Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

FORT MYERS ISLANDS, BEACHES AND NEIGHBORHOODS

In celebration of 20 years of paddlers enjoying the Great Calusa Blueway, Fort Myers Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods is hosting the free Calusa Blueway Challenge from now through Feb 28

Blueway marks 20 years with challenge and prizes

Fort Myers Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods reported that visitors come from all over the world to experience the Great Calusa Blueway in Southwest Florida As the popular paddling trail celebrates 20 years, paddlers have a chance to participate in a challenge and earn points for prizes and discounts

T h e m a r k e d c a n o e a n d kayak trail stretches almost 200 miles from Bonita Springs through Estero Bay, Fort Myers Beach, the Pine Island Sound and Sanibel, Captiva and Pine islands, up the Caloosahatchee River to the Lee County line. It is home to marine life, shore

birds and crustaceans as it meanders the back bay estuaries and mangrove tunnels

Attractions include Mound Key Archeological State Park, Lovers Key State Park, the Mound House, Randell Research

Manatee Park and others.

Take the Calusa Blueway Challenge

By checking in at locations along the trail, paddlers can earn points to be used for prizes, as well as discounts and deals Points may be earned at attractions, restaurants, parks and nature spots along the trail. Visitors can paddle on their own, experience a guided tour, shop at a local business or grab a bite

See BLUEWAY, page 20

School district looking into developing policy for AI

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The big question remains how does the School District of Lee County create a policy around artificial intelligence aka AI?

“AI is a hot topic today and that is mostly because of the intersection of artificial intelligence technology with cons u m e r s , ” C h i e f I n f o r m a t i o n O f f i c e r Dwayne Alton said at the school board's meeting on July 30 meeting

They have been reviewing policies from other districts, such as Dade County

“The technology is the easy part for us How do you prepare people? How do we give them guidelines?” he said “(When you) start using AI tools, you can make some bad decisions. How do we properly prepare people from student, to teacher, to administrator in the building? That is a lot of where the work is right now ”

F l o r i d a G u l f C o a s t U n i v e r s i t y Department of Computing and Software Engineering Dr Leandro Nunes de Castro said AI development changes very quickly, so the question becomes how do you introduce one thing related to AI that is

not going to be obsolete in two, or three years

“How do you implement things that changes faster?” he said are challenges for schools.

Alton said the district has been using AI for some time, dating back to 2014 as mostly behind the scenes For example, it has been used for internet filtering as well as cyber and physical security through artificial intelligence

“Now in the K-12 world, there is a lot of concern about academic integrity As a

See AI, page 20

By CRAIG GARRETT news@breezenewspapers com

Sanibel A tentative fire-and-rescue millage rate was green-lighted Sept 4

The three Sanibel Fire and Rescue District c o m m i s s i o n e r s a g r e e d t o so-called rollback resolutions that hold rates but boost revenue as t h e v a l u e o f i s l a n d property inches up after Hurricane Ian

The hearing that included pay raises and unsettling details about insurance and the costs of running a rescue unit was public and ran about 35 minutes A second and final hearing is scheduled for Sept 18

Commissioners set the island’s fire-andrescue rate at 1.3915 mills, or about $1,000 a year for the owner of a $700,000 Sanibel home The city has 26 firefighters and administrators Around 6,500 people had lived on the island prior to Ian

School district addresses ESE policies

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The Lee County School Board was presented with legislation changes for exceptional student education Polices & Procedures during a first reading at its meeting on Aug 6

The P&P is specialized instruction and services for ESE students, which is a basis for identification, eligibility and placement for students that outlines the steps the district’s team must go through to determine if the student is eligible for services

The first major change pertains to restraint of students with disabilities The school district will have procedures for providing a copy of the written notice on the day of the incident to the parents.

Another change is eligibility for children who are developmentally delayed from ages 3-9, instead of the previous 6 years old The areas of delay include adaptive or self-help development, cognitive development, communication development, social or emotional development, or physical development including fine, gross or perceptual motor.

Another major area that had a change was alternate assessments, which gives a student access to modified curriculum or assessments

The last big change is how services are allocated and used in private schools an area that deals with Family Empowerment Scholarships

According to the presentation at the meeting, “effective July 1, 2022, the McKay Scholarship Program was repealed

and joined the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program under the Unique Abilities category, which provides children of families with limited financial resources with education options to achieve success in their education ”

Interim Superintendent Dr Ken Savage said by having the state set up this type of template, it ensures districts are held to the same rules and regulations The comprehensive opportunity provides a one-stop shop of procedurally what documents look like

He said each family’s child is the most important thing in the whole world to them Savage said if they encountered difficulty, it becomes very emotional and difficult as they want to ensure the district is doing everything possible for each child

School district to add more mental health professionals

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The Lee County School Board recently approved a mental health assistance allocation plan, which will increase the district’s licensed mental health professionals from 50 to 57.

Savage said they have hired three additional licensed mental health professionals and are looking for an another four.

K-8 and high schools will have fulltime licensed clinical mental health professionals

“None will need to share,” he said There will also be increased days for elementary and middle school LMHP For example, Caloosa Middle School went from two days to five days based on its need

The allocation provides the school dis-

trict with the opportunity to establish or expand its school-based mental health

Allocation for the district is $6,173,441. A proportionate amount of the funding will go toward charter schools

Veterans Day does not make it onto school calendar

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

After hearing multiple options to substitute days to have Veterans Day off for the 2024-25 school year, the Lee County School Board decided to keep the calendar as is with the committee considering honoring it as a day off the following school year

“Essentially, the committee without formal votes stood by the committee’s work,” interim Superintendent Dr Ken Savage said

He said the committee does believe Veterans Day is recognized educationally

speaking

“They do utilize it as an opportunity to highlight and support veterans while they are there,” Savage said

The board was given other options maintaining exactly what the committee adopted and recognized, or having some level of substitution by taking an existing holiday and trading that out

During the first semester those days were the first Monday of winter break, the first Monday of Thanksgiving break or Rosh Hashanah in October Another option was

extending the first semester into January, swapping President’s Day or Easter Monday, or extending the last day of the school year to June 2, rather than May 30

“This complexity is precisely why there is a committee that does the work This is why they didn’t make an amendment,” Savage said.

Although all thought Veterans Day should be honored, the board was OK with waiting until the next school year

“I would love to see veterans honored every year I would really like the calendar

committee to consider Veterans Day here on out,” Board Member Jada LangfordFleming, who initially made the motion, said

She said she would really like veterans to be recognized somehow, some way in every classroom in every school this year

Langford-Fleming said they should pull data and statistics on the top days that students call out of school, so they can save money, transportation and substitutes

“I think that is brilliant That should happen,” Board Member Cathleen Morgan said

OPINIONS

Web Poll

Previous Question Did you vote in the Primary Election?

∫ Yes, by mail, 45 45% (5)

∫ Yes, early, 0% (0)

∫ Yes, day of, 45.45% (5)

∫ No, I did not, 9 09% (1)

Current Question

How did you spend the Labor Day holiday?

∫ Relaxing at home

∫ On the beach/boat

∫ Vacation/left town

∫ Other

Quality of life draws businesses to Lee County

As a longtime resident and business owner here in Lee County, I know that the nearly ideal year-round weather is not the only thing that brings people to our piece of paradise to live, work and play

The efforts put forth over the years by the stewards of our ever-growing community have continually pushed forward the quality of life They have helped to attract businesses and families alike that have made Southwest Florida what it is today

Earlier this year, U S News & World Report ranked Fort Myers No 1 in its “Fastest Growing Places” rankings

As our growth continues, many businesses pondering the move to our region are looking at our quality of life They need to know that not only can the area support their company, but that their employees will enjoy a lifestyle that makes them want to stay here for the long term and make this their home

That answer has been a resounding yes for many reasons, including these seven factors:

Education

∫ In 2023, the graduation rate for the Lee County School District was 85 1%, which was the second-highest rate in the district’s history

∫ Eight colleges and universities, including technology and trade colleges, operate here

Health care

∫ Lee Health is consistently ranked among the top 15% of hospitals in the country

∫ There are six hospitals in Lee County

Housing

∫ Lee County is relatively affordable com-

Roundabout

is definitely not the solution

To the editor:

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the possible consideration of a roundabout at Periwinkle Way and Causeway Boulevard as a solution to traffic congestion While roundabouts have gained attention as a modern approach to managing traffic flow, I believe this solution may not be the best fit for our needs, particularly when considering safety and longterm effectiveness

First and foremost, many states have begun to remove roundabouts from areas where they were once installed This trend reflects growing recognition that roundabouts are not always effective in reducing congestion Instead, these areas are seeing more traditional traffic management methods, such as four-way stops, being reintroduced. The reason behind this shift is that roundabouts can often confuse drivers, leading to accidents rather than preventing them They can become especially problematic in areas with high volumes of traffic where driv-

pared to other parts of the state

∫ Renting a two-bedroom unit costs $1,450 per month, a rate 7 6% cheaper than the state average of $1,560

∫ There are a variety of housing options, from waterfront properties to suburban neighborhoods

Infrastructure

∫ About $100 million is allocated in Lee County for new roadways in the next two years

∫ The county has planned significant investments in sewer systems, water management and roadway work, amounting to more than $1 billion over the next three to five years

Climate

Guest Commentary

∫ The average temperature in Lee County is 75 degrees

Travel

∫ Construction is underway at Southwest Florida International Airport that will add 24 new gates

∫ The airport is planning additional international direct flights

∫ As of June 30, 6 5 million passengers had gone through RSW in 2024, on pace for a record-breaking year

∫ Sports tourism is at an all-time high with a recording breaking 188,000 hotel room nights booked for sporting events in 2023.

Letter to the Editor

ers may not fully understand the rules, causing backups and near collisions

Furthermore, data shows that roundabouts are typically more suited for high-speed intersections where left-turn accidents are a significant issue In these locations, roundabouts can help by eliminating dangerous left-hand turns and creating a safer, continuous flow of traffic However, in lower-speed areas, where left-turn accidents are not as frequent or where there are regular pedestrian crossings, four-way stops prove to be a safer alternative. Four-way stops allow all drivers and pedestrians to clearly see who has the right of way, reducing confusion and minimizing the risk of accidents

Additionally, four-way stops have the added benefit of being less costly to install and maintain compared to roundabouts Roundabouts require more space, complex signage, and regular upkeep to ensure that drivers are following the rules A four-way stop, by contrast, is straightforward, intuitive, and far easier to maintain over time

Historically, roundabouts have been promot-

The views expressed on the Opinions Pages are

of

Repecki at trepecki@breezenewspapers com

no later than noon Thursday. The Island Reporter

Entertainment/Dining

∫ There are nearly 2,000 restaurants in Lee County

∫ Lee County is a sports mecca that is home to two Major League Baseball teams for spring training (Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins), a minor league baseball team (Fort Myers Mighty Mussels) and minor league hockey team (Florida Everblades)

∫ There are seven entertainment venues with capacities of 3,000-plus

We have added 30% more business in the past five years, 33,000 in all We are currently the third healthiest office market in the country This influx of businesses should continue for years to come as we will see much more commercial construction in the region The Alico Road corridor, Pine Island Road corridor in Cape Coral, Skyplex at RSW and northeast Lee County are just some of the 10 million square feet of industrial development under construction ensuring sustained economic growth and prosperity for Southwest Florida

Mark Stevens is chair of the Horizon Foundation and president of Stevens Construction. The foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities for public-private partnerships and businesses to invest in the long-term prosperity of Lee County’s economy For more information, visit https://horizoncouncilfoundation com/

ed as a solution for improving traffic flow, especially in countries like the United Kingdom where they have been widely used for decades However, in the United States, the effectiveness of roundabouts has been inconsistent Many municipalities, after seeing a rise in minor accidents or driver frustration, have opted to remove or modify roundabouts and revert to simpler traffic control solutions like four-way stops or traffic lights

In conclusion, while roundabouts can have benefits in certain high-speed, accident-prone areas, I believe that in our case, continued use of our four-way stop is a much safer, more costeffective, and simpler solution I urge you to consider the experiences of other states and municipalities that have encountered similar challenges with roundabouts and if necessary explore additional alternatives

Thank you for your attention to this matter I appreciate your consideration of the safety and well-being of our community

Bob Brooks Sanibel

Mark Stevens

Library system celebrates successful program

The Lee County Library System reported that its 2024 Summer Reading Program put thousands of books into the hands of children and teens and saw outstanding participation by all age groups

The annual program serves to foster the love of reading and help prevent summer learning loss by students on school break In support of the goal, the library system distributed more than 13,000 free books to children and teens throughout Lee

This year’s national theme, called “Adventure Begins in Your Library,” encouraged the public to get out and be

active in their local library branches and community A total of 3,709 participants joined the all-ages reading challenge and logged more than 17,000 books and 827,270 minutes read Additionally, the Adventure Bucket List activity engaged more than 8,000 people in fun tasks and reading

The library also hosted an array of programs in June and July featuring live music, animals, science experiments, art and magic

Outreach program connects local students to coast

Twenty-five middle school students in The Immokalee Foundation's summer career exploration program recently took part in a No Child Left On Shore trip exploring the Gulf of Mexico and Pine Island Sound A partnership between the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Captiva Cruises, the outreach program fills a need of providing local youth with an informative and fun way to gain experiential knowledge of the ecology of the region's marine environment

Aboard the Playtime, the students and foundation staff were joined by SCCF environmental educator Richard Finkel, who opened their eyes to the wonders of shrimp, snails, crab and fish

The SCCF reported that they journeyed to Cayo Costa State

The branches threw 13 kickoff parties, drawing in 3,485 people to celebrate the start of the program Fun foam parties, tasty treats and face painting were among some of the kickoff activities offered, along with encouraging sign-ups for the summer event Altogether, the library system presented 466 programs with about 15,000 people attending Staff also coordinated 105 outreach visits, reaching an additional 11,360 people at

Captiva

C o

n

y L i

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

Adults

∫ Sept 16: Create a Custom Button

(daily during operating hours)

Everyone loves a touch of creativity in their life What can be more creative than the art of button-making? If you are adding a personal touch to your favorite jacket or trying some DIY fun, there is something truly special about creating your own custom buttons

∫ Sept 18: Create a Custom Button (daily during operating hours)

Everyone loves a touch of creativity in their life What can be more creative than the art of button-making? If you are adding a personal touch to your favorite jacket or trying some DIY fun, there is something truly special about creating your own custom buttons

Teens

∫ Sept 16: Create a Custom Button (daily during operating hours)

Everyone loves a touch of creativity in their life What can be more creative than the art of button-making? If you are adding a personal touch to your favorite

meetings/hearings are scheduled:

Sept 12: Captiva Island Fire

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Program

From page 6

camps, community centers, parks and more

“The library’s summer reading program allows us to share the joy of reading and learning while also keeping minds active and helping our school-age participants avoid summer learning loss while on summer break,” library Director Mindi Simon said “Our libraries are a great place

Students

From page 6

Park, where the youths learned about the behavior and adaptations of mole crabs and coquina clams in the surf zone, discovered sea turtle tracks and learned about the life history of sea turtles, and sifted through macro algae to uncover the various lifeforms it supports

Captiva library

jacket or trying some DIY fun, there is something truly special about creating your own custom buttons

∫ Sept 18: Create a Custom Button

(daily during operating hours)

Everyone loves a touch of creativity in their life What can be more creative than the art of button-making? If you are adding a personal touch to your favorite jacket or trying some DIY fun, there is something truly special about creating your own custom buttons

Children programs

∫ Today, Sept 11: Under the Sea Paper Plate Craft

(daily during operating hours)

Make a cute under the sea paper plate

for families and residents to come together We make reading fun in order to have a positive impact on everyone who wants to participate.”

This year also marked the return of the Teen Summer of Service program, which offered teens ages 12-18 the chance to earn service hours during a multi-week virtual learning

For many of the students, it was all a first-time experience

“This field trip is the highlight of the summer for our students,” foundation career counselor Richard Kent said “They loved the netting event, and we thank SCCF and Captiva Cruises for all the work they put into

From page 6

craft using natural materials collected at the beach It is a fun craft idea that participants can also make at home and is great after a family holiday or trip to the beach

∫ Sept 13: Under the Sea Paper Plate Craft

(daily during operating hours)

Make a cute under the sea paper plate craft using natural materials collected at the beach It is a fun craft idea that participants can also make at home and is great after a family holiday or trip to the beach

T h e l i b r a r y i s o p e n o n M o n d a y s , Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a m to 12:30 p m and 1 to 4 p m

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

series featuring local nonprofit agencies helping the community Forty-three teens earned mover 600 service hours while completing projects to support the participating organizations in achieving their missions

The Captiva Memorial Library is part of the Lee County Library System

our students having a successful outing.”

The No Child Left On Shore initiative was founded in 2010 by Captiva Cruises, Finkel and Paul McCarthy, the former owner of Captiva Cruises, as a collaborative effort with the SCCF The SCCF acknowledged the support of The L A T

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

Adult programs

∫ S e p t 1 2 :

Conversation Club from 6 to 7 p.m.

Are you ready to take your Spanishspeaking skills to the next level? Improve your fluency by chatting with adults

Practice speaking Spanish with others on

Intermediate to advanced Spanish-speaking skills are recommended in order to get the most out of the session Registration is required before Sept 12 at 6 p m

∫ Sept 18: Online Author Event with

Foundation, Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program, Shirley Schlossman and other donors who help to sustain the program For more information or to sponsor a field trip, contact Finkel at rfinkel@sccf org

Nate Klemp from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join as New York Times bestselling author and philosopher Nate Klemp helps attendees explore pathways back to openminded living when he talks about the core tenets in his new book, “O pen: Living with an Expansive Mind in a Distracted World ” The event is part of

Registration is required

Download books, stream video and

www leelibrary net

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

County Commission takes stand against state abortion amendment

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Lee County Board of County Commissioners has taken a position in opposition to Amendment 4

The statewide initiative on the November ballot would “limit government interference with abortion,” and so overturn recently passed legislation limiting abortions in Florida to within six weeks of pregnancy

The 4-1 vote followed more than two hours of public comment from a sharply divided public Lee County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Mike Greenwell said the resolution was intended to oppose language in the amendment “because it is very vague.”

Greenwell said the resolution is meant to encourage voters to read the language of the amendment, which will need at least 60% of the vote to pass

“I think the language is vague for a reason,” Greenwell said “There is something wrong here and I think it’s important that we bring that up ”

Though he said the vote by the county commissioners was not meant to oppose the right of the voters to weigh in on abortion, Greenwell said “It’s a very hot subject, obviously There is no right answer We are a divided country but we should always understand that we can always help the unborn.”

The ballot title is “Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion”

The ballot summary states: “No law shall prohibit, penalize, delay, or restrict abortion before viability or when necessary to protect the patient’s health, as determined by the patient’s healthcare provider This amendment does not change the Legislature’s constitutional authority to require notification to a parent or guardian before a minor has an abortion ”

Lee County resident Melissa Isley accused the county commissioners of using their political positions to influence a statewide voter referendum.

“You are using your seats to grandstand about a personal medical issue This is a disappointing misuse of your power,” Isley said

Opponents suggested that the Republican county commissioners were voting at the bequest of state Republican party leaders Isley said she believed State Rep Jenna Persons-Mulicka, who shepherded the state’s six-week abor-

tion ban through the State House, was holding influence over the county commissioners

Persons-Mulicka and State Sen Jonathan Martin appeared in front of the county commissioners Tuesday to urge a vote against Amendment 4.

Persons-Mulicka called Amendment 4 “deceptive” and “extreme ”

“If you don’t believe that our Constitution should enshrine the right to taxpayer-funded abortions on demand without parental consent up to birth you should vote no,” Persons-Mulicka said “It will tie our hands in the legislature ”

Martin, who stood next to Persons-Mulicka during her comments, said “I echo those words ”

Rick Carter, a self-described born-again Christian, compared the voting on Amendment 4 to a bill that would reintroduce slavery and compared abortion to the Holocaust.

“You can not be neutral on this,” Carter said

The debate from the public often veered into religious opinions where some cited their religion as reasons to oppose Amendment 4

Those who supported Amendment 4 included speakers who shared emotional personal stories of being victims of abuse that led them to seek an abortion

Under the abortion law approved by the state legislature and signed into law by Gov Ron DeSantis last year, abortions are now limited in Florida to within six weeks of pregnancy Opponents have argued that most women are not aware of their own pregnancies until a month or longer, leaving little time for the procedure

District 4 Commissioner Brian Hamman called some of the stories of speakers who spoke in favor of pro-choice were “heartbreaking” and “gut-wrenching” as he cited personal religious feelings and said he expressed “empathy” for those he disagreed with

“This language is very broad It is very open to interpretation,” Hamman said “I think voters need to be aware that this is something that deserved a second look ”

District 1 Commissioner Kevin Ruane said he was asked recently why the county commissioners were weighing in on the matter.

“I think the language is far too vague,” Ruane said “It’s opposing the vagueness in the wording (of Amendment 4) ”

District 2 Commissioner Cecil Pendergrass said he thinks

Democrats were using “an emotional issue” through Amendment 4 “to drive people to the polls ”

District 3 Commissioner Ray Sandelli said he was personally “pro-life” and said the subject was personal in nature. He said he has “taken back” when he was asked why the county commissioners were taking part in the vote

“In the end, this will be decided by all of us at election time,” Sandelli said “My constituency is all of Lee County whether it is a yes vote or a no vote ” Sandelli said he would not adopt the resolution

The commissioners voted 4-1 on the resolution, with Sandelli the lone dissenter

A couple members of the public yelled at the commissioners after the vote that “You should be ashamed of yourselves It has nothing to do with voting and everything to do with controlling women and you know it ”

The ballot summary language has not been the only source of controversy

Proponents of the amendment legally contested what they say is misleading and inaccurate language concerning the amendment’s financial impact to the state

The Florida Supreme Court ruled 6-1 that the language, revised by a state panel, could appear on the ballot

The Financial and State Budget Impact Statements reads: The proposed amendment would result in significantly more abortions and fewer live births per year in Florida The increase in abortions could be even greater if the amendment invalidates laws requiring parental consent before minors undergo abortions and those ensuring only licensed physicians perform abortions There is also uncertainty about whether the amendment will require the state to subsidize abortions with public funds Litigation to resolve those and other uncertainties will result in additional costs to the government and state courts that will negatively impact the state budget An increase in abortions may negatively affect the growth of state and local revenues over time Because the fiscal impact of increased abortions on state and local revenues and costs cannot be estimated with precision, the total impact of the proposed amendment is indeterminate THE FINANCIAL IMPACT OF THIS AMENDMENT CANNOT BE DETERMINED DUE TO AMBIGUITIES AND UNCERTAINTIES SURROUNDING THE AMENDMENT’S IMPACT "

Business Notes

Chamber to host business luncheon

T h e S a n C a p Chamber will hold its next business luncheon on Sept 18 from 11:30 a m to 1:30 p m at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

T h e g u e s t s p e a k e r will be The Everglades

F o u n d a t i o n C h i e f

Executive Officer Eric

a d

e s s t h e e c o n o m i c factors of a clean environment from the perspective of Florida's watershed

The Charitable Foundation of the Islands is sponsoring the luncheon

Cost is $35 for chamber members only

Registration is required by Sept 13 at 5 p m at sanibel-captiva org or by contacting Aaron Walton at a a r o n @ s a n

Payment is due at the time of registration.

GMA ARCHITECTS & PLANNERS

GMA completes designs for store rebuild

GMA Architects & Planners recently unveiled its initial architectural designs for the rebuilt Bailey's General Store on Sanibel

The grocery store will grow by more than 20% to 35,000 square feet and be elevated by 10 feet for enhanced storm resiliency Two out parcels will accommodate other businesses, adding 6,000 square feet to the project, with elevated pedestrian walkways connecting the buildings

The facility will feature open space and partially covered parking on the ground level, with a green design that emphasizes energy efficiency, rooftop solar panels and the use of native vegetation in the landscape design

A porte-cochere, or covered entrance, will allow shoppers to access the store while being protected from the elements

Groundbreaking is scheduled for 2025, with completion by the end of 2026.

Bailey's General Store is at 2477 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

County VCB receives DMAP designation

F o r t M y e r s I s l a n d s , B e a c h e s a n d Neighborhoods was recently awarded the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) designation by Destinations International

T

commitment to industry excellence and dedication to the industry standard for performance and accountability of destination organizations around the world

SCBWA to hold monthly luncheon

Rotar y Club holds meeting with speakers

Club welcomed SanCap Chamber

Officer John Lai and city of Sanibel

Andrea Miller as its guest speakers at a recent meeting Both are planning for the city's 50th anniversary

Kiwanis holds meeting with speaker

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club welcomed Children's Education Center of the Islands Executive Director Michelle Keltner as its guest speaker at a recent meeting She shared the history and curriculum of the CECI, which has been a cornerstone of the island community for over 40 years. The club meets on Tuesdays at 8 a m at The Dunes Golf and Tennis Club, at 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel For more information, visit www sanibelkiwanis org

at The

3 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and via Zoom For more information, visit sanibelrotary org

Luminary in December of 2025, the city and chamber are planning a 13-month celebration in partnership with island businesses, nonprofits and faith-based organizations and resident groups The club meets on Fridays at 8

Eric Eikenberg

Denise Vidal

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ROTARY CLUB

From left, SanCap Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai, Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club President Rachel Tritaik and city of Sanibel Recreation Department Director Andrea Miller

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB

From left, Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club President Jeff Blackman and Children's Education Center of the Islands Executive Director Michelle Keltner.

School district to host Transportation Job Fair

Business Notes

From page 8

Fort Myers Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods is the global destination marketing organization (DMO), known locally as the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB)

The reaccreditation continues the legacy of high performance standards achieved in its original accreditation in April of 2007

The accreditation program requires a destination organization to successfully comply with a multitude of mandatory and voluntary standards that span a variety of performance areas The standards cover nearly all aspects related to the management and marketing of destination organizations including governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications, destination development and research

Lee Health ranks among top hospitals

Lee Health recently announced that all four of its acute care hospitals are four and five star recipients by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

It is the second consecutive year that HealthPark Medical Center and Lee Memorial Hospital have been awarded the highest five-star accolade, putting Lee Health hospitals in the top 15% of hospitals in the country for the second year in a row

Gulf Coast Medical Center and Cape Coral Hospital both maintained their four stars

Children’s hospitals are not included in this ranking system

In the past seven years, all Lee Health hospitals have worked hard to rise to four and five stars by finding ways to constantly improve patient safety, outcomes and care

The CMS overall star rating is based on how a hospital performs across different areas of quality, such as treating heart attacks and pneumonia, readmission rates and safety of care The rating shows how individual hospitals perform compared to all hospitals across the country

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services created the Five-Star Quality Rating System to help consumers, their families and caregivers compare hospitals more easily The scores are based on quality and safety data points, including readmissions, safety of care, patient experiences, outcomes, and timeliness of care

Clerk’s Office ear ns statewide awards

The Lee County Clerk’s Office was recently recognized with 10 awards of excellence by the Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers (FCCC) association for its commitment to demonstrating high professional standards

The Clerk’s office was presented with an award of excellence in all of the state association’s Best Practices Excellence Program categories

The FCCC’s Best Practices Excellence Program evaluated and recognized Clerks and Comptrollers across the state in the following areas: appeals, civil contraband forfeiture, court record retention and destruction, Department of Revenue parenting plan fee waivers, determination of indigency, marriage licenses, public records requests, risk

protection orders, service of documents by Clerks for pro se litigants, and vexatious litigants

In addition, the FCCC also reappointed Clerk Kevin Karnes to its 2024-25 board of directors, where he will continue to serve as director of district seven He was reelected to the position by the Clerks of the district The board is comprised of 15 members and all are elected county Clerks & Comptrollers.

The FCCC is a statewide, nonprofit organization comprised of Florida’s Clerks of the Circuit Court and Comptrollers The FCCC’s Best Practices Excellence Program was established in 2020, and since that time, the Lee County Clerk’s Office has received awards in all categories offered each year

LEE COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE

From left, FCCC President and Suwannee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Barry Baker, Lee County Clerk Kevin Karnes and FCCC Best Practices Committee Chair and Volusia County Clerk of the Circuit Court Laura E. Roth.

PRESERVING PARADISE

Governor to postpone proposed park changes process

Environmental Protection (DEP) recently unveiled proposals to develop lodges, golf courses, pickleball courts and more in nine of Florida's state parks, thousands of residents and park visitors have written, called and rallied against the plans

After a press conference on Aug. 28, Gov. Ron DeSantis addressed the state plan, announcing that it was being “sent back to the drawing board ” Other encouraging statements that he made included:

∫ That the “DEP wasn’t going to do anything on the parks plan this year and they were going to go back and listen ”

∫ “If there does need to be any parks improvements, we’re not going to take away any green space ”

∫ “If we do nothing, that’s fine with me, it’s what the public wants ”

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

Dickinson State Park confirmed on its website that it is dropping plans to develop golf courses at that park location The SCCF noted that does not mean that development plans from others or for 350-room lodges, pickleball courts and disc golf courses are off the table, however

As of Aug 29, there were no formal press releases from the governor's office or DEP

“SCCF continues to thank all the state leaders and legislators who have spoken out against the plan, and to the thousands who have already filed their concerns with their representatives, the DEP and the governor’s office through SCCF’s action alert or those of our conservation partners,” it shared

The SCCF outlined its concerns with the proposed projects as follows:

∫ Development of natural areas of the state parks will lead to an irreplaceable loss of unspoiled, environmentally sensitive habitat cherished by residents and tourists alike

∫ The state park lands targeted for development would impact water quality, increase noise and light pollution, increase beach erosion, and add more parking lots and other impervious surfaces in habitat that c u r r e n t l y c o

species

∫ The parks plan would set a terrible precedent for additional high-impact development in all state parks

∫ The manner with which the plans were presented to the public establish a dangerous precedent that cuts public participation out of management decisions for public lands

∫ Development of public sports infrastructure in state parks would compete with the private sector providing the same facilities

∫ Loss of pristine natural areas in state parks would negatively impact tourism and threaten the revenue and jobs relied upon by thousands of Floridians

PARK CHANGES, page 13

FWC: Share shore with sea turtles and shorebirds

Commission (FWC) is sharing the reminder that sea turtles and shorebirds are still using Florida’s beaches as important nesting habitat

The public can help nesting sea turtles and their emerging hatchlings, along with shorebirds and flightless chicks, by giving them space, removing beach gear at night, keeping beaches clean and dark, and filling in holes dug in the sand before they leave

“Florida’s sandy beaches provide important nesting habitat for several species of imperiled sea turtles and shorebirds Some sea turtle hatchlings are still emerging from nests on many beaches around the state, trying to make their way to the ocean,” the FWC shared. “Any interference, including artificial lights and getting too close, can cause hatchlings to be confused and lose their way, endangering their chances at survival ”

It added that shorebirds and seabirds are also dependent on the beaches for successful nesting, resting and migrating While shorebird nesting is winding down for the season, flightless chicks and juveniles are still present with their parents on many beaches

“Florida beaches also host vulnerable shorebirds and seabirds year-round Birds including the piping plover and red knot are returning to Florida’s beaches to refuel during migration and stay for the winter,” the FWC shared “Giving shorebirds and seabirds space to rest and forage benefits them all year ”

Beachgoers can take a few simple actions to help both sea turtles and shorebirds:

∫ Close curtains after dark to help ensure nesting turtles are not disturbed by interior lights as they come ashore and hatchlings are not disoriented as they emerge from their nests Make sure any required exterior lighting adjacent to nesting beaches is long, low and shielded Avoid using any color flashlight, cell phone lights and taking flash photos after dark on the beach

∫ Clear the way at the end of the day to help nesting

Obstacles on the beach and holes in the sand can trap or prevent sea turtle hatchlings from reaching the water and adult sea turtles from being able to nest, so it is important to remove all beach toys and furniture before leaving If you or your family dig a hole on the beach, keep it closer to the water line to avoid active sea turtle nests and

make sure you fill it back in before leaving to avoid trapping sea turtles and hatchlings, as well as flightless shorebird chicks Trash and food scraps attract predators that can prey on sea turtle hatchlings and flightless shorebirds, so it is important to properly dispose of these items after a day at the beach

∫ Give sea turtles, emerging hatchlings and shorebirds space Getting too close to sea turtle hatchlings or nesting sea turtles can prevent them from getting to where they need to go If an animal changes its behavior when you approach, that is a sign you may be too close

∫ While not a common occurrence, be on the lookout for disoriented sea turtles or young, flightless shorebirds in unexpected places, such as coastal sidewalks or roadways Drive slowly along coastal routes to help keep both wildlife and human pedestrians safe

∫ If you find a sea turtle hatchling or adult sea turtle in distress, immediately call the the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922)

For more information about nesting sea turtles and how you can help, visit MyFWC com/SeaTurtle or see the FWC’s “Be a Beach Hero” brochure

For more information about nesting shorebirds, go to MyFWC com/Shorebirds and download the “Share the Beach with Beach-Nesting Birds” brochure

Coastal Watch checks on oyster reef

Coastal Watch reported that it boated into the San Carlos Bay with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Marine Lab on Aug 30 to visit its oyster reef It rebuilds the vital habitats by starting with oysters. Cured shells are placed in the restoration sites, where they become the foundation for new reefs as baby oysters (spat) attach and grow “Oysters are true 'ecosystem engineers,' creating entire reef systems that support marine life and protect our shores,” Coastal Watch shared “By returning shells to our waterways, we're not just recycling we're revitalizing ” COASTAL WATCH

KLCB seeking public’s help with monitoring index

Keep Lee County Beautiful (KLCB) is calling on the community to join f o r c e s i n i t s a n n u a l C o m m u n i t y Appearance Index (Litter Index).

The index allows KLCB to monitor levels of litter and debris to better guide i n c l e a n i n g s p e c i f i c l o c a t i o n s T h e results provide metrics that help determine the impact of litter on the quality of life in the community They also help set goals and develop effective community improvement education programs and projects

“Litter is more than just a mark on our landscape Litter is costly to clean up, impacts our quality of life and econ o m i c d e v e l o p m e n t , a n d e v e n t u a l l y ends up in our waterways and oceans,” Keep America Beautiful shared “Litter cleanup costs more than $11 5 billion each year The indirect costs of litter are also considerable For example, litter in a community decreases property values by 7 percent ”

KLCB's Community Appearance Index is a tool for tracking litter prevention and education efforts With scores that change over time and between locations, the index allows it to identify problem areas and deploy Adopt-A-Road and other groups to

specific spots This helps it to effectively map out its litter prevention and education efforts and ensures that resources are being used in the most impactful way possible.

The audit will keep “litter” scores of Lee County communities, which are then complied into a report and sent to Keep America Beautiful to be added to the national database

Keep Sanibel beautiful... Please recycle!

Individual signups open for annual cleanup

As part of the Ocean Conservancy's annual International Coastal Cleanup, Coastal Watch will host volunteers to pick up garbage and debris on Sept 21 on the beaches of Sanibel and Captiva This year, participants will tackle 25

miles. Individual signups are open. All ages are welcome, provided they are accompanied by a guardian The event is held in partnership with Keep Lee County Beautiful To sign up, visit https://dash pointapp org/events/15075 0 F o

coastalwatch@sccf org

Park changes

“Your action, combined with thousands of other natural state park advocates have changed the trajectory of this harmful parks plan,” the SCCF shared “We will continue to oppose these plans as presented until there are formal updates or the plan is shelved for good.”

To sign the action alert opposing the p r o p o s e d p l a n s , v i s i t h

KEEP LEE COUNTY BEAUTIFUL

Isl and lIvIng

SPD releases weekly blotter

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

Arrests

∫ Ulises Damian Quinonez Pinanez, 29, of 2328 Country Club Blvd , Cape Coral, was charged on Aug 29 with one count each of fail to appear for misdemeanor offense, fail to register motor vehicle, attach registration license plate not assigned, possess stolen property motor vehicle title registration bill of sale and operate motor vehicle without valid license

Other enforcement actions

∫ On Aug 28, officers responded to the scene of a two-vehicle crash The driver of one of the vehicles was subsequently issued a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued Arrangements were made to remove the vehicle from the scene

∫ On Aug 30, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a uniform traffic citation for unlawful speed and a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued The vehicle was towed from the scene

∫ On Aug 31, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for driving with a driver’s license expired more than six months. The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On Aug 31, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed A records check revealed the driver’s license was suspended and the vehicle had a seize tag order The driver was issued a uniform traffic citation for unknowingly driving with a suspended driver’s license, the vehicle tag was seized, and the vehicle towed from the scene

∫ On Sept 1, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for driving with a driver’s license expired more than six months The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

Enforcement operations statistics

From Aug 27 to Sept 2:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 8

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 17

∫ Traffic crashes: 1

∫ Radar details: 59

∫ Traffic stops: 67

Citations issued: 25

Written warnings issued: 2

Verbal warnings issued: 42

∫ Residential area checks: 321

∫ Business area checks: 171

∫ Total area checks: 815

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 0

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,099

August 2024 to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 44

∫ Non-emergency calls: 87

∫ Traffic crashes: 5

∫ Radar details: 198

∫ Traffic stops: 173

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

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

W

Foundation, the library has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders. The next one will take place on Sept. 18 at 2 p.m. with New York Times bestseller Nate Klemp, Ph D , author of “Open: Living with an Expansive Mind in a Distracted World ” He will talk about the core tenets in his new book

Klemp is a philosopher, writer and mindfulness entrepreneur He is the co-author of the New York Times best-

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on Sept 18 with Nate Klemp

seller “Start Here” and the New York Times critics' pick “The 80/80 Marriage ” Klemp's work has been featured in the LA Times, Psychology Today, Times of London and more, and his appearances include Good Morning America and Talks at Google He is co-founder of LifeXT and founding partner at Mindful

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

https://libraryc org/sanlib/upcoming

Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:

Crafternoon will be held today, Sept 11, from 3 to 4:30 p m The project will be “Button Making ” Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art A variety of craft

Lego Club will take place on Sept 12 at the Sanibel Public Library See LIBRARY, page 15

City to sponsor blood drive at Sanibel library

The city of Sanibel will sponsor t h e L e e H e a l t h B

Bloodmobile on Sept 12 from 8:30 a m to 4 p m in the front parking lot of the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

Donors will receive a mini-physical that will include check of temperature, blood pressure, heart rate and

Slice of Paradise

years or older and weigh at least 115 pounds

To reduce wait time, donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment by emailing their name, contact information and preferred appoint-

Appointments will start at 8:30 a m and run in half-hour increments with the last one at 4 p m Appointments fill quickly and will be provided on a first-come, first-serve basis. Walk-ins will be accepted and w o r k e d i n b e t w e e n c o n f i r m

appointments

The Sanibel School

Sanibel

Director Joey Giangreco at JosephAG@LeeSchools net For more information, call 239472-1617 or visit sbl leeschools net

STACY MOORE

supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance

On Sept. 12, Lego Club will take place from 3 to 4 p m Open to youths of all ages, participants will create their own individual houses out of LEGO bricks

Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held on Sept 13 from 10:30 to 11 a m Sing, read, question and move around during the stories, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, motor skills and creativity The program will include an art/craft center

On Sept 14, Saturday Crafterday will take place from 11 a.m. to noon with professional

a

Gindling Participants will create a watercolor stingray painting they can take home

Baby & Toddler Storytime and Playdate will be held on Sept 17 from 10:30 to 11 a m Open to ages 4 and under, babies and their

Blotter From page 14

Citations issued: 78

Written warnings issued: 0

Verbal warnings issued: 110

∫ Residential area checks: 1,375

∫ Business area checks: 765

∫ Total area checks: 3,713

∫ Reported burglaries: 4

∫ Reported thefts: 2

∫ Total CAD calls: 4,821

Impor tant reminders

Roadside parking is not allowed on Sanibel and is enforceable with a $150 fine

When leaving Sanibel, motorists are

caregivers will take part in a short story time, sensory play, literacy activities and more

On Sept. 18, Crafternoon will take place from 3 to 4:30 p m The project will be “Pressed Flower Lanterns ” Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance

For the most up-to-date information, visit the calendar at https://sanlib org/ Library cards are available to residents of Sanibel and Lee County at no charge Visitor library cards are available for a $10 annual fee

Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a m to 5 p m

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

Dunlop Road, Sanibel

encouraged to travel east on Periwinkle Way In order to minimize the number of

neighborhoods and increase traffic flow, priority is being given to vehicles eastbound on Periwinkle Motorists using Bailey Road southbound, Lindgren northbound and Periwinkle westbound may experience additional delays as traffic flows are adjusted for efficiency

Recreation Center and are valid from the date of purchase through Nov 30 The 2023 permits have expired and are no longer valid

Ramp:

∫ Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day

weekends and holidays is with AC/BC permit only

∫ Commercial use is prohibited

∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500

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

Repor ting suspicious activity

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

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411

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

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

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

F i n d t h e S P D o n F a

https://www facebook com/SanibelPolice

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Sanibel Public Library will present Saturday Crafterday on Sept 14

SPORTS

The

Dunes provides update on post-storm renovation

The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club on Sanibel reported that it is open following a multi-million dollar reno v a t i o n p r o j e c t c o m p l e t e d i n t h e a f t e r m a t h o f Hurricane Ian

“It's been almost two years since Hurricane Ian devastated Sanibel Island and in that time, The Dunes has experienced an amazing recovery thanks to the support of our community and The Dunes staff,” officials said “We are excited to welcome you!”

The tennis courts have a new underground watering system to ensure excellent clay court playing conditions at all times There are four pickleball courts for open or reserved play, plus a refurbished swimming pool and pavilion In addition, the 18-hole course was replaced with improved surfaces, with the tee boxes and fairways reseeded with paspalum grass

The Dunes is open to the general public, but memberships are available

It also hosts golf outings, tennis and pickleball matches, special events and weddings To schedule a tour, contact Dana Swanson at 239-472-3355, ext 221, or dswanson@theinnsofsanibel com

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t DunesGolfSanibel com

The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club is at at 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel

Rec center provides update on activities,

The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities.

Effective Sept 9, the center is issuing the 2024 Residential Hurricane Passes The residential (green) permit is for residents and property owners on Sanibel and Captiva They can be obtained with a valid ID with one's island address or a valid ID with another proof of residence, which are listed on the application To access the

https://www mysanibel com/content/download/32319/fi le/2024%20Application%20Residential%20Pass%20% 283%29 pdf Email the completed application, along w

hurricanepass@mysanibel.com and the permit will be

Applications can also be dropped off at the center

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District will offer complimentary blood pressure screenings on Sept 23 from 9 and 11 a m in the lobby

Weight Room 101 will take place on Sept 23 at 1 p m It will include weight room orientation, specific instruction on upper and lower body exercises, and cardiovascular training tips Instruction and guidance on how to properly train one's entire body safely and effectively will help participants to gain muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance. The class is limited to 10 participants; registration is required Closed-toe footwear is required

Update on stor m repairs

The gymnasium floor is scheduled for additional postHurricane Ian work starting the week of Sept. 16. The work is anticipated to last about 35 days If the project

events

runs on schedule, the gymnasium should reopen before the end of October

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

A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available

The center is open on Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a m to 5 p m

https://secure rec1 com/FL/sanibel-fl/catalog

For questions, call 239-472-0345

The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel

Gulf red snapper recreational season open

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported that the fall red snapper season for private recreational anglers and state for-hire operations in the Gulf of Mexico will be open:

∫ Sept 13-15

∫ Sept 20-22

∫ Sept 27-29

∫ Oct 4-6

∫ Oct. 11-13

∫ Oct 18-20 ∫ Oct 25-27 ∫ Nov 1-3

weekend)

Nov 15-17

∫ Nov 22-24 ∫ N o v 2 8 - 3 0 ( T h

g weekend)

other reef fish in state and federal waters, even if they are exempt from fishing license requirements Sign up as a State Reef Fish Angler at no cost at GoOutdoorsFlorida com or by visiting any location where you can purchase a license

State Reef Fish Anglers might receive a questionnaire in the mail regarding their reef fish trips as part of Florida’s State Reef Fish Survey. If you receive a survey, respond whether you fished this season or not or whether you have submitted data via other methods The additional days would not be possible without the State Reef Fish Survey

To learn more about the recreational red snapper season in Gulf state and federal waters, including s e a s o n s i z e

All anglers fishing from private recreational vessels must sign up annually as a State Reef Fish Angler to target red snapper and several

Private recreational anglers may harvest red snapper during the weekends in Gulf state and federal waters. However, state for-hire operations are limited to fishing for red snapper in Gulf state waters only The FWC will continue to monitor harvest relative to Florida’s available quota

MyFWC com/Fishing and click on “Saltwater Fishing,” “Recreational Regulations” and select “Snappers ”

Registration to open for youth camps

The Sanibel Sea School has two free Community Camps coming up Open to ages 6-13, “S.O.S. Save

Our Sharks” will take place on Oct 3 from 9 a m to 4 p m and “Living

Fossils: Horseshoe Crabs” will be held on Oct 14 from 9 a m to 4 p m

Registration will open on Sept 16 at 10 a m The outreach effort is intended to provide an affordable childcare solution as part of the A Chance to

org/community-camp/

THE DUNES GOLF & TENNIS CLUB

CITY OF SANIBEL

Event to suppor t local businesses

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

SAINT MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS EPISCOPAL CHURCH

T h e “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g

W i l d l i f e S o c i e t y - F r i e n d s

o f t h e R e f u g e p r o v i d e d

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N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e R e f u g e ,

a t 1 W i l d l i f e D r i v e ,

S a n i b e l :

∫ T h e s e c o n d a n n u a l

F a m i l y F u n N i g h t w i l l t a k e p l a c e o n S e p t . 2 0 a t

L a k e s P a r k i n F o r t M y e r s

∫ A d m i s s i o n t o

W i l d l i f e D r i v e w i l l b e

Obituaries

f r e e o n S e p t 2 8 i n o b s e r v a n c e o f N a t i o n a l P u b l i c L a n d s D a y

∫ O c t 1 3 w i l l m a r k t h e k i c k o f f f o r N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e R e f u g e W e e k a n d a d m i s s i o n f e e s f o r

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w a i v e d f o r t h e d a y

∫ I n o b s e r v a n c e o f

V e t e r a n s D a y , W i l d l i f e

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o n N o v 1 1

∫ P h o t o g r a p h e r -

a r t i s t N i k i B u t c h e r ' s “ D a y d r e a m i n g ” e x h i b i t i o n k i c k o f f h a s b e e n p o s t p o n e d u n t i l t h e l a t e f a l l o r e a r l y 2 0 2 5

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C o n s e r v a t i o n C a r n i

D

Interactive guide to open island businesses

The SanCap Chamber has a list available of businesses back in operation on Wander: Maps & Navigation The GPS-enabled interactive map also pinpoints beach accesses, bike parking areas and the user's relative location Points of interest can be filtered by seven categories Users can download the app from the Apple App Store and Google Play They can also access the map online at tinyurl com/sancapwandermap SANCAP CHAMBER

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Guacamole, a green sea turtle, was encountered for the first time on Sanibel this year

SCCF night team records 187 sea turtles

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s nighttime sea turtle tagging program had a successful 2024 season, documenting 353 encounters and 187 sea turtles on Sanibel from May 1 through July 31 Of them, 137 individuals were encountered on the island for the first time

The SCCF reported that each summer, the team conducts nightly, sunset-to-sunrise beach patrols in search of nesting sea turtles When it encounters a nesting sea turtle, she is first checked for tags to see if she has been previously identified

Sea turtles are tagged two different ways with an internal Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tag (similar to a microchip for pet dogs and cats) and external flipper tags (similar to cattle ear tags)

“These help us identify the individual turtle, so her nesting behavior and movement patterns can be tracked over time,” SCCF sea turtle biologist Savannah Weber said

This year’s 353 encounters are only slightly less than last year’s record-breaking season of 406 Last year, 222 individuals were encountered, and 125 individuals were encountered in 2022 Since the program’s start in 2016, the

tagging project has documented 1,196 unique sea turtles

“Each newly tagged turtle is given an honorary name, which helps keep track of who’s who while analyzing data,” she said “This year’s theme was savory snacks ”

The 137 turtles that were new to Sanibel received nicknames like “Cheez-It,” “Pizza Roll” and “Ruffles ”

Of the 187 individuals, 75 were encountered more than once on the island The loggerheads seen the most included new turtle Bugle, who was seen eight times three times nesting, five times false crawling and returning loggerhead Bonita, who was seen six times nesting five times, and false crawling once

“Bonita was first tagged on Sanibel in 2020, and this year was the first time she has been encountered since then,” Weber said.

The team also encountered two nesting green turtles this season The first green turtle was “Pickles,” who was originally tagged on Manasota Key in 2022 It was the first time that she was encountered on Sanibel

The second green turtle, also never before encountered

on the island, did not have any previous tags She was given the name “Guacamole ” She was encountered nesting twice and false crawling once.

“Eight years into the program, we’ve documented nearly 1,200 unique sea turtles,” she said “These numbers illustrate Sanibel Island’s importance as sea turtle nesting habitat ”

Season totals update

The SCCF reported that while sea turtle season officially lasts through Oct 31, nesting and hatching season is beginning to slow down on Sanibel and Captiva To date, loggerheads have laid 836 nests on the islands and 15,604 loggerhead hatchlings have emerged. The totals also include one leatherback nest, 40 emerged leatherback hatchlings and three green turtle nests

To report stranded turtles or issues related to nests, lighting, beach furniture or holes on the beach, contact the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663

School District sets College Night for Sept. 17

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers

com

More than 100 representatives from colleges, universities and technical schools across the country will fill Suncoast Credit Union Arena at Florida Southwestern State College this month for students

“College Night is an opportunity to visit with representatives from schools across the state and country Students can meet with the ones they are interested in but also be exposed to schools they hadn’t thought of or heard of that may offer just what they want,” School District of Lee County spokesperson Rob Spicker said “The information gained can be used to narrow down a list of favorites for campus visits or actual applications Choosing a college is a big decision and the more research into finding the right fit the better the overall experience is going to be ”

College Night will be held from 6 to 8 p m Tuesday, Sept 17, at Suncoast Credit Union Arena, 13351 FSW Pkwy , Fort Myers

Each school, college, or university will bring a variety of information about their campus, student body, areas of study and financial aid The representatives will also answer questions students and families might have

“The most important thing to bring is an open mind and questions,” Spicker said “Visit with as many colleges as possible and ask insightful questions about what they can offer you so you can get answers beyond the pamphlets provided Ask the same questions

of each college to make fair comparisons and bring a pen to write down key information to help remember it later ”

College Night has been held for more than 20 years with a few missed during COVID.

“Our largest year was about 4,000,” Spicker said about the attendance “Every year is different, but several hundred will at least attend and possibly more than that ”

The school district invites colleges nationwide to attend, particularly those that have come before, or have a high interest among the students, he said

“For our juniors, it’s time to start thinking about what your major might be, what kind of college do I want to attend and what kind of activities do I want to participate in. For our seniors it’s time to select the schools you are going to apply to College Night is the perfect way to help make those choices,”

Spicker said

Those that have confirmed include:

∫ Berry College, Georgia

∫ Bethune-Cookman College

∫ Bryant University, Rhode Island

∫ Cape Coral Technical College

∫ Drexel University, Pennsylvania

∫ Eckerd College

∫ Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

∫ Flagler College

∫ Florida Academy

∫ Florida Army National Guard

∫ Florida Atlantic University

∫ Florida Gulf Coast University

∫ Florida Gulf Coast University -

College of Education

∫ Florida Institute of Technology

∫ Florida International University

∫ Florida Polytechnic University

∫ Florida Southern College

∫ Florida Southwestern State College

∫ Florida State University

∫ Fort Myers Technical College

∫ Furman University, South Carolina

∫ George Mason University, Virginia

∫ Indiana University, Indiana

∫ Keiser University

∫ Lees-McRae College, North Carolina

∫ LIM College, New York

∫ Loyola University Maryland, Maryland

∫ Lynn University

∫ Miami University of Ohio, Ohio

∫ Michigan State University, Michigan

∫ Missouri University of Science & Technology, Missouri

∫ Montclair State University, New Jersey

∫ National Aviation Academy

∫ New York Film Academy

∫ Norwich University, Vermont

∫ NOVA Southeastern University

∫ Oglethorpe University, Georgia

∫ Palm Beach Atlantic University

∫ Premiere International College

∫ Purdue University, Indiana

∫ Rasmussen College

∫ Rider University, New Jersey

∫ Ringling College of Art & Design

∫ Rollins College

∫ Savannah College of Art & Design, Georgia

∫ Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania

∫ Southeastern University

∫ Stetson University

∫ Temple University, Pennsylvania

∫ The Salon Professional Academy

∫ Troy University, Alabama

∫ United States Coast Guard Academy, Connecticut

∫ United States Military Academy, New York

∫ Universal Technical Institute

∫ The University of Alabama, Alabama

∫ University of Central Florida

∫ University of Connecticut, Connecticut

∫ University of Florida

∫ University of Kentucky, Kentucky

∫ University of Maine, Maine

∫ University of Miami

∫ University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada

∫ University of North Florida

∫ University of Notre Dame, Indiana

∫ University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

∫ University of South Florida

∫ University of Tampa

∫ Valdosta State University, Georgia

∫ Vanderbilt University, Tennessee

∫ Western Carolina University, North Carolina

∫ Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Massachusetts

∫ Richmond American University, London, England

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation sea turtle biologist Savannah Weber measures a nesting loggerhead

Blueway From page 1

to eat as they explore the trail that includes the rivers and back bay shorelines

During the anniversary celebration through January, Tarpon Bay Explorers the official concession for the Sanibel refuge will offer 10% off kayak and paddleboard rentals and tours The discount cannot be used with any other deal and does not apply to other purchases and rentals Blackout dates are Dec 20 through Jan 4 To receive the discount, mention the challenge at the time of booking or upon arrival for rentals

s c h o o l d i s t r i c t w e d o g e n e r a t i v e A I extremely conservative in our approach,” he said “We are a highly regulated industry We have to ensure the safety of our student data ”

Alton said it is about safeguarding data collected and systems the district can trust

“A lot of the solutions around these are just in pilot and not super mature,” he said.

W h e n l o o k i n g a t A I t e c h n o l o g i e s implemented in the district, they are looking at return on investment and safety perspective

In the field for more than 30 years, de Castro said data science is a field that t

processes that are capable of extracting

Those who complete at least 75% of the challenge will be entered to win a grand prize of an 11-foot Body Glove iSUP Performer paddleboard or a two-night stay at the Tarpon Lodge on Pine Island

The free challenge is open now through Feb 28

The Blueway is part of the 1,600 mile Florida Circumnavigational Trail and it connects to water trails in counties to the north and south It is also part of the Florida Greenways and Trails System, and it received National Recreation Trails designation by the U S

knowledge from the data to use for decision making The data science workflow includes analytical mapping, data gathering and preparation, data analysis, data analytics and validation and integration

He said data analysis is extracting some information that is available in the data, so you can characterize it and understand it and extrapolate the information in the data and make a prediction based on the data.

“Artificial intelligence you code how your software is going to learn how to do something There are two ways of learning One way is by filling the system with data past data system to learn from it a n d t a k e a c t i o n b a s e d

Another way is by interacting with the environment,” de Castro said “That is

Department of Interior in 2004

The Blueway was developed with funding provided by the Lee County Tourist Development Council and is managed by Lee County Parks & Recreation

For Blueway maps and GPS coordinates, visit visitfortmyers com/calusablueway/maps

To sign up for the free challenge, visit visitfortmyers com/CalusaBluewayChallenge

For more information, visit visitfortmyers com/calusablueway or leeparks com

what makes AI different from standard software ”

He said when data science interacted with education, there were three areas that became very popular in the past 15 years: learning analytics, educational data mining and academic analytics

With learning analytics the goal is improving learning by using AI, data science, such as creating a better learning experience for students. Educational data mining is a field of study that applies methods and techniques to educational d a t a t o s o l v

Academic analytics is broader as it can use any type of data related to education

“This is a broader field very much used for many managers, administrators that want to optimize school performance in its many areas,” de Castro said

After 2011-12, there has been exponential growth in the number of works and solutions being developed in the field, and

The city was negotiating a pay package with firefighters, hoping for a quick turnaround, officials at the Sept 4 hearing insisted Worker pay would increase 14%, should the vote favor settlement Deputy chiefs and the city’s fire marshal were tentatively granted pay increases

“I think we can make it work,” Fire Chief Kevin Barbot said of his next budget and the millage rate at the Sept 4 hearing

“

Rescue District chair Jerry Muench said as agreement for the tentative millage was embraced by his companion commissione

h a r d M c C u r r y a n d B r u c e Cochrane

While Sanibel’s taxable property value of $6 4 billion is down significantly from Ian in September 2022, that figure had convalesced back to $4.66 billion, officials said Full recovery of island services, commercial and residential value, was 5-7 years after a hurricane, however, experts in natural disasters had estimated after the Category 4 storm’s full effect was calculated

Fire and police in other communities such as Fort Myers Beach and Pine Island had suffered similar losses of equipment and structures Sanibel, for example, is rebuilding Stationhouse 172, has federal and state commitments to fund the rebuild of Stationhouse 1 on Pine Ridge Road

Insurance and repairs were cited at the Sept 4 hearing as the biggest factors in driving costs The city’s fire unit, for

it is still growing quickly

He said there are many benefits to AI, as well as challenges and ethical issues

Benefits include monitoring student activity to optimizing cost efficiency The challenges include data quality, data integration, scalability of solutions and technical expertise for analytics and solutions, as well as having to be actionable

“I am a researcher in AI,” de Castro said. “I work on the development of solutions and testing them From my perspective, we can deal with some ethical problems In a sense, bias is a problem because sometimes the data is bias ”

He said it comes down to regulating policies to mitigate and minimize bias

“We want to create policies, so the tools are developed for the good, but we don’t want the policies to constrain or block the development of the tools,” de Castro said

instance, was hunting insurance carriers, as property and liability letters of nonrenewal were recently received The two Sanibel stationhouses, as was much of the island, were ruined by Ian An insurance policy for fire equipment and property that ran $100,000 in the previous budget would likely double, officials at the Sept 4 meeting said. And Sanibel abides by liability rules that major repairs go to equipment dealers, again driving costs, as labor and parts had skyrocketed, Chief Barbot said

Commissioners also approved a 5% pay hike for Chief Barbot, raising his salary to $175,350 Sanibel authorities in past budget cycles had bumped firefighter starting pay to $63,400, a median on the scale in Florida, Chief Barbot, a 14-year department veteran taking command in October 2022, said. Police and firefighters in Florida had for years accepted better p a

Authorities in Southwest Florida wanted to stop that practice with better packages

The Sept 4 hearing was a first read-

, Sanibel’s fire rescue unit in 2024-25 would collect nearly $6 5 million of its $

meet for that second hearing on Sept 18 at Stationhouse 171, 2351 Palm Ridge Road. It begins at 5:01 p.m. The balance of the department’s spending is in state and federal earmarks, something local agencies need to survive

Thinking about the afterlife Entry deadline drawing closer for DDWS and refuge photo contest

I’m at a point in life where I begin to think seriously of an afterlife The questions that recur are – is there one? And if so, what will it be like?

Please understand that I plan to live a long life and fully enjoy all earthly pleasures But being in the autumn of my years I can’t help but wonder which philosophy or religion to hang my hat on All I

k n o w a b o u t b e i n g a human being with mortality hovering in the background is that I have a b o d y a n d a b r a i n Together those two entities have given me a lot of earthly pleasure as well as pain I know what I have and what to expect

But if there’s an afterlife will I become a disembodied presence hanging around with other disembodied presences? Will I be wearing a white gown

o v e r m y d i s e m b o d i e d presence? Will my next home be up in a cloud

s o m e w h e r e ? W i l l I b e playing a harp? Would I need to take lessons first? If I have no body how will I be able to play?

Which leads to the next question? Where is heaven anyway? If I’m to go there shouldn’t I prepare now for the journey? How does one get there anyway? Do I rent a celestial car? Will Santa’s reindeer moonlight between Christmas seasons and offer me a ride?

I would really like to prepare so that I know what I’m in for Is heaven truly a reward for those who have lived a good life? Or is there a possibility I will be denied? And if I’m denied does that mean that there would be no afterlife in store for me? Would I just cease to exist?

But I plan to think positively about an afterlife and look forward to my role in it I assume if I no longer have a body that I’ll be communicating with other after life residents in another way Would it be a wordless form of communication like brain waves? Is that what a soul is like? So many questions

What about all the people who have gone on to heaven since time began? Given the fact that there have been trillions of human beings on earth will heaven become too crowded? Does heaven have a suburb? Would I be given a rent controlled cloud far from downtown heaven?

Will I be seeing long lost friends? The guys on my block who got to heaven before me? My parents? Babe Ruth? Attila the Hun? Will I have the opportunity to run into Abraham Lincoln and find out what he remembers of that play he was watching when he left for heaven? Could I get his autograph? Or would there be no such thing as autographs because those who reside in heaven don’t have arms or legs?

Are there wars in heaven or does everyone live in pure peace? I don’t think I’d want an afterlife in which the same wars and inhumane treatment we have right here on earth carry over Does God make sure that heaven is all that it’s cracked up to be? Or does He reign over an overpopulated, underwhelming, overly promoted entity?

Do all races, ethnic minorities, rich and poor dwell together in perfect harmony? Or is there the same caste system we already have here on earth?

And one final question If there’s life on other planets do those souls all go to the same heaven? If so, I would be meeting some really interesting people I’ll learn more about the universe from them than I would on earth

If there’s an afterlife then death is just a halfway house to a more rewarding place And it’s eternal Right? I’m not a very religious man but the mere possibility that a far, far better place awaits us is very tantalizing

Sanibel-Captiva Islander His tongue-in-cheek humor is always offered with a smile

w

P h o t o s t h a t h a v e w o n a w a r d s i n p r e v i o u s D D W S p h o t o c o n t e s t s m a y n o t b e r e s u b m i t t e d ∫ J u d g i n g w i l l b e a n o n y m o u s P l e a s e d o n o t p u t y o u r n a m e o r a n y t h i n g t h a t w i l l i d e n t i f y y o u o n y o u r p h o t o g r a p h

∫ J u d g i n g c r i t e r i a : T e c h n i c a l e x c e l l e n c e ( s h a r p n e s s , l i g h t i n g , c o m p o s i t i o n a n d e x p o s u r e ) ; o r i g i n a l i t y / c r ea t i v i t y ; i n t e r e s t ; a n d a b i l i t y t o b e r e p r o d u c e d f o r p u b l ic a t i o n ∫ O n l y l i m i t e d i m a g e m o d i f i c a t i o n s a r e p e r m i t t e d

M i n o r m a n i p u l a t i o n s h o u l d b e u s e d o n l y t o p r o d u c e a m o r e n a t u r a l l o o k i n g p h o t o g r a p h . C r o p p i n g i s a l l o w e d

b u t a d d i n g a n y e l e m e n t s n o t e x i s t i n g i n t h e o r i g i n a l s c e n e w i l l n o t b e a c c e p t e d J u d g e s , a t t h e i r d i s c r e t i o n , w i l l d i s q u a l i f y a n y p h o t o s t h a t a p p e a r t o b e m a n i p u l a t -

e d b e y o n d t h e s e g u i d e l i n e s

∫ A l l p h o t o f i l e s w i l l b e c o m e t h e p r o p e r t y o f t h e

D D W S P h o t o s m a y b e u s e d b y t h e D D W S i n a n y w a y w i t h a p p r o p r i a t e c r e d i t g i v e n t o t h e p h o t o g r a p h e r

∫ F i r s t , s e c o n d a n d t h i r d p l a c e w i n n e r s a n d h o n o r -

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

O c t o b e r

∫ T h e c o n t e s t ' s t h r e e j u d g e s w i l l i n c l u d e a r e f u g e s t a f f p e r s o n , p r o f e s s i o n a l p h o t o g r a p h e r a n d m e m b e r o f t h e S a n i b e l c o m m u n i t y

F o r a n e n t r y f o r m a n d m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t d i n g -

d a r l i n g s o c i e t y o r g / p h o t o - c o n t e s t s

E n t r i e s m u s t b

First place last year went to Heidi Dirkse, of Wo l v e

d “Looking for Love ”

ABOVE:

Third place last year went to Kathleen Colligan, of Pennsylvania, for “Mangrove Tree Crab ”

KATHLEEN COLLIGAN

LEFT:

Last year's second place winner was Frank Brinker, of Oberageri, Switzerland, for “Low-flying Fisherman ” FRANK BRINKER

Art Stevens Shell Shocked

HEIDI DIRKSE

Saint Michael to host family gathering

Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church will host its next Messy Church on Sept 15 from 4 to 6 p m at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel The theme will be “Samuel Listening to God ” 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 c

https://www saintmichaels-sanibel org/

Al-Anon, Al-Ateen meetings

Are you concerned with a friend or family member's drinking? Let us help

Call our 24-hour helpline at 941-564-5098 or visit www SouthFloridaAl-Anon org Meetings are held every day in Lee County Al-Ateen meetings are also offered for ages 10-18

SANIBEL CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

SCUCC to present musical ser vices

The Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ will host “Godapalooza” on Sept 15 and 22 at 10 a m at 2050 Periwinkle Way,

Sanibel The special worship services will feature locally acclaimed artists performing music from “Godspell ” Based on parables

from the Book of Matthew, it is a classic and multi-award-winning rock musical The performances are free and open to the public

Hearts Club meeting weekly at TCH

Fridays at noon at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island resident Tommy

Williams is sponsoring the group this season All are welcome to join in and play, including beginners Last week’s winners included

Stan Grogg in first place, Mary Beth Zersy in second place, and Barbara Gross and Trudy Williams tied for third place

ISL AND HOME islander

is also known as cardboard palm

Zamia (Zamia furfuracea) is a cycad, one of the most ancient of plant species This particular cycad is native to parts of Mexico and Veracruz and has

b e c o m e a f a v o r i t e i n

Florida The plant grows

v e r y s l o w l y a n d h a s leaves that radiate from a s m a l l c e n t r a l t r u n k

T h e Z a m i a u s u a l l y

r e a c h e s a m a x i m u m height of 3-4 feet, but has a spreading growth pattern

T h e l e a v e s h a v e a very clean, architectural look to them and they lend an almost structural element to the landscape Planted as a focal point in a plant bed or in a container, the Zamia adds an interesting look to a subtropical landscape The plant is easy to grow and likes full sun and moist soil It makes a great addition to a butterfly garden as certain butterfly species like to hide underneath the wide leaves to form their chrysalis

Large seed pods develop on the female plant in the form of a rusty cone with large seeds that look like big kernels of corn. A word of caution, the plants are highly toxic if eaten by animals or people, so they should be planted only in areas where pets and children will not be tempted to ingest the seeds or other parts of the plant

You might like to try one of these ancient cycads in your tropical landscape They are good foil for the softer leaves of most tropical plants and stand up well in an island landscape

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

F.I.S.H. highlights program for National Food Bank Day

In honor of National Food Bank Day recognized on Sept 6, F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva on Sanibel is shining a spotlight on its food pantry program and how it helps curb food insecurity in Lee County

It reported that the cost of feeding a family can lead to immense consequences

According to findings in the Feeding America Meal Gap, Lee County and 2023 ALICE Report, Lee County, a single parent with a school-age child who is working full-time can spend nearly a quarter of their paycheck on food alone

The food pantry serves as a lifeline for families and individuals struggling to make ends meet

F I S H offers a “choice pantry,” allowing clients to select the items that they need, ensuring that nothing goes to waste and dietary needs and preferences are met It also supplies essential personal hygiene products, paper goods and pet care items

“No one should go to bed hungry,” Executive Director Maria Espinoza said “Not one child Not one parent Not one senior At F I S H , we’re working hard to make sure every person has enough to eat and never faces an impossible choice ”

F I S H is seeking donations of peanut butter, canned tuna and non-perishable items

“Your generosity ensures that we can provide essen-

tial nutrition to those in need and make a meaningful difference in our community,” it shared

Available to all county residents, the pantry is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a m to 3 p m and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a m to 7:30 p m To participate in the program, clients are asked to provide basic information, to include proof of residency and their household size

For more information, visit www fishofsancap org or call 239-472-4775.

City provides guidance on Dark Sky light fixtures

The city of Sanibel is encouraging the community to help protect the island's native wildlife and smalltown character with Dark Sky light

owner's guide to outdoor lighting.

Before making lighting purchases, consider the following:

recessed under a porch or roof overhang

∫ Full cutoff fixtures for landscaping and pathway lighting under 3 feet tall are recommended, but not required

∫ Fixtures must be downward facing.

∫ Motion detected security lighting, using a full cutoff fixture, is encouraged

∫ Mercury vapor lighting is not allowed

∫ Parking areas and roadways, i

areas upon which motorized vehicles

CITY OF SANIBEL

An example of a “full cutoff” light fixture.

vehicular headlights from directly or indirectly illuminating the beach

Per mits for outdoor lighting

∫ A permit is required for outdoor lighting on properties or struc-

tures located in the Bay Beach, Gulf Beach and Gulf Beach Ridge zones and must comply with marine turtle lighting standards

∫ Know your zone! The city’s Future Land Use Map Series is availa b l e a t h

com/apps/webappviewer/index html ?id=3da5033bdad449bfa348961f9 7080358

∫ A permit is also required for pole mounted fixtures greater than 10 feet tall

∫ P er mits can be applied f or using Sanibel Online at https://sanib

/apps/SelfService#/applicationAssist ant?sectionName=All&moduleId=2 &categoryName=All&showTemplat es=false

To review outdoor lighting standards in the city's Land Development C

code com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of

County sets new hours for waste collection facility

Effective Sept 2, Lee County

S o l i d W a

hours for the Household Chemical Waste Collection Facility in Fort Myers to Monday through Friday from 7:30 a m to 4:30 p m

The change opening and closing 30 minutes earlier is being implemented to improve customer service and better align with the facility's demand

It will continue to operate from 8 a m to noon on the first Saturday of each month, except for holidays U

labeled flammable, toxic, corrosive and/or reactive are common household chemical wastes that should be

reminds residents to be aware of proper rechargeable battery disposal An increasing number of products contain lithium-ion batteries, which can be hazardous when disposed of improperly Lithium-ion batteries are

products, along with others:

Game controllers

Digital cameras

Portable power packs ∫ Greeting cards ∫ Electric toothbrushes

See NEW HOURS, page 28

Sanibel

Captiva

IN THE GARDEN

Zamia Zamia

F I S H OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Recipe of the Week: Affogato Gelato

This is one of my favorite desserts in a hot summer day “Affogato” in Italian means to drown, and in this dessert the gelato and the Chantilly cream are drown in espresso coffee and finished with shaved chocolate I like to serve it at my restaurant with hazelnut biscotti for a perfect ending to a great meal Serves eight (Chef tip: Freeze the glasses before making this quick dessert and serve the espresso coffee in separate cups and let your guests poor it over the gelato This will prevent it from melting too fast )

2 cups freshly brewed espresso coffee

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup dark rum or Kalua or Frangelico Liquor

1 tablespoon shaved semi-sweet chocolate

8 scoops vanilla gelato

8 scoops chocolate gelato

16 hazelnut biscotti

For Chantilly cream:

2 cups heavy cream, chilled

1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Place egg yolks, vanilla paste and sugar in a large bowl and whisk until mixture is pale yellow and thick Set aside In a medium saucepan, heat the cream and milk to an almost boil Remove and cool slightly Gradually whisk cream into the egg mixture, adding slowly and whisking constantly to prevent cooking the eggs.

Return mixture to saucepan and cook gently, stirring constantly until mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon Do not boil Strain mixture, cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until completely chilled

Transfer to an ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer’s instructions

Chocolate Gelato

(makes 4 1/2 cups)

1 cup heavy cream

3 cups whole milk

1 cup sugar, granulated

6 egg yolks

1 vanilla bean, split in half

1/8 teaspoon salt

4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

1/4 cup strong coffee

1/4 cup hazelnut paste

1 tablespoon stabilizer (optional)

Heat cream, milk, sugar and vanilla in a heavy saucepan, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling

In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, confectioner’s sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form Fill a pastry bag, fitted with a large star tip, with the cream and pipe as desired

Divide chocolate and vanilla gelato among eight deep glasses, bowls or coffee cups Poor the preferred liquor over the gelato and generously pipe the prepared Chantilly whipped cream over the gelato Sprinkle with shaved chocolate Serve immediately with espresso coffee and hazelnut biscotti.

Vanilla Gelato

(makes one quart)

4 egg yolks

1 cup sugar

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

1 teaspoon vanilla paste

CROW Calendar

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

∫ Wednesday, Sept 1 1

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

Ecology ”

∫ Thursday, Sept. 1 2

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be “Ecosystems Of Florida ”

∫ Friday, Sept. 1 3

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

∫ Monday, Sept 1 6

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “A Day In The Life ”

∫ Tuesday, Sept. 1 7

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

Conservation ”

∫ Wednesday, Sept. 1 8

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

Limited to 12 people; participants must be age 10 or older The cost is $25 per person; advanced registration and payment is required To register, contact 239-4723644 ext 229 or reservations@crowclinic org

F o r m o

http://www crowclinic org/ or call 239472-3644.

Santiva Islanders Calendar

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, Sept 11, from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and A ll A n gels Epis cop al C hurch, 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 Sept 12 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 2142 0 6 - 6 8 2 2 o r drsusantalmage@gmail com

Social Mahjong

Social Mahjong will be held on Sept 12 from 1 to 3:30 p m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal C h u r c h , a t 2 3 0 4 P e r i w i n k l e W a y , Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, c o n t a c

bfundy4648@gmail com

Place egg yolks, stabilizer and salt in a separate bowl and whisk briefly

Still whisking, slowly add hot cream mixture into egg yolks using the tempering method

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens Remove from the heat Strain and add chocolate and coffee Do not stir for 10 minutes; just let the mixture sit to cool

Once cooled, stir the mixture until creamy and smooth add hazelnut paste Place in the refrigerator to chill

Place chilled mixture in the machine and freeze

Island Worship

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

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

Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer

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

∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea 11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva, 239-472-1646, https://www captivachapel com/, www facebook com/Captiva-Chapel-By-The-Sea Rev Dr Doug Dortch

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

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida

P O Box 722, Sanibel, www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org Shabbat service on Friday at 7:30 p m Torah Talk on Tuesday at 7:30 p m There are also speakers, discussions and informal “schmoozes ” For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail com

∫ Sanibel Community Church 1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2684, https://sanibelchurch com/, https://www facebook com/sanibelchurch/ Pastor Jeramie Rinne

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

∫ Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-0497, https://www sanibelucc org/, https://www facebook com/sanibelucc/

Senior Minister Rev Dr Mark Boyea

Sunday service at 10 a m in 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

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on Sept 13 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

Loretta Paganini

Cheeburger Cheeburger, 1975 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

MudBugs

Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

RC Otter's Island Eats, 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

islandBEAT islander

“A Few Good Men” from Sept 12-22 at

Talley, Aaron Sorkin's groundbreaking debut t

defend two Marines in G u a n

n a m o B a y During the course of the trial, they uncover a high-level conspiracy designed to eliminate weaker soldiers in the name of patriotism Tickets are $21 75 to $37 50 For more information or tickets, visit https://ftmyerstheatre com/ Theater to present

The Community House Calendar

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

Sanibel Hear ts Club

The Sanibel Hearts Club will meet on Sept 13 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 Sept 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the lobby. A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a m ; it is free and supplies range from $5-10 Items will be available for sale All sales benefit the operations of TCH

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

TCH office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a m to 3 p m For more information, visit www sanibelcommun

info@sanibelcommunityhouse net

Rehabilitation of Wildlife on S a

d t h a t w h

n Jerry's Foods had to temporarily close for a week for an electrical upgrade, the store reached out “We were able to take all of their produce that would go bad while their store was closed, and we are putting it to great use for our patients i n c a r e , ” C R O W s a i d I t thanked Jerry's Food for providing produce for the animals CLINIC FOR THE REHABILITATION OF WILDLIFE

Santiva Islanders Calendar

Cardio & Strength

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

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on Sept. 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 Sept 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

Social Hour

Social Hour will be held on Sept 16 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 Sept 18 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

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

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

Rosalita's Cantina, 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel

The Mucky Duck, 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

City reveals winners of drawing contest

The city of Sanibel recently announced the winners of its Sanibel Lighthouse 140th Anniversary drawing contest, which served to commemorate the landmark's anniversary on Aug 20

The winners in the age categories are as follows:

∫ Ages 6-12: Emily Preston

∫ Ages 13-18: Anna Anderson-Kilgore

∫ Ages 19 and older: Jason Cintron

“Congratulations to the winners,” the city reported “Thank you to everyone who participated We received numerous outstanding entries, making the selection process quite challenging!”

All submissions will be on display from now through Sept 20 at the Sanibel Public Library

The city noted that artists who would like to pick up their artwork can do so after Sept 20 at the Sanibel Recreation Center, 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road

Theatre Conspiracy kicks off new season of shows

Theatre Conspiracy at the Alliance for the Arts (AFTA) announced the lineup for its 31st season

“This season promises a dynamic lineup of four diverse theatrical performances, ranging from classic favorites to contemporary comedies, and award-winning plays by both renowned and emerging playwrights,” it shared “Additionally, the d a t e s f o r t h e m u c h - a n t i c i p a t e d 2 0 2 5 Fringe Fort Myers have been set ”

∫ “5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche”

Sept 12-14 at 7:30 p m and Sept 15 at 2 p.m.

In 1956, amidst fears of Communist attack and homosexual subversion, the Susan B Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein meet for their annual Quiche Breakfast in a revamped meeting hall/bomb shelter As Soviet bombs fall, the Sisters face spending the next four years in the shelter, leading them to abandon social conventions and embrace their true lesbian identities “5 Lesbians Eating

a Q u i c h e , ” a 2 0 1 2 N Y I n t e r n a t i o n a l Fringe Festival sensation, is a farcical, audience-interactive celebration of sisterhood and survival Starring Lucy Sundby, Shelley Sanders, Anna Grilli, Madelaine Weymouth and Karen Goldberg By Evan Linder and Andrew Hobgood, and directed by Stephanie Davis

∫ “Clown Bar 2 ”

Dec 12-14 and 19-21 at 7:30 p m and Dec 22 at 2 p m

This immersive experience transforms the Foulds Theatre into an actual functioning bar, the Clown Bar, plunging you into the dark and secret world of these h i l a r i o u s , y e t f r i g h t e n i n g , g a n g s t e r clowns A murder has once again rocked the Clown Bar, a notorious lair where u n d e r g r o u n d c l o w n c r i m e d o m i n a t e s Amidst the strict rules and dark humor, a gunshot erupts, leaving a bleeding stream

ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS “5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche”

of confetti in its wake In this world, the best way to serve a cocktail is with a punchline One year later, the Clown Bar has fallen into disrepair and Happy is missing Did the infamous clown cowboy Brigham Bill take him out, or is there a more sinister plot at play? Two cops, who once knew Happy from his days on the force, don their disguises and go undercover as clowns to uncover the truth

b e h i n d h i s d i s a p p e a r a n c e B y A d a m Szymkowicz, and directed by Bill Taylor

∫ “Jitney”

Feb. 13-15 and 20-22 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb 23 at 2 p m

The AFTA is committed to performing the entire American Century Cycle of August Wilson plays “Jitney” is chronologically the eighth of 10 plays, and the sixth performance at the AFTA Regular

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

JASON CINTRON

ANNA ANDERSON-KILGORE

EMILY PRESTON

Damon Fowler to headline Art is Essential Bash

The Alliance for the Arts (AFTA) recently announced that acclaimed blues artist Damon Fowler will perform at the Art is Essential Bash on Sept 14 at 7 p m at 10091 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

Previously opening for JJ Grey at Arts on Tap in December, the Tampa native w

blend of American roots music to the outdoor concert on the GreenMarket lawn

The fun-filled evening will feature a full bar, offering a wide selection of beer,

Shows

From page 27

taxi cabs will not travel to the Pittsburgh Hill District of the 1970s, and so the residents turn to jitneys unofficial, unlicensed taxi cabs that operate in the community Jitney portrays the lives of the drivers at the station owned by Jim Becker This compelling play is rich with themes of family conflict, the lingering effects of the Vietnam War, battles with addiction and the pervasive presence of racism. It explores the intricate dynamics between fathers and sons, the shadows cast by war and the relentless fight against societal and personal demons By August Wilson, and directed by Sonya McCarter

∫ “Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me, But Banjos Saved My Life”

M a r c h 1 8 t h r o u g h A p r i l 2 2 o n Tuesdays at 2 p m

Keith Alessi shares his exceptional

wine and mixed drinks available for purchase, as well as a local food truck on site

Attendees should bring their chairs

In July, the AFTA launched its Art is Essential campaign The concert celebrates the donors who have committed to

DeSantis The initiative aims to secure sustainable support for the arts community and ensure the continuation of vital programs and services

true story of leaving the corporate world behind to follow his true passion playing the banjo When faced with a c

becomes the key to saving his life Told through authentic storytelling, heartfelt humor and music, this highly awarded, internationally toured show is an uplifting story of challenge, triumph, and the p

evening is one sure to leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to dust off your own long forgotten dreams By Keith Alessi

Tickets are $32 for non-members, $27 for members and $15 for students

For more information or tickets, visit www ArtInLee org/Theatre or call 239939-2787

The Alliance for the Arts is at 10091 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

“In the face of adversity, we celebrate the resilience and generosity of our comm

Rowan Deckart said “This concert is our heartfelt thank you to the donors who stood by us and contributed to the 'Art is Essential' Campaign Together, we affirm that the arts will always find a way to

New hours

Toys

thrive, inspire and unite us all ”

Tickets are $20 for members and $25 for non-members

Entry is free for sustaining donors of the campaign

For more information or tickets, visit w w w

bash/

From page 24

∫ E-bikes, e-scooters, electric lawn mowers and hover boards Businesses that need chemical waste

Services at 276-477-0947 to schedule an appointment for the monthly business col-

lection held at the county's waste facility F

www LeeGov com/SolidWaste/Dispose T

he Household Chemical Waste Collection Facility is at 6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers

ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS

Damon Fowler

Submissions open for Hispanic Heritage Month contests

The Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida are encouraging students to participate in the Hispanic Heritage Month student art and essay contests, with the theme “Honoring Hispanic Contributions to Florida’s Success ” Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized and celebrated from Sept 15 to Oct 15

“Florida’s Hispanic Heritage Month contests provide students with the opportunity to learn about the many Hispanic Floridians who contributed to our state’s s u c c e s s , ” C o m m i s s i o n e r o f E d u c a t i o n Manny Diaz Jr said “The influence of Hispanic culture is evident throughout Florida and I look forward to seeing the inspiration students gain from the many excellent examples of Hispanic achievement in our state ”

“I am honored to recognize the profound impact Hispanic cultures have on

American, Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to both celebrate and educate future generations about the importance of community and serving others ”

All Florida students are invited to participate in academic and creative contests based on this year’s theme Students in grades K-3 are invited to participate in an art contest, while students in grades 4-12 are invited to participate in an essay contest Additionally, students, parents, teachers and principals are invited to nominate full-time educators of all student grades for the Excellence in Education Award

Edison, Ford estates to temporarily close

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers will be closed on Sept 17-19 In the interest of historic preservation, inspections and cyclical preventative maintenance work take place monthly To adequately p

measures are taken to correct any issues that are found during inspections. Excessive moisture from rain and past storms has been conducive to the growth of termite populations Termites have been discovered in some of the buildings Professional inspectors have recommended tenting the structures as the best long-term solution to eliminate the termites During the closure, the structures will be tented The site is expected to be operational and open on Sept 20 For more information, visit EdisonFord org

Student ar t contest

The Hispanic Heritage Month art contest is open to all kindergarten through third-grade students Each student will submit original, two-dimensional artwork based on this year’s theme Four statewide winners will be selected, and each winner will receive a $100 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to Florida State Parks

Student essay contest

The Hispanic Heritage Month essay contest is open to all students in grades 412 Six winners will be selected: two elementary school students (grades 4-5), two middle school students (grades 6-8) and two high school students (grades 9-12)

Florida College Plan scholarship provided

Foundation and a $100 gift card for school supplies

Contestants must be Florida residents, attend school in Florida in grades 4-12 (public, charter, private, home or virtual) and able to provide a Social Security Number Each student may enter only one essay, written in English, no longer than 500 words

There are many examples throughout the state’s history of Hispanic Americans

‘Dejection

and their contributions to Florida’s success Using their own words, students will write about a Hispanic-American who has h

should be shared The subject of the essay should be a Floridian

Some examples are Lt Gov Jeanette Nu ez, Florida’s first Hispanic female

Commissioner of Education; Juan Ponce De Leon, first Spanish explorer to reach Florida; Madeline Pumariega, first female president of Miami Dade College; Alex Rizo, Florida State Representative; and Esteban Bovo Jr , mayor of Hialeah

Excellence in Education Award

Gov Ron DeSantis and First Lady C a s e y

Month Excellence in Education Award Contest is open to all full-time educators in an elementary, middle, or high school in Florida Four winners will be selected, and nominations may be submitted by a principal, teacher, parent/guardian or student Excellence in Education award winners will receive $2,500 from Volunteer Florida

All entries must be received by Sept 13 at 5 p m

For more information or to enter, visit FloridaHispanicHeritage com

on a Florida Summer Afternoon’

On this ominous afternoon I’ve had my fill of Florida, My fill of alligator-friendly heat, Of red weather Bursting from the TV screen Into a dark angry clot Over our fail-safe houses And alien lawns my fill Of violent venereal rain Fueling the overgrowth And overbuilding, the excess Of Paradise paved over

On this ominous afternoon Lightning flashes In diabolical sync With the signs on Tamiami Inside my conditioned Condo cocoon, outages blink Off and on, off and on, Urging me to evacuate Before the unborn mosquitoes Get to beat their wings And the mouth of red weather Swallows me whole

Joe Pacheco Poetic License