Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

VoLuME 62, NuMBER 44

Shell museum to host next lecture in seasonal series

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel is continuing with its seasonal lecture series, which is offered virtually via Zoom for free The next lecture in the series will be:

∫ Sept 19 at 5:30 p m on “Towards a New Great Hall of Shells” with museum Executive Director Sam Ankerson and curator and Science Director Dr Jos H Leal

In the fall, the museum’s permanent exhibits of shells will reopen following more than two years of reimagination, planning and design The new Great Hall of Shells will display thousands of specimens from all over the world, expanded exhibits of shells in human history and culture, and brand-new educational exhibits about conservation and the environment With a unified and elegant design by Matter Practice of New York City, the project is the capstone of the museum’s multi-year rebuild from the impact of Hurricane Ian It will be one of the largest and finest exhibits of shells in the world

Leal and Ankerson will offer a preview of the new hall and share some of the motivation and thinking behind the new exhibits and their educational outcomes, insights into the planning and strategy, and views of the new design that will serve as the heart of the museum experience for the future

While the lectures are free, advance registration in required

To register or for more information, visit ShellMuseum org/online-lectures

People can also watch recordings of previous lectures online

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

Ankerson and curator and Science Director Dr José H Leal, will take place on Sept 19 /BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM & AQUARIUM

Tax rate of 2.5 mills gets Sanibel City Council nod

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breeznewspapers com

S a n i b e l C i t y C o u n c i l u n a n i m o u s l y voted to move forward with a millage rate of 2 5000 mills during its first budget hearing last week, as well as a tentative budget of $233,208,969

Deputy City Manager Steve Chaipel said the estimated property valuation of $4 6 billion down 26 7% was used to determine what the property tax rate will be The pre-storm valuation was $6,357,621,055.

“The residential taxpayer pays to vari-

ous entities The city’s responsible portion based on the tentative millage rate is about 18 2% The vast majority of taxes goes to other taxing authorities,” Chaipel said Independent district taxes make up 19 2%, the School District of Lee County 36 5% and Lee County at 26% of the total property tax bill

The 2 5000 operating millage will g e n e r a t e $ 1

$1,073,644 in additional property tax revenues, into the General Fund

In Fiscal Year 2024, 2 5000 mills generated $10,226,908

1200 mills for FY25 for recreation center construction and 0169 mills for the sewer system expansion for a total debt service levy of .1369 mills. This is a 29% decrease from the prior year

T h e 2 5 0 0 o p

, 1200 recreation voted debt mills, and 0169 sewer voted debt mills equates to a total levy of 2 6369 mills for residential property owners

One mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of assessed taxable valuation

Planning commission further defines a ‘body of water ’

By CHUCK BALLARO news@breezenewspapers com

What is an open body of water? Being an island community, it is a question the city of Sanibel has grappled with for many years

During Tuesday’s Planning Commission hearing, it appeared the city may be closer to an answer after it passed by a 5-1 vote a resolution that tweaks the language as to what constitutes a body of water and what doesn’t

The measure now goes to the Sanibel City Council for approval

In 2022,Council directed the commission to review and provide recommendations for the definition of open body of water to ensure definitions are clear.

Since then, the commission has worked to clarify the definition (with Hurricane Ian wiping out several meetings), with Tuesday’s meeting clarifying that a swale is not an open body of water, rather any natural or artificial human-made area that is inundated with water for at least three months of an average calendar year

Also approved was a reduction in the open body of

water setback, which cannot be approved through a waiver if there is a wading bird nest within 330 feet of the area proposed for a reduced open body of water setback

The panel generally liked the proposal, especially the specificity of the meaning of open water, but there were some concerns. Lyman Welch felt as though they were reinventing the wheel

“It’s too complex for people’s property rights People want to know what they can do Make it plain and simple,” Welch said “People aren’t going to know what they can or cannot do during the process ”

Welch said the setback should go to 10 feet and the coverage of open body water shouldn’t count against the owner He also had concerns that with new elevation rules, new ponds would be created that cannot go anywhere

Holly Smith, the city council liaison speaking as a resident, said she was concerned with demolished property where an impression was made by the original structure.

“This could have an impact on those who want to rebuild through no fault of their own,” Smith said, adding if that was the case she would not support it “Just because

it’s the last doesn’t mean it’s the worst ”

Paula McMichael, planning director, said she couldn’t think of where a building location would be an open body of water

“They would rebuild on the same footprint, but at a higher elevation.” McMichael said.

Commissioner Ken Colter was the only dissenting vote Eric Pfiefer was absent

During commission comment, Paul Nichols talked about a Planning Association symposium he went to in Tampa on Sept 3, where many topics regarding city planning were discussed

They discussed planning techniques, downtown development, smart growth and repurposing commercial space and golf courses, private sector involvement and not falling into the trap of fads

“I hope if we get the opportunity and they go on the road, that they’d be happy to put on a session. I would recommend it for all commissioners, but especially for new ones,” Nichols said

School district offers clubs, athletics for students

B y M E G H A N B R A D B U RY

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s c h o o l l e v e l i n c l u d e O d y s s e y o f t h e

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S o c i e t i e s , S A V E

P r o m i s e C l u b , S t u d e n

G o v e r n m e n t , T e c h n o l o

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m e n t a r y s c h o o l l e v e l M i d d l e s c h o o l

o f f e r s c r o s s c o u n t r y , b a s k e t b a l l , v o l l e y -

b a l l , s o c c e r , t e n n i s , g o l f , a n d t r a c k a n d

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s p o r t s i n F l o r i d a , a d d i n g t h a t t h e d i s t r i c t

S p r i n g s H i g h o o l o f f e r c o m p e t i t i v e e e r F a l l h i g h s c h o o l a t h l e t i c s i n c l u d e s b o w l i n g , c r o s s c o u nt r y , f o o t b a l l , g o l f , s w i m m i n g a n d d i vi n g , a n d v o l l e y b a l l W i n t e r s p o r t s n c l u d e b a s k e t b a l l , m p e t i t i v e c h

r , s o cg i r l s ’ w e i g h t l i f t i n g w r e s t l i n g S p r i n g p u d e b a s e b a l l , b e a c h v o l l e y b a l l , f l a g f o o t b a l l , l a c r o s s e , s o f tb a l l , t e n n i s , t r a c k a n d f i

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

School district: Opportunities for parents to get involved

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

r

“ W e s t r o n g l y e n c o u r a g e o u r f a m i l i e s

t o g e t i n v o l v e d w i t h t h e i r s c h o o l a s m u c h

a s t h e y c a n W e h o p e t h e y t a k e t h e

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

e l s “ T h e s c h o o l s b e n e f i t f r o m t h e i n c r e a s e d r e s o u r c e s , a m o r e p o s i t i v e s c h o o l c u l t u r e , e n h a n c e d e v e n t s a n d i m p r o v e d c o m m u n i c a t i o n s w i t h t h e i r f a m i l i e s , ” S p i c k e r s a i d I f p a r e n t s w a n t t o g e t i n v o l v e d i n t h e i r c h i l d ’ s s c h o o l , t h e y a r e r e q u i r e d t o c o mp l e t e a n o n l i n e a p p l i c a t i o n , p r o v i d e a c o p y o f a v a l i d U S - i s s u e d p h o t o I D a n d a t t e n d a s c h o o l - b a s e d o r i e n t a t i o n , h e s a i d B a c k g r o u n d c h e c k s a r e a l s o r e q u i r e d t o e n s u r e s t u d e n t s a f e t y b e f o r e s o m e o n e c a n v o l u n t e e r T h e o p p o r t u n i t i e s r u n t h e g a m u t f r o m h e l p i n g t e a c h e r s p r e p a r e c l a s s r o o m m a t er i a l s , t o s u p p o r t l e a r n i n g “ T h e r e a r e o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o p l a n a n d w o r k a t s c h o o l e v e n t s , ” S p i c k e r s a i d “ O u r a r t s p r o g r a m s n e e d h e l p w i t h s e t s , s t a g e s , c o s t u m e s a n d l o g i s t i c s ” T e a m s a l s o n e e d s u p p o r t f o r g a m e s , m e e t s a n d f u n d r a i s e r s T h e S c h o o l A d v i s o r y C o u n c i l , w h i c h i s a t e v e r y s c h o o l , n e e d s p a r e n t s a n d c o m m u n i t y m e m b e r s a s r e p r e s e n t a t i v e s

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.

Sizzle, savor and support with Sizzle Dining

“Dine with purpose ” It’s the motto of Southwest Florida’s premier culinary event of the year, and a call to action for folks near and far to try something new for the benefit of local children

Sizzle Dining, now a threeweek-long dining extravaganza in September that features a record-breaking 114 restaurants representing Collier, Lee and Charlotte counties, began in 2016

Year after year, Sizzle has grown substantially. Participating restaurants create prix-fixe menus comprised of regular menu favorites or entirely new mouthwatering dishes that showcase the creativity and culinary genius of local Southwest Florida chefs and restauranteurs.

Diners can participate in the Sizzle Dining excitement for lunch, dinner, or new this year, pop-up brunches Tradition-ally, restaurants offer the Sizzle menu for dinner or for both lunch and dinner. This year, a few restaurants are offering a Sizzle lunch menu only The complete list of restaurants and menus are laid out at SizzleDining com, in addition to the three easy steps to participate

One constant is the impact that people can make by participating in Sizzle Dining 2024

One dollar from each meal purchased from a

Sizzle menu will be donated to Blessings in a Backpack of Southwest Florida Over the past three years, Sizzle Dining’s participating restaurants have raised $91,000 for Blessings in a Backpack of Southwest Florida Blessings in a Backpack uses these dollars to fill backpacks with nutritious food for food-insecure elementary school students to eat over the weekend when school-provided meals are unavailable Over the past three years, Sizzle Dining has helped more than 700 local children by ensuring 25,000 hunger-free weekends that’s more than 100,000 meals ”

“When you hear ‘Southwest Florida,’ many people think wealth and luxurious lifestyles,” said Cecilia St. Arnold, executive director of Blessings in a Backpack of Southwest Florida “However, one in six children in Southwest Florida are deemed ‘food insecure ’”

According to Blessings in a Backpack, children that are well fed have better test scores, behavior, reading skills and attendance rates

When their bellies are full, their brains are ready to learn By simply going out to eat, diners can make a real impact within the community, and it’s not just local students that benefit from Sizzle Dining.

September is traditionally one of the slowest months of the year in Southwest Florida It’s a period of time when summer vacations have come to an end and seasonal residents aren’t quite ready to head back down south

The restaurant industry suffers from low dining traffic and revenue, but those participating in Sizzle report the opposite

“Last year was our first time participating in Sizzle Dining and we had the best September we’ve had in years,” said Jamie Stalowski, owner of La Fontanella Ristorante in Bonita Springs and Fort Myers and Blanc in Fort Myers “This year, all three of our restaurants are participating in Sizzle ”

All diners need to do is go online, browse the list of restaurants, make a reservation and enjoy It’s also a great opportunity to try a new restaurant and have some fun

In addition to lunch and dinner, for the first time in Sizzle history, six themed pop-up brunch events are scheduled every Saturday and Sunday at six different restaurants.

From an English Tea Party themed brunch to a bottomless sangria Italian brunch, there’s something for everyone to enjoy

To learn more and to find a list of participating restaurants and events, visit SizzleDining com

Guy and Erin Clarke are the founders and organizers of Sizzle Dining

Wellness practices can reduce PTSD symptoms

R e g u l a r p h y s i c a l a c t i v i t y

s e r v e s a s a v i t a l f o r m o f s e l f -

c a r e a n d s e l f - r e g u l a t i o n ,

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

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

s , a n x i e t y , a n d d e p r e s s i o n

T h i s c o n d i t i o n i s p a r t i c u l a r l y p r e v a l e n t

a m o n g v e t e r a n s , a f f e c t i n g 1 1 - 2 0 % o f

t h o s e w h o s e r v e d i n O p e r a t i o n s I r a q i

F r e e d o m a n d E n d u r i n g F r e e d o m , a c c o r di n g t o t h e D e p a r t m e n t o f V e t e r a n s A f f a i r s

B y r a i s i n g a w a r e n e s s , H o m e B a s e

F l o r i d a a i m s t o n o r m a l i z e c o n v e r s a t i o n s a r o u n d m e n t a l h e a l t h a m o n g t h e v e t e r a n p o p u l a t i o n T h i s i n i t i a t i v e h e l p s i n d i v i d ua l s f e e l m o r e c o m f o r t a b l e s h a r i n g t h e i r e x p e r i e n c e s a n d p r o m o t e s a h e a l t h i e r l i f e s t y l e t h r o u g h w e l l n e s s p r a c t i c e s T h r o u g h e d u c a t i o n a n d s u p p o r t , w e c a n f o s t e r a n u n d e r s t a n d i n g a n d s u p p o r t i v e e n v i r o n m e n t f o r t h o s e l i v i n g w i t h P T S D

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

I n c o r p o r a t i n g e x e r c i s e , h e a l t h y e a t i n g , a n d

m i n d f u l n e s s i n t o o n e ’ s r o u t i n e c a n b e p o w -

e r f u l t o o l s f o r m a n a g i n g s y m p t o m s

D u r i n g e x e r c i s e , e n d o r p h i n s h o r m o n e s t h a t r e d u c e

s t r e s s a n d e n h a n c e f e e l i n g s

o f p l e a s u r e a r e r e l e a s e d

E x e r c i s e a l s o f o s t e r s a s e n s e

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

C o n s i s t e n t e x e r c i s e p r o -

v i d e s m u l t i p l e b e n e f i t s f o r

m a n a g i n g P T S D , i n c l u d i n g :

∫ R e d u c i n g s t r e s s h o r -

m o n e s : E x e r c i s e l o w e r s

s t r e s s h o r m o n e s a n d b o o s t s

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

d e p r e s s i o n a n d a n x i e t y

∫ E n h a n c i n g c o g n i t i o n : P h y s i c a l a c t i v i -

t y i m p r o v e s c o g n i t i v e f u n c t i o n , r e d u c i n g

r u m i n a t i o n a n d d i s t o r t e d t h i n k i n g

∫ P r o m o t i n g b e t t e r s l e e p : R e g u l a r e x e r -

c i s e s u p p o r t s r e c u p e r a t i v e s l e e p , w h i c h i s

c r u c i a l f o r o v e r a l l w e l l - b e i n g

The views expressed on the Opinions Pages are just that opinions These

∫ E x p o s u r e t h e r a p y :

E n g a g i n g i n p h y s i c a l a c t i v i t y c a n a c t a s a f o r m o f e x p o s u r e t h e r a p y , h e l p i n g i n d i v i d u a l s c o n f r o n t t h e i r f e a r s a n d e x p e r i e n c e s i n a s a f e , c o ns t r u c t i v e m a n n e r N u t r i t i o n i s a l s o a c r u c i a l c o m p o n e n t o f w e l l n e s s f o r m a n a g i n g P T S D A h e a l t h y d i e t c a n a l l e v i

n s y m p

u c h a s s t r e s s , a n x i e t y , a n d f a t i g u e C o n s u m i n g a b a l a n c e d d i e t r i c h i n p r o t e i n , f i b e r , h e a l t h y f a t s , a n d c o m p l e x c a r b o h yd r a t e s h e l p s s t a b i l i z e m o o d a n d e n e r g y l e v e l s D a i l y i n t a k e o f f r e s h f r u i t s a n d

a

of viewpoints; opinions printed on these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of The Island Reporter Opposing views are welcome. All letters must be signed and must contain a phone

Letters considered for publication must relate to subjects of

Letters to the Editor may be

to Tiffany Repecki at trepecki@breezenewspapers.com or posted to

no later than noon Thursday. The Island Reporter

Guy Clarke Guest Column

g e t h

s y m p t o m s a n d i m p r o v e t h e i r o v e r a l l w e l l - b e i n g M i n d f u l n e s s i s a n o t h e r p o w e r f u l w e l l n e s s t o o l f o r m a n a g i n g t h e s y m p -

t o m s o f p o s t - t r a u m a t i c s t r e s s d i s o r d e r

I t i n v o l v e s b e i n g f u l l y p r e s e n t i n t h e m o m e n t a n d o b s e r v i n g o n e ’ s t h o u g h t s

a n d f e e l i n g s w i t h o u t j u d g m e n t L i k e

e x e r c i s e , p r a c t i c i n g m i n d f u l n e s s c a n

r e d u c e r u m i n a t i o n a n d w o r r y , w h i c h a r e

c o m m o n i n P T S D

M i n d f u l n e s s h e l p s i n d i v i d u a l s g a i n

i n s i g h t i n t o t h e i r b e h a v i o r , e n a b l i n g

t h e m t o t a k e c o n t r o l o f t h e i r t h o u g h t s

a n d e m o t i o n s I t a l s o f o s t e r s s e l f - c o m -

p a s s i o n a n d a c c e p t a n c e , w h i c h a r e c r u -

c i a l f o r t h o s e s u f f e r i n g f r o m P T S D

A d d i t i o n a l l y , m i n d f u l n e s s a l l o w s i n d i -

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

b e c o m i n g o v e r w h e l m e d .

o r e o v e r , m i n d f

Captiva Community Panel adds $20,000 to legal war chest

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The Captiva Community Panel unanimously voted to donate $20,000 to its legal fund to continue to fight legal issues regarding density and height requirements at South Seas

C

President David Mintz said they discovered there are some complicated legal issues with what the county did in amending the

Captiva Community Code which they developed with the community

“The amendments to our code are somewhat convoluted,” Mintz said “The code changes are the codes we recommended to the county and adopted by the county after we held all the surveys and workshops That is what is so painful about this whole process All the work is being ignored That is where we are at this point ”

Mintz said since September 2023, they

have completed about $500,000 in legal work He said they have met more than $750,000 from more than 1,000 contributors from Captiva, Sanibel, and beyond “That is incredibly impressive We are seeking another $750,000 to possibly finish the job,” Mintz said “Each of the original contributors to the legal fund are being asked to repeat, or increase their original

$20,000 We are asking contributors to do

Captiva library, county system offer programs

P a r t o f t h e L e e C o u n t y L i b r a r y System, the Captiva Memorial Library is offering the following free programming:

Adults

∫ Today, 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

∫ Sept 20: 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

∫ Today, 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

∫ Sept 20: 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

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

For more information about a program or to register, call 239-533-4890. I n a d d i t i o n , t h e l i b r a r y s y s t e m i s offering the following free virtual programming:

Adult programs

∫ Today, Sept. 18: Online Author Event with Nate Klemp from 2 to 3 p m

Join as New York Times bestselling a u t h o r a n d p h i l o s o p h e

e K l e m p helps attendees explore pathways back to openminded living when he talks

about the core tenets in his new book, “Open: Living with an Expansive Mind in a Distracted World ” The event is part of the Online Author Events Series. Registration is required

∫ Sept 21: Online Author Event with Liane Moriarty from 7 to 8 p m

If you knew your future, would you try to fight fate? Would you do things differently if you were told you only had a certain amount of time left to live? Would you try to dodge your destiny? Join us as we chat with mega-bestselling author Liane Moriarty about her newest novel, “Here One Moment ” The event is part of the Online Author Events Series. Registration is required

Download books, stream video and o t h e r o n l i n e c o n t e n t a t w w w l e e l ibrary net

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

the same.” In 1973, a rezoning approval created a PD&E at South Seas, but limited it to three units per acre including hotel rooms In 2000, it was memorialized to 912 units “For 50 years from 1973 to today it was limited to three units per acre at South Seas Under the code amendments, there is a possibility of more than 10,000 units

See WAR CHEST, page 21

CEPD talks state money

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

T

o n

District commissioners discussed the legislature budget during its Monday afternoon board meeting specifically the beach nourishment side of things

Nicholas Matthews provided an update regarding the legislative office long-term outlook how the legislature builds the budget He said they are projecting a $2 billion surplus in 2025, which will immediately be followed by deficits

“ T h e e c o n o m y i s n o r m a l i z i n g I t ’ s more of an expenditure problem They are going to have a tough time in ’26 and ’27,” Matthews said

He spoke about the grant money the big resiliency pot of money which the Captiva Erosion Prevention District would have to button up their program and get it ready to go.

“You can’t lock money in knowing you can’t spend it in a year or two out,” Matthews said He said a vulnerability assessment needs to be done before applying for the money, as well as design a project

“That is what they want to know and t h a t i s w h e r e t h e b i g d o l l a r s a r e , ” Matthews said

The big-ticket capital construction dollars are administered by the executive branch. He said those are separate from t h e i n d

should be ready to go by the end of November beginning of December

“The big pot of money when it is right for you,” Matthews said of when they need to apply for the grant

He said it would not pass the test if CEPD does it early and it’s premature

“The grant cycle is annual We will fight like hell to keep as much money in t h e p o t d u r i n g t h o s e d o w n y e a r s , ” Matthews said. “A lot of the money was federal COVID dollars Those are going away ”

He said the beach community fought to make sure a minimum of $50 million is in the pot every year The vast majority of beaches in Florida apply for statewide beach nourishment for funding

“The state DEP has always been the

LEE COUNTY

Fire Control District looking at dockage behind station house

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The Captiva Island Fire Control District is looking into establishing a designated dock for their fire boat on the island behind their fire station

Fire Chief Jeff Pawul said there is a county easement behind the fire station next to McCarthy’s Marina that is used for kayak and paddleboard launching, but it is not an official dock He said they are trying to find a way to get the fire boat moved, so they do not have to be reliant on other businesses

“We always try and plan for the future not burdening someone else provide security for public safety and quick access,” Pawul said

With the easement being located behind the fire station, it decreases the response time

“It’s safety both ways not having to respond down the road through traffic and pedestrians. It’s a safety aspect on the road for everybody else and our guys,” Pawul said

He said they are very grateful for the relationship they have with South Seas to dock the boat there

Last week’s Thursday regular meeting also discussed items to be purchased, which he said were minimal a new spotlight for the fire boat and furniture for the fire house

The commissioners renewed the medical director’s contract, as well as entered into an agreement with Ready Rebound

Pawul said the agreement with Ready Rebound provides a faster quality access for workers comp doctors, as well as working with them to get better care for personnel during and after, and provide benefits to the employees and family for prevention of any medical issues down the road

“That should be a good partnership for us to provide better healthcare and access for our employees,” Pawul said

The meeting also included policy updates cleaning up language for vacation, and deferred compensation

policies

“The vacation one was updated to add language for DROP (Deferred Retirement Option Program), now that the state statute for DROP has changed We had to address employees that enter DROP as opposed to retirement,” he said as more people are starting to use the program

The administration update included incidents, which Pawul said had a slow August with only 27 for the month of August, compared to 46 last year. The major calls were the drowning that occurred at Blind Pass, as well as a rescue for a family of three the following day

“Those were pretty high priority calls for us Along with that, we are pursuing a few avenues to try to help with beach safety,” he said

One of those improvements came from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office a donated drone, although not limited to beach safety, will primarily be used for search and rescue

CEPD set tentative property tax rate at .4128 mills

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

After a lengthy conversation, the Captiva Erosion Prevention District commissioners approved a tentative 4128 millage rate for its tentative budget Monday evening

The current property tax rate is 3188 mills

The conversations ranged from keeping the millage rate at where it is currently for the CEPD, to increasing it to 1 0 mills

One mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of taxable assessed valuation

Chairman John Wade said he proposed at their last workshop to consider a 1 0 rate He said six months ago there was quite a bit of conversation around reinstating an emergency fund that they had in 1999

“That emergency fund had expired, but we all agreed once we got past this new

beach nourishment project, (we would) bring it back to the community That would allow us to quickly address any future emergencies,” Wade said “In two weeks, I will not vote to authorize a 1 0 millage rate if we do not have a crystal-clear charter of what it will be used for ”

He said Monday’s vote was for the draft budget for the millage rate

“The final approval will not be for another couple of weeks We can adjust downward We cannot adjust upwards in a few weeks from now ”

Vice Chairman Rene Miville said they have to think about the future and not just think in the now

“I think that we definitely have to increase the millage for the benefit and protection of our island,” he said

The large increase in the millage rate gave Commissioner Linda Laird pause

“We do not have a clear plan at all as to what we would do with this money what we would do and what we should do with this reserve I do agree having a bigger reserve is a good idea Just because we can tax people and get more money for the reserve is not good government,” she said “We have not sold this to the constituents at all Our business is not making money It is taking care of our district ”

Commissioner Bob Walter said if they had the reserves, they could have done the beach nourishment six months after Hurricane Ian hit

“We didn’t have the reserves,” he said Each commissioner was asked what millage rate they could agree upon, which ranged from the current rate to 1.0.

“If we don’t feel comfortable with putting it on the public this year, we have to address it in next year’s budget I don’t think

we should go halfway It’s either we try to keep the millage rate as low as possible, or we go all in and utilize the funds for a very specific endeavor,” Wade said

When Wade made the motion for a 1 0 draft millage rate, which would be voted on in two weeks after the administration puts together a comprehensive detailed plan of how it will be used, all the commissioners, but Walter, voted yes

Walter said people are still struggling after Hurricane Ian impacted the island He said at South Seas some of the HOA’s have tripled since the hurricane

“People are struggling left and right,” Walter said

A second motion was made for a 75 millage rate by Miville, which was agreed upon by all commissioners but Wade

Captiva Island Fire Control sets tentative tax rate at

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

T h e C

District set its millage rate of 2 6052 mills during the first budget public hearing Thursday evening

Fire Chief Jeff Pawul said they kept the same rate as last year, in other words, the tentative millage rate is the same that was on homeowner’s TRIM notice

“We didn’t make any changes at this meeting The overall goal is to reduce taxes in our final budget meeting We don’t want to handcuff ourselves in the middle of the peak of hurricane season, especially after we saw what happened with Hurricane Ian,” Pawul said

He said they want to put more money

into the reserves just in case its necessary T h e f u n d b a l a n c

$1,834,700

“I am sure come our final hearing, that number will get reduced a little bit to reduce taxes a little bit for next year We are still operating at a deficit for property values due to Hurricane Ian

One mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of taxable assessed valuation

In the past, the board’s practice was to set everything at exactly what they wanted with only minor, fine tuning and formality taking place during the final budget hearing

“All of a sudden Ian comes along and we see how much things can change on the property appraiser’s side and not hav-

ing a healthy reserve can become an issue,” Pawul said

Total property valuation was around $1 5 billion

Pawul said the property appraiser’s list at uninhabitable is about $2 4 billion

“We are hopeful this will be the last year of the unhabitable structures and get back to normal,” he said “The island is recovering, and we are doing our best budget wise to try and reduce the hit as well. We are not trying to pile it on,” he said, adding that they are still trying to provide that same level high level of services to residents and visitors that they deserve

The final hearing will be held Sept 23, at 14981 Captiva Dr

Bids for Village area stormwater

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The Captiva Community Panel was informed that bids are due by next week for the stormwater management system for the Village area to address flooding

Captiva Community Panel President Jay Brown said the panel feels there is a need to better handle the stormwater in the Village area of Captiva, as they have seen how much flooding takes place during a rain event

“It’s clear we need to better handle storm drainage out of the Village,” he said “We have been working on this for several

“It’s clear we need to better handle storm drainage out of the Village. We have been working on this for several months.”

Jay Brown, Captiva Community Panel president

2.6052 mills

months ”

The panel had Kimley Horne develop a work plan to create a stormwater management system, which was taken to the county who committed to approving $250,000 to develop a stormwater plan for the Village

Captiva Community Panel Vice President David Mintz said people cannot

get off the island due to cars not being able to get through, and the drainage has water coming into the pipes, rather than out

“Obviously it’s a serious problem Nutrients from the road go into the bay,” he said.

Although Kimley Horne did a great scope of work, a different firm must construct the system, officials said

Mintz said the project was moved from state monies to federal monies from the HUD allocated money to Lee County to support long-term efforts The project was moved to CBDG-DR (Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery) funds from the county and put out to bid

“The project has been bid out Bids have to come in by Sept 16 There are at least two engineering firms that are considering biding on the project that has a scope developed by Kimley Horne,” Mintz said He said the panel will have to work with the company on where the flooding is, as

BUSINESS

Business Notes

GREATER FORT MYERS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

For t Myers chamber installs new board

The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce recently installed its 2024-25 board of directors, officers and new members for the chamber during its third annual Chamber Awards

The chamber's Board of Directors will be led by Chair Jay Johnson, owner of Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon He will joined by Vice Chair Jen Whyte, owner of Fort Myers Brewing Company; Second Vice Chair Rodney Ford, territory director of the south r e g i o n f o r C o c

Immediate Past Chairman Michele Hoover, managing partner of Solomon & Hoover CPAs

S t e v

Restaurant & Fish Market; Dr Ryan Brown, Lee Health; Mike Cannington; Jesi Crane, Northwestern Mutual Jesse Bouchard Financial Group; Dan Detrick, CopyLady; Ashleigh Droz, Florida Gulf Coast University; Kelly T Drumm, KTD Accounting and Consulting; Neftali Feliciano, Cancer Alliance of N a p l e s ; P h i l G a y l o r ( E x

Henderson, Corbin Henderson Company Investment

R e a l E s t a t e ; M a t t K a r a s t a m a t

s , F l o r i d a SouthWestern State College; Heather Langdale, First Horizon; Jim Larkin, DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at The Bell Tower Shops; Jeff Mielke (ExOfficio), Lee County Sports Development; Alicia M

C

Brandon Miller, Quantum Fiber; Joe Mitchell, Pool Pros; Randy Mitchelson, M&M Multimedia; Dean P i c c i r i l l o , H B K S W e a l t h A d v i s o r s ; T o d d Rauchenberger, PF&A Architect; Angela Schivinski, Florida Health Care News; Shawn Smith, Boston Red Sox JetBlue Park at Fenway South; Christopher T.

S p i r o , S p i r o & A s s o c i a t e s ; A d a m S t a c h u

T h a w l e y , F l o r i d a S o u t h W

s t e r n S t a t e C

e g e ; Melissa Vogt, Florida Weekly; Steve Weathers (ExOfficio), city of Fort Myers; and Andrew Williams, Spada Salon & Day Spa

Achieva to host vir tual class on credit score

Achieva Credit Union will hold a virtual Cash Class on Sept 19 from 10 to 11 a m

The program, “The Secret to Understanding your Credit Score,” will be designed to help attendees understand what credit is, how credit scores are determined and how to establish or improve consumer credit

The event is free and open to the public

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o r e g i s t e r , v i s i t https://www achievacu com/Events E Awards celebrate hospitality, top tourism

The Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) held its 24th Annual Elaine McLaughlin Outstanding Hospitality Service Awards (E Awards)

See BUSINESS NOTES, page 10

Nominees open for annual Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program

Deadline for submissions is Sept 20

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

With another school year underway, the community is being asked to nominate outstanding teachers for the 38th annual Golden Appel Teacher Recognition Program

“It begins every year at the beginning of school We get the nomination forms out in many different forms,” said Marshall Bower, president and CEO for The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools

The recognition program nomination forms are emailed to principals and published with copies also sent to the schools

The Foundation get the forms out in every which way they can, as they want students and families to know they can shine a light on an outstanding teacher by nominating them, Bower said

The deadline to submit an application is Sept 20 and can also be done online, at www leeschoolfoundation org/ golden-apple/

Once the deadline is reached, all the teachers who were nominated will receive an email from Bower sharing how the application process works Those nominated teachers are asked to apply into the Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program There are such questions as information about their background, education and teaching style.

Last year, the number of nominations exceeded 3,000

“It has been going up and up over the years I think that is indicative of the fact that our students and families and peers really do recognize we have a great many of really good teachers in the School District of Lee County,” Bower said

He wants the teachers to understand this nomination is the community thanking them for all of their hard work

The teacher applications are then sent to the selection

committee, which is comprised of independent individuals from the business and retirement communities

“They review all the applications and then rank them,” Bower said of what he called the hardest working volunteer group

The applications are reviewed right before the holiday season kicks off

“They have to hit the road everywhere from Pine Island to Sanibel Island to east Lee County to Lehigh to all over Cape Coral,” Bower said, as they have to get an idea of what the teachers are like in the classroom

The process eventually narrows the list to the top 100 who will be honored this year, and then reduced again to the top 30 finalists

The 30 finalists then will have visits in their classroom from the selection committee before the final part of the application process a selection committee interview

From there the six Golden Apple teachers are selected

“It’s a year long of honoring them through various types of things breakfast at McDonald’s, social at Chico’s and then honor the top six at the banquet I love the banquet because it shines a light on the teaching profession in a very unique and touching way,” he said

With that said, Bower’s favorite part of the process is surprising the six Golden Apple recipients in their classroom.

The students’ reactions is what he enjoys, as their reaction is “we” won, as opposed to “my teacher won,” Bower said

“The teachers all say that, too: ‘I am a winner because of the students ’ It really makes you gratified that we have professionals that want to be there and do their best to turn out future great citizens,” Bower said

Lee Health offers endoscopic heart valve repair surgery

Lee Health recently announced that it completed the first fully endoscopic heart valve surgery through the smallest incision possible, providing enhanced heart care to the Southwest Florida community

The implementation of endoscopic valve repairs puts it at the forefront of cardiac care, providing the next iteration of minimally invasive surgery and ensuring patients have access to the most comprehensive care The non-rib spreading technique provides a tangible and realizable benefit for patients, including less pain, a faster recovery and shorter hospital stays. In the procedure, the surgeons look at the heart through the smallest incision possible utilizing a 3-D endoscope, a device with a light attached to it that is used to look inside a body cavity or organ The precise level of visualization allows the surgeons to use their hands and tactile feedback for even more attention to detail

Lee Health is among the first health systems in the United States to use the RAM Device, an automated dual curved needle suturing device The suturing tool is used to place stitches around the annulus of the aortic valve, mitral valve, or tricuspid valve, with the smallest incision possible

Endoscopic valve repair is a minimally invasive surgery that uses a key-

hole approach and an endoscope to repair or replace heart valves It can be used as an alternative to traditional open-heart surgery, which requires a sternotomy, cardiopulmonary bypass and other supporting procedures

Lee Health has offered minimally invasive valve and robotic valve surgeries for decades The new surgery enables physicians to have the benefits of a scope looking at the valve while still being able to surgically do a repair or replacement It also offers the best possible benefits to the patient

“This innovation, supported by the entire surgical team, has led to improved visualization in the surgical field and enhanced patient benefits including smaller incision size (comparable to a pacemaker incision), reduced pain and faster recovery,” Lee Health Heart Institute chief physician executive Dr Malissa Wood said “A full spectrum of surgical therapies can now be offered with this new approach, including valve repair and replacement We have a long history of being one of the first health systems to offer innovative approaches and therapies, including minimally invasive and robotic valve surgeries We are always striving to advance our technology to elevate patient care and provide the most cutting-edge treatments available Being one of the first to perform endo-

scopic valve surgery helps put Lee Health at the forefront of cardiac care in the region and the country ” Endoscopic valve repairs began in Europe Lee Health cardiothoracic surgeons, physician assistants and nurses traveled to Germany to learn from the world leaders in endoscopic work before implementing it at the Shipley Cardiothoracic Center, located inside the HealthPark Medical Center

Additionally, in July, Lee Health added the Coroventis CoroFlow Cardiovascular System, which detects the prevalence and pathophysiology of Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction (CMD) in patients sooner CMD is a type of heart disease that occurs when the small blood vessels in the heart, called the coronary microvasculature, do not dilate and constrict properly, which could possibly lead to stroke, heart failure or cardiovascular death

An early pioneer of adopting new treatment for cardiac care, Lee Health also completed over 2,000 transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) surgeries, a minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery Lee Health was the first healthcare system in the region to perform a TAVR procedure The Shipley Cardiothoracic Center is the second-largest cardiac surgery program in Florida, performing over 1,500 surgical cases each year

From page 8

on Aug 23 to honor tourism professionals and their extraordinary customer service and dedication

Presented by the VCB and The News-Press Media Group, the E Awards recognize Lee County’s hospitality industry employees for going above and beyond to take care of visitors

Held at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center in Fort Myers, the event honored 663 individual nominees with residents, visitors and colleagues submitting 842 total nominations

Awards were presented in the following categories, with an honor of distinction award going to the overall nominee who best represented the spirit of hospitality in Lee County:

∫ Honor of Distinction: Chester Thomas, with the Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina

∫ Accommodations: Richard Underwood, with The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village

∫ Attractions: Emily Haeger, with the city of Cape Coral

∫ Best Tourism Boss: Mario Rostran, with HMS Host

∫ Good Samaritan: Rebecca Flora and Tanya Ray, with Lee County Parks & Recreation

∫ Other Services/Businesses: Loren Christol, with Best Buy

∫ Restaurants: Haley Dalton, with Fine Folk Pizza

∫ Transportation: Lt Matthew Blank and Christopher Hipp, with Lee County Port Authority

School district ear ns

Aetna Workplace award

The School District of Lee County recently announce it has received a Leading the Way Aetna Workplace Well-being Platinum Award for the second year in a row

The district has a strong commitment to improving employee health and features a comprehensive well-being strategy that employees are passionate about The award is the culmination of the employees’ desire to live health-

ier, more active lives and make well-being a priority

The district’s workplace well-being program provides resources to assist employees in creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Nutrition classes and mental wellbeing classes are offered There is a fitness center, health coaching, virtual wellness resources and more available The district encourages a doctor patient relationship with financial incentives for yearly physicals and offers reimbursement for fitness center fees

The Workplace Well-being award was established in 2017 and recognizes middle market, public and labor employers throughout the United States who offer an Aetna medical plan to employees Award recipients are selected based on information on their well-being strate-

engagement, and program implementation and evaluation

The Platinum level, the award’s highest honor, is awarded to employers who successfully create, provide and support a healthier workplace for employees with effective programming, tools and resources to help everyone on their own personal well-being journey

United Way honored with achievement award

Earlier this year, the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and G

Conference in West Palm Beach

The nonprofit was recognized for its outstanding efforts serving the Southwest Florida community during Hurricane Ian and its aftermath

Prior to the storm's hit, United Way 211 was activated by Lee County Emergency Management as the designated Emergency Information Hotline Manned 24/7, United Way staff and volunteers fielded 25,209 calls from the time of activation until Oct 21, 2022 The calls aided in directing people to evacuation routes and shelters beforehand, while providing comfort to others as

they watched flood waters rise in their homes, then helping people with access to food, water and emergency supplies

Among the many tasks undertaken following the s t o

Volunteer Center Teams were mobilized and worked alongside the Lee County Emergency Operations Center to coordinate massive amounts of donated goods coming into the community, VOAD groups and spontaneous volunteers deploying to Lee County, and mass care: including the coordination of food, water, and supplies to the most vulnerable communities

The United Way supported local agencies and programs with funding and donations of goods and services In partnership with Collaboratory, it established the SWFL Emergency Relief Fund, which infused $7 million into the community to support nonprofits and assist families directly impacted

The United Way facilitated relief and recovery efforts t h r

United Way 211 resource assistance, funding support and other collaborative efforts

UNITED WAY OF LEE, HENDRY, AND GLADES Gail Holton, Patrice Cunningham, Jeannine Joy, Madison Mitchell and Hannah Pelle.

PRESERVING PARADISE

Protect manatees, sea turtles with new FWC decals

T

Commission (FWC) recently released its 2024-25 manatee and sea turtle decals The vibrantly illustrated decals can be placed on watercraft and vehicle bumpers and look equally great on water bottles, coolers, tackle boxes and laptops

The FWC reported that new waterproof decals featuring original artwork are released every year in July and are available for a $5 donation at local tax collector offices Donations for decals go directly to funding manatee and sea turtle research, rescue and management efforts

This year’s decals emphasize the importance of conserving Florida’s waterways and beaches for manatees and sea turtles:

∫ “Protect Your Waterways, Protect Their Home” provides a reminder that manatees are found throughout Florida’s waterways including rivers, bays, canals and c o

n g Florida’s waterways clean can prevent manatees from ingesting and becoming entangled in marine debris and waste

∫ “ A G e n e

Results” highlights Florida’s efforts to protect sea turtles that resulted in record numbers of loggerhead and green sea turtle nests in 2023 Everyday actions such as keep-

County board votes to acquire conservation land

On Aug 20, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to acquire 40 56 acres east of Moody Road and fronting on the Caloosahatchee River in North Fort Myers for the Conservation 20/20 land conservation program

The land was unanimously recommended for purchase by the Conservation Land Acquisition and Stewardship Advisory Committee (CLASAC) It also has some frontage on Hancock Creek along with a known bald eagle nest, as well as deer and rabbits on the site The purchase price of the property is $7 9 million, plus closing costs

There are 31,444 acres of land in the Conservation 20/20 program

E

In other business, the commission voted to:

∫ Acquire five acres in the Corkscrew Regional

Conservation 20/20 Land Acquisition Program The property is wooded and lacks improved access It was recommended for purchase by the CLASAC

E

∫ Acquire 2 5 acres in the Corkscrew Regional

Conservation 20/20 Land Acquisition Program The property is wooded and lacks improved access It was recommended for purchase by the CLASAC

∫ Pursue acquisition of a 2 02-acre improved infill parcel located in Charlotte Harbor Buffer Preserve in northwest Cape Coral The recommendation to pursue acquisition activities was unanimously approved by the CLASAC Any purchase agreement will be returned to the board for consideration

To watch a video about the Moody Road property, visit https://youtu be/WoqaPH5HskE

ing beaches clean and free of debris, removing recreational equipment at the end of beach visits and keeping beaches dark at night can protect nesting sea turtles and hatchlings from life-threatening situations

This year’s decals also conveniently display the F W C ’

(3922), where the public can report a dead, injured, entangled or sick manatee or sea turtle

The public can also contribute to manatee and sea turt l e

Manatee” or “Helping Sea Turtles Survive” specialty license plate at local tax collector offices

For those out of state or if the new decals are unavailable at the tax collector’s office, or to view and collect decals from the previous years (1992-2023), search for “decals” online at MyFWC com

o r m o

, v i s i t MyFWC com/Manatee or MyFWC com/SeaTurtle

Registration open for annual cleanup on Captiva

By STAFF REPORT

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

Hosted by the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau, Keep Lee

C o u n t y B e a u t i f u l i s o r g a n

z i n g cleanup events throughout the count y o n S e p t 2 1 f o r t h e a n n u a l

International Coastal Cleanup

One will take place from 8:30 to 11:30 a m at the Alison Hagerup Beach Park on Captiva

“This is a fantastic opportunity to come together and clean up our beaut i f u l c o m m u n i t y , ” K L C B s h a r e d “With your help, we can remove litter and debris from the water and shoreline, ensuring a healthier environment for all.”

The cleanup will include collecting trash, recording data on litter types and enjoying a day by the water with fellow community members Participants will need to bring gloves, sunscreen, a hat and reusable w a t e r b o t t l e K L C B w i l l p r o v i d e trash bags, data collection sheets and a limited number of gloves

“By participating, you'll be mak-

ing a tangible difference in our local environment and contributing to a g l o b a l e f f o r t t o k e e p o u r o c e a n s clean,” it shared “It's a wonderful way to give back to the community a n d s p

friends and family ”

This year's sponsors include: Lee County VCB, Wal-Mart, Tunaskin, W a s t e P r o

J o n S u r f S h o p , cities of Fort Myers and Cape Coral, LCEC, Southwest Waste Services, L

& Moving, EL Toro, and Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce

“Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a positive impact on our oceans and our community,” KLCB shared “Let's come together to protect our environment and enjoy a day o

raderie ” For more information or to register, visit https://www eventbrite com /

79562333883

Parking fees for the Captiva site will be waived for the length of the cleanup.

F o r q u e s t i

@ klcb org

The Alison Hagerup Beach Park is at 14790 Captiva Drive Captiva, Captiva

Par ticipants sought for mollusk count

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium will hold a Live Mollusk Count on Sept 21 at 9 a m on Sanibel Participants will contribute to c o m m u n i t y s c

c e a n d m u

u m research by walking beach areas at some of the lowest tides of the year to observe and document sightings of living mollusks The data collected will be used to help benchmark the health and preval

s Participants will be assigned a section of beach to walk and receive a shell guide to help identify species. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. For more information or to register, contact Jorden Falker at jfalker@shellmuseum org or 239-347-5119

Individual signups open for annual cleanup

A

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 beach stretches spanning about 17 miles Individual signups are open All ages are welcome, provided they are accompanied by a guardian The event is held in partnership with Keep L e e C o u n t y B e a u t i f u l T o s i g n u p , v i s i t https://dash pointapp org/events/150750 For more information, contact coastalwatch@sccf org

Lumen continues installation of fiber internet

Lumen Technologies reported that construction of Quantum Fiber's fiber internet is underway and progressing on Sanibel Construction began on Aug 1 on the east end and continues to the west

Event to suppor t local businesses

The next Love Sanibel Businesses Back will be held on Sept 18 at 6 p m at The Shipyard and Captiva Crust at the 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva Drive, Pelican's Roost Boutique at the 'Tween Waters Marina on Captiva Drive and YOLO Watersports on Andy Rosse Lane, all on Captiva 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

Phase 2 will include the following areas: Periwinkle

Boulevard, Center Street, Sand Castle Road, Bay Drive, Middle Gulf Drive, Donax Street, Junonia Street, Eagle R

Poinciana Drive, Par View Drive, Casa Ybel Road, Atlanta Plaza, Farm Trail, Egret Circle, Windward Way, Sand Pebble Way and Beach Drive

Work may look like path creation, excavation and/or pulling fiber or conduit

The expected completion date, including sod restoration, is about mid-January

F

trevorc@utilitiesone com

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

∫ A d o n i s D o m i n g u e z - F r i m a n , 5 3 , o f 8 3 4 6 Bamboo Road, Fort Myers, was charged on Sept. 8 with one count of DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI influence of alcohol or drugs

∫ Enmanuel Martinez Dino, 20, of 2346 Winkler Ave , Fort Myers, was charged on Sept 4 with one count of operate motor vehicle without valid license

∫ Todd Stephen Riley, 56, of 2031 Wild Lime Drive, Sanibel, was charged on Sept 7 with one count each of operate motorcycle without license and failure to appear for misdemeanor offense

Other enforcement actions

∫ On Sept 4, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On Sept 6, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed. The driver was subsequently issued a citation for unknowingly driving with a suspended license and held at the scene until the Lee County Sheriff's Office could deliver a misdemeanor summons request The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On Sept 7, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On Sept 7, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle with a seize tag order. The license plate was seized and the vehicle was allowed to remain parked on private property

Enforcement operations statistics

From Sept 3-9:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 5

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 21

∫ Traffic crashes: 1

∫ Radar details: 40

∫ Traffic stops: 45

Citations issued: 24

Written warnings issued: 1

Verbal warnings issued: 24

∫ Residential area checks: 249

∫ Business area checks: 166

∫ Total area checks: 805

∫ Reported burglaries: 1

∫ Reported thefts: 0

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,056

September 2024 to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 8

∫ Non-emergency calls: 26

∫ Traffic crashes: 1

∫ Radar details: 49

∫ Traffic stops: 77

Citations issued: 31

Written warnings issued: 3

Verbal warnings issued: 45

∫ Residential area checks: 364

See BLOTTER, page 15

Sanibel library

of programs and

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

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 21 at 7 p m with mega-bestseller Liane Moriarty, author of “Here One Moment ” She will talk about her newest novel and deep dive into character development

Moriarty is the #1 New York Times bestselling author

“What Alice Forgot” and “Apples Never Fall ”

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

https://libraryc org/sanlib/upcoming

Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:

Crafternoon will be held today, Sept 18, 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

On Sept 19, International Talk Like a Pirate Day Storytime and Scavenger Hunt will take place from 3 to 4 p m Participants can come dressed up and transform into a pirate through the adventure of finding the hidden treasure in the library with a scavenger hunt

Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held on Sept 20 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 20, Libby Open Workshop will take place from 11 a m to noon with IT librarian Andrew DyenShapiro He will answer questions and help participants

International Talk Like a Pirate Day Storytime and Scavenger Hunt will take place on Sept. 19 at the Sanibel Public Library.

navigate the Libby app Attendees should bring a device to read or listen to audiobooks on that can download applications; those who want to read on a Kindle should See LIBRARY, page 15

City provides reminder about leaf blowers

The city of Sanibel reported that the

Hurricane Ian in September of 2022, which has allowed for the temporary use of gas-powered leaf blowers

It reminded the community that when the state of local emergency is lifted, the use of gaspowered leaf blowers will be prohibited applies to residents, businesses, government ag cies and contractors

Please share this information with your conactors and Sanibel neighbors,” the city reported

To read the city's Code of Ordinances related to gas-powered leaf blowers, visit https://

Sanibel Public Meetings

meetings/hearings are scheduled:

Today, Sept 18: Sanibel Fire and Rescue District meeting at 3 p m at Station 171, at 2351 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel For

www.sanibelfire.com.

Today, Sept 18: Sanibel Fire and Rescue District second and final

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on Sept 21 with Liane Moriarty

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

bring another device that they can download Libby on, such as an iPhone or iPad

Strengthen & Stretch with Ms. Robin will be held on Sept 21 from 10 to 10:30 a m for ages 4-10 The class will combine energetic m o v e m e n t s , p l a y f u l s

e t c h e s a n d

l m i n g breathwork Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle and towel

On Sept 23, Middle Grade Book Club will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p m This month's read is “Amari and the Night Brothers” by Alston B B Staff will lead the discussion with related activities and snacks

Experience Virtual Reality: Apollo 11 will be held on Sept 24 from 10 a m to noon Apollo 11 VR is the story of the greatest journey ever taken by humankind The VR experience is a recreation of the events that took place from July 16-24, 1969 The VR experience is 10-20 minutes

On Sept 24, Baby & Toddler Storytime and

Blotter From page 14

∫ Business area checks: 225

∫ Total area checks: 1,078

∫ Reported burglaries: 1

∫ Reported thefts: 0

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,413

Impor tant reminders

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

When leaving Sanibel, motorists are encouraged to travel east on Periwinkle Way In order to minimize the number of v e h i c l e s d r i v i n g t h r o u g h

a l neighborhoods and increase traffic flow,

Playdate will take place from 10:30 to 11 a m Open to ages 4 and under, babies and their caregivers will take part in a short story time, sensory play, literacy activities and more Crafternoon will be held on Sept 25 from 3 to 4:30 p m The project will be “Mini Frame Magnets ” 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

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

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

a t https://www tip411 com/tips/new?alert g roup id=22450

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

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

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

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Sanibel Public Library will present Family Storytime on Sept. 20.

SPORTS

DDWS reports on refuge programming and more

of the Refuge provided the following updates for the

D i n g ” D a r l i n g

National Wildlife Refuge, a t 1 W i l d l i f

D r i v e , Sanibel:

∫ The second annual Family Fun Night will take place on Sept 20 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers

∫ Admission to Wildlife Drive will be free on Sept 28 in observance of National Public Lands Day

∫ Oct 13 will mark the kickoff for National W

Wildlife Drive will be waived for the day

∫ In observance of Veterans Day, Wildlife Drive will be fee-free on Nov 11

∫ P h o t o g r a p h

h e r ' s “Daydreaming” exhibition kickoff has been postponed until the late fall or early 2025

∫ The refuge's free Winter Programs will run from Jan 6 through March 26

∫ Wellness in Nature is planned for Jan 23-26

∫ Go Wild for “Ding” is set for Feb 12, with the theme “White Pelicans ”

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

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

Rec center provides update on activities and events

The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities

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 residential application, v

load/32319/file/2024%20Application%20Residential% 20Pass%20%283%29 pdf Email the completed application, along with the required documentation, to hurricanepass@mysanibel com and the permit will be mailed out once the application is processed 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

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

Gulf greater amberjack recreational season open

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recently issued an executive order to modify the recreational season for greater amberjack in state waters of the Gulf of Mexico

Previously scheduled to open on Aug 1, the recreational season for g

waters opened on Sept 1 It will remain open through Oct 31

The FWC reported that the Gulf greater amberjack stock was overfished and experiencing overfishing and the recreational season modifica-

The Fort Myers Beach U S Coast Guard Auxiliary reported that it is crucial for boaters to stay current with changes in navigation and regulations The Safe Boating Class is an easy way for boaters to get up-to-date on everything that they need to know

For those aiming to earn the state boating safety cert

y responsible boating class

The class takes place on the third Saturday of every month from 9 a m to 5 p m Completing the course makes participants eligible for the state boating certificate.

“Attending an in-person class is an excellent opportu-

tion was consistent with the new recreational season recommended by t

Management Council in Gulf federal waters Consistent state and federal

amberjack would help prevent quota overages and mitigate risks of paybacks and seasonal closures

For current recreational amber-

MyFWC com/Marine and click on

Fish” and “Amberjack

nity for students to interact, share perspectives and gain l

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

Shell museum to host guided walk

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & A

Biodiversity Walk on Sept 24 from 1 to 2 p m at Pond Apple Trail, at 1159 Causeway Blvd , Sanibel Participants will search for land snails, document their sightings for the benefit of science, and explore the flora and fauna The walk is free, but advance registration is required Parking is free For more informat i o n o

jfalker@shellmuseum org

The Safe Boating Class costs $45 per person and includes study materials

Education Officer Kevin McTaggart at cgaux91education@gmail com or 239-690-6780, option 1

Auxiliary Flotilla 91 Cmdr Robert Guenthner said, emphasizing the significance of education and awareness regarding boating hazards. “Participants learn about the importance of life jackets, risk reduction, preparedness and exercising sound judgment, along with updates on regulatory compliance ” Florida law mandates that anyone born on or after Jan 1, 1988, who plans to operate a boat in Florida waters with an engine of 10 horsepower or more must complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Florida boating safety ID card The card certifies that the holder has completed the necessary boating safety course, but it is not a boating license

CITY OF SANIBEL

Better Together, Cape church to host job fair

In partnership with Cape Christian Church, Better Together will host a community job fair on Sept 24 from 10 a m to 1 p m at the church, at 2110 Chiquita Blvd S , Cape Coral

The church-based job fair connects job seekers with local employers who are ready to hire, while also providing resources to facilitate stronger connections and more hires Free one-on-one job coaching sessions will be available to job seekers to review their resumes and interviewing skills, and additional services will be available onsite

The community job fair is part of Better Together’s “Better Jobs” program, which has helped 45,000 applicants connect with employment opportunities across 24 states At job fairs hosted by Better Together, two-thirds of attendees got a job interview, and one in four received a job offer on the spot Some 70% find work within six weeks.

Permits

From page 1

BETTER TOGETHER

Better Together and Cape Christian Church will host a community job fair on Sept. 24.

BetterTogetherUS org/CapeChristian or text “JOBS” to 844-987-3949

a

i

a t i o n s b y t e m p o r a r i l y

a l l o w i n g s t a f f r e v i e w r a t h e r t h a n r e q u i ri n g p l a n n i n g c o m m i s s i o n a p p r o v a l

C o n d i t i o n a l u s e s w a s a m o n g t h e m

A c o n d i t i o n a l u s e i s “ p e r m i t t e d i n a

p a r t i c u l a r z o n i n g d i s t r i c t o n l y u p o n a

s h o w i n g t h a t s u c h u s e i n a s p e c i f i e d

l o c a t i o n w i l l c o m p l y w i t h t h e c o n d i -

t i o n s a n d s t a n d a r d s f o r t h e l o c a t i o n o r

o p e r a t i o n o f s u c h u s e , a n d o n l y u p o n t h e i s s u a n c e o f a n a u t h o r i z a t i o n b y t h e

From page 1

Chaipel said the reserves have not changed They have been replenished at $ 5 9 m i l l i o n i n d i s a s t e r r e s e r v e s a n d $600,000 in operational reserves with an additional $1 million in sewer fund, he said

“The general fund operational reserves of $2 6 million is for expenses leading up to Fiscal Year ’25,” Chaipel said

In Fiscal Year 2024, the city received a $15,260,511 State of Florida Bridge Loan due to Hurricane Ian There was $5 9 million appropriated and there is $9 4 million remaining

The State of Florida FEMA Project Loan issued $28,000,000 in FY24

T h e S t a t e o f F l o r i d a R e v e n u e Replacement Grant equaled $9,920,000 and is budgeted to receive in FY25 There is $2 8 million appropriated to the transportation fund and $1 million to the transportation capital fund There is $6 1 million remaining

There were some increases in the operating expenditures wages, health insurance increases and general liability/property/wind insurance increases and workers compensation insurance

The city saw an increase of 15.5% for health insurance

The 15 5% premium increase is attributed to four catastrophic claims on the plan that exceed $50,000 with one almost r e a c h i n g $ 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 T h e r e a r e t w o employees that will have ongoing maintenance on the plan for a while

The general liability policy is up to $1 9 million, a difference from the $1 5 million the city is paying this year

“I do have $1 6 million in the draft budget. We have to use some of the oper-

p l a n n i n g c o m m i s s i o n " T h e o r d i n a n c e a l l o w e d a p p r o v a l o f “ E a t i n g p l a c e s , r e s t a u r a n t s , g r o c e r y s t o r e s , e t c ” a s s h o r t - f o r m a p p l i c a t i o n s T h i s a l l o w a n c e w o u l d a u t o m a t i c a l l y s u n s e t i n o n e y e a r , w i t h t h e a b i l i t y t o b e e x t e n d e d b y C o u n c i l . I t a l s o p r o v i d e d a n e x e m p t i o n f o r b u s i n e s s e s t h a t h a v e b e e n i n e x i s t e n c e s i n c e t h e c i t y ’ s i n c o r p o r a t i o n f r o m o b t a i n i n g o t h e r w i s e r e q u i r e d c o n d i t i o na l u s e p e r m i t s i f r e - e s t a b l i s h i n g i n t h e

s a m e l o c a t i o n , i f t h e n e e d a r i s e s f r o m r e d e v e l o p m e n t p o s t - d i s a s t e r I t a l s o a m e n d e d t h e g e n e r a l r e q u i r em e n t s f o r c o n d i t i o n a l u s e a p p l i c a t i o n s

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

Churches interested in hosting a job fair can visit BetterTogetherUS org for more information

n o g r e a t e r t r a f f i c i m p a c t s t h a n p e r m i t -

t e d u s e s

P l a n n i n g c o m m i s s i o n r e v i e w e d t h e

d r a f t o r d i n a n c e a t i t s J u l y 2 3 m e e t i n g

a n d r e c o m m e n d e d a p p r o v a l 5 - 2 T h e

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

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

m e n t p e r m i t

C o u n c i l a l s o a p p r o v e d o r d i n a n c e s f o r

t h e e x t e n s i o n o f d e a d l i n e t o r e e s t a b l i s h f o r n o n c o n f o r m i n g u s e a n d s t r u c t u r e s f r o m 2 4 m o n t h s t o 3 6 m o n t h s w h e r e a

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

C i t y s t a f f h a s c a l c u l a t e d t h e d e a d l i n e

f r o m t h e t i m e t h e p e r m i t m o r a t o r i u m

w a s l i f t e d o n D e c 1 5 , 2 0 2 2 , r a t h e r t h a n

The final budget hearing will be held at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 23, at BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.

ational reserves to fill the gap,” he said

There is $370,000 budgeted for the

increase from FY24 of $335,146

The defined benefit minimum required contribution for pension is budgeted $2 3 million for fiscal year 2025, compared to $1 8 million in fiscal year 2024

“Most of the general employees are defined as contribution plan, which is similar to a 401K,” Chaipel said.

There is $587,690 budgeted for FY25, which begins Oct 1

Workers comp also went up a little to $370,000

The positions that were left as authorized positions, but not funded, are now funded in next year’s budget

“We had eliminated the code enforcement officer position as an FTE and replaced as contractual services,” Chaipel said “We added $75,000 in the budget in the operating side to flex up based on activity if need be ”

The changes are really reclassifications, he said

T h e r e w a s t h e a d d i t i o n o f a c o d e enforcement manager and elimination of a senior code enforcement officer There was also an addition of a human resource generalist and elimination of an executive assistant to city manager position

Chaipel said the average residential value for FY24 was $504,000, compared to the 2025 estimate of $546,000.

“For every $100,000 evaluation, tax-

payers can expect to pay a little over $263,” he said

Council had a discussion of what kind of impact the 2 5000 rate will have on the c o m m u n i t y o n e o f w h i c h i s s t i l l rebuilding after the wrath of Hurricane Ian

C o u n c i l m e m b e r J o h n H e n s h a w brought up a question regarding businesses that are not bringing in the revenue they typically bring in because people are not on the island

“My thinking is they don’t have the revenue to offset their expenses, they are s o m e w h a t h u r t i n g , ” h e s a i d , a d d i n g maybe the city should attempt to go back to a rollback rate, so at least taxpayers would get some relief “If businesses are struggling because we don’t have the population to frequent their businesses, then stands the reason, they are going to be impacted by a slight increase in the millage rate, or the tax required of them based on their value if we stick to the 2 5000 ”

Mayor Richard Johnson said businesses on the island are challenged these days, absolutely, but the city of Sanibel is challenged as well

“My concern is that in a tough budget cycle coming up for them with a new Senate president they are going to read that going rollback, Sanibel is doing fine, they rollbacked their tax rate,” he said, adding that he would hate putting at risk the potential of millions of dollars in order to return $72,000 to the taxpayers

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

D e c 1 5 , 2 0 2 4 , t o D e c 1 5 , 2 0 2 5

C o u n c i l a l s o a p p r o v e d a m e n d i n g t h e

C o d e o f O r d i n a n c e s t o m o d i f y t h e p r o c e s s f o r a p p r o v a l f o r s o m e l o n gf o r m d e v e l o p m e n t p e r m i t s f o l l o w i n g a d i s a s t e r a n d f o r t h e a p

Johnson said he would rather hold the rate at 2 5000 and go to Tallahassee and be successful at bringing home those tax dollars generated in the community and apply those. He said he would much rather have that than a very small reduction in property taxes for residents

“I contend we have more respect from our taxpayers if we hold our 2 5000 rate and lobby our legislators that is going to start here before long,” Johnson said “I have committed to making trips now and v i s i t i n g w i t h t h e m b e f o r e w e g e t t o Tallahassee, so they clearly understand what our needs are ”

He said while listening to the budget talks coming out of Tallahassee it’s going to be a tough year

“I can go to my taxpayers and look at them and say we need to hold 2 500 this year,” Johnson said

Vice Mayor Mike Miller said the savings that would be realized by the average residential taxpayer should the city opt for rollback rate is about $8 He said the $8 savings for the average resident is not worth losing substantial sums of appropriations

Some of the council members said they were persuaded to go to the 2 5000 mills due to the lobbying efforts

Henshaw said even though he still likes 2 4848 mills on principal, however he supports the 2 5000 mills because they are still in need, and they are still going to be presenting their case to the state legislature He said they need to have a successful and positive outcome in achieving extra funds from the legislature

“While last year was difficult, the hill is much steeper this year,” Johnson said.

developed,” he said

The lawsuit is to limit the development on South Seas for three units for one acre, as well as limit heights to historic limits for the rest of Captiva, Mintz said

There was five days of trial where 20 depositions were taken

“We believed we put on an extremely compelling case. The limit was always 912 units,” he said

Mintz said that South Seas argued that nothing had been approved yet

“It’s not about what is approved, it’s what could be approved with the amend-

CEPD

From page 6

main funding source The state remains

“Everyone applies for money and DEP ranks it and moves money through the program every year ”

He said invasive species control is also another good project, as it is directly tied to the CEPD’s core mission

ments what they can apply for two years from now, 10 years from now,” he said “The judge has to decide if the code amendments are consistent with the plan ”

Mintz told the panel that they should know by the end of October He said if they win, they will seek repeal regarding the five code amendments

“We are very cautiously optimistic about what is going to happen on this case,” Mintz said “The burden is on us to show what the county has done with the

Standard of proof is the issue ”

“Your delegation is always receptive They never turn down appropriation requests If we have a real idea I don’t know what that project would look like let’s flesh it out and let’s go for it,” Matthews said

The commissioners approved a resolution that adopts invasive control measures to protect established shorelines

“The board of commissioners of the Captive Erosion Prevention District reco

o f t

C

p

i v a Community Panel in iguana control and will take over operations of the current program as of Oct. 1, 2024.”

Chairman John Wade voted against the resolution, as he said he did not know enough about it

Although he is not able to tell how it will all unfold, Mintz told the panel that the administrative law judge was extremely attentive and understood land development issues

Mintz said the governor’s office has to enforce it He said they will have 30 days to submit a proposed final order The judge will then look at the various proposals and make a decision on what to adopt There is also a rezoning application,

which reduced the ask from 272 condos to 196 condos, as well as a total of 435 units for two hotels on the South Seas property

“They submitted their application The county has deemed their application is insufficient,” Mintz said, adding they have another 15 or so days to resubmit their application

If deemed sufficient, the application will go before a hearing examiner that will conduct a trial

S a n i b e lC a p t i v a I s l a n d e r c a p t i v a s a n i b e l . c o m W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 8 , 2 0 2 4 ■ P a g e 2 4

Loose lips sink ships

D u r i n g t h e S e c o n d W o r l d W a r a d i r e w a r n i n g

w a s g i v e n t o a l l A m e r i c a n s : “ L o o s e l i p s s i n k

s h i p s ” I ’ v e h e a r d t h i s f o r e -

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

l a b o r e r , c o u l d s i n k s h i p s w i t h h i s b a d j o k e s

H o w e v e r , m y f a t h e r , a

t r u e p a t r i o t , d e m o n s t r a t e d h i s p a t r i o t i s m a n d h i s w i l l i n g n e s s t o d o w h a t h e

c o u l d t o e n d t h e w a r i n o u r f a v o r H e k e p t h i s l i p s t i g h t M y m o t h e r w a s

n o t p l e a s e d “ C a n ’ t y o u

l o o s e n y o u r l i p s e v e n a

l i t t l e b i t w h e n w e k i s s ? ”

s h e p l e a d e d . B u t m y

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

w o u l d n o t b e d e t e r r e d

H e s a w i t a s h i s p a t r i -

Island Hopper bringing wave of music

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

This year’s Island Hopper Songwriter’s Festival is just days away and promises to be one of the best yet More than 100 musical artists are expected to pour through Lee County over the next two weeks from Captiva to Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach and Fort Myers

The festivities begin in a hurry Friday with 22 artists taking over six venues on Captiva beginning at 7 p m The venues include free performances at ‘Tween Waters Island Resort and Spa, Key Lime Bistro, Green Flash, RC Otter’s, Mighty Duck and South Seas

Dozens of more performances will take place across Captiva from Friday through Sunday

Among the performers appearing Friday will be Grammy Award and Country Music Award nominee Bobby Tomberlin at ‘Tween Waters Island Resort and S p

Montgomery hit “I Swear” at The Green Flash, Bridgette

o t i c d u t y t o d o w h a t h i s c o u n t r y a s k e d o f h i m I f i t

m e a n t k e e p i n g h i s l i p s i n a p r u n e l i k e p o s i t i o n , h e w o u l d d o i t B u t h i s p a t r i o t i s m c a m e a t a p r i c e I n

p r e v e n t i n g h i m s e l f f r o m h a v i n g l o o s e l i p s , m y

f a t h e r r a n i n t o s o m e p r o b l e m s T o b e g i n w i t h , h e

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

c h e w i n g f o r f e a r o f o p e n i n g h i s m o u t h t o o w i d e A w i d e - o p e n m o u t h c o u l d i n d u c e l o o s e l i p s a n d m y

f a t h e r w a s f e a r f u l t h a t t h e F B I w o u l d f i n d o u t .

W h e n h i s d o c t o r e x a m i n e d m y f a t h e r a n d a s k e d h i m t o o p e n h i s m o u t h w i d e s o t h a t h e c o u l d e x a mi n e h i s t h r o a t a n d t o n g u e , m y f a t h e r r e f u s e d W h e n t h e d e n t i s t a s k e d m y f a t h e r t o o p e n i t w i d e s o t h a t h e c o u l d d r i l l i n t o a c a v i t y , m y f a t h e r a l s o r e f u s e d

A n d t h e n t h e w a r e n d e d B u t m y f a t h e r w a s n ’ t

t o l d d i r e c t l y b y o u r g o v e r n m e n t t h a t i t w a s o k a y t o h a v e l o o s e l i p s a g a i n H i s l i p s w e r e a l w a y s p u r s e d f o r f e a r t h a t a w o r l d w a r w o u l d s t a r t a g a i n i f h e d i d n ’ t W h e r e v e r h e w e n t a n d w h o e v e r h e t a l k e d t o

h e w o u l d r e m i n d t h e m t h a t l o o s e l i p s s i n k s h i p s

I o n c e c o e r c e d m y f a t h e r t o g o o n a E u r o p e a n

r i v e r c r u i s e w i t h m e H e r e a l l y d i d n ’ t w a n t t o b e o n

a s h i p , b u t w e p l e a d e d w i t h h i m t o j o i n u s , a n d h e f i n a l l y r e l e n t e d B u t o n c e t h e s h i p l e f t t h e d o c k , m y

f a t h e r b e g a n h i s n e v e r - e n d i n g i n s p e c t i o n o f t h e

p a s s e n g e r s s e a r c h i n g f o r l o o s e l i p s H e a d m o n i s h e d

e v e r y o n e h e r a n i n t o w h o h e c o n c l u d e d h a d l o o s e

l i p s “ D o y o u w a n t t h i s s h i p t o s i n k ? A r e y o u a

s a b o t e u r ? T h i n k o f y o u r f e l l o w p a s s e n g e r s N o

m o r e l o o s e l i p s ” H e w a s s o t h r e a t e n i n g t h a t a s

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

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

W h e n t h e y s a w h i m c o m i n g , t h e y t u r n e d a r o u n d

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

t h e y b e g a n t o a v o i d m e t o o I t o o k n o p o s i t i o n o n

l o o s e l i p s s i n k s h i p s I t w a s n ’ t a h i g h p r i o r i t y i s s u e

t o m e B u t s o m e o f t h e p a s s e n g e r s b e g a n t o m o c k

m e , b e l i e v i n g t h a t I s h a r e d m y f a t h e r ’ s c o n v i c t i o n s

W h e n I m a n a g e d t o g e t n e a r s o m e , t h e y c r e a t e d a l l k i n d s o f m o v e m e n t s a n d g y r a t i o n s w i t h t h e i r l i p s

A n d w o u l d t h e n t a u n t m e “ S e e ? T h e s h i p d i d n ’ t s i n k ” I r e a l i z e d t h e n a n d t h e r e t h a t u n l e s s t h e s e p a ss e n g e r s w e r e t a u g h t a l e s s o n , t h e y w o u l d a l w a y s b e

l o o s e l i p p e d o n o t h e r s h i p s l a t e r i n t h e i r l i v e s C a n y o u i m a g i n e t h e c o n s e q u e n c e s o f h a v i n g t h o u s a n d s o f p a s s e n g e r s w i t h l o o s e l i p s t r a v e l i n g t h e h i g h s e a s ? I w r o t e t o m y c o n g r e s s m a n a b o u t t h i s d i l e m m a I p l e a d e d t h a t t h e r e w o u l d b e m a n y m y s t e r i o u s s h i p s i n k i n g s i n t h e f u t u r e t h a t w o u l d d i s r u p t o u r w a y o f l i f e a n d d e s t r o y t h e c r u i s e s h i p i n d u s t r y M y c o ng r e s s m a n w a s h e l p f u l H e t o l d m e t o t a k e v a l i u m H e s a i d t h a t l o o s e l i p s w e r e n e c e s s a r y f o r u s t o

Country”) and local favorite Sheena Brook at Mighty Duck Many of the artists will be switching venues throughout the weekend, with some artists playing as many as three or four different venues on Captiva between Friday and Sunday

Jensen’s Twin Palm Resort and Marina will also be hosting several performers at the festival for the first time between Saturday and Sunday

This year’s Island Hopper is being headlined by country musician Scotty McCreery, who will perform at the Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on Fort Myers Beach on Sunday, Sept. 29. Tickets have been going fast, according to organizers There are still tickets left McCreery is known for his hits “I Love You This Big,” “This is it,” “Five More Minutes,” “The Trouble With Girls” and “Cab in a Solo ” He won the 10th season of American Idol in 2011

“We are super excited this year’s because it’s the 10th anniversary,” said Miriam Dotson, communications manager for the Lee County Visitor and Convention Bureau The bureau puts on the festival in partnership with BMI which supplies most of the artists, many of whom are from Nashville

The parade of music for this year’s festival is bulked up on country artists though there is a mix of other genres as well including local musicians such as Brook and Fort Myers-based Collin Roberts

While most of the shows will be free across 20 different venues, there will be 10 ticketed events this year

They include the pool party finale at the Pink Shell with McCreery “People jumped on tickets pretty early (for the McCreery show),” Dotson said “That’s a good sign ”

Another ticketed event will be the Songwriter Cruise

IF YOU GO

What 10th Island Hopper Songwriter Fest

When Sept 20-29

Where Captiva, Cape Coral, Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach

Sutherland and Bobby Tomberlin at 3:30 p m

That show follows an international coastal cleanup Saturday morning at Alison Hagerup Beach Park on Captiva beginning at 8:30 a m

One of the special ticketed events will be “Music on the Mound” at the Mound House on Fort Myers Beach

The event will also help benefit the Mound House, which is on the National Register of Historic Places for the location of a historic home which sits on top of a nearly 2,000-year-old shell mound built by the ancient Calusa tribe

“I personally love the Mound House,” Dotson said “It’s one of our hidden gems ”

Dotson said the pool party show at Pink Shell Beach Resort is an attraction for concertgoers who may not be country music fans “There is some pop crossover,” Dotson said “You can hang out in the pool It’s looking great ”

One of the aims of the Island Hopper is to infuse the area’s local hotels, restaurants and other business establishments with new visitors during a slow period in the tourism season.

“The idea is to try and get people out of the area to visit and stay overnight,” Dotson said “Wake up on the beach and stay on the beach ” Dotson said September is the slowest month of the year for Lee County tourism

“This is a big event that we work on year-round,” Dotson said

Another highlight of the festival is a performance Jeffrey Steele with the Gulf Coast Symphony scheduled for Sept 26 at the Florida Repertory Theatre in downtown Fort Myers Steele, who fronted the country band Boy Howdy, is a five-time Grammy Award nominee who has been inducted into the Nashville Songwriter's Hall of Fame Steele has written hits for LeAnne Rimes, Steve Holy, Steve Robson and Rascal Flatts

For a full schedule, visit https://www island-hopperfest visitfortmyers com/schedule

Love Sanibel initiative to end with community gathering

S a i n t M i c h a e

Episcopal Church will host a Love Sanibel Community Gathering on Sept 28 from noon to 3 p m at The C

7 3 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

A culmination of its Love Sanibel Businesses Back initiative, the event aims to recognize the love for each other and the island that has seen the c

o years post-hurricane

It will feature live music, including The Sanibel School Steel Drum

B

other performers, food, ice cream, children's activities, Sanibel-themed a

See LOOSE LIPS, page 25

organizations At 1 p m , there will be a short program including remarks by Mayor Richard Johnson and a video storytelling segment featuring i

about Sanibel

The church extended its thanks to TCH, city of Sanibel, The Island S

Italian Ice Cream for partnering with it

Refuge to present Family Fun Night

For the second year, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

w i l l k i c k o f f H i s p a n i c Heritage Month Sept 15 through Oct 15 with Family Fun Night on Sept 20 from 4:30 to 6:30 p m at Lakes Park in Fort Myers The occasion will also celebrate L

S

Public Lands Day with educational and cultural activities for the family

A

music and food, a take-

planting, bilingual birding

w a l k a n d k i d

i e n d l y archery, plus informational tables in partnership

w

Archaeology Network

Loose lips

From page 24

u p h e l d b y m a n y S u p r e m e C o u r t d e c is i o n s I n f a c t , m y c o n g r e s s m a n t o l d m e , m a n y p r e s i d e n t i a l c a n d i d a t e s w h o r a n o n a p l a t f o r m o f b a n n i n g l o o s e l i p s l o s t t h e i r e l e c t i o n s b y a w i d e m a r g i n J u d g i n g f r o m r e c e n t p o l l s I ’ v e r e a d , t h e l o o s e l i p p e r s h a v e b e c o m e a m a j o r it y i n t h i s c o u n t r y a n d h a v e a s k e d f o r e x t r e m e m e a s u r e s t o d e a l

ISL AND HOME islander

F.I.S.H. recognizing World Alzheimer ’s Month

September marks World Alzheimer’s Month, a time to raise awareness and oppose the stigma surrounding dementia. F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva believes in programs that provide support to seniors and the impacts that they have on those affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia

F I S H reported that its commitment to the health and wellness of the senior population is a high priority It provides a range of senior programs and services that are designed to support older community members, particularly those facing the challenges of memory loss.

S

S

Arnowitz, who recently earned a certification in dementia care, leads F I S H 's efforts with a deep

patients

“In 2023 alone, F I S H delivered 208 Smile Boxes to brighten the days of seniors, many of whom are homebound or living alone,” she said “These personalized care packages are a small token of appreciation and a reminder

that our seniors are not forgotten ” Additionally, it made 2,983 reassurance calls last year, offering a friendly voice and listening ear to those who might otherwise feel isolated F I S H noted that the calls are not just a check-in; they are a lifeline, providing connection and comfort to seniors

Aging in place is a priority for many

F I S H provides the resources and support necessary for older residents to live independently in their own homes, which include transportation services, home vis-

resources and more

“During World Alzheimer’s Month, F I S H encourages the community to come together in support of those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia by continuing to advocate for better care, greater understanding, and a future where no one faces this journey alone,” it shared

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

WM delivering recycle bins to residents

The city of Saniel reported that residents will receive a new green recycling cart this week to replace the smaller bin Distributors will drop off the carts at the end of resident driveways

For residents out of town, arrange to have the cart moved up to the house or call Waste Management at 239-334-1224 to request crews place the cart near the building

If a cart has not been delivered by Sept 21, contact WM at 239-3341224

Residents can begin using the new recycling carts the week of Sept. 30, and the recycling cart will

be emptied by a WM truck with an automated lifting arm Residents may keep their old bin for storage or put it out on trash day for collection

For more information, call WM at 239-334-1224

Bahama cassia is excellent pollinator plant

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

One of Florida’s native species, Bahama cassia shrubs are members of the pea family (Fabaceae) and typically reach about 4-5 feet in height The plants bloom several times a year and are considered evergreen in South Florida Flowers produce showy, five-petaled yellow flowers, and the leaves are oval and pinnately compound Because they are members of the pea family, their fruits resemble those of a typical bean pod Bahama cassia are excellent pollinator plants. Although the flowers are mainly pollinated by native bees like carpenter, sweat

and bumble, bahama cassia are also larval host plants for sulphur butterflies, including the sleepy orange and cloudless sulphur butterflies Bahama cassia has a limited natural range, found mainly in the Florida Keys and Miami/Dade county Because of this, it is listed as a state-threatened species by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Typically, its native habitats are pine rocklands, rocky hammocks and dunes

Necklace pod (Sophora tomentosa) is a wonderful evergreen and flowering plant, which has a high tolerance for salt and low water requirements making it ideal for coastal island environments Necklace pods can be found throughout the world on island beaches and make an inviting environment for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and warblers by providing food and shelter

The growth habits of the shrub make it a good background plant for your landscape and butterfly or wildlife garden It will grow to between 6-10 feet in height and about the same in width, likes full sun to light shade, and will tolerate poor soil conditions However, adding some organic matter to the soil will help it thrive The evergreen shrub produces leaves that are a soft green, turning to darker green as they mature in an alternating pattern on the stems, giving it a fragile appearance that belies its toughness in standing up to the coastal environment

While the shrub will bloom throughout the year, it blooms more abundantly in the fall Beautiful showy clusters of bright yellow blooms that range from 4-16 inches in length appear simultaneously with the seed pots, lending a lot of interest to the plant The necklace pod derives its name from the connected seed pods that look like beads on a necklace

Invite this wonderful shrub into your garden, prune it occasionally and do not overwater it, and it will produce beautiful interest in your landscape for years to come

In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local garden center, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel For more information, contact 239-395-5859 or visit www facebook com/rswalshinthegarden

Bahama cassia will grow in full sun to part shade, and it prefers dry to slightly moist, well-drained soil The plants also have a unique adaptation to help ward off caterpillars; they contain glands at the bases of their leaves that attract ants, which then attack caterpillars feeding on their foliage Something to note is they tend to be relatively short lived, oftentimes only living four or five years However, they grow relatively quickly and selfseed readily, so they can be easily replaced For a similar, longer-lived option, Privet senna (Senna ligustrina) is suggested The privet senna occupies similar habitats, but it can tolerate more shade and gets a bit taller, reaching up to 8 feet It is also an excellent pollinator plant and larval host plant for sulphur butterflies

CITY OF SANIBEL

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION Cloudless sulphur butterfly caterpillars on a Bahama cassia.

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Recipe of the Week: Summer Rolls

Looking for something delicious for a quick lunch or a light dinner? This recipe is so flavorful and so easy to make Most of the ingredients can be bought at your local grocery store and will keep in your pantry I just used this recipe for a girls' lunch on my patio. I serve the summer rolls on colorful dishes together with a cucumber tomato salad and mango iced tea Makes eight rolls or 16 pieces (Chef tip: Work fast when soaking the rice paper round; just a minute in warm water until they become soft )

For dipping sauce:

1/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter

1 tablespoon Tamari low-sodium soy sauce

2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

2 teaspoons sriracha sauce

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

3-6 tablespoons hot water, to thin

For rolls:

3 ounces vermicelli rice-stick noodles

3 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for water

8 (eight-inch) rice-paper rounds, plus additional in case some tear

CROW Calendar

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

∫ Today, Sept. 1 8

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “Ecosystems Of Florida ”

∫ Thursday, Sept. 1 9

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “A Day In The Life ”

∫ Friday, Sept 2 0

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

∫ Monday, Sept. 2 3

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “Snakes of Southwest Florida ”

∫ Tuesday, Sept. 2 4

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “A Day In The Life ” ∫ Wednesday, Sept 2 5

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “One World One Health ”

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

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

Not meant to be that kind of people

A s I w r i t e t h i s , i t i s September 11

D o y o u r e m e m b e r where you were on that day 23 years ago? Many do I certainly do I was watching the Twin Towers in Manhattan burn from a hill in Montclair, New Jersey

It was the first month of what would be my last year in the field of education before entering the ministry, serving as the director of athletics and instructor of psychology at The M o n t c l a i r K i m b e r l e y Academy

Rev Dr Mark Boyea

Faces on Faith

T h e c a m p u s t h a t m y office was on sat on a hill which each day had a direct view of the Twin Towers, which meant that several students and staff actually w i t n e s s e d t h e s e c o n d p l a n e h i t Immediately, the senior administrative team I was part of began to carry out our emergency plan We first locked down the campus, and then, as the hours went by, made contact with all our students’ parents, culminating with our insuring that all students were securely transported home. By that point, early evening had come,

Fresh parsley leaves (from about one bunch)

Fresh mint leaves (from about one bunch)

1/2 a seedless cucumber, peeled, and cut into 1/8 inch-thick matchsticks

3 scallions, cut into three-inch-long julienne strips

1 carrot, peeled, and cut into 1/8-inch-thick matchsticks

Stir together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl; thin with water to the desired consistency Set aside

Bring a four-quart pot of water to a boil, add salt Add noodles to water and cook until just tender, about two to three minutes Drain in a colander, then rinse under cold running water and drain well Stir together vinegar, sugar and salt in a large bowl until sugar is dissolved, then add noodles and toss to coat

Put two sheets of paper towel on a work surface and fill a shallow dish with warm water Check rice-paper rounds and use only those that have no holes Soak one round in warm water until pliable, 30 seconds to one minute, and then carefully transfer to paper towels.

Arrange 1/4 cup of the noodles in a row across bottom third (part nearest you) of soaked rice paper Arrange parsley leaves, mint leaves, cucumber matchsticks, scallion strips and carrot matchsticks horizontally on top of noodles Fold bottom of rice paper over filling and begin rolling up tightly, stopping at halfway point Arrange three more mint leaves and three more cilantro leaves along crease, then tuck in ends and continue rolling Transfer summer roll, seam side down, to a plate and cover with dampened paper towels Make seven more rolls in same manner and serve; serve halved diagonally, with dipping sauce

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.

and with everyone else on the athletics wing of the campus gone, I went outside and sat on that hill, w a t c h i n g

h e s t i l l

i s i n g smoke At that point it had become clear that the carnage had been the result of a terrorist attack Knowing that, I distinctly remember h a v i n g t h i s t h o u g h t r u n through my mind:

“We can’t let the terrorists win ”

I ’ m n o t r e a l l y s u r e I what meant by that at the time But now, especially these last few years, that thought has been replaced by a different one:

“In some vital way or ways, did the terrorists win?”

I wonder that because experts on terrorism consistently say that the real goal of terrorism is to engender fear Yes, the immediate fear associated with the threat of death and destruction But far more, those experts insist, a state of chronic fear Fear as a way of being Fear as a way of life A fear which, psychological and sociological research suggests, eventually, and sometimes quickly, overcomes the

∫ 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

sense of pulling together and grounding ourselves in a common sense of purpose, as we did in the immediate aftermath of 9/11, and metastasizes into a force which breaks down social bonds, and divides p e o p l e g e o g r a p h i c a l l y , p o l i t i c a l l y a n d religiously

On 9/11 of 2024, we certainly seem to be a more chronically fearful society, and have been for sometime Polls regularly demonstrate that we have significantly less trust in each other than we used to, and that we have acquired a heightened wariness of our fellow citizens In addi-

tion, we have become more likely to see and describe others who are different from u s i n t e r m s l i k e “ t h r e a t , ” o r “

American” become more representative of the famous line from the old comic strip “Pogo” “We have met the enemy, and they is us ” I am not suggesting that 9/11 caused all this I can’t help wondering though if it wasn’t a catalyst for all of it

But while we certainly are meant to be people who exercise care and precaution i n t h e f a c

Loretta Paganini

Cheeburger Cheeburger, 1975 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

MudBugs

Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

islandBEAT islander

Santiva Islanders Calendar

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, 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

Gentle Yoga

Lynn Young will host Gentle Yoga on Sept 19 from 10:30 to 11:30 a m at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring a towel and ample water and wear comfortable clothing; bring a mat, if needed Cost is $10 per class For more information, contact Susan Talmage at 214-206-6822 or drsusantalmage@gmail com

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 20 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 23 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 i t y h o u s e . n e t o r c o n t a c t 2 3 9 - 4 7 2 - 2 1 5 5

Social Mahjong

Social Mahjong will be held on Sept 19 from 1 to 3:30 p m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail com

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on Sept 20 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 20 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 23 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 23 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 23 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 25 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

Fall Home & Garden Show to return to Fort Myers

The 28th Annual Home & Garden Show will return on Sept 21-22 from 10 a m to 4 p m at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center, at 1375 Monroe St , Fort Myers

The event is free and open to the public

“If you are buying a new home or remodeling your current one, there are some great reasons to visit our show,” Bill Anderson, president of Expo Management that produces the event, said “During this show, attendees can find sources to address all their home improvement needs and get help deciding which home project to tackle first ”

The show will feature local and

regional companies with an array of exhibitor booths showcasing produ c

brands in home improvement, landscaping, interior design, eco-friendly providers, smart home technology, r

more Attendees can discover the n

diverse solutions for creating beautiful, functional and sustainable living spaces

“Vendors at the show are industry experts and can help you understand your home improvement project on a new level and to be more prepared for what's ahead,” he said “And many of our vendors offer 'show

only' discounts to attendees ”

Attendees can make an appointment for new hurricane windows, learn about modern hot tubs, explore

more Live demonstrations and presentations on various topics, including cooking demonstrations, home improvement workshops, home staging tips and interactive technology showcases, will also take place E

e available, and attendees can register to win a cruise/vacation giveaway

For more information about the s h o w , v i s i t expomanagementinc com

The Mucky Duck, 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Events planned for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Many community events are planned during Childhood Awareness Month in September to s u p p o r t B a r b a r a ’ s F r i e n d s G o l i s a n o

Children’s Hospital cancer fund

The awareness month includes Clips for Cancer at center stage at Bell Tower on Sept 21, with all the shaving happening at 10 a m inside Dave & Buster’s community room The day will continue with free family friendly activities, including games, animal encounters, first responder meet-and-greet with a touch-atruck and tours of the first-of-its kind, sensory friendly Golisano Ambulance A Bell Tower “Go Gold” Shopping & Dining Discount Card will be available for purchase with proceeds benefiting Barbara’s Friends

Other community events leading up to Clips for Cancer include:

∫ 3 Pepper Burrito, with eight locations in Southwest Florida, will donate all proceeds from kids’ meals sold in September The annual event has raised $19,000 in four years.

∫ Mel’s Diner will be selling T-shirts during September at its five Southwest Florida locations designed by current cancer patient, Alba Cuka, 14, of Naples The restaurant will also be hosting a pancake breakfast on Oct 25 to benefit Barbara’s Friends

∫ Palm City Brewing Company will donate proceeds from the sale of its Ocean View Lager all month to benefit Barbara’s Friends It will

Seashell exhibit retur ns to SPL

The Sanibel Public Library

r e p o r t e d t h a t i t s V i n t a g e Seashell Treasures collection is once again on display in the

l o b b y a t 7 7

Hurricane Ian in 2022, the surviving pieces of the exhibit donated by Jeffery P Oths were packed up and stored away Over the summer, staff spent

n u m e r o u s h o u r s w o r k i n g t o unpack, sort, clean and restore the pieces. The library is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a m to 8 p m and Tuesdays, W e d n e s d a y s , F r i

s a n d Saturdays from 9 a m to 5 p m

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

also host a special “Go Gold Happy Hour” for Barbara’s Friends on Sept 20 from 4 to 7 p m with a special release of its “Go Gold,” a specially brewed, custom labeled bear, with all proceeds benefiting Barbara’s Friends while supplies last

∫ Riverdale High School will sell T-shirts designed by Marison Bradley, 15, of Naples, during homecoming events and the homecoming game on Sept 20 at 7:30 p m In four

y

$24,000

∫ Pure Barre & Cycle Bar will offer benefit classes and has raised $8,500 in four years On Sept 21, CycleBar Fort Myers will offer $10 donation classes at 7:45 a m 9:15 a m 10:30

a m Pure Barre Fort Myers and Pure Barre Gateway will offer several classes during the month for a donation to Barbara’s Friends

The community can also get involved and

See CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH, page 30

‘Diary Entry July 28, 2003’

It’s been a long time, Diary. Last time I entered you I was fat and flippant, mocking my stress test and everything else around me, knocking out a poem a day, cocksure that I would live forever and fame would come to me even at 72 but then the results came, showing blockages, swift as shit falling from an eagle, I went from cardiologist to cardio surgeon and quintuple by-pass, coming to in a nightmare mist, a morphine cloud suffocating the pain of body being sawed, ripped and torn sewn and stapled together again but I’m rambling now and running out of space, so let me tell you, Diary, since I entered you last, I’ve lost thirty pounds, joined the Zipper Club and my daughter Allegra has extended my DNA into the new millennium with a first grandson named Quds Amador, Quds for Jerusalem, Amador for my mother’s father who died six years before I was born

Great to be alive, Diary, and talking to you again

Joe Pacheco Poetic License

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

support local children at Clips for Cancer by:

∫ Becoming a shavee: Sign up to have a pediatric cancer survivor/patient shave your head. Register for $25, set a personal fundraising goal and create a fundraising page to support the cause

∫ Donating, fundraising and sponsoring the event

Each year, community support raised during September helps families with children receiving cancer treatment, such as

From page 29

providing gas cards to make sure kids can get to and from Golisano for daily treatm

insurance will not cover at-home chemo or pain relief drugs, or purchasing meals so parents can stay by their children dur-

offers college scholarships, so that survivors can apply for college funds F

Cancer, visit BarbarasFriends org

People

From page 27

immediate fear, we are not meant to a people who live in fear At least not meant by God to be that kind of people Instead, the God of the Bible the God of the Judeo-Christian tradition time, after time, after time promises to help deliver us from our fears promi s e s t o l e a d u s t o t h e c o u r a g e a n d strength we need to reject living in fear Because that is hardly the “fullness of l i f e ” w h i c h b o t h t h e H e b r e w a n d Christian Scriptures tell us God wants for us and offers to us

In fact, it is no life at all Not for us individually Not for us as a nation And so, 23 years later, I come back to the thought I had on that hill in Montclair, New Jersey: “We can’t let the terrorists win ” Only this time, I know exactly what I mean by that.

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