Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

Island

school students, staff

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Sanibel School held its final day of school on May 31 as classes let out for the summer

“We've had a really wonderful school year,” Principal Jennifer Lusk said “We've had a lot of accomplishments, a lot of celebrations, a lot of field trips ”

Students took part in the annual Talent Show on their last day Eighth-graders moving on to high school participated in the traditional parade through the hallways, cheered on by students and faculty The last week also included a middle-school

mark last day of year

field day, as well as student parties and celebrations

The school year began with 235 students enrolled and ended with 227

“We are looking at an increase in enrollment,” Lusk said of total anticipated for 2024-25

As far as academics, the school focused on enhancing its

Technology, Engineering, and Math program and STEAM program, which adds Art

See LAST DAY, page 18

Sanibel fire district to host groundbreaking for new station

By STAFF REPORT

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The community is invited to mark the start of construction for a new fire station this week

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue

D i s t r i c t w i l l h o l d a g r o u n dbreaking ceremony on June 7 at 10 a m for Station 172, at 5171 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

The station is being rebuilt due to Hurricane Ian

“The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District and the Board of Fire Commissioners

would like to formally invite you to a very special event as our island community turns another page and begins a new hapter,” the district reported It noted that the reconstruction of the station would not have been possible for several y e a r s w

support from elected officials,

mergency Management, Federal Emergency Management Agency, city of Sanibel and many others

See GROUNDBREAKING, page 18

Jury finds Tr ump guilty on all counts

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

Former President Donald J Trump has been found guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records, each a first degree felony

The jury delivered its verdict in a Manhattan court on May30

Trump, who said he is innocent, called the proceedings “a rigged, disgraceful trial” when talking to reporters following the verdict

“I’m a very innocent man,” he said “This was done by the Biden administration in order to hurt or wound a political opponent.

“We’ll fight until the end ”

The trial began in mid-April, marking the first time in history a former U S president had been on trial for criminal charges

Trump, who is the presumptive GOP presidential nominee for the ballot in November, was on trial to determine if he

Funding changes to give school principals greater flexibility

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A d v a n c e d P l a c e m e n t a n d C a m b r i d g e A I C E

“ T h i s i s t h e f i r s t y e a r w e a r e w o r k i n g t h r o u g h

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Bat houses installed with help of island students

Foundation's ongoing environmental education programming with The Sanibel School, students got to support the islands’ bats with two brand-new bat houses at an SCCF preserve, as well as take an ecological inventory of Sanibel's interior

Suppor ting bats

The SCCF reported that students helped install two new bat houses at the Pick Preserve, thanks to funding and support from the Sanibel School PTA

The structures can support up to 200 roosting bats and were signed by the students in Julie Wappes' fourth-grade class Mike Mills and Richard Finkel, with the SCCF, helped educate the class about the importance of bats to the world’s ecosystems through pest control, pollination and seed dispersal

“Bats provide vital services to our environment. In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, thousands of trees were knocked over or completely removed to decrease fire risk, leading to the loss of many bat roosting areas,” Mills said “These triple-chambered bat houses have the poten-

tial to house up to 200 hundred bats each, providing much-needed roosting areas for the bats of Sanibel ”

The SCCF reported that the public can help the islands' bat population by decreasing the trimming of dead palm fronds and installing their own bat house For information about bat houses and how to build one, visit https://www floridabats org/bat-houses html

For more information or to report bat sightings, email mmills@sccf org

Ecological study

Sixth and seventh graders joined the SCCF for an ecological study of the interior habitats Students looked at different soil types on upland ridge habitats and Spartina swale habitats Water samples were also taken to assess how well the interior freshwater habitats have rebounded from the saltwater surge of Ian

“Students enjoyed exploring the dry season stage of Sanibel’s spartina swale habitat,” Finkel said “These environmental field explorations are invaluable for complimenting classroom work with practical biological field work ”

Island students obser ve nature at refuge

Third- and fourthgrade students from The Sanibel School

r e c e n t l y l e a r n e d about mindfulness in n a t u r e a t t h e J N “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e

A w a r e n e s s M

n t h Instead of recording their visit in journals,

them observe see,

B o a r d w a l k ( W E B ) Originally designed to connect the refuge to the school for easy walkable visits, the WEB hosts classes on a regular basis The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of th e R ef u g e th an k ed th e S an ib el Captiva Rotary Club for helping to

support the connection It noted that schools from across the county also use it through a

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

OPINIONS

County to CCA: Heads we win, tails you lose

To the editor:

In 2003 the Captiva Civic Association, Lee County and South Seas Resort on Captiva settled a lawsuit concerning future development at the resort The settlement agreed to maintain in perpetuity the 912-unit buildout limit established by the 1973 zoning approvals Last year the county passed an ordinance removing any density limits at the resort, after which South Seas applied for a rezoning that would bring the total resort units to 1,347. In response, the CCA filed a complaint with Circuit Court seeking enforcement of the settlement’s 912-unit buildout limit The county has now filed a motion to dismiss the CCA’s complaint, using a number of arguments that this letter will address in the order they were presented

1) Plain language The settlement agreement’s second paragraph states that (except for reallocation of existing units) the nine principal “determinations” within a 2002 county document prescribing the resort’s development can only be amended through a publichearing process The third paragraph then specifies that determination #1 the 912unit buildout limit cannot be exceeded “at any time ” The county in its motion to dismiss argues that the second paragraph nullifies the third paragraph, such that the 912-unit limit can in fact be amended at the conclusion of a public-hearing rezoning process, which the resort commenced in December The county’s interpretation of the plain language of the settlement is incorrect for a variety of reasons.

∫ Except to mention reallocation of existing units, none of the nine key “determinations,” other than the 912-unit buildout limit, is even referenced in the settlement If it had been the intent of the document that the buildout limit be treated in the same manner as the o t h e r d e t e r m i n a t i o n s ( t h a t i s , a m e n d a b l e through a public-hearing rezoning process), there would be no reason to reference it Indeed, there would be every reason not to reference it, to avoid misinterpretation Instead, the 912-unit limit requirement is stated and twice-restated in three consecutive sentences in the brief document

∫ The county’s position is that the third paragraph should be treated as though it does not exist and adds no meaning to the document This violates an elementary rule of statutory construction, where all words placed within a document are assumed to have purpose and meaning, unless none can be discovered

∫ Where different passages in a document are suggested to be in tension, another principle of statutory construction is to find the most plausible explanation for how they can reasonably coexist In this case, the second paragraph is clearly conditioned by the third paragraph, excluding the 912-unit limit from amendment “at any time ” The county’s position is that the

Letters to the Editor

second paragraph erases the third, rendering it meaningless and of no relevance, when there is an obvious explanation for why the two would coexist and be presented one after the other

∫ Further evidence that the third paragraph conditions the second is that it immediately follows the passage it qualifies We use this device of subsequent modification all the time, as in “Yes, you can borrow the car, but be home by ten ”

∫ The CCA’s central concern in the lawsuit was to maintain the density limits in accordance with the existing 1973 zoning approvals for the resort The third paragraph was the linchpin passage motivating the CCA to agree to the settlement; without it there would be no reason to sign It is not credible that the CCA, or any other good-faith signatories to the document, could have intended that the third paragraph would add no meaning to the agreement

∫ When presenting the settlement to the commissioners for their approval in 2003, the c

“Background” description of the agreement. In it, he distinguished between “additional affirmative duties” (i e , public hearings) the agreement imposes on most resort permit applications; and that the settlement “limits permissible units at South Seas to … 912 ” These two aspects of the settlement were described by the county attorney to the commissioners as distinct, with separate meaning and consequence, whereas now the same office argues that one aspect of the agreement strips the other of any purpose or meaning within the document

2) Ultra vires. The county’s second argument is that it exceeded its lawful authority (acted “ultra vires”) by agreeing to restrict its sovereign police power to regulate development The county is arguing that as a result of its own purported legal incompetence, the settlement agreement is therefore a nullity and unenforceable

Police powers regulate the health, safety, welfare and morals of the people and are generally reserved to the states, and hence to localities such as cities and counties Control over zoning and development is one type of police power The 2003 settlement is now belatedly argued to be a nullity because the county cannot lawfully agree to a cap on resort development that it cannot unilaterally undo To tie its own hands would, in effect, relinquish its police power to regulate development in the public interest So the argument goes

Before entering this subject, it should be observed that 21 years ago the county attorney, manager, four budget officials and five commissioners signed off on the settlement Today the county is asking the court to cure what it claims is its own incompetence and, by a happy coincidence, smooth the way for a radical enlarging of South Seas Questions for later include exactly when the county concluded it had made an unlawful ultra vires agreement and why the existence of the settlement was never mentioned by the county during the

months-long public process of removing the resort’s density limits Its relevance to the issue is undeniable We should also wish to ascertain whether the settlement was discussed privately within county government or with South Seas prior to ordinance approval

throughout American history where Congress, or a state legislature, is accused of passing off its sovereign legislative duties to (usually) an administrative agency, which in effect does the lawmaking. That isn’t cricket; moving down the governmental food chain, neither is it cricket for local authority to cede its police powers, including control over zoning and development Sovereign powers cannot be lawfully given or traded away The question

See LETTERS, page 20

‘Ding’ cartoon of the month

A clear example of the prescient nature of the political cartoons created in the

Engineers Plan Water Uses for Everything Except Nature’s Objectives,” foretold the reality of losing water resources Like many of Darling’s Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoons, in its complexity it pokes fun at a number of political blunders from the dikes of New Orleans to draining important wetlands As water woes continue to plague Florida and the nation, the quality and quantity of water remains an environmental issue of highest concern, just as he foresaw The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge owns the copyright of the “Ding” Darling cartoons REFUGE/DDWS

Three CEPD commission seats up for election

By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers com

f

Qualifying will soon ope

Captiva Erosion Prevention District's board

Commissioner Seats 2, 4 and 5 will be on the Genera Election ballot in November. T

interested candidates will run from

ould begin to pre-qualify with Lee County Elections beginning on May 27

The CEPD provided the following information: Why become a commisoner?

∫ You are community-oriented

∫ You care about preserving and sustaining the environment

∫ You recognize the benefits beach renourishment brings to both the community and your property

∫ You want to make sure Captiva is a viable and thriving community well into the future

How do I become a commissioner?

∫ Elected: You must be a registered Captiva

South Seas celebrates success of first tarpon tourney

The first annual South Seas Tarpon Tournament took place on May 17 at the resort on Captiva

Thirty-one captains and 111 anglers took part in the event for $32,000 in prize money

The winning teams included: Owens Corning Lumber with four catches and a $16,000 payout, led by Capt William Rinehold; Target Roofing with Capt Tyler Carner had three catches; and Sunstate Mobile Marine had two catches with Capt Shane Earhart

The tourney also raised $200,000 to support Folds of Honor, a non-profit organization committed to providing scholarships for the spouses and children of fallen or disabled

voter residing within the district. You are elected by the qualified electors residing within the district Positions come up for election every two years

∫ Appointed: If a vacancy occurs on the board due to the resignation, death or removal of a member, the remaining members may appoint a qualified person to fill out the

CEPD, page 7

Captiva

y System, the Captiva Memorial Library is offering the following free programming:

Adult programs

∫ Today, June 5: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

∫ June 7: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

∫ June 10: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

∫ June 12: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

Teen programs

∫ Today, June 5: Summer Reading Program Crafts

SOUTH SEAS

South Seas hosted the first annual South Seas Tarpon Tournament on May 17 on Captiva

CEPD

From page 6

remainder of the unexpired term

What is expected of a commissioner?

∫ Attendance of all monthly board meetings.

∫ Attendance at the weekly briefing meeting if possible (These are often canceled and are not mandatory )

∫ Vote on every motion in which there is no personal interest

∫ Request items be placed on the meeting agenda,

Tarpon tourney

m

funding will equate to 40 scholarships in Lee County to local recipients

“This was a fun tarpon tournament, and it was amazing to see South Seas come back to life with this tournament,” General

M a n a g e r S h a w n F a r r

“The support and energy were tremendous ”

H

included a patriot paratrooper team landing on Sunset Beach and the Presentation of Colors and a 21-gun salute by the Lee

C o u n t y H o n o

with a bagpiper

At the dinner, Folds recipient Ashlyn McCain shared her story of loss and the impact of the scholarship in allowing her to pursue an education and further her studies. Timbers Company Chief Executive Officer Greg

S p e n c e r s p o k e o f h i s b a c kground as a U S Air Force veteran Lee County Commissioner Cecil Pendergrass, who served Fort Myers as a first responder for 25 years, shared an inspirational speech Air Force veteran

a n d R e e l A n i m a l s T V h o s t Michael Anderson served as the evening's emcee

“Special thank you to Curran

Y o u n g C o n s t r u c t i o n , M H K Architecture, Wheelock Street Capital and Marine Max as our title sponsors,” Farrell said “We are looking forward to growing the number of teams and payout in 2025 ”

South Seas reported that the tourney will take place on the Friday of Memorial Day week-

e n d m o v i n g f o r w a r d

S p o n s o r s h i p d e t a i l s

t h e 2025 event will be available in August at southseas com/tarpon

I

introduce motions and resolutions, and discuss subjects

∫ Attend CEPD public hearings, emergency meetings and special meetings.

∫ Any commissioner can serve as an officer (chair, vice chair, secretary or treasurer) if and when elected by the other commissioners

∫ Commissioners serve a four-year term

∫ Commissioners receive no compensation

From page 6

The CEPD added that staff do not provide election or campaign support to incumbent commissioners seeking re-election, except to inform them of candidate filing deadlines Staff will not assist candidates to qualify Staff will not submit documents to assist a candidate or incumbent with their filing status

For more information, visit https://www lee vote/ and select the “Candidates” tab

(daily during operating hours)

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

∫ June 7: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

∫ June 10: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

while supplies last

∫ June 12: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

Children programs

∫ Today, June 5: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

∫ June 7: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

∫ June 10: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last.

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

Wednesdays and Fridays from 10

to 12:30 p m and 1 to 4 p m

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

Download books, stream video and

www.leelibrary.net.

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva Library From page 6

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program table-top crafts and activities,

Enjoy a variety of Summer Reading Program m table-top crafts and activities, while supplies last

∫ June 12: Summer Reading Program Crafts

(daily during operating hours)

SOUTH SEAS

The first place team of the first annual South Seas Tarpon Tournament on Captiva

The second place team of the first annual South Seas Tarpon Tournament on Captiva.

The third place team of the first annual South Seas Tarpon Tournament on Captiva

BUSINESS

Business Notes SCCF welcomes summer interns

CHR to hold ribbon-cutting

Community Housing & Resources is inviting the community to a ribbon-cutting and open house today, June 5, from 3 to 5 p m , at its office, at 2340 Periwinkle Way, Suite K-2, Sanibel

I

Kitchen In addition, refreshments will be provided

The event is being held in partnership with the SanCap Chamber of Commerce

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB

president Jeff Blackman, John morse and marvell Bradley.

Kiwanis Club welcomes new members

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club announced two new members

Jeff Bonner and Marvell Bradley were recently inducted

F

www sanibelkiwanis org

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ROTARY CLUB

From left, incoming Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club president Rachel Tritaik and Habitat For Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties volunteer Donna Aldrich Rotar y Club recognized for grant

Incoming Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club President Rachel Tritaik recently accepted a recognition award for the club's $5,000 grant to Habitat For Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties' Women Build

Tritaik and Rotarian Maria Espinoza volunteered for the initiative

Sanibel fire district honored with award

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District is the recipient of the Preferred Governmental Insurance Trust

“Jerry Livingston Claims Excellence Award ”

The district and its team were recognized for their

Foundation recently welcomed

Department, which leads its sea turtle and shorebird monitoring and research

∫ Lauren Andrychowski, nighttime sea turtle intern

From Erie, Pennsylvania, Andrychowski graduated from Coastal Carolina University in 2021 with a bachelor’s in marine science Her sea turtle journey started as a conservation intern in Texas during the 2022 nesting season, where she worked with

strandings and released hatchlings Shortly

Carolina to complete a sea turtle rehabilitation internship In January of 2023, she ventured to Australia for a volunteer tagging program with flatback sea turtles, and last season he was a nighttime sea turtle research technician in Georgia

“I’ve enjoyed every minute of my journey and am incredibly grateful to have worked with four species of sea turtles in two different countries,” Andrychowski said “I’m looking forward to all the nesting mommas this season ”

∫ Cori Bratt, nighttime sea turtle intern

Bratt grew up in Huntsville, Alabama, and has a bachelor’s degree in biology with a concentration in marine science from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She discovered her passion for sea turtle research while taking a course on sea turtle conservation and ecology at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, where she had the opportunity to participate in a research and conservation project with nesting diamondback terrapins in the salt marshes around the island Bratt was also able to participate with diamondback terrapin husbandry hatchlings in a headstarting program in Birmingham

“I am currently finishing my undergraduate research capstone project, which is analyzing tagging and recapture data of Kemp’s ridley sea turtles,” she said “I’m looking forward to working with the team at SCCF.”

∫ Riona Lahey, shorebird intern

Lahey is a new alum of the University of Florida, graduating this year with a bachelor’s degree in wildlife ecology and conservation During her undergraduate career, she worked for Everglades National Park assisting with various projects ranging from invasive species man-

interned with the Alachua Audubon Society, where she focused on tracking southeastern American kestrels, contributing to community outreach and maintaining a native plant garden

“I’m very excited to join the SCCF team this season,” she said “I grew up in Florida and spent a lot of days

enjoying the shorebirds along the northeast coast I’m incredibly grateful for the chance to contribute to shorebird protection while immersing myself in the beautiful ecosystems of Sanibel ”

∫ Amanda Manrique, sea turtle technician

Manrique returns to the SCCF for her second year of working on the sea turtle team during nesting season. Originally from Dallas, she grew up far from the coast but hoped to one day dedicate herself to helping marine life Manrique attended the University of West Florida and received a bachelor’s degree in marine biology in 2022 After graduating, she helped rehabilitate native wildlife in the Florida panhandle

“It was during that time that sea turtles swam into my heart,” she said “I am so excited to commit another season to my favorite flippered friends as the morning sea turtle technician ”

∫ Martinna-Noelle Parham, sea turtle intern

Parham was born and raised in the D.C.-MarylandVirginia area, and her love for the ocean and its inhabitants runs deep With a bachelor’s degree in marine biology from Hawaii Pacific University and a master’s degree in marine conservation from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, she is ready to continue her work in the world of sea turtle conservation During her master’s program, Parham worked as a sea turtle research assistant with CREMA in Costa Rica to complete her thesis, where she had up-close-and-personal encounters with olive ridley sea turtles

“Florida has a way of pulling me back time and time again and I’m thrilled to collaborate with SCCF this sea turtle season Contributing to conservation efforts in Sanibel-Captiva and witnessing the journey of momma turtles and their hatchlings promises to be another unforgettable chapter,” she said

Fyzical Therapy and Balance Centers reopens on island

F y z i c a l T h e r a p y

Centers of Sanibel announced the recent reopening of its facility on Sanibel following the aftermath of Hurricane Ian

“We are excited to welcome back our clients and resume our mission of improving lives through personalized therapy and rehabilitation services,” owner and physical therapist Dr. Donald Olsen said. “Our dedicated team is eager to continue provid-

ing exceptional care to support our c

goals

It remains committed to serving the needs of its clients, despite the challenges posed by the storm The team worked tirelessly to restore and expand the facility to ensure a safe and welcoming environment

“Our team remains dedicated to p r o v

y services to support you on your jour-

ney to recovery and getting back to

time,” he said

The center offers a comprehen-

including orthopedic physical therapy, balance training, vestibular rehabilitation and more Its highly skilled

equipment and evidence-based tech-

See FYZICAL, page 9

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

n

plans tailored to clients' unique needs

“Additionally, we continue to offer telehealth options for clients who prefer remote consultations or are unable to visit our center in person,” Olsen said “We are also adding a 'Recovery Cafe' with recovery

enhance your therapy experience.”

T

provider of therapy and rehabil-

With the guidance of experienced therapists and a commitment to personalized care, it strives to empower individuals

t

mobility and quality of life

Fyzical Therapy and Balance Centers of Sanibel is at 4301 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel.

FYZICAL THERAPY AND BALANCE CENTERS OF SANIBEL

Fyzical Therapy and Balance Centers of Sanibel recently announced its reopening.

Centers of Sanibel owner Dr. Donald Olsen and owner administrator Joanne Olsen.

Business Notes

From page 8

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

ongoing outstanding post-Hurricane Ian efforts Officials reported that despite being tested, staff and day-to-day operations continue to thrive.

Fire Chief Kevin Barbot and Administrative Assistant Greta Fulkerson accepted the award on behalf of the district

THE SANIBEL CAPTIVA TRUST COMPANY Ribbon-cutting for trust company office

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company celebrated its expansion into Fort Myers with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 21 at its new Bell Tower office, at 13525 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers

Founder and Chairman S Albert D Hanser, Fort Myers President Megan Marquardt, Chief Executive Officer Terence M Igo and staff welcomed board members, advisory board members, city and county officials, and local professionals at the event

Architect Joyce Owens, of Architecture Joyce Owens, was instrumental in completing the interior plans for the building The 10,520-square-foot office building features a lobby and meeting rooms

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ROTARY CLUB

From left, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation sea turtle biologist Jack Brzoza and Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club President Don McDonald.

The club meets on Fridays at 8 a

Kiwanis holds meeting with speaker

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club welcomed Dr Scott Crater as its guest speaker at a recent meeting He shared his journey of participating in the historic Mille Miglia Italian road rally

endurance race alongside Dr David Eichenbaum in a 1928 Chrysler 72 equipped with an

Tuesdays at 8 a m at The Dunes Golf and Tennis Club, at 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel For

www sanibelkiwanis org SANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB

Event to suppor t local businesses

Back will take place on June

Zoom For more information, visit sanibelrotary org

Conservation Foundation sea turtle biologist Jack Brzoza as its guest speaker at a recent meeting He spoke about sea turtle nesting on the islands and record nesting numbers Brzoza also provided guidance on how to keep the islands sea turtle-friendly during nesting season

at Pinocchio's Original Italian Ice Cream and the Periwinkle Place Shops, at 2075 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. The initiative offers the public a chance to support

island businesses and services through mix and mingle events It was launched by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church as an extension of its mission For m

michaels-sanibel org

Urging FEMA to rebuild sustainably, resiliently

T h e S a n i b e

C

Foundation reported that building back smarter by using resilient infrastructure and renewable energy has been a top priority for the Sanibel and Captiva community following Hurricane Ian The SCCF recently signed a petition that urges the federal government to do the same when rebuilding communities hit by climate change-related natural disasters

Addressed to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the petition was led by the Center for Biological Diversity and signed by the SCCF and 21 other organizations It outlines new proposed regulations for FEMA centered on energy justice for “thriving, resilient communities ”

“Every dollar from these agencies that

would have gone into rebuilding dirty fossil fuel infrastructure could be redirected toward sustainable and resilient solutions like community and rooftop solar, energy

Center for Biological Diversity said in a statement

The proposed regulations in the petition would require FEMA to:

∫ Prioritize the deployment of resilient d

including but not limit to energy-efficiency and weatherization technologies, distributed rooftop and community-based solar and storage, and solar generators and micrograms over fossil fuel alternatives (except in addressing temporary emergency conditions)

∫ Expressly consider and proactively choose (where applicable) resilient community technologies over fossil fuel infrastructure

“ T h

islands are on the forefront of the climate

crisis we are already experiencing the impacts of warming oceans, rising tides and stronger storms It’s imperative that w

make us resilient in the face of these pressures, but these efforts need to be paired

DePaolis said “By prioritizing renewable energy for FEMA funds, the federal government can show that it is committed to helping our coastal communities protect their ecology and economies into the future ” The SCCF reported that the petition w

process, and there will be opportunity for public comment at a later date

SAINT MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS EPISCOPAL CHURCH Pinocchio's Original Italian Ice Cream co-owner Donna Puma, center, and her team members.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

PRESERVING PARADISE

Clearing of West Sanibel River Preserve nearly complete

As an ecosystem restoration brought about by Hurricane Ian’s storm surge, the West Sanibel River Preserve will be the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's next west-end preserve that is benefitting from the clearing of hardwoods that had disturbed natural marsh habitats over several decades

The SCCF reported that with the clearing of dead vegetation nearly complete, it will document wildlife moving back into the cleared, open area as the rainy season begins

The clearing of dead vegetation from the west parcel of the preserve, from Gulf Pines Road to Rue Belle Mer Road, began at the beginning of the year as the mechanical clearing of the Gulf Ridge Preserve the most negatively affected property from Ian wrapped up

The West Sanibel River Preserve was the next priority as a high percentage of vegetation, mostly hardwoods, succumbed to saltwater inundation The storm surge flooded the island, compromising the fresh or slightly brackish water bodies with high salinities, including the Sanibel Slough

“Many people ask why these two preserves were so profoundly affected,” SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz said “Essentially, these preserves were dominated by hardwood trees and shrubs such as buttonwood that are not well adapted for heavy saltwater intrusion from storm surges ”

The natural salt-tolerant grasses that once occupied the open canopy marshes are being restored so the conservation lands are more reminiscent of how they were for centuries

“This will tremendously benefit wildlife, as well as be more resilient for any future storm surge events,” he said

Both preserves have a high percentage of wetlands and transitional wetlands due to the low elevation Also, water is kept higher in the west basin of the slough through the city of Sanibel’s weir system, as opposed to the east basin for several reasons The east/west basin is defined by lands to the east and west of Tarpon Bay Road

“Historically, those areas would have been mostly salt-tolerant grasses that can withstand occasional washovers,” Lechowicz said “Periodic fire and the sporadic storm surge events helped keep the island’s interior mostly open canopy ”

The wetlands and transitional wetlands on the West Sanibel River Preserve and Gulf Ridge Preserve held the salty water for weeks as the dominant buttonwood trees, cabbage palms and other shrubby hardwood trees’ root systems became stressed and died

“Now that many acres of dead trees have been

SCCF: 178 sea turtle nests, two loggerhead encounters

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that as of May 28, it had documented a total of 178 sea turtle nests on Sanibel and Captiva for the season 177 loggerhead and one leatherback

Forty-four loggerhead nests had been documented on Captiva, and 133 loggerhead nests and one leatherback nest had been found on Sanibel

In addition, the SCCF team encountered two loggerheads during morning surveys the prior week One turtle had just finished nesting, and the other was returning to the Gulf of Mexico after a false crawl when the female comes ashore to nest but returns to the water without having laid eggs

The SCCF noted that it is rare to see a nesting loggerhead during the day, as they generally come to shore at night If you see a sea turtle exhibiting nesting behavior, do not interfere with the process or try to get closer

Both nests and false crawls are documented by SCCF's survey teams each morning Once a nest is found, it is immediately staked off and screened to protect the eggs from beachgoers and coyotes

New method to deter predation

In order to further decrease coyote predation on the nests, the SCCF has started applying habanero pepper in the sand around the clutch of eggs. While the protective screen works to prevent coyotes from digging down to the eggs, the pepper is intended to affect their sense of smell and deter digging

Nighttime tagging update

Since May 1, the SCCF nighttime sea turtle team has had 73 encounters with nesting females Of these, it has

had repeated encounters with turtles that it first documented in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022

Each year, the nighttime tagging program documents nesting sea turtles on the islands between May through July By identifying previously tagged individuals and tagging never-before-seen turtles, it can better understand the behavioral responses of the turtles to local pressures

To report a suspected new nest or issues with nests, turtles, beach lighting or beach furniture, call the SCCF's Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-SAVE-ONE (978-728-3663)

For ways to protect and care for sea turtles, visit https://sancaplifesavers.org/.

Volunteers sought for planting

Coastal Watch is signing up volunteers to help plant spartina and sawgrasses today, June 5, a

v a Conservation Foundation's Gulf R

Two shifts are available: from 7:30 to 9 a m and from 9 to 10:30 a m For more informat i o n o r t o s i g n u p , v i s i t http://dash.pointapp.org/events/ 150204

Volunteers sought for CROW project

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel is signing up volunteers to help maintain its patients' outdoor rehabilitation oasis The project will include sealant application to outdoor enclosures on June 6 For more

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION A loggerhead sea turtle nest on Sanibel.

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 May 22, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (64 mph in a 30 mph zone)

∫ On May 25, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for failure to stay in its lane The driver was subsequently issued a citation for failure to drive in a single lane 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 May 26, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (77 mph in a 35 mph zone).

Enforcement operations statistics

From May 21-27:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 6

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 22

∫ Traffic crashes: 1

∫ Radar details: 46

∫ Traffic stops: 92

Citations issued: 18

Written warnings issued: 1

Verbal warnings issued: 74

∫ Residential area checks: 300

∫ Business area checks: 145

∫ Total area checks: 979

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 0

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,309

May 2024 to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 26

∫ Non-emergency calls: 90

∫ Traffic crashes: 3

∫ Radar details: 222

∫ Traffic stops: 216

Citations issued: 63

Written warnings issued: 15

Verbal warnings issued: 148

∫ Residential area checks: 1,497

∫ Business area checks: 701

∫ Total area checks: 3,847

∫ Reported burglaries: 2

∫ Reported thefts: 1

∫ Total CAD calls: 4,971

Impor tant reminders

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

The 2024 Annual Beach Parking Permits are available at the Sanibel Recreation Center and are valid from the date of purchase through Nov 30 The 2023 permits have expired and are no longer valid

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

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

Crafternoon with Ms Shannon will take place today, June 5, from 3 to 4:30 p m Ages 4 and up and their caregiver can join staffer Shannon Gafgen to make a work of art A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples of craft options to complete

On June 6, an All Ages Creative Writing Program will be held from 1 to 2 p m All experience levels are welcome The program is open to any genre and writing form Prompts will be given to inspire participants' writing. There will also be some time to discuss any current

or potential projects

Part of the Summer Reading Program, Adam's Animal Encounters will take place on June 6 from 2 to 3 p m for ages 4-8 and from 3:30 to 4:30 p m for ages 8 and older Presented by the local exotic animal rescue and sanctuary, the programs will focus on reptiles, their characteristics and the roles they play in their ecosystems Attendees will have opportunities to interact with live Animal Ambassadors, such as snakes, lizards, turtles, alligators and more

On June 7, Family Storytime for ages 5 and under and See SANIBEL LIBRARY, page 15

The Sanibel School

reported the following:

District honors school counselor

T

County recognized middle school counselor Dr Bruce Hyman as the School Counselor of the Year on May 20.

“Dr Hyman is always the first to help the students at The Sanibel School with goal setting, study skills, tutoring and so much more,” the district reported

The award is presented annually to recognize the outstanding contributions and achievements of a school counselor The role of a school counselor specifically focuses on academic achievement, social and emotional development, and college and career

counselors have to student success, their innovative approaches to counseling, their leadership within the community and their advocacy for students’ well-being

“We are incredibly grateful to h

School and thankful for all he does,” school officials reported

For more information, call 239472-1617 or visit sbl leeschools net

American Legion Auxiliary

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 123 distributed poppies in exchange for donations on May

National Poppy Day It thanked those who donated to make the Poppy Program a success, as

Winningham and Jerry's Foods staff for allowing it the time and space In addition, the Auxiliary

s

coleslaw and baked beans on May 27 at Post 123 on Sanibel. It thanked those who participated, noting that the donations will benefit the Child Welfare

announced as the 2024 Poppy Princess.

June 11: Sanibel City

AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY UNIT 123

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 123 distributed poppies on May 25-26 at Jerry's Foods on Sanibel From left, Martha Corcoran and Heather Silbar with Jerry's Store Director Rick Winningham

SCHOOL DISTRICT OF LEE COUNTY

The Sanibel School's Dr Bruce Hyman, center, was recognized on May 20 by the School District of Lee County as the School Counselor of the Year.

Sanibel library

From page 14

their caregiver will be held from 10:30 to 11 a m with Gafgen Sing, read, question and move around during the stories, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, motor skills and creativity The program will include an art/craft center

Part of the Summer Reading Program, Family Film Friday will take place on June 7 from 1 to 3 p m Get out of the summer sun and watch “How to Train Your Dragon ”

On June 11, Dinosaur Fun! will be held from 10:30 a m to noon as part of the Summer Reading Program Attendees will step into a prehistoric adventure and hear captivating stories about dinosaurs Design a dinosaur to take home Win a prize at the dinosaur bean bag toss Attendees will also embark on a virtual reality journey as they come face-to-face with dinosaurs on the dinosaur roller coaster

Part of the Summer Reading Program, Beth and Tony Bennett will take place on June 11 from 3 to 4 p m Enjoy a dog gone good storytime with staffer Beth Jarrell

Afterward, they will showcase their repertoire of tricks Toni is a trick dog that has achieved the highest level of the American Kennel Club's trick dog training and certification She is the second-fastest dog in America for her breed and height

On June 12, Crafternoon with Ms. Shannon will be held from 3 to 4:30 p m Ages 4 and up and their caregiver can join Gafgen to make a work of art A variety of

Blotter

From page 14

The city of Sanibel's 2021 and 2022 Hurricane Re-entry Passes are still valid If you have one, you do not need to reapply for a new pass.

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

∫ Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day

∫ P a r k i n g a n d b o a t l a u n c h i n g o n

Part of the annual Summer Reading Program, Adam's Animal Encounters will present two programs on June 6 at the Sanibel Public Library.

craft supplies will be available, along with examples of craft options to complete

Registration will close on June 6 at noon for Make-up Academy Learn the Basics, part of the Summer Reading Program Taking place on June 13 from 4 to 6

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

p m , professional make up artist Abby Lawless will lead a basics workshop for teens She will teach easy-to-learn techniques and help guide those who wish to learn more about utilizing makeup to achieve the look they want with confidence To register, visit https://www surveymonkey com/r/7VHZ6PF

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

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

The Sanibel Public Library is open Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a m to 8 p m , Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a m to 5 p m and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

Adult summer Bingo kicks off

Part of the Summer Reading Program, pick up your Adult Summer Bingo card from the library and keep track of the books you read from now through Aug 31

Those who complete a Bingo on their card will be entered into a lottery for a chance to win a Book Bundle, which will include a library tote bag filled with themed books

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

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

SPORTS

City: ‘Share the Shore’ with shorebirds and sea turtles

I

Conservation Foundation and its volunteers, the city of Sanibel monitors the beaches every year for shorebirds and sea turtles The city reported that because the island's shoreline serves as critical nesting habitat for the wildlife species, beachgoers and boaters are asked to do their part as they enjoy the barrier island sanctuary

Shorebirds

Shorebird nesting season ranges from February through August Their eggs are laid in shallow scrapes in the sand or seashells, and since the nests are so well camouflaged, they can be accidentally disturbed by beachgoers or their pets

∫ Respect posted areas Avoid posted nesting and resting areas and use designated beach paths or dune walkovers

∫ Keep your distance If shorebirds fly off when you walk by, please step back When nesting birds fly away, the hot sun can destroy eggs or predators can eat the baby birds

∫ Never intentionally force birds to fly When birds are chased or disturbed, they use energy they need to reserve for nesting and migration

∫ Keep pets away from established nesting areas. Even well-behaved pets can be perceived as a threat, so if you take your pets to the beach, keep them restrained or on a leash no more than 8 feet in length

∫ Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife Food scraps on the beach attract predators such as raccoons and crows, which can also prey on shorebirds, eggs and chicks Litter or other debris can also entangle wildlife, so properly dispose of all waste For more tips, visit the SCCF at https://sancaplifesavers org/shorebirds/

T

https://youtu be/eS6EWByVphs

Sea tur tles

Sea turtle nesting season ranges from mid-April through October Adults face many potentially lethal disturbances as they come inshore, including boat strikes, entanglement in fishing line and debris, and disorientations from artificial lighting on the beach

Nesting females or hatchlings that wander inland have an increased risk of exhaustion, dehydration or predation

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

∫ The refuge is offering Free Summer Programs from now through July 31 Led by staff and volunteers, the programs include a Wildlife Drive Caravan Tour, Beach Walk, Restorative Nature Walk, Insect Insanity and Monday’s Ranger’s Choice For more information, visit https://assets speakcdn com/assets/2935/summer calendar2 pdf

∫ The Visitor & Education Center will be closed on

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Free Summer Programs include a Beach Walk on Wednesdays at 8:30 a m

REFUGE/DDWS

June 11 due to staff training off-island Wildlife Drive and the trails and Bailey Tract will be open.

∫ Photographer-artist Niki Butcher's “Daydreaming” exhibition kickoff has been postponed until the late fall or early 2025

∫ Wellness in Nature is planned for January

∫ Go Wild for 'Ding' is set for Feb 12

∫ The “Ding” Darling Day Conservation Carnival is tentatively scheduled for April 26 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers

∫ The 13th annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament will take place on May 9

Rec center provides update on activities, events

The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities

A ribbon-cutting was held on May 23 for the grand reopening of the ballfields Mayor Richard Johnson threw out the first pitch on Field 1 MudBugs Cajun Kitchen provided free food and Kona Ice was onsite The ballfields and pavilion are open

hours, including evenings and weekends during the summer and holiday breaks

A

resumed on Wednesdays for ages 18-49 and on Mondays for ages 50 and older from 6 to 8 p m , weather

Closed-toe shoes required and bring a glove

A

taking place From now through June 9, the center will be fully closed Beach parking, dog license and other activities will be available for pur-

CITY OF SANIBEL

have reopened at the Sanibel Recreation Center

Department, at 2475 Library Way, Sanibel; hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a m to 5 p m

From June 10-15, the gymnasium and weight room will be closed. Fitness classes will be held in the O s p r e y R o o m ; n o c y c l i n g c l

Limited fitness equipment will be a

e y Room The pools and outdoor courts will be open

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

A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available. 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 F o r

https://www mysanibel com/government/recreation2

The Sanibel Recreation Center is a t 3 8 8 0 S a n

Sanibel

Early registration, sponsorships open for road rally

Presented by the Friends of Randy of Sanibel, the 4th of July Road Rally will take place on July 4 starti n

Restaurant & Fish Market on Sanibel and registration is open

Marking its 44th year, this year's p r o c

F I S H

f Sanibel-Captiva Also, a donation will be made to Community Housing & Resources' families for help with back-to-school supplies

The event is an in-vehicle, visual scavenger hunt for answers to questions Participants are provided with instructions, questions and driving directions and they must find the clues along the way It is not a speed r a c

answers, time and mileage The route will take under two hours

The rally will finish at Timbers, where a party will be held afterward for participants

Event sponsors are being sought, along with donations of prizes, gift cards, services and such T

The FOROS is an all-volunteer, island non-profit group

CITY OF SANIBEL

Monthlong event to celebrate Zeigler ’s life

By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Sanibel FlyFishers is holding “30 Days of the Schminnow” during June in celebration of the life of friend Norm Zeigler an iconic fly angler, author and fly designer who recently passed away

The club reported that Zeigler created the Norm's Crystal Schminnow, a “simple” white fly that has caught over 70 species of both salt and freshwater fish

To participate in the monthlong event:

∫ Get some Schminnows Tie them yourself based on Zeigler's YouTube video or purchase them

∫ Fish and record your catches with a clear picture of the Schminnow in the fish's mouth

∫ Post the photos to the club's Facebook or Instagram pages or your own pages using #Schminnowdays24 or email the photos to sanibelff@gmail com

∫ With each picture, report the species of fish and where and when it was caught

∫ Include a comment or story about Zeigler if you knew him

Each picture of a separate species will be entered into a drawing for one of three prizes

The club will gather, publish and share all of the pictures in July

For more information, visit SanibelFF org

SCCF begins diamondback terrapin monitoring

T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n Foundation recently began its seasonal efforts to monitor local diamondback terrapin populations, which will inform its conservation efforts for the species

Named for the diamond pattern on their backs, they are the only turtle in the western hemisphere to live exclusively in brackish water, or a mix of fresh and sea water Southwest Florida is home to two of seven subspecies the mangrove diamondback terrapin and ornate diamondback terrapin

The SCCF reported that because terrapins often share the same estuarine habitat as crabs, accidental capture in crab traps is a huge threat to the species, which is why

all recreational crab traps in Florida are required to have terrapin bycatch reduction devices Additional threats include illegal poaching, loss of nesting and foraging habitat, boat/vehicle strikes and poor water quality

Each May through August, SCCF biologists monitor several diamondback terrapin sites around Lee County to find terrap i n s a n d t a g t h

microchips

“This way, when we catch them again, we can identify if it’s the same turtle,” wildlife biologist Mike Mills said “This helps us estimate the population health, sex ratios, age ratios, growth and other factors ”

The 2-by-6-inch terrapin exclusion devices can be seen in orange.

Share the Shore

∫ Beachfront lighting ordinances are enforced year-round. Gulf-front property owners are responsible for ensuring compliance with the city's marine turtle protection ordinances so that artificial lighting from their property does not illuminate the beach

∫ Do not use flash photography, flashl i g h t s o r p h o n e l i g h t s

wildlife This can cause sea turtles to become disoriented and crawl away from the ocean, putting them at risk

∫ Remove furniture and equipment, when not in use, between the hours of 9 p m and 7 a m Items left on the beach including beach furniture, toys and trash

From page 16

may provide barriers to nesting or result in entanglement and predation of hatchlings.

∫ Level all sandcastles and fill any holes when you leave for the day Leave the beach as you found it, so that sea turtles and hatchlings are not hindered on their way to nest or back to the water

Violations should be reported immediately to the Sanibel Police Department at 2 3 9 - 4 7 2 - 3 1 1 1 , S a n i b e l C o d e Enforcement at 239-472-4136 or Natural Resources at 239-472-3700 For questions about the city's lighting r e g u l a t i o n

@ mysanibel com

research on diamondback

becoming the first team

y satellite transmitters on gravid females to identify important nesting areas

Having the information

areas for conservation

The SCCF offers free terrapin bycatch reduction devices for crab traps

To pick them up, contact clechowicz@sccf org

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

From left, a female and a male diamondback terrapin. Females are larger than males and are typically 5-9 inches in length. Recent genetic data suggests that the terrapins in the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's research are most closely related to the mangrove subspecies.

“We did try to increase the hands-on learning and inthe-field learning,” she said, citing field trips to the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium as one example “The students are able to go beyond the textbook it makes it real ”

There was a project involving the fourth-grade students where they installed new bat boxes at the Pick Preserve as part of an educational partnership with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

“We look forward to monitoring the progress of our local bat residents,” Lusk said

A mangrove project was continued, which ended with students and the SCCF planting the propagules at a restoration site on the islands at the end of the year

“That has been such a successful program and one that we love turning into a tradition year after year,” she said

Also, the school extended its Cambridge Global Perspectives program to middle-schoolers

their levels of achievement,” Lusk said, adding that they are looking at expanding it next year to top-performing fifth-graders.

Some of this year's accomplishments included:

∫ National Elementary School Yearbook of the Year

∫ Inauguration of county's first middle school fishing club

∫ Steel Drum Band invited to perform at NASCA

∫ U S News ranked elementary 10th and middle school fifth in the state

∫ Had one Golden Apple Teacher of Distinction and one Golden Apple finalist

∫ Won school district's Voice of the Constitution Award

∫ Seahorse Chorale won gold at Carnegie Hall

∫ Third- and fifth-graders won top district award for math fact competition

As the faculty bid farewell to students on the last day, it did the same for several co-workers

kindergarten teacher Donna Alexander

“It was wonderful, it thrived They learned so much about the research process, and we saw a direct impact in

From page 1

falsified business records to cover up a “hush money” payment in 2016 to keep Stormy Daniels, an adult-film actress, quiet in regard to an alleged sexual counter, which he denies occurred

The Republican Party of Florida had

“Unfortunately, we do have some retiring,” she said

endorsed Trump as its nominee for president in the upcoming election

y counts of falsifying business records and was indicted on March 30

Those charges involve allegedly bury-

Groundbreaking From page 1

“Your support has been a beacon of hope through these challenging times,” the district reported “This event marks a fresh start, not just for our team, but for the entire community ”

Parking for the event will be available

District parking lot off Bowman's Beach Road, with transportation to be provided from the lot to the construction site

Staff members not returning next year include media specialist Jennifer Hall, home economics teacher Nancy M

“We've had an incredibly successful year Not just in learning gains, but the students thrived socially,” Lusk said “We definitely are an island community, a school community I can't wait to see how that increases next year ”

Off-island families are welcome to enroll at the school

“There are options for growth in all of our grade levels,” she said, noting that they can do so through the School District of Lee County's website “Anyone in the county is available to our school ”

“The only rule is they have to waive transportation,” Lusk added

https://sbl leeschools net/

The Sanibel School is at 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel Last day From page 1

ing allegations of extramarital affairs during his first campaign in 2016 Along

McDougal was also reported as an affair partner

“Come along to see the plans, meet your local firefighters and other dignitaries, and share in this momentous occasion,” the district reported “Join us as we take the first step towards rebuilding what

The judge preceding over the case was Judge Juan

Trump’s sentencing is set for July 11 at 10 a m

we lost to Hurricane Ian ” For more information, call 239-4725 5 2 5 o r v i s i t https://www sanibelfire com/

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg

Merchan

The importance of non-verbal communication

(Editor’s note: Community Housing & Resources Deputy Executive Director

Savannah Miller-Berg is taking part in SWFL Inc 's Leadership SWFL This is the first in a series of articles where she will share what she learns about the island community and how emerging leaders can make a difference )

By SAVANNAH MILLER-BERG

Getting to know your teammates usually doesn’t involve lining up while balancing on a 3-foot beam and not saying a single word

Yet that was the first task of the Leadership SWFL Class of 2024. I was in a group of six professionals and we were told to line up in order of birth month, while balancing on a 3-foot beam and only using non-verbal communication This truly was a test; our group had met each other less than 24 hours before and were now very close and personal and tasked with using body and facial expressions to communicate

Savannah Miller-Berg

After completing this assignment, I realized the importance of non-verbal communication and was able to apply it to real life For example, during COVID it was easy to forget about these key communication tools while we were

bogged down with emails, phone calls and virtual meetings It can be challenging to truly know the tone of an email or what a person is thinking during a phone call, which can easily lead to misinterpretation

This was a great lesson because it made me aware of how common misinterpretation is and the importance of looking at scenarios with more than one perspective

It’s a lesson I’ve been learning my whole life While attending high school in Eugene, Oregon, I volunteered at a daycare for lowincome families It was rewarding to be part of a place where parents felt safe to leave their children while they had a job interview, grocery shopped or heartbreakingly tried to find a place to sleep that night

In May of 2023, I graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University with a Bachelor of Science in public health Growing up in a city with the highest homeless population per capita in the country and then moving to the sunny coast of Southwest Florida was a major change While the homeless and low-income population in Southwest Florida is smaller than Eugene’s, the rising cost of living is becoming

quite a challenge for the low- and middle-class population here

In March, I was accepted into SWFL Inc 's Leadership SWFL program The course is intended to expand our knowledge of the Southwest Florida region by familiarizing us with its current challenges and providing insight to the economic, demographic and societal resources in Southwest Florida The eight-month program consists of hands-on opportunities that allow professionals to immerse themselves in the needs, while exploring diverse perspectives

What excites me about this opportunity? I am excited to develop and strengthen my professional network outside of the barrier islands I am eager to learn more about the Southwest Florida region and develop tools to become a successful leader and hopeful to establish life-long connections In addition, I will introduce my classmates to the Sanibel and Captiva communities and, of course, the need for more affordable housing.

Finally, I am excited to continue learning and growing into a future leader I believe that this Leadership SWFL class will be the perfect stepping stone Through that experience, along with learning and growing with Community Housing & Resources, I’m eager to create a positive impact in the community I live in, work in and serve

SCCF documents warming temperatures in local waters

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that as the humidity builds and daily temperatures start to rise, it is clear that summer is quickly approaching in Southwest Florida While these environmental changes are expected annually, a new seasonal trend may be on the rise warming temperatures in the Caloosahatchee and the Gulf of Mexico

SCCF’s River, Estuary, and Coastal Observing Network (RECON) monitoring stations have measured heightened surface water temperatures at several sites this year, with a maximum reading so far of 90.1 F at the Fort Myers site along the Caloosahatchee River

“While water temperatures this high are not unprecedented in our region, peaks are

Clearing

From page 12

removed, our next step is to get more native grasses back on the preserves and prevent buttonwoods and other hardwoods from once again dominating the landscape,” he said

The SCCF reported that native wildlife on Sanibel thrives in the open canopy habitats with a mosaic of edge habitats, including tree lines and islands

“Fire is the best way to keep these lands natural, but in areas where prescribed fire is not possible, we rely on mechanical and chemical treatments,” Lechowicz added

usually seen later in the summer months The concern is that these measurements represent part of the larger trend of unseasonably hot water temperatures in the Gulf and Atlantic, which has worsened in recent years,” Policy Associate Allie Pecenka said on May 28 “This trend peaked last summer with record-setting water temperatures felt across the state, reaching as high as 101 1 degrees F in the Florida Keys ”

The SCCF reported that water getting so warm too early in the season could have widespread impacts on the local ecosystems, contributing to harmful algal blooms, impacting the movement patterns and foraging behaviors of wildlife, and intensifying storms in the Gulf and Atlantic Warmer waters are more conducive to the develop-

The removal of the dead vegetation gives young plants more of an opportunity to prosper due to more sunlight and less competition Plant growth will happen very quickly, as it did on the Gulf Ridge Preserve, especially with the onset of the rainy season

“Wildlife from neighboring areas will be moving back into the preserve, especially now that the waterbodies are visible, and it’s a sunnier area and not acres of shady, impenetrable woods,” he said “We look forward to documenting the results of this restoration effort ”

ment of hurricanes and the process of rapid intensification when a storms’ maximum wind speeds increase by more than 35 mph over a 24-hour period

“While these local temperature trends are very concerning, we have yet to collect adequate data for the 2024 season to predict with certainty how this summer will compare to that of 2023,” she said

Temperature can also change the solubility of gases and water soluble compounds

For example, warmer water has lower con-

centrations of dissolved oxygen If atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations continue to increase, temperature increases of 1 to 2°C combined with wider swings in temperature are expected to cause shifts in species distributions

The SCCF reported that it will continue to collect data from its RECON system to determine how the water temperature spikes may correlate to larger-scale and global trends of warming

here is whether agreeing in 2003 to maintain the still-controlling buildout limits from South Seas’s 1973 zoning approvals, which all parties agreed was in accordance with the Lee Plan, is an unlawful ceding of police powers

We can begin with the fact that cities and counties all across America are often sued over exercise of police powers The suits may concern policing and public order, or zoning and development, or environmental practices, or any number of issues impacting our health, safety, welfare or morals Many of these cases are settled out of court, and they usually involve local government agreeing to modify exercise of its police powers For example, a settlement involving alleged police misconduct might include a commitment to use dashcams or bodycams A settlement involving alleged endangerment of protected aquatic species might include a commitment to stricter harbor, boating, waterway or effluent rules A settlement involving alleged negligent hurricane evacuation preparedness might involve commitments to improve drainage, levees, roadways, traffic supervision, warning systems, etc

In all these types of cases, localities are voluntarily agreeing through legal settlement to modify and hopefully improve the exercise of their police powers If all of these concessions were considered ultra vires, that would bind counties and cities from ever settling a police-powers lawsuit, because settlements involve compromise, finding a middle ground that contending parties can mutually and voluntarily agree to That middle ground normally includes commitments to improve public practice And while the agreement is voluntary, the commitments within the agreement are usually compulsory Otherwise the agreement has no teeth The strength of the commitments can vary across a wide spectrum, from advisory and aspirational, or subject to periodic review, or with conditions for completion, or for a specific length of time, or without a term, as in the case of the South Seas 912-unit buildout limit

Because a blanket inability of local authority to agree to modify its exercise of police powers would mean localities couldn’t settle most police-power lawsuits, those cases (if not dismissed) would need to proceed to trial Ironically, that would deprive local authority of a fundamental sovereign power the ability to enter into contracts, including settlement agreements

Clearly, local authority has the ability to freely modify exercise of its police powers, through legal settlements and elsewhere, and does so as a matter of course It cannot however cede its powers give them to someone else which it did not do in the situation examined here: The CCA did not acquire any ability to exercise police powers as a result of the settlement Local authority also cannot agree to exercise its police powers in a way that circumvents a required public process, for example by quietly granting a rezoning without respecting the public’s dueprocess rights to public hearings and deliberations. That is exactly what the county accuses the settlement of doing, which brings us to its third argument to invalidate the agreement

3) Contract zoning This can be an elusive term of art in the world of land use and, not surprisingly, its use migrates within the county’s motion to dismiss For our purposes, the relevant sense and what the county accuses the settlement of doing is a rezoning of the resort without

going through the required public process According to the county, the settlement rezones South Seas by locking in its long-approved density limits, without submitting to a public-hearing process. Actually, the opposite is true.

The settlement didn’t rezone the resort; it cemented crucial aspects of the existing zoning approvals that were in jeopardy The CCA’s overriding concern was that the county’s comprehensive new 2002 documents, which were created and implemented administratively, without going through a public-hearing process, should in fact have to jump through those hoops to ensure their conformity with the resort’s existing zoning ordinance and the county’s Lee Plan

Here is how the county attorney described the CCA’s position to the commissioners prior to their sign-off: “Plaintiffs allege that the allowed density had been exceed-

Compliance Agreement (the 2002 docs) constituted a “rezoning” of the subject property and a grant of additional residential density without the requisite public hearings, and in contravention of the Lee Plan ”

The CCA’s fear was that without public hearings, crucial elements of the existing zoning, especially its density and unit limits, would be eroded The suit was designed to avert the county from doing its own “contract zoning,” and on that score the settlement succeeded As we see today, it was a necessary and far-sighted bulwark against rampant overdevelopment.

4) Ripeness In most civil cases, plaintiffs have to wait until they’re damaged before suing This matter is different: the settlement prohibits the county from issuing South Seas permits that exceed 912 total units, and since it is in the process of considering a permit application for 1,347 total units, the CCA’s complaint is timely The threat of the county acting in violation of the settlement is imminent and predictable It would be an injustice to make the CCA wait for the county to grant permits in excess of 912 resort units and then seek after-the-fact injunctive relief against construction It is much better for the community, and the resort, to decide this issue now.

5) Separation of powers Legal briefs usually present their arguments in descending order of persuasiveness, and here we reach into the bottom of the barrel The county argues that if the Circuit Court affirms the settlement’s enforceability, and prohibits the county from issuing resort permits in excess of 912 total units, the judiciary will unconstitutionally infringe on a prerogative (i e , permitting development) of another branch of government On the contrary, it is the sole province of the judiciary to determine a legal settlement’s validity, and if it is found valid, to enforce its strictures In this case, that would include limits on the county’s ability to permit development at South Seas Who else but the courts should enforce the obligations of contract?

The county made an equally brittle argument last fall against the state’s executive branch, when it accused the state Department of Commerce of having no jurisdiction to oversee the county’s ordinance granting special density and height exemptions to South Seas The state Division of Administrative Hearings will soon commence proceedings to investigate the ordinance’s conformity to state and local law

On a final note, the county makes the point that the new owners of South Seas were not a party to the 2003 sett l e m e n t , b u t i t s i n t e r e s t s could be negatively impacted by the the CCA complaint It observes wishfully that the agreement does not specify that it “runs with the land,” does not include a

“successor clause” and is not included in the resort’s “chain of title ”

The settlement’s prohibition against permits for more than 912 resort units “at any time” ensures that the settlement does indeed run with the land, and that successor owners are bound by the settlement, whether there is a successor clause or not Otherwise, the resort could have changed hands soon after the ink dried, voiding the agreement Concerning chain of title, the court accepted the settlement through a final judgment in 2003; if its existence was not flagged by title insurance during any resort escrow since then, it should have been Whether the settlement’s existence was disclosed to the new resort owners by the sellers, or by an escrow title search, during their pre-purchase due-diligence enquiries with the county, or at some later date, are questions yet to be answered.

Don Bacon Montara, California

Sanibel is losing hundreds of sabal palms

To the editor:

Crisis? What crisis?

In the last few days my wife has been pointing out that many of the sabal palms (aka cabbage palms) on our oneacre lot here on the island are drying out and their fronds have a sort of telltale sign of bronze color on them This has gotten our attention because we have many of those palms on our lot Losing them would just be awful They make up the bulk of our trees

A quick search turned up numerous articles about a disease that is spreading throughout Florida Why have we not been warned?

On my way to Jerry’s Foods for some groceries today I noticed acre after acre of dead sabal palms along SanibelCaptiva Road starting at Sea Spray Lane going east Dead palms line both sides of the road for quite a distance Dead as a doornail How could this have just happened without me noticing before?

Just so our dear neighbors know the dire scope of this situation, an article from the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is available online at https://gardeningsolutions ifas ufl edu / c a r e / p e s t s - a n d - d i s e a s e s / d i s e a s e s / s a b a l - p a l mdisease html#:~:text=Palm%20specialists%20believe%2 0that%20the,and%20Canary%20Island%20palms

The problem appears to be something called “Lethal Bronzing Disease” (LBD) If true, the bad news is there is no cure once a palm is infected

I mean, if the folks at Sanibel’s vegetation department (is there such a thing?) couldn’t prevent the spread of LBD on public lands, how in the world should they expect individual homeowners to deal with it? Can we curtail the spread? It would be quite costly to have to hire a licensed tree surgeon to cut down and properly dispose of any palms showing signs of disease

On our own property we can see a few of our younger palms have already died But we have numerous others that are showing symptoms. As of now, the majority of our trees appear to be healthy Especially in the back portion of our lot Those along Sanibel-Captiva Road seem to have been exposed We worry because it seems LBD spreads quickly

To be sure, I am no expert The evidence I’ve seen sure does look like LBD But it could be some other less threatening issue Heck, maybe it’s just extremely dry and they’ll bounce back? Yeah, maybe

Today my wife posted a photo of the discolored fronds that are emerging here One response said it is probably some sort of caterpillar infestation Maybe so Please make it so!

Anyway, folks here need to take notice because it sure does appear to be spreading Take a drive on the western end of the island You can’t miss it

Would you mind (please) looking into this developing

against? What can we do about it? We hope to hear from you very soon, please! Rob Parris Sanibel

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A r t S t e v e n s i s a

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva reported that runner registration and concert ticket sales opened on June 1 for this year's annual race and music concert event, JOG N JAM, which is scheduled for Dec 7

F I S H w i l

b y wrapping its event around the city of Sanibel's 50th anniversary celebration The JOG N JAM will begin with a 10K and 5 K r a c e a t T h e C o m m u n i t y House on Sanibel, followed by a kids' fun run at the Sanibel Community Park. Later that afternoon, a concert featuring the band Funk You will take place at the 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva, complete with fireworks on the beach

through Dec. 7.

“We're so excited to offer this event that supports the good works of F I S H , ” event co-chair and F I S H Board Member Leah Winkler said “Last year we had phenomenal runner participation 530 registered runners and good attendance at the concert There's plenty to do the day before and after our event to make your participation a weekend destination ”

The 10K will begin at 7 a m and the 5K will start at 7:15 a.m. Both races will be timed by Lin-Mark Sports using the Chronotrack Timing System F I S H anticipates that the kids' fun run will take place shortly after the races and before the award presentation

Each runner will receive a finisher's medallion and Tshirt Other awards include top female and male overall, first place female and male, and age groups Only in-person participants will get awards

For the concert, food, drinks and alcohol will be available for purchase No outside alcohol and food will be permitted on the premises

C

aged to ride-share or use a shuttle service provided by F I S H T

starting at $75 through Sept 3

The JOG N JAM will benefit F I S H The islands' only human services organization, it is focused on “neighbors helping neighbors ” Its mission is to enrich the lives of all people on Sanibel and Captiva by neighbors helping neighbors with social services, education and assistance

Support for this year's event is made possible through sponsorships and merchandise sales

“Support is vital as F I S H continues to serve those living and working in our community,” event co-chair Diane Cortese said “We hope you'll consider becoming a sponsor of our JOG N JAM event and a part of the F I S H family ”

To register or to purchase tickets or merchandise, visit https://www fishofsancap org/jog-n-jam/ For information about sponsorships, visit online or email events@fishofsancap org

New this year, on- and off-island hotel partnerships are available for those wishing to spend the weekend For more information, visit online at https://www fishofsancap org/jog-n-jam/

Legion Auxiliary Unit

Americanism project to Post 123 on Sanibel Auxiliary member Sharon Miche, of Cottages to Castles, hand constructed a key return box that she used for years After Hurricane Ian, she decided to replace it and donated the original wood box for use as a

Auxiliary members painted the box and provided it to the post Tattered and torn American flags that need to be retired can dropped off yearround Post 123 will hold its annual flag disposal ceremony on Flag Day, June 14, at 4249 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

Lee Health to offer selfmanagement programs

Lee Health’s “It’s All About You” a self-management resource program with the SMRC is offering the following research-based virtual programs for free to the community:

Chronic Disease Self-Management Program

The program is designed for people ages 18 and older with chronic health conditions to help them learn ways to

better manage the chronic conditions and symptoms that often accompany chronic health conditions

The workshops are held once a week for six weeks The virtual program will be offered on Wednesdays starting on June 12 from 9:30 to 11:30 a m

Participants will receive a free copy of the book “Living a Healthier Life with Chronic Conditions ” For more information or to register, call 239-424-3121

Stevens

Edison, Ford estates to launch weekly market

Starting on June 7, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host a farmers market on Fridays from 9 a m to 1 p m at 2350 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers Over 20 vendors will have a variety of edible, decorative and wearable products Family-friendly games and coloring projects will be available for youths, and David Rojas will provide live music There will be produce, baked goods, honey, sauces, juices, soups,

pre-made meals and dog treats, along with candles, linens, soaps, jewelry and lizard condos for the garden In addition, the Garden Shoppe will have fruit trees, herbs, flowering plants and more available for sale. Attendees may also stroll through the Bromeliad and Wild Flower gardens Admission and parking are free For more information, visit EdisonFord org EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

‘Poem,

fall not far from me’

(Inspiration for Mary Ann Devos)

Poem, fall not far from me, Bitter or sweet, your words are mine. You are my apple, I am your tree

Try as you might you cannot flee, Bound as we are like grape to vine Poem, fall not far from me

Seek not separate epiphany Or look to sip a different wine, You are my fruit, I am your tree

Aground in shade is your penalty, New loves and worlds cannot be thine, Poem, fall not far from me

No child of discord dare you be, Ripe with rebellion in every line, You are the scion, but I am the tree

Tempt not some Adam to bite on thee Or his Lady Eve in verse enshrine, You are my knowledge, I am your tree Fall not, Poem, far from me

Community event aims to promote teen mental health

“Normal is Overrated” will be held on June 8 from 11 a m to 2 p m at Florida S o u t h W e s t e r n S t a t e C o l l e g e , a t 8 0 9 9 College Parkway, Fort Myers The free event is designed to open doors to acceptance and inclusivity for middle and high school students in Southwest Florida to talk about mental health

An interactive and informative community event created by students, it shines a light on the mental and behavioral health struggles teens and young people face

This year's program will include: ∫ Inspiring stories from local students with first-hand experience ∫ Art therapy and interpretative dance

SPD to host Cone with a Cop

Department will hold Cone with a Cop on June 8 from 5 : 3 0 t o 6 : 3 0 a m a t

Pinocchio's Original Italian I c e C r e a m , a t 2 0 7 5

Periwinkle Way, Suite 33, Sanibel The community is invited to stop by, say hello to officers and pick up a coupon for a free kids ice cream cone.

The Community House Calendar

The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, will

∫ Opportunities to connect with mental health services and resources available in the region

Art therapy speaker Danesha Simmons will discuss and lead a Heart Mapping activity, helping attendees explore their feelings, passions and vulnerabilities, as well as express themselves when words

Retirement Community will present the Stardust Memories Big Band on June 6 at 7 p.m. in the Connie Brown Hall at the Tribby Arts Center, at 17281 On Par Blvd , Fort Myers Comprised

professionals and fea-

vocalist Danny Sinoff, the band will present a selection of Big Band classics from the music of Glenn Miller, B

speakers will include Saylor Davis and Andrea Gijon, who will talk about their

helped them overcome challenges and maintain their mental health.

For more information or to register, visit KidsMindsMatter com/NIO

Count Basie, Duke Ellington and more

Joe Pacheco Poetic License

ISL AND HOME islander

Caladiums a favorite for summer color

Caladiums are one type of plant that do very well in hot wet Florida Planted as either tubers in spring or fully leafed out plants in summer, they are so easy to grow

The best part is once planted in the ground, they will come up year after year as soon as summer turns on the heat and rain

I plant them in the summer in the same areas

I will plant my colorful annuals in the fall and winter Every year, just as my winter annuals fade from the heat, up pop the caladiums for the summer. Then just about the time you want to plant the fall seasonal color, the caladiums fade away and retreat back underground to rest up for the next summer

It is not necessary to dig up the tubers, just leave them alone and let them do their thing It is like planting once for the year and getting twice the seasonal color This, of course, makes them my favorite for adding summer color to my flowerbeds and as colorful border plantings around the trees at the corners of my house

People love to grow caladiums for their colorful leaves in pots, hanging baskets, in their yards and many other locations In the landscape, they can attract quite a lot of attention when displayed in large planting groups. There are many colors and leaf patterns to choose from Popular colors are white, pink, red and green in a fascinating array of combinations They instantly add colorful interest in pots or in the landscape

Caladiums are grown from tubers and are easily grown Plant the tuber upright in the ground They like wet soil and are light feeders They do not require a lot of fertilizer, in fact, less is more in their case There are many varieties to choose from Some like shady conditions and there are some that are for sunny locations

Many Florida growers are adding more and more caladiums to their greenhouses and increasing the availability to garden centers Caladiums look fun and exotic, yet you do not see many people using them I say, give them a chance Once you find out how easy they are to grow and the array of color they bring to your summer landscape, you will wonder why you did not plant them sooner

In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local garden center, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel For more information, contact 239-395-5859 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 June 11 at 11 a.m. at The Community House, with a virtual option available

It will feature a representative from Naples Compost

“Naples Compost will join us to discuss the importance of composting and provide an overview of the services they provide in our area,” F I S H Senior Services Director Erika Broyles said “Amanda, our guest speaker, will talk about what composting is, why it is so important, how it can help Southwest Florida specifically and how we can all get involved ”

Naples Compost offers residential and commercial composting services, natural gardening products, and animal composting services in Lee, Collier and Hendry counties It collects organic waste and uses a proprietary composting process to convert it into nutrient-rich compost

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 June 7

For more information or to make a reservation, contact

instructions will be provided to those planning to attend virtually

The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Summer program to provide free breakfast, lunch

From today, June 5, and July 31, breakfast and lunch will be served at more than 100 school-based and community sites. There are no income requirements or registration; meals must be consumed on site

As of May 29, there was one site for the islands: Sanibel Recreation Center, at 3 8 8 0 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

∫ June 10-18: Breakfast from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a m to 12:30 p m Monday through Friday

∫ June 20-28: Breakfast from 8:30 to 9:30 a m and lunch from 11:30 a m to 12:30 p m Monday through Friday

Also new this summer, eight sites will serve grab and

go meals At these locations, the child does not need to be present and the meal does not have to be eaten on site Monday through Thursday a breakfast and lunch will be provided On Fridays, a three-day meal kit will be provided so a child can also have breakfast and lunch over the weekend

The sites providing the grab and go service include:

∫ Buckingham Community Park in Fort Myers

∫ Harns Marsh Middle School in Lehigh Acres

∫ Palms at Pine Island on Pine Island

∫ Phillips Park on Pine Island

∫ All Saints Byzantine Catholic Church in North Fort Myers

∫ Alva Community Park in Alva

∫ Olga Baptist Church in Alva

∫ Summit Church in Gateway (starting on June 17)

For all sites and times, dial 2-1-1, Text “Food” to 304-304, or visit www SummerBreakSpot org

Wild olive is drought, saltwater tolerant

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION

FOUNDATION

Wild olive (Forestiera segregate) is a coastal hammock shrub that grows well in our sandy soils It can grow to about 10 feet tall and almost as wide Also known as Florida privet, wild olive blooms in late winter or early spring and attracts bees The fruits develop before many other plants and become a good source of food for birds The plants are dioecious, meaning that only female plants will produce fruits, and a male plant close by is needed for pollination Wild olive is drought and saltwater tolerant and requires little maintenance once established

Animal Services wants you to ‘Wait Until 8’

L

Services reported that spring begins the start of kitten season

It can intake as many as 200 kittens a month Well-meaning people find kittens outside and attempt to help by bringing them to shelters

However, they often do not realize that most kittens brought to shelters,

especially those who are less than 8 weeks old, will need to be bottle fed to survive

To help address underage kittens

b e i n g b r o u g h t i n t o t h e s h e l t e r , Animal Services encourages the public to Wait Until 8 eight weeks of age This is when kittens can eat independently and care for them-

selves Fosters are also needed for those that are brought into the facility For more information about fostering, email fostering@leegov com or visit www LeeLostPets com

F i n d L e e C o u n t y D o m e s t i c A nimal S ervices on F acebook or Instagram @leeanimalservices

PHOTO PROVIDED

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Recipe of the Week: Shrimp Fritters

I love on Sunday morning driving to Sanibel's fabulous farmers market I get there early so I can stroll slowly through each stand as they set up their tables I check what is best and make my purchases and always get a special sweet treat for me. The fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh local seafood, pastries and breads, cheeses and prepared foods always get my attention With a cup of coffee in my hand, I stop to chat with the familiar vendors and visit with friends Serves eight (Chef tip: Use large shrimp for this recipe )

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 cloves garlic, minced

Buttermilk, as needed

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup shredded zucchini, shredded on the large holes of a cheese grater

1/2 cup potato, shredded on the large holes of a cheese grater

1/2 pound large shrimps, peeled and de-veined and chopped

1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated

2 cups vegetable oil

8 cups Arugula

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder and eggs While whisking, add enough buttermilk to form a fairly loose, sticky batter Set aside

In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, potato, shrimp, butter, garlic, Parmigiano, salt and pepper to taste. Mix just enough to combine all ingredients.

CROW Calendar

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

∫ Today, June 5

Program of the Week at 11 a m

T h e p r e s e n t a t i o n w i l l b e “ C l

Change ”

∫ Thursday, June 6

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be about “What Animals Do During A Hurricane ”

∫ Friday, June 7

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

“Captains For Clean Water ”

∫ Monday, June 1 0

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be about “A Day In The Life At CROW ”

∫ Tuesday, June 1 1

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be the presenter’s choice

∫ Wednesday, June 1 2

Program of the Week at 11 a m

“Climate Change ”

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

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 battle outside and the battle inside

Far too many times, it’s the battle outside But also far too many times, it’s the battle inside that claims a life

B a c k i n 2 0 0 8 , a f t e r

e n t e r i n g a d e a l e r s h i p i n New Jersey in search of a new car, I was assigned to a s a l e s m a n w h o , i n t h e course of conversation duri n g m y t e s t d r i v e , m e ntioned to me that this was his first job since leaving the military I asked him about his time in the service, and he told me he had done tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan

And then, he asked me

t h e q u e s t i o n t h e o n e which tends to suddenly make the conversation awkward whenever I give an honest answer, especially at a party “So what do you do?”

I said, “I’m a minister ” Right on cue silence

But this time the silence f e l t d i f f e r e n t I h a d t h e sense that there was somet h i n g e l s e c o

there was

A few moments later, he l

asked, “Do you think God still loves me? Cause we did some ugly stuff over there ”

As he spoke to me a bit

g through, it seemed that he

In a tall-sided pot, heat the oil over high heat to 375°F

Dip the shrimp mixture, by the tablespoonful, into the batter, making sure to coat all surfaces of each fritter Drop the fritters into the hot oil, a few at a time, and cook until deep golden brown. Remove from the oil and drain on a plate lined with paper towels. Serve on a bed of arugula with fiery tomato sauce

Fiery tomato sauce (makes 3-4 cups)

2 pounds ripe Italian plum tomatoes, cut in half and seeded

1 small onion, cut into quarters

1 carrot, sliced

1 red pepper, sliced in half

2 cloves garlic, peeled

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/8 teaspoon hot pepper flakes

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

2 cups strained tomato sauce

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preheat the oven at 350°F Place vegetables in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, salt and pepper Place in a roasted pan and roast in the oven for 30 minutes Remove and place in a food process

In a four-quart non-reactive saucepan, add the tomato sauce, roasted vegetables and hot pepper Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, or until sauce is reduced Add the basil Season with salt and pepper

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 9:30 a m , with a coffee hour to follow; service is available via livestream and the link on the website

ical standing, even if they felt that what they did was necessary in the larger sense

1990s as “moral injury,” the term Shay coined to describe the psychological, social, cultural and spiritual harm caused by traumatic experiences like combat Shay observed from his years of working with veterans that many had come to question their own moral and eth-

n reach the point where they would wonder or doubt, for example, if God still loved them or could possibly forgive them Shay, like many other mental health experts since, came to see that moral injury left many of those who returned from combat less than whole, in need of help and particularly vulnerable to things like depression, anxiety and even suicide

Just a few days ago, we commemorated Memorial Day in our nation, a day w h e n w

m e m b e r a n

o n o r t h o s e whose lives were claimed in service to our nation But at the same time, let’s not forget the ones who serve, as well as the many first responders in our nation, who survive physically, but are and have been left less than whole psychologically and spiritually from that service

Loretta Paganini

Dr. Mark Boyea Faces on Faith

Cheeburger Cheeburger, 1975 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Cielo, 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

islandBEAT islander

Santiva Islanders Calendar

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, June 5, from 10 to 11 a m at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 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.

Social Bridge

Social Bridge will be held on June 6 from noon to 2:30 p m at the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, contact Bryant Korn at bryantekorn@gmail.com.

Social Mahjong

Social Mahjong will be held on June 6 from noon to 2:30 p m at the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, contact Beth Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail.com.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on June 7 from 10 to 11 a m at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 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 June 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.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on June 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

Happy Hour

Happy Hour will be held on June 10 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

Page Tur ners Book Club

Page Turners Book Club will meet on June 11 from 1 to 2:30 p m via Zoom The book for discussion will be “Tom Lake” by Ann Patches For questions or to receive the Zoom login, contact santivaislanders@gmail com

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on June 12 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

landers@gmail com

From page 25

Remember them, help see that they get the assistance they need, and remind them that yes, God still loves them Just as the early Christian leader Paul reminds us all.

Paul tells us in his Letter to the Romans, written to the early churches in and around Rome and considered to be his most comprehensive theological statement, that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus Nothing That statement is in the very middle in the very heart of Paul’s comprehensive theological statement

So “Yes,” I told my car salesman “Yes, I do believe God still loves you ” I don’t know, but I hope he came to believe it too Otherwise, the moral injury he struggled with may have claimed his life, if not physically, then emotionally and spiritually

Because while far too many times it’s the battle outside, far too many times it’s also the battle inside that claims a life

The Rev Dr Mark Boyea is senior minister at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ

at 'Tween Waters, 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva

The Mucky Duck, 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The Shipyard at 'Tween Waters, 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva