Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

Ride of Silence returns to recognize

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

An annual event on Sanibel planned for next week will commemorate cyclists who have been injured or killed while riding a bike, as well as raise awareness about the importance of sharing the road

Held since 2008 on the island, the Ride of Silence will take place on May 15 at 7 p m starting and ending at the Sanibel

cyclists, more

Community Park on Sanibel. Organized by the Sanibel Bicycle Club and sponsored by Billy's Bikes, the route will follow along the city's Shared Use Path for about 4 miles

“We're part of what is a worldwide event,” club President Allison Havill said

The first Ride of Silence was organized by Chris Phelan in 2003 in Dallas, Texas, after cyclist Larry Schwartz was hit by

See RIDE OF SILENCE, page 17

High school graduations for Lee schools set for May 16-21

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The School Board of Lee County recently approved the lease agreements for the class of 2024 graduation ceremonies

It will spend up to $200,000 for gradu a t i o n c e r e m o n i e s a t F l o r i d a SouthWestern State College's Suncoast Credit Union Arena and Florida Gulf Coast University's Alico Arena

The graduation ceremony schedule is as follows:

May 1 6

∫ Cape Coral High School at 7 p m at Suncoast Arena

May 1 7

∫ Cypress Lake High School at 7 p m at Suncoast Arena

∫ Mariner High School at 7 p.m. at Alico Arena

May 1 8

∫ Gateway High School at 10 a m at Alico Arena

∫ Buckingham Exceptional Student Center at 2 p m in the Multipurpose Room

∫ Fort Myers High School at 2:30 p m at Alico Arena

∫ Bonita Springs High School at 2:30 p m at Suncoast Arena

∫ Adult and Career Education at 2:30 p m in the South Fort Myers High School auditorium

∫ Estero High School at 7 p.m. at Suncoast Arena

∫ Riverdale High School at 7 p m at Alico Arena

∫ Lee Virtual School at 7 p m in the South Fort Myers High School auditorium

May 1 9

∫ North Fort Myers High School at 10 a m at Alico Arena

∫ East Lee High School at 2:30 p m at Alico Arena

Ci ty’s pl anni ng commission moves for war d dr aft SU P pl an

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

At its recent meeting, the Sanibel Planning Commission was presented with the draft of the updated Shared Use Path Master Plan and it recommended that the Sanibel City Council accept the plan

On April 30, the commissioners voted unanimously 6-0 to recommend that the council accept the updated plan, with staff to include the commission's discussion on the subject and recommendations provided by the city's Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, including a response from staff Planning Director Paula McMichael opened the discussion by explaining that the original plan was adopted in 2009 The city began an update to the plan in 2019, however, the work was delayed due to the pandemic and other priorities In 2022, City Manager Dana Souza requested assistance from the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization to complete the plan and a

School district offering variety of educational summer programs

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

There are numerous opportunities for s dents in kindergarten through 12th grade t participate in one of the many learning

District of Lee County this summer

The summer learning will provide continued learning; credit recovery; promotion; targeted support; credit advance ment; and enrichment and remediation

M

a

Instruction Director Lori Houchin said cally when someone thinks of summer le g summer school it is for youths catching up She said they needed more programs for students who are advanced learners and need enrichment opportunities

Last summer the district served 14,979 students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade; offered 22 unique

f face camps at 27 locations; hosted six ol sites for YMCA and Boys and Girls ub; eight virtual learning opportunities; 45 credits retrieved in sixth to 12th grade; summer reading books provided to all kindergarten through fifth grade students; 147 take-home science kits for middle school students; and offered state required programs

H i g h S c h o o l C u r r i c u l u m a n d

nstruction Director Candace Allevato d summer learning will run Monday gh Thursday from June 11 through July face-to-face programs will be from 7 to 11 a m at the high school level and from 9 a m to 1 p m for elementary and middle school

“All families have received communication regarding summer programs,” she said

For the upcoming summer learning there will be 17

face-to-face summer programs at 33 sites; five virtual learning opportunities; credit recovery opportunities for all secondary sites; eight school sites for YMCA and/or Boys and Girls Club; state required programs; and summer reading books provided to kindergarten through fifth-grade students

“We know that graduation doesn’t begin on high school campus, it begins in buildings pre-K Because of that we have been able to add new programs,” Allevato said

On May 11, a second-grade family event will be held at the district office for hands-on training Families will receive materials on phonics, fluency, comprehension and more

“Eight assistant principals will run the program over the summer with families,” she said

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

FDOT provides update on causeway project

Transportation reported that crews have moved traffic to the permanent lanes on

y islands surrounding the temporary roadway are an active work zone and closed to public access, including from the water

∫ 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 south (beach) side of McGregor The shoulder (south/beach side) remains fully closed to access The closure is necessary for crews t o e x

d 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

∫ C

islands Expect construction equipment periodically entering/leaving the travel lanes when necessary The contractor is l

hours

∫ The westbound merge location is now west of the toll plaza Motorists are urged to use caution and obey the 20 mph

speed limit. Construction vehicles and equipment continue to enter/exit the staging area near the location

Many oversized vehicles are crossing

efforts on the island Please be patient as

Bicyclists are encouraged to utilize another mode of transportation to travel the causeway and pedestrians are not permitt e d o n t h

reminded to obey the posted speed limit of 20 mph.

For more information about the proje c t , v i s i t w w w s w f l r o a d s c o m / S a n i b e l

Causeway

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT Island rescuers retur n baby hawk to nest

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District reported that on April 25, a ladder truck c r e w a s s i s t e d t h e C l i n i c f o r t h e Rehabilitation of Wildlife and SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation return a baby red-shouldered hawk to its nest, which it had fallen from earlier in the

day Called an eyas, the baby hawk was safely placed back in the nest The district added that perched up high even delivering a few flybys the hawk's mother made sure that the rescuers were not hurting her babies

OPINIONS

Web Poll

Previous Web Poll Question

Did you attend the annual Islands night on April 17 at the Hammond Stadium? ∫ Yes, 0% ∫ No, 100% Current Web Poll Question

Florida's six-week abortion ban went into effect on may 1 Do you support the new law?

Yes

Ask governor to veto HB 1645

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

H B 1 6 4 5 E n e r g y R e s o u r c e s w a s

described by Sen Tina Polsky as “anti-technology, anti-innovation, pro-fossil fuel, proforeign fuel and pro-preemption” when the Senate version of the bill was being debated in committee The bill did not have unanimous support in either the House or the Senate, but it did pass and it was just sent to Gov Ron DeSantis’ desk for his consideration

Please join us in opposing this anti-clean energy bill by emailing the governor and asking him to veto this harmful bill

Among other things, the bill:

∫ P

o m approving the placement of natural gas facilities

∫ R e

infrastructure goals in the state’s energy policy

∫ Repeals the Florida Energy and Climate P

Florida’s genuine renewable clean energy grant programs, while providing “cost recovery” for the natural gas industry (which will be billed to ratepayers)

∫ Removes certain pipeline certification r e q u i r e m e n t s w h

opportunities for public input on pipeline siting

More reasons to request veto

The legislation discourages state agencies and local governments from purchasing electric vehicles by striking the requirement that the most fuel-efficient models be selected

The bill also prohibits the construction, operation or expansion of offshore wind energy facilities It also tells homeowners associations that they cannot prohibit certain types or fuel sources of energy production and appliances that use such fuels in their governing documents. Mandates like these preempt self-governance and block innovations for developing cleaner and more efficient sources of energy

At a time when science has shown the dangers and expense of fracking and the benefits of job-creating clean energy alternatives have been demonstrated, the bill advances laws that will add to increased emissions of dangerous greenhouse gasses at the expense of our health and our communities’ ability to regulate their own land use

P l e a s e j o i n t h

Conservation Foundation in asking DeSantis to veto the harmful Energy Resources Bill H B

YEAYHj

Founded in 1967, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's mission is to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal e c o

u t

t h a t w e c a n n o t a f f o r d n o t t o p r o t e c t t h e c l i -

Clean and healthy: A wish for Florida waters

I had a lifelong dream. A life just to be on, in and harvest our waters First a kid on the Chesapeake Bay, 27 years in the Florida Keys and in 2014, owning a small waterfront motel in Matlacha giving boat tours to guests from around the world A place to live the rest of my life fulfilling passions in paradise

My dream came true Then came 2016, first time I learned of harmful Cyanobacteria algae The toxic bloom blanketed the Caloosahatchee River and Cape Coral canals I stood on my dock and thought, “If that bloom comes here, my business will be destroyed; I will have to leave ”

Capt. Karl R. Deigert

Guest Commentary

The year 2017 saw a reprieve, but not for long Summer of 2018 brought the worst red tide in history to Southwest Florida Dead sea life blanketed beaches for months Businesses shuttered doors. Millions of dollars

were lost daily. Laid off employees were forced into lines at food banks My two businesses' revenue went to zero Fortunately, I survived the downturn; many businesses did not Many folks were forced away; dreams of paradise lost

Watching degradation accelerate, I began a deep dive on the 1,000 cuts killing Florida agricultural pollution flowing into Lake Okeechobee, phosphate mining, failing infrastructure, herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, and ultimately failed legislative and regulatory stewardship cored in a framework of failure that does nothing until harmful impacts reach a point of no return, favoring remediation over prevention I hoped for respite from now perpetual algae blooms. No relief came. Lyngbya cyanobacte-

ria blooms grew rapidly, covering sea grass beds My backyard was packed with floating algae emitting hydrogen sulfide gases, sending neighbors to hospitals Motel guests complained and left Decaying algae sinks to burn all oxygen from the waters overnight and we awoke to major fish kills The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission would bring dead manatees to the Matlacha boat ramp at the end of my canal for pickup Explaining all this to tourists on my eco-tours became impossible

Being vocal, I was asked to run for office. Shortly thereafter, I discovered the most expedient way to bring effective change “We the People” can create protective laws that we want; the petition process to amend local city, county and state constitutions No politician required!

It has taken several years to help build the 2026 Florida's Right to Clean Water state constitutional amendment campaign Collecting 900,000 signatures will end the biggest problem impacting Florida waters We will have the

See FLORIDA WATERS, page 7

t e r s m u s t b e s i g n e d a n d m u s t c o n t a i n a p h o n e n u m b e r 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 a t e t o s u b j e c t s o f p u b l i

Registration open for meeting on bayside project

Captiva

library, county system providing programs

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

Adult programs

∫ Today, May 8: Make a Handmade Bookmark (daily during operating hours)

Never lose your place in a book Make a handmade bookmark for yourself or a friend Looking for that perfect summer read? Ask the librarian about the hottest new titles for adults and teens

∫ May 10: Make a Handmade Bookmark (daily during operating hours)

Never lose your place in a book Make a handmade bookmark for yourself or a friend Looking for that perfect summer read? Ask the librarian about the hottest new titles for adults and teens

Teen programs

∫ Today, May 8: Make a Handmade Bookmark (daily during operating hours)

Never lose your place in a book Make a handmade bookmark for yourself or a friend Looking for that perfect summer read? Ask the librarian about the hottest new titles for adults and teens.

∫ May 10: Make a Handmade Bookmark (daily during operating hours)

Never lose your place in a book Make a handmade bookmark for yourself or a friend Looking for that perfect summer read? Ask the librarian about the hottest new titles for adults and teens

Children programs

∫ May 13: Cute Pompom Caterpillar Craft (daily during operating hours)

Let's spring into some wiggly fun and make a pompom caterpillar

∫ May 15: Cute Pompom Caterpillar Craft (daily during operating hours)

Let's spring into some wiggly fun and make a pompom caterpillar

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

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

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

Adult programs

∫ Today, May 8: Online Author Event with Nina Simon from 7 to 8 p m Join Nina Simon online as she chats about her lighthearted whodunnit about a grandmother-mother-daughter trio of amateur sleuths, “Mother-Daughter Murder Night ” Harness your inner detective and sign up for the investigation Registration is required.

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

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

Prevention District meeting at 1

via Zoom For more information or the agenda, visit mycepd com

∫ May 14: Captiva Community Panel meeting at 9 a.m. via Zoom. For more information or the agenda, visit captivacommunitypanel com

∫ May 15: Captiva Island Fire Control District meeting at 4 p m at the fire station, at 14981 Captiva Drive, Captiva For more information or the agenda, visit captivafire com

CAPTIVA CHAPEL BY THE SEA From left, the Rev Dr Doug Dortch, new Captiva Chapel by the Sea Board President Ellen Sloan and Judy Dortch

Deadline approaching to request mail ballot for bond referendum

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The deadline is nearing to request a Vote-by-Mail ballot for the upcoming Captiva election

The Captiva Erosion Preventing District jurisdiction is set for a Special Election on May 21. Island property owners have until May 9 at 5 p m to request a mail ballot for the bond referendum

The referendum will read as:

(CEPD) issue Special Assessment Bonds not exceeding

Bayside project

$25,000,000, maturing at such times as the CEPD shall determine not exceeding 20 years from issuance bearing interest not exceeding the maximum legal interest rate, payable from special assessments on benefited lands within the CEPD boundaries for the emergency maintenance and renourishment of beaches, pursuant to the

Maintenance Renourishment Project?”

For the referendum to pass, it will require a majority vote of 50% plus one

From page 6

t o 3 p m

I n a d d i t i o n , r e s i d e n t s a n d s t a k e h o l d -

e r s a r e i n v i t e d t o t a k e a n o n l i n e s u r v e y

“ T o s h a r e e x p e r i e n c e s , c o n c e r n s a n d i d e a s r e l a t e d t o f l o o d i n g o n C a p t i v a

I s l a n d ' s b a y s i d e , ” A P T I M r e p o r t e d

“ F e e d b a c k w i l l i n f o r m t h e d e v e l o p m e n t

o f t h e a d a p t a t i o n p l a n a n d h e l p s h a p e f u t u r e i n i t i a t i v e s t o a d d r e s s v u l n e r a b i l i -

t i e s i n o u r c o m m u n i t y ” T h e s u r v e y w i l l b e o p e n t h r

Chapel

From page 6

s e c r e t a r y a n d V a l e r i e T u t o r a s

c o r r e s p o n d i n g s e c r e t a r y . T h e n e w b o a r d m e m b e r s a r e

E d A n d e r s o n , C o l i n B l a c k a n d

R i t a E w e l l I n a d d i t i o n , t h e f o ll o w i n g m e m b e r s h a v e r e t i r e d :

M i k e B e n n e t t , f o r m e r t r e a s u r e r ;

S u s e n B e r g ; a n d J a k e M i l l e r , f o r -

m e r p r e s i d e n t

S l o a n h a s b e e n a b o a r d m e m -

b e r f o r t h r e e y e a r s a n d w a s f o r -

m e r l y t h e r e c t o r a t S a i n t M i c h a e l

a n d A l l A n g e l s E p i s c o p a l

C h u r c h o n S a n i b e l f o r 1 0 y e a r s .

S h e h a s b e e n a n E p i s c o p a l p r i e s t f o r 2 1 y e a r s B e f o r e t h a t , S l o a n ' s

2 5 - y e a r c a r e e r w a s i n v o l v e d i n e d u c a t i o n i n N e w E n g l a n d , a s w e l l a s i

D u r i n g a C E P D w o r k s h o p i n

N o v e m b e r , A

T a s k 2 A c q u i r e b a c k g r o u n d d a t a : T o d e v e l o p t h e a d a p t i o n p l a n

T a s k 3 P u b l i c - p r i v a t e i m p l em e n t a t i o n a n a l y s i s : D u e t o t h e e x t e n s i v e p r i v a t e l y - o w n e d l a n d T o i n v o l v e i d e n t i f y i n g o w n e r s h i p

There will be no early voting for the election On Election Day May 21 the polling location for voters will be open from 7 a m to 7 p m at Precinct 116 at the Sanibel Recreation Center, at 3880 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel

To request a Vote-by-Mail ballot or for more information or questions about the election, visit the Lee County Elections Office at lee vote or contact 239-5338683

For more information about the referendum, visit the CEPD at www mycepd com/referendums

a n d j u r i s d i c t i o n ; s t r a t e g i c a n a l y s i s ; p o l -

i c y c o n s i d e r a t i o n s ; a n d s t a k e h o l d e r

e n g a g e m e n t , i n c e n t i v e s a n d s t a n d a r d s

∫ T a s k 4 A d a p t i o n p l a n :

T h e a p p r o a c h a n d i n i t i a l p e r c e p t i o n

o f t h e n e c e s s a r y e l e m e n t s t o b e i n c l u d -

e d i n t h e p l a n w e r e l i s t e d a s : p r i o r i t i z a -

t i o n o f a d a p t a t i o n n e e d s ; i d e n t i f i c a t i o n

o f a d a p t a t i o n s t r a t e g i e s a n d p r i o r i t i z a -

t i o n o f p r o j e c t s ; p o t e n t i a l s t r a t e g i e s

l i v i n g s h o r e l i n e w i t h r e s i l i e n t e n g i -

n e e r e d f e a t u r e s , m i n i m u m s h o r e l i n e

e l e v a t i o n p o l i c y f o r p r o p e r t i e s , m a n -

g r o v e a d a p t a t i o n p l a n a n d r e s i l i e n t d u n e

s t r a t e g y f e a s i b i l i t y a n a l y s i s ; a n d p r i -

o r i t i z e d p r o j e c t s f o r e a c h a s s e t c l a s s

∫ T a s k 5 P u b l i c o u t r e a c h m e e t -

i n g s : T o i n c l u d e f o u r b i m o n t h l y p u b l i c

o u t r e a c h m e e t i n g s ∫ T a s k

Florida waters

missing tool to hold state agencies accountable for actions allowing harm to our waters and legal standing to bring civil actions “upstream,” ending major sources of pollution while shifting remediation from taxpayers' backs onto the polluters. Statewide, clean water advocacy organizations will benefit from this new law in achieving their mission statements

Ask your favorite groups if they are sup-

From page 4

porting the amendment If not, ask “Why not?” and “How can you not?” The power this law will bring to conservation should be included in every discussion for Florida waters and our “blue economy ” I had a dream, and it's now a life goal forever lost. June of 2021 was when I determined, “It's time to leave ”

Fortunate enough to have lived my dream, I now have a wish; I wish for all

Floridians to join our 100% grassroots effort with volunteers and organizations supporting the campaign statewide You can be the change for Florida waters It takes five minutes to print, sign and mail your petition; a few more to share it with friends. For the price of a stamp, we can recapture our dreams of clean waters Please visit FloridaRightToCleanWater org today to make this new law a reality

Capt Karl R Deigert is chairman of the Florida Right to Clean Water's political action committee A pharmacist, charter captain and clean water advocate, he has been a Florida resident since 1986 and currently resides in Ocala. Deigert can be reached at karlrdeigert@gmail com For more information, visit FloridaRightTo CleanWater org

From left, incoming Captiva Chapel by the Sea Board President Ellen Sloan and outgoing President Jake Miller

CAPTIVA CHAPEL BY THE SEA

BUSINESS

Business Notes

Chamber to host annual meeting

The SanCap Chamber of Commerce will hold its 2024 annual meeting on May 15 at 11:30 a m at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa, at 17260 Harbour Point Drive, Fort Myers

Check-in will begin at 11 a m

Celebrating 62 years of supporting island businesses, it will introduce its new 2024 board of directors, share its 2022-23 achievements and announce the winners of its annual membership awards for Business of the Year, New Business of the Year, Sue Rosica Gray Volunteer of the Year and Citizen of the Year.

Tickets are $60 each and are available through May 10

Members will receive invitations by email or can visit sanibel-captiva org to register

Homerun sponsor is Bank of the Islands Others include: Bailey's General Store and Island Store, and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank as triple sponsors; A l l i a n t P r o p e r t y M a n a g e m e n t , “ D

Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge, Jerry's Foods of Sanibel, Newport Property Construction, Sanibel Carts and Whitney's Bait & Tackle as double sponsors; and Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille, SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation and The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company as single sponsors

For more information, contact Aaron Walton at aaron@sanibel-captiva org or 239-472-8759

Mor gan joins team at trust company

C h r i s t o p h e r D

Morgan has joined The

S a n i b e l C a p t i v a T r u s t Company as a member of the portfolio manage-

m e n t t e a m i n F o r t Myers

He has more than a d e c a d e o f f i n a n c i a l industry experience and is responsible for consulting with his clients

Christopher D. Morgan

a n d m a n a g i n g i n v e s tment portfolios to meet their goals and objectives Morgan also has a specialty in philanthropy and helps guide high-networth families who may be charitably inclined

His prior roles include serving as vice president and senior investment officer at the Members Trust Company in Tampa, where he managed more than $1 4 billion of client portfolio assets, and vice presid e n t a n d s e n i o r

American Bank in Boca Raton, managing the firm’s $500 million of private wealth management assets

M o r g a n h o l d s a C

(CFA) designation,Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) designation

He earned his Bachelor of Science in business administration degree and double-majored in finance and accounting at the University of Miami

Morgan is based in the office at 13525 Bell Tower Drive in Fort Myers

Doc Ford's offering chance at drawing

In recognition of National Yucatan Shrimp Day on May 24, Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille is offering a drawing for a custom YETI cooler filled with restaurant swag at each of its locations

For every purchase of a Yucatan dish or a bottle of the restaurant's Yucatan Sauce starting on May 1, cus-

See BUSINESS NOTES, page 10

Current outlook, portfolio strategy

By ANDREW VANDERHORST

As we wrap up the first quarter of the year, it’s important to look back and understand the dynamics that have shaped the financial markets. This period has been marked by significant achievements, especially in the stock market, along with criti-

Federal Reserve

The stock market continued with its prior year rally, with the S&P 500 index climbing to an all-time high, achieving a notable 10% total return This performance continues to be primarily fueled by large-

involved in artificial intelligence (AI), indicating the sector’s growing influence and future potential impact on the economy Yet, the breadth of the market’s rise is widening with dividend/value companies beginning to share the spotlight, signifying a more inclusive rally Beyond the S&P 500, global stock indices, including European and Japanese stocks, along with small-cap U S stocks, have also advanced, albeit not at the same pace This is an important sign to which investors look for judging whether the market rally can continue

An interesting development has been the normalization of the inverted yield curve, with short-term yields declining and long-term yields on the rise Additionally, cash and money market funds continue to offer attractive yields above 5% However, as the Federal Reserve gears up to lower interest rates, this landscape is bound to evolve The returns from holding cash will decline, increasing the attractiveness of locking in currently elevated yields on fixed income investments Thus, we will continue to reposition client portfolios around the changing landscape of fixed income where appropriate

This period of bullish sentiment was further bolstered by the Federal Reserve’s reaffirmation of its monetary policy trajectory In a move that underscored its confidence in the U S economy’s resilience, the Fed reiterat-

ed its forecast for three rate cuts of 0 25%

comes at a crucial juncture, as inflation data persistently hovers above the Fed’s 2% target However, the combination of an improved economic growth outlook and strong labor market fundamentals paints a reassuring picture of the Fed’s ability to curtail inflationary pressures without precipitating an economic downturn

Reserve’s policy stance highlights an interesting evolution in market sentiment As we detailed during our Annual Outlook

notable divergence between the Fed’s rate cut expectations and those predicted by market participants Initially, the market’s forecast was significantly more dovish, anticipating up to seven rate cuts However, as the quarter progressed, there was a marked recalibration in expectations, with predictions now aligning more closely with the Fed’s stance, settling on three rate cuts With the earnings season on the horizon, our focus shifts to company performance, especially those within the AI-related space At the same time, we will continue to assess more traditional companies for continued earnings and sales growth, as a healthy market cannot be sustainably driven by one sector alone With analysts forecasting an 11% growth in S&P 500 earnings per share, there’s an air of optimism for an overall strong financial showing However, we must brace ourselves for potential market volatility given the array of ongoing and future challenges, including federal budget negotiations and geopolitical conflicts Yet, we take comfort that history has shown us that markets are resilient, capable of digesting periods of uncertainty before moving forward

Andrew Vanderhorst is chief investment officer for The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company.

The SanCap Chamber of Commerce held a joint ribboncutting on April 25 on Sanibel for the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors and its tenant, Finnimore's Bike & Beach Rentals.

SANCAP CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Chamber celebrates ribbon-cutting at SCIAR, bike shop

It was a big day for the islands as the SanCap Chamber of Commerce gathered on April 25 to celebrate the

, Finnimore's Bike & Beach Rentals, on Sanibel

“As the business organization for Realtors, including affiliate business partners like insurance companies,

title companies, bank and mortgage companies, and various real estate related businesses, the Realtors association represents a huge economic core for Sanibel and Captiva,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “To see it restored to better-than-pre-hurricane condition means the world to this c

l Robinson for his leadership during

this challenging period and congratulate all business members involved, i n c l u d i n g

f Finnimore's.”

“Our building was significantly damaged by the storm and underwent a full remodel to harden it for the future,” Robinson said “We have been supported by many local busiSee RIBBON-CUTTING, page 22

Andrew Vanderhorst

From page 8

DOC FORD'S RUM BAR & GRILLE

Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille is celebrating National Yucatan Shrimp Day with a drawing for a YETI cooler filled with swag.

tomers will receive an entry to the drawing

Doc Ford's has locations on Sanibel and Fort Myers Beach and in St Petersburg

On Sanibel, the restaurant is at 2500 Island Inn Road

Bell

San Cap Bank names promotions

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank announced the promotion of Gabriela Bell, Angie Figueroa, Diane Jefferson, Jackie Mitchell and Diane Patterson to the position of vice president

Bell is vice president and office manager of the McGregor Branch in Fort Myers

Figueroa is vice president and office manager of the Winkler Branch in Fort Myers

Jefferson is vice president and office manager of the College Branch in Fort Myers.

Mitchell is vice president and assistant director of deposit operations at the Bridge Branch Operations Center in Fort Myers

Patterson is vice president and office manager of the Bridge Branch in Fort Myers

All five have consistently demonstrated strong work ethic, integrity and a commitment to the bank's mission of delivering financial services with unmatched, superior customer service to its clients Their contributions have played a pivotal role in the success and growth of the organization.

Jackie Mitchell

Diane Patterson

Diane Jefferson

Angie Figueroa

Gabriela

PRESERVING PARADISE

SCCF reports on bonneted bat habitat, conservation funding

Two recent environmental wins in Florida include new critical habitat for the Florida bonneted bat and a bill that allots $400 million allotted toward various statewide water quality, resiliency and conservation

e f f o r t s , a c c o r d i n g t o t h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a Conservation Foundation

Bonneted bat granted habitat

In February, the U S Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) designated 1.1 million acres of critical habitat for the Florida bonneted bat one of the largest and rarest species in North America

The SCCF reported that Florida bonneted bats are listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, and the new critical habitat designation will provide further protections not only for the animal, but for lands that contain the habitat necessary for its survival

“The bonneted bat is under threat from the rampant development across Florida that can result in the loss of the mature pine and cypress trees that are necessary f o r t h

Director Matt DePaolis said “Establishing critical habitat is a critical tool when we are fighting to save listed species from extinction ”

The specific critical habitat designation was the result of a 2022 lawsuit by the Center for Biological Diversity, Tropical Audubon Society and the Miami B l u e C h a p t e r o f t h e N o r t h A m e r i c a n B u t t e r f l y

Association against a proposed theme park development next to the Zoo Miami

According to the USFWS, the Florida bonneted bat has one of the most limited ranges of any bat species in the western hemisphere, and they are at further threats from sea-level rise, development and agriculture While no Florida bonneted bats have been observed on Sanibel, the SCCF is currently establishing a monitoring regimen around Lee County to determine where individuals may be

Gambling revenue for conser vation

On April 4, Gov Ron DeSantis signed SB 1638

F

n d

c

Management into law The SCCF reported that the b i l l e a

m

s

n d

g f r o m t h e S e m i n o l e T r i b e Gaming Compact for conservation efforts within the state The law will allow approximately $400 million to be spent on conservation efforts The Florida Senate described the allocations from the bill as:

∫ $100 million to support and acquire lands and conservation easements within the Florida Wildlife Corridor

∫ $100 million for the management of stateowned lands and removal of invasive species

∫ $100 million for the implementation of the Resilient Florida Grant Program, which will guard inland and coastal communities against the impacts of storm damage, surges, hurricanes and flooding

∫ $79 million for the Water Quality Improvement Grant Program

“This bill signifies a massive amount of funding being spent on conservation efforts,” DePaolis said “If used correctly, it could help protect Florida’s remaining wild spaces.”

SanCap Resilience calls for updates to Sanibel Plan

On April 14, SanCap Resilience submitted a position paper to the Sanibel City Council, city manager and planning director calling for a comprehensive integration of resiliency planning into future updates to the Sanibel Plan

The coalition reported that the paper is consistent with the city's strategic goal to address community resiliency It presents a framework for how the city can integrate resiliency in the plan, including a list of examples of what that might involve In addition, the paper acknowledges the forethought of city founders in the drafting of the plan, including the identification of over development as an existential threat to the city and its vision

“While prescient, the authors of the Sanibel Plan could not have foreseen the accelerating impacts of climate change that we are facing now, 50 years later Sea level rise, stronger storms, alternating flood and drought risk, increased storm surge, more high heat days, and increased fire risk are only some of the threats that represent profound challenges that will require the addition of new sets of solutions, especially for a barrier-island community These threats stand to impact Sanibel residents and business owners directly, having a detrimental effect on future property values, insurance costs, personal health and safety, protection of beaches and the natural spaces that enhance quality of life, and more,” the paper states

“At the 50-year anniversary of Sanibel’s founding, we again have the opportunity to be forward-thinking It is important that the Sanibel Plan be updated to integrate the resiliency measures required to address these threats

Specifically, it is time to acknowledge that climate change is also an existential threat to Sanibel, on-par with development pressure, and deserving of the same vigilance by the Sanibel community This recommendation supports the city council’s strategic goal for community resiliency and the city’s intention to integrate 'community resiliency' into the Sanibel Plan during the 2024 update,” it continues

“Sanibel should be a leader in sensible, effective, measures to address the various threats presented by climate change, in the same way it is a recognized leader in resisting development pressure and promoting sustainable measures to live in harmony with our natural systems,” the paper adds

The paper is supported by the partner organizations in the coalition, including the America's Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva, Children's Education Center of the

& Resources, “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge, F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva, Lee County C h

Commerce, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, Sanibel-Captiva Renewable Energy Working Group and Sanibel Strong

To view the paper, visit https://bit ly/3JwvKsS SanCap Resilience seeks to support broad-based community engagement on the topic and invites comments and feedback from the community regarding the paper Comments can be sent to info@sancapresilience org

13 bald eagle chicks fledge on islands

Thirteen bald eagle chicks fledged from the 11 bald eagle nests that the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation monitored this year on Sanibel, Captiva and North Captiva and just off-island, surpassing last year's total of nine chicks from 10 nests

The SCCF reported that with the help of partners and volunteers, it monitors nests on the islands during nesting season Oct 1 through May 15 and reports data to the Audubon Society's EagleWatch program.

“One of the more surprising turn of events was two chicks fledging from Sanibel's well-known Dairy Queen nest,” shorebird biologist Audrey Albrecht said

Located near the now-closed Dairy

Queen, the nest was unproductive for many years until finally fledging a chick in the 2021-22 nesting season prior to Hurricane Ian The female went missing before the September 2022 storm and the male found a new mate, which was a younger female still bearing brown feathers on her head

“In the 2022-23 season, the pair worked hard on rebuilding the nest but ultimately did not produce any young,” she said “Things changed this year when they hatched and fledged two eaglets, surprising everyone.”

Bald eagles are protected by state and federal laws, including the Florida Eagle Rule, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act

The SCCF reported that rodenticide

poses a large threat to bald eagles and other raptors and wildlife. Learn how to avoid rodenticide use with wildlifesafe alternative practices at h t t p s : / / c r o w c l i n i c o r g / w pcontent/uploads/2023/04/Rodenticide

-Bullet-Points-1 pdf

It encourages the alternatives so poison does not get in the food web and kill animals that feed on rats and mice, such as eagles, barn owls, hawks and bobcats

“SCCF is very grateful for all of the dedicated volunteers who monitor the nests and our partners at Audubon Florida for managing the Eagle Watch Database,” Albrecht said

For questions regarding eagles, email eagles@sccf org

Over 1.2K observations during Earth Week BioBlitz

A total of 563 species of flora and fauna were observed during the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's inaugural Earth Week BioBlitz in Lee County from April 2127 It included 1,259 observations from 138 users and 261 individuals pitched in to help identify species.

The SCCF gave a big shout out to iNaturalist users birdleaves and barbijd92 as the top two contributors, recording 232 species and 160 species, respectively

“We are thrilled to see so many people in our community getting outside

and helping our biologists with this comprehensive biodiversity survey,” Coastal Watch Director Kealy McNeal said “We have very unique ecosystems here in Southwest Florida, and it is crucial to keep an eye on the health of the biodiversity, especially after major events such as Hurricane Ian.”

A BioBlitz is a focused effort to take inventory of all living things in an area, essentially like a species census To participate, users uploaded observations of plants and wildlife to the SCCF Earth Week BioBlitz project on iNaturalist

The majority of observations were of plants, with insects and birds following The most-observed species were:

∫ Brown anole (Anolis sagrei)

∫ Cabbage palmetto (Sabal palmetto)

∫ Cardinal airplant (Tillandsia fasculata)

∫ Sea ox-eye (Borrichia frutescens)

∫ North American racer (Coluber constrictor)

“We can’t wait to do this again next year and compare the data,” she said

Isl and lIvIng

SPD releases weekly blotter

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

Other enforcement actions

∫ On April 24, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for an expired tag The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for tag attached not assigned

∫ On April 24, 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 The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On April 24, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle with expired registration The driver was subsequently issued a warning for expired registration, a citation for failure to provide registration on demand and a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On April 25, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excess speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (66 mph in a 30 mph zone)

∫ On April 29, 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 The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On April 29, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for inoperable taillights and brake lights The driver was subsequently issued a warning for the inoperable lights and a notice to appear for never havi n g a d

removed from the scene by a licensed driver

Enforcement operations statistics

From April 23-29:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 7

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 12

∫ Traffic crashes: 2

∫ Radar details: 86

∫ Traffic stops: 48

Citations issued: 18

Written warnings issued: 2

Verbal warnings issued: 29

∫ Residential area checks: 433

∫ Business area checks: 189

∫ Total area checks: 966

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 1

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,260

April 2024:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 23

∫ Non-emergency calls: 73

∫ Traffic crashes: 14

∫ Radar details: 297

∫ Traffic stops: 210

Citations issued: 69

Written warnings issued: 7

Verbal warnings issued: 142

∫ Residential area checks: 1,947

∫ Business area checks: 933

∫ Total area checks: 4,503

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

PUBLIC LIBRARY

See LIBRARY, page 15

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk today, May 8, with Nina Simon

F.I.S.H. offering summer scholarships for families

C

With the School District of Lee

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva is working with families to ensure they have plans for children during the summer that keep them safe and active

For those who qualify, F I S H offers scholarships to send youths to summer camps throughout the county The Summer Youth Scholarship

assistance for families who cannot afford the rising cost of summer childcare and camps “

summer months Some facilities that closed due to Hurricane Ian have not reopened, while others are open with less staff meaning fewer children can

Nitza Lopez said “Summer months for island employees can often bring about a reduction in hours at work

for our neighbors, and with rising costs it's becoming difficult to afford childcare ”

F I S H helps to ease the burden

b y p r o v i d i n g a s s i s t a n c e w i t h t h e scholarships

“We offer scholarships for summer programs every year to ensure children remain active and in enriching environments when they're out of school,” she said

F I S H is in close contact with area camp directors on and off island so it can provide families with appropriate options Additionally, it has partnered with Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church and Camp Noah this year to provide a free camp from June 3-7, when other camps are not available

“ W e w

School, CECI (Children's Education C

(

May

Wildlife) and others, as well as offisland camp locations, so that our families have an array of options,” Lopez said “It’s all about finding a balance that makes sense, keeping children engaged and, most importantly, keeping them safe ” T h e p r o

y donors and grant funding. An island connection through residency or employment is required, and scholarship assistance is evaluate d o n a

b

c a

b

s i s T h e F I S H Social Services Department determines eligibility for need-based financial assistance through a review of a family’s income and expense documentation Scholarship amounts vary depending upon the length and cost of the program and family's financial status. Available funding is limited, and scholarships may cover only a portion of the cost

F o

Lopez at 239-472-4775

Students obser ve flora, fauna at preser ve

Kindergarteners from The Sanibel School recently took part in a multi-faceted scavenger hunt for plants and wildlife at the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Pick Preserve nature trail Led by SCCF educator Richard Finkel, the students looked up and down, listened for and felt some of the inhabitants within Sanibel’s interior habi-

osprey, sea grape, cabbage palms, strangler figs, snails, fish, dragonflies, spider webs and even an alligator were observed from the boardwalk Students used their observations to discuss food chains and food webs

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Sanibel Public Meetings

May 10: Sanibel Public Library District special meeting at 1 p m at the library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel For more information or the agenda, visit https://spldboard specialdistrict org/governance

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

h t t p s : / / l i b r a r y c o r g / s a n l i b / u p c o m i n g

C r a f t e r n o o n w i t h M s S h a n n o n w i l l t a k e p l a c e

t o d a y , M a y 8 , f r o m 3 t o 4 : 3 0 p m A g

i v e r c a n j o i n s t a f f e r S h a n n o n G a f g e n t o m a k e a w o r k o f a r t A v a r i e t y o f c r a f t s u p p l i e s w i l l b e

a v a i l a b l e , a l o n g w i t h e x a m p l e s

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

∫ Reported burglaries: 2

∫ Reported thefts: 3

∫ Total CAD calls: 5,747

Impor tant reminders

T

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 v e h i c

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

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.

Ramp:

Crafternoon with Ms. Shannon will be held today, May 8, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the

∫ Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day.

∫ P a r k i n

weekends and holidays is with AC/BC permit only

∫ Commercial use is prohibited

∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500

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

Repor ting suspicious activity

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

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411

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

∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device. The SPD's non-emergency line is 239472-3111

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

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Sanibel Public Library.

SPORTS

CITY OF SANIBEL

The ballfield at the sanibel Recreation Center is expected to reopen soon

Recreation center provides update on activities, events

The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities

The lap pool has new hours The hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a m to 4:30 p m and Saturday from 8 a m to 4:30 p m

The center is hosting the International Aquatic Fitness & Therapy Conference today, May 8, and on May 9. All water exercise classes will be canceled and the lap pool will be closed on May 8 from 9:30 a m to 12:30 p m and on May 9 from 9:30 to 11:30 a m A Youth Dodgeball Showcase will be held 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 May 13 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.

New hours for refuge's Wildlife Drive

The J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge reported that the gate times for Wildlife Drive changed on May 1 to 7 a m through 7:30 p m It is open every day except for Fridays, regardless of holidays Admission is $10 for vehicles and $1 for hikers and bicyclists The refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel

Lighthouse Beach lots reopen

On May 3, the city of Sanibel reported that the

parking lots both on the bayside and the Gulfside

project near the lighthouse

For more information about

REFUGE/DDWS

schedule

Tarpon Bay Explorers reported that its tram tour schedule has changed for the summer/off-season, effective now through August Tours will be offered

N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife

also offers activities like kayak and paddlecraft rentals and guided tours, along with a nature-themed gift shop Hours of operation are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a m to 5 p m , with rentals stopping at 3 p m For more information or reservations, visit

239-472-8900. TBE is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel

Monthly water sample results

The Calusa Waterkeeper recently released its monthly water sample results for fecal indicator bacteria on April 20 For more information, including historical data, visit https://calusawaterkeeper org/ CALUSA WATERKEEPER

CITY OF SANIBEL

Ride of Silence

the mirror of a passing bus and killed It drew 1,000 participating cyclists

Today, hundreds of events take place on the third Wednesday in May at 7 p m

“It is to honor cyclists who have been injured or killed on our nation's roadways, which sadly continues to grow, and also to bring awareness to safety in cycling for both drivers and cyclists,” she said

Cyclists have the right to use the road and are considered a vehicle like any other.

“We're all here to share the road,” Havill said “And be respectful ”

Open to the community, the Sanibel ride will head eastbound on Periwinkle Way and then south on Casa Ybel Road, following it as it turns into West Gulf Drive. At Tarpon Bay Road, the group w i l l

t h Periwinkle Participants will again travel eastbound and return to the park

“Everybody in the community is welcome to join,” she said. “We actually encourage that ”

The slow-paced ride will be done in silence in recognition of the occasion

“It is a silent ride No talking, no chatting,” Havill said “Riders of all skill levels are welcome ”

The Sanibel Police Department provides an escort and traffic control for crossings

“The police department has always been great,” she said

Those interested in taking part should arrive at the park by 6:45 p m to register and check in They will be required to wear a helmet and sign a wavier; headphones, ear buds and such will not be per-

From page 1

The Sanibel Bicycle Club will hold its annual Ride of Silence on May 15 at 7 p m starting and ending at the Sanibel Community Park on Sanibel Participation is free and open to the community

mitted

Billy's Bikes will provide safety vests at the starting point, plus water and extra helmets

“If you have your own helmet, please bring it,” Havill said There will also be information about

the club and an opportunity to join

The island is invited to come out and take part.

“To be a part of the community, to be a part of helping to honor those who have b e e n k i l l e d o r i n j u r e d , t o h e l p b r i n g awareness to safe cycling,” she said “And to encourage others to participate in a sport Cycling is good exercise and it's good transportation around the island.” F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t https://sanibelbicycleclub org/

The Sanibel Community Park is at 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

SANIBEL BICYCLE CLUB

CITY OF SANIBEL

Suggested intersection enhancements, path extensions and other on-street enhancements to the city's Shared Use Path system as part of the updated draft of the Shared Use Path Master Plan.

SUP plan

From page 1

consultant was brought in The timeline for completion was about six months, but the work was delayed again by the hurricane

“So it's been about five years in process,” she said “We are at the end of the process now and hope to have your recommendation for city council to adopt this document ”

Chris Keller of Benesch, the county MPO's consultant, presented the plan to the commissioners

He reported that they reviewed the existing Shared Use Path (SUP) system and the purpose of the update is to establish a blueprint for the future of the system Updates to the plan included: improvements completed in the past 10 years; obtaining user feedback; options to improve access between

people and places; and improvements to enhance safety and uses

“To help support its vitality for the next 10, 15, 20 years,” Keller said.

He outlined the existing conditions, including path crossings, incidents, widths, amenities, and completed extensions and improvements since 2009

Community engagement entailed updates for city council, three meetings with the Project Advisory Committee, pop-up community events, two open houses, a project webpage with information and comments, an interactive comment map and online survey The general feedback received included:

∫ Paths are important to the quality of

life on Sanibel.

∫ More paths are desirable

∫ Widen the paths where possible

∫ People like the recently improved path sections

∫ Most of the current paths are too crowded

∫ People do not alert/signal when passing

See SUP PLAN, page 20

Lee Elections mails official election notices

The Lee County Elections Office reported that in an effort to ensure every eligible voice is heard in the upcoming elections, it mailed Official Election Notices (OEN) to approximately 428,000 active residential mailboxes throughout the county from April 29 through May 1

An active residential mailbox, as defined for this mailing, refers to a mailbox currently receiving mail and is not in a closed, vacant or temporarily away status

The OEN aims to inform and engage registered voters and eligible individuals within the community It provides essential information about the 2024 elections, including registration, important deadlines, Vote-by-Mail and Early Voting

“We are committed to ensuring that voters are well-informed and equipped with the necessary tools to participate in the elections process,” Supervisor of Elections Tommy Doyle said “We encourage you to review this notice thoroughly to prepare for the upcoming primary and general elections ”

For questions or assistance regarding elections, contact the office at (239) LEE-VOTE (5338683) or visit www lee vote

Graduations

From page 1

∫ Island Coast High School at 2:30 p m at Suncoast Arena

∫ Dunbar High School at 7 p m at Suncoast Arena

∫ Lehigh Senior High School at 7 p m at Alico Arena

SUP plan

∫ Bicyclists do not stop at intersections

∫ Do not allow motorized use on the paths

∫ Separate bikes from walkers

Keller broke down the challenges in the following three categories:

∫ Space: Paths are too narrow; paths are too crowded and congested; new path connections; separate bikers and walkers; environmentally-sensitive land; and limited right-of-way

∫ Social behavior: People do not signal when passing; bicyclists do not stop at intersections; motorists do not stop at crossings; people do not stay on the correct side of the path; people stop in the middle of the path; need to “better” educate path users; and need more enforcement

∫ Speed: Bicyclists traveling too fast on the path; e-bikes can go too fast for the paths; and separate bikers and walkers

He also noted emerging challenges, which include user behavior/etiquette, increased path congestion, bicycle parking and emerging technologies, like micromobility e-bikes and e-scooters and autonomous and connected vehicles

Looking forward, Keller presented

May 2 0

∫ South Fort Myers High School at 7 p m at Suncoast Arena

May 2 1

∫ Ida S Baker High School at 7 p m at Suncoast Arena

suggested enhancements for over a dozen intersections, such as improving visibility and crosswalk alignment, assignment of right-of-way and potential new crossings He also provided recommended path extensions for more than a dozen areas, including on Algiers Lane, Bailey Road, Dixie Beach Boulevard, Palm Ridge Road, Periwinkle Way, Rabbit Road, Tarpon Bay Road and West Gulf Drive In addition, Keller outlined a handful of other suggested on-street enhancements, such as marked bike lanes, paved shoulders and shared lane markings.

In its memo, city staff noted that the draft plan was shared with the Sanibel Bicycle Club in March and then the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PARC) reviewed the draft plan in April

After Keller's presentation, PARC Committee Member Angi Semler-Welch spoke before the commission and provided an overview of the group's thoughts and recommendations as follows:

∫ Additional crosswalks to add safety enhancements at Casa Ybel Road and Periwinkle Way, Periwinkle Way and Tarpon Bay Road, and West Gulf Drive and Tarpon Bay Road

∫ Add safety enhancements to the

crosswalks at Dixie Beach Boulevard and Periwinkle Way and at Donax Street and Periwinkle Way.

∫ Support testing out additional safety enhancements

∫ Support path extensions and path widening, particularly on Periwinkle Way, East Gulf Drive and Middle Gulf Drive

∫ Support a 10-foot minimum width, except where 8 feet is only viable option

∫ Consider a stone or gravel path along the paved path for pedestrians and joggers in areas where widening would be beneficial, but paving is unpractical.

∫ Consider path extensions along Bailey Road to the bayside parking lot, Lighthouse Beach Park entrance to the fishing pier parking lot, and along Rabbit Road

∫ Consider new path extensions on Dixie Beach Road from the path's end to the parking lot, Wulfert Road from Wildlife Drive to The Sanctuary Golf Club, and Wildlife Drive from J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Drive's exit to path at Sanibel-Captiva Road.

During their discussion and before voting to recommend that council approve it, the commissioners sought

See SUP plan, page 22

The Suncoast Credit Union Arena is at 13351 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers

The Alico Arena is at 12181 FGCU Lake Parkway E , Fort Myers

The Buckingham Exceptional Student Center is at 3291 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers

South Fort Myers High School is at 14020 Plantation Road, Fort Myers

The

SANCAP CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

“Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge and SanCap Chamber of Commerce representatives cut the ribbon for the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Roving Ranger and chamber's restrooms on April 16.

Ribbon-cutting for Roving Ranger, Learning Lavatories

As one of the first stops visitors to S a n i b e l a n d C a p t i v a o f t e n m a k e , t h e SanCap Chamber of Commerce restrooms recently have become something of a billb o a r d f o r t h e J N “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g National Wildlife Refuge, modeled after the refuge’s popular and award-winning Learning Lavatories

The artistic redesign, funded by the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge with support from the Lee C o u n t y T o u r i s t D e v e l o p m e n t C o u n c i l , debuted on April 16 with a dual ribboncutting for the restrooms and the Sanibel refuge's new Roving Ranger mobile visitor center

“When 'nature calls,' visitors will find

Volunteers sought for planting

Coastal Watch is signing up volunteers to help plant at the SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation's Gulf Ridge Preserve on May 14 from 8 a m to noon Help is needed to plant the historical marsh before the rainy season and revive the vital salt marsh habitat For more information or to sign up, v i s i t h t t p s : / / s c c f o r g / g e tinvolved/volunteer-opportunities/

themselves surrounded by scenes from 'Ding' Darling in the restrooms at the back of the chamber visitor center,” DDWS Events, Communications & Marketing Manager April Boehnen, who worked with chamber staff on the project, said “In 2018, the refuge won the America's B e s t R e s t r o o m a w a r d f o r i t s n a t u r einspired, artistic restrooms, and we are using that as a springboard for introducing visitors to the islands and refuge during their 'pit stop' at the chamber, which has always been such an awesome partner in our efforts.”

The design starts with the wall just beyond the glass door to the restroom area and continues into each restroom, running

along the walls and inside and outside of the stalls. Inside the stall doors, visitors can learn fun facts about signature refuge birds

“We have a captive audience to influe n c e f o r a f e w m i n u t e s , ” D D W S Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman said “It's a good way to offer visitors an

while giving the chamber a conversationpiece facility ”

“We are so excited about this fun and informative upgrade to the visitor center restrooms,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “We applaud 'Ding' Darling for its always innovative and creative ways to turn visitors on to all the refuge has to offer It

From page 8

being given office space by other local businesses while we waited for our office to be finished ”

He also thanked the chamber for helping with its comeback

Finnimore's a full bike shop rental, repair, and sales shop with watersports and beach equipment rentals, on the island since the 1980s reopened shortly after the storm, co-owner Joe Craig said

The SCIAR has been at its current

SUP plan From page 20

location since 2009 and has been a chartered Realtor association since 1985 on the islands It added a new metal roof, new railings and new exterior design and colors to the remodeled building All windows and storefronts are impact resistant

The remodeled office space holds a conference room, fully stocked kitchen with an oven and a microwave, large meeting room that can accommodate up to 100 people with three TVs and a projector screen and a private meeting room,

which are all available as rental space

The ribbon-cutting celebration was followed by a SCIAR membership meeting and caravan tour, w hich included 10 newly listed properties The guest speaker f

Association Board President and Protect

Lisa Riordan

The SCIAR and Finnimore's Bike & Beach Rentals are at 2353 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

t I f e e l m o s t c o n c e r n e d a b o u t i s n ' t t h e i d e n t i f i c a t i o n o f t h e i s s u e s I t ' s t h e s t a r t i n g t o d o s o m e t h i n g a b o u t t h e m , ” h e a d d e d “ E v e n i f i t i s n ' t 1 5 0 % o f w h a t w e w a n t i t t o b e , w e o u g h t t o a t l e a s t m o v e f o r w a r d b e c a u s e m o v i n g f o r w

really is a gem when it comes to island attractions, and visitors are always interested in learning more This is a win-win ” T h e

t s R o v i n g

Ranger, a colorfully wrapped truck that staff will use for community outreach, earlier in the month It is the first such vehicle in the national refuge system

E d

through a window on the side of the truck and at informational tables and hands-on exhibits outside of the vehicle

The SanCap Chamber of Commerce is at 1159 Causeway Blvd., Sanibel.

Kingfisher Real Estate announced its top producing agents for the month of March

Liz Podolsky was the top selling and top listing agent Originally from New Jersey, she fell in love with the islands upon her first visit in 2007

P

held in information technology, cyber security, e-commerce, digital market-

studied at West Virginia University and earned a master's degree in business administration and a bachelor's degree in network and communications management

For more information, call 239472-4411 or visit www kingfisherrealestate.com.

Kingfisher Real Estate is at 2402 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 3, Sanibel

SanCap Chamber of Commerce's restroom stalls feature photographic wraps of J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge birds

Hometown Sanibel hero returns

The hometown hero returned recently to the scene of his greatest achievement It was just a few years ago that one of our local Sanibel geckos was chosen in a national talent con-

t e s t t o b e t h e G e i c o gecko.

At the time he was an obscure, unknown gecko l

h o m e B u t w h e n i t became known that the world famous insurance

c

its car insurance policies, the word got out to geckos throughout the country

Little Larry Gecko had no ambitions at the time He was perfectly satisfied growing up on Sanibel and doing what all other geckos did: eat insects, frolic on the screens of pool cages and occasionally show up in your living room Life for little Larry was serene and he was ready to take up his father’s occupation eating, sleeping and staying away from frogs

But then word got out that Geico was auditioning for a gecko that would star in most of its television commercials The thinking behind that decision was that geckos demonstrate what insurance policies reflect the most: reliability, quirkiness and confidence building Geico turned the task of auditioning for geckos over to its ad agency

Florida is well known for its geckos They are small, friendly and indeed very bright But not a single gecko had been found that actually talks Until Larry

H u n d r e d s o f g e c k o s w e r e a u d i t i o n e d f r o m throughout Florida but none were able to speak any lines Then one day, the ad agency people stopped off on Sanibel and looked at hundreds of geckos None had the talent or on air style and personality that they believed they needed to persuade the Geico people that their idea of producing a talking gecko was feasible

One evening the ad agency people stopped off at Doc Ford’s and sat at the bar trying to figure out their next steps They had a few drinks and at first thought that they were seeing things in their inebriated state Sitting near them at the bar were a sea turtle, an egret and a gecko. Now nothing people see at Doc Ford’s is in any way surprising But the New York ad agency people didn’t know that

They heard voices from their right and when they turned to look they saw the sea turtle, egret and gecko carrying on a conversation Apparently no one else at Doc Ford’s that day paid any attention to this unlikely threesome Stranger things have happened at Doc Ford’s But the ad agency people were blown away The three creatures were having a conversation about Alex Rodriguez and how soon he would hit his 600th home run

The ad people paid no attention to the sea turtle and egret but looked at the gecko with bulging eyes They turned to little Larry and asked him if he had ever appeared in a commercial Larry said he hadn’t and in fact had never thought about a career in show business He lied, of course The sea turtle and egret rolled their eyes

The ad agency people asked Larry if he could put on a British accent and Larry did so Later on Larry told the ad people that he had often sat on the window sill of the Sanibel home he was living at and watched PBS Masterpiece Theater episodes He had said that his favorite actress was Judi Dench.

His British accent was so perfect that Larry was offered the job on the spot He was told that the search for the new Geico gecko was over and he would

See HERO, page 25

San-Cap Nature Calendar on sale

The 37th edition of The Sanibel-Captiva Nature Calendar is available for purchase, as well as the spiralbound Blind Pass Tide edition that includes daily tide predictions for multiple spots and more

Publisher Jim Fowler explained that in addition to the same beautiful photographs and narratives, the limited edition contains the daily tide predictions for Blind Pass and conversion times for 24 other points along the Southwest Florida coast It also includes selected sunrise and sunset times, moonrise and moonset times, and the four eclipses that will occur in 2025

This year's calendar includes 14 photos of some of Sanibel's most iconic birds, animals and marine life, including three post-Hurricane Ian photos Each monthly photo is accompanied by a narrative discussing the current status of the subject, effects of the storm and future prospects The front cover features a trio of roseate spoonbills photographed by Theresa Baldwin at the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

“Referred to as 'Sanibel's bird,' roseate spoonbills are often found foraging in 'Ding' Darling at sunrise and sunset,” Fowler said in a prepared statement “Historically, it was a tradition during the winter season to gather on Wildlife Drive after dinner and wait for the return of 'Sanibel's Bird.'”

The post-Ian photos presented are a bobcat at Pond Apple Park, an Atlantic giant cockle on the beach and an American alligator at Pond Apple Park All of the images show birds and other animals in different states of their lives on the wounded but recovering barrier islands

This year's featured photographers include Audrey Albrecht, Shane Antalick, Baldwin, Marianne Bargiotti, Cliff Beittel, Don Thompson and Cole Tillman Writers Betty Anholt and Charles LeBuff, as well as SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation shorebird biologist Albrecht and Florida Gulf Coast University graduate researcher Tillman, wrote the monthly photo narratives.

“Created from an idea that took seed during my island experiences since I first came to Sanibel in the early seventies, I have tried every year to put together a calendar that truly shows the natural beauty of the islands,” Fowler said “It continues to be my goal each year to publish a calendar that not only is beautiful and useful, but also promotes wildlife conservation through interest, information and education ”

First published in 1988, the calendar is sold only in Southwest Florida Each photo includes subject information such as: description, nesting, breeding and feeding habits, range, habitat, status and health.

THE SANIBEL-CAPTIVA NATURE CALENDAR

The back cover of The Sanibel-Captiva Nature Calendar for 2025.

Every fall a portion of the publisher's proceeds are donated to a regional conservation organization Last year, a donation of $500 was made to Turtle Time on Fort Myers Beach To date, the publisher has donated a b o u t $ 2 8 , 1 8 9

Southwest Florida

Again this year, the calendar will be available, upon request, with a shipping envelope made from trash. Make-ready sheets were saved from the press setup and used to create custom-fit mailing envelopes

“It is the best calendar in the world, and probably the best calendar that ever was,” Fowler said “It is the only calendar that truly represents what Sanibel and Captiva are all about nature ”

The 2025 calendar retails for $16 95 and is available in fine book stores and gift shops throughout Southwest Florida Only available on Sanibel, the Blind Pass Tide edition retails for $19 95

For mail orders, send $16 95 plus $2 for shipping and handling to: Sanibel-Captiva Nature Calendar, P.O. Box 3828, Midway, KY 40347 For the limited edition, send $19 95 along with the $3 for S&H

For more information, contact Fowler at 859-8464164

Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that for seventh-grade curriculum,

Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels has been bringing on lessons about the detriments of microplastic The team thanked environmental activist Diane Wilson for her donation of a nurdles kit to help it explain about the formation of plastic from tiny pellets and how plastic products eventually return to that size to pollute seas and look like food to marine animals The WoW remained at Oak Hammock Middle School in the Tice community through May 7 its last commitment of the school year before the summer camp visits begin

Seventh-graders learn how difficult it is for shorebirds to feed

tics

Art Stevens Shell Shocked

From page 24

become a major TV star and would be seen by millions of people

The sea turtle and egret asked if there were any roles for them as well The ad agency people paid no attention to them They immediately placed a contract in front of Larry and asked him to sign it Larry recognized the opportunity that was enfolding and decided that now was the time to make his dreams come true He signed the contract with his tail From the day he was hatched he believed he was destined to become a world famous gecko. The rest is history Larry has been the reigning Geico gecko for some years now and has become almost as well known as Angelina Jolie

L

Junonia found on Captiva

, found a junonia on April 11 on Turner Beach on Captiva She was walking the beach with her father, Cody Holmestad, and 5-year-old brother, Kacen Holmestad, when a wave washed up the shell and Kenley picked it up Her mother, Jessica Holmestad, reported that the family was shelling on Sanibel

There were many shells piled up along the rocks, but they decided to walk the beach first to see what they could find. Holmestad added that her family has been to the area a few times before, so they were looking for shells that looked different or that they did not have “We didn't have any knowledge of rare shells, but had a plan to keep anything that looked different or that we didn't already have,” she said A few days after Kenley f o u n d t h

u n o n

f a m i l y learned that it is a “crown jewel” that everyone hunts for. To report a shell find, contact 239-4721587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers com

PHOTO PROVIDED

stopped off at his old hangout Doc Ford’s He was welcomed as a hometown hero and was even treated to free insects there The Sanibel City Council gave him the key to the city and announced that a new holiday would take place on Sanibel each year Geico Larry Day

In fact, Larry had a reunion with his friends the sea turtle and egret for whom he managed to get major roles in upcoming Pixar animated movies Larry never forgot his roots He now provides Geico car insurance for all of Sanibel.

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

ISL AND HOME islander

Adonidia palm is easy and elegant

The Adonidia palm (Veitchia merrillii) is an ideal palm for a small entry or to put in a container on a pool deck or patio

The palm only grows to between 12 feet and 15 feet tall, which is r a t h e r s m a l l f o r p a l m t r e e s T h e A d o n i d i a looks like a miniature royal palm with its gray trunk and long graceful fronds It is a singletrunk palm, but growers can put them together to p r o d u c e m u l t i - t r u n k palms Either way, it is a g r e a t p a l m t o u s e i n small tropical landscapes where you would like a smaller specimen palm

The palms perform best in full sun, but can tolerate a little shade The Adonidia is a self-cleaning palm, which means the old fronds will drop off naturally. You can trim brown fronds off if seeing a brown frond now and then does not appeal to you New fronds are formed from the bud or crown of the palm tree in the center of the fronds

Adonidia palms are also known as the Christmas palm As it matures, the Adonidia will bloom with white flowers and then large clusters of red berries the seeds in the winter time This makes for a pretty holiday look in the tropical landscape The palm is moderately salt-tolerant and does not like consistently cold weather or frost conditions

If you have space for a small pretty palm, the Adonidia may be just the right palm for you

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

F.I.S.H. to host monthly luncheon with speaker

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva is continuing its community-wide Friendly Faces Luncheon The next one will be held on May 14 at 11 a m at the Sanibel Recreation Center, with a virtual option available

It will feature Sanibel resident and beekeeper Brad MacKenzie, owner of Sanibel Honey He will discuss the company's mission and its role in Sanibel's ecology and human community MacKenzie will also touch on the role of U S managed commercial honey bees, unique post-hurricane opportunity for bees on the island, life cycle of the honey bee and more.

“We've hosted some great speakers already this year and are excited to hear from Brad MacKenzie,” Senior Services Director Erika Broyles said “If available, Brad may bring a sweet sampling with him ”

MacKenzie began beekeeping and honey making more than four years ago Today, Sanibel Honey has over 60 hives at different locations mostly located in homeowners' yards throughout Sanibel

The honey is made solely by island bees from Sanibel flowering plants, and it is harvested and bottled by

MacKenzie The honey is what the bees provide, made from the wide variety of blooming flowers, bushes, trees, palms and mangroves on Sanibel Sanibel Honey also makes beeswax products and will be introducing a no-see-um repellent next year

“In the post-hurricane year, my first-year bees were busy building their hives and making enough honey to get through the winter They didn't make much surplus for us,” he said “This year, they will make more than 10 times as much honey for me to bottle, so we're really looking forward to that ”

Prepared by the Sanibel Deli, the lunch will be complimentary for those who attend in-person

The program will also include giveaways and interactive group games

Reservations and meal choices are required by May 10

For more information or to make a reservation, contact Broyles at 239-472-4775 Once registered, Zoom instructions will be provided to those planning to attend virtually

The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel

Housing Recovery Program deadline nearing

The online application portal and submission of new applications online

Program will conclude on May 15 at 5 p m

As of April 18, Lee County was processing more than 1,300 applications requesting assistance for repairing, reconstructing, elevating or purchasing a home It and its partners had directly contacted over 62,000 Lee residents to provide program information

Funding for the program comes from the U S Department of Housing

Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-

address the disaster recovery needs of residents affected by the hurricane Programs for which individuals can apply include:

∫ The Housing Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Elevation prog

property owners to repair, replace and/or elevate property that suffered damage

∫ The Home Purchase Assistance may assist income-eligible home buyers to purchase a qualifying primary residence outside of the flood zone in Lee

Once an application is submitted,

individuals will be assigned a design a

o p r o v i d e updates If an application is approved, the funding is a grant not a loan and it does not need to be repaid if the applicant complies with the terms of the grant

To view a full list of eligibility requirements and documents needed, visit www leeflcares com

F o r q u e s t i o n s , c o n t a c t leecares@leegov com or 239-3825453

Information about Lee County's C D B G - D R A c t i o n P l a n , p r o g r a m allocations, activities and expenditures are available on the county's website at https://cdbgdr leegov com

Preparation is key as hurricane season approaches

By FLORIDA GOVERNMENTAL UTILITY AUTHORITY

Perhaps Benjamin Franklin said it best: “By failing to prepare, you're preparing to fail ” As we approach the beginning of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 through Nov 30), the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) urges all Floridians to heed these words of wisdom

May 5-11 is National Hurricane Preparedness Week, an opportunity to focus our collective efforts on the potentially lifesaving benefits of planning and preparation The threat this year is greater than ever, with Colorado State University predicting an extremely active season with 23 named storms, including 11 that will become hurricanes and five reaching major hurricane strength (Category 3 or higher)

The FGUA prepares year-round to minimize the impact of storms on its customers, with a priority focus on preventing service disruptions by investing in upgraded systems, working with electric utilities to expedite the restoration of power, and sharing timely infor-

mation through its website and the news media

Begin early preparations now

Before the season begins, take care of things that require a bit more time, but which will have you prepared and ready to respond when the warnings come The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration offers the following top tips:

∫ Strengthen your home if possible

∫ Get an insurance checkup and document your possessions

∫ Develop an evacuation plan

∫ Create a communication plan with a hand-written/printed list of contacts

∫ Assemble disaster supplies

For more more information, visit noaa gov/hurricane-prep

When watches, warnings come

Having a comprehensive disaster supply kit assembled and ready is

critical The state offers a detailed, printable checklist at floridadisaster org The list covers items in sev-

important documents, vehicle readiness and pet care

Water, water ever ywhere

Even with the best preparation,

Heavy rainfall, widespread flooding, water main breaks from uprooted trees and loss of power to pumping stations may result in loss of water

which can cause illness In these situations, the FGUA may issue precautionary boil water notices For drinking or cooking with water during these limited periods, a rolling boil for a period of at least one minute is sufficient Alternatively, bottled water may be used Current outages and notices are posted online at fgua com

Sanibel Captiva

PHOTO PROVIDED Adonidia palm

Brad MacKenzie

Recipe of the Week: Grilled Pork Tenderloin Medallions Wrapped in Prosciutto with Port

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Pork medallions are slices of pork tenderloin wrapped in prosciutto, grilled and then finished in the oven Pork tenderloin is easy to work with, quick to cook and very tender Serves eight (Chef tip: Cook pork tenderloin at 135°F so the center is still pink and juicy )

8 (1/2-inch thick, 3 ounce) pork tenderloin medallions

8 slices prosciutto, cut in half, lengthwise

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, whole

2 sprigs fresh thyme, whole Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 shallot minced

2 cups beef demi-glace

1/2 cup port wine

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 teaspoon fresh Italian parsley, chopped

Heat the grill on high Preheat oven to 375°F

Pat filets mignons dry and season with salt and pepper Wrap each filet in prosciutto Grill medallions on both sides Place in a saute pan with oil, butter, whole garlic cloves and thyme Place in the oven and bake until the meat temperature reaches 135°F

In a small saucepan, saute shallots with a bit of salt and pepper in butter over moderate heat, stirring, until lightly browned Add the port wine and reduce by half Add in beef demi-glace and simmer for 15 minutes, or until reduced by two-thirds Season with salt and pepper and parsley

CROW Calendar

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

∫ Today, May 8

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be about “Road Ecology ”

∫ Thursday, May 9

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

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

∫ Friday, May 1 0

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

∫ Monday, May 1 3

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

∫ Tuesday, May 1 4

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be about “Sea Turtles ”

∫ Wednesday, May 1 5

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be the presenter's choice

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.

The great influencer

I t r u s t t h a t y o u a r e

a w a r e t h a t t h i s c o m i n g

S u n d a y i s M o t h e r ’ s D a y

S o m e w o u l d a r g u e t h a t e v e r y d a y o u g h t t o b e

Sauce

Serve pork medallions with port sauce And spinach and red peppers and fingerling potatoes

Sauteed spinach and roasted red peppers (serves eight)

2 pounds fresh baby spinach

2 roasted red peppers, thinly sliced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

Wash and drain spinach Place oil in a large saute pan over medium heat Add garlic, roasted peppers and spinach to the pan Season with salt and pepper to taste Saute for about 10 minutes, until spinach is wilted Add lemon juice and cook a few more minutes Serve immediately

Oven-roasted fingerling potatoes (serves eight)

2 pounds fingerling potatoes, halved lengthwise

1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

Preheat the oven to 400°F Wash potatoes well and slice in half, lengthwise Toss with olive oil, salt and pepper

Place the potatoes on a baking sheet pan and roast for 30 minutes or until tender on the inside and crispy on the outside Remove from the oven and serve

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

Services will return for season in November Videos of services from the past season can be found on the chapel's website and Facebook page

∫ 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 are 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 10 a m in the Sanctuary Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel

∫ 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 5 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

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

c a n h e a p u p o n t h e m A n d i f w e d o n ’ t , I t h i n k i t ’ s s t i l l i m p o r t a n t t h a t w e

M o t h e r ’ s D a y , c o n s i d e ri n g a l l m o m s d o t o m a k e t h e i r f a m i l i e s f u n c t i o n I c a n ’ t d i s a g r e e w i t h t h a t o p i n i o n I k n o w t h a t i n m y e x p e r i e n c e , b o t h a s a s o n a n d f a t h e r , t h e t w o h o u s eh o l d s I h a v e k n o w n w e r e a n d a r e f a r b e t t e r p l a c e s b e c a u s e o f t h e i n f l u e n c e o f g o o d m o t h e r s A n d n o t t o d i s c o u n t m y r o l e a s a f a t h e r , I s t i l l h a v e t o a d m i t t h a t m y t w o c h i ld r e n a r e b e t t e r p e o p l e f o r t h e m o t h e r G o d b l e s s e d t h e m w i t h W h i l e I d i d m y b e s t t o o f f e r o u r k i d s c o u n s e l a n d e n c o u r a g e m e n t , i t w a s m y w i f e , J u d y , w h o d i d t h e m o s t n u r t u r i n g a n d i n s t r u c t i n g , a s w e l l a s t h e m o s t w o r r y i n g a n d w a t c h i n g I c a m e t o s e e h o w t h e f a l l b a c k r e s p o n s e o f a l l f a t h e r s “ G o a s k y o u r m o t h e r ” i s a c t u a l l y n o t h i n g m o r e t h a n a p u b l i c p r o f e s s i o n o f h o w , c o n t r a r y t o t h e o l d s a y i n g , “ M o t h e r s u s ua l l y k n o w b e s t ” O n e t h i n g i s c e r t a i n : m o t h e r s a r e g r e a t i n f l ue n c e r s W h o a m o n g u s h a s n o t f o u n d h i m s e l f o r h e r s e l f s a y i n g s o m e t h i n g o r s e e i n g s o m e t h i n g a l o n g t h e l i n e s o f w h a t w e l e a r n e d f r o m o u r m o t he r s ? C l e a r l y , w e d e v e l o p i n t o r e s p o n s i b l e a d u l t s i n l a r g e m e a s u r e t h r o u g h t h e e f f o r t s o f f a i t h f u l m o t he r s S o , i f w e s t i l l h a v e t h e m , o u r m o t h e r s d e s e r v e a l l t h e p r a i s e a n d g r a t i t u d e w e

a c k n o w l e d g e t h e g r e a t d e b t t h a t w e o w e t h e m Y o u m a y h a v e m a n y r o l e m o d e l s i n y o u r l i f e B u t c h a n c e s a r e t h a t t h e r e a r e n o n e m o r e c r i t i c a l t h a n t h e m o t h e r

G o d g a v e y o u K e e p t h a t i n m i n d n o t j u s t t h i s S u n d a y , b u t a l s o e v e r y d a y o f y o u r l i f e a n d y o u w i l l d o w e l l , j u s t l i k e

m o m w a n t e d y o u t o d o “ S h e w a t c h e s o v e

Loretta Paganini

Rev Dr Doug Dortch Faces on Faith

Cheeburger Cheeburger, 1975 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Cielo, 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

islandBEAT islander

Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio & Strength

Santiva Islanders Calendar

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, May 8, from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

Breakfast Club

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

Social Bridge

Social Bridge will be held on May 9 from noon to 2:30 p m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, contact Bryant Korn at bryantekorn@gmail com

Social Mahjong

Social Mahjong will be held on May 9 from noon to 2:30 p m in the music room at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, contact Beth Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail com

Wine & Cheese Par ty

“Who’s Still Here?” Wine & Cheese Party will be held on May 9 from 5 to 7 p m at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Coffee & Conversation

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

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

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on May 13 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 May 13 from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

Happy Hour

Happy Hour will be held on May 13 from 4 to 6 p m at Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, at 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials Attendees will order and pay individually

Leisure Lunch

A Leisure Lunch will be held on May 14 from noon to 1 p m at Rosalita's Cantina, at 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel Attendees will order and pay individually For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Deborah Butler at deborahpbutler@comcast net

Page Tur ners Book

Club

Page Turners Book Club will meet on May 14 from 1 to 2:30 p m via Zoom The book for discussion will be “The Women” by Kristin Hannah For questions or to

santivaislanders@gmail com

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on May 15 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

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

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

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

Shellcrafters

The Shellcrafters will meet on May 13 from 10 a m to 1 p m in the lobby A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a m ; it is free and supplies range from $5-10 Items will be available for sale All sales benefit the operations of TCH

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

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

For more information, visit www sanibelcommun i t y h o u s

office@sanibelcommunityhouse net

The Mucky Duck, 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

Rosalita's Cantina, 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel

CHILDREN'S EDUCATION CENTER OF THE ISLANDS

From left, Charitable Foundations of the Islands Executive Director Dolly Farrell, Liz Birmingham and Children's Education Center of the Islands Executive Director Michelle Keltner.

CECI announces donation

The Children's Education Center of the Islands on Sanibel reported that Jim and Liz Birmingham donated $20,000 this year to support the preschool through the donor advised fund with the Charitable Foundations of the Islands The funds were used to install a mosquito misting system at the playground, as well as to offer travel incentives to the teachers who commune to the island preschool each day

Island author launches podcast about Sanibel

Longtime Sanibel resident Charles LeBuff recently launched a “Sanibel Chronicles” podcast on YouTube Based on his life and the island's history, the content will cover a Sanibel much different than what is experienced today Created so he has “something to do” and to further share his unique knowledge of the island, LeBuff reported that the podcast's intent is to provide tidbits of history and to encourage viewer engagement that will drive future topics The channel currently features nine episodes, along with a three-part series that began on April 18, “The Sanibel Slough, Sanibel R i v e r , a n d M o s q u i t o C o n t r o l ”

Additional episodes will be published on a biweekly basis LeBuff's adult life is rooted in Sanibel At the age of 22 in 1958, he became the second employee at what is now the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge LeBuff initiated the sea turtle conservation studies that continue today on Sanibel and Captiva after 63 years He was also a member of the charter Sanibel City Council in 1974 LeBuff has written or co-written five books that deal with Sanibel's history or its wildlife, and he has authored an additional 14 books on a variety of topics To watch the free podcast, visit @charleslebuff2974 on YouTube

From left, Bank of the Islands Vice President Richard Shera, Kate

of the Sanibel School Fund, and bank customer service representative Vanessa Flynt and Vice President David Lowden

Bank of the Islands to ser ve as sponsor

Bank of the Islands is a gold sponsor for the Sanibel School Fund's annual Blue Ribbon Golf Classic and Gala on May 11 at The Sanctuary Golf Club, at 2801 Wulfert Road, Sanibel The tourney will include a helicopter ball drop and raffles

BANK OF THE ISLANDS

Shaffer

CHARLES LEBUFF

Refuge, DDWS thank sponsors

T h e “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g

Wildlife Society-Frie of the Refuge thanked following supporters the 12th annual “Din

D a r l i n g & D o c F o r Tarpon Tournament for May 10, which ben

f i t s t h e J . N . “ D i n

D a r l i n g N a t i o n

W i l d l i f e R e f u g e o

S a n i b e l : D o c F o r d

Rum Bar & Grille, titl

s p o n s o r : G r e t c h e Banks, champion spon sor; Szymanczyk fami

l y , p r e m i e r e s p o n s o r Captiva Divas, Bill and

L

L

C

David and Judy Baum,

Services, Drift West, Captain Shawn Kelly

F i s h i n g C h a

C

Captiva Community Bank and Whitney's Bait & Tackle, plat-

i n u m s p o n s

Anisa Jewelry, Bay Marine, Calusa Waterkeeper, Captain Matt Mitchell's Fishing Charters, Fort Myers

M ar in e, H ig h To w er A d v is o r s F o r t Myers, Pfeifer Realty Group, R S Walsh Landscaping & Design, Sanibel Marina, SP Designs, Stewart Island Construction

and Trophy Case of Fort Myers, gold sponsors; and Captiva Spirits, Law Office o f J a n e t M S t r i c k l a n d a

Bricks & Stones, silver sponsors

Shell club awards grant funding

In 2023, the Sanibel-Captiva Shell C vided grants to the Bailey-Matthews Na Shell Museum & Aquarium and Sani Captiva Conservation Foundation At t museum, the funds were used toward two-plus year “Recovery + Renewal’’ p

u r r i c

e I a n repairs and improvements, continuing educational programming and ongoing operations, and start-up costs of reopening after the storm The funds for th SCCF Marine Laboratory were used conduct research after Ian on water qu conditions in the Gulf of Mexico, included three oceanographic research c

TCH fundraising challenge met

The Sanibel Community Association

Community House's Hurricane Ian recovery and rebuilding efforts and then asked the community to join them by donating to The Harkey Challenge Close to 600 donors, local businesses, clubs and non-

profits contributed toward the fund, which raised the needed funds to rebuild and reopen TCH, to cover costs that exceeded insurance and to sustain programming and staff The SCA thanked those who contributed and gave a special thank you to the Harkeys, noting that it is now 100% mortgage free

Refuge hosts annual Conser vation Car nival

T

Wildlife Refuge returned to Lakes Park in Fort Myers on April 20 for its 35th annual “Ding” Darling Day The free celebration also observed Earth Day, which fell on April 22 The refuge and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge celebrated a day of free, outdoor Conservation Carnival activities with the community, including g

Animal Olympics, a rock-climbing wall, the Roving Ranger, crafts, art demonstrations, a guided bilingual birding walk, a biking tour, live music, food and educational interactions with other local conservation organizations

SANIBEL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Poetic License

Joe Pacheco

‘Janus: The Two Faces of Poetry’

“Ars Poetica I”

Don’t blow it, poet, Don’t abuse your muse, If you want to rhyme Then take the time To pay your dues

Don’t grow it, poet Don’t add like mad, Leave most of it out, The pain and doubt, The good and bad,

Don’t show it, poet, Don’t call it all, But let it ride Till something inside Breaks through your wall

Then you’ll know it, poet Not wrong or long, but sharp and tight and filled with light will be your song.

“Ars Poetica II”

Don’t blow it, poet, Don’t lose your muse, Not trim and clean But raw and mean Will spread your news

Don’t hoe it, poet, Make the beat too neat, Words row on row Will only sow Seeds of repeat.

Don’t go it, poet, Alone on your own, Find room to spare For all to share What you have known

Don’t stow it, poet, Away all day, Read it aloud For the hungry crowd To shout hooray!

BIG ARTS on Sanibel announced that it has been selected by Winn-Dixie for the C o m m u n i t y B a g P r o g r a m D u r i n g t h e month of May, $1 will be donated to BIG ARTS for every reusable Community Bag purchased from the Winn-Dixie, at 13334

S Cleveland Ave , Fort Myers The bags cost $2 99 each They can also be bought i

seg@bag4mycause.com. For more inform

C

Program, visit https://seg 2givelocal com/