Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Sanibel and Fire Rescue District's commission recently approved the purchase of a beach vehicle and directed staff t o p r o c e e d w i t h t w o possible firms for th d e s i g n o f t h e rebuild for one station

At the April 12 meeting, the comm i s s i o n e r s v o t e d unanimously 3-0 o b u y i n g a C a n - A m

8MNF for about $24,578 to serve as the beach rescue and support vehicle at Fire Station 171 on Palm Ridge Road The vehicle was recommended by staff as a replacement to the Gator totaled during the storm

See FIRE BOARD, page 17

Shell museum announces speaker for next lecture

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

∫ April 20 at 5:30 p m : “The Journey to One Billion O y s t e r s w i t h O n e M i l l i o n N e w Y o r k e r s ” w i t h P e t e Malinowski, executive director of the Billion Oyster Project Pete Malinowski still remembers how in less than a

See LECTURE, page 17

Lee County Recovery Task Force to hold town hall meetings

T h e L e e C o u n t y R e c o v e r y T a s k F o r c e w i l l h o s t a s e r i e s o f t o w n h a l l m e e t i n g s t o g i v e r e si d e n t s , l e a d e r s , a n d b u s in e s s e s t h r o u g h o u t t h e c o m m u n i t y a n o p p o r t u n i t y t o l e a r n a b o u t t h e w o r k o f t h e t a s k f o r c e a n d p r o v i d e i n p u t o n w h a t i s n e e d e d t o r e p a i r a n d r e b u i l d m o r e r e s i l i e n t t o f u t u r e h a z a r d s O n e o f t h e g o a l s o f R e s i l i e n t L e e t h e p u b l i c - f a c i n g a s p e c t o f t h e t a s k f o r c e i s c o m m u n i t y e n g a g e m e n t F r o m A p r i l 1 9 t h r o u g h M a y 1 1 , t h e t a s k f o r c e w i l l h o s t t h e t o w n h a l l m e e t i n g s t o

e n g a g e r e s i d e n t s T h e m e e t i n g s w i l l l a s t t w o h o u r s a n d i n c l u d e f a c i l it a t e d d i s c u s s i o n s t o e n c o u r a g e p u b l i c i n v o l v e m e n t i n t h e r e c o v e r y - p l a n n i n g p r o c e s s M e e t i n g d a t e s a n d t i m e s w i l l v a r y t o e n c o u r a g e p a r t i c i p a t i o n a n d i n c r e a s e a c c e s s i b i l i t y T h e r e w i l l b e 1 4 i n - p e r s o n t o w n h a l l m e e t i n g s , i n c l u d i n g o n e o n

M a y 1 f r o m 6 t o 8 p m a t B I G A R T S , a t

9 0 0 D u n l o p R o a d , S a n i b e l I n a d d i t i o n , t h e r e w i l l b e o n e v i r t u a l t o w n h a l l o f f e r e d i n E n g l i s h , o n e v i r t u a l t o w n h a l l

o f f e r e d i n S p a n i s h , a n d f i v e a d d i t i o n a l i n - p e r s o n t o w n h a l l s w i t h S p a n i s h - l a ng u a g e o p t i o n s L e d b y C o m m i s s i o n e r K e v i n R u a n e , t h e t a s k f o r c e w a s c r e a t e d a s a n a d v i s o r y c o m m i t t e e t o t h e L e e C o u n t y B o a r d o f

C o u n t y C o m m i s s i o n e r s i n r e s p o n s e t o t h e d e v a s t a t i n g e f f e c t s o f H u r r i c a n e I a n , w h i c h m a d e l a n d f a l l S e p t 2 8 I t c o n s i s t s o f 1 3 l e a d e r s f r o m a c r o s s t h e c o u n t y , i n c l u d i n g m a y o r s o f m u n i c i p a l j u r i s d i ct i o n s w i t h i n t h e c o u n t y , a s w e l l a s r e p r es e n t a t i v e s f r o m t h e s c h o o l d i s t r i c t , f i r e ,

See TOWN HALL MEETINGS, page 18

Pete Malinowski

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM

County board OKs repairs to civic center

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The aging Lee Civic Center in North Fort Myers will undergo some immediate repairs while Lee County decides the long-term fate of the facility

Although the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted on April 4 to make immediate health and safety repairs to the center's buildings, they asked staff to prepare an agenda item for their next meeting to further the discussion of the county-owned property on Bayshore Road.

“There are so many scenarios and it's hard to make a motion on the fly,” commission Chair Brian Hamman said after a l e n g t h y c o n v e r s a t i o n a n d m u l t i p l e motions made “I would definitely support a motion to direct staff and make comments and prepare a motion to come back to our next meeting ”

The motion that passed unanimously c o n f i r m e d a u t h o r i z a t i o n f o r c o u n t y administrators to make life and safety repairs to the Lee Civic Center building, Tinsley Pavilion, Davidson House, and the horse, beef and swine barns, as well as t h e g r a n d p a v i l i o n T h e m o t i o n a l s o included that the 100th-year fair will take place there next year, and the 4-H program will remain solvent and in good shape

Assistant County Manager Marc Mora said the issues that need to be addressed include exit signs, evacuation lights, trip hazards, fire detection and suppression systems and code compliance, such as electrical The costs will come out of the existing county budget with a completion date of April 14, providing 4-H use of the buildings

The estimated priority one repairs for the center are $375,000 and will take six to eight months to complete Assistant County Manager Christine Brady said they want to prioritize Tinsley Pavilion and the Davidson House, then focus on the barns and the grand pavilion

“We will use staff in-house, and those funds needed we have been able to identify within our existing budget,” she said “The three barns and grand pavilion fall within county authority to use the existing budget to make those fixes The Civic center $375,000 does not fall under our authority to make those life safety (repairs) By fixing that it will make it open and available for use, not long-term fixes ”

Another aspect of the conversation dealt with the management agreement

with the Fair Association, something that has been in place for 27 years The management agreement with the association, by its own terms, would expire at sunset on Sept 30 with no further action needed

“It costs us about $50,000 a month to maintain that property In that period of time that costs us about $16 2 million Yes, we all agree that the property could use some updating, particularly the Civic center, but imagine you have a 45-yearold building made of metal that sits in Florida sun all the time It cost us a lot of money to keep that building running We put an additional $4 million in various improvements out there all on county land,” Fair Association Secretary Tom Knafel said “We have done considerably more than what we are required to do ”

T h e a s s o c i a t i o n b u i l t t h e T i n s l e y Pavilion for $200,000, he said. It also put in a new horse arena for $150,000

“All we are really asking, we have tried to be good stewards of the property for a very long time A good partner does t h i n g s t h a t a r e n o t i n t h e a g r e e m e n t because it is the right thing to do and that is what has been done by the fair board for 27 years,” Knafel said

Brady said the next steps are decision points related to the center and the current agreement they have in place with the fair association's board.

“In good faith, I am trying to let the tenant have some ability to talk to us,” Commissioner Kevin Ruane said “When it sunsets Sept 30 we can do whatever we want to do There is no more agreement whatsoever We have complete autonomy What I am trying to achieve in good faith is to not have them feel abandoned The only thing we are contractually obli-

gated to do is the fair ”

There was discussion of extending the sunset 12 more months for the association, which ultimately did not receive full support County Attorney Richard Wesch said extending the agreement until 2024 removes the singular ability of the county to direct and control the future physical improvements on the property.

Read the full article for free by visiting it online at www captivasanibel com

“If you extend the agreement, those types of repairs would be subject to negotiation with the Fair Association,” he said

Fair Board Director Randy Crone said it is the county’s facility, they just help manage it

“It sunsets on the 30th Even if you do a new agreement, it is still your building, you can fix it We want it fixed This is your property, your building, we are never going to tell you not to work on it This is about the community, what is good for the community,” he said

Commissioner Mike Greenwell said with an extended agreement would not allow the county to take the operation of the facility over

“The staff’s job is still to negotiate with the fair board to run the fair The facility will be taken back over by the county, so we can make repairs,” he said of the sunset date. “The life issues are not the only repairs that need to be made When the fair is there, all the bright lights take your attention away from what is wrong We should have the control of the facility to make sure it is safe for our community ”

County Manager Roger Desjarlais said this is not a new discussion, as it started a couple of years ago when the Lee Civic Center conversation was prompted by the late Commissioner Frank Mann

“It is old, worn out, 100 acres of incredibly valuable property,” he said, adding that they need to continue along the process of redevelopment in the notso-distant future

Desjarlais said Lee County has not invested in the property over time, which in retrospect they should have He said it is not a criticism of the Fair Association, as no one really contemplated the association and a business model that is unable to afford repairs and upgrades necessary

“It needs to be in the hands of local government with some way to manage it to redevelop property and replace and fix b u i l d i n g s t o c u r r e n t s t a n d a r d s , ” Desjarlais

Greenwell said the contract says the Fair Association is to maintain the facility in good condition

“It really wasn’t the county’s obligation to do it,” he said, adding that the association should return the facility back to the county in the condition they received it. “That obviously will not happen. It takes leadership to step up and say we can no longer allow a county facility to be the condition it is There is a real issue out there that has to be addressed addressing a building 40 to 45 years old ”

Greenwell said the center is in very poor condition and does not live up to the standards of a county facility

“I have been out there buying animals and supporting the community There is not enough seating out there for the buyers to even have a seat. We do a lot for the ballfields We do a lot for our youth in this county, but we have not done a lot for our 4-H program It’s an embarrassment for me to see that facility in the condition it is in,” he said “They deserve better than that Our community deserves better than that They deserve a state-of-the art facility It is time to stand up and do something better ”

Also, the county is currently accepting public input on the Lee Civic Center Residents are invited to participate in a survey to share ideas about the features and amenities important to a reimagined center

For the survey and more information, visit www leegov com/CivicCenter

Overnight/nighttime lane closures on causeway expected

As a part of the Florida Department of Transportation's emergency restoration of the Sanibel Causeway, crews continue work on McGregor Boulevard and the causeway from Port Comfort Road to Sanibel

The Causeway Islands surrounding the temporary roadway are an active work zone and are closed to public access The FDOT also reported the following:

∫ During the overnight/nighttime hours of 7 p m on April 24 to 6 a m on April 25, motorists should expect lane closures on the causeway for crews to survey the bridges

∫ Crews continue driving sheet pile around the Causeway Islands

∫ Crews continue earthwork on the Causeway Islands

∫ Bicyclists are encouraged to utilize another mode of transportation to travel the causeway

∫ Pedestrians are not permitted on the Sanibel Causeway

Many oversized vehicles are crossing the causeway to assist with recovery efforts on the islands The FDOT asks that motorists be patient as travel may be slower than usual and obey the posted speed limit of 20 mph Use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and leaving the road

For more information on the project, visit www swflroads com/SanibelCause way

Dorning at Jennifer Dorning@dot state fl.us or 239-338-7723.

FILE PHOTO

OPINIONS

Guest Commentary

SCCF provides legislative update on Week 6

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

There are three very full weeks of the 2023 Florida Legislative Session left Last week was a success for sea level rise and r e s i l i e n c y p r o g r a m s , b u t a d i s a p p o i n t i n g week for citizen participation in growth management efforts

Climate change/ resiliency/sea level rise

SB 1170 and HB 111 Flooding and Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Studies passed their second and last committee stops, respectively These are similar bills that expand the requirement for Sea Level Impact Projection (SLIP) studies which analyze how sea level rise and coastal hazards may impact planned construction projects funded by state money to include any structure at risk of sea level rise Currently, SLIP studies have only been required for structures in the coastal building zone

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 Foundation strongly supports the expansion as inland structures can be impacted by sea level rise in addition to those located on our coasts

Ecosystem restoration

S B 7 2 4 a n d H B 1 1 8 1 S e a g r a s s

Restoration both passed their second respective committee stops, and both have one more committee stop before the bills are heard by the full House and Senate The bill creates the Seagrass Restoration Technology Initiative, a partnership with the Florida

Department of Environmental Protection and Mote Marine Laboratory to study and produce genetically resilient, pollution resistant seagrass

There was no debate in committee at this point on the bills, though previous debate recognized that water quality, a factor in seagrass die-off across the state, must also be considered when it comes to successfully restoring our seagrass resources

The SCCF supports these bills but agrees that improving water quality is a faster, more scalable solution to restoring the state’s seagrasses

SB 100 Mangrove Replanting and R e s t o r a t i o n p a s s e d t h e S e n a t e Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government with just one more committee stop in Senate Rules before it reaches the Senate floor There was one amendment passed that required that any mangrove replanting would not interfere with navigation in the Intracoastal Waterway

SB 100 requires the DEP to adopt rules for mangrove replanting and restoration to:

∫ Address significant erosion in areas of critical state concern

∫ Protect barrier and spoil islands

∫ A s s i s t E v e r g l a d e s r e s t o r a t i o n a n d Biscayne Bay revitalization efforts

∫ Promote public awareness

∫ Identify vulnerable properties along the coastline

∫ Encourage partnerships with local governmental entities to create mangrove protection and restoration zone programs

An identical House Bill, HB 561, has not yet been heard in any of its committees of

Guest Commentary

Web Poll

Question

Did you apply for the hurricane-related property tax refund?

∫ Yes, 56%

∫ Not yet, but will, 22%

∫ No, 22%

Current Web Poll Question

Have you taken part in any of the post-hurricane cleanups on the islands?

∫ Yes, multiple ∫ Yes, one

No, but plan to

No

reference

The SCCF supports SB 100 but believes that stronger mangrove protections must be required rather than encouraged

Growth management/land use

S B 5 4 0 L o c a l G o v e r n m e n t Comprehensive Plans passed its last committee of reference with little discussion except for the bill sponsor’s amendment to clean up a prior amendment that would have had a detrimental impact on the Everglades restoration efforts of an East Coast local government comprehensive planning effort The bill remains the worst of the proposed legislation this session, as it effectively ends the ability for citizens to challenge a local government comprehensive plan without the fear of being responsible for legal fees of the local g o v e r n m e n t a n d i n t e r v e n i n g d e v e l o p e rbacked attorneys should they lose SB 540 also further politicizes a process that should be based in law and science, as challenges won at the state administrative law judge level can be appealed and overturned at the governor and Cabinet level

The SCCF will continue to adamantly oppose the bill and the similar House bill, HB 359, as they move through their debate

Visit the 2023 SCCF Legislative Tracker a t h t t p s : / / w w w s c c f o r g / o u r - w o r k / e n v i r o nmental-policy.

Founded in 1967, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's mission is to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal e c o s y s t e m s F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t www sccf org

BPA dissolves not-for-profit status with adoption of Blind Pass plan

By JOHN McCABE, BILL VANDERBILT, ERIC ORKIN AND ANNIE VANDERBILT

As of March 1, the Bayous Preservation Association has dissolved its status as a

5 0 1 ( c ) 3 a n o t - f o r - p r o f i t c h a r i t a b l e organization With the adoption of the Blind Pass Inlet Management Plan in 2019 by the F l o r i d a D e p a r t m e n t o f E n v i r o n m e n t a l Protection, there was no longer a need for us to raise funds and solicit grants to pay for c o n s u l t a n t s , e n v i r o n m e n t a l s t u d i e s , a n d

water quality testing

On the date of dissolution, the board of trustees directed that all remaining assets of the association, in the amount of $5,812, be

d i s t r i b u t e d t o t h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a Conservation Foundation for its work on water quality The BPA has worked in concert with the SCCF for over 17 years and feels confident that our donation will further the long-held goals of both our organizations

Although we no longer have a 501(c)3 status, we will continue in our role as a conduit of information regarding Blind Pass and a voice if it is needed for a perpetually open pass, a healthy wildlife population, and a stable marine ecosystem

We thank you all for 18 years of amazing support: your generous financial dona-

tions, your letters and emails sent to government agencies and stakeholders, your showing up at public meetings, your observations and input, your tenacity, and your “we-can-do-this-together” commitment to the Blind Pass ecosystem

J o h n M c C a b e i s p r e s i d e n t , B i l l Vanderbilt is vice president, and Eric Orkin i s s e c r e t a r y a n d t r e a s u r e r f o r B a y o u s P r e s e r v a t i o n A s s o c i a t i o n ' s B o a r d o f T r u s t e e s A n n i e V a n d e r b i l t i s v o l u n t e e r administrator for the BPA, which became a not-for-profit charitable organization in 2004

CCP hears of revegetation, ordinances and 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 about the revegetation of Captiva Drive, ordinances that the CCP had proposed to Lee County, and ongoing post-storm recovery at its recent meeting

O n A p r i l 1 1 , P a n e l M e m b e r J o h n

Jensen explained that property owners along Captiva Drive are beginning to revegetate in the aftermath of the hurri-

c a n e . W h i l e t h e c o u n t y ' s L a n d Development Code calls for a 2-foot setback from the paved shoulder or roadway, landscapers are encroaching on it

“The buffer is 2 feet,” he said

Last month, the CCP released information via e-blast that outlined the landscaping requirements

I t s h a r e d t h a t l a n d s c a p i n g a l o n g Captiva Drive cannot encroach onto the paved shoulder or roadway All vegeta-

CCA to offer another writing workshop on healing

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

Reservations are open for a second free workshop that will focus on therapeutic healing writing

The Captiva Civic Association will host “Voices of the Storm: Writing Your Story in the Aftermath of Hurricane Ian” on April 22 from 11 a m to 12:30 p m at the Captiva Civic Center Led by author, editor and island resident Ilie Ruby, participants will learn how to process their experiences through writing

Executive Director Emily Hess Ankerson explained that Ruby proposed the first workshop to help people process trauma through writing, particularly as it relates to what they have dealt with with Ian

“The first one was really great and people appreciated it,” she said “Ilie offered to do another one and we thought it would be a great idea to offer it on a weekend so people who have to work during the week might attend ”

Ankerson explained that Ruby has experience teaching others how to use writing to heal In the workshop, she will guide participants through the process by using examples and her background

“Ilie leads the group by introducing some ideas, reasons and rationale for processing trauma through writing, and then provides prompts to help people get started with their own written expression,” she said “There is an opportunity to share, but it is not a requirement ”

Participants should bring a pen or pencil and journal or notebook to use

Ruby is the author of two novels, “The Language of Trees” and “The Salt God’s Daughter ” Her essays have been published in the New York Times, CNN, AOL and Forward, among others Ruby's awards include the Edwin L Moses Fiction Prize, Kerr Foundation Scholarship and Phi Kappa Phi Award for Fiction. She is also a recipient of the Wesleyan Writer’s Conference Nonfiction Scholarship and Kemp Award for Outstanding Teaching and Scholarship

If you go

What “Voices of the Storm: Writing Your Story in the Aftermath of Hurricane Ian”

When April 22 from 11 a m to 12:30 p m

Where Captiva Civic Center, 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva Details Free to the public, but reservations required

Ruby has taught at literary conferences nationwide and she offers writing workshops, as well as coaches people on the transformative process of writing to heal

While the workshop is free, reservations are required as space is limited

“All are welcome,” Ankerson said “The event is open to the public ”

To make a reservation, visit https://ccacaptiva org/

The community is encouraged to reserve their spot

“It helps people with their emotions, feelings, stress whatever might be affecting us after the hurricane,” she said “It is a way to address these impacts in a safe environment and even hear about other people's experiences too It is yet another way people can connect with others who shared this experience and are processing their trauma or emotions from it ”

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

The Captiva Civic Center is at 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva

The Captiva Civic Association will host an encore writing workshop, “Voices of the Storm: Writing Your Story in the Aftermath of Hurricane Ian,” with author and coach Ilie Ruby on April 22 CAPTIVA CIVIC ASSOCIATION

tion and plantings must be kept at least 2 feet away from the edge of the pavement not the road striping, but the pavement No branches below the height of 8 feet can hang over the pavement

Jensen suggested that the CCP send out the information again and ask the county to do the same

Vice President David Mintz noted that

See CCP, page 7

Fire commission Oks lease for ambulance, more

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

T h e C a p t i v a I s l a n d F i r e C o n t r o l District's commission approved a lease agreement for Lee County to house an ambulance at the fire station and replacement of the station's damaged roof during its meeting.

On April 11, the commissioners voted unanimously 3-0 on a resolution to enter into the agreement with the county for Lee County EMS staff and one ambulance to utilize the station for $3,000 per month

The Lee County Commission will consider the final agreement in May for approval

Prior to the vote, Fire Chief Jeff Pawul n o t e d t h a t h e g o t a m i n i m u m r e q u i r e d staff level in writing

Commissioner Jeff B r o w n e x p a n d e d o n t h a t b y e x p l a i n i n g county officials have agreed to staffing the ambulance at least 90 percent of time District administration and the commission have raised concerns about the island unit being “browned out,” or unstaffed, if and when the county's EMS is shorthanded.

He continued that if Pawul finds the unit is not being staffed at least 90 percent of time, he has the ability to alert county officials to the situation If staffing levels do not improve to the minimum of 90 percent of the time within 30 days, Pawul can terminate their lease agreement with 30 days notice

Also at the meeting, the commissioners voted 3-0 on a resolution for Saint Raphael Roofing to replace the station's roof that was damaged by Hurricane Ian. The quote for the project was about $241,000

Prior to the vote, Pawul explained it is t h e s a m e c o m p a n y t h a t o r i g i n a l l y installed the roof He added that it would be a complete replacement of the roof and the other quotes he received were higher

“I thought it would be more than this,” Commissioner Sherrill Sims said of the total

County library system offering virtual programming

T h e L e e C o u n t y L i b r a r y S y s t e m , w h i c h i n c l u d e s t h e C a p t i v a M e m o r i a l Library, is offering the following free virtual programming:

Adult programs

∫ Today, April 19: Online Spanish Conversation Club at 6 p m

Are you ready to take your Spanishspeaking skills to the next level? Improve your fluency by chatting with adults Practice speaking Spanish with others on a variety of topics, including current events and everyday situations Intermediate to advanced Spanish-speaking skills are recommended in order to get the most out of the session Program presented in partners h i p w i t h t h e S c h o o l D i s t r i c t o f L e e C o u n t y ' s A d u l t & C a r e e r E d u c a t i o n

CCP

From page 6

about 950 people received the information

“They've been advised of the rules,” he said

Mintz, who also serves as chair of the CCP's Government Affairs Committee and routinely works with county officials, added that he does not believe the county is interested in sending out its own letter

“I think they believe what we sent out is sufficient,” he said

Mintz agreed with the CCP resending the information, but doing it through regular mail this time He suggested that it update the information to include that s t o n e s , l a v a r o c k s a n d s u c h a r e n o t allowed

Mintz also reported that the county will be sending out crews in the next few weeks They will cut down vegetation encroaching into the buffer zone, or the property owner will receive a letter from the county Those who receive letters will have a couple weeks to come into compliance with the LDC.

The crews will then return and remove any materials that still remain in violation

A motion to resend the LDC informat i o n v i a r e g u l a r m a i l t h i s t i m e w a s approved

Proposed ordinances

Mintz reported that the CCP's proposed ordinances went before the Lee County Commission on April 4 and three out of the four golf carts, noise and parking were unanimously approved by the board

He continued that the fourth ordinance addressed fertilizer and was intended to bring Captiva in line with the regulations currently in place on Sanibel However, because of state preemption, any proposed

Program Advance registration required before today, April 19, at 6 p m

∫ April 22: Online Master Gardeners of Lee County at 10 a m

The Master Gardeners of Lee County will present “Attracting Butterflies and Pollinators.”

For more information or to register, visit leelibrary librarymarket com

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

Download books, stream video and o t h e r o n l i n e c o n t e n t a t www leelibrary net

The Captiva Memorial Library is currently closed due to Hurricane Ian

The Captiva library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

changes after 2008 will require conforming to the state's model while they undergo a lengthy review

Mintz noted that the state rules are less restrictive than Sanibel and even the county

“The county didn't want to screw with this,” he said “They can't go through the hoops at this time ”

Mintz reported that the board did not approve the ordinance because of that, so Captiva will stick with the county's fertilizer regulations which are better than the state rules, but not as good as Sanibel

Post-stor m recover y

County Commissioner Kevin Ruane gave an update on post-hurricane recovery and activities.

He spoke about the recently formed Lee County Recovery Task Force and ResilientLee There are several town hall meetings that the task force has planned in order to gather community input

“I don't have a playbook on how to redevelop Lee County, so I need your help,” he said

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t https://www resilientlee com/

R u a n e r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e c o u n t y i s preparing monthly reports on recovery efforts Updates have included reopenings of beaches, parks and libraries The county launched a website at ianprogress leegov com

He also provided an update on anticipated state funding and ongoing work with the legislature

In other news

∫ Panel Member Linda Laird reported on the CCP's Hurricane Ian Debriefing on April 10 at the Captiva Civic Center

Fire commission From page 6

Also during the meeting, the commission voted 3-0 on a resolution to approve the terms for a line of credit with Synovus bank The terms were for $750,000, with the ability to increase that if needed

Prior to the vote, representatives from Synovus provided a presentation on the line of credit and proposed terms, as well as answered questions from the commissioners During the discussion, Brown noted that the intent was to have it for any operating shortfall created by the property tax refund

In other news

F E M A r e i m b u r s e m e n t p r o c e s s f o r t h e d i s t r i c t . I t h a s d e c l i n e d c o v e r i n g a d m i ni s t r a t i v e o v e r t i m e M e a n w h i l e , h e i s w a i t i n g o n t h e i n s u r a n c e ' s s u m m a r y o f r e p a i r s

∫ P a w u l s h a r e d t h a t n o m a j o r i s s u e s h a v e c o m e u p s o f a r w i t h t h e a n n u a l f i n a n c i a l a u d i t

∫ P a w u l r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e d i s t r i c t ' s s t a t e - m a n d a t e d P e r f o r m a n c e R e v i e w i s a b o u t 8 0 p e r c e n t d o n e “ W e w i l l m a k e o u r d e a d l i n e p e r s t a t u t e , ” h e s a i d

∫ T h e d i s t r i c t r e s p o n d e d t o 3 4 i n c id e n t s i n M a r c h c o m p a r e d t o 4 7 f o r t h e s a m e m o n t h l a s t y e a r

About 60 people attended in person, with another 20 present via Zoom It looked at t h e h u r r i c a n e : w h a t h a p p e n e d , w h a t worked and what needs to be done before the next storm

She reported that the participant feedback included more work needs to be done on the beaches, on the dunes and making them more resilient, on telecomm u n i c a t i o n s , a n d o n a l o n g e r - t e r m resiliency plan

∫ Captiva Island Fire Control District Fire Chief Jeff Pawul asked that anyone planning to tear down their island residence or commercial structure due to damage from the hurricane first reach out to him

“If we can use that to train with,” he

said. “Those structures provide invaluable training ”

Pawul noted that the district does not burn structures in training; it uses a fog simulation machine

“It's a clean process that we do,” he said

∫ President Jay Brown reported that 129 Captivans donated to the campaign to benefit Pawul and his family with their post-storm rebuilding and recovery The contributions received totaled $152,000

“I think it was a terrific success,” he said, adding that the family has received the funds

B r o w n t h a n k e d t h o s e w h o w e r e involved with the effort and those who contributed to it

LEE COUNTY

& Go’ binder

‘Grab

relieves stress and burden during health crisis

By JEFFREY A. MUDDELL

The term “grab & go” represents convenience, ease and portability It’s something you can pick up without much thought on your way out the door

“We have taken that concept and applied it to crisis management for older adults and their f a m i l i e s , ” A n n a l e e K r u g e r , f o u n d e r a n d president of Care Right, said. “With a Grab & Go binder, all of your work is done in advance so everything you need is right there at your fingertips ”

Stevens Construction awarded construction of island restaurant

S t e v e n s C o n s t r u c t i o n r e c e n t l y announced that it has been awarded the construction management services of The Island Cow, at 2163 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Also called Peace of Mind planners, the Grab & Go binders are filled with a variety of important documents, including an individual’s will, banking information, insurance policies and medical directives It also is critical information for family members as well as a power of attorney charged with making health care and financial decisions

Jeffrey A. Muddell

Checklist for Grab & Go binder:

∫ Living will

∫ Health directives

∫ Power of attorney

∫ Titles

∫ Deeds

∫ Business Succession Plan

∫ Location of spare house and car keys

∫ Medical records

∫ Organ donor card

∫ Funeral and burial arrangements

∫ Banking account numbers

∫ Location of safe deposit box

∫ Tax records

∫ Credit card account numbers

∫ Investment portfolio details

∫ Usernames and passwords for online accounts

∫ Health and life insurance policies

∫ Utility company information

“Although we all want to age in place gracefully, our health can turn on a dime,” Megan Marquardt, senior vice president for wealth services at The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, said “A stroke, heart attack, fall or car accident can change your life in an instant No one wants to burden their spouse or children in a time of crisis, but a lack of planning can add stress to what’s already an incredibly emotional period ”

The trust company provides individualized wealth management through life’s transitions and extends its p l a n n i n g s e r v i c e s b e y o n d f i n a n c i a l e l e m e n t s t o include life planning

M e a n w h i l e , B o n i t a S p r i n g s - b a s e d C a r e R i g h t i s a c o n c i e r g e o f s e n i o r c a r e p l a n n i n g t h a t h e l p s f a m i l i e s n a v i g a t e t h e c o m p l e x i t i e s a s s o c i a t e d w i t h t h e a g i n g

See BINDER, page 10

It will build a 5,754-square-foot restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining, and a commercial kitchen with a walk-in cooler and freezer To complement the island location, T h e I s l a n d C o w w i l l f e a t u r e Florida-style details such as a metal roof with a thatched roof entryway, outdoor tiki bar, indoor/outdoor bar and vibrant colors The new restaurant will be 1,000 square feet larger than the original building that perished in an after-hours fire last year

Southview Studios is the architect of record, and Haley Ward is the civil engineer

Stevens Construction is currently working through the pre-construction, providing budgeting, project scheduling and cost-savings suggestions as the design progresses

Construction of The Island Cow is slated to begin in August, with a spring 2024 completion date

Vacatia takes over management of island resorts

Vacatia Inc has assumed management of the Sanibel Beach Club II, S h e l l I s l a n d B e a c h C l u b a n d L i g h t h o u s e R e s o r t & C l u b o n Sanibel All three were managed by Kenoyer Real Estate for decades

A f t e r K e n o y e r h a d s e l e c t e d Vacatia in September, Hurricane Ian severely impacted the resorts

“I had made the tough decision that it was time to retire and was working with Vacatia to transition m a n a g e m e n t w h e n H u r r i c a n e I a n hit,” Kenoyer President Nan O'Hara said “Vacatia never faltered in their commitment to our resorts They i m m e d i a t e l y r e a c h e d o u t t o f i r s t

check on me, my family, and our employees, and then to see how the resorts had fared We are so grateful that Vacatia didn't just walk away when it became apparent it would take time for these resorts to reopen ”

Aware that expediency was crucial to decisions regarding insurance, r e m e d i a t i o n a n d r e c o n s t r u c t i o n , Vacatia immediately paid site visits to all three of the resorts, meeting with staff and contractors

“ W e a r e f i r m l y c o m m i t t e d t o independent resorts and their succ e s s , ” H e a d o f V a c a t i a P a r t n e r

Services Michelle DuChamp said

“We are leveraging our expertise in

insurance claims, construction management, and FF&E purchasing to help these resorts once again welcome owners, exchangers and rental guests ”

As owners await the reopening of the resorts, they now have access to Vacatia benefits, including discounted rentals at 23 Vacatia-managed resorts and over 750 condominium rental partners

The Sanibel Beach Club II is at 205 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The Shell Island Beach Club is at 255 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The Lighthouse Resort & Club is at 210 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

STEVENS CONSTRUCTION

School district to host Spring Talent Recruitment Fair

The School District of Lee County will host i Spring 2023 Talent Recruitment Fair on April 29 a the Lee County Public Education Center, at 2855 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers

Principals and department hiring managers will interview and hire teachers, school psychologists speech-language pathologists, school social worker and school counselors for the 2023-24 year

Teaching candidates eligible to attend must meet one of the following criteria:

Cook named senior prosperity advisor

Robin L Cook has been named Sr Prosperity Advisor

Sr Vice President by Suncoast Prosperity Advisors, a division of Suncoast Equity Management

She will provide wealth management and investment services for the Sanibel, Captiva and Southwest Florida market

Cook brings over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry and most recently served for eight years as executive vice president of Wealth Services at The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company

She is licensed as a Series 65 Investment Advisor Representative, holds the Certified Wealth Strategist and Certified Trust Fiduciary Advisor designations, and is a graduate of the American Bankers' Association Florida School

Cook and her husband are full-time

∫ Hold a valid standard teaching certificate (Florida r out-of-state)

∫ Expected to graduate from a college of education by August

∫ Hold a bachelor's degree in an area where certification can be obtained or any degree major and a assing score on a subject area exam

To determine if a bachelor's degree can lead toward certification, visit the Florida Department of Education at https://www fldoe org/teaching/certification/general-cert-

Business Notes

Sanibel residents With the post-Hurricane Ian perspective that she shares with her fellow islanders, she is positioned to help families rebuild by providing wealth management services tailored to addressing hurricane recovery challenges while also optimizing access to customized investment opportunities to meet each client's investment objectives

Cook has served on the boards of the Captiva Island Historical Society and Cape Coral Community Foundation She is a member of the SanibelCaptiva Rotary Club and Sanibel Captiva Business Women's Association

Rec center adds to Hall of Sponsors

San Carlos Roofing has joined the S a n i b e l R e c r e a t i o n C e n t e r ' s H a l l o f Sponsors as sponsors

requirements/subject-area-knowledge stml If the degree major does not equate to a certification area, potential teachers can register to take a subject area exam

Applicant registration is open now through April 21

To register, visit https://apply leeschools net and apply for “Pool-Spring Teacher Recruitment Fair,” Job ID 20230133 Applicants can create an account or sign into their existing School District Careers one

For more information or questions, contact Careers@leeschools net or 239-337-8676

Proceeds from sponsor signs financially assist parents, grandparents and legal custodians who qualify for their children to attend the: after-school program; summer day, winter and spring break camps; fun days; babysitter training camp; bask e t b a l l l e a g u e ; v o l l e y b a l l c a m p ; a n d Counselor In Training (C I T ) programs at the center

A printout of all the sponsors can also b e o b t a i n e d a t t h e c e n t e r ' s r e c e p t i o n counter or by visiting https://files constantcontact com/97af97e6001/51af58d 4-47d6-4372-932a-fc131961dce7 pdf

For more information, call volunteer sponsor Chairperson Barry Alan Roth at 239-313-9591

Kiwanis member receives award

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club reported that Kiwanian Dick Muench was recently awarded the Legion of Honor from Kiwanis International He has been a member of the island club for 50 years As a part of the community, Muench has contributed in countless

From page 8

p r o c e s s , i n c l u d i n g t h e m a n a g e m e n t o f c r i s i s s i t ua t i o n s , d e v e l o p m e n t o f a p r o a c t i v e a g i n g p l a n a n d s u p p o r t f o r s t r u g g l i n g c a r e g i v e r s K r u g e r w o r k s w i t h o l d e r a d u l t s , c a r eg i v e r s a n d t h e i r f a m i l i e s t o p r o a c t i v e l y p l a n , w h i c h s a v e s t i m e , m o n e y a n d s t r e s s d u r i n g t h e a g i n g p r o c e s s

In many cases, the lack of planning creates a financ i a l b u r d e n o n f a m i l y m e m b e r s a n d c a r e g i v e r s who often are forced to make major decisions

ways, including making the club's annual Spaghetti Dinner a top social event of each season His efforts with the Diner's Delight coupon books has contributed tens of thousands of dollars to the club's scholarship program

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB

and pay major expenses when a loved one is hospitalized or needs 24/7 care

That, in turn, strains relationships at a time when family members should be c o m i n g t o g e t h e r , n o t falling apart

“When there is a crisis, family members have no idea where their spouse, mother or father has bank accounts, how utility bills are paid each month, who t h e y u s e a s a f i n a n c i a l advisor, if they have longterm care insurance or VA benefits, or even if there is

a living will,” Kruger said “You never know when a medical crisis will happen, and families can be caught off guard With a Grab & Go binder, you are still in control, but your family will be able to spend time a t y o u r h o s p i t a l b e d s i d e a n d a d v o c a t i n g o n y o u r behalf rather than scrambling to find paperwork ”

J e f f r e y A M u d d e l l i s office president and wealth services advisor for The S a n i b e l C a p t i v a T r u s t Company

Robin L Cook

Interactive guide to open island businesses

The GPS-enabled interactive map also pinpoints beach accesses that have opened, bike parking areas and the user's relative location. Points of interest can be filtered by seven categories Users can download the app from the Apple App Store and Google Play They can also access the map online at tinyurl com/sancapwandermap

Parents can view child’s school library books, checkouts through Follett Destiny

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

A program was introduced to the parents of the District of Lee County a few years ago, enabling them to keep track of what their child check’s out from the school library

An email was sent to parents on March 31 to remind them that the service is available To comply with the law, it also is available to the public through the individual school’s website

“You have the opportunity at home, or

anywhere, to see what is in your child’s library and what they are checking out,” district spokesperson Rob Spicker said “It has not been widely used, but we do encourage parents that are hearing conversations and wondering what is in their child’s library and see what they are checking out (to use Follett Destiny) ”

Parents can log into https://myapps.classlink.com/home and type in their child’s username and password From there click on instructional apps and Follett Destiny, physical books, or OverDrive, digital books

Spicker said the child’s entire history, which will follow them from kindergarten through 12th grade can be viewed Books can also be searched by an author, title or simply with a word

Parents, and students, also have access to digital books throughout the summer, through launchpad’s Follett Destiny and OverDrive

“Access doesn’t go away during the summer Login and find an ebook and read it,” he said

Through Follett Destiny, parents can block a book or books

“If you do not want your child to read something you see in their library, you can initiate that process with your child’s school,” Spicker said

Parents also have the opportunity to challenge instructional media, which goes through an official process to initiate a review He said there were a number of challenges last year, but no forms or challenges have been made this year.

“The majority of the challenges have come from community members and not parents,” Spicker said

CAPTIVA ISLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PRESERVING PARADISE

Games, tours to be part of refuge’s Conservation Carnival

The J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge will celebrate its 34th annual “Ding” Darling Day jointly with Earth Day on April 22 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers

The refuge and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge have planned a full day of Conservation Carnival and nature activities from 10 a m to 2 p m

Sanibel recognizes annual Gopher Tortoise Day

In 2016, the Gopher Tortoise Council adopted April 10 as Gopher Tortoise Day in Florida to increase awareness and appreciation for the protected species, the city of Sanibel recently reported

It is considered a keystone species a species on which other animals within an ecosystem largely depend on and is an important indicator of ecosystem health Gopher tortoise burrows are home to more than 360 other species of wildlife, some of which w o u l d n o t e x i s t w i t h o u t g o p h e r t o r t o i s e s

Unfortunately, due to obstacles such as habitat loss, disease and poaching, gopher tortoise populations have declined an estimated 60-80% percent in the last century Because of this, the gopher tortoise is listed as threatened species and is protected by the state of Florida

On Sept 28, the island's gopher tortoises, their burrows and their habitats were significantly impacted by Hurricane Ian, the full extent of which remains unknown Prior to the storm, Sanibel sustained a sizeable population of gopher tortoises, which inhabited conservation lands, residential neighborhoods and commercial properties. In areas where their habitat was damaged or destroyed by saltwater intrusion and hurricane debris, they may seek new areas to establish new burrows and home ranges

In accordance with the Florida Fish and Wildlife C o n s e r v a t i o n C o m m i s s i o n ’ s G o p h e r T o r t o i s e Management Plan guidelines, the city requires that all development permit applications include the following: identification and location of wildlife habitats of gopher tortoises; a plan to preserve gopher tortoise habitat in perpetuity or to mitigate for unavoidable impacts; and verification that gopher tortoises have been protected on the site or have been removed from the proposed area of construction by a state-authori z e d g o p h e r t o r t o i s e a g e n t a c c o r d i n g t o a p l a n approved by the city and state

Due to the upland habitat requirements of the gopher tortoise and potential conflicts with human development activities, gopher tortoises and their habitats on Sanibel have been afforded additional protections Therefore, the city recognizes that maintaining healthy populations of gopher tortoises is essential to sustaining Sanibel's ecology and sanctuary characteristics On April 12, the Sanibel City Council issued a p r o c l a m a t i o n d e s i g n a t i n g A p r i l 1 0 a s G o p h e r

Tortoise Day on Sanibel

The recovery of gopher tortoise populations and their habitats will require a continued commitment by the citizens of Sanibel To show appreciation and help ensure the long-term recovery of them, create a “tor-

More than 20 local conservation non-profits will participate to engage attendees with information and carnival games Gamers can earn a free mini ice cream cone, plus other gifts and prizes The refuge will host a dunk tank, where attendees can try their luck at sinking surprise “celebrity dunkees.” All of the activities are free, but Lakes Park charges a $1 per hour or $5 per day parking fee

“The games will all have an educational component, plus the day brings a number of tours and nature art activities,” Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland, who chairs the event's committee, said “We will have our Wildlife on Wheels (WoW) mobile nature experience open all day for touring, plus there will be Earth Day crafts and lots of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, such as a slow-birding walk, archery, and rock climbing ”

Artist-in-Residence Jacqui Roch will paint plein-air throughout the day and lead a Sketch & Stroll journaling activity Attendees can shop for nature-themed items at the Refuge Nature Store table, where all purchases will support conservation The Dawg Pound food truck will have items for purchase

Subject to change, the schedule of free activities will include:

∫ 10 a m : Check in and receive information at the Welcome Table in Main Pavilion

∫ 10 a m to 2 p m: Nature-themed carnival games, WoW mobile nature experience, live music, food truck, face painting, rock climbing, dunk tank, Hover-Ball Archery, live painting by Roch, Wildlife Olympics, and Shell Art Plus, play games to win a coupon for a free mini ice cream cone

∫ 10:30 a m : Ranger-led Slow Birding; maximum of

REFUGE/DDWS

During the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's 34th annual “Ding” Darling Day on April 22 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers, attendees can learn archery skills with Hover-Ball Archery.

20 participants Coined by Bridget Butler, “slow birding” is a fresh, slowed-down approach to traditional birding that welcomes deeper observation, listening, and connection to the birds and their environment

∫ 11 a m : Ranger-led Kids Nature Walk; maximum of 20 participants

∫ 11:30 a m : Ranger-led Slow Birding; maximum of 20 participants

∫ 12:30 p m : Sketch & Stroll Nature journaling with Roch; maximum of 20 participants.

The U S Fish & Wildlife Service and DDWS cosponsor “Ding” Darling Day with support from the local community and businesses For information on sponsors h i p o p p o r t u n i t i e s , c o n t a c t A p r i l B o e h n e n a t aprilb@dingdarlingsociety org

The refuge's Visitor & Education Center on Sanibel will be closed on April 22, but Wildlife Drive, Tarpon Bay Explorers, and the Bailey Tract will be open

For more information, visit dingdarlingday com

Coastal Watch to host Earth Day cleanup, breakfast

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

Openings are available for volunteers to register for several beach cleanups across Sanibel

Part of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation family, Coastal Watch will host an Earth Day Beach Cleanup and Breakfast on April 22 from 9 to 11 a m Those interested can sign up for a section of beach, then remove debris to help ensure a healthy marine environment for wildlife and humans

“In addition to cleaning our environment, we're looking forward to celebrating our volunteers this Earth Day,” Coastal Watch Director Kealy McNeal said “Our oceans and beaches are in need of continual stewardship, and we couldn't rise to that challenge without help from the community ”

The event will be preceded by a light breakfast, provided by Bank of the Islands, from 7:30 to 8:30 a m at the Bailey Homestead Preserve on Sanibel Volunteers will also grab their cleanup gear

All gear can be returned to the

See EARTH DAY CLEANUP, page 13

Ear th Day reception

Congress Jewelers and the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation will hold a special Coastal Watch-themed event on Earth Day, April 22, from 3 to 5 p m at the jewelry store at the Bell Tower in Fort Myers A custom mangrove pendant crafted in honor of Coastal Watch's mangrove restoration work will be on display Orders can be placed for pendants in sterling, yellow gold, and yellow gold with diamonds New Coastal Watch T-shirts will also be for sale The reception will include wine, champagne and hors d'oeuvres RSVPs are requested by April 20 at

Congress Jewelers is at 13499 S Cleveland Ave , Suite 165

PHOTO PROVIDED Congress Jewelers owners Scot and Melissa Congress.

Coastal Watch takes par t in annual cleanup

On April 1, Coastal Watch partnered with Keep Lee County Beautiful for the Great American Cleanup Director Kealy McNeal and 15 volunteers helped remove many trash bags of debris from Tarpon Bay Beach on S

Watch creates and implements conservation initiatives that promote and improve the future of marine resources and coastal heritage COASTAL

Earth Day cleanup

Bailey Homestead Preserve by noon

As of April 14, 39 of the 71 total spots were taken

The following sections of beach still had openings available:

∫ Gulfside City Park: Six spots open

Parking is free with a Sanibel A or B parking sticker or $5 per hour without one

∫ Gulfside City Park Tarpon Bay Road: Two spots open

Volunteers will walk west toward Tarpon Bay Road Parking is free with a Sanibel A or B parking sticker or $5 per hour without one

From page 12

∫ Rabbit Road Beach Access #6:

One spot open No parking is currently available

Volunteers must reside in or near the East/West Rocks communities and walk to the beach

∫ Beach Access #6 Tropical Winds: One spot open No parking is currently available

Volunteers must reside in or near the East/West Rocks or Gulf Pines communities and walk to the beach

∫ Tropical Winds to Bowman's Beach: Two spots open

Gopher Tortoise Day

toise friendly landscape” that includes a diversity of native grasses and wildflowers Also, residents are encouraged to keep a watchful eye for gopher tortoises while traveling by vehicle, cycle or on

From page 12

foot If you see a gopher tortoise crossing a road, pick it up and place it on the roadside in the direction it was heading, but only if it is safe for you to do so

For more information, view the city's

Volunteers will walk east toward the Tropical Winds Inn Parking is free with a Sanibel A or B parking sticker or Lee County parking permit or $5 per hour without one.

∫ Bowman's Beach Park: Seven spots open Parking is free with a Sanibel A or B parking sticker or Lee County parking permit or $5 per hour without one

∫ Clam Bayou/Silver Key Blind Pass: Four spots open

Volunteers will walk east toward Bowman's Beach Parking is free with a

g o p h e r t o r t o i s e b r o c h u r e a t https://www mysanibel com/content/dow nload/24984/file/Gopher%20Tortoise% 20Brochure%202018 pdf; visit the city’s informational webpage on gopher tortois-

Sanibel A or B parking sticker or $5 per hour without one

∫ Blind Pass: Five spots open Parking is free with a Sanibel A or B parking sticker or $5 per hour without one.

For more information or to register, visit tinyurl com/earthdaysccf

Volunteers will need to make an account before signing up

For registration issues, contact kmcneal@sccf org

The Bailey Homestead Preserve at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

es at https://www mysanibel com/departments/natural-resources/wildlife-informat i o n / g o p h e r - t o r t o i s e s 2 ; o r c o n t a c t t h e N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e s D e p a r t m e n t a t joel caouette@mysanibel com

Isl and lIvIng SPD releases weekly blotter

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

Arrests

∫ Jose Jaime Barron Jr , 47, of 4972 S Galaxy Drive, Fort Myers, was charged on April 8 with one count each of DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI alcohol or drugs fourth or subsequent offense and moving traffic violation driving while license suspended revoked revocation equivalent status third subsequent violation

∫ Jacob Lloyd Tucker, 21, of 101 Hightower Ave , Lehigh Acres, was charged on April 8 with one count of out-of-state-fugitive fugitive from justice

Other enforcement actions

∫ On April 8, a 4-foot alligator was removed from a swimming pool and relocated to conservation land

∫ Officers continue to respond to calls concerning illegal dumping

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

Enforcement operations statistics

Week to date for April 4-10:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 1

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 77

∫ Traffic crashes: 3

∫ Traffic stops: 40 Citations issued: 10 Written warnings issued: 4

∫ Field interviews: 0

∫ Residential area checks: 700

∫ Business area checks: 367

∫ Total area checks: 1,442

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 2

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,794 April 2023 to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 2

∫ Non-emergency calls: 104

∫ Traffic crashes: 4

∫ Traffic stops: 57 Citations issued: 15 Written warnings issued: 8

∫ Field interviews: 0

∫ Residential area checks: 1,054

∫ Business area checks: 523

∫ Total area checks: 2,133

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 2

∫ Total CAD calls: 2,627

Impor tant reminders

Updated information on the Sanibel Boat Ramp:

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

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

∫ There is no beach access at the Sanibel Boat Ramp at this time

∫ Commercial use of the boat ramp is prohibited

∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $250.

See BLOTTER, page 15

‘Lighthouse’ exhibit on display at historical village

The community can see the latest lens, recently removed from the Sanibel Lighthouse in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, as part of the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village's new “Lighthouse” exhibit

The exhibit features photographs of the lighthouse before and after the ravages of the storm. Also on display are two original lights that came off of the old causeway when there was a draw bridge The red and green lights, which represented port and starboard, assisted mariners as they headed through the raised bridge into the San Carlos Bay and up the Caloosahatchee River

“It is more important than ever for everyone to celebrate the Sanibel Lighthouse,” village board President and Chair Celina Kersh Monte-Sano said “Hurricane Ian destroyed the caretakers' cottages, the oldest buildings on the island; almost no trace of their wooden structures remain We lost a big piece of the island's history when that happened The lighthouse tower was spared and repaired with a temporary wooden leg for support It's a comfort to know this icon of Sanibel, known internationally, will go on ”

In addition to the exhibit, four of the village's buildings are open to tour on a limited basis: Shore Haven; Morning Glories, a Sears kit house; the Caretakers' Cottage, which houses the “Black History” exhibit; and old Bailey General Store

Shore Haven's other exhibit, which features information about each of the village's nine historical buildings, has been reimagined There is also a gift shop set up in the “living room” of this Sears kit home It is the second of two Sears kit homes at the village and the second one to be moved to the grounds, and it is now used as the visitors' center

The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is currently open free of charge The current operating hours are Tuesdays through Thursdays from 10 a m to 1 p m , with guided tours at 10:30 a m

The village will close for the season on May 31 Officials

noted that they hope to fully reopen in October, with most of the buildings repaired from the damages caused by the hurricane

For more information, call 239-472-4648 or visit www sanibelmuseum org

The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is at 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

Sanibel Public Meetings

The following public meetings/hearings are scheduled:

∫ April 25: Sanibel Planning Commission meeting at

9 a m at BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, and via Facebook Live For more information or the agenda, visit www.mysanibel.com.

SANIBEL HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND VILLAGE

Exhibits, programs at Sanibel library

Stop by the Sanibel Public Library to take in an exhibit or participate in programming.

T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a A r t L e a g u e ' s juried exhibition, “Food for Thought,” is available to view

In addition, a display of World War II m o d e l s t h a t i n c l u d e s t h e J a p a n e s e Battleship Yamato, plus a Samurai sword, can be viewed during April. If you have a collection to share, contact the library

On April 20, Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held at 11 a m Miss Megan will sing, read, question, and move around during the stories, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, motor skills, and creativity, which includes an art/craft center The program

is designed for children and accompanying adults No registration required

For the most up-to-date information, visit the library's calendar at www sanlib org

As the library continues to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, staff is working to update the library's records, including books checked out prior to the storm Patrons can help the library update their records by sharing the status of their borrowed items that are possibly lost At this time, there are no fines for late or lost items For more information, contact 239472-2483 or notices@sanlib org

If you have photos taken during Ian or o f p o s t - s t o r m d a m a g e o r r e c o v e r y i n Southwest Florida, consider allowing the library to archive the images It is also

Refuge, DDWS

As part of National Mental Health Month in May and with support from the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge has announced Wellness Week 2023 The second annual event will take place on May 3-9 at refuge venues and throughout the community, including Lakes Park and Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers

“Last year's Wellness Week was such a success, we wanted to bring it back, along w i t h t h e m i n d f u l n e s s a c t i v i t i e s w e ' v e offered throughout the year,” Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland said “When the refuge closed after Hurricane Ian in September, we looked for ways to benefit the traumatized community, who needed that connection with nature to help heal ”

“We partnered with Sanibel Rec and are building on the success we had with the self-guided Mindfulness Trail at the Bailey Tract by expanding our mindful-

Kobe makes honor roll

Shannon L Kobe, of Sanibel, made the Winter Scholastic Honor Roll at Oregon

Blotter

From page 14

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

Additional beach park facilities are open to the public For more information o n S a n i b e l b e a c h e s , 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 / g o v e r nm

looking for photos of the islands before the causeway, during the land boom of the e a r l y 1 9 2 0 s , a n d o f n o t a b l e l o c a l s

Images, videos and stories can be emailed to sanibelpubliclibrary@gmail com

The Sanibel Public Library is open

Monday through Saturday from 9 a m to 5 p m

For more information, call 239-4722483 or visit www sanlib org

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

to host week of wellness activities

n e s s - o r i e n t e d a u d i o r e c o r d i n g s a l o n g Wildlife Drive,” she added “Participants will get a sneak peek of that during Wellness Week ”

Highlights of the week will range from n a t u r e - h e a l i n g l e c t u r e s b y n a t i o n a l l yn o t e d s p e a k e r s a n d a F o o d F o r e s t Wellness Fest at FGCU, to Boot Camp a n d M i n d f u l n e s s W a l k s o n W i l d l i f e Drive The guest lecturers include Dr Geraldine Oades-Sese, a child resilience psychologist, and healing-through-nature advocate Dr. Joe Blanda.

“Wellness Week makes that connection between physical and mental health and the healing properties of being out in the natural world, especially during the s t r e s s o f h u r r i c a n e r e c o v e r y , ” R a n g e r Jessica Barry, who leads the refuge's Wellness Program with mindfulness volunteer Cristina Shaul, said

For more information on activities and how to register, visit dingwellness com

Education

links/parks-public-beaches

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

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

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

During April, a display of World War II models can be viewed at the Sanibel Public Library

The Sanibel-Captiva Art League is exhibiting “Food for Thought” at the Sanibel Public Library.

REFUGE/DDWS Dr Geraldine Oades-Sese Dr Joseph Blanda

DDWS reports on refuge programming and more

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge provided the following updates for the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel:

∫ Most Fridays and other select days, the Nature Store will pop up at the Outdoor Gallery and Island Market from 10 a m to 2 p m at the Rachel Pierce Art Gallery, at 1571 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ The annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament will take place on May 19 Registration is open As of April 13, there were two spots left For more information, visit https://dingdarlingsociety org/articles/tarpon-tournament-1

∫ Free Summer Programs will run from June 11 t h r o u g h A u g 5 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 d i n g d a r l i n g s o c i e t y o r g / a r t i c l e s / f r e erefuge-programs

∫ Art in the Wild Day will take place on Oct. 21 a t t h e r e f u g e 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 d i n g d a r l i n g s o c i e t y o r g / a r t i c l e s / a r t - i nthe-wild

city, county reopen Turner Beach access post-storm

The city of Sanibel and Lee County reopened beach parking at Turner Beach on Captiva on April 7.

The city reported that Turner Beach has been closed since Sept 29, after Hurricane Ian made landfall The beach is owned by the county, but it is managed by the city through an interlocal agreement

Lee County Department of Transportation and Sanibel Public Works staff worked in collaboration to repair damages to the facility The restrooms at Turner Beach remained closed; however, the county has staged portable toilets at the site for public use.

Turner Beach features 25 parking spaces, plus two handicapped spaces The cost to park is $5 per hour; those with a Lee County Regional Parking Permit or a Sanibel Beach Parking Permit park for free

The city noted that the fine for illegal parking at Turner Beach and all Sanibel Beach Parks is $150 In addition, people cannot park their vehicles on city streets; violators will be fined $150

To learn more about the city's hourly Mobile Pay system, visit https://www mysanibel com/content/download/31156/file/Parking Mobile Payment System pdf

Turner Beach is at 17200 Captiva Drive, Captiva.

TBE resumes tram tours at Sanibel refuge

On April 4, Tarpon Bay Explorers resumed its tram tours through Wildlife Drive at the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian

“It is a great step in the right direction,” managing partner Wendy Schnapp said “Not only do we get to provide visitors a fun and informative way to explore the refuge, but we also get to hire back one of many staff members that was laid off after the storm.”

TBE experienced severe damage to a variety of its equipment that was onsite at the Tarpon Bay Recreation Area The three trams were stored at the refuge's maintenance facility on Sanibel-Captiva Road, where the storm surge was not as severe Staff retrieved them a couple of weeks after the hurricane and, with great luck, all three trams started

Months went by while clean up took place not only at Tarpon Bay, but the paths, buildings and roads within the refuge Wildlife Drive experienced severe erosion, washout and vegetative damage Rangers worked tirelessly to get it back to a new version of normal that is safe for visitors. The biggest obstacle was figuring out how to navigate traffic at the end of the drive that neighbors a residential community whose bridge collapsed days after the storm

“Essentially, a one-way road became a two-way road We had to assess the traffic at the combined part of Wildlife Drive to make sure we could conduct the tram tours safely,” Schnapp said “We found that our larger trams would not fit safely due to tight corners and resulting blind spots Luckily, our smaller tram fits safely and will be used until the bridge is repaired ”

TARPON BAY EXPLORERS

Tram tours educate visitors about the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and wildlife that inhabits conserved lands, such as s p o o n b i l l s , a l l i g a t o r s a n d m o r e , t h r o u g h a trained naturalist

TBE's smaller tram seats 23 passengers

Tours are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a m and 1 p m

Reservations are recommended.

For more information or reserve a spot, visit www tarponbayexplorers com or call 239-472-8900

Tarpon Bay Explorers is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel

Rec center registering youth for summer camp

The Sanibel Recreation Center is accepting registrations for its Summer Day Camp, which will run weekly from June 12 through July 28 Monday through Friday from 8 a m to 5:30 p m

This year's Florida-themed camp will include swim time, crafts, inflatable fun, trips to on-island businesses, activities with the Sanibel Sea School, special guests, and more Campers will also take weekly field trips to offsite locations, such as 31 Produce, Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, Springtime Farms, Iguanaland, Skatium and more

Registration is open to children entering kindergarten through eighth grade Breakfast and lunch will be provided daily

Campers will need to bring water, a swimsuit, towel, goggles and sunscreen each day

The cost per week for members is: $135 for early bird registration, at least 14 calendar days prior to the start of the program; $162 for on-time registration, seven to 14 days prior to the start of the program; and $168 75 for late registration, less than seven days prior to the start of the program

The cost per week for non-members is: $174 for early bird registration, at least 14 calendar days prior to the start of the program; $209 for on-time registration, seven to 14 days prior to the start of the program; and $217 50 for late registra-

tion, less than seven days prior to the start of the program

F o r t h e r e g i s t r a t i o n p a c k e t , v i s i t https://web1 myvscloud com/images/flsa nibel/youth program registration form p df? csrf token=f3200fe914cb798e455 90b7ba36d0b6e4a71e69f8c558e7884e 8b066bc0be2b5

To view the summer camp flyer, visit h t t p s : / / f i l

9 7 e 6 0 0 1 / a 8 2 9 a d e 3 - 8 1 a b40fe-bea8-0a1067ed39 dc.pdf.

For more information, call 239-4720302 or 239-395-1860

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

Fire board

From page 1

Prior to the vote, Fire Chief Kevin Barbot explained that staff had received three quotes: about $25,181 for a Honda SXS10M6DP, $34,119 for a Can-Am Model 8PA, and $35,880 for a Polaris Ranger XP However, staff found the Can-Am 8MNF which came in as the lowest and meets the district's needs

Also during the meeting, the commission voted 3-0 to proceed with both SchenkelShultz Architecture and GMA Architects & Planners for designing the rebuild of Station 172 on Sanibel-Captiva Road

Prior to the vote, Barbot explained that the next steps would be to get the work orders for them to provide a bid on their services and the district will provide them with a scope of work In a few weeks, the district should have the costs to rebuild the storm-damaged station and preliminary renderings

“Where these firms are going (with the design) and what we like best,” he said

B a r b o t a d d e d t h a t S c h e n k e l S h u l t z

A r c h i t e c t u r e d e s i g n e d t h e E s t e r o F i r e

R e s c u e ' s S t a t i o n 4 4 , w h i l e G M A

A r c h i t e c t s & P l a n n e r s d e s i g n e d F i r e Station 32 for the Immokalee Fire Control District

In other news

∫ Barbot provided an update on the

F E M A C o m m u n i t y D i s a s t e r L o a n Program process for the district There are three reviews required as part of the process and the district is going through the final one The possible estimated loan amount could be $1.6 million, with interest only paid if the funds are used

∫ Barbot reported that the annual

Lecture

From page 1

month the Billion Oyster Project's first oyster reef initiative transformed a flat and featureless harbor bottom into a thriving ecosystem swarming with thousands of snails, crabs and blackfish even striped bass He will provide an insider's view of a goal to introduce 1 billion water-filtering, habitat-creating bivalves to the New York Harbor and the involvement of a legion of volunteers, youth and partners in the urban marine mollusk conservation initiative M a l i n o w s k i g r e w u p f a r m i n g o y s t e r s w i t h h i s p a r e n t s a n d s i b l i n g s o n t h e F i s h e r s I s l a n d O y s t e r F a r m o n F i s h e r ' s I s l a n d i n t h e L o n g I s l a n d S o u n d H i s p a ss i o n f o r t h e e n v i r o n m e n t a n d e d u c a t i o n l e d h i m t o t h e N e w Y o r k H a r b o r S c h o o l , w h e r e h e f o u n d e d t h e s c h o o l ' s

financial audit is currently being conducted

∫ Barbot reviewed with the commission the potential risks of having about $2 2 million of the district's emergency r e s e r v e s i n t h e i r c u r r e n t , g o v e r n m e n t income trust funds one of which is the funds are not insured He suggested moving and splitting the funds between two bank accounts or to one account

“ I t h i n k i t ' s a n o - b r a i n e r , ”

Commissioner Jerry Muench said Barbot reported that he will come back to the board with options from banks

∫ New Lee County resident and UFC Hall of Famer Tito Ortiz recently visited the district Barbot explained that Ortiz donated a new, $10,000 dumbell rack for the crews at Station 171 to use

∫ The district responded to 77 incidents in March compared to 162 for the same month last year

“We are down which is expected,” Barbot said

∫ The following personnel were recognized for their years of service: firefighter Shane Grant for 13 years; and firefighter Bryan Clement for four years

A q u a c u l t u r e a n d O y s t e r R e s t o r a t i o n P r o g r a m s a n d s p e n t f i v e y e a r s a s a t e a c h e r M a l i n o w s k i s e r v e s a s a c o - c h a i r o f t h e G o v e r n o r ' s S h e l l f i s h R e s t o r a t i o n

C o u n c i l a n d s i t s o n t h e M a y o r ' s

W a t e r f r o n t M a n a g e m e n t A d v i s o r y

B o a r d B a i l e y - M a t t h e w s N a t i o n a l S h e l l

M u s e u m E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r S a m

Ankerson will provide the introduction for the lecture, along with an update on the museum post-Hurricane Ian

Advance registration is required

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

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell M u s e u m i s a t 3 0 7 5 S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a Road, Sanibel

Sanibel and Fire Rescue District Fire Chief Kevin Barbot shared that firefighter Shane Grant recently built steps and a small deck for the temporary Fire Station 172 trailer on Sanibel-Captiva Road

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

The Sanibel and Fire Rescue District's commission approved the purchase of a Can-Am beach rescue and support vehicle at its April 12 meeting to replace the one that the district lost in the hurricane

W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , A p r i l 1 9 , 2 0 2 3

Trailways Camps signing up campers, volunteers

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

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N o v 1 3 - 1 6 a n d F e b 1 2 - 1 5

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f o r a d u l t s w i t h s p e c i a l n e e d s a n d r e s p i t e f o r t h e i r c a r eg i v e r s I t s m i s s i o n i s : “ E n a b l i n g a d u l t s w i t h s p e c i a l n e e d s , a n d t h o s e w h o c a r e f o r t h e m , t o g r o w t h e i r s o c i a l , e m o t i o n a l a n d s p i r i t u a l r e l a t i o n s h i p ”

SWFL Solar Co-op membership to close at month’s end

T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a R e n e w a b l e E n e r g y W o r k i n g G r o u p r e m i n d e d t h e p u b l i c t h a t t h e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a 2 0 2 3 S o l a r C o - o p , w h i c h i s o p e n t o b u s i n e s se s a n d r e s i d e n t s i n L e e a n d C o l l i e r c o u n t i e s , w i l l c l o s e t o n e w m e m b e r s o n A p r i l 3 0 T h e c o - o p i s f r e e t o j o i n a n d j o i n i n g i s n o t a c o m m i t m e n t t o p u r c h a s e p a n e l s I t h a s s e l e c t e d F l o r i d a S o l a r D e s i g n G r o u p t o i n s t a l l p a n e l s f o r t h e 1 0 0m e m b e r g r o u p T h e c o m p a n y w i l l p r ov i d e e a c h c o - o p m e m b e r w i t h a n i n d iv i d u a l i z e d p r o p o s a l b a s e d o n t h e g r o u p r a t e B y g o i n g s o l a r a s a g r o u p a n d c h o o s i n g a s i n g l e i n s t a l l e r , m e m b e r s

c a p t i v a s a n i b e l . c o m

c a n s a v e o n t h e c o s t o f g o i n g s o l a r a n d h a v e t h e s u p p o r t o f f e l l o w m e m b e r s a n d e x p e r t s a t n o n p r o f i t S o l a r U n i t e d N e i g h b o r s , w h i c h t h e c o - o p w a s o r g a ni z e d t h r o u g h “ F l o r i d a S o l a r D e s i g n G r o u p i s d e l i g h t e d t o h a v e b e e n s e l e c t e d f o r o u r s e c o n d S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a S U N c o - o p , ” p r i n c i p a l s o l a r d e s i g n e r J a s o n S z u m l a n s k i s a i d “ O u r l o c a l a n d e n g a g e d o w n e r s a r e g r a t e f u l f o r a n o t h e r o p p o r t u n i t y t o h e l p a s u b s t a n t i a l n u mb e r o f p e o p l e w i t h p r a c t i c a l s o l a r e n e rg y s o l u t i o n s C o - o p m e m b e r s i n c l u d e t h e c i t y o f S a n i b e l , S a n i b e l & C a p t i v a I s l a n d s

Town hall meetings

l a w e n f o r c e m e n t a n d o t h e r p u b l i c a g e nc i e s U s i n g t h e F e d e r a l E m e r g e n c y M a n a g e m e n t A g e n c y ' s N a t i o n a l D i s a s t e r

From page 1

R e c o v e r y F r a m e w o r k , t h e t a s k f o r c e c o n s i s t s o f e i g h t b r a n c h e s t h a t b r i n g t o g e t h e r p u b l i c , p r i v a t e , a n d n o n - p r o f i t

C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e , B a i l e y ' s

G e n e r a l S t o r e , S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a

R e n e w a b l e E n e r g y W o r k i n g G r o u p , A l l

F a i t h s U n i t a r i a n C o n g r e g a t i o n ,

C o m m i t t e e o f t h e I s l a n d s , E n g a g e

E s t e r o ( f o r m e r l y E C C L ) , G r o w i n g

C l i m a t e S o l u t i o n s , T h e C l i m a t e R e a l i t y

P r o j e c t L e e C o u n t y C h a p t e r ,

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 , L e a g u e o f W o m e n V o t e r s

C o l l i e r C o u n t y , “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g

W i l d l i f e S o c i e t y - F r i e n d s o f t h e R e f u g e ,

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o j o i n t h e c o - o p , v i s i t s o l a r u n i t e d n e i g h b o r s o r g / s w f l T o w a t c h a “ F l o r i d a S o l a r 1 0 1 ” w e b i n a r a n d l e a r n m o r e a b o u t s o l a r a n d t h e c o - o p p r o c e s s , v i s i t h t t p s : / / w w w s o l a r u n i t e d n e i g h b o r s o r g / c o - o p s / f l o r i d a / s o u t h w e s t - f l o r i d a - 2 0 2 3s o l a r - c o - o p / T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a R e n e w a b l e E n e r g y W o r k i n g G r o u p i s a c o a l i t i o n o f l o c a l o r g a n i z a t i o n s w o r k i n g t o i m p r o v e e n e r g y e f f i c i e n c y , r e d u c e e n e r g y c o s t s , t r a n s i t i o n t o c l e a n e n e r g y s o u r c e s , a n d i m p r o v e e n e r g y r e s i l i e n c e , s u s t a i n a b i l it y a n d r e l i a b i l i t y

s e c t o r s u b j e c t m a t t e r e x p e r t s F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t

www resilientlee com Residents can also

follow on Facebook @ResilientLeeFL, Twitter @ResilientLee, and Instagram @ ResilientLee FL

I s l a n d R e p o r t e r

Annual Seahorse Festival to feature activities, music and more for islands

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

An annual event will celebrate the post-hurricane recovery of the islands and Earth Day this year

The Sanibel School Parent Teacher Association will host the Seahorse Festival on April 23 from noon to 4 p m at the pavilion at The Sanibel School on Sanibel Free and open to the community, it will feature activities for the entire family, including inflatables, games with prizes, crafts, music and more

Event chair Dorothy Plumb explained that in the aftermath of the storm, the PTA questioned if the school and islands were ready for a celebration and it received a resounding yes from the community

“It's this particular year a cause for celebration to be back on campus, to be back on the island,” she said, noting that the festival also offers and signifies some return to normalcy post-hurricane

Because it is taking place so close to Earth Day, the event is Earth Day-themed this year

“It's celebrating our love of the Earth and our love of the island,” Plumb said

There will be a variety of activities for all ages to participate in

“We have what they call 'inflatable runs,' so they're obstacle courses There's an inflatable bouncy house for the little ones,” she said “And we will have inflatable basketball hoops ”

Attendees can test their skills at the climbing wall or dunk tank

“Which is exciting because we have not used a dunk tank in prior years,” Plumb said

In addition, there will be face painting and a digital photo booth

If you go What Annual Seahorse Festival

When April 23 from noon to 4 p m

Where

The Sanibel School, 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel Details

“We have many carnival games with prizes, including a candy booth,” she said, adding that a “punch cup booth” will entail tissue-covered treasure-filled cups that attendees “punch” through to win a prize.

And there will be a range of prizes to win

“Anything from Squishies fidget toys to stuffed animals, slime, and even a couple of bikes that were donated,” Plumb said “There'll also be some art supplies like markers that the kids can win ”

The Sanibel School will have seashell crafts for families to do

“We plan to have the kids write messages on shells and take them home,” she said, adding that the participating children will then distribute them around the island and share that on social media

In celebration of Earth Day, attendees can also assemble DIY bird feeders

“We have a live band, the Kickstart Band,” she said

Shell Find

Based in Southwest Florida, the group performs a mix of genres

“They're volunteering their time to us, which is just amazing,” Plumb said

F o o d a n d d r i n k s w i l l b e a v a i l a b l e . I s l a n d - b a s e d Spoondrift Island Bowls and The Shack of Sanibel will have booths set up, while The Dawg Pound will have its food truck onsite serving hot dogs and more

“We have sponsors that are helping to make this event what it is,” she said

T h e y a r e A d v e n t u r e s i n P a r a d i s e , B a c k B a y Contracting, Billy's Rentals, Captiva Cruises, DERO

R o o f i n g , D o c F o r d ' s R u m B a r & G r i l l e , d u P o n t Residential and Commercial, Island Home Watch, Matter B r o t h e r s F u r n i t u r e , M o n r e v e , N a n n y ' s o f S a n i b e l , 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 , a n d S h o r e l i n e Lumber.

Plumb explained that in the aftermath of the storm, the school is still in “pretty rough shape ” There is no electricity at the pavilion at this time, so all of the electricpowered activities at the event will be running on generators In addition, there is no running water, so the PTA will be pumping in the water

“It won't look like every other year's festival, but it will be a really happy occasion,” she said

The public is welcome to come out and take part

“As a school community and an island community, we need to sort of come together to celebrate our progress,” Plumb said. “This offers an opportunity to do that, as well as have a bit of normalcy ”

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 SanibelPTABoard@gmail com

The Sanibel School is at 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

Junonias found on Sanibel

T r i c i a R a c k e r s , o f C o l u m b i a , M is s ouri, found a junonia on the afternoon of March 28 a few hundred f e e t s o u t h o f t h e I s l a n d I n n o n Sanibel She reported that the next morning, she found a second smaller junonia and a broken one also south of the resort. Rackers and her son traveled down for spring break and

have traveled to Sanibel and Captiva a few times She added “This was by far the best shelling trip yet We brought home two boxes of shells in o u r c a r r y - o n s a n d m a i l e d c l o t h e s home ” To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breeze newspapers.com.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Tickets still available for shell museum’s fundraiser

T h e B a i l e y - M a t t h e w s N a t i o n a l S h e l l

Museum will hold its annual benefit gala, titled “Still Standing” this year, on April 24 from 5 to 9 p m at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers

The fundraiser will feature comedian and actor Kevin Nealon for the second year in a row Attendees will enjoy dinner and drinks, along with a live auction and an unforgettable performance by Nealon

As one of the longest-running cast members on NBC's “Saturday Night Live” from 19861995, Nealon created some of the show's most memorable characters His recurring role as an anchor on “Weekend Update” helped make the sketch a show staple In 1988, Nealon earned an Emmy nomination as part of the SNL writing team.

The gala proceeds will support the museum's recovery and rebuilding from Hurricane Ian

The ground floor, which houses the museum's Living Gallery of aquariums and marine life, flooded with over 5 feet of water, causing extensive damage throughout The storm also tore a hole in the brand-new roof, exposing the second and third floors which include The Great Hall of Shells and storage for the shell collection to water damage and the elements The museum's priorities for rebuilding are to reconstruct the exhibits and aquariums as quickly as possible and to safeguard its irreplaceable scientific collection of over 550,000 specimens that it has amassed in the last 40 years

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company is the presenting sponsor for the gala

The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre is at 1380 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers

If you go

What “Still Standing” annual benefit gala

When April 24 from 5 to 9 p m

Where Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers Who Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum

Why To support storm recovery and rebuilding

Comedian and actor Kevin Nealon will perform at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum's annual benefit gala on April 24 from 5 to 9 p m at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers

BAILEY-MATTHEWS

NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM

ISL AND HOME islander

Mexican flame vine loves hot climates

The Mexican flame vine (Senecio confuses) is a prolific bloomer and quite the rambler It is a Central American native from Mexico to Honduras, so of course it loves the hot c l i m a t e o f S o u t h w e s t Florida W i t h l o v e l y , d a r k green foliage, it climbs, winds and rambles over any fence, trellis, arbor or anything else it can g r a b a h o l d o f E a c h flower has bright orange petals that lean toward t h e r e d d i s h s i d e o f orange with sunny yellow centers. What butterfly wouldn’t want to land on this irresistible flower?

The vine is an evergreen, it likes well-drained soil and once established its water needs are moderate It does not like to be too wet The Mexican flame vine is a good accent for any butterfly garden Many of our butterfly species, including monarchs, are attracted to the profusion of bright orange flowers it produces It is also attractive to bees and hummingbirds

It would be great trained onto a structure as a centerpiece for a flower or butterfly garden or along a fence line for bright, visual interest. The vine blooms mostly in the summer, but will bloom other times of the year when the bright sun shines Allow the Mexican flame vine to wind its way into your garden and let it bloom for you

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

SCCF: Native caterpillars predating fig trees

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that Sanibel residents are reporting damage to their strangler fig trees due to predation from Edward’s wasp moth caterpillars, a native moth that seems to be booming

“We’re unsure why Edward’s wasp moth caterpillars are having such an impact, because we’ve never seen this happen before It may be because they have less food to

eat due to the storm,” Adult Education Director Jenny Evans said. “We advocate against chemical treatment or harming the moths, as they are native and play a role in our local ecosystem ”

She added that the caterpillars will likely eat anything in the genus Ficus

“There are less non-native weeping figs and Cuban Laurels on the island today due to impacts from the Ficus whitefly and Hurricane Ian,” Evans said

Dune sunflower is pioneer species

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

A happy surprise is now showing up all over the islands in the form of dune sunflower (Helianthus debilis) Naturally a beach plant, but commonly used in landscapes, t h e s e e d s o f t h i s l o w - g r o w i n g groundcover likely spread across t h e i s l a n d w i t h H u r r i c a n e I a n ' s

storm surge And though the living plants were mostly wiped out in the hurricane, it is a salt-tolerant pioneer species that grows quickly and is highly drought tolerant, allowing it to thrive in the current conditions

City committee to offer free guided plant walk

n i b e l ' s V e g e t a t i o n

C o m m i t t e e w i l l o f f e r a g u i d e d n a t i v e v e g e t a t i o n a n d l a n d s c a p i n g t o u r o n

A p r i l 2 0 a t 9 a m o f t h e C i t y H a l l g r o u n d s , w h i c h i s p l a n t e d e x c l u s i v e l y w i t h n a t i v e p l a n t s .

W a l k t h e g r o u n d s f o r i d e a s o n p l a n t -

i n g n a t i v e v e g e t a t i o n t h a t r e q u i r e s n o f e r t i l i z e r S e e h o w t o p l a n t a g a r d e n t h a t r e s e e d s i t s e l f w i t h v e r y l i t t l e m a i n t en a n c e , i s g o o d f o r t h e e n v i r o n m e n t a n d w i l l a t t r a c t b i r d s a n d b u t t e r f l i e s V e g e t a t i o n C o m m i t t e e m e m b e r s w i l l p r o v i d e v a l u a b l e i n f o r m a t i o n o n p r o p e r

p l a n t i n g a n d c a r e o f n a t i v e v e g e t a t i o n T h e c i t y e n c o u r a g e s p l a n t i n g o f v e g e t at i o n t h a t i s i n d i g e n o u s t o t h e a r e a a s i t r e q u i r e s v e r y l i t t l e m a i n t e n a n c e , n o f e rt i l i z e r a n d n o s u p p l e m e n t a l i r r i g a t i o n

R e g i s t r a t i o n i s n o t r e q u i r e d .

M e e t i n f r o n t o f t h e m a i n s t a i r c a s e a t

t h e S a n i b e l C i t y H a l l , a t 8 0 0 D u n l o p R o a d , S a n i b e l 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 t h e N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e s D e p a r t m e n t a t s a n d n r @ m y s a n i b e l c o m o

Sanibel Captiva

PHOTO PROVIDED Mexican flame vine

Dune sunflower SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Recipe of the Week:

Ricotta Cheese and Herb Ravioli with Asparagus Cream Sauce

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

These ravioli are the Paganini family's Easter tradition

My husband’s grandfather, Emilio, came to the United States as a young man from Genova, Italy, and continued the tradition of making fresh ravioli for special occasions, especially the holidays for the whole family to enjoy Serves eight (Chef tip: To make egg wash, mix together in a small bowl one large egg and one teaspoon of water )

Egg wash, as needed

Basic dough:

2 cups Italian “00” or all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1/4 cup dry white wine

1 teaspoon sea salt

Filling:

2 clove garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chives, Italian parsley, basil)

4 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, well drained

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper

To make the dough, place the flour on a wooden board and form into a mound Make a deep well in the center and break eggs into it Add the wine and salt Use a fork to break up the eggs and mix the contents of the well.

Slowly add flour, beginning at the top of the well so the walls collapse and blend into the mixture When flour is almost totally absorbed begin kneading, pressing with the palms of your hands Knead the dough for about 20 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic (If dough is dry, add a few drops of water If sticky, add a sprinkle of flour )

Gather the dough into a ball, place in a mixing bowl, and cover with plastic wrap

Let rest for 30 minutes (To test for readiness, punch the dough with your index finger If it springs back, it is done )

In a large bowl, mix all filling ingredients together: ricotta, eggs, garlic, herbs, parmesan, salt and pepper Set aside

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 9

Triage of Wildlife Patients at 11 a m

The program will discuss the steps CROW's veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and wildlife rehabbers take when wild animals are admitted to the hospital for treatment

∫ Thursday, April 2 0

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW

∫ Friday, April 2 1

Wild Babies at CROW at 11 a m

The program will discuss the different wild babies admitted at CROW, including birds, mammals, and reptiles It will cover how CROW's certified wildlife professionals treat, raise, and prepare the babies for release back to the wild.

Admission to the center is free for a limited time It includes the above daily pres entations , and no res ervations are required to attend

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

Live the love that never dies

I m u s t c o n f e s s t h a t I used to pull out the periwink l e f l o w e r s t h a t w o u l d appear in our yard In spite of the fact that they were cheerful and colorful, they were not invited and did not fit the landscape plan. But after Hurricane Ian radically changed our yard, making it mostly a grey, moonlike expanse, the periwinkles came back, and I have decided to leave them and to love them.

Rev. William

Van Oss

They have transformed the dull greyness with depth and color They are beautiful and alive They keep on spreading in spite of the p o o r q u a l i t y o f t h e s o i l beneath them They give me hope and make me smile New life is returning to our yard and to my heart

Faces on Faith

Followers of Jesus have j u s t c e l e b r a t e d t h e g r e a t “three days” when we journeyed with Jesus from the noisy streets, to the upper room, to the trial and execution and to the empty tomb In the center of that story stands a cross where lovein-the-flesh was thought to have been killed But that was not the end of the story New life emerged from that d e a t h N e w h o p e s p r a n g forth in the midst of grief and sadness Death would not have the final word The love that he came to bring would never die He commissioned his first followers, and he commissions us, to “go” and “tell ” Live it “Live the love that never dies ”

See LOVE, page 25

To assemble ravioli, roll out a long thin sheet of dough and cut it into 12-by-6-inch pieces. Place one piece of dough on a ravioli tray, lightly brush with egg wash. Fill each ravioli chamber with a teaspoon of the prepared filling, top with a second sheet and seal with the help of a rolling pin Invert the tray and cut ravioli and place on a parchmentlined cookie sheet Repeat the process until all the pasta and filling has been used

Cook the ravioli in boiling salted water for about 4-5 minutes and then toss it with asparagus cream sauce

Asparagus Cream Sauce

This creamy and delicious sauce’s flavor is enhanced by fresh herbs and asparagus This is a favorite dish of my city Bologna, Italy, where the sauce is made many times with the addition of prosciutto Makes about 2 cups (Chef tip: Store your fresh herbs in a container filled with water in the refrigerator.)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 shallot, minced

1/4 cup dry sherry wine

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into thin pieces, reserve the tips

2 teaspoons fresh chives, chopped

2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh Italian parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper

In a medium saucepan, cook shallots in olive oil until translucent and soft. Stir in sherry and cook until wine is evaporated

Add in cream and asparagus, reserve the tips and bring to a boil Reduce until sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon

Add in fresh herbs and asparagus tips Toss with cooked ravioli Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and 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 Stephen Fuchs and Cantor Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer

Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p m at the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties, at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, and via Zoom For Zoom links, email batyamsanibel@gmail com

∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea

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

Rev Larry Marshall

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

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida

www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org

Lecture and discussion on Thursday at 11 a m via Zoom Torah Talk on the third Thursday of each month at 11 a m via Zoom Friday Shabbat service at 7:30 p m via Zoom Len Minsky Current Events discussion on Saturday at 11 a m via Zoom For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail com

∫ Sanibel Christian Science Church

2950 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239-810-1077

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

∫ Sanibel Community Church

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

Pastor Jeramie Rinne

Sunday service at 10 a m in the SCC Sanctuary Sunday service at 4 p m at the Fort Myers Community Church, at 8440 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel on Monday

∫ Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ

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

Senior Minister Dr Mark Boyea

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

∫ St. Isabel Catholic Church

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

Father Ed Martin

Friday Mass at 9 a m Weekend Masses on Saturday at 4 p m and Sunday at 10 a m

∫ St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church

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

Rev William “Bill” Van Oss

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

Loretta Paganini

“Bill”

Refuge’s ar tist-in-residence on exhibit

through Thursday from 9 a m to 5 p m The refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel REFUGE/DDWS

Shell Point to present concer t

T h e S h e l l P o i n t R e t i r e m e n t Community will present the Florida Gulf Coast University Jazz Ensemble and special guest Saturn Quartet on April 24 at 7 p m on the Connie Brown Hall Stage at the Tribby Arts Center, at 17281 On Par

themed concert will feature the music of New Orleans, from Louis Armstrong and

Jelly Roll Morton, to Benny Goodman and more. The New Orleans-based Saturn Quartet is comprised of members of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra Tickets are $25 For more information or tickets, visit https://www tribbyartscenter com/ or call 239-415-5667

SHELL POINT RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

REFUGE/DDWS

The winning cartoons are on display in the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor & Education Center on Sanibel.

Elementary schools take part in contest

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge reported that annual environmental cartoon contests are a tradition for local elementary schools, honoring the legacy of the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's namesake, a Pulitzer-winning editorial cartoonist of the early 20th century

It continued that Hurricane Ian decreased the number of schools this year, but not the quality of entries. Patriot Elementary in Cape Coral and The Sanibel School partici-

pated A miracle story: the island school's entries survived the storm and the school's closing for over four months Staff discovered them unharmed when the school reopened in February Congratulations to the winners and participants

∫ Patriot Elementary: Ochun Lopez, first place; Karolina Machado, second place; and Brody Howdyshell, third place

∫ The Sanibel School: Reagan Gould, first place; Grant Maddell, second place; and Sofia Bober, third place

‘Second Thoughts While Waiting to Make a Left Turn onto Periwinkle Way at Height of Season’

Maybe creating the paradise was too easy, maybe the overlooked place we built against the current fashion, the shell filled beaches we kept replenishing with borrowed sand, the great big sanctuary we convinced the Feds to protect and maintain,

the panoramic bridge now being replaced and raised fixed against our objections, maybe they were too much for paradise hunger to handle;

maybe the battered denuded Eden that greeted us after Hurricane Charley, the island powerless and steaming in the post-hurricane sun, the despised Australian Pines finally toppled into chaotic piles, the survivor trees left standing on Periwinkle like beheaded caryatids, were not grim enough reminders of paradise without us;

Bat Yam provides update on news and activities

The Bat Yam Temple of the Islands on Sanibel reported on its recent news and activities

The new board was announced at the Annual General Meeting on March 23. It reported that the board is off to a great start, and many of the members attended a myriad of functions held in recent weeks

Rabbi Stephen Fuchs announced his retirement as senior rabbi and accepted the position of rabbi emeritus He was Bat Yam's spiritual leader during the COVID pandemic and impact of Hurricane Ian It extended its gratitude for Fuchs' six years of service to its members and the community He and his wife, Vickie, have chosen to make Sanibel their home and will continue to be members A Shabbat service on April 28 at 6 p m at the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties in Fort Myers will feature special guests and friends to honor Fuchs.

Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer was welcomed as Bat Yam's rabbi/cantor He recently retired as the leader of the Bethesda Jewish Congregation after 21 years and maintains the status of rabbi emeritus Schnitzer has done work in interfaith relations with the Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church, Idara e Jaferia Mosque and Maqam Ibrahim Islamic Community, creating models of cooperation and appreciation that have been studied by communities in Europe and Asia His wife, Yaffah, is familiar with a meditative practice while chanting sacred texts and is keen to start classes as soon as a space becomes available

Late in March, Bat Yam members participated in an educational afternoon They watched a movie, “God On T r i a l , ” w h i c h i s a d o c u m e n t a r y a b o u t i n m a t e s a t Auschwitz who held a trial with witnesses, judges, and jury It reported that the somber discussion afterward was enlightening

Bat Yam had a booth at the Israel Festival at the Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers and it helped to celebrate 75 years of Israel's independence The event included Israeli singing, dancing and food

For Passover, 50 congregants held their first gathering on Sanibel since Ian in a home hosted by the owners Dr M a r k B o y e a , s e n i o r m i n i s t e r a t t h e S a n i b e l

Congregational United Church of Christ, attended as a guest of Fuchs Fuchs led the service, with Schnitzer playing his guitar and leading the singing A Seder Committee helped make it an evening to remember and catered the entire meal

Love

From page 23

As I ponder the periwinkles of Sanibel and the resurrection of Christ, I try to take to heart the words of writer Jay Cormier:

i g h t o f t h e R i s e n O n e b r e a k s t h r o u g h t h e d a r k n e s s o f f e a r a n d g r i

Joe Pacheco Poetic

License

and maybe the machine-gun staccato of generators drowned out by the brutal chainsaws, the thunder of disposal trucks, the hammering of roof repairs, and the army of pickups, maybe the cacophony of cleanup and rebuilding only whets the appetite for paradise;

maybe the debacle of drawbridge debate backfiring, the bitching and the bickering and the blame-placing, the acrimony and sanctimony of builders and antibuilders polluting the once polite air of paradise soon to be ruled by referendum and amendment maybe broken thus, the paradise heart can never be mended

the anaconda snake of haulers, cherry-pickers, pick-up trucks, campers, SUV’s and convertibles slowly suffocating Periwinkle won’t relax, no space appears between the vehicles:

“the back way on Gulf Drive” your only escape, like a beaten animal,

you make a right turn

Shell Find

Junonias found on Sanibel

Thomas Bates, of Belleville, Michigan, found a junonia on April 4 near Lighthouse Beach Park on Sanibel Kelly Bates reported that two days later, her husband found a second junonia in the same area She added that Bates has been shelling for about 10 years. It was his first time finding a junonia until two days later when he found another! To report a shell f i n d , c o n t a c t 2 3 9 - 4 7 2 - 1 5 8 7 o r

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

PHOTOS PROVIDED

t

e e n a

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

G o s p e l s , w e w i l l n e v e r s e e t h e w o r l d t h e

s a m e w a y a g a i n A f t e r h e a r i n g J e s u s ’

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

i m a g i n e A f t e r s e e i n g t h e w o r l d t h r o u g h

J e s u s ’ e y e s , o u r p e r s p e c t i v e s a n d a t t i -

t u d e s a r e t r a n s f o r m e d i n H i s l i g h t ”

A m e n

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