Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

Earth Day BioBlitz aims to inventory local biodiversity

By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, Coastal Watch and Sanibel Sea School will hold an inaugural Earth Day BioBlitz on April 21-27 across the county in recognition of Earth Week

“Together, let's celebrate our planet's incredible biodiversity and work towards a more sustainable future,” the SCCF shared “Simply head out to explore Lee County and surrounding areas,

snap photos of the wildlife you encounter and upload them to SCCF's iNaturalist project ”

The community science-driven, weeklong event surrounding Earth Day on April 22 will encourage people to get out and observe the wildlife birds, fish, molluscs, mammals, plants, reptiles, amphibians they see in the county and then submit their photo observations to the SCCF's project

“All you need is your keen observation skills, your smartphone

Fire board OKs construction services for new station, more

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District's commission approved three resolutions and three district policies at its recent meeting, as well as received a financial update and discussed holiday fireworks

By VALARIE HARRING vharring@breezenewspapers com

The Federal Emergency Management Agency's announcement that it will pause a decision that would result in the loss of a 25% discount for most flood insurance policy holders in Lee County was welcomed by area officials on April 9.

“We are committed to helping communities take appropriate remediation actions to participate in the Community Rating System and remain in good standing with the National Flood Insurance Program,” FEMA said in a release on April 8 “Each of the five communities will have an additional 30 days to gather requested documentation to help retain their standing in the Community Rating System ”

On March 28, FEMA notified the county and four of its municipalities that it was “retrograding” their Community Rating System class from a 5 to a 10, t h e r e b y r e m o v i n g b e n e f i t s r e s i d e n t s receive for their National Flood Insurance Program policies The cities of Sanibel and Fort Myers were not affected

See femA, page 20

equal the audited fiscal year 2023 fund balance, which will show the following adjustments:

See eArTH DAY, page 18 Guest

“This is part of the process and a standard s e r v i c e , ” F i r e C h i e f K e v i n B a r b o t s a i d before the vote

The commission also voted 3-0 on a resolution to amend the carry forward funds in the fiscal year 2024 budget to

On April 10, the commissioners voted unanimously 3-0 on a resolution to negotiate and e x e c u t e a c o n t r a c t w i t h t h e architectural firm Schenkel & S h u l t z f o r t h e c o n s t r u c t i o n p h a s e s e r v i c e s f o r Station 172 on SanibelC a p t i v a R o a d i n a n a m o u n t n o t t o e x c e e d $201,390.50.

∫ The carrying forward and allocation of the district's 2022-23 fiscal year end f u n d b a l a n c e i n t h e a m o u n t o f $ 1 0 , 5 5 5 , 3 8 7 T h e t o t a l a d j u s t m e n t required is an increase of $127,596

∫ A d d i m p a c t f e e e x p e n d i t u r e o f $100,000 for the brush truck

∫ Add Lee County Board of County Commissioners lease agreement income

t o i n t e r g o v e r n m e n t a l i n c o m e a t $43,079 68

School board approves separation agreement with Bernier

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

On April 8, the School Board of Lee County approved a separation agreement f o r 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 Bernier, which went into effect on April 9, and keeps him on the payroll for 20 weeks

“This came about very quickly, obviously, and it was unexpected,” Board Chair Sam Fisher said

Board Member Debbie Jordan said they had two days to try to comprehend everything that had taken place in the settlement

“As stewards of the district and the money, I want to make sure we are doing the right thing,” she said “I know we cannot explain what has transpired and I do appreciate all the work Dr B has done here at the district ”

The board stated that it was not a termination of Bernier, but rather just a separation agreement

According to the agreement, “Bernier will remain on payroll for 20 weeks subsequent to April 9, 2024” and will “receive salary at his current rate of pay, which is

$275,400 during the entirety of the 20week period ”

The agreement also includes a 20% contribution to his Retirement Investment

A c c o u n t , a s w e l l a s c o n t r i b u t i o n s f o r h e a l t h a n d o t h e r i n s u r a n c e p r o d u c t s

During the 20-week period, Bernier will serve as an advisor for the interim superintendent.

“If Bernier secures other employment as superintendent or position at a cabinetlevel within the 20-weeks outlined herein, all obligations under this agreement shall cease immediately, including salary pay, payment of health insurance and retirement contribution Within 24-hours of hire, Bernier shall notify the chair of the school board of such employment,” the agreement states

Chief Strategy Officer Dr Ken Savage, who was the interim superintendent prior to Bernier being hired, was again selected as the interim superintendent by the school board during the special meeting on April 8 The nominations for the appointment were him and Chief of Staff

Michael Ramirez

Both men received high remarks from the school board, but with Savage sitting as a previous interim superintendent, five of the seven board members voted to proceed with an agreement with Savage, which was approved on April 9

“He was the interim superintendent during very troubled times,” Board Member Armor Persons “The superintendent is supposed to carry out the direction of the board and the board at that time was split very evenly I thought he did a good job following the board and the law at the time He has experience as doing the superintendent ”

Jordan, when pushed to vote yes or no, voted yes after saying that she would go with the majority Board Members Cathleen Morgan and Chris Patricca voted no for Savage to take the helm once again

The board also approved that Fisher work with Board Attorney Kathy Dupuy Bruno to negotiate the contract for Savage The board also tentatively set the salary at $210,700, as the second highest paid individual in the district makes $210,600

Savage appointed interim schools superintendent

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

School District of Lee County Chief Strategy Officer Dr Kenneth Savage was sworn into office on April 9 as the new interim superintendent after the school board voted on a separation agreement with Dr Christopher Bernier the day prior

After the oath of office with Honorable John S Carlin, Savage began his remarks by “giving all glory to my creator.”

“I want to thank my family who has been there to support me both my fam-

ily and my wife’s family and also my children who give me the inspiration That is what the work is all about, not just my family, my family’s children, every other child, and family out there depending on the decisions we make every day That is the true north of so many people sitting in this room I want to thank the board What a tremendous opportunity of trust that you have given to me to do this the second time around,” he said “I am so grateful for your faith, not just me, but the team we have assembled at this district office ” Savage said there are teachers out there

d o i n g t h e w o r k t h e y d o , changing the lives of the students that come into the buildings every day.

“They are doing the work that really matters All the d i f f e r e n t s u p p o r t s y s t e m s we have all work in concert for that magical opportunity to change the lives of these kids in this community and then transform the community,” he said, adding that it is an awesome privilege to carry the baton for the next seven months. “Thank you for the support I am looking forward to the work ahead in making the system the best it possibly can for every student that comes into our buildings ”

Savage also said he is grateful for Bernier's work and the effort he made to get to know everybody

Savage, who was the interim superintendent after Dr Greg Adkins retired in 2021, will have a salary of $210,700 His p r e v i o u s i n t e r i m s u p e r i n t e n d e n t s a l a r y was $209,000. In addition, the board will contribute at “each end of the month payroll an amount equal to 15% of the superi n t e n d e n t ’ s t h e n c u r r e n t m o n t h b a s e salary ” The board “shall reimburse the superintendent up to $2,400 towards the

cost of the life insurance policy ”

“I am very confident in what you accomplished and excited to move forward with a new day and new s u p e r i n t e n d e n t , ” B o a r d Member Melisa Giovannelli said of the contract

Savage will fill the role as the interim superintendent until a new superintendent is elected by the voters in November

He received his bachelor’s degree in 2001 from Florida State University in education, his master’s degree in 2006 and his Ed D in 2019 from the University of Florida in educational leadership

Savage has been the chief operations officer for the district, as well as a school hybrid leadership turnaround principal lead from July of 2016 to June of 2018 and a school principal and assistant school principal from June of 2006 to June of 2016

He was also an adjunct professor for UF from August to December of 2019 and a state level executive for the Office of the Chancellor K-12 public schools for the Florida Department of Education from June of 2018 to June of 2019

Draft charter change on annexation lacks support to move forward

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Lee County Charter Review Commission decided at its recent meeting not to proceed with a proposed amendment to the Lee County Charter that would have established an approval process for voluntary annexation of a property by a municipality

On April 9, the proposal died in a 5-9 vote on whether to move forward with it Had the motion passed, the commission next would have decided on whether to place the amendment on the 2024 ballot as a referendum Twelve “yes” votes would have been needed to put the language directly on the ballot, while nine “yes” votes would have sent it to the county commission to consider

Those who voted against proceeding with the proposal cited a range of reasons, includ-

ing concerns about property rights, language does not require special districts to do their own due diligence, creates unneeded burdens and red tape for property owners and the change may end up creating new issues

Some also pointed to the lack of participation at recent public hearings as an indicator that the community does not see an issue and is not seeking a change The commission held two hearings in February and two in March around the county to obtain public feedback on the draft language

The language would have added a “Voluntary Annexation” section to the charter under the “Creation, Powers and Ordinances of Home Rule Charter Government” article Per the draft section, voluntary annexation of a property by a municipality at the request of the property

Dr Christopher Bernier

Dr Kenneth Savage

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To the editor:

I believe water is life I believe keeping water clean should be a part of life

When I first moved here, I was in awe of the marine life that visited me off my dock

The wonder of nature was present day and night As time progressed, priorities moved to development at all costs; and our waters deteriorated

I wanted to help in whatever small way I could I put several vertical oyster gardens (VOG) around my dock to help filter the toxins out of the water At first, the VOGs were growing lots of life Then, starting last fall, the VOGs began to die After the latest releases from Lake Okeechobee, the VOGs now are barren That helps explain why marine life is so desolate now

We have laws to protect our waters which haven’t kept our waters clean We have agencies to protect our waters still our waters are not clean. We spend a tremendous amount of tax dollars cleaning up what never should have been permitted yet our waters continue to worsen

As someone once said, “Water is life so let’s save the life of water ” You can do your part If you signed the 2024 petition to grant Floridians a Constitutional Right to Clean and Healthy Water, you will be getting a new one for the 2026 initiative in the mail Fill it out and get some friends/neighbors to join you Each of us can do our part to clean up the waters.

Mary Kay Robbins-Kralapp Cape Coral

Is county practicing development fraud?

To the editor:

The title to this letter is a question, not an assertion The question is prompted by a pattern of behavior by Lee County concerning the post-Hurricane Ian redevelopment of South Seas Island on Captiva What follows is an examination of a series of county actions and statements that, without explanations to the contrary, give the appearance of fraudulence

“Deceit” for our purposes it will be broadly defined here as willful misrepresentation or concealment of truth, facts or intentions in order to achieve an end The instances of county behavior in question will be presented in roughly chronological order and since they're adding up numbered for ease of reference

1) Last year’s changes to the county’s Land Development Code, granting special exemptions for South Seas from long-standing density and height limits, had an incon-

g r u o u s b e g i n n i n g C o u n t y C o m m i s s i o n e r

K e v i n R u a n e , w h o s e d i s t r i c t i n c l u d e s

Captiva, became concerned in the hurricane’s aftermath that new federal/state rules could result in a reduction of habitable space for homeowners as they rebuilt For example, if g r o u n d - f l o o r p a s s - t h r o u g h s n e e d e d t o b e higher, yet the overall structure could not be correspondingly taller, that could squeeze living space, shrinking the rebuilt home’s total living area Ruane requested that county staff examine local code and if necessary recommend modifications to make certain this subtraction would not occur

The intent and scope of Ruane’s proposal was specific and limited, yet the upshot singling out South Seas for special exemptions from Captiva’s density and height limits strayed far away from the original mandate The incongruity of this departure from the stated task was pointed out by two l e g a l a n a l y s e s c o m m i s s i o n e d b y P r o t e c t Captiva, the coalition formed to oppose the c h a n g e s H o l l a n d & K n i g h t , o n e o f t h e largest law firms in the country, and Richard Grosso, a Sanibel-based lawyer specializing in local land use issues, both emphasized the extraneous nature of the exemption grants. An exasperated Ruane also publicly and repeatedly objected to the exemptions as being unrelated to the purpose of a project he initiated

If Ruane felt deceived that his purpose (to preserve habitable space for rebuilt structures) had been hijacked to instead grant unique development privileges to the resort on Captiva, that is understandable In his own words, he found the subterfuge “offensive ” To this day the county has not identified any nexus between preserving habitable space for hurricane victims as they rebuild, and singling out a property owner for special treatment afforded to no one else

2) The county packaged the habitable space provisions and the South Seas density and height exemptions together into one ordinance, whose legislative purpose was stated to be disaster resiliency The ordinance does not elaborate how or why denser, taller development for the resort would be inherently more resistant to the destructive winds and storm surges of a major hurricane. Nor have county representatives attempted an explanation, instead relying on a naked repetition of what appears to be an obvious falsehood

Typically there are two measures localities take in rebuilding after a major hurricane To survive storm surge, ground-floor passthroughs are made taller, with strengthened pillars to resist buckling against the force of the water flow To survive wind damage, s t r u c t u r e s a r e h a r d e n e d , f r o m r e i n f o r c e d foundations and shear-framing to armoring

all exterior surfaces

L o c a l i t i e s d o n o t a u t h o r i z e t a l l e r a n d denser redevelopment after hurricane damage because that predictably increases the likelihood of even greater damage from the next major hurricane Taller structures, like taller trees, are vulnerable to wind damage, because structural integrity diminishes and w i n d v e l o c i t i e s i n c r e a s e w i t h e l e v a t i o n Denser development aka congestion plays havoc with evacuation and emergency response This is especially true for South Seas, at the end of a two-lane cul-de-sac stretching 18 miles from the resort through Sanibel to the causeway The road is decried as an endless bottleneck under the best of circumstances

Last autumn the state’s community planning agency lambasted the county’s resiliency ruse as a “false flag” intended to deceive the public, while its true purpose was to increase development at South Seas The state, in so many words, accused the county of fraudulently portraying the resort’s new density exemption as part of an effort to enhance disaster resiliency

The county response to the state did not address the criticism that increased density was masquerading as increased resilience Instead it contended that the state agency had no jurisdiction to review the county’s proposed code changes in the first place, and that the derogatory comments should be withdrawn and disavowed The state and the public are still waiting to hear how density increases resiliency

The county should also explain how, if density enhances resiliency, that only applies to South Seas If density is such a boon to disaster resiliency, wouldn’t it have made more sense for the county to remove density limits for all of Captiva, not just the resort? Why didn’t the county think of that? Without an explanation, we must ask: Is it because the county, in order to grant special privileges to a property owner, ginned up resiliency as its cover story?

3) A variety of county representatives, in numerous presentations at public meetings, in written response to state criticism as well as correspondence with Grosso, have repeate d a q u i z z i c a l r e a s s u r a n c e : t h a t d e s p i t e appearances, the new ordinance would not in fact affect density at South Seas or Captiva

The problem with those promises is that they are demonstrably false Grosso, in a recent petition to the state, called such assurances “sophistical ” That is putting it kindly The density exemptions for South Seas in the new Land Development Code amendments could not be more explicit or unambiguous And based on those crystal-clear exemptions, the resort promptly submitted permit applica-

See LETTERS, page 22

e r i f ic a t i o n p u r p o s e s L e t t e r s c o n s i d e r e d f o r p u b l i c a t i o n m u s t r e l a t e t

CCP updated on potential sewer project, more

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

T h e C a p t i v a C o m m u n i t y P a n e l received updates on ongoing initiatives at its recent meeting, including the proposed septic-to-sewer conversion and the South S e a s r e z o n i n g a n d L e e C o u n t y l e g a l efforts

O n A p r i l 9 , p a n e l P r e s i d e n t a n d Wastewater Committee Chair Jay Brown reported on the potential project of con-

necting Captiva to the city of Sanibel's wastewater system He reiterated that the city has completed two studies, which have revealed $20 million and $25 million in needed improvements

The third and final study is an economic analysis to connect Captiva and the possible rates

Brown reported the city commenced the final study a couple of days earlier

The study is anticipated to be finished

Captiva library, county system providing programs

Part of the Lee County Library System, the Captiva Memorial Library is offering the following free programming:

Children programs

∫ Today, April 17, to April 19: Make a Bug Jar (daily during operating hours) Make your own bug jar to study and have fun with your creepy crawly friends

The library is open on Mondays through Fridays from 10 a m to 12:30 p m and 1 to 4 p m

For more information about a program or to register, call 239-533-4890

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

Adult programs

∫ Today, April 17: Online Author Event with Xochitl Gonzalez from 8 to 9 p m

Chat with award-winning and bestselling author Xochitl Gonzalez about her newest novel, “Anita de Monte Laughs

Last ” Moving back and forth through time and told from the perspectives of both Anita and Raquel, it is a novel and conversation that you do not want to miss Registration is required

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

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

in early June.

A l s o d u r i n g t h e m e e t i n g , V i c e President David Mintz gave an update on South Seas' redevelopment and rezoning and the county, on behalf of the Protect Captiva coalition of which the panel is a member

He reiterated that a petition was filed w i t h t h e F l o r i d a D e p a r t m e n t o f Commerce challenging the county's Land

See CCP, page 7

CEPD hears of renourishment and bayside projects

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 was updated on the post-hurricane beach nourishment and Bayside Adaptation projects during its recent meeting, among other items

On April 8, APTIM Coastal Market Lead Nicole Sharp reported that the bid documents for the renourishment project a r e s e e i n g a l o t o f interest and h a v e r e c e i v r e q u e s t s f o information

“ S o i t s e e m s l i k e all the players that are out there tha we want to b are looking, said

Sharp and staff added that bids for the project will open later in April

As for the Bayside Adaptation project, she reported that APTIM recently held the k i c k o f f m e e t i n g a n d c o n v e n e d t h e Steering Committee A website is also being created to interact with the community

See RENOURISHMENT, page 7

T h e L e e C o u n t y E l e c t i o n s O f f i c e r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e C a p t i v a E r o s i o n Prevention District jurisdiction is schedu l e d f o r a b o n d r e f e r e n d u m S p e c i a l Election on May 21

A notice of election was mailed to voters on March 20 and a sample ballot was mailed on April 4.

The referendum on the ballot will read as:

“ S h o u l d t h e C a p t i v a E r o s i o n Prevention District (CEPD) issue Special

A s s e s s m e n t B o n d s n o t e x c e e d i n g $25,000,000, maturing at such times as

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

Two men on vacation are accused of stealing a golf cart from a closed Captiva business after hours, driving it to Sanibel and then returning the cart to the business the same night with damage to it

Jack Bingham Fischer, 18, of 12808 Ridgemoor Drive, Prospect, Kentucky, and Grant Christopher Neal, 1 8 , o f 2 8 0 8 W o o d s i d e P l a t e # L o t 4 8 9 , P r o s p e c t , Kentucky, were both arrested and charged on April 1 with one count each of larceny grand theft $10,000 less than $20,000 and burglary dwelling structure cause damage $1,000 more, according to reports from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office

They were both released from the Lee County Jail on April 2 on $25,000 bond

O n A p r i l 1 , t h e L C S O r e s p o n d e d t o Y O L O W a t e r s p o r t s , a t 1 1 5 3 4 A n d y R o s s e L a n e O w n e r

Elizabeth Ventura reported that one of her golf carts stored in the rear of the business had been stolen, damaged and returned the previous night without permission Valued at $14,000, it had about $4,000 in damage.

According to reports, surveillance cameras captured two young men enter the property on bicycles on March 31 at about 9:30 p m They proceeded to the enclosed backyard and tried to open the locked business doors The men then went to the golf carts, removed the cover

CCP

From page 6

Development Code amendments as inconsistent with the governing of the Lee Plan

An informal hearing on the petition was held on April 4 and the state did not have a lot of questions

Mintz reported that Protect Captiva expects a written decision from the state around May 7

He continued that the coalition has also filed a complaint in Circuit Court seeking to enforce a 2003 Mediation Settlement Agreement that prohibits the county from issuing building permits for units within South Seas that would exceed 912 units at any time In addition, South Seas has responded to the county's “insufficient” finding of its plan application, which Protect Captiva will be reviewing

from one, started it and drove away About two hours later, the two returned and parked the cart in the same spot and recovered it

While the LCSO was canvassing the area for further evidence, it learned that the Sanibel Police Department had made contact with two men driving a golf cart on the night of March 31

According to reports, a SPD detective noticed a golf cart driving in the Rebel parking lot as he was headed to a call on March 31, but the call was called off as he was

Mintz added that South Seas will hold an Open House on April 25 about its redevelopment

In other news

∫ B r o w n p r o v i d e d a n u p d a t e o n Verizon and the project to improve service across the island All five small cell towers have been installed, with full operation now expected between July and October.

∫ Mintz reported that he contacted the Lee County Department of Transportation about a possible pedestrian crosswalk for Sunset Captiva between the bayside condos and Gulf-side homes to improve safety He is waiting to hear from officials and

the CEPD shall determine not exceeding 20 years from issuance bearing interest not exceeding the maximum legal interest rate, payable from special assessments on benefited lands within the CEPD boundaries for the emergency maintenance and renourishment of beaches, pursuant to the Captiva Island Emergency Maintenance

Renourishment Project?”

The Lee County Elections Office also shared the following information about the election:

∫ Vote-by-Mail ballots were mailed on April 16

Draft charter change

owner would have only been approved through one of two methods, starting in January

The first method would have entailed a municipality and the county entering into an interlocal agreement The agreement must include a process for delivery and fiscal responsibilities for services waste and wastewater; road ownership, construction and maintenance; and fire protection and it must provide a process for the transfer of services, infrastructure and fiscal compensation

From page 2

The second method would have applied if a municipality and the county had not entered into an interlocal agreement under the first method or if the property proposed for annexation was outside of a specific area identified in an interlocal agreement The property owner must prepare a written “Plan of Services ” In preparing the draft language, county staff provided two versions for consideration.

In the first version, the owner must file a

passing The Sanibel School While parked at the school finishing a report, he observed what appeared to be the same cart now traveling westbound on Sanibel-Captiva Road along the multi-use path at about 10:30 p m and he made contact

The detective identified the operators as Fischer and Neal from their IDs They reported that they had been at the Rebel gas station but it was closed, so they were returning to South Seas on Captiva Asked about damage to the front passenger side roof of the cart, they advised it was like that when they got it

He educated Fischer and Neal on driving golf carts along the roadway on Sanibel To ensure that they arrived to Captiva safely, the detective then followed them to Blind Pass, where they continued on

On April 1, the LCSO showed the SPD detective photos of the suspects and the stolen damaged cart He confirmed that they were Fischer and Neal and the damage to the cart was the same as he observed

The LCSO also made contact with Christopher Neal, who confirmed that he had a son named Grant Neal who was on vacation with him He and John Fischer, the father of Fischer, agreed to meet

When placed into custody, both Fischer and Neal refused to answer any questions

Both have a court date set for May 6 at 8:30 a.m. before Lee Circuit Judge Margaret Steinbeck

will schedule a meeting when he does to discuss it

∫ Captiva Island Fire Control District Fire Chief Jeff Pawul reported that hurric a n e s e a s o n i s a p p r o a c h i n g , a n d h e e n c o u r a g e d t h e i s l a n d c o m m u n i t y t o begin preparing He noted that there are resources and information on the district's website, plus people can contact him at the station

Pawul also reported that spring breakers dug giant holes on the beach. District staff were able to fill in some of the holes, but some were too big Hazard tape has been put up so people avoid those areas

“Those are not sea turtle nests,” he said “Those are hazardous areas ”

The district has contacted the Captiva

Erosion Protection District about the situation

∫ Lee County Sheriff's Office Sgt Rich Zeltman reported on a recent burglary at YOLO Watersports that involved the theft of a golf cart Security video helped them to identify and arrest the suspects

“We wound up apprehending them,” he said

Zeltman recommended that residents and businesses install security cameras if they have not.

“That helped us successfully capture those burglars,” he said

Zeltman also reminded the public that the island has a no open container law in place

∫ The voter registration deadline is April 22 ∫ The deadline to request a Vote-byMail ballot is May 9 at 5 p m

∫ There will be no early voting for the election

∫ On Election Day May 21 the polling location for voters will be open from 7 a m to 7 p m at Precinct 116 at the Sanibel Recreation Center, at 3880 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel For more information or questions, visit lee vote

copy of the plan with the municipality and county County staff must find the plan sufficient, and the county commission will approve the annexation if the owner has provided competent substantial evidence in the plan to demonstrate delivery of and fiscal responsibility for services

Under the second version, the owner must file a copy of the plan with the municipality and county Municipal staff must find the plan sufficient, and the municipal governing board may approve the annexation if

the owner has provided competent substantial evidence in the plan to demonstrate delivery of and fiscal responsibility for services The county commission may file an action in Lee County Circuit Court to invalidate the annexation if the owner has not provided the required evidence

The Sanibel City Council, along with the governing boards for Cape Coral, Fort Myers and Estero, repeatedly voiced opposition to the proposed amendment, including signing resolutions in opposition

BUSINESS

Business Notes

Trust Company to offer seminar

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company will offer “Domicile Day” a seminar on Florida residency, domicile status and estate planning at 11 a.m. at its offices at 2450 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and 13525 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers

It will include a presentation and Q&A period led by staff and local estate planning attorney Janet Strickland, of the Law Office of Janet M. Strickland.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required

The seminars are designed for people with $2 million and higher in investable assets

To make a reservation, contact Frances Steger at 239-472-8300 or festeger@sancaptrustco com

R.S. Walsh hosts open house

R S W a l s h

Landscaping recentl y h o s t e d a n o p e n h o u s e a t i t s n e w design and accounting office, at 12651 M c G r e g o r B l v d , S u i t e 5 0 4 , F o r t Myers

R S WALSH LANDSCAPING Bob and Lisa Walsh.

I t i s a f a m i l yowned and operated, f u l l - s e r v i c e l a n ds c a p e d e s i g n - b u i l d company specializing in landscape design, installation and maintenance

For more than 40 years, R S Walsh has been committed to superior workmanship, the highest standard of materials and the constant pursuit of excellence

For more information, call 239-768-5655 or visit www rswalsh com

VIP Realty announces top agents for year

The VIP Realty Group recently held its annual recognition ceremony at The Forest Country Club in Fort Myers, with Realtors from the Sanibel, Captiva and Fort Myers offices in attendance

VIP REALTY GROUP Susan Dunn and Karen Bell

Karen Bell and the Bell Team, which includes John Bates and Sherill Sims, were recognized as the All Company Sales Team of the Year the top team out of all of the company's offices in Lee County

Deb Smith was awarded Associate of the Year for Sanibel-Captiva, and Mike Billheimer was named Rookie of the Year

Rebecca Cosentino, of VIP Vacations and Rentals, was awarded Employee of the Year

See BUSINESS NOTES, page 10

Community leaders heard from Minneapolis Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer R T Rybak on Feb 26 at The Community House on Sanibel From left, front row, Maria Espinoza, Ann-Marie Wildman, Nicole Decker-McHale, Sam Boren King, Lisa Riordan, John Lai and James Evans; back row, Doug Congress, Dolly Farrell, John Morse, Bill Harkey, Rybak and Dana Souza.

CHARITABLE FOUNDATION OF THE ISLANDS

Foundation official lends perspective and expertise to islands’ renewal

Led by its Economic Revitalization Committee, the Charitable Foundation of the Islands hosted Minneapolis Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer R T Rybak for in-depth conversations with island leaders on Feb 26 on Sanibel

The visit was the culmination of meetings that began last year, arranged by Minneapolis Foundation and CFI Board Member Susan “Sam” Boren King The CFI reported that the discussions centered around what comes next as recovery work continues to restore the islands to their pre-storm splendor

At the events, Rybak pledged the foundation's expertise to serve in an advisory capacity to the CFI Similar to the CFI, it is a community foundation and public grantmaking charity that collaborates with other nonprofits to h e l p d r i v e c i v i c , s o c i a l a n d e c o n o m i c a c t i o n t h a t improves communities

“ R e t u r n i n g S a n i b e l a n d C a p t i v a t o p r e - I a n d a y s requires grappling with complex issues, and we welcome advice and expertise from those that have lived through similar situations,” committee Chair Eric Pfeifer said

“We heard R T quote the Hopi proverb several times, 'You are the people you have been waiting for ' I think we can all agree that each of us has to take an active role if we wish to rebuild this community.”

The conversations focused on workforce development, affordable housing, aging in place and impact investing Held at The Community House, the first session involved city, nonprofit and SanCap Chamber of Commerce leaders The second one brought together philanthropists at King's residence

The CFI reported that at both events, Rybak walked the groups through several ideas by which they might rebuild stronger and better Current initiatives underway by the CFI to help spur economic revitalization were also discussed, including grants to the chamber and a business climate survey for the islands.

“I fell in love with Sanibel-Captiva when on my first visit in the '70s and continue to be charmed by it today,” Rybak said “The island community's post-hurricane resilience has been extraordinary, and the commitment I witnessed shows me the best is yet to come ”

New endowed fund supports conservation at refuge

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge reported on the creation of the Marsha Camitta Conservation Fund, an endowment that will support the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel

Camitta exuded a love for wildlife and the natural world that she shared with friends and family She brought that passion to Sanibel, where she and her

husband visited annually for years before they purchased a home shortly before her death in March of 2023

Camitta was born in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in New Hyde Park After graduating from high school, her love of the outdoors led to a degree in biology at Chatham University Camitta continued to share her appreciation for the natural world with all who knew her,

including her pets She could be found walking, jogging, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, camping and planning travels with her family During the winter, one of Camitta's favorite places to escape the cold was Sanibel and Captiva with her family The refuge was always a must stop She treated the natural world and the animals in it with love and appreciation, always watching and exploring Knowing the refuge was one of her favorite spots to visit, Camitta's family chose to honor her legacy and love of nature with the fund to support the refuge, those who come to enjoy it and the wildlife that need it to survive

Progressive Club to host presentation

The Progressive Club of the Islands will hold a program, “The Fight Ahead for Women’s Reproductive Health in Florida,” on April 18 at 6 p m at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The speaker will be Dawnyelle Singleton, one of the leaders of the “Yes on 4” campaign It secured the over 1 million authorized signatures needed to place the abortion question on the November ballot

The club reported that Florida is the site of two competing forces in women's reproductive health

On one side is one of the strictest anti-abortion enactments in the country a new law that will go into effect on May 1 prohibiting abortion after six weeks of pregnancy

On the other side is Referendum 4 that, if enacted into law by 60% of voters in November, would inscribe the standards of Roe v Wade in the state constitution and

enshrine a right to abortion up to “fetal viability,” usually about 24 weeks

A native of Sarasota, Singleton is the manager of volunteers and community programs at Planned Parenthood Southwest and Central Florida. She oversees and executes communi-

See PRESENTATION, page 10

Marsha Camitta

Dawnyelle Singleton

From page 8

Business Notes

E x e c u t i v e C l u b recipients were Bob

B e r n i n g , S i m s , Janka Varmuza and Amy Wainwright P r e s i d e n t ' s C l u b f i r s t - t i m e m e m b e r s w e r e A r i k a

B j o r k e d a l , M a r y M o r r i s , K e n K i n g a n d D a n W e x l e r L i f e t i m e m e m b e r s were Teresa Baker, T e d B e n j a m i n , G l e n n C a r r e t t a , R o s e D a k o s , M a r i l y n D i C h a r i a , T i n a D i C h a r i a , S u s a n D u n n , K a t h r y n G a e t a ,

Cathy Gerasin, Jim Hetmanek, Becky Mulka, Glen Simmons, Charlie Sobczak and Lynda Traverso

Chairman's Club/Lifetime President's Club recipients were Bates, Bell, Mary Lou Bailey, Jim Hall, Debbie Ringdahl and Smith

Champions Club recipient was Jayne Lumley

John R. Wood holds awards ceremony

John R Wood Christie's International Real Estate celebrated its top-performing associates at an award ceremony on March 8 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Spring

The event included the company's agents, management and staff, as well as Christie's International Real Estate co-Chief Executive Officer Thad Wong and President of Affiliate Strategy Kevin Van Eck

The Earls | Lappin Team of Bill Earls, Larry Lappin, Aaron Earls and Alex Newman, with the Central Office, received the President's Award for the highest sales volume in the company in 2023

Additionally, 13 Realtors were honored with Elite Awards for achieving closed sales of $50 million or over; 26 agents were honored with Diamond Awards for closed sales of $25 to $50 million; 43 received Emerald Awards for closed sales from $15 to $25 million; 61 agents received Platinum Awards for closed sales of $10 to 15 million; and 113 received Gold Awards for closed sales of $5 to $10 million

Presentation

From page 8

ty engagement initiatives across PPSWCF’s service region

The program is open to the public

A potluck buffet will be available before the program

To RSVP, contact pcisancap@gmail com

For more information about the club, visit https://pcislands org

San-Cap Republican Caucus to hold meeting

The Sanibel-Captiva Republican Caucus will meet on April 20 at 10 a m at the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

T h e g u e s t s p e a k e r s w i l l b e S a n i b e l C i t y

Councilmember and former Sanibel Mayor Holly Smith and Dr Denise Carlin, one of the candidates for superintendent of the School District of Lee County Smith will talk about how the city benefited from the recent legislative session in Tallahassee and her current leadership role at the Florida League of Cities Carlin will talk about her election campaign

Coffee and breakfast goodies will be served

The meeting is open to the public

For more information, visit the Sanibel-Captiva Republican Caucus on Facebook

VIP REALTY GROUP

Deb Smith and Jim Hall

Rebecca Cosentino

Holly Smith Dr. Denise Carlin

PRESERVING PARADISE

What is happening with Lake Okeechobee?

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Spring is a time of change, as birds begin their migrations and estuarine species start their spawn Important changes also happen in the Caloosahatchee River and Estuary as waters begin to warm and the wet season looms on the horizon

In Southwest Florida, seasonal water quality is strongly tied to the health and management of Lake Okeechobee, which was artificially connected to the Caloosahatchee River and Estuary in the 1800s

When the lake gets too high, the Caloosahatchee and the St Lucie Estuary to the east often receives large releases of water from the lake, which can harm the ecosystem

This year, much of February and March included high-volume, damaging water releases from the lake to the Caloosahatchee, and the U S Army Corps of Engineers recently announced that a reduced flow volume of 2,000 cubic feet per second (weekly average) will be sent west through the end of the dry season, barring significant changes in conditions

Why the coasts receive lake water

“Lake Okeechobee is a highly managed system Its height is controlled by the U S Army Corps of Engineers using the Herbert Hoover Dike and a system of locks, canals, and dams,” Sanibel-Captiva C o n s e r v a t i o n F o u n d a t i o n E n v i r o n m e n t a l P o l i c y Director Matt DePaolis said “The lake serves as a storage reservoir for the agriculture interests south of the lake, guaranteeing the industrial sugar production has as much water as it wants To ensure there’s enough water in even the driest years, it’s necessary to keep the water in the lake much higher than it ever was naturally ”

But an overly full lake during rainy season quickly turns into a flood risk for surrounding communities Additionally, high lake levels prevent light from reaching the submerged aquatic vegetation in the lake, hindering their growth and preventing essential filtration to the ecosystem

So when the lake is deemed too high, the Corps releases water out of the lake, primarily to the east and west coasts via the St Lucie and Caloosahatchee estuaries

This lake water is polluted with nitrogen and phosphorous and can contribute to harmful algal blooms in the estuaries sometimes directly, DePaolis said At certain volumes, the influx of freshwater into brackish partly salty water can also lower salinity levels

See LAKE OKEECHOBEE, page 13

Panel to speak on Florida’s right to clean water

Friends of the Everglades will host a virtual panel discussion, “Florida's Right to Clean Water,” on April 18 from noon to 1 p m via Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter The panelists will discuss the Florida Right to Clean Water movement, which aims to solidify Floridians' right to clean and healthy water by getting an amendment on the 2026 ballot, and what it will take to get the amendment on the ballot It will include Florida Right to Clean Water Operations and Communications Director Joseph Bonasia, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation F o u n d a t i o n E n v i r o n m e n t a l P o l i c y D i r e c t o r M a t t DePaolis, Calusa Waterkeeper Codty Pierce, Friends of the Everglades Executive Director Eve Samples and VoteWater Executive Director Gil Smart There will be time for questions For more information or to register, visit https://www everglades org/register-now-for-a-live-

FRIENDS OF THE EVERGLADES

discussion-onfloridas-right-to-clean-water/ To sign the F l o r i d a R i g h t t o C l e a n W a t e r p e t i t i o n , v i s i t FloridaRightToCleanWater org

Par ticipants sought for mollusk count

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium will hold a Live Mollusk Count on April 2 3 a t 7 : 3 0 p m o n S a n i b e l Participants will be assigned a section of beach to walk and will receive a shell guide to help identify species They will observe and document sightings of living mollusks The collected data will be used to help benchmark the health

The J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and “Ding” Darling 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 c e l e b r a t e d t h e i r a n n u a l Volunteer Appreciation and Awards Luncheon on March 29 at The Roost at the Sanibel refuge

“ T h i s w a s t h e f i r s t l u n c h e o n we’ve been able to hold to honor our v o l u n t e e r s s i n c e C O V I D , ”

S u p e r v i s o r y R e f u g e R a n g e r T o n i Westland said “We gathered at The R o o s t f o r b a r b e c u e , s o c i a l i z i n g , games and awards ”

Staff reported that between the refuge reopening in April of 2023 t h r o u g h M a r c h , 1 1 0 v o l u n t e e r s worked nearly 9,000 hours the equivalent of 375 consecutive days

Each volunteer worked an average of 81 hours during the one-year timeframe

“Without our loyal hardworking volunteers, the refuge would have b e e n u n a b l e t o r e o p e n a f t e r Hurricane Ian or continue to function today,” DDWS Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman said “As federal budgets continue to shrink, so does refuge staff Our volunteers are our saving grace ”

The volunteers who won awards for reaching hour and year achievement levels include:

Years awards

∫ 30 years: Norm Honest

∫ 25 years: Jim Sprankle

∫ 20 years: Donna Adams, Mike B a l d w

and Denny Souers

∫ 10 years: Kathryn Allen, Judy Barbieri, Lyndon Borror, Karittha Charoensri, Jan Cohen, Larry Dean,

and prevalence of local species on Sanibel There is no cost to participate, but registration is required For more information or to register, c o n t a c t J o r d e n F a l k e r a t jfalker@shellmuseum org or 239347-5119

Rawert, Michael Rice, Nancy Riley, Sally Stranahan, Anne Suss and Jack Waszmer

Hours awards

∫

Mary Jo Hobbs

hours: Janet Lucree and Riley ∫

hours: Jim Newes and Souers

hours: Sally Barsley,

Ed Sessa and Karl Werner

hours: Cohen, Jackson, Sharon Jones, Paul McKenney, Rice, Cindy Seaman and Waszmer

hours: Bud Dansby, Henry DeRonck, Emerson, Marc Giattini, Wendy Kindig, Lisa Kirby, Tony

Cheryl Tice, Diane Wien and Donna Wilmot

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Refuge to host annual Conser vation Car nival

Furthering its mission to reach and connect with underserved urban communities, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge will return to Lakes Park in Fort Myers for its 35th annual “Ding” Darling Day on April 20 from 10 a m to 2 p m The celebration will also observe Earth Day, which falls on April 22 The refuge and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge have planned a day of free outdoor activities, including carnival games, prizes, archery, a dunk tank, face painting, rock climbing wall, Earth Day crafts, artistin-residence demonstrations, guided birding and nature walks, live music and educational interactions with other local conservation organizations. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, DDWS and Tarpon Bay Explorers co-sponsor the event with support from the local community and businesses Lakes Park is at 7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers REFUGE/DDWS

Lake Okeechobee

in the estuaries, which can negatively impact oysters, tapegrass and other organisms

“Deciding when, where and how much Lake Okeechobee water to release is a nuanced decision-making process involvi n g i n p u t f r o m d i v e r s e s t a k e h o l d e r s , ” P o l i c y A s s o c i a t e A l l i e P e c e n k a s a i d . “ S C C F a n d o t h e r m e m b e r s o f t h e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a c o m m u n i t y o f f e r analysis and feedback during the Corps’ stakeholder-engagement process, including science-based recommendations for c o n d i t i o n s u n d e r w h i c h t h e C a l o o s a h a t c h e e e s t u a r y w o u l d r e m a i n healthiest ”

Ian began trend of overly full lake

Following Hurricanes Ian and Nicole in the fall of 2022, Lake Okeechobee was

From page 12

f i l l e d n e a r l y t o c a p a c i t y , a n d l e v e l s remained high for much of 2023 When a strong El Nino event was forecast for 2023-24 which often means a wetterthan-normal dry season the SCCF began advocating for the Corps to continue lowering the lake in anticipation of it rising further.

“From June through October, frequent rains and watershed runoff can compound Lake Okeechobee releases, introducing an abundance of excess nutrients into the Caloosahatchee and Gulf of Mexico and harming our wildlife, our communities, and our economies,” Pecenka said “This is why SCCF begins asking the Corps to send releases during the dry season, when our estuary is less vulnerable to impacts from receiving flows ”

As predicted, high levels of precipitation during the dry season this year further increased the height of Lake Okeechobee

and the Corps’ requirement to lower it

2024 releases and current status

In mid-February, the Corps decided to start lowering the lake before the wet season by releasing water to both coasts The Caloosahatchee has received flows of varying measures from the lake since Feb 17, with a few brief pauses aimed to allow salinities in the estuaries to recover and reduce the stress on oyster populations prior to spawning.

“Local oyster communities are particularly vulnerable during spawning season in the spring, and the impacts to a disrupted spawning season can span generationally for this highly important species,” Pecenka said SCCF’s policy department, informed by data from its Marine Laboratory, con-

tinually engages with the Corps and other stakeholders to express concerns for the health of local ecosystems in the event the Caloosahatchee receives large, long-duration releases

On April 6, the Corps resumed minimal releases to the Caloosahatchee an average of 650 cubic feet per second to reduce stagnant conditions conducive to blue-green algal blooms Beginning on April 13, the releases increased to a weekly average of 2,000 cubic feet per second through the rest of the dry season

While the SCCF is supportive of the current release schedule, we remain concerned with the high lake stage and the potential for high-volume releases this summer and fall We ask the Corps to remain reactive to changing conditions and adjust flows as needed to support the ecological health of the system

Isl and lIvIng

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

Arrests

∫ James Shipe, 65, of 13924 Lily Pad Circle, Fort Myers, was charged on April 5 with one count each of aggravated battery person uses a deadly weapon, DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI influence of alcohol or drugs and reckless driving

Other enforcement actions

∫ On April 4, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed in a school zone The driver was subsequently issued a citation for speeding in the school zone and a notice to appear for driving with a suspended license.

Enforcement operations statistics

From April 2-8:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 5

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 18

∫ Traffic crashes: 4

∫ Radar details: 58

∫ Traffic stops: 43

Citations issued: 16

Written warnings issued: 1

Verbal warnings issued: 30

∫ Residential area checks: 454

∫ Business area checks: 244

∫ Total area checks: 1,080

∫ Reported burglaries: 1

∫ Reported thefts: 1

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,356

April 2024 to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 5

∫ Non-emergency calls: 24

∫ Traffic crashes: 5

∫ Radar details: 60

∫ Traffic stops: 50

Citations issued: 19

Written warnings issued: 1

Verbal warnings issued: 34

∫ Residential area checks: 495

∫ Business area checks: 266

∫ Total area checks: 1,200

∫ Reported burglaries: 1

∫ Reported thefts: 1

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,520

Impor tant reminders

Those attending the Sanibel Island Farmers Market on Sundays are reminded to park their vehicles in the designated lots Roadside parking is not allowed on Sanibel and is enforceable with a $150 fine

When leaving Sanibel, motorists are encouraged to travel east on Periwinkle Way In order to minimize the number of vehicles driving through residential neighborhoods and increase traffic flow, priority is being given to vehicles eastbound on Periwinkle Motorists using Bailey Road southbound, Lindgren northbound and Periwinkle westbound may experience additional delays as traffic flows are adjusted for efficiency

page 15

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

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

B a t h B o m b s & M o r e Workshop will be held today, April 17, from 3:30 to 4 p m

M a k e b a t h b o m b s , s h o w e r fizzies or simple bath salts from a l l n a t u r a l i n g r e d i e n t s w i t h staffer Shannon Gafgen Open to ages 4 and older

O n A p r i l 1 9 , E x e c u t i v e

D i r e c t o r D u a n e S h a f f e r w i l l present Civil War-Battle of Bull Run: Armies Clash for the First Time from 10 to 11 a m Fought

o n J u l y 2 1 , 1 8 6 1 , t h e F i r s t Battle of Bull Run or Manassas, Virginia, was the first major battle of the U S Civil War Union commander Brigadier Gen Irvin McDowell gave in to pressure from the government to begin campaigning before his men’s 90-day enlistments expired He did not feel that the army was

See LIBRARY, page 15

LWV of Sanibel to hold program, annual meeting

The League of Women Voters of Sanibel will host a panel discussion

o n A p r i l 1 7 a t 1 1 a m a t T h e

C o m m u n i t y H o u s e , a t 2 1 7 3

Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, along with its Annual Meeting

The program, “Democracy and T h e o c r a c y : W h a t O u r F i r s t Amendment Intended,” will moderated by President Cathie Kozik The p a n e l w i l l i n c l u d e S a n i b e l

C o n g r e g a t i o n a l U n i t e d C h u r c h o f

Christ's former Rev Dr John H Danner, professor and constitutional

lawyer Jane Picker and Bat Yam Temple of the Islands' Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer

T h e l e a g u e r e p o r t e d t h a t Americans may think the separation b e t w e e n c h u r c h a n d s t a t e i s enshrined in the Constitution, but that separation seems to be getting smaller Examples include a recent r u l i n g i n A l a b a m a o n I n V i t r o Fertilization (IVF), potential legislation in Florida that would define conception as the start of life, and other Florida legislation calling for “chap-

lains” in public schools to tend to the spiritual needs of students Is this what the Founding Fathers intended? Does the Constitution require complete separation of church and state, or it is merely “non-intervention” in the practice of religion?

All are invited to attend and to come with questions

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , c o n t a c t

K o z i k a t 2 2 4 - 6 5 9 - 2 2

3

9 o r cekozik@gmail com

Historical village recognizes volunteers

The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village held a Volunteer Appreciation Party on March 24 to celebrate its volunteers It was hosted by Ty and Jan Symroski at their home The museum reported that each year, the volunteers provide thousands of hours on a wide variety of activities like guiding tours, hosting educational programs, planning fundraisers, staffing the gift shop and developing exhibits.

SANIBEL HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND VILLAGE

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY Family Storytime will take place on April 19 from 10:30 to 11 a m at the Sanibel Public Library

Library

From page 14

adequately trained The battle would become a tragedy of errors The soldiers came dressed in a variety of uniforms with all types of weapons and were totally undisciplined Tourists and sightseers would only add to the confusion A Confederate victory would end northern hopes for a quick end to the war Shaffer will discuss the strategy and tactics of the battle

Family Storytime for ages 5 and under and their caregiver will take place on April 19 from 10:30 to 11 a m with Gafgen Sing, read, question and move around during the stories, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, motor skills and creativity The program will include an art/craft center

On April 20, an Earth Day Bash will be held There will be tours at 10 a m and 1 p m exploring the trees and plants on the library's grounds Afterward, participants can take part in a plant activity

Crafternoon with Ms Shannon will take place on April 24 from 3:30 to 4:30 p m Ages 4 and up and their caregiver can join Gafgen to make a work of

Blotter

From page 14

valid from the date of purchase through Nov 30 The 2023 permits have expired and are no longer valid

The city of Sanibel's 2021 and 2022

Hurricane Re-entry Passes are still valid

If you have one, you do not need to reapply for a new pass Information on the Sanibel Boat Ramp:

∫ The boat ramp is open to permit holders on weekdays, weekends and holi-

art A variety of craft supplies will be a v a i l a b l e , a l o n g w i t h e x a m p l e s a n d guidance.

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

I n a d d i t i o n , t h e l i b r a r y o f f e r s a C o m p u t e r C o a c h s e r v i c e B o o k a n appointment to bring in your device for t e c h n o l o g y a s s i s t a n c e w i t h H o o p l a , Kanopy, Libby and other library apps

The apps allow cardholders to download eBooks, magazines and audiobooks or stream music and movies To schedule an appointment, call 239-472-2483

Library cards are available to residents of Sanibel and Lee County at no charge Visitor library cards are available for a $10 annual fee

The Sanibel Public Library is open Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a m to 8 p m a n d T u e s d a y s , W e d n e s d a y s , Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a m to 5 p m

For more information, call 239-4722483 or visit https://sanlib org/

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

days

∫ The boat ramp is open to the public (non-permit holders) on weekdays that are not holidays for a $40 daily fee

∫ Commercial use of the boat ramp is prohibited

∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500

Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel

Please share any photos of solicitation

hang tags to police@mysanibel com or use Tip411

Repor ting suspicious activity

Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411:

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411

∫ W e b t i p s c a n b e s u b m i t t e d a t https://www tip411 com/tips/new?alert g roup id=22450

∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device

The SPD's non-emergency line is 239472-3111

F i n d t h e S P D o n F a c e b o o k a t https://www facebook com/SanibelPolice

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Sanibel Public Library will host a Crafternoon with Ms. Shannon on April 24 from 3:30 to 4:30 p m

Beachview to host tourney to benefit LARC

Presented by Grampy's Charities, the Beachview Tennis Club Open Doubles Tournament will take place on April 27-28 at The Beachview Tennis Club, at 1101 Par View Drive, Sanibel

Men’s and women’s doubles 3 0, 3 5 and 4 0 will be held on the first day, followed by mixed doubles 3 0, 3 5, and 4 0 on the second day The entry fee is $100 per player per day or $150 for both days.

Winners and runners-up will receive awards

The proceeds will benefit the Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC), a nonprofit dedicated to providing support and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

“I chose LARC to benefit from this tournament because I feel it is important to support local nonprofits, especially those like LARC,” club owner and tennis pro Toni Halski said “They play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in Southwest Florida ”

All players will receive T-shirts and lunch on both days

The deadline to register is April 20

“LARC has been making an impact in Southwest Florida for 70 years,” Executive Director Angela Katz said “LARC is committed to providing vocational training, residential services and community inclusion programs aimed at helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead fulfilling lives ”

For more information or to register, contact Halski at 239-472-9099

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Nickole Hendra at 239-334-6285 Ext 229 or nickolehendra@larcleeecounty org or visit www larcleecounty org/tennis

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's new Roving Ranger will make an appearance during the 31st annual Sam Bailey's Islands Night parade today, April 17, in Fort Myers

DDWS reports on refuge programming and more

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge provided the following updates for the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel:

∫ Look for the refuge and its new Roving Ranger at the 31st annual Sam Bailey's Islands Night game and parade today, April 17, at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers

∫ The 12th annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford's Tarpon Tournament will take place on May 10

∫ Art in the Wild will return on Oct 19

∫ Photographer-artist Niki Butcher's “ D a y d r e a m i n g ” e x h i b i t i o n k i c k o f f h a s been postponed until the late fall or early 2025

The Roost

Rec center provides update on activities, events

The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities

A Youth Dodgeball Showcase will take place on Fridays from now through May 10 Tiny Tots are from 3:45 to 4:15 p m , grades K-1 are from 4:30 to 5:30 p m in Gym A, grades 2-3 are from 4:30 to 5:30 p m in Gym B and grades 4-8 are from 6 to 7 p m in Gym A The cost is $26 for members and $32 for non-members.

Presented by the Sanibel Recreation Department, Backyard Games will be held on April 21 from 11 a m to 3 p m at the Sanibel Community Park, at 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Attendees can enjoy a variety of games for free, including volleyball, football, soccer, shuffleboard and cornhole All ages are welcome The activities will be weather permitting Also, Kona Ice will be available for purchase.

Meet the Doc will take place on April 23 from 10 to 11 a m Dr Lisa Mattingly, of CIPCare, will be available to meeting and greet individuals interested in primary care There will also be a complimentary distribution of fresh vegetables and fruit

New and current members can call 239-472-0345 or stop by the front desk

f o r a s s i s t a n c e w i t h s e t t i n g u p t h e i r CivicRec account

T h e c e n t e r i s o p e n o n M o n d a y s

Trailways Camp signing up for sessions

Trailways Camp has opened registration for campers for its upcoming sessions Camps will be held on Oct 14-17, Nov 18-21, Jan 2023 and Feb 17-20 at the Riverside Retreat, at 7305 County Road 78, Labelle Trailways Camp provides overnight camping experiences for adults with special needs Each session is packed with activities for campers that provide opportunities for fun, creating friendships and establishing connections as a community of d i v e r s e i n d

through Thursdays from 7 a m to 7 p m , F r i d a y s f r o m 7 a m t o 5 p m a n d Saturdays from 8 a m to 5 p m A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available

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 m y s a n i b e l c o m / s a n i b e lonline

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

Non-resident beach, ramp passes sold out

The city of Sanibel reported that the 2024 “BC” parking permits the non-resident permits that allow for parking at the Sanibel Boat Ramp are now sold out

The “A,” “B” and “AC” permits are still available at the Sanibel Recreation Center, at 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel; the costs are $14 for A (resident beach parking), $300 for B (non-resident beach parking) and $113 for AC (resident beach parking and boat ramp) The 2024 permits are valid from now through Nov 30 For more information, call the center at 239-472-0345

REFUGE/DDWS

at the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel hosts al fresco events throughout the year

Earth Day

From page 1

or trusty camera and an iNaturalist account,” the SCCF reported

∫ What is a BioBlitz?

A BioBlitz is a focused effort to take inventory of all living things in an area, essentially like a species census It is a thrilling adventure where you become the scientist

∫ What species are we looking for?

Everything we are looking for all the plants, animals and even fungi we can find The more data the better If you observe a plant in a garden, remember to mark the species as “captive/cultivated” when loading your observations

∫ Should I record invasive/exotic species?

Yes, we want it all Recording nonnatives will help us map where they are and develop more productive mitigation strategies.

∫ What if I do not know what species it is?

This is where iNaturalist comes in handy It will provide suggestions for what species it thinks your observation is based on the media you upload, and even if it is wrong, other account holders can help verify your observation The iNaturalist platform allows us or another community scientist to post suggestions of what the species may be, which you can “agree” with This can be continually edited

The SCCF also offered some guidelines for participants

Fire board

From page 1

∫ Add board-approved assigned fund balances to budget summary

∫ Adjust interest earnings for fiscal year 2024

The commissioners also voted 3-0 on a r e s o l u t i o n t o c l o s e t w o c e r t i f i c a t e o f deposit (CD) accounts and merge both account balances into new, interest-bearing checking account with Bank of the Islands

In addition, the commission voted 3-0 on district policies regarding Travel and P e r D i e m E x p e n s e s , E m p l o y e e C e l l

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

“Please respect wildlife by keeping your distance, especially with sensitive species including nesting birds Do not try to bait wildlife with food, and do not chase wildlife this causes them to expend unnecessary energy,” it shared “Respect private and conservation lands, and obey park and city rules while observing ”

If you find an injured animal, contact the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's Wildlife Hospital at 239-472-

P h o n e S t i p e n d a n d C a p i t a l i z a t i o n , Depreciation and Disposition of Assets

Barbot explained that all three were statutorily required and requested by the district's auditor

Also during the meeting, Barbot provided a report on the district's financials He reported that the district is on budget, however, vehicle maintenance costs is an area of concern Barbot explained that they are seeing increases of 30% The district will likely have to increase the allocation next year

3644, ext 222 For injured or deceased sea turtles, contact the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663

Guided walks planned

Also for the Earth Day BioBlitz, the following expert-led walks will be held on Sanibel:

∫ April 22 at 8:30 a m : Weeds 'n' Seeds Walk at the Johnston Preserve

∫ April 23 at 9 a m : Wildlife Walk at the Johnston Preserve

∫ April 24 from 8 to 9:30 a m : Bird Walk at the Gulfside City Park Beach

∫ April 25 from 2 to 3:30 p m : Beach Walk

The community is encouraged to get out and take part.

“The SCCF hopes to inspire people to get out in nature and to learn about and appreciate Southwest Florida's wonderful biodiversity,” it reported “By holding this Bioblitz annually, the SCCF can eventually observe longitudinal data for trends in species populations ”

The SCCF's username on iNaturalist is sanibelcaptivaconservationfoundation

For more information, visit https://sccf org /event/earthday-bioblitz/

He also spoke about the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds available through the county Barbot explained that the county wrote it so special districts are not eligible unless they partner with a city, so he has talked to the city of Sanibel's administrative staff

“They agreed they're going to try to help us get this grant funding,” Barbot said

“We are going to request grant funding through that program,” he added

A l s o a t t h e m e e t i n g , B a r b o t e x p l a i n e d

t h a t t h e c i t y c o u n c i l w i l l s o o n d i s c u s s w h e t h e r t o h o l d F o u r t h o f J u l y f i r e w o r k s H o w e v e r , h e i s c o n c e r n e d a b o u t h o w d r y t h

e d f o r t h e c o m m i s s i o n ' s thoughts and direction on the subject “ I t ' s n o t a g o o d t i m e t o d o i t , ” C o m m i s s i o n e r B r u c e C o c h r a n e s a i d , adding that he thinks the district would not be properly serving the community if it agreed to fireworks considering the con-

See FIRE BOARD, page 20

FEMA

From page 1

The decision meant that come October, policy holders in the designated municipalities and unincorporated areas of the county, which includes Captiva, would not only would lose the 25% discount, but would not receive any discount at all

County officials reported of a joint meeting held with FEMA officials on April 8

“Lee County Manager Dave Harner and city managers from impacted municipalities

Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, the Town of Fort Myers Beach and the Village of Estero

met with FEMA representatives late Monday,” the county said in a release on April 9.

“The county will work with its partners at FEMA during a 30-day extension period, which was granted in the just-received letter,” it added

The county is working to retain its longestablished rating

“The Lee Board of County Commissioners is committed to retaining the Community Rating System (CRS) rating

Fire board

ditions

of 5 to maintain the discount available to residents with National Flood Insurance Program policies,” the release stated, adding that the county is preparing to add updates for the public on its website at leegov com

“In its commitment to transparency, Lee County soon will launch a landing page dedicated to this issue Visitors to the site will be able to review publicly available documentation and other information,” the county said

Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter also responded to the 30-day “pause ”

“Late Monday afternoon, FEMA advised Cape Coral city leaders that they are allowing us 30 days to clarify any factual misunderstandings and submit new information related to deficiencies identified by FEMA,” he said “This is a positive step forward, and we’re committed to making the most of this opportunity to advocate for our community Our immediate focus is to continue engaging with FEMA to ensure we receive clear direction on what efforts they want to see

From page 18

C o m m i s s i o n e r R i c h a r d M c C u r r y echoed that

“I think it's a real hazard for us, a real danger, a real safety issue,” he said “I'm in favor of not supporting having the fireworks ”

Commissioner Jerry Muench agreed

“I think it's a bad idea,” he said of fireworks

Barbot reported that he would draft a

letter to the city on behalf of the district

In other news

∫ J e f f T u s c a n , w i t h T u s c a n & Company, presented the commissioners with the final report on the district's annual audit for 2022-23 He reported that the firm had an unmodified clean opinion

The commission voted 3-0 to accept

over the next 30 days We’ll be working closely with FEMA to address their concerns and provide any necessary information to potentially change their decision It’s our hope that through this collaborative effort, FEMA will reconsider their decision and allow the city to maintain its hard-earned CRS rating of 5 ”

The city recently released a detailed report and timeline of its recovery efforts and its interactions with FEMA The report can be found at capecoral gov

“Throughout this process, we’ll remain transparent with our community about developments and actions being taken,” Gunter said “Documents and information on this topic (are) available on our website I want to assure our residents that the City of Cape Coral is committed to doing everything in our power to mitigate any potential impacts on flood insurance rates ”

In retrograding the rating, FEMA cited “the large amount of unpermitted work, lack of documentation, and failure to properly

the audit as reported

∫ Deputy Fire Chief John DiMaria provided an update on personnel training

He reported that staff has been conducting nighttime operations on the fire vessel, along with five-minute drills at night DiMaria added that BIG ARTS plans to demolish the Strauss Theater in June and offered up the structure for training Staff will undergo rope training, search-and-rescue and more

monitor activity in special flood hazard areas, including substantial damage compliance.”

County, Cape and Fort Myers Beach officials all contested the findings, saying their respective staffs have been working closely with FEMA since Hurricane Ian a Category 5 hurricane that in September 2022 inflicted billions of dollars in damages throughout Southwest Florida County and city officials also called out the agency's methodology and processes, saying most of the issues raised had been resolved to FEMA’s satisfaction and that the issues remaining were being addressed or still being investigated

Congressman Byron Donalds, joined by U S Rep Greg Steube and U S Sens Rick Scott and Marco Rubio, wrote a letter to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell that urged a reversal of the decision to “retrograde” the rating to a 10 the lowest possible which offers no reduction in premiums at all

∫ The district has responded to 397 calls this year, compared to 232 for the same period last year

“We are up 70%,” DiMaria said “So there is a major uptick in call volume ”

∫ The following staff were recognized for their years of service: Lt Shane Grant 14 years; and firefighter Bryan Clement five years

From page 4

tions for redevelopment that would dramatically increase density

It should be noted that the county has b e e n r e p e a t e d l y m a k i n g i n c o m p a t i b l e assertions: that density exemptions for South Seas are needed to enhance resiliency, yet density would not be affected after all The county needs to address how it can remove density limits for South Seas, deny any specter of increased density, and process a permit application that entails what else? markedly increased density Are we not passing through the looking glass here?

4 ) T h e C a p t i v a C i v i c A s s o c i a t i o n , principal sponsor of the ad hoc Protect Captiva formed last year to oppose the new South Seas exemptions, actually has a long history of legal sparring with the county and South Seas over the very same issue: exactly how much development should be allowed at the resort In fact, 21 years ago the CCA, county and South Seas filed a three-way legal settlement with the county circuit court, agreeing to maintain the established three-units-peracre density limit for the resort Because South Seas has 304 acres, that meant full buildout would total 912 units The operative clauses of the 2003 settlement are u n e q u i v o c a l : “ T h e t o t a l n u m b e r o f dwelling units on South Seas Resort is limited to 912 No building permits may be issued by County for dwelling units within South Seas Resort that will cause that number to be exceeded at any time ”

Despite the clarity of the agreement, and its finality (“at any time”), the county proceeded last autumn to pass new legislation that exempts the resort from any density limits whatever It is now considering the resort’s redevelopment application, which would result in an approximate tripling of the settled three units per acre to almost nine units per acre I have failed to discover within the county’s documents or public meeting videos and synopses, spanning many months, any mention of the existence of its legally binding 2003 settlement with the CCA prohibiting any resort density increases That agreement makes the county’s current review of resort plans for increased density a prodigious waste of time

If the county didn’t mention or discuss the settlement, there appear to be two possible explanations First, it may have been an oversight, for county personnel not to have been aware of a dusty 21-year-old agreement made long before their time It is possible given the state of government records that a document search of county files pertaining to the resort would fail to discover a legal settlement that made news in its time Call it institutional amnesia

Second, it is also possible that the county has been aware of the settlement all along, or learned of it during the legislative process, but chose not to reveal its existence, or publicly discuss its relevance to the code amendments Alternatively, it could have even been the discovery of just o n e o r m o r e c o u n t y e m p l o y e e s , w h o chose to sweep the 21-year-old dust under the carpet, hoping no one would find it.

I n a n y c a s e , t h e c o u n t y n e e d s t o explain why it spent months planning and eventually authorizing a density exemption for South Seas that it previously a g r e e d i s l e g a l l y p r o h i b i t e d , w i t h o u t revealing the existence of the controlling settlement, much less publicly discussing its impact on county decision-making

5) Protect Captiva recently filed a complaint with the county circuit court, seeking relief in the form of a declaratory order. It asks that the court affirm the 2003 settlement’s enforceability, and bar the county from permitting any South S e a s ’ r e d e v e l o p m e n t t h a t e x c e e d s t h e agreed 912-unit buildout limit

The county may have seen this coming a long ways off, because a year ago it front-loaded a workaround argument that would allow more than 912 units Its contention is that the buildout limit, in existence for more than a half-century, should never have included hotel rooms, and that n o w h e r e e l s e i n u n i n c o r p o r a t e d L e e County are hotel rooms counted as density

A n y a t t e m p t t o a r g u e f u r t h e r , t h a t South Seas’ 912-unit buildout limit not only shouldn’t but doesn’t include hotel rooms, would be destined to fail All evidence surrounding the South Seas owners’ 1973 application for the 912-unit buildout limit demonstrates their unders t a n d i n g a n d i n t e n t i o n t h a t t h e c o u n t would include hotel rooms For a more recent reductio ad absurdum argument, a past state director of community planning testified before his old department this month that if the limit didn’t include hotel rooms, the new ordinance could potentially allow more than 2,500 hotel rooms to be built at the resort, when pre-Ian there were only 107 hotel rooms

Another fly in the ointment for the county is that while it attempts to remove any limits on South Seas’ hotel room density, it retains the pre-existing hotel room density (three units per acre) for all other Captiva properties The issue of South Seas exceptionalism arose in #2 above, and here it is again If the county believes hotel rooms shouldn’t be counted as density for South Seas, why continue to enforce a strict hotel room density limit on everyone else?

Double standards aside, the incontrovertible refutation of any suggestion that hotel rooms weren’t counted as density is provided by a document the county create d i n 2 0 0 2 , o n l y m o n t h s b e f o r e t h e CCA/county/South Seas settlement agreement The 2002 document (ADD200200098) was designed to organize and memorialize agreements on the development of the resort since 1973, including the 912-unit buildout limit, and govern future development

That document (pp 9-11) provides an exhaustive list of what units are included in the 912-unit buildout limit The list is a c t u a l l y r e p e a t e d t w i c e , a n d i n b o t h instances, the 107 hotel rooms are specifically and unmistakably included within the 912 units Nothing in the document suggests otherwise

The facts notwithstanding, early in the process the county indicated its intended reliance on a 912-unit limit that didn’t count hotel rooms A few days after passage of the ordinance in December, South Seas submitted a redevelopment application that asked for 272 new condos, the exact number of rebuildable units possible under the 912-unit cap (replacing the 247 demolished hotel and resort employee units, plus 25 never-used density credits) As for hotel units, which the county contends should not be counted toward densit y , S o u t h S e a s a s k e d f o r m o r e t h a n quadruple the pre-Ian number (from 107 to 435) Still, at the end of the day, we can expect the 2003 settlement to enforce a strict 912-unit buildout limit that includes

hotel rooms, as it always did

6) The purpose of the county’s 2002 document, ADD2002-00098, was to provide a one-stop repository consolidating South Seas permits and agreements up to that point in history, and to govern future development at the resort consistent with that history Permits ever since have been required to follow its strictures

The county is now attempting to artfully disembowel ADD2002-00098, while leaving it on the books as window dressi n g F i r s t , c o n f o r m i t y t o A D D 2 0 0 200098 was deleted from a crucial code c l a u s e g o v e r n i n g r e s o r t d e v e l o p m e n t Then the county explained that South Seas still had to follow its terms, unless the resort applied for a rezoning, and after a public hearing and due consideration, the county decided it didn’t have to follow its terms In other words, ADD200200098 governs, until the county says it doesn’t Its provisions, once mandatory, are now no more than advisory

7 ) T h e F e d e r a l E m e r g e n c y Management Agency has a 50% Rule, which means that if the cost of repairs to a structure is determined to be half or more of the property’s market value, it is “substantially damaged” and the entire structure needs to be rebuilt to current floodplain regulations State and local correlates of the 50% Rule mean the structure will also have to conform to all of their current building standards Conforming to current federal, state and local building regulations often means demolishing the structure and rebuilding anew from the ground up

Given the life-changing consequences of a 50% ruling, one would expect government to exercise great diligence in its application, but that isn’t so For a recent e x a m p l e t h a t b e g g a r s b e l i e f , F E M A learned only last year that in Florida a longtime permanent resident’s home will typically be assessed well below its current market value FEMA came to learn what for Floridians is common knowledge only after sending Lee County a letter accusing it of failing to uniformly tax homeowners.

More often it isn’t the incompetence of g o v e r n m e n t , b u t i t s a t t i t u d e t o w a r d rebuilding that influences application of the 50% Rule Some in government may harbor an agenda that rebuilt structures should not remain below current standards which encourages them to apply the 50% Rule On the flip side, others in government might be sympathetic to the sometimes catastrophic financial consequences of the 50% Rule for property owners, and hesitate to apply it. In any case, there is always leeway in applying the 50% Rule

One type of leeway might explain the odd way the 50% Rule was applied to structures at South Seas after Ian Much of the property within the resort is not owned by the resort (condos and timeshares) Many of the condo and timeshare buildings occupy the most vulnerable, Gulff r o n t l o c a t i o n s a t t h e r e s o r t A n y o n e w h o ’ s e v e r e x p e r i e n c e d a h u r r i c a n e knows that buildings in the front row, facing the sea, take the worst beating Even being one row back can make quite a difference

All the Gulf-facing condo and times h a r e b u i l d i n g s w e r e d e t e r m i n e d t o require repairs costing less than 50% of their market value, and all have been repaired On the other side of the island, the resort’s hotel did not face the Gulf It

was on the bayside, facing the Pine Island Sound, its back to the onshore winds Repairs to the hotel were determined to cost more than 50% of its market value, so it was demolished

The hotel, condo and timeshare buildings all of similar age, design, materials and construction standards were built by the same developer Two smaller buildings next to the hotel still stand: the harbormaster’s office, which was back up and running shortly after Ian, and the Harbourview Restaurant A number of other resort-owned buildings were determ i n e d t o h a v e f a i l e d t h e 5 0 % t e s t They’re all flattened and gone now.

Hurricanes can be very capricious, destroying one structure while leaving its neighbor relatively unscathed Hurricanes are not, however, selective Ian did not pick-and-choose its way through South Seas, finding resort-owned buildings to cripple beyond 50%, while sufficiently sparing non-resort-owned structures so they could be repaired It is difficult to avoid the suspicion that it was not the hurricane doing the choosing

There may be a reasonable explanation for the fact that many of the resort-owned buildings failed the 50% test, while nonresort-owned buildings passed Without an explanation, one must ask: Did an appetite to rebuild the resort to a greater density cause selective application of the 50% Rule? Destroying the hotel and other resort buildings is undoubtedly a giant first step a clearing of the deck toward approving a rebuilt South Seas of greater densities and heights

Patterns of behavior are important in evaluating the appearance of deceit One example of apparent deception can be the result of a misunderstanding or miscommunication In this case, we begin with South Seas density and height exemptions being extraneously shoehorned into an unrelated policy pursuit The resulting ordinance pretends that increased density and unprecedented heights at the resort, but apparently not at any other properties, would contribute to disaster resiliency

Throughout the process county representatives consistently deny the obvious, that S o u t h S e a s ’ d e n s i t y p o t e n t i a l i s v e r y much increased by the code exemptions

To top it off, months of public meetings apparently never reveal that the county is bound by a court settlement barring any increases in South Seas’ density The county attempts to sidestep the density limit by declaring that hotel units shouldn’t be included in the count, and resort owners apply accordingly The longstanding governing document for the resort that contradicts the county’s wishes is duly eviscerated, left on the books but toothless Finally, by all appearances the 50% Rule is selectively applied, permitting r e p a i r s t o n o n - r e s o r t - o w n e d b u i l d i n g s while condemning resort-owned buildings, an important prelude to approving sweeping density and height increases for a wholly reconfigured resort

It is a tenet of good government that any appearance of official impropriety should be addressed and corrected, in o r d e r t o p r e s e r v e t h e p u b l i c ’ s t r u s t

Concerning South Seas’ redevelopment, adverse appearances undeniably exist A gaslighted public will not be convinced the process is above-board, unless the county resolves the numerous credibility issues it has created for itself

Don Bacon Montara, California

Exercising for seniors

Acknowledging to yourself that you’re getting older isn’t easy Being a couch potato is much easier A full day can easily be navigated by watching footb a l l g a m e s a n d o l d movies and taking lots of naps, and Zooming your g r a n d k i d s a n d t a k i n g more naps

But fitness gurus tell us that we older folks can have the energy of a thirt y - y e a r - o l d i f w e t o o k certain steps I think he m e a n t a t h i r t y - y e a r - o l d couch potato.

The gurus tell us that simple exercise will roll the clock back The only way I can roll the clock back is when I’m forced to turn all my watches and time pieces back one hour every fall when daylight savings time comes around

Shell Shocked

Exercise is hard It requires a tremendous amount of discipline which seems to dissipate the older you get But I’m forced to go to the gym My primary care physician forces me My estate attorney forces me Even my pool service guy forces me

I dread going to the gym I have to break a sweat when I’d rather be home breaking a piece of cheese to go with my red wine But the cheese and wine will have to serve as a reward for the time I spend at the gym huffing and puffing and not blowing anyone’s house down

I start with cardio Personally, I’d consider it a moral victory if I could do just five minutes on the treadmill. But guilt kicks in and I stay on longer, lots longer as much as two more minutes I keep monitoring my heart rate to get it into the “zone ” To me the “zone” is after a second glass of tasty cabernet, but this is a different “zone ” In fact, it’s a different planet

But all the exercise experts are right Once you get into the zone you begin to feel more energetic and believe that you can now go into the weight room and lift 500 pounds No matter, I start with five pounds and work my way up to seven pounds

Much too light I’m feeling the hormones kicking in. My chest swells, my biceps find their way out of hibernation and say hello I go through the entire weight drill chest, back, shoulders, biceps, triceps, and legs And then a bit of stretching Not bad for a seven-minute workout

And then it’s back to the couch for another couple of days until I work up the courage, nerve, adrenaline and motivation to propel me back to the gym Even the sound of the word gym makes me retch “Bar” is a much more attractive sounding word

And then I’m back to the gym The fitness trainer points to a guy in the back and says to me, “You see that guy? He’s ninety years old and comes here every day Just watch him and tell me that age is a barrier to exercise ”

I watch the old guy He’s on the treadmill running, not slow walking but literally running I pass his machine and see that he’s already been on it for thirty minutes He doesn’t even seem to be breathing hard

I finish my seven-minute cardio exercises and follow him into the weight room He has a barrel chest with biceps that would stop a college cheerleader in her tracks He starts with a bench press and does 200 pounds He then does some biceps curls using 35pound weights.

I’m stunned I’m considerably younger than he is and suddenly feel like King Misfit IV He passes me, looks at my protruding abdomen and winks I spend the next two days trying to figure out what he was trying to tell me with that wink It couldn’t be positive

See EXERCISING, page 25

SAN CAP PINK PROJECT

San Cap Pink Project to present inaugural Pink Cares Celebration Tea

By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers com

An upcoming event will celebrate caregivers and supporters of those struggling with cancer

Known for almost 15 years as Pink Out, the San Cap Pink Project will host its first-ever Pink Cares Celebration Tea on April 23 from noon to 2 p m at Cielo, at 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

“Chico's will present a fashion show featuring island models, and Cielo promises a high tea with all the trimmings,” President Ann Neubauer said, adding that NBC2 News Today anchor Lisa Spooner will serve as the event emcee “Lisa is a wonderful supporter and a very popular emcee for Pink Tea events She never hesitates to join us in the fight ”

Spooner shared that working with the San Cap Pink Project is a highlight of her year

“Having a maternal grandmother who was a breast cancer survivor, as well as several friends who have battled the unfair disease, I always try to make sure I do my part to support causes which support the brave men and women who have battled and continue to fight breast cancer,” she said

In addition to the fashion show, there will be raffle prizes and discounts for attendees

“We love and admire the ladies of Sanibel and Captiva and are proud to partner with the Pink Project to support community caregivers,” Chico's General Manager Dena Fischer said, adding that the store will offer a 10% discount at the register on April 23-25 to attendees “So many of our customers have had to manage cancer among close friends

and family, including my own family. We're glad to offer this extra bit of support ”

The LeAne Suarez Group, of John R Wood Christie's International Real Estate, is the title sponsor

“It's an honor for us to be affiliated with such an incredible group of people,” LeAne Suarez said “Not only do they spend their time helping individuals and their families in this community facing a battle, they do it with such a positive attitude that it's impossible not to have the greatest of hopes ”

Event tickets are $50 per person

All San Cap Pink Project events are designed to honor, remember and support

Net proceeds from ticket sales, raffle and auction contributions, donations and merchandise benefit uninsured and underinsured members in the community needing help with cancer-related needs

“Caregivers are often the unsung heroes when cancer threatens a family member or friend,” founder Mary Bondurant said “Although we are known for our campaigns to provide mammograms for everyone in need, our picnic at the Sanibel fire station and other events in October every year, the San Cap Pink Project is active year-round supporting our community members ”

For more information or tickets, visit https://www.PinkOutTea.com. They can also be purchased by mailing a check to the San Cap Pink Project, P O Box 125, Sanibel, Florida 33957

The San Cap Pink Project's annual Pink Out Picnic will take place on Oct 24, the Dink for Pink pickleball tournament will be held Oct 26-27 and the Pink Tea is also scheduled for October

Art Stevens

The LeAne Suarez Group, of John R. Wood Christie's International Real Estate, is title sponsor for the Pink Cares Celebration Tea. From left, Alec Suarez, LeAne Suarez, Ken Suarez and Austin Suarez.

Shell Find

Alphabet cones found on Sanibel

Cooper Roth, 10, of Sisters, Oregon, found two alphabet cones on March 17 off of the Fulger Beach Access on Sanibel He was visiting his grandparents, island residents Gerry and Luanne Warren, for spring break Gerry Warren reported that Cooper gifted one of the shells to his grandmother for her 70th birthday He added that it was his grandson's third visit to Sanibel and he f o u n d t h e a l p h a b e t c o n e s o n S t Patrick's Day, which was also his 71st birthday To report a shell find, contact 2 3 9 - 4 7 2 - 1 5 8 7 o r t r e p e c k i @ b r e e z e newspapers.com.

Exercising

From page 24

I have two choices Either I commit myself to the kind of exercise this old guy is routinely into or just give it up altogether and tell myself that it’s just not worth the effort I go through all the reasons that I wouldn’t live to ninety anyway and do the arithmetic I would need to do this kind of daily grind for many years until I reach ninety

My conclusion is easy I’ll settle for less exercise, more red wine, more TV and more couch sitting and hope for eightyfive

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

ISL AND HOME islander

Ixora ‘Nora Grant’ known for versatility and durability

Ixora “Nora Grant” (Ixora coccinia), pronounced “icks-SORE-ah,” is perhaps one of the most quintessential plants of Southwest Florida with its colorful hot pink flowers, which b l o o m o f f a n d o n a l l year long The evergreen shrubs require minimal care and thrive in full sun or light shade, which make them suitable for many varying types of gardens

T h e y t y p i c a l l y c a n range from 3-5 feet tall, which make them great additions for hedges and beautiful fence borders or as anchor plants for mixed gardens There are also dwarf varieties, which work well planted in pots and used as accents to entryways, pools and decks, along driveways and gates, et cetera If given enough room, Nora Grant can also grow into tall screening hedges that rarely require pruning.

There are several varieties of Ixora, with colors ranging from red, orange, yellow and pink, with gorgeous flowers that last up to six to eight weeks upon blooming Each flower has four petals that appear somewhat like a cross and have a deep tubular throat that can be up to 2 inches long

The Nora Grant variety is the most popular hybrid of Ixora and is known for its versatility and durability It requires little water, but should be planted in a well-drained and slightly acidic soil Ixora is very tolerant to moderate salt levels in water, but you will want to avoid planting it in a direct ocean breeze. Avoid planting in sites that are exposed to very cold northwest winds The hardiness rating is 9B, so temperatures below freezing will cause leaf damage

Few pests bother this plant Occasionally, the stinging caterpillars will find the plant attractive, so be mindful when hand pruning so you do not grab one

In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local g a r d e n c e n t e r , a t 3 8 8 9 S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a R o a d , Sanibel For more information, contact 239-3955859 or visit www.facebook.com/rswalshinthegarden.

April marks Water Conservation Month

The city of Sanibel reported that April is Water Conservation Month and it is normally the last month of South Florida’s dry season and when water needs are most acute, highlighting the importance of conserving water

Over the next 20 years, demand for water in South F l o r i d a i s p r o j e c t e d t o i n c r e a s e b y 1 5 % a n n u a l l y . Locally, the Island Water Association has reported water consumption data is beginning to far exceed historical trendline projections; the data suggests increased usage may be attributed to a large escalation in turf and landscape irrigation The current and projected demands could be reduced by using water more efficiently through conservation measures

One of the biggest commitments residents and property owners can make to conserve water is to properly manage irrigation To help conserve water and protect freshwater resources, the Sanibel City Council adopted Water Conservation Ordinance No 20-001, which reflects the South Florida Water Management District’s mandatory year-round landscape irrigation conservation measures It permits irrigation two days per week, based upon property address; odd-numbered addresses on Monday and Thursday and even-numbered addresses on Tuesday and Friday Irrigation is not permitted between 9 a m and 5 p m

Residents and property owners should also consider installing low-flow sprinkler heads on new and existing systems Low-flow sprinkler heads spray less water but operate for a longer period It provides irrigation water

the opportunity to properly absorb into the soil Lowflow sprinkler heads use less water while delivering water to plant roots more effectively The option allows homeowners to save money while being environmentally friendly.

Another way to reduce irrigation demand is to select native plants for a landscape Since native plants are adapted to the local climate and environment, they require little to no irrigation or fertilizer while also providing excellent habitat and forage for wildlife such as birds and butterflies Consider replacing turf grass with native groundcovers to lessen the need for irrigation For a list of native landscape plants suitable for Sanibel, visit h t t p s : / /

SCCF steps in to help with growing feral cat population

T h e 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 r e p o r t e d that a population of stray cats has been forming on Sanibel, and it is contributing to efforts to keep the animals off the streets, where they pose a threat to native wildlife

Many residents reported lost cats following Hurricane Ian in 2022 and despite the best efforts of SCCF staff and partners to rescue lost pets and reunite them with their owners some cats were not located

“Ian-related strandings could one cause behind the recent uptick in feral cats on the island,” shorebird b i o l o g i s t A u d r e y A l b r e c h t s a i d

“SCCF has been working with a t e a m o f d e d i c a t e d v o l u n t e e r s t o humanely trap these cats and find them foster homes until permanent homes can be found ”

The SCCF reported that outdoor cats can spell big trouble for native

w i l d l i f e , e s p e c i a l l y b i r d s . T h e

A m e r i c a n B i r d C o n s e r v a n c y l i s t s predation by outdoor cats as the number one human-caused threat to birds, with cats killing approximately 2 4 billion birds each year in the United States alone They can also prey on mammals, reptiles, amphibians and even sea turtle eggs The F l o r i d a F i s h a n d W i l d l i f e Conservation Commission estimates

that a single free-ranging cat kills about 100 animals per year “Even a well-fed cat will hunt and kill if left outdoor it is instinctive predatory behavior This is why trapn e u t e r - r e l e a s e p r o g r a m s a r e n o t always effective,” she said “They may prevent overpopulation but they do not safeguard native wildlife ” Feral cats can also spread disease across species, including to humans and other mammals

The SCCF noted that Sanibel has had feral cat issues in the past, but not since the early 2000s, which was prior to the arrival of coyotes on the island Nonprofits such as PAWS have helped locate and trap any stray cats for many years, but they are not currently operating on the islands.

I f y o u h a v e o b s e r v e d c a t s o n Sanibel or Captiva that appear to be stray or feral, contact the SCCF at shorebirds@sccf org

Zontians to collect donations for non-profits

T h e Z o n t

Community Collection Day on April 20 from 9 a m to noon at the Sanibel Recreation Center, at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel

The event will benefit local nonprofits with which the club has a service relationship, all of which work to improve the lives of women

a n d g i r l s D o n a t i o n s a r e t a x

deductible; club members will be on hand to collect items and issue tax receipts

The community is asked to drop off gently-used and new items

The following is a partial list of requested items:

∫ Dress for Success: Professional attire (blouses, slacks, skirts, dresses, blazers and suits); handbags; jewelry; new (with tags) women’s under-

wear; maternity clothing; scrubs and uniforms; new unopened cosmetics and hygiene products; professionaltype shoes sizes 7-12 Items laundered or dry cleaned, bagged or on hangers, if possible

∫ Furnish with Care: Full- and queen-sized sheets, quilt sets and artwork

∫ Healing Stitches: Fabric, scissors and thread

PHOTO PROVIDED Ixora “Nora Grant”

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Recipe of the Week:

Burrata Tomato Caprese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

If you are looking for a great salad for lunch or a light dinner, this is it Juicy ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil and creamy burrata mozzarella are the stars of this scrumptious dish I often enjoy this salad on the island of Capri during one of my Italian gastronomic tours at a fabulous restaurant, Villa Margherita, with fabulous views of the Mediterranean Serves eight (Chef tip: For the freshest flavor, only toss your prepared vinaigrette with the salad at the last minute before serving it )

4 ripe salad tomatoes cut into wedges

4 burrata cheese, cut into wedges

Fresh basil, as desired for garnish

CROW Calendar

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following:

∫ Today, April 1 7

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be the presenter's choice

∫ Thursday, April 1 8

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be about “A Day in the Life at CROW ”

∫ Friday, April 1 9

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be about “If You Care, Leave it There ”

∫ Monday, April 2 2

Program of the Week at 11 a m

T h e p r e s e n t a t i o n w i l l b e a b o u t “Snakes ”

∫ Tuesday, April 2 3

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be about “A Day in the Life at CROW ”

Speaker Series at 4 p m

S

James Evans will present “Water Quality” in-person and via Zoom Cost is $10 To register, visit http://www crowclinic org/

∫ Wednesday, April 2 4

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be about CROW

Admission is $12 for ages 13 and older, $7 for ages 4-12 and free for ages 3 and under

In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Mondays through Fridays after the daily presentation Limited to 12 people; participants must be age 10 or older The cost is $25 per person; advanced registration and payment is required To register, contact 239-472-3644 ext 229 or reservations@crowclinic org

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t http://www crowclinic org/ or call 239472-3644

The wonders of the universe

On April 8 your eyes might have been turned heavenward to get a glimpse of the solar eclipse Hundreds of thousands of people in the “path of totality” wore funny looking sunglasses as they stared up into the sky to take in a few minutes of complete darkness in the middle of the day as the moon passed between the earth and the sun People were delighted by the rare spectacle with some being overcome with joy and moved to tears

Rev.

Guest Commentary

Moved to tears by “the vast expanse of interstellar space, galaxies, suns the planets in their courses, and this fragile earth, our island home” as one of our prayers says Moved to tears by the majesty and magnificence of our world and the other planets of our galaxy and beyond People had an experience of awe and wonder and mystery, and these are experiences of God

Two of my favorite Bible stories are the creation stories found in the Book of Genesis Chapters 1 and 2. They give two different accounts of God bringing our world and everything in it into existence These are not scientific accounts, but theological and spiritual They focus on the “why” of creation rather than the “how” (we leave the how to the scientists)

As I watched the news of the eclipse and

Dressing:

1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon honey

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Prepare dressing by combining vinegar, basil, garlic, honey, dijon, salt and pepper in the bowl of a food processor With the machine running, slowly incorporate the oil Taste and adjust seasonings, as desired

Arrange tomatoes in a decorative pattern on a serving plate, drizzle with dressing, and top with burrata cheese and basil Serve at once

Island Worship

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel (Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ), https://www batyam org/, https://www facebook com/batyamsanibel/

Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer

Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p m and via Zoom For Zoom links, email batyamsanibel@gmail com

∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea

11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva, 239-472-1646, https://www captivachapel com/, www facebook com/Captiva-Chapel-By-The-Sea

Rev. Dr. Doug Dortch

In-person service on Sunday at 11 a m through April Services will be videotaped and posted on the chapel's website and Facebook page Services from the past season can also be found online

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida

P O Box 722, Sanibel, www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org

Shabbat service on Friday at 7:30 p m Torah Talk on Tuesday at 7:30 p m There is also speakers, discussions and informal “schmoozes ” For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail com

∫ Sanibel Community Church

1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2684, https://sanibelchurch com/, https://www facebook com/sanibelchurch/

Pastor Jeramie Rinne

Sunday service at 8:30 and 10:30 a m in the Sanctuary Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel on Monday

∫ Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ

saw peoples’ reactions, I was reminded of a piece on awe and wonder written by Brian McLaren In reflecting on creation, he writes:

“The romance of Creator and creation is far more wonderful and profound than anyone can ever capture in words And yet we try, for how could we be silent in the presence of such beauty, glory, wonder, and mystery?

How can we not celebrate this great gift to be alive?

“To be alive is to look up at the stars on a dark night and to feel the beyond-words awe of space in its vastness. To be alive is to look down from a mountaintop on a bright, clear day and to feel the wonder that can only be expressed in 'oh' or 'wow' or maybe 'alleluia ' To be alive is to look out from the beach toward the horizon at sunrise or sunset and to savor the joy of it all in pregnant, saturated silence To be alive is to gaze in delight at a single bird, tree, leaf, or friend, and to feel that they whisper of a creator or source we all share

“The poetry and stories of Genesis reveal deep truths that can help us be more fully alive today They dare to proclaim that the universe is God’s self-expression, God’s speech act That means that everything everywhere is always essentially holy, spiritual, valuable, meaningful All matter matters ”

2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-0497, https://www sanibelucc org/, https://www facebook com/sanibelucc/

Senior Minister Rev Dr Mark Boyea

Sunday service at 10 a m in Fellowship Hall

∫ Saint Isabel Catholic Church

3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2763, https://www saintisabel org/, https://www facebook com/stisabelcatholicchurch/

Father Edward Martin

Friday Mass at 9 a.m. Saturday Vigil Mass at 4 p.m. Sunday Mass at 8:30 and 10 a m

∫ Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church

2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2173, https://www saintmichaelssanibel org/, https://www facebook com/saintmichaelssanibel/

Rev William “Bill” Van Oss

Saturday service at 5 p m in the Sanctuary, with a social to follow Sunday service at 8 and 10:30 a m , with a coffee hour to follow each; 10:30 a m service is available via livestream, with the link on the website

BIG ARTS Calendar

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

Workshop

Zentangle ZIA with Donna Lee Cole will be held today, April 17, from 10 a m to 1 p m Cost is $39 for donors and $48 for non-donors.

We Make the Road by Walking Brian D McLaren p 4-5

Take some time to appreciate the wonders of the universe You may be drawn more deeply into the mystery of God

Film Series

“Four Daughters” (2023) will be shown on April 22 at 7 p m Tickets are $12.

Registration is required for workshops by calling 239-395-0900 For more information or tickets, visit www.bigarts.org.

The Rev William “Bill” Van Oss is the rector at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church

Loretta Paganini

William “Bill” Van Oss

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, April 17, from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

Breakfast Club

Breakfast Club will be held on April 18 from 8 to 9 a m at Jerry's Cafe, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Attendees will order and pay individually For more information, contact Dan Hopta at 978-239-4612

Social Bridge

Social Bridge will be held on April 18 from noon to 2:30 p m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, contact Bryant Korn at bryantekorn@gmail com

Social Mahjong

Social Mahjong will be held on April 18 from noon to 2:30 p m in the music room at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, contact Beth Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail.com.

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on April 19 from 9:30 to 11:30 a m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, sign up for activities and more

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on April 19 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on April 22 from 9:30 to 11:30 a m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, sign up for activities and more

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on April 22 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, will present the following:

Painting with Friends

Painting with Friends will be held today, April 17, from 12:30 to 3:30 p m Bring you own supplies Cost is a $10 donation at the door. For more information, contact Jane Hudson at janehudsonpainter@yahoo com

Shellcrafters

The Shellcrafters will meet on April 22 from 10 a m to 1 p m in the lobby A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a.m.; it is free and supplies range from $5-10.

Items will be available for sale. All sales benefit the operations of TCH

Painting with Friends

Painting with Friends will be held on April 24 from 12:30 to 3:30 p m Bring you own supplies Cost is a $10 donation at the door. For more information, contact Jane Hudson at janehudsonpainter@yahoo com

Shell Critter Kits are available for purchase in a variety of different options Cost is $5 per kit with all of the supplies included, except for glue Order them in-person at TCH or call 239-472-2155

TCH office hours are Monday through Friday from 9

Happy Hour at MudBugs

Happy Hour at MudBugs will be held on April 22 from 4 to 6 p m at MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, at 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials Attendees will order and pay individually

Quar terly Book Review

Quarterly Book Review will be held on April 23 from 1:30 a m to 1 p m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel The book will be “The Story Keeper” by Lisa Wingate For questions, contact Susan Talmage at 214206-6822.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on April 24 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

The Santiva Islanders serve all adult islanders and visitors, regardless of age The cost is $25 for an annual membership The Island Seniors raise funding to help defray the cost of the program activities

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

to 3 p.m.

The Mucky Duck, 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

‘Feminine Endings’

A female villain is not a villanelle,

A lady crook is not a crookette

Nor infant girl a Baby Belle

Suffixes suffer from ERA spell, Feminine endings no longer correct

A female villain is not a villanelle

In poetry and music, the syllable

At end of line is better off stressed

Change Isabella to Isabel

There’s “trix” and “ine” and “ess” as well, But “big fat momma” was never “largesse”

Nor female villain villanelle

Hosts, actors, heroes who can tell

Since gender changed to unisex

And Ma broke up with Baby Bell?

“Bring back the macho,” we yell like hell, “Poetess, not poet or poetette!

Let villain become a villanelle

And Ma give birth again to Baby Belle!”

Joe Pacheco Poetic License

Bat Yam to hold Community Passover Seder

B a t Y a m T e m p l e o f t h e I s l a n d s w i l l h o s t i t s

Community Passover Seder on April 22 at 5 p m in Fellowship Hall at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ on Sanibel

Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer will explain the essence of the holiday and celebration of freedom

Along with matzo, Bat Yam's Catering Committee will cook all of the courses, including chopped liver, charoset, maror and chicken soup with matzo balls The stories will be told while enjoying the meal

Haggadahs the book dedicated to honor the Exodus story will be provided.

The event is open to members and non-members

The cost is $50 for adults, $25 for ages 5-17 and free for ages under 5 Reservations are required by contacting batyamsanibel@gmail com

San Cap Bank to ser ve as sponsor

S a n i b e l C a p t i v a C o m m u n i t y B a n k

i s a t i t l e s p o n s o r s h i p f o r t h e 1 0 t h

A n n u a l C h a m p i o n s 4 C h i l d r e n E v e n t

The Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ is at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

SCC to hold REFRESH Women's Conference

The Sanibel Community Church will host its f i r s t a n n u a l R E F R E S H Conference on April 19-20

C o m m u n i t y H o u s e , a t Periwinkle Way, Sanibel It wi

l e d b y g u e s t s p e a k e r L i n Reppert, teacher, speaker, mis sionary and mentor from Hilton Head, South Carolina Worship will be led by guest music

l e a d e r M e r e a P r i c e , o f Anaheim, California Session

C h a p t e r o f B l e s s i n g s i n a B a c k p a c k , V a l e r i e ' s H o u s e a n d C u r e S e a r c h F o r

m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t c h a m p io n s 4 c h i l d r e n s w f l c o m

W e e k e n d o n A p r i l 2 5 - 2 7 a t v a r i o u s l o c a t i o n s A t t e n d e e s a n d s p o n s o r s g e t t o i n t e r a c t w i t h c u r r e n t a n d f o rm e r N F L , N B A , M L B , P G A , O l y m p i c a n d c o l l e g i a t e a t h l e t e s a t d i f f e r e n t e v e n t s , l i k e a p o k e r t o u r n am e n t , a b e n e f i t c o n c e r t f e a t u r i n g , a g o l f t o u r n a m e n t a n d a d i n n e r a u ct i o n P r o c e e d s f r o m t h e f u n d r a i s e r w i l l s u p p o r t t h e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a

1 will take place on April 19 at 7 a m , with dessert and coffee served prior Session 2 will b held on April 20 at 9 a.m., with continental breakfast served p and Session 3 will run from 3:30 pm Cost is $60 and meals, a conference tote and Registration is required For more information or to register, visit https://sanibel churchcenter com/registrations/events/2123045 For questions, contact Kristi Barefoot at kristi@sanibelchurch com or 239-4722684

Benefit raises funds for BIG ARTS

More than 300 people gathered on March 22 for the BIG ARTS Annual Benefit on Sanibel, which included lavish buffets by Jamie's Cuisine, open b a r s , p o s t - s h o w d e s s e r t s a n d c h a mpagne Attendees were on their feet when they heard The Doo Wop Project, f e a t u r i n g s t a r s f r o m t h e B r o a d w a y smash hits “Jersey Boys” and “Motown: The Musical ” BIG ARTS reported that it raised more than $270,000 during

this year's event The proceeds will help the organization continue to provide an array of quality entertainment, arts, and educational programs that inspire and enrich the lives of Sanibel and Captiva residents and visitors The exclusive producing sponsors for the benefit were Gustav and Vibeke Christensen and Jim and Gaye Piggott, and the corporate presenting sponsor was Bank of the Islands

BIG ARTS

Zonta successfully brings back ‘Peek’

The Zonta Club of Sanibel-Captiva hosted A Peek at the Unique on March 16 on Sanibel its annual home tour that had been on hiatus since 2019 due to COVID and Hurricane Ian Over 200 “ P e e k e r s ” t r a v e l e d t o t w o r e n o v a t e d homes on the west end, a new Gulf-front property that survived the storm while under construction and a restored garden

E a r l y e s t i m a t e s i n d i c a t e t h a t a b o u t $41,000 was raised All proceeds will be a w a r d e d i n g r a n t s t o l o c a l n o n p r o f i t s whose programs build better lives for women and girls The club thanked: house and garden sponsors Architecture Joyce O w e n s , R o b y n M o r a n a n d P h a i d r a McDermott with Kingfisher Real Estate, and R S Walsh Landscaping; home base sponsor Bank of the Islands; and “Peek” h o m e o w n e r s C h r i s t o p h e r a n d C r y s t a l Smith, who sponsored the buses

The Doo Wop Project

ZONTA CLUB OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA “Peekers” await their bus at the second stop on the tour

From left, Lee Rabin, Margaret Grinnell and Nancy Siegel.

Island event suppor ts children’s hospital

S a n C a p C a r e s h o s t e d t h e 2 4 t h

Annual Island Celebration on March 14 at The Community House on Sanibel Themed “Tropical Nights,” it raised more than $800,000 for the Golisano

C h i l d r e n ' s H o s p i t a l o f S o u t h w e s t

F l o r i d a ' s p l a n n e d P e d i a t r i c S u r g e r y

C e n t e r A t t e n d e e s b r o w s e d G i v e - t o -

Give silent auction items, enjoyed dinner and a brief program hosted by Jeff M u d d e l l f r o m T h e S a n i b e l C a p t i v a

Trust Company, and were entertained by The Bay Kings Band They also heard updates from the Golisano team and Lee Health Chief Executive Officer Dr Larry Antonucci highlighting the hospital's strides in addressing pediatric healthcare needs within the community The trust company again served as the presenting sponsor, while Al and Sally Hanser were recognized as the 2024 honorary chairs

CHR receives donation of bikes

Community Housing & R e s o u r c e s r e p o r t e d t h a t

C l a i r e a n d P a u l B u r k e recently donated bicycles to CHR residents

COMMUNITY

PHOTO PROVIDED

Shell Find

Junonia found on Sanibel

S o p h i a B r u b a k e r , o f F o r t M y e r s , found a junonia on April 6 on West Gulf Drive on Sanibel She reported that it is her first one and she has been visiting the island f o r o v e r a d e c a d e Brubaker added that she found the shell on her s i s t e r - i n - l a w ' s 6 8 t h birthday Idaho residents Mary Comstock and her husband, Cary, were visiting the Brubaker's new home Brubaker and her husband, Bill, lost their Sunshine Village home in Fort Myers during Hurricane Ian “This was an epic moment for us,” she said of finding the junonia “We all agree that this is a good sign from above especially after all of the destruction we have dealt with since Ian a sign of hope and r e s i l i e n c