∫ Placing reflective devices in areas where iguanas are regularly observed and using a garden hose or sound devices whenever possible to haze iguanas will discourage their presence on one's property

∫ Property owners are also encouraged to view guidelines from the FWC on iguana prevention, exclusion, deterrents, habitat modification, and iguana capture at the following:

Iguana Technical Assistance for Homeowners https://myfwc com/media/3092/iguanatechnicalassistance pdf

Iguanas in Florida https://myfwc com/media/3090/iguanabrochure pdf

Exotic Lizard Identification (City of Sanibel) https://www mysanibel com/content/download/27660/fi le/Exotic%20Lizard%20Identification pdf

Meetings

Commission organizational meeting at 9 a m at BIG ARTS, at 900 D u n l o p R o a d , S a n i b e l , a n d v i a

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

Last week, the SPD provided the following updates:

Arrest reports

∫ Gregory Francis Jennings, 76, of 1398 Middle Gulf Drive, Unit B, Sanibel, was charged on Jan 7 with one count of DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI influence of alcohol or drugs

∫ Earl Benjamin Lee, 53, of 5145 Wexford Drive, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged on Jan 9 with one count of DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI breath alcohol 0 08 or more per 210 liters

Other enforcement actions

∫ Officers continue to issue warnings and citations for the dewatering of pools in violation of the city ordinance

Enforcement operations statistics

Week to date for Jan 3-9:

Alarm calls (business and residential): 4

911 non-emergency calls: 31

Traffic crashes: 4

Traffic stops: 55

Field interviews: 9

Residential area checks: 910

Business area checks: 348

Total CAD calls: 1,729 January 2023 to date:

Alarm calls (business and residential): 6

Non-emergency calls: 32

Traffic crashes: 4

Traffic stops: 69

Field interviews: 18

Residential area checks: 1,061

Business area checks: 383

Total CAD calls: 2,022

Reminders from the SPD

The Sanibel Lighthouse area, fishing pier and all beach parking lots are currently closed Anyone found in these areas may be subject to trespassing

charges

Dewatering of a pool or spa directly into a waterbody, into the city’s stormwater system or onto any third-party’s property without the third party’s consent is expressly prohibited

Multiple search warrants have been issued and executed as part of post-hurricane investigations, resulting in the discovery of items that may be missing property Residents, property owners and business owners are encouraged to review photos at http://www mysanibel us/police/property/ Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel Please share any photos of solicitation hang tags to police@mysanibel com or use Tip411

Reporting suspicious activity

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 tip 411.com/tips/new?alert 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

Facebook Live For more information or the agenda, visit www my sanibel com

Find the SPD on Facebook at https://www facebook com/SanibelPolice

REFUGE/DDWS

DDWS reports on refuge programming and more

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's waters, lands and facilities are closed to the public until further notice due to hurricane damage Consequently, many programs and events are canceled

In addition, the DDWS provided the following updates:

∫ “Ding” Darling Nature Wellness is partnering w i t h t h e S a n i b e l R e c r e a t i o n C e n t e r f o r a f r e e Mindfulness Meditation Class on Wednesdays at 8:30 a m and a free Guided Mindfulness Walk on Saturdays at 10 a m Programs are limited to the first 25 participants

∫ Refuge Cleanup with a Ranger takes place on W e d n e s d a y s a t 9 a m M e e t a t t h e V i s i t o r & Education Center parking lot for a safety brief before traveling to the cleanup site of the week Participation i s l i m i t e d ; p r e r e g i s t r a t i o n i s r e q u i r e d a t

DingDarling Eventbrite com

∫ The Nature Store will pop up at the Outdoor Gallery and Island Market today, Jan 18, and Jan 20 from 10 a m to 2 p m at the Rachel Pierce Art Gallery is at 1571 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel In addition, the Pop-Up Nature Store continues on Thursdays from 9 a m to 1 p m at the Coconut Point Farmer’s Market in Estero.

∫ This month, the Refuge Education Team began its round of school visits to get students excited about the Junior Duck Stamp Contest The judging for the Florida contest is held each year at the refuge, where the program got its start

∫ The 10th annual “Ding” Darling-Theodore Cross High School Photography Contest is open The deadline for entries is March 1 For information, contact DDWS Associate Executive Director Sierra Hoisington at shois@dingdarlingsociety org

∫ “Ding” Wellness Week will align with National Mental Health Awareness Week in May.

∫ The annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament remains on the calendar for May 19 Registration opened on Jan 17 The DDWS thanked the 2023 sponsors To become an event sponsor, contact April Boehnen at aprilb@dingdarlingsociety org

Mindful children

As part of the Nature Wellness programming, J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge staff w i t h s u p p o r t f r o m t h e “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g W i l d l i f e

Society-Friends of the Refuge are taking the mindfulness walks and other wellness programs to local schools and other youth organizations. At its Pocket Refuge schools, the refuge is establishing mindfulness moments The education team is supporting exercise and good nutrition at Tice community schools

Beach cleanup effor ts continue on Sanibel

Last month, Coastal Watch partnered with the city of Sanibel to host a series of beach cleanups along the entire length of the island’s Gulf-side beaches Over 130 volunteers participated in four cleanup days in December, removing tras h and dead fis h from Lighthouse Beach Park to the Tarpon Bay Road access Their efforts totaled over 275 hours Part of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation family, Coastal Watch creates and implem e n t s c o n s e r v a t i o n i n i t i a t i v e s that promote and improve the future of marine resources and coastal heritage For more inform a t i o n , v i s i t s a n c a p c o a s t a lwatch org

Santa stops by Periwinkle Park, sites available

com

Volunteer mindfulness guru Cristina Shaul leads the first Mindfulness Walk from the Sanibel Recreation Center Participants use their senses to tune into what nature has to tell them

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Park on Sanibel has celebrated Christmas Eve by

PERIWINKLE PARK

Periwinkle Park General Manager David Muench escorts Santa through the campground.

J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Ranger Jess Barry leads a group of kindergartners from the Sanibel Recreation Center's holiday programs on a Nature Journaling journey.

Shell museum announces topic, speaker for next lecture in series

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum on Sanibel is continuing with its annual lecture series, which is offered virtually via Zoom and free of charge The next lecture in the series will be:

∫ Jan. 19 at 5:30 p m : “Land Snails in Los Angeles: An Experiment in Urban Citizen Science” with Dr Jann Elizabeth Vendetti, associate curator and Twila Bratcher Chair in M a l a c o l o g i c a l Research at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

The land snail and slug fauna of Los Angeles County, like that of many other metropolitan areas, is under-surveyed and under-studied To address the shortfall, in 2015 the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County began a citizen/community science project called SLIME (Snails and Slugs Living in Metropolitan Environments), focused on the terrestrial malacofauna from southern California As of early 2022, there have been more than 18,000 observations added to the project and approximately 100 species documented Results have included first occurrence records for several species within southern California counties and the documentation of range extents and limits of native and introduced taxa

The outreach aspect of the project has engaged students and school groups, museum associates and members, and

other community groups The success of SLIME has been replicated with similar iNaturalist projects elsewhere in the United States, including Atlanta, Georgia and Seattle, Washington Vendetti will share highlights and insights of building a successful citizen science movement in the nation's largest urban area and surprising discoveries about land snail and slug species in Los Angeles Vendetti is associate curator of malacology at the museum and co-director of its Urban Nature Research Center She is interested in the natural history, evolution, systematics, and conservation of marine and terrestrial snails Vendetti joined the museum in 2014 and has focused on collections-based research and the SLIME project, championing the important role of citizen/community science to

understanding terrestrial gastropod biodiversity She earned her Ph D from UC Berkeley's Department of Integrative Biology and Museum of Paleontology, and had a postdoctoral fellowship at California State University, Los Angeles, which was partly funded by a Smithsonian Encyclopedia of Life Rubenstein Fellowship

Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum Executive Director Sam Ankerson will provide the introduction for the lecture, along with an update on the museum postHurricane Ian

Advance registration is required

For more information or to register, visit https://www shellmuseum org/online-lectures

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum is at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

Reser vations open for DDWS fundraiser

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-

of the

is now

tions

“Go

d e d t h a t h e w a s h a p p y t o a d d t h e s h e l l t o h i s c o l l e c t i o n a n d e v e n m o r e s o a f t e r h e d i s c o v e r e d h o w s p e c i a l i t i s

Al-Anon, Al-Ateen meetings

Are you concerned with a friend or family member's drinking? Let us help Call our 24-hour helpline at 941-564-5098 or visit www SouthFloridaAlAnon org Meetings are held every day in Lee County Al-Ateen meetings are also offered for ages 10-18

Dr Jann Elizabeth Vendetti

Friends

Refuge

taking reserva-

for its annual fundraiser,

Bully for “Ding” An Evening with Teddy Roosevelt ” The event will take place on March 6 at the Broadway Palm in Fort Myers In consideration of the hardships island residents and business owners have suffered since Hurricane Ian, the DDWS has lowered the price of tickets to $75 per person this year. New event supporters include:

Wayne and Linda Boyd, and In Memory of Boomer Duvin as Champion sponsors; William and Barbara Millar, and Doug and Sherry Gentry as Guardian sponsors; Tiffani Kaliko and John Silvia as Protector sponsors; and The Gresham Family, Bob and Kathy Wiesemann, and Sanibel-Captiva Islander and Island Reporter as Defender sponsors For tickets or sponsorship information, visit https://www dingdarlingsociety.org/ articles/go-wild-for-ding.

REFUGE/DDWS

T h e B a i l e y - M a t t h e w s N a t i o n a l S h e l l M u s e u m r e p o r t e d t h a t H u r r i c a n e I a n a n d i t s a f t e r m a t h h a v e b e e n a n d c o n t i n u e t o b e p o w e r f u l a n d l i f e - c h a n g i n g e x p e r i e n c e s f o r m i l l i o n s o f p e o p l e , p e r h a p s e s p e c i a l l y s o f o r S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a r e s i d e n t s o f h a r d - h i t a r e a s T h e s t o r i e s a n d i m a g e s c a n b e f i e r c e , f r i g h t e n i n g a n d s a d , b u t c o u r a g e , r e s i l i e n c e a n d h o p e a r e a l s o n o w h a l l m a r k s o f t h e r e s p o n s e t o t h e h u r r i c a n e b y m a n y T o h e l p s h a r e t h e r a n g e o f p e r s o n a l p e r s p e c t i v e s a n d e x p e r i e n c e s o f I a n , t h e m u s e u m i s a c c e p t i n g s u bm i s s i o n s o f p h o t o g r a p h s f o r a n i n c l u s i v e , p a r t i c i p a t or y , c o l l a g e - l i k e e x h i b i t r e f l e c t i n g a c o m m u n i t y ’ s c o ll e c t i v e v i e w s o f t h e m a j o r e v e n t “ I n t h e W a k e o f t h e F l o o d : C o m m u n i t y P h o t o g r a p h s o f H u r r i c a n e I a n a n d I t s A f t e r m a t h ” w i l l b e e x h i b i t e d f o r f r e e a t t h e m u s eu m . A c c o m p a n y i n g t h e i m a g e s w i l l b e s t a t e m e n t s b y t h e p h o t o g r a p h e r s a b o u t w h y t h e i r i m a g e h a s m e a n i n g o r s i g n i f i c a n c e

T h e e x h i b i t i o n w i l l w o r k a s f o l l o w s : ∫ T h e e x h i b i t w i l l d i s p l a y a s m a n y s u b m i t t e d p h ot o s a s p o s s i b l e , a s s p a c e p e r m i t s T h e r e i s n o “ c o n t e s t ” f o r t h e s e l e c t i o n o f p h o t o g r a p h s A l l a r e w e l c o m e a n d e n c o u r a g e d

∫ S u b j e c t s o f p h o t o g r a p h s c a n b e a n y t h i n g t h a t i s m e a n i n g f u l o r c o m p e l l i n g a b o u t t h e s t o r m t o t h e p h ot o g r a p h e r T h i s w i l l o f c o u r s e o f t e n m e a n d a m a g e a n d f l o o d i n g , b u t c o u l d a l s o i n c l u d e i m a g e s o f h o p e a n d

r e c o v e r y , n e w f r i e n d s m a d e , e v a c u a t i o n e x p e r i e n c e s , t r e a s u r e d p l a c e s t h a t s u r v i v e d , w i l d l i f e , u n e x p e c t e d b e a u t y , c o m i c s c e n e s , o r v i s i o n s f o r t h e f u t u r e A s l o n g a s t h e r e i s s o m e c o n n e c t i o n t o t h e s t o r m , a n y p h o t o g r a p h i c s u b j e c t i s w e l c o m e a n d e n c o u r a g e d

∫ T h o s e s u b m i t t i n g p h o t o g r a p h s a r e a s k e d t o p r ov i d e a n o t e o f e x p l a n a t i o n w i t h t h e i r i m a g e t h a t i d e nt i f i e s t h e s u b j e c t a n d w h y i t i s m e a n i n g f u l o r s i g n i f ic a n t t o t h e m T h e n o t e c a n b e a s b r i e f o r l o n g a s d e s i r e d ( a l t h o u g h l o n g e r n o t e s m a y n e e d t o b e e d i t e d )

∫ E m a i l p h o t o g r a p h s a n d s t a t e m e n t s t o i a n p h ot o @ s h e l l m u s e u m o r g

∫ T h e i m a g e f i l e s i z e f o r e a c h p h o t o g r a p h s h o u l d b e a t l e a s t 1 0 m e g a p i x e l s i n r e s o l u t i o n T h i s i s e q u i va l e n t t o a 5 - b y - 7 i n c h i m a g e a t 3 0 0 d p i

∫ T h e m u s e u m w i l l p r i n t t h e p h o t o g r a p h s o n p h o t o p a p e r a t h i g h r e s o l u t i o n f o r t h e e x h i b i t

∫ P l e a s e l i m i t s u b m i s s i o n s t o a m a x i m u m o f t h r e e p h o t o g r a p h s p e r p e r s o n

S e t f o r e a r l y t h i s y e a r , t h e o p e n i n g d a t e f o r t h e e x h i b i t i o n w i l l b e a n n o u n c e d l a t e r

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t h t t p s : / / w w w s h e l l m u s eu m o r g / i a n - p h o t o

F o r q u e s t i o n s , c o n t a c t i a n p h o t o @ s h e l l m u s e u m o r g T h e B a i l e y - M a t t h e w s N a t i o n a l S h e l l M u s e u m i s a t 3 0 7 5 S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a R o a d , S a n i b e l

Refuge’s

On Jan 9, the mobile outreach classroom traveled to G Weaver Hipps Elementary in Lehigh Acres, where it is teaching classes up through Jan. 20. Other upcoming scheduled visits include:

Jan 23 to Feb 2: Orange River Elementary in Fort Myers

Feb 6-16: Harns Marsh Elementary in Lehigh Acres

Feb 21 to March 16: Oak Hammock Middle School in Fort Myers

The WoW currently operates with a reduced team because of the storm's impact on staffing To donate to support the upkeep and programming for the WoW efforts, visit https://interland3 donorperfect net/weblink/WebLink aspx?name=E54182&id=12

The Gulf Coast Writers Association will meet on Jan 21 from 10 a m to noon at the Word of Life Church, at 6111 South Pointe Blvd , Fort Myers The guest speaker will be writer Clarissa Thomasson She will discuss

history and how she uses it to put together historical novels Attendance is free for first-time guests For more information, visit www gulfwriters org or call 770-9067885

BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels has started a new year at Lee County's Title I schools

Isl and HOMe islander

Buttonwood is salt-tolerant tree by the sea

Buttonwood is a favorite native, grown as a multitrunk shrub or in standard tree form, and comes in both a green variety (Conocarpus erectus) or a silver v a r i e t y ( C o n o c a r p u s erectus var sericeus) S o m e t i m e s r e f e r r e d to as “button mangrove,” the plant is often found growing just inland of t h e w h i t e m a n g r o v e s , a l o n g m a n y i s l a n d beaches In fact, buttonwood is in the same family as the white mangrove, black olive and t r o p i c a l a l m o n d A native of Florida, it is also found naturally on islands like Bermuda and the Bahamas and throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, as well as the Galapagos Islands

While the native loves the beach, the buttonwood also does well in inland habitats, along the borders of fresh and brackish marshes and along the edges of low hammocks Buttonwood is highly salt-resistant and protects against beach erosion from storm surge. It is also a food source for wildlife The wood has been used for smoking fish and for firewood It is a tough plant that grows well in sandy soil, as well as wet salty conditions, so it is a highly recommended plant for seaside areas

The buttonwood is also used in hedges, buffers and sometimes as a specimen tree in an all native landscape It will take either full sun or partial shade and does not have a lot of leaf drop, which is always nice Another nice perk, the buttonwood’s rough bark provides an ideal environment for attaching bromeliads or orchids out in the landscape.

If you need a native tree or shrub that can put up with tough conditions and still look good, try the green buttonwood or silver buttonwood in your landscape You will be glad you did

In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local garden center, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel For more information, contact 239-3955859 or visit www facebook com/rswalshinthegarden

Public can adopt a

to

Coastal Watch's Adopt-A-Mangrove program invites community members to “adopt” mangroves to nurture at their homes The adopted plants will eventually be returned to the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and planted at one of the SCCF's many shoreline restoration sites this year

Those interested in becoming a “Mangrove Mama” o r “ P r o p a g u l e P a p a ” c a n p i c k u p t h e i r m a n g r o v e seedling(s) on Jan. 24-26 from noon to 2 p.m. at the SCCF Native Landscapes & Garden Center, at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Pots will be provided; however, due to Hurricane Ian sweeping away all of the center's soil, volunteers are asked to provide a substrate

for the mangroves once they get home

“It’s undeniable that mangroves played a crucial role in protecting Sanibel during Hurricane Ian, and unfortunately several mangroves throughout the area were lost and need to be restored,” Coastal Watch Director Kealy McNeal said “The Adopt-A-Mangrove program is just the beginning of the process to restore our shorelines ”

For questions, contact McNeal at kmcneal@sccf org

Part of the SCCF family, Coastal Watch creates and implements conservation initiatives that promote and improve the future of marine resources and coastal heritage For more information, visit sancapcoastalwatch org

Sanibel Captiva

PHOTO PROVIDED

Buttonwood

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

Recipe of the Week: Cherry and Amaretti Strudel

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Combine fresh cherries with Amaretti cookies to make this strudel a winner Using readily available packaged phyllo dough takes a lot of the mystery and intensive labor out of traditional strudel making Serves 12 (Chef tip: Work fast when using phyllo dough or it will dry.)

2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and well drained

10 frozen phyllo dough sheets, defrosted

1/2 cup melted butter

1/4 cup crushed Amaretti cookies

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 grated zest and juice of orange

F.I.S.H. receives supplies from LCSO

Symphony to present ‘The Thing About Men’

The Gulf Coast Symphony will perform “The Thing About Men” on Jan 19 to Feb 4 at the Music & Arts Community Center, at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. It is a musical comedy based on the 1985 German farcical film “Men,” by Doris Dörrie With music by Jimmy Roberts and lyrics and book by Joe DiPietro, it was written as a follow-up to their long-running musical “I Love Y o u , Y o u ' r e P e r f e c t , N o w C h a n g e ” T h e p l o t r e v o l v e s a r o u n d a l o v e t r i a n g l e a n d shows what men will do to keep their pride and love affairs intact The show is a comic exploration of men, modern m a r r i a g e , a n d f r i e n d s h i p Tickets range from $39-50 For more information or tickets, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony org/

Wash the cherries, cut them in half and cook them in the orange juice, sugar and cinnamon until soft, about 20 minutes Drain well

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F

Place one sheet of phyllo on a large baking sheet, brush with melted butter and sprinkle with a few amaretti crumbs Layer four more sheets of phyllo on top of the first, butter each one and sprinkle with crumbs as you go

Make a compact row of half of the cooked cherries, leaving an inch border at each long end of the dough

Starting at the short edge closest to the filling, roll the strudel like a jelly-roll Butter the outside and arrange seam-side-down on the baking sheet Fold in the open ends to seal the filling inside the roll Repeat for the second one

Slice strudels into 1 1/2- to 2-inch-thick rounds Bake the strudels until golden brown, 20 minutes Let stand several minutes Serve warm sprinkled with powdered sugar

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 Stephen Fuchs and Cantor Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer

Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p m at the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties, at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, 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 Larry Marshall

Sunday service available online; in-person services have been postponed until further notice Services from the past season have been videotaped and posted on the chapel's website and Facebook page

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida

www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org

Lecture 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 For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail com

∫ Sanibel Christian Science Church 2950 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239-810-1077

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

∫ 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 Historic Chapel Sunday service at 5 p m at the Fort Myers Community Church, at 8440 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers 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 Dr Mark Boyea

Sunday service at 10 a m at The Refuge Church, at 1901 Brantley Road, Fort Myers

∫ St Isabel Catholic Church 3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2763, https://www saintisabel org/, https://www facebook com/stisabelcatholicchurch/ Father Ed Martin

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

∫ St 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

Service with optional healing prayers on Wednesday at 9 a m at the Peace Lutheran Church, at 15840 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers Sunday service at 11:30 a m at the same location, followed by a coffee hour in Fellowship Hall

Shell Point to present concer t

The Shell Point Retirement Community will present the Merz Trio on Jan 23 at 7 p m in Connie Brown Hall at the Tribby Arts Center, at 17281

O n P a r B l v d , F o r t M y e r s Their narrative programming style juxtaposes classical standards, new music, and their own arrangements of familiar and forgotten works Tickets are $50 For more information o r t i c k e t s , v i s i t https://www tribbyartscenter c om/ or call 239-415-5667

Chef Loretta Paganini

F I S H OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva reported that it recently received an abundant donation of cleaning wipes and bug spray from the Lee County Sheriff's Office

islandBeat islander

Symphony to rock out with tribute concert

The Southwest Florida Symphony's first Brave New Pops concert of the season will be “Remember When Rock was Young the Elton John Tribute ” It will offer a full-strength stage experience, capturing the music, costumes, and charisma of Sir Elton John The concerts will be held on:

∫ Jan 20 at 7 p m at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, at 701 Carmalita St., Punta Gorda ∫ Jan 21 at 7:30 p m at the Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, at 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers

Performances will feature multiple award-winning, multitalented singer, actor and pianist Craig A. Meyer bringing a fresh take on nostalgic classics In addition to his numerous credits with roles in film, television and on Broadway, he has toured internationally and recorded with music legends including Frankie Valli and Barry Manilow Meyer is considered to be the best Elton John tribute artist today

The spectacular theatrical experience will be a musical journey celebrating Elton John’s decades of chartt o p p i n g h i t s , i

, ” “Philadelphia Freedom,” “Crocodile Rock,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” and “Candle in the Wind ” F o r m o

i t swflso org/tickets/

P a r t o f i t s c o n c e r t s e r i e s , t h e A l l i a n c e f o r t h e A r t s a n d A m e r i c a n a C o m m u n i t y M u s i c A s s o c i a t i o n w i l l p r e s e n t S i l v i a M e d i n a a n d F r i c t i o n F a r m o n J a n 2 2 a t 4 p m a t 1 0 0 9 1 M c G r e g o r B l v d . , F o r t M y e r s .

M o d e r n - f o l k d u o F r i c t i o n F a r m i s a h u s b a n d a n d w i f e t e a m o f t r a v e l i n g t r o u b a d o u r s A i d a n Q u i n n a n d C h r i s t i n e S t a y c o m b i n e s t o r y t e l l i n g , s o c i a l c o m m e n t a r y a n d h u m o r t o c r ea t e s o n g s o f e v e r y d a y l i f e , l o c a l

h e r o e s , a n d q u i r k

composers, the program will consist of selections from operas and classic Broadway shows by Gershwin, Porter and Sondheim. A quartet of artists will perform with piano accompaniment Tickets range from $3449 For tickets or more information, visit https://www gulfshoreopera org/

Traders,

Periwinkle Way, Sanibel PETER REDPATH

DANNY MORGAN AND JOHN McLANE

DANNY MORGAN

PETER REDPATH

Cielo,

SCOTT McDONALD

SCOTT McDONALD

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SYMPHONY

GULFSHORE OPERA

‘Cold Winter Morn in Florida’

For blood grown thin forty Fahrenheit is Siberia;

breezes suddenly blue and brittle shiver through citrus leaves; a birdsong bleak and off-key chills our sense; sunlight, pale and tentative, shelters us from shade where wisps of vapor from our mouths recall northern winter breath thicker than cigarette smoke, that reminds us:

Death owns a time share here and watches, dressed in warm-ups, from his lanai

Poetic License

My mantras

2022 was a rough year Hurricane Ian devastated our home and disabled our worship space My wife, Vickie, is fighting and thank God winning a

v a l i a n t b a t t l e a g a i n s t S t a g e 3 n o nHodgkin lymphoma

Dealing with these challenges has been to say the least not easy To cope I have come to rely on my mantras

The first is the traditional Jewish prayer upon awakening “I thank You, Eternal and Enduring Ruler, that you have restored my soul to me with graciousness Great is your faithfulness ”

These words set the tone for my day They remind me that being able to awaken each day is a gift from God, and God wants me to use it productively

Next, I recite the Sh’ma, the words from the Book of Deuteronomy, “Hear O Israel, the Eternal One is our God, the Eternal God Alone ” (Deuteronomy 6:4)

Faces on Faith

These words lie at the heart of Jewish prayer and are the central affirmation of my Jewish heritage

My mantras also include three verses from Psalms, included in Jewish prayer services, that remind me of the enormous power for good or for ill that lies in the words I speak As one who has made his living with words, these three verses are vital reminders:

“Eternal One, open my lips that my mouth may declare Your glory ” (Psalm 51:17)

“My God, keep my tongue from speaking evil, and my lips from speaking deceitfully ” (Psalm 34:14) In the Psalm this verse is stated in the second person, but our prayer book and my personal prayers instruct me to apply it to myself

“May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable before You, O God, my rock and my redeemer ” (Psalm 19: 15)

Interspersed among these three verses in my ritual are two more exhortations from Psalms:

“ C e a s e f r o m a n g e r a n d f o r s a k e wrath.” (Psalm 37:8) This verse reminds me not to let little things bother me or to permit anger to cloud my judgment How often I need this reminder, especially when someone cuts me off when I am driving

“Lead me to the rock that is higher than I ” (Psalm 61:2) This verse encourages me to strive each day to be a better person than I was the day before

M y m a n t r a s s e t a v e r y l o f t y s e t o f

e

I believe all of us could profit from some time each day to meditate In his book, “The Relaxation Response,” Dr Herbert Benson prescribes a simple four-step process to quiet our minds that I find very helpful: ∫ A quiet atmosphere ∫ A comfortable position ∫ A mental device ∫ A passive attitude

My mantras are my “mental device ” They speak to me because of my studies in biblical interpretation that underlie my life’s work Each of us can benefit from choosing a mantra or mantras that relate to our own life circumstances Incorporating them into a simple meditation ritual can help us deal with the challenges we each must face

Opera and ballet to per for m ‘Song & Dance’

Gulfshore Ballet will present “Song & Dance” on Jan 21 at 7

The Theatre Conspiracy at the Alliance for the Arts will present “Faceless” on Jan 19-21 and Jan 26-28 at 7:30 p m and on Jan 29 at 2 p m at the alliance, at 10091 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

A white 18-year-old from the Chicago suburbs was arrested at O'Hare International Airport for conspiring with ISIS Recent Harvard Law grad and practicing Muslim Claire Fathi has been brought on to p r o s e c u t e I n s p i r e d b y r e a l c o u r t c a s e s , S e l i n a Fillinger's crackling drama looks at two women fighting for justice in a world gripped by fear Directed by Miguel Cintron

Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for nonmembers

For more information, visit https://www artinlee org/event/faceless/2023-01-19/

Professional artists in residence from the opera will join the preprofessional students from the ballet with interpretative dance f o r a p r o g r a m o f h i g h l i

from “The Barber of Seville,” “ D o n G i o v a n n i ” a n d E l t o

John’s musical “Aida ” Tickets range from $50-100; premium tickets include a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds from the reception will benefit the ballet For tickets or more information, visit https://www gulfshoreopera org/

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve hosting classes

benefiting from active movement Participants must bring their own gear, including yoga mat, blanket or towel, and water bottle Provided props will be disinfected thoroughly both before and following the class ∫ Now through April 2 7 : Guided Meditation on Thursdays from 9 to 1 0 a m

movements to shake off any stale energy before beginning meditation Wear comfortable clothing and bring water, a yoga mat and blanket or pillow to sit upon Open to ages 18 and older

The cost for a full session of four classes is $40 or $10 for a single class

Guardians and toddlers up to age 5 can enjoy meditation, movement and songs in an active, family-friendly yoga class Taught by certified yoga instructor Mariela Gómez, the class uses music, yoga play props and stories to help children establish a connection with their caretakers while

Direct your attention and intentions inward during guided meditation and qigong in the stillness of the slough Each week will focus on a different technique: reducing stress, promoting focus, mindfulness, visualization and kindness Classes begin with simple stretches and qigong

A paid parking fee of $1 per hour per vehicle is required

Preregister at www.leeparks.org; walk-ins welcome if there are open spaces

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t www leeparks org/sixmilecypress or call 239-533-7555

Joe Pacheco

Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs is with the Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs

GULFSHORE OPERA

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