Debby causes localized flooding in areas for islands
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com
When Tropical Storm Debby rolled by Southwest Florida on Aug 4, it caused heavy flooding on Sanibel and Captiva before making landfall the next day in the Big Bend area as a hurricane.
The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District and Captiva Island Fire Control District reported flooding in certain areas and impassable roads as the storm dropped 3-6 inches of rain around Lee County
“A lot of what we saw was localized flooding in areas,” Deputy Fire Chief John DiMaria, with the Sanibel district, said
“We experienced a lot of wind and a lot of rain but nothing really impactful ” Captiva Fire Chief Jeff Pawul described the situation as similar to what Sanibel experienced
“A lot of localized flooding from the surge level Coupled with the high tide and the new moon, the surge levels were a little bit higher than we hoped,” he said “I think the high tide
See DebbY, page 18
Flooding at the Periwinkle Park on Sanibel during Tropical Storm Debby on Aug 4
SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT
Primary early voting opens as election draws near
By TIFFANY REPECKI
trepecki@breezenewspapers com
Early voting for the Aug 20 Primary Election has kicked off and it will run through Aug 17
Sanibel and Captiva voters can cast their ballot early at 12 locations throughout Lee County from 10 a m to 6 p m daily Open to all regardless of their precinct, the Early Voting sites are as follows:
∫ Bonita Springs Election Office, at 2 5 9 8 7 S . T a m i a m i T r a i l , U n i t 1 0 5 , Bonita Springs
∫ Cape Coral Elections Office, at 1039 S E 9th Ave , Cape Coral
∫ Cape Coral-Lee County Library, at 921 S W 39th Terrace, Cape Coral
∫ East County Regional Library, at 881 Gunnery Road N , Lehigh Acres
∫ Estero Recreation Center, at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd , Estero
∫ Fort Myers Regional Library, at 1651 Lee St , Fort Myers
∫ C i t y o
Authority, at 4224 Renaissance Preserve Way, Fort Myers
∫ Lakes Regional Library, at 15290
Bass Road, Fort Myers
∫ Lee County Elections Center, at 13180 S Cleveland Ave , Fort Myers
∫ Lehigh Acres Elections Office, at 600 Homestead Road S., Unit 9, Lehigh Acres
∫ N o r t h F o r t M y e r s R e c r e a t i o n Center, at 2000 N Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers
∫ Northwest Regional Library, at 519 Chiquita Blvd N , Cape Coral
The following local races will be on the
See PrImArY eleCTIon VoTInG, page 20
New school year kicks off for county
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
More than 100,000 students walked through the doors of their school on Aug 12, starting another school year a year i
amount of prepa ration
“We just so
pride in trying to
District of Lee County Superintendent Dr Ken Savage said of parents last week “It’s such a privilege that they entrust their children to us every day I know full well what it is like, I have two children in second grade ” His excitement for a new year kicking off boiled into his own children and all the
Two county board candidates to face off in primary
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
Republican voters will have a choice in the primary to decide who gets on the November ballot for the open Lee County District 3 Commissioner seat being vacated by Commissioner Ray Sandelli
David Mulicka, owner and founder of HONC Destruction, and Matt Thornton, a retired contractor who operates a ranch in North Fort Myers, are running for the Republican nomination
The candidates have different visions of the district and county, with Mulicka favoring more development, while Thornton calls himself an “environmental conservation” candidate
“I am very pro-property rights,” Mulicka said “We are never going to stop growth from happening ”
Mulicka favors the Kingston project, which has drawn widespread opposition from environmental groups who say it represents threats to the endangered Florida panther population He said the developers behind the project, Cameratta Companies, “are very thoughtful about conservation.”
Mulicka, a lifelong resident of Lee County, is married to state Rep Jenna-Persons Mulicka He sees his years of experience in the contracting business and pulling permits from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and working with the U S Army Corps of
Engineers as a positive
“I love Lee County and have had a wonderful life growing up here,” Mulicka said “I want to use my conservative business and community involvement experience to help rebuild and improve our paradise, keep our residents safe, restore and protect our waterways, and get government red tape out of the way for businesses
Thornton, who grew up around Fernandina Beach, bought a residence in Fort Myers Beach outside the town limits eight months ago with his wife, Christi They had been living in Cape Coral but Thornton said they grew tired
Two candidates vying for county seat in primary
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
When Lee County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Mike Greenwell was hitting home runs for the Boston Red Sox three decades ago, running for political office was about the last thing on his mind He still does not consider himself a politician though he takes his politics seriously representing District 5 on the commission
“I didn’t think I was going to be a politician and I still don’t think I’m a politician,”
Greenwell said
The Alva Republican and former Red Sox All-Star faces a primary challenge from fellow Alva resident and Realtor Amanda Cochran, with the main issue between the two being the level of development in their communities and countywide
Cochran, who manages and co-owns RE/MAX River & Ranch, believes the commission has been too permissive in allowing zoning changes that go against the county’s comprehensive plan, including a
of increasing taxes and paying tolls for trips to Fort Myers Beach He moved to Lee County four years ago and also owns a ranch in North Fort Myers
Thornton and his wife have started a golf cart business on Fort Myers Beach called Trippin Rides
“It’s better to go tripping with us then tripping on the sidewalks,” he said
Thornton said they have plans to expand to shuttling visitors to the area from the airport to Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel in what he sees as “a big need” due to the traffic
Thornton said the infrastructure cannot handle the multiple large-scale hotel development projects heading for the Fort Myers Beach area and infrastructure is a problem. He is concerned about increasing development leading to delays evacuating the island in the event of another hurricane
Mulicka said it was important to learn from Hurricane Ian to ensure properties are rebuilt the right way
“We will learn from this thing,” he said “The market knows where the best place in the world is to build and will continue to build here ”
That said, Mulicka also sees the county’s growth as “putting strain on roadways and infrastructure We must change the mindset of building for today’s needs, and instead build for the needs of our future ”
Read the full article for free by visiting it online at www captivasanibel com
rezoning of Greenwell’s property that led to a lawsuit she has filed against the county
He has countered that the rezoning was necessary after the state took approximately 17 acres of his property for an expanded highway on State Road 31 that connects to Babcock Ranch
For Greenwell, this political fight is shaping up to be about as tough as any at-bat he faced as a ballplayer He is seeking a second term in office after being appointed by Gov Ron DeSantis in 2022 to fill the seat left vacant by the late Frank Mann Greenwell went on to win a three-way Republican primary and then a special election.
Cochran, a sixth-generation Lee County resident, said the lawsuit she filed led to a greater awareness of the decisions and actions by the county commissioners in approving developments in the county
“What led me to my decision to run is seeing there are several communities concerned about overdevelopment in Lee County,” she said
Cochran is concerned in particular about Greenwell’s North Olga property, which has been approved by the commission for a rezoning to allow for 400,000 square feet of commercial space and 122 multifamily units
In the lawsuit, she alleges that the project will be the largest commercial development ever requested by anyone on State Road 31 Cochran alleges that the county’s rezoning of the property is spot zoning, allowing commercial development in a rural agricultural area
She said that while she understands Greenwell is losing about 17 acres to the state for the road expansion, the result would be “urban sprawl ” The court case centers around, in part, whether proper notice was given to the public before the 2023 rezoning hearing took place while Greenwell was on the commission Another hearing was held in November of 2022, not long after Hurricane Ian
The main concern regarding the project for Cochran is traffic and safety
“Traffic is more than an issue It’s a life safety issue,” she said.
“We are a little bucolic corner,” Cochran
said of the Alva and Olga community that includes some of the last large tracts of large and undisturbed rural lands in the county “People come out there to gain a sense of exhale from the big city ” For Greenwell, the rural nature of the community has already started to disappear since Babcock Ranch was developed with commercial components both completed and underway
He said he is losing over 1 million square feet of his property to eminent domain for the road expansion necessitated by the nearby 18,000-acre Babcock Ranch development, which will ultimately consist of 19,500 homes and an estimated 50,000 residents Commercial development includes a shopping center anchored by a Publix, with an adjacent center under construction
As a result, Greenwell will be closing his 31 Produce fruit and vegetable market and his family’s Cracker Shack Cafe They are both still open for now
He said the rezoning of his property for commercial development is what is best for his family to compensate him for the loss of his property
“I didn’t seek out the city of Babcock Ranch, coming up to my property,” Greenwell said. “It (stinks). There is nothing I can do about it ”
As a county commissioner, he touts his work to speed up development of a new road connecting State Road 80 with Alico Road, which he says will lessen travel along Interstate 75 from Lehigh Acres
“We unfortunately don’t have a gate The people keep on coming,” he said “We live in paradise ” Read the full article for free by visiting it online at www captivasanibel com
David Mulicka Matt Thornton
Mike Greenwell
Amanda Cochran
OPINIONS
Web Poll
Previous Question
How much post-storm recovery work does your home/business require?
∫ None, fully recovered, 40% (4)
∫ Much/some still needed, 50% (5)
∫ All, nothing recovered, 10% (1)
Current Question
What do think about Gov Tim Walz for Harris' running mate?
∫ Good pick
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Welcome back for new school year
It's hard to believe we welcomed our students back for the 2024-25 school year just a few days ago Our dedicated school administrators, teachers and support staff worked tirelessly to prepare for the big day I hope they all had a restful and enjoyable summer, while celebrating the successes of the previous school year.
We have several accomplishments to celebrate:
∫ Stephen MiGinley, who won the Florida Teacher Leader Award, is now serving as an assistant principal
∫ Kristin Stevens, our Assistant Principal of the Year at East Lee, was a finalist for the state award
∫ A graduating senior from Gateway High School won the highest scholarship award in district history, receiving $330,000 to attend MIT
∫ We had state champions in JROTC com-
petitions and wrestling
∫ Our official enrollment has topped 100,000 for the first time, and we opened two new schools
While we celebrate these successes, we must also acknowledge our challenges Our test scores have been declining year after year, dropping us from the number two spot in the top 10 districts in Florida down to ninth place over the past 12 years As superintendent, it's my duty to address this downward trend and take action
We are implementing significant changes, especially in our Academic Services division
We have introduced a new service delivery model that divides our district into four regions: North, South, East and West. Each region will be overseen by newly appointed regional associate superintendents, supported by teams to address areas such as
student services, English Language Learning, curriculum, our operational areas and more This structure will enable us to be more responsive and supportive to the needs of our schools We will work together as one, committed to student achievement, with clear communication, expectations and responsibilities
Looking ahead, we are excited about the opening of the new Franklin Park Elementary School, a beautiful campus fulfilling a promise made during the 2018 sales tax campaign. We are also unveiling some major upgrades to Riverdale High School and will begin the rebuild of Cypress Lake Middle School, also thanks to our community through our sales tax dollars
For the first time in decades, we will have an elected superintendent come November It’s going to be an exciting year for the School District of Lee County We look forward to honoring our incredible staff members and celebrating the accolades, accomplishments and awards our students achieve.
Dr Ken Savage is interim superintendent for the School District of Lee County
Building stronger, more resilient communities
Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties are fortunate to have so many highly rated, highly effective nonprofits working diligently to shape our society and provide hope for a brighter future
United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is proud to be among this group providing r e s o u r c e s , p r o g
improve the lives of everyone in Southwest Florida The organization is one of 1,800 regional affiliates of United Way, each of which is an independently incorporated nonprofit with its own grant-making guidelines and local board that makes funding decisions
Children's Advocacy Center of SWFL to offering free tax preparation for low-income households to advocating for military veterans, United Way’s impact is felt daily across Southwest Florida
Please join me in recognizing and celebrating these organizations and others on National Nonprofit Day, commemorated on Aug 17 The annual observance encourages citizens to take some time to learn more about nonprofits operating in their community
That includes nonprofits such as Hope
C l u b h o u s e o f S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a H o p e Clubhouse supports adults living with a mental illness by providing opportunities for paid employment and access to education, housing and wellness. By working together with United Way, Hope Clubhouse can connect more deeply with its audiences, building
stronger, more resilient networks of support
Walker had this to say about her nonprofit having an opport
U n i t e d W a y : “ S o u t h w e s t Florida is a naturally collaborative community For a smalle r n o n p r o f i t l i k e H o p e Clubhouse, nothing speaks to this more than being part of the U n i t e d W a y a g e n c y f a m i l y We are honored to work closely with United Way through their many programs Access t o t h e s e p
m
d i
l y impacts our ability to increase the quality of life for our members.”
Guest Commentary
As a new applicant and award recipient starting in January of 2025, the United Way has opened doors for Trailways Camp to a broad range of collaborative relationships and potential partnerships that will improve the lives of adults with special needs and their caregivers.
“We are participating in virtual provider network meetings, with introductions to a variety of community providers and opportunities to make personal contacts leading to p o t e n t i a l p a r t n e r s h i p s , ” T r a i l w a y s C a m p Director Jamie Senkeleski said “There are opportunities for the distribution of informa-
tion about Trailways Camp and how we can address such g
and through overnight camping experiences and overnight respite for caregivers ”
As a new organization with s
needs essential to grow outreach and impact, the United Way has favorably considered Trailways Camp’s initial grant request that will spur outreach to hundreds of entrants from s
each year
As United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades gets set to c
l Nonprofit Day, we will reinforce our dedication to creating positive, lasting change in the Southwest Florida communities we serve By focusing on education, income and health, and leveraging the power of collective action, we continue to build stronger, more resilient communities This again proves that together, we can make a difference
Matt Humphreys is president of the board of directors for the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades. For more information, visit https://unitedwaylee org/ or call 239433-2000
Dr Ken Savage Guest Commentary
Matt Humphreys
CEPD to hold third meeting on bayside project
r t u n i t y t o d i s c u s s s t r a t e g y u p d a t e s a n d v i s u a l s , r e v i e w c o m p o n e n t s o f t h e
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c o m m u n i t y m e m b e r s , ” i t a d d e d “ W e
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County library system offers virtual programs
The Lee County Library System, which includes the Captiva Memorial Library, is offering the following free virtual programming:
Adult programs
∫ Aug 15: Online Author Event with Irena Smith from 2 to 3 p m
Another college application season is around the corner, and stress is already beginning to ratchet up for teens and their parents Join this must-watch talk by Irena Smith, PhD Attendees will hear about constructive and healthy ways to approach the college application process, preserve their relationship with their teen, and help them define success on their terms instead of chasing the elusive “golden ticket ” The event is part of the Online Author Events Series. Registration is required
∫ Aug 21: Online Author Event with Shelby Van Pelt
from 7 to 8 p m
Chat with New York Times bestselling author Shelby Van Pelt about her debut novel, “Remarkably Bright Creatures ”
Do not miss this deep-dive exploration of friendship, reckoning, hope and more Charming, compulsively readable and full of wit, her novel is a beautiful exploration of friendship, reckoning and hope a reminder that sometimes taking a hard look at the past can help uncover a future that once felt impossible. The event is part of the Online Author Events Series. Registration is required
Download books, stream video and other online content at www leelibrary net
The Captiva Memorial Library is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a m to 12:30 p m and 1 to 4 p m For more information, call 239-533-4890
The library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva
L a s t w e e k , L e e C o u n t y r e p o r t e d t h a t C o u n t y M a n a g e r D a v e H a r n e r w i l l m a i l a l e t t e r t o m o r e t h a n 6 7 , 0 0 0 h o u s e h o l d s i n u n i n c o r p o r a t e d L e e w h i c h i n c l u d e s C a p t i v a w i t h p o l i c i e s f r o m t h e N a t i o n a l F l o o d I n s u r a n c e P r o g r a m ( N F I P ) t o o f f e r a n u p d a t e a n d r e a s s u ra n c e a b o u t e f f o r t s t o w o r k w i t h t h e F e d e r a l E m e r g e n c y M a n a g e m e n t A g e n c y ( F E M A ) t o r e t a i n p o l i c y d i sc o u n t s F E M A i s m a n d a t e d t o m a i l a l e t t e r t o r e s i d e n t s l a t e r i n A u g u s t a b o u t t h e s t at u s o f t h e p r o g r a m , a n d t h e c o u n t y b e l i e v e s
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com
Last week, the Captiva Island Fire Control District responded to two separate emergency calls regarding swimmers on the beach over two days, and one incident resulted in a drowning
On Aug. 6 at 11:55 a.m., the district received a call about a possible drowning from someone on the beach near the Plantation Beach Club, located in the 1000 block of South Seas Plantation Road
“It was a male in his 70s,” Fire Chief Jeff Pawul said of the swimmer
A report from the Lee County Sheriff's
Ledesma
He was struggling to keep his head above the water.
“The family was from Argentina They were on vacation,” Pawul said
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a s i t s p r o j e c t a p p r o a c h :
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c o m m i t t e e p r o g r e s s m e e t i n g s
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From page 6
f l o o d i n s u r a n c e A l s o , t h e l e t t e r m a y s a y
t h a t a l l p o l i c y h o l d e r s w o u l d r e c e i v e a
$ 5 0 s u r c h a r g e o n t h e i r p o l i c i e s i f t h e
c o u n t y w a s p l a c e d o n p r o b a t i o n T h e
l e t t e r m a y a l s o s t a t e t h a t i f t h e c o m m un i t y i s s u s p e n d e d , t h e n n o o n e i n t h e
a f f e c t e d a r e a w i l l b e e l i g i b l e f o r f e d e r a l
f l o o d i n s u r a n c e
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By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com
W h i l e t h r e e S c h o o l B o a r d o f L e e County seats are up for grabs, Sanibel and Captiva voters may only cast a ballot in one of the races this election an at-large seat to be determined countywide
Three candidates are vying in District 7
Vanessa Melbis Chaviano, Sheridan Chester and Joshua D Molandes The District 2 and 3 races will be decided by voters registered in the respective districts
School board races are non-partisan
Chaviano, a 25-year resident of Lee County, is in marketing operations at LIV Digital Marketing
D u e t o t h e e x t e n s i v e p r i v a t e l y - o w n e d l a n d T o i n v o l v e i d e n t i f y i n g o w n e r s h i p a n d j u r i s d i c t i o n ; s t r a t eg i c a n a l y s i s ; p o l i c y c o n s i d e r a t i o n s ; a n d s t a k e h o l d e r e n g a g e m e n t , i n c e n t i v e s a n d s t a n d a r d s
∫ T a s k 4 A d a p t i o n p l a n : T h e a p p r o a c h a n d i n i t i a l p e r c e p t i o n o f t h e n e c e ss a r y e l e m e n t s t o b e i n c l u d e d i n t h e p l a n w e r e l i s t e d a s : p r i o r i t i z a t i o n o f a d a p t a t i o n n e e d s ; i d e n t i f i c a t i o n o f a d a p t a t i o n s t r a t e g i e s a n d p r i o r i t i z a t i o n o f p r o j e c t s ; p o t e n t i a l s t r a t e g i e s l i v i n g s h o r e l i n
p a r t i c i p a t i o n i n t h i s i m p o r t a n t f l o o d i n s u r a n c e p r o g r a m ” H e a d d e d t h a t t h e c o u n t y r e m a i n s d e d i c a t e d t o p r o v i d i n g t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d
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c o u n t y w a s n o t i f i e d o n J u l y 1 9 t h a t
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F E M A c o n t i n u e t o w o r k o n a p l a n t o a d d r e s s i d e n t i f i e d c o n t i n u i n g i s s u e s
T h e p l a n i s d u e i n t h e f a l l
T o v i e w t h e c o u n t y ' s l e t t e r , v i s i t w w w l e e g o v c o m / f e m a c r s
R e s i d e n t s w h o h a v e q u e s t i o n s a f t e r
r e c e i v i n g t h e F E M A l e t t e r c a n c o n t a c t
L e e C o u n t y F E M A @ l e e g o v . c o m o r v i s i t
w w w l e e g o v c o m / f e m a c r s f o r m o r e
i n f o r m a t i o n
If you go
What
Captiva Bayside Adaptation Plan public meeting
When Aug 15 from 1 to 2:30 p m
Where Virtually via Zoom
Details Open to the community; no reservations required
h t t p s : / / f o r m s g l e / q 2 6 5 X 2 P b 2 5 M z q f v d 7
calls From page 6
W h e n t h e f i r e c r e w a r r i v e d o n
s c e n e , L e d e s m a w a s a l r e a d y o n t h e
b e a c h a n d a b y s t a n d e r w a s a t t e m p t i n g
t o p e r f o r m C P R H e n o t e d t h a t h i s
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d i a c a r r e s t , t h e y s t a r t e d C P R o n
L e d e s m a . “ W e d i d d o l i f e - s a v i n g m e a s u r e s o n t h e b e a c h b e f o r e t r a n s p o r t i n g h i m , w i t h c o n t i n u e d c a r e , t o t h e h o s p i t a l , ”
P a w u l s a i d , a d d i n g t h a t L e e C o u n t y
E M S t o o k L e d e s m a v i a a m b u l a n c e
“ H e p a s s e d ( a w a y ) "
O n A u g 7 a t 5 : 0 9 p m , t h e f i r e
c r e w r e s p o n d e d t o a c a l l a b o u t t h r e e
p e o p l e b e i n g s w e p t o u t b y t h e o c e a n ' s
c u r r e n t i n a n a r e a n e a r t h e B e a c h
V i l l a s , l o c a t e d i n t h e 2 1 0 0 b l o c k o f
G u l f B e a c h V i l l a s .
“ R e s c u e s w i m m e r s w e n t o u t , ” h e
s a i d “ T h e y w e r e a b l e t o g e t a l l t h r e e ”
P a w u l r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e v i c t i m s
w e r e a f a t h e r a n d h i s t w o d a u g h t e r s ,
a g e s 1 5 a n d 1 1
“ T h e y w e r e f r o m o u t o f s t a t e , ” h e
s a i d
A c c o r d i n g t o t h e f a t h e r , t h e y w e r e i n w a i s t - d e e p w a t e r o n a s a n d b a r a n d t h e c u r r e n t k e p t p u l l i n g t h e m f a r t h e r a n d f a r t h e r o u t t o w h e r e t h e y c o u l d n o l o n g e r t o u c h b o t t o m a n d h a d a h a r d t i m e s w i m m i n g P a w u l n o t e d t h a t t h e 1 1 - y e a r - o l d h a d j u s t w e n t u n d e r a n d i n g e s t e d a b u n c h o f w a t e r w h e n ( t h e ) r e s c u e s w i m m e r s r e a c h e d h e r . S h e w a s t r a n sp o r t e d t o t h e h o s p i t a l , b u t h e r f a t h e r a n d s i s t e r w e r e n o t “ I w o u l d s a y t h a t w a s p r o b a b l y w i t h i n m i n u t e s o f t h a t b e i n g a d i f f e re n t s i t u a t i o n , ” h e s a i d W h i l e t h e y o c c u r r e d i n d i f f e r e n t a r e a s , t h e r e w a s a c o m m o n a l i t y t h a t t h e c a l l s s h a r e d “ T h e y s h o u l d n ' t h a v e b e e n s w i mm i n g f o r t h e c o n d i t i o n s o f t h e w a t e r a t t h e t i m e W e j u s t h a d a l a r g e t r o p i c a l s t o r m g o p a s t ,
She said if elected, she will prioritize a student-centered approach to education, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential.
“This includes enhancing academic programs, supporting diverse learning styles and providing robust special education services I will advocate for smaller class sizes, increased access to mental health resources and t e c h
Additionally, I will foster a collaborative environment where teachers, parents and community members work
include physical security measures such as secure entrances, surveillance systems and emergency response protocols Expanding the Guardian Program will also be a key focus, allowing trained school personnel to provide additional protection,” she said Chaviano said student achievement is the most important issue the district is facing
“Ensuring all students receive a highquality education that prepares them for future success is essential. This requires
resources, supporting teachers and implementing innovative teaching methods,” she said
together to support students’ academic and personal growth,” Chaviano said
Competitive salaries, improved benefits and supportive working conditions are at the top of her list in attracting and retaining high-quality educators Competitive pay and benefits, along with flexible scheduling options is needed to improve the bus driver shortage, she added
As with the other candidates, safety is paramount to Chaviano
Chester, a 23-year substitute teacher in the school district, has lived in Lee County for 25 years
She said if elected, she will visit each school and let the students and staff know that she is completely vested in their success
Chester believes the most important issue the district is currently facing is teacher and substitute teacher shortages. She said they must provide teachers with a realistic wage
“How do we expect to hire and retain quality teachers
Joshua D Molandes
Sheridan Chester
Vanessa Melbis Chaviano
BUSINESS
Business Notes
San Cap Bank named on top 100 list
Sanibel Captiva Community Bank was recently recognized on Florida Trend’s “Best Companies To Work For In Florida” 2024 list
Featured in its August issue, the list ranks 100 companies in large, midsized and small categories
T h e b a n k r a n k e d 2 1 s t i n t h e B e s t M i d s i z e d Companies category and was one of only seven Fort Myers-based companies included on the full list
To participate, companies or government entities were required to have at least 15 workers in Florida and to be in operation for at least one year Companies that chose to participate underwent an evaluation of their workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics The process also included a survey to measure employee satisfaction The combined scores determined the top companies and final ranking
The Best Companies To Work For in Florida program is managed by Florida Trend and Workforce Research Group, and it is endorsed by the HR Florida State Council Workforce Research Group managed the registration, survey and analysis and determined the final rankings
F
floridatrend com/bestcompanies
Island-owned business recognized
PrivateSky Aviation Services, in Fort Myers, was n a m e d a m o n g t h e 2 0 2 4 w i n n e r s i n G u l f s h o r e Business' 12th annual “Best of Business” poll for Southwest Florida
Sanibel resident Vincent M Wolanin is chairman and founder of the company
PrivateSky Aviation Services won in the Private Jet Service category
Gulfshore Business reported that readers voted in the poll online via a survey that required them to provide their name and email address, so each respondent could cast only one ballot
For each of the 30 categories, one winner and two finalists were recognized
The finalists in the Private Jet Service category were Elite Jets and Jet 1
DDWS staffer ear ns cer tification
T h e “ D i n g ”
D a r l i n g W i l d l
Society-Friends
o
Leader Melissa Maher recently
STEM” course
S h e h e a d s the Wildlife on W h e e l s t e a m
f o r t h e J N “Ding” Darling N
Wildlife Refuge
With its focus on drawing diversity into the sphere o
, T
o
g y , Engineering and Mathematics careers, the certification furthers the DDWS' mission of bringing STEM and STEM career awareness into urban communities through conservation education.
Current outlook and portfolio strategy
By IAN N. BREUSCH
The second quarter of 2024 continued to be positive for most investors, adding to a strong first quarter E c o n o m i c g r o w
, l
w unemployment and slowing (albeit higher than normal) i n f l a t
mary drivers of optimism among investors U S stock markets continue to rise, and fixed income (bond) i n v e s t m e n t s r e m a i n a d d itive to portfolios.
The Fed held its last formal meeting on June 1112 The Fed continues to adjust its expectations for a potential rate cut later this year While they expect to lower rates once (perhaps twice) this year, they continue to wait for further evidence that inflation is sufficiently falling before committing themselves to a rate cut Regardless of the timing of a rate cut later this year or early next year, it’s unlikely short-term interest rates will change meaningfully in the next several months, unless economic activity declines precipitously
While we remain cautiously optimistic, retail/cons u m
Consumers have less savings and outstanding credit balances are more extended than over the past few years On one hand, we should anticipate that tighter Fed policy (higher rates) will have its designed impact of slowing economic growth So far, our economy has proven to be rather resilient Inflation has subsided without a substantial move lower in economic activity. However, we know there can be a lag effect to Fed policy We will be watching this closely in the coming weeks and months to determine if economic activity is indeed slowing It’s certainly possible that the Fed may indeed orchestrate the so
called “soft landing” reducing inflation without damaging economic growth but risks to the broader economy certainly remain
Despite the overall progress across U S stock markets, growth stocks resumed their market dominance in the second quarter just as we were noticing a widening of the stock market rally earlier this year The theme of artificial intelligence (AI) and implications for the largest technology companies in the world reasserted its dominance in the minds of investors. While we believe much of the enthusiasm surrounding AI is warranted, there is a certain amount of speculation taking place Investors are willing to pay increasingly higher prices for the same stocks solely based on expectations about the future This is not entirely unusual or irrational, given stock markets tend to always be forward-looking Nonetheless, stock prices should also be tethered to reality and not simply the most optimistic view of the future We continue to take a balanced approach to our stock market exposure We certainly want to own many of the large technology companies likely to benefit from AI But there are terrific companies and industries outside of technology that remain attractive with valuations more rooted in the present
We also believe that diversification is likely to be more beneficial in the coming years than it has been over the past few Proper diversification among asset classes, such as stocks, bonds and cash, will remain most import
Additionally, we want to be adequately diversified across the different segments of both stock and bond markets Regardless of the appropriate asset allocation between s
Adhering to our investment philosophy and approach sourcing high-quality investments at attractive valuations will remain at the forefront of our investment decision-making process
Ian N Breusch is chief operating officer for The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company
Lee Health officials explain benefits of status conversion
Held on Aug 1 at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel, the SanCap Chamber's business luncheon kicked off with a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the resort's official first day of business since Hurricane Ian
Along with keynote speakers Lee
Nachef, chamber leaders and Sundial and MHK Architecture representatives hailed the significance of the
complex to reopen to date
“I can’t wait for everyone to have this day,” Sundial General Manager Becky Miller said of the current daycation operations model, adding that rooms will begin to open for occupancy in November beginning with west-side units “This is our Day 1 ” Antonucci and Nachef took the podium to explain the “why and why now” reasoning behind Lee Health's current process of returning to a community-centered nonprofit structure from today's public special district structure, which has been in effect since 1960 At the time, the Florida Legislature sanctioned the t r a n s i t i o
profit to a non-taxing district com-
mitted to offering “safety net” health care to all, with or without Medicaid, M e d i c a r e , o r c o m m e r c i a l h e a l t h insurance
Now under the oversee of the Lee C o
B
C
y Commissioners, Lee Health has been working for the past six months evaluating the conversion back to a private community-based system “The role of leadership is identify icebergs before you hit them,”
until you hit the iceberg and are taking on water before you make structural changes to meet the future challenges you anticipate you’re going to face ”
He cited some of the challenges as cost increases; service disrupters in t
S , Amazon and private equity companies; rise in consumerism; keeping
See LEE HEALTH, page 10
Ian N Breusch
SANCAP CHAMBER
The SanCap Chamber held a ribbon-cutting on Aug 1 for the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel
Melissa Maher
Local pharmacy to open Island Wellness Pharmacy on island
Cypress Pharmacy in Fort Myers recently announced plans to open a new sister location, Island Wellness Pharmacy, which is set to open in the fall in The Shops at Jerry's on Sanibel
Island Wellness Pharmacy aims to bring high-quality pharmacy and wellness services to the island community, enhancing accessibility, convenience and customer service for residents
“Building strong relationships within the Sanibel community has been incredibly important to us We are excited to expand our services with Island Wellness Pharmacy, bringing quality patient care closer to home for our Sanibel neighbors,” Justin Ceravolo, owner of Island Wellness Pharmacy and Cypress Pharmacy, said “This new location represents our commitment to supporting the community’s health and wellbeing.”
Island Wellness Pharmacy will offer a range of services, including prescription refills, immunizations, health consultations, medication synchronization and therapy management It will provide a full line of vitamins and supplements, CBD products, and health and wellness services and offer on-island delivery Patients and customers will also have access to custom medication services offered at Cypress Pharmacy, such as custom flavoring, packaging and compounding of medications for adults, children and pets
In partnership with Jerry's Foods, Island Wellness Pharmacy will roll out a new prescription pickup kiosk inside of the supermarket The secure kiosk will serve
Pharmacy is set to open in the fall
Sanibel
as an option for residents to pick up prescriptions outside of the pharmacy's normal operating hours and during their grocery shopping
Locally owned and operated, Cypress Pharmacy has provided pharmaceutical and health care services in Fort Myers for more than 40 years Services offered include immunizations, medication synchronization and therapy management, customized compounding for patients and pets, personalized patient consultations, flu and strep throat testing, lab testing, Medicare Part D plan reviews and more Ceravolo has been a part of the Cypress Pharmacy family since 2012 Starting as a staff pharmacist, he worked his way up through the ranks as pharmacy manager before acquiring the business in 2024 Island Wellness Pharmacy will be located at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Unit 7, Sanibel
Business Notes
From page 8
Costello Graduates from ACTEC
Lee Health
American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC)
The organization develops the profession's future leaders through a series of indepth educational presentations led by subject matter experts in each field of the trust and estate industry
He joined the company in 2021 as a member of the fiduciary team Costello assists clients with matters in estate and trust administration, estate planning, and family office services.
He joined the company from Porter
where he practiced law in the areas of estate planning, estate and trust administration, and related litigation
From page 8
pace with technology; shifts in valuebased care; and physician and nurse shortages
The conversion would also allow Lee Health to expand beyond Lee County's borders to better serve the 20% of current patients coming from outside of the county's boundaries
“For why conversion makes sense now we believe in Lee Health and Lee County, and the strong leadership and economic growth in the region is what makes this possible,” Nachef said “If the economy here were not strong, this would not be a viable option ”
The speakers pointed out Lee Health is a l o c a l e c o n o m i c d r i v e r a n d t h e t o p employer in the county with 30,000-plus related jobs.
“We are among one of the largest pub-
Sundial launches day pass program for non-guests
The Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel announced the addition of a resort day pass
The Daycation Resort Day Pass allows participants to “live the resort life for a day” by providing access to the property's activities and amenities Dining is also included in the offering
“
Daycation Resort Day Pass to our neighbors and island guests,” General Manager Becky Miller said “Our guests and the local community have been so supportive in following our journey to hurricane recovery and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone back to enjoy our resort day passes, as well as our restaurants ”
The pass includes access to the pool, pool slide, hot tub, beach, beach chair and umbrella service, beach volleyball, poolside bingo, ping pong, foosball, corn hole and dining at Turtle’s Tiki Bar Cabana, kayak, paddle board and bike rentals, as well as pickleball and tennis programming, are available for an additional cost
Available for a limited time, the pass hours are from 10 a m to 7 p m
The costs are $75 for adults, which includes a $30 dining gift card, and $45
for ages 3-12, which includes a $15 dining gift card; children under age 3 are free of charge A group rate is available for organizations with 20-plus attendees The dining gift card may be used on food and beverages at Turtle's during the visit Advance reservations are highly suggested
Based on availability, same day passes may be offered for an additional $5.
The resort also announced that three dining outlets have reopened Turtle's, the Shima Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar a
Wednesday through Sunday Shima features an expanded dining room, as well as the addition of a large sushi bar All are open to the public
The Sea Breeze Cafe dining room will reopen in the fall
The resort plans to welcome overnight guests in the fall as the post-hurricane renovations are completed in guest room b u i l d i n g
stays are being accepted
To reserve a Daycation Resort Day Pass, call 866-565-5093
For more information, visit sundialresort com
Event to suppor t local businesses
Back will be held on Aug 17 at 10 a m at
Carts on Rabbit Road and the J N “Ding”
Refuge Nature Store on Wildlife Drive on S
Rosalita's Cantina at 6 p m on Rabbit Road
F
Back buttons will be available at On Island/Sanibel Carts and Rosalita's. Launched by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, the initiative offers a chance to support island businesses and services with mix and mingle events For more information, visit www saintmichaels-sanibel org
was recognized in 2020 by Naples Illustrated as a Top Lawyer in Trusts and Estates
lic health systems in the country and we are clearly the largest public health system that does not levy a tax on its citizens,” Antonucci said
T h e y e m p h a s i z e d n o t h i n g w o u l d change as far as patient care or Lee Health’s safety-net mission and non-taxing status The group has spent the past 100 days working with the county com-
From left, Lee Health Vice President of Government Relations
Michael Nachef and President and Chief Executive Officer Dr Larry Antonucci spoke about the health system's conversion to a community-centered not-for-profit at the SanCap Chamber's business luncheon on Aug. 1 at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel.
mission and educating the public about conversion. Currently, it is working to post a final document due by Aug 27 for voting in October In the meantime, t h e p u b l i c c a n v i s i t leehealth org/lookingahead to learn more and ask questions about the conversion One question posed by attendees had to do with continuing Lee Health's on-island
office
h
Sanibel We’re in fact, exploring other options on Sanibel, too, so yes, we’re committed to the Sanibel community,” Nachef, who also serves on the chamber's board, said.
“Michael and Larry clearly demonstrated today their promises of transparency with salient, straight-forward discourse regarding a complicated issue,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “Their commitment to the island and greater county community is apparent We thank them for sharing Lee Health’s vision ” The luncheon was sponsored by MHK Architecture
Costello
He is located at the Bell Tower office in Fort Myers
SANCAP CHAMBER
CYPRESS PHARMACY
T. John Costello Jr.
PRESERVING PARADISE
SCCF assessing sea turtle nest impacts
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that from Aug 3-5, Tropical Storm Debby brought around 4-6 inches of rain, high winds and storm surge to Sanibel and Captiva
As of Aug 7, SCCF biologists were still assessing impacts to sea turtle nests, using GPS coordinates with less than 3-centimeter accuracy to search for nests where stakes had washed away
“Data from our moisture and temperature loggers indicate that some nests experienced a significant drop in temperature and increased moisture as the tide influenced the clutch,” Coastal Wildlife Director Kelly Sloan said “The temperature in the nest displayed below dropped about 10 degrees during the storm ”
She reported that the timing of the storm was earlier than Hurricanes Idalia and Ian in recent years, which means there were still more than 500 nests incubating on the beaches, and there will likely be more washed out nests from Debby
Late last August, Idalia led to over 100 sea turtle nest losses on Sanibel and Captiva Ian in September of 2022 occurred when sea turtle season was already beginning to wind down, so the vast majority of nests had already hatched and been inventoried There were 17 remaining nests when Ian hit, only one of which a green sea turtle nest survived but did not hatch
“It’s important to remember that storm season directly overlaps with sea turtle nesting season and is a natural part of their life cycle,” Sloan said “Females have a nesting strategy that accommodates for storms they lay multiple nests per season every 10-14 days so that even if one nest washes away, there’s a high likelihood that another one of her nests will produce hatchlings ”
The SCCF noted that while prolonged inundation can drown developing embryos or wash out eggs, brief wash overs can sometimes have a beneficial cooling effect
As of Aug 7, Sanibel and Captiva had 832 loggerhead nests, three green turtle nests and one leatherback nest for the year A total of 12,856 hatchlings had emerged, including 12,816 loggerheads and 40 leatherbacks
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Left, graphs show a spike in moisture content and drop in temperature at a loggerhead nest on Sanibel during Tropical Storm Debby on Aug 4 Right, another loggerhead nest that experienced significant inundation for 12 hours and 15 minutes during Debby This nest is still on the beach and Sanibel-Captiva
C
monitor it daily for signs of hatch
Shell museum continues K-12 educational programming
With school back in session, the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is relaunching its donor-supported K-12 programs that provide free field trips, outreach education and online classes to students across Southwest Florida The curricula offer youths an education about the world of mollusks and their shells, marine life and conservation of vital ecosystems
“The new school year is such an exciting time for students and educators,”
Associate Director of Education Jorden Falker said “The museum’s interactive programs are a fun and novel way to teach about science and conservation and to support students’ learning ”
The museum educates more than 10,000 students at over 40 schools in Lee and Collier counties during the school year, and another 1,100 at local camps during the summer Most of the time, the programs are available at no cost to schools or students thanks to donors who support
Adopt-A-Class It assures that students at Title I schools have access to the museum's programs, regardless of ability to pay.
The K-12 program options include:
∫ Guided field trips: Students meet marine life in the aquariums, explore the Great Hall of Shells, take a guided tour with museum educators and participate in a scavenger hunt and other activities
∫ Mollusks on the Move: For schools that cannot make it to the museum for a field trip, marine biologists bring the mollusks to the classroom and provide an interactive experience of live mollusks, shells, games and art-making
∫ Mollusks Online: Marine biologists bring the wonders of shells and mollusks virtually to classrooms, including octopuses and other marine life
For more information about the K-12 programs and Adopt-A-Class, contact Falker at jfalker@shellmuseum org or visit ShellMuseum org/k-12
County commission votes to pursue parcel in refuge
By STAFF REPORT
trepecki@breezenewspapers com
On Aug 6, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to pursue the acquisition of a 14-acre in-fill parcel located within the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel
The county reported that the land is located about 500 feet east of Captiva, on an island known as Buck Key It is the last remaining privately-owned infill parcel on it. The parcel was recommended for acquisition
Advisory Committee (CLASAC)
Any purchase agreement will be returned to the board for future consideration
T h e U S F i s h a n d W
Service manages the refuge, which contains 6,525 acres in the county
Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that it, the refuge, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and others attended the CLASAC's meeting on May 15 and spoke in favor of acquir-
Conservation 20/20 program
It added that the balance of Buck Key has already been preserved by the U S Fish and Wildlife Service, SCCF and state, and it is managed under an agreement with the refuge
The SCCF noted that the 335acre island is the largest uninhabited one within the Pine Island Sound
“We would like to thank the commissioners for taking an important next step forward in preserving this
Chief Executive Officer James Evans said
The SCCF reported that preserving Buck Key enhances the resiliency of Captiva and protects mangroves, a tropical hardwood hammock and fish habitat for gamefish, such as snook, redfish, sea trout and tarpon, plus roosting and nesting sites for wading birds, like herons, egrets and ibis.
It added that the waterfront land was listed for sale in June of 2023 for $21 million as “ideal for luxury residential homesites or a private estate ”
Also at the meeting, the county commissioners voted to purchase 10 acres east of Stringfellow Road in St J a m e s C i
$50,000 The land will be added to the Pine Island Flatwoods Preserve
Closing costs are estimated to add up to $12,000 to the acquisition cost
approval of the purchase
In addition, the commissioners voted to pursue the acquisition of a 1 2 9 5
Buckingham, south of the Orange River Road and east of Interstate 75 and north of Homestead Lane. The parcel was recommended for acquisition by the CLASAC
Again, any purchase agreement will be returned to the board for consideration
There are currently 31,444 acres within the Conservation 20/20 Land Acquisition Program
BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM & AQUARIUM
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Jacob Baker
ACE wildlife monitoring member assisting refuge
U . S . F i s h a n d W i l d l i f e S e r v i c e . “ F o r t h e m o s t p a r t a t ‘ D i n g ’ D a r l i n g , I s e t o u t c a m e r a s t o m o n i t o r m a r s h r a t s p e c i e s a n d a s s i s t w i t h r o o k e r y b i r d s u r v e y s , r e s t o r a t i o n
z a t i o n t h a t h e l p s r e c e n t g r a d u a t e s a n d t h o s e i n t e r e s t e d i n e n v i r o n m e n t a l f i e
Coastal Watch recently hosted two days of volunteer plantings at its native plant pollinator garden at the S
Foundation's Puschel Preserve on S
debris staging site, the property is on its way to becoming a community space The front acreage will feature a welcome plaza, pollinator garden, walking/biking trail, sculpture gard
Volunteers assisted SCCF by planting over 400 plants, including 18 species of wildflowers, trees, grasses and shrubs, in the designated area The variety of wildflowers included tickseed, blazing stars, scarlet sage a
stage will involve planting the lower elevation wetland areas, once they dry out, allowing for the introduction of more water-tolerant species
p r o j e c t p l a n n i n g a n d m a n y o t h e r a s p e c t s o f t h e b i o l o g y r e s e a r c h , b o t h o n a n d o f f r e f u g e , ” h e s a i d F r o m M e c h a n i c s v i l l e , V i r g i n i a , B a k e r g r a d u a t e d f r o m R a n d o l p h - M a c o n C o l l e g e i n
A s h l a n d , V i r g i n i a , i n 2 0 2 2 w i t h a b a c h e l o r ' s
d e g r e e i n e n v i r o n m e n t a l s t u d i e s H e c o m e s t o t h e r e f u g e f r o m t h e K i s a t c h i e N a t i o n a l F o r e s t i n L o u i s i a n a , w h e r e h e w o r k e d
Volunteers assist with pollinator garden plantings
COASTAL WATCH
Isl and lIvIng
SANIBEL POLICE DEPARTMENT
The Sanibel Police Department is seeking information on three individuals caught on surveillance camera on Aug 4 at 8:41 p m at T
Periwinkle Way
SPD releases weekly blotter
As Sanibel continues to recover from Hurricane Ian, the Sanibel Police Department is committed to keeping the community safe and secure To support that effort, a weekly police blotter will be issued on Tuesday that will include real time information about law enforcement response to criminal activity
Arrests
∫ Laura Lee Elias, 37, of 815 Water St , Tampa, was charged on Aug. 2 with one count of DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI influence of alcohol or drugs
∫ Jose Miguel Picado Gamboa, 33, of 5607 Crestwood Lake Ave , Fort Myers, was charged on Aug 1 with one count each of attach registration license plate not assigned and counterfeiting of motor vehicle identification number plates or decal
Other enforcement actions
∫ On July 31, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle with a faulty taillight The driver was subsequently issued a warning for the taillight and a notice to a p p e a r f o r k n o w i n g l y d r i v i n g w i t h a s u s p e n d e d license
∫ On Aug 1, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed As an officer approached the vehicle on foot, it sped away at a high rate of speed Officers terminated pursuit after visual contact with the vehicle was lost Calls to 911 reported the vehicle driving recklessly on Periwinkle Way, Lindgren Boulevard and the Sanibel Causeway as it left the island Further investigation revealed the vehicle had b e e n s t o l e n f r o m a l o c a l c a r r e n t a l c o m p a n y Investigation is ongoing.
∫ On Aug 3, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed A search was then initiated due to the strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle A total of 3 7 grams of marijuana were discovered and seized for destruction The parents of juveniles in the vehicle were contacted and advised of the situation
∫ O n A u g 5 , o f f i c e r s r e s p o n d e d t o T h e Lighthouse Resort & Club, at 210 Periwinkle Way, in reference to past occurred vandalism Further investigation revealed multiple windows and a glass shower door had been broken with a hammer, fire extinguisher and paver A surveillance camera captured three individuals trespassing on the property on Aug 4 at 8:41 p m , which matched the time frame of the vandalism If anyone has information regarding the case or the identity of the three individuals, contact the Sanibel Police Department using one of the methods at the bottom of this blotter
Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics
C i r c l e N e t w o r k ' s G i l d a A w a r d S m i t h e a r n e d a
B a c h e l o r o f A r t s i n E n g l i s h a n d a P h D i n C o m p a r a t i v e
L i t e r a t u r e f r o m U C L A , w h e r e s h e r e c e i v e d a
D i s t i n g u i s h e d T e a c h i n g A s s i s t a n t A w a r d a n d
D i s s e r t a t i o n Y e a r F e l l o w s h i p S h e t a u g h t l i t e r a t u r e a n d c o m p o s i t i o n a t U C L A a n d S t a n f o r d b e f o r e t r a n s it i o n i n g t o c o l l e g e a d m i s s i o n s , c o l l e g e a d v i s i n g a n d w r i t i n g S m i t h h a s g i v e n a T E D x t a l k o n h u m a n i z i n g t h e c o l l e g e a p p l i c a t i o n p r o c e s s a n d w r i t e s a b o u t p a re n t i n g , c o l l e g e a d m i s s i o n s a n d r e d e f i n i n g s u c c e s s i n
h e r w e e k l y S u b s t a c k n e w s l e t t e r
A q u e s t i o n - a n d - a n s w e r s e s s i o n w i t h t h e a u t h o r w i l l f o l l o w T o r e g i s t e r f o r t h e a u t h o r t a l k , v i s i t
h t t p s : / / l i b r a r y c o r g / s a n l i b / u p c o m i n g
A d d i t i o n a l l y , t h e l i b r a r y h a s t h e f o l l o w i n g p r o -
g r a m s s c h e d u l e d : C r a f t e r n o o n w i l l b e h e
Reality Sinking of the
See SANIBEL LIBRARY, page 15
will take place on Aug. 20 at the
City still seeking traffic study feedback
The city of Sanibel held two public workshops on July 31 at City Hall regarding the Periwinkle Way/Causeway Boulevard Traffic Study It thanked those who provided feedback at the events and via an online survey The survey will remain open for the next few weeks To take the survey, visit https://www surveymonkey com/r/sanibeltraffic The public can also email comments and suggestions to traffic@mysanibel com To view the presenta-
https://www mysanibel com/content/download/32439/file/20240731%20%201st%20Community%20Workshop%20Presentation pdf
Jerr y’s Foods to close temporarily
Jerry's Foods on Sanibel reported that it will close temporarily starting on Aug 18 at 5 p.m. though Aug. 23. The store will reopen for business on Aug. 24 at 7 a.m. Jerry's Foods is upgrading its electrical switchgear, which is 40 years old, this month and that requires the closure for a few days Jerry's Foods apologized for the inconvenience The store is at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
Sanibel Public Meetings
and
SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on Aug 15 with Irena Smith
Virtual
Titanic
Sanibel Public Library.
P l a y d a t e w i l l t a k e p l a c e f r o m 1 0 : 3 0 t o 1 1 : 3 0 a m
O p e n t o a g e s 3 a n d u n d e r , b a b i e s a n d t h e i r c a r e g i v e r s w i l l t a k e p a r t i n a s h o r t s t o r y t i m e , s e n s o r y p l a y , l i te r a c y a c t i v i t i e s a n d m o r e
C r a f t e r n o o n w i l l b e h e l d o n A u g 2 1 f r o m 3 t o
4 : 3 0 p m T h e p r o j e c t w i l l b e “ S u g a r S c r u b ” O p e n
Blotter
Enforcement operations statistics
From July 30 to Aug 5:
∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 13
∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 20
∫ Traffic crashes: 1
∫ Radar details: 38
∫ Traffic stops: 38
Citations issued: 16
Written warnings issued: 1
Verbal warnings issued: 24
∫ Residential area checks: 295
∫ Business area checks: 164
∫ Total area checks: 840
∫ Reported burglaries: 1
∫ Reported thefts: 0
∫ Total CAD calls: 1,098
August 2024 to date:
∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 10
∫ Non-emergency calls: 11
t o a g e s 3 a n d o l d e r , m a k e a w o r k o f a r t A v a r
∫ Traffic crashes: 1
∫ Radar details: 16
∫ Traffic stops: 19
Citations issued: 12
Written warnings issued: 0
Verbal warnings issued: 10
∫ Residential area checks: 195
∫ Business area checks: 116
∫ Total area checks: 559
∫ Reported burglaries: 1
∫ Reported thefts: 0
∫ Total CAD calls: 721
Impor tant reminders
Roadside parking is not allowed on Sanibel and is enforceable with a $150 fine
When leaving Sanibel, motorists are encouraged to travel east on Periwinkle Way In order to minimize the number of v e h i c l e s d r i v i n g t h
neighborhoods and increase traffic flow,
T h
priority is being given to vehicles eastbound on Periwinkle Motorists using Bailey Road southbound, Lindgren northbound and Periwinkle westbound may experience additional delays as traffic flows are adjusted for efficiency
Recreation Center and are valid from the date of purchase through Nov 30 The 2023 permits have expired and are no longer valid. I
Ramp:
∫ Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day
∫ P
weekends and holidays is with AC/BC permit only
∫ Commercial use is prohibited
∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500
Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel
Please share any photos of solicitation hang tags to police@mysanibel com or use Tip411
Repor ting suspicious activity
Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411:
∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411
∫ W e
e d a t https://www tip411 com/tips/new?alert g roup id=22450
∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device The SPD's non-emergency line is 239472-3111.
F i n d t h e S P D o
https://www facebook com/SanibelPolice
SPORTS
Sanibel Sea School hosts high school camp
The Sanibel Sea School on Sanibel reported that it recently hosted “A Week in the Field,” a camp d e s i g n e d t o i g n i t e a p a s s i o n f o r e n v i r o n m e n t a l research among high school students
H e l d o n J u l y 2 2 - 2 6 , t h e e x p e r i e n c e b r o u g h t together campers ages 13-15 for a week of hands-on conservation and research activities on the island's shores They delved into diverse projects, ranging from digging in the mud in mangrove forests to surveying shorebirds on the coast. Mornings were spent combing beaches for sea turtle nests, while afternoons involved water sampling, oyster measuring and more W o r k i n g a l o n g s i d e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C
a t i o n Foundation scientists, the campers gained field experience, learned research techniques and discovered how to communicate their findings
The camp was made possible by funding from the L e a g u e o f E n v i r o n m
Environmental Professionals (SWFAEP)
City accepting quotes for softball umpire services
The city of Sanibel's Recreation Department announced that it is seeking quotes for so ball umpire services for fiscal year 2025 which will run from Oct. 1 through Sept. 30, 2025
Umpires must be available in the evening to officiate adult softball games at the Sanibel Ball Field Complex, at 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel
Selected softball umpires must submit to and pass a criminal background check
Quotes must contain the following inf
to andrea miller@mysanibel com, or mail or submit in person to City of S
ndrea Miller, Recreation Director, 3880 ibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, FL 33957
TBE resumes bicycle rentals post-hurricane
A
Hurricane Ian, Tarpon Bay Explorers announced that bike rentals have returned to its list of activities for exploring the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
“
y lose any of our bikes as a result of I a n , s
Manager Adam Sauerland said “But after saltwater exposure and days and weeks of sitting, the bikes’ gears and brakes seized up from all of the corrosion ”
“One silver lining for the bikes that were drowned by Ian is that they were briefly used by a lot of folks,
including locals and emergency services, coming to the island to help out,” he added “Our bikes were found all over the island ”
The team has been waiting for the right time and demand on the island to relaunch the fleet
“We’ve received a lot of phone calls asking for rentals,” Sauerland said “The island and its recovery are getting stronger and stronger every day, so we are really hoping for a strong end to 2024 and hope to carry that momentum into 2025 ”
The rentals are single-speed beach cruisers for adults and children For smaller children, the fleet includes W
d Trail-A-Bikes bike trailers and baby seats
All rentals are offered on a first come, first serve basis
, T B E offers rentals, activities and a naturet
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a m to 5 p m , with rentals stopping at 3 p m
For more information or reservat i o n
ers com or call 239-472-8900
TBE is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel TARPON BAY EXPLORERS
Sanibel FlyFishers to hold event
The Sanibel FlyFishers will hold a Fly Tying Night on Aug 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Sanibel Fly Outfitters, at 2240 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Joel Aranoff will demonstrate a
y Experienced tiers are asked to bring their vises, tools and materials; the club will provide equipment for those who do not have their own Pizza and drinks will be
SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL
Doyle faces primary challenger for elections supervisor
By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com
Tommy Doyle has served as Lee County Supervisor of Elections since 2016 and has heard the worries espoused by his Republican primary opponent Michael “Mick” Peters and a contingent of the electorate concerned about potential voter fraud. He has heard those who think the 2020 presidential election was stolen from former President Donald Trump
Doyle reported that election was not stolen and that elections in Lee County are among the safest in the state and country. Voter fraud, he said, is a rarity. When there is an allegation, his office looks into it and takes it seriously But the amount of voter fraud that would have been needed to happen in the 2020 election did not happen, as experts and many courtrooms have all agreed since
The Aug 20 primary for the Supervisor of Elections seat is an open contest, meaning voters of any party or even independents can vote to choose the Republican candidate There are no other challengers for the office
The issue of voter fraud is the cornerstone of the campaign by Peters, who said he is also concerned about undocumented immigrants voting and even the identities of dead voters being used by voters
Doyle said there is no evidence any of that is occurring, has occurred or will occur here
“He has nothing,” he said of the allegations by Peters Peters, 65, is on the Lee County Republican Party Executive Committee He moved to Lee County in 2011 and works as a commercial mortgage broker.
“I want the cleanest elections in Florida,” Peters said
“Our current system is a train wreck,” he said of the electoral process. “Both parties really stink at this. I don’t know why people think Republicans can do this better than Democrats ”
Peters, who resides in Fort Myers, said he is “datadriven” and calls himself “a bean counter ”
Doyle said the most recent case that bordered on a potential misuse of a ballot in Lee County was when an elderly woman whose husband died notified his office that a vote-by-mail ballot was sent to him and returned it Apparently trying to help his office, she signed the ballot as it was sent back with a note telling the office that her husband died
“She was trying to help,” Doyle said.
Doyle’s office removed more than 10,000 deceased
School board race From page 7
if we are unwilling to make an investment?” Chester said
To ensure schools are kept safe, she said they have to enforce policies that are already in place
“I love my community and am willing to do the work required to provide our community with an educated population,” Chester said Molandes, a retired attorney who has lived in Southwest Florida for over 10 years, said the school board has to address the teacher shortage in order to fix the student achievement
From page 1
was 3 feet about normal and then the surge was another 2 to 5 (feet) on top of that Probably 5 to 7 feet about normal ” DiMaria reported that there was heavy flooding at Blind Pass with the high tide
and surge North of Rabbit Road some homes may have had water intrusion West Gulf Drive flooded in certain areas, and East Gulf Drive also saw heavy flooding.
Obituaries
voters from the Lee County voting registration rolls this year His office is notified by the Clerk of the Court and Lee County Health Department every week of deceased residents.
Doyle said his office is notified by the Clerk of Courts anytime an undocumented immigrant reports for jury duty, so that they can be checked to make sure they are not on a voter registration roll
This year, about 8,000 vote-by-mail ballots were sent back to his office by the U S Post Office, meaning the voters no longer resided there The ballots were never opened and the Supervisor of Elections does not forward ballots to forwarded addresses
His office also verifies every signature on a ballot If somebody were to open a ballot that was not their own and try to fill it out, they would need to know the person’s signature, Doyle said Voters can also update their signatures by signing an application form online The office has a full-time staff to review signatures In the case that a signature is rejected, a voter will be notified and have the opportunity to come to the Supervisor of Elections office and verify their signature
The office also sends out confirmation notices to voters every election cycle to ensure they are still residing at their residence If the Post Office notifies the Supervisor of Elections of a change in address, the voter is put on an inactive list After two election cycles, that voter is removed from the rolls and de-registered.
Read the full article for free by visiting it online at www captivasanibel com
“Teacher pay must be raised,” he said Molandes said school safety is also of paramount importance and he will continue to work and add to the Guardian Program
“The most important issue is teacher shortage and overspending on construction,” he said “If elected, I will use my decades of experience representing folks as a trial attorney to advocate on behalf of the teachers, students, staff and parents ” Read the full article for free by visiting it online at www captivasanibel com
“With the help of the Sanibel Police Department and city of Sanibel, we were able to patrol all the areas and mark them,” he said, adding that some vehicles got stuck in ditches, but there were no injuries
Pawul also reported that Blind Pass flooded, cutting Captiva off from its sister island and its sole evacuation route for an estimated 12 hours The waters rose to just below the bridge's height
“Flooding was our biggest area of concern,” he said “It was too deep in a lot of places for our vehicles to access ”
Before the storm's arrival, the Lehigh Acres Fire Control and Rescue District provided a high-water vehicle for the district to use if it needed it The Sanibel district has one its brush truck but it also requested an additional vehicle for a backup, which was provided by the Lee County Port Authority
“We have pickup trucks,” DiMaria
On Aug. 4, Tropical Storm Debby made the Blind Pass Bridge impassible for several hours
SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT
said “But there were certain areas that I was concerned about passing ” B o t h i s l a n d s e x p e r i e n c e d s o m e downed vegetation.
“There were a few areas that we had to take care of, but nothing major,” DiMaria said
Pawul reported that a couple of things had to be cleared along Captiva Drive
“We had the normal blocked roads with trees and vegetation that we always get with bad storms,” he said, explaining that it was not as bad through because most vegetation was lost in Hurricane Ian
There were also power outages reported on Sanibel and Captiva.
DiMaria noted that there were some fire alarm calls
“
emerged from the storm itself,” he added
Pawul echoed that sentiment
“We got quite lucky,” he said
Michael “Mick” Peters
Tommy Doyle
Debby
New school year
From page 1
activities that would go along with it meeting the teachers, walking them to their classroom on the first day.
As with past years, this year has its challenges
As of Aug 8, the district had 170 teacher vacancies, a number that was 211 this time last year
“Every single vacancy matters to us,” Savage said, adding they would love for those career changers who want to become a teacher to become part of the school system “There are recruiters in central officer every day You can just show up ”
He said the school district is one of the few districts in the country that is growing
“Here in Lee County, we are one of the few that is growing tremendously. It’s a good problem, but a challenge We welcome the challenge We can’t get that message out enough,” Savage said, adding that the district will train those individuals and work with them to become certified “We would love the opportunity to help
you succeed ”
The district also continues to have a bus driver shortage, with the need to fill 70 opening positions, down from 87 last year at this time Savage said every one of those positions is important as with a shortage of drivers, students are late for school, buses are late picking up a child He said that angers parents as it puts a hardship on families
“All shortages are important to us,” Savage said There is good news for students fewer assessments He said it is important for the district to understand the purpose of every assessment, as testing should provide a clear purpose
“Every minute we spend testing is a minute we aren’t spending instructing,” Savage said, adding that everything they do instructionally they try to do with a higher level of quality “That starts with assessments ”
If the assessments are riddled with errors that is an issue He said at times the district gave assessments that
Primary election voting
ballot for all, regardless of party affiliation:
∫ Lee County Property Appraiser
I
Caldwell and Republican challenger Steve Cunningham have both qualified The seat is a four-year term from 2024-28
∫ Lee County Supervisor of Elections
“Mick” Peters have both qualified The seat is a four-year term from 2024-28
∫ Lee County School Board: District 7
Chester and Joshua D Molandes have qualified The seat is a four-year term from 2024-28 School board members are non-partisan officeholders
Florida is a closed primary election state As such,
From page 1
island voters registered with the Republican Party will also be able to cast a vote in the following local races:
∫ Lee County Board of County Commissioners: District 3
Republican candidates David Mulicka and Matthew Thornton have qualified The seat is a four-year term from 2024-28
∫ Lee County Board of County Commissioners: District 5
Incumbent Republican District 5 Commissioner Mike Greenwell and Republican challenger Amanda Cochran have qualified The seat is a four-year term from 202428
Additional races on the ballot will include U S senator and Circuit Court judges
The primary will be held on Aug 20 from 7 a m to 7 p m On Election Day, voters will only be allowed to cast
did not have a clear purpose Savage said it is a balancing act of getting the right information through the assessment that will help teachers.
“It’s a very complex issue A huge body of work moving forward with us,” he said
The body of work also continues with moving the efficiency level higher among all students Savage said the last two years, the district was nine out of 10 among the state’s largest districts
“We had never been that low ever in our history You really have to take a good long look in the mirror and understand why that is the case,” he said “You have to take the time to deeply understand where you are truly dropping the ball which education challenges are you experiencing.”
That dive is going to be a yearlong process, as there is so much opportunity to study various different areas
Read the full article for free online by visiting www captivasanibel com
a ballot at their assigned polling precinct The on-island sites are as follows:
∫ Precinct 105: The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
∫ Precinct 116: Sanibel Recreation Center, at 3880
Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel
The deadline to return a Vote-by-Mail ballot is Aug 20 at 7 p.m.
Hand-delivered ballots may be dropped off at any of the Lee County Elections Offices on Monday through Friday from 8:30 a m to 5 p m or on Election Day, Aug 20, from 8:30 a m to 7 p m
Vote-by-Mail ballots may also be returned at the Secure Ballot Intake Station at the early voting sites
For more information or to track the status of a mail ballot, visit www lee vote
Check rage
Reaching for the check? Think again Restaurants aren't inexpensive anymore A glass of wine could cost you fifteen bucks A shrimp cocktail thirteen bucks And a Caesar's salad sixteen bucks without the anchovies
Shocked
Splitting a check with another couple can wipe out your stock market gains for the day If that other couple is into high fare food like lobster and vintage wine, you can expect both indigestion as well as angina when you throw your credit card onto the check All you and your wife had were two appetizers to help keep your weight down. The check arrives and the total is $300 of which two-thirds covers what the lobster couple consumed and one-third for you and your wife the tomato and mozzarella couple
You look at the check and know that if you split it you're getting the short end of the stick You're being just as overcharged as the auto service bill you got recently when you were charged ten dollars for a new radiator cap and $150 for labor
Sometimes the other couple you dine with is more sensitive to the disparity and will volunteer to pay their fair share But your honor system prevails if you've already agreed to split the check You swallow hard and say no, no, let's just split it But you make an attempt at humor by saying “Next time we have dinner I'll order the whole cow ” Chuckle, chuckle
Yet there are still restaurant patrons out there who insist on itemizing all items on the check exactly as consumed A leader is assigned to carry out this task someone who has a pedigree in higher mathematics, diplomacy, self-control and self-defense
“Let’s see, you had the chicken parmesan with pasta I also had chicken parmesan but with a salad and not pasta Mine is $1 50 less than yours And you had the decaf coffee with the bread pudding Fifty-five minus 12 plus 2 5 minus one-half tax plus x minus z over s You owe $55 28 and I owe $16 32 That seems about right to me ”
You’re outraged, of course, because you know in your heart you each had just about the same menu choices But you swallow your bile, smile and say sure thing
But imagine if a group of ten people are at the table and all agree to itemize You’d need an abacus as well as a calculator It will take the check expert an hour to itemize each morsel of food for ten people and yell across the table, “Harriet, your share is thirty-nine dollars and fiftytwo cents You did have the blue cheese on your salad, didn’t you?” And then the chief check calculator adds up all the cash and credit card contributions to make sure everyone has chipped in If the total is fifty cents off then it’s back to the drawing board
Obviously, the best solution to all this is to ask for separate checks In this way you pay exactly for what you order There would be no need for the silent rage that follows when the other couple orders a bottle of Chateau Lafite Rothschild Or the need to itemize each and every item down to the number of salt grains and butter patties consumed
There would be no need for an abacus, a calculator or an anxiety pill All parties would leave as friends and agree to dine together very soon You wouldn’t have to argue if the tip is too small or too large And no gesture of largesse would be necessary even if your wife nudges you under the table that it’s your turn to pick up the entire check
And you wouldn’t have to make a deal with the waiter on your way to the men’s room during the meal to be sure to place the check near the other diners Separate checks save marriages, family relationships, and friendships They insure world peace and a reduction of violence
Get onboard Eliminate check rage forever
Art Stevens is a long-time columnist for the SanibelCaptiva Islander His tongue-in-cheek humor is always offered with a smile
TCH’s final Summer Salutations to offer art demonstrations, more
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com
The Community House will host its last event in a new summer series for residents and visitors
Launched in June, the fourth and final monthly Summer Salutations will take place on Aug 15 from 3 to 5 p.m. at TCH on Sanibel. Free and open to the community, it will feature activities and more
Acting Executive Director Kyle Wilson explained that TCH typically follows the snowbird schedule and is quieter in the summer, but many were still on island as posthurricane recovery continues.
“It was an opportunity to open up The Community House for people to see what we do here,” she said of the gatherings “And as we rebrand, we want people to come in and see what we have available ”
The theme for the last event will be “Bubbles and Pops ”
Sanibel-Captiva Art League member and Sanibel resident Sherry Fonseth-Lais will share the inspiration behind her piece, “Butterfly Lady,” as well as demonstrate the methods for her work
“She will be doing an interactive demonstration with the attendees, showing her painting techniques for the butterflies,” Wilson said “She will be bringing the supplies, so it would be an interactive event ”
Hand-painted backgrounds and acrylic Posca pens will be provided for people to create their own butterflies, which they will be able to take home with them as a memento from the gathering
“She'll talk about her own background and how she fits into the Sanibel-Captiva Art League,” she added “And what other types of work she does ”
Other SCAL members have been invited to take part in the event Those who are still in town and available will be on-site to talk about their artwork, as well as their pieces on display at TCH
In addition, the Shellcrafters will be on hand to showcase how the group made the shell flowers that won the Sanibel Community Association “Best Not-For-Profit Float” in the Independence Day Parade
“A liaison from the Shellcrafters will be here to demonstrate their flower making,” Wilson said.
Lilyan Sebesta, 10, of Groesbeck, Texas, found an alphabet cone on Aug 2 during an evening shell hunt near the Compass Point Condos on Sanibel It was her first time finding the shell To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers.com.
you go
When Aug 15 from 3 to 5 p m
Where The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
Details
Free and open to the public
There will be a postcard writing station, which has been available at every gathering
Designed by Melissa Gindling at The Island Octopus, the specialty postcard features the Sanibel Lighthouse, roseate spoonbill and more Attendees can fill them out to be sent to family and friends
“We will have that available,” she said “We've been sending those out.”
TCH will provide champagne and cake pops
There will also be a cash bar, with beer and wine available for purchase
Those attending can browse and purchase items made by the Shellcrafters, including centerpieces, jewelry and more, along with a mix of Shell Critter Kits and the city's 50th anniversary merchandise
Residents and visitors are invited to swing by and enjoy the camaraderie
“It is just a great way to meet your neighbors, learn about the local art league and enjoy some light refreshments,” Director of Engagement Kristin Van Olst said. For more information, visit www sanibelcommunityhouse net
People can also contact Van Olst at kristin@sanibelcommunityhouse net
The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
i c a n d s c i e n t i f i c j u d g e s f o r i t s n e x t w o r l d -
r e n o w n e d c o m p e t i t i o n , ” c l u b o f f i c i a l s r e p o r t e d T h e s h o w w i l l b e c o - c h a i r e d b y c l u b P r e s i d e n t
L a u r i e J a n s e n a n d M e m b e r s h i p C h a i r p e r s o n K a t h y
H o f s t a d S p e c i a l e v e n t s a r e i n t h e w o r k s , a s w e l l a s t h e o p p o r t u n i t y f o r a h u g e n u m b e r o f e n t r i e s i n t h e a r t i s t i c a n d s c i e n t i f i c c a t e g o r i e s “ L a s t y e a r ' s s h o w o f f e r e d 1 5 , 0 0 0 l i n e a r f e e t o f c o m p e t i t i v e e x h i b i t s , a s w e l l a s m o r e t h a n 5 0 v e nd o r s , ” c l u b o f f i c i a l s r e p o r t e d “ T h e 2 0 2 5 s h o w w i l l o f f e r a s i m i l a r n u m b e r o f a m a z i n g w o r k s o f s h e l l a r t , a s w e l l a s s h e l l e x h i b i t s ” T h e c l u b a w a r d s g r a n t s f r o m t h e p r o c e e d s o f i t s s h o w T h e g r a n t s a r e g i v e n t o w a r d e d u c a t i o n a n d r e s e a r c h i n t
Art Stevens Shell
Saint Michael to host family gathering
Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church will host its next Messy Church on Aug 18 from 4 to 6 p m at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Held on the third Sunday of each month, it is a free event for families Attendees can take part in themed activity stations and crafts, along with activities, games and a community meal For more information, visit https://www saintmichaelssanibel org/
Neighborhood mural program comes to islands
Done in partnership with the Fort Myers Mural Society, the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) recently launched a neighborhood mural program
The placemaking initiative highlights what makes each area of the destination special, and the project gives the public a chance to interact with the murals' designs by taking and sharing photos
The VCB reported that the latest murals include the following:
∫ Side of the SanCap Chamber building on Sanibel
∫ Series of murals in the children's garden at Lakes Park in Fort Myers
∫ Side of the Community Redevelopment Agency building in Cape Coral
∫ Side of the Eagle's Nest Restaurant on Pine Island
∫ Double-mural on both sides of the North Fort Myers Recreation Center's entrance doors
For more information about the program, visit visitfortmyers com/visit/editorial/making-splash-evolutionfort-myers-mural-movement
PHOTO PROVIDED
Junonia found on Sanibel
Christopher Stephenson, of Sanibel, found a junonia on the morning of Aug 7 at the Lighthouse Beach Park on Sanibel Bridgette Stephenson reported that the shell was pretty much right in front of the lighthouse and that it was her husband's first junonia “But we're always looking,” she added To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers com
ISL AND HOME islander
Bougainvillea offers color galore
Spring is the best season for the vivid and plentiful color produced by the various bougainvillea cultivars in our local area, and they do like it hot and dry
Bougainvillea is a genus of thorny ornamental vines, bushes and trees, with flower-like spring leaves near its flowers
They are native to West Africa and South America, from Brazil to Peru, and south to Argentina The vine species grows anywhere from 3-40 feet tall, and its nature is to scramble and climb over other plants with their spiky thorns They are evergreen where rainfall occurs all year or deciduous if there is a dry season The actual flower of the plant is small and generally white, but each cluster of three flowers is surrounded by three or six bracts with the bright colors associated with the plant, including pink, magenta, purple, red, orange, white or yellow, and are thin with a papery texture
Bougainvillea varieties have different growth rates and they tend to flower year-round in equatorial regions In places farther from the equator, they are more seasonal and have bloom cycles from four to six weeks. Bougainvillea grow best in dry soil, in very bright full sun and with frequent fertilization; but they require little water once established and, in fact, will not flourish if overwatered Remember, they like it hot and dry Once the rainy season is upon us, the colorful bracts will be fewer in number In the landscape, its drought tolerance makes it ideal for warm climates year-round. It can be pruned into a standard tree shape, but it can also be grown along fence lines, on walls, in containers and hanging baskets and as a hedge or an accent plant
Many of today's bougainvillea are the result of interbreeding among only three out of the 18 South American
DOH-Lee urges public to follow flood safety tips
The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) is urging residents to be aware of the health risks associated with flooding. Skin contact with flood waters does not, by itself, pose a serious health risk However, health hazards are a concern when waters are or become contaminated with bacteria or contain dangerous debris
The DOH-Lee recommends the following to prevent illness or injury from flood waters:
∫ Basic hygiene is critical If you are under a boil water notice, use commercially bottled water for mixing baby formula Wash your hands with soap and either disinfected or boiled and cooled water, especially before preparing or eating food, after toilet use, after handling a soiled diaper, after participating in flood cleanup activities and after handling objects contaminated with flood water or sewage
wounds are encouraged to contact their primary health care provider to make sure they are current on their tetanus vaccine and possibly get a booster.
If on a septic system and the plumbing is functioning slowly:
∫ Converse water as much as possible; the less water used the less sewage the septic tank must process Minimize use of your washing machine
∫ Do not have the septic tank pumped Exceptionally high-water tables might crush a septic tank that was pumped dry If the fundamental problem is high ground water, pumping the tank does nothing to solve that problem
If your well is flooded:
∫ Avoid eating for drinking anything that has been contaminated with flood waters
∫ Avoid contact with flood waters, especially if you have open cuts or sores
∫ If you have any open cuts or sores and come in contact with flood waters, wash the area well with soap to prevent infection If a wound develops redness, swelling or drainage, seek immediate medical attention
∫ Residents who sustain lacerations and/or puncture
∫ Heavy rainfall may have made your well water unsafe to drink If you are unsure about the impact of flooding on your well water, use bottled water or boil water for drinking, making ice, teeth brushing and washing any areas of the skin that have been cut or injured
∫ If your well is affected by flood waters, there may be disease-causing organisms in your water making it unsafe to drink
∫ For additional questions regarding well water testing, contact the DOH-Lee Environmental Public Health at 239274-2200
August is National Water Quality Month
By FLORIDA GOVERNMENTAL UTILITY AUTHORITY
Whether we drink it, swim in it or wash with it, having clean, quality water at our disposal is a top priority, and often something we take for granted According to the Centers for Disease Control, the United States has one of the safest water supplies in the world Passage of the federal Clean Water Act in 1972 and the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 set the stage for the country both cleaning up its act regarding illegal dumping and maintaining the quality of water sources and systems
More than 90% of Americans get their tap water from community water systems, like the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) which, like other systems, must follow the rules of the Safe Drinking Water Act, meet regulations established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and comply with any other state and local requirements These legal protections are important
Consumer Confidence Reports
We expect that the water coming into our homes is clean and healthy, but how do we know for sure? That’s where Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs) come in The Safe
Drinking Water Act requires every community water supplier to issue these water quality “report cards” to their customers on at least an annual basis, either online or by mail
These CCRs will list the levels of any contaminants, dates of testing, likely sources and whether they exceed lawful levels
Check your water provider’s website for more information
If you live in an apartment, condo or rental home, contact your building manager or landlord for more information
FGUA customers will find the most recent CCRs for communities that it serves at https://www fgua com/community/water-quality/
It’s important to know that not all contaminants are harmful For example, chlorine might be listed as a contaminant even though it protects your health by killing waterborne germs Contaminants marked as “violated” are present at levels higher than the EPA allows The CCR must explain how these violations affect your health and how they will be addressed
What the public can do
Since many contaminants that find their way into our
Milkweed ser ve as host, pollinator plants
By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Rose milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) and swamp milkweed (Asclepias perennis) are two of Florida’s native milkweed species Both species: prefer wet and s u n n y
drought once established; naturally occupy floodplain swamps, marshes and wet flatwoods; are larval host plants for monarch, queen and soldier butterflies; and are pollinator plants that attract a variety of native insect species, including leafcutter bees and sweat bees The rose milkweed: grows 4-6 feet tall; produces pink flowers; typically blooms in late spring to summer; and may go dormant in the winter but will re-sprout in spring The swamp milkweed: grows 1-3 feet tall; produces light pink to white flowers; and blooms in spring and will hold onto its blooms until fall Both species make an excellent addition to wetland or mixed wildflower gardens, as long as the soil does not get too dry Milkweed is named for the toxic latex sap that it pro-
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
duces, which is poisonous to many animals It is important to responsibly source milkweed by making sure it is native and has not been treated with pesticides that can harm caterpillars feeding on the plants
Rose milkweed and swamp milkweed
Recipe of the Week: Strawberry Panna Cotta with Kiwi Sauce
By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI
This light dessert is one of Italy’s favorites It is easy to prepare because it can be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator for several days Perfect for company, it looks like you spent the whole day preparing it, even though you did not. I like to serve it with fresh fruit and mint. Serves eight (Chef tip: Be careful when working with gelatin For best results, always dissolve first in cold water and then heat in the cream mixture, making sure that the gelatin is completely dissolved and incorporated )
2 tablespoons cold water
1 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
Nonstick vegetable oil spray
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
Loretta Paganini
CROW Calendar
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following:
∫ Today, Aug 1 4
Program of the Week at 11 a m
The presentation will be “Ecosystems Of Florida ”
∫ Thursday, Aug. 1 5
Program of the Week at 11 a.m.
The presentation will be “A Day In The Life ”
∫ Friday, Aug. 1 6
Program of the Week at 11 a m
The presentation will be “If You Care, Leave it There ”
∫ Monday, Aug 1 9
Program of the Week at 11 a m
The presentation will be “Ecosystems Of Florida ”
∫ Tuesday, Aug. 2 0
Program of the Week at 11 a.m.
Conservation ”
∫ Wednesday, Aug. 2 1
Program of the Week at 11 a m
The presentation will be “Ecosystems Of Florida ”
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
http://www crowclinic org/ or call 239472-3644.
Spiritual Olympics and keeping focus
L i k e m a n y o t h e r s h e r e
a n d a r o u n d t h e w o r l d , I p a i d a f a i r a m o u n t o f
a t t e n t i o n o v e r t h e l a s t t w o w e e k s t o t h e r e c e n t l y c o n -
c l u d e d S u m m e r O l y m p i c G a m e s f r o m F r a n c e B u t e v e n i f y o u o n l y w a t c h e d t h o s e O l y m p i c s f o r a s h o r t t i m e , t h e r e ’ s a g o o d c h a n c e y o u h e a r d a p a r t i cu l a r w o r d o r o n e o f i t s v a r i a t i o n s u s e d
T h a t w o r d i s f o c u s
T h r o u g h o u t t h e
O l y m p i c s , a t h l e t e s , c o a c he s a n d c o m m e n t a t o r s u s e d i t r e g u l a r l y , s a y i n g t h i n g s l i k e , “ W e j u s t n e e d e d t o k e e p o u r f o c u s ” o r “ I w i l l h a v e t o s t a y f o c u s e d i n o r d e r t o m e d a l ”
Rev Dr Mark Boyea Faces on Faith
B u t w h a t d o e s t h a t t e r m m e a n ?
T h e f i e l d s o f s p o r t a n d p e r f o r m a n c e p s y c h o l o g y b a s i c a l l y u n d e r s t a n d f o c u s a s b o t h u n d e r s t a n d i n g a n d m a i n t a i n i n g o u r a t t e n t i o n o n w h a t m a t t e r s m o s t i n t h e m o m e n t
A s i t i s f o r t h e a t h l e t i c s O l y m p i c s , i t i s f o r t h e s p i r i t u a l O l y m p i c s I n o r d e r t o l i v e a s m u c h i n u n i o n w i t h
G o d a n d G o d ’ s w a y s a s p o s s i b l e i n o r d e r t o b e c o m e a n e x c e l l e n t s p i r i t u a l a t h l e t e , w e n e e d t o k e e p o u r s p i r i t u a l f o c u s W e n e e d t o u n d e r s t a n d a n d m a i n -
t a i n o u r a t t e n t i o n o n w h a t m a t t e r s m o s t i n t h e m o m e n t A n d w h a t i s i t t h a t m a t -
Kiwi sauce:
2 cups kiwi, fresh
2 tablespoons triple sec sweet liqueur
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Fresh mint
Place water into a small bowl; sprinkle gelatin over and stir Let gelatin stand for 20 minutes or until gelatin softens Lightly spray eight 3/4-cup ramekins or custard cups with nonstick spray
Heat cream, orange zest and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves Increase heat and bring just to a low boil, stirring occasionally Add gelatin mixture; remove from heat Stir until gelatin dissolves Cool mixture to lukewarm, stirring often Stir in buttermilk and vanilla; divide mixture among prepared ramekins Refrigerate panna cotta until set, about eight hours
Place chopped kiwi in a medium saucepan with any juice, liqueur and sugar Cook mixture over low heat until the fruit breaks down. Puree mixture until smooth. Chill until ready to serve
Using a small sharp knife, cut around panna cotta in each ramekin Place plate atop each ramekin and invert, allowing panna cotta to settle onto plate Top with kiwi sauce puree and serve chilled
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
t e r s m o s t i n t h e m o m e n t w h e n i t c o m e s t o o u r s p i r it u a l l i v e s ? T h e s a m e t h i n g t h a t m a t t e r s m o s t i n e v e r y m o m e n t W h e n J e s u s w a s a s k e d w h a t t h e g r e a t e s t c o mm a n d m e n t t h e m o s t i m p o r t a n t c o m m a n d m e n t t h e c o m m a n d m e n t t h a t m a t t e r s m o s t w a s , h e r e s p o n d s , q u o t i n g t h e
J e w i s h S c r i p t u r e s , “ Y o u s h a l l l o v e t h e L o r d y o u r G o d w i t h a l l y o u r h e a r t , a n d w i t h a l l y o u r s o u l , a n d w i t h a l l y o u r m i n d ” B u t t h e n h e a d d s , a l s o q u o t i n g t h e s a m e J e w i s h S c r i p t u r e s , “ A n d y o u s h a l l l o v e y o u r n e i g h b o r a s y o u r s e l f ” W h e n J e s u s t a l k s a b o u t “ l o v e o f n e i g h b o r ” t h o u g h , h e i s n o t s p e a k i n g o f t h e e m o t i o n A s C h r i s t i a n t h e o l o g i a n s a n d s p i r i t u a l l e a d e r s h a v e s e e n i t f o r c e nt u r i e s , “ l o v e ” i s b e s t u n d e r s t o o d a s a n a c t ; a b e h a v i o r ; a w a y o f b e i n g i n t h e w o r l d t h a t t r e a t s o t h e r s a s G o d c a l l s u s t o , r e g a r d l e s s o f h o w w e f e e l a b o u t t h e m
T h a t i s t h e f o c u s w e n e e d t o b e o u ts t a n d i n g s p i r i t u a l a t h l e t e s A n d i t i s a l s o t h e f o c u s w e n e e d i f w e h o p e t o “ b r i n g d o w n t h e t e m p e r a t u r e ” O v e r t h e l a s t f o u r S u n d a y s a t t h e
S a n i b e l C o n g r e g a t i o n a l U n i t e d C h u r c h
o f C h r i s t , w e h a v e b e e n e x p l o r i n g t h e
∫ 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 the Sanctuary
∫ 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
t h e m e “ B r i n g i n g D o w n t h e T e m p e r a t u r e , ” t h e p h r a s e t h a t w a s u s e d
r e p e a t e d l y i n t h e i m m e d i a t e a f t e r m a t h o f
t h e a t t e m p t o n f o r m e r P r e s i d e n t D o n a l d
T r u m p ’ s l i f e i n J u l y , a n d w h i c h w a s a r e f e r e n c e t o t h e h e a t e d s t a t e o f o u r p o l i ti c a l , s o c i a l a n d r e l i g i o u s d i s c o u r s e i n o u r n a t i o n i n t h e s e t i m e s B u t h o w d o w e d o t h a t ? H o w d o w e b e t h e k i n d o f s p i r i t u a l a t h l e t e s w h o k e e p t h e i r f o c u s o n “ l o v i n g o u r n e i g h b o r a s o u r s e l v e s , ” e s p e c i a l l y o u r n e i g h b o r w h o w e d i s a g r e e w i t h o r e v e n d i s l i k e ? A s w e h a v e b e e n d i s c u s s i n g a t S C U C C , t h e r e a r e n o g r a n d g e s t u r e s o r h a b i t s o n l y s m a l l o n e s , f a i t h f u l l y r e p e a t e d S m a l l g e s t u r e s o r h a b i t s l i k e , f o r e x a m p l e :
∫ P r a c t i c e t h e “ 5 S e c o n d R u l e ” : N o t
t h e o n e w e m a y h a v e h e a r d a s k i d s t h a t s a i d i f w e d r o p p e d s o m e f o o d i t e m o n t h e f l o o r i t w a s s t i l l O K t o e a t i t a s l o n g a s w e g o t t o i t w i t h i n 5 s e c o n d s . T h i s “ 5 S e c o n d R u l e ” c a l l s o n u s t o w a i t a f e w s e c o n d s b e f o r e w e r e s p o n d t o t h i n g s t h a t o t h e r s s a y , e s p e c i a l l y r e g a r d i n g d i f f i c u l t o r s e n s i t i v e i s s u e s T h a t t i m e a l l o w s f o r o u r m o r e e m o t i o n a l l y r e l a t e d b r a i n f u n ct i o n s t o b e s e t a s i d e i n f a v o r o f o u r “ h i g h e r ” b r a i n f u n c t i o n s , l i k e a n a l y s i s a n d r e a s o n ∫ A s k m o r e q u e s t i o n s : W h e
p t i v a I s l a n d e r
Cheeburger Cheeburger, 1975 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
MudBugs
Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
islandBEAT islander
Pazzi
Santiva Islanders Calendar
The Santiva Islanders will present the following:
Cardio & Strength
Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, Aug. 14, 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
Gentle Yoga
Lynn Young will host Gentle Yoga on Aug 15 from 10:30 to 11:30 a m at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring a towel and ample water and wear comfortable clothing; bring a mat, if needed Cost is $10 per class For more information, contact Susan Talmage at 214-206-6822 or drsusantalmage@gmail com
Social Mahjong
Social Mahjong will be held on Aug. 15 from 1 to 3:30 p m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel C o s t i s $ 5 F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , c o n t a c t B e t h Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail com
Coffee & Conversation
Coffee & Conversation will be held on Aug 16 from 9:30 a m to noon 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 Aug 16 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
Saturday Brunch
Saturday Brunch will be held on Aug 17 from noon to 1:30 p m at The Lighthouse Cafe, at 1020 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Attendees will order and pay individually
RSVPs requested by Aug 15 To RSVP, visit https://santivaislanders org/events/sunday-brunch-am8jx For more information, contact Beth at 937-673-8494
Coffee & Conversation
Coffee & Conversation will be held on Aug 19 from 9:30 a m to noon 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 Aug 19 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members
Keeping focus
Happy Hour
Happy Hour will be held on Aug 19 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
Cardio & Strength
Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Aug 21 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 F
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o d i n y o u r i m a g e w h e n i t t u r n s o u t t h a t G o d h a t e s a l l t h e s a m e p e o p l e y o u d o ” A n d a s A b r a h a m L i n c o l n s a i d , “ M y c o n c e r n i s n o t w h e t h e r G o d i s o n o u r s i d e ; m y g r e a t e s t c o n c e r n i s t o b e o n G o d ’ s s i d e ” ∫ I g n o r e t h e h y p e : D a y b y d a y , m o m e n t b y m o m e n t , w e a r e p r e s e n t e d n e w s p a p e r h e a d l i n e s , e m a i l s u b j e c t l i n e s a n d b o t t o m o f t h e s c r e e n s c r o l l s o n n e w s
c h a n n e l s t h a t s a y t h i n g s l i k e , R e p u b l i c a n s o r D e m o c r a t s a r e “ o u t r a g e d ” b y T h e i n t e r n e t i s “ l o s i n g i t s m i n d ” o v e r Y o u s h o u l d b e “ d i s g u s t e d ” w i t h I g n o r e t h a t s t u f f I t i s a n a t t e m p t a t e m o t i o n a l m a n i p u l a t i o n S t e p b a c k a n d s e e w h a t e x a c t l y t h e s u pp o s e d “ o u t r a g e o u s , ” “ m i n d b l o w i n g , ” “ d i s g u s t i n g ” t h i n g i s A n d t h e n c o n s i d e r , “ I s i t r e a l l y ? ” M o s t l i k el y , i t ’ s n o t . ∫ A n d l a s t l y , k e e p a s e n s e o f h u m o r : S p i r i t u a l l e a d e r s f r o m a l l t r a d i t i o n s t h r o u g h o u t h i s t o r y h a v e u n d e r s t o o d t h a t t h e c a p a c i t y t o l a u g h w i t h ( n o t a t ) o t he r s a n d l a u g h a t o u r s e l v e s i s a v i t a l p a r t o f b e i n g a n a c c o m p l i s h e d s p i r i t u a l a t h l e t e T h i s d o e s n o t m e a n i n a n y w a y t h a t w e a r e t o “ l a u g h o f f ” s e r i o u s c o n c e r n s a n d i s s u e s B u t i n t h i s t i m e o u r p o l i t i c a l , s o c i a l a n d r e l i g i o u s d i s c o u r s e s e e m s t o m o r e a n d m o r e e n c o u ra g e , e v e n e x p e c t u s t o b e h u m o r l e s s o r m a k e f u n o f t h o s e w h o w e d i f f e r w i t h T h i s i s b o t h s p i r i t u a l l y a n d p s y c h o l o g i c a l l y u n h e a l t h y T h e a t h l e t i c s O l y m p i c s a r e n o w o v e r f o r a n o t h e r f o u r y e a r s B u t t h e s p i r i t u a l O l y m p i c s n e v e r e n d A n d r i g h t n o w , o n e o f t h e m o s t i m p o r t a n t e v e n t s f a c i n g u s i s b r i n g i n g d o w n t h e t e m p e r a t u r e M a y w e b e c o m e a s s u c c e s s f u l a s p o s s i b l e b y k e e p i n g o u r f o c u s o n G o d ’ s c a l l t h r o u g h J e s u s , a s w e l l a s t h e J e w i s h S c r i p t u r e s , t o “ l o v e o u r n e i g h b o r a s o u r s e l v e s ” T h e R e v D r M a r k B o y e a i s s e n i o r m i n i s t e r a t t h e S a n i b e l C o n g r e g a t i o n a l U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C h r i s t .
The Mucky Duck, 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva
Rosalita's Cantina, 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
MacIntosh to host book club
MacIntosh Books + Paper will host book club on Aug 20 from 6 to 7 p m at 1620 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel The discussion will focus on “The Little Village of Book Lovers,” by Nina George Attendees are encouraged to read the entire book in advance of the event for the best possible discussion Light refreshments will be s e r v e d C o s t i s $ 2 0 a n d includes the book and event
spot, call 239-472-1447 or stop by the store For more information, visit macintoshbooks com
‘Villanelle of the Senior Tennis Round Robin’
Returning each morning to dust and clay, We brave the ibuprophened shore
To beat oblivion one more day
On court number one we start the fray Not waiting for Time to settle the score, Returning each morning to dust and clay
Life’s easy volleys all put away, Above the waist-high net we soar
To beat oblivion one more day
We spin and slice to dupe our prey With chips and drops and lobs galore, Returning each morning to dust and clay;
No ace or smash to ease our way, But rallies longer than ever before
To beat oblivion one more day
So toward the final court we’ll play Tomorrow and forevermore, Returning each morning to dust and clay
To beat oblivion one more day
The Community House Calendar
Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, will present the following:
Sanibel Hear ts Club
The Sanibel Hearts Club will meet on Aug 16 from noon to 3 p m Beginners to experts are welcome to participate and play the card game No reservations are required. Suggested donation of $5.
Shellcrafters
The Shellcrafters will meet on Aug 19 from 10 a m to 1 p m in the lobby A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a m ; it is free and supplies range from $510 Items will be available for sale All sales benefit the operations of TCH
TCH is accepting registrations for local employers interested in participating in an Island Job Fair on Aug 23-24 The cost is $50 for members and $75 for non-members for both days Registration will close on Aug 15 For more information or to register, call 239-472-215 or stop by the facility
Shell Critter Kits are available for purchase in a variety of different options Cost is $5 per kit with all of the supplies included, except for glue Order them in-person at TCH or call 239-472-2155
TCH office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a m to 3 p m
For more information, visit www sanibelcommunityhouse.net or contact 239472-2155 or info@sanibelcommunityhouse net
Joe Pacheco Poetic License
Water quality
drinking water sources are manmade, our efforts can go a long way toward ensuring that we have safe and clean water for current and future generations Here are a few tips:
∫ Do not dump chemicals: While it might seem harmless to dump chemicals on the ground or into storm drains, these toxic substances will eventually seep into and pollute our groundwater supplies Besides, it is illegal and could cost you a hefty fine
∫ A proper solution is at your disposal: From paint to used motor oil to batteries and unused medicines, most communities have a solid waste plant or other facility where you can take potentially toxic substances and contaminants for safe disposal Many businesses, including home improvement stores, work with local governments to host “safe disposal days ”
∫ Scoop the poop: According to the U S Department of Agriculture, dog waste that is not cleaned up is not just a hazard for the bottom of your shoes It contains nitrogen and phosphorus which can deplete oxygen
Bougainvillea
species recognized by botanists Currently, there are over 300 varieties of bougainvillea around the world In our little corner of the world, the cultivar “Helen Johnson” was developed by local plant grower James Hendry, owner of the once-existing Everglades Nursery He developed this lovely deep fuchsia pink, thornless variety to honor his longtime employee and future daughter-in-law, Helen Johnson He said he named it after her because “she had no thorns ” Johnson married Hendry’s son, Jim
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that fish and other water-based life need to survive, and it promotes the growth of harmful algae It is also a significant form of disease-causing bacteria like fecal coliform
∫ Put plastic in its place: Plastic bags and containers not only pollute but can harm animals and fish Whenever possible try to reuse or recycle or throw it away Most supermarkets have bins to dispose of your collection of plastic trash bags, and most communities offer some type of recycling service using special blue containers
∫ Be Florida-friendly: Did you know that certain plants are more “Florida-friendly” than others? That is because they require minimal water and fertilizer For the University of Florida’s list of more than 400 Florida-friendly plants to consider in your landscaping, visit https://ffl ifas ufl edu/resources/apps/plantguide/ Always use slow-release fertilizer, and never fertilize before rain which washes away fertilizer before it dissolves in the soil
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Hendry, and helped develop the Everglades Nursery and became a well-known horticulturist and landscape architect in our area
If you are looking for lots of vibrant color in your landscape, bougainvillea may be just the thing for your island garden
In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local garden center, at 3889 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel For more information, contact 239-395-5859 or visit www facebook com/rswalshinthegarden
