Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

School dist rict officials pr ovide legislative update

The School Board of Lee County accomplished many of its priorities during the 2024 legislative session

district continues efforts to keep buses on time with shortage

At the top of list? Needed fund “ T h i s y e a u n d e r y o u r direction and the s u p e r i n t e n d e n t , w e a s k e d f o r $6 1 (million) fo appropriation pr ect funding As of right n o w w e a r e w a i t i n g f o r g o v e r n o r ’ s approval in funding for $5 6 million,” C h i e f C o m m u n i c a t i o n & G o v e r n m e n t Relations Officer Angel Gomez said at the board's session on April 9 “A great achievement I can’t thank you enough ”

Other successes included Cape Coral Technical College Phase II $2 1 million, which has been funded and is awaiting the governor’s action, as well as Fort

Web Poll

Previous Web Poll Question

Did you plan ahead to watch the total solar eclipse on April 8?

∫ Yes, 33%

∫ No, but I saw it, 17%

∫ No, 50%

Current Web Poll Question

Did you attend the annual Islands night on April 17 at the Hammond Stadium?

∫ Yes

∫ No Share your opinion at captivasanibel com

Kudos, congratulations deserved across district

As we embark on this last quarter, I want to welcome Dr Ken Savage back to the role of superintendent He served the School District of Lee County w e l l d u r i n g t h e l a s t t r a n s itionary period and I am confident he will provide our students and staff stability in the months ahead while laying the g r o u n d w o r k f o r a n e l e c t e d superintendent in November

We also have so many wonderful things to reflect upon this school year. New school projects are already underway We have so much excitement surrounding our spring sports Not to mention the amazing educators who have been pres e n t e d t h e G o l d e n A p p l e Award for excellence in their profession

Guest Commentary

As many board members have previously stated, we have seen exponential growth within our district To accommodate the approximately 12,000 new seats needed, we have several projects in our near future. Many of these schools needed are in our East

A man of great character, intellect and passion

To the editor:

The Sanibel FlyFishers club mourns the loss of our founding member, Norm Ziegler, who died on April 13, 2024, after a long illness

Norm is an iconic figure in the world of fly fishing and it is not hyperbole to say that his name is synonymous with fly fishing for snook on Sanibel and in Southwest Florida Having spent years traveling the globe as a journalist and trout fisherman, Norm and his family landed on Sanibel in 1994 moving to a warmer clime for health reasons. At first despairing the lack of trout streams, Norm figured out the bounty of fly-fishing opportunities that Sanibel had to offer As he recounts in his classic book “Snook on a Fly,” “I spent so much time wondering whether I would ever again wade a trout stream that I could not see the wonders of a whole new fly fishing world that awaited my discovery ” But discover it he did, embarking on a love affair with snook and the rest is Sanibel history

In 1995, Norm designed a fly to catch snook on the beach and “Norm’s Crystal Schminnow” (looks a bit like a shrimp and a bit like a minnow) was born This fly is legendary in fly fishing circles, now having caught over 70 different species of fish In 2009, he opened Nom’s Fly, Bait and Tackle Shop on Periwinkle Way, which quickly became “the” place to stop if you

Zone I would like to congratu l a t e o u r n e w e s t s c h o o l s , A m a n e c e r E l e m e n t a r y a n d Lemuel Teal Middle, as they wrap up their inaugural year U n d e r a m a z i n g l e a d e r s h i p , t h e s t u d e n t s i n t h e s e t w o schools have soared

This year we made history by adding Girl’s Flag Football to the spring schedule The sport has taken off and I am proud to say many of these y o u n g w o m e n h a v e n e v e r been a part of team sport until now A huge congratulations to the schools that won their d i s t r i c t t i t l e i n o u r w i n t e r sports programs and I am confident we will have several more banners hanging in our gyms and on our field come the end of spring

H i g h s c h o o l w i n t e r s p o r t s D i s t r i c t

Champions include:

∫ Boys basketball: Gateway and Mariner

∫ Girls basketball: Gateway High School

∫ Boys soccer: Mariner and Fort Myers

Letters to the Editor

contemplated fly fishing in Southwest Florida

A visitor to the shop might find Norm behind the register, sitting on a well-worn couch with some buddies, talking and tying up Schminnows for sale After moving to Sanibel as a neophyte fly fisherman, I recall using any excuse possible to drive by Norm’s so I could soak in some of his wisdom and the special ambience of the place

Walking into Norm’s shop you were greeted by a man with a hint of New England about him (he grew up on Cape Cod), a sophisticated, well-read world traveler who could handle a pithy conversation on most any subject, a favorite being politics You also met a man who freely shared his knowledge (not necessarily a characteristic of many fisherman), garnered from deep personal experience, which was often a bit at odds with the common wisdom It was an education on many fronts!

Our club was established by Norm and a few friends in 2002 and at its outset was that same little group sitting around the couch in his shop It has grown organically over the past 20 years and now has over 150 members from Southwest Florida and beyond We meet fall to spring to enjoy each other’s company, share our knowledge with everyone and fish

Norm’s intellect and love of the environment led him to understand early on the threats to our waters and the inextricable link between healthy water and an abundant fishery Our club has followed Norm’s lead to make conservation part of

∫ Girls soccer: Mariner and Fort Myers

∫ Girls weightlifting: Fort Myers in both Olympic and traditional

Last but certainly not least, congratulations to all of our Golden Apple finalists All of these men and women have shown tremendous strength and passion for what they do inside our classroom walls Congratulations to our Golden Apple winners!

∫ Sarah Thornburg at Cypress Lake High School

∫ Jessica Lisi at Tanglewood Elementary

∫ C h r i s t i e B a r t z a t P i n e I s l a n d Elementary

∫ Jil Klausing at Dunbar High School

∫ Michelle Smith at Lehigh Senior High

∫ Sara Kizzire at Lehigh Senior High

Before closing, I would like to say thank you to all of our educators, bus drivers, support professionals and administrators What you do each day is appreciated and you are valued Keep an eye out next month It’s my favorite month in the world of education Teacher Appreciation Week is right around the corner Hug a teacher!

Jada Langford Fleming holds the District 6 seat on the Lee County School Board

Correction

In the Jan 17, 2024, issue of the Island Reporter, a letter to the editor was published about Lee County and the S o u t h S e a s r e d e v e l o p m e n t p l a n T h e word “fraud” used in the title and first paragraph should have been revised to “deceit” to match an updated version of the letter that was submitted by the writer

our mission We advocate, educate and make grants to local conservation groups all part of his legacy

To know Norm was to know a man of great character, intellect and passion He has left a legacy that we trust will carry on for generations. Rest in peace our friend.

Jeff Grossman President Sanibel FlyFishers

More productive, positive options to consider

To the editor:

I sent my neighbor a picture of the sunset while walking the beach with my dog and I texted in jest, “I just found a couple of nice shells and I can’t stop Lol ” She responded

See LETTERS, page 7

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

Jada Langford Fleming

County seeks extension for responding to FEMA

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Lee County has asked the Federal 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 t o extend its 30-day deadline to provide additional information before the agency eliminates its 25% discount on flood insurance policies

On April 16, Lee County Manager Dave Harner told the county commission that staff requested the extension so it

could have additional time to respond to F E M A ' s r e t r o g r a d e o f t h e c o u n t y ' s Community Rating System rating, which resulted in FEMA giving notice that it would yank the National Flood Insurance Program discount for most of the county, including Captiva as part of unincorporated Lee

He said the county is requesting additional time to provide more documents to FEMA to show its rating should not be

downgraded. The request included the four affected municipalities Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach and Estero

The cities of Sanibel and Fort Myers were not affected

“We did ask for an additional time frame and that was collectively, the county and the municipalities, asked for additional time frame beyond the 30 days, that is still in the process of being discussed,”

County library system offers virtual programs

The Lee County Library System, which includes the Captiva Memorial Library, is offering the following free virtual programming:

Adult programs

∫ May 1: Online Author Event with Douglas Brunt from 3 to 4 p m

Chat with New York Times bestselling author Douglas Brunt about the instant bestselling debut non-fiction work, “The Mysterious Case of Rudolph Diesel: Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War I ” The book reveals the hidden history of Rudolf Diesel, one of the world’s greatest

inventors, and his mysterious disappearance on the eve of WWI Brunt reopens the case and provides a compelling new conclusion about Diesel's fate Registration is required

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

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

On May 1, it will switch to its off-season hours of Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a m to 12:30 p m and 1 to 4 p m

For more information, call 239-533-4890

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

Harner said. “Regardless, I do feel confident that we will be able to provide the documentation based on the conversations we had to ensure we meet compliance and keep our rating ”

He said the county also received a 90day extension on its annual CRS recertification from FEMA since the county is concerned with staff taking the time to provide “voluminous” amounts of materi-

See FEMA, page 7

South Seas to host community meeting regarding rezoning

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

An island resort will hold a public information meeting this week about its rezoning request

South Seas will host a voluntary community meeting on April 25 from 4 to 6 p m to discuss the Mixed Use Planned Development (MPD) rezoning application that it filed in December with Lee County According to a notice, the meeting will be held in an “open house” format, with the resort team on-site “ S o u t h S e a s i s c u r r e n t l y w o r k i n g through Lee County's zoning process as we proceed with our redevelopment plans post Hurricane Ian,” the resort said in a provided statement “We will voluntarily host an open house at South Seas to update the community on the project and rezoning process and to respond to questions ”

Prior to submitting the application last year, the resort unveiled its proposed plan to its homeowners The resort reported that immediately after, it hosted a news conference to publicly unveil the plan

“We continue to host monthly homeowner meetings to share our progress,” it said “All meetings are recorded, and the presentation decks, as well as the recordings, can be accessed on our website ”

The resort noted that there have been an additional 84 meeting opportunities with individuals

“(We) will continue to address questions,” it said “We are steadfast in our commitment to transparency, to following Lee County's rezoning process and to

FEMA

From page 6

al for the current appeals process and would not have enough time to meet the recertification deadline without an extension

Harner said staff have met directly with FEMA administrators, including the district administrator who made the initial decision on the retrograde from a 5 to a 10 the lowest ranking, which carries no discount on policies

“Through these conversations, we got to the point where they guaranteed they would have staff in the county (to meet with directly),” he said

Harner said the county has worked with the municipalities to have a unified message to FEMA

“We continue to provide feedback collectively,” he said

Harner said staff has been meeting weekly with U S Sen Rick Scott to discuss the situation

“The folks we have are committed to w h a t t h e y a r e d o i n g T h e y l i v e a n d breathe this stuff They take every comment to heart,” he said

“I am very confident that we will have the documentation,” Harner added

One of the main reasons cited by FEMA for its downgrading of the ranking is that work was done without permits after Hurricane Ian L

Pendergrass said the county should not be penalized if some residents did work on their homes without permits He added that there are still thousands of people waiting for permits

Pendergrass said the county does not have the authority to go into every home and see if somebody is replacing a wall or carpet without a permit

“People run red lights,” he said “There are some people making the choices to 'build back as fast as I can and I won’t get caught' and they will get caught sooner or later.”

Harner said there are not enough staff to inspect all of the properties in the county

“I think there was confusion early on when it came to how we evaluate substantial damage,” he said

“When you are devastated like Lee County was, and I’m not talking the entity, I’m talking all the municipalities, that is a large number of people you need in order to go out and look at all those homes,” Harner added.

He said it was “impossible” to have enough staff to handle all of the inspections

“Cape Coral, for example, needed 300 ( i n s p e c t o r s , ) w e n e e d e d d o u b l e t h a t , ”

Harner said

There were more than 60,000 permits issued by the county in the 2022-23 fiscal year More than 5,000 demolition permits

Meeting

rebuilding South Seas for future generations ”

P a r k i n g f o r t h e meeting will be available to the right of the g u a r d h o u s e i n s i d e o f South Seas

A t r o l l e y w i l l b e a v a i l a b l e t o t r a n s p o r t attendees to the meeting location

For questions, contact Tom Sacharski of R V i P l a n n i n g + Landscape Architecture a t 9 4 1 - 7 0 6 - 6 1 3 2 o r t s a c h a r s k i @ r v i p l a nning com

S o u t h S e a s i s a t 5 4 0 0 S o u t h S e a s P l a n t a t i o n R o a d , Captiva

From page 6

were issued in the special flood hazard area More than 2,000 violations were issued since Ian for work without a permit

FDOT provides update on causeway project

The Florida Department of Transportation reported that crews have moved traffic to the permanent lanes on the Sanibel Causeway The causeway islands surrounding the temporary roadway are an active work zone and closed to public access, including from the water

Beginning today, April 24, motorists should expect daytime lane closures at the intersection of Punta Rassa Road and McGregor Boulevard for Lee County to repair and install temporary traffic signals On island (westbound) lane closures are not anticipated before 10 a m and off island (eastbound) lane closures are not anticipated after 3 p m Flagging operations may be required The work will last approximately two weeks Drivers should be aware of overhead work and construction crews within the median and near the travel lanes

Motorists should expect one lane of eastbound travel

to continue from the toll plaza to Shell Point Road on the s o u t h ( b e a c h ) s i d e o f M c G r e g o r T h e s h o u l d e r (south/beach side) remains fully closed to access The closure is necessary for crews to excavate and install underground devices (marine mattresses) to reinforce the shoreline. The closure is expected through May. The contractor may intermittently use the lane for materials delivery

Motorists traveling westbound on McGregor may experience short delays for FHP to stop vehicles to allow materials deliveries to access the staging area at Punta Rassa

Crews are installing underground devices (marine mattresses) to reinforce the shoreline, sea wall and retaining wall along the causeway Crews also continue earthwork and debris removal along the causeway islands

E x p e c t c o n s t r u c t i o n e q u i p m e n t p e r i o d i c a l l y entering/leaving the travel lanes when necessary The contractor is limiting the interruption during peak hours

The westbound merge location is now west of the toll plaza Motorists are urged to use caution and obey the posted 20 mph speed limit. Construction vehicles and equipment continue to enter/exit the staging area near the location

Many oversized vehicles are crossing the causeway to assist with recovery efforts on the island Please be patient as travel may be slower than usual. Bicyclists are encouraged to utilize another mode of transportation to travel the causeway and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w s w f l r o a d s c o m / SanibelCauseway

Two island residents injured in fatal vehicle crash

By STAFF REPORT

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

An 80-year-old woman who was sitting with friends at a table outside a Matlacha restaurant was killed and four others were injured on April 13 when a vehicle went off the road and crashed into their table.

A c c o r d i n g t o t h e F l o r i d a H i g h w a y Patrol, a sedan that was traveling east on Pine Island Road struck five patrons seated at outside tables at That BBQ Place, at 4590 Pine Island Road N W , and then hit an unoccupied motorcycle and a west-

From page 4

with, “I guess you haven’t seen the article limiting the number of shells taken” to which I texted back, “Is this an April Fools joke?” To my dismay, she sent me a copy of the letter to the editor from the A p r i l 1 0 , 2 0 2 4 , i s s u e o f t h e I s l a n d Reporter.

OK I admit it, I’m a self-proclaimed shellaholic and I am guilty Put me in jail

bound pickup truck

M a t l a c h a / P i n e I s l a n d F i r e C o n t r o l

District Chief Ben Mickuleit reported that a number of island emergency crews, along with four ambulances and two EMS supervisors, responded at 5:50 p m to the report of multiple people being struck by a vehicle at a restaurant

He said one victim was found to be deceased, three victims were trauma alert transported to the hospital by ground ambulance and one victim was transported by helicopter

The FHP report states that a 58-yearold man and 55-year-old woman, both of

Sanibel, were among those transported

They sustained minor injuries in the crash

T h e o t h e r s i n c l u d e d a 7 7 - y e a r - o l d Matlacha man with serious injuries and a 67-year-old Matlacha man with minor injuries

The woman who died at the scene was from Matlacha

The conditions of the island residents were unknown on April 11

The driver of the sedan, whose name has not been released, is a 24-year-old man from Cape Coral. The man was not injured, according to the FHP report

The FHP report states that the sedan was traveling east on Pine Island, south of

Letters

and throw away the key. Or how about this: I’ve told my children that when I die, gather up all of the shells I have collected for these many years while on Sanibel, rent a boat and go out in the Gulf of Mexico and have a celebration of life as you dump them back into the water That way someone else, as well as the homeless hermit crab, can have a chance to find them What a lovely way to recycle to

Island Avenue, when it when off the roadway and entered the north gravel shoulder The vehicle then collided with a noparking sign and wooden decorative post and traveled into the outside seating area of the restaurant

The sedan struck the building, as well as a motorcycle parked at the restaurant, mailboxes and garbage cans, re-entered the roadway and struck the pickup truck, according to FHP

T h e F H P r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e c r a s h remains under investigation Charges are pending

nature her amazing creations, as well as bring others the thrill that comes with finding this abundant treasure Perhaps t h e r e t u r n o f c o l l e c t e d s h e l l s c o u l d become an annual event to raise awareness and support for the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium or the Sanibel Shell Show. How about a variety of shell recycling ideas highlighting the return of thousands of shells to the Gulf. I’m looking for and suggesting incentives and possibilities here That’s far more productive and positive than a fine or worse from the shell police Let's find a way to share the joy and gratitude for the many gifts of the sea, but not limit or deny them.

Judy Boone Freeland, Maryland

BUSINESS

Business Notes

SCCF to take par t in chamber panel

The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce will host a panel discussion, “Blue Equals Green,” on May 1 from 7:30 to 9:30 a m at the Hyatt House Naples/5th Avenue, at 1345 5th Ave S., Naples.

Focusing on how water quality impacts the bottom line, the conservation will center upon a recent analysis of the economic repercussions of degraded water q u a l i t y T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n F o u n d a t i o n , C a p t a i n s F o r C l e a n W a t e r a n d Conservancy of Southwest Florida partnered on the study

Moderated by chamber Chief Executive Officer and President Kristina Park, the panelists will include Captains for Clean Water co-founder and Executive D i r e c t o r C a p t D a n i e l A n d r e w s , S C C F C h i e f E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r J a m e s E v a n s , J o h n R . W o o d P r o p e r t i e s P r e s i d e n t C o r e y R M c C l o s k e y a n d Conservancy of Southwest Florida President and Chief Executive Officer Rob Moher

The panel will also discuss how good water quality has a positive economic impact and how projects and policies seeking to improve water quality will pay off through a more robust economy

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o r e g i s t e r , v i s i t https://business napleschamber org/events/Details/blu

e - e q u a l s - g r e e n - h o w - w a t e r - q u a l i t y - i m p a c t s - y o u rb u s i n e s s - b o t t o m - l i n e1089089?sourceTypeId=Website.

San Cap Bank promotes Kaduk, Har tman

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 announced the promotion of Rachel Kaduk to a residential loan officer and Mike Hartman to director of residential l e n d i n g , b o t h a t t h e Bridge Branch in Fort Myers

Kaduk was hired in 2020 as an interim loan operations specialist to a s s i s t w i t h t h e S m a l l B u s i n e s s Administration Payroll P r o t e c t i o n P r o g r a m T h r e e m o n t h s a f t e r joining the bank, she transitioned to a permanent position as a residential loan coordinator responsible for reviewi n g l o a n a p p l i c a t i o n s and preparing mortgage f i l e s f o r d e l i v e r y t o underwriting

Kaduk sits on severa l n o n p r o f i t b o a r d s , including the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral, Guardian Angels f o r S p e c i a l P o p u l a t i o n s a n d S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a S y m p h o n y I n a d d i t i o n , s h e i s a c t i v e w i t h t h e Chamber of Southwest Florida and Lee County Republican Liberty Caucus

Kaduk was honored at the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral’s Chairman’s Gala and Excellence in Business Awards as a 2024 Chamber Champion It also recognized her in 2022 as the Government Affairs Committee Member of the Year Last year, Kaduk was chosen as one of 10 Southwest Florida

See BUSINESS NOTES, page 20

The SanCap Chamber of Commerce celebrates hurricane recovery and The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company's new office on Sanibel on April 2

Chamber cuts ribbon at new trust company office

A SanCap Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting on April 2 celebrated the opening of a new office location on Sanibel for The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, a relocation that was set in motion before Hurricane Ian.

“Sanibel Captiva Trust has been a major financial and philanthropic attribute of the community since 2001,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “Its move to a new office gives us good reason for excitement as an indicator of recovery and forward motion in our community ”

Formerly located on Tarpon Bay Road, the company begun construction on the Periwinkle Way office before Ian hit Seven feet of flood water destroyed the original office and most of its contents, but mostly spared the new building because of its early stages of construction With no drywall installed, the waters swept in and out, delaying the project but not damaging the infrastructure

The company is also opening a Fort Myers office at Bell Tower later this month

“Our Naples and Tampa offices immediately jumped in with our company disaster plan by rerouting our mail, manning our phones and offering office space, living

quarters and office support while we helped clients and friends with everything from finding shelter, helping them access their accounts and providing much needed communication to their families,” founder and Chair S. Albert D Hanser said

T h e c o m m u n i t y o f f e r e d s u p p o r t , t o o , i n c l u d i n g RE/MAX Realty, Broadway Palm, Robb & Stucky and the Shell Point Retirement Community in Fort Myers They helped with office space and venues for special events that the company hosted

“We know our clients and their families,” Sanibel Office President Jeff Muddell said “We develop investment strategies that align with their estate plans, addressing an array of situations such as retirement, wealth transfer, tax mitigation, divorce, loss of a spouse, business succession planning and more.”

With the motto, “Always do the right thing,” the company provided client and much-needed nonprofit support during the pandemic and hurricane recovery It also supports the chamber's efforts

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company office is at 2450 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

P f e i f e

Greg Demaras was the top volume sales consultant and top listing agent He is a state-licensed Realtor with over three decades of real estate expertise Demaras was the 2018 S a n i b e l C a p t i v a “ R o o k i e o f t h e Year” and earned his Best-of-Zillow designation in 2020 He is board president of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Rachel Kaduk

Mike Hartman

SANCAP CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PRESERVING PARADISE

SCCF provides legislative process update, overview

T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n F o u n d a t i o n reported that public participation during the 2024 legislative session via action alerts resulted in 11,543 connections to legislators about four bills. Two bills that the SCCF opposed did not pass, one opposed bill passed, and one supported bill passed

The SCCF continued that it expects some of the bad bills defeated this year will be back next session, but it will continue to monitor any state actions and work to protect the natural environment

“Many of the bills that we opposed either did not pass or were amended to remove the most harmful provisions of the bill Unfortunately, supporting or opposing a bill is nuanced, as many of the bills that pass contain both good and bad provisions that must be considered when deciding to ultimately oppose or support,” it reported “One of the bills dominated by harmful, anti-renewable energy policies, HB 1645 Energy Resources, is targeted for an SCCF veto campaign This bill was amended to include many of the damaging provisions that were removed from related bills ”

Final steps before bills become law

The SCCF reported that during election years when the legislative session starts early, there are several months between the end of session and the beginning of the July 1 fiscal year, when all of the bills and the budget must be passed by the governor Since the end of the session on March 8, only 73 of the 291 general bills that passed in session had been presented to Gov Ron DeSantis as of April 5

The SCCF continued that once a bill has been sent to the governor, the governor has 15 days to sign it or veto it or it will become law without a signature

The Legislature sends small batches of bills to the governor at a time, but the SCCF expects that flow to accelerate as the June 30 deadline gets closer

“Please continue to join us to impact important environmental policy in Florida as we send you additional information on upcoming bill veto campaigns

Until then, we will update the SCCF Legislative Tracker to show which bills have been signed into law,” it reported “Thank you for your interest and influence in shaping the laws that protect our communities.”

To view the SCCF Legislative Tracker, visit https://sccf org/what-we-do/environmental-policy/

Paving way for least tern nesting

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that the public may see fake wooden birds along the beach on Sanibel, thanks to a nest-attraction effort underway for state-threatened least terns a beach-nesting bird species and the smallest tern species in the world

Volunteers teamed up with SCCF shorebird and Coastal Watch staff to paint and place the decoys in ideal nesting locations where terns would be able to safely care for their eggs and chicks

“Least terns are a social species, often spending time together during migration and during the nesting season When decoys are deployed, the terns recognize that there are 'birds' settled in a suitable and safe nesting area, and they are drawn to nest in that area,” shorebird technician Aaron White said. “This is a method known as social attraction.”

Least terns primarily nest in large groups, or colonies, in large open areas of bare sandy beaches There are many areas across Sanibel and Captiva that may appear suitable to the terns as they search for nesting grounds Some of the spots, however, can be problematic for the birds and ongoing Hurricane Ian restoration projects, such as the Causeway Islands, which the birds attempted to nest on last year

“Our decoys are a method to help encourage these birds to nest in more ideal locations, although they ultimately decide for themselves where to nest and it is not a guaranteed solution,” he said “Our wonderful volunteers who helped us paint and place the least tern decoys also helped us set up enclosures around them with stakes, string and signs to prevent disturbance of the habitat ”

White explained that nesting as a group allows least terns to more easily communicate and detect nearby threats such as predators

“Once a threat is detected, least terns collectively start dive bombing and defecating on the threat yes, really to drive it away from the colony,” he said. “Threats are not limited to predators such as coyotes or crows, they may also perceive humans as threats, so be wary of incoming airstrikes if you are walking past an enclosed least tern nesting area ”

SCCF: Have you seen a Peter ’s rock agama on the islands?

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation is asking for the public's help in documenting the postHurricane Ian spread of Peter's rock agamas, formerly known as African red-head agamas, into new areas on the islands

“We’ve had a sharp increase in reported sightings,” SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz said “Since Hurricane Ian, we’ve documented several species of flora and fauna that have moved to new areas on the island where they were previously not present.”

The SCCF reported that native to West Africa, the species was purposefully introduced into Florida as early as 1976 by the pet trade They can

SanCap Resilience holds community event

n C a p R e s i l i e n c e h o s t e d “ A f f o r d a b l e , E f f i c i e n t , a n d S u s t a i n a b l e B u i l d i n g P r a c t i c e s ” o n A p r i l 8 a t T h e C o m m u n i t y H o u s e o n S a n i b e l a n d v i a Z o o m T h e c o m m u n i t y e v e n t w a s p r e s e n t e d i n c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h t h e S a n i b e lC 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 a n d C o m m u n i t y H o u s i n g & R e s o u r c e s T h e p r o g r a m f e a t u r e d D r J e n n i f e r L a n g u e l l , p r e s i d e n t a n d f o u n d e r o f T r i f e c t a C o n s t r u c t i o n S o l u t i o n s H e r p r e s e n t a t i o n a d d r e s s e d r e s i l i e n c y t h r o u g h p r o g r a m s l i k e F O R T I F I E D h o m e c e r t i f i c a t i o n s t h a t g u a r a n t e e i n s u r a n c e c o v e r a g e a n d p r e m i u m d i sc o u n t s S h e a l s o w e n t i n t o d e p t h o n p r a c t i c a l b u i l d i n g p r a c t i c e s t h a t i m p r o v e b u i l d i n g e f f i c i e n c y , r e d u c e e n e r g y i m p a c t s a n d c o s t s , i m p r o v e w a t e r c o n s e r v a t i o n , i n c r e a s e i n t e r i o r a i r q u a l i t y , a n d m i n i m i z e n e g a t i v e e n v i r o nm e n t a l i m p a c t s a l l w h i l e k e e p i n g c o s t s s i m i l a r t o c o n v e n t i o n a l b u i l d i n g p r a c t i c e s S C C F C h i e f E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r J a m e s E v a n s p r o v i d e d a n u p d a t e o n h o w h i s o r g a n i z a t i o n i s a p p r o a c h i n g r e n o v a t i o n a n d r e c o n s t r u c t i o n o f t h e S C C F f a c i l it i e s d a m a g e d d u r i n g H u r r i c a n e I a n a n d h o w t h e r e s i l i e n c y a s p e c t r e l a t e s t o t h e c o r e m i s s i o n a n d s t r a t e g i c g o

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Isl and lIvIng

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

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

W i t h s u p p o r t f r o m t h e S a n i b e l P u b l i c L i b r a r y Foundation, the library has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders. The next one will take place on May 1 at 3 p.m. with New York Times bestselling author Douglas Brunt He will talk about his non-fiction work, “The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel: Genius, Power, and Deception on the Eve of World War I ”

Brunt is also the author of “Ghosts of Manhattan,” and he hosts the SiriusXM author podcast “Dedicated with Doug Brunt ”

A question-and-answer session with the author will follow

T o r e g i s t e r f o r t h e a u t h o r t a l k , v i s i t https://libraryc org/sanlib/upcoming

Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:

Crafternoon with Ms Shannon will take place today, April 24, from 3:30 to 4:30 p m Ages 4 and up and their caregiver can join staffer Shannon Gafgen to make a work of art A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance

On April 26, Family Storytime for ages 5 and under and their caregiver will be held from 10:30 to 11 a m with Gafgen Sing, read, question and move around during the stories, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, motor skills and creativity The program

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on May 1 with Douglas Brunt

will include an art/craft center

Lego Boat 3D Printing will take place on April 26 from 11 a m to noon Learn how to 3D print objects with the Makerbot 3D printer Participants will print their own balloon-powered Lego boat, decorate it and add blocks, then test their boat in the water

On April 27, Strengthen & Stretch with Ms Robin will be held from 9:30 to 10 a m for ages 4-10 The class will combine energetic movements, playful stretches and calming breathwork Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle and towel

Crafternoon with Ms Shannon will take place on May

See LIBRARY, page 14

Sanibel fire district encourages AED registration

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District reported that in partnership with Lee County Emergency Public Safety, it is

Island school named School of Excellence

T h e S c h o o l D i s t r i c t o f L e e

County reported that The Sanibel School is one of 11 schools to be designated as Schools of Excellence for the 2022-23 year by the Florida State Board of Education

encouraging the registration of Automated External Defibrillators in the community

“I'm reaching out to emphasize the importance of a quick response during cardiac emergencies, which significantly increases survival rates,” Fire Chief Kevin Barbot said. ““It's a small step that can have a big impact on our community's safety ”

The district cited the following reasons for registering an Automated External Defibrillator (AED):

∫ Immediate response: Registered AEDs can be quickly located by 911 operators, guiding callers to the nearest device during emergencies

∫ Lifesaving instructions: Lee County Emergency Communications provides essential guidance on using the AED effectively, maximizing the chance of saving a life

“Please help us spread the word by sharing this message with anyone who might own an AED on the island. Together, we can make Sanibel a safer place for everyone,” he said “Thank you for your commitment to our community's well-being ”

To register an AED, visit https://survey123 arcgis com/share/58d90e295a484a3ca1 0436f9f2aeb547

Education Notes

S c h o o l s a r e d e s i g n a t e d a s a School of Excellence if the school's percentage of possible points earned in its school grade calculation is in the 80th percentile or higher for schools comprised of the same grade group In addition to the island school, the others included: Cypress Lake Middle School, Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School, Fort M y e r s B e a c h E l e m e n t a r y , F o r t Myers High School, Gulf Middle S c h o o l , P i n e I s l a n d E l e m e n t a r y , Pinewoods Elementary, Rayma C P a g e E l e m e n t a r y , T h r e e O a k s E l e m e n t a r y a n d T r a f a l g a r M i d d l e School.

Five charter schools also earned

the designation and include: Florida S o u t h w e s t e r n C o l l e g i a t e H i g h School, Oasis Charter ElementaryNorth, Oasis Charter ElementarySouth, Oasis Charter Middle and The Island School

The Schools of Excellence program was created by the Florida Legislature in 2017 Schools that initially qualify for the designation retain their designation as a School of Excellence for up to three years, at the end of which they may renew the designation

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

Other enforcement actions

∫ On April 10, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excess speed. A records check revealed the vehicle was unregistered and the driver was subsequently issued a citation for speeding and a notice to appear for tag attached not assigned The vehicle was towed from the scene

∫ On April 10, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excess speed The driver was subsequently issued a warning for speeding and a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued

∫ On April 15, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excess speed The driver was subsequently issued a citation for speeding and a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued.

Enforcement operations statistics

From April 9-15:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 7

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 13

∫ Traffic crashes: 3

∫ Radar details: 78

∫ Traffic stops: 67

Citations issued: 23

Written warnings issued: 3

Verbal warnings issued: 45

∫ Residential area checks: 468

∫ Business area checks: 213

∫ Total area checks: 1,042

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 0

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,357

April 2024 to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 12

∫ Non-emergency calls: 37

∫ Traffic crashes: 8

∫ Radar details: 138

∫ Traffic stops: 117

Citations issued: 42

Written warnings issued: 4

Verbal warnings issued: 79

∫ Residential area checks: 963

∫ Business area checks: 479

∫ Total area checks: 2,242

∫ Reported burglaries: 1

∫ Reported thefts: 1

∫ Total CAD calls: 2,877

Impor tant reminders

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

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

page 14

MAYRA CASTILLO

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

Blotter

From page 13

T h e 2 0 2 4 A n n u a l B e a c h P a r k i n g

P e r m i t s a r e a v a i l a b l e a t t h e S a n i b e l Recreation Center and are valid from the date of purchase through Nov 30 The 2023 permits have expired and are no longer valid

The city of Sanibel's 2021 and 2022

Hurricane Re-entry Passes are still valid

If you have one, you do not need to reapply for a new pass

I n f o r m a t i o n f o r t h e S a n i b e l B o a t

Ramp:

∫ Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day

∫ P a r k i n g a n d b o a t l a u n c h i n g o n weekends and holidays is with AC/BC permit only

∫ Commercial use is prohibited

∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500

Kiwanis upgrade parking lot with new signs

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club recently provided and installed new directional signs for The Community House's parking lot on the north side of Periwinkle Way on Sanibel They are intended to help drivers navigate the lot, which can be confusing “This project is just one of many we do to help out other island non-profits and the community at large,” club President Jeff Blackman said “Our members get satisfaction from doing these projects and like to feel they are making a difference that benefits our unique way of life here

the

”

Library

1 from 3:30 to 4:30 p m

From page 13

Ages 4 and up and their caregiver can join staffer Shannon Gafgen to make a work of art A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance

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

In addition, the library will be getting a new roof The parking garage and other areas may be blocked off for safety and, at times, there may be loud construction noise Visitors are advised to use caution The major project is predicted to be completed within three to four weeks Officials thanked the public for its understanding during the work

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

The Sanibel Public Library is open Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a m to 8 p m and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, call 239-472-2483 or visit https://sanlib org/

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel

Please share any photos of solicitation hang tags to police@mysanibel com or use Tip411

Repor ting suspicious activity

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

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then

your tip to 847411

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

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

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

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

KIWANIS CLUB

Volunteers from the Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club install new directional signs at The Community House's parking lot on Sanibel

on

islands

Sanibel fire crew rescues pelican

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District reported that crews take out the fire boat on Fridays for training One recent Friday, Engine 179 noticed a pelican in distress When the crew got closer to the bird, it noticed that the pelican had a hook and some monofilament line hanging from its mouth It was able to secure the bird and transport it to the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel for further treatment Along with a fishing hook, about 40 feet of fishing line was removed Thanks to all of those who helped the pelican, it was able to recover The public is reminded to properly dispose of fishing hooks and lines To learn about about responsible fishing, visit Mind Your Line at mindyourline org

Recreation center provides update on activities and events

The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities

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

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District will offer complimentary blood pressure screenings on April 29 from 9 and 11 a m in the lobby

New and current members can call 239-472-0345 or stop by the front desk for assistance with setting up their CivicRec account

The center is open on Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a m to 7 p m , Fridays from 7 a m to 5 p m and Saturdays from 8 a m to 5 p m A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available.

For more information, visit https://www mysanibel com/sanibel-online

The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel

Temporarily closure for Lighthouse Beach lots

The city of Sanibel reported that e f f e c t i v e A p r i l 2 2 , a l l L i g h t h o u s e Beach Park parking lots are closed for contractors to replenish the berm at the Sanibel Lighthouse Work is expected to be completed by May 1, before sea turtle nesting season begins The city's 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 h a d identified areas near the lighthouse to receive additional sand in response to erosion from recent weather events Permits have been acquired for a more substantial renourishment at the beach park planned for the fall Information will be sent out notifying the public of the reopening of the lots as soon as work is done

BioBlitz par ticipants can take par t in Bingo

The public can use iNaturalist to help the 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 d o c u m e n t flora and fauna in Lee C o u n t y f r o m n o w through April 27

One fun way to participate i n i t s E a r t h W e e k B i o B l i t z i s w i t h t h e B i o B l i t z B i n g o c a r d S i m p l y s n a p p h o t o s , document the findings t o t h e S C C F ' s iNaturalist project and mark off those boxes

Once participants have c o n q u e r e d a B i n g o , turn in the completed card by May 3 to the S C C F ' s h e a d q u a r t e r s , a t 3 3 3 3 S a n i b e lCaptiva Road, Sanibel, between 8 a m and 4 p m Monday through Friday to claim a prize

S u p p l i e s a r e l i m i t e d

For more information

o r t o d o w n l o a d a n d print the Bingo card, v i s i t https://sccf org/event/e arth-day-bioblitz/

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

CITY OF SANIBEL

Corps resumes releases from Lake Okeechobee

T h e U S A r m y C o r p s o f E n g i n e e r s ' J a c k s o n v i l l e

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

o n A p r i l 6 w e s t a t 6 5 0 c u b i c f e e t p e r s e c o n d ( c f s ) o u t o f t h e W P F r a n k l i n L o c k a n d D a m ( S - 7 9 ) t o p r o v i d e l o w f l o w s t o e s t u a r i e s a n d m i t i g a t e s t a g n a n t

c o n d i t i o n s i n t h e c a n a l s a l o n g t h e C a l o o s a h a t c h e e R i v e r T h e C o r p s a d d e d t h a t c o n d i t i o n s i n t h e C a l o o s a h a t c h e e b a s i n h a v e b e c o m e m u c h d r i e r t h a n t h e y h a d b e e n i n p r e v i o u s w e e k s , l e a d i n g t o z e r o f l o w s a n d s t a g n a t i o n i n t h e r i v e r I n a c k n o w l e d g e m e n t o f t h e S o u t h F l o r i d a W a t e r M a n a g e m e n t D i s t r i c t ' s r e q u e s t , J a c k s o n v i l l e D i s t r i c t

Interactive guide to open island businesses

C a l o o s a h a t c h e e a n d m a i n t a i n i n g z e r o f l o w s t o t h e

S t L u c i e T h e C o r p s c o n t i n u e d t h a t i t w o u l d r e s u m e i t s d r y s e a s o n s t r a t e g y t o l o w e r L a k e O k e e c h o b e e p r i o r t o t h e w e t s e a s o n I t b e g a n t a r g e t i n g a s e v e n - d a y a v e r -

a g e p u l s e r e l e a s e s c h e d u l e o f 2 , 0 0 0 c f s a t t h e S - 7 9

o n A p r i l 1 3 a n d w i l l c o n t i n u e t h o s e r e l e a s e s t h r o u g h

t h e d r y s e a s o n , b a r i n g a n y s i g n i f i c a n t c h a n g e s i n

c o n d i t i o n s I t w i l l a l s o c o n t i n u e z e r o r e l e a s e s t o t h e

e a s t a t S t L u c i e L o c k a n d D a m ( S - 8 0 )

C o m m a n d e r C o l J a m e s B o o t h c o n f e r r e d w i t h s t a k eh o l d e r s o n t h e w e s t c o a s t t o d i s c u s s t h e c h a n g e i n r i v e r c o n d i t i o n s A f t e r s o l i c i t i n g f e e d b a c k , t h e C o r p s w i l l c o n t i n u e i t s t w o - w e e k e f f o r t t o a l l o w d o w ns t r e a m e s t u a r i e s t o r e c o v e r , w h i l e s i m u l t a n e o u s l y m i t i g a t i n g s t a g n a n t c a n a l c o n d i t i o n s i n t h e

Lions Club accepting scholarship applications

The Sanibel Captiva Lions Club offers Francis Bailey Scholarships each year to post-secondary education students who either live or work on the islands or whose parents do

The scholarships are in the amount of $3,000 per year and are renewable for up to four years as long as the recipient remains a full-time student in good standing They can be used toward undergraduate and technical education, but not for graduate education

The scholarships are awarded based on academic performance and financial need

The deadline for the submission is May 1

F o r t h e a p p l i c a t i o n a n d i n s t r u c t i o n s , v i s i t www sanibelcaptivalionsclub com

For more information or questions, email the club through its website

Peter’s rock agama

of buildings

Males have an orange/red head with a blue body The tail starts off whitish and blends to orange/red in the middle and ends in black

Females are primarily brown with faint whitish spots The brown head has more distinct spots that can range from white to green and often connect into stripes

They are primarily insect and other small invertebrate eaters but will also consume smaller lizards such as anoles, and they have also been documented eating small mammals, birds and vegetation

“Sightings of this invasive and exotic species on Sanibel began in 2006 when two were documented on the west end of the island,” he said

The SCCF reported that their sudden appearance was not a mystery as several other exotic lizards, such as the northern curly-tailed lizard, brown basilisk, Cuban knight anole and flat-tailed gecko, were also documented on Captiva and

T h e S a n C a p C h a m b e r o f Commerce has a list available o f b u s i n e s s e s back in operat i o n o n

Wander: Maps & Navigation

SANCAP CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

From page 10

the west end of Sanibel in a relatively short time

Hurricane Charley in 2004 severely impacted the area, resulting in massive tree and shrub loss

“After Charley, thousands of plants were brought in for the replanting from Homestead and the east coast where these exotic lizards are established,” Lechowicz said “These invaders simply hitched a ride in these shipments and managed to establish in those areas ”

Some species have expanded faster than others. Peter’s rock agama moved relatively slowly, until recently, as indicated by recent reports

“As with documented localities of this species in Florida, it is expected to become a more commonly seen exotic lizard over time,” he said

If you see a Peter’s rock iguana on Sanibel or Captiva, try to take a picture and note the location and email the photo and information to clechowicz@sccf org

VIP Realty announces top producers for month

VIP Realty Sanibel and Captiva announced its top producers for the month of March

Deb Smith had the top s a l e s S h e h a s a b a c kground in accounting and holds the Second Home a n d R e s o r t S p e c i a l i s t , S a n i b e l C a p t i v a I s l a n d S p e c i a l i s t , A c c r e d i t e d B u y e r ' s R e p r e s e n t a t i v e a n d S e n i o r R e a l E s t a t e

Specialist certifications

Deb Smith

Teresa Baker

Specialist designation

Resort

From page 8

office and lobby

Slated for completion in the fall of 2025, all 33 units will include fully equipped kitchens, tile flooring throughout and screened balconies with views of the Gulf of Mexico Originally established in 1959, the resort will also feature a pool, a rooftop terrace, laundry facilities and a boardwalk to the Gulf.

The newly constructed resort will also feature an enhanced structural design that provides additional resistance to inclement weather as all of the buildings will be 6 feet above base flood elevation

STEVENS CONSTRUCTION

A g r o u n d b r e a k i n g c e r e m o n y o n March 28 kicked off construction on the new Shalimar Beach Resort on Sanibel.

existing design and found $1 4 million in cost-savings in the plans

For more information, call 239-4725187 or go to SanCapIslandRE com

VIP Realty Sanibel and Captiva is at 1560 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Teresa Baker had the top listings and was the top producer She holds a degree from the University of Tennessee in merchandising and moved to Sanibel in 1986. B a k e r h a s h e r r e a l e s t a t e / B r o k e r ' s license, Graduate Realtor Institute desi g n a t i o n a n d S a n i b e l C a p t i v a I s l a n d

From page 8

Hartman is responsible for the management and oversight of the origination, processing and closing of all residential mortgages, including those sold on the secondary market and portfolio loans

Hartman joined the bank in 2015 as a residential loan officer, working with both conventional and portfolio lending He specializes in construction lending, as well as primary, secondary and investment properties. Hartman has decades of experience in construction, real estate

Stevens Construction reported that owner Sean Niesel was forced to rebuild after Ian washed away the previous resort He reached out to the company after the new resort was already designed but over budget Stevens Construction spent six months working with Niesel and the architect to identify ways to save money within the

Business Notes

development and running a family-owned business in Boston

In 2022, Hartman was promoted to vice president, and less than a year later, he was promoted to senior vice president and senior loan officer In 2023, Hartman was named mortgage originator of the year for an outside title agency at the Lee Building Industry Association's Annual Industry Awards

Trust company opens new For t Myers office

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company continues its expansion across Florida’s west coast with the opening of its seventh

office a two-story building, at 13525 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers

The 10,520-square-foot office building features a lobby and meeting rooms

Architect Joyce Owens, of Architecture

Joyce Owens, created the functional interior with a contemporary yet comfortable look

Megan Marquardt serves as the Fort Myers president

Hurricane Ian accelerated the company's expansion plans to Fort Myers after clients and employees were forced to temporarily relocate off Sanibel and Captiva following the storm.

The Stevens Construction team includes Director of Preconstruction Nick Burkel, estimating engineer Evan Lopes, project manager Mike Brooks, superintendent Tom Porter and project administrator Kelsey Pojofsky Architecture Joyce Owens is the architect of record

The Shalimar Beach Resort is at 2823 W Gulf Drive, Sanibel

THE SANIBEL CAPTIVA TRUST COMPANY

The new office is open weekdays from 8:30 a m to 5 p m

For more information, visit www sancaptrustco com

update

Myers Technical College East Annex Phase 1, pre-construction, of $2 5 million, both of which have been funded and awaiting the governor’s action

G r a y - R o b i n s o n S e n i o r G o v e r n m e n t Affairs Advisor Dr Kim McDougal credited the board for its willingness to go to Tallahassee

“Great job and thank you I can’t say thank you enough,” she said

Gomez went over the School District of Lee County’s 2024 legislative priorities and the areas that moved forward S o m e o f t h e h i g h l i g h t s i n c l u d e d t w o

Senate Bills 7002 and 7004 for dereg-

Buses From page 1

From page 1 t h e a f t e r n o o n , c o m p a r e d t o t h e 2 0 2 2 - 2 3

ulation of public schools requests for all public schools to have the same statutory flexibility

The presentation went into detail on both bills, which ranged from flexibility to set salaries for instructional personnel to enhancing the ability of school boards to plan for and manage their facilities for SB 7002

flexibility in offering Voluntary Pre-K summer programs

Gomez said another student achievement priority was support for increase of per student funding by at least 5%

“The total funds per student increase was 2.75%,” he said.

Safety was a crucial priority as well, Gomez said The request was support for a n i n c r e a s e i n t h e S a f e S c h o o l s ’

ty enhancements and a mobile disaster response vehicle appropriation project of $1 million

Another success occurred under the district’s teacher certification and retention priority House Bill 151 The bill permits retired classroom teachers and administrators to return to the classroom after six months

s c h o o l y e a r o f 8 7 % f o r t h e m o r n i n g a n d

7 0 % i n t h e a f t e r n o o n

C h i e f O p e r a t i o n s O f f i c e r L a r r y

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

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8 1 r o u t e s o p e n d a i l y “ T h e t r a n s p o r t a t i o n d e p a r t m e n t h a s a n a d d i t i o n a l 2 2 d r i v e r s u n a v a i l a b l e t o d r i v e b e c a u s e o f l e a v e o f a b s e n c e , ” h e s a i d “ I n a d d i t i o n t o t h o s e a b s e n c e s , w e a v e r a g e o v e r 4 0 d r i v e r s c a l l i n g o u t d a i l y T h i s r e s u l t s i n h a v i n g t o p r o v i d e c o v e r a g e E a c h r o u t e i s r e s p o n s i b l e f o r t w o s c h o o l s i n t h e m o r n i n g a n d t w o s c h o o l s i n t h e a f t e r n o o n . ” T h e s c h o o l d i s t r i c t r u n s 5 4 8 b u s e s

The other deregulation of public school bill, SB 7004, includes revising elementary school student progression planning t o i d e n t i f y s t u d e n t s i n k i n d e r g a r t e n through second grade with substantial deficiency in reading and math to greater

e v e r y d a y 2 , 4 5 2 d a i l y r o u t e s D u r i n g t h e L e e C o u n t y S c h o o l B o a r d m e e t i n g o n M a r c h 2 6 , t h e p r e s e n t a t i o n a l s o h i g h l i g h t e d d e c r e a s i n g p r e v e n t a b l e a c c i d e n t s T h e r e i s a n a c c i d e n t r e v i e w

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

S t e p h e n s s a i d t h e r e a r e 2 2 a c c i d e n t s t h a t a r e g o i n g t o t h e c o m m i t t e e T h e m e e t i n g a l s o h i g h l i g h t e d e n r o l lm e n t n u m b e r s o v e r t h e p a s t f i v e y e a r s A n e x a m p l e g i v e n w a s f o r t h e 2 0 1 9 - 2 0 s c h o o l y e a r w i t h 8 4 , 3 2 8 s t u d e n t s e n r o l l e d w i t h 8 5 , 0 3 8 s t u d e n t s e a t s T h e c o m p o u n d a n n u a l g r o w t h r a t e i s 0 8 4 % s t u d e n t s a n d 3 9 6 % s t u d e n t s e a t s H e s a i d t h e r e h a s b e e n a c o n s i s t e n t i n c r e a s e o f s t u d e n t p o p u l a t i o n c o r r es p o n d i n g w i t h t h e g r o w t h o f s t u d e n t s e a t s . “ T h e i n c r e a s e h a s o u t p a c e d t h e s t u -

A l l o c a t i o n i n t h e F l o r i d a E d u c a t i o n Finance Program He said that resulted in a $40 million overall increase statewide for a total of $290 million funded There was another success for safety and securi-

d e n t p o p u l a t i o n d i s t r i c t w i d e , ” S t e p h e n s s a i d , a d d i n g t h a t t h e n e w g r o w t h h a s b e e n i n t h e E a s t Z o n e T h e p r e s e n t a t i o n h i g h l i g h t e d m a i n t en a n c e a n d t h e a v e r a g e d a y s o f s e r v i c e r e q u e s t i s o p e n I n 2 0 2 3 - 2 4 t h e a v e r a g e n u m b e r o f d a y s w a s 9 4 4 6 , c o m p a r e d t o

1 6 2 . 9 7 i n 2 0 2 2 - 2 3 . T h e d i s t r i c t i s i m p l e m e n t i n g s t r a t e g i e s t o i n c r e a s e p r ev e n t a t i v e m a i n t e n a n c e t o r e d u c e t h e o v e r a l l s e r v i c e r e q u e s t t h a t w e r e e n t e r e d “ T h e g o a l i s t o k e e p m a i n t e n a n c e c o s t b e l o w t h e s t a t e a v e r a g e A s w e k e e p t h e c o s t d o w n , w e m u s t a l s o i n v e s t i n f a c i l it i e s t o m a x i m i z e t h e u s e f u l l i f e o f f a c i l it i e s a n d s y s t e m s , ” h e s a i d C h i e f F i n a n c i a l O f f i c e r D r A m i D e s a m o u r s w e n t o v e r b u s i n e s s i m p a c t m e a s u r e s w i t h a f o c u s o n b r e a k f a s t a n d l u n c h p a r t i c i p a t i o n i n e l e m e n t a r y , m i d -

M c D o u g a l w e n t t h r o u g h n u m e r o u s other bills of interest, some of which were approved by the governor and others have yet to be sent to the governor

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

d l e a n d h i g h s c h o o l T h e b e n c h m a r k f o r b r e a k f a s t i n e l e m e n t a r y a n d m i d d l e s c h o o l i s 3 5 % t a k i n g p a r t a n d t h e b e n c h -

m a r k f o r h i g h s c h o o l i s 2 5 %

“ W e a r e m e e t i n g t h e b e n c h m a r k a s f a r a s t h e e l e m e n t a r y l e v e l A t t h e s e c -

o n d a r y l e v e l , w e a r e n o t n e c e s s a r i l y m e e t i n g t h e b e n c h m a r k , ” s h e s a i d . “ W e a r e w o r k i n g t o f i n d o u t t h e r

'

Seahorse Chorale took the big stage at the New York Invitational Music Festival in New York City Music Director Joey Giangreco reported that 27 students traveled to the Big Apple to perform at the festival, plus they had the opportunity to enjoy a bit of sightseeing

He reported that the chorale first performed in the hall early in the day for the sound check

“Just walking out onto the stage was humbling Knowing all of the musicians and performers who had performed there before us,” Giangreco said. “Seeing my students perform on that stage was an incredible and magical experience ”

Leading up to the big performance, the chorale was extremely excited

“They knew this was something very special, truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” he said

page 1

The chorale performed five songs for the festival, which were “Dreams that Children Dream,” “We Know The Way,” “Tres Cantos Nativos Dos Indios Krao,” “Sing For Joy” and “For Good ”

“I spent a lot of time thinking about the messages that we wanted to portray, and I wanted to make sure we brought a variety of musical styles to the performance,” Giangreco said, noting that his students chose the order of the songs

“Dreams that Children Dream” showcased their voice ranges and aimed to reflect their Big Apple dreams, while “We K n o w T h e W a y ” f r o m t h e m o v i e

“Moana” spoke to the importance of one's island home and knowing one's roots

Obituaries

“Tres Cantos Nativos Dos Indios Krao” served as a world piece that featured another culture with three Brazilian folk songs Tapping into the classical, “Sing For Joy” was from the Baroque era, with the message being joy “For Good” came from the Broadway musical “Wicked” as the chorale got to work with a cast member, plus it represented friendship and memories

He reported that his students worked hard to prepare and delivered a high-quality performance

The festival's evaluation team agreed Giangreco explained that prior to the show, they told the organizers that they wanted to perform for comments only not for a rating However, the night of the performance during the awards ceremony, the judges and production company presented the chorale with the gold plaque the highest rating

“

I t w a s a n i n c r e d i b l e s u r p r i s e a n d honor,” he said “It meant the world to my students and myself ”

While in the big city, the chorale visited the top of Rockefeller Center, enjoyed a backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall, cruised the New York Harbor to sightsee, took a Master Class and more

“They had the opportunity to experience New York City,” Giangreco said H e t h a n k e d T r o e n S t u d e n t P e r f o r m a n c e E v e n t s a n d M u s i c Celebrations International

Encore per for mance

Presented by the Seahorse Chorale, an Appreciation Performance will be held today, April 24, from 6 to 7:30 p m at the Captiva Civic Center on Captiva The students will perform their Carnegie Hall set

“This is something the students will remember forever, and it was not something we accomplished alone,” Giangreco said of taking part in the festival in New York “This is a way for us to say thank you to the community and all the sponsors and donors who helped to make this trip a possibility for us ”

U p o n a r r i v a l , a t t e n d e e s w i l l s e e a slideshow of pictures taken during the New York trip After the performance,

they will enjoy slices of New York-style cheesecake served up by the students

While the event is free, reservations are required

To RSVP, visit https://www paperlesspost com/go/0qDmvbQIm6BKeMiVyV3 dN

“We look forward to celebrating with the community and celebrating bringing back the gold from New York City,” he said.

The Captiva Civic Center is at 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva

Annual concer t

In addition, The Sanibel School will present its Spring Music Showcase on April 25 at 6:30 p m in the cafetorium

T h e a n n u a l c o n c e r t w i l l f e a t u r e t h e E l e m e n t a r y C h o i r , O r f f C l u b a n d Seahorse Chorale, along with a sneak peak of the Performing Arts' upcoming production of Disney's “Mary Poppins JR ”

“It's songs from and inspired by 'Mary Poppins JR,'” Giangreco said of the program The Elementary Choir will perform “ B e l i e v e r , ” “ S u p e r c a l i f r a g i l i s t i c e x p i a l idocious,” “The Place Where The Lost Things Go” and “Kuwa Furaha ” The Orff C l u b w i l l p r e s e n t a n a r r a n g e m e n t o f “Don't Stop Believing,” an improvisation song of “Highland” with drumming and a r r a n g e m e n t o f “ E n t r a n c e o f t h e Gladiators ” The Seahorse Chorale will perform selections from its Carnegie Hall s e t , a l o n g w i t h “ T h e L i o n S l e e p s Tonight ”

Available at the door, tickets are $5 for adults and ages 18 and under are free.

“We will have the concession stand available for food and drink purchases,” he said

The proceeds will support the Music Department

The Sanibel School is at 3840 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel

From left, The Sanibel School Music Director Joey Giangreco and Principal Jennifer Lusk with the gold plaque that the Seahorse Chorale received at the New York Invitational Music Festival on April 1

SCHOOL DISTRICT OF LEE COUNTY

The Sanibel School Music Director Joey Giangreco and the Seahorse Chorale in New York City.

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By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The community can showcase its best chili or simply enjoy some at an upcoming fundraiser

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 123 will host its first annual Chili Cook-Off Competition on April 27 from 4 to 7 p.m. at American Legion Post 123 on Sanibel. Open to the public, contestants will bring their prepared chili at 4 p m and the judging will be held at 6 p m for two awards and bragging rights

“We have done chili cook-offs in the past,” Auxiliary President Heather Silbar said, explaining that they want to make it an annual event now to benefit one of the youth organizations they sponsor

The proceeds from this year's competition will support the Special Olympics

“It is open to everybody,” she said “The community is welcome ”

“You bring in your homemade prize-worthy chili hot in your crock pot,” Silbar added

There will be a People's Choice Award and a Judge's Choice Award handed out For a $10 donation, attendees will receive tasting bowls and a ticket to vote for their favorite for the People's Choice.

A panel of local celebrity judges will select the Judge's Choice

“We have medals with ribbons for each,” she said of prizes for the winners

Attendees are encouraged to wear purple as April is the Month of the Military Child

“It's wearing purple in support of military children,” Silbar said “Also, the day of the chili cook-off is actually the American Legion's official Family Day because it's Family Month ”

Advance registration is appreciated, but contestants can also register day of

“The Auxiliary is providing all of the fixings shredded cheese, sour cream, crackers,” she said, explaining that having an idea of the number of entrants will help to ensure they have enough

To register, stop by the Legion or email alaflunit123@gmail com

The islands are encouraged to take part

“Donating to the Special Olympics is important for us Besides, it's going to be a lot of fun,” Silbar said “The sense of community we have and rallying all of the islanders around the American Legion ”

For more information, visit “American Legion Auxiliary Unit 123 Sanibel” on Facebook.

American Legion Post 123 is at 4929 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

CHR, F.I.S.H. present community event

F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva and Community Housing & Resources co-hosted “Spring into Spring” on March 27 at CHR's Woodhaven property on Sanibel CHR residents and the community made their own flower bouquets and enjoyed pizza from Island Pizza and treats from Pinocchio’s Original Italian Ice Cream

Refuge’s WoW focuses on butterflies, reptiles

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that from March 25 to April 18, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels visited Lehigh Elementary in Lehigh Acres Second-graders learned about the lifecycle of the butterfly, including viewing a butterfly wing under a microscope, while third-graders worked as a team to distinguish the characteristics of a reptile by studying a black racer snake exhibit From now through May 7, the WoW is visiting Oak Hammock Middle School in the Tice community in Fort Myers

REFUGE/DDWS

A butterfly wing as seen through a microscope.

Third-graders distinguish the characteristics of a reptile by studying a black racer snake exhibit

ISL AND HOME islander

Coontie plant is home for butterflies

A plant originating deep within the history of Florida, the coontie plant sometimes referred to as a palm is actually not a palm at all, but an ancient cycad, or what we think of as a “living fossil.”

The bright green shrubs can add a great pop of fresh color and foliage to a Floridian or coastal landscape, and its easy maintenance is quite a breeze

The coontie has several different derivatives w ith in F lo r id a an d its islands its main scie n t i f i c c l a s s i f i c a t i o n standing as Zamia floridana though there is no question that the little sprout is quite the island native Its versatility makes it perfect for any garden, landscape or outdoor quarters, as it grows great in full sun, as well as deep shade, and in containers or straight from the ground

The slow-growing shrub reaches measurements of 2 1/2-3 feet tall and 3 feet wide, requiring minimal maintenance, like the occasional pruning and fertilization Watering a newly installed coontie should be scheduled regularly, though allow for ample time to dry in between waterings. Once established, the coontie can survive happily without routine watering

When looking for a coontie, some quality characteristics include stiff green leaves and a featherlike appearance, attached to a short underground base Native Americans were known to ground up the stems into cooking flour long ago Close to the base of the plant is where the coontie’s seeded cones can be found which, like a flower, produce pollen and seeds

The coontie happens to be the only host for the blue Atala butterfly, which thrives on its food supply and shelter for laying eggs Its tropical green appearance works wonderfully as borders or accents around buildings, as well as attractive groundcover Not to mention, coonties were built for island life, as they are highly tolerant to salt winds, making them perfect for those who enjoy coastal living

All around, the coontie will win you over with its alluring assets, being easily manageable, appealing and convenient for any type of landscaping, and being hardy in Florida weather

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

Native beauty that bites back

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Spotted water hemlock (Cicuta maculata) is a perennial herb found in swamps, marshes and freshwater wetlands throughout most of Florida The flowering stalks that emerge in early spring are topped with large umbels of tiny white flowers The stalks can reach up to 8 feet tall and put on an impressive floral display through the summer Though the flowers prove enticing to many plant enthusiasts, caution should be taken if planting this plant in a home landscape Spotted water hemlock has a sneaky secret It contains a lethal chemical compound known as cicutoxin that, if ingested, fatally attacks the nervous system and is considered one of the most poisonous plants in North America While that may sound a bit sinister to humans, certain wildlife is not bothered by the plant's toxicity in the slightest It is the chosen larval host plant of the black swallowtail butterfly (Papilio polyxenes) and a prolific attractor of many beneficial bees and wasps Birds

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION Spotted water hemlock

also feast on the small brown seed Spotted water hemlock is a valuable pollinator plant despite its toxic tendencies and a great native plant to include in a wetland pollinator garden when thoughtfully placed in an appropriate location.

City committee to offer free guided plant walk

The city of Sanibel's Vegetation Committee will offer a guided native vegetation and landscaping tour on April 27 at 9 a m of the City Hall grounds, which is planted exclusively with native plants

A l t h o u g h t h e F N P S a w a r d - w i n n i n g N a t i v e P l a n t Demonstration Garden sustained a great deal of damage during Hurricane Ian, new wildflowers sprout every day

Walk the grounds for ideas on planting native vegetation that requires no fertilizer See how to plant a garden that reseeds itself with very little maintenance, is good for the environment and will attract birds and butterflies

Committee members will provide valuable information on proper planting and care of native vegetation The city encourages planting of vegetation that is indigenous to the area as it requires very little maintenance, no fertilizer and no supplemental irrigation.

Registration is not required

Meet at the bottom of the main staircase at City Hall, at 800 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

For more information, contact the Natural Resources 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 r 2 3 9 - 4 7 24135

2-for-1 Diner's Delight books on sale

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club's 2024 Diner's Delight coupon books are on sale Valid from May through December, it contains two-for-one coupons for island eateries The venues include Cielo, Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille, Gramma Dot's, Jerry's Foods, MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, RC Otter’s Island Eats, Rosalita's Cantina, Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory, Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar, The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, The Green Flash, The Sanibel Cafe, The Shack of Sanibel, The Shipyard, Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market and Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen The books are available for a $40 contribution They can be obtained from Kiwanis members and at Bank of the Islands, Periwinkle Park's front office, SanCap Pak-N-Ship, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank and the Sanibel Farmers Market, among other retail outlets To order by mail, send a check made out to the Kiwanis of Sanibel-Captiva, along with a self-addressed envelope (#10 size) and two first class stamps, to Kiwanis of Sanibel-Captiva, P O Box 1, Sanibel, FL 33957 The proceeds support the club's scholarship program for local students, along with its education and recreation grants that benefit island youth

BANK OF THE ISLANDS

Winner Rookie Bradley, center, with Richard Shera, Heather Harrison and David Lowden of Bank of the Islands and Savannah Miller-Berg, Nicole Decker-McHale, Bonnie McCurry and Kate Stone Pujol of Community Housing & Resources

Decal program results in donation

Bank of the Islands recently made a donation through its We Love Our I s l a n d s p r o g r a m . W i n n e r M a r v i n “Rookie” Bradley was spotted with the program's decal on his vehicle, winning him the chance to decide which local non-profit would receive a charitable contribution He chose to donate $600 to Community Housing & Resources The bank has donated $105,100 to date through the program All islanders are invited to visit the bank’s branches to pick up a decal and learn more about the We Love Our Islands program.

PHOTO PROVIDED Coontie plant

Recipe of the Week: Shrimp, Arugula and Corn Martini with White Balsamic and EVOO Dressing

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

When the weather turns hot and a busy schedule leaves me very little time to fuss in the kitchen, but I still love to entertain a few friends for dinner, I always rely on this great recipe A scrumptious shrimp salad that I serve in martini glasses The effect is stunning and the flavor is great, plus it can be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator Serves eight (Chef tip: For this recipe, I love to use Key West pink shrimp that I pick up at the Sanibel Island Farmers Market )

For EVOO and white balsamic vinaigrette:

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar

2 teaspoons honey

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

8 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

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 2 4

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be about CROW

∫ Thursday, April 2 5

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be about “Sea Turtles.”

∫ Friday, April 2 6

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

∫ Monday, April 2 9

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be about “Road Ecology ”

∫ Tuesday, April 3 0

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

Speaker Series at 4 p m

S o u t h F l o r i d a W a t e r M a n a g e m e n t District senior invasive animal biologist

∫ Wednesday, May 1

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

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

In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Mondays through F r i d a y s a f t e r t h e d a i l y p r e s e n t a t i o n Limited to 12 people; participants must be age 10 or older The cost is $25 per person; advanced registration and payment is required To register, contact 239-4723644 ext 229 or reservations@crowclinic org

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

1 tablespoon fresh Italian parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the martini salad:

1 cup (loosely packed) arugula

2 cups cooked shrimp

1 cup cooked corn

2 red peppers chopped

2 mangos chopped

2 avocados chopped

Combine lemon juice, honey, parsley, vinegar and Dijon mustard in a small bowl; slowly whisk in olive oil Season dressing to taste with sea salt and pepper; cover and chill

Toss mango, avocados, peppers, corn and shrimp with the vinaigrette in a medium bowl; season to taste with sea salt and pepper Place in the martini glasses and mound arugula on top with grilled shrimp

Island Worship

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

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

Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer

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

∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea

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

Rev Dr Doug Dortch

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

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida

P O Box 722, Sanibel, www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org

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

∫ Sanibel Community Church

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

Pastor Jeramie Rinne

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

∫ Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ

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

Senior Minister Rev Dr Mark Boyea

Sunday service at 10 a.m. in Fellowship Hall.

∫ Saint Isabel Catholic Church

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

Father Edward Martin

Friday Mass at 9 a m Saturday Vigil Mass at 4 p m Sunday Mass at 10 a m

∫ Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church

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

Rev William “Bill” Van Oss

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio & Strength

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

Breakfast Club

Breakfast Club will be held on April 25 from 8 to 9 a m at Jerry's Cafe, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Attendees will order and pay individually For more information, contact Dan Hopta at 978239-4612.

Social Bridge

Social Bridge will be held on April 25 from noon to 2:30 p m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal C h u r c h , a t 2 3 0 4 P e r i w i n k l e W a y , Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, c o n t a c t B r y a n t K o r n a t bryantekorn@gmail com

Social Mahjong

Social Mahjong will be held on April 25 from noon to 2:30 p m in the music room at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Cost is $5 For more inform a t i o n , c o n t a c t B e t h F u n d e r b u r g a t bfundy4648@gmail com

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on April 26 from 9:30 to 11:30 a m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels

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

Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, sign up for activities and more

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on April 26 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All A n g e l s E p i s c o p a l C h u r c h , a t 2 3 0 4 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on April 29 from 9:30 to 11:30 a m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, sign up for activities and more

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on April 29 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All A n g e l s E p i s c o p a l C h u r c h , a t 2 3 0 4 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and

Michael Kirkland will present “Invasive B u r m e s e P y t h o n s i n t h e F l o r i d a Everglades” in-person and via Zoom Cost is $10 To register, visit http://www crowclinic org/

Loretta Paganini

T h e C o m m u n i t y H o u s e , a t 2 1 7 3 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, will present the following:

Painting with Friends

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

Line Dancing

V a l o r i e W o l f w i l l t e a c h L i n e

Dancing on April 26 from 1 to 2 p m

Cost is $8 at the door

Shellcrafters

A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a m ; it is free and supplies range from $5-10 Items will be available for sale All sales benefit the operations of TCH

Shell Critter Kits are available for p u r c h a s e i n a v a r i e t y o f d i f f e r e n t options Cost is $5 per kit with all of the supplies included, except for glue Order them in-person at TCH or call 239-4722155

T C H o f f i c e h o u r s a r e M o n d a y through Friday from 9 a m to 3 p m

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w s a n i b e l c o m m u n i t y h o u s e n e t o r contact 239-472-2155 or office@sanibelcommunityhouse net

The Shellcrafters will meet on April 29 from 10 a m to 1 p m in the lobby

Santiva Islanders Calendar

San Cap Bank ser ves as sponsor

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank was a triple level sponsor for the 31st annual Sam Bailey’s Islands Night on April 17 at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers Organized by the SanCap Chamber of Commerce, it kicked off with the traditional islands parade The game followed pitting the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels against the Jupiter Hammerheads.

SANIBEL CAPTIVA COMMUNITY BANK

Shell Find

Junonia found on Sanibel

Svetlana Fender, of Sanibel, found a junonia in the early morning darkness on April 17 near Beach Access #1 on West Gulf Drive on Sanibel She reported that she has found several broken pieces of the shell “However, this is my first whole junonia,” Fender said “I was beginning to believe that only visitors were able to find this beautiful shell!” She added that she has been a full-time island resident for four years To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers com

PHOTO PROVIDED

F I S H OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

F.I.S.H. hosts luncheon with speaker

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva hosted its monthly Friendly Faces Luncheon on Feb 13 at the Sanibel Recreation Center on Sanibel, as well as virtually It featured guest speaker Dr. Peter Blaze Corcoran, p r o f e s s o r e m e r i t u s o f E n v i r o n m e n t a l Studies and Environmental Education at Florida Gulf Coast University He spoke on the living legacy of Frances Perkins “It was a privilege to speak on this topic

because I felt her remarkable courage and r e s o u r c e f u l n e s s w o u l d g i v e i s l a n d e r s strength As U S Secretary of Labor, Frances faced difficulty with great imagination. This courage, resourcefulness and imagination was the subtext of my lect u r e , ” C o r c o r a n s a i d O n e p a r t i c i p a n t reported that her mother went to school with Perkins and shared a picture with those in attendance

REFUGE/DDWS

From left, “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge Urban Education Leader Melissa Maher and Scientists' Society of Southwest Florida's Scholarship Chair Trudy Sampson.

Refuge’s WoW receives donation

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge reported that the Scientists' Society of Southwest Florida recently presented the J.N. “Ding” Darling

National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels team with a $10,000 check to support the mobile classroom's educational outreach to local schools in need.

CHILDREN'S EDUCATION CENTER OF THE ISLANDS CECI hosts community event

The Children’s Education Center of the Islands kicked off its 50th anniversary, starting in May, with a Community Day Celebration on April 6 on Sanibel

The CECI welcomed back the public to see the changes since Hurricane Ian and learn about future plans to continue to make the school more resilient Families and community members enjoyed free food, face painting, games, crafts and access to the playground In addition, CECI raised over $2,000 in a silent gift basket auction featuring items from island businesses

‘The Night Kiwanis Books Expired’

(To the tune of “The Night That Paddy Murphy Died”)

O, the night Kiwanis books expired I never shall forget

The locals went on an eating binge, some aint stopped eating yet; The one thing that they did that night that filled my heart with fear, They tried to trade the “two-for-ones” for whiskey, wine and beer. Chorus

That’s how they showed their respect for Kiwanis coupons,

That’s how they showed what bargains could inspire; They said it’d be a sin and shame to not empty every booklet

And fill up every restaurant the night the books expire

O, some restaurants on Sanibel tried to close that night, But locals stopped the clocks and ordered everything in sight

And what they had no room for they boxed in Styrofoam To get them through high season when they’re forced to eat at home (Chorus)

On Periwinkle and Gulf Drive, in groups of six and eight,

They tried to use each coupon before its time was late, And one unnamed establishment accepted them for wine

But when they went to pay the check they’d left the books behind! (Chorus)

For all of winter season since the last 20th of '13, Nary a single resident in a restaurant will be seen, They’ll be spotted tasting at Costco’s and at Early Birds on shore,

But the likes of local diners some think they’ll see no more (Chorus)

But wait till end of season when the northern crowd is gone

New coupon books will be ready the tradition will live on

They’ll dine out every evening, every restaurant they’ll pack

With groups of locals shouting, “Kiwanis Coupon Club is back!”

From Periwinkle to San-Cap to Andy Rosse Lane, They’ll be boxing what’s left over and drive the help insane; No appetizer’s two-for-one, and some entr es are too high, It’s just fifteen off at Timber’s but few remember why

That’s how they’ll get through each coming fiscal crisis, And keep their bellies full while all of them conspire

Once more to empty every Kiwanis booklet

And fill up every restaurant on the night the books expire!